If you're anywhere near the Coachella Valley and interested in picking up a signed copy of one of my books, then stop by the Border's in The River a beautiful outdoor shopping center in Rancho Mirage.
I dropped by yesterday to browse the stacks and sign stock, and just happened to notice that CRUEL SUMMER, which came out in June, has gone into another printing!! And SAVING ZOE, which was released a year ago next month, is in it's fifth! And since YOU are directly responsible for that I just wanted to say:
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!
Also, the EVERMORE galleys arrived the other day, and they're gorgeous!! And while I don't have many to spare, I will be giving one away on Kelly Parra's Secret Fates blog contest, which was recently moved to October. So keep an eye out for that!
That's right, Ms. Walker, author of the uber-awesome Violet series, has agreed to stop by for a chat about her latest installment: VIOLET IN PRIVATE.
But first, here's the inside scoop about the books:
Is there life off the runway?VIOLET IN PRIVATE (Berkley Jam Trade Paperback; August 5, 2008; $9.99) is the third novel in the series by former magazine editor Melissa Walker about Violet— the wallflower who blooms into an international modeling star—until she realizes there may be more to life than the runway…
Everyone knows her as Violet Greenfield, the supposedly cultured and worldly nineteen-year-old with sky-high confidence because she’s done fashion weeks internationally. But the truth is, modeling has done little for Violet’s self-esteem. And now that she’s finally headed to college, she’s terrified that she’ll turn back into that girl who blended into the walls all throughout high school…
Violet’s friends in fashion are only a two-hour train ride away in New York City, and they all think she’s crazy to stop modeling. But her best friend Roger hopes she’ll go back to being the girl next door. Of course, things have been weird between them ever since they kissed—and now he’s got a girlfriend. So the question is: if she’s not “Violet on the Runway” anymore, who exactly is she?
Melissa Walker has created a character that teens as well as adults can embrace and relate to. Readers have followed Violet through her highest highs and lowest lows in the modeling industry, and are eager to see how she fares as a regular teenager in college. This wonderful series is a fresh take on the real voice of one girl in the designer spotlight.
And now, the same five questions I always ask: Every story has a backstory, what's the backstory for your book?
Working in magazines, I got to peek behind the scenes of the fashion world. That was enough inspiration and back story for three books!!
What's your work environment like? Any rituals, totems, or must haves?
I sit in a pink, flowered, overstuffed chair (Alyson notes- Check it out!) and I don't like to get up from the chair until I have 1000 words. Unless I have to go to the bathroom REALLY badly. Then I make an exception.
If you could live inside any book-- which would it be?
Ooh, good question! Maybe James and the Giant Peach? I always really, really wanted that world to be true. Flying fruit and all.
What book rocked your world growing up?
I've vlogged about this, but I really loved FLOWERS IN THE ATTIC by VC Andrews, and I'm finally able to admit that. At the time, when I was around 11, I think I hid it under my mattress so my mom wouldn't find it!
If you could visit any time, place, or person- what, where, or who would it be?
Wow--hit me with three hard ones in a row, Alyson! Man! Just kidding--I love these. Maybe Paris in the 1920s, when jazz was booming and Americans were over there being generally bohemian and finding a place for freer expression and racial acceptance, etc. Somewhere like that, with lots of positive energy.
I told you she was awesome! And don't forget to stop by the Violet contest she's hosting until Sept 1 right HERE!!!
Praise for the VIOLET series:
“Part Cinderella, part girl next door, VIOLET ON THE RUNWAY is a story for any girl who ever wondered what it would be like to have her wildest dream come true.”--New York Times bestselling author Sarah Dessen
“Violet is a hero for all of us wallflowers out there. A fun, fashion-filled, fast-paced read!”--Carolyn Mackler, award-winning author of Guyaholic
“On the runway or off, Violet shines.”--Ally Carter, bestselling author of I’d Tell You I Love You, But Then I’d Have to Kill You
“Violet is wonderfully witty and sweetly sensitive. She’s not your typical top model; she’s more like your best friend—only prettier.”--Kirsten Kemp, author of Breakfast at Bloomingdale’s
"Violet on the Runway is a novel about fashion, but it's also a sensitive portrait of adolescence--simultaneously funny and painful. Walker excels at characterizing those moments that we've all experienced, from bumbling in front of the cute boy to being misunderstood by ones parents."--NYLON Magazine
"This novel is a perfect read for teens who want to see what lies beneath the glossy veneer of what seems to be a picture-perfect life."--Family Circle
"Teens will love this fun fashion read."--OK! Magazine
"Take a peek into a model's life with this hip novel!"--Teen Magazine
"I couldn't put it down! You're kind of rooting for her to make it big, and kind of rooting for her to just go home before the biz ruins her."--Glamour
"Funny, engaging, and eye-opening, Violet on the Runway is an addictive read full of all the juicy insights about the fashion industry one could hope for, as well as meaningful layers and observations about the importance of knowing one's self."--Venus Zine
ABOUT Melissa:
As a former editor at ELLEgirl and Seventeen magazines, Melissa Walker knows first-hand the ins and outs of the fashion world. She hails from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and currently resides in Brooklyn, New York. Visit her at melissacwalker.com, or at myspace.com/melissacwalker.
Add this to the "Things I'm Not Embarrassed to Admit I'm Excited About File" --
90201, that hit1990's show that cleared the way for The O.C. and all of it's imitators returns this season with a whole new cast of updated, modern-day high schoolers, born in the same year 90210 first aired. And even though the characters are familiar with the rebel, the teen princess, the dork, and, of course, the brother-sister combo who’ve just moved to Beverly Hill, the difference is this show promises to be gritter-- Less Peach Pit After Dark fun, more Dark Night of the Soul-- with promised appearances of original cast members Jennie Garth, Shannen Doherty, and more!
