E.B. Roshan's Blog: This, That and the Other, page 6

Author Interview: Kellyn Roth

Today I’m pleased to introduce Kellyn Roth, the author of an increasingly-popular series of quiet, insightful family romances. Here’s what she has to say about herself and her writing adventures…

Please share a little about your writing journey.

Without boring you with a ridiculously long story, for I could truly talk on for forever, I started writing when I was seven and got more serious about it when I was eleven or twelve. At fifteen, I published my first novel in a rather unprofessional manner. A few years later, having learned all about the independent publishing process, I relaunched my first four novels, and since then, have published several more, all in the Christian historical fiction genre. Most of my books fall under the loose category of “women’s fiction,” with many being romances.

How old were you when you decided you wanted to be a writer?

I was probably about eleven. Before then, my writing was largely for fun, and I didn’t take it too seriously.

What was your first completed book or story?

I believe it was a short story called The Rainy Day about a litter of puppies trying to survive a flood. I wrote it for school when I was seven. I’m not sure if that predated Kicky the Dolphin, a story about a dolphin named Kicky, or not, which was similarly written around seven.

Have you ever modeled a character after yourself?

Yes, some of my first human characters (I wrote largely about animals for a long time!) were based on myself. It was a lot of fun, but it’s hard to write about yourself in a way that isn’t … well, ridiculous … when you’re twelve or thirteen. Granted, some authors manage it, but I sure couldn’t!

Do you have a favorite character from your novels?

 Sure! I have several. One of my absolutely favorites, though, is Peter Strauss, who is a main character in my novels At Her Fingertips and A Prayer Unanswered.

What about someone you really hate?

I wouldn’t say I really hate any of my characters given that I created them, but I am not fond of Steven Parker. At all.

Can you share a bit about your recent release?

Sure! Here’s a little about the book:

IF GOD ASKS YOU TO CONFRONT A STORM, HOW DARE YOU STAY IN THE HARBOR?

Lady Mary Cassidy O’Connell has a dream that can be summed up in three connecting ideas: a loving husband, adorable children, and a home of her own. Her mother’s lack of care makes life difficult for Cassie, and an escape is necessary. The plan? Marry Aubrey Montgomery, the man her parents have chosen for her, and find the peace she craves.

Unfortunately, Cassie is uneasy about marrying Aubrey. Her apprehension grows as she witnesses her dearest friend’s loving marriage take place. At this wedding, she catches the eye of Patrick Hilton, son of a wealthy American. Like Cassie, he’s also set to marry a woman chosen by his parents—only, Patrick claims, he is content with this choice.

Torn between her desire for happiness and the knowledge that God is leading her in a different direction, Cassie confronts the impossible decision. Is a loveless marriage of obligation better than being alone, or will she set sail on a voyage without a safe harbor?

The book launched September 5th and is available for purchase on Amazon!

How is it different from your previous books?

It focuses a little heavier on the romance sides than previous novels, and it is also has more of a set beginning and end than my other stories, that have been slow-paced family sagas. I also took the opportunity to write it and market it as adult fiction, addressing a few more mature topics.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice about writing, what would it be?

To get more feedback while I was young and actually apply that feedback … and to not feel a need to always rush forward to the next thing. Taking a slow approach is not fun, but it is worthwhile, and there were areas I rushed that I should not have.

Share one random fact about yourself.

I love border collies! I think they’re the best dogs! Currently, I own one. His name is Stanley!

To learn more about Kellyn Roth and her books, go HERE

Release Day

My first comic is now out in the world! Z (9) and Q (6) both gave it an A+ rating. Clearly, they have good taste….but don’t take my word for it. Go check it out HERE.

And you still have until tomorrow to win a free copy by answering the challenge question, “Given the chance, what Sci Fi world would you visit?”

Maze Giveaway

Hello readers! The official Maze Graphic Novel Giveaway begins today…and continues until August 31st.

To win a free digital copy, comment on this post with your answer to the following question: If given the chance, what Sci Fi setting would you visit?

You can also email me at btznvntATgmailDOTcom.

Maze

Despite all manner of minor frustrations (and a few more significant setbacks), I’ve really had fun with this. The boys keep asking me when it’s going to be done. Soon, Mom, right? I have a feeling I’m about to be roped into doing comic books for a while–sorry, Rado and Dunya!

That being said, I’m pleased to announce that I am officially done, and Maze, the children’s graphic novel adaption of the legend of the Minotaur and the labyrinth, will release August 30th.

I’ve also ordered an advance print copy for the aforementioned male offspring. This will be the first time I’ve actually possessed one of my books in physical form. Curious to see how it turns out…

If anyone is interested in obtaining an electronic ARC, don’t hesitate to ask. My email is btznvntATgmailDOTcom

Heard in Silence Cover Reveal

Today I’m delighted to share a bit about a new anthology of short stories from several talented young authors…and of course show off the cover. It looks so fun and pretty–If I saw this on a shelf, I’d definitely want to take a peek inside.

Here’s a bit more about Heard in Silence:

Some voices can only be heard in silence.

Thirteen young authors invite you to journey deep into a silent world so often overlooked. Within these pages, you’ll find bittersweet contemporary YA, spellbinding fantasy, tender romance, and so much more, each centering on a deaf character.

Curated by author Kaytlin Phillips, this short story collection offers you a peek inside a life without sound, a fresh perspective on a world you may never have experienced. For a moment in time, hush the noise around you and absorb the quiet heartbeat of these diverse stories. Let yourself be swept away in these characters’ struggles, heartaches, and victories.

Goodreads Book Link: https://www.goodreads.com-heard-in-silence-anthology

Pre-Order Link: https://www.amazon.com/heard+in+silence+anthology

Linguistic Puzzles

Sometimes words that seem unrelated share a common ancestor…take “galaxy” and “lactose” for example. Learn more HERE.

Latest Creative Endeavors…

I realized it’s been quite a while since I shared an update about what I’m up to in the realm of writing. The fact is, I have been busy on a graphic novel (aka glorified comic book) for my son, who recently exploded into a reader. Since it was a bit more low-key/personal, I didn’t really have a lot to share about it. But last time I shared a “family” project, I ended up with lots of interested readers, so who knows?

Anyway, today I’m pleased to introduce MAZE, a classic Greek myth re-imagined with robots, rockets, ray guns and an enormous alien squid. Stay tuned for more artwork…and a release date! Bonus points for anyone who can guess what myth is the inspiration for this book.

Update: Free Books!

I mentioned last week that I was participating in the Smashwords Summer Sale…but failed to provide a unique link to my books (which all happen to be free until July 31st.) Apologies for the delay, and here’s the link: EB ROSHAN AT SMASHWORDS.

Smashwords Summer Sale

This massive book sale began on July 1st and continues until the 31st, so there’s still plenty of time to check it out HERE.

As for my books, you can find them all there…for free! Just search E.B. Roshan

Character Profile #9 Radoslav Belko

Radoslav “Rado” Belko is Anna’s elder brother and Dunya’s husband. After European League troops enter Sevia, he becomes a Tur/Sev interpreter for the occupying forces as they work to negotiate an end to the civil war and set up Camp Peace.

He’s a people-pleaser, a worrier, a man anxious to do the right thing, but rarely certain what the right thing is. Rado admires Dunya for her strength and confidence, seeing in her qualities that he himself lacks. However, his impulsive plan to save her quickly gets him in way over his head. The cost of giving her a better life may end up being more than either is prepared to pay.

Radoslav Belko is the hero of LOVE COSTS and my WIP (Stay tuned!)