Finding Hope by Beth Fred

Release date: September 1st 2014
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22708851-finding-hope

Synopsis via Goodreads:
When insecure eighteen-year-old Kailee Hill gets caught tagging Iraq war refugee, Abrahem Yohanna's garage, she's not expecting him to act as her designated driver, hold her hair back when she pukes, or offer to be a shoulder to cry on. But she's failing chemistry and her life is falling apart, so she uses the number Abe leaves her and finds herself with a new tutor.
The two quickly find themselves falling hard for each other. Kailee attacks a local grunt when he calls Abe a "sand nigger" and fights with her veteran brother to be with him. When she learns Abe hasn't told his family about her, she's heartbroken and the couple risks losing everything they've worked to build. To make matters worse, Kailee's previous acts make her the prime suspect in a serious crime. With Kailee behind bars and doubting his feelings for her, Abe must find a way to rescue the girl he loves and win back her affection . And to do that he’ll have to catch a crook…

Author Interview

Can you tell us a little about your latest book?
Well, I’ve been working on rewrites for Perfect Harmony for what seems like forever. It’s about a girl whose sister dies in a car crash and the damaged musician who helps her through it.

What inspired you to write it?
If we are talking about Perfect Harmony, I’m not sure what inspired me, but the idea came to me while reading Simone Elkeles’ Leaving Paradise. If we are talking about Finding Hope, I really wanted to spend more time with my Peace characters, and this story is loosely inspired by my relationship with my immigrant husband, who is also from an Eastern culture. Many of my relatives have served in the Army/Marines.

How did you come up with the idea for the cover?
I found a stock photo I liked and my cover artist liked it too. I asked him to use my Marlowe Girl books as an example and this is what we came up with.

If it was made into a movie, who would you like to play the main characters?
Wow! This is a hard one. I don’t watch a lot of TVs/movies and I can see these characters in my head, but can’t think of people who look exactly like them.

What is it about this genre that appeals to you so much?
It’s the escape!

What made you want to become an author?
I had went back and forth with the idea for a long time then I watched Twilight a year after it came to dvd. New Moon was still on at the theater so the next day I made my husband take me. I clapped my hands and squealed, “Edward and Bella are getting married!” I went to B&N and bought the rest of the series. I read it over the weekend, then went back and read the first two books followed by the draft of Midnight Sun. I’ve been a romance writer since!

How do you come up with character names?
They often just come to me. But for the Peace books, I did some research to make sure these were names you would hear in Iraq. Also, in parts of the East your religion greatly affects your name, so with these characters it was important to have names from that area that weren’t strictly Mulsim.

Name one of your all-time favourite books?
Twilight.

Who, or what, inspires you?
Lots of things. Books, news stories, movies, my dreams.

Where is your favourite place to write?
I wish wish wish I had an office. But for now I write wherever I can put my laptop often with a screaming toddler. I wrote Finding Hope from my kitchen table while my baby played in front of me.

What is your favourite movie that was based on a book?
Again Twilight!

Name two of your favourite authors.
Tahra Mafi and Stephenie Meyer

If you could have a dinner party with any authors from any time in history, who would you choose and why?
Kelly Hashway, Ashley Maker, Charity Bradford, Medeia Sharif, Lexa Cain, and Catherine Stein. As far as I know, none of us are bestsellers. But these are my friends.

Tell us a random fact about yourself.
I was once a reluctant reader!

Who would play you in the movie about your life?
Renee Zellweger

Tell us an interesting fact about where you live.
There is a beautiful little chapel on Crystal Hill Lane that is a free place for small weddings. But Austin, Texas is otherwise the most awesome place in the world with the best food!

What are your (writing) plans for the future?
I’m still working on rewrites like I mentioned. I’m also creating a fiction workbook. There will be one more book in the Marlowe Girl series and I’m considering writing an easy reader series.

Tell us one thing that's on your bucket list.
Going to Europe, which I hope happens sooner rather than later because I would love to make a visit to Rome for book research.

Favourite myth / fairytale?
Cinderella

Who did you want to be when you were a kid?President.

Meet Beth Fred! That's me! I'm a full time ELF keeper and part time writer/blogger/writing instructor. I'm represented by Kathleen Rushall of Marsal Lyons Literary Agency. I like my tea hot, my romance sweet, and my guys chivalrous. Real men hold open doors, refer to you as ma'am, make promises they keep, and aren't afraid to profess their undying love. It's not breakfast if there aren't carbs(at least, not in the South). Fajitas, carnitas, and churros are just few of my favorite things. Bet you can't guess where I'm from ;)
http://bethfred.blogspot.com/ | https://www.facebook.com/bethfred08

Giveaway a Rafflecopter giveaway

Crossing the Ice by Jennifer Comeaux

Can you tell us a little about your latest book? 

Crossing the Ice tells the story of Courtney, a pair skater, who dreams of making the Olympic team with her partner Mark. But things get a lot more complicated when she falls for Josh, another pair skater who’s also trying to make the team with his sister Stephanie.

What inspired you to write it? 

Courtney was a minor character in my Edge series, and I wanted to delve further into her life and get to know her better. I was intrigued by the idea of skaters from rival teams falling for each other, and I thought Courtney would be the perfect person to put into that situation.

How did you come up with the idea for the cover? 

I struggled with ideas for the cover for a long time. The first cover mock-ups I saw didn’t feel right, so I asked a friend who’s a graphic designer for her help, and everything came together after that! She came up with some great ideas, and a couple of pair skaters generously volunteered to pose exactly how we needed. It was an awesome collaboration!

If it was made into a movie, who would you like to play the main characters? 

I’d love Amanda Seyfried as Courtney and Logan Lerman as Josh.

What is it about this genre that appeals to you so much? 

I love writing characters in this age group, 19-25. They’re young enough where they’re still trying to find their way but with more maturity than teenagers. I think it’s a fascinating time in our lives.

What made you want to become an author? 

When I was a little girl writing stories I dreamed of having a book published one day. When I started writing again as an adult, I wanted to share my stories with others so they could get to know the characters I’d grown to love. It makes me so happy when readers connect emotionally with them!

How do you come up with character names? 

The main characters’ names kind of randomly come to me. At first Josh’s name was Braden, but then as I started writing the story he felt like a Josh, so I changed it. For the minor characters, I often use the names of friends and loyal readers.

Name one of your all-time favourite books? 

To Kill a Mockingbird

Who, or what, inspires you? 

Travelling to skating competitions inspires me! It’s so fun to see how small the skating world is and how much real-life drama there is.

Where is your favourite place to write? 

In the big comfy chair in my living room

What is your favourite movie that was based on a book? 

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Name two of your favourite authors. 

Stephanie Perkins and Rainbow Rowell

If you could have a dinner party with any authors from any time in history, who would you choose and why? 

I’d love to have dinner with Tammara Webber, Stephanie Perkins, and Rainbow Rowell because they are some of my writing idols.

Tell us a random fact about yourself. 

