L.S. Murphy's Blog, page 30

5 Questions with Chris Richman

Chris Richman received his undergraduate degree in professional writing from Elizabethtown College, and an MA in Writing from Rowan University. A former playwright, contributor to The Onion, and sketch comedy writer, Chris broke into agenting in 2008 and has quickly made a name for himself by selling several noteworthy projects. Chris is actively building his list, enjoys working with debut writers, and is primarily interested in middle grade and young adult fiction, with a special interest in books for boys, books with unforgettable characters, and fantasy that doesn't take itself too seriously.

Now on to the FIVE QUESTIONS

1. You plucked Katana from your slushpile. How far were you in the manuscript when you thought "I have to sign this author"?

The main thing I remember about first reading Katana was how I didn't have an e-reader, so I was forced to read submissions on my Blackberry. Picture me squinting at a 2×2 inch screen on the subway while being elbowed left and right and you'll have an idea what that was like. Despite the terrible conditions, I still felt myself completely engaged in the story and excited to keep going. Katana isn't like a lot of the things I've signed since, but there was something about Rileigh's voice and just how fun I could tell Cole Gibsen, the author, was having writing the story that really pulled me in.

2.  Your guidelines say you are looking for "fantasy that doesn't take itself too seriously." How does Katana fit that description?

Cole has actually said in the past that that specific line is what compelled her to query me with Katana in the first place, and I'm glad she did! Katana definitely has a lot of the elements of a paranormal/fantasy romance, but there's a lot of wise cracking, from Rileigh herself as the narrator, and also her best friend Quentin. Even though serious things are happening, and there's danger and fighting around every turn and a complex mythology to nail down, the story never feels weighed down by seriousness, and that's totally the type of story that can easily hook me.

3.  As an agent, what is it like to make "the call"?

It's a lot of fun, although it can be a little anxious, too, since I'm never entirely sure the writer will sign with me. It's a nice moment when they accept the offer because that means the real work—heavy revisions to get a story ready for submission—is about to begin in earnest.

Even better than the call to offer representation, however, is the call to inform them we have an offer in hand, because that means all of our hard work has finally paid off. Making that call is my absolute favorite part of the job.

4. What is the one piece of advice you wish every writer would pay attention to?

Be patient. Whether that refers to revising their work enough to make sure it's ready, or letting your writing buddies have time to reflect on your story, or giving an agent ample time to consider your project, or trying to not stress too much when a book is on submission (although I know it's exciting!), patience is key to a healthy, professional approach to this business.

5. Finally, Beatles or Rolling Stones?

It's a pretty close call, but I'll have to go with The Beatles. Richards and Jagger are terrific, but it's hard to match the three-headed monster of McCartney, Lennon, and Harrison.

Katana is available today, folks! Rush out and get it. You won't be sorry.

And if you missed my interview with Cole, here it is: http://lsmurphy.com/2012/02/14/5-questions-with-cole-gibsen/

Tagged: 2012, Books, Chris Richman, Cole Gibsen, Fun, Interview, Interviews, Just for Fun, Katana, Literary Agent, Novel, ramblings, Random, Random Thoughts, Reading, Teens, Upstart Crow, Writing, YA books, Young Adult Books

Book Review: A Million Suns by Beth Revis

Synopsis from Goodreads: Godspeed was once fueled by lies. Now it is ruled by chaos. It's been three months. In that time, Amy has learned to hide who she is. Elder is trying to be the leader he's always wanted to be. But as the ship gets more and more out of control, only one thing is certain: They have to get off the ship.

The Cover: Beautiful. What I love about this cover is how it reflects the hope and the fear as well as the connection between Amy and Elder. It doesn't shy away from the fact that this is primarily a science fiction novel.

The First Line: (Elder) "'This isn't going to be easy,' I mutter, staring at the solid metal door that leads to the Engine Room on the Shipper Level of Godspeed." The reader gets so much from this first line. One, something is hard. Two, whatever it is, it's behind a solid door. Three, an immediate sense of place is right there.

The Good: A Million Suns avoids the "middle book" syndrome that some authors can so easily fall into it. It doesn't try too hard to be anything other than what it is. In fact, I think the mystery is far better in this than in Across the Universe. I had no idea who the murderer was this go around. That's hard to accomplish.

The Bad: Amy is a tad whinier this go around and sometimes she got on my nerves. Other than that, the only bad thing is waiting until next year for the conclusion.

Recommendation: Read it. If you haven't read Across the Universe yet, pick it up and then grab A Million Suns. You won't regret it.

