Unveiling the Magic of Imagination: Exploring Resilience, Mystery, and Growth with Fantasy | Author Elizabeth Mowery
- Dr. Brittney Clinton
- 8 hours ago
- 4 min read
By Dr. Brittney Clinton | Wednesday, January 7, 2026 | BookTalk
Stories have the power to carry readers beyond the ordinary—into worlds shaped by courage, mystery, and self-discovery. Author Elizabeth Mowery invites readers into such spaces through her richly imagined fantasy narratives, where young heroes face both external dangers and deeply personal transformations. Best known for The Unforgettable Tales of Adeline Bigsby series, Mowery crafts stories that explore resilience, trust, and the enduring strength found in unlikely alliances. In this interview, she shares insights into her creative process, the inspirations behind her characters, and the themes that continue to shape her storytelling journey.
Dr. Brittney Clinton: Your series The Unforgettable Tales of Adeline Bigsby centers on a heroine reborn through adversity. What personal experiences or inspirations influenced Adeline’s emotional and transformational journey?
Elizabeth Mowery: The series begins with Adeline experiencing a tragic loss that completely shatters her world. Tragedy is unavoidable in life. We don’t get to choose when it comes, but we do get to choose how we respond to it. We can allow pain to make us victims, or we can grow through it.
That idea comes from my own life. When I was sixteen, my best friend died of cancer, and I was devastated. It took me many years to process that loss. I didn’t understand it at the time, but eventually I came to realize that healing doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a process. Adeline’s emotional and transformational journey reflects that truth: learning how to live with loss, wrestle with pain, and still move forward with hope.
Dr. Brittney Clinton: Your stories blend ancient mysteries with coming-of-age themes. How do you balance world-building and character development when crafting your fantasy landscapes?
Elizabeth Mowery: I focus on the characters first and let the world grow around them. The landscapes and mysteries exist to push the characters forward and help shape who they become. When the world supports the emotional journey, the story stays balanced and grounded.
Dr. Brittney Clinton: Trust and survival are central elements in The Unwanted Alliance. What draws you to explore complex relationships between characters who begin as strangers or even adversaries?
Elizabeth Mowery: I’m drawn to those relationships because they feel real. Trust doesn’t happen instantly—it grows through shared experiences, especially in difficult situations. When characters are forced to rely on one another to survive, it often leads to the strongest and most meaningful connections.
Dr. Brittney Clinton: Your upcoming book, Caleb’s Story, is highly anticipated. Without giving too much away, what new themes or challenges will readers encounter in this next installment?
Elizabeth Mowery: Readers will be diving into Caleb’s past, exploring his life in Black Mountain and the other realm as Adeline slowly pieces together the truth. The story tackles heartache, loss, and deception. At its core, it’s about resilience and how understanding someone’s past can change everything.
Dr. Brittney Clinton: You live in the foothills of North Carolina, where you enjoy simple pleasures like coffee and the outdoors. How does your environment and daily life influence your writing process and creative ideas?
Elizabeth Mowery: I’m incredibly blessed to live on about twelve acres in the foothills of North Carolina, and the quiet really helps me focus. A lot of my ideas come from sitting on the couch with a cup of coffee, looking out at the woods and letting my mind wander.
Dr. Brittney Clinton: As an author who writes for young adult audiences; what message or feeling do you hope young readers take away from your stories, especially during difficult moments?
Elizabeth Mowery: Hope. I want young readers to know that no matter how difficult life becomes, there is always hope—even when you can’t see it yet.
Elizabeth Mowery’s work reminds us that fantasy is more than escape—it is a mirror reflecting the trials, growth, and hope found in real life. Through her characters’ journeys, readers are encouraged to face uncertainty with bravery and to trust that transformation is possible even in the darkest moments. As her stories continue to unfold, Mowery’s voice stands as a compelling reminder that imagination, when paired with heart, can leave a lasting impact long after the final page is turned.
Connect and follow Elizabeth Mowery at:
Instagram: @elizabethmowery_author
Dr. Brittney Clinton is a content educational practitioner currently serving as an Associate Professor at Westcliff University, Dissertation Committee Member, independent published author, and compassionate leader that attracts other professionals, scholars, and individuals in the community with a devoted purpose to empower, educate, and support others. Previously, Dr. Clinton served various leadership roles in Winston-Salem, NC with the following organizations: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc and The Order of the Eastern Star PHA 30th District. Dr. Clinton currently serves as a board member for the city of Winston-Salem, NC Appearance and Commission Board. Dr. Clinton graduated from the following prestigious institutions: Winston-Salem State University, B.A. Sociology/Elementary Education 2009, Strayer University, MA Education Leadership and Management 2012, and Capella University, Ed. D Education Leadership and Management 2015. Dr. Clinton founded the motto “Continue to be a beacon of light”; which is implemented daily while effectively illuminating a successful path for others
