Blog Tour: Q and A with Steve Brezenoff + Giveaway!

As part of The Absolute Value of Negative 1 blog tour I have an interview with the book's author Steve Brezenoff, as well as a giveaway for some fab bookmarks and the book itself. So, without a further ado, here it is...

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1) In your opinion what are the top three reasons why teens (or even adults!) should consider picking up The Absolute Value of -1 the next time they see it in stores or online?

This is a tough question to answer, since I think no two readers get the same thing from any given book. My hope is that a teen reader will see something in one or all of the narrators that reminds them of something in themselves, or in someone they love. In other words, I guess the primary reason I’d like a reader to pick up -1 is empathy, or a chance for empathy. The three narrators (or four, if you include Suzanne’s little sections) are really in need of some empathy; maybe their readers are too.

Beyond that sort of heavy thing, I think the book has a few laughs, and a few good cries, too. Those count as two separate reasons!

2) The Absolute Value of -1’s main characters are Noah, Lily, and Simon, so can you tell us a little about each one? Also, which out of three do you relate to the most?

All three are fifteen, just starting their sophomore year of high school when the book opens. Lily is a math genius, and pretty obsessive. Probably compulsive, too: she counts her steps as she travels around the school, she estimates the sizes of tiles based on the length of her feet, and she can’t listen to music without thinking of it mathematical terms. She’s also obsessed with her friend Simon.

Simon is a bit of a downer, probably. He’s dark, and listens to metal constantly. He writes—weird stuff, too. He also used to run track. Then he started smoking—with Lily, in point of fact—and wasn’t much good at running anymore after that. His older sister, Suzanne, is up in Boston for college, and he misses her—a lot.

Noah is their third wheel, I guess . . . but also their pot dealer. (Did I mention this book has a dark theme or two?) He’s not good at much, except lusting over Lily, resenting most other males in his school, and getting into fistfights with his dad.

Which do I relate to the most? Of course, I relate to all three—I relate to some to degree to all my characters, because otherwise they’d never feel true. That said, some of Simon’s story and background is based on my own (I never had a sister, though, and most of Simon’s story is full-on fiction), so I think he’d be the one I relate to the most. Lily, however, is the one I empathize with the most. I think anyone who’s ever had a crush on a friend will probably agree.

3) The one thing that really draws me to The Absolute Value of -1 is its title, which leaves me to wonder how did it come to be. Was it always the title? Or not?

It was not always the title. For years, this project—which started as a short story about Simon, back in 1995, and eventually grew into a short novel just about Simon—was called “Looking Down on Havoc,” and then “Splinters.” When the book was sold, and edits and revisions were ongoing, my editor and I compiled a list of possible titles. My wife contributed more than either of us, though, and better options. The Absolute Value of -1 was her idea, and it won the vote pretty easily. It’s math-related, which makes it mostly Lily’s title, in a way. But more importantly, the stories in -1 are about loss—of friendship, love, family . . . So the question is, what value does that have? What is the absolute value of negative one—one friend, one sister, etc. I think it works really well for the book.

4) What inspired you to have The Absolute of -1’s setting be Long Island?

Boring answer: I grew up there. I knew these kids, these streets, the Gap . . . so it made sense to use a setting I was intimately in touch with. I think using a very familiar setting makes a book feel right. If I’m stumbling along with maps or google images or even a visit for a few days, I think that would come across as manufactured or false.

5) If you could live in any book for one day, what book would you choose? Why?

Gotta be The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. I mean, I’m not a Christian, but who can resist that kind of magic. I know . . . doesn’t have a thing to do with my book or even with YA. I don’t care. It would be fun as heck.
 
~~~
 
Thanks so much Steve! Also, I love your answer for Number #5!

Now for the giveaway... I'm giving away my review copy of The Absolute Value of Negative 1 (It's hardcover, by the way!) as well as some fabulous bookmarks with the cover's artwork on them.  And best of all this contest is open INTERNATIONALLY! Because I'm awesome like that. :) Anyhow, here are the official rules:
 
~ EDIT: This will end October 14, 2010!
~ Must be 13 or older to enter.
~ Must fill out the form to be officially entered.
~ Contest is open internationally!
 

The Duff Blog Tour: Q and A with Kody Keplinger

Today, I'm thrilled to be part of Kody Keplinger's blog tour for her debut book, The Duff (which is now out!). And thanks to the lovely people at Little Brown and Kody herself, I have a Q and A with her for all of you to read! So, without a further ado...

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1. In your opinion, what are the top three reasons why teens, or even adults, should consider picking The DUFF up the next time they see it online or in stores?

Oh, that’s tough!

First, because it’s about something we can all relate to – low self esteem – and I think everyone can connect with Bianca in some way or the other.

Second, because it’s funny and is meant to make you smile, even as Bianca deals with some serious issues.

Last, because Wesley is hot. Just sayin’. That’s why I’d read it.

2. The DUFF is told from the viewpoint of Bianca Piper, so would you mind telling us a little bit about her? Also, if you could offer her any advice, what would you say?

Oh, Bianca. Bianca is cynical, sarcastic, and, yes, at some points just bitter. But she’s also loyal and compassionate and, well, kind of lost. She’s struggling with who she is, how she fits in, and what kind of person she wants to be. Just like any high school girl might be.
My advice to Bianca would be to be less judgmental. Not just of others, but of herself, too. She’s too hard on herself.

3. If The DUFF had a theme song, what would it be?

Definitely “I Can’t Stay Away” by The Veronicas. That song is the whole reason I wrote the book. It truly inspired Bianca and Wesley’s relationship.

Other theme songs for the book are “Easier to Run” by Linkin Park, “Push” by Matchbox 20, and “The Only Exception” by Paramore.

There’s also a full playlist on my website . . . because I’m a nerd like that. :)

4. Do you have an absolute favorite scene or line from The DUFF? If so, would you mind telling us about it?

Gah!!! Yes, I do have a favorite line – but it’s a spoiler so I can’t share it! What I can say is that it comes in the form of a note on Bianca’s desk, and based on the feedback I’ve gotten from readers, it’s pretty much everyone’s favorite line in the book.

5. If you were given the chance to live in one book for one day, which book would you choose? Why?

The Harry Potter books. I would do ANYTHING to explore Hogwarts. Who wouldn’t?

~~~

Thanks so much, Kody! I can't wait to read The DUFF.

To find our more about The DUFF and Kody, be sure to head on over to Kody's site.

The Emerald Talisman Tour: Quick Q and A with Brenda Pandos

Today as part of the The Emerald Talisman Tour, I have a Q and A with the author, Brenda Pandos. So without a further ado:

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In your opinion what are the top three reasons why teens, or even adults, should consider picking The Emerald Talisman up the next time they see it in stores or online?

In my humble (well, not really) opinion, I think they should because it’s fabulous (and Nicholas is completely amazing). Seriously though, it’s a great paranormal romance that parents of pre-teens can feel comfortable letting their daughters read and many people my age and above said they enjoyed. But don’t take my word for it.Two of my favorite fans said, “the story is cool and your vampire world building is different which is GREAT,” and “Nicholas' role in Julia's life is unlike another vampire in fiction”.

The Emerald Talisman is told from the perspective of Julia Parker, so can you tell us a little about her? Also, if you could offer her any type of advice what would you say?

Julia, an empath, has had a rocky upbringing. Her mother disappeared when she was five and her father is routely out of town on business trips, leaving her with little parental support. Now a teenager, she’s overwhelmed with the emotions of her fellow classmates, which lends
to her small friendship base and non-existent social life. Things change after Nicholas comes into her life.

