Interview with Rennie St. James
Author of The Rahki Chronicles Boxed Set (Books 1-3)
Where are you from originally and where do you reside now?
I was born in West Virginia, grew up in southwestern Virginia, and now live in Roanoke, Virginia.
If you currently reside somewhere besides where you were born, what’s the story that lead from there to here?
Oh my, it wasn’t a straight path to Roanoke! After graduating from college, I lived in Richmond, Virginia, for several years. I bounced around apartments and jobs until deciding to move closer to my family. I didn’t want to return home exactly as I wanted them to have to call before they visit! Roanoke was the perfect compromise, and I’ve very glad I landed in the Star City.
What made you decide to write and publish your first book?
I had toyed with the idea of writing in college. However, it wasn’t until I fell in love with writing fanfiction in 2013 that I found the tools and discipline to write full-length original novels. The magic of creating new worlds to share with others was a powerful motivation. I self-published first, gained a small indie publisher, and then started self-publishing again. I used the tagline ‘Some epic journeys start with a stumble’ for one book and that’s certainly been true for my writing journey.
How would you describe your books to first time readers?
I took the advice to write a book I wanted to read…or at least watch on television! As I started in fanfiction, my writing was impacted by the shows I love (Grimm, Arrow, Charmed, Gilmore Girls, and Supernatural). My Rahki Chronicles series has an ensemble cast of strong individuals coming together for the greater good and to save the world. It sounds very epic and surreal, but the magic is very much grounded in the modern and natural worlds. There are road trips, martial arts training, romance, snark, and even a mountain lion.
Who do you feel is most likely to connect with the topics you write about?
While I think every author likes to believe every reader could love their work, I think we also know that’s not true! I think readers who enjoy adventure with a bit of magic, like character-driven stories, want to travel the world through books, and appreciate a happy ending could find a place with me and my books. It also helps to like chocolate!
What unexpected or surprising thing did you learn during the process of writing and publishing?
I’d like to reiterate my personal tagline – Some epic journeys start with a stumble!
For writing, I learned that the best-laid plans and plotting could easily be destroyed by a single determined character. I don’t want to give away spoilers; however, the ending of Coppe (Rahki Chronicles #2) was a surprise ending for me too!
For publishing, I’ve found that it is simply work as any job is. The writing is the creative, artistic side. Publishing is the business side and should be treated as such.
If you could, what advice would you give to your past self before embarking on this journey?
Enjoy the journey – don’t just fixate on the destination. My original destination was to publish, and I have. Being an author isn’t just about what you do, it’s about who you are. I think many writers hope to change the world with their books. This means we don’t always appreciate the value of how writing changes us. Relish the journey each day!
How many people would you ideally like to reach with your books?
If I say everyone, is that unrealistic?! I’m not as worried about an exact number as much as I am about finding readers who would enjoy my writing. Whether that number is two, two hundred, two thousand, or two million, I couldn’t say.
What has been the biggest challenge and frustration during the process to date?
Editing is always a struggle for me – I love the rush of writing and prefer to jump into new stories instead of polishing older ones. Writing has helped me gain (some) patience though. I consider it a badge of honor to take the editing seriously and make my stories the best they can be.
What’s your biggest strengths when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?
Definitely not publishing or marketing, so let’s hope it is writing! I do love getting to know new characters, creating magical worlds, and helping good triumph over evil.
What’s your biggest weakness when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?
I shouldn’t have been surprised by this question…I guess marketing. Publishing is a simpler matter once you have forms and resources. Marketing is the people side and I find I’m often surprised by people!
When do you think you will write your next book?
I’m always writing the next book! While I have 5 books out in the Rahki Chronicles, there are 2 more to come. Additionally, I have joined several authors on a project which means at least one new book (unrelated to my #rahkiworld) will be published in 2020. I’ve also started a new series that probably won’t be ready until 2021, and I have notes for other stories too.
Are you self published or did you use a hybrid publisher, or a traditional publisher?
I am proudly self-published!
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