Thursday, December 19, 2013

Happy Holidays!

I'm taking a blog break for the holidays, but I'll be back next year. 2013 was a fantastic year but I'm excited for next year too. Woohoo for 2014! Also, don't forget to enter my goodreads giveaway. See you all next year!

 


Goodreads Book Giveaway

In the After by Demitria Lunetta

In the After

by Demitria Lunetta

Giveaway ends December 28, 2013.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.
Enter to win

Monday, December 16, 2013

IN THE AFTER is the Kindle Daily Deal

 
Today only, in the after is $1.99 on Kindle! Head over to Amazon and check it out here: IN THE AFTER E-book. I personally love when e-books go cheap...I read so many books it's nice to snag a bunch when they're on sale. So I hope you check it out.
 
What has everyone been reading lately?

Friday, December 6, 2013

Saturday Signing in Columbus, OH!

If you're in Columbus OH this Saturday, December 7th, stop by the Polaris B&N and hang out with me and a bunch of fun authors!



Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Two Goodreads Giveaways - IN THE AFTER & IN THE END

Check out not one, but two new giveaways on Goodreads...if you've already read IN THE AFTER, here's your chance to win an ARC of IN THE END!

Goodreads Book Giveaway

In the End by Demitria Lunetta

In the End

by Demitria Lunetta

Giveaway ends March 04, 2014.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.
Enter to win



Goodreads Book Giveaway

In the After by Demitria Lunetta

In the After

by Demitria Lunetta

Giveaway ends December 28, 2013.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.
Enter to win

Friday, November 22, 2013

Happy Thanksgiving & a Giveaway

Have a great Thanksgiving everyone! I'll be back on the blog Dec. 2nd but don't forget to enter my Goodreads giveaway of a signed hardcover copy of IN THE AFTER! See you in a week!

 


Goodreads Book Giveaway

In the After by Demitria Lunetta

In the After

by Demitria Lunetta

Giveaway ends November 29, 2013.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.
Enter to win

Friday, November 8, 2013

IN THE AFTER - An Amazon 2013 Best Book for Teens Top Twenty

Amazon announced their top twenty books for teens for 2013...and guess who made the list!? Well, yes Veronica Roth. But guess who else. Okay yes, also Marie Lu, Holly Black, Nancy Farmer, Rick Yancey and Lauren Oliver...but also me!!! You can check out the full list here.

I'm really happy (obviously) and still can't believe I get to be included with such amazing authors. The truth is, besides my own, I've only read one other book on this list! (Robin LaFevers, I love you!) but it's not because I don't want to...I just haven't. I just got ALLEGIANT and Marie Lu's LEGEND series, so I'll be reading CHAMPION really soon. I'm also dying to read Holly Black's THE COLDEST GIRL IN COLD TOWN, it sounds amazing! THE LORD OF OPIUM is by one of my favorite authors ever, Nancy Farmer, so you bet your ass I'll be reading that soon.

What about you guys...have you read any of these books? Any books you think should be on the list?

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

November IN THE AFTER Giveaway

It's that time again...a new month means a new Goodreads giveaway. Head over to Goodreads and enter!

 


Goodreads Book Giveaway

In the After by Demitria Lunetta

In the After

by Demitria Lunetta

Giveaway ends November 29, 2013.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.
Enter to win

Friday, November 1, 2013

SCBWI Inside Story Event!

SCBWI Inside Story

 
11/02/2013 2:00 pm

SCBWI_Inside_Story
SCBWI INSIDE STORY
It’s the “inside story” from local authors who are Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators members. Our author guests today include Aaron Reynolds (Carnivores), Gina Bellisario (12 Days of Christmas in Illinois), Esther Hershenhorn (Txting Mama Txting Baby), Kevin Luthardt (When Edgar Met Cecil), Demitria Lunetta (In the After), Marlene Targ Brill (The Underground Railroad Adventure of Allen Jay), and Lisa Jenn Bigelow (Starting From Here). Hear the success stories of these published writers.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2 at 2:00 p.m.Anderson's Bookshop Naperville | 123 W. Jefferson Ave., Naperville

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

IN THE AFTER October Giveaway - LAST DAY!

It's the last day for my October Giveaway of IN THE AFTER on Goodreads, so stop by and enter!

