Interview with Andrew Cotto

Spellbound By Books would like to introduce Andrew Cotto, Author of The Domino Effect and Outerborough Blues which is due to be released later this year!

Without further ado.  Here are the interview questions!!

1. Where were you when the idea sparked for The Domino Effect?

I was actually in college, during a summer break. I was living in Boston and went on a date to see the film "Do the Right Thing." It was in an out of the way theater in a pretty bad neighborhood, and my date had driven us there in her shiny sports car. I was so stunned leaving the theater, thinking about how the events had affected me, how they sent my emotions spinning in a myriad of ways, that I didn't even bother to help my date deal with the fact that her car had been stolen (it also had a diamond ring - a family heirloom - in the glove compartment). So, while she went crazy, running around the parking lot, screaming for the police, I sat on the curb and started thinking about being a storyteller, and the events that came to me right then and there were memories of the ethnic conflict in my cousin's neighborhood in Queens...which is where THE DOMINO EFFECT begins. Of course, it was many, many years before I actually began writing the story, but it began that day. And, needless to say, that was the end of my relationship with that girl.

2. What was the easiest and hardest part of writing this?

The easiest part of writing Domino was coming up with the characters. I'd lived so many places in my life, places that were pretty distinct from one another; it was fairly easy to pick people whom I've known to base (usually quite roughly) the characters upon. In fact, I was able to create composites of numerous people I've known + a very healthy dose of my imagination. That part was easy and fun (the exception to this was Danny, but that's another story).

The hardest part was figuring out the narrative. I had characters and setting in place early on, but plot is hard. Of course our own narratives seems interesting to us, the writer - we're the ones creating it, we're invested (it's like watching your kid plays sports - he/she is always the best one out there...), but to imagine how an audience might react to the events is challenging. It takes practice finding the right set of events, and, believe me, I took a lot of shots at it - changing things probably 10 times before I finally got it right (at first, Terence was the main character, with Danny as a Nick Carraway-like narrator). And to finally get it right took all those plot reconstructions, a workshop at The New School, a paid consultation, one agent, and then finally some solid brainstorming with my second agent (Jennifer Carlson of Dunow, Carlson & Lerner). The final piece of the puzzle was Jennifer recommending that I read The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau Banks by E. Lockhart, which gave me the idea to make Danny a prankster.

3. Was becoming a published author how you expected it to be? Any surprises?

Publishing a book was far more work than I ever expected it to be. That said, the pride I feel is vast because of the amount of work I put into it. I take more from the perseverance than anything else. My children are proud (I gave my daughter a redacted version of Domino for her 10th birthday, and my son, who is five, always asks when he can read it). I'm not surprised by this fact, but I'm truly grateful for all of the support from my family and friends. It's been fun for all of us, something to talk about and use as an excuse to get together and party. The love and support makes it all worth it.

4. If your book was turned into the movie who would you pick to cast as Danny?

I think about this all the time (a few filmmakers are looking at it now). Sadly, I'm not aware of enough of today's young actors to figure out who would play Danny. Does Ralph Macchio have a teenage son? I always thought Mandy Moore would make a great Brenda, though she probably doesn't play teens anymore (though I bet she could). Thanks, Melissa, for dating me with that question :)

5. Where do you do most of your writing? (Feel free to include a pic of your writing space)

I do most of my work at home at a desk in my bedroom (not picture worthy), though I can focus anywhere with a computer and privacy. What I could never (ever) do is write at a coffee shop. I don't know how people get anything done, though I admire that they can.

6. Do you have a routine/quirky habits that help you to write?

I like to check my e-mail and browse the New York Times website for I begin writing. This way, I know nothing more important is going on in the world. Then I can write without distraction.

7. What would be your all time favourite book and/or movie and why?

I love The Great Gatsby. I've read it countless times and, above all the other wonderful attributes of the book, the narrative voice never fails to floor me.

8. Finish this sentence. ‘When I’m not writing or editing I’m…”

...teaching (a lot) and spending time with my family. We love food and wine and company (wish we had more time for all three).

10. Is there a question you have always wanted to be asked but haven’t? What would your answer be?

I'm happy to be asked anything.

11. Are there any tips/advice/reading material you would like to share with aspiring writers?

Aspiring writers, obviously, need to write all the time, but they also need to share. Join workshops. Form writing groups. Take classes. It's a solitary act that needs outside input. Be brave. Take shots. Find mentors (avoid friends and family for feedback). Learn to use the criticism that resonates and toss out the rest (which will be the bulk of it). Also, writers need to study craft. There are a ton of books on writing by writers (I like The Modern Library Writer's Workshop by Stephen Koch). Read them carefully, like training manuals. Also, read story with great care. Read with a pen and mark down all the passages/plot movements/verbs/whatever-moves-you. Keep track of these things and allow them to inspire your own work. Don't steal. Borrow. Artists borrow from other artists. So, borrow. If you do it well, someone will certainly borrow from you.