 

Tagged: 2012, book Review, Books, Fiction, Musings, Opinion, Opinions, ramblings, Random, Random Thoughts, Reading, Teens, Writers, Writing, YA books, Young Adult Books

5 Questions with Mindee Arnett

Mindee Arnett lives on a horse farm in Ohio, with her husband, two kids, a couple of dogs, and inappropriate number of cats. She's addicted to jumping horses and telling tales of mamagic and the macabre. She has far more dreams than nightmares. Her debut novel, The Nightmare Affair, will be released during the winter of 2013. Visit her at:  http://www.mindeearnett.com/

Now on to the FIVE QUESTIONS

1. You signed with Suzie Townsend in June of 2011 and had a three book deal the next month. How long did it take to sink in that t his was really happening.

Yah for an easy question! Um, it hasn't. Seriously, at least once every day I stop and pinch myself. I suppose it might be more real when I have a cover. Then again, maybe not. Maybe the realness will be the day I see the first ARC? I really can't say yet. A part of me is certain that the reality of publishing is never going to completely sink-in. And I can't say that's a bad thing.

2. Where did you get that spark of inspiration for Dusty?

The idea for Dusty, and Nightmares in general, was a long time coming. I first came across the idea of a "Nightmare" as an actual being from the short story Riding the Nightmare by Jennifer Roberson, which I read when I was about 13 or so. In the story, the Nightmare is a rodeo horse who gives its rider a pretty rough time. I liked the story, but I didn't revisit the idea of Nightmares until a few years ago while I was searching for a monster to play the villain in my short story Bloodstone. It was then that I remembered about Nightmares. A short, Wikipedia search later, and the idea for Dusty was born. I took one look at John Henry Fuseli's painting The Nightmare and decided I didn't like how the woman in that painting was portrayed as the victim. I asked myself, "what if the woman was the Nightmare instead?" Everything else fell into place after that.

3. What is your solution to writer's block?

Simple. I don't believe in it. For real. Writing is a JOB, a career, a profession, and nowhere else can a professional get away with a built-in excuse to shirk off work, you know? I'm borrowing a bit here from the lovely Katrina Kittle here. She says the same thing — I mean could you imagine if a surgeon could just get up in the morning and claim to have surgeon's block?

That said, I think writer's block tends to be more about lacking motivation. I do struggle with finding the motivation to write from time to time, but my answer to this is always the same — read. If I'm trying to rev myself up to write, I read and read some more. This never fails to get the creative juices flowing for me.

4. What are you reading right now?

I'm halfway through When the Sea is Rising Red by my agent-sister, Cat Hellisen. It's an amazing read. The language manages to be rich and vivid but incredibly terse at the same time. The world-building is amazing. Up next, I'm eager to dive into Perception by Kim Harrington.

5. Finally, Beatles or Rolling Stones?

This is a tough one. I love them both, a lot. But I'm going to have to give a slight edge to the Stones. They have a harder rock sound which I prefer. Although, if my current playlist has Sympathy for the Devil, You Can't Always Get What You Want, and Gimme Shelter on it, then it probably has Hey Jude and Paperback Writer on it, too. Of course, if you were to throw Bob Dylan into the question, he would trump them all.

Thanks for having me!

Tagged: 2012, Authors, Debuts, Fiction, Fun, Interviews, Just for Fun, Musings, Novels, ramblings, Random, Random Thoughts, Reading, Writers, Writing, YA books, Young Adult Books

Cover Reveal: Pretty Amy by Lisa Burstein

Add this to your must read stack!

Synopsis: Amy is fine living in the shadows of beautiful Lila and uber-cool Cassie, because at least she's somewhat beautiful and uber-cool by association. But when their dates stand them up for prom, and the girls take matters into their own hands—earning them a night in jail outfitted in satin, stilettos, and Spanx—Amy discovers even a prom spent in handcuffs might be better than the humiliating "rehabilitation techniques" now filling up her summer. Worse, with Lila and Cassie parentally banned, Amy feels like she has nothing—like she is nothing.

Navigating unlikely alliances with her new coworker, two very different boys, and possibly even her parents, Amy struggles to decide if it's worth being a best friend when it makes you a public enemy. Bringing readers along on an often hilarious and heartwarming journey, Amy finds that maybe getting a life only happens once you think your life is over.

 PRETTY AMY Links:

 Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13375237-pretty-amy

 Amazon pre-order: http://www.amazon.com/Pretty-Amy-Lisa-Burstein/dp/1620611198/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1330534300&sr=8-1

 Barnes and Noble pre-order: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/pretty-amy-lisa-burstein/1108930786?ean=9781620611197&itm=1&usri=pretty amy

Lisa Burstein is a tea seller by day and a writer by night. She wrote her first story when she was in second grade. It was a Thanksgiving tale from the point of view of the turkey from freezer to oven to plate. It was scandalous.

