ANNIHILATION, Book 2, Gehenna Series received a 4+ star review, making it an IndieReader Approved title.
Following find an interview with author Kaylin McFarren.
What is the name of the book and when was it published?
ANNIHILATION, Book 2, Gehenna Series – published in paperback format on January 3, 2022; kindle format on February 3, 2022
What’s the book’s first line?
The nightmare rushed back into Samara Daemonium’s thoughts, leaving her gasping for air.
What’s the book about? Give us the “pitch”.
A power struggle ensues between Lucifer and his daughter Lucinda with Samara Daemonium caught in the middle, debating on her place in the evil underworld.
What inspired you to write the book? A particular person? An event?
I rather enjoy reading a twisted paranormal story, especially when it involves interesting, complicated characters with personal issues, outside pressures, and complications affecting their judgment. The world of politics today definitely impacted this story and greatly influenced my writing.
What’s the main reason someone should really read this book?
Purely for entertainment. It’s not often you read a story about demons and angels trying to maintain a human existence in a Middle World Universe.
What’s the most distinctive thing about the main character? Who-real or fictional-would you say the character reminds you of?
Samara Daemonium is Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Laura Croft with a little bit of Lucinda Price (from Torment) thrown into the mix. She is struggling to survive in this coming-of-age story while being faced with a barrage of obstacles that impede her escape from Hell.
When did you first decide to become an author?
I was a bit of a late bloomer, writing with my daughter Kristina McMorris and fine tuning my craft along the way. But I’ve always had an interest in writing and for years wrote poetry. This is why each of my books begin with a poem, preparing readers for the story or tale they’re about undertake.
Is this the first book you’ve written?
No, FLAHERTY’S CROSSING was and garnered a dozen awards which encouraged me to write more.
What do you do for work when you’re not writing?
Although I’m retired now, I handled public relations for the Yoshida Group – our family-owned conglomerate which includes Yoshida Sauce products.
How much time do you generally spend on your writing?
At least four to five hours a day.
What’s the best and the hardest part of being an indie?
Marketing and getting the word out about new books.
What’s a great piece of advice that you can share with fellow indie authors?
Look for opportunities to talk about your stories, whether it’s during a book tour, blog interviews, newspaper articles or book fairs. People are fascinated with the way an author’s mind works, especially when they’re developing a new story.
Would you go traditional if a publisher came calling? If so, why?
I went this route first and didn’t like letting go of all control of my writing – from changing the story line, eliminating characters and having no say on the cover. I prefer my independence even if it means fewer books being sold.
Is there something in particular that motivates you (fame? fortune?)
I’m happy with the sliver of success I’ve experienced personally, since my family is relatively well known and write purely for the pleasure of seeing my books on a shelf.
Which writer, living or dead, do you most admire?
I’ve always enjoyed reading Anne Rice and Dean Koontz books and would love to mimic their success when it comes to followers.
Which book do you wish you could have written?
Interview with a Vampire – one of my favorite stories. It still gives me chills when I watch the movie. Such wicked, good fun. Don’t you agree?