 


Goodreads Book Giveaway

In the After by Demitria Lunetta

In the After

by Demitria Lunetta

Giveaway ends October 31, 2013.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.
Enter to win
Also, enter to win an ARC of IN THE END...just enter below!

 
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Monday, October 21, 2013

IN THE END cover & ARC Giveaway!

In case you haven't seen it yet...here's the cover for IN THE END, the sequel to IN THE AFTER!


IN THE END will be out June 24, 2014. And here's a chance to enter to win an advanced copy...


 
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Friday, October 18, 2013

Powered by Reading Author Extravaganza!


I seem to be doing a lot of events in Ohio...and here's one for tomorrow. If you're anywhere near Perry, OH on Sat, October 19th, stop by and say hi!
 
 
Back Monday with an ARC giveaway for IN THE END!!! 

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

IN THE END available for pre-order!

IN THE END is available for pre- order on Amazon. You can check it out here. You may be wondering what the cover will look like and to be honest, it's been leaked but I'm not sure if that version is  official. I'll post it as soon as I get the okay from my HarperTeen peeps! :)

Monday, October 14, 2013

Puppies and Publishers

Sorry I've been neglecting the blog...we got a new puppy. Oh, what was that? You want to see a picture? Sure, no problem. Here's Spike! Extra points if you can guess where I got the name Spike...(hint hint, it would be wrong to call a boy Buffy!)

 
 
In other news I got a foreign offer from a Turkish publisher. It's my first foreign sale so it's super exciting...I'll have more news on that later.
 
Okay, back to making sure Spike doesn't decide my shoes are the toilet, or a chew toy. :)

Monday, October 7, 2013

Third Book Update

As most of you know, my third book is going to be a stand alone...and I have a couple of ideas. One is a Paranormal with witches, one is a Fantasy, and one is a Historical Fiction set during the Civil War.

Completely different genres, I know. So now I'll work on short summaries for each of these ideas and then have a pow wow with my editor on which will be my third book. I'm really excited to start working on a book that isn't set in the After, as much as I love Amy and her world.

So that's what I'm working on now, what are you guys working on?

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

IN THE AFTER October Giveaway!

Here's the link to enter my October IN THE AFTER Giveaway on Goodreads. I'm thinking about doing an additional October Giveaway on Twitter...so stay tuned for more info later in the month!


Goodreads Book Giveaway

In the After by Demitria Lunetta

In the After

by Demitria Lunetta

Giveaway ends October 31, 2013.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.
Enter to win

Friday, September 27, 2013

Young Adult Literature Conference in Naperville!!!

This weekend I'll be here:


10th Annual Young Adult Literature Conference
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Hotel Arista | 2139 City Gate Lane | Naperville, IL 60563
From 8:15 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. | Doors Open at 7:30 a.m

Join our 10th annual gathering of authors and educators interested in the best and newest in young adult literature. The conference will take place all day. Meet featured authors, attend breakout sessions on fascinating topics, book talks on the best in new YA, enjoy a continental breakfast, a full luncheon and shop the conference bookstore. Booksigning opportunities and CPDU credits offered.

Keynote Authors: Stephen Chbosky, Michael Grant, Gayle Forman, Adam Girwitz & James Swanson

Additional Authors Include: T. M. Goeglein, D. J. MacHale, Alex London,  Beth Revis, Christa Desir, Andrew Smith, Sonya Sones, Brittany Geragotelis, Shannon Messenger, Terra McVoy, Nancy Ohlin, Myra McEntire, Kat Falls, Elizabeth Eulberg, Eric Gansworth, Regina Sirois, Antony John, James Swanson, Cristin Terrill, David Lubar, Trish Cook, Demitria Lunetta, Joelle Charbonneau, Sally M. Walker & Bennett Madison
The cost for the entire day is $99. This includes all meals, conference packet and giveaways. We are offering a special discount fee of $75 for full-time students (with proof of current school registration).   Registration Required

To receive the full-time student discount you must call to purchase your ticket (630) 820-2802.
Price: $99.00




AND INTRODUCING..
YA Fandom Frenzy
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Hotel Arista | 2139 City Gate Lane | Naperville, IL 60563
From 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Our YA FANDOM FRENZY day will include some fun and quirky author panels, author story starter sessions, “lightning round” literary quiz questions and an “Inside the Writers Studio” with a James Lipton-esque interview. This is a day for readers and authors to get to know each other better in a fun way.  There will be autographing, lunch, a candy bar and swag bags for all attendees. Get your fan frenzy on with some of the best writers of YA literature today!  Great for anyone who loves YA! Get crazy with Anderson’s YA FANDOM FRENZY!