She was a lot like Amy when she was in high school.

She is still a lot like Amy.

Where to find Lisa:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/LisaBurstein

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LisaBursteinAuthor

Website: http://www.lisaburstein.com

 

Tagged: 2012, Authors, Books, Cover Reveal, Covers, Fiction, Fun, Just for Fun, Photography, Photos, ramblings, Random, Random Thoughts, Teens, Writers, Writing, YA books, Young Adult Books

Shadows by Jennifer Armentrout

Synopsis from Goodreads: The last thing Dawson Black expected was Bethany Williams. As a Luxen, an alien life form on Earth, human girls are…well, fun. But since the Luxen have to keep their true identities a secret, falling for one would be insane. Dangerous. Tempting. Undeniable.

Bethany can't deny the immediate connection between her and Dawson. And even though boys aren't a complication she wants, she can't stay away from him. Still, whenever they lock eyes, she's drawn in. Captivated. Lured. Loved.

Dawson is keeping a secret that will change her existence…and put her life in jeopardy. But even he can't stop risking everything for one human girl. Or from a fate that is as unavoidable as love itself.

The Cover: Very nice. I like that the cover doesn't use the same hues as Obsidian. The one thing that stood out was the lone model. Where's Bethany? I like that she's missing, but it does make me wonder why.

The First Line (from the Prologue): "A shadow glided over the frozen hills, moving too quick to likely be cast by something of this Earth."  I love this. It gives me chills. Since I'd already read Obsidian, I knew what was happening. If you chose to read this first, then you'll get sucked in immediately. I'm not a fan of prologues, but it works in this novella.

The First Line (from Chapter 1): "Students filed into class, yawning and still trying to rub the sleep out of their eyes." I'd like to point out that most of us adults do this too as we file into work. This line gives the reader a sense of place right off, although not much else; however, readers can easily relate to this simple statement.

The Good: Most fans will pick this up after reading Obsidian. There was a major risk in this novella. Dawson and Bethany's story is so similar to Katy and Daemon's. She gets around this by writing in third person. It works brilliantly. We get an insight into Daemon through Dawson. We get a good idea of the events that played out to make Daemon such an unpleasant person. And we get a cliffhanger. A friend warned me that I'd have more questions than answers after reading this, and she was right. But in a good way.

The Bad: Sometimes Dawson and Bethany sounded too similar to Katy and Daemon, but their story foreshadows Obsidian and, I suspect, will intersect with Katy and Daemon by the end of the series.

Recommendation: Read it, covet it. And if you haven't read Obsidian, read that too. Then join me in impatiently waiting for Onyx to come out this summer.

Tagged: 2012, Authors, book Review, Books, Entangled Publishing, Fiction, Jennifer Armentrout, Just for Fun, Lux, Obsidian, Opinion, Opinions, ramblings, Random, Random Thoughts, Reading, Shadows, Teens, Writers, Writing, YA books, Young Adult Books

5 Questions with Vickie Motter

Vickie's bio from her amazing blog Navigating the Slush Pile: I'm the newest agent with Andrea Hurst Literary Management (website here). Every Thursday I am a guest blogger at the agency blog, so stop by and say hi(agency blog here).

Visit my Wednesday Reads for recently read books, what I liked about them, and whether I would represent something like it.

I give advice about the publishing process (from page one to book) and reveal things you (and I) might not have known.

I represent both adult and young adult fiction. In either category a strong voice, unique characters, and a well developed world is sure to get my attention.

Now on to the FIVE QUESTIONS

1.      What inspired you to begin "Wednesday Reads" on your blog?

I was reading all of these books for "market research" and couldn't brag about it! I started blogging about books I was reading with some regularity, so I came up with a non-creative name, gave it a day of the week, and inadvertently set myself a goal to read a book a week. That last part may become my downfall. From the nature of my blog, meant to help writers, that I decided to aim all my book reviews towards writers–give them the agent's POV.

2.      What is the biggest mistake a writer makes when querying you?

It's not even so much the query, since the mistake originates in the manuscript (and the query reflects that). But I'd say it's the main character. I reject more queries because of flat characters than for flat plots. The main character needs to have more depth, and more to describe him/her, than just what happens to him/her in the plot.

3.      What would you like to see more of in your inbox?

Adult Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy, Women's SciFi, Steampunk

YA SciFi, Steampunk, Contemporary Romance.

New ideas, mixed genres, and interesting-jump-off-the-page characters.

