Author Interview · Hope Came at Christmas

A Conversation with Lauren Thell

Author of From Silence to Song · laurenthell.com

Introducing Lauren Thell, a contributing author in Hope Came at Christmas and a writer of contemporary YA Christian fiction. Her story, From Silence to Song, shows us the hope that music can bring, and reminds us that the song of our Creator can still ring in our hearts, even when all else goes quiet.

I asked Lauren to share a little more about herself, her writing, and what makes this story so special.

What draws you to write for young adults?

I want to encourage teens to rebel against the low expectations set for them by the world. The teens I’ve encountered through my writing are looking for fiction with characters who have higher standards and are aiming for eternity. They want that sweet spot of well-written books with relatable characters, intriguing problems, and biblical messaging that doesn’t feel forced. And I love the challenge of delivering that!

Who is your favorite side character in your story, and why?

I enjoyed writing Hadley’s character, as small as her part may be. She lightens the seriousness of the story and just might be the most relatable one of the whole group.

If your readers could learn just one thing from your story, what would it be?

That anyone, anywhere, can find a way to serve God with his or her best, regardless of circumstances. We aren’t supposed to be stagnant. There’s always room to grow.

The characters in these stories often face difficult decisions or circumstances. What encouragement would you offer a teen—or anyone—walking through a challenging season of life?

Focus on God, not on what the world is saying you should be or do. He designed you for a purpose, and He’ll refine you so that you shine like the stars. Let Him walk you through the hard stuff.

Just for fun, would you like to share one of your favorite Christmas traditions?

My family ALWAYS gets a real Christmas tree that we cut ourselves. There are no artificial trees in the Thell house! In fact, we used to live on a tree farm.

Thank you, Lauren, for giving us a chance to know you better, and for adding your beautiful voice to this collection of stories!

To learn more about Lauren and her work, check out her website or her Facebook page below.