So the uber-fabulous Roecker sisters...Lisa and Laura finally posted the super secret vlog I helped them with for their guest spot with the YA Rebels at the Sourcebooks Launch Party the other week. You can see it down below. There's some famous people in it.
Like Lisa and Laura.
And LIBBA BRAY!
Oh I'm in there too...
Monday, March 29, 2010
Congrats Shannon!!!!
I've been like squeeeeeeing very quietly for a few weeks now and finally, FINALLY I can sing it from the roof tops! My CP Shannon Whitney Messenger (oh yeah 3 names now baby like me) has signed with an awesome-uber-fabulous agent! When I knew she was starting the query process, I knew it'd be no time at all before we got here!
She is seriously one hard working gal and totally deserves this so make sure you hop over to her blog and say congrats!!!!
Word on the street is that pretty soon she's going to do a vlog--one of her deals with the universe.
And while you're there, remind her that she still has to finish her latest dare in blog wars, because agented or not--not fulfilling the dare makes me the blog war champion;)
Ok Shannon, you rock! *hugs* Congrats! I've been waiting to post this for weeks!!!!!!!
She is seriously one hard working gal and totally deserves this so make sure you hop over to her blog and say congrats!!!!
Word on the street is that pretty soon she's going to do a vlog--one of her deals with the universe.
And while you're there, remind her that she still has to finish her latest dare in blog wars, because agented or not--not fulfilling the dare makes me the blog war champion;)
Ok Shannon, you rock! *hugs* Congrats! I've been waiting to post this for weeks!!!!!!!
Thursday, March 25, 2010
In Which I Allow Debut Author Stephanie Perkins To Take Over My Blog
Over the last few months in my blogging life I came across this one blogger, who also happens to be a debut author, who was hilarious, insightful, had a penchant for posting pictures of hot guys and dude...she has blue hair! Seriously, my kind of person.Meet Stephanie Perkins!
So I'm going to go and sit over there (see me in the corner waving to you) and let Steph do the typing and tell you a little something about Procrastinating--oh baby!
The "P" Word
On the sixteenth of December, Frankie asked if I'd like to guest post here on her blog. I gave an enthusiastic "Yes!" . . . and then promptly sat on my butt for the next three months.
But December. I mean, there are some major holidays in there, right? Clearly I was busy.
And I spent the entire month of January out of the country. So that was a pretty good excuse, too. And when I came back in February, well, OBVIOUSLY I was behind on my regular work. So I had to get that done.
And then March . . . wait.
What have I been doing for the last three weeks?
Oh. Yeah. I'm working on a Big Scary Deadline, because I spent so long procrastinating on my novel last year, that I am seriously, embarrassingly, grotesquely behind on it this year.
Procrastination. Perhaps it rings a bell?
In creative work, it's easy to make excuses not to do the things we love. And sometimes — Holidays! France! — they're valid. But allow me to tell you what I did last summer and autumn, when I was supposed to be working on my latest novel:
I watched all seven seasons of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
I blogged. I signed up for Twitter. I googled pictures of hot British men. I checked my email, checked it again, and checked it again. I did laundry, put laundry away, and found more laundry to wash. I frequented bookstores and libraries, and I read over two dozen books for research.
But I did not write.
Well, I wrote a little. I opened my document a few times every week, tinkered with this or that, and added a word here or there. I wrote. But I did not WORK.
Writing is working. To be a legitimate writer, you have to work. Every. Single. Day. You treat it like the job that it is, which means that you show up, and you put in the time and the effort. Even when it's not fun.
I started writing because it was FUN, and that's probably why you started writing, too. But the truth is, once you begin taking anything seriously — and you have to take it seriously to do it professionally — much of the process becomes the complete and total opposite of fun.
It becomes work.
Can you imagine procrastinating as a chef? As a bank manager? As a sales representative? You'd have a lot of angry customers on your hands, and you'd go out of business.
Every time you procrastinate as a writer, you're putting yourself out of business.
So how important is logging onto Twitter multiple times a day? How important is checking your email every half hour? How important is that television show, that novel, that film, that concert, that sporting event?
Heck, how important is that load of laundry? Do you have clean underwear? If you do, that load can wait.
If you want to be a published writer, you have to learn how to love writing not just as an escape, but as a job. Jobs have good bits, ugly bits, and a LOT of boring bits in between. I'm still learning this, and it's still a difficult pill to swallow. But I'll keep trying, because I also know that the things we love — the things that will bring us the most pleasure in our lives — are often the hardest things we do.
So here's your post, Frankie. Thank you for being so patient and kind with me. I've stopped procrastinating. I'm going back to work.
Hehe thanks for coming by Steph!!
So to check out more on Stephanie Perkins, visit her website HERE! And her blog HERE!
And ooooh pretty cover for her book Anna and the French Kiss (Dutton, December 2010)
Which you can conveniently buy HERE!
Thanks again, Steph! Maybe my mom can call your mom and we can do this again some time:-)
On Writing and Deleting Scenes
A conversation I recently had with Southern Princess and Kelly Lyman (two of my awesome CPs) got me thinking about the way I go about writing, placing, tweaking and deleting scenes and I thought...perhaps you might like to hear my thoughts too?
If so...you're in luck. Keep on with the reading.
Scene Writing and Placement
What I mean by writing and placement is the way I kind of create my scenes and figure out where they go in my plot and how I work them in.
When I'm in my plotting/dreaming/planning/pre-writing/staring at the wall phase of writing, I tend to see a lot of my scenes flash very vividly in my mind...or I hear the dialogue clearly...or sometimes I see the words appearing on a piece of paper (yeah Im soooo weird). Anyway when I see, hear, visualize, read those scenes in the pre-phase etc, I of course write them down and record them exactly the way they came to me. I also get an intuitive sense of where each scene that comes to me falls in my story arc.
Then what I tend to do is sit down and write out a very detailed outline, recording every major event, revelation, or question asked in a chapter and with those handful of pre-planned scenes in mind, I write my plot to include them, and create consequences stemming from them.
But here's the important thing. Though I dream up my story in a non-linear kind of dream-like flowy way, I write in a very linear fashion. I have to go in order. I write in order, I revise in order...I cannot skip around because every sentence changes the next one, every mood affects the next mood, etc etc.
So when I do get to the point of writing in the scene I already recorded, I don't cut and paste. I write the scene fresh as if I'd never written it before, because there's no way a scene I wrote could actually just be placed inside my book...when you write a scene before you get to it (at least for me) you don't understand how the scene really fits into the grand scheme of things or the exact psyche of your character in that moment. You just had a skeleton. Now you can add the muscle. Or whatever. You had a seed, but that seed ain't gonna grow unless you put it in some soil. Or...
How about a puzzle analogy?
Imagine you pick up the prettiest piece of a puzzle and you know it goes somewhere in the middle...because you have the handy image on the box to guide you. Well sure you can put that piece down in the middle, but the chances of you putting it down in the exact perfect place and building the rest of the puzzle around it is not likely. Sure you might fit a few pieces there, but if you really want to kick some puzzle butt, you'll make the border first and spread out from there and chances are...this is going to shift your center piece a bit.
Ok. So basically, that's my stance on scene writing and placement. You can definitely know what's coming and what it will look like, but until you get there, you won't understand it or write it or shape it as well as you could have when it was just a floating scene in your head with no anchor.
Scene Deleting
Ok, the big one. How do you know when to keep a scene, keep tidbits of information or kill your darling?
There are A LOT of books on this and techniques and check lists and rules (if you can name 5 reasons you must have a scene, or if it does A, B, C etc you can keep it).
I'm not into that.
Those techniques are great for some people. But they don't work for me. My story is not a random pile of information that has passed through a bunch of check points, it's more organic than that.
So I basically have two reasons for allowing a scene to exist (because 2 is easier than 5).
Does the scene further the plot?
Does it reveal another element of your mystery?
Does it add another question?
Does your MC make an important discovery/gain new information/gain new skills/learn something/find something?
Does it get your MC from point A to B? Did you need to see them get from point A to B?
These are the general things I consider first.
And if the answer is No... then....I go to part 2
Does the scene reveal character or deepen character development?
This is important! Though I'm a heavy plotter, I feel my plot is very character driven, and so a lot of my scenes deal with the inner emotional arc of my MC. Bonus points if a scene both furthers the plot AND reveals character. But here's what I look at.
Does the scene show who my character is?
Does the character realize something new about themselves?
Does the character deny something important about themselves/their feelings?
Does this help the reader understand why the character is going to decide to do A, leave B, choose C?
So a little more simplified then a whole checklist, but...sometimes I feel the best things in a story ARE simple.
I also keep in mind my arc. I recently went back and forth on how to plot a certain scene--whether to make it a lot more intense, or keep it slightly neutral the way it is. My general philosophy is INTENSE INTENSE INTENSE! But...I realized...this scene needed to be more neutralized because it's a stepping stone to the next INTENSE scene and followed an INTENSE scene. Keep in mind too that your arc will have ups and downs, you need to have rising and falling action (though as the story progresses you will rise higher and fall lower). Which is why...I can't just write a scene in advance, I have to let my story mold itself and why I can't just use a checklist for why a scene should exist.
So...these have been my techniques that I developed over time and so far, they work like a gem. Not every technique works for everyone, but sometimes its helpful to hear how someone else works.
So what about you guys? How do you go about your scene placements and when do you know to delete?
If so...you're in luck. Keep on with the reading.
Scene Writing and Placement
What I mean by writing and placement is the way I kind of create my scenes and figure out where they go in my plot and how I work them in.
When I'm in my plotting/dreaming/planning/pre-writing/staring at the wall phase of writing, I tend to see a lot of my scenes flash very vividly in my mind...or I hear the dialogue clearly...or sometimes I see the words appearing on a piece of paper (yeah Im soooo weird). Anyway when I see, hear, visualize, read those scenes in the pre-phase etc, I of course write them down and record them exactly the way they came to me. I also get an intuitive sense of where each scene that comes to me falls in my story arc.
