Little talk with Lauren Asher

Hi everyone, I’m back with an exclusive interview of the talented Lauren Asher, author of the Dirty Air book series! Hope you will enjoy it as mush as me!

First of all, can you introduce yourself in a few words? When did you start writing? Why?

Hi there! My name is Lauren Asher, and I love Formula 1, reading romance books, and spending time with my two dogs. I started writing in the summer of 2019 because I was interested in creating a fictional Formula 1 world to share my love of romance books and racing. Ever since my debut Formula 1 romance, I have written five other books (and in the process of writing my sixth).

What study path have you completed? Are you a full-time writer or do you have a job next door?

I have a professional degree I like that has nothing to do with writing and English. I will be spending 2023 writing full-time, which is an exciting transition for me. I’ve balanced two jobs up until this point, and while I love both, I’m happy about having more time and flexibility to write.

Do you have an inspiration/model for your novels?

I usually search Pinterest for models who look as close to what I imagine in my head. Although the models I pick aren’t an exact match, they’re pretty close to what I see while I write. I love that readers picture whoever they want for character inspiration because it’s always so interesting to see how they picture my characters.

What do you like about writing? What does this activity bring you?

Writing helps me disconnect from the real world and get lost in the difference fictional universes I create. When I start a story, I enjoy exploring the different characters and their motives, dreams, and worries. Making each one different from the last is a fun challenge. I really have a good time researching different ideas and incorporating topics that are relatable to a lot of people such as mental health or complex family dynamics.

What is your writing process? How do you get inspiration?

My writing process varies with each book. The first draft is always chaotic, especially when I’m trying to get through the first 25%. There is always something about starting a story that poses a challenge for me, so I like to get a lot of feedback from beta readers about the plot, characters, and tropes.

I get inspired by a lot of things like music, the news, TV, YouTube, and going out. When I’m feeling stuck, I might play some music, lay down on the couch, and shut my eyes so I can play out the story like a movie in my head.

How long does it take you to write a novel?

It usually takes me 6 to 8 months to write the whole book from first to final draft. Then my final draft goes to my editor to get ready for publication!

Do you have a favorite genre? If so, why?

I love the romance genre. When I started reading romance books over ten years ago, I didn’t realize how big of an impact it would have on my life. The books have kept me company on the best of days and the worst, and comforts me to know that each story has a happy ending despite the challenges characters must overcome to get there.

What steps did you take to be published? Were you stressed when you published your first novel?

There are so many steps I lost count! Because I’m self-published, I wear a lot of different hats. I’m like the CEO, CFO, and head of marketing all in one. As far as stress goes, I feel like it only increases with each book I release. I want to make my readers and myself happy, which can add pressure to the creative process.

After this first published novel, was it easy to publish the others? Do you like all the books you’ve written?

It was easier in some ways and more difficult in others. The process of writing, editing, and releasing became more natural the more books I released. Once I had a system, it was easy to recreate it with each book I wrote.

I do love all the books I’ve written for different reasons. They each represent a unique time in my life and kept my company during hard times such as navigating a pandemic (Wrecked) or moving to a new city all by myself (Terms and Conditions).

Do you really think passion and work can be one? What are your future plans?

I do think it is possible, but I also understand it is hard to find a job like that. I’m lucky that writing lets me do both. My future goal is to write at least two books a year.

How did you come up with the idea of writing a series of novels on Formula One?

I started watching Formula 1 after watching the first season of Drive To Survive. I thought it would be fun to write a series about the sport and a group of racers who happened to be friends or competition. I love the diversity of the sport and how the races take place in different countries, which adds an awesome element.

Are you inspired by some current drivers for your characters? If so, which ones?

Although some of my readers imagine real drivers as the characters for the books, I didn’t picture any of the drivers while writing the stories. I did have fun dropping a few easter eggs that fans of F1 might recognize like Noah complaining on the team radio about not having his water in Throttled (Kimi reference) or mentioning Michael Schumacher in Redeemed.

How long have you been following F1? Who is your favorite driver? A favorite for this year? Do you plan to write other novels on this theme?

I’ve only been following F1 since 2019, so although I’m rather new to the sport, my love for F1 has only grown since then. I am fortunate to have met so many people who love the sport like me. It’s also been amazing to find out that readers fell in love with the sport after reading my books. I have a hard time picking one favorite driver because I like most of the grid. My top three switch from time to time, but for now it’s Charles, Lando, and Lewis. For the 2022 season, my favorite driver has been George Russell. His consistent performance was everything I hoped for him when he signed with Mercedes.

Absolutely I plan on writing more books centered around Formula racing. I love the fictional world I’ve created too much to ever leave it.

Pic from @readingwithbethany on Instagram