We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Leena Kazak. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Leena below.
Leena, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today If you could go back in time do you wish you had started your creative career sooner or later?
This is such a great question, and my answer is a little long-winded, but here it goes! The idea for my novel first came to me about nine years ago—I even wrote the first three chapters! But, as life often does, things got hectic. I met my now-husband, and between dating, wedding planning, marriage, and becoming parents, I lost sight of it. My focus was on my corporate job, which I genuinely loved, and building our new life together.
Fast forward eight years, and I hadn’t written another word, though my characters were never far from my mind. One day, I decided to pick the story back up, and this time, I finished it. It took me about a year, and I ended up completely rewriting those original three chapters, but the heart of the story stayed the same.
In a perfect world, maybe I could have written this story when the idea first hit me. But honestly, the story was shaped so much by the life I’ve lived and the lessons I’ve learned over the years. I don’t think it would have been the same—or even possible—without that time in between. So, looking back, I’d have to say I wouldn’t change a thing.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am a fantasy romance author, and my debut novel, “The Moon’s Daughter,” was just released on December 16, 2024! It’s been an incredible journey, and seeing it so well received has been both exciting and surreal—it’s truly a dream come true. I wish I could go back and tell my ten-year old self. She’d have been so proud of me!
“The Moon’s Daughter” is set in a desert kingdom on the brink of war. My story follows Princess Layna as she’s torn between duty and desire. With a mysterious prophecy, forbidden love, and brooding warrior love interest, every moment is filled with tension, betrayal, and heart-pounding choices.
What makes this achievement even more meaningful is that I have no formal background in creative writing. I came into this as someone with a deep love for storytelling. I feel honored to have been able to share my story and have it resonate with so many people. I love it when I get DMs on my social media from readers who loved it!
Aside from writing, I also run a small editing business where I help indie authors refine their manuscripts. Every story has the potential to shine, and I love collaborating with authors to help shape their visions into polished masterpieces.
I think what sets me apart is my genuine passion for the community I’ve found along the way. I love engaging with both readers and writers, and I strive to create a welcoming, collaborative space.
What I want people to know most about me is that I’m proof that you don’t need a perfect background to chase your dreams. Whether you’re an aspiring writer or a reader diving into my work, I hope my journey inspires you to embrace your passions and see where they take you!
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
One of the most rewarding parts of being an author is hearing from readers who say they couldn’t put my story down or that it made them feel seen because they connected with it so deeply! As authors, I think this is the ultimate goal—to create a story that resonates, evokes emotions, and stays with readers long after they’ve finished it.
Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?
I have a love-hate relationship with social media, but as an indie author, it’s an essential tool for connecting with readers and marketing my book. The content creation aspect can still crush my soul, but I do wish I had joined the Bookstagram community sooner. I’ve found such an incredibly supportive and collaborative group of authors and readers there, and it’s been a game-changer.
When I wrote “The Moon’s Daughter,” I did it completely off the grid—no alpha or beta readers, no developmental editors or any feedback—and the process took so much longer than it likely would now. Partly because I’ve learned so much while writing my debut, but also because I now have a network of amazing people to lean on and talk to.
I’m thrilled to leverage these resources and connections as I dive into writing the second book in the series!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.leenakazak.com
- Instagram: @leenakazakbooks
Image Credits
Foxlore Art