Interview with Suzanne Young

Today, on BNR, we have the author of A Need So Beautiful series and the upcoming 2013, The Project, Suzanne Young. We got a chance to catch up with her on the latest installment of the ANSB series, A Want So Wicked, and what new projects are in store for her readers!

Here is a quick bio about Suzanne:



Suzanne Young currently lives in Tempe, Arizona, where she drafts novels on restaurant napkins while eating chimichangas. When not writing, Suzanne is a high school English teacher obsessed with books. It works.

BNR: How did you find your love for writing and books?

SY: I’ve been writing since I was in middleschool. It wasn’t until a few years ago that I ever considered publishing.Writing has always been my escape, only now I occasionally get paid for it.

BNR: Why did you decide to write books for the Young Adult genre?

SY: At first I didn’t even realize therewas a YA market. I was just writing a book about an 18-year-old girl (my first,unsold novel). As I learned about the business, I found where my voice andcharacters fit in.

BNR: Do you ever take personal experiences or your environment into your writing?

SY: Sure. But it’s never as it happened,it’s more of an inspiration from an experience. Or a random line I heard somewhere.

BNR: For those of those who have yet to read A Need So Beautiful, what is a quick synopsis of the series?

SY: It’s a story about the Forgotten, who are here to help people—usually strangers—at a time when they need it most. But the Forgotten are blessed/cursed. Over time the pain of helping starts to wear them away, wear away even their existence to a point where no one will remember they ever existed. A walking déjà vu. Charlotte doesn’t want that ending, not when she loves her family, her friends, and her boyfriend Harlin. But the cost of staying could be so much worse.

BNR: Who is Elise and how is she the same/different from Charlotte from ANSB?

SY: Elise is sweet, and very innocent—but she’s also funny and brave. Charlotte had many of those same qualities, but she was a bit more street smart.

BNR: How did you come up with writing about angels?

SY: My original title was Beautiful, and I wanted to write about a girl who thought she was slowly turning into something awful, something ugly. But instead she was becoming beautiful—even if it wasn’t in an earthly sense.

As the story evolved, I thought about a moment in my life when someone helped me—a stranger. And that turned into the mythology of the Forgotten.

BNR: You also have a new book set to release in 2013, The Program, how is this story different from what you normally write?

THE PROGRAM is set in an alternate reality where suicide is an epidemic. The style is a bit more stark and creepy than A NEED SO BEAUTIFUL, but the romance is still a heavy element. As it will be with all of my books.

BNR: Is there any genre out there that you have not written that you would like to try some day?

SY: I’ve recently written an adult horror, so I’d love to publish that.

Bonus: What are three books you would recommend for summer reads?

SY: SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL by Trish Doller, THE GREAT GATSBY byF. Scott Fitzgerald, and NEVERMORE by Kelly Creagh

Check Out A Want So Wicked:

Elise is a normal seventeen-year-old girl until the day she wakes up in a desert park, with no idea who she is.

After that episode, her life takes a bizarre turn. She’s experiencing unexpected flashes of insight into people’s lives—people she’s never met before. Strangers frighten her with warnings about the approaching Shadows. And although Elise has never had a boyfriend, she suddenly finds herself torn between two handsome but very different young men: Abe, the charming bad boy whose effect on her both seduces and frightens her, and the mysterious Harlin, who’s new to town but with whom Elise feels an urgent, elemental connection—almost as if they are soul mates.

Now Elise begins to question everything about her life. Why do these guys both want her so desperately? What are the Shadows? Why does the name Charlotte inspire a terrifying familiarity? And who is Elise, really?

Where to find Suzanne:

Website l Facebook l Twitter l Goodreads

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Interview with Ley Mesina

Today, on BNR, we have Ley Mesina, author of A Goddess of Night series. This past March, Ley released the second installment in the AGN series, Perdition and us here at BNR are ecstatic to see more secrets revealed and Lily's love life bud a little more. Ley stopped by to tell us more about Perdition and her writing style.

Here's a little about Ley:

Ley Mesina spent most of her childhood and young adult life writing short stories. She planned to teach after she graduated with her Master's in Psychology but, instead, decided to pursue her passion for writing. Ley lives in Southern California with her husband and children and is a frequent visitor of her own imagination. Source

BNR: How is Perdition continuing from where Reborn left off?
LM: Reborn is an introduction to the characters. I really wanted to explain everyone's story because I felt it was important. Perdition is more fast-paced and really delves into the adventure. Lily is finally beginning to accept that she is not only half-witch/half-vampire, but that she is also the Goddess of Night. She journeys out into the underworld in search of Nyx, the original Goddess of Night, to get the answers that no one else could give her. Meanwhile, Xander, Drew, and Roxy go into their own adventure and try to save Roxy's parents.

BNR: What character do you feel the most connected to personality wise?
LM: Obviously I love Lily's character, but personality wise I would have to say Roxy. She's logical and has a hint of paranoia. She is very observant and over analyzes everything, yet she's strong, smart, and independent. I can relate to her and I find her character easy to write.

