Discover How Lori Foster’s Unique Approach To Storytelling Captivates Readers Worldwide
Lori Foster discusses her writing inspirations, creative process, and the themes of her novels, offering insights into her successful career as a bestselling romance and women’s fiction author.
Lori Foster, a literary powerhouse, has captivated readers worldwide with her dynamic storytelling and unforgettable characters. With over 120 titles to her name, she has firmly established herself as a New York Times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestselling author. Her novels, renowned for their action-packed, sexy contemporary romance and emotionally rich small-town women’s fiction, have earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious RT Book Reviews Career Achievement Award. Lori’s unique ability to weave sensuality with compelling narratives has not only made her a favorite among romance enthusiasts but also a cultural icon, even becoming a clue in major crossword puzzles. Her novel “Too Much Temptation” was Amazon’s top-selling romance title in 2002, a testament to her enduring appeal and talent.
In this exclusive interview for Reader’s House Magazine, Lori Foster shares insights into her creative process, the inspiration behind her beloved stories, and the evolution of her writing over the years. From the intriguing themes she explores to the spontaneous nature of her writing style, Lori offers a glimpse into the mind of a prolific author whose passion for storytelling continues to inspire and entertain. Join us as we delve into the world of Lori Foster, where romance, adventure, and personal growth intertwine to create unforgettable literary experiences.
‘Lori Foster masterfully blends romance and emotion, creating captivating stories that resonate with readers and leave a lasting impact.“
EDITOR, READER’S HOUSE
How do you decide which themes or topics to explore in your new releases, and do you have a favourite among your currently available books?
I have two different “tones” for my books. Mass market books are sexier, edgier, with more action and danger. Trade books are closer to women’s fiction focusing on emotions, personal problems and issues, and growing as a person – but they also include a romance. I keep that in mind when stories come to me, so I can tailor them for the format: mass market or trade.
Headlines are often inspiration, or just something I see happening in the world. My creative brain will grab it and take off and next thing I know, these fleshed out characters are demanding a story.
I work from contracts, so whichever format is due next, I pick appropriately from the many story ideas in my head.
There are always story ideas. So many of them that I’ll never live long enough to write them all. Some characters or themes are more disruptive than others, and they get demanding (that sounds unreal, right?) until I get them on paper.
I never sleep enough because I’m always plotting, or characters are carrying on dialogues in my head, and I don’t want to forget it. It seems the only time I’m not plotting is when I’m reading a book that really engages me (thank God for incredible authors!) or watching a movie that I’m loving. (I’m enjoy action and horror the most. Never drama.)
“I have two different ‘tones’ for my books. Mass market books are sexier, edgier, with more action and danger.” – Lori Foster
Can you share any insights into your writing process and how it might have evolved over the years with the release of your latest books?
I’m a HUGE believer that each author has to find what works for her. I work alone – no critique partners. If I like it, and my editor likes it, then I assume readers will, too. I can’t conceive of multiple input in the writing process – but I know it works for others.
My method is seat-of-my-pants writing. A scene that intrigues me will come to mind – inspired by anything and everything – and from there I sit down and start writing. I’m an early bird, usually up by 4:30am, however I swill coffee and check social media before I start writing.
Once I get in author-mode, I let the characters do all the work and they evolve along the way, telling me what I need to know. It’s their story and I never try to force them to meet my expectations. Fortunately, it’s been a productive relationship. My characters haven’t steered me wrong yet.
Because I don’t plan things, when plot twists happen I’m often as surprised as the reader. That method keeps me motivated to write because, like readers, I want to know what happens next.
There are amazing authors who like to plan it all out in advance, like a road map.
I know authors who do a rough draft and then polish a lot, and some who write in sections and later piece it all together. It truly is individual for each writer.
“Headlines are often inspiration, or just something I see happening in the world.” – Lori Foster
What inspired you to write “The Love Shack?”
THE LOVE SHACK is book 3 of the Indiana Summer Series based on a small Indiana lake town with a very odd name that came from the town founder and has been passed down for generations. I spent all the summers of my youth on a lake and I loved it, so I’m often drawn to lake life scenarios. In that particular series, the focus was often on people overlooking the obvious based on earlier misconceptions about themselves. We all err, and we all grow. Forgiving ourselves is the hard part so in that series, I helped characters along
For an upcoming series, the Firefly Summer Series, also around a lake, the focus is on viewing life with a different perspective and how it can make all the difference. Things that seemed life-altering in a negative way, can lead us to positive outcomes. The first book is THE GUEST COTTAGE, out in 2025, and the 2nd book is THE LAKE HOUSE.
Also out in 2025 is LET ME BE THE ONE, the first book in the Family Ties Series. That series is about missed opportunities – and the idea that it’s never too late to change the path you’re on. It’s about found family, and learning love, as well as trust.
