Tuesday Twist, a way to feature upcoming books and books that are already on the shelves waiting for you to grab.
The game: I give you three sentences, you tell me what one's you would read based on the first sentence.
Let's start the fun!!!
Sentences
1. Good girls don't walk with boys.
2. I'm sixteen.
3. I'd always heard that New York City was weird, but I had no idea just how weird until I got here.
The Big Reveal
1. Secret Revealed
2. Secret Revealed
3. Secret Revealed
So what would you read?!
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
Pictures Worth a Thousand
Everyone knows a picture is worth a thousand words.
I used to search on Google for hours for the perfect photo. Finally I decided to take a leap of faith and try a service. Fotolia was a place that had offered a promotion for me to scroll around and check out all the images they offered.
What a selection. From thousands of images to choose from I may have spent hours searching but I was gaining so many things I wanted vs. the hours of searching and ending up with nothing.
It allowed me to perfect the mock-up book covers that each one of us as writers like to play around with to image ourselves one day published!
So rather than sharing even more on why I love Fotolia with my words why don't I show you with my book covers!
I had so much fun designing my book covers! Now I'm not only an addict to Fotolia but addicted to making book covers!
One lucky commentor will be given a 2 week FREE trial period! If you're interested please let me know! I'll choose the winner by the end of the day!
I used to search on Google for hours for the perfect photo. Finally I decided to take a leap of faith and try a service. Fotolia was a place that had offered a promotion for me to scroll around and check out all the images they offered.
What a selection. From thousands of images to choose from I may have spent hours searching but I was gaining so many things I wanted vs. the hours of searching and ending up with nothing.
It allowed me to perfect the mock-up book covers that each one of us as writers like to play around with to image ourselves one day published!
So rather than sharing even more on why I love Fotolia with my words why don't I show you with my book covers!
One lucky commentor will be given a 2 week FREE trial period! If you're interested please let me know! I'll choose the winner by the end of the day!
Friday, May 27, 2011
Cover Curious
So I know that they say not to judge a book by it's cover but we all know that sometimes that just isn't possible.
When I'm looking for a new read I normally check out the blogs, you all seem to know what you're talking about. However there are times where I just can't find what I want. I'm searching for something but I don't know what it is... it's the feeling, the wanting based on the cover alone.
I walk the book stacks at the library and come up empty. I want the fresh smell of my very own BRAND NEW book. So I make my way to Barnes & Noble and I walk, the noises quieting down the closer I get to that one book.
Do you know that feeling?
Below I decided to add some covers and I'm curious if you'd purchase them based on the cover art. I'll leave my opinions out (because it's my blog and because I can) but I'm curious as to what you'd choose!
So what would you choose?
When I'm looking for a new read I normally check out the blogs, you all seem to know what you're talking about. However there are times where I just can't find what I want. I'm searching for something but I don't know what it is... it's the feeling, the wanting based on the cover alone.
I walk the book stacks at the library and come up empty. I want the fresh smell of my very own BRAND NEW book. So I make my way to Barnes & Noble and I walk, the noises quieting down the closer I get to that one book.
Do you know that feeling?
Below I decided to add some covers and I'm curious if you'd purchase them based on the cover art. I'll leave my opinions out (because it's my blog and because I can) but I'm curious as to what you'd choose!
Poems & Flowers? What's not to love! |
Crazy Hair - Paper on fire - Why not? |
Curious aren't you? |
This one pulls at the heartstrings. |
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Truth Thursdays
Woohoo! We made it! Gosh, I always feel great when we make it to Thursdays. I don't know what it is that puts me in such a fabulous mood... then again why ask what makes me happy when it just does?
Moving on!!! Let's get to the reason we're all here.... the truths.
1. I'm addicted to books. Yes, I know we already know that. However I've been devouring writing books, teaching me about tensing, punctuation, grammar. I'm looking to get some knowledge in my noggin for future writing.
2. I'm on a Hellen Keller kick. I learned about her growing up but lately I've been left with a ton of questions. I decided it's time they're answered. I've picked up her auto-biography and it's brilliant. I tell you what, she's an inspiration.
3. My co-worker and I have long days sometimes and we love to occupy ourselves. The usual F U Auto Correct, and Neat-o-rama are just a few ways. However when I'm down about querying he likes to think up stories and creates made up queries that will leave me on the floor laughing so hard.
4. Grimms Fairytale's are just that... Grim. You'd think they changed their last names... alas it looks like the brothers were in fact Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm - how lucky is that?
5. I found a cure for when I'm down. Reading Eat, Pray, Love and Here, Home, Hope will solve my woeful ways. They're what I call "finding yourself" novels and sometimes it's just what I need.
So do you have any addictions? Find it strange that the Grimm's did in fact share grim tales? Have a cure for when you're down? Do share!!
Moving on!!! Let's get to the reason we're all here.... the truths.
1. I'm addicted to books. Yes, I know we already know that. However I've been devouring writing books, teaching me about tensing, punctuation, grammar. I'm looking to get some knowledge in my noggin for future writing.
2. I'm on a Hellen Keller kick. I learned about her growing up but lately I've been left with a ton of questions. I decided it's time they're answered. I've picked up her auto-biography and it's brilliant. I tell you what, she's an inspiration.
3. My co-worker and I have long days sometimes and we love to occupy ourselves. The usual F U Auto Correct, and Neat-o-rama are just a few ways. However when I'm down about querying he likes to think up stories and creates made up queries that will leave me on the floor laughing so hard.
4. Grimms Fairytale's are just that... Grim. You'd think they changed their last names... alas it looks like the brothers were in fact Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm - how lucky is that?
5. I found a cure for when I'm down. Reading Eat, Pray, Love and Here, Home, Hope will solve my woeful ways. They're what I call "finding yourself" novels and sometimes it's just what I need.
So do you have any addictions? Find it strange that the Grimm's did in fact share grim tales? Have a cure for when you're down? Do share!!
