fantasy

June 14, 2017

FFBC: Welcome to the club, The Suffering Tree by Elle Cosimano

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The Suffering Tree
by Elle Cosimano
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Release Date: June 13th 2017
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Paranormal

Synopsis:

“It’s dark magic brings him back.”

Tori Burns and her family left D.C. for claustrophobic Chaptico, Maryland, after suddenly inheriting a house under mysterious circumstances. That inheritance puts her at odds with the entire town, especially Jesse Slaughter and his family—it’s their generations-old land the Burns have “stolen.” But none of that seems to matter after Tori witnesses a young man claw his way out of a grave under the gnarled oak in her new backyard.

Nathaniel Bishop may not understand what brought him back, but it’s clear to Tori that he hates the Slaughters for what they did to him centuries ago. Wary yet drawn to him by a shared sense of loss, she gives him shelter. But in the wake of his arrival comes a string of troubling events—including the disappearance of Jesse Slaughter’s cousin—that seem to point back to Nathaniel.

As Tori digs for the truth—and slowly begins to fall for Nathaniel—she uncovers something much darker in the tangled branches of the Slaughter family tree. In order to break the centuries-old curse that binds Nathaniel there and discover the true nature of her inheritance, Tori must unravel the Slaughter family’s oldest and most guarded secrets. But the Slaughters want to keep them buried… at any cost.

From award-winning author Elle Cosimano comes a haunting, atmospheric thriller perfect to hand to readers of the Mara Dyer trilogy and Bone Gap.

Hello Elle! We are super excited for THE SUFFERING TREE and to have you in our FFBC tours.

Favorite Book?

My “stranded on a desert island what book would you take with you” book is Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

Favorite TV show?

Right now? I’m completely obsessed with TURN: Washington’s Spies.

Favorite movie?

Grosse Pointe Blank

Favorite Song?

I have to choose?! Ugh, that’s really unfair. Okay. For today, let’s go with Ghosts That We Knew by Mumford & Sons.

Favorite Food?

Bacon-wrapped smoked gouda-stuffed grilled jalapenos

Name 3 fictional places you would move to in a heartbeat.

Hogwarts (Gryffindor House), Neverland (growing up is highly overrated), and the Millenium Falcon (assuming Han and Chewie are at the helm).

What were your favorite books growing up?

The Chronicles of Prydain by Lloyd Alexander. In high school, I devoured everything by S. E. Hinton.

Favorite Quote?

“Do or do not. There is no try.” — Yoda

What are your fandoms?

I’m a total Potterhead. Always.

Who is your favorite fictional boyfriend (or girlfriend)?

James Alexander Malcolm MacKenzie Fraser. Hands down.

Could you tell our Book Addicts a little bit about THE SUFFERING TREE?

The Suffering Tree is the story of a deeply troubled teen, struggling with grief and questions over her own identity, who literally unearths the past when she discovers the body of a 18th century indentured servant buried under a cursed tree in her new backyard, land her family inherited under mysterious circumstances. Only the boy isn’t dead. He has a story to tell—the story of his own murder. And the family who owned the land before is determined to keep the past buried at any cost.

It’s part historical, part modern-day thriller–two mysteries interconnected, three hundred years apart. It’s a love story. And a ghost story. Both romantic and creepy.

The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books says it’s “deliciously unpredictable… a compelling exploration of how roots twisted in cruelty affect a family tree for generations to come.”

What are your favorite mystery/suspense/thriller movies and/or TV shows?

The Blacklist and Dexter are two of my favorite TV thrillers. I love stories in which the lines between hero and villain are blurred–when a deeply flawed hero is both human and monster, sympathetic and relatable because within them, we see the terrifying bits of our own selves. I can’t get enough of them.

What 3 hashtags would you most associate with your book? (Could be a word or phrase or anything that would instantly make you think of THE SUFFERING TREE.)

#theremustbesalt #lovewithoutfear #whoiamisinmyblood

How did you come up with the story?

The story of The Suffering Tree came to me during my son’s kindergarten field trip to a local farm. As the bus went rolling down a scenic country road in Virginia, we passed miles and miles of lush green fields, and somewhere in the middle of them, a very peculiar tree. It was old and long dead, its bark bleached white and peeling from the sun. At its base was a cluster of very old headstones. They were thin and leaning, heaving up around the tree’s roots and so covered in moss they were impossible to read. I began wondering why no one was caring for the cemetery. I began wondering why the tree was dead and who might be buried beneath it, and if it was haunted. I knew the history of the early colonies in the area, and I began to imagine a tale of two children, thrust into a seven-year indenture, and what might have become of them when they finally came of age. I wondered what they would say if they could tell their own stories.

You can see pictures of the tree that inspired the story here.

Tell us your favorite quote from THE SUFFERING TREE.

“We try to hide things, to bury our own shame. But it ain’t the nature of secrets to lay down quiet. Shame’s gonna find its way to the surface. It don’t matter. . . You can cover secrets in more secrets. . . You can bury ’em deep. But the more you try to hold ’em down, the harder they’re gonna fight to come out. And the Slaughters got a lot of history to wrestle with. They got a lot of shame scratching at their back door. And they’re not gonna let no one open it and let it all come rushin’ in.”

Is there a specific scene that you had the most fun to write?

I think all of Nathaniel’s memories were my favorite scenes to write. This was my first time writing about a historical time period, and it was really fun (and challenging) to translate my research to the page!

If you had to pick one song to be the Theme Song for THE SUFFERING TREE– Which one would you pick?

Work Song by Hozier

Are there any recommendations you could give your readers to be in the “perfect mood” to read THE SUFFERING TREE (specific music, snacks…)?

Warm apple cider, roasted peanuts, and a warm wooly blanket around your shoulders. Crack a window and listen to the wind rustle the trees sometime just after dark.

What’s next for you?

That remains to be seen. I’m drafting my first adult suspense novel and I’m really excited about how it’s coming together. I’m also in the drafting stages of two new YA novels–a YA urban fantasy and a YA contemporary crime thriller. I guess you could say my attention is divided between three projects at the moment. I’m curious to see which one finds its way into the world first!

Thank you so much for everything, Elle!

Follow The Suffering Tree by Elle Cosimano Blog Tour and don’t miss anything! Click on the banner to see the tour schedule.

Author of NEARLY GONE, NEARLY FOUND, HOLDING SMOKE, and THE SUFFERING TREE (Disney*Hyperion, 2017). Represented by Sarah Davies of The Greenhouse Literary Agency.

The following giveaway is a GENERAL giveaway hosted by the FFBC Tours and Disney Hyperion:

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The following giveaway is an INDIVIDUAL giveaway and you can find more like this in every participating blog on this tour. Each blog will be giving away independently the same ‘THE SUFFERING TREE’ bundle. Want to increase your chances at winning? Visit all the tour websites!

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June 13, 2017

FFBC: Welcome to the club, Obsidian and Stars (Ivory and Bone #2) by Julie Eshbaugh

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Obsidian and Stars (Ivory and Bone #2)
by Julie Eshbaugh
Publisher: HarperTeen
Release Date: June 13, 2017
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy

Synopsis:

After surviving the chaotic battle that erupted after Lo and the Bosha clan attacked, now Mya is looking ahead to her future with Kol. All the things that once felt so uncertain are finally falling into place. But the same night as Kol and Mya’s betrothal announcement, Mya’s brother Chev reveals his plan to marry his youngest sister Lees to his friend Morsk. The only way to avoid this terrible turn of events, Morsk informs Mya when he corners her later, is for Mya to take Lees’ place and marry him herself.

