Darby Karchut

My Fifteen Minutes of Fame

2012-02-21T09:47:00.001-07:00

D-12 teacher combines passions in teen fantasy books

February 18, 2012 9:03 AM

CAROL MCGRAW

THE GAZETTE

What could be more exciting for a book club than having the author appear in person?

That’s what happened when the 30 students in the Cheyenne Mountain Junior High School club met recently to hash over “Griffin Rising,” a fantasy set in Colorado Springs about a teen guardian angel.

Actually, it was a pretty easy getting author Darby Karchut there. Her classroom is just down the hall and around the corner from the school library where the kids meet.

“It was sublime, but a bit surreal. They were talking about the characters I dreamed up in my head as if they were real people,” Karchut, who teaches social studies, said with a laugh.

She got good reviews from most of the kids.

“I encouraged them to give their real opinion. I told them not every book is everyone’s cup of tea.”

School librarian Kaci Guthrie chooses books for the club, and says that “Griffin Rising” was a hit.

“She talked to them about the background, how everything was steeped in mythology, Gaelic lore, maybe things they wouldn’t have noticed on their own.”

Book club member Nicole Foss, 13, said, “It was awesome. It has a lot of plot twists and symbolism. And it was different, no vampires. It has angels. No one does angels.”

Eighth grader Hunter Edling is also a fan.

“It had new ideas that made me think about things. My favorite part was the action and it was set where we live.”

(Karchut uses Colorado Springs and surroundings as the setting, but calls it High Springs.)

The book just won the 2011 Sharp Writ Book Award for a young adult book, and received an honor medal from Readers Favorites. The second book in her Griffin series, “Griffin’s Fire,” comes out in April, to be followed by two more. She’s also writing, “Finn Finnegan,” about a teen Celtic warrior.

You might expect Karchut to be an English teacher, considering all the writing she does and the enthusiasm she has for reading and writing. She’s been a teacher in Cheyenne Mountain School District 12 for 17 years, including five as a a fifth grade teacher at Broadmoor Elementary, and 12 teaching a social studies.

“I’m a storyteller. I want to know if the bush explodes or if someone is punched out, not so much the literary beauty of the lines.”

All good teaching is storytelling, she believes, no matter if the topic is “Mandela, the lone warrior fighting apartheid or Great Britain’s heroic stand against the Nazis before the U.S. entered World War II.”

Social studies is grist for her imagination, along with ancient history and anthropology, which she majored in at the University of New Mexico.

She got the idea for the Griffin books when she ran across an obscure Middle Ages description of a lower caste of angels, who were guardians and controlled the four elements. She uses lore from many sources — various religions, classical Sparta, Irish myths, European feudal system, Plains Indians, Britain’s Royal Air Force. Her book’s fictitious “Kellsfarne Manuscript” is based on “The Celestial Hierarchy,” a fifth century work that influenced Thomas Aquinas.

But none of this is done with heavy hand.

Her hero Griffin belongs to a caste of supernatural beings know as the Terrae Angeli (earth angels). He is learning to have control over two of the elements, earth and fire, to help earthlings in trouble. His mentor Basil, who controls wind and water, has a more difficult job of controlling Griffin.

Like any parent, Basil must deal with the youth’s teen angst — the slamming of doors, disobedience and, of course, begging, “Can I take the car” (even though, as an angel, he flies). Their relationship is frustrating, humorous and touching.

Karchut decided to write young adult fiction for boys, because boys often give up reading, in part, because many books have female protagonists. Also, adults always think there are certain books kids should read.

“But it’s like a river, it doesn’t matter where they step in.”

Also, she notes, “We should be presenting boys with more good male characters. Personally, I think boy’ books are more exciting. They are more apt to explore the great questions of life — who do I trust with my feelings, who’s got my back, how do I take those ethical steps into manhood?”

Writing for boys is different. They like smart aleck humor, gross-outs, a lot of action, nothing too yucky romance-wise. She notes that studies have shown they like shorter sentences, too.

“The anthropologist in me finds it fascinating. For example, boys usually meet side by side, not face to face like girls do, so I try to convey those types of things in my writing.”

Karchut started writing fiction just a couple of years ago, and rewrote “Griffin Rising” many times before she got it right. “I’ve always been a voracious reader, and someone said that if you read and read and read, that finally you throw up a book.”

Like most teachers, she has a crammed schedule, so she writes in 15 minute sessions at home before school and in the evenings, plus longer stints on weekends and during summer break. It helps that she never watches TV.

She believes that reading isn’t necessarily a lost art. But, she says, “Our society has such frantic busy lives and distractions, and attention spans are shorter. But if you give kids the time to do nothing but read, they will.”

And that is what she does.

She insists her students bring a book of their choice to class, fiction or non-fiction. They spend the last 10 minutes of class reading.

“At first some did nothing, then it was a couple sentences, and then a paragraph, then a page. It’s a habit, like exercise.”

A Gentle Reminder

2012-02-20T13:40:00.000-07:00

Griffin is flying around on a blog tour this week with the awesome folks at The Teen Book Scene. The schedule is over on the right.

Cover Reveal: Finn Finnegan

2012-02-17T00:03:00.001-07:00

And here it is: the cover of Finn Finnegan.
Welcome to the world, boyo. Céad mile fáilte!

Finn Finnegan

Finn (not bleedin' Finnegan) MacCullen is eager to begin his apprenticeship. He soon discovers the ups and downs of hunting monsters in a suburban neighborhood under the demanding tutelage of the Knight, Gideon Lir. Both master and apprentice are descendents of the Tuatha De Danaan, a magical race of warriors from Ireland. Scattered long ago to the four corners of the world, the De Danaan wage a two thousand year old clandestine battle with their ancient enemy, the Amandán, a breed of goblin-like creatures.

Now with the beasts concentrating their attacks on Finn, he and his master must race to locate the lost Spear of the Tuatha De Danaan, the only weapon that can destroy the Amandán, all the while hiding his true identity from his new friends, Rafe and Savannah, twins whose South African roots may hold a key to Finn's survival. Armed with a bronze dagger, some ancient Celtic magic, and a hair-trigger temper, Finn is about to show his enemies the true meaning of "fighting Irish."

Title: Finn Finnegan

Author: Darby Karchut

Publisher: Spencer Hill Press (www.SpencerHillPress.com)

ISBN: 978-1-937053-32-1

Release Date: March 12, 2013

Formats: Paper, e-book

Genres: Middle Grade/Young Adult, Fantasy

The Countdown Has Begun!

2012-02-13T08:43:00.001-07:00

To celebrate the eight week countdown until the release of Griffin's Fire, I'm giving away a signed ARC over on Goodreads starting Wednesday! Check it out!

Release Date: April 15

Favorite Quotes from My Favorite Authors (continued)

2012-02-07T12:41:00.000-07:00

"All that is gold does not glitter,
Not all those who wander are lost;
The old that is strong does not wither,
Deep roots are not reached by the frost.

From the ashes a fire shall be woken,
A light from the shadows shall spring;
Renewed shall be blade that was broken,
The crownless again shall be king."
- J. R. R. Tolkien

True That

2012-02-01T13:57:00.000-07:00

"Fantasy is hardly an escape from reality. It's a way of understanding it." - Lloyd Alexander

2011 Smart Book Lovers/Sharp Writ Book YA Book

2012-01-27T08:49:00.000-07:00

Do I hear a squeeeeeee!!!
Griffin Rising just won the 2011 Smart Book Lovers/Sharp Writ Award for YA Book.

First "Book" Crush

2012-01-23T04:48:00.001-07:00

Who was your first "book" crush? Not so much in the romantic sense, but more in the vein of I wish I could be like them. Or hang out with them. Or go on an adventure with them. Or learn something from them.

For me, it was Gwydion from The Book of Three (when I was ten years old). He was my first "hero" I wanted to be like. He was a warrior and a scholar. And when the time came, he was strong enough to hand the rule of Prydain to Taran. Something in that ability resonated with me. It still does.

Later, when I was thirteen, the second character crush I had was Strider/Lord Aragorn from The Lord of the Rings. He was like Gwydion, but with more depth. And yes, I think Peter Jackson did a wonderful job with the movies. Viggo nailed Aragorn perfectly. At least to me.

Please share your first "book" crush. Remember, it can the same gender, the different gender, heck, even a different species. (I almost wrote that my first crush was Black Beauty.)

Friday! Yay-day!

2012-01-20T06:34:00.000-07:00

What I'm tickled about: the lovely Liebster Award from the lovely Kelly Hashway. Kelly's debut novel, Touch Of Death, comes out January 2013 from Spencer Hill Press.

What I'm waiting for: my copy of UnCONventional. This a wicked awesome anthology (also from Spencer Hill Press) includes zany stories from many talented authors! Can. Not. Wait.

That's One Way to Do It

2012-01-15T10:42:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm working away on the next book in the Finn Finnegan series. (Below is a picture of my oultine.) I used an 11 x 17 sheet of blank paper to plot out the major events of my novel. I also jotted down a lot of backstory notes on the bottome of the page just for my reference.

For me, it is important to visually see the entire storyline at one time.

How do you outline? Do you write it on notecards? Make a timeline? A storyboard? A VENN diagram? (Now that I would pay good money to see.)

Finn Finnegan on Publishers Marketplace

2012-01-10T08:14:00.005-07:00

My middle grade novel, Finn Finnegan (Spencer Hill Press) was just announced on Publishers Marketplace. Kate Kaynak and Crew at SHP are amazing! I'm so tickled to be part of this awesome group!

Here's the blurb:

Finnegan MacCullen—a thirteen-year-old apprentice with the famous Irish temperament.

Gideon Lir—a legendary Celtic warrior with a bit of a temper of his own.

Secretly, these blue collar warriors battle the hobgoblins infesting their suburban neighborhood.

When they are not battling each other.

Finn (not bleedin Finnegan) MacCullen is eager to begin his apprenticeship. He soon discovers the ups and downs of hunting monsters in a suburban neighborhood under the demanding tutelage of the Knight, Gideon Lir. Both master and apprentice are descendents of the Tuatha De Danaan, a magical race of warriors from Ireland. Scattered long ago to the four corners of the world, the De Danaan wage a two thousand year old clandestine battle with their ancient enemy, the Amandán, a breed of goblin-like creatures.

Now with the beasts concentrating their attacks on Finn, he and his master must race to locate the lost Spear of the Tuatha De Danaan, the only weapon that can destroy the Amandán, all the while hiding his true identity from his new friends, Rafe and Savannah, twins whose South African roots may hold a key to Finn’s survival.

Armed with a bronze dagger, some ancient Celtic magic, and a hair-trigger temper, Finn is about to show his enemies the true meaning of fighting Irish.