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Letter to my Future Published Self
Today is Kristin Rae’s first blogfest! If you haven’t joined in the fun I suggest you put off whatever blog post you were going to write and dive in on the fun. Check the other entries out after you read mine!
Letters to your future published self.
I’ll admit, at first I thought what the heck am I going to write about then I decided to just run with it. So here we go… I will not apologize for what’s said (because I don’t know what I said).
Rock star,
So you did it! Congrats! Sending Book Two vibes!
It was quite the journey wasn’t it? Not easy by any means. In fact there was no way it could have been if you were dealing with me. My constant need to stop writing for a minute and finish a chapter of my latest FAVORITE book had to get under your nerves. Oh, not to mention spending WAY too much time on baby name websites because the main characters name was off just a little. You were right we should have stuck with Bob & Mary until the end. We would have saved time.
I’m not apologizing if that’s what you think. Everything happens for a reason. You’re agented, published, and a rock star now. It means I did the right thing. I think we might have gone through one to many cartons of Ben & Jerry’s but we were supporting our dreams and a cry fest without ice cream is just ludicrous.
Actually now rethinking all the crap we went through I think we should be apologizing to the hubs. He watched as each rejection rolled in and didn’t always roll of our shoulders. Some of them were some hard hits, and he sweetly allowed us to watch far too many episodes of Sex & the City. I thank him for that.
So it’s been fun. Who knew writing would be such a wild ride. I can’t believe we originally thought it’d be as easy as writing a book and sending it out. Joke was on us. How many did you end up writing before you got one published? Yeah… a lot. They weren’t kidding when they said to do your research. We were a little slow on the uptake weren’t we? Sending out crappy work to critique partners asking them to make sense of shit on paper and what was really sad is that they were sweet enough to do so. We were insanely lucky.
Geniuses. That’s what we are. You keep doing what you’re doing, obviously it worked.
Catch you at your next signing,
Me
Letters to your future published self.
I’ll admit, at first I thought what the heck am I going to write about then I decided to just run with it. So here we go… I will not apologize for what’s said (because I don’t know what I said).
Rock star,
So you did it! Congrats! Sending Book Two vibes!
It was quite the journey wasn’t it? Not easy by any means. In fact there was no way it could have been if you were dealing with me. My constant need to stop writing for a minute and finish a chapter of my latest FAVORITE book had to get under your nerves. Oh, not to mention spending WAY too much time on baby name websites because the main characters name was off just a little. You were right we should have stuck with Bob & Mary until the end. We would have saved time.
I’m not apologizing if that’s what you think. Everything happens for a reason. You’re agented, published, and a rock star now. It means I did the right thing. I think we might have gone through one to many cartons of Ben & Jerry’s but we were supporting our dreams and a cry fest without ice cream is just ludicrous.
Actually now rethinking all the crap we went through I think we should be apologizing to the hubs. He watched as each rejection rolled in and didn’t always roll of our shoulders. Some of them were some hard hits, and he sweetly allowed us to watch far too many episodes of Sex & the City. I thank him for that.
So it’s been fun. Who knew writing would be such a wild ride. I can’t believe we originally thought it’d be as easy as writing a book and sending it out. Joke was on us. How many did you end up writing before you got one published? Yeah… a lot. They weren’t kidding when they said to do your research. We were a little slow on the uptake weren’t we? Sending out crappy work to critique partners asking them to make sense of shit on paper and what was really sad is that they were sweet enough to do so. We were insanely lucky.
Geniuses. That’s what we are. You keep doing what you’re doing, obviously it worked.
Catch you at your next signing,
Me
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Agent Love
Don't worry, this is still Tuesday Twist. It's just an extra twist (so fun right?)!
I've chosen this week to feature novels that an agency has taken on. Since all of us are in the querying stage at one point in our writing lives this might give you an extra name you might not have originally thought of!
So let's get started... this week's agency is Park Literary.
First Sentences
1. The problem with Burbank, Nikki decided, was that it wasn't in black-and-white.
2. The M.D. doesn't mean what you think it does.
3. "I read your emails," I tell Stuart.
Secret Titles
1. Secret Revealed
2. Secret Revealed
3. Secret Revealed
So, would you read any?
Author note: This took a lot more time to research then just the regular one's but I had a lot of fun and new authors were featured!
I've chosen this week to feature novels that an agency has taken on. Since all of us are in the querying stage at one point in our writing lives this might give you an extra name you might not have originally thought of!
So let's get started... this week's agency is Park Literary.
First Sentences
1. The problem with Burbank, Nikki decided, was that it wasn't in black-and-white.
2. The M.D. doesn't mean what you think it does.
3. "I read your emails," I tell Stuart.
Secret Titles
1. Secret Revealed
2. Secret Revealed
3. Secret Revealed
So, would you read any?
Author note: This took a lot more time to research then just the regular one's but I had a lot of fun and new authors were featured!
Monday, May 23, 2011
Beginning of Summer Giveaway
Books! Books! Books!
I've gotten my hands on some awesome reads. Ranging from copies of soon to be released ARC's all the way to personally signed novels.
With the weather changing and the birds chirping I think it's time for an epic giveaway. I've noticed my follower count jumping up and wanted to show appreciation for all you fabulous readers taking your time to read my rants and rambles!
I also want to celebrate a new blog - Afterglow Book Reviews - that I joined a few weeks ago. It's a group of writers that share books that left them breathless. Books that should be devoured immediately. A few of those books to be given away over at the blog! So rather than doing the giveaway on Unedited all of us writers banned together for an EPIC Giveaway!!!
Head over to Afterglow Book Reviews to check out the awesomeness! Be sure to follow and comment so your entry counts! Shout-outs and tweets are welcome for brownie points!
See you over there!
Contest Dates: May 23rd thru June 9th - Winner chosen - June 10th
I've gotten my hands on some awesome reads. Ranging from copies of soon to be released ARC's all the way to personally signed novels.