I was born on Mardi Gras.

Who would play you in the movie about your life? 

Hmm… I don’t think my life is interesting enough for a movie!

Tell us an interesting fact about where you live. 

Many movies and TV shows have been filmed in my hometown recently. We’ve become known as Hollywood South.

What are your (writing) plans for the future? 

I’d like to continue writing skating romances and bringing more characters into the world!

Tell us one thing that's on your bucket list. 

A trip to Europe

Favourite myth / fairytale? 

Beauty and the Beast

Who did you want to be when you were a kid? 

I wanted to be a sports journalist or a writer.

Release date: August 7th 2014
Synopsis via Goodreads:

Falling hard never felt so good.
Pair skaters Courtney and Mark have one shot left at their Olympic dream. They vow not to let anything get in their way, especially not Josh and Stephanie, the wealthy and talented brother and sister team.
The heart doesn’t always listen to reason, though...
The more time Courtney spends with sweet, shy Josh, the harder she falls for him. But they are on opposite sides of the competition, and their futures are headed in opposite directions. Will their friendship blossom into more or are their paths too different to cross?

About the Author


Jennifer Comeaux is a tax accountant by day, writer by night. There aren’t any ice rinks near her home in south Louisiana, but she’s a diehard figure skating fan and loves to write stories of romance set in the world of competitive skating. One of her favorite pastimes is traveling to competitions, where she can experience all the glitz and drama that inspire her writing.

jennifercomeaux.blogspot.com

twitter.com/LadyWave4

facebook.com/jennifercomeauxauthor

The Language of Silence by Tiffany Truitt‏

The Language of Silence
Tiffany Truitt
Evernight Teen
YA Contemporary Romantic Suspense, @66.5k words

Brett is certain that someone is responsible for her brother’s death. He wouldn't just leave her and his best friend, Ed, behind. Although Tristan’s death is ruled an accident, Brett and Ed know there is something more sinister happening. They are looking for the secret that no one in this small Georgia town of Wendall wants to acknowledge, the truth that may rock the town establishment and particularly one of its most upstanding families.
Together, Brett and Ed must discover the hidden truth behind Tristan's death and deal with their feelings for each other, or they might just discover the darkest secrets are the ones they are keeping themselves.
Buy Links: Amazon Evernight Teen

Excerpt:

“How’d your mom tell you?” Brett offers a short, bitter laugh in response. I scratch my chin and shake my head. “That good, eh?”
“You would think she was auditioning for a Lifetime movie or something.”
For some reason, I laugh. Brett smiles. An actual smile. The kind of smile that transforms a face. If she was beautiful before, she’s luminescent now. These sorts of moments are so rare, so precious, I feel both a need to forever stay in this place and flee it as soon as possible.
I’ve always had a crush on Brett Jensen. I’ve just been smart enough to know that I’m too messed up to ever be with her. And now, with Tristan gone, I’m pretty sure I’m damn near done. Ruined. And maybe that’s what I deserve for not convincing him to stay with us.
“Maybe she thinks Julia Roberts will play her,” she continues, pulling at the grass growing up between the cement base of the bridge. “I mean, this has movie written all over it. All-American boy dies under mysterious conditions.”
Oh, Brett. There is no mystery about it. He left us.
“More likely some has-been from one of those medical shows,” I say instead.
Brett nods. Suddenly, her hand is on mine. I feel the tension she is holding within herself by the pressure she exerts onto my skin. My cheeks burn, and I am ashamed by my body’s quick reaction to this small movement.
“You can be whatever you want now, Ed,” she whispers.
I try to pull my hand from her grasp, but she merely holds on tighter. “What are you talking about?” I manage.
“You have a get out of jail free card thanks to Tristan. You could skip school for a week or flunk the whole year, and no one could say anything. You are…were the best friend of the dead kid. Who would give you grief? You could become anyone.”
She’s holding on so tightly to my hand that I begin to lose feeling. I let her words sink in. Settle. And the funny thing is—they make sense. Perfect sense. I know how I am going to deal with all of this.

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Thanks for hosting me today! I have to say, it took me awhile to answer these because I got lost in the awesomeness of exploring this blog. So excited to be here!

It's an absolute pleasure, Tiffany! I'm glad you like my blog :)
Can you tell us a little about your latest book? 
I wanted to tell the story of two people who end up being perfectly alright with being imperfect. I think it’s a really important concept to discuss in YA literature where so many stories are bright and happy where everyone does the right thing all the time. Not that there is anything wrong with those types of stories, but I felt like there needed to be more narratives out there for teens where the characters actually acted like teens. Where sometimes they did the selfish thing and sometimes they became the villains. Being a teenager is messy---in the most wonderfully disastrous way. It’s the story of two people who are brought together by overwhelming grief, and how that grief and the many mistakes they make as a result of their inability to embrace it, leads them to become the people they were meant to be.

What inspired you to write it?
I don’t know. I just sat down and started writing. It just became this story that had to be told. I knew I wanted to write a contemporary, and this was what came out. I know that sounds like pretentious-writer-chat, but it’s the truth.

How did you come up with the idea for the cover?
Authors, at least in my experience, don’t have as much say in the covers as readers may think. We tend to get to give general comments on what we’d like to see and what we would hate. I’ve been lucky in my short career to really enjoy my covers. I really like the simplicity of this one, and I think it represents the emotional end-note of the novel: that through the darkness, you can find light.

If it was made into a movie, who would you like to play the main characters?
I always love these questions! I would love if Brett was played by Troian Bellisaro from Pretty Little Liars. I think she is brilliantly subtle, and I actually based the description of Brett off of her. As for Ed, I recently finished watching season four of The Killing and Tyler Ross blew me away.

What is it about this genre that appeals to you so much? 
Well, it’s my first venture into the genre, so the newness of it alone appealed to me. I had just finished writing almost a thousand pages of dystopian, so it was nice to write something that felt a little bit more like home. Plus, it’s really fun to push the limits in this genre, and I am lucky to have found a publisher that really embraces that. Evernight Teen really allows its authors to tell the stories that need to be told.

What made you want to become an author? 
It’s always something I have enjoyed doing. A friend and I used to write and illustrate our own horror stories as children, and I knew that one day I wanted to write a novel of my own. I set a goal of getting published by thirty. It was a lot of hard work and a lot of rejection, but I managed to make it happen. Some days, I’m still not sure I can do it and I still get rejections… but it’s what I enjoy, so I continue to venture on.

How do you come up with character names? 
Brett is from an old 80’s Civil War mini-series called North and South. I honestly don’t know where Ed’s name came from.

Name one of your all-time favourite books?
My three favorite “books,” are as follows: Pride and Prejudice, Tess of the D’Urbervilles, and Macbeth.

Where is your favourite place to write?
There’s a local coffee shop called Café Moka where I do my scribbling.

What is your favourite movie that was based on a book?
Gah. Too many. I will say one of the only movies I thought that improved on the book was The Last of the Mohicans. Boring book, epic movie.