Now, I admit, I didn't really get into this show until I was living in Mykonos, Greece and pretty much starving for any American TV I could get. So when old reruns of 90210 were aired, I was hooked! And I credit the show's being subtitled for teaching me how to read Greek! Nothing like simultaneously watching and reading the Brenda, Dylan, Kelly love triangle unfold. . .
Oh, and I couldn't resist posting this e-mail I just now received:
Hey We have hijacked your baby but you must pay once to us $50 000. The details we will send later...
We has attached photo of your fume
Um, first of all, I don't have a baby. Not to mention I have no idea what a fume is . . .Do they seriously think this will work???
It's anything goes week over at the Teen Fiction Cafe, and on this laziest of August days I've decided to blog about, Barbie, record breaking catfish, Easy-Bake ovens, and favorite ways to waste time and ensure nothing gets done!
To see how that all fits together, (and I assure you, it does!) just click HERE!
Since today is turning into a day of monumental inertia, I decided that instead of thinking up a topic for this blog post and then sitting down to actually write about it-- I'd just go along with the theme of minimal movement (both in thought and deed) and post some photos that the awesome Jessica Brody took during our RWA conference in San Franciso a few weeks back, which also happen to be the only photos I have of our trip as I forgot to take a single picture! Though luckily for me, that girl is organized!
Next up on the Girlfriends Cyber Circuit tour is the amazing debut author, Stephanie Kuehnert, and I couldn't be more excited to host her!
I was lucky enough to meet Stephanie when I took part in her (along with the awesome Alexa Young) brainchild event-- ROCK 'N' READ, and let me tell you that Stephanie is the uber cool girl I always wanted to be.
She's the kind of girl I channel when I play ROCK BAND on my wii!
Seriously.
And as if it weren't enough to be amazingly cool-- she just had to go write an incredible debut novel that's getting a ton of well-deserved notice.
Blurb from Irvine Welsh of Trainspotting fame? Check. Great reviews from Booklist, Elle magazine, etc? But of course!
Anyway, Stephanie was kind enough to stop by and answer some questions- but first- here's a sneak peek at the book:
A raw, edgy, emotional novel about growing up punk and living to tell.
The Clash. Social Distortion. Dead Kennedys. Patti Smith. The Ramones. Punk rock is in Emily Black's blood. Her mother, Louisa, hit the road to follow the incendiary music scene when Emily was four months old and never came back. Now Emily's all grown up with a punk band of her own, determined to find the tune that will bring her mother home. Because if Louisa really is following the music, shouldn't it lead her right back to Emily?
"...an empowering new twist on a girl's coming of age..." - Los Angeles Times
"...irresistible..." and "...acidly incisive and full-out entertaining..." - Booklist
"Debut author Kuehnert keeps the story raw and gritty... the intensity of the characters' emotions and experiences will beguile many teen readers." - Publisher's Weekly "...a rich, muscular story..." - Bust Magazine
"I Wanna Be Your Joey Ramone is a manifesto for defiant high school girls, as well as a refresher course for the goddesses they turn into." - Venus Zine
"Emily's coming-of-age story in I Wanna Be Your Joey Ramone is allusive, real, and honest. Even I, the most non-rock oriented teen in existence, found it overwhelmingly easy to connect with and relate to Emily. It makes no difference if you're a punk-rock chick or a glam princess, I would recommend this book to any ELLE girl." - Elle Girl
"This book could be any real band's Behind the Music, but Kuehnert creates some realistic characters that drag you down past reading it on the shitter. Congrats, Steph, you got me to read a whole fucking book for once. Solid writing, Ms. Lady." - Racket Magazine
"A wonderfully written and evocative story of a mother and daughter parted by circumstance and joined by music. I heartily recommend it." - Irvine Welsh, author of Trainspotting
"Some books play at trying to be "edgy"; some books try to hit the right notes; but Kuehnert's prose doesn't notice labels. It just is--which is the purest kinda edge. Teeth. Punk. Combat boots. Attitude. Feminism. Family. Girls with guitars. Relationships that jack you up. Sharp things of the not-good kind. Friendships. Love... It's all here; it's all pure and real. I loved it."- Melissa Marr, New York Times bestselling author of Wicked Lovely and Ink Exchange
"Kuehnert's love of music is apparent on every page in this powerful and moving story. Her fresh voice makes this novel stand out in the genre, and she writes as authentically about coming of age as she does punk rock. She's titled the book after a great song by Sleater-Kinney, and both that band, and the iconic Joey Ramone, would be proud of this effort." Charles R. Cross, New York Times bestselling author of Heavier Than Heaven: A Biography of Kurt Cobain
"I Wanna Be Your Joey Ramone is intense, raw and real; a powerful and heartbreaking weave of Emily Black's public dream of making music and the intensely private one of finding her elusive, missing mother. Emily, a gutsy, passionate and vulnerable girl, knows exactly what she wants and strides straight into the gritty darkness after it, risking all and pulling no punches but leaving us with the perfect ending to a fierce and wild ride." - Laura Wiess, author of Leftovers and Such a Pretty Girl
"Stephanie Kuehnert has written a sucker-punch of a novel, raw and surprising and visceral, and like the best novelists who write about music, she'll convince you that a soul can indeed be saved by rock and roll."- John McNally, author of America's Report Card and The Book of Ralph
"Stephanie Kuehnert writes with dramatic flare and all the right beats, as she spins a story with punk rock lyrics, big dreams, and one girl not afraid to reach out to her lost mother through music, while enduring intense journeys in between. A debut like an unforgettable song, you'll want to read I Wanna Be Your Joey Ramone again and again." - Kelly Parra, author of Graffiti Girl
And now, the questions:
Every story has a backstory, what's the backstory for your book?