Then what I tend to do is sit down and write out a very detailed outline, recording every major event, revelation, or question asked in a chapter and with those handful of pre-planned scenes in mind, I write my plot to include them, and create consequences stemming from them.
But here's the important thing. Though I dream up my story in a non-linear kind of dream-like flowy way, I write in a very linear fashion. I have to go in order. I write in order, I revise in order...I cannot skip around because every sentence changes the next one, every mood affects the next mood, etc etc.
So when I do get to the point of writing in the scene I already recorded, I don't cut and paste. I write the scene fresh as if I'd never written it before, because there's no way a scene I wrote could actually just be placed inside my book...when you write a scene before you get to it (at least for me) you don't understand how the scene really fits into the grand scheme of things or the exact psyche of your character in that moment. You just had a skeleton. Now you can add the muscle. Or whatever. You had a seed, but that seed ain't gonna grow unless you put it in some soil. Or...
How about a puzzle analogy?
Imagine you pick up the prettiest piece of a puzzle and you know it goes somewhere in the middle...because you have the handy image on the box to guide you. Well sure you can put that piece down in the middle, but the chances of you putting it down in the exact perfect place and building the rest of the puzzle around it is not likely. Sure you might fit a few pieces there, but if you really want to kick some puzzle butt, you'll make the border first and spread out from there and chances are...this is going to shift your center piece a bit.
Ok. So basically, that's my stance on scene writing and placement. You can definitely know what's coming and what it will look like, but until you get there, you won't understand it or write it or shape it as well as you could have when it was just a floating scene in your head with no anchor.
Scene Deleting
Ok, the big one. How do you know when to keep a scene, keep tidbits of information or kill your darling?
There are A LOT of books on this and techniques and check lists and rules (if you can name 5 reasons you must have a scene, or if it does A, B, C etc you can keep it).
I'm not into that.
Those techniques are great for some people. But they don't work for me. My story is not a random pile of information that has passed through a bunch of check points, it's more organic than that.
So I basically have two reasons for allowing a scene to exist (because 2 is easier than 5).
Does the scene further the plot?
Does it reveal another element of your mystery?
Does it add another question?
Does your MC make an important discovery/gain new information/gain new skills/learn something/find something?
Does it get your MC from point A to B? Did you need to see them get from point A to B?
These are the general things I consider first.
And if the answer is No... then....I go to part 2
Does the scene reveal character or deepen character development?
This is important! Though I'm a heavy plotter, I feel my plot is very character driven, and so a lot of my scenes deal with the inner emotional arc of my MC. Bonus points if a scene both furthers the plot AND reveals character. But here's what I look at.
Does the scene show who my character is?
Does the character realize something new about themselves?
Does the character deny something important about themselves/their feelings?
Does this help the reader understand why the character is going to decide to do A, leave B, choose C?
So a little more simplified then a whole checklist, but...sometimes I feel the best things in a story ARE simple.
I also keep in mind my arc. I recently went back and forth on how to plot a certain scene--whether to make it a lot more intense, or keep it slightly neutral the way it is. My general philosophy is INTENSE INTENSE INTENSE! But...I realized...this scene needed to be more neutralized because it's a stepping stone to the next INTENSE scene and followed an INTENSE scene. Keep in mind too that your arc will have ups and downs, you need to have rising and falling action (though as the story progresses you will rise higher and fall lower). Which is why...I can't just write a scene in advance, I have to let my story mold itself and why I can't just use a checklist for why a scene should exist.
So...these have been my techniques that I developed over time and so far, they work like a gem. Not every technique works for everyone, but sometimes its helpful to hear how someone else works.
So what about you guys? How do you go about your scene placements and when do you know to delete?
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
The Fame Monster
Q: What is better than being famous?
A:Soy ice cream
Soy lattes
Soy whipped cream
Soy anything?
Being Pre-Famous!
Which is what I am....at least today...and according to Anne Riley's blog. So go head over there and check out my pre-famous interview and SQUEEE!
:-)
A:
Being Pre-Famous!
Which is what I am....at least today...and according to Anne Riley's blog. So go head over there and check out my pre-famous interview and SQUEEE!
:-)
Monday, March 22, 2010
Recovered NY Pics!
So after yesterday's epic recap about the Sourcebooks Party and calling out my sister for only having two pictures of our trip when I knew there were more...our other sister who is still in college and thus very smart solved the problem, discovering the malfunction or whatever it was with the memory card and voila, more pictures appeared (my family is sooooo tech savvy).
Anyway...umm...the pictures aren't that exciting, but I did make a big deal out of them and so after all the hoopla I have to share.
They're actually a little embarassing...I mean, we went to NYC and the most interesting shots are of us sitting on a train #picturefail I promise to take cooler pics the next time I'm in NYC and not lose them. I still maintain there are more than what you see here, but well...Enjoy!
Anyway...umm...the pictures aren't that exciting, but I did make a big deal out of them and so after all the hoopla I have to share.
They're actually a little embarassing...I mean, we went to NYC and the most interesting shots are of us sitting on a train #picturefail I promise to take cooler pics the next time I'm in NYC and not lose them. I still maintain there are more than what you see here, but well...Enjoy!
My sister Eva and me on the train to NY!
Eva, the one who lost the photos! Still love her though because she's my sister and totally adorable.
Me on a train--am I rocking your world yet? Do you want to check out those shoes?
Robyn Schneider aka Violet Haberdasher and me! And look!!! In the bottom left corner is a copy of Knightly Academy!! Because knights are awesome!!!
Here I am in Books of Wonder using my arms to express how much I love this store.
"Books of Wonder, I love you thiiiiiiiis much!"
Hehe, ok that's all folks!
Sourcebooks Launch Party Recap
Ok so I promised I'd tell you more details about my night and include pictures...well...slight snafu...maybe. See, I took along my sister Eva (yes, I'm calling you out) totally convincing her that she should just drop everything and come to NYC with me at the last possible second for a publishing party (because I can be that persuasive) but I also made lofty promises of we can get food at One Lucky Duck--an amazing raw vegan take-away (we dabble in raw foods and go raw from time to time on top of being vegan). And with promises like that...she accepted! Anyway, despite walking west for awhile on 17th street when we were supposed to go east (yeah...), we made it there and got salads, raw cookies and smoothies to die for!!! I'm not kidding! Their smoothies=heaven.
But so here's the other thing I trusted Eva to take the pictures and secure them. And believe me, we took pictures. Lots of pictures. But...apparently, only 2-- 2 I tell you --actually exist. Possible her digital camera is haunted...or technology failed...but Eva, I am very suspicious of what happened to the other pictures!
Alas, I won't allow the lack of pictures to keep me from recapping (cough though it did for a few days cough). I'm a writer, right? So I can write it out for you and paint the scene.
OK! So...Eva and I got to Books of Wonder for the launch party about half an hour early, because we're cool like that and to meet my friend Faye who I met last November at Books of Wonder when I went to see Suzanne Collins, Scott Westerfield, Justine Larbalestier, Kristin Cashore and The Libba Bray!
Then I met Robyn Schneider aka Violet Haberdasher, the awesome author of Knightly Academy. We took pictures...(ahem) but there aren't any to show....but here's one of her youtube videos to give you an idea of how awesome she is!
Anyway our conversation kind of went something like this.
Frankie: OMG you write about Knights!
Robyn: Because Knights are awesome!
Frankie: OMG I write about Knights!
Robyn: Because Knights are awesome!
I'm pretty sure there was also some intelligent conversation in there as well as a comparison of our worlds--sooo different. But I started reading Knightly Academy and it's AWESOME because...well, Knights are awesome. And if Robyn and I have any say in it then Knights will be the new vampires. So meeting her was awesome (how many times can I say awesome you ask? the answer: a lot) and you can expect to see some interviews and a review of Knightly Academy soon on the FNC.
I also got to meet and talk with a few agents (SQUEEEE) and say hi again to David Levithan (the uber awesome editor/writer extraordinaire who coordinated the whole NYC Teen Author Fest) and talk to Joanna Volpe again (uber-cool agent I met with Donna at Janet Reid's workshop), said hi to Barry Lyga, saw agents Ammi Joan Paquette, Tina Wexler, Edward Necarsulmer IV, Barry Goldblatt (who might as well be the equivalent of seeing Brad Pitt and Kate Winslet in my eyes) and then rocked out to Tiger Beat--Libba Bray's band and...seriously, the girl can rock, sing, dance, write songs, whatever--she was amazing!!!!!!!!!!
We finished up the night on a secret covert operation that involved Libba Bray and a video camera that was a lot of fun. I talked to Libba for a bit and she gave me even more inspiration to keep going with the writing journey (because she rules) and then...we went home!
So all in all, it was a great party! I had a blast and I got some vegan cookies. What more could a girl want?
Now....back to revisions!
But so here's the other thing I trusted Eva to take the pictures and secure them. And believe me, we took pictures. Lots of pictures. But...apparently, only 2-- 2 I tell you --actually exist. Possible her digital camera is haunted...or technology failed...but Eva, I am very suspicious of what happened to the other pictures!
Alas, I won't allow the lack of pictures to keep me from recapping (cough though it did for a few days cough). I'm a writer, right? So I can write it out for you and paint the scene.
OK! So...Eva and I got to Books of Wonder for the launch party about half an hour early, because we're cool like that and to meet my friend Faye who I met last November at Books of Wonder when I went to see Suzanne Collins, Scott Westerfield, Justine Larbalestier, Kristin Cashore and The Libba Bray!
Then I met Robyn Schneider aka Violet Haberdasher, the awesome author of Knightly Academy. We took pictures...(ahem) but there aren't any to show....but here's one of her youtube videos to give you an idea of how awesome she is!
Anyway our conversation kind of went something like this.
Frankie: OMG you write about Knights!