Name two of your favourite authors.
Since I focused on the oldies in the fav book question, I’ll go more contemporary here. I really dig John Green and Gayle Forman.

Tell us a random fact about yourself.
I spent ten days in China with a slew of teachers from Virginia. I ate a bird on a stick.

Who would play you in the movie about your life? 

photo credit: xploitme via photopin cc

Kristen Stewart. I know a lot of people say she can’t act, but I think she’s rad.

Tell us an interesting fact about where you live.
It was voted the 3rd most boring city in the country.

What are your (writing) plans for the future?
I am writing a dual narrator contemporary about two best friends who go on a road trip to a music festival.

Tell us one thing that's on your bucket list.
Travel, travel, travel. Everywhere.

Favourite myth / fairytale?
Sleeping Beauty. Scariest villain ever.

Who did you want to be when you were a kid?
A teacher. And I’m starting my ninth year ☺

Tiffany Truitt was born in Peoria, Illinois. A self-proclaimed Navy brat, Tiffany spent most of her childhood living in Virginia, but don’t call her a Southerner. She also spent a few years living in Cuba. Since her time on the island of one McDonalds and Banana Rats (don't ask), she has been obsessed with traveling. Tiffany recently added China to her list of travels (hello inspiration for a new book).
Besides traveling, Tiffany has always been an avid reader. The earliest books she remembers reading belong to The Little House on the Prairie Series. First book she read in one day? Little Woman (5th grade). First author she fell in love with? Jane Austen in middle school. Tiffany spent most of her high school and college career as a literary snob. She refused to read anything considered "low brow" or outside the "classics."
Tiffany began teaching middle school in 2006. Her students introduced her to the wide, wonderful world of Young Adult literature. Today, Tiffany embraces popular Young Adult literature and uses it in her classroom.
WEBSITE

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Finding Keepers by Kristi Strong

Genre: YA Contemporary
Release date: July 30th 2014
Purchase: Paperback | Kindle | Nook
Synopsis via Goodreads

Starting a new life is never easy, but Alyssa Doe has turned it into an art form. Abandoned by her parents at age ten, six years in foster care has taught Alyssa how to get through life the hard way.
Now sixteen and growing desperate for a stable life, Alyssa finds herself puzzled by her newest keeper, twenty-five year old Jessica Sona. A feisty woman who does not accept no for an answer, Jessica’s insistence and passion for safety, family, and unconditional love begin to break down Alyssa’s walls and bring her hope, a dangerous emotion.
Can such a thing as family and love exist for a girl whose birth name is Doe, or will Alyssa be forever left finding keepers?

Can you tell us a little about your latest book?
Finding Keeepers is my first Young Adult novel, and centers around several months in the life of Alyssa Doe, a 16 year-old who was dropped off at school one day by her single mother and never picked up. The book begins six years after Alyssa has entered the foster care system, and shows how it has such an impact on her mentally, and how so many things revolve around what she has been through with various houses. However, this book isn't just about foster care, but teenage hardships in general. Through other characters in the book, a reader gets to feel what it's like to live with abuse, depression, and other emotions, as well as how hope and love can be found in the strangest of places.

What inspired you to write it?
This book actually started out as research for a different book, one where Alyssa was an adult. I needed to find a past for her that would explain why she was so distrustful of people, and very particular about her friends, and that led me to the foster care system. After being derailed from writing by several months of heartbreaking research, I realized that "teenage Alyssa" needed her story told as well, and this book grew out of that.

How did you come up with the idea for the cover?
I knew that I wanted a door and a backpack in the cover, because Alyssa has lived in over ten homes over six years, and her backpack was the only constant item she carried with her, but other than that, I turned it over to the fabulous Donna Dull with Sharp Designs. She made it perfect for me and I would have been so lost without her talent.

If it was made into a movie, who would you like to play the main characters?
Oh wow, that's a hard one! Emilia Clarke for Alyssa, because she has this haunting beauty, and she can look so vulnerable but so strong at the same time. Rachel McAdams for Jessica (Alyssa's current foster mother), and I'm not really sure on the other two main characters (Alyssa's friends Caleb and Brianna). I'll have to think about that one!

What is it about this genre that appeals to you so much?
This is actually my first YA Contemp that I have ever written, and I was shocked by how much I enjoyed it (my other books are NA Fantasy). It's an entirely different ballgame working with an actual legal system, and teenage characters tend to have a mind of their own. I found myself surprised by the plot twists and scenes that developed in this book, and loved getting a chance to remind teens and adults alike that being a teen isn't all fun and games.

What made you want to become an author?
I always loved to write, and my mom still embarrasses me by bringing out the first "book" that I wrote in grade school (about a turkey who had to save his sister from the evil man hunting them). But it wasn't until I was in my mid-twenties that I finished a novel, and then was introduced to the world of self-publishing. Since then, it's been an amazing ride, and I look forward to the day that I can be a full-time author.

How do you come up with character names?
Many hours on baby name searches! Alyssa and Caleb are actually two of my favorite names ever, and the rest are somewhat random. I often start off the stories with "A said this" "B did this" and then when I come across a name that fits that character, edit the name into the manuscript.

Name one of your all-time favourite books?
Just one? Dreams Made Flesh by Anne Bishop. I have a paperback copy that is actually held together by a rubber band. Her fantasy novels have so many layers that you can read them over and over again and find something new each time.

Who, or what, inspires you?
People who don't give up, no matter what life has thrown at them. I get flustered and overwhelmed easily, and am awed by people who can be calm in the event of an emergency, or just dust themselves off when knocked in the dirt.

Where is your favourite place to write?
My office at home. I'm surrounded by my crafts, my books, and there's a bird nest right outside the window for when I just need to stare into space for a little while.

What is your favourite movie that was based on a book?
Memoirs of a Geisha. It stayed fairly true to the book, and was just an exquisitely vivid and beautiful movie.

I LOVED that book and the movie, too!

Name two of your favourite authors.
Anne Bishop and the late Sarah Douglas

If you could have a dinner party with any authors from any time in history, who would you choose and why?
Sarah Douglas for sure, and I'm not really sure who else. Her fantasy series are so complicated and so well-researched, that I'd love to pick her brains about how she keeps everything organized. Same thing with George R.R. Martin.

Tell us a random fact about yourself.
My first time in any hospital was when I gave birth, even though I spent two decades in dance, gymnastics, riding horses, running competitively, getting a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, and being a "rough and tumble" kind of kid.

Who would play you in the movie about your life?
I would love if it would be Olivia Wilde (for the adult me at least, not sure on the teenager me)

Tell us an interesting fact about where you live.
My city is the perfect blend of "big city fun" with "slow country living" and I love it. It also has a huge Civil War history.

What are your (writing) plans for the future?
I'm alternating between writing the "adult Alyssa" story, and the fourth book in the Land of Kaldalangra series. It's going to be slow-going though, because I'm also starting a very intensive 4-month course to get certified for a career change.

