Richelle Mead's Blog, page 23
May 9, 2011
Worth waiting for, Minneapolis?
At long last, I am SO pleased to announce that the book signing I was supposed to do in Minneapolis back in December has been rescheduled! For those not familiar with the story, my signing was scheduled the day massive snow hit the Twin Cities, meaning no flights could land. (It was also the day their Metrodome collapsed from snow). The signing was cancelled that morning, and while most attendees were home stuck in the snow anyway, a few hardcore readers trickled out and got the sad news. More on that day is in my recap here, as well as here--detailing what some creative readers did in my absence.
Anyway, I've been wanting to make this signing up during a time when the weather seemed more cooperative. Of course, there are no guarantees when it comes to Minnesota and snow, but here's what we've ended up with:
Me, reading and signing books!
Where: Mall of America - Bloomington, MN
When: Sunday, May 22 @ 1pm
The sponsoring store is the MoA's Barnes and Noble, though the actual signing will be held in one of the mall's big open areas. Details on that specific location should be available in the mall and through that B&N. I'll certainly let you know as we get closer too. Normal book limits and picture rules will be in effect.
And brace yourselves because here's something extra cool: there'll be some giveaways of Bloodlines merchandise, as well as some exclusive info revealed about Bloodlines!
For any people in the publishing industry--I'll also be in New York City the following week for BookExpo America. Their schedule had a couple time slots listed for me, but the only time I'll be signing there is on Tuesday, May 24, from 3-4pm. Check your schedules for location. (FYI - BEA is an industry tradeshow, not an event open to the general public).
Whenever I post about a signing, I always have to give a disclaimer because I get tons of comments about all the other places I'm not at. As I've said in the past, I can't be everywhere. I know it disappoints a lot of people, and I'm sorry for it. It simply isn't possible to sign in all places, and it's especially true this year because of my pregnancy. That's why there are no tours for Bloodlines and Succubus Revealed in August. Minneapolis and BEA are special situations, and they're already pushing my physical limits! After those, I'll be resting and staying homebound for the rest of the year to ensure all is happy, healthy, and well for when the baby comes in August.
For those still wanting signed books, remember that no matter where you live in the world, you can always order autographed books from University Bookstore. That includes the new releases in August, and that info is here. I'm also pleased to announce that for Seattle folks, I'll also be signing with the Smart Chicks on October 2. (I'm one of the TBD on their schedule). That signing is part of a book festival and will have more details later. I'm only able to do that one because it's in my own city and won't require me leaving the baby for very long.
Don't worry, guys. When 2012 comes around, I'll be back in traveling action again! Thanks for understanding, and for now, I look forward to seeing Minneapolis and NYC peeps at the end of the month.
Anyway, I've been wanting to make this signing up during a time when the weather seemed more cooperative. Of course, there are no guarantees when it comes to Minnesota and snow, but here's what we've ended up with:
Me, reading and signing books!
Where: Mall of America - Bloomington, MN
When: Sunday, May 22 @ 1pm
The sponsoring store is the MoA's Barnes and Noble, though the actual signing will be held in one of the mall's big open areas. Details on that specific location should be available in the mall and through that B&N. I'll certainly let you know as we get closer too. Normal book limits and picture rules will be in effect.
And brace yourselves because here's something extra cool: there'll be some giveaways of Bloodlines merchandise, as well as some exclusive info revealed about Bloodlines!
For any people in the publishing industry--I'll also be in New York City the following week for BookExpo America. Their schedule had a couple time slots listed for me, but the only time I'll be signing there is on Tuesday, May 24, from 3-4pm. Check your schedules for location. (FYI - BEA is an industry tradeshow, not an event open to the general public).
Whenever I post about a signing, I always have to give a disclaimer because I get tons of comments about all the other places I'm not at. As I've said in the past, I can't be everywhere. I know it disappoints a lot of people, and I'm sorry for it. It simply isn't possible to sign in all places, and it's especially true this year because of my pregnancy. That's why there are no tours for Bloodlines and Succubus Revealed in August. Minneapolis and BEA are special situations, and they're already pushing my physical limits! After those, I'll be resting and staying homebound for the rest of the year to ensure all is happy, healthy, and well for when the baby comes in August.
For those still wanting signed books, remember that no matter where you live in the world, you can always order autographed books from University Bookstore. That includes the new releases in August, and that info is here. I'm also pleased to announce that for Seattle folks, I'll also be signing with the Smart Chicks on October 2. (I'm one of the TBD on their schedule). That signing is part of a book festival and will have more details later. I'm only able to do that one because it's in my own city and won't require me leaving the baby for very long.
Don't worry, guys. When 2012 comes around, I'll be back in traveling action again! Thanks for understanding, and for now, I look forward to seeing Minneapolis and NYC peeps at the end of the month.