4.      What are you reading right now?

I haven't started a new book since after my last Wednesday Read: Hounded by Kevin Hearne. So currently I'm just reading manuscripts.

5.      Finally, Beatles or Rolling Stones?

Beatles! I had a really wacky Beatles phase in Junior High that still sticks with me. Actually, I feel weird answering that question. I grew up in the generation of Backstreet Boys vs N'Sync (if that doesn't make me sound young, not sure what will). And before you ask, neither. I was an oldies girl

Tagged: Authors, Books, Interview, Interviews, Just for Fun, Literary Agents, Publishing, Reading, Writers, Writing, YA books, Young Adult Books

Book Review: Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare

Synopsis from Goodreads: In the magical underworld of Victorian London, Tessa Gray has at last found safety with the Shadowhunters. But that safety proves fleeting when rogue forces in the Clave plot to see her protector, Charlotte, replaced as head of the Institute. If Charlotte loses her position, Tessa will be out on the street and easy prey for the mysterious Magister, who wants to use Tessa's powers for his own dark ends.

With the help of the handsome, self-destructive Will and the fiercely devoted Jem, Tessa discovers that the Magister's war on the Shadowhunters is deeply personal. He blames them for a long-ago tragedy that shattered his life. To unravel the secrets of the past, the trio journeys from mist-shrouded Yorkshire to a manor house that holds untold horrors, from the slums of London to an enchanted ballroom where Tessa discovers that the truth of her parentage is more sinister than she had imagined. When they encounter a clockwork demon bearing a warning for Will, they realize that the Magister himself knows their every move and that one of their own has betrayed them.

Tessa finds her heart drawn more and more to Jem, though her longing for Will, despite his dark moods, continues to unsettle her. But something is changing in Will; the wall he has built around himself is crumbling. Could finding the Magister free Will from his secrets and give Tessa the answers about who she is and what she was born to do?

As their dangerous search for the Magister and the truth leads the friends into peril, Tessa learns that when love and lies are mixed, they can corrupt even the purest heart.

The Cover: Can I marry this cover? Seriously.

The First Line (from the Prologue): "The fog was thick, muffling sight and sound." You get a sense of place and a bit of an ominous feeling from this line. Having said that, the prologue seems unnecessary, especially since it was online for a bit. But, I'm not a fan of prologues in general.

The First Line (from Chapter 1 "The Council Chamber"): "'Oh, yes. It really does look just as I imagined,' Tessa said, and turned to smile at the boy who stood beside her."  As this is the second book of the trilogy, the readers would already be familiar with the characters and their interactions. It takes no time to realize that the boy beside Tessa is Jem, but the first line leaves a hint of doubt that she may be with Will.

The Good: I loved this book. Will, Jem, and Tessa are great characters. As a reader, my heart aches for each of them as they face their challenges. That's one of the things that Clare does brilliantly: she makes you care for all the characters, even Gabriel Lightwood. One of the other things that I love is the sense of place. I feel like I've been transported to Victorian England and I never want to leave. Of course, she knows how to write some great sexual tension too.

The Bad: I had the same problem with this book a I did with Clockwork Angel. Will's eyes are blue. Yes, we know. Jem's eyes are silver. Yes, we know.

Recommendation: If you haven't read Clockwork Angel, do and then run to pick up Clockwork Prince. It's totally worth hiding from you family for a day to read it straight through. When you've finished them, tell me if you are Team Jem or Team Will.

Tagged: 2012, Authors, book Review, Books, Just for Fun, Musings, Novel Reviews, Novels, Opinion, Opinions, ramblings, Random, Random Thoughts, Reading, Teens, Writers, Writing, YA books, Young Adult Books

5 Questions with Cherie Colyer

Cherie is always dreaming of romance and expressing her dreams in stories. She combined her passion for writing with her fascination of all things mythical to weave together a youth romance story that led to her debut novel, Embrace.

She lives with her family in a suburb of Chicago, Illinois.

Now on to the FIVE QUESTIONS

1.      Where did the spark of inspiration come from for Embrace?

You know, I'm really not sure what it was that sparked Embrace. I just started to see this girl running down the halls at school trying to hide something in her locker before anyone saw her. I started to ask myself who is this girl and what's she hiding. As I learned the answers to these questions, I asked more until Madison was born. Funny part of that story is the scene with Madison running down the hall never made it into the book.

2.      What authors have influenced you the most?

Barbara Parks (I love her witty humor), James Patterson (his adult series), and J.K. Rowling (the world she created was amazing).