Actually, I’d like to be Julia’s mother and fill that longing in her life. Then I could be there for when her heart breaks, help her manager her abilities and maybe suggest who she should trust and who she shouldn’t.

If The Emerald Talisman had a theme song what would it be?

I heard ‘I Fight For You’ by Morgan Page during my one of my editing sessions on slacker radio and fell in love with it. The beat, the drive, the words and overall feeling of the music matches the scene starting in chapter 3. Here’s my favorite lines...

Meeting you here, the night’s alight with midnight cheer
Our dust still unsettled, I feel the plucking of our petals
I’m drawing circles don’t you know, protect the seed that wants to grow
To a garden, pardon my territory
Be friendly but cautious, you’re gonna have to count your losses
Easily attracted, but dangerous to get distracted .... Not gonna share you no

Even reading them gives me chills.

What was your favorite part about writing The Emerald Talisman?

My favorite part of the process happened when the characters emerged and continued to talk even after I stepped away from my computer. I was right with them, running, feeling, chasing, fleeing, fighting. I’ll be sad when the story is over.

The original thing that drew me to find out more about The Emerald Talisman was the stunning cover. Which left me to wonder if you were involved in the process in any way? Also, what was your initial thought when you first saw it?

Actually, I’m the designer. I have a website and graphic design business, so I was allowed to design my own cover. I didn’t have a physical talisman to photograph, so I made one in my graphics program with real pictures of stones and molded the gold around them digitally. I’m actually having a replica made, so the next cover won’t be so difficult to construct. What I came up with was a hit, so we ran with it!

I read in your ‘About Me’ section on your blog that Stephenie Meyers' biography was one of the main things that inspired you to write. Which left me to wonder if there are any other authors and/or books out there that did the same?

I can’t say I’ve read a ton. In elementary school, I read most of the ‘Betsy Books’ by Carolyn Haywood and Bevery Cleary’s books. ‘Are you there God, it’s me Margaret’ by Judy Blume helped a lot with that crazy pre-teen time. Later, I was really into ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ books. My most favorite series is the Annals of Lystra by Robin Hardy, the first book being ‘Chataine’s Guardian’. I would say, that story planted a seed. Stephenie’s bio was the water. Encouragement from family and friends was the sun.

What’s up next for you book wise?

The Emerald Talisman’s sequel, The Sapphire Talisman is almost completed and going to be available December 2010. I’m super excited about it and can’t wait to share the continuation of the story with my readers. There will be a third after this one.

~~~

Thanks so much, Brenda! To find out more about Brenda, as well as her book, head on over to her website.

Q and A with C.A. Belmond + Giveaway!

C.A. Belmond is the author of the "Rather" series (A RATHER LOVELY INHERITANCE, A RATHER CURIOUS ENGAGEMENT, A RATHER CHARMING INVITATION), and today she's here to answer a few of my questions and offer up quite the excellent of contests.

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In your opinion what are the top three reasons why people should consider picking up the “Rather” series the next time they see it in stores or online?

Here’s what my readers from all around the world tell me about why they love the “Rather” novels:

1) People totally identify with my main character, Penny Nichols. They say, “I would react exactly the
way she does in each situation” and they love her “take” on every place she visits and every person she
meets.

2) Penny and Jeremy are a couple who truly like each other’s company. They bicker, they banter, they
sometimes drive each other crazy, but you know that underneath it all, they love being with each other.

3) In addition to the great locales, there’s always a bit of history and mystery in each book. Penny
narrates in the first-person voice, so readers say, “Wow, I feel like I was right there on a fantastic trip
with a good, trusted friend who gives you a private tour of the best cultural hot-spots in Europe!”

The “Rather” series is told from Penny Nichols’ viewpoint, so can you tell us a little about her? Also, if you could offer her any type of advice what would you say?

Penny is smart, but modest; idealistic, but sensible; she has wry, funny insights about people but she’s never cynical or judgmental. Penny gets her inspiration from 1930s movies, and she refuses to believe that there’s nothing more to modern life than dog-eat-dog. She’s determined to carve out an authentic, unique, elegant life for herself. I wouldn’t give her any advice at all, except to tell her to stay true to herself.

What’s you favorite aspect of writing the “Rather” series?

I love doing the research for my “Rather” novels because it means travelling to all these great locations. I also get deep pleasure from the quiet daily act of writing. And, I just love hearing from my readers,
because they come from many different places, different ages, different walks of life, yet it’s like a secret club of really wonderful people.

If the “Rather” series had a theme song what would it be?

There’s a wonderful Noel Coward song called, “A Room With A View”, about how he’d like to go off with the one he loves and just watch the world go by. Also, there’s a great Beatles song called “I Feel Fine”.

What inspired you to have Europe be the “Rather” series backdrop?

My first trip to the South of France was when I was awarded a writers’ residency. Then I returned to France, England and Italy for film festivals and other work projects. And all the while I kept thinking about writing about a sort of modern-day Henry James heroine, you know, an American girl on her first trip to Europe.

How do you come up with your character’s names? Is it something that comes to you easily or do you go through many before deciding on the perfect one?

I came up with Penny’s name when I was trying to describe her hair color. I thought her hair must be the color of a penny, but just to make sure, I went to my coin purse. “Yep, that’s it,” I told myself. And
right there in my palm, next to the penny, was a nickel. That’s how I got Penny Nichols. As for the other characters, I use a very old book of names that tells you their origin and meanings. Something inside me just knows when I’ve found the right one.

If you could live in any book for one, which book would you choose? Why?

Wow, how do you choose between Antibes and Rome in the first book, Lake Como and Corsica in the second; and a château near the perfume fields of Grasse or a chalet in Lake Geneva in the third book? But wherever Penny and Jeremy roam, in every book they always come home to two spots: their
townhouse in London where they work, and their villa on the French Riviera where they go to relax. So if I had to pick just one spot, I’d take the Riviera. Of all the places in the world, that’s where I feel most at home.

Name three things that most people don’t know about you.

I often get my inspiration when I’m in the water, either the bathtub, or swimming. Maybe I’m part mermaid? Second, I love music, perhaps because I had some dance training. Third, I started out writing for television and film, which perhaps is why people tell me that they love the scene in A RATHER LOVELY INHERITANCE where Penny is working on a movie shoot.

What’s next for you book wise?

I am writing a fourth book in the “Rather” series, which will be released in September 2011. Also, I am co-authoring a stand-alone historical/suspense novel with my husband. So, stay tuned!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

People often ask me what inspired me to write these “Rather” novels, and while there are many reasons, in the end it all comes down to this: Just like my readers, I, too, wanted to open a book and discover a secret world, a timeless place that you’ve never seen before, yet you knew in your heart that it must exist somewhere. So, if you’re a seeker, then, welcome to the club!

~~~

Thanks, C.A.! To find out more about C.A. and her books head on over to http://www.cabelmond.com/.

Now for the giveaway part...

C.A. has offered up a copy of each of the novels in the "Rather" series (A RATHER LOVELY INHERITANCE, A RATHER CURIOUS ENGAGEMENT, A RATHER CHARMING INVITATION) and a "Rather" T shirt that includes all three of the "Rather" books' covers. There will be a winner for each prize, and have no fear if you haven't read this series before, C.A. told me it's easy to pick up what's going on from any of the books.