Refusing to marry anyone other than her beloved, and in an effort to protect her sister, Mya runs away to a secret island with Lees. And though it seems like the safest place to hide until things back home blow over, Mya soon realizes she’s been followed. Lurking deep in the recesses of this dangerous place are rivals from Mya’s past whose thirst for revenge exceeds all reason.

With the lives of her loved ones on the line, Mya must make a move before the enemies of her past become the undoing of her future.

Hello JULIE! We are super excited for OBSIDIAN AND STARS and to have you in our FFBC tours.

Favorite Book?

This is suuuuuch a hard question. I’m sure I answer it differently on different days. One of my all-time favorites is Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte. It’s a real study in obsession! I also love Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. And though those are both classics, I also love fiction by current authors, especially YA. Rainbow Rowell’s Eleanor and Park is a book I loved so much I recommended it to everyone. Lastly, I love sci-fi and fantasy. The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin is amazing.

Favorite TV show?

I loved Stranger Things, and can’t wait for its return this fall! I also never miss Elementary, and can’t wait for more episodes of Sherlock.

Favorite movie?

It was made long before I was born, but Casablanca is my all-time favorite movie.

Favorite Song?

How Soon is Now by the Smiths.

Favorite Food?

If I had to eat one food every day, it would be spaghetti, so I guess it’s my favorite.

Name 3 fictional places you would move to in a heartbeat.

Hogwarts

Rivendell

The Millennium Falcon (not really a place to move to, but I would love to travel on that ship!)

What were your favorite books growing up? (Michelle: I was a Fear Street girl!)

I loved Judy Blume’s books! Starting with Are You There God, It’s Me Margaret, I read them all.

Favorite Quote?

Make good art. ~Neil Gaiman

What are your fandoms?

Harry Potter for sure! I would have to add Star Wars, too.

Who is your favorite fictional boyfriend (or girlfriend)?

Mr. Darcy!

Could you tell our Book Addicts a little bit about the IVORY AND BONE SERIES?

Of course, and thank you so much for inviting me to the blog!

The books are set in prehistoric times, at the end of the last Ice Age. The first book, IVORY AND BONE, is loosely based on PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, but the genders are reversed, with Mya being a bit of a female Mr. Darcy! OBSIDIAN AND STARS picks up where IVORY AND BONE left off, but it’s told from Mya’s point of view. And I know a lot of readers are expecting this to be a trilogy—I had originally planned a duology, but then expanded it to a trilogy—but in the end, it worked much better as two books. I think with one book from Kol’s point of view, and one from Mya’s point of view, I knew the series was complete. So OBSIDIAN AND STARS closes out the series.

Since IVORY AND BONE takes a classic story and takes it back to prehistoric times, what other TV Shows/Movies/Books would you love to see reversed in time and technology?

Great question! I’d love a retelling of Les Miserables, set in the contemporary world. I also really like the idea of a retelling of The Phantom of the Opera, but set in a different time and place, like maybe the Old West, or the far future.

What Hogwarts Houses would you sort your characters into? How about a Patronus for any of them?

Kol would be a Gryffindor, and I think his Patronus would be a wolf.

Mya would be a Hufflepuff, and I imagine her Patronus might be a bird of prey, like an eagle or a hawk.

Lo would be a Ravenclaw, and her Patronus would probably be a saber-toothed cat.

What 3 hashtags would you most associate with your book series? (Could be a word or phrase or anything that would instantly make you think of IVORY AND BONE or OBSIDIAN AND STARS.)

#PrehistoricRomance, #HistoryRepeatsItself, #LoveIsTimeless

Tell us your favorite quote from OBSIDIAN AND STARS.

“That’s why I like the blackest nights—the darkest, obsidian skies of winter. When the world is coldest and darkest, the stars shine brightest.”

Is there a specific scene that you had the most fun to write? Or which part was the most difficult to get through?

There is a scene between Kol and Mya involving honey that gets pretty romantic. I would say that scene was the most fun to write. There are several scenes that made me cry to write them—both happy and sad tears. I won’t give any details because I don’t want to give anything away, but the sad ones were pretty hard to get through.

If you had to pick one song to be the Theme Song for OBSIDIAN AND STARS – Which one would you pick?

There’s a song from the Album Wish by the Cure called From the Edge of the Deep Green Sea. I think that song fits the book really well.

Are there any recommendations you could give your readers to be in the “perfect mood” to read the books in the IVORY AND BONE series (specific music, snacks…)?

I would recommend lighting candles or being near some kind of fire. Or read it on the beach or outside, since the characters are out in the natural world so much.

What’s next for you?

I’m working on a new fantasy story! I don’t want to give anything away, except to say it is very different from the IVORY AND BONE books. I just sent the first draft to my editor, so it’s in the early stages, but I’m excited about it!

Thank you so much for everything, Julie!

Follow the Obsidian and Stars by Julie Eshbaugh Blog Tour and don’t miss anything! Click on the banner to see the tour schedule.

Julie Eshbaugh is the author of Ivory and Bone (HarperCollins, 2016). She used to have trouble staying in one spot, having lived in places as varied as Utah, France, and New York City. Julie eventually returned home to the Philadelphia area, where she now lives with her husband, son, cat and dog. Her favorite moments are when the unexpected happens and she cheers loudest when the pitcher gets a hit.
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May 17, 2017

FFBC: Welcome to the club, The Best Kind of Magic by Crystal Cestari

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The Best Kind of Magic

by Crystal Cestari

Publisher: Disney-Hyperion

Release Date: May 16, 2017

Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal, Fantasy

Synopsis:

Amber Sand is not a witch. The Sand family Wicca gene somehow leapfrogged over her. But she did get one highly specific magical talent: she can see true love. As a matchmaker, Amber’s pretty far down the sorcery food chain (even birthday party magicians rank higher), but after five seconds of eye contact, she can envision anyone’s soul mate.

Amber works at her mother’s magic shop–Windy City Magic–in downtown Chicago, and she’s confident she’s seen every kind of happy ending there is: except for one–her own. (The Fates are tricky jerks that way.) So when Charlie Blitzman, the mayor’s son and most-desired boy in school, comes to her for help finding his father’s missing girlfriend, she’s distressed to find herself falling for him. Because while she can’t see her own match, she can see his–and it’s not Amber. How can she, an honest peddler of true love, pursue a boy she knows full well isn’t her match?

The Best Kind of Magic is set in urban Chicago and will appeal to readers who long for magic in the real world. With a sharp-witted and sassy heroine, a quirky cast of mystical beings, and a heady dose of adventure, this novel will have you laughing out loud and questioning your belief in happy endings.

Hello Crystal! We are super excited to have you in our FFBC tours.

Favorite Book?

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. It was the first book that made me want to be a writer.

Favorite TV show?

Buffy the Vampire Slayer, with Veronica Mars in a very close second.

Favorite movie?

I love the Pride and Prejudice remake with Kiera Knightly. It is such a beautiful adaptation of one of my favorite stories.

Favorite Song?

“Since U Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson is still my karaoke jam.

Favorite Food?

Ice cream, preferably Ben and Jerry’s

Name 3 fictional places you would move to in a heartbeat.

Hogwarts (obvs), Neverland, Stars Hollow

What were your favorite books growing up? (I was a Fear Street girl!)