3.      What is your solution to writer's block?

I do something different: work in the garden (when it's nice out), go shopping, get out with friends, watch an episode of my favorite TV show. Anything to get my mind off my writing. If inspiration still hasn't struck, I sit down with a pen and paper and ask myself a lot of what if's and why's. This almost always gets my creative juices going.

4.      What are you reading right now?

I'm almost done with Forever by Maggie Stiefvater. Rules of Attraction by Simone Elkeles is next.

5.      Finally, Beatles or Rolling Stones?

Rolling Stones.

Tagged: 2012, Authors, Books, Fiction, Interviews, Just for Fun, Musings, Opinion, Opinions, ramblings, Random, Random Thoughts, Reading, Writers, Writing, YA books, Young Adult, Young Adult Books

5 Questions with Abbi Glines

Abbi Glines can be found hanging out with rock stars, taking out her yacht on weekends for a party cruise, sky diving, or surfing in Maui. Okay maybe she needs to keep her imagination focused on her writing only. In the real world, Abbi can be found hauling kids (several who seem to show up that don't belong to her) to all their social events, hiding under the covers with her MacBook in hopes her husband won't catch her watching Buffy on Netflix again, and sneaking off to Barnes and Noble to spend hours lost in the yummy goodness of books. She has written: Breathe, The Vincent Boys, Existence, and most recently Because of Low. Predestined (Existence #2) releases 4/3/12 and The Vincent Brothers (The Vincent Boys #2) releases 6/5/12.  If you want to find her then check Twitter first because she has a severe addiction to tweeting @abbiglines.  She also blogs regularly but rarely about anything life changing. She also really enjoys talking about herself in third person.

Visit her site: http://www.abbiglines.com/

And now on the the FIVE QUESTIONS

1.      As a member of Team Marcus, I'm glad to see that he's finding love in Because of Low. Did you originally intend on writing Marcus' story or was this the result of all the Team Marcus readers?

Because of Low was definitely a result of Team Marcus readers. I'd never intended to give him a story when I released Breathe. The Existence Trilogy had been my next big idea.

2.      What authors have influenced you the most?

Hmmm…. I'd have to say Jamie McGuire, Ann Brashares and Jennifer Echols

3.      What is your solution to writer's block?

I don't believe in it. Writer's block is something writers give a name to when they feel like they don't have a magic idea or plot. I write daily. EVEN when it stinks, I write it anyway. I can always throw it out tomorrow. Days when I am less creative are just days I have to push myself harder. Giving it a name gives me an excuse to do nothing. Writing is a muscle and must be used daily.

4.      What are you reading right now?

Poughkeepsie by Debra Anastasia

5.      Finally, Beatles or Rolling Stones?

Rolling Stones.

Tagged: 2012, Authors, Books, Fiction, Fun, Interviews, Just for Fun, Musings, Opinion, Opinions, ramblings, Random, Random Thoughts, Reading, Writers, Writing, YA books, Young Adult Books

5 Questions with Cole Gibsen

[image error]When Cole Gibsen isn't writing books for young adults, she can be found rocking out with her band, sewing crazy costumes for the fun of it, picking off her nail polish, or drinking milk straight from the jug – provided no one is looking.

Cole's debut novel, Katana, will be available March 8th, 2012 from Flux. Her second novel, Breathless, will be released on March 27th, 2012 from Crescent Moon Press. Check out her website: www.colegibsen.com

Now on to the FIVE QUESTIONS

1. What is your biggest time drain?

Etsy. Oh my gosh how I rue the day Etsy was created. I can surf for hours looking up anything from cocktail dresses to felt dragons.

2. What has been the most surprising thing that you've learned about publishing?

That the publishing contract doesn't equal instant happiness. In fact, after you sign on the line, that's when the real stress begins.

3. What do you do when/if you're suffering from writer's block?

I love my Write or Die desktop edition. Nothing can make you plow through writer's block like the fear of having your entire manuscript deleted. Oh, yes. I use kamikaze mode because I'm hardcore like that. Now where are my bunny slippers…

4.  Where did the spark of inspiration come from for Katana?

I was sparring in my tae kwon do class—getting my ass handed to me as usual—when I glanced at the poster of Bruce Lee on the wall and uttered a little prayer that his spirit would come and help me. It didn't. An hour later, after icing my new black eye, I pondered under what circumstance a samurai spirit might manifest itself. It was that moment that the idea for KATANA was born.

5. Finally, Beatles of Rolling Stones?

Led Zeppelin all the way.

Tagged: Authors, Books, Fiction, Fun, Interviews, Just for Fun, ramblings, Random, Random Thoughts, Reading, Writers, Writing, YA books, Young Adult Books