Here's the summaries for each book:

A RATHER LOVELY INHERITANCE is the first book in C.A. Belmond’s “Rather” series, and introduces Penny Nichols, an American art researcher who works for the movies. Out of the blue, she is summoned to London for the reading of her English great-aunt’s will, where she learns of her inheritance, and is reunited with a childhood friend, Jeremy Laidley, who is also an heir. But to claim their legacy, they must team up and go off on a chase from London to Antibes and Rome, to uncover some family secrets. If you’ve ever dreamed of having the perfect apartment, auto, wardrobe and guy to see Europe with, here’s your chance to go for the ride!

A RATHER CURIOUS ENGAGEMENT is the second novel in C.A. Belmond’s “Rather” series. Penny and Jeremy are a real team now, in love and in work. They decide to sock away their inheritance, except for one splurge—a vintage yacht that they win at auction, which leads to another mystery for them to solve. If you want to know what it’s like to live on a yacht, and visit Lake Como, Italy, and Nice and Corsica on the Mediterranean, then climb aboard!

A RATHER CHARMING INVITATION is the third novel in C.A. Belmond’s “Rather” series. Penny and Jeremy are trying to plan their wedding while balancing the demands of their American, English and French relatives. But when a family heirloom loaned to them for the wedding goes missing, Penny and Jeremy must solve the theft in time to say “I do.” If you’ve experienced the family dynamics of planning a wedding, and if you love the idea of travelling to Paris, Lake Geneva and Monte Carlo with the man you love, well...here’s your invitation!


To enter please fill out the following form.

Though as with any contest there are rules:

~ Must be 13 or older to enter.
~ Open to participants with an United States mailing address only. (international readers can enter if they have a friend in the States who can accept their prize by mail)
~ Don't comment below to enter or you will not be entered!
~ The contest will close on August 26th at 6:00 AM Eastern.

Quick Q and A with Siobhan Curham

Siobhan Curham is the author of the newly released Dear Dylan among many others, and today she's here to answer a few of my questions. So, without a further ado...

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In your opinion what are the top three reasons why teens, or even adults, should consider picking up Dear Dylan the next time they see it online or in stores?

Well firstly, I hope it is an entertaining, page-turning read. Secondly, I hope that either teen or adult readers will be able to relate to the experiences of the two main characters and that the book will strike a chord with them. And thirdly, and perhaps most importantly, I wrote Dear Dylan to try and help anyone who is trying to overcome a major obstacle in their life. At the beginning of the book both of the main characters feel trapped by their life circumstances. Through their online friendship they manage to eventually find the courage to overcome their obstacles and chase their dreams. If the book manages to help encourage just one reader to do the same then that would be a dream come true for me. I always want to use my writing to reach out and help or inspire other people. That’s why I decided to give the electronic version of Dear Dylan away for free – so that it could hopefully reach as many people as possible.

Dear Dylan is told from Georgie’s point of view so can you tell us a little about her? Also, if you could offer her any advice what would you say?

I really loved writing the character of Georgie. She was very loosely based on a girl who came to a drama workshop I ran in London, in terms of her energy and resolutely positive spirit no matter what life throws at her. I also wanted to create a character who has no side to her – she wears her heart on her sleeve and that makes her very vulnerable at times but hopefully it makes her likeable too. As someone who is a bit more guarded personally it was a real release to write in her voice and let all of her feelings and emotions tumble out into her emails. If I had to give her any advice I would tell her not to trust her so-called best friend Jessica and I would also tell her to have more faith in herself and her talents.

Dear Dylan is told entirely in emails, so what made you choose to tell the story in this way?

I chose to write the book in emails because I saw it as a way to really get inside the heads of the two main characters. I think people tend to let go and relax when they are emailing and write in a very informal and chatty style. I hoped it would be a good way of capturing the characters’ real voices. It was a lot of fun to do but it did present some challenges – like when the characters decide to actually meet up. It took me a while to figure out how I was going to let the reader know what happened at the meeting, as the characters were hardly going to email each other afterwards with a blow-by-blow account of events. That was a real challenge!

In Dear Dylan Georgie has love for acting, so what made you decide to give her this characteristic? Was it something you took from your own life?

I’ve never wanted to be an actor myself but I have written and directed for the stage – and I run drama workshops for young people. I was also in a long-term relationship with a professional actor so I know all about how passionate people get about acting!

I absolutely loved the character of Nan, so what inspired you to include her character in the story?

hank you so much, I’m so pleased you liked her. I am a great fan of the book Goodnight Mister Tom, which explores a friendship that develops between a young boy and a much older man during the Second World War. I think that friendships that span generations have so much to offer – and not just one way. I wanted Nan to get just as much from Georgie as vice versa. As the mother of a teenage son I get sick of the bad press that young people often get. I wanted to create an older character who has been through a lot but still has a real young spirit at heart. Through getting to know Georgie, Nan is reminded of who she really is and the importance of her own hopes and dreams. I’m a great believer in staying young at heart myself – to my son’s frequent embarrassment I’m sure!

If Dear Dylan had a theme song what would it be?

What a great question. I actually found a song called ‘Dear Dylan’ online by a Canadian artist. I almost contacted her to ask if she would like to team up and make her song the theme tune for the book. Maybe I still will… Failing that I guess it would have to be one of my favourite songs of all time, ‘Do You Realise’ by The Flaming Lips – it sums up the theme of the book perfectly I think.

In Dear Dylan there’s also mention and discussion about abusive, physical and emotional, in Georgie’s life, so what lead you include this as part of the story? Further more, do you any advice for teens like Georgie who are dealing with this in their own lives?

I always like to deal with some kind of issue in my writing. One of the best things about being an author to me is the ability to take a difficult subject like alcoholism or domestic abuse and try to make sense of it through your fictional characters and plot. And of course to be able to come to some kind of resolution. As an adult I have unfortunately experienced some of the issues raised in Dear Dylan and I want to try and help readers who might be going through similar. For any teens who are having to deal with similar issues to Georgie I would say don’t be afraid to seek help. No-one deserves to live in those kind of conditions, least of all teenagers or young children. There are organisations that you can speak to in confidence and I think that sometimes just discovering that you are not alone and there is somebody you can talk to can be a massive help.

Do you have a favorite scene or line from Dear Dylan? If so, would you mind telling us about it?

My favourite line is one of Nan’s to Georgie when she says: “Right now you are on a difficult page, but you won’t be stuck here forever. You have so many pages yet to fill in your life story – all crisp and clean and full of promise. So whatever is happening right now, hold on to that thought, and whenever you get the opportunity, have the courage to turn that page.” I think that is the best piece of advice an older person can give to somebody in their teens. As you get older you realise that nothing lasts forever and even the worst of times eventually come to an end. I think it’s also important to realise that sometimes you need to find the courage to get yourself out of a bad time – or to ‘turn that page’ in your life story. And this is exactly what Georgie does in the end.

What were you like when you were Georgie’s age? Were you similar to her in any ways?

When I was Georgie’s age (14) it was a real turning point in my life. I went from being quite shy and quiet to discovering rock music, dying my hair purple and spending most weekends on protest marches! I think fourteen is a really interesting age generally – a sort of gateway between child and adulthood. I seem to remember writing A LOT of angst-ridden poetry too! I guess I was similar to Georgie in that I was a real dreamer and romantic at heart.

How do you come up with your characters names? Is it something that comes to you easily or do you go through many before deciding on the perfect one?

Sometimes choosing names can take forever, but for Dear Dylan they all came really quickly. I really did run a workshop once where there were two boys who had been named after the pop star George Michael. I thought it would be even funnier if they had been girls and so Geogie and Michaela were born. I’ve always loved the name Nancy. And I called the actor Dylan because I thought Dear Dylan had a nice ring to it.

