Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have written a total of 15 books between fiction and nonfiction. My first love is any type of romance novel, but there are times when another story calls my name. I also work as a freelance writer/editor/web designer, completing 100s of articles a year.
I love writing and I can’t imagine doing anything else. I feel so blessed to make a living doing something I truly adore.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is Cupid’s Quest, which is the first book in the Cupid’s Crossing series. The town itself is what inspired the book. I was actually working on another story idea and had set it in this little town called Cupid’s Crossing. I spent weeks creating that town, naming the streets and buildings, and creating a map.
Then, I suddenly realized that that character and story I was working on did not fit that town at all. So, I set that story aside and I started a new one with Gracie, the main character, who runs her parents small nursing home. From there, the characters just took over for me. The old folks who live in the nursing home are a hoot.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I think I’m just unusual all around. I’ve never really been in step with the rest of the world. When I was in grade school, the other kids picked on me horribly. I can remember crying and praying for God to please make them like me better. However, I know realize that was a time in my life that I needed to go through to survive being a writer.
That time in my life made me strong. I taught me to like myself and to not change to please anyone else. I have some pretty firmly held convictions and I stick to those no matter what others think about them. I also know that things like loyalty and integrity matter more than anything else.
So, unusual habits, not really. An unusual person, yes, definitely. And, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I like to be alone. I like my own company. I love animals, because they are good company and let me work without talking me to death. I’m perfectly happy going to dinner or the movies alone and I hate small talk.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
My favorite book of all time is Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. It has so many different layers and social mores of the time.
I have very eclectic reading tastes, though. I also enjoy anything by Dean Koontz, admire Stephen King’s skill in writing, and often read books by new and upcoming readers or friends.
I enjoy at least five or six good non-fiction books every year, too.
But, the book that has probably influenced me the most is the Bible. When someone is being cruel, I turn to Ephesians 6:12 and remind myself that my battle is not truly with them. When there is a loss in our family, I turn to Psalm 147:3 and remember that He is always with me and a comfort to me. When I’m thinking about doing something I shouldn’t, I remember things I’ve read and it usually stops me.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on book # 2 in the Cupid’s Crossing series. It is called Change of Heart. If you read book # 1, you’ll meet Sinclaire. She works at the nursing home with Gracie and you get to meet her and start to hear her story. Book # 2 continues her story and you’ll also get some more time with the old folks and get to check in with how Gracie and Brandt are doing.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I spend a lot of time on social media letting those who are already fans know what I’m up to. I also have a monthly newsletter I send out. Some of those subscribers have been on my mailing list for 20 years, because I had published a book even. I consider many of them dear friends.
My family is also awesome at sharing my posts and talking up my books. I love them anyway, but it feels so good when they do that because I know they believe in me.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t let anyone discourage you from your dreams. Families sometimes don’t understand it when you decide to embrace the writing life. If you’re anything like me, you may try dozens of creative pursuits, because you’re seeking, searching, and absorbing information. When you finally realize you want to be a writer, you might have reputation for trying things and not sticking with them.
I’ll never forget that one family member said to me. “Pfft! Writing? You’ll quit that in two months, too.”
It’s 21 years later…
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Never stop learning. I had a teacher who told me that in grade school. It has stuck with me over the years and I truly do love to learn. Sometimes I take a course at the local college, or an artistic type lesson. Sometimes it is simply through reading or studying on my own. However, I am always open to learning about new things and trying new things and it has truly opened a lot of doors for me, particularly in my non-fiction writing for clients.
What are you reading now?
I am reading Imperfect Echoes by Carolyn Howard-Johnson. I try to read books by writer friends whenever I can and I’ve known Carolyn for may years.
What’s next for you as a writer?
My goal is always to just reach that one reader that might need a message of hope or to be uplifted by something I write. While we all dream of hitting the New York Times bestseller list, I try not to think about that. I know writing is what my purpose is and my mission is to reach the people that are sent my way.
I am working on a new project which I’ll unveil next year that will offer a new story series based on the town I live in, but the town has a new name and details.
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 Bible
Pride and Prejudice
Something about how to live in the wilderness (ha ha)
Author Websites and Profiles
Lori Soard Website
Lori Soard Amazon Profile
Lori Soard’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account