I loved anything by Roald Dahl and Beverly Cleary, and read all The Babysitter’s Club books. When I got a little older, I tore through the Goosebumps series, which makes me laugh because now I can’t handle anything scary!

Favorite Quote?

“Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.” Dr. Seuss

What are your fandoms?

Disney, Buffy, and Harry Potter are forever cemented in my fangirl heart. In the past few years I’ve gotten into comics more, and a recent obsession is Squirrel Girl.

Who is your favorite fictional boyfriend (or girlfriend)?

Peeta Mellark—that boy will keep you safe AND bake you bread. Done and done.

Could you tell our Book Addicts a little bit about THE BEST KIND OF MAGIC?

This story is about Amber Sand, whose family line dates back to Salem, but she herself is not a witch. She did get one very specific magical talent though, in that she can actually see true love. Amber is a matchmaker, but her life is not all turtle doves and happy endings. Her Cupid’s arrow gets her in trouble quite often, but no matter what, she never gives up fighting for what she believes in.

I love books/movies/TV shows with a magical element to them. What is your favorite movie or TV show or song that has the witches and/or magic in them?

Buffy was the first show to bring out the fangirl in me, and it opened me up to the magical world in a new way. Before watching this show, it always seemed like mystical creatures could only exist in the past or in far away lands, but these were real people learning to live with supernatural consequences in their everyday lives. Willow’s journey with witchcraft and Buffy’s struggle with her slayer powers definitely shaped aspects of The Best Kind of Magic, as Amber and her best friend, Amani, both have their own conflicts with their magical abilities.

Besides reading, writing, and blogging, I love fashion!! How would you describe Amber’s style?

Amber’s style is very low key: t-shirts, jeans, sneakers. Most of the time she’s either wearing her school uniform or something that’s work appropriate, so she doesn’t spend much time thinking about how she’s dressed. Her standout style point is her hair, which she’s dyed with peacock blue and green streaks.

How did you come up with the story? Did you find inspiration in any other story/movie/show and how has this affected your writing?

Without a doubt, Buffy is a huge influence for me, not only for the stuff about monsters and magic, but also the group dynamic of the Scooby gang. I really wanted Amber’s mystical community to feel authentic, and to showcase the different relationships and dynamics of what it means to have a gift like no one else. Harry Potter, The Vampire Diaries, and Emma also played in here; watching a matchmaker pair up couples in an enchanting world is definitely a mash up of my love of romance and magical realism.

Tell us your favorite quote from THE BEST KIND OF MAGIC.
“Only crazy people and Satan don’t like frosting.” – Amber J

Is there a specific scene that you had the most fun to write? Or which part was the most difficult to get through?

Any scene where Amber gets to show off her sassy personality was fun for me since I could live vicariously through her funny one-liners, but one of my favorite scenes was during a dance party at Navy Pier, where she works. Although Amber has no problem intervening on other people’s love lives, she’s very guarded with her own, so when a boy she’s having complicating feelings for asks her to dance, she isn’t quite sure what to do. I like this point of the story because she starts letting her guard down, and we begin to see a different side.

Are there any recommendations you could give your readers to be in the “perfect mood” to read THE BEST KIND OF MAGIC (specific music, snacks…)?

Amber aspires to be a professional baker, so there are many mentions of pastries and treats throughout the book. I spent a lot of time looking up recipes and sampling different desserts while I was writing (it’s a tough job, but someone’s got to do it!). Enjoying a cupcake while turning the pages would be a perfect fit!

What’s next for you?
The sequel, The Sweetest Kind of Fate, debuts February 2018, and I am always scribbling away on new story ideas. J

Thank you so much for everything, Crystal!

Thank you so much for featuring my book! It means so much to me! J – Crystal

Follow The Best Kind of Magic by Crystal Cestari Blog Tour and don’t miss anything! Click on the banner to see the tour schedule.

With rainbows in my hair and stories in my head, I am a writer drawn to magic in the everyday world.

My debut novel, The Best Kind of Magic, arrives May 16, 2017 from Hyperion. Follow Amber Sand, a magical matchmaker who can actually see true love, as she takes off on a fun and romantic adventure toward happily ever after.

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October 11, 2016

FFBC Tours: Welcome to the club, Unblemished by Sara Ella

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Unblemished
by Sara Ella
Publisher: Thomas Nelson/HarperCollins
Release Date: October 11th 2016
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy

Synopsis:

Eliyana has always recoiled from her own reflection in the mirror. But what if that were only one Reflection—one world? What if another world existed where her blemish could become her strength?

Eliyana is used to the shadows. With a hideous birthmark covering half her face, she just hopes to graduate high school unscathed. That is, until Joshua hops a fence and changes her perspective. No one, aside from her mother, has ever treated her as normal. Maybe even beautiful. Because of Joshua, Eliyana finally begins to believe she could be loved.

But one night her mother doesn’t come home, and that’s when everything gets weird.

Now Joshua is her new, and rather reluctant, legal Guardian. Add a hooded stalker and a Central Park battle to the mix and you’ve gone from weird to otherworldly.

Eliyana soon finds herself in a world much larger and more complicated than she’s ever known. A world enslaved by a powerful and vile man. And Eliyana holds the answer to defeating him. How can an ordinary girl, a blemished girl, become a savior when she can’t even save herself?

Hello, Sara! We are super excited to have you in our FFBC tours.

Favorite Book?

Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers

Favorite TV show?

Once Upon a Time

Favorite movie?

Beauty & the Beast

Your Favorite Song?

The Words by Christina Perri

Favorite Food? Anything with chicken

Name 3 fictional places you would move to in a heartbeat.

Narnia, Storybrooke, Stars Hollow.

Who is your perfect fictional boyfriend? Killian Jones.

Favorite Quote? “Someday you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again.” ~ C.S. Lewis

What do you find yourself “Fangirling” over? Once Upon a Time a.k.a. #CaptainSwan

If you could meet one author, dead or alive, who would it be?C.S. Lewis

Something to say to our Book Addicts? I love you, awesome nerds! You are all beautiful inside and out.

Could you tell our Book Addicts a little bit about Unblemished?

Unblemished is about a teenage girl named Eliyana who has been ridiculed for the way she looks her entire life. As a result she feels ugly. Worthless. Unlovable. After her mom dies, Eliyana discovers perhaps the blemish she always considered a curse is not such a curse after all. The story explores the themes of self-worth, inner beauty, and realizing it’s okay to just be exactly who you are.

What can you tell us about Eliyana and her personality?

Eliyana is very insecure to begin with, and really emanates every negative emotion I felt as a teen. She’s constantly hiding and putting herself down. I wanted her to have a strong arc, and throughout the story she begins to see herself in a new light. She sees she is not worthless, but quite the opposite. Her blemish becomes her strength. This in and of itself is a powerful device in moving her from the blemished girl who hides from her reflection to the unblemished young woman who stands against evil.

How did you come up with the story? Did you find inspiration in any other story/movie/show and how has this affected your writing?

I had horrible acne as a teen so that definitely influenced El’s character and how negatively she feels toward herself. I also adore Beauty & the Beast, and the theme of true beauty can most certainly be found in Unblemished. Those familiar with fairy tales will see them woven throughout. Finally, music is huge for me and the chapter/ act titles are actually lyrics and song titles from popular musicals.

Tell us your favorite quote from Unblemished.

