Author Interview: Anna Kringle
- Catherine Banks
- Jun 22, 2016
- 4 min read
Anna Kringle
Let's start off by wishing Anna a happy birthday! Happy Birthday, Anna!
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
I think I first realized when I was twelve years old. I kept talking about books I wanted to read that didn't exist, and my mother said something to the tune of, “Well write them, then!” So I did!
I finished my first story- a fairy tale- my junior year of high school, and used it as an example during my senior project of why I was pursuing a career in writing.
Do you write in a particular genre or do you like to bounce around to different ones? Is this / Are these the genre(s) that you also like to read?
I bounce around a bit. I have manuscripts in everything from magical fantasy, to space age fiction to contemporary romance. Mostly, I like to write adventures and intrigue.
Do you have a favorite genre to write?
My current favorite to play with is Steampunk. I've been having fun creating whole complex cultures with that edge of both grunge and refinement (The gadgets are pretty fun too).
Do you have a favorite genre to read?
Hmmm, Definitely Steampunk again; I've been enamored with a few series by Lindsay Buroker. She creates beautiful, intriguing worlds. I'm also a fan of classic and historical mysteries.
What books have most influenced your life?
Oh my... The Wizard of Oz books, for a start. My mother would read those to us when we were young, and I loved the diverse and crazy people that came along on the adventures.
And Pride and Prejudice, I think. Austen definitely helped me develop my humor and amusement with human idiosyncrasies.
Do you have a favorite book or series from another author?
Without a doubt, The Emperor's Edge series by Buroker. Followed closely by the Amelia Peabody Mysteries, by Elizabeth Peters.
What do you like to do when you're not writing?
Oh so many things! I enjoy music; I play violin and sing as part of a barbershop chorus (Sweet Adelines International). I absolutely adore swimming, when the weather allows. And I'm developing my green thumb, learning about medicinal and edible plants and how to nurture/use them (It's my life goal to nurture a whole conservatory of lush plants that are both useful and beautiful).
When did you write your first book and how old were you?
My very first published work was The Rooftops of London, I finished it when I was 23, and published it on New Year's Day of 2014.
How long does it take you to write a book?
It depends on the book. Return to Masonry took me about a year and a half, as my longest book. My shortest, A Trivial Venture, was written and published in about six months.
What does your family think of your writing?
I'm pretty lucky to have a supportive family. I can count my mother and a sister-in-law as some of my biggest fans. Most of my biggest achievements as an author have been done with their help and support. I am very blessed to know how proud they are of me.
Do you have any suggestions to help others become a better writer?
One of my favorite quotes ever is from the cellist Pablo Casals; He was asked why, at 83 years old, he continued to practice four times a day. He answered, “Because I think I'm making progress.”
The only way to improve is to keep trying, keep reaching outside your comfort zone and keep driving forward, even- especially- when it's difficult.
What's next for you/What are you working on now?
I'm in the process of releasing A Risky Gamble; Book Two of the Trivial Venture! I'm excited to share that one. It was postponed a bit longer than I had hoped.
I'm also working on a sequel to The Rooftops of London, picking up with Joss, Lenora and everyone’s favorite robot chicken. That one has some work left to it, but hopefully I'll have more to share this fall.
What is your preferred method to have readers get in touch with or follow you (i.e., website,
personal blog, Facebook page, here on Goodreads, etc.) and link(s)?
Oh, please talk to me, do! I love making friends! Facebook is where I play most, but twitter and emails are good too:
Tell us about your journey in becoming self-published/Did you always want to go that route?
Oh goodness... No, I think I originally meant to traditionally publish. I liked the idea of doing my own thing in between writing amazing works. But I've found there's a lot of freedom in self-publishing, and I love the entrepreneurial aspects of building a business and being responsible for all the decisions. I'm proud of everything I've been able to do, and all I've learned.
Are any of your characters based on real people from your life?
They all have little inspirations, but I think Alanor in Return to Masonry was the one most directly inspired. It made her more of a challenge to write; She was so far beyond my own experience. But I love her. I think she turned into a beautiful character that explored the trials of abuse and neglect.
Speed Round!
Favorite Food: Strawberries
Favorite Color: Orange
Favorite Animal: Koala Bears!
Favorite Book: The Emperor's Edge by Lindsay Buroker
Favorite Movie: Star Wars IV: A New Hope
Favorite Drink: Ooh... Umm, Umm... Sun Tea!
Favorite Restaurant: Pacific Southern. It's a great local joint just up the street from me. Chef Bob is a doll, and a culinary genius. (best. Coffee. EVER.)
Thank you for stopping by! Check out Anna's sites, but don't forget to come back here for more author interviews.
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