Lily O. Laverick's Blog
February 22, 2025
The Allure of Hidden Speakeasies and Short Stories
Hello my darlings. You don’t know me yet, but you are about to! Vianna Queenie does not like staying in the shadows, unless it’s with a crystal glass of amaretto and a cigarette watching all the other dwellers in my speakeasy. See, it’s not only a speakeasy, somewhere to hide away from all those crusty authorities, but here we really can speak easy. This journal is my truth. It’s not all about me darling, not all the time anyway. I have been given the job to report on this young upstart who no one knows but for her small entourage. I take no shit from anyone, but everyone gets mine.
With a flick of my wrist, by glass is refilled. With a puff of my cigarette, I watch the smoke rise into the hazy room. It reminds me to tell you, this young upstart… I should name her shouldn’t I. This Lily O. Laverick girl has recently finished the first and second draft of her next book. Nothing to get too excited about, however. It’s only a short story, pathetic really. Having said that, it ain’t half bad, that soldier of hers she created, Xander, is right up my alley. I’d let him take me into an alley if he swung that way. Till We Meet Again. What kind of name is that for a book? I’m sure I could have come up with better, especially after another glass and a smoke of something stronger than what I’m currently having.
This book of hers, she plans to publish it electronically. By some sort of sorcery, she’s able to do that. At first, I wondered how in the blazes did she of all people get published, not once but twice, then I found out she self-publishes. I’ll give her her dues; it takes balls to do that. Though, all that hard work would not be for me. As long as my voice carries through a room and my body orders people to obey me, I don’t lift a finger, just a hand with a glass or a cigarette holder in it up to my lips. All the marketing she slogs away at and gets barely anything back seems exhausting, darling. And it’s not like she can pay someone to do it for her, unlike me. Poor darling is always watching her purse strings.
I see my interest of the hour arrive down the stairs into my club, gravitating straight for me because I’m such a force of nature. They fall into the seat opposite me, and with my pointed shoed foot, I caress their calf. This one is an eager little thing. Similar to that female Lily wrote about in that short story of hers. Trouble in their eyes with a smirk hidden in their lips. Curls falling down their back and over one shoulder, small glimpses of smooth skin I’ll be marking up later.
Turning to watch the growing crowd, with a sip of amaretto, I ponder on that author I mentioned earlier. Lily is nothing special. Still, her words have something powerful about them. They’ve managed to worm their way into my head for a start, that’s impressive. People appear to like her works, though it’s only her close friends who say so. Bet she bribed them with pleasantries to get those reviews of hers.
The clock above the stage chimes midnight. Time to clock out for the night, leave my patrons to ruin themselves and take this pretty body home.
Catch you all in my next journal entry darlings.
Stay Spacial!
~ Vianna Queenie Xx
January 12, 2025
A Meander with Cherry Moonweb 🌙✨
The year was 2024, and it showed me many aspects of my life I would rather be without—and what I want more of.
While I drifted into the world of contemporary teen romance, I realised I didn’t like it. It lacked that spark, that magical aspect that connects my inner self to my books—not just my heart and head. I realised where I went wrong and where I actually need to be. Not just within my writing self either, but also that person or being deep inside me.
While I drifted, I got lost along the way, which is why I find myself here: reflecting and re-evaluating my habits and goals.
Let me tell you a story. Many years ago, in that transition period between child and tween, I hid something—or rather, someone. Someone who enjoyed tarot nights, looking up at the night sky, breathing in the fresh air, walking barefoot, zodiacs, and angels. When facts and science became my norm, when technology and society became known to me, they burrowed away. They shied away from it all because of what others might say. In a land where sorcières are still seen with scepticism and fear of the unknown, it was instinctive to blend in. Mix with the crowd. Keep the cards in the drawer. The crystals hidden as jewellery. The books left unread.
We will call this being Cherry—Cherry Moonweb—for that was her name. She was gifted many things and was brought up by the right-hand woman to a high priestess, though not many know this.
Lily (I) and Cherry always got along. They played with the flowers and saw the fairies on the winds. But when Lily was shown the greater world, a dark cloud enveloped her. It took her away from Cherry, and Cherry no longer saw the light of day, only popping up on rare occasions when her mother or guardien would invite her.