12. You’re hosting a party in which you can invite anybody you like, (No limitations here, dead alive mythical etc) What theme would it be? Who would you bring? How do you think the night would turn out?

Wow. I could do a lot with this question, but for simplicities sake, I'd recreate the party I had last year for the release of Domino. It was at a performance space in Brooklyn, and about 100 of my closest friends and family were there. After I read, two of my favorite bands played while we hung out at the bar. It was so much fun and the only way to top it would be by having my mother there, sipping martinis. That would have been perfect. And if Muddy Waters showed up, that would have been OK, too.

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I'd like to say a big thank you to Andrew for taking the time out to answer my questions!  You can visit Andrew at www.andrewcotto.com, follow him on twitter, and on facebook!

Interview with Alison Stewart

Today I'm pleased to welcome Alison Stewart, author of the newly published book, Day's Like This.

Days Like This is a Dystopian Young adult novel set in Sydney where the Committee has walled in the privileged, leaving the rest of the people outside to suffer the effects the "warming" has caused.  But Lily finds being inside the walled area is more like a prison than a privilege  and longs to be free of the ruthless Committee and the Blacktroopers.

Thanks for taking the time out to answer my questions Alison.

So here goes...


1. Where did the idea for Days Like This come from?

Some years ago I was seeing a lot of media reports about Gen Y’s fury at baby boomers – how the boomers had it so lucky, how they were hogging the good jobs, how their greed was wrecking the world. I thought what if we lived in a world where that anger turned to violence. What would happen then - maybe repression of younger people, removal of benefits and education, restriction of movement? Days Like This started with the idea that the social issues of today might develop into the dystopian world of tomorrow: an environmentally devastated world, where resources are scarce, where power is in the hands of a few people who exploit their own children and who become so arrogant they seek immortality.

2. What was the easiest and hardest part of writing Days Like This?

The easiest part was thinking about the idea and reading up on issues that related to my themes – stories about social unrest, environmental chaos, global warming. The hardest part was having people pick holes in it once it was finished; changing it from an adult to a YA book. And then having to edit and edit until I wanted to screech! And did, occasionally.

3. Was becoming a published author how you expected it to be? Any surprises?

I thought once I had a book published, I’d be content forever and die happy. Unfortunately, human nature means that you are constantly looking to the future, wondering why your book hasn’t become a world-beating bestseller, wondering if anyone wants it for a film, wondering what you’re going to write next, wondering if anyone’s going to like what you next write because this is such a subjective area. I once thought that I couldn’t bear it if I never got my writing published. Now I have a couple of unpublished manuscripts sitting in the bottom drawer and it doesn’t seem like the end of the world.

4. Where do you do most of your writing?

I used to write longhand sitting on the sofa or on my bed before putting it in to the computer to begin the editing process. Now I tend to write directly onto the computer in a tiny room that used to be my baby son’s bedroom. It still has the Beatrix Potter prints on the wall, the kid curtains and the luminous star mobiles! And the cow candle he once gave me with its weird, lazy eye. I’m embarrassed to include a photo – oh what the heck, here it is in all its scruffy glory. Who says writers can’t be slobs?

5. What routines/quirky habits do you have for when and how you write?

I have absolutely no routine at all; it’s fantastic! I got used to writing in chaos when I worked as a full-time journalist. The newsroom was always in turmoil and people always wanted to have a chat! So I tend to work when I feel like it – that could be late at night or first thing – but only after my cappuccino!

6. What keeps you writing?

I love writing. It’s a way of trying to make sense of things. I like to think about “what if?” That’s why I like dystopian fiction. It lets you address fairly confronting issues like why people behave the way their do, what motivates them – greed, anger, money, jealousy, fear. It’s a way of trying to work out what we value about ourselves and the world.

7. Finish this sentence. ‘When I’m not writing or editing I’m…”

Thinking about food. No, seriously, probably reading, planning travel, spending time with my friends, my husband Rob and my adult “children”, Angus and Georgia and her boyfriend Lachlan, though only Angus, who’s at uni, lives with us now.

8. Any Future projects you would like to share with us?

I’m working on a “childhood memoir” called Cold Stone Soup which is almost finished. It’s about growing up under apartheid in South Africa. Like most other privileged white children of the times, I was completely unaware of what was going on, but gradually I, like many others, woke up to the immorality of the system. I’d also love to write a loose “sequel” to Days Like This but the story would be about the next generation - Lily and Kieran’s children and their contemporaries – and the world they’ve inherited. Because, sadly, people never seem to learn from their mistakes!