Tell us one thing that's on your bucket list.
Going back to the Mediterranean. I lived in Kuwait when I was younger and we would take trips to Europe all the time, and I would love to experience the area as an adult instead of a 5 year old.

Favourite myth / fairytale?
I can't think of a specific one at the moment, but I love creation myths/stories from all cultures.

Who did you want to be when you were a kid?
Anyone who got to work with whales or dolphins

About the Author
Fixing broken computers, wrangling a very spirited little toddler, and creating new fantasy worlds are all parts of the average day for Kristi Strong. While she has called Virginia her home for two decades, her head has rested in two countries, three states, and far too many houses to count. She was more than happy to give up her nomadic lifestyle and settle down with her husband, daughter, cat and chinchilla.
BLOG | TWITTER | FACEBOOK

Giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Eyes of the Enemy by Kelly Hess

Title: Eyes of the Enemy
Series: BlackMyst Trilogy
By: Kelly Hess
Genre: YA/MG Fantasy
Expected Publication Date: August 26, 2014
Published By: Booktrope Publishing

When a rogue band of the dreaded Sorak attacks his village, twelve-year-old Beynn Firehand escapes into the darkness of BlackMyst Forest to find help. During his quest, Beynn discovers his own powerful magic abilities.
The price of his newfound powers, however, may be higher than he ever imagined.
Amazon
 B&N
iTunes
Goodreads

Can you tell us a little about your latest book?
Eyes of the Enemy is the first book of the BlackMyst Trilogy. We are introduced to twelve-year-old Beynn Firehand who lives in a remote village with his father within the giant BlackMyst Forest, which blankets the kingdom. When his village is attacked by a band of Sorak, the neighboring white-eyed people from the east, his father helps him to escape in order to find help. With his best friend in tow, Beynn undertakes an adventure of magic and peril.

What inspired you to write it?
My son and I read together every night. At one point, we were between books and I decided that I would write a little something that I thought he’d like. One thing led to another and before I knew it, I’d written a trilogy. Go figure.

How did you come up with the idea for the cover?
The dark forest of BlackMyst is a major backdrop throughout the books, almost its own character, and I wanted to see it on the cover. Adding the ominous figure of a Sorak ties directly to the story and relates the mysterious feel of the books.

If it was made into a movie, who would you like to play the main characters?
I have to go with a young Asa Butterfield, (Hugo, Enders Game) simply because I think he’s a great actor and I’m unfamiliar with very many other child actors. However, Asa is now 17 and likely too old to pull off a twelve-year-old. I mean he’s good, but…

What is it about this genre that appeals to you so much?
I grew up reading Science Fiction and Fantasy, so I naturally gravitated to those genres. Anything is possible in these genres, through technology in Scifi, and through magic in Fantasy.

What made you want to become an author?
I’ve always loved writing short stories but I never really thought about becoming an author until I finished writing my first book.

How do you come up with character names?
I really just start putting letters together until I find something I like. My main character, Beynn, is an anagram of my son’s name. (Hint: “ _____ and the Jets”)

Name one of your all-time favourite books?
Ender’s Game. I first read it when I was about fifteen and I’ve reread it a hundred times since.

Who, or what, inspires you?
Other writers. All writers. When someone can fuel my emotions and fill me with awe just by arranging words on a page in a certain order, it makes me want to do the same.

Where is your favourite place to write?
Honestly I haven’t written in too many other places than our boxy little office at home. It’s quiet and boring and leaves me free from distraction.

What is your favourite movie that was based on a book?
The Princess Bride is one of my all-time favorite movies based on one of my all-time favorite books.

Name two of your favourite authors.
David Eddings, whose Belgariad series hooked me on fantasy forever.
Ben Bova whose science fiction kept my head in the stars.

If you could have a dinner party with any authors from any time in history, who would you choose and why?
Jules Verne, Mark Twain, and William Shakespeare. Because how crazy would that be!!?

Tell us a random fact about yourself.
My left side was affected after a brain aneurysm in 2008, so my entire BlackMyst Trilogy was typed with my right hand.

Who would play you in the movie about your life?

photo credit: vagueonthehow via photopin cc

Josh Radnor (pictured), Noah Wiley, or Zach Braff

Tell us an interesting fact about where you live.
I live in Vacaville, California, which is midway between San Francisco and Sacramento along Interstate 80. Although it continues to grow and grow, there’s still a small town vibe that I like. For years, our most notorious resident was Charles Manson, who lived at CMF, our hometown prison.

What are your (writing) plans for the future?
I definitely will write more books. I’ve yet to decide what age range or genre, but the ideas are in there.

Tell us one thing that's on your bucket list.
I want to visit New Zealand. Looks so beautiful.

Favourite myth / fairytale?
Hansel and Gretel – I guess it’s the dark forest bit. And I’ve always been fond of Robin Hood. Again- dark forest.

Who did you want to be when you were a kid?Olivia Newton-John was my first crush as a kid and I wanted to be Danny from Grease.

Kelly Hess grew up with a love of reading science fiction and fantasy that inspired him to write his own fantasy trilogy. He lives in Vacaville, California with his wife and son, and is putting the final details on the last two books of his BlackMyst Trilogy: The Green Dagger and The Third Power.
Goodreads
Amazon
Website
Facebook

Death at Carp High by Jeremy Gold

Death at Carp High by Jeremy Gold
Publication date: April 7th 2014
Genres: Mystery, Young Adult

Jake Brown is your average, above-average kid. He generally has his mind on the usual things that male high school seniors think about: girls, avoiding Spanish class, girls, pizza, surfing, girls, and of course, girls. None of that changes when he and his best friend, Dean, go surfing and find a body with a hole in its head floating beyond the waves.
Shortly after “the big discovery,” Sydney, a cross country running teammate of Jake’s, asks him to go to Morp—“Prom” spelled backwards—a Sadie Hawkins-style dance where the girls ask out the boys. As if life isn’t exciting enough trying to solve a murder, it looks like Jake is about to have his fondest wish granted—a real, live girlfriend. Despite Sydney’s obvious attraction to him, it takes a little work to convince Jake the attraction is real. Luckily, Sydney is very convincing.
In the beginning, Jake and Dean try keeping Lily and Sydney out of harm’s way, but high school girls are pros at teasing out even the most well-kept secrets. Eventually, the foursome becomes entangled in clues—and preoccupied with making sure dire threats from their prime suspect don’t pan out!
Death at Carp High has as many peaks and troughs as a winter swell at Rincon, and it’s all Jake and Dean can do to avoid wiping out.
Goodreads
Amazon

B&N

Can you tell us about your latest book? 

Jake and his best friend Dean, head out to catch some waves before school one morning when they find a body floating in the surf. This sets them on a course never meant to be taught in high school. The course: how to track down a murderer. In the midst of the mystery, a cute cross-country teammate of Jakes asks him to a dance and for the first time in his life, Jake becomes romantically involved.

What inspired you to write it? 