Robyn: Because Knights are awesome!
Frankie: OMG I write about Knights!
Robyn: Because Knights are awesome!
I'm pretty sure there was also some intelligent conversation in there as well as a comparison of our worlds--sooo different. But I started reading Knightly Academy and it's AWESOME because...well, Knights are awesome. And if Robyn and I have any say in it then Knights will be the new vampires. So meeting her was awesome (how many times can I say awesome you ask? the answer: a lot) and you can expect to see some interviews and a review of Knightly Academy soon on the FNC.
I also got to meet and talk with a few agents (SQUEEEE) and say hi again to David Levithan (the uber awesome editor/writer extraordinaire who coordinated the whole NYC Teen Author Fest) and talk to Joanna Volpe again (uber-cool agent I met with Donna at Janet Reid's workshop), said hi to Barry Lyga, saw agents Ammi Joan Paquette, Tina Wexler, Edward Necarsulmer IV, Barry Goldblatt (who might as well be the equivalent of seeing Brad Pitt and Kate Winslet in my eyes) and then rocked out to Tiger Beat--Libba Bray's band and...seriously, the girl can rock, sing, dance, write songs, whatever--she was amazing!!!!!!!!!!
And I got to see my friend Allary who not only has the coolest job in the world--she works at Books of Wonder, I know you're jealous (I am) but she also is David Levithan's student! SO jealous!
And of course, the stars aligned perfectly for the epic meeting of Frankie and LiLa!
Aka Lisa and Laura aka the Roecker sisters aka made of awesome!
So all in all, it was a great party! I had a blast and I got some vegan cookies. What more could a girl want?
Now....back to revisions!
Friday, March 19, 2010
Win The Body Finder Signed + Swag 400 Followers Contest!
OMG I hit 400 followers! *Happy Dance!* Yay!
So of course this means a contest and this time...trust me, you want in! Because I'm not just giving away just any book. I'm giving away...The Body Finder, by Kimberly Derting. And...I'm giving it away signed...personalized to you by Kimberly herself!
Well there's more. I'm also giving away a bunch of Swag, including The Body Finder poster (signed), The Body Finder bookmark (signed), The Body Finder stickers and it all comes in The Body Finder Tote Bag!!!!!!!(poster not pictured)
And now I'll show you how this works in case what I just said makes no sense.
So Buffy follows my blog and she sees my contest and gets really excited, "Oh, oh! Pretty! Want!" and she decides to enter my contest, "Hey, a girl needs reading material watching graves open all night." So she comments below and says, "The secret super power I wish I had would be...oh wait, I already have a secret super power. Can I have two?"
1 entry is awarded to Buffy!
But as Buffy thinks about it...The Body Finder Tote Bag would really come in handy for carrying stakes around and she really really wants to read the book. 1 entry isn't enough for her. She wants more!
So, she goes to Kendra.
Buffy: Hey Kendra, listen ,you have to go and follow Frankie's blog.
Kendra: What...is...a...Frankie's Blog? Does it kill vampires?
Buffy: No. It's this hilarious blog she writes about writing and other things like that and she's having this contest and if you enter--
Kendra: You are too focused on things other than slaying. Being a slayer is your--
Buffy: My privilege, my fate, my destiny, blah blah blah. Did I tell you Frankie's giving awayThe Body Finder Tote Bag a Stake Holder Bag?
Kendra: Stake...holder...bag?
Buffy: Oh for the love of slaying! Just read her blog...
Kendra: Oh...this is funny. The Body Finder...oooh. Ok. I'll follow.
Buffy: Great, now let's slay!
And Bam! 1 entry is awarded to Kendra and 2 entries go to Buffy!
But as Kendra thinks about it some more, she realizes..."I never had aThe Body Finder Tote Bag Stake Holder Bag! I want a Stake Holder Bag." So...because she doesn't talk to anyone else, she goes to Giles.
Kendra: I was um...wondering if...you might want to read a blog?
Giles: A blog? Oh yes, an online journal, the modern version of a diary. Uh...who writes the blog? Is it a watcher's? I would rather enjoy reading about the trainings of another slayer.
Kendra: It's Frankie's blog.
Giles: Hmmmm. I don't know of any Frankies from the Watcher's Council. But I missed the last retreat...it was up in the mountains and I heard they had the most exquisite tea and--
Kendra: She's not a watcher.
Giles: A slayer then?
Kendra: She's a writer.
Giles: ...
Kendra: If you follow her blog and enter her contest you might win aThe Body Finder Tote Bag Stake Holder Bag Watcher's Diary Holder Bag. And The Body Finder book signed to you by Kimberly Derting.
Giles: Oh a bag for my diaries...well let me sign online and...ooh. This Frankie's Blog is more fun to read than the diaries of Watcher Alvin the Brave. I'm going to be one of the Cool People!
Buffy: Giles...it doesn't literally make you cool. So don't start popping your collar or anything.
Kendra: Shhhhhh. He's helping us win the Stake Holder Bag.
Buffy: Oooh *high five*
So 3 entries go to Buffy, 2 go to Kendra and 1 goes to Giles!
Ok got it!
And oh yeah...old followers/cool people automatically get doube entries (so make sure you let me know you've been following).
Alright that's it! Have fun! Contest ends March 30th at 11:59PM!
So of course this means a contest and this time...trust me, you want in! Because I'm not just giving away just any book. I'm giving away...The Body Finder, by Kimberly Derting. And...I'm giving it away signed...personalized to you by Kimberly herself!
Cool huh?
Well there's more. I'm also giving away a bunch of Swag, including The Body Finder poster (signed), The Body Finder bookmark (signed), The Body Finder stickers and it all comes in The Body Finder Tote Bag!!!!!!!So....to win all of this extreme and utter fabulousness from Kimberly Derting (via me)...here's how we roll. Cool people, you know the drill, future cool people, these are the rules!
Go and click the follow button on my blog and instantly you'll find yourself a cool person! Then leave a comment below and tell me what secret super/paranormal/whatever power you wish had. That's it!
Want more votes? Bring a friend over to my blog and make sure they tell me you sent them and I'll give you an extra vote! For every friend you send, your name gets entered again. AND if your referral makes a referral than you get more chances from that too because I grandfather in the votes (its a labor of love). So please get creative and tweet, blog, facebook, beg, bribe...ummm just figure out a way to get more friends over here so you have more chances to win, ok? :-)
1 entry is awarded to Buffy!
But as Buffy thinks about it...The Body Finder Tote Bag would really come in handy for carrying stakes around and she really really wants to read the book. 1 entry isn't enough for her. She wants more!
Buffy: Hey Kendra, listen ,you have to go and follow Frankie's blog.
Kendra: What...is...a...Frankie's Blog? Does it kill vampires?
Buffy: No. It's this hilarious blog she writes about writing and other things like that and she's having this contest and if you enter--
Kendra: You are too focused on things other than slaying. Being a slayer is your--
Buffy: My privilege, my fate, my destiny, blah blah blah. Did I tell you Frankie's giving away
Kendra: Stake...holder...bag?
Buffy: Oh for the love of slaying! Just read her blog...
Kendra: Oh...this is funny. The Body Finder...oooh. Ok. I'll follow.
Buffy: Great, now let's slay!
And Bam! 1 entry is awarded to Kendra and 2 entries go to Buffy!
But as Kendra thinks about it some more, she realizes..."I never had a
Kendra: I was um...wondering if...you might want to read a blog?
Giles: A blog? Oh yes, an online journal, the modern version of a diary. Uh...who writes the blog? Is it a watcher's? I would rather enjoy reading about the trainings of another slayer. Kendra: It's Frankie's blog.
Giles: Hmmmm. I don't know of any Frankies from the Watcher's Council. But I missed the last retreat...it was up in the mountains and I heard they had the most exquisite tea and--
Kendra: She's not a watcher.
Giles: A slayer then?
Kendra: She's a writer.
Giles: ...
Kendra: If you follow her blog and enter her contest you might win a
Giles: Oh a bag for my diaries...well let me sign online and...ooh. This Frankie's Blog is more fun to read than the diaries of Watcher Alvin the Brave. I'm going to be one of the Cool People!
Buffy: Giles...it doesn't literally make you cool. So don't start popping your collar or anything.
Kendra: Shhhhhh. He's helping us win the Stake Holder Bag.
Buffy: Oooh *high five*
So 3 entries go to Buffy, 2 go to Kendra and 1 goes to Giles!
Ok got it!
And oh yeah...old followers/cool people automatically get doube entries (so make sure you let me know you've been following).
Alright that's it! Have fun! Contest ends March 30th at 11:59PM!
Friday Five: NY Edition
Because I'm so behind on blogging this week for various reasons, one of which is because I was in NY last night at the best event ever, The Sourcebooks Launch Party at Books of Wonder featuring the band Tiger Beat (made up of Libba Bray and other writers and editors)...and don't have time for a full post I thought I'd do a five!
1) Lisa and Laura are ridiculously funny and pretty and sweet in real life...I know because I met them last night! SQUEEEEEEEEE! I promise, I will have more details on hanging out with them and other seriously cool people soon + pictures. Yes, pictures!
2)Libba Bray can freaking sing and rock out like it's no one's bussiness. I mean, if she wasn't a writer (and I'm SO glad she is) she could totally just be a rock star.
3) I got the cacao latte at One Lucky Duck yesterday...it was this raw, vegan smoothie of heaven that felt like an...well...it was AMAZING and almost worth a trip to NY for one sip alone. Seriously, I think I just drooled a little thinking about it.
4) Books of Wonder is my new favorite book store. I love the books, I love the atmosphere, love the events and I love the staff! Hi Allary!
5) Ok...this isn't NY but thanks soooo much for all of the comments you've been leaving about the PG Love Fest post that has turned into the saga of Roselyn and Christian. I promise I will continue and stop leaving you all hanging on the cliffhanger. And yes, I really am pantsting this, I have NO idea what's going to happen next.