“. . . appearances can deceive. A jagged surface doesn’t always allude to what truly lies beneath.” ~ Ky Rhyen

Is there a specific scene that you had the most fun writing?

* SPOILER ALERT * I love the scene in chapter nineteen where Ky has a confrontation with one of the villains. He totally shows his awesome side in that scene, and it gives me all the feels. It’s also a turning point in his relationship with Eliyana.

If you had to pick one song to be the Theme Song for Unblemished – Which one would you pick?

“Unconditionally” by Katy Perry

Lyric— “Acceptance is the key to be, to be truly free.”

Quote— “If true love ushers a change, perhaps that’s where I need to begin. How can I fulfill my purpose as a Mirror unless I can first love myself?”—Eliyana

Are there any recommendations you could give your readers to be in the “perfect mood” to read Unblemished (specific music, snacks…)?

You can check out the official Unblemished playlist on Spotify, and a comprehensive playlist will be released as part of the Unblemished blog tour (check out the Literary Meanderings blog on October 15th). I’d say an oak or pine scented candle (reminiscent of the forest of the Second Reflection) and some peanut butter M&Ms (El’s favorite) would add the perfect touch.

What’s next for you?

Right now I’m working on edits for the second book in the Unblemished trilogy (title to be revealed on the Between Chapters channel in October). Book 2 releases July 11, 2017.

Thank you so much for everything, Sara!

THANK YOU!!!!

Follow the Unblemished by Sara Ella Blog Tour and don’t miss anything! Click on the banner to see the tour schedule.

Once upon a time, SARA ELLA dreamed she would marry a prince (just call her Mrs. Charming) and live in a castle (aka The Plaza Hotel). Though her fairy tale didn’t quite turn out as planned, she did work for Disney—that was an enchanted moment of its own. Now she spends her days throwing living room dance parties for her two princesses and conquering realms of her own imaginings. She believes “Happily Ever After is Never Far Away” for those who put their faith in the King of kings.

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September 29, 2016

FFBC Tours: Welcome to the club, Nemesis by Anna Banks

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Nemesis (Nemesis #1)
by Anna Banks
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Release Date: October 4th 2016

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Romance, Magic, Supernatural, Fiction

Synopsis:

The princess didn’t expect to fall in love–with her nemesis.

Princess Sepora of Serubel is the last Forger in all the five kingdoms. The spectorium she creates provides energy for all, but now her father has found a way to weaponize it, and his intentions to incite war force her to flee from his grasp. She escapes across enemy lines into the kingdom of Theoria, but her plans to hide are thwarted when she is captured and placed in the young king’s servitude.

Tarik has just taken over rulership of Theoria, and must now face a new plague sweeping through his kingdom and killing his citizens. The last thing he needs is a troublesome servant vying for his attention. But mistress Sepora will not be ignored. When the two finally meet face-to-face, they form an unlikely bond that complicates life in ways neither of them could have imagined.

Sepora’s gift could save Tarik’s kingdom from the Quiet Plague. But should she trust her growing feelings for her nemesis, or should she hide her gifts at all costs?

Hello Anna! We are super excited to have you in our FFBC tours.

I’m super excited to be here. Thank you so much for having me!

Favorite Book?

Graceling by Kristin Cashore OR Daughter of the Pirate King by Tricia Levenseller

Favorite TV show?

Bates Motel OR When Calls the Heart OR Walking Dead OR Game of Thrones

Favorite movie?

Me Before You at the moment. I cried like the little baby I am.

Your Favorite Song?

The Promise by When in Rome (It’s so romantic and plus I’m an 80s freak!)

Favorite Food?

Southern Fried Chicken and sweet tea!

Name 3 fictional places you would move to in a heartbeat.

Green Gables

Tara from Gone With the Wind

Pemberley (as long as Mr. Darcy still lived there)

Who is your perfect fictional boyfriend?

Warner from the Shatter Me series

Favorite Quote?

Women are like tea bags—you never know how strong they are until they get in hot water. –Eleanor Roosevelt

Start every day as if it were on purpose. –Hitch

What do you find yourself “Fangirling” over?

The new Star Trek stamps at the post office. Jack from When Calls the Heart. Zac Effron. Zac Effron. Zac Effron. Hook from OUAT.

If you could meet one author, dead or alive, who would it be?

Jane Austen

Something to say to our Book Addicts?

I would ask them a question: What is your favorite book about enemies-turned-lovers?

Could you tell our Book Addicts a little bit about Nemesis and the world in it?

Nemesis is about a princess on the run who escapes into the territory of her nemesis—the newly crowned Falcon King of Theoria—and accidentally falls for him as they battle a Quiet Plague and while she tries to prevent war with her home kingdom without giving away her many secrets. It’s based on ancient Egypt and their constant struggle with the Hittites. Think of Theoria with ancient Egypt. For those of you who are fans of The Syrena Legacy series, I didn’t completely leave mermaids out of the picture—only they’re not what you’re expecting this time around!

What can you tell us about Princess Sepora and Tarik and their personalities? And what about their relationship?

Sepora has been sheltered for most of her life, and when she escapes to Theoria she lacks a certain fear that most people would have if put in the same situation, even though she thinks herself a coward. She’s very anti-violent but an exceptional liar, as Tarik a Lingot who can discern the truth from a lie, will find out.

Tarik is a humble ruler with a good heart and good intentions, but makes room for a smart mouthed palace servant who tells lies intermingled with the truth every time she speaks. He’s drawn to her, and she to him, but can their growing affection outweigh the lies she carries and the duties he must uphold?

How did you come up with the story? Did you find inspiration in any other story/movie/show and how has this affected your writing?

I found a lot of inspiration in the story of King Tut, the boy king. I watched a ton of documentaries about what his rule would have been like, how much pressure he faced, and what his life must have been like. Of course, I added my own perspective on the matter, and gave Tut a love interest other than his own sister, and created abilities in humans that the Egyptians could only dream about. J

Tell us your favorite quote from Nemesis.

“It is impossible to make you stay, yet impossible to let you go. Why is that, Sepora?”

Is there a specific scene that you had the most fun to write?

Tarik has a younger brother, Sethos, and I loved to write anything with him in it. He’s young and carefree and quite the manwhore, and I adore him dearly.

If you had to pick one song to be the Theme Song for Nemesis – Which one would you pick?

The artist Chase Holfelder did a remake of Everyt Breath You Take by The Police. You can find that song here. It’s fan-freaking-tastic.

Imagine that we get to see your book on the big screen (how awesome would that be?). Who would you pick to play your characters?

For Sepora, it would have to be someone curvy. She’s not a skinny heroine by any means, and I’d want the actress to stay in line with this. And I’d probably pick an unknown for her.

I always envisioned the actor Avan Jogia who coincidentally played King Tut in the movie Tut, which I just found out!

Is there any recommendations you could give your readers to be in the “perfect mood” to read Nemesis (specific music, snacks…)?

Yes! Preorder Nemesis and get an Egyptian bath bomb. Take a hot bath, with Every Breath You Take by Chase Holfelder playing in the background, and enjoy the book!

What’s next for you?

You want to know something amazing? I have nothing on my plate right now. It’s a crazy sense of freedom, and I can’t wait to see what inspires me next. 🙂 Maybe your readers could leave some ideas in the comments??

Thank you so much for everything, Anna!

Follow the Nemesis by Anna Banks Blog Tour and don’t miss anything! Click on the banner to see the tour schedule.

