The Raven Queen

Thanks so much, everyone! Bella is MOST excited that her story was read and enjoyed by so many people. Her eyes got very big when I said that people all over the world had read it and she said, "Did they know it was a children's story?"

Cutie. I'm going to go with 'yes' on that one.

She'd like to share a book recommendation with you today. Well, okay, maybe I want to share a book recommendation. Jules Watson's The Raven Queen released this week, and if you only buy one historical fantasy book this year, buy this book–it's the story of Queen Maeve from Irish legend, and it's amazing amazing amazing.

And Bella did pick up my copy and say she liked it. I said, You mean, you like the cover? Which is gorgeous, see above. And she said, No, I like the words inside!

I'm sure this of course had nothing to do with the fact that Jules came to Bella's birthday party and gave her a coloring book, stamps, and a stuffed koala. Not that I am name-dropping or anything. But yes, I actually KNOW Jules Watson. Isn't that so cool? The reigning queen of the Celtic fantasy, and she lives right here in the same city I do. I was the biggest fan girl of her writing even before I met her in person, and I always feel like she should be wearing a superhero cape or at least a sparkly tiara every time we meet.

(graphic proof of coolness)

But, even if I had never met Jules in my life, I would still say: read this book. I don't know any other author as skilled at creating a world of mists and legend that truly lives and breathes.

I actually got to interview Jules for Writer Unboxed last month. (This being part of my playing catch-up that I'm only posting the link now). But you can read the interview either here or here. She shares some great insights into writing and researching historical fiction.