BNR: Has there been any works that influenced your inspiration of the GoN series?LM: There wasn't anything in particular that inspired the Goddess of Night series, it was more of the phenomenon of vampires. I love everything supernatural related, so when vampires became a huge obsession, I didn't want to just write another vampire story. I enjoy the story of witches and have always been fascinated by them. So I thought...why not create a woman who is both witch and vampire? It's the best of both worlds.

BNR: What can we expect from Perdition?
LM: Perdition brings in another realm of the mythological side of the story and ties in very well with the first book, Reborn. I wrote this book at the edge of my seat and I'm hoping that my readers will read it that way too.

BNR: In a unique style, why did you decide to do a series of novellas?
LM: I love the concept of a continuing story. I know that I could do that with Novels, but I felt that when I started writing Reborn, everything would be in segments. I saw it as "episodes."

BNR: What is your favorite aspect about writing science fiction?
LM: My favorite aspect of science fiction is that everything is limitless. I have no boundaries and I can take a story or character anywhere.  There are no exact set of rules that I need to stick to when developing a character or supernatural creature. It can be anything I want it to be and more.

BNR: Is there any genre you have decided isn't truly for you?
LM: Yes - Westerns. I've just never really been interested in Western books or even movies, so I don't think I'll be exploring this type of genre.

BNR: What can we expect to see from you in the future?LM: I am currently working on the third book of the Goddess of Night series. I am also working on a novel (which has nothing to do with vampires) and a collection of children's books. To tap into my background in Psychology, I also plan to release a relationship guide. As you can see, these are all different types of genres, but I absolutely love writing and I like to explore my abilities.

Bonus: If you could ever do your own interpretation on a classic book, which one would it be and why?LM: This is a tough one! But I would definitely love to do an interpretation of the Tell-Tale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe. He is, after all, my favorite writer - so it only makes sense that I would pick a story from his collection. His stories are so dark and tragic that it's fascinating.

More About Perdition:

In the second installment of the Goddess of Night series, Lily ventures out into the Underworld determined to find Nyx and finally get the answers she’s been looking for.

Xander, Drew, and Roxy head out on a mission to rescue Roxy’s parents from the secret facility hidden below Devlond University.

The time has come. Secrets will finally be revealed and the world they once knew will change…

Forever. Source

A gracious thank you to Ley for taking some time off to visit BNR. If you would like to find out more about Perdition and Ley, you can visit her website or her Goodreads. You can also click here to read my review over Reborn, the first installment in the AGN series.

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Interview with KC Blake

Today, we have KC Blake on BNR! This past April, KC Blake has released the second installment in her Witch-Game novel series, Witch Hunt. KC is gracing us with her presence to tell us more about her new series and what she goes through as a writer.

Here's a little about her:

Born and raised in California, I fell in love with writing while reading The Outsiders. Then I fell in love with Stephen King's writing style. I enjoy reading many types of books, but YA Paranormal is my favorite. I used to write for Harlequin under a different name. So that's my background. Exciting, no? Source

BNR: Just for our readers, give us a quick synopsis of the book.

KC: Starr is a reporter for the school paper and has her nose in everybody’s business.  When she hears the popular kids known as the It-Squad are about to start a secretive game, she wants to know more.  Their leader, Dylan Winchester, has been her crush for five years.  She wants him, and he seems to like her, too.  But Dylan isn’t allowed to date her.  So she hides under the headmaster’s desk, plants bugs, and breaks into a classmate’s home.  She discovers that not only are witches real, they need her help.  Someone is using the game to steal their memories, their powers, and perhaps even their lives.

BNR: What was the inspiration for the book?
KC: I loved the movie The Craft and thought it would be fun to mix that sort of ‘teen witch group’ atmosphere with a little mystery and a forbidden romance.

BNR: Why did you choose witches to be apart of the book?
KC: My agent warned me not to try werewolves or vampires again.  She wanted to see something fresh, something that wasn’t being used over and over.  Yes, I know there are books with witches, but they aren’t playing games.
BNR: Do any of the characters relate to you or anyone in your life?
KC: No.  My characters are sometimes bits and pieces of other characters from tv and movies with added quirks and things that I put together.

BNR: Is there any way that the first book, Crushed, relates to Witch Hunt?

KC: Grandma Noah puts in an appearance.  Other than that, the only tie in is that they are all witches using their powers to play games.

BNR: What can fans look forward to reading of your's in the future?

KC: I am going to release the third book in the Rule series, Shifters Rule, soon.  I am aiming for summer.  There will be more Witch-Game books in the future.  Plus, I am putting together an awesome hunter series with plenty of twists and turns and creatures not overly used.

BNR: What genre would you must like to dive into that you haven't touched yet?

KC: There isn’t one.  I’m doing what I love.

BNR: In both YA and Adult, what are key elements you have to touch for romance?

KC: Well, you don’t want love to be easily captured.  There has to be a good reason why the two characters might not be able to achieve their goal: a relationship.  It’s also nice to have plenty of chemistry.

BNR: What keeps you motivated to keep writing even during Writer's Block?