With the weather changing and the birds chirping I think it's time for an epic giveaway. I've noticed my follower count jumping up and wanted to show appreciation for all you fabulous readers taking your time to read my rants and rambles!
I also want to celebrate a new blog - Afterglow Book Reviews - that I joined a few weeks ago. It's a group of writers that share books that left them breathless. Books that should be devoured immediately. A few of those books to be given away over at the blog! So rather than doing the giveaway on Unedited all of us writers banned together for an EPIC Giveaway!!!
Head over to Afterglow Book Reviews to check out the awesomeness! Be sure to follow and comment so your entry counts! Shout-outs and tweets are welcome for brownie points!
See you over there!
Contest Dates: May 23rd thru June 9th - Winner chosen - June 10th
Friday, May 20, 2011
Positive Patterns
Patterns. We all fall victim to sundresses for summer, spring floral fashion, fall book covers, and cute snow boots for winter.
Does the same happen with our writing?
In the Spring & Summer months I love to write of love and happiness. It is also the best time to edit, the sunshine beaming through my window giving me the vitamin D I need to keep pressing forward until I feel the end has come.
In the Fall & Winter months I write dark and serious novels. Those novels that are life changing, my characters have in depth issues that must be worked through before they able to take the reins on their life and become successful. Editing is not good in this time for my dark and dreary moods cause for feeling very defeated, but it's when my voice shines the most.
What pattern have you created for yourself? Do you ever view it as a positive or negative? Wish you could change it?
Does the same happen with our writing?
In the Spring & Summer months I love to write of love and happiness. It is also the best time to edit, the sunshine beaming through my window giving me the vitamin D I need to keep pressing forward until I feel the end has come.
In the Fall & Winter months I write dark and serious novels. Those novels that are life changing, my characters have in depth issues that must be worked through before they able to take the reins on their life and become successful. Editing is not good in this time for my dark and dreary moods cause for feeling very defeated, but it's when my voice shines the most.
What pattern have you created for yourself? Do you ever view it as a positive or negative? Wish you could change it?
Labels:
fall,
patterns for writing,
spring,
summer,
winter
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Truth Thursdays
Today is a bit more detailed, between flowers and motion sickness I reveal my usual strange, adorable, quirky self.
Enjoy!
1. I love lillies, there is something calming and beautiful about them (then again aren't all flowers just divine)?
2. I love the beach. Galveston, Texas may have dirty water, and other Houstonians may not get near it but there is something about swimming near dolphins and just enjoying the atmosphere that keeps me going back (that and being from Iowa, a beach is a beach).
3. I love the 'would you rather' questions. My husband has a calendar full of them and every day we ask eachother what we'd rather. We hardly agree.
4. A pet peeve of mine is too many shoes laying around in the house. My one weakness is leaving too many shoes out. What's a girl to do?
5. I love fruity cocktails but I don't like to feel the buzz. I love to fly but hate the motion. I love the feeling of wind against my skin while traveling on a boat, but it makes my stomach queasy. Solutions? None, just continue enjoying the cocktails, flying, and letting the wind hit my face.
What are your truths?
Enjoy!
1. I love lillies, there is something calming and beautiful about them (then again aren't all flowers just divine)?
2. I love the beach. Galveston, Texas may have dirty water, and other Houstonians may not get near it but there is something about swimming near dolphins and just enjoying the atmosphere that keeps me going back (that and being from Iowa, a beach is a beach).
3. I love the 'would you rather' questions. My husband has a calendar full of them and every day we ask eachother what we'd rather. We hardly agree.
4. A pet peeve of mine is too many shoes laying around in the house. My one weakness is leaving too many shoes out. What's a girl to do?
5. I love fruity cocktails but I don't like to feel the buzz. I love to fly but hate the motion. I love the feeling of wind against my skin while traveling on a boat, but it makes my stomach queasy. Solutions? None, just continue enjoying the cocktails, flying, and letting the wind hit my face.
What are your truths?
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Query Hell or Cupcake Heaven?
Querying & Cupcakes.... Want to know what they have in common?
Hop over to Stephanie Haefner's blog to find out my struggles and solutions to querying.
What stage of the writing game are you in?
Hop over to Stephanie Haefner's blog to find out my struggles and solutions to querying.
What stage of the writing game are you in?
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Tuesday Twist
Hello! Another installment of the fabulous Tuesday Twist. A great way to read three sentences and see if you're willing to give the book a try!!
This week I've mixed fiction with non-fiction for fun!
First Sentences
1. I first got the call, I thought he died.
2. Welcome Friend, Congratluations on your purchase of this American-made genuine book.
3. Only three people were left under the red and white awning of the grease joint: Grady, me, and the fry cook.
The Titles
1. Secret Revealed
2. Secret Revealed
3. Secret Revealed
What would you read?
PS - I'm thinking of doing an agent style one in the upcoming weeks. Who is your agent? What is your #1 agent choice? It'd be a great way to showcase some books that might not normally be featured.
This week I've mixed fiction with non-fiction for fun!
First Sentences
1. I first got the call, I thought he died.
2. Welcome Friend, Congratluations on your purchase of this American-made genuine book.
3. Only three people were left under the red and white awning of the grease joint: Grady, me, and the fry cook.
The Titles
1. Secret Revealed
2. Secret Revealed
3. Secret Revealed
What would you read?
PS - I'm thinking of doing an agent style one in the upcoming weeks. Who is your agent? What is your #1 agent choice? It'd be a great way to showcase some books that might not normally be featured.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Writing's on the wall
Here is Monday’s writing on the walls. I take a whiteboard and hang it in a different part of the apartment to give myself a new set of ideas. This is the Bubble Bath Diaries I just started working on… hope you enjoy!
The Bubble Bath Diaries
By Jennifer Daiker
Time: 8 a.m.
