Lauren Wilson finds influencer, hence was inspired to write "The Goldens."

What was your inspiration behind your most recent book?

I find influencer culture really interesting, and I wanted to write a book examining our fascination with them – why do we idolise complete strangers? What do we really know about them, and what secrets might they have? At the same time, I’m also really intrigued by cults, and the way that their influential leaders draw people in and exert control over them. I think it was only a matter of time before I combined the two!

What does Reading Rainbow mean to you?

To me, Reading Rainbow is making a conscious effort to read and share LGBTQ novels and stories, and to celebrate the authors who write them.

Why do you feel representation of a variety of people is so important when it comes to writing books?

The books we read (and write!) should reflect our world! I believe everybody should be able to see themselves in all types of stories, no matter their sexuality, gender identity, skin colour, or any other traits that make them "them."

Tell us a little more about the book and why you decided to write it.

I really wanted to write a story about a famous influencer with a dark side! Clara loves the adoration she receives from her hundreds of thousands of followers, and will go to extreme lengths to get the attention she believes she deserves.

The novel is told from the perspective of Chloe, Clara’s opposite in pretty much every way, who idolises her – and who slowly uncovers the truth as Clara’s behaviour gets more and more reckless.

What can fans expect from your book?

Wild mansion parties with a lot of champagne, beautiful and charismatic influencers, dark academia vibes, sapphic situationships and maybe a hint of murder…

What’s up next for you in the bookish world?

I recently finished drafting my second novel, which is a standalone not set in the world of The Goldens. It’s currently with my editors!