In high school, I was a big punk rocker and was particularly into female bands like Hole, L7, Babes in Toyland, and Sleater Kinney. Towards the end of high school, I got really jaded by the punk rock scene and went goth. Black hair, white face makeup, black lipstick, lots of listening to the Cure... When I came out of that phase, what had been "alternative rock radio," which had been really female friendly when I was a teen with more female artists like the ones I mentioned and more popular ones like No Doubt and Alanis Morrisette and also really woman-positive male artists like Nirvana, all of this had given way to this macho icky Limp Bikzet thing. There'd been this whole backlash and it felt like all the progress we made in the early 90s had been wiped out. The band that really revived my interest in punk rock, was a band called the Distillers with an incredible front woman named Brody Dalle. They weren't a very mainstream band, but I had all these fantasies about what if a slightly more radio-friendly Distillers ruled the airwaves and this icky macho thing never happened. So I created Emily Black, the main character in I WANNA BE YOUR JOEY RAMONE (which is named after a Sleater-Kinney song by the way) and to make her more complex and interesting, so the book isn't just a Behind The Music for a fake band, I gave her a complicated, absentee mother, Louisa.
What's your work environment like? Any rituals, totems, or must haves?
My office looks a lot like my bedroom as a teenager, decorated with band posters and stickers and postcards and photos of my friends and other weird little knick-knacks. It's kind of cluttered, but the clutter is organized. That is the kind of environment I need. My rituals vary depending on what I'm working on. When I was revising IWBYJR, I listened to the song "I Wanna Be Your Joey Ramone" to get pumped. And I do have one little totem type thing taped above my computer. As inspiration, my friend Eryn sent me a guitar pick she found that says "Girls Rock Harder" when I was revising IWBYJR. The note she sent with it was so sweet, too. Looking up at it helps me when I'm feeling stuck.
If you could live inside any book-- which would it be?
The Weetzie Bat books by Francesca Lia Block. Weetzie doesn't have a girl best friend. I would love to be her girl best friend and Witch Baby's godmother.
What book rocked your world growing up?
Erm, not to be repetitive, but the Weetzie Bat books for when I was a teen. When I was in grade school, I was obsessed with the Laura Ingalls Wilder books. Those books are why I became a writer. I wanted to tell stories like Laura. But my world wasn't nearly as interesting as hers, so my stories are fictional.
If you could visit any time, place, or person- what, where, or who would it be?
Kurt Cobain's music really changed my life when I was 13 and shaped my teen years, shaped my creativity, shaped who I am today, so I would really have loved to meet him. Or even just to see him live. My parents didn't allow me to go to what ended up being Nirvana's last concert in Chicago because I was 14 and they thought I was going to too many concerts and it was expensive and I needed to focus on my school work and blah blah blah. They said you can see him next time. There was no next time. So yes, I would like to go back to October 23, 1993 at the Aragon Ballroom in Chicago and see that show and if at all possible meet Kurt Cobain. Of course I'd also like to be in New York City when the Ramones were getting started and be partof the whole CBGBs scene and see the Clash in London in their heyday and the Germs and Social Distortion in late 70s/early 80s LA, and Minor Threat when they first formed and The Replacements in their early days and basically all the places where Louisa goes in IWBYJR. I have her following the music and witnessing all that I wished I could have witnessed!
Stephanie Kuehnert works at the University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing, but is a writer through and through.She has published short stories, interviews, and essays in Hair Trigger and No Touching magazines, as well as for websites such as inkstains.org, freshyarn.com, and Virginia Quarterly Review.She was recently named to the Lit 50, the list of Chicago's hottest writers by NewCity, the renowned list also includes Studs Terkel, Elizabeth Berg, Scott Turrow, Aleksandar Hemon, and Audrey Niffenegger. Stephanie received her Bachelor’s in Fiction Writing at Columbia College in Chicago, and went on to earn her master’s degree there in 2006.She was awarded Third Place in Traditional Fiction by the Columbia University Scholastic Press Association for “Fairytale”, an excerpt from her novel I Wanna Be Your Joey Ramone.Stephanie currently lives in Forest Park, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago, with her boyfriend and three cats.Stephanie’s heart and soul will always reside in Chicago, and her up-and-coming work Ballads of Suburbia has been divinely inspired by the Windy City.
Straight out of the "I'm Open Minded But I'm Not Sure About This" files, I just read this article on the NPR website about a salon in Alexandria, VA that's offering a $45.00 "fish pedicure."
The entire article can be found HERE. But for those of you with click aversion, suffice it to say that for $45.00 you can dip your paws into a bowl filled with flesh eating fish who will suck away all that nasty dry skin.
Apparently, the fish (known as Garru Rufa), originate from hot springs in Turkey where they've developed an appetite for--human flesh.
And according to the salon owners, the pedicures are all the rage, allowing for "beautiful and smooth" feet.
But despite the accolades and promise of callous free toes, I'm still not sure I'm willing to try it. I mean, other than the obvious ick factor that would be really hard to overcome, I happen to be extremely ticklish and I'm afraid this just might send me into spasms!
How about you? How far would you go for smooth soles???
My friend, fellow Teen Fiction Cafe proprietress, and amazingly talented author Kelly Parra is celebrating the September release of her latest book, INVISIBLE TOUCH, by running a month long contest that's so cool, I wish I'd thought of it!
She's gathered tons of YA authors (including yours truly), to blog about a secret (either our own, or one of our characters),then giving away a signed book to a random commenter!
The party starts on Sept. 1- so make sure to mark your calendars! But until then, here's a little taste, to see what you're in for . . .
Okay you creative types-- yes, I'm speaking to YOU!
