Ask the Author: Kathleen Baldwin
Answered Questions (53)
Kathleen Baldwin
Hi Sarah!
Thank you for your question. I would've answered sooner but I wanted to give you a etched-in-stone answer, and the date just got finalized this week.
So here goes....
It's official! SANCTUARY FOR SEERS will be released on June 15th! Thank you for waiting so paitiently.
There's a trailer on my website and I'll see about posting it here in Goodreads. I am excited for readers to get to know Sera.
Have a great Christmas and a wonderful New Year!
-Kathleen
Thank you for your question. I would've answered sooner but I wanted to give you a etched-in-stone answer, and the date just got finalized this week.
So here goes....
It's official! SANCTUARY FOR SEERS will be released on June 15th! Thank you for waiting so paitiently.
There's a trailer on my website and I'll see about posting it here in Goodreads. I am excited for readers to get to know Sera.
Have a great Christmas and a wonderful New Year!
-Kathleen
Kathleen Baldwin
Hi Victoria! I would've answered sooner but I wanted to give you a solid answer, and the date for release wasn't finalized until this week. It's official! Sanctuary for Seers will be out on June 15th! Thank you for waiting so paitiently.
I hope you will love her storry as much as I do. There's a trailer on my website.
Enjoy the holidays!
I hope you will love her storry as much as I do. There's a trailer on my website.
Enjoy the holidays!
Kathleen Baldwin
Hi Angel!
Thank you for suggesting my books to others, that's very kind and helpful of you. It is also how good books get discovered.
You pose an interesting question. I wrote short stories long before I took on the full length novel. Moving from genre to genre is fun for me.
One of my hero writers is Jo Walton and she moves astonishingly well into whatever genre or theme or story she would like to write. I admire her courage to do that when so often we are told as writers to "stay in our lane."
IMO whether a writer stays in their lane or dashes wherever they would like to go depends on what one's goal is as a writer. As for me, I write because I love it and can't stop. LOL
Thank you for suggesting my books to others, that's very kind and helpful of you. It is also how good books get discovered.
You pose an interesting question. I wrote short stories long before I took on the full length novel. Moving from genre to genre is fun for me.
One of my hero writers is Jo Walton and she moves astonishingly well into whatever genre or theme or story she would like to write. I admire her courage to do that when so often we are told as writers to "stay in our lane."
IMO whether a writer stays in their lane or dashes wherever they would like to go depends on what one's goal is as a writer. As for me, I write because I love it and can't stop. LOL
Kathleen Baldwin
Hi Cassie!
I've been observing people since I was a little girl. People fascinate me. I have a minor in psychology because I enjoy figuring out what makes others tick.
So, the characters in my books are constructed from a combination of things; the people I've observed closely, my understanding of psychological motivations and characteristics, and pure imagination.
I love my characters. They are very real to me. I can see them in my mind the same way you would picture a sister or a close friend. Even the villains. As a writer it is important to really really like the people you are building. If you love them, and can see the world from inside their skin, it makes them more real on the page.
At least that's my theory on it. ;-D
I've been observing people since I was a little girl. People fascinate me. I have a minor in psychology because I enjoy figuring out what makes others tick.
So, the characters in my books are constructed from a combination of things; the people I've observed closely, my understanding of psychological motivations and characteristics, and pure imagination.
I love my characters. They are very real to me. I can see them in my mind the same way you would picture a sister or a close friend. Even the villains. As a writer it is important to really really like the people you are building. If you love them, and can see the world from inside their skin, it makes them more real on the page.
At least that's my theory on it. ;-D
Kathleen Baldwin
Hi Coletter! I'm so glad you enjoy the Stranje House novels.
Yes. I've had a some personal set backs. But yes! Sera's book, Sanctuary for Seers, is well underway and 2/3s finished. We even have a cover. Which I will be revealing soon.
Yes. I've had a some personal set backs. But yes! Sera's book, Sanctuary for Seers, is well underway and 2/3s finished. We even have a cover. Which I will be revealing soon.
Kathleen Baldwin
Hi Tessa! I'm so happy you enjoy the Stranje House novels. And what fun that you love to write, too!
Every writer garners their inspiration from different sources. I'm curious where yours comes from?
For me it comes from my life experiences and from observing the lives of people around me, and also from dreams. Yep, dreams. Sometimes I dream a scene and just have to write a book around that scene. Sometimes I dream a book almost fully formed.
The Stranje House series, though, had a different beginning.
My ten-year-old nephew, Ethan, (for whom Captain Grey is named after) told me I should write a book where kids were being trained to be magician's apprentices. He was reading a fabulous series like that written for boys. He got me thinking about a more realistic spy school for girls set in Jane Austen's era where, in reality, a terrible war was raging with Napoleon. That war that took the lives of more than 2 million people, yet it is hardly mentioned in Austen's books.
Thus Stranje House was born.
Where does your inspiration come from?