Young Teens and E-Readers

2012-01-05T14:44:00.000-07:00

Recently, I did an informal survey of 132 seventh graders in a middle class junior high school about e-readers. Here are the numbers:

68% of their families owned one or more e-reader
43% of the seventh graders owned their own e-reader
Of those 43%, 26% were girls and 17% were boys

Will we see the number of e-readers among teens continue to grow? Absolutely.
Is it a good thing? Absolutely.
Is it discouraging that more girls own e-readers than boys? Absolutely.

I must find a way to equalize those numbers between the genders.

Writer's Digest Annual Writer's Yearbook for 2012

2012-01-02T17:12:00.000-07:00

The 2012 Writer's Digest Annual "Best Of" Yearbook issue just came out. My publishing house, Twilight Times Books, was shortlisted in The Top 100 Markets for Book and Magazine Writers.

Congratulations to Lida E. Quillen and Company. I'm proud to be a part of the team!

Finn Finnegan by Darby Karchut

2011-12-31T16:56:00.000-07:00

Something Celtic this way comes!

I've just signed a publishing contract with the awesome Spencer Hill Press for my upper middle grade/tween/younger YA/whatever-the-industry-is-calling-it-this-week urban fantasy for boys entitled Finn Finnegan.

More details to follow...

Slainte!

Waiting For...

2011-12-28T17:32:00.002-07:00

It is hard to write when one's fingers are crossed.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T15:58:00.001-07:00

Wow. It's four pm on Christmas Day. I know what you're thinking: "You might want to post a holiday greeting on your blog, slacker-Karchut. Sheesh."

2011 Sharp Writ Book Awards

2011-12-15T21:11:00.007-07:00

In case you didn't catch it, I highlighted it in yellow. (My mom said that's tacky, but...)

Annoucing the Finalists for 2011 Awards

Sharp Writ Book Awards are organized by Smart Book Lovers, a High IQ Society. These awards span a wide range of genres for the written word.
The 2011 Sharp Writ Book Awards included both printed and electronic books in popular eBook formats (Kindle, ePub, etc.)
The Finalists for 2011 - top 3 in each category in alphabetical order - are:

Children's Books

A Lesson My Cat Taught Me by Saul Webber
Adora the Albino Alligator by Rhonda Edwards
When This is Over, I Will Go to School, and I Will Learn to Read by Pamela Bitterman

Young Adult

Griffin Rising Darby Karchut
The Secret of the Sacred Scarab Fiona Ingram
Wings of Light Laura Bingham

Fiction

Devil Wind by Deborah Shilan & Linda Reid
The Silent and the Lost Abu Zubair
Winds of Wildfire by Ron Chavez

Non Fiction

The Secrets to Step Family Success by Gloria Lintermans
Out of the Psychic Closet by Toby Heathcotte
The Tribes of Burning Man by Steven T. Jones

Autobiography/ Memoirs

Dancing With Bear: A Love Story by Marie McGaha
Gorilla Man and the Empress of Steak by Randy Fertel
The San Joaquin Siren: An American Ace in WWII's CBI by William Behrn with Kenneth Moore

Special / Sponsored Categories (at the discretion of the Judging Panel)
Poetry:

Dreaming in Darkness by Jessica Kristie
Streetlight Sonata by J.R. Simons
Ten Little Haibuns Vol. II by Andrea Cecon

2011-12-14T11:17:00.000-07:00

I sometimes wish I was here...

...but mostly I'm glad I'm here. Because Colorado simply rocks.

Happy Birthday to The Clockwork Giant by Brooke Johnson

2011-12-13T07:30:00.000-07:00

Today is the release date for The Clockwork Giant (*throws confetti into the air*). This is the debut novel of my dear friend, Brooke Johnson. It's an amazing story. Trust me. Go get thee a copy!

Amazon.com

Barnes & Noble

What's New In Karchut-land?

2011-12-11T11:58:00.000-07:00

What's new in Karchut-land?

Hmmm... let's see:

Almost finished with my final revisions/corrections for book two, Griffin's Fire. Things are heating up now (pun totally intended). Release date is April 15, 2012.

I'm also working on the details for a workshop I'm giving at the 20th Annual Pikes Peak Writer's Conference in April. (In fact, the conference is just four days after the release of Fire. Gulp.) I'll be talking about writing books for teen boys.

And I'm laboring mightly on the manuscript for book three, Griffin's Storm.

In Real Life: this coming week is final exam week for my 7th grade social studies classes, my husband decorated the Christmas tree by himself (and it looks stunning!!), and I am supposed to bake four dozen bizcochitos cookies by next weekend.

"To whom much is given, much is expected." ~ St. Paul

Pikes Peak Writers Guild CakeWalk

2011-12-08T11:51:00.000-07:00

Hello to all my Colorado friends!

Come join the fun to help a worthy cause: The Pikes Peak Writers Guild

HOW: vote for Pikes Peak Writers cake at the "CakeWalk"

WHERE: Dillard's at the Chapel Hills Mall, Colorado Springs, Colorado

WHEN: Saturday December 10th, from 10am until close of voting at 3:59pm

WHY: The winning cake -- determined by popular vote -- wins a cash prize. Plus voters have the chance to win a $350 gift certificate to Dillard's!

Pikes Peak Writers is a nonprofit organization that helps writers learn, grow, connect and thrive. Just how awesome is that!

The Clockwork Giant by Brooke Johnson

2011-12-06T04:12:00.000-07:00

From the author:

It's 1881, the fiftieth anniversary of the founding of Chroniker City, the global hub of technological advancement in the modern world. Based off the British coast, the city is home to the most prestigious polytechnic university worldwide, a center of mechanical ingenuity teaching everything from clockwork mechanics and thermodynamics to electromagnetism and electricity.

Petra Wade, self-taught clockwork engineer, dreams of one day becoming a member of the Guild, an elite group of inventors and innovators who envision a future fueled by technology, but her ambitions will only come to fruition if she can find a way into the illustrious university—an institution reserved for men only. When she meets Emmerich Goss, an accomplished engineer newly recruited into the Guild, Petra discovers that he needs help building a top-secret, government-sanctioned automaton, and she is just the girl to help him.

Together, they craft the clockwork giant, and as the deadline for its completion nears, Petra finds that she can love more than gears and mainsprings.

My thoughts:

Brooke Johnson's debut novel is a delightful blend of steampunk adventure and old-fashion teen romance. Petra's spunk and determination to become an engineer is one of the best aspects of the story. And Emmerich is a delight to read. How can you not love a guy who is both smart and good-looking. Both main characters have depth and heart and I can't wait to find out what happens next between these two.

And the setting. Holy cow, Johnson's world-building is one of her strengths. Chroniker City is a blend of Victorian London and turn-of-the-century Chicago. I could almost taste the dirty air as I read.

For readers who like both steampunk and a sweet love story, this is a terrific holiday gift. The Clockwork Giant will be available for purchased as an e-book on Amazon and Barnes & Noble starting December 13th.

Ever since she was a little girl, Brooke had a love of building long-forgotten, fantastical worlds, and as she grew up, and the worlds became more complex and the characters came to life, she found that she didn't have enough Legos to do them justice. Convinced it was her destiny to create, she delved into fantasy writing, spinning tales of princes and wizards and dragons—stories to act out during recess, illustrate in the margins of her notebooks, and live in on those long bus rides to and from school. She had an equal fascination for clocks that no one could explain, collecting timepieces of all shapes and sizes over the course of her childhood and teenage years.

Brooke's love of fantasy never wavered, neither did her passion for clocks. In college, she endeavored to conquer the genre fiction naysayers, championing her cause through the university's literary journal. She encountered Dungeons & Dragons, developed a love of Eastern mythology, and discovered steampunk, the perfect outlet for her clockwork obsession.

Now married and living in Northwest Arkansas with her husband and dog, she spends her days scrambling around the vast landscape of her imagination, the fantastical worlds of princes and wizards on one side and the towering, brass cities of automatons and engineers on the other.

Christmas Giveaway

2011-12-04T16:23:00.000-07:00

Aimee is doing a wonderful blog hop, with Griffin Rising as a giveaway! Only runs until December 6th. Check it out!

http://reviewsfrommyfirstreadsshelf.blogspot.com/2011/12/book-lovers-holiday-giveaway-hop.html

An Angelic Contest

2011-12-02T11:07:00.000-07:00

Jennifer Murgia, the author of Angel Star and Lemniscate, is having a perfect contest for the holiday season. And now, here's Jennifer to tell you about it:

BE AN ANGEL, GIVE A BOOK

Happy December 1st everyone! In the spirit of giving, I’m hosting a fabulous contest!

BE AN ANGEL, GIVE A BOOK is going to be so much fun! Simply purchase a copy of ANGEL STAR or LEMNISCATE, or both (each book counts as an entry), and email me proof of purchase to jennifermurgia8@gmail.com to be entered. Purchases include print copies as well as ebook copies – in store purchases, online, or Nook or Kindle!

In January, I will choose one winner from the entry pile, and donate signed copies of both books to the library of the winner’s choice – school library, public library, campus library… wherever you would like to see the books shelved so others may enjoy them!

That’s not all! Everyone who enters gets the chance to win a Goody Basket of AMAZING titles from Lands Atlantic Publishing!

So be an angel this season! Buy a book for yourself, or someone else, then spread the cheer by giving to your local library!

Good luck!

Tumbleweed Christmas by Beverly Stowe McClure, illustrated by Bridget McKenna

2011-12-01T04:49:00.000-07:00

Tumbleweed Christmas

Written by Beverly Stowe McClure and illustrated by Bridget McKenna

Christmas is the time for miracles, but sometimes, a child must make her own miracle, and one for her siblings. - from the back cover

Once again, Beverly Stowe McClure works her magic for children. In this delightful holiday story about a family living through hard times, we meet Jackie, a baseball-playing tom girl who is determined to fetch home a Christmas tree.

With the help of her best friend, Daniel, she finds an ingenious way to bring a holiday miracle to life for her parents and two younger sisters.

Without giving away the plot, I must say my favorite part was the act of sacrifice this little girl makes for her family - a lesson for all of us during this holiday season and beyond.

Bridget McKenna's illustrations have a lyrical quality to them that perfectly compliments the story. I hope to see more collaboration between these two artists with other picture books.

Bravo to Beverly McClure and Bridget McKenna for a book that will be sure to be a holiday favorite.