6) I know it's called the Friday Five, but math isn't my thing. So here's one more. 400 followers contest coming soon!!!
1) Lisa and Laura are ridiculously funny and pretty and sweet in real life...I know because I met them last night! SQUEEEEEEEEE! I promise, I will have more details on hanging out with them and other seriously cool people soon + pictures. Yes, pictures!
2)Libba Bray can freaking sing and rock out like it's no one's bussiness. I mean, if she wasn't a writer (and I'm SO glad she is) she could totally just be a rock star.
3) I got the cacao latte at One Lucky Duck yesterday...it was this raw, vegan smoothie of heaven that felt like an...well...it was AMAZING and almost worth a trip to NY for one sip alone. Seriously, I think I just drooled a little thinking about it.
4) Books of Wonder is my new favorite book store. I love the books, I love the atmosphere, love the events and I love the staff! Hi Allary!
5) Ok...this isn't NY but thanks soooo much for all of the comments you've been leaving about the PG Love Fest post that has turned into the saga of Roselyn and Christian. I promise I will continue and stop leaving you all hanging on the cliffhanger. And yes, I really am pantsting this, I have NO idea what's going to happen next.
6) I know it's called the Friday Five, but math isn't my thing. So here's one more. 400 followers contest coming soon!!!
Monday, March 15, 2010
PG Love Fest Part 2
You guys are awesome! I really appreciate all of the comments from my PG Love Fest Post and because SO many of you seemed determined to find out what happens next for doomed lovers Roselyn and Christian and horrible Raoul...I decided I'd just keep writing and see.
So in keeping with the theme here of this being a challenge, I'm pantsing this (writing without an outline). I honestly have no clue what's going to happen, if Christian's banishment will mean leaving the country or going to the block. I'm a hardcore outliner, so the pantsing is part of the fun. Let me know what you think:-)
It was the sound of a scream that woke me. My eyes fluttering open, I was first aware of an arm resting on my stomach. Christian's. And then I saw the white sheet, stained with my blood. It was in the hands of my mother, her face grim, and her knuckles white where she clenched the material. The shriek had come from Jocelyn upon seeing my disgrace. And then the events of the night returned.
"Up," my mother said. Her voice was icier than I'd ever heard before. A shiver of terror ran through me.
I rose to my feet, feeling Christain stir beside me. Jocelyn moved to bring my robe, but my mother slapped me hard across the face with such a force I fell to the ground.
"You insolant fool! How could you do this!" She slapped me again, and followed her assault by stuffing my bloodied sheet in my mouth. I coughed and sputtered, gasping for breath and trying not wretch from the taste of my filth. I clawed at my mother's hands but she only pushed the sheets further in. Faintly I was aware of Jocelyn crying and then Christian yelling at her to stop.
"I forced her," he cried. "It was my fault. She said no. Arrest me and leave her be."
She pulled the sheets away and strong arms encircled my waist pulling me to my feet. I glanced once at my mother, her face cold and hard, her eyes black. And I buried my face in Christian's chest as he wrapped his arms around me. How could a woman who'd birthed me look upon me with such hate?
"I see the effects of your forced entry. I never knew it was quite so common for victims to seek comfort in the arms of their assailant." She slapped Jocelyn hard across the face this time, unwilling to attack me when held by a man far stronger than she.
"I didn't want to marry Raoul," I sobbed. "It was the only way I could think to stop it. How could you have sold me to man like that?"
"He's a prince," my mother snarled. "And you're a princess. Have you forgotten your station? You're the first servant to the king and this was his decree, you wanton child. Raoul will secure our alliance with France. You know war is brewing. Your father cannot leave our territory unguarded. You had no choice"
"He'll have no choice," I said, stepping away from Christian. I clutched at my stomach, feeling a mixture of soreness in my belly and nausea. What I'd done was truly sinking in.
"Clean her up, Jocelyn," my mother ordered. "We're keeping this indiscretion between us. I'll keep Raoul's cup full so he doesn't know the difference when he goes to take your maidenhead tonight. Jocelyn you'll produce these sheets in the morning. And you boy." She turned on Christian. "I will personally escort you from the palace myself."
"Mother, no!"
This time she did slap me. Christian moved forward but I pulled on his arms. If he attacked the queen it would mean the block. He'd be laid in a grave the moment I lay down in bed.
A moment passed, all four of us standing tense and not knowing what to do. My only comfort came from knowing that at least thus far, Christian's life did not seem to be in danger. She could not order his execution without approval from the king, and my father would not kill the son of a councilman without just cause. My mother could not reveal the cause without stopping the marriage. And so he was safe.
But I wasn't. I'd given Christian everything in the hopes that it would save me but it was not enough. I was still to marry Raoul. What more could be done? What power did one have when as high as their station was, they were the most likely pawn of the king?
I closed my eyes, remembering a moment of tenderness with Christian, a soft kiss on my cheek, a brush of his hand, a willingness to be gentle. A willingness to lose his life. If Christian walked out of this alive, then it was more than I could hope for.
The door opened.
"How now my bride and my wife?"
Raoul's stench assaulted my nose as his eyes flickered from me to Christian, to my mother, to Jocelyn, to the sight of my ruined sheets, and back to Christian. The look on his face reminded me of one thing. A viper.
So in keeping with the theme here of this being a challenge, I'm pantsing this (writing without an outline). I honestly have no clue what's going to happen, if Christian's banishment will mean leaving the country or going to the block. I'm a hardcore outliner, so the pantsing is part of the fun. Let me know what you think:-)
It was the sound of a scream that woke me. My eyes fluttering open, I was first aware of an arm resting on my stomach. Christian's. And then I saw the white sheet, stained with my blood. It was in the hands of my mother, her face grim, and her knuckles white where she clenched the material. The shriek had come from Jocelyn upon seeing my disgrace. And then the events of the night returned.
"Up," my mother said. Her voice was icier than I'd ever heard before. A shiver of terror ran through me.
I rose to my feet, feeling Christain stir beside me. Jocelyn moved to bring my robe, but my mother slapped me hard across the face with such a force I fell to the ground.
"You insolant fool! How could you do this!" She slapped me again, and followed her assault by stuffing my bloodied sheet in my mouth. I coughed and sputtered, gasping for breath and trying not wretch from the taste of my filth. I clawed at my mother's hands but she only pushed the sheets further in. Faintly I was aware of Jocelyn crying and then Christian yelling at her to stop.
"I forced her," he cried. "It was my fault. She said no. Arrest me and leave her be."
She pulled the sheets away and strong arms encircled my waist pulling me to my feet. I glanced once at my mother, her face cold and hard, her eyes black. And I buried my face in Christian's chest as he wrapped his arms around me. How could a woman who'd birthed me look upon me with such hate?
"I see the effects of your forced entry. I never knew it was quite so common for victims to seek comfort in the arms of their assailant." She slapped Jocelyn hard across the face this time, unwilling to attack me when held by a man far stronger than she.
"I didn't want to marry Raoul," I sobbed. "It was the only way I could think to stop it. How could you have sold me to man like that?"
"He's a prince," my mother snarled. "And you're a princess. Have you forgotten your station? You're the first servant to the king and this was his decree, you wanton child. Raoul will secure our alliance with France. You know war is brewing. Your father cannot leave our territory unguarded. You had no choice"
"He'll have no choice," I said, stepping away from Christian. I clutched at my stomach, feeling a mixture of soreness in my belly and nausea. What I'd done was truly sinking in.
"Clean her up, Jocelyn," my mother ordered. "We're keeping this indiscretion between us. I'll keep Raoul's cup full so he doesn't know the difference when he goes to take your maidenhead tonight. Jocelyn you'll produce these sheets in the morning. And you boy." She turned on Christian. "I will personally escort you from the palace myself."
"Mother, no!"
This time she did slap me. Christian moved forward but I pulled on his arms. If he attacked the queen it would mean the block. He'd be laid in a grave the moment I lay down in bed.
A moment passed, all four of us standing tense and not knowing what to do. My only comfort came from knowing that at least thus far, Christian's life did not seem to be in danger. She could not order his execution without approval from the king, and my father would not kill the son of a councilman without just cause. My mother could not reveal the cause without stopping the marriage. And so he was safe.
But I wasn't. I'd given Christian everything in the hopes that it would save me but it was not enough. I was still to marry Raoul. What more could be done? What power did one have when as high as their station was, they were the most likely pawn of the king?
I closed my eyes, remembering a moment of tenderness with Christian, a soft kiss on my cheek, a brush of his hand, a willingness to be gentle. A willingness to lose his life. If Christian walked out of this alive, then it was more than I could hope for.
The door opened.
"How now my bride and my wife?"
Raoul's stench assaulted my nose as his eyes flickered from me to Christian, to my mother, to Jocelyn, to the sight of my ruined sheets, and back to Christian. The look on his face reminded me of one thing. A viper.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
PG LOVE FEST
OMG I cannot believe I actually have to write this. I still maintain my innocence--I was asleep when the alleged conversation leading to these shenanigans this blogfest occurred and somehow I'm still roped in. Just because I'm friends with certain people. I tell you, this is the last time I make friends on the internet. Ok that's a lie. Friends are so overrated. Ok that's a lie too. I love my friends. But ugh!!! Why are you making me do this???????? WHYYYYYYYYYY!!!!
Ok, I'll stop complaining because the idea behind it...a PG rated love scene...and by love scene, we mean love scene is to challenge you. Challenges are cool. This is a big challenge for me because A) I tend to write so descriptively that letting me write something completely PG isn't a good idea and B) I write upper YA, not MG which is required for the PG Love Fest. So theoretically my blog is still rated PG, but somehow this post makes me feel like it's not....at least today. I don't care what this blogfest is called, it doesn't feel PG!
Make sure you go over to Simon's blog today and harass him. Also comment on his post. He's the king of this fest and you might as well enjoy the spoils of war...or rather, spoils of twitter and hop over to read the other entries in the fest.
