An Interview with Laurie Bowler
Laurie Bowler is a bestselling author based in Hampshire, UK. She is known for weaving compelling stories across fantasy, young adult, and sci-fi genres. Her books resonate with a wide audience, drawing in readers who crave richly imagined worlds and deeply layered characters.
Fuelled by a lifelong love of fantasy, Laurie finds inspiration in the stories around her and channels that energy into her work. Creativity is at the heart of everything she does, whether reading or writing. Each of her stories is thoughtfully crafted to immerse readers in unforgettable adventures and emotionally resonant journeys.
Beyond the page, Laurie is a dedicated advocate for mental health. She proudly supports The Mental Health Foundation and Young Minds, using her platform to raise awareness and champion causes close to her heart.
What inspired you to start writing this book?
I’ve always been fascinated by shapeshifters, but I wanted to break out of the usual wolf/bear tropes. What if every creature—big, small, winged, scaled—had a role in a thriving society? A Throne of Claws and Shadows was born from that question. I envisioned a vast, tribal world where beasts of every kind coexisted in structured chaos, led by a king who rules like a lion over his pride. Add in ancient rituals, forbidden love, and a reluctant queen plucked from our world…and things got interesting fast.
Tell us the story of your book’s current title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?
Oh, it definitely took forever. Naming a book is like naming a dragon—dramatic, dangerous, and it must suit the beast. I knew I wanted to hint at power, primal instincts, and mystery. “Throne” gave it regal weight, “Claws” tied into the shapeshifters, and “Shadows” hinted at the danger lurking beneath the crown. When I put it all together, I thought, Yes. That’s the one.
Describe your dream book cover.
I’d love a cover that feels like stepping into a secret—darkly magical, slightly eerie, and absolutely beautiful. Imagine a sprawling ancient forest in shades of emerald and ink, with towering trees that almost look alive. In the center, a lone doorway stands open with golden light pouring out of it, but there’s no building—just the door, standing in the middle of the woods. Maybe there’s a raven perched on top, watching. And if you look close enough, you’d spot faint reflections in the puddles—glimpses of another world. I’d want it to feel like the cover is keeping a secret, it’s dying for you to uncover.
If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?
I’d go for a mix of dark cinematic scores and epic vocals. Think:
“Warrior” by Aurora (for Elizabeth’s transformation arc)
“Seven Devils” by Florence + The Machine
“Way Down We Go” by Kaleo
“I’m Not A Queen” by Hozier — okay, I made that last one up, but someone should write it!
What books are you reading (for research or comfort) as you continue the writing process?
I have a big, ever-growing TBR pile—some might call it a problem, I call it research. Lately, I’ve been reading Eternal Ashes by Janelle Marie, A Selfless Sacrifice by Paul Cude, and Blue Shadow Prophecy by Anca Antoci. I also find tons of fresh reads through Story Origin and love featuring fellow indie authors in my weekly newsletter.
What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?
Before becoming a full-time author, I worked as a home carer—helping people stay independent in their homes. I worked my way up to management and eventually began teaching Health and Social Care to others. It taught me a lot about empathy, resilience, and the strength of everyday people.
Fun fact readers might not know? I’ve probably read more books in bathtubs than libraries. (Highly underrated writing retreat, by the way.)
Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?
Books were my first love. While other kids played outside, I was that child curled in a quiet corner, lost in a fantasy world. One day, I just sat down and started writing the stories I’d been dreaming up for years. It felt like coming home.
Where is your favorite place to write?
My garden, under the pergola. Fresh air, birdsong, and just enough quiet to hear the characters bickering in my head. It’s the perfect mix of peaceful and wild—which, come to think of it, kind of matches A Throne of Claws and Shadows.
What advice would you give your past self at the start of your writing journey?
Stop overthinking it. Write the story you want to read. And when imposter syndrome whispers, “Who are you to write this?”—whisper back, “Who am I not to?” Oh, and invest in ergonomic chairs early.
What’s one thing you hope sticks with readers after they finish your book?
That power isn’t about dominance—it’s about connection. Elizabeth’s journey is about finding her voice in a world that sees her as ‘other’ and reshaping tradition through compassion and courage. I hope readers walk away believing they can do the same—be bold, be brave, and never underestimate the quiet ones.
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