The Bootcamp Mentors are proud to present a spotlight interview with laurendoubleu, author of Turning Tides. Check out this writer's works and give them a shout out in the comments.
BCM: What prompted you to start writing on Wattpad and what do you like most about the platform as a writer?
laurendoubleu: I had completed my first original novel in 2021 and was looking for places to share it online. While I had a Wattpad account from before that, I hadn't used it very often, and I definitely didn't think I would ever be qualified to share my story alongside so many other great works. Eventually, I decided to give it a try, and I'm so glad I did! Not only have I learned a lot from my experience, and I hope to learn even more, but I've met so many amazing people through Wattpad. The members—the community—is what I enjoy the most about this platform, and I'm so grateful for the chance to interact with like-minded people from around the world!
BCM: How did you discover the Bootcamp Mentors and what have you found most valuable about this Wattpad community program?
laurendoubleu: I heard about Bootcamp Mentors through my friends Aptionia and AziaElga! While the name intimidated me at first ("Would there be a drill sergeant yelling at me to show and not tell?"), I soon learned that there was a kind and supportive community behind the name. What I found most valuable, and what surprised me the most, is who the "Bootcamp Mentors" are. Not only are the mentors the experienced writers who volunteer to take on mentees, but all of the members are mentors in a way. They are all eager to help each other learn and succeed, and seeing that in action was amazing!
BCM: What motivated you to write the story you're working on with your mentor?
laurendoubleu: My last few stories had dug deep into worldbuilding and covered heavy topics, and I needed a lighter story to bolster my mood and take some of the burden off my exhausted mind. My solution? A romcom, featuring my beloved puns! While "Food Courting" still covers heavy topics, the main character's unwavering determination and optimism, alongside a constant flow of humor, was a joy to write!
BCM: If you had to describe your story in three words, what would they be?
laurendoubleu: Fruity competitive courtship!
BCM: Tell us one thing about your writing process that has helped you the most.
laurendoubleu: When I'm stuck, it sometimes helps if I brainstorm away from my computer or notebook. With my writing goal in mind, I keep myself busy with other tasks such as cleaning dishes, folding laundry, or similar chores. Without that blank page or blinking cursor staring me down, it can be easier to think, and the ideas will just start flowing on their own! Once it becomes too much for me to remember, I quickly jot everything down before I forget, then decipher my chaotic notes later.
BCM: Share two Wattpad story recommendations.
laurendoubleu: For my fellow sapphic speculative fiction lovers out there, I highly recommend Dark Divide by Aptionia and Prototype Dorian by AziaElga! If anybody checks them out, they can find me in the comment section admiring the worlds these two brilliant writers have created!
Thank you, laurendoubleu. We wish you all the best in your writing endeavors.
More BCM spotlight interviews are on the way!
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