Also...I forgot that the fest was today, so I had to whip this up fast.
Also, it was daylight savings.
The bad kind, not the good.
I am sleep deprived.
Can anyone send me vegan chocolate?
Ok now I'm just stalling.
Ugh.
Here I go.
Wait...
Have your eyes glazed over yet from my excessive wordiness?
No?
Ugh.
Ok, here we go.
The dust had not even settled from Raoul's riding cloak and boots when my father signed the contract for our marriage. I'd never dreamed it could happen so fast. One moment the guard was welcoming him to the castle, and the next, he was kneeling in the throne room, shaking my father's hand changing the course of my life forever.
I watched the scene unfold in horror from behind a curtain, clutching the hand of Jocelyn, my first lady in waiting. The last three suitors had been turned away with ease. I was too young. He was not worth my dowry. The prince did not follow the right form of our religion. Each one I had managed to stop before it happened, throw a suggestion or idea my father's way and convince him to wait. The next suitor would be the one. We still had time.
Not this time.
My time was up.
I sat in my chambers with a painting depicting the likeness of Raoul in my lap. He was three times my age, and fat, with a weak leg that smelled of pus and other putrid things I did not wish to identify. His mustache curved down in a frown, and his eyes were unkind. I tossed the picture on the ground, only slightly satisified that I'd used enough force to shatter the glass encasing it. But a broken portrait would not repair my broken life. I thought surely I'd have a reprieve of at least a year, a chance to continue my life as Princess in my country, and make it through the rest of my studies with my tutor until my sixteenth birthday.
The wedding was set for tomorrow.
Tears brimmed in my eyes until sobs wracked through my body, and hysteria and fear of being married to a man like Raoul consumed me. I'd never even shared a kiss, and now I'd play his wife? I couldn't...couldn't even think on that. Not even Jocelyn could offer comfort. And my mother the Queen shut me from the royal chambers once she understood I meant to plead for a stop to this union. But with allies needed under the threat of war she could not be persuaded.
The sun set and Jocelyn removed my day gown, unlacing the ribbons of my corset which hung unusually loose--a result of my inability to keep down my supper. After I splashed water on my face and used the cloth on my body, she helped me pull on my night shift. Goosebumps rose on my arms and she moved to light my fireplace. The room had a chill, though I knew it was not the temperature that left me so cold.
"My lady, I must take my leave to the servant's quarters before the doors are locked. Are you well?"
I gazed out my window, through the cross of iron bars that blocked me from freedom. Even if the bars weren't there, escape from this high would end in my death.
I considered the thought. Was life worth living if I had to marry Raoul? I'd heard enough gossip from the servants to know what I should expect from my marriage bed. And enough intrigue from nobles, fresh from their travels with the French ambassador, to know that sharing a marriage bed with Raoul would be worse.
Another tear ran down my cheek and I pressed my face into the cold stone wall so she would not see. "Yes, Jocelyn. I am well. Take your leave."
"My lady..." Her hesitation to leave shined through her voice.
"You may take your leave."
I waited until the door closed before I fell to my knees.
Only a moment later, my door reopened and I sprang to my feet, ready to scold Jocelyn for her return. Though she meant well, she offered me no comfort and it was unseemly for the Princess to cry before a servant. But when I looked up, I saw Christian standing in my doorway. He dropped to his knees in a low bow, too severe for his noble station.
"My lady, I must ask that you forgive the intrusion. I know this is most unseemly, but..." he lifted his chin high enough for our eyes to meet, "I had to see you."
"My father will hang you for such disgraced behavior." It was the standard response, but what meaning did it have anymore?
"I'll be disgraced anyway," he said rising to his feet. "You're to be married." He closed the door behind him and was at my side the next instant, pulling me to my feet.
Christian's father sat on the royal council. And as the son of a nobleman, born a forte night before I was, we'd grown up as classmates, and play friends. I'd always felt rather fond toward him. But never had he come to seek me out on his own. And certainly not in a place as inappropriate as my sleep chambers.
"How did you find entry?" I asked. Even though Jocelyn had retired to the servants quarters, there were still guards to deny entry. No one but my ladies and my mother, the Queen had ever been in here. I took a step back.
"You're crying," he said, not answering my question.
I looked away, forgetting the state of my face. My complexion would not have fared any better, but I suddenly found I did not care. What did it matter? What did any of it matter?
"My lady, I saw the look on your face when they announced the engagement. You do not find the match favorable."
"Favorable!" I scoffed. "My husband is an odious creature."
My husband....the words made the tears fall freshly from my eyes and I found myself sitting in Christian's lap, sobbing like an infant.
"It's hopeless," I cried. Images of Raoul forcing himself on me invaded my mind and I sobbed even harder.
Christian brushed his fingers over my cheeks to dry the latest onset of tears.
"What if all hope is not lost?"
I looked up. "What hope can there be unless a counter offer is made before sunset? And even then, I doubt my father would dare break from his new alliance with France."
Christian sighed. "I tried, but my offer was denied."
I stared wide eyed. "You proposed a marriage to me?"
"I have always loved you, Roselyn."
I gasped. More so from his use of my name than his admission of love. The nobles always referred to me as lady. But then his words began to sink and I knew there was truth behind them.
Christian. Christian I could have lived with. He would have made me happy. Sharing his bed would have been pleasant. But that future was dead before it started. Why had he not made his intentions known sooner? His family owned enough property, it would have been easy for my father to bestow him with a dukedom.
I buried my face against his chest. "It's too late now for such pretty words."
"I know. But I had to come and tell you, and offer you whatever comfort I could."
"My only comfort now can come from a release of my betrothal, something that would only happen if Raoul decided to cancel." I stiffened and looked deep into Christian's brown eyes. "There might be a way," I said slowly. "Do you swear you love me?"
"Yes, Roselyn, of course."
"Do you swear that you wish to offer me comfort, even at the cost of your life?"
Christian hesitated, but he said, "Yes. My fealty has always lain with you. For your love, I would give my life."
It was all I needed to hear. I stood then and pulled Christian to his feet leading him to my bed. "Raoul's a prince of France. The paternity of his heir must not be questioned. If I came to him a ruined bride, he'd have cause to reject me."
Christian's mouth fell open. "My lady...what you're saying is...I'd be banished, and so would you."
"I know." I could see my banishment now. It would be horrible and poor Christian would lose everything. But a lifetime of nights with Raoul was enough to give me my resolve. "Please." My voice shook, fear mingled with desperation. "If you love me, than show me tonight how much you do. Grant my request."
Christian's eyes squeezed shut, and when he opened them I saw his jaw set. Then ever so lightly, he pressed his lips to mine, and we crawled under the covers. I drew the curtains closed to make us blind. And in total darkness, I pulled his body close. He entwined my fingers with his, never letting go of my hand. Over and over again he apologized and I cried in between reassuring him it was okay. Then we hung my sheets when it was over. My task was complete.
I kept the curtain half open, the material wide enough to let in the light from the moon. Christian wrapped his arms around me, and beneath a silvery glow, we began to drift to sleep.
Just before losing consciousness I prayed that my banishment would be quick. And I prayed that Christian's would be more than just a euphemism for the block. Either way, my time was up. At least this way I had chosen the moment and with whom it would end--more could not be asked for when you were the daughter of a king.
Ok, I'll stop complaining because the idea behind it...a PG rated love scene...and by love scene, we mean love scene is to challenge you. Challenges are cool. This is a big challenge for me because A) I tend to write so descriptively that letting me write something completely PG isn't a good idea and B) I write upper YA, not MG which is required for the PG Love Fest. So theoretically my blog is still rated PG, but somehow this post makes me feel like it's not....at least today. I don't care what this blogfest is called, it doesn't feel PG!
Make sure you go over to Simon's blog today and harass him. Also comment on his post. He's the king of this fest and you might as well enjoy the spoils of war...or rather, spoils of twitter and hop over to read the other entries in the fest.
Also...I forgot that the fest was today, so I had to whip this up fast.
Also, it was daylight savings.
The bad kind, not the good.
I am sleep deprived.
Can anyone send me vegan chocolate?
Ok now I'm just stalling.
Ugh.
Here I go.
Wait...
Have your eyes glazed over yet from my excessive wordiness?
No?
Ugh.
Ok, here we go.
The dust had not even settled from Raoul's riding cloak and boots when my father signed the contract for our marriage. I'd never dreamed it could happen so fast. One moment the guard was welcoming him to the castle, and the next, he was kneeling in the throne room, shaking my father's hand changing the course of my life forever.
I watched the scene unfold in horror from behind a curtain, clutching the hand of Jocelyn, my first lady in waiting. The last three suitors had been turned away with ease. I was too young. He was not worth my dowry. The prince did not follow the right form of our religion. Each one I had managed to stop before it happened, throw a suggestion or idea my father's way and convince him to wait. The next suitor would be the one. We still had time.
Not this time.
My time was up.
I sat in my chambers with a painting depicting the likeness of Raoul in my lap. He was three times my age, and fat, with a weak leg that smelled of pus and other putrid things I did not wish to identify. His mustache curved down in a frown, and his eyes were unkind. I tossed the picture on the ground, only slightly satisified that I'd used enough force to shatter the glass encasing it. But a broken portrait would not repair my broken life. I thought surely I'd have a reprieve of at least a year, a chance to continue my life as Princess in my country, and make it through the rest of my studies with my tutor until my sixteenth birthday.
The wedding was set for tomorrow.
Tears brimmed in my eyes until sobs wracked through my body, and hysteria and fear of being married to a man like Raoul consumed me. I'd never even shared a kiss, and now I'd play his wife? I couldn't...couldn't even think on that. Not even Jocelyn could offer comfort. And my mother the Queen shut me from the royal chambers once she understood I meant to plead for a stop to this union. But with allies needed under the threat of war she could not be persuaded.
