Today we, along with the Never Too Old for YA Books group on Goodreads, are excited to welcome author Laura Howard to the group!
Have you read Laura's book?
Allison O'Malley just graduated from college. Her life's plan is to get a job and take care of her schizophrenic mother. She doesn't have room for friends or even Ethan, who clearly wants more. When Allison's long-lost father shows up, he claims he can bring her mother back from the dark place her mind has sent her. He reveals legends of a race of people long forgotten, the Tuatha de Danaan, along with the truth about why he abandoned her mother
Title: The Forgotten Ones
Expected Publication Date: May 15, 2013
So let's hear what Laura had to say!
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
I first realized I wanted to be Published about halfway through the first draft. That was about two years ago.
How long does it take you to write a book?
The book I’m revising now took nearly three years to write. It was a lot of stops and gos and life getting in the way, but I kept coming back to the story.
What do you think makes a great story?
My favorite books are the ones that the characters are put through a real test. That’s hard writing,because as I write, I often have to force myself not to take it easy on my characters.
What is your work schedule like when you're writing?
I don’t have a real schedule I take advantage of opportunities that pop up, and run with them.
How do you balance family and writing?
I don’t think I do. I try to do the best I can, but I’m a mom first. Until the day the kids are all in school, I’ll be a part-time writer.
Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?
It’s not a joke when you hear people say Everywhere. Music, books, real-life, movies... they all live in my books!
What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?
That I didn’t have a clue how to tell a story. That a first draft should never see the light of day.
How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?
I’ve written one complete book, so... The Forgotten Ones is my favorite!
Are your characters based on anyone you know?
Based on many people I know, yes. My main character is based on my best friend growing up.
Do you have a favorite place you love to write?
At my dining room table. The picture window looks out into our backyard and the woods behind, and it’s just an awesome view.
How hard is it to get published?
Anyone can self-publish, but if you want to do it right, you have to work pretty hard.
What do your family and friends think about your books?
Only one person in my family has read any of my writing, and this person said she loved it. But, she is my mother-in -law, so she might be biased.
What do you like to do when you are not writing?
I love to read. I like making my kids smile any way possible, but don’t let them know I said that.
Do you have any suggestions to help aspiring writers better themselves and their craft? If so, what are they?
This is easy. Write. Then write more. Even if you think you’re good, you can ALWAYS be better.
As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?
A teacher.
What are your favorite books and which authors inspire you?
I have so many, but some special ones to me include The Twilight Series, The Outlander Series, Beautiful Disaster, and all books by Juliet Marillier.
For an aspiring writer what do you feel are certain do's and don’ts for getting their material published?
Have someone with really strong knowledge of plot and story critique your work. Listen to the feedback and use it. Don’t query or publish any work that is not polished to the best of your ability.
What are you working on now?
Revising my first novel, The Forgotten Ones.
Five For Fun:
What is your favorite non-alcoholic drink?
Diet Coke
What is your favorite cartoon character?
Any of The Backyardigans
What is your favorite movie of all time?
Don’t make me pick one, I’m not that loyal!
What TV shows do you like to watch?
I like The Vampire Diaries, and Once Upon a Time. I’m so far behind, though.
What do you like to do for fun or just to relax?
Read. Snuggle with my two year old.
How do readers stay in touch with you?
Laura Howard lives in New Hampshire with her husband and four children. Her obsession with books began at the age of 6 when she got her first library card. Nancy Drew, Sweet Valley High and other girly novels were routinely devoured in single sittings. Books took a backseat to diapers when she had her first child. It wasn’t until the release of a little novel called Twilight, 8 years later, that she rediscovered her love of fiction. Soon after, her own characters began to make themselves known. The Forgotten Ones is her first published novel.
Thanks so much for stopping by today Laura! It was so great having you with us!
Thanks so much for having me!
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