We chat with author Kay Synclaire about House of Frank, which is a warm and hopeful story of a lonely witch consumed by grief who discovers a whimsical cast of characters in a magical arboretum—and the healing power of found family.
Hi, Kay! Can you tell our readers a bit about yourself?
Hello! My pen name is Kay Synclaire, but my real name is Khaighnen, named after the land of Canaan. I love to create whether it’s through writing, drawing, animating, or crafting. I’m also a huge fan of storytelling. My preferred outlet is either through books or animated shows.
When did you first discover your love for writing and stories?
My mama. She was a writer and a lover of stories. We always had books in our home, and I loved the way I felt being surrounded by them. My mother would tell me stories from her childhood and her life, and I knew that I wanted to do that, too. Also, my sister shared the same love of storytelling, and we often told each other stories just for fun.
Quick lightning round! Tell us:
- The first book you ever remember reading: Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli
- The one that made you want to become an author: The Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snickett
- The one that you can’t stop thinking about: Always Lord of the Rings. The lore. The worldbuilding. The characters. It’s all so good.
Your latest novel, House of Frank, is out October 15th! If you could only describe it in five words, what would they be?
Melancholic, healing, warm, soft, loving
What can readers expect?
They can expect a warm, atmospheric tale about a witch who has lost her sister and is learning how to fall back in love with life after facing such a huge loss. Also, they should expect a character who learns that just because you have love for someone, it doesn’t justify your actions towards them.
Where did the inspiration for House of Frank come from?
House of Frank was birthed from my desire to escape reality, honestly. I had recently lost my mother (and then my aunt), and I desperately wished there was a place where I could press pause and process the devastating changes in my life. Somewhere cozy, and healing, and a place where I could be myself. I found that place in Ash Gardens and the characters who lived there.
Were there any moments or characters you really enjoyed writing or exploring?
I absolutely loved writing the character, Hilde. She is just everything I want to be. She’s sure of herself, but it did not come without painful lessons. I adore the loving role she takes on for Saika when she appears to Ash Gardens. I wish I had like an auntie like her who would sit down with me and give me tea (both the drink and gossip).
What do you hope readers take away from House of Frank?
I hope readers will rest in the knowledge that when you lose someone in your life, it doesn’t mean you lose who you are. Those memories with your loved ones are still there, alive and thriving in your heart. You can pick up the pieces again. You may be a little shattered, yes, but you’re still whole. You’re still you. And you can learn to love life again.
What’s next for you?
I have a few writing projects in the works, but currently I am focused on the prequel for House of Frank!
Lastly, what books have you enjoyed so far this year and are there any that you can’t wait to get your hands on?
I absolutely adored the Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi! I have an (un)healthy obsession with pirates, oceans, and adventure. The characters and the world are so rich and enthralling. Also, I really enjoyed Black Sun. There seems to be a theme here.
I’m excited for the third book of the Tomes and Tea series, Tea You At The Altar! I’ve been waiting forever!
