Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have graduated at Saint Mary’s College with a Bachelor of Arts. I am currently a graduate student majoring in elementary education. This is the first book that I have published. I have written a few more that I may revisit in the future. In addition to writing and college, I also work at my local radio station. I am a local talk show host and a DJ.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My book is Clovers and Fire. It is a children’s book and an original fairytale. I have always loved fairytales because I love how it presents children with a strong moral message. I started this book when I was twelve. It was only a few pages long in a notebook. However, I liked the characters so much that I decided to expand the story into the book it is now.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I do my original rough drafts on my cellphone because I can write anytime and anywhere.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Gail Carson Levine’s Ella Enchanted has influenced me because it is a charming and engaging fairytale. Another author I enjoy is Melanie Dickerson because she retells classic fairytales with a unique perspective.
What are you working on now?
I am currently working on a historical mystery novel set in post-WWI San Francisco.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I believe in getting book reviews. I also find author interviews to be very effective. I believe anything that helps get your name in the public eye helps.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
My advice is to never get discouraged. Always believe in your vision. Stay true to your work.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I have heard from all my favorite authors is to write everyday even if it is only a few words.
What are you reading now?
I am currently reading The Battle for Princess Madeline by Kirstin Pulioff. It is a middle grade novel that also a few fairytale elements.
What’s next for you as a writer?
My goal is to keep writing and learning constantly so that I can always improve.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine was my first book I had read as a child, and I believe that every child should read because it has a strong message.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen is romance novel is a rags-to-riches story that I love digging my teeth into.
Daughter of The Forest by Juliet Marillier is a lovely novel and is beautifully written. It is also a very emotional read. She has made a Hans Christian Anderson fairytale of “The Wild Swans” come to life.
Author Websites and Profiles
Lauralee Jacks Amazon Profile
Lauralee Jacks Author Profile on Smashwords
Lauralee Jacks’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account