Years went by, and Cherry despaired. Until one year, Lily was at her lowest, and then suddenly, at her brightest. One of the many clouds evaporated from her life, and Lily saw a new light. She shed some of her heavy cloak and could breathe easy again. She thought she was whole. She was mistaken, for she had still forgotten a friend behind.
Lily began to discover herself. With open eyes, there was more to see—people of all genders and cultures. Open arms greeted her, and she began to flourish. Going after the dreams of another young girl, little Lily, she succeeded. Only, two and a half books later, she was stuck again. Something was missing. Someone was missing.
Cherry had had enough of hiding. Out of the blue—Lily will not be able to tell when or how it happened, for she does not remember—but Cherry stormed back into Lily’s life, ready to fight for her place and remove the last remaining shrouds over Lily’s heart. Over her soul.
This brings us up to now.Lily has not changed; she has evolved—or devolved… She is returning to what she once was but with the addition of her new body and mindset, ready to tackle anything that comes her way. It is not scary or dark; it is light and true.
I, Lily, vowed some years ago that if people don’t like me for who I truly am, they don’t deserve to be in my life, and I am still sticking to this. Life is strange in all its forms, but with open arms, I believe a brighter future awaits us all—over all the hurdles we may come across.
This was my way of telling you all: I am who I am, and I can’t wait to discover my potential and the bonds that will be created.
Happy Full Moon in Cancer, everyone.
As a Cancerian and a Lavarian, I think it’s time to dance among the stars tonight. 
Lily O. Laverick xxx
January 6, 2025
My 2025 Reading Goals: Tackling My TBR with a Twist! 📚✨
Hello, lovely Lavarians! 
2025 is here, and with it comes one of my favourite annual traditions: setting my Goodreads reading goal! If you’re a fellow bookworm, you’ll understand the thrill (and sometimes mild panic) of deciding how many books to aim for in a year. This time, I’ve opted for something a little different. Instead of my usual 100-book goal, I’ve set the bar at a more manageable 50 books. Why, you ask? Let me tell you all about it! 
If you’ve seen my bookshelves (all two overflowing beauties), you’ll understand why I’m prioritising my physical TBR (To Be Read) this year. My shelves are a treasure trove of unread gems—from shiny new paperbacks to dusty hardbacks I’ve been meaning to dive into for ages.
I’m aiming to read at least two physical books a month. That said, I’m giving myself permission to be flexible—if my Kindle or audiobooks take centre stage some months, that’s absolutely fine. Reading should be joyful, not a chore, right? 
This year, I’m planning to combine audiobooks with physical reading—something that massively helped me in the past. If you’ve never tried this method, it’s a fantastic way to make the most of your reading time, especially if you find it tricky to stay focused.
Here’s why I love it:
Enhanced Comprehension: Listening and reading simultaneously gives my brain a double dose of the story, helping me remember it better.
Improved Focus: Hearing the words as I read keeps me hooked, even on days when my attention feels like a slippery comet shark. 
A Fun Way to Multitask: When my eyes are too tired to keep reading, I can switch to listening and keep the story flowing. Audiobooks are also brilliant for fitting in more books during workouts, puzzles, or when relaxing with a cup of tea. 
Using audiobooks alongside physical reading has helped me train my brain and deepen my understanding of stories. If you’ve been struggling with focus or comprehension, I highly recommend giving it a go! 
Why 50 Books, Not 100? 
This year, I’ve chosen a smaller goal because it feels more attainable and meaningful. It’s not about racing through books but savouring them. By focusing on my physical TBR, I can finally enjoy the books I’ve lovingly collected (and maybe even make room for more—let’s be real, the TBR pile never truly ends 
).
What are your reading goals for 2025? Have you set a Goodreads target, or do you prefer a more relaxed, “read what I feel like” approach? Are you tackling a specific TBR pile, exploring new genres, or revisiting old favourites?
I’d love to hear all about your plans in the comments! Let’s swap book recommendations, share tips, and cheer each other on.
And if you are reading some of my books this year, I’ll give an extra big hug and kiss! 
Here’s to a year full of incredible stories, epic adventures, and cosy moments with a great book. Whether you’re reading, listening, or a mix of both, let’s make 2025 a magical year for bookworms everywhere! 
Lots of love and happy reading always,
Lily O. Laverick
January 2, 2025
Hello 2025: My Goals for the New Year! 🎉
Happy New Year, lovely Lavarians! Can you believe we’ve stepped into 2025 already? I swear, I blinked, and poof—here we are! Maybe Thanos or some greater being is at work again…
With the fresh vibes of January in the air, I’ve been busy dreaming up plans and goals for the year ahead. Let’s dive in, shall we? 