NYT Bestselling YA author of The Syrena Legacy series: OF POSEIDON (2012), OF TRITON (2013), OF NEPTUNE (2014).Repped by rockstar Lucy Carson of the Friedrich Agency.

I live with my husband and daughter in the Florida Panhandle. I have a southern accent compared to New Yorkers, and I enjoy food cooked with real fat. I can’t walk in high heels, but I’m very good at holding still in them. If you put chocolate in front of me, you must not have wanted it in the first place.

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September 19, 2016

FFBC Tours: Welcome to the club, A Mortal Song by Megan Crewe

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A Mortal Song
by Megan Crewe
Publisher: Another World Press
Release Date: September 13th 2016

Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary, Fantasy

Synopsis:

Sora’s life was full of magic—until she discovered it was all a lie.

Heir to Mt. Fuji’s spirit kingdom, Sora yearns to finally take on the sacred kami duties. But just as she confronts her parents to make a plea, a ghostly army invades the mountain. Barely escaping with her life, Sora follows her mother’s last instructions to a heart-wrenching discovery: she is a human changeling, raised as a decoy while her parents’ true daughter remained safe but unaware in modern-day Tokyo. Her powers were only borrowed, never her own. Now, with the world’s natural cycles falling into chaos and the ghosts plotting an even more deadly assault, it falls on her to train the unprepared kami princess.

As Sora struggles with her emerging human weaknesses and the draw of an unanticipated ally with secrets of his own, she vows to keep fighting for her loved ones and the world they once protected. But for one mortal girl to make a difference in this desperate war between the spirits, she may have to give up the only home she’s ever known.

“Megan Crewe’s A Mortal Song is engrossing from the first chapter. The world of the kami is beautifully fantastic and delicately drawn, and the switched-at-birth scenario made me instantly feel for both of these resilient, brave girls. A Mortal Song has lots of magic, lots of heart, and lots to love.” -Kendare Blake, author of Three Dark Crowns.

Hello Megan! We are super excited to have you in our FFBC tours.

Favorite Book?

It’s impossible to pick just one! I can say that the book I’ve re-read the most in adulthood is Megan Whalen Turner’s The King of Attolia, because it is so good and I basically want to absorb everything she does with her writing.

Favorite TV show?

Also really hard to narrow this down… Maybe Star Trek: The Next Generation? I loved that as a teen and still enjoy it when I rewatch.

Favorite movie?

See above re: picking just one. 😉 But my go-to answer is The Princess Bride, which I do love very much.

Your Favorite Song?

Varies from day to day, but what I think of as my theme song is Ani Difranco’s “Joyful Girl”.

Favorite Food?

Pizza or Hakka-style crispy ginger chicken.

Name 3 fictional places you would move to in a heartbeat.

Hmmm. Most of the fictional places I’ve read about would be pretty dangerous to live in! Let’s say the planet in The Keeper of the Isis Light (Monica Hughes), the magical world of the Magic Thief series (Sarah Prineas), and Hogwarts, post-Voldemort’s defeat.

Who is your perfect fictional boyfriend?

*points to favorite book* I must admit to being inordinately fond of Eugenides, although I suffer under no illusions that he’d be a perfect partner. 😉

Favorite Quote?

“You are what you love, not what loves you.” from the movie Adaptation

What do you find yourself “Fangirling” over?

My favorite books and characters, of course!

If you could meet one author, dead or alive, who would it be?

Douglas Adams. Just to listen to him talk about whatever he wanted to. I’m sure it would have been both illuminating and entertaining.

Could you tell our Book Addicts a little bit about A Mortal Song and the world in it?

A Mortal Song is basically a reversal of the standard “main character finds out s/he is secretly a supernatural being” storyline, where instead the protagonist grew up believing she was magical, only to discover she’s actually a human changeling put in place as a decoy to protect her parents’ real daughter. It’s set in modern-day Japan, and incorporates all sorts of places there, from isolated forest valleys to big, vibrant cities like Tokyo.

Can you tell us a little bit about Sora and her personality?

Sora is very dedicated to what she believes is her life’s purpose and also very determined to serve it well, so she can’t help finding the revelation that she’s “just” an ordinary human being hard to take. But she’s gradually able to see that many of the things she treasured about being kami—music and dancing, making a difference in people’s lives—can be a part of her new life as well. She’s sensitive to other people’s emotions and always wants to understand why they do what they do, but she has difficulty forgiving someone she trusted if they break that trust.

How did you come up with the story? Did you find inspiration in any other story/movie/show and how has this affected your writing?

The basic concept came to me after reading a couple of books back to back where the main character found out she wasn’t human but a magical being hidden away for her own protection. I started wondering what it would be like to end up on the opposite side of that sort of trade—to have to deal with having your powers stripped away rather than learning to use new ones. It felt like a premise with tons of potential for character growth and angst!

I also wanted to challenge not one particular story but the broad body of work that seems to suggest it’s better—more exciting, more meaningful, more useful—to be a supernatural being than simply human. I think there are some pretty extraordinary elements to human nature, and I wanted to offer some appreciation to those.

Tell us your favorite quote from A Mortal Song.

That’s hard to answer, but one of my favorite quotes is this bit where Sora compares kami and human bravery: “Being human, the answers aren’t obvious. You have to choose whether you do the difficult thing or the easy thing. It takes a lot more courage to do the difficult thing you don’t have to do, that scares you, than to just… follow what you automatically know to do.”

Is there a specific scene that you had the most fun to write?

The first kissing scene was a lot of fun. I enjoy writing the romantic parts in general, and that one was nicely placed amid a bunch of ongoing plot tension, plus allowed lots of awkwardness and uncertainty in the aftermath. (I may be a little bit of a sadist when it comes to my characters… 😉 )

If you had to pick one song to be the Theme Song for A Mortal Song – Which one would you pick?

“Evolution” by Ayumi Hamasaki. It’s been the unofficial theme song for the book from early on in the writing process!

Imagine that we get to see your book on the big screen (how awesome would that be?). Who would you pick to play your characters?

I have actor “models” for most of the major characters, but unfortunately I think most/all of them would be too old to actually play them now! If time travel were possible, Sora would be played by Aoi Yu, Keiji by Tatsuya Fujiwara, and Takeo by Takeshi Kaneshiro. (See pics here: http://www.megancrewe.com/blog/?p=3015) I never was able to find anyone who quite captured Chiyo’s essence.

Is there any recommendations you could give your readers to be in the “perfect mood” to read A Mortal Song (specific music, snacks…)?

I think the perfect setting for reading the book out be somewhere outdoors where you can hear the wind in the trees, with a fresh pot of tea at your side.

What’s next for you?

I’m still waiting to find that out myself! Although A Mortal Song was a foray into self-publishing for me, I’m continuing to write for traditional publication as well. I do intend to have at least one YA novel out next year, by one means or another, but which one it’ll be is up in the air at the moment.

Something to say to our Book Addicts?

Thank you so much for all the ways you support authors, whether by simply by reading, or by leaving reviews or talking books up on social media, or anything else! Readers are my favorite people. J

Thank you so much for everything, Megan!

Like many authors, Megan Crewe finds writing about herself much more difficult than making things up. A few definite facts: she lives in Toronto, Canada with her husband and son (and does on occasion say “eh”), she tutors children and teens with special needs, and she’s spent the last six years studying kung fu, so you should probably be nice to her. She has been making up stories about magic and spirits and other what ifs since before she knew how to write words on paper. These days the stories are just a lot longer.