May 8, 2011
In which I make it work
Imagine my surprise yesterday when I found out that fashion expert extraordinaire Tim Gunn was going to be in the Seattle area. Not only that, he was specifically going to be at Bellevue Square Mall, which is practically in my backyard (and which *might* resemble a mall you'll be seeing more of in Succubus Revealed). Tim was scheduled to host a fashion show for Lucky Brand and would then be signing copies of his latest book afterward. Now, it takes a lot to get me to go wait through a crowd (especially at 5.5 months pregnant), but the combination of Tim and an easy-access mall seemed like fate. So, I packed up my purse with reading material and snacks and set out for adventure.
It was a huge relief to arrive and find plenty of seating an hour before the fashion show started. I honestly hadn't known if people would be camping out five hours beforehand or something crazy like that. A friend of mine soon joined me, and we found seats on the mall's second floor, looking down on the fashion show stage. Aside from people who decided it was okay to make a safety hazard and turn the stairs into their own personal viewing area, we had a pretty solid view of things, like when the stage's background collapsed:
Before long, Tim himself came out, much to the crowd's delight. In honor of Lucky Brand, he wore their more casual attire instead of his usual suit:
The show kicked off, and models came out showing off Lucky's spring line, which featured a lot of white and navy. The sound system wasn't so awesome on the second floor, but I was still able to hear Tim dispense his fashion advice, like how short people like me should wear vertical stripes. He's also a big advocate of dressing "age appropriate," which immediately made me wonder about the dress I was wearing. Regardless, good times were had and some of the models were locals who auditioned yesterday. Not sure if these were some of them.
My friend and I left the fashion show a little early in order to go wait in the signing line. Unfortunately, we discovered that 100 or so of our closest friends had the same idea.
I always feel bad that people have to wait at my book signings, though usually everyone tells me they understand and don't mind. And I can say, the same was true today. Sure, it would've been awesome to be first, but I totally understand that Tim draws a crowd and you've got to wait your turn. People from the Cheesecake Factory worked the line, ironically serving bruschetta instead of cheesecake--which isn't exactly the neatest of finger foods. We were also constantly stopped by passing shoppers. Many knew who Tim was. Other times, conversation went like this:
Shopper: What's this line for?
Me: To see Tim Gunn.
Shopper: Who?
Me: Tim Gunn. From Project Runway. Fashion guru.
Shopper: [blank look]
Me: Please go about your shopping business, ma'am. There's nothing for you to see here.
At last, an hour and a half later, I got to meet the man himself:
Don't worry, I haven't changed my hair color. Tim's staff had their own photographer and camera, and for whatever reason, all the red in my hair got zapped out. When people meet me at signings, I always tell them not to be shy. I didn't listen to my own advice, however, and found myself saying very little to Tim. I did tell him I was a great admirer, and he was every bit as gracious and gentlemanly as he is on TV. He's definitely a role model for anyone doing public appearances! This was the book I got:
And this was how he signed it:
Good times. Like a nerd, I told the staff that they did a good job organizing the line. But it's true, and I have good reason to appreciate a well-organized line. Was it worth the wait? I think so. I had this weekend off from working, and Tim can now join the ranks of Bill Clinton and Jean Auel as people I've waited long amounts of time to see (though Bill by far wins the prize for longest wait and most security!). Tim really is someone I respect, and now I'm even more excited for the All-Star season of Project Runway--which I can only assume was engineered to give Mondo his much-deserved win.
It was a huge relief to arrive and find plenty of seating an hour before the fashion show started. I honestly hadn't known if people would be camping out five hours beforehand or something crazy like that. A friend of mine soon joined me, and we found seats on the mall's second floor, looking down on the fashion show stage. Aside from people who decided it was okay to make a safety hazard and turn the stairs into their own personal viewing area, we had a pretty solid view of things, like when the stage's background collapsed:
Before long, Tim himself came out, much to the crowd's delight. In honor of Lucky Brand, he wore their more casual attire instead of his usual suit:
The show kicked off, and models came out showing off Lucky's spring line, which featured a lot of white and navy. The sound system wasn't so awesome on the second floor, but I was still able to hear Tim dispense his fashion advice, like how short people like me should wear vertical stripes. He's also a big advocate of dressing "age appropriate," which immediately made me wonder about the dress I was wearing. Regardless, good times were had and some of the models were locals who auditioned yesterday. Not sure if these were some of them.
My friend and I left the fashion show a little early in order to go wait in the signing line. Unfortunately, we discovered that 100 or so of our closest friends had the same idea.
