We recently connected with Lori Keating and have shared our conversation below.

Lori, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about how you’ve thought about whether to sign with an agent or manager?

I am fortunate to work with an exceptional agent who plays a pivotal role in my writing journey. Our connection came about through a fortunate sequence of events—beginning with my discovery of the agency on social media, which sparked my interest. After conducting thorough research and sending a few queries, I was introduced to Sherri at Gardner Literary. From our first conversation, her genuine enthusiasm for my work and her insightful understanding of the publishing industry made it clear that she was the ideal partner for me.

I chose to collaborate with Sherri because of her deep passion for my stories and her clear vision for how they could resonate with the right audience. Her feedback is always both constructive and encouraging, offering a perfect balance that reassures me of her unwavering support.

I believe Sherri saw the potential in my writing and shared my enthusiasm for storytelling, which is why she chose to work with me. Our partnership is founded on mutual respect and a shared goal: to bring authentic, captivating stories to readers across various genres. Her belief in my work, coupled with her steadfast dedication to its success, has made her an indispensable member of my creative team.

Lori, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Certainly! My journey as a writer began with a lifelong love of stories. From a young age, I was enchanted by the magic of books and the boundless possibilities they offered. Over time, that passion grew into a desire to create my own narratives, and I became determined to write stories that resonate with readers of all ages and genres.

I specialize in crafting stories that blend humor, heart, and a touch of magic. My works span from heartwarming children’s stories to uplifting romances, each designed to transport readers to enchanting worlds filled with relatable characters and meaningful themes. Through my writing, I aim to spark imagination, evoke emotions, and inspire reflection on the many facets of life.

What distinguishes my work is my dedication to authenticity and connection. I strive to create characters who feel real, experiencing challenges and triumphs that readers can relate to. This authenticity not only makes my stories more relatable but also allows them to touch hearts and spark meaningful conversations.

The aspect I’m most proud of is the deep connection I’ve built with my readers. Knowing that a story has made a positive impact on someone’s life or brought them a moment of joy is incredibly rewarding. This connection fuels my passion for storytelling and drives me to continue creating. For potential readers and fans, I want them to know that my work is all about offering solace, inspiration, and a sense of belonging.

Writing is truly a labor of love, and I am constantly exploring new themes and genres to challenge myself and push my creative boundaries. Whether it’s through a whimsical children’s story or a tender romance, my goal remains the same: to bring a little bit of magic into the lives of those who pick up my books.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is the ability to bring ideas to life and share them with others in ways that resonate on a deep, universal level. There is a unique joy in transforming a blank page into something vibrant and meaningful—something that can evoke emotions, spark imagination, and even inspire change.

Creating stories allows me to explore the depths of my own thoughts and emotions, providing a powerful outlet for self-expression that is both liberating and deeply fulfilling. It’s incredibly gratifying to know that my work has the potential to touch someone’s heart, offer comfort, or open their mind to new perspectives.

Equally rewarding is the sense of community within the creative world. The connections forged with fellow artists, the exchange of ideas, and the mutual encouragement all contribute to an environment that fosters both growth and inspiration. Whether through storytelling, painting, music, or other forms of expression, the creative process is a beautiful journey—one of discovery, connection, and infinite possibilities.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

One aspect that may be challenging for non-creatives to understand is the deeply personal nature of the creative process. For many of us, creativity isn’t just about producing art or writing stories—it’s a means of expressing our innermost thoughts, emotions, and life experiences. Each piece of work often carries a piece of ourselves, making the process both exhilarating and vulnerable.

Another common misconception is the non-linear trajectory of creativity. Unlike tasks with clear, step-by-step processes, the creative journey is often unpredictable, marked by trial and error. Inspiration can come at the most unexpected times, and ideas rarely flow in a neat, orderly manner. This unpredictability demands patience, resilience, and an openness to explore new directions—qualities that can be hard to explain to those accustomed to more structured processes.

Additionally, the time and effort required to hone one’s craft can be immense. Creativity involves ongoing learning, experimenting, and refining, often with little immediate or tangible result. This dedication is sometimes overlooked or undervalued by those outside the creative field.

Ultimately, the creative journey is driven by passion, persistence, and a relentless pursuit of one’s vision. It’s a path that comes with both challenges and profound rewards, offering personal fulfillment while also holding the potential to inspire and connect with others. By sharing these insights, I hope to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the creative process.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lorikeating.com
• Instagram: @LoriMKeating
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lori.keating.7/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-keating-55363b143/
• Twitter: @LoriMKeating
• Youtube: Kid Lit Meet N Greet
• Other: Tik Tok: @lorikeatingauthor
  Blue Sky: @lorikeating.bsky.social

Image Credits

Patrick Keating