Every writer garners their inspiration from different sources. I'm curious where yours comes from?
For me it comes from my life experiences and from observing the lives of people around me, and also from dreams. Yep, dreams. Sometimes I dream a scene and just have to write a book around that scene. Sometimes I dream a book almost fully formed.
The Stranje House series, though, had a different beginning.
My ten-year-old nephew, Ethan, (for whom Captain Grey is named after) told me I should write a book where kids were being trained to be magician's apprentices. He was reading a fabulous series like that written for boys. He got me thinking about a more realistic spy school for girls set in Jane Austen's era where, in reality, a terrible war was raging with Napoleon. That war that took the lives of more than 2 million people, yet it is hardly mentioned in Austen's books.
Thus Stranje House was born.
Where does your inspiration come from?
Kathleen Baldwin
The Stranje House series is currently in an extension on it's third film option. I am still hopeful. Believe me, the minute I hear it is in production I'll be shouting from the housetops and dancin' in the street. It is currently in the hands of an able producer and screenwriter, both of whom love the series almost as much as I do.
Kathleen Baldwin
Hi Aria! We are running way behind on Sanctuary for Seers. And for that I apologize. My husband got cancer, my daughter and her kids got Covid, our son's wife gave birth prematurely to a sweet little baby girl and they live with us. It was tough at first but she is thriving now. It's been one of the most challenging years ever for our family. All of this slowed the writing, for which I'm sorry. Sanctuary was supposed to come out this month.
After recovering from it all, I got looking at what was written and decided the story so far wasn't true enough to Sera's character--not big enough. Her gifts are amazing and I was holding back. So, I dug in and rewrote the whole first half of the book. I absolutely love it now, and can't wait for you to read it. I'll be posting a sneak peek in my newsletter soon. We are aiming for February or March release.
Thank you for asking. Please be patient. Big hug! Prayers for smoother sailing would be appreciated. All my best, Kathleen
After recovering from it all, I got looking at what was written and decided the story so far wasn't true enough to Sera's character--not big enough. Her gifts are amazing and I was holding back. So, I dug in and rewrote the whole first half of the book. I absolutely love it now, and can't wait for you to read it. I'll be posting a sneak peek in my newsletter soon. We are aiming for February or March release.
Thank you for asking. Please be patient. Big hug! Prayers for smoother sailing would be appreciated. All my best, Kathleen
Kathleen Baldwin
Hi Imani! The goal is that Sanctuary for Seers, Sera's story will come out in the Fall. But you're right! We may have some short stories from the guys' points of view coming out beforehand. :-)
So happy you're enjoying the series! Sera's part of the tale is very complex and exciting. I can't wait for you to get to know her better.
So happy you're enjoying the series! Sera's part of the tale is very complex and exciting. I can't wait for you to get to know her better.
Kathleen Baldwin
Awwh, Thank you, Jay! You made my day.
Your question intrigues me. I'm curious what in particular you would like to see with Sebastian and Georgie? I enjoy writing about those two and would be happy to write more featuring them.
BTW, you will see them quite a bit in Sera's story, which I am working on now.
Your question intrigues me. I'm curious what in particular you would like to see with Sebastian and Georgie? I enjoy writing about those two and would be happy to write more featuring them.
BTW, you will see them quite a bit in Sera's story, which I am working on now.
Kathleen Baldwin
Hi Colette!
Your note made my day! It's readers like you that keep me writing. The women of Stranje House are dear to me, almost like sisters. It makes me feel so good knowing someone else likes them as much as I do. I know they're fictional, but in my head they seem real.
IMO Sera is the most remarkable of them all. I can't wait for you to get to know her better.
As to when her book, Sanctuary for Seers, is coming out, we had hoped late spring. But complication due to beastly old Covid have slowed everything, consequently the schedule has shifted to summer. I will keep you posted in my newsletter.
I wish you a very happy New Year!
--Kathleen
Your note made my day! It's readers like you that keep me writing. The women of Stranje House are dear to me, almost like sisters. It makes me feel so good knowing someone else likes them as much as I do. I know they're fictional, but in my head they seem real.
IMO Sera is the most remarkable of them all. I can't wait for you to get to know her better.
As to when her book, Sanctuary for Seers, is coming out, we had hoped late spring. But complication due to beastly old Covid have slowed everything, consequently the schedule has shifted to summer. I will keep you posted in my newsletter.
I wish you a very happy New Year!
--Kathleen
Kathleen Baldwin
Hi Angelina!
I'm so sorry it took me this long to answer you. I thought Goodreads was notifying me whenever anyone asked a question. Apparently I was wrong. :-D
I'm delighted you are a fan of the Stranje House series. I am sad about the series ending too. Sigh. I love these characters.
Did you read Saving Sebastian on my website? Did you like it? Do you think you would enjoy more from the other men's viewpoint. In case you didn't see the short story on my website, it's here: https://kathleenbaldwin.com/wp-conten...
