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LaurelLit.com

LaurelLit.com

Writer, Reader, English Teacher

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author life

In Love With Your Ghost (Sneak Peek!)

Laurel Osterkamp · September 16, 2026

He’s tentative. Searching. Like he’s apologizing for wanting me so badly, but he’s also diving head-first into his need. And my body remembers things my brain spent years trying to forget."

For the last few months, I have neglected SO MANY indie author obligations, like posting on social media, writing my newsletter, and updating my website. All because I was singularly focused on finishing my newest Sugar Pine Springs …

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My Winter Song to You (Sneak Peek)

Laurel Osterkamp · November 6, 2025

I'll admit it--I'm a theater geek, through and through. Not just that, but while I was growing up, my BFF and I DELIGHTED in writing short stories, scripts, or the beginnings of novels we'd never finish, and laughing our heads off while we read them out loud. That's why Chapter 18 of My Winter Song to You was my favorite chapter to write. The joy Max takes in his "script" was something I could totally connect with. So, without further ado, here's …

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Need Some Author Motivation? This Will Help, Especially If You’re Indie!

Laurel Osterkamp · June 20, 2025

Writing a book and putting it out there takes a lot of courage, hard work, and dedication. You pour your heart and soul into your novel, hoping that it will be a big hit. Unfortunately, with thousands of books published every day, an author’s road can be long and winding. Sometimes it’s hard to stay motivated and keep writing. So, let's explore some tips for how not to give up on your writing and publishing journey. (And if you don’t want to take my word for it, check out my famous author …

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Which 80’s Soap Opera Worthy-Plot Twist Is The Best?

Laurel Osterkamp · April 13, 2025

In the new novel I’m working on, an unlucky-in-love Jackie Collins/Nora Roberts type of author describes her romantic history, which mirrors the kind of books she writes.  Perhaps I should watch old soap operas from the 80s, like General Hospital or All My Children for inspiration. Except, I was never really a daytime soap fan, which means I could use your help! Please let me know which of these plot twists are you favorite (read through them, and then …

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How to be Legit as an Indie Author: What Does & Doesn’t Work for Me

Laurel Osterkamp · January 17, 2025

Last summer I went to an author event at a local bookstore. I was happy to be there. But I was also jealous and frustrated. Because I knew there was little chance I’d be invited to have an event at this store. I tried. Their website has an online form you can fill out. You need to have a good cover (check), be distributed by Ingram (check), a book that’s a romance (check), and preferably local (check). That’s just to be included on their shelves. In the message section, I explained that my …

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