9. Is there a question you have always wanted to be asked but haven’t? What would your answer be?

Your question 11, except with food - which seven foods would I take to a desert island? Avocados, sourdough bread, feta cheese, garlic, lemons (to go with the fish I’d catch and also because I’d like to keep my teeth), broccoli (yes, I know, weird), and dark chocolate.

10. Are there any tips and advice you would like to share with aspiring writers?

Don’t be afraid to write and keep writing, but also don’t be afraid to edit. Don’t be put off by rejection – easier said than done! But remember, some idiot rejected J.K. Rowling, among many other good writers. It goes without saying that you should read widely and when you come across something you love, take note of how the author has achieved this. And put your writing out there – in blogs, writing groups, writing competitions. There’s a lot of luck and you have to be in it to win it, as they say!

11. And last, you’re stuck on a deserted island. Which character from your book would you have with you and why?

Hmm, certainly not Max. Probably Daniel because he’s smart, a bit feisty, interested in the world around him, so maybe up for a good conversation. Also, he likes feta cheese and avocados.

To Find out more about Alison Stewart see below:

Alison Stewarts Blog

Twitter

Goodreads 

Between The Lines

Interview with Alyson Noel

Spellbound By Books would like to thank Caitlyn from Pan Macmillan for sending this Q and A's through!  I was hoping to interview Alyson Noel this month as I'm reading through the series but unfortunately she is on tour at the moment.

So without ado, here they are!

What were your favourite books as a child?

I loved anything by Dr. Seuss, Charlotte’s Web by EB White was the first book that brought me to tears, and Judy Blume’s Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret changed my life and inspired me to be a writer too!

What’s your advice for aspiring writers?

To read a lot—read outside of your usual genre, outside of your comfort zone. The books you like, as well as the books you don’t like—they all have something to teach you.
Also, be kind to yourself! It’s so easy to get discouraged when the words you write fail to live up to the vision you had in your head, which is why it’s important to remember that all writing is rewriting. The books you see on the bookstore shelves were revised numerous times to get to that point. Your first draft is for your eyes only—it’s the jumping point that allows you to build your story---it’s not meant to be published!

What did you do before you were a writer?

I worked as a New York City based flight attendant, travelling the world and working on my debut novel, Faking 19, during long weather delays and boring layovers—basically whenever and wherever I could find a free moment to spare!

Where do you do all your writing?

I have a home office where I pretty much hunker down in the morning and stay put all day—just like a “real” office job, only I go to work in my pyjamas!

Which of your characters do you most admire and why?

I really admire Ever for her strength. She was forced into this horrible situation—losing her family, burdened with psychic powers she doesn’t want—and has no choice but to navigate her way through a new life she really doesn’t understand, with no one to confide in. And though she makes some mistakes along the way, she always picks herself up and keeps going, determined to make amends, set things straight, and do the right thing. It’s a pretty tough gig that she’s got!

Is living in the OC as glamorous as what we see on the TV in the UK?

Every time I see one of those shows I can’t help but wonder what I’m doing wrong. My OC, while undeniably beautiful, with one of the most gorgeous coastlines around, consists of pretty much the usual, real life stuff—grocery shopping, bill paying—nothing anyone would ever want to film!

Author Interview with Sherry Soule

Spellbound By Books would love to welcome Sherry Soule, Author of the debut novel Beautifully Broken which will be out 30th June 2011

So here goes...

How would you describe Beautifully Broken?

A supernatural romance that blends elements of ghosts, haunted houses, demons, and witches.

What was the easiest and hardest part of writing Beautifully Broken?

I love writing description, so that was the easy part. And I think most writers will agree that dialogue is the HARDEST to write. That is why I am so adamant about listening to your work read aloud. It makes a huge difference in natural sounding conversations between characters.

Was becoming a published author how you expected it to be? Any surprises?

Well, I’m not actually published yet! I was published before about 10 years ago, but the industry has changed so much that now I’m learning as I go.

Where do you do most of your writing?

My workspace is surrounded by books and art. I write in a built-on family room in the house I’m renting. Since it was built without a foundation, I get a lot of creepy-crawlers in this room. Plus there is a forest area behind my house. So far, I’ve had a bat, wolf spider (this spiders are HUGE), salamander, lizard, slugs, black widow spider, and a centipede. These creatures tend to entertain my cat, but totally freak me out. LOL

What routines/quirky habits do you have for when and how you write?

I get up, drink coffee, take a shower and put on clean PJs. When I’m in the “writing zone” I can write for about 10 hours straight (only breaking to use the bathroom or grab a snack), unless I’m stuck on a scene. Then I’ll surf the web, read online poetry, check emails, and play on my blog.

What keeps you writing?