I always feel bad that people have to wait at my book signings, though usually everyone tells me they understand and don't mind. And I can say, the same was true today. Sure, it would've been awesome to be first, but I totally understand that Tim draws a crowd and you've got to wait your turn. People from the Cheesecake Factory worked the line, ironically serving bruschetta instead of cheesecake--which isn't exactly the neatest of finger foods. We were also constantly stopped by passing shoppers. Many knew who Tim was. Other times, conversation went like this:
Shopper: What's this line for?
Me: To see Tim Gunn.
Shopper: Who?
Me: Tim Gunn. From Project Runway. Fashion guru.
Shopper: [blank look]
Me: Please go about your shopping business, ma'am. There's nothing for you to see here.
At last, an hour and a half later, I got to meet the man himself:
Don't worry, I haven't changed my hair color. Tim's staff had their own photographer and camera, and for whatever reason, all the red in my hair got zapped out. When people meet me at signings, I always tell them not to be shy. I didn't listen to my own advice, however, and found myself saying very little to Tim. I did tell him I was a great admirer, and he was every bit as gracious and gentlemanly as he is on TV. He's definitely a role model for anyone doing public appearances! This was the book I got:
And this was how he signed it:
Good times. Like a nerd, I told the staff that they did a good job organizing the line. But it's true, and I have good reason to appreciate a well-organized line. Was it worth the wait? I think so. I had this weekend off from working, and Tim can now join the ranks of Bill Clinton and Jean Auel as people I've waited long amounts of time to see (though Bill by far wins the prize for longest wait and most security!). Tim really is someone I respect, and now I'm even more excited for the All-Star season of Project Runway--which I can only assume was engineered to give Mondo his much-deserved win.
May 3, 2011
Real winners :)
So, the news came in today from the Children's Choice Book Awards. Sadly, Spirit Bound didn't win for best teen book of 2010. Will Grayson, Will Grayson, one of the many awesome books on the ballot, won the title, so many congrats are in order for authors John Green and David Levithan.
And many thanks--far more than I can begin to express--are in order for all of you who voted so passionately! I can't adequately convey how grateful and awed I am by the overwhelming show of support everyone has given. You guys are amazing, and it doesn't take an award or win to prove that. And that's why I'm still going to write the short story about Rose and Dimitri visiting Russia. :)
Note: it's still just going to be a short story! Rumors have already blown this up to a full-fledged novel, but it won't be nearly that long. Sydney and the Bloodlines gang are the only ones getting novel-time for a while in the VA world. But, this story will still let us know what's going on with Rose and Dimitri and how his family reacts when they see him...and maybe there'll be some unexpected twists thrown in. Also remember that I said I was going to submit this to an anthology, so even though it's a short story, it still has to go through all the steps any published book does. It has to be finished to begin with! Then the entire anthology will need to be edited, proofed, and all that good stuff. Last I heard, it has a 2012 publication date, and there are a bunch of other awesome YA authors in there as well. All the stories will have some element of prophecy...so you can think about that too and guess what that might mean for my story!
Anyway, I'll give you more details about the publishing schedule as I learn them. I hope you guys will like it when it's done and ready. And again, Thank you SO MUCH for all of the amazing support and enthusiasm. You guys make me so happy to be a writer!
And many thanks--far more than I can begin to express--are in order for all of you who voted so passionately! I can't adequately convey how grateful and awed I am by the overwhelming show of support everyone has given. You guys are amazing, and it doesn't take an award or win to prove that. And that's why I'm still going to write the short story about Rose and Dimitri visiting Russia. :)
Note: it's still just going to be a short story! Rumors have already blown this up to a full-fledged novel, but it won't be nearly that long. Sydney and the Bloodlines gang are the only ones getting novel-time for a while in the VA world. But, this story will still let us know what's going on with Rose and Dimitri and how his family reacts when they see him...and maybe there'll be some unexpected twists thrown in. Also remember that I said I was going to submit this to an anthology, so even though it's a short story, it still has to go through all the steps any published book does. It has to be finished to begin with! Then the entire anthology will need to be edited, proofed, and all that good stuff. Last I heard, it has a 2012 publication date, and there are a bunch of other awesome YA authors in there as well. All the stories will have some element of prophecy...so you can think about that too and guess what that might mean for my story!
Anyway, I'll give you more details about the publishing schedule as I learn them. I hope you guys will like it when it's done and ready. And again, Thank you SO MUCH for all of the amazing support and enthusiasm. You guys make me so happy to be a writer!
April 27, 2011
Easy does it on the CBC Awards
If you missed the news yesterday, I threw out an offer to write a short story about Rose and Dimitri visiting Russia if Spirit Bound wins the CBC's best teen book of 2010 award. You can read the details here.