Authors Include:  Stephen Chbosky, T. M. Goeglein, Alex London, Christa Desir, Andrew Smith, Sonya Sones, Brittany Geragotelis, Shannon Messenger, Terra McVoy, Nancy Ohlin, Michael Grant, Myra McEntire, Kat Falls, Elizabeth Eulberg, Regina Sirois, Antony John, James Swanson, Cristin Terrill, David Lubar, Trish Cook, Demitria Lunetta, Joelle Charbonneau, Bennett Madison & Beth Revis.
 
Hope to see you all there!
 

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

IN THE AFTER September Giveaway - Last Day!!!




Goodreads Book Giveaway

In the After by Demitria Lunetta

In the After

by Demitria Lunetta

Giveaway ends September 26, 2013.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.
Enter to win

Monday, September 23, 2013

Books I Love - THE RAVEN BOYS & THE DREAM THEIVES by Maggie Steifvater

 

Last week I did a post about books I was happy I held off on reading...because I loved them so much I was glad I could go right in to the second book. Well, here's another fantastic combo:


17675462 17347389
 
 
"There are only two reasons a non-seer would see a spirit on St. Mark's Eve," Neeve said. "Either you're his true love . . . or you killed him."

It is freezing in the churchyard, even before the dead arrive.

 Every year, Blue Sargent stands next to her clairvoyant mother as the soon-to-be dead walk past. Blue herself never sees them-not until this year, when a boy emerges from the dark and speaks directly to her.
His name is Gansey, and Blue soon discovers that he is a rich student at Aglionby, the local private school. Blue has a policy of staying away from Aglionby boys. Known as Raven Boys, they can only mean trouble.
But Blue is drawn to Gansey, in a way she can't entirely explain. He has it all-family money, good looks, devoted friends-but he's looking for much more than that. He is on a quest that has encompassed three other Raven Boys.
 
So...these books are so much more amazing than the summary gives it credit for. While Blue is the MC, the four Raven boys are just as important. Each character is unique and realistic...and don't even get me started on the plot. I couldn't put either of these books down!
 
Maggie Steifvater is a NYT bestselling author, so it's not like she needs a plug from little old me, but I'll definitely be checking out her other books. I've hear the SCORPIO RACES was fantastic as well.
 
Back Wednesday!



Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Going to Ohio!

The Class of 2K13 is going to be at an event in Ohio next week. Well, six of us are! Here’s the rundown!

noscbwi

Reconnect – Recharge – Renew: N. Ohio SCBWI 11th Annual Conference

WHEN: Friday, September 20, 2013 2:00 PM - Saturday, September 21, 2013 5:30 PM (Eastern Time)

WHERE: Cleveland Airport Sheraton
(216) 267-1500
5300 Riverside Drive
Cleveland, Ohio 44135

WHAT: Reconnect with old friends and make some new friends. You can never have enough acquaintances in this industry. The networking opportunities are AMAZING!!! Recharge and become motivated, educated and inspired with the presentations from experts in the field. Renew leaving the conference with new ideas or goals on making old ideas successful. Feel refreshed and ready to jump into your career of writing and/or illustrating for today’s youth.

WHO: 2K13 Members:
•Kelly Barson, Author of 45 POUNDS (MORE OR LESS)
•Geoffrey Girard, Author of PROJECT CAIN
•Demitria Lunetta, Author of IN THE AFTER
•Mindy McGinnis, Author of NOT A DROP TO DRINK
•Jennifer McGowan, Author of MAID OF SECRETS
•Kate Karyus Quinn, Author of ANOTHER LITTLE PIECE

We will be doing a debut panel on Friday: From Finished Manuscript to First Book: A YA Debut-Author Tells All and a Query panel on Saturday.

There are a ton of other authors and panels, so come check it out!

So I'll be at the conference Friday, but I'll be back on the blog Monday. Have a great weekend and I'll post pic to facebook & twitter so check in for updates!

