S.L. Vaden started writing short stories when she learned how to write and read. Taking inspiration from nature, and the world around her. Growing up on a small farm she learned how to take care of the land she lived on and to not take this world for granted. In the back of her mind S.L. Vaden had always hoped to become an author, never really telling her dream of becoming one to those around her, in fear the dream would be shattered. When S.L. Vaden moved from a rural town in NC to a larger city in San Diego, her imagination took flight. As she started a new job in a new city she started writing.
S.L. Vaden writes in three genres. First is high fantasy. Her first series: The Legend of Zelkova: Elementum and Umbras that will expand into its own literary universe. The first and second installments are now available on amazon. The third installment is in the works.
She also writes dark romance. These use strong language and intimate scenes that cannot be found in her fantasy novels. These books tend to be an outlet for pain she feels and to shine a light on depression and other invisible illness in an adventurous way.
Her poem book, Poems through the years just came out and will soon be on audible.
S.L. Vaden invites you to come and take a look within the worlds that she has created. You might be surprised at what you find there.
See S.L. Vaden’s full Interview on AllAuthor.com below are a few snippets from the interview.
Which is your favorite childhood memory?
One of my favorite childhood memories was exploring the woods at the back of my parent’s farm with my brother. Being in nature and seeing all the different trees and landscapes brought my imagination to life. I loved being in nature, surrounded by towering trees, magnolias, willow oaks, walnuts, and pines. Each having their own mark, their own identity.
I also have fond memories of being in the garden. Planting seeds, and then harvesting the crop in the summer. Sitting with my family snapping greens or shucking corn will be something that always stays with me.
The love of nature had been implanted in me at a young age. This only grew as I got older.
What is the first book that made you cry?
It was either ‘she said yes’ about columbine shootings or Anne Frank. A tragedy that is taken from real life makes me cry more than any others. Especially ones that could have been avoided, or changed, if someone had spoken out or stood up.
I have recently started reading, All But My Life by Gerda Weissmann Klein. The first several chapters already had me in tears. Thinking of how families were pulled away, sent to camps, and even to their deaths. This also makes me think of how families today are still being torn apart and sent to camps. I feel we have learned nothing from our pasts, and history is only repeating itself. This, too, shakes me.
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
I liked writing as a child but kept the want of being a writer to myself. I didn’t share this dream in fear it would be shot down. Making me not want to pick it back up. It didn’t come to fruition until I moved from my home state when I was twenty-eight. After writing my first book, The Legend of Zelkova: Elementum, was when I told everyone that I was now an author. Even if some disapproved, it was too late. I knew then; I would always want to write.
What does your family think of your writing?
They’re all supportive. Some of them aren’t big fantasy fans but read it all the same. I guess you could say fantasy, in general, isn’t their genre.