Laura grew up in a small town in Vermont. She has been writing short stories since the young age of seven. In 2007, after not writing for many years because ‘life’ got in the way, Laura picked up a laptop after reading a fantasy series and began writing her own YA fantasy series, Elven Quest. She never stopped.
She has written seven books in the Elven Quest series and published three so far. She then moved on to write an adult fantasy series, Witches of Tradbeldam, a darker and spicier series. Laura has written and published four of the Witches novels and is currently writing the fifth. Laura is also co-writing a YA Paranormal fantasy, which she will publish in 2024.
Q.1 Tell us a little about yourself that not many people know?
A. My elementary school was K-8th grade in one building, and we only had 200 students. We lived on an island in the middle of Lake Champlain.
Q.2 When should we expect your next book? What will it be about?
A. Book 4 of my Elven Quest series will be out this year, along with the first of a new YA paranormal fantasy series. I am currently writing book 5 of Witches of Tradbeldam and hope to publish it next year.
Q.3 What made you write the Witches of Tradbeldam series?
A. I had a dream about the prologue that seemed so real I felt I needed to write it down. When my sister heard it, she suggested that I create a novel from it and add some kind of animal character, which I did. I wanted this series to be a different style than my YA series and geared for adults, not teens.
Q.4 How did you develop the concept of Sowena's journey, and what elements of her character do you find most compelling?
A. I knew I wanted a character that was in danger from the start and needed to jump into the magik world quickly. I also wanted the books to have a different formula than the typical hero’s journey, where each book follows just one main character.
In this series, the chapters jump around a bit, and each book focuses on different character’s paths while still intertwining. Book two, for example, is more of Moya’s story, book three is Willferal’s, and book four is Cullen’s.
Q.5 The series is set in Celtic times of lore. How did you approach creating the world of Tradbeldam, and what aspects of Celtic mythology or history influenced the setting?
A. The setting is a fantasy world that I imagine is similar to Scotland, Ireland, and England. I have an Irish and Scottish background and have always been interested in their myths of magic creatures like fairies and witches.
Q.5 The series is set in Celtic times of lore. How did you approach creating the world of Tradbeldam, and what aspects of Celtic mythology or history influenced the setting?
A. The setting is a fantasy world that I imagine is similar to Scotland, Ireland, and England. I have an Irish and Scottish background and have always been interested in their myths of magic creatures like fairies and witches.
I also enjoy learning about their mythology of the pagan gods and goddesses that affected and controlled everything around them, including the seasons, their success, the animals, etc. I wanted to add all of that to my story, so I researched myths and lore from that time period and those locations.
Q.6 The witches in your story join forces with other magik allies. Can you tell us more about the magical elements in your world and how different magik users collaborate?
A. The magik system is mostly a hard system, which means there are rules and limitations to what the magik people can do. Depending on their race, the limitations are different.
Q.6 The witches in your story join forces with other magik allies. Can you tell us more about the magical elements in your world and how different magik users collaborate?
A. The magik system is mostly a hard system, which means there are rules and limitations to what the magik people can do. Depending on their race, the limitations are different.
For example, the witches control natural elements like earth, weather, air, and there are a few that have the ability to control things like images, how people see them or objects around them, these are called Mirage Witches.
It is understood, though, that they need to study and practice their magic, and there are only certain powers they have. Not everyone has an animal familiar that they can switch bodies with for example, but some people do. The witchers' (male witches) spells focus more on protection. They can control fire, and their skills in battle are heightened.
The other magik races, Fae, Druids, Centaurs, Hidden Folk, etc., also have similar limitations. Magik they can perform and some that they cannot. I think that’s what makes the story fun is to get to know all of the creatures and magik within it little by little.
Q.7 How many books have you written? Which one is your favorite so far?
A. Four and a half in this series. Book four is my favorite. It is the longest, and it turns into a bit of a Romantasy. It is an emotional rollercoaster ride of my favorite character, Cullen’s heart. I’m afraid I put him through quite a tough situation. But Cullen had a lot of baggage he needed to face and overcome. He grew and changed in book four, and I think he became a much stronger, smarter man. I wanted that for him because I really love him; he’s got so much potential.
Q.8 Can you share your writing process for crafting such an intricate fantasy world? How do you balance action, romance, and character development in your storytelling?
A. Character development is most important to me. I want my characters to learn and grow like we all do in life. They do that through experiences and relationships, which adds action and romance. Often I will be caught up in their feelings and thoughts so much that I need to stop and say, wait, is this becoming to repetitive at this point? When was the last time there was some action, and what do I need to do to add some more in and ensure it fits at this time?
The other magik races, Fae, Druids, Centaurs, Hidden Folk, etc., also have similar limitations. Magik they can perform and some that they cannot. I think that’s what makes the story fun is to get to know all of the creatures and magik within it little by little.
Q.7 How many books have you written? Which one is your favorite so far?