Task: Bubble bath torture aka overflowing the bathtub
Status: Captured
I watch the subject enter the double doors. Still unaware of what they’re about to walk into. I can feel the giggling climbing up my stomach and I am forced to drop my notepad and cover my mouth before they erupt. This is the one thing I can’t control… yet. Once the giggles have subsided I quietly sneak into subject’s room, carefully twisting the knob as practiced to not make noise and hear the subject humming – not well – but that distracts her from the creak of my mistakes. I had practiced this for days and of course I step on the creaky floorboard. Thank god my cover wasn’t blown.
“What the he-, “she squeals, “ANNIE!”
Before the subject has time to attack I’ve implemented the escape.
“MOM!”
Moments later my mom stands in front of us completely frazzled.
“Annabelle we’ve had this talk before, no more shenanigans. Mommy can’t handle all the trouble right now,” she says pointing a finger in my direction.
My sister stomps her feet before the whining begins, “She’s always ruining things,” she says.
“No she isn’t, that was just mean Alex,” my mom said.
I stand in the hallway as they both start arguing with one another, mom’s winning. Alexandra hates nothing more than being called Alex and my mom is the only one who gets away with it, sort of. I’m not sure I would want to be named after a boy either. My mother insists Alexandria is a family name but I think if that’s the case we should call her Alexandria not Alex.
This is the whole reason I was playing a prank in the first place. This house is boring during the summertime. How else am I supposed to occupy my time? I told my mom if we didn’t get a pool it would make me even more bored. She didn’t listen. Overflowing bath bubbles isn’t the worst thing in the world. My sister did need to bathe anyway; I was just giving her more of the smelly stuff she always wears. Next time I’ll just be farther away from the action.
What have you been working on?! Do you have different methods you use while writing out an idea?
The Bubble Bath Diaries
By Jennifer Daiker
Time: 8 a.m.
Task: Bubble bath torture aka overflowing the bathtub
Status: Captured
I watch the subject enter the double doors. Still unaware of what they’re about to walk into. I can feel the giggling climbing up my stomach and I am forced to drop my notepad and cover my mouth before they erupt. This is the one thing I can’t control… yet. Once the giggles have subsided I quietly sneak into subject’s room, carefully twisting the knob as practiced to not make noise and hear the subject humming – not well – but that distracts her from the creak of my mistakes. I had practiced this for days and of course I step on the creaky floorboard. Thank god my cover wasn’t blown.
“What the he-, “she squeals, “ANNIE!”
Before the subject has time to attack I’ve implemented the escape.
“MOM!”
Moments later my mom stands in front of us completely frazzled.
“Annabelle we’ve had this talk before, no more shenanigans. Mommy can’t handle all the trouble right now,” she says pointing a finger in my direction.
My sister stomps her feet before the whining begins, “She’s always ruining things,” she says.
“No she isn’t, that was just mean Alex,” my mom said.
I stand in the hallway as they both start arguing with one another, mom’s winning. Alexandra hates nothing more than being called Alex and my mom is the only one who gets away with it, sort of. I’m not sure I would want to be named after a boy either. My mother insists Alexandria is a family name but I think if that’s the case we should call her Alexandria not Alex.
This is the whole reason I was playing a prank in the first place. This house is boring during the summertime. How else am I supposed to occupy my time? I told my mom if we didn’t get a pool it would make me even more bored. She didn’t listen. Overflowing bath bubbles isn’t the worst thing in the world. My sister did need to bathe anyway; I was just giving her more of the smelly stuff she always wears. Next time I’ll just be farther away from the action.
What have you been working on?! Do you have different methods you use while writing out an idea?
Friday, May 13, 2011
The Sweetest Thing
Yay blogger is back up and running!!!! Good God it's been killing me! Since today is an interview! Sorry about Truth Thursdays... or should I say BLOGGER SHOULD BE SORRY :)
Today I'm showcasing a fabulous female and her debut novel. Christina Mandelski wrote The Sweetest Thing (yes it's YA) and 5/10 was her Book Birthday!!!! So be sure to stop by her blog, twitter, or facebook page and wish her a proper Happy Book Birthday! Today I've interviewed her for this special occassion!
1. What made you start writing?
I was a voracious reader from a very early age – I’d read anything I could get my hands on – from my mom’s cookbooks to my dad’s collection of material on the Kennedy assassination (how weird was I?) Of course, my favorite books were the ones I brought home in armfuls from the library. I loved mysteries, historical fiction (Little House on the Prairie), realistic (Judy Blume), fantasy (The Princess and the Goblin), biographies. I truly loved how one book could transport me to a different time or place, introduce me to new people, creatures, ways of life – it was like magic to me. The first time I remember wanting to be a writer was around the 3rd grade. I knew, without a doubt that I wanted to make that kind of magic.
2. Why cake-decorating? Is it a secret passion?
I wanted my main character to be an artist, and to have a passion for her art that ran deep, kinda like I’ve always felt about writing. When I began writing the novel in 2007, my family and I were hooked on the Ace of Cakes show on TV. In my opinion, the cakes that they create are masterpieces and I thought it would be interesting to write a teenager who could do the same kind of thing. Plus, I thought it would be a blast to dream up incredible cakes, and it was!
Alas, though I have taken a cake decorating class from a very talented artist – I don’t have the patience, or the passion, to pursue that particular art form! I’m always willing to eat the resulting masterpiece, though – always!
3. What drew you to writing for teens?
I always assumed I’d write adult books, but all of my stories were coming out with teen main characters, so I went with the flow. Now I can’t imagine writing for anyone else. The young adult years are when we start to figure stuff out – what kind of person to be, what to do with our lives, how to love others (platonic, familial and romantic). Basically, it’s the beginning of us trying to figure out where we fit into this world. From an author’s perspective, this makes for a wonderful setting for stories ripe with emotion, meaning, turmoil, romance and of course, humor and fun.
