Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I was born in California, but migrated with my family to Oregon during the 90s when everyone seemed to be doing just that. I had written a little while in California, but my true love of writing blossomed in Oregon. It could be due to more time spent indoors and less in a pool, since Oregon only has two to three decent months for outdoor pool enjoyment.
I’ve currently written three books in my Isabella Howerton series, with the final book in the works along with a side story novella.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My third book in the Isabella Howerton series, Bloody Defiance, releases April 10, 2017. The books are Bloody Beginnings, Bloody Consequences, Bloody Defiance, and finishes with Bloody Endings. The titles all came rather easily to me, except Bloody Defiance. I waffled back and forth trying to come up with just the right “D” word. It started as Desires, but that didn’t fit the book quite right. Then it went to Decisions and ultimately Defiance, because the main character, Izzy, finally grows a back bone and becomes just that, defiant.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I frequently write with music or television playing in the background. I like having some sort of white noise. My favorite place is curled up with a blanket and a large mug of coffee or hot chocolate, sitting before a roaring fire. During summer months I’ll find a place where most of my body is in the sun, but my laptop is nicely covered so I can still see my screen without too much glare.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I think you write what you read. As a kid I read and wrote a lot of fantasy, getting my inspiration from the Dragonlance chronicles and the like. As I grew older, my tastes broadened, and I fell in love with Paranormal and Urban Fantasy. Laurell K. Hamilton’s Anita Blake series was the first in a long line of books, particularly those with a strong female lead. Some of my favorites are: Karen Marie Moning (Fever series), Keri Arthur, and Patricia Briggs.
What are you working on now?
I’m finishing out the Isabella Howerton series and working on side stories with a few favorite characters. Then I have another series idea in the works, but that’s probably a year or two down the road.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My newsletter gets the first scoop on new releases, but after that I promote to my site, including my blog, Twitter and Facebook.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write and read a lot! Don’t stop reading because you get so busy writing. I’ve found myself stuck in a rut, and when that happens I pick up a new book. It helps get ideas flowing again, even when reading a book that is a completely different genre. I believe stories are about the people, the characters, and no matter the genre, that’s what’s important.
My second big piece of advice is to make friends with other authors. Even if it’s just one to start out. Find another author (doesn’t have to be anyone big) and chat with them, follow their Facebook, ask for advice. Don’t be afraid. Most authors are open to helping each other out!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Never give up and follow your dream! I think many people lose sight of their own personal dreams, because life just gets in the way. No matter what your dream is, go for it.
What are you reading now?
I’m reading the Creepy Hollow series by Rachel Morgan, currently on book 2. Also Fire Touched by Patricia Briggs and Delayed Departures by Terri Reid. I tend to read multiple books at a time, especially when they’re in a series.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m working on a novella for a boxed set with 20 other authors. So far it has been an exciting and rewarding journey, and it has only just begun. I also hope to finish up this series so I can get to work on the next one, which I have been making notes about for a couple years now, just waiting for the opportunity to really sit down and write it.
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?
Wow, that might be one of the hardest questions ever! I love to read, and I love variety. If it was only 3 or 4 books, I’d probably want an entire series, like Karen Moning’s Fever series (the first part). I’m also a big fan of the Dragonlance Chronicles trilogy, so that’d be pretty high on my list. But if I had to choose just one, it would probably by Raymond E. Feist’s original Rift War series. It has elements of fantasy and sci fi, as well as just a touch of romance.
Author Websites and Profiles
Laura Hysell Website
Laura Hysell Amazon Profile
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