But here's something very important to note. I said yesterday that awards mean nothing if people don't for the book they believe in, and I encouraged everyone to only vote if they thought SB deserves the award. Likewise, these awards don't mean much if one person is submitting hundreds and hundreds of votes. Don't get me wrong--it's very flattering! :) But all that proves is that the website can be overloaded. Really, all you need to do is vote once. If you really want to show support, then vote once a day and encourage your friends to as well. That's it. That's all we need!
The problem that's happening is that the CBC's website is getting a lot of votes that are obviously fake (i.e. all from one person or claim to be from librarians/teachers) and that aren't even completely filled out. This not only causes them technical problems, but it also means they have to throw out a bunch of votes that weren't done correctly and can muck up the final results.
Again, I'm so floored by everyone's amazing enthusiasm! I really can't express how overwhelming it is to see such love for the books. I had quite the emotional day yesterday when I saw just how excited everyone was (although, baby hormones probably played a role in my emotional state too). But seriously--everyone voting once or once daily is more than enough. The comments some have made about voting until fingers bleed are funny, but it's not necessary! Please don't kill yourselves with votes, particularly since they may not be counted or will cause technical problems for the website. We don't want to hurt the final count! It's also important to respect the CBC and make this award meaningful, and I think we have more than enough VA supporters to pull this off honestly.
Thanks for understanding, and thanks so much for spreading the word! It's been incredible how fast everyone has rallied in getting this news out. As always, you guys rock.
But here's something very important to note. I said yesterday that awards mean nothing if people don't for the book they believe in, and I encouraged everyone to only vote if they thought SB deserves the award. Likewise, these awards don't mean much if one person is submitting hundreds and hundreds of votes. Don't get me wrong--it's very flattering! :) But all that proves is that the website can be overloaded. Really, all you need to do is vote once. If you really want to show support, then vote once a day and encourage your friends to as well. That's it. That's all we need!
The problem that's happening is that the CBC's website is getting a lot of votes that are obviously fake (i.e. all from one person or claim to be from librarians/teachers) and that aren't even completely filled out. This not only causes them technical problems, but it also means they have to throw out a bunch of votes that weren't done correctly and can muck up the final results.
Again, I'm so floored by everyone's amazing enthusiasm! I really can't express how overwhelming it is to see such love for the books. I had quite the emotional day yesterday when I saw just how excited everyone was (although, baby hormones probably played a role in my emotional state too). But seriously--everyone voting once or once daily is more than enough. The comments some have made about voting until fingers bleed are funny, but it's not necessary! Please don't kill yourselves with votes, particularly since they may not be counted or will cause technical problems for the website. We don't want to hurt the final count! It's also important to respect the CBC and make this award meaningful, and I think we have more than enough VA supporters to pull this off honestly.
Thanks for understanding, and thanks so much for spreading the word! It's been incredible how fast everyone has rallied in getting this news out. As always, you guys rock.
April 26, 2011
Let's make a deal
So, I mentioned before that Spirit Bound was nominated in the best teen book of 2010 category in the Children's Book Council Awards. This is a huge honor, and voting runs through the end of this month. The thing is, I hate constantly asking people to vote...especially after everyone worked so hard voting in the Nickelodeon Awards last month. So, I haven't been pushing this a lot.
However, since December, I've been asked constantly to write about what happens when Dimitri goes back to visit his family in Russia. I've been undecided about whether I wanted to do this or not. I do have to write a short story for an upcoming anthology, which isn't something I do very often. I've been going back and forth on what to write the story about, but here's the deal I'll make you: if Spirit Bound wins in the CBCAs, I'll write this anthology story about Dimitri and Rose going to visit his family in Russia.
Now, normally, I don't like it when authors offer bribes. But, with all the requests I've gotten, I like to think of this as more of a trade. Plus, I know some people would vote but just forget...so hopefully, this is a good reminder! And I can say with absolute truth, if you think another of the nominees is a better choice, then please: vote for them instead. Awards are no good if they don't reflect how people really feel! But, if you were already for SB, then hopefully the story incentive will help us pull off a win. Can we do it with only a few days left? Stay tuned to find out! The link to vote is here, and it's under the teen category (but you don't have to be a teen to vote).
Win, lose, whatever...I'm always grateful and awed by the support you guys show for the series. You all rock, and I am very, very lucky. Thank you!
However, since December, I've been asked constantly to write about what happens when Dimitri goes back to visit his family in Russia. I've been undecided about whether I wanted to do this or not. I do have to write a short story for an upcoming anthology, which isn't something I do very often. I've been going back and forth on what to write the story about, but here's the deal I'll make you: if Spirit Bound wins in the CBCAs, I'll write this anthology story about Dimitri and Rose going to visit his family in Russia.