Monday, September 16, 2013

Books I Love

I've recently read a few books that have been out for a while...books I never seemed to get around to before. Sometimes it's better to wait, because then you can immediately read the sequel! Here are the books...I'll only post the summary for the first book, but I'll put the covers for the second books as well.

9565548 9943270

Seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes from the brutality of an arranged marriage into the sanctuary of the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters still serve the gods of old. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts—and a violent destiny. If she chooses to stay at the convent, she will be trained as an assassin and serve as a handmaiden to Death. To claim her new life, she must destroy the lives of others.

Ismae’s most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany—where she finds herself woefully under prepared—not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death’s vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart?



Cinder (Lunar Chronicles, #1) 13206760


Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth’s fate hinges on one girl.

Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She’s a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister’s illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai’s, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world’s future.




9975679 11320138

It could happen tomorrow . . .

An electromagnetic pulse flashes across the sky, destroying every electronic device, wiping out every computerized system, and killing billions.

Alex hiked into the woods to say good-bye to her dead parents and her personal demons. Now desperate to find out what happened after the pulse crushes her to the ground, Alex meets up with Tom—a young soldier—and Ellie, a girl whose grandfather was killed by the EMP.

For this improvised family and the others who are spared, it’s now a question of who can be trusted and who is no longer human.


Now I just have to read the third book in each series! What about you guys...read these, or any other good books lately?
 

Monday, September 9, 2013

The Dynamic Duology!

I’ve been getting a few inquiries as to whether the IN THE AFTER series is a trilogy or a duology…and I can finally say, it’s a duology! Why? Well…I kind of tied up all the loose ends with the second book, IN THE END, something I didn’t know I was going to do until after I wrote the book. I could have maybe broken that book into two, but than the plot wouldn’t have flowed as well and the books would have dragged. A duology was the right way to go.

So what’s next? I’ll be working on a stand alone. No, I can’t say what it will be about or the title…it’s way too soon! I have to say, as much as I love love love the IN THE AFTER world, it will be fun to start work on an unrelated project.

Back Wednesday!

Friday, September 6, 2013

The Blog Chain – Unfinished Business

The Blog Chain question this week is:

Is there a writing project you've failed to finish? If so, why? Are you planning to return to it at some point? Alternatively, describe a book you started to read but didn't finish and why you didn't finish.                                              

 
Writing:

I haven’t started and not finished many writing projects…except for the one I was working on when I got my book deal. Unfortunately my historical fiction was only halfway done when I had to put it aside for two years while I edited IN THE AFTER, wrote IN THE END and edited that same book. I’ve actually started to work on it again, but it may be interrupted by a third book for HarperTeen, a stand alone yet to be determined.

The reason why I don’t start many writing projects I don’t finish is because I don’t start many writing projects. Sure, I have the ideas in my head, but that’s where I try to work them out before I ever put them down on paper. A few people have commented that they’re amazed it takes me 3-5 months to write a book. That’s not where the process begins though. I can think about a book from anywhere to a couple of months to a year before I begin to write.

 
Reading:

I’m one of those readers who will hold on to a book until the bitter end, even if I’m not a huge fan. One reason is that some books start off slow, then suck you in toward the middle. I wouldn’t want to give up on a book a few pages in, when I might actually end up enjoying it.

Another reason is that I see each book as an opportunity. Some books (a lot of books) are for enjoyment. But even the books I don’t enjoy, I can learn from. What was it about this book that made it catch the eye of an editor? What was the author trying to accomplish? What could someone else love about this book? I never ask, “Why was this book published!?” But “Why was this book published?” Any book I don't finish is more because I left if for too long, read something else instead and never got back to it. I always feel slightly guilty toward these books...like I've wronged them in some way!

As an author, I feel I can learn a lot from every book I read, even books I might not enjoy. Being exposed to a range of genres and styles will help me continue to grow as a writer.

Keep following this topic on the chain and check out Michelle’s blog on Monday, or look back at Katrina's post from yesterday.

What do you think? Do you give up on many books/writing projects?

 

Wednesday, September 4, 2013

IN THE AFTER September Giveaway!




Goodreads Book Giveaway

In the After by Demitria Lunetta

In the After

by Demitria Lunetta

Giveaway ends September 26, 2013.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.
Enter to win

Friday, August 30, 2013

Happy Long Weekend!