The smart, talented, and very funny, Blake Snyder has a really cool contest over at his blog called "spinoff" -- just click HERE to read the rules and enter!
It's promo week over at the Teen Fiction Cafe, so come on over, get caught up on all the latest, and tell me what Olympic event has you staying up late!
I was so thrilled when I recently learned I'd been accepted into the ultra-cool and super supportive Girlfriend's Cyber Circuit, and then when I learned that the first author I'd 'tour' would be Megan Kelley Hall--well, I went from thrilled to totally psyched!
Megan's debut novel, SISTERS OF MISERY, not only has a beautiful cover and intriguing plot, but every since I first laid eyes on it, I knew I had to buy it, own it, read it!
But even though I could gush on and on forever, why don't I just let Ms. Hall tell you a little bit about it instead, as she was kind enough to stop by and answer a few questions . . .
Megan Kelley Hall’s debut novel, SISTERS OF MISERYgothic novel complete with witchcraft and runic mythology. It tells the story of Maddie Crane and her quest to unravel the mystery surrounding her cousin Cordelia’s disappearance. is a modern-dayHawthorne, Massachusetts, a seaside town borne in the shadow of the witchcraft trials, has not changed much throughout the years, and persecution and ostracism are still an active way of life within this cloistered community. So, when Cordelia LeClaire and her quirky, free-spirited mother, Rebecca arrive, the community’s brief curiosity over the newcomers, quickly turns to disdain and jealously.
It is no surprise that The Sisters of Misery—a secret clique of the most popular, powerful girls in school, with the vindictive Kate Endicott at its helm —trick Maddie and her cousin into spending Halloween night on MiseryIsland. But when Cordelia disappears, questions arise as to what happened. The town would like to believe that Cordelia, always impulsive, simply ran away. But Maddie knows that more is at stake and others have something to hide. Now Maddie must choose between the allure and power of the Sisters of Misery and her loyalty to her beloved cousin.
Hey Megan, thanks for stopping by! My first question is about the backstory, and since every story has one, what's yours?
Here’s my elevator pitch for SISTERS OF MISERY: A Modern Day Witch Hunt is Ignited When “Mean Girls” Meets “Practical Magic”. What happens when a hazing prank goes terribly wrong and a young teenage girl goes missing? The debut suspense novel, SISTERS OF MISERY, brings us inside a small, seaside town near Salem, where Maddie Crane, the teen protagonist investigating her eccentric cousin’s disappearance, ignites the wrath of the Sisters of Misery – a powerful high school clique, whose activities mirror the witch hunts of the seventeenth century. Hawthorne is a town filled with secrets and the supernatural. Stories hidden for decades come to light after Cordelia’s tragic disappearance. Cordelia’s mother, Rebecca, descends into madness while internal struggles amongst Maddie’s family members are all consequences of the supernatural “gifts” that they possess. Maddie Crane must choose between the allure and power of the Sisters of Misery and her loyalty to her beloved cousin and her own family. Fans of Alice Hoffman, Jodi Picoult and Stephenie Meyer will be haunted by this story of three generations of women and their struggles against each other and a town ruled by fear.
What's your work environment like? Any rituals, totems, or must haves?
Completely crazy and haphazard. My office is piled high with magazines, clutter, papers, folders, toys, books, mail, and all the spillover from the other parts of the house. I look at Martha Stewart and Real Simple magazines and drool over the clean, uncluttered work spaces. My workspace is in a perpetual state of confusion and chaos. The only rituals that I have would be that I have to play at least one game of Jewel Quest or Cake Mania or Luxor or some other mindless computer game to clear my head before I dive into work. I’ve also become a little obsessed with catching up with people on Facebook. The Internet can easily become an addiction.
If you could live inside any book-- which would it be?
I don’t know if there is one particular book I’d like to live in, but I’d love to exist in the same realm as Oscar Wilde, because I will never tire of reading his witty quotes. I’d love to hear his thoughts on the scandals of today.
What book rocked your world growing up?
One of my absolute favorite books was The Secret History by Donna Tartt. I’d love to be able to go back and read it again for the first time.
If you could visit any time, place, or person- what, where, or who would it be?
Old Hollywood. Victorian England. The Old South. The Roaring Twenties. I’d love to travel back to a time when people really dressed and were glamorous and stylish and had traditions. We’ve lost so much in terms of decorum and presentation and moral standards. It would be nice to return to a time when people were admired from afar and we weren’t privy to every dirty little secret. I’d love to return to the days of Jackie O, Grace Kelly, Marilyn Monroe, Cary Grant, Elvis Presley. Even though their lives weren’t squeaky clean, they had glamour, style and presence. That’s something lacking in today’s society. (I write this as I’m sitting in my sweats and a tee-shirt J).