An obsession with the written word that I’ve had since I held my first book in my hands at age seven.

Finish this sentence. ‘When I’m not writing or editing I’m…”

Watching scary movies or catching up on my favorite TV shows saved on my DVR. I watch SUPERNATURAL, Vampire Diaries, TrueBlood, Game of Thrones, and I can’t wait for CW’s new series “The Secret Circle” about witches. Yay!

Any Future projects you would like to share with us?

Just started edits on the sequel to Beautifully Broken, and I’m having a “Pick-a-Title” contest on my blog.

Is there a question you have always wanted to be asked but haven’t? What would your answer be?

Do I think haunted houses are real? YES. Supernatural activity inside homes is said to be mainly associated with violent or tragic events in the building's past such as murder, accidental death, or suicide.

Are there any tips and advice you would like to share with aspiring writers?

I have blog devoted to writers: “Dark Angel Writing Tools” that has tons of advice for writers at any stage in their career, agent and author interviews, and insider publishing secrets.  http://www.darkangelwritingtools.com

And last, you’re stuck on a deserted island. Which character from your book would you have with you and why?

Great question! Well, Shiloh or her Aunt Lauren, of course. So they can use their magickal talents to create a boat and get us off the island. Fast!

Thank you Sherry for taking the time to answer a few questions with me!

If you would like to check out more about Sherry Soule and her upcoming novel Beautifully Broken see the websites and book trailer below!!

Sherry Soule Official Website

Read my Awesome books!

Blog on Writing Tips and Publishing Secrets

Whispering Pine's haunted history

Follow me on Twitter

Interview with Beth Revis

Spellbound By Books would love to welcome Beth Revis, author of Across The Universe to answer a few questions!

 Beth Revis lives in rural North Carolina with her husband and dog, and believes space is nowhere near the final frontier. Across the Universe is her first novel.

So without further ado..

1. How would you describe Across The Universe?

Short answer: a murder mystery in space!

2. What was the easiest/hardest part of writing Across the Universe?

The easiest part was writing Amy’s opening chapters and Elder’s closing chapters—those just seemed to flow. The hardest part was writing the death of a character whom I’d grown to love rather a lot…

3. Was becoming a published Author how you expected it to be? Any surprises?

It’s been amazing! I’m constantly surprised—especially by how encouraging, wonderful, caring, and open the blogging community is.

4. Where do you do most of your writing?

I do most of my writing on the desk my husband made me or at my local coffee shop. But I do all my revising on my kitchen table—I need to spread out!

5. What routines/quirky habits do you have for when and how you write?

None, really! Give me a laptop and some time, and I’m good to go! When I get stuck, though, I do like to brainstorm with a Sharpie on a legal notepad.

6. What keeps you writing?
I just honestly like telling stories.

7. Finish this sentence. 'When I'm not writing/editing I'm...'

…playing with my dog, Sirius, a big black lab who loves to chase balls.

8. Any future projects you would like to share with us?

I’m currently wrapping up Book 2 and getting ready to start Book 3!

9. Is there a question you have always wanted to be asked but haven't? What would your answer be?

What would you like your last meal to be if you were going to be frozen and sent to a new world? Answer: my granny’s chicken and dumplings.

10. Are there any tips and advice you would like to share with aspiring writers?

Don’t give up. Keep writing. Know that it may very well take more than one book before you’re published. And if you’re given the opportunity to write something or experience something new, go for the experience. You have to experience life before you can write anything.

11. And last, your stuck on a deserted island. Which character from your book would you have with you and why?

Harley! I don’t care if he wouldn’t contribute one whit towards my survival—I like him the best!

I'd like to thank Beth Revis for taking time out to answer my questions.

Enjoy!

Interview with Kirsty Eagar

Spellbound By Books would love to introduce Kirsty Eagar, Author of Raw Blue and Saltwater Vampires which has only just been released!

So here goes:

1. How would you describe Saltwater Vampires?

It's the story of a fifteen-year old surfer called Jamie Mackie who has to deal with both girls and vampires over the course of a weekend at a music festival.  And I should add that the vampires in the story hail from the shipwreck of the Batavia in 1629, off the West Australian coastline (which really did happen).

2. What was the easiest/hardest part of writing Saltwater Vampires?

The easiest part was definitely getting to know the characters.  Especially Jamie

The hardest part was how to structure the narrative.  That's because I had three or four different stories in a sense - the present day at the music festival, what happened with the Batavia, a theft in Amsterdam three weeks earlier, and Jamie's back story (Jamie and a friend nearly died in a boating accident; Jamie managed to swim for help, but his friend was badly injured, and now the two of them don't talk to each other and they've never told anybody what happened).  So yeah ... just thinking about it makes me tired.  I ended up going WAY overboard on the Amsterdam and Batavia stuff and having to cut a lot of that out.