Now, normally, I don't like it when authors offer bribes. But, with all the requests I've gotten, I like to think of this as more of a trade. Plus, I know some people would vote but just forget...so hopefully, this is a good reminder! And I can say with absolute truth, if you think another of the nominees is a better choice, then please: vote for them instead. Awards are no good if they don't reflect how people really feel! But, if you were already for SB, then hopefully the story incentive will help us pull off a win. Can we do it with only a few days left? Stay tuned to find out! The link to vote is here, and it's under the teen category (but you don't have to be a teen to vote).
Win, lose, whatever...I'm always grateful and awed by the support you guys show for the series. You all rock, and I am very, very lucky. Thank you!
April 21, 2011
Signed books + Storm Born comic preview!
All sorts of news today. As many of you know, I won't be going on any book tours for my August releases because I'll be having a baby around the same time. Here's the year's roster if you missed it:
May 18 - Storm Born comic, issue #1 (future issues released every month)
August 23 - Vampire Academy graphic novel
August 23 - Bloodlines
August 30 - Succubus Revealed
A lot of people have asked if my local pals University Bookstore will still be selling autographed copies of these new releases. Answer: YES! You can order any of the above books (or any of my other books), and I will autograph them to you for no extra charge. U Bookstore ships internationally, but you'll have to contact them about shipping charges to your country. The standard info on ordering autographed books from them is here.
Here are a few things to know if you want to order any of my upcoming titles signed from University Bookstore:
* Books don't ship before their release date
If you order Bloodlines and Succubus Revealed with combined shipping, the store cannot ship before August 30. So, they'll hold the order until all books are out. You can choose to pay individual shipping per item if you want them shipped immediately.
* If their website says an August book is coming out in 2-4 weeks, it's an error
A few of the August titles are tagged this way, but it's one of those unfortunate computer things that happen. They're trying to fix it, but in the meantime, know that the dates you see here are the real release (and shipping) dates.
* Autographed books will ship on their release dates, despite my due date. PROBABLY.
Obviously, the questions about whether I'll do autographed books popped up because my baby's due date is the same week Bloodlines and Succubus Revealed come out. The store and I have every intention of getting these out on their release dates. It's really important to me since I can't tour. If the baby's on time, there's no problem autographing mail orders. I'll sign the books, and they'll get shipped before he's born. If he's early, I'll just sign on release day as planned and have a baby around (U Books has even offered to bring the orders to my home to sign - quite an offer since Last Sacrifice shipped 600 copies from them on its release day!). So, it really should work out. However, I can't give a 100% promise everything will time out perfectly. More like 98%. You never know what can happen. I might go into labor the day I'm supposed to sign for the store! I might have an extended hospital stay. Obviously, we're hoping for the best, but in the event something wacky happens, there a chance there could be a shipping delay. A small chance (and a small delay), but I want you to have all the facts!
* University Bookstore will only sell a small number of the Storm Born comic
There's no limit to the number of regular books the store can sell, but they're only ordering 50 copies of the SB comic. So, when they're gone, they're gone. If you order one and they've run out, they'll let you know and obviously won't charge you.
And of course, all of these disclaimers are just if you want autographed books. If that doesn't matter, you can always get any of my titles from other online and local stores.
Speaking of the Storm Born comic, check it out! Its publisher just released a five page preview:
Go on to page 2
Go on to page 3
Go on to page 4
Go on to page 5
Enjoy!
May 18 - Storm Born comic, issue #1 (future issues released every month)
August 23 - Vampire Academy graphic novel
August 23 - Bloodlines
August 30 - Succubus Revealed
A lot of people have asked if my local pals University Bookstore will still be selling autographed copies of these new releases. Answer: YES! You can order any of the above books (or any of my other books), and I will autograph them to you for no extra charge. U Bookstore ships internationally, but you'll have to contact them about shipping charges to your country. The standard info on ordering autographed books from them is here.Here are a few things to know if you want to order any of my upcoming titles signed from University Bookstore:
* Books don't ship before their release date
If you order Bloodlines and Succubus Revealed with combined shipping, the store cannot ship before August 30. So, they'll hold the order until all books are out. You can choose to pay individual shipping per item if you want them shipped immediately.
* If their website says an August book is coming out in 2-4 weeks, it's an error
A few of the August titles are tagged this way, but it's one of those unfortunate computer things that happen. They're trying to fix it, but in the meantime, know that the dates you see here are the real release (and shipping) dates.
* Autographed books will ship on their release dates, despite my due date. PROBABLY.