A. Four and a half in this series. Book four is my favorite. It is the longest, and it turns into a bit of a Romantasy. It is an emotional rollercoaster ride of my favorite character, Cullen’s heart. I’m afraid I put him through quite a tough situation. But Cullen had a lot of baggage he needed to face and overcome. He grew and changed in book four, and I think he became a much stronger, smarter man. I wanted that for him because I really love him; he’s got so much potential.
Q.8 Can you share your writing process for crafting such an intricate fantasy world? How do you balance action, romance, and character development in your storytelling?
A. Character development is most important to me. I want my characters to learn and grow like we all do in life. They do that through experiences and relationships, which adds action and romance. Often I will be caught up in their feelings and thoughts so much that I need to stop and say, wait, is this becoming to repetitive at this point? When was the last time there was some action, and what do I need to do to add some more in and ensure it fits at this time?
I go back and re-read the last few chapters or skim the whole book to see where I am. Then, typically, I’m able to step away from that character’s head a little and show other important pieces of the world. It just takes a little perspective and firmness with the characters that their time will come to get back to their story.
Q.9 Who do you envision as the primary audience for your series, and what do you hope readers will take away from the Witches of Tradbeldam?
A. This is absolutely an adult series, those under 17 or 18 should not read it. Adults who enjoy mythology and magical lore will enjoy it. I think people who like epic fantasy and spicy romance will enjoy it, too. It is similar to Game of Thrones, only not as violent as other series like The Witcher and The Wheel of Time.
Q.10 As a writer, what themes or messages do you aim to convey through the experiences of your characters?
A. Number one is the message that I think the real world needs right now, which is that despite people’s differences in backgrounds and opinions, there are ways to mend bridges, agree to disagree on specific topics, and work together to solve common problems or enemies. If we’d stop judging and shutting each other down so quickly, maybe we could do that.
Number two is that we continually mature and change throughout our lives, and that’s okay. Our personalities and behaviors may change but our cores often do not and those around us that love us will be happy for our growth and development or they will grow with us, they will not try to stifle it. If they do, perhaps they have fulfilled their reason for being in our lives; that happens sometimes.
Q.11 Outside of your family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author?
A. There are several, but I have to mention the most important, which is my best friend and business partner, another great author, R.B. Michaels. He is always there for me. Always supports me, no questions asked. He celebrates my victories and encourages me when I feel down.
On top of that, R.B. highly improved my writing when he studied Line and Copy editing and opened his own freelance editing business. He enjoyed my books so much that he insisted on editing all of them. I do the same for him with Developmental and Content editing.
Last year I said, “This is silly, we both have different strengths but common goals, what would you say about joining forces to create a co-editing company?” His answer was instantaneous, “Say no more, I’m all in!” That’s the kind of fantastic friend he is! I’m so lucky to have found him; he’s a keeper, and we’ve had a wonderful time so far helping authors edit their book babies. Can’t wait to continue in 2024 and beyond.
Q.12 Do you believe in writer’s block? If yes, how do you deal with it?
A. Not really. I think there are times when we feel not as connected to our writing or are contemplating what else to write, but when that happens, I find it’s best to take a break and just think about it. Ask for guidance from whatever entities you believe in, if any, and/or ask people close to you for advice. Something usually comes when we’re not trying to force it.
Q.13 How do you select the names of your characters?
A. Ha! This is a bit funny. I do what many authors do: look at baby name books or websites. I love having some meaning behind the name that matches the characters. In this series, I specifically looked up Celtic origin names. But for a few of the Fae, I somehow decided it might be fun to throw in invented names. It started with naming the leader, who is also a villain, Arual, which is my name spelled backward. I always wanted to be a bit bad. Lol.
Q.14 Do you have any unique and quirky writing habits?
A. Not quirky ones. I can write with all kinds of distractions around me: TV, kids, work, etc. When the mood strikes, I sit on my couch and write. Luckily, even if I am interrupted, I can usually jump right back in. I feel that is a bit unique.
Q.15 Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?
A. Be extremely depressed. I lived like that for many years and never realized how empty I felt without using my imagination and creating these other worlds until I started writing again. Now, I can’t imagine not doing so.
Q.16 If you could be a member of any fantasy race, who it be and why?
A. Oh, that’s tough. I’m very torn between a witch and an elf. It’s really a tie. Witches have the benefit of the large tribe around them, their covens for support but I like the natural connectedness the elves have to nature and the innate abilities to control their magic. If I could be a mix between the two somehow, that would be great.
Q.17 What do you find most fulfilling about writing fantasy, and what advice do you have for aspiring authors looking to embark on their own epic fantasy journeys?
A. Gosh, there are so many wonderful experiences when writing fantasy. The fact that you can create an entire world that is anything you want it to be takes you out of your reality for a time and dips you into something unique and magical. It’s full of possibilities.
Q.12 Do you believe in writer’s block? If yes, how do you deal with it?