4. Did you snag yourself an agent or go straight for the publisher? Share your story!
I’m very fortunate to have a wonderful agent and agency. I’m with Upstart Crow Literary, repped by Danielle Chiotti, who is, in a word, brilliant. The founder of Upstart Crow, Michael Stearns pulled me out of the slush in early 2009, and basically made my decade!
5. What do you find most rewarding about writing?
I get to do what I love every day. Not everyone can say that, and I don’t for one minute take it for granted. Of course, I also get to wear my pajamas all day if I want to (definite perk).
Fun & Random
Favorite cake flavor: Dark chocolate with vanilla buttercream frosting!
Favorite place to write: I love the quiet room of our local library. It’s got a wall of windows that looks out onto the woods. It’s like writing in a very quiet treehouse.
Panda or Polar Bear: Hmmm … which one has the least chance of mauling me?
Chick flick or horror: Chick flick all the way! After Nightmare on Elm Street in the 7th grade, I was done with horror forever.
Favorite read: My favorite book of all time is To Kill a Mockingbird, and The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett is my go-to children’s book.
Silly string or Silly putty: As a kid, I would’ve been all over the silly string. As a mom, silly putty is much less labor intensive. Plus someone recently told me that if you’re ever thinking of getting a tattoo, lift a picture onto silly putty and stretch it out to see what it’ll look like as you age. Gonna keep that one in my back pocket as my daughters get older. Yikes, I sound like a mom, don’t I?
Isn't she fun and fabulous?! So here is the best news ever... she'll be having a signing here in Houston on May 14th at Blue Willow Bookshop at one p.m. so if you are around the Houston area I suggest you stop in for the fun! She's also having some CONTEST fun so do be sure to check it out, contest ends at the end of MAY!
Today I'm showcasing a fabulous female and her debut novel. Christina Mandelski wrote The Sweetest Thing (yes it's YA) and 5/10 was her Book Birthday!!!! So be sure to stop by her blog, twitter, or facebook page and wish her a proper Happy Book Birthday! Today I've interviewed her for this special occassion!
1. What made you start writing?
I was a voracious reader from a very early age – I’d read anything I could get my hands on – from my mom’s cookbooks to my dad’s collection of material on the Kennedy assassination (how weird was I?) Of course, my favorite books were the ones I brought home in armfuls from the library. I loved mysteries, historical fiction (Little House on the Prairie), realistic (Judy Blume), fantasy (The Princess and the Goblin), biographies. I truly loved how one book could transport me to a different time or place, introduce me to new people, creatures, ways of life – it was like magic to me. The first time I remember wanting to be a writer was around the 3rd grade. I knew, without a doubt that I wanted to make that kind of magic.
2. Why cake-decorating? Is it a secret passion?
I wanted my main character to be an artist, and to have a passion for her art that ran deep, kinda like I’ve always felt about writing. When I began writing the novel in 2007, my family and I were hooked on the Ace of Cakes show on TV. In my opinion, the cakes that they create are masterpieces and I thought it would be interesting to write a teenager who could do the same kind of thing. Plus, I thought it would be a blast to dream up incredible cakes, and it was!
Alas, though I have taken a cake decorating class from a very talented artist – I don’t have the patience, or the passion, to pursue that particular art form! I’m always willing to eat the resulting masterpiece, though – always!
3. What drew you to writing for teens?
I always assumed I’d write adult books, but all of my stories were coming out with teen main characters, so I went with the flow. Now I can’t imagine writing for anyone else. The young adult years are when we start to figure stuff out – what kind of person to be, what to do with our lives, how to love others (platonic, familial and romantic). Basically, it’s the beginning of us trying to figure out where we fit into this world. From an author’s perspective, this makes for a wonderful setting for stories ripe with emotion, meaning, turmoil, romance and of course, humor and fun.
4. Did you snag yourself an agent or go straight for the publisher? Share your story!
I’m very fortunate to have a wonderful agent and agency. I’m with Upstart Crow Literary, repped by Danielle Chiotti, who is, in a word, brilliant. The founder of Upstart Crow, Michael Stearns pulled me out of the slush in early 2009, and basically made my decade!
5. What do you find most rewarding about writing?
I get to do what I love every day. Not everyone can say that, and I don’t for one minute take it for granted. Of course, I also get to wear my pajamas all day if I want to (definite perk).
Fun & Random
Favorite cake flavor: Dark chocolate with vanilla buttercream frosting!
Favorite place to write: I love the quiet room of our local library. It’s got a wall of windows that looks out onto the woods. It’s like writing in a very quiet treehouse.
Panda or Polar Bear: Hmmm … which one has the least chance of mauling me?
Chick flick or horror: Chick flick all the way! After Nightmare on Elm Street in the 7th grade, I was done with horror forever.
Favorite read: My favorite book of all time is To Kill a Mockingbird, and The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett is my go-to children’s book.
Silly string or Silly putty: As a kid, I would’ve been all over the silly string. As a mom, silly putty is much less labor intensive. Plus someone recently told me that if you’re ever thinking of getting a tattoo, lift a picture onto silly putty and stretch it out to see what it’ll look like as you age. Gonna keep that one in my back pocket as my daughters get older. Yikes, I sound like a mom, don’t I?
Isn't she fun and fabulous?! So here is the best news ever... she'll be having a signing here in Houston on May 14th at Blue Willow Bookshop at one p.m. so if you are around the Houston area I suggest you stop in for the fun! She's also having some CONTEST fun so do be sure to check it out, contest ends at the end of MAY!
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
For the love of Fantasy!
Happy Wednesday!
Today I have a fabulous guest on Unedited, the wonderful Nicole Zoltack! She's talking about how she created her fantasy world.
I love writing fantasy because you start with nothing. You can create an entire world, one that doesn't have to be limited by what is real, one where mythological creatures and magic can be the norm.
In a way, all writers are creators because we create our characters and their worlds. We create conflict and tension and make bad things happen to them, all so that when they achieve their goals, it means that much more to the reader.