Books on Sale - Just In Time for the Holidays

2011-11-28T04:07:00.002-07:00

Just a reminder: Here's some awesome news from my publishing house: Twilight Times Books:

We appreciate our readers. 100 critically acclaimed ebooks are on sale from Twilight Times Books. Prices discounted 50% ($1.99 to $3.50) now via the Twilight Times Books web site and also via our ebook distributors later this month: B & N Nook, eReader, Fictionwise, Kindle, Kobo, OmniLit, Sony, etc. until Jan 15th. Historical, literary, mystery, SF, YA and more.
http://twilighttimesbooks.com/

Happy Cyber-Monday!

YA Indie Carnvial: A Thanksgiving Scene

2011-11-24T05:18:00.001-07:00

YA Indie Carnival celebrates Thanksgiving! In honor of the holiday, we are posting Thanksgiving scenes from our books or telling a favorite memory. Here is the Thanksgiving scene from Griffin Rising. This was one of my most treasured scene from the book. I giggled the entire time I was writing it.

But before you begin reading, I want to thank all my friends and fans for making this year so incredibly amazing! I salute you all with a double helping of pumpkin pie!

Flinching from another attack on his anklebone, Griffin kicked back at Katie in retaliation; he missed, striking the table leg instead. Katie giggled and tucked her foot further under her chair, her eyes on her plate as she choked with laughter.

“Okay, you two. That’s enough!” said Helen. “Quit playing footsie and eat your dinner.” She sighed and appealed to her husband for support as the table shuddered again, causing china and silver to jangle. Before Lewis could step in, Basil took charge.

Still chewing, he reached over and snagged Griffin’s ear with one hand, then smiled at the adults as he continued eating, increasing the pressure with his thumb and forefinger. He gave it a twist for good measure.

“Ow!” Griffin winced. “Okay, okay, I get the message.”

Basil swallowed. “Loud and clear?” he asked before taking another bite, enjoying his meal as well as Lewis and Helen’s grins and Katie’s mortification. He pinched harder.

“Very clear.” Eyes watering, Griffin tried to pull away. No such luck.

Basil chewed and swallowed again. “Do I need to finish this delicious dinner one-handed?”

“No sir,” gasped Griffin.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, sir!”

Releasing the youth’s ear, now a shade redder, he continued eating, then inclined his head as Helen and Lewis raised their glasses in a salute. Griffin massaged his ear and exchanged embarrassed glances with Katie.

“Oh, I was going to ask you, Helen—where did you get the angel statue by the front steps? It’s quite striking,” said Basil.

“Why, thank you. It took longer than I’d planned to have it shipped from Iowa,” she said. “I’m trying to find the perfect poem or quotation to have engraved on its base.” She leaned back and took a sip of wine, her fingernail flicking the edge of the glass with a musical ping. “We discovered it in an antique shop outside Oxford when Lewis was doing some research there. The summer before Katie was born.”

“Oxford—that’s your old stomping grounds, isn’t it?” asked Lewis.

“You might say.” Basil buttered his roll. “What were you researching? Katie, the cranberry sauce, if you don’t mind.”

The professor laughed, a little embarrassed. “It’s an obscure fable in angelic lore, really, although traces of it are found in Judaism, Islam, and Christianity, as well as many other religions.” Resting his elbows on the table, he tented his fingers, launching into instructor mode. “According to this legend, there’s a type of guardian angel that lives here on Earth. Supposedly they’re so much like us we can’t tell them apart from humans. Outside of some vague references, the only source we really have is a medieval document called the Kellsfarne Manuscript.”

As Lewis talked, Basil sat frozen, a fixed smile on his face. He stole a glance at Griffin and gave a slight shake of his head as the professor continued.

“It was written in the twelfth century by an abbot, Aidan, who was head of the Kellsfarne monastery. How he learned of these ….” He stopped when Griffin began coughing.

“You okay?” he asked.

Griffin took a sip of water, nodding his head. “Swallowed wrong,” he rasped, then took a deeper drink.

“So do these … angels … have a name?” asked Basil. Griffin held his breath.

“Terra Angeli. The translation into English would be earth angels, I believe. My Latin’s a bit rusty,” admitted Lewis. “Goodness! Listen to me ramble on. Probably just one of those quirky stories that only dusty old scholars like me care about.”

“What if it’s true?” Griffin ignored the look his Mentor gave him.

“You mean, angels and all that?” asked Katie.

“Well, sure. A lot of people believe in celestial angels. Why not another kind? That help people directly. Here on earth.” Griffin stared at Katie before turning to Lewis. “You said they were a kind of guardian angel, didn’t you?”

“Griffin ….” began Basil. Lewis interrupted him with a wave of his hand.

“Oh, I don’t mind answering his questions,” Lewis assured him, mistaking Basil’s tone. “Griffin, angels can be found in most world religions and are often thought of as benevolent beings that serve God and aid humankind. However, some religions also believe that angels have free will. So they’re capable of both great good and great evil. Many people find that idea … disturbing.” He smiled at Griffin’s expression. “Personally, I’m not sure if I believe in supernatural beings or not.”

“Well, I don’t. I think things just happen,” said Katie.

Helen snorted at her. “My pragmatic daughter.” She shook her head and then glanced around the table. “I do think angels are out there. Watching over us. We just don’t know it.” She sighed and added softly. “I would love to meet one. Just once.”

Griffin started to speak, but stopped when Basil nudged his knee under the table. He nodded reluctantly, dropping the subject.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2011-11-21T06:35:00.001-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving to All!

(I still think our Founding Fathers should have chosen this big guy instead of the eagle...)

The Popularity of YA Fantasy

2011-11-18T01:46:00.001-07:00

This week, YA Indie Carnival talks about the rise in popularity of YA fantasy. Here's my short take:

Fantasy has always had a strong "tribe" of followers. Ever since the 50's when J.R.R. Tolkien's* The Lord of the Rings trilogy became popular in the United States, fantasy has given readers an escape from the mundane and sometimes grim reality of life.

YA fantasy (as well as adult fantasy) embraces the essence of story telling: a hero or heroine battling evil against overwhelming odds, often supported by a band of friends. The transformation he or she makes during the adventure/journey/mission mimics the transformation we make as we travel from childhood to adulthood. And all the while, the magic of different beings or different lands adds a poignant patina.

I guess I'm not surprise, then, by the popularity of YA (or adult) fantasy. For it is in this genre we explore the big issues of life: the choice between good and evil, the value of friendship, and the gift of self sacrifice.

* I would highly recommend Tolkien's essay On Fairy Tales.

The Ranger's Apprentice: The Lost Stories by John Flanagan

2011-11-14T05:25:00.000-07:00

The Ranger's Apprentice: The Lost Stories by John Flanagan

From Amazon.com:

Inspired by questions and letters his loyal readers have sent over the years, John Flanagan offers a gift in response: a collection of "lost" tales that fill in the gaps between Ranger's Apprentice novels. For the first time, readers can learn the truth behind how Will came to be orphaned and what his real relationship to Halt is, or watch Alyss in action as the young Araluen diplomat disguises herself and becomes the perfect spy.

My Thoughts:

I was so sorry to see this series end. I adored the relationship between Will and Halt, especially in the earlier books. So when I learned that Flanagan had written one more, (to ease the sorrow of his fans), I knew I would be picking it up right away.

This book is a mix of short stories about the various characters. Each story either fills in some blanks or gives a backstory. A few were just okay, but some were absolutely fascinating. My favorite two: the story about how Will ended up as an orphan, and the story about Halt's early days as a Ranger. There is even one about Tug, Will's beloved horse.

All in all, this was a nice wrap up for a remarkable series. John Flanagan has a new series out: Brotherband, that I am eyeing for Christmas.

Book Signing

2011-11-10T08:51:00.000-07:00

I will signing copies of Griffin Rising at Barnes & Noble (Briargate location) in Colorado Springs this Saturday from 12:00 to 2:00. Stop by - I'd love to see you.

Whacha' Reading?

2011-11-07T04:26:00.002-07:00

So what is everyone reading? Any suggestions for me? Here's the books I am currently enjoying:

Hammered by Kevin Hearne

Ashfall by Mike Mullin

The Ranger's Apprentice: The Lost Tales by John Flanagan

As you can see, my taste is rather focused right now: fantasy series (urban, dystopian, high) with male protagonists, so please point me to some more like these!

Griffin Rising: Ebook Sale

2011-11-05T09:31:00.000-06:00

Here's some awesome news from my publishing house: Twilight Times Books:

We appreciate our readers. 100 critically acclaimed ebooks are on sale from Twilight Times Books. Prices discounted 50% ($1.99 to $3.50) now via the Twilight Times Books web site and also via our ebook distributors later this month: B & N Nook, eReader, Fictionwise, Kindle, Kobo, OmniLit, Sony, etc. until Jan 15th. Historical, literary, mystery, SF, YA and more.
http://twilighttimesbooks.com/

Just in time for the holidays!

YA Indie Carnival: Writing from High School

2011-11-04T03:33:00.005-06:00

This week's YA Indie Carnival, we were supposed to share anything we had written in high school.

Um...guys? Problem here.

I've never written a thing in my life until I wrote Griffin Rising. Never thought about writing. Never wanted to be a writer. Griffin simply followed me home one day and politely asked if I would tell his story.

And so I did. Mostly so that the characters would stop whispering my ears, like creepy little stalkers, and go whisper in someone's ears.

So, is there anyone else out there that discovered writing later in life?

For the Birds by Aaron Paul Lazar

2011-11-02T02:54:00.001-06:00

From Goodreads:

What happens when a parakeet named Ruby gets an unexpected mind-meld with Marcella Hollister's quarrelsome mother, Thelma? After Thelma is kidnapped from her hospital bed, Marcella must find her -- somewhere in the tall pines of the six-million-acre Adirondack Park. With the help of her Native American husband Quinn and bizarre "tips" from Ruby, Marcella butts heads with quirky bird psychic Earl Tiramisu, much to the chagrin of the FBI, who wants her to stay out of the investigation.

Why is Tiramisu asking questions about Thelma's past and the money she's been spending? The FBI agents hint that it may be related to an unsolved fifty-year-old bank heist, but Marcella can't believe her annoying, but honest-to-a-fault mother could be involved.

Across the rugged Adirondack park landscape, a brutal scenario evolves, where the good guys aren't what they seem, and only Ruby's newly acquired talents provide slim hope for survival. -- from Goodreads.

My Thoughts:

For the Birds, by Aaron Paul Lazar, is a wild ride of a paranormal mystery. The plot twists and turns and keeps you on your toes. The characters, especially Marcella and Quinn, are well-written and they have a great chemistry between them.

I have to say I am not a fan of mysteries. Nor do I care for female protagonists and first person narrative. But Lazar crafted such a great story, I couldn't put it down. I finished it in just a few days. It’s that good. Really.

