Pump Up Your Book Chats with Women’s Contemporary Fiction Author Kaylin McFarren
Author Interviews, Featured — By Dorothy Thompson on January 26, 2010 at 4:31 pm
Kaylin McFarren will be right in this very spot live on Tuesday, February 16 from 8 a.m. until 11 p.m., answering any questions you may have about her women’s contemporary fiction novel, Flaherty’s Crossing (Champagne Books). Leave a question or comment (along with your email address) between now and 11 p.m. on February 19 and you may win a free Flaherty’s Crossing T-Shirt!
The lucky winner will be announced on February 22.
ONLY THOSE LEAVING EMAIL ADDRESSES ARE ELIGIBLE. YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS WILL ONLY BE USED FOR THE PURPOSE OF THIS CONTEST.
Thank you and good luck!
Kaylin McFarren writes powerful, award-winning fiction. Her debut novel, Flaherty’s Crossing, was a 2008 Golden Heart® finalist. She has also won numerous national writing contests. Her debut novel is scheduled for release as an e-book by Champagne Books on February 1st. Although Kaylin wasn’t born with a pen in hand like many authors, she has been actively involved in both business and personal writing projects for many years. As the director of a fine art gallery, she assisted in furthering the careers of numerous visual artists who, under her guidance, gained recognition through promotional opportunities and in national publications. Eager to spread her own creative wings, she has since steered her energy toward writing novels.
Thank you for this interview, Kaylin. Do you remember writing stories as a child or did the writing bug come later? Do you remember your first published piece?
I actually wrote poems throughout my childhood. Although none of them were officially published, a number of my stories did end up in my high-school newspaper. I have to admit, there’s nothing more fun than seeing your name in print and being offered a bi-line.
What do you consider as the most frustrating side of becoming a published author and what has been the most rewarding?
The most frustrating has got to be receiving rejection letters from publishing houses. But then it’s all a matter of personal taste, isn’t it? As far as rewarding, I’d say a signed contract with Champagne Books ranks way up there.
Are you married or single and how do you combine the writing life with home life? Do you have support?
I’m married to a total saint. He’s incredibly patient, cooks for me, takes me out to dinner, and loves to discuss what I’m writing. When I run into friends or business associates, they’re always commenting on how proud he is of my accomplishments. Did I say saint?
What do you like to do for fun when you’re not writing? Where do you like to vacation? Can you tell us briefly about this?
I’m totally into interior design and get a kick out of sticking my hands in fertile soil. So when I’m not writing, I flip through magazines, move around furniture, and plant flowers in our awesome garden. I also love to connect with friends on facebook (http://www.facebook.com/kaylinmcfarren), and look forward to heading somewhere warm and beautiful for vacations – especially Cabo San Lucas. Strawberry Margaritas, pool-side service, whale watching, and basking in glorious sunshine while reading books on my Kindle is my idea of paradise. :D
If you could be anywhere in the world for one hour right now, where would that place be and why?
Definitely Kyoto, Japan. I absolutely love the culture, the temples, and the kindness of people living there. One restaurant in Gion serves the most amazing sushi I’ve ever had in my life. I’d love to go back there even for one hour. Wow…maybe I was Asian in another lifetime.
Flaherty's Crossing by Kaylin McFarren (click on cover to order from the publisher's website)
Who is your biggest fan?
It’s a toss up, but I would have to say my oldest daughter, Kristina. She’s an incredibly talented author in her own right, and relentlessly pushes me to stay on track with my writing. In fact, her encouragement drove me to become a writer in the first place.
Where’s your favorite place to write at home?
My cozy, very functional library. I love working on an over-sized desk, being surrounded by books author-friends have written, gazing up at family photos, and having my two crazy dogs snuggle at my feet.
What’s your favorite library and why?
I do sneak into my small community library from time to time. But by far, my favorite place is the Multnomah County Library in downtown Portland. It’s an old historical stone building with wonderful archives, winding staircases, and collections of books that tower from floor to ceiling.
What’s your favorite bookstore and why?
