We chat with author Caty Rogan about Kissed by the Gods, which is a gripping fantasy debut with immersive lush writing, an unflinching heroine, and an inventive fantasy world.
Hi, Caty! Can you tell our readers a bit about yourself?
I would love to! I’m a Capricorn (though I’m not really sure that means!), I’m a mom of two amazing girls (plus a dog who is pretty sure he’s people), and my husband is my “he-falls-first” in real life MMC.
When did you first discover your love for writing and stories?
I’ve always loved reading, and I started writing with the help of my mother when I was very young. My mother also wanted to be an author, and she really encouraged this dream of mine in very special ways, including typing up my story ideas (on a typewriter!) and printing them out.
Quick lightning round! Tell us:
- The first book you ever remember reading: On my own? Yikes. Maybe Ella Enchanted? I’m not sure I have a memory of this.
- The one that made you want to become an author: There’s too many!
- The one that you can’t stop thinking about: I’m very excited for September, when Whit Stanfield releases the fourth book in her The Naiads of Juile series about feminine rage and sirens.
Your debut novel, Kissed by the Gods, is out now! If you could only describe it in five words, what would they be?
Feminine rage and he’s a yearner. (Almost made it! That’s six.)
What can readers expect?
In addition to the feminine rage and the MMC who is very down bad for our girl Leina, you can expect found family, epic fantasy, meddling gods, and winged war horses.
Where did the inspiration for Kissed by the Gods come from?
Kissed by the Gods was inspired by so many sources of the years, but I love sharing that I’ve pulled inspiration from Star Wars! When you read about the Synod Council, how they can call to their weapons, and the structure of the Altor training system, think Star Wars and the Jedi.
Were there any moments or characters you really enjoyed writing or exploring?
Too many to count, but I was so surprised by how easily Thalric and Nyrica both came to me. These two have my whole heart.
Did you face any challenges whilst writing? How did you overcome them?
I really dug into writing Kissed by the Gods after having a miscarriage, and the story also became a way for me to process my grief.
This is your debut novel! What was the road to becoming a published author like for you?
It’s been wild! I published Kissed by the Gods as an indie author, and I really loved that journey. The indie author community is so welcoming and supportive, and I’ve learned so much. I’ve also enjoyed taking Kissed by the Gods to the traditional publishing world, and love working with a larger team.
What’s next for you?
I’m hard at work on Blessed by the Damned, which is the sequel to Kissed by the Gods and the conclusion to Leina and Ryot’s duet.
Lastly, what books are you looking forward to picking up? Any you’ve read so far this year that you’ve enjoyed?
Leena Kazak’s Between Tides and Thunder re-releases in January, after also being picked by traditional publishing, and I cannot wait to get my hands on the deluxe edition. I’ve already it, but you better believe I’m going to read it again!
