Author Interview: The Literary Spotlight with Author Laura Elizabeth
As we wrap up the year 2023 and dive into 2024, here I present the final author interview of the year, featuring a hidden gem, a talented author, Laura Elizabeth. She is a first-time author whose literary journey consists of cozy mysteries. Laura’s debut novel is not one to forget, “All Is Now Lost”. “All Is Now Lost,” introduces readers to the captivating world of Mongin Island, inspired by her deep connection to Daufuskie Island, South Carolina.
Her inspiration struck one April years back while she eagerly awaited the ferry to Daufuskie Island. The allure and mysticism of the place spoke to her soul, leaving an unforgettable mark on her and her family. With its quiet magic, natural beauty, and mysterious charm, Daufuskie became the muse for Laura’s writing.
immersed in family vacations and adventures, Laura and her loved ones found peace, motivation, and a sense of fullness on the island. Daufuskie’s remarkable ability to speak without saying, inspire creativity, and create a sense of enthusiasm became the foundation for Mongin Island, the setting of Laura’s mystery series.
Despite relocating from Richmond, Virginia, to Atlanta, Georgia, Laura and her family continue to cherish and create memories on “their” island. Join me as I delve into the inspiration behind Laura Elizabeth’s writing, exploring the intersection of family, mystery, and the magic that is Daufuskie Island.
Introduction:
Cyra: Could you please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your writing background? What inspired you to become a writer, and how did your writing journey begin?
Laura: Hello! I am Laura Elizabeth, a first-time author who just published a cozy mystery called All Is Now Lost. My journey of writing island mysteries began one April day, many years ago, as I waited to board the ferry to Daufuskie Island, South Carolina, for the very first time.
My son assured me, in a knowing voice, we would be back at that exact spot many more times. He felt what I felt: the wonder, the pull that only this special place offered us. We were captivated as a family. Through all our vacations and adventures, we always left energized, restored, and whole again.
Daufuskie is its own magic. There is something immediately compelling about a place that can speak to you with its quiet, can inspire you with its beauty, can encourage you to dream by sharing its natural bounty, and can welcome you with possibility tucked into its mystery.
From our family’s years of long beach walks on Daufuskie with our dogs, exploration, treasure hunts, and incredible family memories, Mongin Island was imagined and became the basis of my mystery series. After moving from Richmond, Virginia, to Atlanta, Georgia, my husband and both our children still enjoy time together on “our” island.
Creative Process:
Cyra: Could you share a glimpse into your creative process? How do you approach developing ideas and turning them into stories? Do you have any specific rituals or habits that help you get into the writing zone?
Laura: In order for me to get into the writing zone, I must be able to clear my mind from daily distractions. I also need a few minutes to think about what the characters want to tell me – and what they want to happen next. I often re-read a few passages of previous writing and then pause to think through where the characters will take me.
Writing Influences:
Cyra: Who are some of your favorite authors or literary influences, and how have they shaped your own writing style? Are there any books or works that have had a profound impact on your writing career?
Laura: My favorite authors are mystery writers! I learned (and continue to learn) from Agatha Christie. I have read many of her books multiple times and I always get pulled into her stories. I also very much enjoy Elizabeth George’s mysteries which are “police procedurals”. Both of these authors have incredible character development. Reading their books are like visiting with friends.
Overcoming Challenges:
Cyra: What challenges have you faced as a writer, and how did you overcome them? How do you handle writer’s block or periods of self-doubt?
Laura: Facing writing challenges is difficult for all authors. If I am really struggling, I try to put myself, either physically, mentally, or both, on the island. The beauty and restorative nature of this place calms my soul and fills me with inspiration!
Character Development:
Cyra: How do you approach developing compelling and relatable characters in your stories? Are there any strategies or exercises you use to ensure your characters feel authentic and three-dimensional?
Laura: Giving life to these characters has been one of the greatest joys! One strategy I use is to speak the dialogue I write. This helps me make sure my characters each sound different from each other and that their conversation is natural and authentic.
Before I introduce a character, I spend a lot of time defining them in my mind. I know what they look and sound like. I also understand their back story which helps me see how they would interact with other characters.
Personal Reflection:
Cyra: Is there a particular book or project you are most proud of? Could you share the story behind it?What is the most rewarding aspect of being a writer for you?
Laura: This is my only book – so I am most proud of this one. The most rewarding aspect of being a writer is meeting others who relate and embrace my book. When people tell me that they love my characters or want to travel to the island, it is very rewarding and humbling to know someone is moved by my words.
Editing and Revision:
Cyra: How important do you think the editing and revision process is for a writer? Could you share your approach to editing your own work? Do you have any suggestions for writers on how to improve their editing skills?
Laura: Careful editing is critical to writing a book. There is content editing and then there is proofreading. Both are very important for different reasons. Content/developmental editing helps keep a story on track. Sometimes as writers, we are so close to the material, that we may not see we have not communicated clearly or that we are too far into the details of a scene.
Content editing helps us streamline and deliver the words effectively to readers. I re-read my work every time I begin writing. I will go back to at least one chapter to make sure that I am still happy with the scene. Sometimes certain chapters have been worked on many, many times until I am 100% confident that the readers will receive these characters’ words and actions in the ways I intended.
Publishing and Marketing:
Cyra: What has been your experience with the publishing industry? Any advice for aspiring authors on finding agents or publishers? How do you navigate the world of book marketing and promotion? Any tips for authors looking to build their audience?
Laura: I work with a hybrid publisher and have learned so much as I worked through this process. If you are working with a non-traditional publisher, be prepared to do a lot of work on your own. It is a full-time job to market your own book. To me, I believe we are in a transformational time. Many people think there are things you should do because “authors traditionally do these things”.
I would encourage authors to really know the demographics of their readers and to find creative, innovative ways to reach them. Don’t be afraid to try new things and don’t subscribe to the same old things just because someone tells you to do so.
Advice for Budding Writers:
Cyra: What advice would you give aspiring authors just starting their writing journey? How do you handle rejection and criticism in the publishing world?
Laura: It is always hard to hear negative feedback. I try to separate constructive comments from negative feedback. If someone offers their expertise or guidance with the intent to help me improve, I am open and appreciate those comments. They help me grow and get better.
I also would encourage writers to believe in their messages and work. I think we all understand that our material may not appeal to everyone but if there is consistency to feedback, we should try to listen with an open mind. However, we need to ditch the “haters and doubters” who come with their own agendas. Find the people who celebrate your work and ask for their help in being the best writer you can be – and then
offer your help to them!
Favorite Quote:
Cyra: What’s your favorite quote that keeps you going in life?
Laura: “Keep your face always toward the sunshine – and shadows will fall behind you.” – Walt Whitman
Future Projects:
Cyra: Could you give us a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or books you’re currently working on? Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers and aspiring writers?
Laura: I am working on book 2 of The Island Mysteries series. The core characters reader met in All Is Now Lost will appear in the next installment and this mystery will be set on Mongin Island again. There is lots of adventure with a new crime to solve and other characters to meet!
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