I would recommend this book to those who enjoy a clever, well-written mystery with quirky paranormal elements. A great holiday gift!

Griffin on a Pumpkin

2011-10-31T16:32:00.000-06:00

My brother carved a jack-o-lantern with the symbol from Griffin's Fire (book two). I love the guy!

Be Afraid! YA Indie Carnival

2011-10-28T04:23:00.001-06:00

Boo! Welcome back to another YA Indie Carnival. This week, in honor of Halloween, we are all posting about a favorite indie scary book!

For a good chill down the back, I would recommend Beverly Stowe McClure's Listen to the Ghost. It has a little of everything: ghosts, first loves, and a terrific cast of characters.

I have an autographed copy from Beverly Stowe McClure and intended to read it again in celebration of Halloween!

Sweet Designs Magazine for Teens

2011-10-27T09:05:00.002-06:00

Griffin Rising received a five star rating and an awesome review in Sweet Designs Magazine for Teens.
Here's an excerpt:

"Griffin Rising kept me reading the whole way through. If you enjoy angel fiction stories, you'll definitely enjoy Griffin Rising. I heard that the sequel is coming out soon - I can't wait.

So it's pretty obvious what I'm going to give Griffin Rising: 5 stars! Go get this novel right now!"

I love teen reviews!!!!!

Hexed by Kevin Hearne

2011-10-25T04:48:00.000-06:00

Hexed by Kevin Hearne (Book Two in the Iron Druid Chronicles)

Atticus O’Sullivan, last of the Druids, doesn’t care much for witches. Still, he’s about to make nice with the local coven by signing a mutually beneficial nonaggression treaty—when suddenly the witch population in modern-day Tempe, Arizona, quadruples overnight. And the new girls are not just bad, they’re badasses with a dark history on the German side of World War II.

With a fallen angel feasting on local high school students, a horde of Bacchants blowing in from Vegas with their special brand of deadly decadence, and a dangerously sexy Celtic goddess of fire vying for his attention, Atticus is having trouble scheduling the witch hunt. But aided by his magical sword, his neighbor’s rocket-propelled grenade launcher, and his vampire attorney, Atticus is ready to sweep the town and show the witchy women they picked the wrong Druid to hex. -- from Amazon.com

These books just get better and better. I love Hearne's tongue-in-cheek humor and his fast paced action. His mythology is well-researched. And the secondary characters are as fully realized as Atticus and Oberon. The only thing I'm not too crazy about (and it is a minor point) is the number of pop references. A few less would have been better.

Otherwise, I highly recommend this next installment in the Iron Druid Chronicles.

Book Signing

2011-10-22T01:37:00.001-06:00

A perfect to start the holiday shopping!

I'm participating in a booksigning to benefit Pikes Peak Writers, and I'd love for you to stop by. It will be Saturday, November 12 from 12:00 to 2:00 pm at the Barnes & Noble (Briargate) located at 1565 Briargate Blvd, Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Pikes Peak Writers is a national nonprofit that helps writers learn, connect and grow through workshops, resources, contests, scholarships, and one of the best writer's conferences in the country. Membership in PPW is now completely free, as are many of their programs. To help PPW continue in their support of writers, Barnes & Noble is hosting this benefit book fair and signing. If you shop at B&N (either in a store or online) during the benefit period, a portion of what you spend goes to PPW. It costs you nothing extra, and you can even use your B&N member discount.

I hope you'll join me at the signing, but if you can't make it I invite you to shop BN.com/bookfairs between November 12th and 17th, and reference bookfair number #10553048.

For more info about this bookfair and the list of 30+ authors who will be signing at five Colorado Barnes & Noble locations, please visit here: Pikes Peak Writers Book Signings

Hope to see you there!

Back Soon

2011-10-17T01:52:00.004-06:00

I'm taking a break this week (unless something comes up). I'll be back next week with my review of Hexed by Kevin Hearne as well as the weekly YA Indie Carnival post.

By the way, SEVEN BILLION PEOPLE???

In the meantime, check out the Feast of Screams going on over at Paper Cut Reviews! If you dare...

YA Indie Carnival: Best Fan Moment

2011-10-14T01:27:00.005-06:00

It must be Friday! YA Indie Carnival is back! Today, we are talking about our best fan moments.

My Best Fan Moment: when the middle school where I teach chose Griffin Rising for their September's book club selection.

Kaci Guthrie, my dear friend and holder of the title: Librarian Extraordinaire, always began each meeting with a brief re-cap of the chapters we had just read. On the last day of book club, she started to summarize the ending and burst into tears.

At the exact scene I had wept as I wrote it.

Gosh, to bring a reader to either laughter or tears is a supreme moment for a writer. I'm hoping there are many more moments like that to come!

Now here's some great news and terrific events from some other YA Indie Carnvial members. Go check them out:

For a limited time, Kimberly Kinrade is selling signed copies of her YA paranormal thriller/romance Forbidden Mind. As an All Hallow's Read bonus, she is also including some awesome gifts with each purchase... including a very special bonus to the first 5 lucky people who place an order. Get a copy for yourself and buy one for a friend in celebration of All Hallow's Read. For more details, visit http://bit.ly/qGMQk

Courtney Cole released her Bloodstone Saga finale, My Tattered Bonds

Check out The Paranormal Plumes Haunted Book Tour in Savannah Halloween Weekend! http://www.theplumessociety.com/

30% of the royalties of Lexus Luke's Manitou The Sky People Saga go to the ASPCA.

The Vincent Boys by Abbi Glines will release on Oct 21. Here is the book trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=aAp6chU-d6o

Filter Giveaway on Gwenn Wright's blog! http://hereventuality.blogspot.com/2011/10/von-strassenbergs-giving-it-away.html. When she reaches 100 followers she will give away a signed copy of Filter AND one of her fancy new mugs!

The Luck of the Irish

2011-10-11T17:40:00.000-06:00

Lots of good stuff happening with my new middle grade Celtic urban fantasy entitled Finn Finnegan.

I now have five full manuscripts out with editors. One has offered a publishing contract, but is graciously willing to wait until I hear from the others. Squeeeeee!!!

The Freedom of Was

2011-10-11T04:27:00.004-06:00

A rant to follow - bear with me.

As a writer, we are cautioned again and again to NEVER write in the passive voice. Avoid is, was, were, be, etc. as if plague infected.

The same goes for adverbs. Beefy verbs is all a true writer should ever use. The infamous –ly ending is a red flag to editors. Makes ‘em faint dead away.

Adjectives? We might get away with a sprinkling of them in our writing, but we best be ready to justified why we couldn’t find the perfect noun.

Puh-lease.

Sometimes, the best way to say “The door was locked” is to say “The door was locked.” Because otherwise, we end up writing, “Being locked, the door prevented egress” or “The door, being locked, halted anyone’s ability to enter or exit.”

I understand the need for rules to help define an art form, be it writing, painting, music, dance, or film-making. But once you know the rules, break them as needed. There. We all now have that permission slip.

In my current WIP, I have allowed myself not only the freedom to use was and is, but also the freedom to use adjectives and adverbs (albeit in a miserly fashion). I cannot tell you how liberating it is. I used to twist myself in a knot trying to write a sentence without using was. Sometimes, I just had to use it. And it did not diminish my writing one bit.

Will I still edit them out on the final draft? Perhaps. But only if those changes make my story stronger. Better.

Because everything is about the Story. Get that right and the rest will follow.

YA Indie Carnival: Why I Luv Basil

2011-10-07T02:50:00.001-06:00

It's Friday! Here's my weekly YA Indie Carnival post!

This week:

My Favorite Character to Write and Why?

A lot of people would assume my favorite character to write was Griffin, but actually, it was Basil. As Griffin's mentor, Basil was charged with the task of turning a troubled teen angel into a well-trained guardian of humankind. Along the way, Basil also became a father figure to his young apprentice.

In a genre where positive adult figures are few and far between, it was a joy to create a character that was a warrior, a father (and as Griffin grew older, a friend and comrade-in-arms).

From his subtle British humor to his obsession with grammar, as well as his insistence that Griffin always toes the line, Basil's quirks were a counter-balance to his larger-than-life heroic nature.

But there was another reason: I think many people (teens and adults) have a father-shaped hole in their heart. As a Christian, my Father-shaped hole is filled perfectly with His presence. Perhaps Basil was written in tribute to Him.

Fans? What do you think?

And a big YAY! to Rachel Coles for her release of her new anthology of ghost stories: Beyond The Veil: A Ghost Story Anthology is out on Kindle!

2011 Cybils Awards

2011-10-04T06:56:00.001-06:00

Griffin Rising is a nominee for the 2011 Cybils Award

Oh, Fire! (as Griffin would say)

Hounded by Kevin Hearne

2011-10-03T04:02:00.002-06:00

Hounded (Iron Druid Chronicles #1)

Tempe, Arizona is as far removed from paranormal activity as is possible. And that's where Atticus O'Sullivan, rare book salesman, herb peddler, and 2,000 year old Druid - the last of his kind - has decided to set up shop. He's been on the run, guarding a very powerful sword from a very angry ancient Celtic god for over two millennia now.

But while these years have been good to him - Atticus has become more powerful than he could have possibly imagined - The Morrigan, a very old god of death, has predicted death and doom for our hero, and it's up to Atticus, with help from a pride of werewolves, and a gorgeous bartender with a secret of her own, to stay alive, hopefully for another thousand years. (from Goodreads)

Talk about a Celtic kick! This book has it all: a likable hero, great action, and some insanely hysterical moments between Atticus and his talking Irish wolfhound, Oberon. I have three of the books and am devouring the second one right now.

These novels are adult and a fun break from all the YA books I've been reading.

Great Book Giveaway

2011-10-01T02:00:00.001-06:00

Suki Michelle, the co-author of The Apocalypse Gene is having a massive giveaway! Free books and a shot at a Kindle! Check out the link below:

http://www.theapocalypsegene.com/cy-chi/?page_id=76

YA Indie Carnival: Dreamcast for Griffin Rising

2011-09-30T02:30:00.001-06:00

Welcome back to the YA Indie Carnival! This week's subject: who would you cast for the movie version of your novel. Oh, this one was fun to do! Here's my choices:

For Griffin: actor, Drew Roy (especially Griffin at sixteen)

For Basil: actor, Liam Neeson (he would need to dye his hair white, but otherwise - perfect!)

Katie Heflin: I have no idea! Any help here would be greatly appreciated!

YA Indie Carnival

2011-09-23T02:00:00.002-06:00

Welcome to my first YA Indie Carnival post! I've been invited to join this uber-cool group of indie authors and bloggers to celebrate all things YA. Each week, group members will post about a fun topic.

