Interview with Lori O’Gara

Author of The Two

Where are you from originally and where do you reside now?

Florida is my home. I feel more like myself when I am close to the ocean.

If you currently reside somewhere besides where you were born, what’s the story that lead from there to here?

My father was in the military, so we traveled a lot. No matter where I went the saltwater called me home.

What made you decide to write and publish your first book?

I wrote my first poem when I was 8 years old, so writing is just a part of who I am. As for publishing, my husband convinced me that I can do anything I choose to do. I chose to publish books.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

I write contemporary fiction with mystical spiritualism woven throughout my stories. I enjoy the inner thoughts of people, so I write from that POV. I believe that all humans are connected on a spiritual level. Every one of my stories has a deep theme of love, peace, torment, desire or some other emotion that drives the plot. My husband and I coauthor as well. Even in works, we have written together, there is always a thread of magic in the words.

Who do you feel is most likely to connect with the topics you write about?

My stories are for people who need to know the why of life.

What unexpected or surprising thing did you learn during the process of writing and publishing?

The biggest lesson I learned was that a writer has to write true to their calling. Meaningful words cannot be forced into existence.

If you could, what advice would you give to your past self before embarking on this journey?

Take a breath and be patient.

How many people would you ideally like to reach with your books?

I am not concerned with quantity. I want my books to reach those who are meant to read them. My writing is not for everyone and I am fine with that.

What has been the biggest challenge and frustration during the process to date?

Time. Never enough time. Also, my memory fails me sometimes. Driving, in the shower or in that delicious moment before waking I have amazing story ideas that leave my mind. That is frustrating.

What’s your biggest strengths when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

Writing.

What’s your biggest weakness when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

Marketing.

When do you think you will write your next book?

I am always working on my next book.

Are you self published or did you use a hybrid publisher, or a traditional publisher?

Self-published and I like having control of my work.