Hi all! I hope everyone has a wonderful long weekend and a great Labor Day Monday!

I'll be back to the blog Wednesday. See you then!

Monday, August 26, 2013

Line Edits for IN THE END

Good news!

I'm working on line edits for my second book, IN THE END...due tomorrow. So I'd better get back to work, but I'm so happy to be finishing up another book and amazed at how far Amy's story has come.

What are you all working on today?

Friday, August 23, 2013

The Blog Chain – Book to Movie Successes and Disasters

The blog chain question this week is:

What is your favorite book-to-movie adaptation? Why? What's your least favorite and why?                                               

There are so many bad movie adaptations…and it seems to have nothing to do with loyalty to the book. Some movies are amazing adaptations and completely take artistic license, not following the book exactly, but following its spirit. LAST OF THE MOHICANS is a favorite of mine (and yes, I’ve already used it in a blog chain post, but that’s how much I love it.) THE SHINING is another example of a great, creepy, scary movie, that barely follows the book at all. BLADERUNNER barely looks like DO ANDROIDS DREAM OF ELECTRIC SHEEP?, but is a cult classic. The HARRY POTTER movies are more faithful to their books, and also fun in themselves. The recent JANE EYRE movie was also fantastic. Michael Fassbender as Rochester?…yes please.
                  

But my absolute favorite movie adaptation is JURASSIC PARK, a movie I’ve watched a hundred times as a child and loved more than the book. That happens so rarely, that a movie outshines a book that it’s my all time favorite.

 

A few not so successful adaptations…please don’t hate me, but the HUNGER GAMES. It wasn’t a bad movie, but the book was so much better, it’s hard to judge the movie fairly. And then there are just the awful adaptations, like the Demi Moore version of THE SCARLET LETTER and the Jack Black version of GULLIVER’S TRAVELS.

Keep following this topic on the chain and check out Michelle’s blog on Monday, or look back at Katrina's post from yesterday.
 
What are your favorite book to movie adaptations? Which ones can you just not stand?

Wednesday, August 21, 2013

IN THE AFTER Goodreads Giveaway!


 Head over to Goodreads and enter to win a signed copy of IN THE AFTER!


Goodreads Book Giveaway

In the After by Demitria Lunetta

In the After

by Demitria Lunetta

Giveaway ends August 30, 2013.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.
Enter to win

Monday, August 19, 2013

Class of 2K13 Takeover!



demitria-lunetta-nameplate
 
I'm over at The Class of 2K13 blog today talking about a few things I've learned from my debut year. Stop by and check it out! I'll also be manning the 2K13 twitter account @TheClassof2K13 so feel free to visit me on twitter too!



Monday, August 12, 2013

IN THE AFTER is an ABA Best Book for Children


IN THE AFTER is on another best of list...the American Booksellers Association 2013 ABC Best Books for Children. They misspell my name, Demitris instead of Demitria, but I promise, it's me.  See the full list here.
 

 
 
Also, if you're looking for an IN THE AFTER giveaway, Check out my interview with My Friends Are Fiction and enter to win a copy of IN THE AFTER.
 

Wednesday, July 31, 2013

IN THE AFTER Epic Bookplate Giveaway!

Want a signed copy of IN THE AFTER, but can't make it out to one of my events in Chicago? Enter to win one of fifty signed bookplates!

Contest runs Wednesday 7/31/13 to Wednesday 8/7/13.
U.S. only. (Sorry rest of the world!)
One entry per person please!

And if you want to check out IN THE AFTER before you enter, here are some links:

IN THE AFTER Book Trailer
Goodreads
Browse inside on Epic Reads
My FB Page

Okay, I'm going camping (not really a camping girl, so we'll see how that goes) and I'll be back next Wednesday!
 

Monday, July 29, 2013

In Defense of Love Triangles

I am not a romance writer; the amount of romance in IN THE AFTER is very little, and the small amount that can be found is very subtle. But I have a confession…I love love triangles, especially in YA lit, which I read almost exclusively. I know some people feel very strongly (and very negatively) about them, but before you unfollow, unlike, block, and write me off completely, let me explain my affection for the much maligned YA love triangle.