SISTERS OF MISERY by Megan Kelley Hall Trade Paperback: 308 pages Publisher: Kensington (July 29, 2008) Language: English ISBN-10: 0758226799 ISBN-13: 978-0758226792
Praise for SISTERS OF MISERY
“Megan Kelley Hall hits one over the fence with her debut novel — a true Gothic that skillfully combines the dangerous mischief of a modern clique with the bad girls whose prank-gone-mad ignited the Salem witch trials. The shivery story of Maddie and her mysterious, doomed cousin, Cordelia — both prey to the angel-faced vixens who party on the aptly named Misery Island — shows boldly that ancient and modern peer pressure are the same demon in new clothes. That demon wants Cordelia, and only Maddie can save her…unless evil catches her first.”–Jacquelyn Mitchard, Oprah Book Club and New York Times bestselling author of The Deep End of the Ocean and The Midnight Twins
“Original, insightful, and scary. Megan Kelley Hall writes with an intense, frightening grace that will have you turning pages long into the night. She has immediately established herself as a first novelist to be reckoned with in the future.” –Michael Palmer, New York Times bestselling author of The First Patient and Extreme Measures
“An exciting, dangerous, and mysterious world! Megan Kelley Hall has crafted a story that’ll keep you guessing until the last page.”–Rachelle Mead, author, VampireAcademy series
“A dazzling and dishy portrait of magic, mystery, and coming of age. Readers will eat this up and come begging for more.”–Laurie Stolarz, author of the bestselling Blue is for Nightmares series
“One of the very best things in life is discovering an author you want to read more of. Sisters of Misery makes me want to read a whole lot more of Megan Kelley Hall.”–Ellen Hopkins, author of Crank and Impulse
Megan Kelley Hall, who lives north of Boston with her husband, Edward, and five-year-old daughter Piper, started a literary publicity company, Kelley and Hall, in 2005 with her sister, Jocelyn Kelley, and mother, Gloria Kelley. Her freelance magazine work has been published in Glamour, Elle, American Baby, Working Mother, New England Bride, The Boston Globe, Boston Herald MetroSports, Parents and Kids, and many other magazines. She studied creative writing at Skidmore College under the Pulitzer-Prize winning author Steven Millhauser. Her work can also be seen in the former CNN anchor Daryn Kagan’s anthology entitled, What’s Possible! (Meredith Books, May 2008.) The second in the series, THE LOST SISTER, will be published by Kensington in August 2009.
Then head on over to the awesome Tera Lynn Childs's blog where she's doing a great give away to correspond to the olympic games-- today's sport is beach volleyball- so how appropriate to give away a copy of CRUEL SUMMER too?!
Remember how I blogged about the 82 books I dragged home from BEA?? Well, what I didn't say was that one (or was it three?) of those books was the looooong awaited sequel to Katherine Neville's amazing novel, THE EIGHT.
I read THE EIGHT, a very very long time ago after my sister handed it to me and said- You must read this! And since she's older than me, which gives her some sort of dubious authority, I did. I read it quickly, and I loved it so much I turned around and read it again. And now, something like twenty years later its sequel, THE FIRE, will be published in October!
And while I haven't yet had a chance to read the ARC I dragged home from BEA, mostly because I want to reread THE EIGHT first and I haven't had a chance to do that either, I was thrilled when I learned that starting today-- and continuing for eight days-- you can download a FREE copy of THE EIGHT by visiting HERE.
How cool is that?
And speaking of cool . . . this awesome review from School Library Journal just came in for CRUEL SUMMER, the beginning is the usual story summary, so I'll just cut to the good stuff:
"The protagonist's venting and observations are alternately whiny, wistful, strident, and hilarious. Despite typical teen self obsession, Colby is likable and ultimately well intentioned. As she deals with her feelings, she blunders her way rather charmingly into a new maturity."
Well, that's it for now-- have a good day everyone!
Just back from the RWA conference in San Fran where I met lots of amazing new people, got inspired by some awesome workshops (if you ever get a chance to see Blake Snyder speak--don't even hesitate, just go!), and was thrilled to attend the Oklahoma chapter's reception where SAVING ZOE won the National Reader's Choice Award in the Young Adult category!!!!!! As most of you probably know by now, that book was born out of a time of great personal grief, and I'm so incredibly grateful to all of the readers who've supported it!
I'm the #1 New York Times, USA Today, and Publisher's Weekly bestselling author of: FAKING 19, ART GEEKS AND PROM QUEENS, LAGUNA COVE, FLY ME TO THE MOON, KISS & BLOG, SAVING ZOE, FIRST KISS (THEN TELL)- an anthology, CRUEL SUMMER, and the IMMORTALS series, including: EVERMORE, BLUE MOON (July 09), SHADOWLAND (Feb 2010) and two more titles in 2010.
Friday, July 17, 6:00 PM
Signing copies of BLUE MOON!
Barnes & Noble
791 S. Main St. #100
Orange, CA 92868
Friday, July 24
Comic Con!!
Panel-"Future Fond Memories"- 12:30-1:30
Signing- 1:30 -2:30
San Diego Convention Center
111 W. Harbor Drive
San Diego, CA 92101
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Orange County RWA Meeting
Drama, Angst, and Heartache: Writing the YA Novel
Talk- 10:50- 11:50 AM
Sign- 12:30 - 1:00 PM
695 East Madison Way
Brea, CA 92821
Admission:
Members- $10-
Non-members- $20-
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Mission Viejo Readers Festival
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Mission Viejo Library
100 Civic Center
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
MY NEWS
BLUE MOON received the 5 Star Gold Award from TeensReadToo!
BLUE MOON received 4 Stars from Romantic Times magazine!
EVERMORE is a #1 New York Times bestseller for 10 weeks running (16 on the list)!!
EVERMORE is a USA Today bestseller!!
EVERMORE is a Publisher's Weekly bestseller!!
EVERMORE is nominated for YALSA's 2009 Teen's Top Ten Award!
EVERMORE has been optioned by Spring Creek Productions and Warner Horizon for a TV series!!!
EVERMORE & BLUE MOON, German rights sold to Goldmann at auction!
EVERMORE & BLUE MOONSpanish and Catalan rights sold to Mondadori as their lead Fall title!
EVERMORE & BLUE MOON Russian rights sold to AST at auction!
EVERMORE & BLUE MOON French rights sold to Michel Lafron at auction!
EVERMORE & BLUE MOON Taiwanese rights sold to Eurasian at auction!
EVERMORE & BLUE MOON Polish rights sold to Dolnoslaskie at auction!
EVERMORE & BLUE MOON Italian rights sold to Fanucci at auction!