3. Was becoming a published author how you expected it to be?  Any surprises?

I like hearing from readers.  They alwasy have a different take on your story and characters, and because of that you see things you hadn't noticed before, which is really cool.  I also love the collaborative relationships I've got with my editor, Amy Thomas, from Penguin.  She is extremely talented and an excellent person.  What took me by surprise with the whole thing, though, was how you feel like you've lost something.  I think it's because hyou can't go back into the story and be with your characters again, and you really miss them.  Sounds weird, but you did ask :)

4. Where do you do most of your writing?

In my head and at this two-desk set up (sorry about the mess - I wish I could pretend that it's unusual for me).  The desk on the left was my first ever writing desk.  I bought it at a garage sale.  I like how it has bits of masking tape stuck to it for no apparent reason.  The maneki neko is for luck, and the slinky is for playing with.  My daughter made me the star.  I found the doorknob on the beach.

5. What routines/quirky habits do you have for when and how you write?

I get up early (usually around 5am).  If I do that regularly I'm too tired to doubt myself too much, and it's the only way I ever get through a first draft.

6. What keeps you writing?

The knowledge that when I finish the first draft all will no longer be unknown and I get to play with it.

7. Finish this sentence 'When I'm not writing/editing ...'

I'm doing a lot of surfing.  For such a slack writer, I'm a very disciplined surfer.

8. Is there a question you've always wanted to be asked but haven't?  What would your answer be?

Q. What is the best sound you've ever heard?  A: My girls laughing.

9. Are there any tips and advice you would like to pass on to aspiring writers?

Well, for what it's worth ... Learn to recognise the people who give you good feedback.  It will be a genuine response to the work and you should be able to bounce off it.  You will recognise what they're saying (which doesn't automatically mean you must implement it) and it won't smash your self confidence.

And build a solid relationship with the process, that is, the work.  Because ultimately that's what gets you through.  You might pile up rejections, or collect awards and good reviews, or be met with a wall of indifference, and all of these things can make it hard to write.  But the only thing you control is whether you are going to sit down and play with words today.  Back yourself.  If you love what you're working on, that's reason enough.

10.  And last, your stuck on a deserted island which character from your books would you take with you and why?

Probably Ryan from Raw Blue.  I've always had a crush on him.

Thank you Kirsty for an awesome review.  I look forward to reading more of your work.

Interview with Suza Kates and Giveaway

Spellbound By Books would love to introduce Suza Kates, Author of Whisper of a Witch!

Thank you so much Suza, for taking the time out to answer my questions.  Here we go.


1. How would you describe Whisper of a Witch?
Whisper of a Witch is a paranormal romance that focuses on the challenges faced by its hero and heroine while also introducing us to the rest of the characters we’ll be seeing in the series. One of the things I love about the The Savannah Coven Series is the interaction of the women as they get to know each other and the camaraderie between them. They are all struggling with the fact that they are witches with a dangerous prophecy to fulfill, and this creates plenty of drama for them to deal with.

2. What was the easiest/hardest part of writing Whisper of a Witch?
The easiest part is the dialogue of the women. The characters are all so different that I enjoy experimenting with their personalities and styles.
The hardest part is keeping the overall story of the series intertwined with each witch’s book. There’s a balance between giving away enough to keep the story moving, but not so much that I give it all away. Suspense is always a challenge!

3. Where do you do most of your writing?
Most of my writing occurs in my office, where I get plenty of help from my 5 cats. : ) It’s my comfort zone. I often plot and sketch out story lines in the middle of my living room floor where I can spread out my research and guides. I also keep a voice recorder handy at all times. A scene or dialogue can come to me any moment.

4. What routines/quirky habits do you have for when and how you write?
I like to buy a brand new coffee cup for every book that I write, and a candle that matches must be burning at all times. With the Savannah series, every witch has a color, so I feel inclined to make the cup and candle match. It sets the mood, and now that I write it out, it definitely sounds quirky!

5. What keeps you writing?
I love it. Once I realized writing a book is as much of an escape as reading one, I became hooked on creating the places I wanted to go and the people I wanted to know about.

6. Finish this sentence 'When I'm not writing....'
I’m thinking about it! Everything becomes an inspiration whether it’s a movie, vacation, or another book. The dreaming is almost as much fun as the writing.

7. Any future projects you would like to share with us?
I have another book coming out this fall called She Who is Hidden. It’s a romantic suspense that includes traveling to foreign lands and solving ancient riddles. I’m a real Dan Brown fan, and I thought it might be interesting to combine the clues and adventure with a little more romance. It’s the first of three books that make up The She trilogy.