Obviously, the questions about whether I'll do autographed books popped up because my baby's due date is the same week Bloodlines and Succubus Revealed come out. The store and I have every intention of getting these out on their release dates. It's really important to me since I can't tour. If the baby's on time, there's no problem autographing mail orders. I'll sign the books, and they'll get shipped before he's born. If he's early, I'll just sign on release day as planned and have a baby around (U Books has even offered to bring the orders to my home to sign - quite an offer since Last Sacrifice shipped 600 copies from them on its release day!). So, it really should work out. However, I can't give a 100% promise everything will time out perfectly. More like 98%. You never know what can happen. I might go into labor the day I'm supposed to sign for the store! I might have an extended hospital stay. Obviously, we're hoping for the best, but in the event something wacky happens, there a chance there could be a shipping delay. A small chance (and a small delay), but I want you to have all the facts!
* University Bookstore will only sell a small number of the Storm Born comic
There's no limit to the number of regular books the store can sell, but they're only ordering 50 copies of the SB comic. So, when they're gone, they're gone. If you order one and they've run out, they'll let you know and obviously won't charge you.
And of course, all of these disclaimers are just if you want autographed books. If that doesn't matter, you can always get any of my titles from other online and local stores.
Speaking of the Storm Born comic, check it out! Its publisher just released a five page preview:
Go on to page 2
Go on to page 3
Go on to page 4
Go on to page 5
Enjoy!
April 18, 2011
Vampire Academy graphic novel!
Hot news today! USA Today has an exclusive peek at the Vampire Academy graphic novel. Along with pictures of some of the amazing art, there are also interviews with me and artist Emma Vieceli. The article also has the info on when the graphic novel comes out. This one will be available in both comic book stores and regular bookstores in the U.S. As always, release abroad is unknown at this point. Sorry about that--it's not in my control! But various places will ship internationally, including autographed copies from University Bookstore (see richellemead.com for that).
Anyway, here's the link to the article and art. Hope you enjoy!
Anyway, here's the link to the article and art. Hope you enjoy!
April 15, 2011
Back in action
Well, I think I've recovered from RT and am back into my work groove. It's always hard adjusting back, which is why I often tell aspiring writers to write a little each day, if it all possible. Otherwise, it's easy to lose your stride when you have breaks in the schedule. Life happens, of course, and travel (for me, at least) doesn't make for optimal work conditions. It's all good now, so full steam ahead on Bloodlines and Succubus Revealed!
In other life news, for those who missed it, I found out this week I'm having a boy. My husband and I are excited and happy that we can finally start making concrete plans. Even better, everything looked great and healthy on the ultrasound, so that's good news too. Since I first announced my pregnancy, lots of people have asked if I'll be naming the baby after any of my characters. Nope! Sorry, Dimitri and Adrian fans. The world of my books stays in my books. :)
Speaking of fiction, the Storm Born comic is coming out next month, and all sorts of things are happening to help launch that. First, here's an interview with Grant Alter, the awesome guy adapting the book into comic form. In addition to his Q&A, there's some exclusive art posted in the interview, along with some of the actual script. And, for anyone registered for (or who wants to register for) the Book Bloggers & Publishers Online Conference on Friday, the Eugenie comic creative team will be there to answer questions. Details are here.
Finally, I've been holding off mentioning this after all the effort put into the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards last month, but: there's another vote online! Spirit Bound is nominated for best teen book of the year in the Children's Choice Book Awards. The CCBAs are very prestigious, but what's the most amazing thing to me here is that SB got put on the nomination list through reader write-in votes! Some panel didn't decide to add it. It was all of you guys going to the work of submitting it. So, for that alone, thank you. I was kind of floored that it made it! If you want to vote for it now that it's on the final ballot, you can do that here. There are also other great books and authors up there, so vote with your heart!
In other life news, for those who missed it, I found out this week I'm having a boy. My husband and I are excited and happy that we can finally start making concrete plans. Even better, everything looked great and healthy on the ultrasound, so that's good news too. Since I first announced my pregnancy, lots of people have asked if I'll be naming the baby after any of my characters. Nope! Sorry, Dimitri and Adrian fans. The world of my books stays in my books. :)
Speaking of fiction, the Storm Born comic is coming out next month, and all sorts of things are happening to help launch that. First, here's an interview with Grant Alter, the awesome guy adapting the book into comic form. In addition to his Q&A, there's some exclusive art posted in the interview, along with some of the actual script. And, for anyone registered for (or who wants to register for) the Book Bloggers & Publishers Online Conference on Friday, the Eugenie comic creative team will be there to answer questions. Details are here.
Finally, I've been holding off mentioning this after all the effort put into the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards last month, but: there's another vote online! Spirit Bound is nominated for best teen book of the year in the Children's Choice Book Awards. The CCBAs are very prestigious, but what's the most amazing thing to me here is that SB got put on the nomination list through reader write-in votes! Some panel didn't decide to add it. It was all of you guys going to the work of submitting it. So, for that alone, thank you. I was kind of floored that it made it! If you want to vote for it now that it's on the final ballot, you can do that here. There are also other great books and authors up there, so vote with your heart!