EVERMORE & BLUE MOON Portuguese rights sold in a pre-empt to Intrinsica in Brazil!
EVERMORE & BLUE MOON Korean rights sold to Mirae N Culture at auction!
EVERMORE & BLUE MOON Hungarian rights sold!
EVERMORE & BLUE MOON Bulgarian rights sold!
EVERMORE & BLUE MOON Greek rights sold to Psichogios!
EVERMORE & BLUE MOON UK rights sold to Pan Macmillian!
EVERMORE & BLUE MOON Croatian rights sold to Algoritam!
EVERMORE is a Borders bestseller for teens!!
EVERMORE featured in the Feb/March issue of Justine magazine as a Page Turner!!
EVERMORE received 4 STARS from Romantic Times magazine!!!
EVERMORE received the Flaming Net TOP CHOICE AWARD!!!!
SAVING ZOE won the National Reader's Choice Award for young adult fiction!!!
CRUEL SUMMER is nominated for the BEST BOOKS OF 2008!!
CRUEL SUMMER is a finalist for the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence!!
Reviews for BLUE MOON
"I really enjoy sequels, but they make me nervous, especially when I loved the first book as much as I did EVERMORE. But Alyson Noel surpassed all my expectations, and not only is BLUE MOON an amazing sequel - it sets the bar for the rest of this series very, very high! When I reached the last page of this one, all I could say was “wow!” . . .There were numerous twists that kept me guessing. Just when I thought I had things figured out, I would get pulled in a new direction, which kept the book fast-paced and full of suspense - I had to keep turning the pages. . .Another highly recommended book from Alyson Noel, I can’t wait to read more about Ever and Damen. THE IMMORTALS series is one you’ll want to get your hands on!" 5 Star Gold Award- TeensReadToo
“In the second installment of the bestselling and captivating Immortals series, gutsy young heroine Ever is faced with the twin teenage terrors of isolation and alienation. Noel does an excellent job exploring Ever’s growing fears and her determination to save lost love Damen. This author is on a roll!” 4 starsRomantic Times
" . . .It is the mark of a daring writer to defy expectations and Alyson Noel does that to the power of ten in “Blue Moon.” I guarantee you will have no idea what’s coming in the second book of the series while Alyson Noel surprises you with a big, fat twist and leaves you wanting more, more, more." The Book Chick
"BLUE MOON, the second Immortals saga, is an outstanding teen fantasy in the tradition of Kelly Armstrong and Stephanie Meyers."-5 Stars Harriet Klausner
"Noel’s writing in Blue Moon is pure artistry, with its conversational flow and true-to-life dialogue. And in the midst of life threatening situations and centuries-old conflicts, she still manages to perfectly capture the cruel high school atmosphere and social hierarchy teens must deal with on top of their larger-than-life problems. As a result, readers will experience a great variety of emotions, similar to those of the grieving process: denial, anger, bitterness, acceptance, hope, anger, more anger, more hope, and finally, extreme anticipation. In fact, the tension between Damen and Ever–first established in Evermore– doesn’t ease up a bit in Blue Moon, which will keep your heart racing and your blood stirring from beginning to end. And the end? Well, I refuse to give away an ending so carefully and perfectly pieced together, but I will say that you’ll never see it coming and you will be aching to read the third book in the series, expected to hit shelves in February 2010."- Rebekah Harris
Reviews for EVERMORE
TWILIGHT series should love it."- Orange Coast magazine
"Teen angst and the paranormal make a combustible mix as Noel utilizes typical themes and gives them a dangerous and eerie twist. Getting hooked on this new series, THE IMMORTALS, is guaranteed."-4 STARS- Romantic Times Magazine!!!
"Evermore is addictive. When I wasn't reading, I was thinking about how I could sneak away to read some more. I couldn't put it down. I dreamt about this book. And when I finished, I couldn't get it out of my head. This book was simply breathtaking." 5 STAR GOLD AWARD TeensReadToo
“Beautiful main characters, tense budding romance, a dark secret, mysterious immortals—what more could you ask for from this modern day gothic romance?”- Justine Magazine
"Alyson Noel does such a GREAT job of keep the reader on their toes, constantly engaged and wanting more . . .Noel pulls you in, gives you a tiny morsel of satisfaction, then let's you hang on again, wanting just a bit more, always guessing. And at the end? The big reveal is so incredibly satisfying, like a long nap after a triathlon. . .I give this book a 10/10! Lovely and beautiful. Everyone needs to read it and have it forever on their bookshelves! Can't wait for the sequel!” Reverie Media
“I have discovered the new Twilight series, and I’m sure a lot more people are going to be jumping on the bandwagon as these books become known. Stephanie Meyer faces some stiff competition from Alyson Noel’s new series, The Immortals. The series has already been optioned for the movies. . .Alyson Noel can really write. Her words flow effortlessly and her dialogue rings true. This book is a breeze to read. . .Evermore is a crackerjack read for teens and teen-at-heart adults looking for more teen angst and a gushy love story with some action and mysteries spread throughout.” Mel Odom, Blog Critics
"In this first installment of her Immortals series, Alyson Noël snags a hold of readers’ attention with her amazing ability to build suspense and curiosity. Dipping into the phenomenon of supernatural abilities, the unknowns of the afterlife, and both the limited and unlimited opportunities of immortality, offer a wealth of possible plots to entertain. Noël has also created a very likable and empathetic heroine in Ever, with wonderful descriptive narration on what she’s feeling, seeing and experiencing: 'And when she lies down beside me, I don’t pull away. I just close my eyes and allow myself to feel her pain, and my pain, until it’s all mixed together, raw and deep with no beginning or end.' Eager fans won’t have to wait too long for the next book in the series, as BLUE MOON is due out in July." Chris Shanley-Dillman, TeenReads
“ . . .This book is well-written and engaging. I wanted to keep reading to find out who (or what) Ever and Damen were. I also think that some of the strengths of this story lie outside the romantic relationship—Ever's relationship with Riley and her struggle with letting her go, her awkward but caring relationship with Sabine, and Ever's own pain and guilt about the accident.” Young Adult Romance Reviews
