Laura Shepperson has loved books her entire life, and stories about the ancient Greek and Roman worlds for nearly as long. She has a Master of Studies in Creative Writing from the University of Cambridge. Her debut novel, The Heroines, was published in 2023 by Sphere, with the US version, titled Phaedra, published by Alcove Books. Laura lives outside London with her husband and two children.
Meet Laura Shepperson
Questions On Writing
What is the hardest part of your writing experience?
Work and childcare commitments mean I can’t write as often as I would like.
What have you learnt about yourself when writing?
I am a very curious person and like to ask ‘what if…’ a lot.
Do you make yourself write everyday/regularly, or only when inspiration strikes?
I write as regularly as I can; I rely a lot on keeping momentum going.
What does literary success look like to you?
When my first author copy arrived, my three year old took a copy out of the box and exclaimed in delight, “Mummy, that’s your picture on the book!” That was probably my proudest author moment, and I hope that my children grow up believing if Mummy’s picture can be on a book, they, too, can do anything they put their minds to.
How much planning/world building do you do before writing, and how much comes along as you write?
It’s 50/50. I like to have the bones clear in my mind before I write, but then while I’m writing, I like to go back and research further, when I have a better idea of what my specific questions are.
Your books are very Greek myth heavy; what draws you towards that genre?
I’ve always loved Greek and Roman myths, but I’m especially drawn to the ancient literary representations of those myths. There is no canonical source for Greek myths, and I love seeing how the ancient authors adapted their own myths for their own times, and the way those myths continue to be adapted and retold for generations up to and including our own.
How do you celebrate when a book is published?
My first book to be published was my US edition, which was a little strange as I couldn’t go and visit it in a bookshop. Instead, my family ordered a Greek takeaway and we celebrated together. For my UK edition, I had a launch party at Goldsboro Books in London, who published the special Premier edition of The Heroines. It was absolutely fantastic and a joyous celebration with friends and family.
Questions On Books and About You
Firstly, the most important question, what books are currently ‘on your bedside table’?
I have a brilliant handful of proofs I’m reading my way through at the moment, and I alternate those with research for my current book. A reread of The Aeneid is next on the list.
What children’s book would you suggest every adult read?
While I wouldn’t suggest every adult reads them, adults who are interested in retellings might be interested in the books of Diane Wynne Jones. She weaves mythology into her stories beautifully. Fire and Hemlock might appeal to adults in particular.
What does your writing space look like?
I find I write best at my desk, in a small box room at the top of the house. It’s a bit cluttered as I always have my current research texts nearby.
How many books do you think you own?
I can’t answer this one in case my husband is reading this! A lot, let’s say.
Who is your literary icon?
Daphne du Maurier. Hard-working, imaginative, supported her family and she wrote her way into that magnificent house.
If you could own one rare/1st edition copy of a book, which would it be?
So hard to choose one! I would be very happy with a first edition of Rebecca.
Is there an author who you always read?
Margaret Atwood.
And finally, are there any plans for any new books? If so, what teasers can you give us?
Yes! I’m currently working on my second novel, in which I’ve moved from Greek myth to Roman for a close-up of the quintessential Roman hero through the eyes of his wives. Stay tuned as there will be an announcement soon…
Thank you so much Laura😊I can’t wait to hear about your new book!
Laura Shepperson Books
Books By Your Bedside 