KC: Sometimes I have to leave one project behind for a while and working on something else, but I am always writing.  To me writer’s block is kind of fun.  I use the opportunity to explore new possibilities in my stories and usually come up with something that I wouldn’t have thought of otherwise.

Bonus: Since Summer Break is upon us, what do you love to do on vacation?

KC: Well, this time around I didn’t do anything.  I took a break from writing and from the Internet.  Most of my time was spent reading City of Bones.  It was awesome.  Thanks for the interview.

Thank you to KC for answering our questions! Please buy KC's new release, Witch Hunt, along with the first installment, Crushed. You can also check out KC's other series, The Rule.
Click to visit KC's website and Goodreads.

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Interview with Beth Fantaskey *Giveaway*

Today is the release of Jessica Rules the Dark Side. The book is the second in the Jessica series by Beth Fantaskey. I had the chance to ask Beth some quick questions about Jessica Rules, her writing, and what's to come...

BNR: Can you tell our readers a quick summary of what Jessica Rules the Dark Side is about?

BF: In the first book, Jessica’s Guide to Dating on the Dark Side, average American teenager Jessica Packwood learns that she’s a vampire princess by birth – and destined to marry Lucius Vladescu, a mysterious, sometimes dangerous, Romanian vampire prince.

The sequel picks up the narrative after Jess and Lucius’s wedding (which you can read on my website, bethfantaskey.com). It tells the story of Jessica’s adjustment to life as a true vampire princess, living in Romania with scary old “Elders” and trying to run a castle, even though she can barely speak the language. This time, she’s the one who feels completely out of place, just like Lucius did in the first book. And when Lucius – who is still something of a mystery – is accused of destroying an Elder, Jess finds herself even deeper in over her head.

BNR: Before Jessica Rules the Dark Side, you released the story of Jessica and Lucius' wedding. Why did you decide to write their wedding? Why on your site instead of in a book/novella?

BF: I wrote the wedding before my publisher gave the go-ahead for a full sequel. I wanted to show my gratitude to everyone who asked to see Jess and Lucius get married by giving them the story they wanted, for free.


Writing the wedding on-line also allowed me to give fans of Jess and Lucius a chance to actually take part in the wedding as “bridesmaids.” Over the course of several weeks, I held polls on where the ceremony would be held, what Jess’s dress would look like – even if Jess and Lucius would kiss or bite each other to seal their union. Then, when the votes were all in, I wrote the story that readers asked for, posting new chapters every other day. It was incredibly fun and a great way to get to know the people who loved the book.

BNR: What can we expect differently in Jessica Rules than from Jessica's Guide?

BF: In the first book, Jess is always confident. But in the second book, that confidence is tested, and she has some really difficult moments of self-doubt. I don’t try to make big philosophical points in my novels, but I did like showing how Jess fights back to regain not only her initial self-assurance, but a new regal presence.


And, of course, Jess’s best friend Mindy has a voice in the sequel – as does the new hippie/surfer, Italian vampire Raniero.


Aside from those things, the sequel is a lot like the first book. I wanted readers to laugh again, and get caught up in some passionate romances.

BNR: What songs or movies do you relate to Jessica and Lucius' romance? Mindy and Raniero's?

BF: I’m always reminded of Jess and Lucius when I hear music by Apocalyptica, Evanescence, and groups with similar haunting sounds. On the polar opposite end of the spectrum, I think of Mindy and Raniero when I hear pretty much anything by Jack Johnson or a song like Mika’s “Love Today.” They’re definitely a “lighter” couple.

I don’t usually relate any movies to them. I’m definitely more inspired by music.

BNR: Will there be more books in store for the characters?

BF: I’m not really sure. I have ideas, but a lot depends upon how well Jessica Rules the Dark Side is received. It’s not entirely up to me.

BNR: If you could spend a day with your characters (from the Jessica series and Jekel and Hyde), what would you like to do with them?

BF: Lucius Vladescu – horseback riding in the Carpathian Mountains
Jessica Packwood Vladescu – Get a tour of Bucharest and Lucius’s hometown of Sighisoara
Mindy Stankiewicz – Have her help me with my hair!
Raniero Vladescu Lovatu – Surfing lessons would be fantastic
Jill Jekel – Mix up some trouble outside the lab with her alter ego
Tristen Hyde – Listen to him play piano... I love musicians!

BNR: Is there one genre that you would like/wouldn't want to write about that you haven't yet?

BF: I grew up loving mystery novels, and I’m still a huge fan. I think that would be a fun genre to try someday. But right now, I’m happy writing romantic fiction for young adults – and anybody else who wants to read my books!

BNR: How has the Jessica series changed your way of writing?

BF: I don’t think writing the series has really changed my habits – although I definitely learn things with every book that I write. Does that make any sense? I guess what I’m trying to say is that I have my “style” of writing, but I feel like I’m always learning about things like pacing, plotting, etc. Maybe I don’t even realize how I evolve, because it’s gradual.

BNR: If you could be a character in a book or series, who would it be and would you take the same actions as them?

BF: I’d be Nancy Drew, driving around in my sports car and solving mysteries with my best friend. And, no offense to him, but I’d break up with wishy-washy Ned Nickerson. He’s a nice enough guy, but a girl like Nancy needs a boyfriend who brings a little more excitement to the table.