“ . . .Noel’s debut title in her new IMMORTALS seris is an interesting twist on the standard paranormal teen read. Elements of Eastern philosophy in this tale are both effective and refreshingly original.”- Becky Lejuene
“Ms. Noel writes an emotional, thoughtful book about loss as well as falling in love. I will admit that I cried in a couple of places. This was a really easy novel to get sucked into. Every time I had to put it down, I wanted to get back to it as soon as possible. Ever is a sympathetic girl who is dealing the best way she knows how. I am always impressed when an author creates a character that seems so genuine and effortless. The writing was well done and the plot intriguing. Ever’s friends are well fleshed out and unique without being caricatures. This would make a great movie (hint, hint). I am thrilled that this is the start of a new series and Blue Moon will be out in August! If I can squeeze it into my schedule, I will be perusing Ms. Noel’s backlist. If you love Stephanie Meyer you will LOVE this book.”- Night Owl Romance
“Evermore is one of those books that is simply hypnotizing. I picked it up and couldn't put it down. It's in my top of 2009. I like paranormal but have felt a little burnt out on the whole vampire aspect of novels that are popular now. Evermore has so much more to give than just your average story. It has mystery, love, and intrigue. Throughout the whole book, I couldn't put it down, due to needing to know what was really going on and how Ever fit into the whole big picture. Ever is a great protagonist and never bored or irritated me. Alyson Noel is one of my all time favorite authors and she doesn't disappoint this time. The ending is also nice to where you can wait for the next book (out later '09 --titled Blue Moon) and not feel like you're going to pull your hair out. I have complete faith in Alyson Noel to take this series to where it should go and not disappoint. Now, I'm just waiting patiently for Blue Moon.”- Writers Block Reviews
“This first novel in the Immortals series will appeal to fans of the Twilight books by Stephenie Meyer, and in fact, seems heavily inspired by it . . .Ever is ultimately a likeable character as she heals and learns to forgive herself for the accident that killed the rest of her family and let go of her dead younger sister, Riley, who has been a companion to Ever throughout the book. She also falls head over heels in love during the process.” VOYA
“Compared to amazing teen fantasy authors such as the acclaimed Stephenie Meyer and Melissa Marr, Evermore manages to snag the readers attention from the very beginning and pull you head long into the story! Get ready for a wild ride that is filled with twisting paths and mystery, love and fantasy. . .Evermore is a thrilling read for teen readers and yes, even a few adults too. The writing style, story, and characters are a bit like Meyer and Marr's popular books, but written with a new twist and voice so as not to seem like a cheap remake. And after reading the book, you too will probably want your own Damen, even if it means making the ultimate sacrifice. After all-- Immortality is like the apple in the garden of Eve: forbidden fruit that tempts and always tastes sweeter.” 5/5 stars! The Book Queen
" . . .Alyson Noël has delivered a deliciously fresh new young adult paranormal series that will be the next new thing that every teen and even adults everywhere hooked and waiting for more about Ever and Damen. This is a keeper and a book that you have to go out and buy right now because if you don't you will be missing out on a great new series. People will be asking if you have been living under a rock if you don't give Evermore a try and that is just not acceptable."- Phoebe Jordan
" . . .Ever's vernacular voice and amorous fixation will gratify romance fans. . ."-Kirkus
"Readers who enjoy the works of PC Cast and Stephenie Meyer will love this outstanding paranormal teen-lit thriller." –Midwest Book Review
"I thought this book was very good! The author creates a great picture of each and every character in the book. I am a fan of the twlight series and I recommend this book to those who like the series as well. It is a very quick read, with all the interesting twist and turns in this book." TOP CHOICE AWARD!!! -Flamingnet Book Reviews
Before you read the review: Open a tab of Amazon or Barnes and Noble's site or Borders's site or whatever site you order your books from. Log in to your account, search for this book, and when it's page thing comes up, click the "pre-order" button. Because this is one you'll definitely want to read as soon as it comes out. Also, Alyson Noel knows how to write her characters. Ever was so real and her emotions were so believable that it was a little creepy. It's like Alyson Noël is actually a grieving, lovestruck teenager. She got Ever completely perfect. An by perfect, I mean delightfully flawed and deep. Also, I'm kind of smitten with Damen even though he got on my nerves a lot. He's fascinating to read about because of his past. Love him." The Frenetic Reader
" . . .Readers who enjoy the works of PC Cast and Stephenie Meyer will love this outstanding paranormal teen-lit thriller." -Harriet Klausner
"Evermore is a wonderful book that I believe would be a lovely addition to any library . . .Definitely a book that fans of Stephenie Meyer and Melissa Marr should add to their collections. Definitely engaging and will catch your attention the minute you open to the first page!" - Mind of a Bibliophile
"I loved this book. It really keeps your attention though out the story, because the puzzle gets pieced together bit by bit, but you don't know exactly what happened until the end. The only thing that disappoints me is that the second book won't be published for a while. I would definitely recommend this to my friends."-Dorothy, Portsmouth Teen Book Review
"This is the first installment of The Immortals series. Ms. Noël pens a well-detailed story that makes it easy for the reader to visualize both the characters and the world around them. Evermore has a familiar theme that attracts readers, but inside this book you’ll find that the author has added some unique details that sets it apart. This is a young adult novel that should appeal to both teens and adults."-Darque Reviews
