FAQs

Here are answers to the questions I’m asked most often about my books, my creative process, and my work as an independent creative.

Can I contact you for media or rights inquiries?

Yes. Legitimate media, publishing, or rights inquiries can be made through the contact form on my website or through my publisher, Atmosphere Press. Response times may vary.

Are the Rights to Books Available?

Yes, the rights for all of my books are currently available and owned by me.

Are you looking for Beta Readers?

If you’d like to be considered as a Beta Reader for my upcoming writing projects, the best way is to subscribe to my Substack or join my Newsletter. Those communities always get first access to beta reader calls, early chapters, and behind‑the‑scenes updates.

Do you accept requests to review other authors’ books?

Thank you for your interest, but I am not accepting book review requests at this time. My schedule is full, and I don’t want to commit to something I can’t deliver. If you’re seeking reviewers, Booksirens and Booksprout are excellent places to start.

Will you read my manuscript or give feedback on my writing?

I no longer offer manuscript critiques or proofreading services. While I love supporting other writers, focusing on others’ projects takes away from the time and energy I need to create my own stories. Thank you for understanding.

Do you do interviews, podcasts, or speaking engagements?

Not regularly. I’m selective about how I spend my limited time and energy, but I may consider occasional opportunities that strongly align with my work and values.

Do you do collaborations or co‑author projects?

I do not co‑author books. Writing is a deeply personal process for me, and I work best when I have full creative responsibility. However, I may consider non‑writing collaborations—such as artwork, themed discussions, or special features—on a case‑by‑case basis.

Do you write every day?

No. I’m a full‑time working mom and creative, and my writing time comes in waves. Daily writing isn’t realistic in every season of life. I’ve learned that forcing productivity leads to burnout. I write when I can write well, and I trust steady, faithful progress over rigid word‑count goals.

How long does it take you to write a book?

A solid first draft usually takes me about a month.

Revision, however, is where the real work happens—refining structure, deepening character arcs, strengthening language, and ensuring the story says what it’s meant to say.

I don’t believe in the fast‑release model. Quality, clarity, and integrity matter more to me than speed.

What is your editing and revision process like?

After drafting, I let the manuscript rest before returning with fresh eyes. I complete several rounds of self‑editing, then work with my publisher’s editorial team for professional editing and proofreading. Careful revision is essential to honoring readers’ time and investment.

Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?

I’m not a mentor or writing coach, and I don’t offer one‑on‑one guidance. Writing is highly individual—what works for one person may not work for another.

The most important thing I can say is this: Hire an Editor. Readers notice when a book isn’t ready. Respect your audience by putting out the best version of your story that you possibly can.

Can non‑Christian readers enjoy your books?

Absolutely. My stories are written from a Christian worldview, but they are not sermons. They explore courage, brokenness, hope, and redemption through character‑driven fantasy. Many non‑Christian readers can still connect with the emotional and mythic elements.

What inspired you to write this book/series?

Secrets of the Sigil was inspired by my Christian faith—especially the Book of Revelation and Ephesians 6:10–18. These passages, along with my lifelong love of fantasy, shaped the themes of spiritual struggle, courage, and redemption woven throughout the story.

What books have influenced your writing most?

My writing has been shaped by stories that blend wonder, faith, courage, and emotional honesty.

The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings taught me the power of myth, long‑arc journeys, and the quiet bravery of ordinary people. Madeleine L’Engle’s A Wrinkle in Time showed me how faith, imagination, and cosmic mystery can coexist with tenderness. The Giver revealed how spare, quiet storytelling can carry profound emotional weight, while Francesca Lia Block’s Wasteland and Echo opened my eyes to how prose itself can feel like poetry.

As a child, I was deeply moved by Bruce Coville’s Into the Land of the Unicorns and Peter S. Beagle’s The Last Unicorn, both of which shaped my love for mythic longing, wonder, and hope. Brian Jacques’ Redwall series gave me a lifelong appreciation for richly textured worlds and stories where courage is found in community and small acts of goodness. Garth Nix’s Lirael
influenced my fascination with lonely, determined protagonists who grow into their calling, and The Rats of NIMH sparked my love for stories that blend intelligence, mystery, and moral depth.

Finally, Mitch Albom’s The Five People You Meet in Heaven shaped how I think about grace, connection, and the unseen impact of a single life. Together, these books continue to inform my love of allegory, beauty, and meaning‑filled storytelling.

Why aren’t you on social media?

I’m a working mom, author, reseller, and jewelry maker. My days are full, and social media adds a mental load I don’t have bandwidth for. It can be distracting and unhealthy for me, and my creativity thrives when I limit online noise.

I prefer connecting with readers through my website, Substack, and other direct channels.

Do you accept fan mail?

Kind messages are always appreciated and can be sent through my Website or Substack. While I may not be able to respond individually, I do read them.

For privacy and safety, I do not have a physical mailing address and cannot accept mailed fan items at this time.

How can I connect with you or learn more about your writing?

You can reach me through my website or follow my updates on Substack, where I share reflections, behind‑the‑scenes notes, and writing progress.

Where can I find your jewelry, paintings, or other handmade items?

You can find my handmade jewelry and creative work in the Midwest Mom Shop on eBay, Etsy, and Depop.

I do not currently have any original paintings available, but I will keep my shop pages updated and let you know when they are.

If you’re interested in custom jewelry, I do accept custom orders through my Etsy shop.

Thank you for supporting original, human storytelling. I am grateful for every reader who chooses to spend time in the worlds I create.

Get in Touch

Have a question, a kind note, or an invitation to share?

Jen L.L. welcomes messages from readers, book clubs, educators, media, and event organizers. Use the form below to send a message, and you’ll receive a response as soon as possible.