BNR: Are there any new projects on your plate? Could we get a hint?

BF: I do have a project in the works, but it’s too new to give details. I will say that it’s a romance with a new kind of paranormal hero and new twists. I hope that’s enough!

BNR: (Bonus) Do you have anything you want to do for the new year?

BF: I am this close (holding thumb and forefinger teeny distance apart) to finishing a Ph.D. that I’ve worked on for seven years. I really, really want to wrap it up this spring and be Dr. Beth Fantaskey. Wow, would that shock a lot of people – including me!

Where you can find Jessica:

Website l Twitter l Facebook l Goodreads

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It’s one thing to find out you’re a vampire princess. It’s a whole other thing to actually rule. Newly married Jessica Packwood is having a hard enough time feeling regal with her husband, Lucius, at her side. But when evidence in the murder of a powerful elder points to Lucius, sending him into solitary confinement, Jessica is suddenly on her own. Determined to clear her husband’s name, Jessica launches into a full-scale investigation, but hallucinations and nightmares of betrayal keep getting in her way. Jessica knows that with no blood to drink, Lucius’s time is running out. Can she figure out who the real killer is—and whom she can trust—before it’s too late?

Giveaway item: One copy of Jessica Rules the Dark Side

Type: International

Requirements: 13 years or older

How to enter: Fill-out form below

This giveaway will end on January 15 at 11:59pm EST!

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Thank you to Beth for taking time out to stop by BNR and to let us do this amazing interview/giveaway! If you would like to read my review of Jessica Rules, click here and go here to check out Jessica and Lucius' wedding!

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Dear Bully: Jessica Brody *Interview*

With the release of Dear Bully on September 5th, we are celebrating it's release and message here at BNR. From Sept. 4th to Sept. 14th, we will be having authors that contributed to DB on the blog.


Today on the blog is Jessica Brody, author of "My Life Undecided" and "The Karma Club":

Jessica Brody knew from a young age that she wanted to be a writer. She started self "publishing" her own books when she was seven years old, binding the pages together with cardboard, wallpaper samples and electrical tape. After graduating from Smith College in 2001 where she double majored in Economics and French and minored in Japanese, Jessica later went on to work for MGM Studios as a Manager of Acquisitions and Business Development. In May of 2005, Jessica quit her job to follow her dream of becoming a published author. In four short years, Jessica has sold five novels. Jessica recently sold five more young adult titles to her publisher, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group. Jessica's books are published in over ten foreign countries. Jessica now works full time as a writer and producer. She currently splits her time between Los Angeles and Colorado.

Interview with Jessica

About You:

How did you come up with the idea for "My Life Undecided"?

This book was definitely one of those “aha!” moments that I hear writers talk about. My husband and I were watching TV, an ad for a reality show came on and I said, “Wouldn’t it be cool if there was a reality show where you could vote on what the characters did. As in, “who they went out with?” or “Whether or not they forgave their backstabbing best friend.” Like American Idol meets The Hills. We both agreed although it would be cool, it wouldn’t be practical from a production standpoint since they shoot those reality shows months before they air. I was not deterred though. I said, “Fine, I’ll write it as a book,” and then marched up the stairs and in ten short minutes, wrote a page-long synopsis for what would become MY LIFE UNDECIDED and sent it to my editor. She wrote back right away saying that she loved it and the book was born!

What is the difference between writing a screenplay and writing a novel?

There are many things I love about writing both. In novels you really get to live inside the character's mind and learn about everything she's thinking. I love internal monologue and so writing novels is fun in that you get to explore so much of what you would never see on the screen of a movie. Screenplays are great, though, because you can tell a story so much more succinctly and visually. I love writing montages in screenplays. A series of quick scenes that speed you through a part of the story. You can't really do that very well in novels.

Is there any genre that you wish to touch on in the future?

I would love to one day write a mystery novel. I try to put a little bit of mystery in all my books, regardless of the genre. I lay clues for the main character to find that eventually lead her to solve the puzzle at the end. So I think it would be fun to try my hand at a real mystery novel!

What do you think adult novels have that you can not do with YA?

I don't think there's much you can do with adult novels that you can't do with YA these days. YA has become so edgy and mature in the last few years. I think the big difference between YA and adult fiction is the point of view. Adult characters have a bit more perspective about the world and are sometimes more jaded than teen characters. What makes YA fiction so fun is that the characters are experiencing a lot of emotions and situations for the first time. Everything is raw and new. It's really fun to put yourself back into that mindset.

What is the most rewarding part of being an author?

Getting feedback from readers. Whether it's in a good review left on Amazon, a fan letter or email, or meeting readers at signing events, when someone tells you they enjoyed your book (or better yet, it changed them somehow), there's no better feeling in the world!

About DB:

Why did you decide to get involved with Dear Bully?

There was no decision to be made. As soon as Megan and Carrie sent around the email about what they were doing, I instantly knew it was something I wanted (needed!) to do. I was affected by bullying in middle school and it truly shaped who I am today. I was so excited to be able to share my story in such an important anthology.

