Picture a Philadelphia-born storyteller who spun a time-traveling mystery that dazzled Mindy Kaling—meet Lauren Thoman! Now calling Nashville home, Thoman crafts speculative fiction that weaves romance, mystery, and diverse voices into unforgettable narratives. Her debut novel, I'll Stop the World, marked her as a rising star, blending 1980s nostalgia with heart-pounding suspense.
From music education to pop culture writing, Thoman’s journey to literary success is a testament to perseverance. Her genre-bending stories and commitment to representation have captivated readers and critics alike, making her a fresh voice in young adult and adult fiction.
The Making of Lauren Thoman
Born and raised in the suburbs of Philadelphia, Lauren Thoman initially pursued music education, dreaming of a life as a band director. But her passion for storytelling and pop culture soon took center stage. She dove into freelance writing, penning articles for outlets like Parade, Vulture, and Collider, where her sharp wit and love for entertainment shone. This pivot laid the groundwork for her fiction career, fueled by a lifelong obsession with time-travel tales like Back to the Future. After years of near-misses in publishing, Thoman’s determination led her to check into a hotel for a week-long writing sprint, finishing her breakout novel.
Lauren Thoman’s Unforgettable Stories
Thoman’s debut, I'll Stop the World (2023), published by Mindy Kaling’s Mindy’s Book Studio, is a genre-defying gem. This young adult time-travel mystery follows Justin Warren, a modern teen transported to 1985, racing to solve a cold case tied to his grandparents’ deaths. With a diverse ensemble cast, the novel blends coming-of-age drama, 1980s vibes, and intricate plotting, earning praise as 'unputdownable' from Kaling herself. It was a finalist for the Tennessee Book Award in 2024.
Her sophomore novel, You Shouldn't Be Here (2024), published by Thomas & Mercer, shifts to a thrilling mystery with hints of horror. It follows Angie, a teen investigating a possible ghost, and Madelyn, a teacher grappling with her cousin’s disappearance. Thoman’s knack for balancing genres—mystery, romance, and speculative elements—shines, anchored by richly drawn characters. Her work also includes a contribution to the fantasy anthology To Appalachia, With Love, showcasing her versatility.
Thoman’s style is marked by vibrant, diverse casts and intricate narratives that defy categorization. Her stories tackle real-world issues—LGBTQ+ relationships, racial diversity, neurodivergence—with tact and authenticity, reflecting her commitment to inclusive storytelling. Her love for pop culture infuses her work with nostalgic charm, making her books resonate with teens and adults alike.
Why Lauren Thoman Matters
Lauren Thoman’s impact lies in her ability to craft stories that entertain while amplifying underrepresented voices. Through Mindy’s Book Studio, an imprint focused on diverse creators, she’s helped redefine speculative fiction, blending heart, suspense, and social commentary. Her novels resonate with readers navigating identity and belonging, offering both escape and reflection. As a Nashville-based author, she’s also a local literary gem, with her debut earning accolades like a Tennessee Book Award nomination.
Thoman’s journey from freelance writer to celebrated novelist inspires aspiring authors, proving that persistence can turn dreams into reality. Her genre-bending narratives pave the way for more inclusive, innovative storytelling in young adult and adult fiction.
- Born: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Key Works: I'll Stop the World (2023), You Shouldn't Be Here (2024), To Appalachia, With Love (anthology)
- Awards: Finalist, Tennessee Book Award (2024)
- Fun Fact: Lives with a rotating crew of rescue dogs and an alarming number of fish!
Snag I'll Stop the World and dive into Lauren Thoman’s time-bending, heartwarming universe today!