Yes, I think it would be fun to write Emma Stranje's story, too. I am considering it. Also I'm considering a new girl coming to the school.
I hope you have a happy 2021!
-Kathleen
I'm so sorry it took me this long to answer you. I thought Goodreads was notifying me whenever anyone asked a question. Apparently I was wrong. :-D
I'm delighted you are a fan of the Stranje House series. I am sad about the series ending too. Sigh. I love these characters.
Did you read Saving Sebastian on my website? Did you like it? Do you think you would enjoy more from the other men's viewpoint. In case you didn't see the short story on my website, it's here: https://kathleenbaldwin.com/wp-conten...
Yes, I think it would be fun to write Emma Stranje's story, too. I am considering it. Also I'm considering a new girl coming to the school.
I hope you have a happy 2021!
-Kathleen
Kathleen Baldwin
Hi Emma!
I'm so happy you enjoy the Stranje House series. I am considering adding more of the short stories from the male points of view. Did you read Saving Sebastian on my website? Did you like it? Would you enjoy more of those. In case you didn't see the short story on my website, it's here: https://kathleenbaldwin.com/wp-conten...
I started Madame Cho's origin story but it got a little dark so I don't know if I should go there or not. Hhmm. Also I'm considering having a new girl come to the school.
PS: I apologize that it took me so long to answer you. I thought Goodreads was notifying me whenever anyone asked a question. Apparently not. :-D
I'm so happy you enjoy the Stranje House series. I am considering adding more of the short stories from the male points of view. Did you read Saving Sebastian on my website? Did you like it? Would you enjoy more of those. In case you didn't see the short story on my website, it's here: https://kathleenbaldwin.com/wp-conten...
I started Madame Cho's origin story but it got a little dark so I don't know if I should go there or not. Hhmm. Also I'm considering having a new girl come to the school.
PS: I apologize that it took me so long to answer you. I thought Goodreads was notifying me whenever anyone asked a question. Apparently not. :-D
Kathleen Baldwin
Hi Tian! I’m so glad you’re enjoying the Stranje House series. Some libraries already carry Harbor for the Nightingale. If you put in a request to your library, they should be able to order it. It is available through Ingram which is a distributor most libraries can order from. I believe New York Public Library has the other three books. I should think they would be willing to order the fourth. Please try requesting it from them.
Kathleen Baldwin
Hi Miya! Thank you for your lovely note! Oh my goodness! I didn't realize I'd done that? Does it seem that even Maya looked down on pretty gowns? I will try to rectify that. Mostly I thought Tess and Georgie did that, but Lady Jane would certainly appreciate a well-made dress, and she would've grown up knowing how to sew and dance. I will pay more attention to how that is conveyed in the future. Thank you for bringing it to my attention. I'm such a tomboy that I may have accidentally omitted it.
Kathleen Baldwin
Hi Brittany! How are you? I hope quarantine is going okay. Thank you for the question.
I am super excited about Sera's story, too. I'm working on Sanctuary for Seers, and hope to have it available about this time next year. As you know, I am not a fast writer. I take a lot of time getting deep into the character and allowing the story to unfold. When I write, I never know what will happen next. That is part of the joy of writing for me--the adventure.
Stay well and have a lovely summer.
I am super excited about Sera's story, too. I'm working on Sanctuary for Seers, and hope to have it available about this time next year. As you know, I am not a fast writer. I take a lot of time getting deep into the character and allowing the story to unfold. When I write, I never know what will happen next. That is part of the joy of writing for me--the adventure.
Stay well and have a lovely summer.
Kathleen Baldwin
Great Question! Thank you for asking. It is not a painful difficulty, but an interesting adventure. Capturing the essence of Seraphina's beautiful personality is an exciting challenge. I want to do it well enough that readers will feel it as if they are inside her head. Also, Sera's wonderfully keen intellect is a challenge to capture, too, and I am not a genius like she and the other girls at Stranje House. :-D Which means it takes me several attempts to achieve the effect of her brilliance. Plus, I believe she is going to surprise you in the way she sees the world. She has a secret talent that makes her even more observant.
Kathleen Baldwin
Hi Jennifer! I'm sorry I didn't see your question sooner. Thank you for your note! (And your patience) I'm currently writing Sera's story and, as you may have guessed, I'm not a speedy writer. But the goal is to have it ready for readers by this time next year. Thank you for asking.
Kathleen Baldwin
Hi Morgan! LOL! I ❤❤❤ that you are obsessed with the series. Made my day. I wish I could give you a release date for Sanctuary for Seers but I don't have one yet. I am working as fast as I can on it and the hope is that it will be ready this time next year. Sera is an amazing character and I am working to get her story just right.
Kathleen Baldwin
Yes! Absolutely. Sera is a wonderful character and I'm enjoying writing her story. I wish I was a faster writer, but please know it will come!
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