My biggest inspiration came from watching my son and his friends talk, play, eat, attend school, and do what teenaged boys and girls do. 

How did you come up with the idea for the cover? 

Ellen Reid turned me on to the great cover artist, George Foster. The design was all his. 

  

What is it about this genre that appeals to you so much? 

My wife and I read to our son since he was old enough to understand a few basic words. We always had a book going. Whether we were driving in the car, sitting in a hotel room on vacation, or waiting for our food to arrive at a restaurant, we always had a book with us. It was during these years that I grew to appreciate the YA genre. I like reading about kids figuring out how to overcome obstacles, too. 

What made you want to become an author? 

I love to read. And I love to write. It’s fun telling stories. 

How do you come up with character names? 

If they don’t pop up immediately in my head, I might peruse the phone book or look online for names that appeal to me. Since it’s easy to change all the same words in a book with just a few keystrokes, I’m not averse to going back and changing names that I’m just “not feeling.” I use some of my son’s classmate’s names, too.

Name one of your all-time favorite books? 
Despite the controversy surrounding the author, one of my favorites is Battlefield Earth by L. Ron Hubbard. Who knew the guy wrote such brilliant fiction. 

Who, or what, inspires you? 
Brilliant writers, good stories, great characters, my son and his friends, Carpinteria, Santa Barbara, nature, and all the videos—the ones you’ve got to see!—people post on my Facebook wall. 

Where is your favorite place to write? 

Any one of a half dozen coffee shops in Carpinteria and Santa Barbara. 

What is your favorite movie that was based on a book? 

The first one that came to mind was The Princess Bride, by William Goldman. 

Name two of your favorite authors. 

Robert B. Parker. J.K. Rowling. 

If you could have a dinner party with any authors from any time in history, who would you choose and why? 

Lately, a friend has been posting quotes from Dorothy Parker. When asked to use the word horticulture in a sentence, she said, “You can lead a horticulture but you can’t make her think.” Wow! 

Tell us a random fact about yourself. 

A dachshund bit a hole through my tongue when I was elven. 

Who would play you in the movie about your life? 

George Clooney. Quentin Tarantino would direct! 

Tell us an interesting fact about where you live. 

Carpinteria was named by the first Spaniards sailing up the coast of California when they saw the Chumash Indians constructing and caulking their canoes with the natural tar found at the beach. 

What are your (writing) plans for the future? 

Write book number nine. 

Tell us one thing that’s on your bucket list. 

Travel around Europe. 

Who did you want to be when you were a kid? 

Myself. I just wanted to be the person I knew I had the potential to be. I wanted to be unshackled.

Jeremy Gold is seventeen years old…in his mind. He lives in Carpinteria, California, a small beachside town, ten miles south of its more celebrated sister, Santa Barbara. He loves hiking, mountain bike riding, and of course, writing. Death at Carp High is the first in the six-part Jake Brown mystery series.
Jeremy and his wife, Calla, have been married since 1979. Any resemblance between their 21-year-old son, Dan, and Jake Brown is purely…understandable.
Website
Facebook
Goodreads


Tour-wide giveaway
--Signed copy of Death at Carp High (Open to US and Canada, ends Sept 2nd)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Bellum Prophecy by L. Marie Horton

Release date: December 12th 2013
Purchase: Amazon
Goodreads

Two Wars, One Destiny. Seventeen-year-old Edyn Vella always knew that her strange dreams of the future made her unique, but she never knew what they meant. However, when she fails to stop her aunt's murder by an ominous vampiric creature, Edyn learns that her prophetic visions aren't the only superhuman ability she possesses.

Following her late aunt's clues, Edyn finds herself in New York City attempting to save her last surviving relative, the powerful and reclusive billionaire, Ethan Roux. Edyn not only discovers Ethan isn't exactly human, but that she is at the center of an ancient prophecy and could determine the outcome of an impending war. 

As Ethan's Omega, his only human descendant, she's thrust into an enigmatic world full of new supernatural creatures where both good and evil vampires and warlocks have waged a centuries-long battle for the fate of humanity. Just as her relationship with the mysterious and handsome Brendan begins to blossom, Edyn's complicated new life quickly spirals out of control when ancient evil becomes determined on making her one of them. Edyn must discover her inner strength while making the choice between a long life without love and a potentially short life full of it. 

The Bellum Prophecy is a dark, suspenseful new novel that explores the loss of innocence while coming of age in the midst of a battle between good and evil. Combining the best elements of vampire legend, the supernatural, and even magic, L. Marie Horton uses exciting action and a cutting-edge story to craft a refreshing new take on young adult fiction.

Can you tell us a little about your latest book.
It’s a YA paranormal romance/fantasy about seventeen year-old Edyn Vella, who suddenly discovers a supernatural world where various good and evil undead creatures and warlocks exists. As she delves deeper into who and what she really is, Edyn learns that her prohectic visions could determine the outcome of an impending war. Edyn’s dark journey through this book is full of loss and love and making decisions that could ultimately save or destroy humanity.

What inspired you to write it?
I wanted more. My goal was to write a book series that had more action, imagination, suspense and a much darker storyline than what was currently available in the YA mainstream. I combined three movie ideas that I had for a while, and added magic, unique undead creatures and humans with awesome abilities.

Is it part of a series? 
Yes, it is book one of the Vella Series. The series is going to be a total of six books, but I’m still working on whether there might be a seventh book or not.

If your latest book was made into a movie, who would you like to play the main characters?
Oh my, I’m really bad at picking out actors! For Edyn, I would love to see a new up and coming actress that no one has heard about and just blow us away. Bradley James has that blond surfer look for Brendan and Daniel Craig for Ethan would be a dream. Ben Barnes is really hot and would be a good pick for Kieran. I have always pictured Bryan Dick as Terrin, ever since I saw him in "Blood and Chocolate." For the two main villains, definitely Shiloh Fernandez for Vergon, and Olivier Martinez for Amon.

What made you want to become an author?
I can’t remember exactly when I began writing but when I was about thirteen, I was fascinated by the TV show "Sea Quest" and would write my own episodes. After that I became obsessed with writing movie scripts and had written down tons of movie ideas/plots and even some partial scenes. The idea of sitting down and writing a book really didn’t hit me until after I passed the bar exam and was going through some of my old writings. I had a random thought that maybe I could take those ideas/plots, combine some of them and start writing books. I still have some movie scripts that I would love to see become movies though.

Name one of your all-time favourite book covers?
Fahrenheit 451.

Name one book that made you think 'wow'? Why did it have such an effect on you? 
I read "In Cold Blood" by Capote when I was fourteen and there’s something about it that has never left me.

Who, or what, inspires you? 
Music. When I hear music, I see random images and scenes as if a movie is playing in my mind so I write it all down. Some of my ideas have come from a couple of pretty wild dreams too.

Where is your favourite place to write?
My blue plushy chair in my den. I wrote "The Bellum Prophecy" and the second book to the series on that chair with my ipad.

