A Conversation With The Author Of Something About Alexa
Leanne Hockley shares insights into her debut novel, the Pacific Northwest’s influence on her writing, and blending genres.
Leanne Hockley is a gifted writer whose debut novel, Something About Alexa, blends mystery, romance, and the supernatural in a captivating narrative set against the atmospheric backdrop of Forks, Washington. Growing up on the rugged and mist-filled coast of British Columbia, Leanne’s deep connection to the natural world infuses her storytelling with vivid descriptions of landscapes that mirror the emotional complexities of her characters. In this interview, she shares insights into her creative process, how her upbringing influenced her work, and the ways in which her musical background shapes her writing. With an award-winning debut and a strong passion for exploring human emotion, Leanne’s journey as an author promises to be one to watch.
An immersive and atmospheric debut with richly developed characters and a compelling mystery.
How did your upbringing on the coast of British Columbia influence the atmospheric elements in “Something About Alexa”?
I have always been in awe and reverence of the landscape of my childhood, and since an early age have drawn inspiration from the power and mystique of its natural elements. With its towering firs, cedars, and coastlines fraught with spectral mists, the coast of British Columbia is like something from a mythical kingdom. It is a rugged realm of wilderness—a breathtaking juxtaposition of beauty and danger. Such dramatic landscape (which resembles the Pacific Northwest stateside in Washington, where my novel is set), provides the perfect mirror for Jayden’s internal confusion and conflict as he struggles to uncover who—or what—is behind the mysterious deaths in his hometown, as well as his own dark potential. The interplay of shadow and light inherent to the PNW, along with its rich history of mystery and legend, helped inspire the novel’s blurred boundaries between reality and the supernatural.
What inspired you to set “Something About Alexa” in Forks, Washington, and how does this setting enhance the narrative?
When I began writing Something About Alexa, it was originally set in a generic small town located deep in the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest. It wasn’t until I started delving deeper into the setting that I began to get distinct Twilight vibes—a story which, of course, is set in Forks, Washington. I became inspired to incorporate Forks’ vampire/werewolf storybook lore into the central mystery of my novel, creating a richer narrative and more rewarding twist to the original plot I had already devised. The novel is set during the town’s true-to-life annual Forever Twilight in Forks Festival that is held every year to celebrate Stephenie Meyer’s cult classic. I love stories that blend the fantastical with reality, so enjoyed all the research and attention to detail that went into crafting the setting and story arc.
In your debut novel, you blend elements of romance, mystery, and the supernatural. How do you balance these genres to create a cohesive story?
I believe romance, mystery, and the supernatural naturally complement one another, and find each deepens the stakes and propels the story forward. The intense connection between Jayden and Alexa forms the novel’s emotional core, making every twist more impactful. The mystery element fuels urgency—not just in uncovering the truth behind the deaths, but in Jayden’s own self-reckoning as he fears he may be connected to the crimes. Structuring the story as a mystery provided a strong framework, allowing both the suspense and romance to unfold with purpose.
What I love about the supernatural aspect is it adds a sense of otherworldliness, drawing from folklore and ancient beliefs to enrich the narrative. It also heightens Jayden’s uncertainty, mirroring his (and our own) relationship with the unknown. Ultimately, I feel that by blending these genres, a more immersive experience is created where every revelation, emotion, and twist feels deeply intertwined.
As an accomplished singer and songwriter, how does your musical background influence your writing process and storytelling techniques?
To me, music has always been a transcendent way to explore the intricacies of the human heart. Most of my songs center on the soulful intensity of emotional connection. Songwriting is an especially evocative way to capture feeling, and I like to draw on that same depth when writing, diving into what drives the whims of the human heart to create fully formed, emotionally resonant characters.
While I had rising opportunities in the music industry, I ultimately chose a different path, and so it became the path not taken. Still, music remains deeply intertwined with my storytelling. When drafting a novel, I often compose a soundtrack alongside it—one that reflects my characters’ inner worlds. This process helps me connect more deeply to them, shaping the language and structure I use to bring their experiences to life. One day, I hope to merge my love for both music and writing in an even greater way.
“Something About Alexa” has been praised for its immersive atmosphere and well-developed characters. What strategies do you employ to achieve this depth in your writing?
I like to fully immerse myself in both setting and character when writing, tapping into all the senses. The Olympic National Forest plays a big role in Something About Alexa, so I drew from my experiences in the Pacific Northwest—its scents, sounds, and that sixth sense of instinctual awareness that heightens perception.
For character development, I like to delve deep into human emotion. Love, heartbreak, fear, and self-doubt shape Jayden’s journey, making him deeply relatable. Observing people’s emotions and reactions, along with my own experiences—and a mind that naturally thinks in metaphor and simile—helps me translate textures, sounds, and moods into immersive language and create authentic characters. I write my characters as if they live and breathe beside me.
Given your experience writing corporate and ad content, how do you transition between different writing styles when crafting a young adult novel?
Storytelling has always been at the core of my writing, whether in novels, corporate content, or ad copy. I’ve always aimed to bring a creative flair to everything I write. My educational background in literature and history taught me how to write with clarity and precision, which has served me well in corporate writing. On the other hand, ad writing demands creativity and emotional resonance—both of which are essential in fiction. In many ways, writing a novel isn’t so different from writing ad copy; both aim to capture the audience’s attention and make them invest, whether it’s in a product, characters, or the story itself. When transitioning between styles, I focus on audience, intent, and tone, ensuring that each piece connects in the way it’s meant to.
“Writing a novel isn’t so different from writing ad copy; both aim to capture the audience’s attention.” – Leanne Hockley
What advice would you offer to aspiring authors looking to successfully blend multiple genres in their writing?
My advice to aspiring authors is to start with the heart of the story—what drives your characters, the emotions you want to evoke, and the themes you want to explore. Genre should serve the story, not define it. Blending genres creates depth, but balance is key. Ensure your chosen genres complement rather than compete. In Something About Alexa, psychological suspense, coming-of-age romance, and eerie supernatural elements work together to heighten both the emotional stakes and the mystery. Lastly, don’t fear experimentation—some of the most memorable books push boundaries. Trust your instincts and write the story you’re passionate about. If you believe in it, your readers will too.