Other than bullying victims, who should read this book?

I think there's something in here for everyone. Parents of teenagers, parents of kids who will eventually be teenagers, teachers, aunts, uncles, grand parents, adults who were bullied when they were younger, bullies themselves. Everyone can get something out of this book. I guarantee it!

How has your experiences made you stronger?

I always say, "I don't believe in regret." Everything that happens to you makes you who you are. There's an opportunity to learn and grow from every experience you encounter. When I moved to a new school in the sixth grade and I was bullied by some of the kids, it only made me more independent and determined to do something with my life. It fueled my drive to be successful. Because I didn't have many friends in the beginning, I threw all of my energy into studying and creative endeavors. And it set me up to be motivated and a self-starter in the future.

How should someone reach out for help or support?

Talk to someone you trust. A friend, a parent, a relative, a teacher, a volunteer at a hotline. There are so many people out there who can help you. I know it may not seem that way, but it's true. Tell someone what's happening. Don't hold it inside. It will only make it worse. When my sister was in junior high, she was bullied by an older girl at her school who threatened to hurt her. My sister told my mom, my mom told the police and the girl and her parents got a very serious visit from the police department. She never bothered my sister again. Please reach out!

Give advice about bullying in three words.
 
You're not alone.
 

Where you can find Jessica:

Website l Twitter l Facebook

 

Thank you to Jessica for participating with our Dear Bully Spotlight event! You can order Dear Bully on Amazon and see the official website here.

 

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Dear Bully: Steven E. Wedel *Interview/Giveaway*

With the release of Dear Bully on September 5th, we are celebrating it's release and message here at BNR. From Sept. 4th to Sept. 14th, we will be having authors that contributed to DB on the blog.


Today on the blog is Steven E. Wedel, author of "After Obsession" and the Werewolf Saga:

Born and raised an Okie, Wedel typically sets his stories somewhere in Oklahoma's diverse landscape. He began writing in high school in the early 1980s and never stopped. He currently lives in central Oklahoma with his wife and four children. Besides writing, he earns his living as a high school English teacher.

  

Interview with Steven:

 

About Steven:

Why did you choose to go into writing?

I've always been a quiet, kind of shy person who preferred the company of books to most people. In sixth grade my teacher suggested I enter an essay contest. I wrote a short story instead, but that made me realize how much fun it was to write. Then in high school another teacher sort of fanned the flame and I've been writing since then.

What turned you on to writing about werewolves?

I like the werewolf as metaphor for the wild side we all have buried somewhere within us. For some it's deeper than others, but I think it's there in everyone. I thought I'd see what happened when a shy young woman was able to tap into her inner beast. And now it just keeps growing. This summer I finished the next book in the saga and hope to see it released in 2012.

Is there any paranormal creatures you would like to touch on in the future?

Yes. I've had an idea for a vampire story since the 1980s and I think it's about time to put that on paper. My vampire won't sparkle, though. He'll be the old fashioned scary kind. I'm getting old. I want to play with the idea of immortality.

Other than the amazing Carrie Jones, is there any other authors you would like to co-write with?

That's an interesting question. I really don't know. The chemistry Carrie and I have when writing is something I never would have predicted. I can't imagine it being so good and so easy with anyone else. I have a lot of writer friends I respect and admire and would be willing to try collaborations with them, I guess, but I would be worried about trying to catch lightning twice.

What is one thing you have learned from becoming an author?

That writing can be great therapy. Anything bothering me in my "real" life can be worked out in writing.

About DB:

Why did you decide to get involved with Dear Bully?

It was an odd coincidence. Carrie contacted me and asked if I'd be interested in contributing something. She happened to do that just after some fantastic students at the school where I teach created Stand for the Silent, an anti-bullying campaign they put together in memory of Ty Smalley, a young boy who killed himself after being horribly bullied at school. Stand for the Silent had me remembering my days of being a scrawny, shy kid who got picked on a lot, then Carrie's e-mail came, so I decided to put those memories on paper.

Other than bullying victims, who should read this book?

Parents, teachers, counselors, ministers ... anyone who is in a position to help kids at risk of being bullied. I think anyone can read it and be touched, but those in contact with kids can definitely use it as a resource to help encourage those being bullied.

How has your experiences made you stronger?

When I have a bad day at work now, or the car breaks down, or whatever, I can look back to being clubbed on the head or dragged out of the school bathroom in my underwear and realize I got through that, so I can deal with this, too.

How should someone reach out for help or support?

Go to an adult you trust. I'm a teacher. I know teachers. You may think your teachers don't like you, but I promise you we are there because we care about you. We don't get paid very much money. We come to school every day because we want to be with you and help you. So go to your teacher and tell him or her what's going on.

Give advice about bullying in three words.

Tell someone NOW!

Where you can find Steven:

Website l Twitter l Facebook l Goodreads

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Giveaway item: US copy of After Obsession by Carrie Jones and Steven E. Wedel

Type: International

Requirements: 13 years or older

How to enter: Leave a comment on this post with your name, way to contact, and what country you live in.

