Unbound Creativity, Unfolding Adventures. The Method to Kennett’s Storytelling
PHOTO: Mastering the Art of Enchantment: L. Denton Kennett, amidst the woodland, drawing inspiration for Paron’s mystical realms.
In the world of literature, where fantasy holds sway over the imagination, we often find ourselves drawn to realms far beyond the confines of our reality. Enter L. Denton Kennett, a maestro of the fantastical, whose journey into the realms of storytelling reflects a lifelong devotion to the enchanting genre of fantasy.
Kennett’s path to becoming an esteemed fantasy author has been as diverse and rich as the worlds he crafts. From a background steeped in multifaceted experiences as a graphic designer, a revered college professor, and a jack-of-all-trades, his love for fantastical tales has been a constant companion. Rooted in the serene beauty of Wisconsin’s Northwoods, he finds inspiration amidst nature, sharing his world with family and a loyal canine companion.
But Kennett is more than a purveyor of stories; he is a man of myriad passions. From hiking through untamed landscapes to cultivating gardens, practicing alternative healing, delving into herbalism, crafting woodwork, tending to bees, and much more, his life embodies the richness of experiences that finds echoes in the vibrant tapestry of his narratives.
Delving into an interview with this master storyteller reveals the influences that have shaped his literary path. His admiration for the works of JRR Tolkien, Margaret Weis, Tracy Hickman, and William W Johnstone speaks volumes about the roots that anchor his storytelling prowess. His love for fantasy and Western genres, nurtured by timeless classics like “Lord of the Rings” and “Dragonlance Chronicles,” serves as the bedrock for his creative ingenuity.
What strikes most profoundly in Kennett’s approach is his method of storytelling—an organic process where the story unfurls as he pens it, unbounded by rigid outlines or preconceived plans. Characters come alive, weaving their destinies in a world known as Paron, overcoming unforeseen obstacles as the narrative unfolds, much like the mystery that awaits both writer and reader alike.
When asked about his aspirations for readers engaging with his work, Kennett’s desire for them to journey alongside his characters, to witness the trials and triumphs within the Land of Paron, underscores his commitment to immersive storytelling. His motivation to write, born from a serendipitous moment of necessity coupled with his wife’s suggestion, led to the birth of his captivating tales, penned in remarkably short periods.
As he ventures into the next phase of his literary odyssey, Kennett sets his sights on “Beyond the Shadow Lands,” his upcoming creation. Simultaneously, he embarks on the endeavor to transform his tales into the melodious realm of audiobooks while ardently engaging in marketing efforts to share his stories with eager audiences.
L. Denton Kennett, a luminary of fantasy, stands at the threshold of a burgeoning legacy, yet remains firmly rooted in the joy of storytelling today. His creative horizons stretch beyond the known, embracing the mystery of where his narratives will lead him next—an author consumed by the passion of the present moment, painting vibrant worlds with the strokes of his imagination.
Step forth into the enchanting landscapes of Paron, where Kennett’s tales await—immerse yourself in adventures that traverse the boundaries of reality, and let his stories captivate your soul.
Transitioning from a fantasy enthusiast to a fantasy author, L. Denton Kennett boasts a life-long love for the genre. Throughout his diverse career, from being a multifaceted jack-of-all-trades to a graphic designer and a respected college professor, the allure of fantasy tales remained consistent. Residing in Wisconsin’s picturesque Northwoods, he finds solace amidst nature with his family and canine companion. A man of varied passions – hiking, gardening, alternative healing, herbalism, woodturning, beekeeping and more; he now, in his retirement, breathes life into the enchanting world of Paron. Venture deep into his imaginative realm and let the adventure captivate you.
What’s the last great book you read?
Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkien (for the 4th time)
Which writers — working today do you admire most?
Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman
What moves you most in a work of literature?
The ability to capture my imagination and drag me deep into the story. A descriptive, well-written adventure that details the environment and characters so the reader becomes acquainted with them, forming a friendship with a favorite character and a sense of personal dislike for the foe. A tale that keeps me gripped through to the end.
What genres do you especially enjoy reading?
Fantasy and Westerns
What books and authors have impacted your writing career?
JRR Tolkien
Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit
Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman
Dragonlance Chronicles
Forbidden Realms Collection
William W Johnstone
What kind of plan or outline do you use for bringing your stories to the page?
I don’t. I get an idea and just begin telling the story as it forms in my mind. When I sit down to write I am usually not sure what will develop in the storyline until I see it and start writing. I am never sure of exactly what obstacles my characters will face until we get there.
What do you want your readers to obtain through your writing?
I want my readers to wander with me as we follow the characters in my stories, seeing and experiencing the Land of Paron; witnessing the trials, tribulations, adventures, and escapades that the tale winds through from the first page to the last.
What motivated you to begin writing?
I injured my back last winter so I spend much of my day in my recliner. I ran out of books to read one day here at home and my wife suggested I write one. Five weeks later, Valkomert the White of the Shadow Mountains was sent to the publisher. Gaventor’s Journey went to the publisher eight weeks after that.
How do you envision your literary legacy?
I don’t look that far ahead. I am enjoying this today. I have no idea where I will take it or it will take me. I have some ideas in my head about a few more books but I won’t know what happens until I get there.
What are you currently working on?
My third book is called Beyond the Shadow Lands and I am beginning to work on the narrations to convert all of my stories to audiobook format. I am also spending a lot of my time doing my own marketing to get my stories out there.
Follow the Author
- web: http://ldkennett.com
- Amazon Author page: https://www.amazon.com/author/ldkennett
- Goodreads Author page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/43832455.L_Denton_Kennett
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LDKennett
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawrence-kinnett-b94293290/