A Short Story Adventure 
First up, I’m kicking the year off by writing a short story I hope to publish exclusively as an eBook in February. This feels like a fun, bite-sized way to start 2025 with a bang… or at least a pop. 
I want it to be a little gift to you all—a quick, heartwarming read to brighten your day. Equally, it will allow me to explore a genre I’ve only ever dabbled in with fanfiction! 
Plus, while working on this story, I’ll have time to decide which of my current works-in-progress will become the novel or novels of the year. Decisions, decisions! 
Watch my Instagram and Facebook—that’s where I’ll post updates and teasers about what might be coming next! 
Back to the Anthology Trenches
Last month, my writing group and I published our first anthology. The support we’ve had so far for it has been absolutely amazing (thank you for all the love! 
), and we’re ready to do it all over again! I’ll be contributing another short story to our next anthology, and I’m buzzing with ideas already. I’m thinking something icy might be in order! 
A Genre-Bending Year 
This year, I’m determined to spread my creative wings and explore new genres. Horror? Supernatural? Maybe a mix of both? 
I’ve got some flash fiction ideas brewing, and I’m ready to let them run wild. Don’t worry, my MM romance roots aren’t going anywhere—think of these as delicious side dishes to my usual main courses. 
Levelling Up as an Author 
Being an author is my dream job, and 2025 is the year I’m treating it like the full-time gig it deserves to be. That means more work hours, more learning (thank you, free YouTube tutorials! 
) and just diving headfirst into all the aspects of being a writer. From crafting stories to connecting with you all, it’s going to be a whirlwind—and I’m so here for it. 
Engagement Goals 
Speaking of connecting, I want to reach out more to my lovely audience (yes, that’s YOU! 
). Whether it’s through social media, newsletters, or random TikTok shenanigans, I want to hear from you and share more of my writing journey. Let’s make 2025 the year we really vibe together. 
Growth in All Things 
Finally, I’m setting my sights on growth. As an author, as a daughter, as a friend, and as the gloriously odd creature that I am. Life is a fantastical adventure, and I’m here to soak up every second of it. 
The Cover Designer and the Author – Mother Daughter Duo!So, there you have it—my big, bubbly goals for 2025. What about you? Any exciting plans or resolutions you’re working on? Let’s chat in the comments—I’d love to hear all about your dreams for the year ahead. Here’s to a magical, creative, and downright fabulous 2025! 
Lots of love always,
Lily O. Laverick
December 17, 2024
The Lavaria Encyclopaedia? What’s that?
Whose brilliant idea was it to create an entirely new galaxy—complete with planets, names, and boundless stories? Oh, right… that was me. And guess what? Past me forgot to take notes!
Picture this: you’re deep in the trenches of your creative mind, shaping new worlds, breathing life into characters, and moulding galaxies… only to find that keeping track of it all feels like juggling planets. Been there? Same here. Especially right this minute!
As I dive headfirst into preparing something BIG for the upcoming year (cross your fingers I actually stick to it this time! 
), I can’t help but look back and think, “Lily from two years ago, you could have done better at noting all this down. A lot better.”
But fear not! Because 2025 is the year of epic organization and expansion.
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Introducing: The Lavaria Encyclopaedia!
What is this magical idea, you ask? It’s where I’ll finally—finally!—document all the wonders of my galaxy. Think of it as your one-stop shop for exploring everything from sprawling planets, intriguing characters, to intricate ship designs. Here’s what you can expect:
Planets: Explore Fallacia, Veridum, and more.
Places: Discover iconic locations like the Marya, the Florenze, and Elezar’s chambers. Creatures: Dive into the lives of Lavaria’s most fascinating beings. Ever heard of a Volar? Stories: See how some of it ties back to the Fallacian Empire and the beloved Boy Jayck. Maybe even get a glimpse at the famous Tales of Old!
Veridum was just like Elezar had once described in his letters. Sleepy, gentle. What little motion there was came from carts of people selling their wares in the marketplace and a few buskers with their instruments. The musical notes of flutes filled the air, Veridum’s speciality. The further they went, the more peaceful it was. It was beautiful. The pops of colour of the buildings and the foliage contracting against the duotone sky were simply stunning. He could already see himself getting lost in the splendour when he’d be able to roam around and view the new places he could explore.