Megan’s first novel, GIVE UP THE GHOST, was shortlisted for the Sunburst Award for Canadian Literature of the Fantastic. Her second, THE WAY WE FALL, was nominated for the White Pine Award and made the International Reading Association Young Adults’ Choices List. Her Fallen World trilogy (THE WAY WE FALL, THE LIVES WE LOST, THE WORLDS WE MAKE) is now complete and she has a new trilogy forthcoming in October 2014, beginning with EARTH & SKY. Her books have been published in translation in several countries around the world. She has also published short stories in magazines such as On Spec and Brutarian Quarterly.

September 15, 2016

Nemesis (Nemesis #1) by Anna Banks

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Nemesis (Nemesis #1)
by Anna Banks
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Release Date: October 4th 2016

Rate: Enjoyed it (4 stars)

Synopsis:

The princess didn’t expect to fall in love–with her nemesis.

Sepora’s gift could save Tarik’s kingdom from the Quiet Plague. But should she trust her growing feelings for her nemesis, or should she hide her gifts at all costs?

Nemesis is one of those books reviewers like me are afraid of starting due its popularity. You are always trying not to be “pushed” into liking it or hating it because what others have said before you. So when I started this book I have to confess that I was wary at first. But as it happened Sepora with Tarik, I didn’t expect to fall for this story as much as I did.

Nemesis starts with Princess Magar Sepora running from her kingdom, Serubel, and venturing herself into her father’s enemy kingdom in order to scape her evil father. Trying to prevent an impeding war, she ends up being sold to no other that King Tarik of Theoria; Sepora’s nemesis. However, her position soon ends up being advantageous in order for her to try to prevent the war helping the Theorians. But Tarik’s kingdom has more problems that the war coming from Serubel.

I believe that Nemesis has the potential to become a great series. Anna Banks knew how to catch the reader’s attention with this book, has all the elements to become a mind-blowing story and the characters are approachable as well as likable.

What I liked about this book is that from the first chapter you are in fact in Anna’s imaginary kingdoms. And even though we can recall a sort of resemblance to other stories, her setting and the details do not. Also I liked that, as I said before, both characters, Tarik and Sepora, are approachable. But, moreover, I liked that there was a constant banter between these two and that Sepora never ceased to be herself even in another kingdom.

Having to write from different points of view must be difficult. But Anna found a way to create each individual character its own voice. I liked that Sepora had from time to time a way to bring a smile to me while reasoning to herself and that Tarik gave a more quite and philosophical thinking due to its new role as a king.

What I think that the story was missing was a sort of cliffhanger in the story. It is true that the ending leaves the reader wanting, desiring for more books. However, the story has no surprise effect nor does leave you breathless from what happened in it. And I think that Nemesis is the kind of story that can do that: leave a reader breathless.

I highly recommend this new series to all fans of the Throne of Glass and the Falling Kingdoms’ series. I say give an opportunity to this story, because I can tell you know that I have the feeling that the second book is going to bring a mind-blowing story.

I read this book in exchange of an honest review. I want to thank Anna Bank’s publicist for sending me a physical ARC of the book.

NYT Bestselling YA author of The Syrena Legacy series: OF POSEIDON (2012), OF TRITON (2013), OF NEPTUNE (2014).Repped by rockstar Lucy Carson of the Friedrich Agency.

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September 13, 2016

FFBC Tours: Welcome to the club, Gamescape: Overworld (The Nova Project #1) by Emma Trevayne

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Gamescape: Overworld (The Nova Project #1)
by Emma Trevayne
Publisher: Greenwillow
Release Date: September 13th 2016

Genre: Young Adult, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Dystopia

Synopsis:

The planet is dying. Centuries of abuse have damaged the earth beyond repair, and now all the authorities can do is polish the surface, make the landscape look pretty to hide the disease within. Two prominent yet mysterious businessmen couldn’t fix it, either, but they did something even better. Together, they invented Chimera, the most complex and immersive virtual reality video game the world has ever known. The Cubes in which Chimera is played quickly became a fixture of this landscape: part distraction, part hospital, and almost wholly responsible for holding up the failing world economy.

Miguel Anderson is also dying. He isn’t the only one who plays the game–everybody does–but Miguel has more reason than most: When players leave their Cubes for the day, the upgrades and enhancements they’ve earned for their virtual characters leave with them. New lungs to breathe poisoned air, skin that won’t burn under the sun are great and everything… but Miguel, born as broken as the earth, needs a new heart–and soon–if he wants any hope of surviving just a little longer.

Then the two Gamerunners announce a competition, with greater rewards and faster progression than ever before, and Miguel thinks his prayers have been answered. All he needs to do is get picked to lead a team, play the game he’s spent years getting good at, and ask for his prize when he wins. Simple, really.

At first, things seem to go according to plan. Mostly, anyway. Inside his Cube, with his new team–including his best friend–at his back, Miguel begins his quest. He plays recklessly, even dangerously, for someone whose most vital organ could give up at any moment, but his desperation makes him play better than ever. The eyes of the world are on him, watching through status updates and live feeds, betting on his chances. With greater rewards, though, come greater risks, and the Gamerunners seem to delight at surprising the competitors at every turn. As he ventures deeper into a world that blends the virtual and the real to an unsettling degree, Miguel begins to wonder just why the game was invented at all, and whether its stakes could be even higher than life and death.

Hello Emma! We are super excited to have you in our FFBC tours.

Hello! Thank you so much, I’m excited to be here!

Favorite Book?

This is really just impossible to answer. If I had several days in a quiet room, I might be able to narrow it down to one favorite per genre per decade. In the interest of keeping things cyberpunky, though, I’ll say Neuromancer by William Gibson.

Favorite TV show?

My first instinct is to say that I don’t watch a lot of TV, which actually isn’t true–but I don’t watch a lot of fiction on TV. 90% of my TV watching is sports and nature documentaries. My favorites there would be cycling, tennis, and anything narrated by David Attenborough? I’m not sure that’s really the point of the question. I got pretty into Sons of Anarchy. I watch The Big Bang Theory sometimes.

Favorite movie?

Oooh, movies are harder. I do watch movies. Again, this is a favorite-from-each-genre kind of question, so I’ll keep things relevant and say Ex_Machina was the best movie I saw last year. How they kept it interesting with such a small cast in that “locked room” kind of environment was beyond impressive, and the ending made me cheer.

Your Favorite Song?

Man I am just terrible at picking faves. The most-played song on my iPod is Frightened Rabbit’s My Backwards Walk.

Favorite Food?

Aha! One I can do! Anything Mexican. Bring me all the tacos. All of them.

Name 3 fictional places you would move to in a heartbeat.

1. Hogwarts. (That was predictable, right?) 2. The Sprawl. (From the Gibson novels.) 3. The version of London in Tom Pollock’s Skyscraper Throne trilogy.

Who is your perfect fictional boyfriend?

Locke Lamora? I do like the bad boys…

Favorite Quote?

At the risk of sounding horrifically pretentious, it’s Latin. Amore, more, ore, re, which is a saying distilled from a Latin proverb: Verus amicus amore, more, ore, re cognoscitur, which means, A true friend is known by the love, the behavior, the words, the deeds.

What do you find yourself “Fangirling” over?

I probably fangirl over music more than books. Books, too, but new album/tour announcements from my favorite bands are more likely to make me squeal in an embarrassing way.