If you could live in any book for one day, which book would you choose?

I just recently read ‘The Sky is Everywhere’ by Jandy Nelson and absolutely fell in love with the characters and the world she creates. So it would be there without a shadow of a doubt. I am recommending that book to everyone I talk to – it is a masterclass in first person, YA fiction.

Name three things most people don’t know about you.

My middle name is Raissa (which is Russian). I used to play the flute in a youth orchestra but gave up when I discovered rock music! And I dropped out of university after two years to go and work in a video store! But ended up writing a novel about my experiences in the video store, which was published by Hodder & Stoughton - so I guess I came good in the end!

What’s up next for you book wise?

I am currently half way through my next YA novel, which is called ‘Finding Cherokee Brown’ and is all about a girl who ends up turning the tables on her bullies in quite spectacular fashion. It was inspired by a young reader who wrote into a magazine that I am an editor on, bemoaning the fact that the heroines in the YA vampire books are all a bit ‘sappy’. She wanted someone to write a really strong, young female character that readers could aspire to be. I cut out her letter and pinned it to my notice-board as a challenge. I only hope I succeed! On that note I’d love to hear from any other readers about the kind of characters and stories they would like to see in the bookstores. I really want to write what people want to read, so please feel free to contact me via my website: http://www.siobhancurham.co.uk/

~~

Thanks so much, Siobhan! If you would like to find out more about Siobhan and/or Dear Dylan, head over to here website. She's actually offering free downloads of Dear Dylan on her website as well, so if would like to read a copy of this novel, this is a chance you shouldn't pass up.

And to read my take on Dear Dylan head over here.

Blog Tour: Quick Q and A with Tricia Rayburn, author of Siren!

As part of the Siren Blog Tour I have Q and A with Tricia featured below, though before we get to that here's some info about Tricia's latest release.

Siren by Tricia Rayburn

Seventeen-year-old Vanessa Sands is afraid of everything—the dark, heights, the ocean—but her fearless older sister, Justine, has always been there to coach her through every challenge. That is, until Justine goes cliff-diving one night near the family’s vacation house in Maine, and her lifeless body washes up on shore the next day.

Though her parents hope that they’ll be able to find closure back in Boston, Vanessa can’t help feeling that her sister’s death wasn’t an accident. After discovering that Justine was keeping a lot of secrets, Vanessa returns to Winter Harbor, hoping that Justine’s boyfriend might know more. But Caleb has been missing since Justine’s death.

Soon, it’s not just Vanessa who’s afraid. All of Winter Harbor is abuzz with anxiety when another body washes ashore, and panic sets in when the small town becomes host to a string of fatal, water-related accidents in which all the victims are found, horrifically, grinning from ear to ear.

Vanessa turns to Caleb’s brother, Simon, for help, and begins to find herself drawn to him. As the pair try to understand the sudden rash of creepy drownings, Vanessa uncovers a secret that threatens her new romance—and will change her life forever.

A seductive paranormal romance full of unexpected twists, Siren is certain to make a big summer splash.

To read my review head on over here.

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1 . In your opinion what are the top three reasons why teens, or even adults, should consider picking up Siren the next time they see it online or in a store?

Teens and adults should consider picking up Siren if they’re in the mood for a spooky summer read, if they want to check out a paranormal romance in which the ladies (not the men!) are the ones in control… and if they’re curious to see just how long and far those silver eyes will follow them!

2 . Siren is told in the point of view of Vanessa. So can you tell us a little about her? Also, if you could offer her any type of advice what would you say?

Vanessa’s a lifelong scaredy-cat who’s forced to face some of her worst fears after she loses her older, protective sister. Along the way she makes some discoveries that threaten her new romance and change her life forever.

I think she does okay all on her own, but if I were to give Vanessa advice, I might suggest that she confide in Simon more. I understand why she doesn’t, but I’m pretty sure he’d stick by her no matter what!

3 . In Siren Vanessa has a close relationship with her sister Justine, so were parts of their relationship pulled from your own life?

I have a younger sister and an older brother, and we’re all very close. Our relationships are different from Vanessa and Justine’s, but we definitely look out for each other!

4 . What inspired you to set Siren at Winter Harbor?

I knew I wanted to set Siren somewhere along Maine’s dramatic coast, and I chose Winter Harbor upon learning that it earned its name because the harbor never freezes—not even in the middle of winter. That contributes to a key plot development in the book!

5 . What were you like when you were Venessa's age? Were you similar to her in any ways?

When I was 17, I was scared of the dark, rather shy, and in love with a bit of a brainiac. So yes, in those ways I was a lot like Vanessa!

~~~

Thanks, Tricia! Make sure to check out the next stop on the Siren blog tour tommorow at The Book Vixen.

Quick Q and A with Jim Bernheimer + Contest!

Today, I have not only an interview with the lovely Jim Bernheimer, author of  Destiny Book One: Rider and Dead Eye: Pennies for the Ferryman, for you all but a contest for 1 copy of Spirals of Destiny Book One: Rider and 1 copy of Dead Eye: Pennies for the Ferryman as well.

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In your opinion, what are the top three reasons why teens or even adults should consider picking up your newest release Rider: Spirals of Destiny?
Three reasons - 1) It is an entertaining story. 2) I think teenagers and adults will identify with the characters. 3) Did I mention that it's an entertaining story.

Majherri and Kayleigh Reese are the main characters of Rider: Spirals of Destiny so can you tells us a little about them. Also, if you could offer each any type of advice what would you say?
Majherri is the only unicorn to survive the loss of his first rider. His portion of the story is the broken hero, trying to reclaim what he has lost. Kayleigh has lived all her life assisting her mother and traveling from town to town. She's three years older than the other recruits and her story is the fish out of water and the outsider.

What was your favorite part of writing Rider: Spirals of Destiny?
My favorite part was finishing the first book. There's nothing like sending the final corrections back to the publisher and knowing that it's on the way to the printers.

Do you have a favorite line or scene from Rider: Spirals of Destiny? If so, would you mind sharing or telling us about it?
My absolute favorite part is the ending. Naturally, I can' give that away, but I also liked writing about the developing bond between Kayleigh and Majherri. The odd numbered chapters are from the unicorn's point of view and the even ones are from the rider's. This helps to give the readers different perspectives insight.

If Rider: Spirals of Destiny had a theme song what would it be?
Haven't really given much of thought to theme songs. I guess that Miley Cyrus song, The Climb would be a suitable theme for what the characters experience during the story.

Is there a specific message you hope readers take from Rider: Spirals of Destiny?
The message from the story would be to be true to yourself and follow your dreams.

Out of all three books you have written, do you have a favorite among them?
I don't really have a favorite out of my two novels and short story collection at the moment. All of them are milestones on my writing journey.

If you could live in any book for one what book would you choose? Why?
I'd have to pick the superhero universe from my novella Confessions of a D-List Supervillain that is in Horror, Humor, and Heroes. The Spirals universe would be tempting, just to see magic, but I like the modern lifestyle too much.

Name three random things most people don’t know about you.
Three random things no one knows about me. 1) I'm very easy going and have no problems corresponding with my readers. 2) I'm not an especially fast writer, so I have to make up for it by spending a good deal of time doing it. 3) I've used speech to text software to "speed things up," but I can't do it while anyone is in the house because I feel self-conscious.

What’s up next for you book-wise?
Next up? I'm halfway done with the sequel to my urban fantasy Dead Eye 2: The Skinwalker Conspiracies. I'm hoping to have it to my publisher by the end of August and maybe a Halloween release date.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thanks for the interview.