~ A glimpse at Veridum through Jayck’s eyes in Boy Jayck.
This isn’t just a world-builder’s dream—it’s a playground for anyone who loves sci-fi, fantasy, and limitless creativity. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your own stories or simply want to immerse yourself in an expanding universe, this encyclopaedia will be your guide.
A Universe That Keeps Growing
Lavaria is alive. It’s always evolving, just like our own cosmos. And the beauty of this project? You, my lovely readers, are part of the journey.
What would YOU love to see featured? Want an in-depth look at Veridum’s history? A closer peek at Elezar’s chambers? Or maybe a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the creative process behind Boy Jayck? Drop your suggestions below or email me, and let’s build this together!
Ready to Explore?
Imagine flipping through pages of the Lavaria Encyclopaedia (or scrolling through, let’s be honest)—a treasure trove of stories, lore, and inspiration that sparks your imagination.
The Lavaria Galaxy is ever-expanding, and one day, who knows? It might not just be my creation—it could inspire galaxies of your own.
So, where should we start this galactic tour? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog so you don’t miss a single cosmic update! 
More of Lily O. Laverick
https://linktr.ee/lilylaverick
About Lily O. LaverickMy pen name is Lily Obediah Laverick: names all belonging to my family, including my great grandparents and further back still. You can call me LOL for short. I love a good laugh.
Learn MoreUseful LinksNovember 29, 2024
End of November Echoes
Hey Lavarians,
November. What a whirlwind! Between launching Ocean of Emotions, dancing until my legs practically went on strike, and gearing up for December, this month has been one for the books—literally and figuratively. So, grab a cozy drink, settle in, and let me fill you in on all the juicy details from the past few weeks.
Launching Ocean of Emotions
The biggest highlight of November was, of course, launching my latest book, Ocean of Emotions. This novella has been such an adevnture, but oh my gosh, did it put me through the spinner! The struggle to get the paperback out was REAL. At one point, I felt like I was arm-wrestling the KDP publishing gods. But guess what? I won. (Take that, obstacles!)
Holding the finished book in my hands for the first time? There are no words for how incredible that felt.
First Signings and Special Deliveries
Another wonderous moment was signing my first copies of Ocean of Emotions. My author copies arrived just before I headed to a friend’s house for lunch, and they got the very first signed copies. There was a lot of happy laughter.
And the excitement doesn’t stop there—I’m hosting my first-ever book signing event on December 1st for friends and family who’ve supported me. I’ll be sharing pics the next day and (fingers crossed) going live during the event. Stay tuned!
RIVA Writing Group: A Collection of Short Stories
One of the most exciting things happening this December is the release of RIVA Writing Group: A Collection of Short Stories! This project has been an amazing experience, created with my incredible writing group here in La Châtre, France.
The collection is pure magic. It all begins with Una Plumb, who sets up a writing group in a little town in Central France. From there, the stories take on a life of their own, introducing you to unforgettable characters like Rae, who stumbles upon something extraordinary in an old library, and Clare, a woman willing to do anything to change her circumstances. Then there’s Charlie, a man out of time, and Columbia, a detective uncovering mysteries in the French countryside.
But it doesn’t stop there! You’ll meet Megan, traveling through the solar system, and Vanessa, who feeds on words and stories. There’s Chells and Vik, whose love story will surprise you, and Borvo, a magical being navigating his return to this world. The collection weaves together the tragic and the magical, the curious and the wonderful, reminding us that while we may all seem different, at our core, we’re one and the same.
The Kindle version is available for pre-order now, with the official release date set for December 10th! I’m so proud to be part of this project and can’t wait for you to dive into these stories.
A Night to Remember
Let’s talk about Beaujolais Nouveau night—have you ever danced for almost four hours straight? Because I did, and let me tell you, my poor “writer legs” (a.k.a. legs that are more used to sitting all day) are still recovering. The event was absolutely magical, filled with laughter, great music, and pure joy.
Now, I didn’t drink the wine—teetotaller here! But that didn’t stop me from having the time of my life. The band played some incredible covers, like Don’t Stop Me Now and Bad Guy, and so many other bangers. I sang along so loud my jaw hurt the next day, and I couldn’t have resisted dancing my heart out. Was it worth the muscle aches? A thousand times yes!