When I first started to write the Kingdom of Arnhem series, I knew I wanted the world to be set in a medieval-type world technology-wise, but I also wanted there to be magic. But then I took it one step further and actually set the series in a specific year in our Middle Ages.
Only it wasn't our Middle Ages.
Not completely. Instead of North and South America, there was a different continent - Alethereia. And Alethereia was home to all the magic in the world. Europe and Asia had the exact same past as ours did, and were completely separate from Alethereia and ignorant of magic, as it was in history.
Essentially, my fantasy romance series is set in an alternative medieval world. There are knights and chivalry, romance and love, trolls, dwarves, Drow, war, evil, good. My favorite character is Aislinn, the young girl who wanted to become a knight. Her story is the first book, Woman of Honor. She always knows what she wants and does whatever it takes to get it. Her drive inspires me.
Although the Kingdom of Arnhem series is a trilogy, I plan on writing other books set in that world - some preceding the events in the trilogy, some after. I think it would be great fun to write a story set in 1492, when Christopher sailed the ocean blue and landed on Alethereia…
If you could create a fantasy world, what would it look like? Who would live there? Would there be magic or vampires or…. The possibilities are endless!
Want to walk away with some fun stuff? Leave a comment below to be entered to win some signed post cards and magnets. Each comment during the Champion of Valor Blog Tour gives you an entry for the grand prize: a copy of the entire Kingdom of Arnhem trilogy - Woman of Honor, Knight of Glory, and Champion of Valor.
Today I have a fabulous guest on Unedited, the wonderful Nicole Zoltack! She's talking about how she created her fantasy world.
I love writing fantasy because you start with nothing. You can create an entire world, one that doesn't have to be limited by what is real, one where mythological creatures and magic can be the norm.
In a way, all writers are creators because we create our characters and their worlds. We create conflict and tension and make bad things happen to them, all so that when they achieve their goals, it means that much more to the reader.
When I first started to write the Kingdom of Arnhem series, I knew I wanted the world to be set in a medieval-type world technology-wise, but I also wanted there to be magic. But then I took it one step further and actually set the series in a specific year in our Middle Ages.
Only it wasn't our Middle Ages.
Not completely. Instead of North and South America, there was a different continent - Alethereia. And Alethereia was home to all the magic in the world. Europe and Asia had the exact same past as ours did, and were completely separate from Alethereia and ignorant of magic, as it was in history.
Essentially, my fantasy romance series is set in an alternative medieval world. There are knights and chivalry, romance and love, trolls, dwarves, Drow, war, evil, good. My favorite character is Aislinn, the young girl who wanted to become a knight. Her story is the first book, Woman of Honor. She always knows what she wants and does whatever it takes to get it. Her drive inspires me.
Although the Kingdom of Arnhem series is a trilogy, I plan on writing other books set in that world - some preceding the events in the trilogy, some after. I think it would be great fun to write a story set in 1492, when Christopher sailed the ocean blue and landed on Alethereia…
If you could create a fantasy world, what would it look like? Who would live there? Would there be magic or vampires or…. The possibilities are endless!
Want to walk away with some fun stuff? Leave a comment below to be entered to win some signed post cards and magnets. Each comment during the Champion of Valor Blog Tour gives you an entry for the grand prize: a copy of the entire Kingdom of Arnhem trilogy - Woman of Honor, Knight of Glory, and Champion of Valor.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Twisted Velvet Chains
Today I'm taking a break from Twist Tuesday's to share a very special blogger and friend of ours Jessica Bell! She's written Twisted Velvet Chains, a collection of poetry. So today I'll be reviewing her book!
Twisted Velvet Chains by Jessica Bell
Not one to normally pick up a book of poetry I took a leap of faith unaware on what I'd find with each page.
I was left breathless. This book is not meant for those who love the light and airy feel of certain poems. Bell gives you painstaken attention to detail with the raw and moving emotion that each poem leaves.
This book represents real life, real emotion, and real people. Growing up with a bi-polar mother I found myself captivated and in touch with the feelings that are shared. Brutal honesty doesn't even begin to describe what Bell opens in this collection, you'll walk away with new meaning and understanding not only with the author but also with certain relations you experienced within the poems.
Some poems left me teary-eyed & gut-wrenched as if I'd replaced the writer and felt every emotion she'd felt. For a collection that will move you I suggest you pick up a copy of Twisted Velvet Chains, the honesty will knock you off your feet.
Twisted Velvet Chains by Jessica Bell
Not one to normally pick up a book of poetry I took a leap of faith unaware on what I'd find with each page.
I was left breathless. This book is not meant for those who love the light and airy feel of certain poems. Bell gives you painstaken attention to detail with the raw and moving emotion that each poem leaves.
This book represents real life, real emotion, and real people. Growing up with a bi-polar mother I found myself captivated and in touch with the feelings that are shared. Brutal honesty doesn't even begin to describe what Bell opens in this collection, you'll walk away with new meaning and understanding not only with the author but also with certain relations you experienced within the poems.
Some poems left me teary-eyed & gut-wrenched as if I'd replaced the writer and felt every emotion she'd felt. For a collection that will move you I suggest you pick up a copy of Twisted Velvet Chains, the honesty will knock you off your feet.
Monday, May 9, 2011
If I snag an Agent
You read the post right. If I snag an Agent.
Karen Hooper and I are in the querying trenches together right now and decided it'd be fun to add a little fun to the possiblity of being agented.
Her and I will get to meet each other in November when I make a trip to the Wizarding World and we've decided that if we are both agented by then we will do something nutty (not unusual for me, I know). Her and I have become fabulous online friends and now we'll be making the real life relationship as well!!
What's fun about this is that you, the reader, will get to decide what crazy stunt we do!!
Here are the options:
1. Disney fun: Dancing around disney like nutjobs (complete with costumes - or at least some Mickey Mouse ears).
2. Dancing down the street to The Dog Days Are Over (Yes, Karen and I will be hand in hand with my hubby graciously taping the whole thing - most likely unwillingly).