 
Choices, Choices – Choice in YA lit is not a bad thing. Teens may not feel like they have a lot of say over their daily life, but most teens can decide who they date (or if their parents are strict, at least who they want to date.) Portraying teens as in charge of their own life, and as having choices when it comes to something so important, is a positive trend.  

Having a character choose between two or more love interests can also be a great plot device. It can keep the reader interested in a love subplot or rooting for one character over another…but it goes beyond plot progression. Why is heartthrob A better than heartthrob B? How do their traits differ? What makes one a better choice than the other? A character reveals a lot about themselves through the choices they make, and choosing between love interests can round out an MC. Of course, this can be done poorly. Two supermodel-esq teens fight over an MC who isn’t very interesting or dynamic. I’m not saying simply having a love triangle will make a story, but it can definitely enhance it when done right.
 

Love (Un)Interest - When you have an MC that is kick-ass, smart, hot, and interesting, who wouldn’t want to date them? If the MC were dull, they probably wouldn’t be the MC…they’d be the best friend or the tertiary character stuck in the background. When there’s an awesome MC, I think it’s completely realistic that there would be multiple guys (or girls) chasing them and perhaps these suitors are less than ideal. It would be equally realistic that they would try to avoid the attention of the shallow/jerk/meathead/overbearing character.

I personally have never had to choose between two equally wonderfully perfect guys who each pursued me with a passionate fury…but I’ve had plenty of unwanted weirdo creep attention. It’s just part of being human. Someone you wouldn’t give the time of day to will like you, while you like someone else who doesn’t know you exist. Yes, it’s harsh, but it’s also high school.

 
Crushed - The definition of a crush is: a temporary romantic attraction, especially in teenagers and young people. Though they are not always lumped in with the love triangle, crushes are a huge part of YA lit…and with that comes crushes on multiple characters. I think this is great.

Not every attraction ends in meeting your soul mate and results in a lifelong relationship. It's normal for teens to crush on someone one week and lose interest the next, that's why it's called a crush and not love eternal. It's also normal for teens to have multiple crushes at once. My high school guy friends always had at least three or four girls they were interested in at any given time. That many crushes in a novel may be unwieldy, so I can see why some stories stick to the two crush scenario, which gets them put squarely into the love triangle category. (Ha! Squarely into the triangle...never mind.)

And yes, sometimes along the course of a novel a crush develops into love and can result in breaking an MC’s heart (See love (un)interests above) but that’s just another part of growing up. And when the crush character doesn’t break the MC's heart? The progression from crush to relationship can really drive a story. And let’s be honest, an MC’s early crush on the "wrong" character also makes it all the more satisfying if they do wind up with the "right" character at the end.

 
That’s my take on love triangles. I love any YA lit that realistically portrays teen emotions and all the depth (and sometimes the shallowness) that comes along with finding yourself and growing into adulthood.

What's your take on the love triangle in YA lit? Love them? Hate them? Feel free to rant…I love a good rant!
 

Friday, July 26, 2013

Book Spotlight - MAID OF SECRETS by Jennifer McGowan


Maid of Secrets (Maids of Honor, #1)
 

Seventeen-year-old Meg Fellowes is a wry, resourceful thief forced to join an elite group of female spies in Queen Elizabeth’s Court. There she must solve a murder, save the Crown, and resist the one thing that will become her greatest freedom–and her deadliest peril.

For Meg and her fellow spies are not alone in their pursuit of the murderer who stalks Windsor Castle.

A young, mysterious Spanish courtier, Count Rafe de Martine, appears at every turn in the dark and scandal-filled corridors of the Queen’s summer palace. And though secrets and danger are Meg’s stock-in-trade, she’s never bargained on falling in love…

 
Recommended for fans of: YA Historical Fiction, Elizabethan Fiction

 Though I’m a Sci-fi girl, I love me a good Historical Fiction (you can read a post on my not so secret love here) and MAID OF SECRETS does not disappoint. It has a wonderful MC, royal intrigue, female spies, and just the right amount of romance. I also love how McGowan weaves history through her book, it’s not overwhelming but gives you just enough for historical context.

The story itself is also a page-turner, you find yourself unable to stop reading as several mysteries unfold.  It’s also quite the ride to see Meg’s character develop from a resourceful thief to a skillful spy, and her struggle with all that entails. The characters are all wonderfully fleshed out, and you feel like you’re smack dap in the middle of Elizabethan England. Definitely recommend to anyone with a love of Historical Fiction.