A. Not really. I think there are times when we feel not as connected to our writing or are contemplating what else to write, but when that happens, I find it’s best to take a break and just think about it. Ask for guidance from whatever entities you believe in, if any, and/or ask people close to you for advice. Something usually comes when we’re not trying to force it.
Q.13 How do you select the names of your characters?
A. Ha! This is a bit funny. I do what many authors do: look at baby name books or websites. I love having some meaning behind the name that matches the characters. In this series, I specifically looked up Celtic origin names. But for a few of the Fae, I somehow decided it might be fun to throw in invented names. It started with naming the leader, who is also a villain, Arual, which is my name spelled backward. I always wanted to be a bit bad. Lol.
Q.14 Do you have any unique and quirky writing habits?
A. Not quirky ones. I can write with all kinds of distractions around me: TV, kids, work, etc. When the mood strikes, I sit on my couch and write. Luckily, even if I am interrupted, I can usually jump right back in. I feel that is a bit unique.
Q.15 Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?
A. Be extremely depressed. I lived like that for many years and never realized how empty I felt without using my imagination and creating these other worlds until I started writing again. Now, I can’t imagine not doing so.
Q.16 If you could be a member of any fantasy race, who it be and why?
A. Oh, that’s tough. I’m very torn between a witch and an elf. It’s really a tie. Witches have the benefit of the large tribe around them, their covens for support but I like the natural connectedness the elves have to nature and the innate abilities to control their magic. If I could be a mix between the two somehow, that would be great.
Q.17 What do you find most fulfilling about writing fantasy, and what advice do you have for aspiring authors looking to embark on their own epic fantasy journeys?
A. Gosh, there are so many wonderful experiences when writing fantasy. The fact that you can create an entire world that is anything you want it to be takes you out of your reality for a time and dips you into something unique and magical. It’s full of possibilities.
On top of that, the fantasy genre authors and readers are a tight and supportive community. We all naturally gravitate toward each other and often support each other by buying books, writing reviews, answering questions, or offering advice. I don’t know if other genres have that tight, tribe-like feel.
My advice to new authors is twofold: number one, find your tribe, join Facebook fantasy groups or Discord groups, or my personal favorite Threads. Talk to other authors, create friendships, celebrate their wins, and encourage them. If you do it genuinely, you’ll find they reciprocate.
Number two, professional editing is extremely important! You need outsiders’ help and views so your writing doesn’t become repetitive, monotonous, lacking power, or leaving gaping holes in the plot. On top of that, there are industry standards that should be met, even for self-published authors. A good editor will help with that. They don’t always have to break your bank account, either. Shop around, ask other authors, etc. There are good quality ones out there.
Q.18 Among all the supporting characters in your books, who is dear to you and why?
A. I love Jareth. He’s supportive, loving, and extremely intelligent, especially considering he’s the youngest of the group, which makes him a special person. I feel like the others would flounder without him, and they may not always realize it.
Q.19 Who designed your book covers? How did you select them?
A. They were designed by a friend, Corey Ratliff. He used to run a cover art business but actually shut it down. Now, he only does covers for friends. I met and became friends with him on a private Twitter group. My editing partner R.B. will likely design my future covers though, as he has added that talent to his many others.
Q.20 Share the experience of your writing journey so far?
A. It has had its ups and downs. It’s victories and disappointments. All in all, I have learned so much and made fabulous, one-of-a-kind, lifelong friendships because of it. So, even if I never sell a million copies of my books, I’ll consider my writing journey a success. Plus, I write for the pure joy of it. I write for me, not for money. I think that’s important.
Share your social account links -
Threads - https://www.threads.net/@lethompson06_author
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/LauraEThompsonauthor15
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lethompson06_author/
Website - https://lethompson06.wixsite.com/website-1
Editing Business Website - https://www.writers-journey.com/
Q.18 Among all the supporting characters in your books, who is dear to you and why?
A. I love Jareth. He’s supportive, loving, and extremely intelligent, especially considering he’s the youngest of the group, which makes him a special person. I feel like the others would flounder without him, and they may not always realize it.
Q.19 Who designed your book covers? How did you select them?
A. They were designed by a friend, Corey Ratliff. He used to run a cover art business but actually shut it down. Now, he only does covers for friends. I met and became friends with him on a private Twitter group. My editing partner R.B. will likely design my future covers though, as he has added that talent to his many others.
Q.20 Share the experience of your writing journey so far?
A. It has had its ups and downs. It’s victories and disappointments. All in all, I have learned so much and made fabulous, one-of-a-kind, lifelong friendships because of it. So, even if I never sell a million copies of my books, I’ll consider my writing journey a success. Plus, I write for the pure joy of it. I write for me, not for money. I think that’s important.
Share your social account links -
Threads - https://www.threads.net/@lethompson06_author
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/LauraEThompsonauthor15
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lethompson06_author/
Website - https://lethompson06.wixsite.com/website-1
Editing Business Website - https://www.writers-journey.com/
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