Interview with Author LAURA HOWARD

Today I’m interviewing Laura Howard. Her book, The Forgotten Ones, is a New Adult Paranormal and will be released on May 15. 

Please tell my readers a little bit about your book.

The Forgotten Ones focuses on college grad Allison O’Malley. She is preparing to take over the care of her schizophrenic mother from her grandparents. She’s worked her whole life for this and just needs to get through grad school and get a job. The arrival of the father she’s never known puts her plans in a tailspin and she’s forced to reevaluate everything she thought she knew about her mother, her life, and an ancient Irish people the world has long forgotten.



Describe the genre of this particular title, and is the only genre you write in?

The Forgotten Ones is not quite Young Adult and not quite Adult, so I’ve decided to describe it as New Adult. NA is becoming popular among YA lovers who want something a little deeper. This is my first full length novel, and the sky is the limit as far as what genres I’ll write in the future. I have lots of ideas floating around!



How did this story come to be?

It started as a Contemporary Romance. But my first love has always been paranormal, so eventually it fleshed itself out as a Paranormal novel as well. My heroine Allison has always been on the receiving end of unwanted attention, which is explained by the secret her father shares when he shows up out of the blue. 

Are you a member of any writing organizations and, if so, have they helped?

Not really. I am a member of a few writers groups on Facebook, but nothing official. It is always helpful to have someone to talk to who understands what you’re going through. There aren’t any writers groups near where I live, but it is something I’d love to do in the future.



What character is most like you or least like you?

A secondary character, Allison’s cousin/next door neighbor Nicole is a lot like me. She has a way of balancing out Allison’s rough edges with her spontaneous nature. Allison is very controlled and focused, which is the complete opposite of me.





What is your writing routine like?

It hasn’t really been consistent for very long, because I’m a stay home mom to four. But since I’ve started getting closer to deadlines it’s been after dinner for about 2 hours while my husband takes over the bedtime routine. He’s been really great about doing that, and I feel good getting my work done while I’m able to focus and before I’m too tired!



What most inspires you in life?

My friends and family. I’m lucky to have a great support system, and I’m always thrilled when things go well for those I love.



What’s next for you?

I have the sequel to The Forgotten Ones outlined and also a New Adult contemporary taking shape in my brain. 

BOOK BLURB

Allison O'Malley just graduated from college. Her life's plan is to get a job and take care of her schizophrenic mother. She doesn't have room for friends or even Ethan, who clearly wants more.

When Allison's long-lost father shows up, he claims he can bring her mother back from the dark place her mind has sent her. He reveals legends of a race of people long forgotten, the Tuatha de Danaan, along with the truth about why he abandoned her mother.



A little bit about the author.

Laura Howard lives in New Hampshire with her husband and four children. Her obsession with books began at the age of 6 when she got her first library card. Nancy Drew, Sweet Valley High and other girly novels were routinely devoured in single sittings. Books took a backseat to diapers when she had her first child. It wasn’t until the release of a little novel called Twilight, 8 years later, that she rediscovered her love of fiction. Soon after, her own characters began to make themselves known. The Forgotten Ones is her first published novel.



Excerpt

Ethan looked down at his hands for a second, then glanced up at me through his thick lashes. “You want to get something to eat when you’re done?” he asked.

I licked my lips, his dark brown eyes pulling me in. I tore my gaze away and tried to focus on the computer screen.

He didn’t say anything for a few moments and I fidgeted, knowing he was watching me. When I turned toward him, his expression was so intense that my stomach somersaulted.

“Just one time,” he said quietly.

“What?” I asked, frowning in confusion.

“Say yes, just one time.” Ethan slowly moved behind the counter, his eyes never leaving mine. “If you don’t have a good time, fine. I’ve been trying to get you to say yes to me for years. Don’t act like you don’t know.”

I shook my head slightly as he approached, wanting him closer but afraid of what that would mean. He stopped, his brow creasing.

“I won’t hurt you,” he whispered.

His expression was so earnest. My mind went blank for a moment.

“Ethan,” I began, my thoughts scrambled. “You know I’d like to…”

“So say yes.”





How can my readers learn more about your book?

Readers can check out my book on Goodreads:

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16288155-the-forgotten-ones



You can find more information about Laura Howard by visiting her blog at http://www.laurahoward78.blogspot.com/   

Just a few fun questions to answer if you don’t mind.


Mountains or Beach? Mountains 

What is your favorite season? Spring

 
What is your favorite thing to eat? Chocolate 

Who is your favorite author to read? Juliet Marillier 

Hike through the woods or a stroll through the city? Hike through the woods. 

Movies- Drama or Comedy? Comedy. 

Coffee or Tea? Coffee. 

Ice Cubes or Crushed ice? Ice Cubes. 

Go with the flow or stick to a routine? Go with the flow. 

Movies- at the theatre or at home? At Home.



Thank you for allowing me to interview you here at Heart of Romance. Good luck to you in your future!!!