Looking Ahead to December
December is shaping up to be just as packed. Here’s what I’m excited about:
So, that’s my November wrapped up! It’s been a month of challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable moments. If you’ve made it this far, thank you for sharing in this journey with me.
I’d love to hear how your November went! Drop a comment or share your highlights—I’d love to cheer you on too.
With love,
Lily O. Laverick Xx
October 31, 2024
October Recap: Spooky Sales, Launch Prep & All the Feels! 🎃📚
Hey there lovely lavarians! 
October has been such an overwhelming whirlpool of excitement, stress, planning, and connecting with you all, and I couldn’t be happier! From getting ready for Ocean of Emotions’ big debut to the Samhain Sale, it’s been a month filled with nail-biting anticipation. Let’s dive into all the October highlights and give you a sneak peek at what’s coming next!
Boy Jayck Samhain Sale: A Thrilling Deal! We are seeing October out and welcoming November in with a bang with a Samhain Sale for my debut novel, Boy Jayck! For a few magical days, this space opera MM romance is available for just 0.99, giving hopefully new readers a chance to embark on an adventure in the Lavaria Galaxy.
Samhain Sale is Here! My debut novel, Boy Jayck, is now available for just 0.99 as part of my Samhain Sale!
If you’re in the mood for a thrilling space opera with a dash of MM romance, this one’s for you!
Sale Dates: October 30th – November 1st
Boy Jayck takes you on a journey through the stars, where love, loyalty, and survival are all tested in the vast empire of Fallacia. Don’t miss this chance to grab your copy for less than a dollar and dive into the adventure!Get it now and escape into a world full of action, romance, and epic spacial locations!
8 Days Until Ocean of Emotions! 
As we got near the end of October, the countdown for Ocean of Emotions officially began, and let me tell you, my heart is both bursting with excitement and nerves! Ocean of Emotions is my first novella, and it’s been such a personal project, exploring all the feelings that come with pining, coming out to friends and family, friendship, and the beauty of a slow-burn connection.
Only 8 DAYS until Ocean of Emotions launches! Can you feel the anticipation?
Dive into the feels with Connor’s story of love, friendship, and finding peace in the midst of emotional storms. 
The Kindle pre-order is LIVE, so grab your copy now and be one of the first to experience this heartwarming MM romance on launch day!
Goodreads Goals: A Perfect Addition! With the end of the year rapidly approaching, I know a lot of us are racing to meet our Goodreads reading challenges. If you’re looking to hit your reading goal, Ocean of Emotions is the perfect novella to help you get there! At 40k words, it’s a bite-sized read packed with emotion—perfect for a quick escape or a cozy afternoon with a cup of tea.
Need a quick, feel-good read to shake off that reading slump? Look no further! Ocean of Emotions will be here to sweep you into a heart-warming, angsty MM romance that’ll make your heart race and add a completed book to your Goodreads challenge before the year ends! With only 40k words, it’s the perfect novella to devour in one sitting. Don’t forget to mark it as Want to Read on Goodreads!
Let’s make your TBR a little lighter and your heart a little fuller. Upcoming Launch Day Plans! November 5th (and due to technical issues, the 6th for Paperback) is the big day for the Kindle version! I’m counting down the hours until Ocean of Emotions finally makes its way to all of you. To celebrate, I’ll be going live on Instagram to chat about the story, the characters, and answer any questions you might have! I’d love for you to join, bring a coffee (or tea!), and let’s chat about everything Ocean of Emotions.
Mark your calendars for this special event! And if you haven’t pre-ordered yet, the Kindle edition is ready for you now. Let’s make this launch as memorable as possible!
Thank You for a Wonderful October! As we wrap up October, I just want to thank each and every one of you. Whether you’ve been here since Boy Jayck or just discovered my books, your support, enthusiasm, and kindness make this journey so meaningful. Every message, every share, and every comment is a reminder of why I love writing—and sharing it with such a wonderful community.
What’s next? November is going to be filled with launch excitement, reader feedback, and hopefully lots of cozy reading moments. Stay tuned for more posts, sneak peeks, and join me in making Ocean of Emotions a launch to remember.
Here’s to a fantastic November and plenty of new adventures in Lavaria!
With all my love and hugs,
Lily Laverick
October 26, 2024
🌊 The Proof Copies Are Here—Almost Perfect! 💙
Hey, Lavarians!