~~~

Thanks, Jim!

Now, time for the contest.

Jim has offered up 1 copy of Spirals of Destiny Book One: Rider and 1 copy of Dead Eye: Pennies for the Ferryman.

Here's the summary for each in cause you don't know what they are about:

Spirals of Destiny Book One: Rider

Forget everything you thought you knew about unicorns and maidens... A unicorn is not supposed to survive the death of its rider, but Majherri did. Now he is a pariah, mistrusted by the Greater Herd. To reclaim his lost honor and status, he will entrust the remnants of his life to a new human female while unraveling the mystery of his continued existence. Kayleigh Reese is not Battle Maiden material. She's three years older than any other recruit and has enjoyed a peaceful, nomadic life working with her artist mother. The rigors of joining the High-King's elite unicorn cavalry are clearly not for her. Now, with a bond to Majherri, she must overcome her mother's disapproval, the ire of her commanding officer and fellow trainees, and, most importantly, the secrets of her unicorn's past if she is to become a legendary warrior. To prevail, they must quickly come together as a team and unlock the powerful and dangerous magic inside them.

Dead Eye: Pennies for the Ferryman

My name is Mike Ross. I'm a Ferryman. I help people with ghost problems, or ghosts with people problems. Funny thing, no one ever helps me with my problems. Civil War ghosts bent on killing me, Skinwalkers who just want my body, and a vindictive spirit linked both to my bloodline and my destiny... It turns out the dead still hold a good deal of influence over the world, and they don't want to give it up. I'm in way over my head. Fortunately, I'm too stubborn to quit.


To enter, please fill out the following form. There will be TWO winners toatal ONE for Spirals of Destiny Book One: Rider and ONE for Dead Eye: Pennies for the Ferryman.

Also, as with any contest, there are rules:

~ Must be 13 or older to enter.
~ Open to participants with a United States mailing address only. (international readers can enter if they have a friend in the States who can accept their prizes by mail)
~ Don't comment below to enter or you will not be entered!
~ This contest will close on July 27 with the winner being announced July 28 or 29.

Blog Tour: Quick Q and A with Alice Kuipers and Contest!

Alice Kuipers is the award-winning author of Life on The Refrigerator Door and the newly released Lost for Words. Today, she's here on Lauren's Crammed Bookshelf, answering a few of my questions about the book. Also be sure to check out the contest below!

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In your opinion, what are the top three reasons why teens or even adults should consider buying Lost for Words the next time they see it in stores or online?

Wow, this is a hard question! Not because I don't love the book, but because it means I have to try and market it which is way outside of my experience! But, okay, I'll try:

Lost For Words talks about real family dynamics in the face of real tragedy. Reason One To Read It: It's vivid and true.

It's a book for anyone who sometimes doesn't know what to say. It's about the space between words and experience. It's about being lost and being found. Reason Two To Read It: It's about things that matter to you.

It's a great story about a great character (I love her!) who you as a reader will root for as she stumbles through the drama of her life. Reason Three To Read It: You'll want to know what happens to Sophie as soon as you open the first page.

Lost for Words is told from the viewpoint of Sophie, so can you tell us about her? Also, if you could offer her any advice what would you say?

Although Sophie insists that she's fine, she's feeling shaky and sick and is overwhelmed by memories of a day she'd rather forget. She is vulnerable yet tough; strong yet damaged; brave yet frightened. My advice to her at the beginning of the novel would be that it's okay not to be alright. That there's nothing wrong with being vulnerable and fightened sometimes - especially after what she's been through.

Lost for Words is written in diary format, so what made you choose to tell the story in that way?

Lost For Words was a hard story to write. I struggled to find the right way to tell it. I wanted the novel to be in fragments, like Sophie herself, but it was my editor who said, why don't you date the fragments? I was freed up when she said that - a diary is the perfect way to get to the heart of a character. It made sense to me.

What were you like when you were Sophie's age? Were you similar to Sophie in any ways?

There are elements about Sophie that remind me of myself. Her interest in poetry, her attraction to the wrong guy, her frustration with her mother are all things I went through. But Sophie has to deal with something way outside of my experience and so any similarities between us are made different because of what Sophie is going through. She's much braver than me.

Do you have a favourite line or scene from Lost for Words? If so, would you mind sharing or telling us about it?

I have lots of favourite lines and scenes from the novel, but one of my favourite scenes is the party at Abigails where Dan appears out of the shadows upstairs. He's wrong in every way for Sophie, but she can't help herself because when she's with him, she forgets. It's the worst way to deal with her problems, but that doesn't mean it wasn't fun to write.

~~

Thanks, Alice! I'm really looking forward to reading Lost for Words. To find out more about Alice and her books, be sure to check out her website and her author page at HarperCollins.

Now, the part you've all been waiting for... the contest!

HarperCollins has been amazing enough to offer up THREE copies of Lost for Words for me to giveaway.

To enter, please fill out the following form, and as with any contest, there are rules. Here they are:

~ Must be 13 or older to enter.
~ Open to participants with a United States mailing address only. Also, no P.O. Boxes, please.  (international readers can enter if they have a friend in the States who can accept their prizes by mail).
~ Don't comment below to enter or you will not be entered!
~ This contest will close on July 5 with the winner being announced July 6 or 7.

Quick Qs and As with Stefne Miller

Today, I have a very special guest here on Lauren's Crammed Bookshelf. That guest? Well, no one other then Stefne Miller, author of the INCREDIBLE Salvaged, a book that's a must-read in my opinion.

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In your opinion what are the top three reasons why teens, or even adults, should consider buying Salvaged when they see it online or in stores?

It’s different than a lot of books out there. It gives readers a different perspective of "mainstream" romance, one that mothers and daughters can share together and people from all ages can enjoy.

It helps show teenage girls that they can respect themselves and still be loved, and gives them a model of what a worthy guy acts like.

It “freakin’ rocks” – or so my best friend Tammy says. LOL!

The main characters in Salvaged are Attie and Riley, so can you tell us a little bit about each? Also, if you could offer them any advice what would you say?

Attie is a witty, independent, strong-willed, imaginative and passionate character. While she has a lot of struggles, she has a good head on her shoulders.

Riley is a charming, compassionate, protective and respectful boy. He knows what he believes and he doesn’t sway from it.

What advice would I give them? Don’t allow the choices of those around you or the circumstances you find yourselves in to negatively affect your lives. Stay firm in your convictions. Enjoy each other but don’t make each other the center of your universe.

Salvaged is told in the alternating perspective’s of Attie and Riley, so what made you decide do that? Also out of the two, did one’s story come easy to you then the other’s?

I started writing Salvaged about the time that the movie Twilight came out. I rushed and read all the books so that I could read them before the movie and I also made sure to read Midnight Sun from Stephanie Meyers website. I loved getting Edward’s perspective on the relationship. I felt like understanding his thoughts made him a more interesting character and certainly even more swoon worthy! So, when it came time to write Salvaged, I wanted to make it very personal and therefore it needed to be first person but I also wanted to get into the male mind – so, I chose to go back and forth in the POV’s. Originally, almost the entire first half of the book was written with each scene from both perspectives. Obviously, I couldn’t keep it that way or the book would’ve been 600 pages so I picked the best POV for a given scene based on which information I thought was more important. For example – the opening scene. I loved Riley’s perspective on Attie’s arrival, but it gave too much away about how he felt about her. I didn’t want it to come out quite so soon.