The sun set and Jocelyn removed my day gown, unlacing the ribbons of my corset which hung unusually loose--a result of my inability to keep down my supper. After I splashed water on my face and used the cloth on my body, she helped me pull on my night shift. Goosebumps rose on my arms and she moved to light my fireplace. The room had a chill, though I knew it was not the temperature that left me so cold.
"My lady, I must take my leave to the servant's quarters before the doors are locked. Are you well?"
I gazed out my window, through the cross of iron bars that blocked me from freedom. Even if the bars weren't there, escape from this high would end in my death.
I considered the thought. Was life worth living if I had to marry Raoul? I'd heard enough gossip from the servants to know what I should expect from my marriage bed. And enough intrigue from nobles, fresh from their travels with the French ambassador, to know that sharing a marriage bed with Raoul would be worse.
Another tear ran down my cheek and I pressed my face into the cold stone wall so she would not see. "Yes, Jocelyn. I am well. Take your leave."
"My lady..." Her hesitation to leave shined through her voice.
"You may take your leave."
I waited until the door closed before I fell to my knees.
Only a moment later, my door reopened and I sprang to my feet, ready to scold Jocelyn for her return. Though she meant well, she offered me no comfort and it was unseemly for the Princess to cry before a servant. But when I looked up, I saw Christian standing in my doorway. He dropped to his knees in a low bow, too severe for his noble station.
"My lady, I must ask that you forgive the intrusion. I know this is most unseemly, but..." he lifted his chin high enough for our eyes to meet, "I had to see you."
"My father will hang you for such disgraced behavior." It was the standard response, but what meaning did it have anymore?
"I'll be disgraced anyway," he said rising to his feet. "You're to be married." He closed the door behind him and was at my side the next instant, pulling me to my feet.
Christian's father sat on the royal council. And as the son of a nobleman, born a forte night before I was, we'd grown up as classmates, and play friends. I'd always felt rather fond toward him. But never had he come to seek me out on his own. And certainly not in a place as inappropriate as my sleep chambers.
"How did you find entry?" I asked. Even though Jocelyn had retired to the servants quarters, there were still guards to deny entry. No one but my ladies and my mother, the Queen had ever been in here. I took a step back.
"You're crying," he said, not answering my question.
I looked away, forgetting the state of my face. My complexion would not have fared any better, but I suddenly found I did not care. What did it matter? What did any of it matter?
"My lady, I saw the look on your face when they announced the engagement. You do not find the match favorable."
"Favorable!" I scoffed. "My husband is an odious creature."
My husband....the words made the tears fall freshly from my eyes and I found myself sitting in Christian's lap, sobbing like an infant.
"It's hopeless," I cried. Images of Raoul forcing himself on me invaded my mind and I sobbed even harder.
Christian brushed his fingers over my cheeks to dry the latest onset of tears.
"What if all hope is not lost?"
I looked up. "What hope can there be unless a counter offer is made before sunset? And even then, I doubt my father would dare break from his new alliance with France."
Christian sighed. "I tried, but my offer was denied."
I stared wide eyed. "You proposed a marriage to me?"
"I have always loved you, Roselyn."
I gasped. More so from his use of my name than his admission of love. The nobles always referred to me as lady. But then his words began to sink and I knew there was truth behind them.
Christian. Christian I could have lived with. He would have made me happy. Sharing his bed would have been pleasant. But that future was dead before it started. Why had he not made his intentions known sooner? His family owned enough property, it would have been easy for my father to bestow him with a dukedom.
I buried my face against his chest. "It's too late now for such pretty words."
"I know. But I had to come and tell you, and offer you whatever comfort I could."
"My only comfort now can come from a release of my betrothal, something that would only happen if Raoul decided to cancel." I stiffened and looked deep into Christian's brown eyes. "There might be a way," I said slowly. "Do you swear you love me?"
"Yes, Roselyn, of course."
"Do you swear that you wish to offer me comfort, even at the cost of your life?"
Christian hesitated, but he said, "Yes. My fealty has always lain with you. For your love, I would give my life."
It was all I needed to hear. I stood then and pulled Christian to his feet leading him to my bed. "Raoul's a prince of France. The paternity of his heir must not be questioned. If I came to him a ruined bride, he'd have cause to reject me."
Christian's mouth fell open. "My lady...what you're saying is...I'd be banished, and so would you."
"I know." I could see my banishment now. It would be horrible and poor Christian would lose everything. But a lifetime of nights with Raoul was enough to give me my resolve. "Please." My voice shook, fear mingled with desperation. "If you love me, than show me tonight how much you do. Grant my request."
Christian's eyes squeezed shut, and when he opened them I saw his jaw set. Then ever so lightly, he pressed his lips to mine, and we crawled under the covers. I drew the curtains closed to make us blind. And in total darkness, I pulled his body close. He entwined my fingers with his, never letting go of my hand. Over and over again he apologized and I cried in between reassuring him it was okay. Then we hung my sheets when it was over. My task was complete.
I kept the curtain half open, the material wide enough to let in the light from the moon. Christian wrapped his arms around me, and beneath a silvery glow, we began to drift to sleep.
Just before losing consciousness I prayed that my banishment would be quick. And I prayed that Christian's would be more than just a euphemism for the block. Either way, my time was up. At least this way I had chosen the moment and with whom it would end--more could not be asked for when you were the daughter of a king.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Line Editing...
Is what I've mostly been up to the last few days...going in for those itty bitty nitty gritty things that once fixed make my book sparkle and shine. It's nice, it's kind of relaxing...it's also kind of boring--besides when I line edit some steamy kisses;)
I know some writers LOVE line editing...but line editing doesn't really whip me into a verbal frenzy. <--Points if you know what movie I bastardized that quote from.
So since I have only a luke warm relationship with line editing, I thought I'd share mmy absolute favorite thing in the world-Writing the rough draft. I love the rush and excitement and the way the story just kind of unfolds so freshly around you, and it's all new and exciting and you're in like a protective shell where SNIS can't come near you. Even though I technically was writing, rewriting and rough drafting my book for two years, the actual rough draft that would become my book took 6 weeks. It was probably the best 6 weeks of my writing life, and I seriously cannot wait to do it again.
What's your favorite part? The ideas? The brainstorming? Outlining? Rough drafting? Revising? Editing?
Also... I have deleted about 10,000 words so far. Yeah. I rock.
I know some writers LOVE line editing...but line editing doesn't really whip me into a verbal frenzy. <--Points if you know what movie I bastardized that quote from.
So since I have only a luke warm relationship with line editing, I thought I'd share mmy absolute favorite thing in the world-Writing the rough draft. I love the rush and excitement and the way the story just kind of unfolds so freshly around you, and it's all new and exciting and you're in like a protective shell where SNIS can't come near you. Even though I technically was writing, rewriting and rough drafting my book for two years, the actual rough draft that would become my book took 6 weeks. It was probably the best 6 weeks of my writing life, and I seriously cannot wait to do it again.
What's your favorite part? The ideas? The brainstorming? Outlining? Rough drafting? Revising? Editing?
Also... I have deleted about 10,000 words so far. Yeah. I rock.
Friday, March 12, 2010
All About Book Series
I am literally counting down the days until certain books in different series I'm reading are released. One is coming at the end of this month, another in May, another in August, one in October...if you know me well enough I bet you can tell me every single book I'm anticipating. And boy am I! I actually pencil in book release dates into my planner before I pencil in birthdays...er...well...ok I do! I mean, facebook keeps track of birthdays for you;) I also try to bribe or flirt with book sellers to pull books out for me the day before their release...I mean, I KNOW they're in the back room, and seriously, if it's a soft release date where's the harm...
Anyway, I'm not a huge re-reader except for several outstanding faves, but I do like to reread a series just before a new book is released. So this week I did...and now...I'm kind of sorry. Because the waiting is quite possibly going to kill me.
And it kind of made me wonder, how do you guys feel about book series/approach them.
Honestly, I'm the kind of person who likes to come in near the end. Some masochistic part of me enjoys the waiting, and the prolonged anticipation and excitement of a new release, plus the chance to stalk message boards and search for a mixture of theories and spoilers. But...only to a certain extent. I like being able to zip through several books of a great story in one sweep.
As much as I pride myself on being one of the first to read The Hunger Games (and yes I was, I had an arc....more about what I'm thinking of doing with that arc later *wink wink*) I kind of envy those people who haven't started yet, because soon you can actually read all three books at once and rest easy instead of spending the better part of two years biting your nails like I have. I came into the Harry Potter series when there were 4 books released, which was AWESOME and then horrible. Twilight caught me when there were already 3 books out. Luckily, I got to zip through The Mortal Instruments in one ride.
But after rereading this series which seriously guts me more than anything I've ever read....I'm wondering how much more I can take. I'm only a fan of series that have grand arcs, one overlying story spread across each book, instead of individual adventures. And I'm starting to feel like, OMG I can't stand the waiting anymore....I'm not exactly the most patient person in the world ;)
So anyway, how do you feel about series? Are you a fan? Do you like being able to follow a character for a long time? Or do you need to have the entire story wrapped up in one go? Do you torture yourself with waiting for new releases? Or are you the sort of person who waits until a series is complete (with good reviews) and then starts reading.
And if you're like me and writing a series....do you think you're going to torture your readers the way my favorite authors are torturing me (in a good way)?
Anyway, I'm not a huge re-reader except for several outstanding faves, but I do like to reread a series just before a new book is released. So this week I did...and now...I'm kind of sorry. Because the waiting is quite possibly going to kill me.
And it kind of made me wonder, how do you guys feel about book series/approach them.
Honestly, I'm the kind of person who likes to come in near the end. Some masochistic part of me enjoys the waiting, and the prolonged anticipation and excitement of a new release, plus the chance to stalk message boards and search for a mixture of theories and spoilers. But...only to a certain extent. I like being able to zip through several books of a great story in one sweep.
