Today we are excited to have Ronie Kendig with us. You may know her for her rapid-fire fiction and military novels, but she also writes fantasy! Not just that, but the final book in her epic fantasy series, Fierian, came out this week (wahoo!).
An Army brat, Ronie Kendig grew up in the classic military family, with her father often TDY and her mother holding down the proverbial fort. Their family moved often, which left Ronie attending six schools by the time she’d entered fourth grade. Her only respite and “friends” during this time were the characters she created.
It was no surprise when she married a military veteran—her real-life hero—in June 1990. Married more than twenty-five years, Ronie and her husband have homeschooled for the last eighteen years. Despite the craziness of life, Ronie finds balance and peace with her faith, family, and retired military working dog in Northern Virginia.
1) If you could travel anywhere for book research (all expenses paid) where would you go and why?
Israel! Our family has twice attempted to fund ourselves over to Israel, and it keeps falling through. I’ve always wanted to walk where Jesus walked, and in my limited online research for previous books, I’ve fallen in love with Israel, which is replete with historical and geographical beauty!
Ooo! Me too! (maybe I can fit into your suitcase when you finally go…)
2) Do you listen to music while you write? If so what are some examples?
I definitely listen to music while I write—it’s the only way to block out all the gaming happening in the house during my muse’s late-night hours. My favorite albums include those from Two Steps From Hell, Audiomachine, and Brand X Music. Brilliant soundtrack-style music, without the lyrics (mostly).
Yes! I love Two Steps from Hell and Audiomachine.
3) How would you like to be remembered?
As a woman who honored the Lord in how she lived.
4) What is your favorite thing you have ever written?
My favorite “thing” I’ve ever written is the book I am rewriting and which will be published next year by Enclave—my space opera. I originally wrote it 12 years ago and the story has never left me. I’m so thrilled to have the chance to deepen the storyline and characters before it reaches readers’ hands.
Exciting!
5) Besides speculative fiction, what other genre would you like to write in?
The only other genre that holds my interest is the suspense/thriller genre in which I have written 20 books. Back when I first started trying to get published, we were told to get published in a “normal” genre to establish some credibility, then when I had that street cred, I could use that to publish the genre I’m most passionate about. Times have changed with the advent of indie publishing, but my desire to see my speculative stories published has not.
6) What is the last book you read?
Patrick Rothfuss’s The Name of the Wind, which has delighted me with this unique turns of phrases and gentle guidance through his storyworld. It’s a tome of a book but it’s been a nice break, teased with laughter and intrigue.
7) What is your favorite part about writing?
New-story smell!! I love the first draft of a story, where you explore the world, trials, and challenges with your characters. Those first attempts forge a deep relationship through with stronger layers can later be laid down.
Thank you, Ronie, for joining us! Here is where you can find her and her books online:
Website: roniekendig.com
Books: www.enclavepublishing.com/series/abiassas-fire/
Thank you for hosting me!