Hi, I'm Sophia Le

I'm a stay-at-home mom and a novelist—two of the hardest jobs I've ever had, with none of the LinkedIn bragging rights.

Ironically, that’s also what I write about. My manuscript-in-progress is an upmarket women’s fiction novel about motherhood, identity, and why it’s never too late to reinvent yourself.

When I’m not parenting, writing, or helping my husband find his keys, I'm usually in the kitchen reverse-engineering a $35 restaurant entrée or having a staring contest with the crow that visits my deck.

Questions I Get Asked

Have you published anything?Not yet. Most of my writing credits are in the software industry, like here, here, and here.

How long does it take to finish a novel, anyway?Anywhere from three months to ten years. Your mileage may vary.

What's your creative process?Wandering around the house and muttering until I get an idea worthy enough to start a scene. Drag myself from the keyboard 90 minutes later wondering if I made a huge mistake. Wake up at 4 am the following morning with the solution.Repeat 72 times.

What's the hardest part about writing a novel?Knowing you can put your heart and soul into writing, and still face rejection.

That sounds like such a big risk!Thank you, I've never thought about that before.

Before you were a mom and novelist, what did you do?Tech copywriting and content, emergency management, policy research, and professional sweater folding.

What are your must-haves for writing?Giant water tumbler, iced matcha latte with vanilla cold foam, and a sportsguard.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to write a novel?Start weightlifting.

What does that have to do with writing?Because it's how I manage the anxiety of my brain telling me I'm making a huge mistake.

I was hoping you'd say something more inspiring. Like "write your truth" or "trust the process."Obviously. But also, go to the gym.

But weightlifting sounds hard.So is writing. Why do you think I wear a sportsguard?

How do I get updates on your novel?For now? Text or email. Let's not pretend I'm going to write a newsletter anytime soon.