The giveaway ends on Sunday, Sept. 18, 11:59 PM EST!

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Thank you to Steven for hanging out here with us today! You can order Dear Bully over at Amazon and check out the website here.

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Dear Bully: Cynthia Leitich Smith *Interview/Giveaway*

With the release of Dear Bully on September 5th, we are celebrating it's release and message here at BNR. From Sept. 4th to Sept. 14th, we will be having authors that contributed to DB on the blog.

Today on the blog is Cynthia Leitich Smith, author of Tantalize and Blessed:

Cynthia Leitich Smith is the New York Times and Publishers Weekly best-selling author of TANTALIZE, ETERNAL, BLESSED, and TANTALIZE: KIEREN'S STORY (Candlewick). Her award-winning books for younger children include JINGLE DANCER, INDIAN SHOES and RAIN IS NOT MY INDIAN NAME (all HarperCollins) and HOLLER LOUDLY (Dutton). Her website at http://www.cynthialeitichsmith.com/ was named one of the top 10 Writer Sites on the Internet by Writer's Digest and an ALA Great Website for Kids. Her Cynsations blog at cynthialeitichsmith.blogspot.com was listed as among the top two read by the children's/YA publishing community in the SCBWI "To Market" column.

Interview with Cynthia

About Cynthia:


What first turned you on to writing?

Like many writers, I began as an avid reader. My mom took me to the public library for books on Saturdays, and my dad took me to the local convenience store for comics on Sundays. I also fell in love with stories on the big and small screens.

I played “pretend” longer than most kids—focusing on superheroes and “Star Wars” in part because my beloved pal next door was a few years younger.


By second grade, I was writing fiction and poetry for fun. By sixth grade, I had a column, “Dear Gabby” in Mr. Rideout’s classroom newsletter. I went onto become editor of my junior high and high school newspapers before majoring in news/editorial (with a concentration in English)at the University of Kansas, going on to earn a J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School and then launch into writing fiction full-time.

But if I had to pinpoint a handful of specific influences, I’d say The Wild Things, Wonder Woman, Princess Leia, Nancy Drew, Terabithia, The Witch from Blackbird Pond, Stephen King, “Teen Witch,” “Meatloaf,” Bram Stoker and Joss Whedon.

What interests you about children's and YA books?

For young heroes, so many of their experiences are new. There’s a kiss, there’s a first kiss, and there’s your first kiss ever. Which will you remember for the rest of your life? It’s a matter of heightened intensity. Beyond that, kids and teens have extra limits placed on them by the adult world, so they often must work harder, stretch and grow more to meet their challenges. Finally, young readers are the best audience in the world. It’s an honor to work for them.

Are there any other paranormal creatures you would like to write about?

I’m pretty excited about the wereotter in my upcoming novel, Diabolical (Candlewick, Jan. 2012), but that manuscript is (newly) finished.


Hmm. I’m yet to tackle fairies, but they’re tempting me at the moment.

How is writing about younger characters different from adult characters?

In addition to the factors mentioned above, it’s important to keep in mind that intelligence and talent are innate, not functions of age. There are kids out there who’re smarter, more talented at this or that than every adult they know.


In contrast, wisdom and skill are earned over time, effort, multiple failures, and persistence.

What can we see in the future from you?

My latest release is my first graphic novel, Tantalize: Kieren’s Story, illustrated by Ming Doyle (Candlewick, 2011).


Beyond that, I look forward to the publication of my latest YA short story, “Moon Over Broken Stars,” which will appear in Girl Meets Boy, edited by Kelly Milner Halls (Chronicle, Jan. 2012) and the previously mentioned novel Diabolical.


Another graphic novel, Eternal, is currently in production, and I’m writing a new paranormal YA prose novel, Smolder, which is set in the Tantalize series universe but emphasizes new and previously secondary characters.

About DB:

Why did you decide to get involved with Dear Bully?

I knew Dear Bully anthologist Carrie Jones from her studies at the MFA program in Writing for Children and Young Adults at Vermont College of Fine Arts. (I’m on the faculty.) She has such a wonderful heart and is so passionate and sincere that I knew the project would be terrific.


I also had been bullied myself from fourth through ninth grade, and I wanted to toss out a line of hope to kids who found themselves in a similar situation. I wanted to let them know that others had survived it and gone on to live their fondest dreams.

Other than bullying victims, who should read this book?

Perpetrators, the people who stay silent and/or get involved from the sidelines. Parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, teachers, administrators, clergy members, law enforcement officials, politicians, social workers, private tutors, employers of teens—really anyone who has children and teens in their lives or cares about our society in the whole. In other words: everybody.

How have your experiences made you stronger?

Absolutely. Ultimately, being bullied made me realize the importance of reaching out to others in positive ways. You never know when someone needs a kind word, hug, or unexpected show of solidarity.

How should someone reach out for help or support?

Try confiding in your closest friends and/or an adult you can trust. It’s also okay to take refuge in story or to find safe havens in other kid communities. If school is a battleground, get involved in church or local theater or a GLBTQ teen center—wherever you feel safe and valued.

