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In Development
SPRINGS FROM WINTER RISE
Laura's historical fiction novel "Springs from Winter Rise" is set in the 1930s east Texas oil boom. We meet Emily, a sharp young woman who wants to attend university for a nursing degree, so she can escape the smothering societal expectations of her region. She looks up to her mother’s friend, a suffragist, and Amelia Earhart for their courage in stepping out of the traditional boundaries. Her junior year nearly complete, Emily survives the most devastating school disaster in US history, the New London school explosion of 1937. This true, historical tragedy killed nearly 300, most of them children, and led to the introduction of an odor to natural gas.
The novel follows Emily's life post-explosion as she struggles with mental trauma. An encouraging teacher, friends, and family help and hinder her attempts to cope and battle to overcome what the Great War doctors called "shell shock" so she can get her life and dreams back on track.
With her deep east Texas roots and family background in the oil industry, Laura tells a coming-of-age story instigated by a heartbreaking historical event most people know nothing about—but should.
Now Available
Through Layered Limestone:
a Texas Hill Country anthology of place
Through Layered Limestone: a Texas Hill Country anthology of place features poetry, prose and photography that sets readers firmly in the allure and beauty of the Texas Hill Country. Through history and descriptive narratives, the anthology brings to life the fullness of living in this unique landscape. Laura’s photo appears on the cover, and she has two other photos inside, as well as her poem, “The Old Sanitarium,” and a short story, “Teapot Rock.” All proceeds benefit the Dietert Historical Archives at the Patrick Heath Public Library, Boerne, Texas. Order your copy today!
-TEXAS AUTHOR AND PHOTOGRAPHER-