What is your favourite movie that was based on a book?
Pride and Prejudice (all movie versions). I can't wait to see if they make "Pride and Prejudice and Zombies" into a movie.

Who is your favourite author (s) and why?
Jane Austen because she wrote a lot of great books, not just one. I also love the brilliant way in which Erik Larsen weaves two stories together with some history in his books.

If you could have a dinner party with any authors from any time in history, who would you choose and why?
Number one pick would definitely be Nikola Tesla, even though he did not eat in front of other people. Absolute genius and an extremely eccentric and fascinating individual! To make my dinner party a little more mad hatter style, I would add Truman Capote and Alexandre Dumas for some adventure. To represent the female perspective and to keep the gentleman in line, Jane Austen and Bronte.

Tell us a random fact about yourself.
I used to own a 1963 Smurf blue Chevy Nova that was in a Seven-Up commercial.

Tell us something interesting about the area where you live.
Every year in December, a two mile section of Van Ness Avenue in Fresno is completely transformed for an event called "Christmas Tree Lane.” Over a 140 homes and 30 trees get decorated with millions of lights and other random decorations. I live close by and I absolutely love it. It started in 1920 and is the longest running holiday events nationwide.

L. Marie Horton is an attorney practicing law in Fresno, California. After completing her degrees, she gave the left side of her brain a rest and became devoted to writing fiction. L. Marie is also a photographer, avid speed-reader, and an obsessive fan of movie soundtracks. She has a supportive husband and two fur children, Scottie a.k.a. Daba D and Gunnar a.k.a. da Gun Gun’s.
L. Marie writes YA paranormal romance and fantasy fiction focusing on strong characters trying to overcome extraordinary obstacles in their life. Writing is an extreme passion of hers and she relishes in sharing that passion with her readers.
www.lmariehortonauthor.com | http://twitter.com/Lmariehorton | facebook.com/pages/L-Marie-Horton-author/253104321459881

Giveaway
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Still at Your Door by Emma Eden Ramos

Still at Your Door: A Fictional Memoir by Emma Eden Ramos
Genre: YA/Contemporary
Publisher: Writers AMuse Me Publishing
Published: February 22nd, 2014

YA — Sabrina “Bri” Gibbons has only a few short minutes to pack her things and help her sisters pack theirs before running with their mother to the bus that will whisk them away from Butler, Pennsylvania, an abusive relationship, and a secret that none of them wish to acknowledge. She was not prepared, though, for her mother to drop them on the streets of New York with the promise that she would be right back. Haunted by the sight of her mother running back to the cab, Bri, with Missy and Grace in tow, settles in with their grandparents. Thoughts of her present and her future collide with memories of her past, her dead father, and her mother’s bizarre episodes. She watches her sisters struggle with school and acceptance, all the while knowing the lack of any sense of security will make it impossible for them to carry on as ‘normal’ children. She finally lets her guard down enough to allow someone else in and sees a faint glimmer that her dreams might be attainable. Disaster strikes again, this time targeting her sister. Is it possible for Bri to find that balance between her dreams and her family’s realities?
Goodreads
Amazon
B&N

Author interview

Can you tell us a little about your latest book?
Still, At Your Door: A Fictional Memoir is the story of seventeen-year-old Sabrina Gibbons. Sabrina, along with her two sisters, is dropped off in New York City. The three girls move in with their Hungarian grandparents and struggle to find, then cling to what's most important

If it was made into a movie, who would you like to play the main characters?
Sheila, my main character's mother, would be played by Penelope Cruz. I'd cast Camilla Belle as Sabrina, my protagonist.

Why do you write in this genre?
I don't always confine myself to one genre. My last two books, however, have been YA. I suppose I am most comfortable using that voice.

What made you want to become an author?
I had a teacher in my first year of high school assign Edith Wharton's Summer. After reading and discussing the novella, we were asked to each write a poem about the story. I knew, seconds after finishing, that I wanted to write. Always.

Name one of your all-time favourite books?
Jane Eyre.

Who, or what, inspires you?
A deep desire to connect with others.

Where is your favourite place to write?
I always write on the floor with my back propped against my bed. In the summer I'll write on a bench in Central Park.

What is your favourite movie that was based on a book?
The House of Sand and Fog.

Who is your favourite author (s) and why?
I always find this question difficult to answer. I do love all three of the Bronte sisters. I highly recommend Anne Bronte's The Tenant of Wildfell Hall. It's not nearly as popular at Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights, but it is certainly as stunning.

If you could have a dinner party with any authors from any time in history, who would you choose and why?
I'd invite Gertrude Stein and Emily Dickinson. Supposing they came, I'd listen to them discuss writing poetry then, once an argument began, I'd call in Robert Lowell for the exact opposite of damage control. This would be a bit like something out of an Edward Albee play.

Tell us a random fact about yourself.
I cannot drive a car. This tends to shock people who live outside of New York City.

Who would play you in the movie about your life?

Photo credit: yotambientengosuperpoderes via photopin cc

Hmm...Ellen Page.

Tell us something interesting about the area where you live.
Columbia University is practically in my backyard. Knowledge creeps through the windows when we're sleeping.

Emma Eden Ramos is a writer and student from New York City. Her middle grade novella, The Realm of the Lost, was recently published by MuseItUp Publishing. Her short stories have appeared in Stories for Children Magazine, The Storyteller Tymes, BlazeVOX Journal, and other journals. Ramos’ novelette, Where the Children Play, is included in Resilience: Stories, Poems, Essays, Words for LGBT Teens, edited by Eric Nguyen. Three Women: A Poetic Triptych and Selected Poems (Heavy Hands Ink, 2011), Ramos’ first poetry chapbook, was shortlisted for the 2011 Independent Literary Award in Poetry. Emma studies psychology at Marymount Manhattan College. When she isn’t writing or studying, Emma can usually be found drinking green tea and reading on her kindle.