As much as I pride myself on being one of the first to read The Hunger Games (and yes I was, I had an arc....more about what I'm thinking of doing with that arc later *wink wink*) I kind of envy those people who haven't started yet, because soon you can actually read all three books at once and rest easy instead of spending the better part of two years biting your nails like I have. I came into the Harry Potter series when there were 4 books released, which was AWESOME and then horrible. Twilight caught me when there were already 3 books out. Luckily, I got to zip through The Mortal Instruments in one ride.
But after rereading this series which seriously guts me more than anything I've ever read....I'm wondering how much more I can take. I'm only a fan of series that have grand arcs, one overlying story spread across each book, instead of individual adventures. And I'm starting to feel like, OMG I can't stand the waiting anymore....I'm not exactly the most patient person in the world ;)
So anyway, how do you feel about series? Are you a fan? Do you like being able to follow a character for a long time? Or do you need to have the entire story wrapped up in one go? Do you torture yourself with waiting for new releases? Or are you the sort of person who waits until a series is complete (with good reviews) and then starts reading.
And if you're like me and writing a series....do you think you're going to torture your readers the way my favorite authors are torturing me (in a good way)?
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Agent Deal With The Universe
OK... so after a mini impromptu blog-cation taken at the last second (I got a really good deal on flights...errrr life caught up with me), I tallied up your votes and took your suggestions about what deal to make with the Universe for when I query agents and finally fall head over heels in love with an agent who loves me too. Yays.
So here are your results.
Coming in 3rd place with only 4 votes was Reenactment of a Scene from Mean Girls. Sorry to those who voted for that one, everyone else apparently was not interested in being subjected to anymore of my bad acting.
Coming in 2nd place with 5 votes was Walking Around Barnes and Noble Telling Total Strangers I had an Agent. Some of you were really excited but...10 votes were given to option number 3.
Which means....
Dear Universe, I promise you that when I sign with an uber fabulous literary agent, I will dress up as a literary character for the day and walk around and interact with people...and film it...and post it here.
Most of you seemed to agree on which character I should dress up as...so it's already been decided that at some future date I will have to turn from this...
So here are your results.
Coming in 3rd place with only 4 votes was Reenactment of a Scene from Mean Girls. Sorry to those who voted for that one, everyone else apparently was not interested in being subjected to anymore of my bad acting.
Coming in 2nd place with 5 votes was Walking Around Barnes and Noble Telling Total Strangers I had an Agent. Some of you were really excited but...10 votes were given to option number 3.
Which means....
Dear Universe, I promise you that when I sign with an uber fabulous literary agent, I will dress up as a literary character for the day and walk around and interact with people...and film it...and post it here.
Most of you seemed to agree on which character I should dress up as...so it's already been decided that at some future date I will have to turn from this...
into....
THIS!
OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ok Universe! It's on! Let's get ready to rumble!
Saturday, March 6, 2010
The Courage to Write
This isn't so much a post about the courage one needs to sit down and write, or the confidence you need to write, or even sharing your writing with other people--all of which do take a certain level of bravery. It's something else.
Heather of See Heather Write's recent post on Evan Lysacek and all he has sacrificed to achieve his dream in the Olympics, working out 7 hours a day, skipping birthdays, parties, social events, downtime, etc....got me thinking.
Heather wrote a beautiful post on how Evan just lights up when he talks about how hard he works and how happy it makes him--relating that to how many people wonder how to gain enough time to write when they already have so many things to do. I've talked about this before and despite how silly and goofy I usually am on the blog (and in real life too) this concept is one of my core beliefs and a truth I hold to about writing. If you love it, you will do it, no matter what. Nothing is too hard or too much or takes too long (even if it feels that way) when you truly love what you're doing. It's all worth it for the absolute love of the dream, or the craft, or goal or whatever it is that gives you a feeling like you'll crawl out of your skin if you don't do it.
However, this got me thinking about the courage that goes into expressing that kind of love and passion, when it comes to life choices and the things you give up at times to achieve your dreams.
I have been accused many times of going into something my friends dubbed "Frankie Land." When I'm in "Frankie Land" it's not easy to be my friend...so I've heard. I'm so caught up in my own inner world of creativity and dreams, listening to characters in my head speak instead of my friends talking, spending 10 hours a day writing and not calling anyone, deciding to skip a party so I can edit another chapter, basically getting so caught up in my writing (and at times dancing) that the rest of the world and everything going on in it dissolves around me.
And when my friends think I've been in "Frankie Land" too long, I get in trouble. I've had plenty of people get mad at me for this...many times. And sometimes I get mad at myself. I'm a totally normal mid twenties girl, very social and friendly and I like to party just as much as the next person, but I don't. Not often. Do I like the fact that my friends feel hurt or left out, or that I can tune people out so well when I'm daydreaming or writing that I don't hear a single word they've said?
No...not really. It makes me feel horrible.
Do I wish I could just go and party all weekend long and not think twice about my book?
Yeah. All the time.
I don't think there's any right or wrong answer here. It's a shame that some of my friends sometimes feel that way, on the other hand, many of them are very understanding of what I do and why I do it--some more than others. And sure I take a break here and there and live it up (I'm not completely unbalanced). But it's tough, its tough on them and its tough on me and its very hard for many people to understand.
I've made some tough choices over the years to pursue my dream of writing. I declined my spot in grad school at Columbia because I wanted to focus on writing instead of academics. I've declined working 9-5 jobs that pay really well and would allow me to easily live the kind of lifestyle I enjoy because I know I need to focus every ounce of energy I can spare on my writing. And yeah, I've skipped parties (or um....shown up 2 hours late) and skipped dates and put aside my dancing career and a whole slew of other things, faced the wrath of my friends and others who don't understand what I'm doing --all so I can write.
And so while it does take courage to even go after your dream....so many people never even start...it takes an even greater amount of courage to make sacrifices for the dream. To give everything up, to leap without wings for just the smallest bit of hope that you'll see the goal manifest. To know you'll be apologizing and missing out on certain things in your life.
It was so comforting to see the interview Heather posted, because sometimes looking at all you've missed out on or left behind can be tough. I loved seeing another person who approached their goals the same way I do and felt the same way I felt. There's a reason I've made the choices I've made and a reason why I do what I do. It's pure passionate love for the craft, a desire to tell my story, a feeling like I'll self combust if I can't make this dream a reality. It feels great to do what I do. Its amazing. It makes me so happy. But it's not without its sacrifices and sometimes it is very hard and it does take a lot of courage and often, that's easy to forget.
So yeah...that was kind of what I was thinking about today.
Heather of See Heather Write's recent post on Evan Lysacek and all he has sacrificed to achieve his dream in the Olympics, working out 7 hours a day, skipping birthdays, parties, social events, downtime, etc....got me thinking.
Heather wrote a beautiful post on how Evan just lights up when he talks about how hard he works and how happy it makes him--relating that to how many people wonder how to gain enough time to write when they already have so many things to do. I've talked about this before and despite how silly and goofy I usually am on the blog (and in real life too) this concept is one of my core beliefs and a truth I hold to about writing. If you love it, you will do it, no matter what. Nothing is too hard or too much or takes too long (even if it feels that way) when you truly love what you're doing. It's all worth it for the absolute love of the dream, or the craft, or goal or whatever it is that gives you a feeling like you'll crawl out of your skin if you don't do it.
However, this got me thinking about the courage that goes into expressing that kind of love and passion, when it comes to life choices and the things you give up at times to achieve your dreams.
I have been accused many times of going into something my friends dubbed "Frankie Land." When I'm in "Frankie Land" it's not easy to be my friend...so I've heard. I'm so caught up in my own inner world of creativity and dreams, listening to characters in my head speak instead of my friends talking, spending 10 hours a day writing and not calling anyone, deciding to skip a party so I can edit another chapter, basically getting so caught up in my writing (and at times dancing) that the rest of the world and everything going on in it dissolves around me.
And when my friends think I've been in "Frankie Land" too long, I get in trouble. I've had plenty of people get mad at me for this...many times. And sometimes I get mad at myself. I'm a totally normal mid twenties girl, very social and friendly and I like to party just as much as the next person, but I don't. Not often. Do I like the fact that my friends feel hurt or left out, or that I can tune people out so well when I'm daydreaming or writing that I don't hear a single word they've said?
No...not really. It makes me feel horrible.
Do I wish I could just go and party all weekend long and not think twice about my book?
Yeah. All the time.
I don't think there's any right or wrong answer here. It's a shame that some of my friends sometimes feel that way, on the other hand, many of them are very understanding of what I do and why I do it--some more than others. And sure I take a break here and there and live it up (I'm not completely unbalanced). But it's tough, its tough on them and its tough on me and its very hard for many people to understand.
I've made some tough choices over the years to pursue my dream of writing. I declined my spot in grad school at Columbia because I wanted to focus on writing instead of academics. I've declined working 9-5 jobs that pay really well and would allow me to easily live the kind of lifestyle I enjoy because I know I need to focus every ounce of energy I can spare on my writing. And yeah, I've skipped parties (or um....shown up 2 hours late) and skipped dates and put aside my dancing career and a whole slew of other things, faced the wrath of my friends and others who don't understand what I'm doing --all so I can write.
And so while it does take courage to even go after your dream....so many people never even start...it takes an even greater amount of courage to make sacrifices for the dream. To give everything up, to leap without wings for just the smallest bit of hope that you'll see the goal manifest. To know you'll be apologizing and missing out on certain things in your life.
It was so comforting to see the interview Heather posted, because sometimes looking at all you've missed out on or left behind can be tough. I loved seeing another person who approached their goals the same way I do and felt the same way I felt. There's a reason I've made the choices I've made and a reason why I do what I do. It's pure passionate love for the craft, a desire to tell my story, a feeling like I'll self combust if I can't make this dream a reality. It feels great to do what I do. Its amazing. It makes me so happy. But it's not without its sacrifices and sometimes it is very hard and it does take a lot of courage and often, that's easy to forget.
