CL: Do you have any rituals or best practices for writing?
LL: I’m very fortunate to be able to sit and write at the drop of a
hat. Writing energizes and refreshes me like a cat nap on a long,
rainy day. I know some authors have rituals of shutting out all
noise, locking themselves away for days at a time, or outlining
every detail prior to writing, but I am able to sit and write
whenever I have time or need a few minutes to recharge my
batteries. The best practice — don’t let a desire for perfection
drive procrastination. Just start writing. Thomas Jefferson wrote
the Declaration of Independence in seventeen days. I doubt he
spent a lot of time outlining prior to putting quill to parchment.
CL: What advice can you share with other local aspiring
authors?
LL: Pick a topic and genre that allow you to get lost in the world
you are creating through your writing. Don’t focus on commercial
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success when deciding what to write.
CL: How has your environment influenced your work?
LL: I get to represent heroes every day — firefighters, law
enforcement officers, EMTs and their families. It’s the best job in
the world. Unfortunately, especially recently, their lives are filled
with a lot of turmoil and personal struggles as a result of the
negativity thrust upon their professions. Their dedication to their
communities provides a lot of inspiration, and it’s an honor to
write books that highlight their triumphs, expose the public to
their realities and celebrate their commitment to protect the
lives of strangers.
CL: What’s your favorite part about writing? Your least
favorite?
LL: I love allowing my creativity to take over because most of
my professional writing is formal, direct and geared toward a
commitment to a mantra of, “Brevity is bliss.” No one likes
editing… except maybe editors. Maybe.
CL: What separates your work from the rest of the world?
LL: I’m most proud of three comments about my writing. People
have said my books opened their eyes to some of the realities
facing law enforcement officers, readers have commented that
my books are quick reads but pulled them in emotionally and
public safety professionals have told me that I’ve remained true
to reality. The emotions and struggles you will read are real and
raw, and the action scenes are intense reflecting my experience
representing over 120 law enforcement officers following
officer-involved shootings and other critical incidents.
In a world of electronic distractions, I want readers to learn,
escape and enjoy the time they graciously set aside to explore
my writing.
SEPTEMBER 2021 | COBB LIFE 57
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