Interview Laura Burks

by

Richard Whitten Barnes

1) I believe ALTERED is your first published novel.  Have you done a lot of writing prior to this?  Any formal training?

My prior experience began several years ago as the creator and writer of a business newsletter. I’ve also written freelance and poetry. No formal training other than learning from writing and honing the craft. Altered is my first manuscript to write and have published. Thank you Wings!

2) Young Adult Paranormal Romance Mystery: Pretty specific.  How did you choose it for your first?  Will you limit yourself to this genre?

I have a passion for reading and writing young adult novels. In today’s market, young adult appeals and is relatable to both teens and adults, so for now, that’s the genre I’d like to stay in. In the Wings category, you’ll find Altered under paranormal.

3) When (how) do you make time to write?  How does it impinge on your personal life?                                

Finding time sometimes finds me. When an idea comes to mind, I’m so excited I rush to the computer and start typing. And when the computer isn’t available, paper always works. I feel like I have note pads everywhere. As far as my personal life, my family is getting used to my fictional characters and they understand when I feel the need to write.

4) What are your greatest obstacles in writing and how do you deal with them?

I would have to say my greatest obstacles in writing would be learning how to deal with rejection letters. How did I deal with them, well, since most come in the form of an email, I hit the delete button and move on. You can’t take it personal. 

5) Are you working on a new manuscript?  If so how far along are you?

Yes, I have two manuscripts under construction. One, I’m happy to say, is a shared project with my daughter. Both are half way along.

6. New story ideas come hard for me.  How about you?  Tell us how you generate ideas.

Finding new ideas can be a challenge, but for me, it’s more of a feeling. The idea will feel right and begin to take on a life of its own. Inspiration might come from a song or a conversation, and then it builds from there.

7) Do you write from an outline, or does your story pull you along to a conclusion?

I’m not an outline person. I have ideas that I jot down, but when I begin to write, sometimes the characters move me in a different direction. They take on a personality of their own.

8) Who are your favorite authors?

Even though my first love is young adult, I also enjoy a wide range of genres.  In your genre I love Sarah Dessen, Gayle Foreman and too many others to mention.  All time? This one is easy, Mitch Albom. He has such a way with inspiration and a deeper meaning than you see on the page.