3. Going to Writer's Stop making our own books and pretending to sell them to strangers (this one I think it an amazing idea).
4. Other ideas.
Now I would love to hear your thoughts on what you are rooting for to win in the comment section! On top of that there is a poll on my sidebar, could you pretty please (with sugar on top) go and select the option you most want so it's counted! Let's get some good numbers people... it's going to be Epic!
If you have another suggestion provide it in the comment sections and as the months progress I'll add it to the poll to be considered!
SO again, if Karen and I reach our goal of agenthood come November we will do some crazy stuff!!
Karen Hooper and I are in the querying trenches together right now and decided it'd be fun to add a little fun to the possiblity of being agented.
Her and I will get to meet each other in November when I make a trip to the Wizarding World and we've decided that if we are both agented by then we will do something nutty (not unusual for me, I know). Her and I have become fabulous online friends and now we'll be making the real life relationship as well!!
What's fun about this is that you, the reader, will get to decide what crazy stunt we do!!
Here are the options:
1. Disney fun: Dancing around disney like nutjobs (complete with costumes - or at least some Mickey Mouse ears).
2. Dancing down the street to The Dog Days Are Over (Yes, Karen and I will be hand in hand with my hubby graciously taping the whole thing - most likely unwillingly).
3. Going to Writer's Stop making our own books and pretending to sell them to strangers (this one I think it an amazing idea).
4. Other ideas.
Now I would love to hear your thoughts on what you are rooting for to win in the comment section! On top of that there is a poll on my sidebar, could you pretty please (with sugar on top) go and select the option you most want so it's counted! Let's get some good numbers people... it's going to be Epic!
If you have another suggestion provide it in the comment sections and as the months progress I'll add it to the poll to be considered!
SO again, if Karen and I reach our goal of agenthood come November we will do some crazy stuff!!
Friday, May 6, 2011
Friday Fun
Bloggers and Twitterites have too much fun. I love being among the awesome. Today I have a few comics I want to share with you after googling (yes that’s my source) to find some funnies for Friday. I don’t claim to be hilarious… but they’re at least cute. Hopefully you'll find the cuteness in them and they give you a bit of a chuckle!
Got any funness going on?
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Truth Thursday's
Yay! I love my truth Thursday’s edition. This is the day where you can say anything weird and no one will judge you… at least until Friday ;)
1. My husband and I have become season’s geeks. Live television is lacking, don’t get me wrong I love reality TV – my husband… not so much – so we have been buying season dvd’s. The latest was Weeds and it was addicting.
2. Spring/Summer time has me reading the light and airy reads! If you’re an author with a sunflower on your cover or girls in pretty sundresses chances are you’re on the top of my list to read. It doesn’t have to be a happy read but if the cover is all about spring then I’m in. I am a girl who judges a book by its cover, in certain months.
3. I don’t like to spend money on just anything. Pandora only allows you to use 40 hours’ worth of their music for the month for free. I was so lazy I’d open up three different accounts to utilize the 40 hours. I finally buckled and paid the $36… and I don’t regret it. Pandora One is the bomb.
4. I’m kind of addicted to American Idol. Casey & Haley rock my world every week. I don’t want to say good-bye.
5. I have three random items at my desk to keep me sane. #1 kitty, pirate boy, and a plush burrito. They scream awesome.
6. I've added one extra to share that I'm addicted to author signings!!! Blue Willow Bookshop has the one-stop shop of awesomeness and this evening Lauren Oliver will be in Houston at Blue Willow at 7 p.m.! So grab your friends, your snacks, and your debit card so we can really make this event awesome! For details hop over here! Next week there will be even more fun! Go to my Blue Willow tab for details!
So what are your truths?
1. My husband and I have become season’s geeks. Live television is lacking, don’t get me wrong I love reality TV – my husband… not so much – so we have been buying season dvd’s. The latest was Weeds and it was addicting.
2. Spring/Summer time has me reading the light and airy reads! If you’re an author with a sunflower on your cover or girls in pretty sundresses chances are you’re on the top of my list to read. It doesn’t have to be a happy read but if the cover is all about spring then I’m in. I am a girl who judges a book by its cover, in certain months.
3. I don’t like to spend money on just anything. Pandora only allows you to use 40 hours’ worth of their music for the month for free. I was so lazy I’d open up three different accounts to utilize the 40 hours. I finally buckled and paid the $36… and I don’t regret it. Pandora One is the bomb.
4. I’m kind of addicted to American Idol. Casey & Haley rock my world every week. I don’t want to say good-bye.
5. I have three random items at my desk to keep me sane. #1 kitty, pirate boy, and a plush burrito. They scream awesome.
6. I've added one extra to share that I'm addicted to author signings!!! Blue Willow Bookshop has the one-stop shop of awesomeness and this evening Lauren Oliver will be in Houston at Blue Willow at 7 p.m.! So grab your friends, your snacks, and your debit card so we can really make this event awesome! For details hop over here! Next week there will be even more fun! Go to my Blue Willow tab for details!
So what are your truths?
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Writer's Research
Happy Wednesday!!!
Today I want to talk about writing – sort of. As opposed to every day right! I love writing as do most of you who follow me.
For those of you who aren’t familiar with the writing process there is a part of the writing where research must happen, sometimes a lot of it.
For a character recently I had to ask Lydia to do a post on her blog for Medical Mondays’ regarding a MC of mine who hardly ever spoke. I wanted to make sure her lungs wouldn’t be affected if she stopped speaking for a long period of time.
I read on Jennifer Hillier’s blog how she visited a women’s correctional facility and spoke with the warden to get a better idea of how the facility worked, all for a new book. (Click here to access PT 1 of the 4 part series as Jennifer shares what she learned!)
