Lauren Louise Hazel – From Cyber Security to Fantasy Realms
Lauren Louise Hazel, Cyber Security Manager turned YA fantasy writer, shares influences, favorites, and her creative process, teasing upcoming releases.
Renowned for her captivating blend of cyber expertise by day and youthful fantasy worlds by night, Lauren Louise Hazel emerges as a multifaceted talent, delving into the realms of imagination with the finesse of a seasoned storyteller. In a recent exclusive interview with Reader’s House magazine, Hazel generously shared insights into her literary inspirations, writing process, and upcoming projects, offering readers a glimpse into the creative mind behind her acclaimed works..
Drawing from a childhood shaped by a voracious appetite for literature, Hazel reminisces fondly about her father’s unwavering support for her literary pursuits, a sentiment echoed in his hope for a Ferrari borne from her writing success. With influences ranging from timeless classics like Lord of the Rings to contemporary masterpieces by Haruki Murakami and GRR Martin, Hazel’s eclectic taste mirrors the diverse tapestry of her own storytelling.
When asked about her dream literary soirée, Hazel playfully envisions an evening hosted by the incomparable Stephen Fry, renowned for his wit and charm, alongside the enigmatic GRR Martin, tantalizingly teasing at the secrets of The Song of Ice and Fire. Such whimsical musings offer a glimpse into Hazel’s playful spirit and her deep-rooted love for the literary world.
Reflecting on her reading preferences, Hazel reveals a penchant for genres as varied as romcoms and classics, with a steadfast avoidance of horror due to her admitted cowardice. Yet, it is within the realm of young adult fantasy that Hazel finds her true calling, citing her childhood passion for Harry Potter as a formative influence on her own writing journey.
Intriguingly, when pondering the prospect of her life story being penned, Hazel humorously nominates her sister, envisioning a succinct narrative punctuated by stick figure illustrations—a testament to her lighthearted approach to life and literature alike.
Central to Hazel’s writing philosophy is the profound connection between reader and character, a sentiment underscored by her aspiration to evoke that ineffable sense of anticipation and delight within her own audience. With each page, Hazel seeks to transport readers into worlds brimming with wonder and adventure, igniting imaginations and kindling a passion for storytelling.
As she eagerly anticipates her next literary endeavor, Hazel reveals her excitement for Holly Black’s Book of Night, eagerly anticipating the opportunity to delve into its pages during the upcoming holidays. Meanwhile, her writing routine remains anchored by a trusty desk, accompanied by the indispensable companionship of coffee, snacks, and a soundtrack of melodies to fuel her creativity.
With two novels already under her belt, including the electrifying “The Reign of the Occult” and the epic odyssey of The Burning Bandit, Hazel’s literary journey shows no signs of slowing. Already poised for the release of her eagerly awaited sequel, The Queen of the Underworld, Hazel invites readers to embark on yet another thrilling adventure, promising an enthralling continuation of her captivating saga.
As Lauren Louise Hazel continues to weave her magic within the pages of her novels, her passion for storytelling shines brightly, illuminating worlds both familiar and fantastical with each turn of phrase. With her unique blend of cyber expertise and literary prowess, Hazel stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring writers and avid readers alike, a testament to the enduring power of imagination and the written word.