This week's topic: YA Indie Idol: Featuring An Indie Author I Love!

Actually, I have three indie authors that I adore: Beverly Stowe McClure, C. Lee McKenzie, and Susan Goldsmith.

Beverly Stowe McClure, author of the award-winning Caves, Cannons, and Crinolines.
Not only does she write in a clean, crisp style, but she is a fount of knowledge and experience in the Crazy Land Known as the Publishing World. She is a "pub-sister" of mine at Twilight Times Books.

C. Lee McKenzie, author of The Princess of Las Pulgas and Sliding on the Edge.
As classy as they come, C. Lee writes with the soul of a poet. She never fails to reach out to both veteran authors as well as the rookies with advice and humor and support.

Susan Goldsmith, author of the award-winning Abithica.
Susan is another "pub-sister" of mine at Twilight Times Books. Our debut novels, both about angels, launched the same day. She has been such a cheerleader for me! I can't wait for her next book!

So I guess I cheated a little, but I had to celebrate these amazing indie authors! You will want to add their books to your library!

Books May Stink, But They Don't Spoil

2011-09-19T02:03:00.002-06:00

The other day in a conversation with a fellow author, I mentioned the fact that, unlike a lot of creeping (yes, I meant creeping: as in they appear to be moving) blobs of stuff in the back of my refrigerator, books don’t spoil. A book has the shelf life of a Slim Jim, maybe even longer.

And how cool is that?

Which means even if your novel doesn’t sell very well, or those pesky returns are eating you alive, or a book signing turns into a big fat goose egg, your book will be okay. It will sit patiently on a shelf or in a box or in a pile at the end of the dinning room table, waiting for a home.

Think about how many books you have read recently that were published six months ago. A year ago. A decade ago. I just discovered the Earthsea Cycle by Ursula K. Le Guin. Oh, I’ve known of these books (what Tolkien fan has not) for decades, but never got around to reading them. Now I am. And the magic of that world and its characters are as real and fresh as the day they were published. That’s glory for you.

Today, someone may be opening the cover of your book or my book for the very first time. They will dip into that first paragraph and become captivated by those words. That should send chills along your arms.

Twenty years from now, the exact thing can and will happen.

Because books don’t spoil.

Clubbing with Middle Schoolers - Part One

2011-09-10T12:27:00.000-06:00

As I have mentioned in previous posts, Cheyenne Mountain Junior High School (Go Thunderbirds!) here in Colorado Springs has a popular book club. Close to forty members strong with an equal mix of boys and girls, this weekly book club meets during lunch and is led by Mrs. Kaci Guthrie, the school librarian. I, too, have been a member of this club for over a year now.

For September, the club is reading Griffin Rising.

We just finished our second meeting. This is what has been swirling around my brain for the last two weeks:

1. Sitting with teens while they discuss your book is possibly the most surreal experience I have ever had. My wish for every YA/MG author is that they get a chance to experience it. It has changed how I write in so many good ways.

2. Boys are more insightful than we give them credit for. They are okay with a little romance as long as it is vital to the story. And they especially appreciated the fact that, just like them, Griffin has no idea how to instigate hand holding with Katie. Or if you are supposed to keep your eyes open when you kiss or not.

3. Both the boys and girls find it odd that so many books for teens portray parents as either evil or stupid or clueless. One student remarked to me afterwards that it felt like too many YA books stereotype adults as much as they stereotype teens. This is from a 13 year old girl.

Blew. My. Mind.

4. The nuances I thought teens would not get, they got. Nuances I didn't know I had written, they got, too. And pointed them out to me.

Blew. My. Mind. Again.

I am so going to start wearing a crash helmet to these meeting.

Book Signing

2011-09-04T18:12:00.001-06:00

My first book signing (last Wednesday) was a dream come true, thanks to my dear friend, Kaci Guthrie. She also carries the title Librarian Extraordinaire. Current fans and future fans helped make the day special.

A book club member (the club is reading Griffin Rising this month)

This is Emile Guthrie. Fire, I love this kid! His mom, too!

Levi and Nick - former students and awesome young men! What a treat to see them again!

My "wingman" stopped by - my husband and BFF, Wes.

And here is the ubiquitous close up of the table.

Award Winning Novel (I like the sound of that!)

2011-08-31T17:24:00.000-06:00

Griffin Rising

2011 Readers Favorite Award Winner

(Honorable Mention - YA)

A Week of Riches

2011-08-30T08:40:00.000-06:00

Tomorrow: my first book signing

Thursday: book club begins with junior high students. What an incredible opportunity for a YA author - to sit with teens once a week while they discuss your book!

Thursday: winners are announced for the 2011 Readers Favorite Awards

The Moment Every YA Author Lives For

2011-08-25T14:43:00.000-06:00

Today, in one of my classes, a student finished his assignment a few minutes earlier. To pass the time, he pulled out a book to read.

The book was Griffin Rising.

I almost cried.

2011-08-24T04:03:00.000-06:00

You're Invited to a Book Signing!

Wednesday, August 31st

3:00 - 4:00

Cheyenne Mountain Junior High School Library

Colorado Springs, CO

I'll be signing copies of Griffin Rising and handing out candy!

How Do You Do That Thing You Do So Well?

2011-08-18T03:00:00.001-06:00

I've been trying an experiment with my current WIP: I'm writing faster.

And it feels weird. I am sooo out of my comfort zone.

You see, with my first two books, I wrote methodically, editing as I went. Trying to craft each sentence as perfectly as I could before moving on to the next sentence. It seemed to fit me, but was that because it was the only way I knew how to write?

So I decided with book three to write it faster. Rougher. Just plug in an acceptable word instead of hunting for the perfect noun/verb/whatever and keep moving. Keep a-rolling along. (My critique partner, Brooke, is probably shaking her head at me right now.)

However, what I have found, after being 30,000 words into the manuscript, is that the less-than-perfect sentences/paragraphs/scenes are bugging me. I mean, they are scratching at my ankles so much I finally went and put on my Uggs just for protection. I'm dying to go back and polish my work until it glows.

But I really want to learn how to let go and just get the first draft written. To build up my confidence that I am capable of going back and fixing what needs fixed. Later.

How do you write? Fast and furious? Slow and glow? Any advice or suggestions would be incredibly helpful.

Author Interview with Beverly Stowe MClure

2011-08-16T03:17:00.003-06:00

Today I have the pleasure of interviewing Beverly Stowe McClure, the author of Frankie's Perfect Home, which I reviewed yesterday.

Darby: Beverly, you are known as an author of YA and MG novels, including the award-winning Caves, Cannons, and Crinolines. Why did you decide to write a picture book?

Bev: In my early writing career I concentrated on articles and short stories for children’s magazines. Frankie’s Perfect Home started out as a story for a magazine. Even though several editors liked Frankie and said it was well written, they weren’t in the market for a story about an armadillo. Since I wasn’t ready to give up on the story, I changed it to a picture book.

I decided to write a picture book because I thought it would be fun to share my work with a younger audience for a change.

Darby: What was your inspiration for Frankie? How long did it take you to write it?

Bev: We had a little armadillo that loved to dig up our yard in search of bugs to eat. One day the animal even posed for me to snap some pictures. And Frankie’s story was born. We have a pair of armadillos now that I catch a glimpse of every now and then. I don’t know what they’re eating because we’ve had such hot, dry weather this summer there are few bugs available for food and no worms that I know of, an armadillos’ favorite food.

I don’t recall exactly long it took to write the story. Probably three to six months. I’m a slow writer.

Darby:
Tell us what surprised you the most about writing a picture book?

Bev: How hard it is to find the exact right words for the story. They need to have a rhythm, though not necessarily to rhyme. Writing short isn’t as easy as most people think. You have to think of the illustrations as you write. Are there enough scenes for the artist. You don’t have to describe the characters the way you do in MG or YA writing. The illustrator will do this in his artwork. Sometimes their interpretation is quite different than what I envision. My forthcoming Tumbleweed Christmas really surprised me. But that’s a different story to tell later.

Darby: I have Tumbleweed Christmas on my radar! So what was it like working with an illustrator?

Bev: When I saw Alex Morris’ first sketches I was so excited. They were perfect for Frankie. After my approval, the illustrator took it from there, and the result is a gorgeous book with animals kids should adore because their expressions fit each scene just right. And the colors are the blues and purples of nighttime, giving the story the right feeling. A picture truly is worth a thousand words.

Darby: Can you tell us about other projects you’re working on?

Bev: Presently, I’m working on a YA contemporary story, tentatively titled Survivors’ Club. Also, I’m writing a sequel to Just Breeze, my MG/Tween contemporary novel. I’ve never done this before but am having fun with it. My MG paranormal story, A Pirate, a Blockade Runner, and a Cat is searching for a home. Another YA contemporary, Life on Hold, has been edited and will be released soon.

Darby: Goodness, you are prolific! Do you have any advice for budding writers?

Bev: You’ve heard this before, but it’s true. Never, never give up. Also read everything, for all ages, all categories, fiction and nonfiction. Have confidence in yourself. Find a good critique group to help you catch the details of your manuscript so easily overlooked.

Darby: Care to share your thoughts about the changes in the publishing world?

Bev: One of the major changes since I started writing in the late 1990s is the fact that few major publishing houses now accept manuscripts from the author. They’ll only look at agented work. I hate that, but it’s life.

Writing on a computer is also much easier than on a typewriter. For you youngsters out there who have no experience with typewriters, here’s an example: You put in one sheet of paper at a time, with a carbon paper to have a copy. If you misspell a word or leave out a word or make another typo error, you use Whiteout to cover up the mistake. But of course you can’t send that paper to the editor so you type the whole thing over again. And then there are your purple fingers from the copy paper that keep leaving purple smudges on your typed sheet. You see what I’m saying? I’ll take my good old computer any day.

Another change that may be good or bad, only time will tell, is the self-publishing opportunities writers now have. I haven’t tried it so can’t say much about the business, but everyone can see their weeks, months, and years of writing in print now.

And last, books for teens seem to be booming. Even adults are reading them, and that definitely is a good sign. I’ve also noticed that series are the rage. More movies are being made from children’s and YA novels today, too. That is great.

I’m happy to be in the business. Thank you Darby for your great questions. Thank all of you who take the time to read my answers.

Darby: Thank YOU, Beverly, for stopping by! Always a delight to have you visit us.

