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