I would say both POV’s came rather easily for me. If I had difficulty writing from a “male mind”, I would consult with my husband. He gave me a lot of insight into what males think and the struggles they face.

In Salvaged Attie has the ability to talk to Jesus, which leaves me to wonder what made you decide to have her be able to speak to him so freely?

Attie’s conversations with Jesus are based a lot on how I talk to him (although I don’t see him standing in the room or audibly hear him speak back). My “prayers” aren’t formal or beautiful, they’re conversations. For me, it’s about relationship. In my very humble opinion, he knows everything anyway, so we might as well lay it all out there.

What made you decide to have Salvaged take place in Oklahoma?

I’m an “Army Brat” who moved around my entire life. Oklahoma was where we came to visit for the summers. I wanted to pay homage to the only place that I’ve ever truly been able to call “home”. It’s also where I now live with my family. Guthrie is a real town just a few minutes north of me. Johnnies is a real restaurant in El Reno, OK where they serve amazing “fried” burgers and conies. The river they float is visited by just about every person in the state at least once during their lifetime and a Sonic can be found on every street corner. Oh, and OU vs. OSU is huge here! The two sides can barely stand each other!

If Salvaged had a theme song, what would it be?

“You’re Not Alone” by Meredith Andrews is the song that Attie sings in the end. If you haven’t heard it – you’ve got to look it up on iTunes! It fits perfectly and when I heard it for the first time (after I was almost finished the book), I was shocked at how right on it was. Another song that fits is “I Will Not Be Moved” by Natalie Grant. It makes me think of Attie.

A “fan” of Salvaged put together a playlist of songs for me. They are songs that she felt fit perfectly with the book. It can be found on the Salvaged and Stefne Miller fan pages on Facebook under the discussion tabs. I listen to it all the time and I would agree with each choice – she did a great job picking the songs.

Do you have a favorite scene or line in Salvaged? If so, can you share it with us or tell a little about it?

So hard to choose!!

Favorite scene: When Attie and Riley have their first “knee to knee” talk. I loved writing the scene. I enjoyed the way they struggled through trying to communicate but managed to make it through no matter how uncomfortable it was. That scene makes me laugh every time I read it.

Favorite line: “I was near and no more monsters would come for her tonight.” I think it sums up who Riley is and what makes him so special. He’s protective and sweet and that line says it all. (I use it in book two – but won’t tell you how)

Is there a specific message you hope readers take from Salvaged?

There are so many messages wrapped into that book that it even surprises me! There’s the spiritual message that Jesus wants an intimate relationship with us. Not based on rules or doctrine – but a relationship. There’s the message that girls are a prize to be won and they should be treated accordingly. No girl should put up with or accept a boy who won’t respect her, her beliefs, her boundaries, etc. It’s a matter of waiting to find the right one. It’s about realizing that nobody is perfect and we all have struggles and issues that we have to deal with. I think every person that reads the book comes away with their own message – that’s one of the things I love about it.

How does it feel knowing that Salvaged is now out in stores and online?

It’s the strangest feeling ever! Before Salvaged, other than keeping a blog throughout the adoption of our son, I’d never written anything. I didn’t even keep a journal, and honestly never even thought about being a writer or wanted to be a writer. I knew I had an active imagination but I just thought I was slightly “off” and I spent a lot of time in la-la land (of course that could still be debated). So now when I realize that out of nowhere I wrote a book and its out there and people are reading it and responding to, it almost feels like it isn’t real at all. But it’s also exciting. The response the book is receiving has been so positive that I can’t help but be thrilled. I’m honored that out of everyone God could have used, he chose me to tell this particular story.

By the way – my children are completely unimpressed! LOL!

What were you like as a teenager? Were you similar to Attie or Riley in any ways?

I was a normal girl with average looks. I was a cheerleader but I wasn’t necessarily popular and I didn’t belong to any specific group. I certainly never captured a boy’s attention the way Attie does, but she and I are a lot alike in other ways. I moved the summer before my senior year. I flew ahead and tried out for the cheer squad and made it, like she did. (A lot of my experiences are in book 2) Her personality is a lot like mine. Her faith is a lot like mine. I knew who I was and who I wasn’t; so I wasn’t easily swayed by other people. I was (and still am) a HUGE OU football fan. My similarity with Riley is the stable, supportive, close-knit family. Our family was very much that way while I was growing up.

If you could live in any book besides your own for a day, which one would you pick?

Pride and Prejudice (or anything by Jane Austen).

What’s your typical day like?

I’m married and a mom to three boys, ages 14, 12, and 11. I worked in politics and ministry for most of my adult years but now I’m a full time mom/writer. I get the boys up and off to school and then I sit down and write or do book marketing stuff. I’m the worst homemaker ever. I hate doing laundry and would rather sit behind my desk and live in the make believe worlds that I create than sweep or dust or go to the grocery store. I also occupy my time by keeping up on Facebook. I LOVE Facebook – if you aren’t my friend – you need to be! LOL! Look me up!

Since Salvaged was just released on May 18th, I spend a lot of time sitting around trying to find ways to get the word out about the book. It’s a lot more difficult than I ever would have imagined but I enjoy it.

What’s up next for you book wise?

I just finished the sequel to Salvaged; it’s titled Rise. Now I just sit back and see if Salvaged sells enough copies to make the publisher want to go ahead and release the sequel. (Keep your fingers crossed!)

I am 1/3 of the way through a 3rd book which has no relation to Salvaged and I’ve also started a 4th. I can’t decide which one to concentrate on next. As of right now, the characters from book four are really occupying my time so I may dabble in it a bit and see where it takes me.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

One little piece of insider info: Most of the friends in the book (Tammy, Anne, Jennifer, Tess and Chase) are my real life friends. The characters are completely based on them and most of the names are real. I just made them (a lot) younger in the book!

