Meet Irina Rachow
Discover the author behind the captivating worlds of Everwild Chronicles, a writer whose imagination weaves science fiction and romantic fantasy into compelling narratives. Learn about her inspirations, her unique creative process, and the personal touches that bring her stories to life.
The spark for the BlendBorn book series
My journey into the BlendBorn Trilogy began with a fascination for science and its possibilities. Reading Jennifer Doudna's "The Code Breaker," detailing her work with RNA decoding, and recalling an old Time magazine article on CRISPR technology, sparked a profound 'what if.' What if we could merge animal DNA into our own to enhance our health, strength, and survival on an ever-changing planet? This evolving thought solidified into the story of Collarbound after seeing a poignant animated image of a collared white fox. It posed the question: what would it take to free such a beautiful creature from its binds?
Real world, fantastical tales
My personal experiences deeply influence the worlds and characters you find in my books. The Pacific coast, where I've lived my entire life, serves as a recurring backdrop. Even characters like Dane, a socially awkward yet determined young man, are somewhat inspired by my own eldest son. Many friends and family members, including my late mother-in-law and even my hairdresser, find their way into these stories, immortalized within the narrative. A surprising detail: every character name, business, and location is drawn from real streets in San Marcos, California, a place close to my heart. Beyond captivating narratives, I hope readers connect deeply with my main characters and recognize the real-world stresses we face. The core message I aim to impart is to remain open to possibilities and to refrain from judging others' choices, especially when often, no other choices exist.
Beyond the keyboard: my passions
When not immersed in writing, I enjoy a vibrant array of activities that fuel my creativity. You can often find me on the Pickleball court, designing jewelry with meaning and intention, or tackling the Sunday crossword puzzles. I love getting lost in all kinds of books and helping others pursue their interests. Discussing business, creating fun events, and imagining fantastical worlds with happy endings (after a bit of suffering, of course) are also great joys. Watching my children thrive and gathering with friends over good food by a backyard fire are cherished moments. I also have a quirky collection of things, from exotic Barbie dolls and model knights fighting dragons, to steampunk weaponry.