About the Author

Ria Cabral is an author, artist, and graphic designer who has always seen the world through a creative lens. From her high school days as a reading, doodling daydreamer, Ria carried a love of stories and imagination into her adult life. Unsure of where her path would lead, she began her studies at the University of Phoenix, where she earned both an Associate of Arts degree and a Bachelor of Science in Communication with a concentration in Journalism.

That mix of curiosity, storytelling, and artistry eventually guided her toward writing and visual design. Today, she crafts her stories and creates her art from her home in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, where the quiet landscapes and big skies offer endless inspiration.

Her debut novel, Elara’s Tea Leaves, is her first step into the world of fiction—an expression of her lifelong passion for weaving imagination into words.

Outside of writing, Ria wears many hats: she’s a mom, wife, aunt, and a friend to many. Whether she’s sketching, designing, or simply sharing a cup of tea, she values creativity, connection, and the joy of storytelling in every part of her life.

Were there any specific moments or experiences that fueled your writing?

I’ve always loved reading and writing since childhood—it was my first window into other worlds. Books were my constant companions, and they sparked my imagination in ways I didn’t even realize at the time. I was also a daydreamer, and those little flights of imagination often grew into story ideas. Dreams, too, have fueled a lot of my creativity—sometimes I wake up with an image, a scene, or even just a feeling that lingers, and it pushes me to explore it on the page. Writing has always been my way of turning those sparks into something lasting.

Do you write every day, or only when inspiration strikes?

I don’t force it—I write when inspiration strikes. Some days that means a flood of words, and other days it means letting my ideas simmer until they’re ready.I aim to write regularly, but I also listen to my creativity. Some days are about drafting chapters, and others are about daydreaming, sketching, or jotting down ideas that fuel later writing.

How do you deal with writer’s block?

Writer’s block is tough, but it’s usually a signal that something deeper is going on. A few strategies that tend to help:

Change your input: Sometimes the well feels dry because you’ve been running on empty. Reading a book outside your genre, listening to music, or even watching a documentary can spark new ideas.

  1. Write badly on purpose: Lowering the pressure works wonders. Tell yourself, “I’ll just write one messy paragraph.” Often that unlocks momentum.

  2. Switch the medium: If you’re stuck on a computer, grab a notebook. If you usually type, try dictating. A different tool can loosen up creativity.

  3. Work around the block: If a scene isn’t coming, jump ahead to a part you are excited about, or outline instead of drafting.

  4. Take it outside: A walk, a shower, or doing something mindless (like dishes) gives your subconscious space to work.

What have you learned about yourself through writing?

Through writing, I’ve learned that I’m more persistent than I thought. Even on the days when the words feel clumsy or forced, I’ve discovered I can keep showing up and trust that clarity will come with time. I’ve also realized how much of myself sneaks onto the page — my fears, my obsessions, the things I care about most — even when I’m writing about fictional people in impossible situations. Writing has shown me that I value empathy, discipline, and curiosity, and that storytelling is one of the ways I make sense of the world and my place in it.

What are you focusing on right now?

Right now, I’m focused on several exciting creative projects. As an author, I’m working on my 2026 release, The Curious Case of the Gnome Syndicate. As an artist, I’m submitting my artwork and short stories to a variety of magazines while also planning upcoming book signings and vendor events. It’s a busy but thrilling time, balancing storytelling, visual art, and connecting with readers and audiences.

This is a frequently asked question?

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

This is a frequently asked question?

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

This is a frequently asked question?

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Ask the Author Anything!
Got a burning question about my writing process, characters, inspiration, or even what fuels my late-night writing sessions? Drop your questions below, and I’ll post my answers so everyone can join in the fun!

Nothing is off-limits (well… almost 😉).