8. Is there a question you've always wanted to be asked but haven't?  What would your answer be?
What was the first book to influence me as a writer?  Little Women. Again, I was enthralled by the female relationships and the desire Jo had to be a writer in a man’s world. What a challenge!

9. Are there any tips and advice you would like to pass on to aspiring writers?
It might sound simple, but if you’ve never been to a writer’s conference you must go to one of your genre. When I first attended an RWA conference, it was like someone shined a bright light on everything I had done wrong or had forgotten to do in my book. Aside from the contacts you’ll make, it’s a wonderful learning experience.

10. And last, your stuck on deserted island which character from your books would you take with you and why?
At first I wanted to say Anna from The Savannah Coven Series, because she’s a very talented witch. I think instead I’ll take Karen from the second book in The She trilogy. It’s called She of the Dragon, and the character Karen is not only a tough US Marshall, but she’s so witty, I think she would keep me entertained!

Thanks for a great interview!

Giveaway Time

If you haven't read my review of Whisper of a Witch you can see it here.

To win a copy of Suza Kates' Whisper of a Witch all you need to do is fill in the form at the bottom of the interview.  

Rules: 

Giveaway closes on 30 July 2010 (11:59pm AEST)

Open international!

Optional Extra Points:

Leave a comment on Interview.

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Interview with Lisa Sanchez

Spellbound by Books would love to introduce Lisa Sanchez, Author of Eve of Samhain!

A Big Thank You to Lisa for taking the time to answer my questions, so here we go!!

1. How would you describe Eve of Samhain?

Eve Of Samhain is a humorous paranormal romance with a snarky female lead and a witty, sexy, frustrating, but always charming,hero that will leave you pining for more.

2. What was the easiest/hardest part of writing Eve of Samhain?

The easiest part of writing Eve Of Samhain was the dialog. I have a houseful of girls, and my oldest is a teen, so I’m very comfortable writing female relationships. The banter and slang you see tossed between the roommates throughout the book flowed easily for me. The hardest part was writing the ending. I struggled for days, mostly because I didn’t want it to end, lol!
 

3. Where do you do most of your writing?

Sittin’ back in my easy chair with my laptop, woohoo!

4. What routines/quirky habits do you have for when and how you

write?

During the school year, I wait until the girls are out of the house, and then it’s on! I usually grab a snack, which lately, has been a giant bag of Costco trail mix, and get to work. The girls are out of school for summer at the moment, so my writing habits have changed a bit. If I want to get any work done, I’m forced to hide like a criminal in my bedroom while I pound away at the keys.

5. What keeps you writing?

My characters! They won’t leave me alone! I’ve always had a creative flair, and now that my children are older, I finally have to time to foster it. There’s a wonderful sense of accomplishment that comes with weaving a tale from start to finish. Besides, if I didn’t write, didn’t get these ideas out of my head, I think my head might explode!

6. Finish this sentence 'When I'm not writing....'

I’m shoveling lukewarm chicken nuggets into my mouth while speeding across town, taxiing my girls to cheer practice.

7. Any future projects you would like to share with us?

You bet! I’m currently polishing up the sequel to Eve Of Samhain. Book two is Martha’s story. I can’t say much without giving important details away. However, I will say this: Martha kicks serious bootay! Stay tuned!

8. Is there a question you've always wanted to be asked but haven't? What would your answer be?

Haha! Of course! I’ve always dreamed of someone approaching me with starry eyes, asking me “Hey! Are you Scarlett Johansson?” My reply would be “Uh, no, but I’ll take her husband, please. Ryan Reynolds is hot!”

9. Are there any tips and advice you would like to pass on to aspiring writers?

Persevere. Stick with it. Rejections suck on a multitude of levels, but you have to push past the hurt and keep on keeping on. Find a critique partner you can trust, or two (insert smiley face), take classes and write, every day if you can.

10. And last, you’re stuck on a deserted island. Which character from your books would you take with you and why?

Oooh fun question! Okay, since my other works aren’t out yet, I will go with a character from Eve Of Samhain. Of course, I’m gonna have to go with Quinn. I mean, hello! He’s gorgeous, tatted up and is the most sexually experienced being on the planet. Something tells me my time on the island wouldn’t be spent searching for coconuts. That is, of course, if I were single (waves hello to super, awesome, sexy husband) and Ryann were out of the picture.

I'd like to say another thank you to Lisa for an awesome interview!

To learn more about Lisa Sanchez and Eve of Samhain click on the links below:
Lisa Sanchez's Blog (Eve of Samhain)
Twitter (LisaSanchez3)
Facebook
http://omnificpublishing.com/

To read my review of Eve of Samhain click here!  Awesome Book!!

Interview with Jennifer DeLucy

 Spellbound By Books would love to introduce Jennifer DeLucy, Author of Seers of Light!

