Lauren Gilbert 

Lauren Gilbert has published both historical fiction and nonfiction. Her debut novel, Heyerwood, and her latest novel, A Rational Attachment, are character-driven and will appeal to both romance readers and history buffs.

Lauren has always loved reading, but once she found Jane Austen's Persuasion, she found yet another lifelong passion: the study of the Regency era of Great Britain. She has a Bachelor's Degree, specializing in English and Art History. Further fueling her passion, Gilbert joined the Jane Austen Society of North America and attended The World of Jane Austen Alumni College at Washington & Lee. Continuing to further her knowledge of Austen's work and the period has led to her becoming a regular presenter on the topic.

When asked what other books have touched her, Lauren shared that The Velveteen Rabbit, by Margery Williams, left the most profound mark.

Lauren advised new authors wanting to write historical fiction to "Do the research about the people, places, events, food, and the like." She also added, "Respect the period about which you're writing — putting 21st-century words, attitudes, and values into your characters will take your readers right out of your story."

You can find Lauren's published works, as well as more information about her, by visiting her website Lauren-Gilbert.com

Lauren was an early and enthusiastic member of Amelia Indie Authors. Although she claims not to be a fan of social media, her co-op job is to manage our Pinterest boards. When members make her aware of a new project or event, she posts it to our boards. Her quiet but consistent news-sharing personifies one of our co-op precepts: "all of us" is far more effective and powerful than any one of us.

Thank you, Lauren.