How Stories Powerfully Impact Our Lives with YA Author LE Richmond

Episode Show Notes Can be Found Here: https://cjmilacci.com/read-clean-ya-with-cj-podcast/ 

Links to Things Discussed in this Episode

The Mermaid’s Tale (affiliate link):https://amzn.to/3TncC4W 

LE Richmond’s Website: https://laurarichmondwrites.com

LE Richmond on Instagram: @l.e.richmond

Summary

In this episode, CJ Milacci interviews author L.E. Richmond about her book, The Mermaid's Tale. They discuss the background of the author and her love for running. They dive into the details of the book, which is a fairy tale retelling of the Little Mermaid. They explore the themes of identity and value, and how the book addresses these topics. They also discuss the power of stories and how they can impact readers. Finally, they talk about Laura's journey as an author and her other interests and hobbies.

Takeaways

• The Mermaid's Tale is a fairy tale retelling of the Little Mermaid, exploring themes of identity and value.
• Stories have the power to make readers feel less alone and can convey deep truths in a way that resonates with readers.
• Laura Richmond discovered her love for writing later in life and sees it as a gift from God.
• In addition to writing, Laura enjoys running, working out, and calling contra dances.
• Listeners can find Laura and her book, The Mermaid's Tale, on her website and on various online bookstores.

Chapters

00:00

Introduction and Background

01:25

Discussion of Laura's Book, The Mermaid's Tale

03:04

Themes in The Mermaid's Tale

08:20

Identity and Value

13:15

The Power of Stories

23:06

Laura's Journey as an Author

27:41

Laura's Interests and Hobbies

30:43

Where to Find Laura and Her Book

Wrapping things Up: from CJ

I hope you enjoyed listening in on this conversation with LE Richmond. It’s always a blast for me to chat with authors about their stories, and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Laura better. 

If you’re a fan of fairytale retellings, high stakes, twists and turns, and loads of adventures, you’re going to love The Mermaid’s Tale. Since recording this episode, I finished the book, and it was so much fun! If you’re a Little Mermaid fan, this book is a must read.

Note for Sensitive Readers

There are some thematic elements and storybook violence throughout the story, and it is hinted that a villain makes unwanted advances to the main character—although that may go over the heads of younger readers. But overall, this is a fantastic and clean read that readers YA fiction will enjoy. 

Next Time on Read Clean YA with CJ

Next time on Read Clean YA with CJ, I’ll be talking with young adult author Jennifer Hallmark, author of Smoking Flax. Jennifer and I met through a virtual writer’s group that we’re both a part of, and it was wonderful talking with her about her latest novel. This book has a rich, southern feel and fun speculative elements that I think you’ll love, so be sure to tun in to hear our interview.

Thank you so much for listening to Read Clean YA with CJ. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend so they can discover exciting, clean young adult books too.