April 12, 2011
Dial 'R' for Romance
I was in Los Angeles this last week for the much-loved Romantic Times Booklovers Convention. It's one of my favorite conventions, both because it's a great opportunity to hang out with readers and authors and one of the few times people can walk around in fairy wings without fear of (much) judgment.
This year's RT was quiet but still packed with the usual mix of solid business by day and wackiness at night. I'm not feeling particularly witty right now, so rather than expound much on the week, I figured I'd let pictures do most of the talking for me. I give you...
TEN OF MY FAVORITE THINGS FROM RT 2011
10. Samhain Steampunk Tea Party
Ray guns, wax mustaches, goggle top hats, and finger sandwiches. I really, really wanted to win a hat or ray gun, but alas, luck was not on my side. Probably just as well, seeing as those things would've raised a lot of questions from TSA agents when I returned home.
9. Ellora's Cave Bollywood Party
The EC parties are known for their "male entertainment," but this year they hired professional Bollywood-style dancers to come in and perform. They also gave us finger cymbals on the table and cool coin-fringed veils so that we could be ready in case any impromptu musical numbers broke out on the dance floor. Photo credit: buriedbybooks
8. Heather Osborn
Samhain Publishing editor and longtime pal Heather Osborn (who helped organize the steampunk party) was a constant delight at the con and a life saver at the book fair. For the second year in a row, she jumped in and helped with my signing line by going through and giving out post-it notes with names. Here she is doing the Dance of the Seven Veils, post-Bollywood party.
7. Faery Ball, with Fairy Dog
I've seen many things at the RT Faery Ball. This, however, was the first time I have ever seen a fairy dog there. Astonishingly, this was one of a few other dogs I saw dressed up throughout the con. I hope this means we can expect a pet costume contest next year.
6. Faery Ball, with Andrew Shaffer
Call me old-fashioned, but whenever they can get men on the faery court, it's always a good time. I'm pretty sure Andrew went and filmed a video reboot of "Rock Me Amadeus" after the ball. Photo credit: Victoria Dahl
5. Faery Ball, with Jaye Wells
The Faery Ball had a "Venetian" theme this year, and so masks were used as part of the table centerpieces. Jaye models one of them here, proving she would make an excellent serial killer and/or extra from a Prince video.
4. Mr. Romance Pageant
Yes, no RT is complete without the Mr. Romance Pageant. It never disappoints. This year, contestants had to dress up like Hollywood characters. This Spartan is Len, the winner of the pageant and whose prize includes appearing on a Kensington book cover in the near future. Shadow Heir comes out next year, Kensington. Just sayin. Photo from buriedbybooks
3. Spider-Man in the Bar
No, you read correctly. While heading down to the bar one night, a group of friends and I saw...well, Spider-Man. He was just randomly walking through the hotel. We have no idea why, but hey, this is Los Angeles.
2. Book Fair and Teen Day
The last day of the con is always my favorite because that's when the doors get opened to the public. I signed for 3 hours and got to meet tons of readers, like Jaime here. This year's book fair was followed by an absolutely amazing Teen Day, for fans of YA books. More panels and chances to hang out ensued, and I had a pretty amazing time. Thanks to everyone who came out!
1. Illicit Burger Party
Last but not least! Heather and the Samhain gang tempted us all week with promises of an In-N-Out burger party in their hotel suite on the con's last night. Well, sure enough, when the time came, Heather arrived with 100 burgers, and we descended upon them like the mob of starving animals we were. All was well--until someone called hotel security and complained about the noise from our feasting. A security guard showed up and made all of us leave. He also refused to take any burger bribes. Ah, well. It was good fun while it lasted, and fortunately, the bust didn't come until after we'd all eaten.
Thanks for the fun, RT. See you next year in Chicago.
This year's RT was quiet but still packed with the usual mix of solid business by day and wackiness at night. I'm not feeling particularly witty right now, so rather than expound much on the week, I figured I'd let pictures do most of the talking for me. I give you...
TEN OF MY FAVORITE THINGS FROM RT 2011
10. Samhain Steampunk Tea Party
Ray guns, wax mustaches, goggle top hats, and finger sandwiches. I really, really wanted to win a hat or ray gun, but alas, luck was not on my side. Probably just as well, seeing as those things would've raised a lot of questions from TSA agents when I returned home.
