Interview with K.A. Lentz
Why a book?
That is a deep question, really, the more I sit and think on it. My mom is and was an avid reader; she had shelves of books along the walls when I was young, kind of like growing up in a library. That's where she spent her money as a working woman. My father liked television and computers, as a working man that's where he spent his. So as you can imagine I had a lot of story options at my fingertips. While I enjoy each media for what they offer, I have to say books offer a unique platform to present a story…at least for me. I'm no director, playwright, or graphic artist; I am a storyteller, though, and that's something I've always been--even if only to entertain myself through a long car ride or to put myself to sleep. Plus, there's something comforting and magical about books. They really are a portal to another perspective.
How did you get into writing?
It was a two-stage event. First, by the encouragement of my husband, Mike. He had heard enough of my musings—not to mention boundless speculations on elements of fantasy—to know that I should give it a go and see how I liked it. Second, well…umm…I was playing a silly online game when I daydreamed a character into being. At that moment all encouragements formed into one resounding demand that propelled my own need to write, I decided I had to know more about this character. How everything was going to link up with my previous story, the one I had been daydreaming on for years, I had no idea…just that it would. And with that I set off on my writing adventure, learning nearly as much about the tale I had started as a reader would.
What inspires you?
Everything, everywhere. My inspirations; Mike, our family, our pups, history, myth, the natural world, the universe, gaming, adventuring, everything. All I see in a day has the possibility of inspiring a story or an element of a character, or even traits of magic.
How does the writing process work for you?
I write as I go, mostly, and I pause to research when I have a question about an element. As a whole, when I sit down to write I don't always know what will be hitting the page once I get going. As in the case of Megoth; I knew his character's entrance into the story beforehand, however, his mate Shresha was something I did not see coming. I do have plans for the book, however, they may change as the story evolves and takes on a life of its own. We'll all get to see as it goes.
How long have you been writing?
That's a tough question. Before this book, I'd never, ever written something of this dimension, something so lengthy. Heck, teenage me would drop her jaw if told what she's now done. Growing up I wrote a lot of the usual stuff; papers for school, letters, cards, etc. I also penned a few short stories from time to time, only for myself or family. Nothing on the scale of The Reaper Realm: Threads of Compassion, yet oddly I knew I could do it when setting my sights upon writing.
What do you enjoy about writing/storytelling?
Oh, that's easy! Daydreaming, getting lost in a story, and researching random stuff that captures my attention. The knowledge and freedom of it all. Finding creative ways to incorporate an aspect of myth or history into my tale. Touching my reader with a moment that speaks to them in some way, and taking them on an adventure that entertains as well. And audible appreciation of the comedic bits—at least once during reading--wouldn't hurt my feelings either.
What's been the hardest part of the writing process, and publishing?
At first, overcoming years of dyslexic stigma and self-esteem issues regarding my ability to read and write. Learning things I should have learned long ago, yet didn't. Today--I can easily say--I understand how much I've still to learn, and how much I want to learn it! Publishing is the harder of the two, in terms of the publicizing aspect. Staying up on industry trends and media while balancing writing can be a bit of a juggle. Keeps me on my toes!
What have you learned along the way?
Oh, so much. In terms of education, I often felt as though I'd gone back to college part time. As for internal takeaway and life lessons, nearly as many. I've learned the precious gift of believing in yourself and not allowing others to say no to what you want on your behalf, within and without. On the flip side of that coin, I've also learned that personal, artistic desire doesn't always play out in everyone's field; you may enjoy the exchange or event, but that doesn't mean others will find it entertaining let alone moving or touching…or funny.
How goes the next book?
Good! I've been working on the first chapter and researching a bunch of content for that chapter alone, it's gonna be big! I'm starting off with a major historical event in deep antiquity. I'll leave you guessing there, haha!
Comments