Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I was born in Illinois but grew up in Brawley, California, an agricultural area in Southern California. I was a band geek, playing piano and trumpet, and editor of my high school paper. I also spent much of my free time raiding the library and riding horses.
When I was twenty-four, I became a prosecuting attorney. I handled felony cases including gang crimes, rape, domestic violence, and murder. I also continued to ride horses, competing in professional rodeo barrel racing.
I’ve written one book, Dior or Die, and the sequel will be released soon. I’m also working on a novella.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Dior or Die was inspired by real-life events. A person I convicted made death threats against me and was being released from prison. I trained with a former CIA operative but also lived in a wealthy community. The incongruity of the two made me laugh, so I mixed them together in my book.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I listen to Korean music when I write. I’m a big K-Drama fan, but don’t speak Korean, so the words don’t register. When I write, I’m usually supervised by one of my rescue cats, so I get the occasional walk-on-my-keyboard edit.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I read widely, but take particular pleasure in writers who mix humor and adventure into their stories. My favorites are Elmore Leonard, Terry Pratchett, Simon R. Green, Tim Dorsey, Carl Hiassen, and Carlos Ruiz Zafon. The list could go on, but those are the first authors who come to mind.
What are you working on now?
I’m finishing up the sequel to Dior or Die. I’m also writing a novella about a prosecutor set far in the future.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have put together a fun website with a book trailer created by a talented seller from Sweden I found on Fiverr. Book Sirens has been terrific at getting early reviewers to read my book.
Book marketing is rather like going down the rabbit hole. Every time I post on Instagram, I get accounts asking me to advertise with them. I also receive many emails from alleged reviewers. My TikTok advertising campaign showed that the clicks I received were from readers too young for my work, so I focused more on Facebook ads after that. Kindlepreneuer and David Gaughran are also helpful when it comes to understanding marketing.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just do it. So many people either want to write, but never start or start to write but never finish. Although it requires confidence to put your work out for people who might leave a less than stellar review if it’s something you feel called to do, write.
Grammarly, Autocrit, Scrivener, or other writing software programs can assist in guiding your progress, as well as joining writing groups in your community and finding beta readers.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The only person you can control is you.
What are you reading now?
Mermaid Confidential by Tim Dorsey
What’s next for you as a writer?
I plan to keep on with the Davia Glenn series but will also explore my urge to write fantasy.
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?
The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay by Michael Chabon
The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon
The Discworld Witch-centric books by Terry Pratchett to make me laugh.
Author Websites and Profiles
Laura Akers Website
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