Gabbing with author Laurel Anne Hill about her steampunk novel, The Engine Woman’s Light
Laurel Anne Hill is the author of the award-winning steampunk novel, The Engine Woman’s Light. The story is set in an alternate 19th century California where steampunk and spirits are the new norm. A young Latina spiritualist is given a mission by her ancestors to save the lives of unwanted passangers on a train headed for misery. Mysticism and adventure, the alternate reality of the novel incorporates Mexican and Native American cultures with steampunk enchantment.
Laurel drew inspiration for the novel from her own love for family, brushes with death, and belief in a higher power. Step onboard the locomotive as we gab with the author of this exciting tale.
Q. What is something interesting/cool/unbelievable you discovered while researching your book?
A. I learned that my paternal Mexican great-grandmother, Hipolita Orendein de Medina, had been politically active, even in her teens. I also learned how to run a steam locomotive.
Q. Do you believe in ghosts? Why or why not?
A. I’m not sure about classical ghosts, but there are spirits out there. The spirit of my deceased husband, David, has made himself known to me upon a number of occasions.
Q. If your book was turned into a film/TV show, who would you tap to play the lead(s)? Why?
A. Hollywood isn’t known for its plethora of young Latina stars. Can anyone figure out how to call up the spirit of Selena Quintanilla-Perez? She might have some suggestions.
Q. Tell us something about you that no one else knows.
A. As a young child, I used to torture ants when they invaded the bathroom. Then I’d cry and apologize to their dead bodies.
Q. What is something you’ve always wanted to try but are afraid to?
A. For many years, I wanted to try sky diving. Fortunately, I grew out of the impulse before I grasped the opportunity to break every bone in my body.
Rapid Fire Questions and Answers
Star Wars or Star Trek?
Star Wars
The beach or the mountains?
The beach
Marvel or DC?
Marvel
Zombies or aliens?
Aliens
Alice in Wonderland or Harry Potter?
Harry Potter
London or Istanbul?
London
Selfie or group photo?
Group Photo
Kanye West or Taylor Swift?
May I ignore both of them?
Evening gown or yoga pants and a hoodie?
Evening gown
Cats or dogs?
Dogs
