We had the good fortune of connecting with Mia Lynch and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mia, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
I’ve realized that work life balance changes over time. Balance doesn’t mean that all activities are weighted equally each day – it goes in phases. Some days, I’m able to give more to certain projects than I am able to give to others. I had a baby a few months ago, and so now life has become a huge balancing act that I’m still learning how to juggle. Some days it’s a win to even think about writing, let alone to actually put words down on paper. Balance means prioritizing, and it’s ok when or if those priorities change.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Growing up in California, we learned about the Spanish and Mexican history of the state. However, it was always from an Anglocentric perspective. As a Mexican American, I spent a lot of time visiting family in Mexico and learning about my culture. I loved history and reading, I just didn’t love the way books described my history. So I decided to write my own!

Well-researched historical novels are great ways to learn about other cultures and have the ability to bring more nuance into the conversation. I couldn’t find “Regency romance” style novels that took place in Spain or Mexico, so I wrote my book “Sins of the Father” to fill that void. And more are on the way!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There’s something for everyone in the area, but here are some of my favorite spots: Museums: The Huntington Library and the Getty Villa. For something a little different, check out the USS Iowa.
Shows: The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Walt Disney Concert Call, Pantages Theater
There are great places to eat around here – I enjoy driving down early to grab a bite in the plaza at the Dorothy Chandler.
Beach: Skip the tourists at Venice or Santa Monica, and head over to the Redondo Beach Pier. Grab some fresh seafood and have a beach picnic.
Walks: There are some lovely trails at Point Vicente and Terrenea Resort. If you go at the right time of year, you can spot whales and dolphins! If you walk through the trails at Terrenea, grab an outdoor drink for happy hour at Nelson’s to keep enjoying the view.
If you enjoy scuba diving (or want a day trip) head out to Catalina Island. The reefs along the coast are stunning!
Food: You can never go wrong with Mexican food, and there are plenty of places to choose from. Two great choices are El Cholo or El Burrito Jr (pick up some food and eat it on the beach). One place I always take visitors is the Red Onion – my childhood favorite. As for burgers, my favorite is the classic In-N-Out, but my brother’s choice is Fatburger. I’ll let you be the judge.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My husband deserves a major shoutout. He gives me constant support about diving in to my writing career, and has been so encouraging throughout multiple lockdowns.

Website: https://www.miacountslynch.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_mia_lynch/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/miacountslynch

Other: Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20850691.Mia_Counts_Lynch BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mia-counts-lynch

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