Website
Twitter
Goodreads
Facebook

Excerpt:
They are broken into sections. You may use what you would like.
Jagged
I hold tight to my memories of the solid years. Each one is a crystal vase filled to the brim with brightly colored petals. Summer, ‘99: Missy is five, I’m six. We’re vacationing at Virginia Beach with Mom and Dad. Mom wears a black one-piece, a white sun hat and no sunscreen. Her lanky, bronzed legs shimmer under the fiery rays, but it’s all well and good. “Gypsy skin,” she explains, lathering up my little sister. “You and I have it.” She winks at me. “Missy here’s more like Daddy.” In front of us, Dad talks to a blonde boy with a surfboard. He turns to us and beckons. I jump to my feet, eager to hit the waves. “Sabrina.” Mom presses her leathery palms against my cheeks. “Bri-bear.” She kisses my nose. “Go on.” I grab Missy’s hand and we scamper toward the giant salt pond, ready for Dad to scoop us up and wade us through.
Another summer, many years later, Missy and I come across what looks like a secret stash of sea glass. We collect the emerald green fragments just as a mother-sized wave unfurls to scoop them back up. The edges have been smoothed over, calmed. I slide my index finger across one side of the largest piece. Missy stands next to me, peering out toward the horizon. I turn to her, the glass held tightly in my fist. Before I can begin, she says, “Water life is easier.”
“Huh?” I stare down at the rushing waves. A thick clump of seaweed tickles my ankle.
Missy seizes a shard from her stash and flings it. The water swallows the glass whole. There’s no resistance on either side. “It wasn’t ready.” She shakes her head.
“What does that mean?” I ask. “How is water life easier?”
“I don’t know. I guess… you go in jagged. You’re jagged when you go in but smooth when you come out.”
Trying to understand, I scrutinize my sister’s profile. I recognize our mother in her pronounced cheekbones, her long black lashes.
“But not us.” Missy speaks to the open water. I just happen to be standing by. “We come in soft, without edges. Those come later.”
“You mean we get jagged with age?”
“Yes.” Missy’s eyes grow big. She cocks her head to one side, then turns to meet my gaze. “That’s what happens to us.”

Fun Friday with Laura Elliott

This Fun Friday, The Society of YA Storyteller authors are interviewing fellow authors and I'm so excited to be chatting to one of my favourite - the super awesome Laura Elliott - she's one of the most amazing YA authors! Her books are truly brilliant :)

Can you tell us a little about your latest book?

My latest book is an adult romantic thriller/paranormal romance called THE STORYTELLERS. It’s Raider’s of The Lost Arc meets Thelma and Louise. Four female writers’ stories all come true for each other. But some stories have a life of their own. The women’s lives and loves will depend on surviving each other’s stories, defeating a Mayan demon and solving a centuries-old mystery.

What inspired you to write it?
The idea that what an author writes could actually come true has always captured my imagination. And how crazy would it be to write a story that came true for yourself or a friend? Over the years, I’ve enjoyed close relationships with groups of writers. So I mashed up these ideas and decided to write about four female storytellers whose stories all come true for each other.

Do dreams ever inspire your writing? 

Sometimes. 

What did you last dream about? 

*blushes* um...I can’t say, but it was wonderful and I’m sure it will be in a future book.

If your latest book was made into a movie, who would you like to play the main characters?
Click here for the link to the dream cast for THE STORYTELLERS. The four main characters include Emma Stone, Zoe Zaldana, Scarlett Johansson, and Mila Kunis.

Who, or what, inspires you?
The Truth. Joy. Sunsets. Friends. Laughter. Finding magic in the every day. My family.

Where is your favourite place to write?
My new apartment. I have views of Eucalyptus trees and the Malibu mountains and the sunset. It’s very peaceful here. I also love to write at the beach.

What is your favourite movie that was based on a book?
Dr. Zhivago

Who designs your covers?
Me, along with a lot of input from fellow writers/designers. I love the collaboration I have with so many talented people. And I love graphic design. It makes me happy to try and capture a story with a single image. I love the challenge.

What were the last two books you read?
The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success
Transmedia Storytelling

Name one author who you think deserves to be better known.
There are so many. But here are three storytellers that I find absolutely captivating and I think are pretty well known already that I wish would hit the ball out of the park and make the NYT Bestsellers List: Suzy Turner, Fisher Amelie and Michelle Muto.
Aww thanks Laura *blushes :)

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up? And did you follow the dream?
I wanted to be an actress. No, I didn’t follow that dream.

Tell us a random fact about yourself.
In the 80s, I won tickets to a Phil Collins concert by singing “Against All Odds” on KLOS in Los Angeles.

For more information about Laura, visit http://laurasmagicday.wordpress.com/

Interview with chick lit author Paige Toon

I'm absolutely delighted to have the gorgeous author Paige Toon with me today. Paige is the author of several chick lit books.

Photo © Johnny Ring

Hi Paige! Can you tell us a little about your latest book.

The Longest Holiday is about a girl, Laura, who finds out via a random Facebook message that her gorgeous husband of seven months made a terrible mistake: he had a one night stand on his stag do and got the girl pregnant. Escaping the humiliation that is now her marriage, Laura jets off to Key West with her best friend, and distraction soon follows in the form of a hot Cuban scuba diver. Laura's instant attraction to him knocks her flying, and she falls hard. As the end of the holiday approaches, Laura doesn't want to go home, but is it time to face the music? Or is there more to Key West than a holiday romance?

What inspired you to write it?

When I wrote my third book, Chasing Daisy, a friend suggested that one day I could write “the girlfriend” Laura’s story and call it Tell Laura I Love Her. So I came up with a plot for this book, involving a palm reader and a twist at the end. Later I came up with another idea about someone tracking a one night stand via Facebook, and imagined that one night stand happening just before the man gets married. The thought of suddenly discovering your husband is going to have a baby really struck me as something I’d like to write about. The name ‘Laura’ popped into my head when I was trying to think of a heroine’s name, then I realised I could merge my two stories and The Longest Holiday was born!

Is it part of a series?

No, but it is loosely linked to Chasing Daisy, my third book, about a girl, Daisy, who goes to work in hospitality for a Formula 1 team and gets caught between two drivers, one of whom has a childhood sweetheart called Laura.

If your latest book was made into a movie, who would you like to play the main characters?

I’m often asked this question and I find it really hard to answer because I see my characters inside my head and they don’t look like anyone I know! I love hearing what my readers think. They’ve suggested everyone from Danny from The Script to Channing Tatum for Leo – I don’t picture him as either!

What made you want to become an author?

It wasn’t a decision – I’ve wanted to write books ever since I can remember, so it was one of the happiest days of my life when I got a book deal. I hope I never take it for granted.

Name one of your all-time favourite book covers?

Lucy in the Sky, my first book! Seeing the artwork made everything real – I was going to have a book published! My publishers have recently repackaged all of my backlist, and I also love new-look Lucy.

Name one book that made you think 'wow'? Why did it have such an effect on you?

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. They’re the last books that have had me reading well into the night – that says a lot as I have two small children. I love a bit of YA sci-fi!

Who, or what, inspires you?

I read an article in the Guardian about novel writing recently, and it said something like: ‘Beauty breeds beauty. The secret to unblocking writers block is to read.’ I stopped reading around the time I got a book deal – I didn’t want to feel daunted by thinking I couldn’t do it as well, nor did I want to accidentally use words or phrases that weren’t my own. I’ve since got over that and take inspiration from books and films all the time. Often I’ll watch something and think, imagine if that had happened and a whole idea is spun off.

Where is your favourite place to write?

I write in a local coffee shop while my kids are at school and nursery. It’s the most productive I’ve ever been. I used to write at home during children’s nap times and it was hard to not just put a wash on or do a quick tidy up. Now I sit here, drink tea and WRITE! Which is just as well because I’m writing two books this year: my usual chick-lit, Thirteen Weddings (out Apr 2014), plus a Young Adult series about the 15-year-old daughter rock star Johnny Jefferson (from Johnny Be Good and Baby Be Mine) never knew he had (out Feb 2014)

What is your favourite movie that was based on a book?