Where you can find Cynthia:

Website l Goodreads l Facebook l Twitter

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 Giveaway item: One graphic novel of Tantalized

Type: US Only

Requirements: 13 years or older

How to enter: Leave a comment on this post with your name and some way to contact you

The giveaway closes on Tuesday, Sept. 13, 11:59pm EST!

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I want to thank Cynthia for stopping by for the Dear Bully Spotlight You can check out the DB website here and buy the book on Amazon now! 

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Dear Bully: Melodye Shore *Interview*

With the release of Dear Bully on September 5th, we are celebrating it's release and message here at BNR. From Sept. 4th to Sept. 14th, we will be having authors that contributed to DB on the blog.

Today on the blog is Melodye Shore:

Interview with Melodye

About Melodye:

What are some comparisons and differences between writing and public speaking?

Speakers invite people to see things from different points of view…to think, to question, to act. So do writers. Whether on papyrus or at the pulpit, around the campfire or on Twitter, we create bonds of understanding by communicating. And as we draw people in, the walls of separation fall away.

There are differences, of course, between writing and public speaking. A speech is a snapshot of ideas, framed for a specific audience and purpose. In the best of all worlds, sparks fly, and light bulbs go off. In the end, though, the feedback loop is structured, and take-aways are tied to the agenda. But a writer can take more liberties. Done right, a piece of writing is much like an impressionistic painting--timeless, transcendent, and open to interpretation. Readers return it at will, and when they do, they bring their imaginations along for the ride.

What is your memoir about?

My father was a faith-healing evangelist, and I was his “Miracle Baby.” We crisscrossed the country in a cramped sedan, holding revival meetings wherever we landed. CAN I GET A WITNESS? Memoir of a Tent Evangelist’s Daughter chronicles my childhood experiences within a fundamentalist Christian family. It’s about religious zealotry and private rebellions, dark secrets and the healing power of forgiveness.

How did it feel to write a memoir?

True fact: memoir-writing is not for the faint of heart! From the humorous, to the humiliating and horrific, I’m holding up my life experiences for public scrutiny. Lord knows, it’s difficult to write from a place of truth when you’re worried about what others might think! So I’ve learned to tune out destructive influences--and to trust my own instincts, instead.

Story-telling takes time. Honesty takes longer. But as I contemplate both, the deeper story gets coaxed to the surface.

What are some memoirs and/or biographies you enjoyed?

Oh, so many great memoirs from which to choose! I worry that I’ll leave out a gem (or several), but here’s a handful that I’ve loved, start to finish, and which linger with me even now: Jesus Land (Julia Scheeres); The Glass Castle (Jeannette Walls); I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings (Maya Angelou);Angela’s Ashes (Frank McCourt); Night (Elie Wiesel); A Girl Named Zippy: Growing Up Small in Mooreland, Indiana (Haven Kimmelz); and This Boy's Life (Tobias Wolff). Feel Free to recommend more!

Do you think you will write fiction in the future?

I’m writing nonfiction now, but I wouldn’t want to get pigeonholed. I love to explore new possibilities! But whatever the topic or whomever the audience, you can always count on me to write from the heart.

Is there anything you want to do that you haven't done yet?

I’m imagining myself in a rented flat in Paris, writing by day and exploring the City of Lights after dark. Ooh la la, this is on my bucket list for sure!

About Dear Bully:

Why did you decide to get involved with Dear Bully?

I’ve often wondered what happened to Luz, a friend-in-need who disappeared from my life long ago, but whom I’ve never forgotten. It made me sad to think that I might never see her again, but when I heard about DEAR BULLY, it finally clicked: I could memorialize our experiences in writing!

I am deeply honored to be counted among those selected for this anthology. Each author wrote through the prism of his or her own experiences and observations. That's all we have, all that we know. But magic exists, beneath and beyond any single contributor's words--the alchemy of storytelling. Scattered light. Bridges. Rainbows. That’s the best tribute to Luz I can think of.

Other than bullying victims, who should read this book?

At the risk of sounding flippant, I wouldn’t want to single out any group for inclusion or exclusion. Each selection speaks to a common topic, albeit from different vantage points. As for its potential readers, I invite everyone to come to the page with their own set of expectations. Bullying is a widespread issue, and DEAR BULLY gives voice (and a platform) to our mutual concerns.

How has your experiences made you stronger?

I got misty-eyed when I saw DEAR BULLY’s Table of Contents. “Luz” is smack-dab in the middle of the section called Thank you, Friends! What better place could there be for a story about a girl who craves companionship, and who discovers that sense of belonging when it’s least expected? No spoilers here, but Luz offered me friendship when I needed it most, and I’ll always remember the lessons she taught me.

How should someone reach out for help or support?

By now, most of us know about resources available to victims: Teachers. Clergy. Family members we love, and friends whom we trust. But it’s not always easy to reach out for help, even when it’s in our best interest to do so. Some of us are blinded by fear, rendered deaf and mute by grief and pain. I like that bullying awareness projects are cropping up all over the place. When we give voice to this issue, we learn how to keep our eyes and ears open--to speak up when necessary, and to be good listeners when we’re asked.