I was inspired by Jennifer. I didn’t think I’d have the guts to ask anyone to help me in writing a book. What do you say? What if they say no? What if it ends up being one awful idea?
I stuck all the questions and what if’s in my back pocket and decided to take a chance. My MC told me she was a wedding planner… problem was, I am not. I took a chance and emailed someone who was in the business and asked if she’d be interested in taking me through her process. Within a day she responded and was so excited!
Just like that I ended up being extremely grateful she said yes and she was over the moon that I’d even ask. Turned out that she’s a freelance writer and has always wanted to write a book! What are the odds? Looks like I might be able to give her tips while she gives me tips.
So have you ever stepped outside your comfort zone and had it turn out to be a huge reward? Have you talked with an expert for real details?
Today I want to talk about writing – sort of. As opposed to every day right! I love writing as do most of you who follow me.
For those of you who aren’t familiar with the writing process there is a part of the writing where research must happen, sometimes a lot of it.
For a character recently I had to ask Lydia to do a post on her blog for Medical Mondays’ regarding a MC of mine who hardly ever spoke. I wanted to make sure her lungs wouldn’t be affected if she stopped speaking for a long period of time.
I read on Jennifer Hillier’s blog how she visited a women’s correctional facility and spoke with the warden to get a better idea of how the facility worked, all for a new book. (Click here to access PT 1 of the 4 part series as Jennifer shares what she learned!)
I was inspired by Jennifer. I didn’t think I’d have the guts to ask anyone to help me in writing a book. What do you say? What if they say no? What if it ends up being one awful idea?
I stuck all the questions and what if’s in my back pocket and decided to take a chance. My MC told me she was a wedding planner… problem was, I am not. I took a chance and emailed someone who was in the business and asked if she’d be interested in taking me through her process. Within a day she responded and was so excited!
Just like that I ended up being extremely grateful she said yes and she was over the moon that I’d even ask. Turned out that she’s a freelance writer and has always wanted to write a book! What are the odds? Looks like I might be able to give her tips while she gives me tips.
So have you ever stepped outside your comfort zone and had it turn out to be a huge reward? Have you talked with an expert for real details?
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Awesome First Sentences... or are they?
For all those who are new, Tuesday Twists are where I’ll select three novels and share their first sentences and a link to reveal that said title. From there rather than judging a book by its cover you’ll instead you’ll judge a book by its first line.
Here we go!
Sentences:
1. I wait.
2. Talk about random.
3. I am ninety.
Results:
1. Secret Book Revealed
2. Secret Book Revealed
3. Secret Book Revealed
Author note: I got luck choosing three books that had such short sentences. I wanted to add a second sentence but that would be cheating so I refrained. For my opinion I believe #1 is the best book I've read this year so far!
So what novel would you choose?
Here we go!
Sentences:
1. I wait.
2. Talk about random.
3. I am ninety.
Results:
1. Secret Book Revealed
2. Secret Book Revealed
3. Secret Book Revealed
Author note: I got luck choosing three books that had such short sentences. I wanted to add a second sentence but that would be cheating so I refrained. For my opinion I believe #1 is the best book I've read this year so far!
So what novel would you choose?
Monday, May 2, 2011
Create your socks off!
Happy Monday!!!
Phew! The challenge is over. I loved the A to Z challenge, it really bonds us together as a blogging/writing world and just allows us to meet some fabulous people along the way!!!
So hello to all my oldies (yes, you're still fab) and to all my newbies! You are all rockstars and I'm glad you stopped by!!!!
So obvioulsy I know that you can all create your socks off but I want to start my Monday off with writing fun and what better way then to chat about just being creative in whatever genre or style you perfer.
As you all know I do love to write fiction, my speciality being Young Adult fantasy and Adult chick lit. I guess you could call me the jack of all trades. Could I dabble in creative non-fiction as well?
I do love to write what I feel and just have fun with it no matter what it is. I think often times we focus too much on what an agent will like and what all new writers (and old forgetful one's) should remember is that you should first write for YOU. Agents love the characters YOU fall in love, the voice YOU create, overall they're looking for YOU and what you're capable of.
That brings me to my next project. I'm stepping outside of my comfort zone and walking on the wild side... Non-fiction. Lately my curosity has led me to the world of non-fiction, devouring the said section in my local Barnes & Noble. It seems I might have an interest in creative non-fiction. Who knows, maybe it'll lead to agenthood. But if it doesn't at least I can say I dabbled in it, and in writing I think that's what matters most. Just enjoying the ride.
Have you ever crossed the world of creative fiction over to creative non-fiction? What project are you dabbling in?
Phew! The challenge is over. I loved the A to Z challenge, it really bonds us together as a blogging/writing world and just allows us to meet some fabulous people along the way!!!
So hello to all my oldies (yes, you're still fab) and to all my newbies! You are all rockstars and I'm glad you stopped by!!!!
So obvioulsy I know that you can all create your socks off but I want to start my Monday off with writing fun and what better way then to chat about just being creative in whatever genre or style you perfer.
As you all know I do love to write fiction, my speciality being Young Adult fantasy and Adult chick lit. I guess you could call me the jack of all trades. Could I dabble in creative non-fiction as well?
I do love to write what I feel and just have fun with it no matter what it is. I think often times we focus too much on what an agent will like and what all new writers (and old forgetful one's) should remember is that you should first write for YOU. Agents love the characters YOU fall in love, the voice YOU create, overall they're looking for YOU and what you're capable of.
That brings me to my next project. I'm stepping outside of my comfort zone and walking on the wild side... Non-fiction. Lately my curosity has led me to the world of non-fiction, devouring the said section in my local Barnes & Noble. It seems I might have an interest in creative non-fiction. Who knows, maybe it'll lead to agenthood. But if it doesn't at least I can say I dabbled in it, and in writing I think that's what matters most. Just enjoying the ride.
Have you ever crossed the world of creative fiction over to creative non-fiction? What project are you dabbling in?
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