Probably Bridget Jones’s Diary. The film was actually quite different from the book, but I didn’t realise until I re-read the book. It felt the same. I also love The Notebook, but haven’t actually read the book – shame on me!

Who is your favourite author (s) and why?

Marian Keyes is my favourite chick-lit author. No one does hilarious and heartbreaking quite like her. I also love YA so Suzanne Collins and Stephanie Meyer are right up there.

If you could have a dinner party with any authors from any time in history, who would you choose and why?

Jane Austen, because, God, she’d be amazing to talk to, don’t you think? Marian Keyes – I’ve met her a few times and she’s lovely! And Stephanie Meyer and Suzanne Collins – bet they’re really interesting.

Tell us a random fact about yourself.

I like peanut butter and jam sandwiches! Blame the years spent growing up in America.

Tell us something interesting about the area where you live.

I live in Cambridge and it’s beautiful. So much history. You can go punting down the river and hear about hundreds of years of history and the kings and queens who founded the colleges. My book before last, One Perfect Summer, is set in Cambridge and it was so inspirational researching the city that had just become my home. We moved to Cambridge from London the summer before last.

I'd love to join your dinner party, Paige, they're four fab women authors I'd love to meet! Thanks for stopping by! It was a pleasure having you here today. I feel like I know you that little bit better now :D

For more information about Paige, visit 

www.paigetoon.com

@PaigeToonAuthor

https://www.facebook.com/paige.toon.14

Author interview: Wendy S Russo

Hey guys! Today I'm talking to the author of January Black, Wendy S Russo. 

Tour Schedule

January Black Sixteen-year-old genius Matty Ducayn has never fit in on The Hill, an ordered place seriously lacking a sense of humor. After his school’s headmaster expels him for a small act of mischief, Matty’s future looks grim until King Hadrian comes to his rescue with a challenge: answer a question for a master’s diploma. More than a second chance, this means freedom. Masters can choose where they work, a rarity among Regents, and the question is simple. What was January Black? It’s a ship. Everyone knows that. Hadrian rejects that answer, though, and Matty becomes compelled by curiosity and pride to solve the puzzle. When his search for an answer turns up long-buried state secrets, Matty’s journey becomes a collision course with a deadly royal decree. He's been set up to fail, which forces him to choose. Run for his life with the challenge lost...or call the king’s bluff.

Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Amazon Kindle

Hi Wendy! Can you tell us a little about your latest book.

January Black is a Young Adult Science Fiction coming of age story with a romantic arc. It features a sixteen year old genius who is challenged by his king to answer a deceptively simple question. When the challenge puts him a collision course with a deadly royal decree, Matty must choose between his curiosity and his life.

What inspired you to write it?
The collapse of Bear Sterns in 2008. It's not an exciting answer, but as the global financial system started to meltdown, I gave a lot of thought to how small the world has become. In the 1600s, to escape religious persecution in Europe, the Protestants got on boats and sailed to a New World. We can't do that today. You can go off grid, go back to basics, but you can't build a new society today the way our founding fathers built America. There are no unexplored territories, no where to start over.
So, it was November. I was committed to write a novel for NaNoWriMo. I was listening to a Dream Theater song called "Rite of Passage." And the first ten thousand words came pretty easily.

Is it part of a series?
No. It was always intended to be stand alone.

If your latest book was made into a movie, who would you like to play the main characters?
Ryan Reynolds was my inspiration for King Hadrian, and Taylor Swift inspired Iris.
Jesse Eisenberg is the closest I can imagine for Matty, but he's a little old.

What made you want to become an author?
I look at books like jigsaw puzzles that I have to create the pieces for. I enjoy the satisfaction of figuring it all out.

That is probably the coolest answer I've ever had to that question!

Name one of your all-time favourite book covers?
The Snow Queen, by Joan D. Vinge.

Name one book that made you think 'wow'? Why did it have such an effect on you?
Neal Stephenson's "The Diamond Age." It's a story about a book that teaches a poor girl in a future Shanghai everything she needs to know to lead a revolution. I like books with slow reveals and with lots of pieces stitched together. Pull the string, and all the pieces cinch tight.

Who, or what, inspires you?
My son inspires me. He has so much energy, and he's so curious. Pretty pictures and rockin' songs will spark images. Conventions, boat rides, road trips. I try to absorb everything.

Where is your favourite place to write?
My kitchen table. It's not very comfortable, but when I'm comfortable, I find myself doing other things. Facebook mostly.

What is your favourite movie that was based on a book?
Children of Men, based on the book by P.D. James

Who is your favourite author (s) and why?
Neal Stephenson. He's smart, and witty, and funny.

If you could have a dinner party with any authors from any time in history, who would you choose?
Shakespeare. Poe. Stephenson. Emily Dickinson.

Tell us a random fact about yourself.
I have crooked pinkies. My freshman year in high school, I jammed my right pinkie while trying to set a volleyball. The doctor assumed it was broken until I showed him my left hand.

Tell us something interesting about the area where you live.
In South Louisiana, the holiday season doesn't end at New Years. Carnival season begins on January 6th. Then you have Mardi Gras, and the parades go one for a week before Fat Tuesday. There's 40 days of Lent, which means everyone eats seafood on Fridays. And then Easter. It's not like you need an excuse for a party in Louisiana, but pretty much from Halloween to Easter, you have one.

Find Wendy here:
Blog | Facebook | G+ | Twitter | Goodreads | Amazon | Pinterest | Authorgraph

Praise Refreshingly intelligent and loads of fun! I lost a few hours as I read this book. It's a Young Adult novel that is refreshingly and astonishingly intelligent, and the love story is perfectly played out. ~Christine Ashworth, Amazon Review The mystery was intriguing - I loved how Wendy Russo weaved in all her secrets throughout the book, how she incorporated just enough to keep you reading, while never actually divulging much of anything. I was guessing for most of it and that's pretty hard to make me do. ~Julie, Clean Teen Reads Wendy Russo has created a masterpiece. ~Ivan Amberlake, Author   

Author Wendy S. Russo Wendy S. Russo got her start writing in the sixth grade. That story involved a talisman with crystals that had to be found and assembled before bad things happened, and dialog that read like classroom roll call. Since then, she’s majored in journalism (for one semester), published poetry, taken a course on short novels, and watched most everything ever filmed by Quentin Tarantino. A Wyoming native transplanted in Baton Rouge, Wendy works for Louisiana State University as an IT analyst. She’s a wife, a mom, a Tiger, a Who Dat, and she falls asleep on her couch at 8:30 on weeknights.  

FACEBOOK * WEBSITE * TWITTER

GOODREADS * AUTHORGRAPH

 

More Information:

January Black 100th Amazon Review Giveaway

  Blog Tour Giveaway $25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 5/8/13 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer http://iamareader.com and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.  a Rafflecopter giveaway