MAID OF SECRETS is available now!

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

SCBWI New Authors Panel in Chicago

Tomorrow I'll be on another panel, here in Chicago. Here are the details:

July 25th - (Thursday) - SCBWI New Authors Panel Discussion‏ - It's a Summer Cavalcade of Debut Children's Authors! 

Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators
 
When: Thursday, July 25th
Time: 6:30-8 p.m.
Where: 57th Street Books, 1301 East 57th Street in Chicago
Cost: Free
 
 
Join us at 57th Street Books in Hyde Park for the next SCBWI South Side Chicago Network panel discussion. We're featuring four debut children's authors who will share their journey to publication, how they broke through and won over an editor, whether they used an agent or didn't, the role of revision, what it's like selling and marketing, and much more.
 
The lineup!
 
Demitria Lunetta whose dystopian YA "In the After" (HarperTeen) hits shelves in late June http://demitrialunetta.blogspot.com/
 
Tom Watson whose middle-grade "Stick Dog" (HarperCollins) came out in January and is already a four-book series http://www.harpercollinschildrens.com/books/Stick-Dog-Wants-Hot/?isbn13=9780062110800&tctid=100
 
Liesl Shurtliff whose middle-grade novel "Rump" (Knopf) is garnering critics' praise http://lieslshurtliff.com/
 
Eileen Meyer whose non-fiction picture book "Who's Faster?" (Mountain Press) is just the first of many new titles from this author http://www.eileenmeyerbooks.com/books.html
 
Hope to see you there!

Monday, July 22, 2013

ARC Spotlight – STARGLASS by Phoebe North


Starglass
 
 

Terra has never known anything but life aboard the Asherah, a city-within-a-spaceship that left Earth five hundred years ago in search of refuge. At sixteen, working a job that doesn't interest her, and living with a grieving father who only notices her when he's yelling, Terra is sure that there has to be more to life than what she's got.

But when she inadvertently witnesses the captain's guard murdering an innocent man, Terra is suddenly thrust into the dark world beneath her ship's idyllic surface. As she's drawn into a secret rebellion determined to restore power to the people, Terra discovers that her choices may determine life or death for the people she cares most about. With mere months to go before landing on the long-promised planet, Terra has to make the decision of a lifetime--one that will determine the fate of her people.

Recommended for fans of: YA Sci-fi, Dystopian

I loved STARGLASS for so many reasons, so let me try to break them down here. J Firstly I love the feel of the book, that classic Sci-fi spaceship journey feel. I also love the dystopian aspect…you know something’s not quite right on the Starglass, and you can’t help but turn the pages to find out what that something is. You may think it’s just another ACROSS THE UNIVERSE, but it’s actually a fresh spin on the idea. North weaves action, familial issues, and social intrigue together to form an amazing book. I also love how North uses Jewish culture as her basis for the ships society, and her characters deal with tough issues, including coming to terms with their sexuality, as well as uncovering the truth aboard the Starglass. There’s also a bang up twist at the end, which will have you wishing for the sequel. I highly recommend this book for any YA sci-fi fans out there!

STARGLASS releases tomorrow, July 23rd!

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Book Spotlight – THE NEPTUNE PROJECT by Polly Holyoke


 
The Neptune Project

 

With her weak eyes and useless lungs that often leave her gasping for air, Nere feels more at home swimming with the dolphins her mother studies than she does hanging out with her classmates. Nere has never understood why she is so much more comfortable and confident in the water than on land until the day she learns the shocking truth—she is one of a group of kids who have been genetically altered to survive in the ocean. These products of the "Neptune Project" are supposed to build a better future under the waves, safe from the terrible famines and wars and that rock the surface world.

But there are some big challenges ahead of her: no one ever asked Nere if she wanted to be part of a science experiment; the other Neptune kids aren't exactly the friendliest bunch, and in order to reach the safe haven of the new Neptune colony, Nere and her fellow mutates must swim across hundreds of miles of dangerous ocean, relying on their wits, their loyal dolphins and one another to evade terrifying undersea creatures and a government that will stop at nothing to capture the Neptune kids ... dead or alive.

Fierce battle and daring escapes abound as Nere and her friend race to safety in this action-packed marine adventure.