"Evermore is the first book in a new Young Adult Series called The Immortals. The writing is eloquent, the characters come alive, and the romance is heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. There are many similarities to compare Evermore to Twilight but I enjoyed Evermore immensely more. The first person point of view is intimate and the narration by Ever is strong with emotions and feeling. She is confused and going through a lot and the reader can feel her angst come through in her passages. I read Evermore in less then two days and could not put it down all weekend. I read for hours at a time and was completely addicted to the writing from the first page. I would without a doubt recommend Evermore to readers who are looking for a book that will captivate them from the first word to the last. The next book in this series, Blue Moon will be out in August 2009. Overall, Evermore is a superb novel that left me breathless, satisfied, and yearning for more." --RachaelfromNJ
"I loved the story itself, the plot was engaging, I really had no idea what was going on. I kept waiting for one big revelation, but really it’s just revealed piece by piece which was a welcoming change of pace. The writing was marvelous! Impressive imagery! It was customary to find myself lost within the novel. I cannot wait for the next book in this series!"- The Story Siren
“Lots of people seem to be comparing this book with Twilight* and the House of Night series. In terms of quality, I have to agree. The first person storytelling in Evermore, is intimate and emotional. Ever's voice is realistic; all of her reactions as a grieving teenager make sense. Many times, in YA novels, authors make little blunders portraying teenagers. I have to say that Alyson Noel manages to do it pretty darn well, if not perfectly. . . And I definitely can't wait till the second book in the Immortals series comes out... Anyways, this is a book that deserves to be added to your bookshelf. So go on your favorite book purchasing site and add this one to your shopping cart now. You won't regret it.” - Reader Rabbit
“Evermore was a great way to lighten my reading load this winter and provided me with a creative, magical story that I really enjoyed. This is the first in a series for Noel and I think she may have a hit on her hands . . . Evermore has good and evil, likable characters, vivid descriptions and a good story.”- Planet Books
“So, let's see. This book was interesting. I fell into it easily, and I loved the world Noel created beside Ever. The fact that Ever had psychic powers was truly interesting. They flowed neatly through the book and I felt Ever's pain of it. . .trust me, this book was really good. I couldn't put it down. Alyson Noel created an amazing new world, and after this book I am so curious to see where it heads because honestly, I have no idea.” – Kelsey, Reading Keeps You Sane,
Rating: A-
Plot - 19/20
Characters - 17/20
Writing - 17/20
Originality - 20/20
Entertainment - 9/10
Recommendation - 9/10
Total: 91/100
“The cover is a bit reminiscent of Twilight and, once you get into the book, there are a lot of similarities. There is the new girl at school, beautiful and awkward, and the mysterious guy who is both charming and dangerous. Is he good for her or bad? Should she run from him? And do we want her to???But to be fair, that is really where the similarities end. . .Ever is an easy character to like. I really felt for her because of all she lost and what she struggled with daily. Her two best friends are also great characters who provide both a little humor. Another recurring character I enjoyed was the ghost of Ever's younger sister, who visits frequently. . .Overall, I thought Evermore was a really fast, engaging read with some great characters. It is the first in a series, so I'm eager to see if we will learn more about Ever, Damen and friends in the next one, or if the author will introduce us to some brand new characters. Either way, it's sure to be a great read.”- Ninja reviews
" . . .The writing here is clear, the story well-defined and narrator Ever has an engaging voice that teens should enjoy."- January Magazine
"This is the first installment of The Immortals series. Alyson Noël created a well-detailed story that makes it easy for the reader to visualize both the characters and the world around them. Evermore has a familiar theme that attracts readers, but inside this book you’ll find that the author has added some unique details that sets it apart and will surprise you. This is a young adult novel that should appeal to both teens and adults."- The Ravenous Reader
" . . . A fantastic novel for all teens, and possibly even a few adults. Laugh out loud funny and thoroughly suspenseful, Noel creates an entirely other world within the one we know and love. This haunting story will have you looking down alleyways and examining the new boy with undeniable curiosity. Ever tells her story in a convincing voice, and one you are not likely to forget. An amazing book that will have readers eagerly awaiting those following it."- TruNerd
“ . . .This book is well-written and engaging. I wanted to keep reading to find out who (or what) Ever and Damen were. I also think that some of the strengths of this story lie outside the romantic relationship—Ever's relationship with Riley and her struggle with letting her go, her awkward but caring relationship with Sabine, and Ever's own pain and guilt about the accident.” Young Adult Romance Reviews
"Evermore is one of those books that is simply hypnotizing. I picked it up and couldn't put it down. It's in my top of 2009. I like paranormal but have felt a little burnt out on the whole vampire aspect of novels that are popular now. Evermore has so much more to give than just your average story. It has mystery, love, and intrigue. Throughout the whole book, I couldn't put it down, due to needing to know what was really going on and how Ever fit into the whole big picture. Ever is a great protagonist and never bored or irritated me. Alyson Noel is one of my all time favorite authors and she doesn't disappoint this time. The ending is also nice to where you can wait for the next book (out later '09 --titled Blue Moon) and not feel like you're going to pull your hair out. I have complete faith in Alyson Noel to take this series to where it should go and not disappoint. Now, I'm just waiting patiently for Blue Moon."-Writers Block Reviews
"This opening book in a new series, The Immortals, will thrill many teen fantasy-suspense readers, especially fans of Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight series … Noël (Saving Zoë, 2007) creates a cast of recognizably diverse teens in a realistic high-school setting, along with just the right tension to make Ever’s discovery of her own immortality—should she choose it—exciting and credible.”- Booklist
If you're anywhere near the Coachella Valley and interested in picking up a signed copy of one of my books, then stop by the Border's in The River a beautiful outdoor shopping center in Rancho Mirage. 