A Big thank you to Jennifer for taking the time to answer my questions.  So here goes.

1. How would you describe Seers of Light?

Well, it's a mix-mash of paranormal/speculative romance.  I like to combine a lot of eastern thought and modern living into my books, because I believe we're all destined for good things, if we act from our heart and with love and courage.  This book is a love story, yes, but I think it's more about the purpose and path of our main protagonist (Lily), and how her interactions influenced and touched the lives of everyone around her.

2. What was the easiest/hardest part of writing Seers of Light?

Hm.  The easiest part was writing it.  The hardest part was trying to find enough hours in the day to do so, since I was working full time while writing it.  The sleep-deprivation really stinks, but, it was worth it.

3. Where do you do most of your writing?

Actually, I like to write either in bed, or on the coffee table.  I know, boring, right?  But, if I had my ideal, I'd be writing in a garden or on a sun porch by the ocean.  Le sigh.

4. What routines/quirky habits do you have for when and how you write?
Quirky habits... Let me think.  I do zone out when I write.  You could hit me with a brick and I wouldn't know you were there.  I also tend to write late into the evening, since, for now at least, that's the only time I have.  Oh, and when I'm writing scary scenes, sometimes I freak myself out so much that I can't sleep after.  But, you know, if it's going to scare the poop out of me, hopefully that will translate to the reader. (Sorry readers!)

5. What keeps you writing?

It makes me happy, plain and simple.  Writing is one of two things (the other being music) that brings me great joy, and in a world where so many people are unhappy and afraid to follow their dreams, I just want to encourage and inspire them to feel passionate about their own lives.  Sometimes it takes a story or a song to do that, you know?

6. Finish this sentence 'When I'm not writing . . . . '

I'm working, or editing, or writing music.

7. Any future projects you would like to share with us?

Sure!  The sequel book in the Seers series is in editing now, so that's due for release sometime in the fall, I believe, and I'm planning book three (which I'm thinking will be the last in the series before I begin something else, but, we'll see.)

8. Is there a question you've always wanted to be asked but haven't?  What would your answer be?

You know, off hand, I can't think of one.  But, if your readers leave a question in the comments area, I'd be happy to answer it!

9. Are there any tips and advice you would like to pass on to aspiring writers?

Learn grammar thoroughly as you can.  I don't mean run out and try and earn your doctorate in the English (or whatever you speak) language, but, do have a firm grasp on the rules of writing.  It saves both you and your editor a lot of work, and it makes you far more likely to be taken seriously and published more quickly.

10. And last, your stuck on a deserted island which character from your books would you take with you and why?
Ooooh, now, this one is niiiice.  Okay, talk about hard!  I'm going to say William, because, for one, he is a healer, and wouldn't that be handy in a dangerous environment, but also . . . . come on.  He's William.

Thank you again Jennifer for an awesome interview! 

To learn more about Jennifer DeLucy and Seers of Light click on the links below:
http://jenniferdelucy.blogspot.com/
http://twitter.com/Jen_DeLucy
http://www.facebook.com/JenCED
http://omnificpublishing.com/

To read my review of Seers of Light click here!  Fantastic Book!!

Interview with Shannon Delaney

Spellbound by Books would like to introduce Shannon Delaney, Author of the upcoming Debut novel 13 to Life.  13 to Life will be out on June 22!

A big thank you to Shannon Delaney for taking the time to answer these questions.  So here we go:

1. How would you describe 13 to Life? 

I'd describe it as something that can be read at different levels by different people.  Yes, theres action, romance and danger, but there's also some deeper underlying themes and subtleties some people will catch and others will skim across.  There are hidden bits that line things up in the next two books very specifically.  And to me, getting different things from a book?  Well, that's the way it should be.  We're all different readers, we all bring different things to our reading experience and should take away different ones, too.

 

2. What was the easiest/hardest part of writing 13 to Life?
 

Putting it in front of my editor was hardest. As a writer I think we all move (in the space of a single breath) from feeling we're the worst writer in the world to feeling we're the best. And back again. An editor's the one person who really gets to tell you how you rank in your profession as an author. The easiest part was writing the rough draft. The characters do most of it for me, frankly--I just sort of view and record the action through the lenses which are Jessie's eyes.

 

3. What routines/habits do you have for where you write, when you write and how you write?

The main one is I read aloud everything I write--at least twice. Other than that, I write when I can, as much as I can and as fast as I can (ignoring the internal editor until we're past the rough draft stage). Oh. Coffee helps, as does smoked salmon (lox and bagel = yum).

 

4. What keeps you writing? 

Writing's like an addiction.  I need to get the stories and characters down on paper.  It's like they all rent space in my head until they're ready to find their own home--in the right book, living the right adventures. 

