Some stories are plotted out to the last detail before the first letter is ever keyed, and others have a way of revealing themselves to the author. For A.G. Roberts and her debut book, LITE: The High Treason Incident, the narrative and themes were something that emerged through the writing process.

Her book earned a Bronze Medal in the 2023 IPPY Awards for Best First Book (Juvenile/YA), a prestigious recognition for a first-time author, and also received a Gold Medal in the 2024 Moonbeam Awards for Best First Book – Chapter Book, a sister award program that focuses solely on children’s books. We caught up with Roberts to talk about her award-winning debut, her writing process, and what’s next for the LITE series.

What Winning an IPPY Meant to A.G.

For Roberts, winning the IPPY has been a satisfying experience. “It is also an accomplishment that I am proud of,” she says. And beyond the personal recognition, the award has some added book sale benefits. “I think that winning an IPPY Award has helped my book sales, especially at in-person author events.”

The recognition that comes with an award sticker on the cover has also not gone unnoticed. “Numerous people give my books another look because of the award seal on the cover,” says Roberts. “I feel the award has helped people look at me and my books with more interest and respect.”

Inspiration Through Exploration

The journey to the publication of LITE was a process of gradual exploration. “I’m not a planner as far as outlining the entire story,” says Roberts. Using a general outline for the guide and for where she wanted the story to go, the book began to take shape. “I have directions in mind where the story should lead and often, I have the beginning and ending before I have all the middle details worked out,” she says. 

Through continued writing and some outside support, Roberts began to craft her ideas into a book. “This book started out as sort of free writing, but as the story progressed, I could see the possibility of a book beginning to take shape,” she says. “I also had some feedback from another aspiring writer, which was encouraging.”

Continuing to Persevere

Roberts infused that sense of persistence into her book and its protagonist. “If I had to choose one theme or take-away from LITE The High Treason Incident, it would be to never give up.” she says. Faced with tall odds and a physical disability, the main character Merion does not back down. “She doesn’t let these stop her from completing LITE agent training and helping stop those trying to take over the country.”

Pressing on Beyond the Page

Much like the title character in her book, Roberts hopes the publication serves as an inspiration to persevere despite difficult circumstances. “I wanted to write something that gives readers a positive, can-do type attitude from a heroine that seems unlikely,” she says.

Roberts also gravitated toward the juvenile/young adult category because she wanted it to be a story that could resonate and be shared by all. “I also wanted something that was read-a-loud friendly and family friendly. I think these ideas shaped this book and continue to guide my writing.”

Next for Roberts and the LITE Series

Fans of the LITE series will not have long to wait for the sequel! Robert’s second title, LITE The Lost Agent Incident, is slated to be released in the summer of 2025. And for those avid readers that cannot wait for the next one, Roberts hints that the third installment is already in the works, though is in the early stages of writing. 

Roberts journey and the themes of her publication are proof that perseverance and trusting the process can yield positive results! Following that “never give-up” attitude of her protagonist, Roberts is now an award-winning author!

For anyone questioning submitting their work for awards like the IPPY, Roberts has a clear message: “I would recommend they submit their books. Becoming an author is a learning experience, and book awards are a meaningful part of that experience.”

Learn more about A.G. Roberts and the award-winning LITE: The High Treason Incident here.