So yeah...that was kind of what I was thinking about today.
Friday, March 5, 2010
CONGRATULATIONS SARAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am literally SQUEEEEEEEEEEing through the roof right now because I am SO excited to say CONGRATULATIONS SARAH WYLIE! She is the awesomeness and hilarious blogger behind Sarah With a Chance which is I think THE funniest blog on the internets--yes I said internets... with an S. Why the extra S? S is for SARAH!!---And she has just sold her first book!!!!!!!!!!
But it gets better. She hasn't just sold her first book! She sold it at auction...in a two-book deal to Margaret Ferguson at Farrar, Straus, and Giroux (Macmillan). And it comes out in 2012!!!
I seriously CANNOT wait to read it.
Do you hear me, Sarah? I demand arcs!
Sarah, I'm so excited for you! It's been super fun getting to know you over the last few months, and seeing your journey start off on such a happy note! I'm so happy and excited for you.
And everybody needs to go over there now and say congrats, and stay awhile, trust me, Sarah is one to watch out for!
SQUEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Choices, Choices...My Next Deal
First of all, THANK YOU for all the birthday wishes and messages---you guys really made me smile throughout the day. And I promise I'll be announcing my next contest very soon. I think you'll like it. I've already told one person what I'm thinking of giving away and she pretty much told me I was crazy and should keep it...but I love to share...so...coming soon.
But more importantly...I have sifted through your comments and suggestions about what kind of Deal I ought to make with the Universe for when I am The Agented.
And here are my thoughts:
Everyone who suggested I remake a Lady Gaga video....AAAAAAAAH! Guys, seriously! Seriously? You know I'm crazy, but even I have my limits. So veto! *shudders*
And to all of you who are obsessed with getting me into a pair of red wellies...*sigh* I have decided to use that as inspiration for a possibility.
--Quick recap for anyone who doesn't understand why the red wellies come up so much--
So one night I had a dream, that I was Katniss from The Hunger Games, and I was sort of in a backstage waiting area/locker room, preparing to go out in the field, and battle/kill to survive. I was desperately trying to find Peeta in all the ruckus (funny since I'm Team Gale/Team I Love Both of You) and then I had to get into my costume...which...involved me wearing a blue t-shirt, itty bitty white shorts and....red wellies. *sigh*
And as I was walking through the crowds...EVERYONE and I mean EVERYONE was wearing the red wellies too. I have no clue why. Then I woke up and made the mistake of revealing this dream on twitter. I also made the mistake of revealing the dream here. Again. Oops! ---
So in honor of that...and some of your suggestions...two by Shannon which I think must be some kind of conspiracy....here are the three things I'll consider doing, you can decide the final call by voting in the comments.
1) I'll spend the day dressed as a literary character and film myself walking around to different places and talk to people like I am that character. And if you vote for this option, make sure you vote for a character too and Katniss in red wellies is NOT an option bc she doesn't actually wear red wellies in the book! We're going for authenticity people! The more iconic, the better. P.S. I like pretty dresses;)
2) I'll film myself walking around a Barnes and Noble telling people I have an agent and asking if they'll buy my book. This will no doubt be highly embarassing.
3) A La the treatment I did for Clueless, I'll film an entire scene from Mean Girls, and dress up as each character and do every line. If you vote for this, make sure you vote for a scene as well.
Ok, that's all, now I'm going to do some more line edits:-)
But more importantly...I have sifted through your comments and suggestions about what kind of Deal I ought to make with the Universe for when I am The Agented.
And here are my thoughts:
Everyone who suggested I remake a Lady Gaga video....AAAAAAAAH! Guys, seriously! Seriously? You know I'm crazy, but even I have my limits. So veto! *shudders*
And to all of you who are obsessed with getting me into a pair of red wellies...*sigh* I have decided to use that as inspiration for a possibility.
--Quick recap for anyone who doesn't understand why the red wellies come up so much--
So one night I had a dream, that I was Katniss from The Hunger Games, and I was sort of in a backstage waiting area/locker room, preparing to go out in the field, and battle/kill to survive. I was desperately trying to find Peeta in all the ruckus (funny since I'm Team Gale/Team I Love Both of You) and then I had to get into my costume...which...involved me wearing a blue t-shirt, itty bitty white shorts and....red wellies. *sigh*
And as I was walking through the crowds...EVERYONE and I mean EVERYONE was wearing the red wellies too. I have no clue why. Then I woke up and made the mistake of revealing this dream on twitter. I also made the mistake of revealing the dream here. Again. Oops! ---
So in honor of that...and some of your suggestions...two by Shannon which I think must be some kind of conspiracy....here are the three things I'll consider doing, you can decide the final call by voting in the comments.
1) I'll spend the day dressed as a literary character and film myself walking around to different places and talk to people like I am that character. And if you vote for this option, make sure you vote for a character too and Katniss in red wellies is NOT an option bc she doesn't actually wear red wellies in the book! We're going for authenticity people! The more iconic, the better. P.S. I like pretty dresses;)
2) I'll film myself walking around a Barnes and Noble telling people I have an agent and asking if they'll buy my book. This will no doubt be highly embarassing.
3) A La the treatment I did for Clueless, I'll film an entire scene from Mean Girls, and dress up as each character and do every line. If you vote for this, make sure you vote for a scene as well.
Ok, that's all, now I'm going to do some more line edits:-)
Monday, March 1, 2010
LINGER WINNER! Maggie Tidbit! Birthday Bash! OMG!
WOW! WOW! WOW! You guys really came through on this contest and it was SO much fun reading all of the entries and gushing over favorite scenes in Maggie's books--it's so hard to pick just one.
And as promised...it's my birthday today! Yay! And I'm announcing the winner!
But first...
In case you don't know...Maggie has phenomenal taste in music. I get almost as excited about her playlists as I do for her books.
And so...the first song revealed from the Linger Playlist is...
"Almost Lover" by A Fine Frenzy
Check it out!
And now for the Linger Arc winner!
...
Edward: *clears throat* Excuse me!
Frankie: What is it, Edward? I'm trying to announce the winner of my contest.
Edward: I was merely interested in having my vexation over the winner of this contest stated. For the record. Since it was in fact...not me.
Frankie: *squinting* Yeah, Edward ok, whatever...
Edward: I'm serious. Please register the fact that despite my absolute abhorrence for werewolves, especially werewolves associated with wolves named Sam, coughJacobcough, I still entered this contest and still appreciated Maggie Stiefvater's writing and had my Bella--my love--my life enter too and...
Frankie: Edward! Get a grip! This isn't a court of law. This is my blog. I'm not registering anything you say. Sheesh. And I'm really sorry you didn't win...but...honestly if you had...where would I send the book? My post office doesn't deliver to young adult fantasy addresses even IF Forks is a real place.
Edward: *pinching the bridge of his nose* That's totally beside the point.
Frankie: Dude, you're really getting on my nerves. And I think my blog readers agree. Can I just announce the winner already?
Edward: *glares at me* Fine! I'll just be...sulking...in the corner...pretending to sleep...fake-wake me up when Bella gets here. Good bye! Oh...and Happy Birthday!
Frankie: Um...thanks?
...
Yeesh, so sorry about that. Looks like our contest winner now has a pissed off emo vampire for an enemy, but Linger is so good, it's worth it. Seriously.
Ok finally, I can announce the winner!
When all was said and done, points added, referrals awarded, names cross-checked etc....there were a total of 218 entries listed! Yowza.
And then I headed over to http://www.randomizer.org/ and they picked the winner for me...
And as promised...it's my birthday today! Yay! And I'm announcing the winner!
But first...
Maggie was sweet enough to reveal one small tidbit about Linger to just you guys.
SQUEEEE! How cool is that?
Just for everyone who entered the contest, she has revealed one of the songs on the Linger Playlist.
OMG!
And so...the first song revealed from the Linger Playlist is...
"Almost Lover" by A Fine Frenzy
Check it out!
And now for the Linger Arc winner!
...
Frankie: What is it, Edward? I'm trying to announce the winner of my contest.
Edward: I was merely interested in having my vexation over the winner of this contest stated. For the record. Since it was in fact...not me.
Frankie: *squinting* Yeah, Edward ok, whatever...
Edward: I'm serious. Please register the fact that despite my absolute abhorrence for werewolves, especially werewolves associated with wolves named Sam, coughJacobcough, I still entered this contest and still appreciated Maggie Stiefvater's writing and had my Bella--my love--my life enter too and...
Frankie: Edward! Get a grip! This isn't a court of law. This is my blog. I'm not registering anything you say. Sheesh. And I'm really sorry you didn't win...but...honestly if you had...where would I send the book? My post office doesn't deliver to young adult fantasy addresses even IF Forks is a real place.
Edward: *pinching the bridge of his nose* That's totally beside the point.
Frankie: Dude, you're really getting on my nerves. And I think my blog readers agree. Can I just announce the winner already?
Edward: *glares at me* Fine! I'll just be...sulking...in the corner...pretending to sleep...fake-wake me up when Bella gets here. Good bye! Oh...and Happy Birthday!
Frankie: Um...thanks?
...
Yeesh, so sorry about that. Looks like our contest winner now has a pissed off emo vampire for an enemy, but Linger is so good, it's worth it. Seriously.
Ok finally, I can announce the winner!
When all was said and done, points added, referrals awarded, names cross-checked etc....there were a total of 218 entries listed! Yowza.
And then I headed over to http://www.randomizer.org/ and they picked the winner for me...
lucky number... 73 which was
OMG! I'm sooooo excited you won! Congrats. Throws confetti! WOOOOOOOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Now I'm off to hopefully celebrate my birthday...
...and Dr. Seuss' and Bon Jovi's! Oh yeah!
Stick around...my 400 followers contest is coming...soon! And you won't want to miss it :-) Trust me ;)
Thanks again to everyone who participated!
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