I’ve got some thrilling news (and a little behind-the-scenes story!) to share with you about Ocean of Emotions! My proof copies arrived, and I can’t tell you how much joy that brought me—there may have been some excited bouncing and squealing involved! 
But, as with any creative journey, there was a little hiccup…
The Proof Copies Came With a Glitch… and Now They’re Perfect!When the proof copies first arrived, I was ecstatic! But then I noticed something wasn’t quite right on the cover—one of those little glitches that only seems to show up once the book is in your hands. 
I won’t lie; I was worried that this could mean a delay in the paperback launch, possibly pushing it further into November.
Luckily, I ordered a revised proof, and it came back looking perfect! Seeing the final, polished version felt surreal. Ocean of Emotions is really happening, and I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out. I can’t wait for you all to have your own copies in hand soon!
Pre-Orders Are Open!If you’re excited to dive into Connor’s story (and all those pining, friends-to-lovers, one-bed-trope feels!), you can pre-order Ocean of Emotions right now! The official release date is still set for November 5th, so make sure you lock in your copy ahead of time.
Pre-Order Here: Ocean of Emotions on Amazon
Join Me for a Launch Day Instagram Live!Mark your calendars for November 5th, because I’ll be going live on Instagram to celebrate the launch of Ocean of Emotions! 
This will be a fun, casual chat where I’ll be sharing some behind-the-scenes stories, answering your questions, and celebrating this journey with all of you. So bring your favorite cozy drink and join me for some bookish fun!
Follow me on Instagram to get notified when I go live: @lilylaverick_writer
Thank You for All the Love and Support!Your support means the world to me, truly. Seeing Ocean of Emotions come to life and knowing you’re excited to read it makes all the difference. I’m so grateful for every single one of you cheering me on along the way.
Sending you all my love and gratitude,
Lily Laverick
Author of Boy Jayck and Ocean of Emotions
October 2, 2024
From Pen to Space: October Writing Challenge!
Calling all space opera dreamers and galaxy explorers! It’s time for October’s From Pen to Space writing challenge, and I couldn’t be more excited to launch this month’s creative prompt.
This October, I’m challenging you to craft a piece of flash fiction that includes these three words: tea, timer, and tome. Whether your characters are enjoying a peaceful cup of tea in the captain’s quarters, racing against a timer to save an entire planet, or discovering ancient secrets hidden in a dusty tome, I can’t wait to see how you weave these elements into your stories! 
I started this monthly writing challenge to encourage fellow writers to dream big and let their imaginations soar. There’s so much potential in the realm of space opera, and I want to fuel more epic space adventures for readers to get lost in. Whether you’re a seasoned author or just dipping your toes into the galaxy of writing, From Pen to Space is here to inspire you to build new worlds, craft thrilling tales, and create unforgettable characters.
Your mission, should you choose to accept it:
Write a flash fiction (1,000 words or less) using the words: tea, timer, and tome.
This prompt is designed to get your creative gears turning and challenge you to think outside the box. Will your characters survive a ticking timer? Will an ancient tome hold the key to their victory? Or will a simple cup of tea bring peace amid chaos? The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to see what you come up with!
Not only is this a fun way to stretch your writing muscles, but if you submit your piece, you could be featured in my monthly newsletter alongside my own take on the prompt! Plus, if you’d like your story to be showcased on my website, there’s a sign-up form under the From Pen to Space tab on my website. 
This challenge is all about community and creativity. Let’s come together as space opera writers and readers, share our ideas, and support one another in crafting stories that take us to new worlds. 
Feel free to share your work on social media, tag me, and use the hashtag #FromPenToSpace so I can see what amazing stories you create.
Let’s blast off into new worlds together—are you ready for this month’s challenge? I can’t wait to see what cosmic adventures you create!
Happy writing,
Lily O. Laverick
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FacebookInstagramPinterestAmazonGoodreadsLinkSeptember 30, 2024
September Recap: New Adventures, Reveals, and A Galaxy of Fun!
Heya Lavarians!
It’s hard to believe September is already behind us! 
As we breeze into a new month, I wanted to take a moment to look back on all the exciting things that have happened in the past few weeks. September has been a whirlwind of creativity, and I can’t wait to share all the updates, reveals, and sneak peeks that have been happening behind the scenes and on social media.