I’d like to say thank you for this opportunity. I hope that everyone enjoys the book!

~~~

Thanks, Stefne!

To find out more about Stefne, as well as Salvaged and where you can buy your own copy, head over to her website!

Side Note: Stefne has been awesome enough to set up a special deal for my readers out there. That deal? Well, she's offering up copies of Salvaged  for $14.99 ($3 less than Amazon, B&N, etc). They will be personalized, signed copies and come directly from her. To cash in on this awesome deal, head over here.

Quick Q and A's with Jen Calonita

Jen Calonita is the author of Secrets of My Hollywood Life series, as well as two standalones, the later, Reality Check, is now out! And today, I have an interview with Jen to post here!

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In your opinion, what are the top three reasons why teens (or even adults!) should pick up Reality Check come June fourteenth?

It's fun! Seriously, summer is in the air and Reality Check is nice, breezy beach reading with mean girl drama and TV dish. It's the kind of thing I love to read myself.

Describe your main character Charlie in one sentence. If you could offer her any type of advice, what would you say?

Charlie is the friend you want in your corner. If I could shake her by the shoulders during this book, I would tell her to listen to her gut, trust her instincts and remember that friendships change. Some grow stronger and some fade, but you learn something from all of them.

Reality Check deals with one girl, along with her three best friends, getting the chance of a lifetime, a reality TV Show, which leaves to me to wonder if you would say yes or no if someone offered you your own reality TV show. Why or why not?

I would say no right away! Seriously I don't think I'm meant to live a life in front of a camera. I think it would change me too much, make me worry about what I say and how I say it and just make me question my every move. Some people are great at it--like the Kardashians. The rest of us are not cut out for the changes fame brings.

Reality Check (Now Out!)

Did you write Reality Check in chronological order, or did you write certain scenes or events, then go back and fill in the blanks?

I actually did write the story in order. I had a very clear picture of how I wanted the story to begin and I actually knew the last line of the book before I wrote a single word. That doesn't always happen--trust me! But for this book the idea came to me and the story was one that unfolded in front of me.

Out of all the girls (Charlie, Hallie, Keiran, and Charlie) which one were you most like as a teenager?

Hmm....I'll tell you who I wasn't first: Hallie and Brooke! I didn't have the guts to be mean to anyone, and I never had Hallie's ease with boys. I was probably more of a mix of Keiran and Charlie. I was definitely the planner in my group. I was always coming up with some new Friday night outing or planning a girls' night. I actually still do that with my friends now!

I absolutely love the concept for the cover of Reality Check, which leaves me to wonder what you thought when you first heard about it.

Thank you! I love, love, love this cover too! The design folks at Poppy are incredible and I loved the idea of the girls envisioned as dolls. The idea works perfectly with a story about reality TV and how your TV persona can sometimes make you feel like a puppet or a doll on a string.

How did the title Reality Check come to be?

I pitched that title when I pitched the book. It just made sense to me: the idea that being on a reality show could be a real reality check for these four girls who didn't know what they were in for.

Is there a specific message you hopes teens take from your books?

I think a big theme in my books is learning who you are and where you fit in your world. I hope teens see that and it helps them come up with a clearer picture for themselves. I wish I knew who I was when I was sixteen!

When you set out to write a story do you the know the ending from the get-go or does it evolve over time?

I always know the ending, sometimes know the beginning and fret over the middle the entire time I'm writing!

Secrets of My Hollywood Life (Now Out!)

I read in your biography on your website that you used to be a Senior Entertainment Editor for Teen People which leaves me to wonder what that experience was like. Also is it one of the reasons that you tend to write stories (Secrets of My Hollywood Life series, Reality Check, exc.) dealing with the different sides of fame?

My time as an entertainment editor definitely played a part in shaping Secrets and Reality Check. Every author is different, but for me, I say it's important to write what you know, and what I knew when when I started Secrets was about young Hollywood. Now I'm branching out from Hollywood with a new series that I've just started, but Hollywood will always be my first love. I just adore Kaitlin's world.

What is your typical day like?

It depends on the day! I have two boys under six so most days I have a sitter come in so I can write for several hours at a time. The rest of my day is spent with the boys so there are many discussions involving Star Wars and Mickey Mouse in our house!

What are three things random facts about you?

I love Disney World. If I could kick Cinderella out of her castle, I would seriously move my family in. I love scrapbooking and sometimes go on actual scrapbooking weekends where I scrap for twelve hours at a time with friends. I'm a TV junkie. I could find something to watch any night of the week and I usually do, but my heart belongs to Glee, Grey's Anatomy, 90210 and Gossip Girl, which I TiVo.

I love Disney World, too, and yay for a Glee mention! I love that show! What’s up next for you book-wise?

I just finished the final Secrets, There is No Place Like Home, which will be out next March. I think fans of the series will be very satisfied with the conclusion. I know I am. I get weepy just thinking about Kaitlin's story ending, but I love the way it ends. I also just started an as-yet-untitled new four-book series that will come out next year. It's about two polar opposite cousins who live under the same roof and have to find a way to get along. For me, it's a story about family and where you fit into one. I love the two main girls and am having a great time mapping out their story.

Your new series sounds great! I can't wait to read it. Is there anything else you would like to add?

Lauren, you've asked such great questions that I can't think of anything I could possibly add! I will say that if you're a fan of any of my books, you can always find out what's next and what I'm up to at my website (http://www.jencalonitaonline.com/)

~~~

Thanks so much Jen! I'm really looking forward to reading your previous and future novels! :)

Blog Tour: Quick Qs and As with Jessica Leader + Contest!

Today, I'm hosting Jessica Leader, author of Nice and Mean,  here on Lauren's Crammed Bookshelf as part of her blog tour, which schedule is below if you would like to check out the rest of the stops. Though, without a further ado, here's my interview with her.

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In your opinion, what are the top three reasons why tweens, teens, or even adults should consider picking up Nice and Mean come its release?

I loved that you asked this! People should pick up Nice and Mean because it gives you the skinny on the following:

• Why being nice can make you feel just as sucky as being mean
• What it’s like to be Asian-American and have everyone think you’re perfect—and boring
• Why you may feel the urge to buy new shoes, even though you probably have many that fit just fine

Now, in detail:

The past few years have brought us many books about girls and meanness, but as far as I know, Nice and Mean will be the first that deals with the pitfalls of niceness. Niceness can smooth the way, but it can also give people the message that they can walk all over you. So what do you do if you want something your way for a change? Do you even know? Nice and Mean explores those questions from the point of view of Sachi, our nice girl, at the hands of Marina, the, um, not-so-nice one. (Okay, fine, I’ll say it: Marina is mean! Marina also gets her day in the sun, though. Never you fear.)

Another unique thing about Nice and Mean is that it’s one of the few pieces of kidlit that features an Indian-American girl…and her problems. For example: yeah, she does well in school, but she’s creative, too! Why don’t people want to hear what she has to say?

Finally, Nice and Mean tries to answer the age-old question, How do things become popular? We’re wearing gladiator sandals one season and espadrilles the next…why? Marina and Sachi are on the scene with a video they made that suggests some answers.

Marina and Sachi are the main characters in Nice and Mean, so can you tell us a little bit about them? Also, if you could offer each advice, what would you say?

So, Marina. She’s not mean, exactly…I mean, yeah, she puts people down when they annoy her, and she cooks up schemes to show them how lame they are, but only because they deserve it! She’s just got a lot on her plate. She’s the only one of her friends not in the school play, and her so-called friend Rachel is trying to sink her claws into Julian the hottie. If she’s trying to film a video that makes Rachel look bad, and needs to push Sachi out of the way in Video Elective, whatever! You gotta do what you gotta do.

My advice to Marina: Stop! Dear God, stop trying to destroy people before you get into huge, huge trouble!

And poor Sachi. Seventh grade is not going according to plan. All she’s wanted since the end of sixth was to make a video to show in the Arts Assembly—something that will get people talking, maybe about why people so often stick to friends of the same race. When her parents want her to take a test-prep class instead of video, she can’t bear to go through with it, so she forges their signature on the permission slip. Then when her video partner turns out to be Marina Glass—disaster! How on earth is she supposed to get people talking when Marina won’t let her speak?

My advice to Sachi: You may be running into obstacles, but if you don’t tell your friends what’s going on with you, you’ll feel all alone, and it will be even worse when things don’t go well. Also: Stop! Dear God, stop sneaking around, before you get into huge, huge trouble!

In Nice and Mean, Marina, the mean one, and Sachi, the nice one, are forced to work together on a project. Has a time like this ever come up in your life?

Not that I can think of. I pretty much always got to choose partners for school projects…unlike many of the students I taught, I’m afraid, because I sometimes assigned them people to work with! If I go back to teaching full-time, I might need to rethink the evilness of that approach. Then again, Sachi and Marina both learned a lot from working together, so maybe I’ll keep it!

What was your favorite part about writing Nice and Mean?