When Beverly was in eighth grade her teacher sent her poem “Stars” to the National High School Poetry Association, and she was soon a published writer in Young America Sings, an anthology of Texas high school poetry. Forty years later, she sent an article on fire safety in the home to Happiness magazine, and it was published. In between she went to high school, played clarinet in the band, was a majorette, and graduated. Then she got married had three sons (one an angel in heaven), and attended Midwestern State University. She graduated cum laude with a teaching certificate and had a fourth son. She taught children in elementary school for twenty-two years. Writing was the farthest thing from her mind.
Before she knew it, her sons were grown and married. She and hubby have five granddaughters (one also an angel in heaven), two grandsons, two great-grandsons, and one great-granddaughter. She married very young.

They live in the country, where deer sometimes drink from the pond, skunks prowl the yard for leftover dog food, armadillos dig for bugs, and a roadrunner peeks in the glass doors to see what’s happening. Beverly keeps watch on the hummingbirds that come to her feeders and reports the different kinds to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Count. Black chinned and ruby throats are the most common types she sees.
To relax she plays the piano, talks to her cats, and tries to make flowers grow under the hot Texas sun and with little water, and has discovered many interesting ancestors in her genealogy search. With her hubby, a former firefighter, she likes to travel. She teaches a woman’s Sunday school class. And she writes most every day.

Frankie's Perfect Home by Beverly Stowe McClure

2011-08-15T01:21:00.001-06:00

Frankie Armadillo has too many brothers. His burrow is too crowded, so he sets off in search of the perfect home, just for him. But every place he likes is already occupied, sometimes by fierce looking creatures. Will Frankie find the perfect home? - from the back cover

Frankie's Perfect Home is a charming adventure from start to finish!

Children will relate to Frankie's frustration with his crowded burrows, especially with all those annoying brothers. Who can sleep with some one's tail in your eyes or a foot in your mouth?

His adventures as he wanders the Texas landscape are a perfect combination of excitement, close calls, and a growing realization of what truly makes a house (or burrow) a real home.

Besides the tightly crafted writing, a hallmark of all of McClure's work, the illustrations by Alexander Morris are fresh and exuberant as a spring morning on the prairie.

Bravo to Beverly Stowe McClure on her first, and hopefully, not last picture book!

You can purchase Frankie at : Amazon and Barnes & Noble

FRANKIE IS COMING

2011-08-14T14:56:00.000-06:00

FRANKIE IS COMING! TOMORROW! STAY TUNED!

I LUV Book Bloogers (Part Two): Trudy and Yara at Once Upon A Twilight

2011-08-10T07:07:00.001-06:00

My cup runneth over! Trudy and Yara over at Once Upon A Twilight said this about Griffin Rising:

http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2011/08/book-review-griffin-rising-arc-giveaway.html

And then these awesome gals also put my book on their Top Ten List:

http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2011/08/top-ten-tuesday-8911-top-ten-underrated.html

I LUV Book Bloggers (Melissa at I Swim for Oceans)

2011-08-09T09:06:00.000-06:00

The lovely and multi-talented Melissa over at I Swim for Oceans has gone above and beyond for me! Once, again, I am awestruck by the gracious and giving spirit found throughout the YA book blogging world.

Yesterday, Melissa posted one of the most delightful reviews ever: http://www.iswimforoceans.com/2011/08/griffin-rising-review.html

Today, she put Griffin Rising on her Top Ten Underrated Books (Those Books You Can't Believe Aren't More Popular) List:
http://www.iswimforoceans.com/2011/08/top-ten-tuesday-13.html

We're talking goosebumps here, folks!

(P.S. If you are wondering about the unique title of her blog, then check out her About page. Fascinating!)

A Scary Good Book by Anita Laydon Miller

2011-08-08T04:08:00.000-06:00

Release Date Jubilation!

Today, Anita Laydon Miller annouces the release of her latest kids' ebook for teens: A Scary Good Book. I'm dancing for joy!

Twelve-year-old Hannah Stone tells everyone she’s “okay,” but that’s a total lie. Two years ago her dad was killed by a hit-and-run driver. The detective in charge of the case never found the driver, but he somehow managed to get Hannah’s mom to fall in love with him. The jerk. And speaking of love, Hannah’s developed a major crush on Ollie Ortega—he’s her best friend and the only one she can talk to—a crush on Ollie is so not a good idea.

Also not a good idea? Searching for a missing person with no help from the police. But that’s exactly what Hannah does when she finds messages in library books—underlined words that point her in the direction of someone who needs her.

And, suddenly, Hannah’s even further from okay. She breaks into a library, gets caught in a kidnapper’s web, and is stalked by her dad’s killer, all in an effort to save a life…but can she save herself, too?

TeensReadToo.com

2011-08-06T15:28:00.001-06:00

Griffin Rising just received a five star rating from TeensReadToo.com. Yippee!

Squeeeee-Worthy Good News!

2011-08-01T09:02:00.001-06:00

Griffin Rising is a finalist in the 2011 Readers Favorite Award in the YA category. The winners will be announced on September 1st.

Oh, yeah. Doing the happy dance!

Book Review: Earthling Hero by Anita Laydon Miller

2011-07-27T18:54:00.000-06:00

Eleven-year-old Mikey Murphy wakes to find a stranger in his room—a kid who looks exactly like him. Meeting his alien clone and his clone’s purple sister is just the start of Mikey’s adventures. Can Mikey befriend the siblings, bust into a military installation, fight expert assassins and discover an evil alien’s lair? He’ll have to if he wants to rescue his parents and save Planet Earth. (from Amazon.com)

From his first encounter with a boy who appears to be his twin, eleven-year old Mikey is plunged into the biggest adventure of his young life. But this young hero has two things working for him: the love of family and a determination as strong as the Rocky Mountains.

Boys and girls alike will not be able to put down this book! From a chase scene on scooters through the mall to an attack on a highly secretive military instillation that would make the Navy Seals proud, Mikey, Axe, and Aurora are three teens on a mission: to save Mikey’s parents and to save planet Earth.

Author Anita Laydon Miller has woven an enchanting tale with a charming tone. In Earthling Hero, she has nailed the voice and world view of tween boys, especially in the protagonist, Mikey.

Miller deftly blends the familiar setting of Colorado Springs with touches of magic inspired by of both Star Trek and Harry Potter to create a delightful world. High praise indeed!

I highly recommended this book!

My favorite passaage:

Mikey let out a long breath. “I’m scared,” he said. And then he looked at Axe and Aurora. “There,” he continued. “I said it. And, yeah, I’m embarrassed, but I mean, look at that hole. It’s a long way down and we don’t know what or who is going to greet us when we get to the bottom. I’m practically pooping my pants here and I’m supposed to be a hero? I’m supposed to save my parents?” He ran his fingers through his hair and added, “This blows.”

Drop by Anita Laydon Miller's blog site for more about Earthling Hero as well as her upcoming books.

Book Review: Aliens on Vacation

2011-07-26T14:02:00.000-06:00

Aliens on Vacation by Clete Barrett Smith

David, otherwise known as Scrub (don't ask), isn't happy about leaving Florida and his friends to summer with his grandmother in "Middle of Nowhere," Washington. When he arrives at her Intergalactic Bed & Breakfast, he isn't surprised by its 60s meets Star Wars decor, but he is surprised by the weird-looking guests. It turns out that each room in the inn is a portal, and his grandma is the gate-keeper, allowing aliens to vacation on Earth. Grandma desperately needs Scrub's help with welcoming (and disguising) the tourists, shopping for cartloads of aluminum foil for dinner, and taking rambunctious alien kids camping in the nearby woods. The problem is, the town sheriff--already suspicious about Granny--is a scout leader camping in the same spot. Will Scrub blow Granny's cover, forcing the B&B to shut down forever? Full of cosmic chaos and mind-bending mayhem, Scrub's summer adventure will leave readers wanting to make a return. (From Goodreads)

My Mini-Review:

Aliens on Vacation by Clete Barrett Smith was a blast to read. From the hippie era references to the X-Files allusions, Smith, with tongue firmly in cheek, has written a whimsical debut novel.

Beside the terrific cast of characters, (Scrub, the twelve year old protagonist, his grandmother, a Flower Power leftover, and Amy, Scrub’s gutsy and freckled face sweetheart), I loved the upbeat message of the story: that family, with all their flaws and idiosyncrasies, are important, and that first love can first start with friendship.

Boys will devour this book, but girls will enjoy it, too. As a 7^th grade teacher, I can tell you that Smith has totally pegged both the voice and emotions of this age group.

I understand the second book in the series, Alien on a Rampage, will be coming out next summer. I cannot wait to return to The Intergalactic Bed and Breakfast for find out what happens next!

Aliens on Vacation by Clete Barrett Smith

2011-07-22T10:28:00.000-06:00

Last month, I had the pleasure of participating in a live author chat with several YA/MG authors. One of the other debut authors was Clete Barrett Smith, the author of Aliens on Vacation.

Beside being a thoroughly professional and upbeat person, he was also hysterically funny. After the chat ended, I moved his book to the top of my TBR.

I just got my copy today and can’t wait to start!

Griffin's Fire - Book Two's Cover Art Is Revealed!

2011-07-18T03:00:00.001-06:00

Ardy M. Scott is the mastermind behind these covers. Once again, Ardy, you worked your magic.
Man, and I thought I love the first cover.

And, yup, if I could have made the image even larger, I would have.

Review: The Emerald Atlas

2011-07-16T08:04:00.000-06:00

The Emerald Atlas by John Stephens

John Stephens' aptly-titled new fantasy trilogy begins auspiciously with a nimble, fast-paced tale of three siblings. Kate, Michael, and Emma have suffered through ten years of odious orphanage "care"; now they have slipped into the care of the eccentric, disturbingly mysterious Dr. Pym. While exploring their new home, the children discover a magical green book. With that discovery, a decade of tedium dissolves into cascades of dangerous time travel adventures and struggles with a beautiful witch and decidedly less attractive zombie-like Screechers. High early reader marks for strong characterization and battle scenes. –from Goodreads.

My Thoughts:

This is a charming old-fashion adventure with a touch of snark.

The Emerald Atlas is a mix of The Hobbit and The Chronicles of Narnia, both in its plot and writing style. High praise indeed. The three protagonists and siblings, Kate, Michael and Emma, are engaging, funny, heroic, and delightfully flawed. But the secondary characters are just as delightful: Gabriel the Giant, the magical Dr. Pym, and the dwarves. Especially the dwarves. Like young Michael, I do love me some dwarves.

I’m thinking of donating my autographed copy (which I purchased at the Tattered Cover in Denver – all praise to the independent bookstore) to my middle school library.

I think.

Maybe. Maybe not. Because I may have to read it again.

The Emerald Atlas

2011-07-14T16:44:00.000-06:00

More than halfway through with The Emerald Atlas by John Stephens. I've decided I love it. More of my thoughts in a few days.

