Lawanda Carswell is a native of Macon, Georgia, and a proud graduate of Southwest High School. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Information Systems from Albany State University and later completed a Master of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resources.
Her career began in the business sector, where she worked for the State of Georgia Department of Labor for 12 years. In 2016, she transitioned into a blended role of business and education, where she currently assists high school students in discovering their career paths, whether through college, technical education, the military, or direct entry into the workforce.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Lawanda has always had a deep passion for God's Word. This love for scripture led her to study and teach the Bible across various age groups. Writing became a natural extension of her faith journey, leading her to publish three books. She also spent three years on the radio as an intercessor, sharing daily devotions inspired by her writings. Most recently, on December 28, 2024, Lawanda was commissioned as an Evangelist, a role she feels deeply honored to embrace. Read her interview below.
What inspired you to become an author?
I never saw myself as an author initially. Writing wasn’t my strong suit—I excelled in mathematics and had little interest in language arts. However, everything changed in September 2012 when I began writing daily devotions as part of my spiritual reflections. Writing became my form of therapy, a way to express bottled-up emotions and experiences.
It felt like every day, I was being taught a new lesson through those devotions. I remember driving in 2013 when I distinctly heard the words, "You’re going to publish a book." My initial reaction was disbelief—"Who, me?" I had no background in publishing.
I started transferring my devotions from my devices to notebooks, preserving the messages for a future purpose. That purpose came to life the following year when I met another author who connected me with a publisher. That divine connection led me to become a published author, and I haven’t looked back since.
What is your book about, and what inspired you to write it?
My book, "Mirror Mirror: Reveal the Real You", began taking form in 2016, though I initially veered off course. Eventually, I was reminded to return to the original path the Lord had placed on my heart. I clearly heard the words: "Mirror Mirror, who is the realest of them all?"
This powerful statement resonated deeply with me and sparked the central theme of my book—authentic self-discovery and healing.
I realized I needed healing myself and was led to confront the layers of pain I had hidden for so long. The Lord challenged me with the words: "Deal with it, or it will deal with you." Writing this book became an emotional journey, where I stripped back layers of personal struggles and shared my truth transparently.
I wrote the book as if speaking to a group of young women, guiding them through life experiences while sharing my own real, raw testimony. The process was liberating for my soul, and it became a powerful tool for inspiring healing in others.
Are you a PurposePals author? If so, what did you enjoy about your PurposePals Publishing experience?
Yes, I am proudly a PurposePals author, and I must say the experience was phenomenal. Working with Mrs. Kimi Johnson was life-changing.
Her gift for guiding authors through the publishing process is remarkable. From personalized one-on-one coaching to the attention to detail during manuscript reviews, Kimi ensured my book reached its highest quality. She helped me unlock the full potential of my writing, making sure my story connected powerfully with readers. The process was professional yet personal, and I felt completely supported from start to finish.
What was the most challenging part of writing or publishing your book, and how did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge was keeping the identities of my characters anonymous while still sharing deep, personal experiences. Initially, I held back from going deeper, worried about privacy. However, I was reminded that transparency fuels connection.
I adjusted my approach by keeping the characters anonymous while focusing on the emotional depth of the stories. I used pronouns and general descriptions to maintain privacy while still giving my readers enough context to engage with the message.
Who or what do you hope your book will impact, and what message do you want readers to take away?
I wrote "Mirror Mirror" with a focus on women and young ladies who, like me, have struggled with hidden emotional pain. Too often, we mask our feelings and present a polished exterior while silently suffering inside.
I want my readers to know that I understand. I've been in that place where you want to express your true feelings but fear being judged or misunderstood. My message is simple: You are not alone. It's not "crazy" to feel overwhelmed—it's only harmful when we suppress those feelings without seeking help.
I also believe this message can resonate with men. Men need to understand the lasting impact their actions and words can have on a woman's emotional health. When men acknowledge their mistakes, it can create healing for both parties.
What is your writing process like? Do you have any tips for aspiring authors?
My writing process is quite unique. I'm often shown the title and chapters first, almost like a visual roadmap for the book.
Here’s my process:
Title First: I start by writing the book title and each chapter title as they come to me.
Outline Creation: I create a table of contents with all the chapters laid out.
Free Writing: I write on each chapter as inspiration flows, trusting the creative process.
Tips for Aspiring Authors:
Keep Paper and Pen Nearby: Inspiration can strike anytime—be ready.
Eliminate Distractions: Find a quiet space to focus.
Write for Yourself First: Avoid sharing early drafts with others. Protect your creative process.
Stay Joyful: Writing should be a passion, not a burden.
Embrace Feedback: Trust the guidance of your publisher and editor.
What advice would you give to someone just starting their writing journey?
Writing is a development process. Think of it as submitting an assignment where each draft strengthens your skill.
Be patient with yourself as you grow.
Be open to constructive feedback—it only makes you better.
Stay humble in your journey, as your publisher and editors want the best for your success.
What’s next for you?
I'm preparing for a series of Mirror Mirror: Reveal the Real You Workshops throughout 2025:
January 28, 2025: Covering Chapters 1-3.
April 26, 2025: Covering Chapters 4-6.
July 26, 2025: Covering Chapters 7-8.
I’m also considering hosting a Mirror Mirror Experience gathering in the fourth quarter, focused on personal breakthroughs and self-discovery.
Beyond my book projects, I remain actively involved with Unapologetic Movement Center under the leadership of Pastors Marvin and Shanta Moore, continuing my work in ministry and mentorship.
Mirror Mirror by LaWanda Carswell is a powerful and transformative guide for women seeking to discover their true identity and purpose in Christ. Drawing from her personal experiences, LaWanda offers straightforward advice that resonates with the challenges many women face today. This book goes beyond traditional devotions, providing practical activities, thoughtful reflections, and journal prompts designed to help readers identify and break free from old relationship patterns that no longer serve them. Through this journey of self-discovery and spiritual renewal, LaWanda empowers women to embrace new beginnings and walk confidently in the divine purpose God has planned for them. Mirror Mirror is the perfect companion for those ready to let go of the past and step into a life of faith, freedom, and fulfillment.
How can readers connect with you?
Social Media:
Facebook: @Wanda Well
Instagram: @thew.o.weexperience-
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