If you could meet one author, dead or alive, who would it be?

Terry Pratchett. I’m very sad I never got to.

Could you tell our Book Addicts a little bit about Gamescape: Overworld and the world in it?

The world of Overworld is what I like to think of as “alternative future”—which is to say I don’t at ALL think that’s how the world is going to end up, but theoretically it might be possible. The planet is dying, and everyone—seriously EVERYONE—plays this intense virtual reality game called Chimera. You know when you play a video game, your character receives items and upgrades that help them move through the game as the levels get harder? The principle is the same, except the upgrades humans receive are biomechanical body parts designed to better withstand pollution, or give them enhanced survival skills. It’s free to play, and a great distraction from the depressing outdoors. Things get complicated when Miguel begins to think that the two men who invented the game aren’t the benevolent geniuses they’ve always seemed to be.

Can you tell us a bit more about Miguel and his personality?

He’s funny, he’s a moody teenager, and most of all, he’s desperate. He’s dying, courtesy of a heart defect. Playing Chimera and earning a new heart is his best chance at long-term survival, but the exertion could also kill him. Being stuck between that rock and hard place leads him to make some interesting and sometimes terrible decisions. It also makes him appreciate the things he has, though maybe not enough. He loves his best friend Nick pretty fiercely.

How did you come up with the story? Did you find inspiration in any other story/movie/show and how has this affected your writing?

It was actually originally inspired by a tweet, of all things, but I’m not sure I can say what it was because again, spoilers. The influence of all the biomechanical body parts comes from me. I have a machine in my body to control a medical condition. The day is going to come when those “enhancements” are as voluntary as plastic surgery. And as easy as getting your ears pierced. It’s already happening, to an extent. There are people who implant contactless payment chips under their skin so they can just touch the readers with their hands. There are a couple of cases of people having cameras implanted instead of prosthetic eyes to replace eyes they’ve lost through illness or injury. Things like this will become more and more common.

Tell us your favorite quote from Gamescape: Overworld.

“Their brains came last, a delicate balance between human enough to be cruel and machine enough to act on it.”

Is there a specific scene that you had the most fun to write?

The one with the sea monster. I think that’s all I can say without spoiling!

If you had to pick one song to be the Theme Song for Gamescape: Overworld – Which one would you pick?

This is actually a tricky question. Back when G:O was called The Nova Project, it had one. (The song Nova by VNV Nation.) Now, I’d probably say it’s Automaton by Assemblage 23. That said, here I will reveal an embarrassing fact that I KNEW was going to become an embarrassing fact. See, even when I was writing it, I figured that at some point I’d do an interview like this and I’d have to admit that instead of writing the last several thousand words to some crazy EDM, I would have to admit that I wrote it to Katy Perry’s Roar. That is 100% true. The last, oh, three or four chapters, at least.

Imagine that we get to see your book on the big screen (how awesome would that be?). Who would you pick to play your characters?

I am really, truly terrible at dream casting because I don’t know who any actors are. If the awesome day ever comes that it is made into a movie, I really hope they don’t depend on me for casting. I’d like someone mischievous to play Blake…maybe James McAvoy?

Is there any recommendations you could give your readers to be in the “perfect mood” to read Gamescape: Overworld (specific music, snacks…)?

I’m not sure about snacks. For the music…probably anything rock or EDM! Also they drink a lot of water. Running around a gaming room all day is thirsty work.

What’s next for you?

I’m editing the sequel, whose title has not yet been revealed, and working on a new Middle Grade. My next Middle Grade is out in February, and I’ve just put the finishing touches on that. I don’t think I can give any clues as to what happens in Overworld’s sequel without spoiling everything, but I can say that the MG out in February is about a magical, time-traveling house.

Something to say to our Book Addicts?

Readers are the greatest people. Authors love you.

Thank you so much for everything, Emma!

Thank you for having me!

Follow the Gamescape: Overworld by Emma Trevayne Blog Tour and don’t miss anything! Click on the banner to see the tour schedule.

YA sci-fi/cyberpunk writer. Fan of words and music and chocolate. Represented by Brooks Sherman of FinePrint Literary Management. My first novel, CODA, will be out Spring 2013 from Running Press Kids, and its sequel, CHORUS, will be released the following year.

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July 10, 2016

FFBC: Welcome to the club, Sticks & Stones by Abby Cooper

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Sticks & Stones
by Abby Cooper
Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR)
Release Date: July 12th 2016

Genre: Middle Grade, Fantasy, School

Synopsis:

Ever since she was a baby, the words people use to describe Elyse have instantly appeared on her arms and legs. At first it was just “cute” and “adorable,” but as she’s gotten older and kids have gotten meaner, words like “loser” and “pathetic” appear, and those words bubble up and itch. And then there are words like “interesting,” which she’s not really sure how to feel about. Now, at age twelve, she’s starting middle school, and just when her friends who used to accept and protect her are drifting away, she receives an anonymous note saying “I know who you are, and I know what you’re dealing with. I want to help.” As Elyse works to solve the mystery of who is sending her these notes, she also finds new ways to accept who she is and to become her best self.

Hello Abby! We are super excited to have you in our FFBC tours.

Thank you! Excited to be here.

Favorite Book?

So hard to decide! My all-time favorite is Frindle by Andrew Clements, but there are so many books I love.

Favorite TV show?

Big Brother. I’ll need to be pried away from the TV this summer because it’s on a glorious three times a week.

Favorite movie?

You’ve Got Mail.

Your Favorite Song?

It changes a lot. Right now I’m really into Adele’s Send My Love. So catchy!

Favorite Food?

Cupcakes. ALL. THE. CUPCAKES.

Name 3 fictional places you would move to in a heartbeat.

Hogwarts (obviously), Blackbird Hollow (from Natalie Lloyd’s fabulous The Key to Extraordinary), and the island of Dr. Libris.

Who is your perfect fictional boyfriend?

Michael Moscovitz from Princess Diaries. He is just so wonderfully nerdy – and really cute, too!

Favorite Quote?

“Never trust anyone who has not brought a book with them.” – Lemony Snicket

What do you find yourself “Fangirling” over?

Bookstores and libraries for sure. Cool teachers, librarians, and booksellers. Also the National Spelling Bee because it’s the best night of TV ever.

If you could meet one author, dead or alive, who would it be?

Probably A.S. King. I’m a HUGE fan of her books. She’s so brilliant! I actually met her once but I was so excited/nervous that I’m pretty sure I said something like “skghsdgjsggerumm.” If I ever get the chance to meet her again, I’m going to try my hardest to say something more like “hi.”

Could you tell our Book Addicts a little bit about Sticks & Stones?

Sticks & Stones is the story of Elyse, a twelve-year-old girl who has a rare skin disorder where the names others call her appear on her arms and legs and stick like temporary tattoos. The good ones soothe and the bad ones itch. Early in the book, Elyse discovers that the things she thinks about herself appear as well.

Can you tell us a bit more about Elyse and what is happening to her?

Elyse has been dealing with CAV (short for Cognadjivisibilitis) her entire life, so she’s pretty used to seeing the words on her skin. But things change when she starts middle school. The words become increasingly negative, and Elyse starts wearing long sleeves and long pants all the time in order to cover them up. When she starts receiving mysterious notes from someone who says they know what she’s dealing with and wants to help, she has to decide if she wants to follow this person’s instructions.

Since in Sticks & Stones it seems like Elyse is trying to find herself after being labeled all the time, can you pick a song that would describe her?