100 Follower Giveaway at Bumps in the Road

2011-07-11T20:55:00.000-06:00

Bumps in the Road Book Blog is celebrating its one hundredth follower with an incredible giveaway. Such riches. Head on over and sign up for some terrific books and join in the fun.

http://bumpsintheroad1.blogspot.com/2011/07/100-follower-giveaway.html

Writing Symptoms

2011-07-11T02:00:00.003-06:00

Have you ever felt homesick? Maybe as a child or even as an adult? That weird lump that seems to settle halfway down your throat. A cross between wanting to cry and wanting to throw up?

That's how I feel when I'm not writing. Like I'm homesick.

A pure visceral reaction.

What physical reaction do you have when you really, really want to write, but life's demands prevent you? Is it an itch in your palm or a humming in your ears? A racing pulse? A short temper?

Some Random Promotion Ideas

2011-07-06T09:35:00.001-06:00

We all acknowledge that promotion is now part and parcel of being a published author. And, at first, I was fearful of it. It seemed so...so...tacky. So blowing-your-own-horn. Or as I have been referring to my efforts: "pimping my angel."

Now there are loads of brilliant promotion ideas I haven't tried yet. But I have picked up a few that seem to work for me. I thought I'd share them with you in no particular order.

#1. Book plates.
I stole this idea from other authors. You can have them made (kind of expensive) or you can print your own. My husband designed mine using the griffin figure from the book cover. After working his magic with Photoshop, we printed them on 3 by 5 stock mailing label using a faded look so it looks a bit antiqued. Classy and simple. So if someone buys my book, I can mail them an autographed peel-and-stick plate for the inside cover. E-reader folks are starting to collect these, too.

#2. Giveaways on Goodreads.
Always fun to do and you usually get a review out of it. When you send the winner a signed copy of your book, send along an extra signed book plate with a note telling them they can give it to family or friends who might also purchase a copy of your book.

#3. Small or new book bloggers
They rarely get brand new ARCs. Send them one. Helping people on the way up is what this industry is all about, especially in the YA world. I've met some of the most incredible people that way, (yes, I'm pointing at you, Tracy and Amelia) as well as my fabulous critique partner, Brooke. *Waves at Brooke*

#4. Your mom was right - always send a thank you note or e-mail.
Always thank every reviewer for their review. This is common courtesy. They took time to read your book, then write a review, often while juggling busy schedules of their own. Getting a review is an honor, not a right.

#5. Have more copies of your book on hand than you think you'll need.
I keep running out. Bit the bullet and order at least 20 or 30 thirty extras. Trust me - you'll go through them.

Does anyone have other promotion ideas they wish to share?

A Special Teen Guest in Honor of Independence Day

2011-07-04T00:30:00.003-06:00

In honor of Independence Day, I've invited a very special guest. With great pride, may I present Miss Lizzie Stamford She's going to share with us her thoughts and impressions of the Siege of Vicksburg.
Miss Lizzie, if you please...

I sit here, without the mouth of the cave, watching stars sparkle in the sky. For now, the cannon are silent. I suppose the Yankees are resting before they start their next round of firing. We have a few moments to remember what life was like, before General Grant and his Federal army arrived. It seems so long ago. A distant memory. Now, my stomach aches with hunger. I’m so tired. How does a person sleep on the hard ground inside a cave, the ceiling threatening to collapse on you at any time? Some can, my brother Nat for instance. I cannot.

It wasn’t always this way. Vicksburg, Mississippi, was once a beautiful town sitting high on the hills overlooking the Mississippi River. Birds sang in the trees. My brothers, Joseph, Willie, Nat, and I went to church with Mama and Papa. Nat and I, with the help of our house servants, Aunt Lois and Uncle Morris, planted a vegetable garden in our yard every spring. Mama gave lavish parties where handsome men and beautiful ladies wearing long, flowing gowns danced and laughed. And when Papa or my brothers weren’t looking, Patrick, tall, with dark hair and eyes, would smile at me and ask me to go for a walk with him. He’d hold my hand and I loved him so. Then he went off to war with Joseph and Willie. He will never return home. He will never hold my hand again.

Today you hear little laughter in Vicksburg. The flowers are gone, crushed by cannon balls. Our food supply grows smaller and smaller. Unless the Yankees leave soon we shall starve. To help bring an end to this war, I, Elizabeth, better known as Lizzie, Stamford, know what I must do. But first I shall write a letter to my brother Willie, explaining what has happened. You can read it to, if you wish.

Vicksburg, Mississippi
Thursday, May 21, 1863

Dearest Brother Willie,

We went to the cave for the first time today¾Mama, Nat, and I. And I hate it. I prefer to risk injury from the hissing, screaming shells in my house than to scurry underground like a scared rabbit. Papa is at the hospital, attending the sick and wounded. We see him so seldom these days. Sometimes I wish he were not a doctor. Then he could stay home with us, where he belongs.

I hate what this war has done to our family. You and Joseph are far away, in Virginia. I miss you all terribly. Mama worries about you. She worries about Papa. She scarcely lets me out of her sight. Most of my friends have left Vicksburg for safer places. The ones remaining are living in caves or basements. I’m supposed to watch Nat. Mama fears he will run away to find you. I know he shan’t do such a thing. Every time a shell falls he hides. The war confuses gentle Nat. He does not comprehend why men kill each other. Neither do I.

We heard the Yankees have taken Jackson. Our army fell back to the Big Black River and then retreated to Vicksburg. Their return was a sad sight. Wagons, cannon, and ambulances clattered down the streets. Ragged and weary soldiers, some with arms in slings, some leaning on crutches, others carrying the wounded, stumbled alongside them. We gave the men what food and water we could spare, which was very little. Many blamed General Pemberton for our defeat. Others said the fault was not his. Jefferson Davis must have confidence in him, or he would not have put John Pemberton in charge of defending Vicksburg, would he? I have met General Pemberton and think he has courage.

Oh, I must tell you what happened this morning. I was asleep in my bed when a shell burst through the roof and tore a hole in the wall above me. The house rocked like a baby’s cradle. Nat and Mama rushed in to see if I was injured. When Mama saw my damaged room, she panicked and skedaddled us to the cave. We’ve been here ever since, and it’s near evening.

There’s more, but I must stop for now before I explode like a cannon. Just writing about what’s happened angers me. It also makes me more determined to send those Yankees back where they came from, their tails tucked between their legs like scared dogs.

Now I make plans. Shh. No one must know.

Learn more about me at http://beverlystowemcclure.wordpress.com.
See my book at: http://amzn.to/9ZdW2U
http://bit.ly/9OC92b
http://www.twilighttimesbooks.com
And other book stores

ABOUT THE BOOK:

In May of 1863, fourteen-year-old Elizabeth (Lizzie) Stamford decides to enlist in the Confederate Army. Two incidents trigger her decision. First, for months General Ulysses S. Grant and his Federal troops have been shelling Vicksburg, Mississippi. To control Vicksburg is to control the Mississippi River. Now, Vicksburg is under siege, cut off from the rest of the world.

Caves, Cannons and Crinolines is the story of Elizabeth (Lizzie) Stamford and her family's daily struggle to survive a changing way of life during the American Civil War. This is a story of fear, courage, and understanding that people, no matter where they live, have the same needs: love, peace and security.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

When Beverly was in eighth grade her teacher sent her poem “Stars” to the National High School Poety Association, and she was soon a published writer in Young America Sings, an anthology of Texas high school poetry. Forty years later, she sent an article on fire safety in the home to Happiness magazine, and it was published. In between she went to high school, played clarinet in the band, was a majorette, and graduated. Then she got married had three sons (one an angel in heaven), and attended Midwestern State University. She graduated cum laude with a teaching certificate and had a fourth son. She taught children in elementary school for twenty-two years. Writing was the farthest thing from her mind.

Before she knew it, her sons were grown and married. She and hubby have five granddaughters (one also an angel in heaven), two grandsons, two great-grandsons, and one great-granddaughter. She married very young.

hey live in the country, where deer sometimes drink from the pond, skunks prowl the yard for leftover dog food, armadillos dig for bugs, and a roadrunner peeks in the glass doors to see what’s happening. Beverly keeps watch on the hummingbirds that come to her feeders and reports the different kinds to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Count. Black chinned and ruby throats are the most common types she sees.

To relax she plays the piano, talks to her cats, and tries to make flowers grow under the hot Texas sun and with little water, and has discovered many interesting ancestors in her genealogy search. With her hubby, a former firefighter, she likes to travel. She teaches a woman’s Sunday school class. And she writes most every day.

Folks, you will want to pick up a copy of Caves, Cannons, and Crinolines. It's an amazing read! I've read it twice already!

Happy Fourth of July!

When Book Geeks Do the Mile High City

2011-06-30T06:00:00.001-06:00

A few days ago, my friend, Kaci, and I went to the Tattered Cover Bookstore, armed with a camera. Because if you're going to geek out in a book store, you better have the photos to back it up.

I'm just saying.

This is Kaci. She is uber hip and cool.

This is me. I, on other hand, am not cool. (Yup. Foam.)

While Kaci jotted down titles for our junior high library, I started reading The Emerald Atlas.

And found a picture book of The Lord of the Rings - because one can never have too much Aragorn.

What is your favorite bookstore and why?

Griffin Rising At Last!

2011-06-28T00:12:00.003-06:00

I've decided to spend part of this oh-so-special Official Launch Day surrounded by books! My dear friend and fellow book junkie, Kaci, and I are heading up to Denver to the Tattered Cover Bookstore. We are going to buy loads of books and then go have lunch. Ah, pure bliss.

In celebration of this day, I am giving away autographed book plates of Griffin Rising. E-mail me at darby@darbykarchut.com with your address and I'll send it right away.

And many, many thanks to the fans who have already fallen in love with Griffin and Basil. You are all angels to me!

What I Did On My Summer Vacation

2011-06-21T19:19:00.000-06:00

I miss Ireland.

Camp Eve all Week

2011-06-20T19:40:00.000-06:00

Camp Eve continues all week. The fireside chat last night was a hoot and the s'mores were delicious. Come join the fun all week!

Live Author's Chat

2011-06-19T13:35:00.002-06:00

Join the fun of Camp Eve over at Eve's Fan Garden tomorrow at 4:30 (MST) for a Campfire Chat with various authors. I will be talking about anything and everything related to the young adult and middle grade books. Loads of fun for campers of all ages!

Hope to see you all there!

Éirinn go brách!

2011-06-08T12:07:00.001-06:00

Hi everyone!
I'm heading to Ireland for a bicycling tour of County Clare. I'll be back on the 18th. I won't have internet access, so please bear with me until I return.