Recommended for fans of: MG or YA Dystopian/Action Adventure.

This MG dystopian is packed with action, an exciting plot, and loveable characters. I was really drawn to the MC, Nere, and her plight; finding out that she is part of a genetics experiment that created humans who could live in the ocean. Within the first few chapters, Nere’s life is changed forever and the reader empathizes with her fear and resentment. But Nere is also strong and courageous and really drives the story forward. Although this book is MG, I think a lot of older teens would like it too. Definite rec to any pre-teen/teen interested in marine biology or who is looking for a fun spin on the dystopian genre.

THE NEPTUNE PROJECT is available now!

Monday, July 15, 2013

IN THE AFTER on the Apocalypse Blog Hop

Check out my interview on the very cool Apocalypse Blog Hop here at Christy's Love of Books. I answer some pretty great questions...including If you had to be stuck with one celebrity in the post-apocalypse world, who would you want it to be? Visit Christy's blog to find out what I said and enter to win a signed copy of IN THE AFTER (or if you already have a copy, a t-shirt!)
 

Friday, July 12, 2013

Signing at Barbara's Bookstore in Burr Ridge, IL

Tomorrow (Saturday, July 13th)  I'll be at Barbara's Bookstore in Burr Ridge, IL at 3pm. If you're in the area stop by and pick up a personalized copy of IN THE AFTER! Here's the address and phone number:

Barbara's Bookstore
810 Village Center Dr.
Burr Ridge, IL 60527
630.920.1500

Hope to see you there!

Home
 

Wednesday, July 10, 2013

ARC Spotlight - 45 Pounds (More or Less) by K.A. Barson

I originally posted this review in January, but with this amazing book releasing tomorrow I wanted to repost!


45 Pounds (More or Less)


Here are the numbers of Ann Galardi’s life:

She is 16.


And a size 17.
Her perfect mother is a size 6.
Her Aunt Jackie is getting married in 10 weeks, and wants Ann to be her bridesmaid.
So Ann makes up her mind: Time to lose 45 pounds (more or less) in 2 1/2 months.

Welcome to the world of informercial diet plans, wedding dance lessons, embarrassing run-ins with the cutest guy Ann’s ever seen—-and some surprises about her NOT-so-perfect mother.

And there’s one more thing. It’s all about feeling comfortable in your own skin-—no matter how you add it up!


Recommended for fans of: YA Contemporary


This book really hit home. It’s not just for teens that have struggled with their weight, but for anyone who has ever had a problem in life they felt they had no control over. Ann’s just happens to be her weight. She thinks that all of her troubles will be solved if she can just lose 45 pounds. Even with the low self esteem, she’s a very likeable MC, easy to relate to. She’s also a bit clueless. I love how Ann’s character develops throughout the book, as she learns more about herself, her friends, and her family. She discovers that she’s not as alone in her struggles as she thought. A very satisfying read!

45 POUNDS (MORE OR LESS) releases tomorrow, July  11th  and is one of Amazon's best teen books for July!

Monday, July 8, 2013

Edits Are In!

I just hit send on my edits for book 2, IN THE END and I am so happy with how it's turned out. I also got a recent glimpse of the cover, and though I can't share right now, I can tell you that I love it. It goes perfectly with the IN THE AFTER cover.

I'm going to take a few days to recover, but I'll be back Wednesday!

 

Friday, July 5, 2013

The Blog Chain - Guilty Pleasure Reading

The Blog Chain question this week is:
 
What are your guilty pleasure books/genres?
 
My guilty pleasure reading is historical fiction...which I admit doesn't sound like it should be a guilty pleasure. It's far from dull, though. I once described historical fiction as a retelling of "really old gossip" and the juicier the better. Especially anything to do with royal intrigue. There's always murder, adultery, international espionage, and of course pampered royalty who have more power than sense.
 
I love love love anything by Philippa Gregory.
 
The Other Boleyn Girl (The Tudor Court, #2)The Constant Princess (The Tudor Court, #1)

 
 
 
 
And I also love any historical fiction that is also a ghost story...here' a recent one I read that was fantastic:
 
 
In the Shadow of Blackbirds

 
 Keep following this topic on the chain and check out Michelle’s blog on Monday, or look back at Katrina's post from yesterday.
 

What are your guilty pleasure books/genres?