Give advice about bullying in three words.

Trust your gut.

Where you can find Melodye:

Website l Blog l Facebook

Thank you to Melodye for participating in our Dear Bully Spotlight! You can visit the Dear Bully website here and order the book on Amazon.


Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Interview: Sophie Jordan *Giveaway*

With the release of Vanish on Tuesday, Sophie Jordan is stopping by BNR for a quick interview and a giveaway for our followers.

Sophie Jordan grew up in the Texas hill country where she wove fantasies of dragons, warriors, and princesses. A former high school English teacher, she's also the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of Avon historical romances. She now lives in Houston with her family. When she's not writing, she spends her time overloading on caffeine (lattes and Diet cherry Coke preferred), talking plotlines with anyone who will listen (including her kids), and cramming her DVR with true-crime and reality-TV shows. Sophie also writes paranormal romances under the name Sharie Kohler.

Interview with Sophie



What was the process of getting your first book published?

I went the standard route of getting an agent first. This process took almost two years. I queried and submitted again and again again until someone finally said yes! ;) Ironically, it only took her 2 weeks to sell my first book.

What are the differences between writing YA and writing adult?

Hmm, for me each book is a different journey based on the characters and story. Whether it's YA or adult doesn't signify to me. Every book is a new experience. Some easier to write than others, some not ... it just depends on the story and how I approach it. That said, I probably most enjoy writing in first person in YA - something I don't ever do in adult.

Lastly, what would you rather be a draki or werewolf and why?

Oh, a draki! If you're a draki, the possibilities are endless. Aside of flying, which they all do, your talent, ie paranormal ability, can be anything. Fire-breathing, invisibility ... the list goes on.

Where you can find Sophie:

Website l Goodreads l Twitter l Facebook 

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*2 Winners*

Giveaway item: 5 Vanish and 5 Firelight postcards (w/ book summaries on back), 5 Firelight bookmarks, 10 Firelight stickers

Type: US Only

Requirements: 13 years or older

How to enter: Leave a comment on this post saying you want to enter

The giveaway closes on Monday, Sept. 12, 11:59pm EST!

 

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Thank you to Sophie for stopping by! You can pre-order Vanish now over at Amazon and can look at other titles here. 

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Dear Bully Spotlight: Melissa Walker *Interview/Giveaway*

With the release of Dear Bully on September 5th, we are celebrating it's release and message here at BNR. From Sept. 4th to Sept. 14th, we will be having authors that contributed to DB on the blog.

Today on the blog is Melissa Walker, author of Small Town Sinners:

Melissa Walker is a writer who has worked as ELLEgirl Features Editor and Seventeen Prom Editor. All in the name of journalism, she has spent 24 hours with male models and attended an elite finishing school for girls in New Zealand, among other hardships. She co-founded I Heart Daily with fellow ex-ELLEgirl Anne Ichikawa in 2009. It’s a daily newsletter about likable stuff. Melissa lives in Brooklyn and has a BA in English from Vassar College. She would tell you her SAT scores too, but, you know, the math part was hard.

 She loves meeting teenagers, and is game to speak at your library or school about writing, books, fashion, magazines or pop culture (but, you know, in a smart way).

Interview with Melissa

About Melissa:

Why did you decide to go into writing books?

I always loved writing, probably since I could hold a pen. When I found out that if I got good at it someone would PAY me for it, I knew that was my dream job.

Has your experiences with Seventeen and Ellegirl influenced your stories?

Definitely--the Violet books were based on encounters with the fashion world I had while working in magazines, and Small Town Sinners comes directly from a story I wrote for ELLEgirl about Hell Houses.

Are there any genres you would like to dive into someday?

Yes! I'd love to do a middle grade novel, but I'm not sure I've got the voice down. I'm going to try!

What are some authors you admire?

There are so many but I have to say my favorites as a teen were Judy Blume, Christopher Pike and VC Andrews.

What have you learned from becoming an author?

Wow, a lot! But one big thing is that writing is a job. It's a fun job, but it's definitely still WORK at the end of the day.

About DB:

Why did you decide to get involved with Dear Bully?

I loved the concept of a bunch of authors being open and honest--EVERYONE has a bully story.

Other than bullying victims, who should read this book?

Everyone. I think, if we really look at ourselves honestly, we've all been both victim and bully at some point.

How has your experience made you stronger?

Every experience is a learning moment, and my bullying experiences definitely taught me to be a better person.

How should someone reach out for help or support?

You know who you trust, whether that's a parent, one specific friend, a mentor, whoever. Reach out to the trusted person--your gut will guide you.

Give advice about bullying in three words.

Just walk away.

Where you can find Melissa:

Website l Goodreads l Twitter l Facebook

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Giveaway Item: One copy of Dear Bully

Type: International

Requirements: Must be 13 or older to enter

How to enter: Fill-out the form

*You can tweet about this giveaway for +1 entry.

The giveaway closes on Saturday, Sept. 10th, 11:59pm EST!

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Thank you to Melissa for participating in our DB Spotlight! You can visit the Dear Bully website here and pre-order the book on Amazon.

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha