Kathryn Wall has averaged writing a book a year since the first Bay Tanner mystery, In for a Penny, was published in 2001. The tenth book in the series, Canaan's Gate, is completed and will be in stores in 2010.
"I never anticipated writing so many books," Wall said in an interview with Rosalie Thompson, Suite 101 contributing writer. "My goal in the beginning was to get just one published, to have something I had written survive me, sort of a legacy."
Wall self-published her first book and promoted it to local bookstores. A publisher from St. Martin's Press was visiting the area and saw the book, which led to a contract. Wall is working on the eleventh book in the Bay Tanner Mystery series, the last one under her present contract.
The Journey From Ohio Accountant to Hilton Head Mystery Writer for Kathryn Wall
Wall grew up in a small town in Ohio and has always loved writing. She wrote her first story at the age of six and then took a few decades off. After working as an accountant in Ohio for 25 years, she and her husband Norman retired to Hilton Head Island in 1994.
She quickly adapted to her new surrounding and began using them in her writings. Her characters reflect the history of the South Carolina coastal region and its social and political struggles. Her main character has tackled such issues as the environment and immigration. She visits Hilton Head Island hotels, restaurants, and gated communities in her books.
Wall is currently promoting her ninth book, Covenant Hall, which was published in April 2009. She said being able to engage with people who love books and reading is always the best part of being out on promotion. At first she had a difficult time standing in front of a large group, but she has come to enjoy the process.
Promotion Tour Gives Mystery Writer Kathryn Wall an Opportunity to Interact with Readers
"To see the enthusiasm that still exists for the printed word is a thrill for me," Wall commented. She still believes there are plenty of folks who "share my love of holding an unopened book in their hands, who experience the same anticipation at opening to the first page."
Wall regularly hears from readers who have discovered Bay Tanner, either on a trip to Hilton Head Island or at their local library or through a friend's recommendation. They relate to her how the books have reminded them of a cherished family vacation or evoked fond memories of once having lived in the area.
"That people would take the time to share those feelings with me, in person as well as by mail, is something I treasure and for which I'm truly grateful.
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