I think Brave by Sara Bareilles would describe Elyse and her situation pretty well.

How did you come up with the story? Did you find inspiration in any other story/movie/show and how has this affected your writing?

I was really inspired by the book Wonder by R.J. Palacio. When I was working as a school librarian, I couldn’t ever keep it on the shelf – kids loved it so much! I think Auggie, the main character, has a huge impact on readers. It seems like a lot of middle grade readers feel different from their peers in some way. I want them to know that it’s okay to feel different, and that you can still love yourself and be kind to yourself no matter what life throws your way.

Tell us your favorite quote from Sticks & Stones.

My #1 favorite is kind of a spoiler, so I’ll go with my #2 fave:

“’You don’t really wanna be with me.’

I was pretty sure I did, actually.”

These lines make me laugh every time I think about them. Haven’t we all been there at some point in our lives with a crush? Those experiences, though cringe-worthy at the time, make us strong. Unfortunately for Elyse, this is just the beginning of her middle school struggles.

Is there a specific scene that you had the most fun to write?

The scene at the fund-raising show, when Elyse is about to perform and is super nervous, was a ton of fun to write. There’s a big long paragraph that’s all one sentence, and it kind of seems like Elyse is saying/thinking it all in one breath, and that’s sort of the way I wrote it, too. I got right in the moment with her. I felt her nerves like they were my own, and when she took a breath at the end, so did I.

If you had to pick one song to be the Theme Song for Sticks & Stones – Which one would you pick?

Oh man! I probably shouldn’t say Brave again (such a great song, though) so I’ll go with Beautiful by Christina Aguilera.

Imagine that we get to see your book on the big screen (how awesome would that be?). Who would you pick to play your characters?

That would be SO awesome! This is hard. Maybe Daisy Tahan (from Little Fockers) for Elyse and Aubrey Anderson-Emmons (Lily on Modern Family) for Jeg. (She’s a little young right now, but the movie probably wouldn’t come out for a couple years, right? Ha, ha.) Quvenzhane Wallis for Olivia, and August Maturo (from Girl Meets World – he’ll get a little older before the movie comes out, too) for Nice Andy. I’ll keep thinking about the rest!

Is there any recommendations you could give your readers to be in the “perfect mood” to read Sticks & Stones (specific music, snacks…)?

Well, Elyse is super into cupcakes (and, okay, so am I), so I definitely recommend getting one of those to go along with your reading experience. (Just be careful not to get frosting all over the book. I learned this the hard way.) As for music, probably something upbeat and fun – anything that makes you feel like the awesome person you are.

Is there any advice you could give to middle graders who are in the same situation as Elyse?

Be kind to yourself. You deserve it.

What’s next for you?

I’m finishing up BUBBLES, my 2017 book, and working on a few other manuscripts. I hope to keep writing books for as long as the middle grade book world wants to keep me around 🙂

Something to say to our Book Addicts?

You’re awesome! Thanks for reading.

Thank you so much for everything, Abby!

Thank you!

Follow the Sticks & Stones by Abby Cooper Blog Tour and don’t miss anything! Click on the banner to see the tour schedule.

Abby Cooper lives in Minnesota with her miniature poodle, Louis, and a whole bunch of books. A former teacher and school librarian, her favorite things in the world (besides writing) are getting and giving book recommendations and sharing her love of reading with others. In her spare time, she likes eating cupcakes, running along the Mississippi River, and watching a lot of bad reality TV.

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July 4, 2016

Change Places With Me Blog Tour: Working in a Vet’s Office

Patricia Lopez Blog Tours, FFBC Tours, Giveaways, Guest Posts Balzer + Bray, change, dream cast, epic reads, fantastic flying book club, fantasy, FFBC, fiction, giveaway, interview, Lois, me, Metzger, mystery, places, playlist, science fiction, with, young adult 0

Change Places with Me
by Lois Metzger
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Release Date: June 14th 2016

Genre: Young Adult, Science Fiction, Fiction, Mystery, Fantasy

Synopsis:

Rose has changed. She still lives in the same neighborhood with her stepmother and goes to the same high school with the same group of kids, but when she woke up today, something was just a little different than it was before. The dogs who live upstairs are no longer a terror. Her hair and her clothes all feel brand-new. She wants to throw a party—this from a girl who hardly ever spoke to her classmates before. There is no more sadness in her life; she is bursting with happiness.

But something still feels wrong to Rose. Because, until very recently, Rose was an entirely different person—a person who is still there inside her, just beneath the thinnest layer of skin.

by Lois Metzger

When I thought about giving the main character in my book an after-school job, working in a veterinarian’s office was kind of a no-brainer. When the book begins, Rose is in the process of making sweeping changes in her life, one after another. She used to be deathly afraid of dogs. Now, suddenly, she isn’t. She doesn’t question why; she’s only happy that it’s no longer the case. And what better way to prove it, to herself and to everybody else, than by working alongside dogs?

Conveniently, I myself used to work in a vet’s office. It was only a few hours a week and I didn’t get paid, but my cats got free food and medical care. Not to mention how fascinating it was to come across a never-ending variety of dogs and cats—and owners.

I remember Emma, an adorable English bull terrier who ate a ball the size of a grapefruit. The ball was surgically removed. While recuperating, Emma somehow got into the garbage, found the ball, and tried to eat it again. Luckily she was stopped.

Also there was a Chihuahua who was so high-strung his eye tended to pop out, and the vet had to pop it back in again. It wasn’t dangerous for the dog but it was as bizarre as it sounds.

I met a cocker spaniel who, according to her owner, only ate “chicken, broiled, no skin.” The owner made a point of saying she always carried some in her purse. I couldn’t help thinking about how if that purse ever got stolen, the thief’s haul would be chicken, broiled, no skin. I gave this experience—and this thought—to Rose in Change Places with Me.

Rose also learns things I found out behind the scenes—for instance, if there’s a red star on your pet’s record, that means danger, be careful, watch out; this dog might be a biter; this cat could scratch. Full disclosure: my cat, Mischief, has two red stars on her card. She is the sweetest animal at home but a terror at the vet’s. When Mischief was younger, the vet would wrap her in towels to try to restrain her, but Mischief would tear through them like they were Kleenex. BTW, Mischief isn’t even exactly my cat. A friend of a friend asked me to watch her cat for several months while she was in Paris. I took in the cat—and the owner never returned. That was eighteen years ago—and I hope the owner never reads this, because I have no intention of giving Mischief back.

When I worked at the vet’s, there was a Doberman pinscher named Rouge who lived in the office and gave blood when animals needed transfusions. She was very beautiful and very affectionate. Occasionally I was asked to take Rouge for walks, and discovered something extraordinary. When you walk city streets with an enormous dog, people keep their distance, even big tough guys. I’m kind of short, about 5’3”, and usually I’m the one getting out of everybody else’s way. Not so whenever I was with Rouge—and this is something Rose gets to see first-hand in the book when she walks Rouge (same name, same breed). The world makes way for you.

Follow the Change Places With Me by Lois Metzger Blog Tour and don’t miss anything! Click on the banner to see the tour schedule.

Lois Metzger was born in Queens and has always written for young adults. She is the author of five novels and two nonfiction books about the Holocaust, and she has edited five anthologies. Her short stories have appeared in collections all over the world. Her writing has also appeared in The New Yorker, The Nation, and The Huffington Post. She lives in New York City with her husband and son.

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