Linda’s Book Obsession Interviews Maureen Leurck, Author of “Monarch Manor”

Linda’s Book Obsession Interviews Maureen Leurck, Author of “Monarch Manor”

1.  What was your motivation in becoming an author and writer? What did you do before you were a writer? 

I grew up as a voracious reader, reading the Sweet Valley High and the Baby-Sitter Club series, and knew I always wanted to write stories of my own. Being a published author has been such a dream come true for me, and I’m so excited and proud to have my books out into the world. I have never wanted to do anything else, and I’m so lucky that I get to do it.

2. What motivated or inspired you to write?

I write because I love books, and I love stories, and I’m so thankful that I get to contribute to the book community.

3. What were your motivations for you to write in your book?

I took a boat tour of the historic homes on Geneva Lake, Wisconsin a couple of years ago, and was inspired by the history and amazing facts that I learned–there are so many storied families who had homes on the lake back at the turn of the century–that I knew it was ripe for telling. Also, I’m a mom to a child with special needs, and wanted to tell the story of family that is learning to manage all of the emotions associated with that, and the true gifts and beauty in that process.

4.  How did you go about researching for your book?

I took a tour of the Black Point Estate on Geneva Lake, which is a preserved mansion from the turn of the century. If anyone is in that area, I highly recommend one of their fabulous tours!

5. Did you base any of your characters on people that you know?

I always include small name-drops of people that I know in my books! Additionally, I based many of the situations and thought processes that Erin goes through with her son, from navigating the IEP system to her emotional journey, on my own experiences.

6.  What is a typical day of your life?

My day is way less exciting than you might imagine! The mornings are filled with Kid Duty–making lunches, drop offs, and a lot of me yelling, “Put on your shoes! How do you not know where your shoes are?” Then it’s some writing time, and back to Kid Duty, and starting up my version of Mom’s Taxi Service to drive everyone around. After the kiddos are in bed, it’s hopefully a nice glass of wine and some trashy television shows. 

7.   What are your hobbies or things you do in your downtime?

In my downtime, I can usually be found shuttling my kids to various sports-related activities, or watching my favorite Bravo shows. Below Deck Med and Southern Charm are my jam!

9.  What can you tell us of any new writing projects that you might have?

I’m currently working on a new book about a woman investigating a family secret and its connection to one of the oldest unsolved mysteries in American history. Stay tuned!

9.   What are your favorite genres of books that you like to read?

Give me anything and everything! I seriously love it all: women’s fiction, mysteries, non fiction, autobiographies, thrillers, horror, YA, and everything else. Bonus points if the book makes me laugh!

10.    What advice can you give to someone that wants to be a writer?

I would say that publishing is a tough business, and it’s so frequently hard to predict. But if you love writing, and you can’t imagine doing anything else, it’s worth it. The road won’t be easy, but there is nothing like hearing from a reader who read your book and connected with it. It’s truly magical. I’m always happy to talk to aspiring authors about the business, and give advice when I can!

11.     If your book were adapted to the screen, what actors, actresses could you envision for the main characters?

I love this question! In my fantasy world, I could see Kate Winslet playing Amelia and Reese Witherspoon playing Erin. What a movie that would be, right?

12.              How would you like the readers to connect with you?

I’m on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. I also have a website and welcome any and all reader emails! Please, reach out!