5. What do you hope people take away with them after reading your work?

Overall, I want my books to raise questions about things in my readers' lives.  Yes, this debut series is about paranormal happenings, but as weird as the story gets it's still about people and the way we treat each other and ourselves.  If I can get you to wonder...about the characters' futures, about their choices or your own, I feel I've accomplished something.  I firmly believe we can learn something from reading anything--we don't only learn when reading straight fiction or non-fiction if we're open-minded.  

 

6. Is there a question you've always wanted to be asked but haven't?  What would your answer be?

I think I've been asked most of the questions I'd care to answer (sometimes multiple times). I always look forward to unique questions, though (but I'm low on caffeine today so I have few floating around in my head). 

 

7. Any future projects you would like to share with us?

I have a bunch of things planned (and a number "in the works').  Right now all I can really say is that the second book in this series has been accepted by my publisher and I expect book three will be accepted soon, too.  After that I'll be working on vastly different books.  But mainly YA.

8. Are there any tips and advice you would like to pass on to aspiring writers? 

 Read alot, and write even more.  Set achievable goals and be persistent.

9. Three things you can't live without?

A way to write. Love. Yeah, it sounds corny, but that's how I roll. I'm fond of being loved (who isn't?) and I'm lucky to have a bunch of great people who really do love me. Without them I'd be so miserable (but still stubborn enough to live). Third? Common sense. Quite literally (and with me, it comes and goes). ;-)

10. What book's have influenced your life most?

Ugh. Technically the Bible, Shakespeare's works, and, oddly enough, the Valdemar series by Mercedes Lackey. They all have very unique merits.

11.  And last, your stuck on deserted island which character from your books would you take with you and why?

Hmm. A few months ago I would have said Pietr (Jess drives me crazy--we have some annoying similarities). But at this point, having finished book 2, I think I'd take Max along. Once you read book 2 you'll probably figure out there are a few decent reasons to keep him around (and not really for the reasons you'd guess from 13 to Life). I have the advantage of seeing my characters grow up before readers do.

Find out more about Shannon Delaney:

http://ShannonDelany.com

http://13toLife.us/blog
http://Twitter.com/Shannon_Delany

You can purchase 13 To Life here: 
http://www.13tolife.us/ordernow
http://tinyurl.com/13toLifeB-N

St. Martin's Press has special stuff planned for 13 to Life in their upcoming http://wordsnstuff.net newsletter, so if you want to read the first two chapters, or an exclusive short story just for the newsletter, please sign up.

Interview with Trevor Salter AND Giveaway

Spellbound By Books would like to introduce Trevor Salter, Author and Illustrator of Monsters Galore, More Monsters Galore and Mask & Mime.

I'd like to say a big thank you, Trevor for taking the time out of your busy schedule to answer some of my questions!

Q1. Have you always wanted to write and draw? 
Yes i have always wanted to draw, from an early age i watched the Saturday morning cartoons and loved them. i was always drawing throughout my school years and making up silly stories...which got me in quite a lot of trouble with the teachers. 


Q2. What inspired you to write Monsters Galore?
I am in a writers group and we get homework after each meeting...on this particular time the theme for the homework was children,   a few nights later my Kids said they had monsters in their bedrooms so i told them that if the monsters weren't wearing pajamas they weren't allowed in their rooms and that sparked the Monsters Galore books....so my 2 children inspired me.

Q3. Is there a question you've always wanted to be asked and haven't?  What would your answer be?
Yes there is..  the question would be, would you like to have the characters seen in an animated cartoon series?

My answer would have to be ," oh Yeah for sure...when do we get started."

 

Q4. Any tips and advice you would like to pass on to aspiring writers/illustrators?

Absolutely.... DON'T PROCRASTINATE.....and keep trying no matter how many knock backs you receive...believe in your work.

Q5. Any future projects planned that you would like to share with us? 

 Sure.. i have two more stories i would love to see on the shelves "My Stinky Brother" and "Hat's the Magician", both have Already been written and i am in the process of illustrating them. 

Q6 And last, your stuck on a deserted island, which character from your books would you take with you and why?

OH That's easy,  it would have to be Rickett as he would supply a constant stream of comedy relief to break up the boredom.    (Left: Rickett)

Thank you again Trevor for the awesome interview.  You can buy his books from  The Book Garden, and  Monster's Galore website.

Okay Giveaway time!!

We have 3 signed books of Monsters Galore to giveaway.  To enter all you need to do is fill out the entry form and the winners will be picked via Random Org.  Giveaway closes 21st May (Friday) at 5PM AEST 

This is open to everyone on the planet!!

If you would like to leave a message for Trevor please feel free to do so in the comments section below.  Thanks everyone!!

CONTEST CLOSED