If you’ve been following along on my Instagram and Facebook or Newsletter, you probably already have a hint of what’s to come. But for those who might have missed it, grab your favourite drink, settle in, and let’s dive into the highlights of this past month!
I’ve got a cup of very sweet tea, comment down below what you have!
First up, let’s talk about my latest mini project: Flash Fiction Friday – Lanner & Kric!
For those of you who might not be familiar with the concept, a flash fiction is a super short form of storytelling. In under 1,000 words, you’re whisked away into a new or familiar world, caught in the middle of action, and hopefully left with a lasting impression of wanting more.
I launched my From Pen to Space challenge this month, and with it, I introduced a brand-new way into The Lavaria Galaxy—a place very near and dear to my heart. In this challenge, I aim to push creativity to new boundaries and explore new characters within my ever-expanding universe with other writers and readers!
In my first flash fiction for said challenge, we meet Lanner and Kric, two new characters in the middle of the chaos of a battlefield. This story is filled with angst, but don’t worry, it ends on a happy and hopeful note! If you haven’t already read it, I highly recommend checking it out—it’s short, but it packs a punch. You can read it directly on my website, and don’t forget to leave a comment. I’d love to hear what you think about these two new characters. Who knows? Maybe we’ll see more of them in future stories. 
Cover Reveal for Ocean of Emotions – Coming Soon!Next up, the big reveal coming your way on the 1st of October—the cover of my next book, Ocean of Emotions! 
This is something I’ve been eagerly waiting to share. I collaborated again with my amazing mum, who helped me bring our vision to life. I drew the initial sketch and the final drawing, and my mum worked her magic with the design.
Ocean of Emotions is an emotional story following Conner’s journey and dives into the depths of teenage love, heartbreak, family, and coming-of-age. I can’t wait for you all to see it!
And because I love you all so much, here’s a little teaser:
The only difference I can make out between Iain and the rest of his family is that they are loud, the cousins worst of all, and they are seated at our end of the table. Iain puts me between them and him! Out of the frying pan of socially awkward, and into the flames of blazing inadequacy and humiliation!Set your reminders, because you won’t want to miss it!
Release Date Reveal for Ocean of Emotions – Save the Date!
While the cover reveal is exciting enough, I’ve got even more thrilling news on the shore’s horizon. On the 3rd of October, I’ll be announcing the official release date for Ocean of Emotions!
This book has been a labour of love, (and I must admit hate a few times ), over the past few months. I’m excited to finally get it into your hands, and mine, lol. Over the next few weeks after the release date reveal, I’ll be dropping some fun hints about the themes, tropes, and of course, the blurb!
For my Lavarians who love a good character-driven story with emotional depth, this one’s for you! And trust me when I say, the emotions are real. So, be sure to follow along on my social media to stay up to date, because the reveals will be here before you know it.
Behind the Scenes: What Else Happened in September?
While these are the big highlights of the month, there’s been so much more going on behind the scenes. September was filled with brainstorming sessions, day trips out to a local new bookshop and chateau, outlining future stories and big plans…
I’ve also been working on expanding my world-building for The Lavaria Galaxy, adding more details to its lore and planets, and planning out future adventures for the characters you’ve come to love—and maybe some new ones too!
In addition to writing and sipping lots of teas and mochaccinos, I’ve been focusing on building my community. The Lavaria Galaxy community has grown so much, and I’m overwhelmed with the love and support I’ve received in the last nine months of being a published author. Whether it’s through comments on my posts, emails, or just little notes on social media, each and every one of you makes my journey as an indie author so much more rewarding. I truly couldn’t do it without you!
What’s Coming in October?As we head into October, there’s so much to look forward to:
– Cover reveal for Ocean of Emotions on October 1st (don’t miss it!).
– Release date announcement on October 3rd, along with sneak peeks of the blurb and tropes.
– More flash fictions in the works—expect more stories from The Lavaria Galaxy.
– Building more connections in The Lavaria Galaxy community—stay tuned for interactive Q&A sessions, writing prompts, and more!
Thank you for being part of my journey this September. It’s been an incredible month filled with creativity, and I couldn’t have done it without your support. Your enthusiasm for my stories keeps me inspired every day, and I’m beyond excited to see where the rest of the year takes us.
Until next time,
Lily O. Laverick
P.S. Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram and Facebook for daily updates and behind-the-scenes fun!
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