Living in Oregon is most surely an advantage when you have Powell’s Book Store, which spans three square blocks. The atmosphere is totally inviting, the staff – completely accommodating, and the book selections are out of this world. If they don’t have what you’re looking for, it hasn’t been written.
Do you have any pets?
Oh, yes…I do. Toby is a 6 lb, 9 year-old Teddy Bear Yorkie with the attitude of a Doberman Pincher. His pal and co-conspirator is Oreo, a 14 lb, 9 month-old Malti-poo that’s constantly getting into mischief. I also have a pond filled with Koi, but they’re in hibernation until the end of March.
What are you reading right now?
I’m finishing Dan Brown’s The Lost Symbol and plan to read The Book Thief, which my oldest daughter is raving about.
Tell us a secret no one else knows.
If I hadn’t called in sick while living in Seattle a few years ago, I could have been one of Ted Bundy’s victims. He actually showed up at the office I worked at looking for me. Creepy, huh?
What’s the first thing you notice when you meet someone?
Ah…definitely their eyes. I think they say so much about a person without them even being aware of it.
Have you ever won anything?
Well, of course a few writing contests. But I also won $300 on a nickel machine in Vegas and two tickets with a complimentary limo ride to a Kenny Rogers concert. Now that was fun!
What’s on your to do list today?
I plan to write another chapter in my new action/adventure romance, have a glass of wine with my husband, and hopefully, get a load of laundry done. :P
I understand that you are touring with Pump Up Your Book Promotion during the months of February and March via a virtual book tour. Can you tell us all why you chose a virtual book tour to promote your book online?
I really think blogs are the way to go for marketing books. You have a chance to connect with readers and fellow authors, introduce your story, and maybe learn something interesting about each other. Although I’ve had some experience in marketing, I’m so new to this industry that hiring a great, reputable firm to assist with promoting Flaherty’s Crossing was the smartest thing I could possibly do.
Thank you for this interview, Kaylin. Good luck on your virtual book tour!
Thank you, and please be sure to stop by my website at http://www.kaylinmcfarren.com where you can read an excerpt from Flaherty’s Crossing and find out more information about purchasing your personal copy.
If you would like to visit Kaylin’s official tour page, click here!
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28 Comments
Ted Bundy? Seriously???? That’s TOTALLY creepy!
I love your book cover and good luck with the release!
Hugz
Donica
I love your blog! It’s nice to learn something new about your favorite authors. :)
I would love to go to Japan. I have a friend who lives there and is a baker and sells rolls and bread on the street market.
Tami
Hey Donica and Tami!
Nice to see you guys here. I know…isn’t it freaky about the Ted Bundy thing? His little yellow VW was parked in front of the office where I worked and he kept checking to find out if I was there. The FBI showed up the next day and took a report. Guess I must be like a cat with 9 lives or something. Either that or I have an awesome guardian watching over my shoulder. So Tami, how bout you and I head to Tokyo? We could celebrate E’s new deal. :P
Kaylin
Hello, Pixie Sister! Your cover is GORGEOUS and I can’t wait to read this book !!
Ted Bundy? You definitely have a guardian angel that works overtime !
Is the book you are currently writing related to Flaherty’s Crossing in any way?
Great interview and photo! I, too, have always wanted to visit Kyoto.
Best
Nan
What a great interview! Thanks Dorothy and Kaylin. And now I’m thinking suishi, sun and good books. (blocking the thought of Ted Bundy–so glad you were sick that day, phew.) Congratulations and can’t wait to read Flaherty’s Crossing.
Where do I start?? Louisa, Nan and Bev…glad I’m still around to mother everyone and to share my excitement with you! :P In answer to your question, Louisa, my new book, Severed Threads is going to become an action/adventure series – going in a very different direction from Flaherty’s Crossing. But Crossing will always warm my heart and I hope yours as well. :D
Okay, clearly, we are all very interested in your Bundy near miss. Ever thought of writing about that? Why, oh why, was he looking for YOU??? EEeeeek!