9. Ellora's Cave Bollywood Party
The EC parties are known for their "male entertainment," but this year they hired professional Bollywood-style dancers to come in and perform. They also gave us finger cymbals on the table and cool coin-fringed veils so that we could be ready in case any impromptu musical numbers broke out on the dance floor. Photo credit: buriedbybooks
8. Heather Osborn
Samhain Publishing editor and longtime pal Heather Osborn (who helped organize the steampunk party) was a constant delight at the con and a life saver at the book fair. For the second year in a row, she jumped in and helped with my signing line by going through and giving out post-it notes with names. Here she is doing the Dance of the Seven Veils, post-Bollywood party.
7. Faery Ball, with Fairy Dog
I've seen many things at the RT Faery Ball. This, however, was the first time I have ever seen a fairy dog there. Astonishingly, this was one of a few other dogs I saw dressed up throughout the con. I hope this means we can expect a pet costume contest next year.
6. Faery Ball, with Andrew Shaffer
Call me old-fashioned, but whenever they can get men on the faery court, it's always a good time. I'm pretty sure Andrew went and filmed a video reboot of "Rock Me Amadeus" after the ball. Photo credit: Victoria Dahl
5. Faery Ball, with Jaye Wells
The Faery Ball had a "Venetian" theme this year, and so masks were used as part of the table centerpieces. Jaye models one of them here, proving she would make an excellent serial killer and/or extra from a Prince video.
4. Mr. Romance Pageant
Yes, no RT is complete without the Mr. Romance Pageant. It never disappoints. This year, contestants had to dress up like Hollywood characters. This Spartan is Len, the winner of the pageant and whose prize includes appearing on a Kensington book cover in the near future. Shadow Heir comes out next year, Kensington. Just sayin. Photo from buriedbybooks
3. Spider-Man in the Bar
No, you read correctly. While heading down to the bar one night, a group of friends and I saw...well, Spider-Man. He was just randomly walking through the hotel. We have no idea why, but hey, this is Los Angeles.
2. Book Fair and Teen Day
The last day of the con is always my favorite because that's when the doors get opened to the public. I signed for 3 hours and got to meet tons of readers, like Jaime here. This year's book fair was followed by an absolutely amazing Teen Day, for fans of YA books. More panels and chances to hang out ensued, and I had a pretty amazing time. Thanks to everyone who came out!
1. Illicit Burger Party
Last but not least! Heather and the Samhain gang tempted us all week with promises of an In-N-Out burger party in their hotel suite on the con's last night. Well, sure enough, when the time came, Heather arrived with 100 burgers, and we descended upon them like the mob of starving animals we were. All was well--until someone called hotel security and complained about the noise from our feasting. A security guard showed up and made all of us leave. He also refused to take any burger bribes. Ah, well. It was good fun while it lasted, and fortunately, the bust didn't come until after we'd all eaten.
Thanks for the fun, RT. See you next year in Chicago.
April 9, 2011
Los Angeles signing tomorrow - update
If you missed past announcements, here's the scoop. I'll be signing in Los Angeles on Saturday, April 9, from 11am-2pm at the Westin Bonaventure hotel. This is part of the RT Convention's book fair. The book fair is open to the public, though there is a $5 admission fee. If you go to their website, however, you'll see that there are a TON of YA and urban fantasy authors signing, so it's great one-stop shopping!
I've been saying here and on my website that normal book limits apply--that is, I'll sign three books (one personalized and two just signatures). You can also bring books from home or purchase them on-site. I just heard today, however, that the con is capping how many books you can bring from home. According to what I heard, you can only bring two books from home into the book fair. The rest have to be purchased. I hadn't heard this until now, and I apologize for the last minute news. To my knowledge, there have been no limits in previous years, so this is new to me if it's true. So, I'll still sign three if you bring two and buy one (or some other combination), but just be advised of this if you were planning on bringing them all from home. And if you've got someone with you, they should be able to bring in two books for you as well.
Hope that makes sense, and again, I apologize for any confusion. (And I hope this wasn't just a vicious rumor I heard!). The rest of the details about the book signing are on my website, so check there for any other questions about signings. Looking forward to seeing you guys there!
I've been saying here and on my website that normal book limits apply--that is, I'll sign three books (one personalized and two just signatures). You can also bring books from home or purchase them on-site. I just heard today, however, that the con is capping how many books you can bring from home. According to what I heard, you can only bring two books from home into the book fair. The rest have to be purchased. I hadn't heard this until now, and I apologize for the last minute news. To my knowledge, there have been no limits in previous years, so this is new to me if it's true. So, I'll still sign three if you bring two and buy one (or some other combination), but just be advised of this if you were planning on bringing them all from home. And if you've got someone with you, they should be able to bring in two books for you as well.
Hope that makes sense, and again, I apologize for any confusion. (And I hope this wasn't just a vicious rumor I heard!). The rest of the details about the book signing are on my website, so check there for any other questions about signings. Looking forward to seeing you guys there!