I must admit, it was pretty fun to channel Marina’s snarky voice. One of my favorite lines: “My friends were quoting Grease so much that I had to tell them, ‘Hold the cheese; this is not Burger King.’” I don’t think I would ever have said that to anybody, even in my meanest of modes, but Marina just made those phrases pop out of my mouth, and I really enjoyed her for it.

If Nice and Mean had an official theme song, what would it be?

“Human,” by The Pretenders. “I bleed and I bruise—oh, but what’s it to you? I’m only human on the inside. See, I stumble and fall—baby, I do it all—I’m only human on the inside.” I know it’s a break-up song, and Nice and Mean is most definitely not a romance, but many of the lines expressed how I thought Marina and Sachi would feel about each other—that they are going through so much angst and think the other one has no idea. (Which pretty much, they don’t.)

I love the title of this one, so how did it come to be?

I…have no idea. It just came to me. I’m glad you like it, though!

Is there a specific message you hope readers take from Nice and Mean?

On one hand, No! I just wanted to write a story that felt true. On the other hand, there are obviously some thoughts in here about balancing niceness and assertiveness in trying to get what you want. Sachi and Marina also share some ideas in their video about why things are popular, and I hope that whether readers bow to the popularity gods or shun them, the book makes them think about what’s attractive and risky about that path.

What were you like at Marina and Sachi's age? Were you similar to one or both in any ways?

Let’s just say that I couldn’t have written Marina’s one-liners if I had never approached the world with total witchery, and I could never have channeled Sachi’s ragingly insecure moments if I had never had any myself.

How does it feel knowing that the book you’ve worked so hard on is going to be in stores soon?

Kind of unbelievable! Someone even sent me a Tweet saying she’d found an advanced copy of Nice and Mean at The Strand Bookstore, and I was like, “What? How could that be true? Only people I have asked to read it are going to read it!” I’ve been wanting to publish a book for a really, really long time, and not everyone gets to see a dream come true. I am extremely grateful.

I always love these type of stories, so what was The Call like?

A hilarious experience! I knew the editorial staff at Simon and Schuster would be meeting to discuss the manuscript during the second week of October, and I thought grouchily, “Monday is the only day of this week I am looking forward to, because they’ll all have off for Columbus Day. At least I won’t need to worry on Monday.”

What was I thinking? Publishing companies hardly ever take national holidays. But I wasn’t thinking that when I pedaled off to my job at an after-school program and turned off my phone from three til six. When I turned it back on, there was one message from the editor sounding kind low-key. I thought, “#@?%#, she’s calling with bad news.”

Then I listened to the next message, which was her calling again to say, “I’m leaving work and going into the subway, but I couldn’t wait to tell you that we want to make an offer on Nice and Mean.” A whole different kind of #@?%#!! I couldn’t reach my now-editor, Kate Angelella, to thank her, but I told my co-workers and they cheered and gave me hugs. Then I noodled around the neighborhood calling everyone I knew, and I wandered so far that I got a little lost. I think I had to ask some people on their stoop to help me find my way back to the school. But who cared? I was going to be a published author!

You’re part of the fabulous 10’ers, which leaves me to wonder what your experience has been like working with them.

The Tenners are incredibly generous and fun. Whether they’re sharing good news, giving out publicity strategies, asking questions or venting woes, they have kept me in the know and prevented me from feeling alone. Being a first-time author is thrilling, but there are many steps of the process that writers don’t necessarily know how to handle on their own. I think I would have been a miserable wreck if I hadn’t had the Tenners to turn to for guidance this year. I am so grateful to have been pointed in their direction.

Quick! Name three random things that most wouldn’t know about you.

-I love anything you can pick, peel, pluck, or pop: labels on magazines; buds on impatiens flowers—you name it. I gave a little cry of despair when The Horn Book started printing their address labels right on the cover, instead of on a peelable strip. And no impatiens are safe around me.

-I used to teach sex ed, and I loved being the person who made kids feel okay asking embarrassing questions. I only ever laughed at one: “What happens if a woman is giving birth and she needs to fart?” I just was not expecting that!

-Growing up, my sister and I were in love with TV movie Nadia, about gymnast Nadia Comaneci. Not only is it still a completely excellent piece of televisual cinema, but I have made quite a few instant friends when I discovered people who shared my devotion. “Another delicious carrot stick, my dear?” “Which one is delicious?” Or, in a pivotal scene, “She is from Romania and she is twelve years old. Her name…is Nadia!”

What’s up next for you book-wise?

A YA novel in which the narrator tries to get over an accident that occurred the summer before in the woods.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Marina would like to say, “It was really cool of you to have me on your blog, Lauren. Your blog is so much better than Rachel’s, because hers is full of pathetic attempts to get Julian to like her and has too many pictures of her in unfortunate outfits.”

Sachi chimes in, “I appreciate the chance to tell readers about Nice and Mean! I might have to check with my parents about whether it’s okay for me to be on a blog, though. If they say no, can you change my name but still have my answers here? Oh, and somehow make sure my sister doesn’t find out?”

Jess says—thank you, Lauren! This was really fun!

And hey, readers—come visit my blog to learn how to win the Grand Giveaway prize—a free copy of Nice and Mean, plus other book-related treats like addictive coconut candy! The book goes to whomever writes a Tale from Seventh Grade that is most pleasing to me. Can’t wait to see what you come up with!

~~~

Thanks so much, Jessica! I'm really looking forward to reading Nice and Mean.

The rest of the tour is as follows:

Monday 6/7: The Story Siren
Tuesday 6/8 (the official launch day!): Green Bean Teen Queen--Tween Tuesday review and interview
Wednesday 6/9: The Page Flipper--Top 5 Nice and Mean Characters
Thursday 6/10: Reading in Color -possibly a focus on characters of color
Friday 6/11: Lauren's Crammed Bookshelf

And now for the contest....

Jessica has been kind of enough to offer up the following for ONE very lucky winner.

Winners will recieve a book out of the book box:

* Summer Camp Secrets by Katy Grant (for all your middle-grade reading pleasure)
* The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han (hm, I'm sensing a summer theme)
* Saving Maddie by Varian Johnson (a page-turner by Jess's indispensible friend)
* A signed copy of Need by Carrie Jones (yes! Signed by the author! Not by Jess; that would be weird)
* Boys Are Dogs by Leslie Margolis (one of Jess's favorite middle-grade books)
* The Year I Turned Sixteen by Diane Schwemm (worth all ten pounds)
* Front Page Face-Off by Jo Whittemore (debut author's madcap middle-grade)

And Nice and Mean Swag:

* signed N&M bookmarks

Swag of Nice Girl Sachi:

* Indian bangle bracelets (not as special as Nani's ring, but still important)
* Indian coconut candies (these are so good--you're lucky Jess didn't eat all of them)

Swag of Mean Marina:

* Dr. Pepper lip gloss (Dr. Pepper: the only drink)
* Pilot Rolling Ball pens (PRBs: the only pen)
* stick-on rhinestones (Yuck! Marina wishes you wouldn't mention these. The mess with Rachel is their fault!)

To enter, please enter the following form.

Also, here are the 'rules':


•entrants must be 13 years of age or older
•coments below will not count as entries.
•contest open to US residents only! (Though, as always, feel free to enter if you have a friend in the states who would be willing to ship to you.)
~ ADDITION: Contest will end on June 18th!
 
Lastly, don’t forget to head over to Jessica Leader’s blog to enter the Nice and Mean Grand Prize Giveaway—aka, all this swag plus a copy of the book. Learn how to earn points by spreading the word, or win the battle of wits, where you get others to vote for your favorite nice or mean character in books, tv and movies.