Looking forward to reading your book,
Carolyn
Well, Carolyn, it turns out Ted Bundy was often seen at Salt Water Park (where one girl was picked up) and the college campus where I went to school every day. Also the real estate office where I worked was located between these locations. I’m not entirely sure why he was particularly interested in me, but as photos of missing girls hit the papers, I couldn’t help noticing how much they all looked like me. Very creepy. And you’re right…great material for a book. :P
Hi Kaylin.
Just wanted to say again that I loved your book and it is a page turner.
Ted Bundy, huh? You never know who will come into your life and change it for better or worse. You are lucky for being sick on that day. Somebody was watching over you so you could get this wonderful story published.
Hi, Kaylin,
First of all, that thing about Ted Bundy is way creepy.
Second, I have a question. :)
You said you discuss what you’re working on with your husband. Do you discuss your works-in-progress with anyone else? I know a lot of authors are fiercely protective of their works-in-progress. I was just wondering what you do.
Thanks for answering our questions!
Michelle
michellemsherman(at)gmail(dot)com
Thanks Kat and hi Michelle:
My oldest daughter is a writer as well, which is incredibly handy. I love tossing ideas around with her and since it’s all in the family, they go no further. Once I get something written, I have a fun group of ladies I can bounce scenarios off of and being authors themselves, they have great insight, offer constructive criticism, and somehow manage to keep me grounded. :P
Great interview ladies.
Yes, the Ted Bundy thing is very creepy. Sends shivers up my spine.
I think it’s great that your daughter is also an author. Do you write in similiar genres? Do you share ideas?
Best of luck with your book.
Cheryl
“But I also won $300 on a nickel machine in Vegas …” – my great aunt would be jealous!
info@tribute-books.com
Hey Cheryl and Nicole! First of all, my daughter writes historical mainstream fiction (WWII era) while I write contemporary women’s fiction. She has a similar voice as mine and we spend a great deal of time editing each others work. We also discuss ideas and have been known to work on a few projects together. Now Nicole, in regard to that nickel machine, the whole experience was surreal. I’m not a big gambler as you probably guessed and after investing $20, I was down to my last 50 cents. I threw it in the machine and was about to walk away when it suddenly hit. I’ve never seen so many nickles in my life! LOL
Thanks for the chance!!
simplystacieblog at gmail dot com
Fingers crossed for you, Stacie!
Do you write fulltime?
Ah, yes Ed… have that “little” advantage. The birds have flown the nest and now I’ve got lots of free time on my hands. I absolutely LOVE writing. Also got this active imagination I’m exploring right now. I never know where it’s going to take me… :P
I’m certainly not as accomplished as you are, but I did get that glorious feeling when I saw my name in print under some poems I’ve written and a few stories as well.
I do have a question, How does one select the right editor?
I’m eager to read your work. Thanks so much for the possibility.
bgcchs(at)yahoo(dot)com
Can’t wait to read your new book!!
nancyecdavis AT bellsouth DOT net
This book looks great! I’m putting it on my must-read list. Thank you!
I’m wondering, how do you deal with writer’s block (if you do at all!)? Do you have any special brainstorming techniques? :-)
Glad you called in sick that day. That was very creepy! Great interview!
Hi Benita, Nancye, Marci and Amy:
Was plugged into writing my second book today, so do apologize for the delay in responding.
First, Benita – I actually worked with a critique partner who also has an amazing eye for editing. Submitting to contests also helped since feedback is essential and having a few more eyes look over my work really helped out. When your manuscript is finally accepted for publication, there’s always some room for minor errors and corrections, and a qualified editor will be assigned to work on your book. :)
Next, Nancye – Can’t wait for you to read Flaherty’s Crossing. Would love to know what you think when you finish it! :D
Thirdly, Marci – I’ve discovered that getting away from the material for a short time and then coming back and re-reading really helps with writer’s block. Try not to put yourself on a time clock. Just relax and get your story told. There’s always time to edit later.
And lastly, Amy – I’m REAL glad I was sick that day too. Someone definitely wanted to keep me around for a while. Maybe so I could write this story, huh?? :P
Take care everyone and thanks for taking the time to leave your great messages!!