Magnolia & Main Books welcomed readers to an intimate author event on April 12 to celebrate the release of “Lady Slippers,” the second installment in the Whippoorwill Gap series by local author L.C. Maxie.
L.C. Maxie signs copies of her new release Lady Slippers at Magnolia & Main Books.
A sequel to “The Robin’s Nest,” Maxie’s latest work continues her foray into paranormal women’s fiction, a genre blending fantasy and real-world themes. The story shifts focus to Olivia, the daughter of main character Harper Woods, as she navigates adulthood and begins to learn life’s harder lessons—alongside a little Appalachian magic.
Maxie, a retired librarian, has long had a passion for books, but her writing journey didn’t begin in fiction. She previously published nonfiction titles before turning her imagination toward storytelling. She met Magnolia & Main owner Tracie Morton as a customer, and the connection quickly grew into a creative partnership. The bookstore began stocking “The Robin’s Nest” and invited Maxie to host a launch event for her second novel.
“She gave a talk on Appalachian faeries and signed books for customers,” Morton said. “We had such a great turnout, and it was lovely seeing the community support a local author.”
According to the book’s description, Lady Slippers is “the whimsical second book in the Whippoorwill Gap paranormal women’s fiction series. If you like spooky romance, adorable pets, and believable fantasy, then you’ll love L.C. Maxie’s enchanting adventure.”
During her talk, Maxie discussed regional folklore, shared myths of supernatural beings, and fielded questions from readers. The conversation gave fans deeper insight into the magical world she’s crafted—and into her inspiration for stepping into fiction.
“I have always loved books,” Maxie said. “It seemed like the natural fit for me, something fun to do.”
She reflected on the shift from nonfiction to storytelling. “With nonfiction books, you just kind of do research and write what you’ve learned,” she said. “I just wrote what I had, and the second novel I wrote due to reactions from the first one.”
That feedback from readers led her to shape the second book around Olivia, a character who initially drew criticism. “I planned that out,” Maxie said. “I sat down and said people hate that character, and I want her to learn some lessons.”
Maxie is already at work on the third installment in the series. Though it’s still in early stages, she said she’s leaning toward a title inspired by the theme of a “Swan Song.”
Throughout her creative journey, Maxie said she’s remained fascinated by cryptids and mystical folklore—elements that heavily influence her writing.
“I like magical things,” she said. “I enjoy that idea of mysterious beings that can’t be seen.” She cited several books during her talk and said she spent time digging through Appalachian tales to gather inspiration.
Beyond the pages of her novels, Maxie hopes to inspire others to chase their creative passions, no matter their age.
“It’s not too late to do what you always dreamed of doing, because I always dreamed of writing books,” she said. “Once I retired and had time to do it, I just sat down and did it. If you really want to do something, it’s possible to do it if you sit down and take the time to make the effort.”