In the meantime, I am pleased to announce that Griffin Rising is now available for $2.99 on Amazon Kindle until June 15th. Just click on this link.

Rotters by Daniel Kraus

2011-06-05T12:48:00.001-06:00

Rotters by Daniel Kraus. Go get a copy. Now. Read it on an empty stomach. It was such an intense book, I found myself putting it down every twenty pages or so just to catch my breath.

I'll never look at a cementary in the same way.

Red Nail Polish

2011-06-02T02:00:00.007-06:00

A few weeks ago, I bought some nail polish for my toes. It was a vivid shade of red and wasn't quite what I wanted. But I loved the name so much I had to have it.

It was called: Frankly Scarlet.

Have you ever purchased something just because of its name? What was it and why?

Mea Culpa!

2011-06-01T08:43:00.000-06:00

Oops! I stupidly closed the Giveaway too early. Mea maxima culpa! Pleased be assured all followers were entered in the giveaway drawing this morning. Many, many thanks to Chelsea Rafferty for gently and graciously pointing this out to me. Sheesh, Karchut!

Now, without further ado: the winner is Memrie

Memrie, I will be contacting you shortly for details. Thanks again to everyone for stopping by.

Giveaway Now Closed

2011-05-31T20:44:00.000-06:00

The giveaway is now closed. Thanks to everyone for stopping by! The winner will be posted tomorrow.

Splash Into Summer Giveway Hop

2011-05-24T20:00:00.007-06:00

Welcome to the Splash Into Summer (sponsored by Page Turners Blog and I Am A Reader, Not A Writer)

Want to win some fantastic stuff - books, swag, gift cards, and the like? Then click on this link and swim from blog to blog, signing up for all sorts of goodies along the way.

And to celebrate not only summer, but the one month count-down to the release of my debut novel, I am giving away a signed copy of Griffin Rising. Even better: you can choose a print version or an e-book version. (E-book recipient also receive a signed book plate.)

All you have to do is become a follower of my blog. Easy as dog paddling across the kiddie pool!

All followers (old and new) are eligible! The event ends on Tuesday, May 31st. Open to residents of U.S. and Canada only

O Happy Day!

2011-05-22T10:46:00.001-06:00

Griffin just received a lovely review from Jennifer over at Extreme Reader Book Reviews. Her words were balm for my soul!

Awards

2011-05-19T12:07:00.001-06:00

Forgive my horn-blowing:

Griffin Rising has been nominated for the 2011 INSPYs Award for Excellence in Faith-Driven Literature (speculative fiction) as well as entered in the 2011 Readers Favorite Awards (YA category)

Putting my horn back in its case...

Stylish Blogger Award

2011-05-16T14:37:00.000-06:00

Many thanks to her awesome-self, C. Lee McKenzie, for the Stylish Blogger Award. It is my great pleasure to award it to these seven wonderful bloggers! Hugs to you all!

Brookenomicon
Tracy's Happy Bookshelf
Rabid Reads
The Story of a Writer
Moonlight Book Reviews
Unputdownable Books
A Reader's Ramblings

In keeping with tradition, here are seven things you might want to know about me:

1. I can read classical Latin fluently
2. I would rather run uphill than downhill
3. I teach junior high, but have no children of my own (by choice)
4. I'm a Jedi, but I'm keeping it a secret (oops!)
5. I ride both English and Western
6. I have a celebrity crush on Liam Neeson
7. I consider coffee one of the four food group

Stylish Bloggers: your turn to tell us about your awesome selves!

Giving An Author's Talk Prior to Publication

2011-05-15T16:12:00.000-06:00

This past Thursday, I gave my very first author presentation at a local elementary school’s Author Night. I was asked to talk to students and parents about my book, the writing process, and how one goes about getting published. I viewed it as a perfect opportunity to practice for future school visits.

Even though my book doesn’t launch for another month, I discovered this was a good way to build some local buzz and sell a few books ahead of time (something publishers like very much).

Here’s a list of the items you might want to have on hand:

A pre-order form/list (that way you can personalize each book and spell the names correctly)
Business cards
One page flyer/media release which includes a synopsis, picture of the book cover, where people can buy your book, your contact information, and your publisher’s contact information
Change box with lots of ones and fives
Any notes you’ve kept detailing your earliest thoughts and inspirations prior to writing your book. I had an old spiral notebook in which I had recorded character and plot ideas (Griffin was originally named Auggie and Basil was originally named Cyrus. I know, I’m still laughing!) I passed it around to the students in the audience, but it was the parents who got the biggest kick out of it.
Printed copies of your earliest manuscripts – warts and all (first title of Griffin Rising was Start A Wing. What was I thinking?)
An ARC of your book
Laptop running a loop of your book trailer

This list is not comprehensive, but it might give you a starting point. The most important thing, however, is to have fun! I know I did!

Authors: any other ideas or suggestions?

There's No Place Like...

2011-05-10T00:28:00.006-06:00

So much of our lives as writers are spent inside our heads, building our little worlds and filling them with our beloved characters. Pure bliss!

But if you could "live" in another book, which book would it be and why? Would you try a term at Hogwarts as a student or professor? Work as a gardener in Hobbiton? Or spend your days running a Maze?

Do tell!

I Luv Authors

2011-05-03T00:02:00.001-06:00

This weekend, I attended the Pikes Peak Writers Conference and had the privilege of sharing a lunch table with David Macinnis Gill, the author of the won-every-award-possible-for-a-YA-novel Soul Enchilada. Being a lovely southern gentleman as well as a gracious author, he asked me a few questions about my book and took time to offer me best wishes for its coming release.

That's what writer conferences are all about. The chance to mingle with the "stars" of our profession. Every author and agent and editor I met was passionate about books, about writing, and about helping those on the way up.

But mostly I learned that those on the top are the kindest to the lowly novice. There are three authors who have gone out of their way to help me this past year: Beverly Stowe McClure, C. Lee McKenzie, and Susan Goldsmith. (Stop blushing, girls, you know you're all awesome possum!)

So following their example, I've made a promise to myself: as they have done for me, so I shall do for others.

Amen and amen.

Beyond Adorable

2011-05-01T15:47:00.001-06:00

The fabulous Samita over at Book Purring just posted a delightful interview I did with her. The widget with Griffin's playlist is beyond adorable! Go check it out!

The Husband Test

2011-04-28T13:55:00.000-06:00

Two years ago, I had my husband read my very first draft of Griffin Rising. I'm surprised he managed not to throw up - it was that bad. And he was brave enough to tell me so.

What a guy.

Then, just last week, I handed him the Advanced Reader Copy and begged him to try reading it again.

"What if I don't like?" he said, stalling for time.

"You already don't like it, so no harm, no foul. I just want you to read it. Trust me - I'm a much better writer now."

He made a face. "But I already know how it turns out. Plus I don't like fantasy and I don't read young adult books."

"Dude, it's only 175 pages. Suck it up and read it!"

So he did.

And he liked it. I mean he really, really liked it. (Whew!)

As a writer, what is more difficult: to hand your manuscript to a stranger to critique or to a family member/friend?

BTW: I'll be gone for the next three days to the Pikes Peak Writers Conference. I'll tell you all about it when I get back. And if some of you are attending, look for me!

The Numbers Game

2011-04-23T16:07:00.000-06:00

Lately, it seems I've been obsessed with numbers. Low numbers I wish were higher and high numbers I wish were lower. Which is weird, as I live by the written word. So I decided to make a list of the numbers I compulsively peek at throughout the day (and sometimes at night, too. I'm an equal opportunity peeker).

Here's my list thus far:

number of words I've written today (never, never enough)
number of times I check my e-mail for messages from other writers or publishers or agents
number of followers of my blog
number of readers who have put my book on their TBR list over at Goodreads
number of reviewers who are currently reading my book
number of people who signed up for the giveaway of a free copy of my book
number of reviews
number of reviews posted on Amazon
number of mentions on Google
number of mentions on book bloggers sites
number of mentions on various lists such as angels books, fantasy books, books for reluctant readers, etc.
my ranking on Amazon (if anyone can explain the cosmic-size fluctuations, I would be eternally grateful)
my rankings on Barnes & Noble (see above)
number of hits on my website
number of fan comments on said website (sheesh, Mom, would you just e-mail me directly!!!)

How about you, fellow writer? What numbers hold you in their nefarious little grasps? Which ones did I leave out?

An Interview with Christine Amsden, Author of THE IMMORTALITY VIRUS

2011-04-22T00:12:00.000-06:00

It is my great pleasure to welcome another fellow Twilight Times Books author to my blog. She's here to tell us about her journey as an author, discuss her newest book, The Immortality Virus, and even give a sneak peak of her latest creation.

Hi, Christine. So, tell us a little about yourself and your book?

I am a writer by nature and by instinct. Some of my earliest memories, even before I knew how to read, involve me flipping through picture books, making up stories about what I saw. The first story I ever wrote, on my parent's old manual typewriter, involved Cabbage Patch Dolls going to Mars, so I would say my love of the strange and unusual is also instinctive.

I nearly gave up writing, and even reading, in college. When I was sixteen, I was diagnosed with Stargardt's disease, a hereditary degenerative eye condition that rapidly took my vision from near perfect to legally blind in two years. Reading became a struggle, even with magnification, and for a while, I was too wounded and stubborn to find alternatives. Finally, my parents signed me up for the library for the blind, which sends audio books to those who need them. Once I began “reading” again, I couldn't believe I had ever given it up, and I now listen to most of my books that way. I also started writing again. I'm composing the answers to these questions in 36-pt font.

I’m so glad you didn’t give up – certainly a testament to your determination! But go on about your newest work.

The Immortality Virus is my second published novel – a science fiction book that takes a look at the darker side of our quest for long life and eternal youth. Grace Harper, a blacklisted P.I., must find the man responsible for The Change that caused the human race to stop aging – if he's still alive. Grace, a bit too cynical for her own good, though she is softer than she cares to admit on the inside, takes us on an adventure through a dystopian world, and learns a few things along the way.

Give us your tagline.

When the cost of eternal youth grows too high, will we give up our chance at immortality?

Which character was the most fun to write and why?

Grace, because I loved the contrast between who she really is, and who she thinks she is, or tries to pretend to be.

Are all of your protagonists female?

So far, all of my main characters have been women. They often have men helping them, and there's always some romance, even if it's a small subplot like in The Immortality Virus, but I do focus on women as heroines. I have more trouble being honest when writing through a man's eyes, not because they're any less complex characters, but because there's an inner part of me afraid to let go. With women, even women who, like Grace, are pretty different from me, I can let some core part of me loose, and it infuses life into the character.

Why this particular genre?

I think it's important to say that I am not married to a genre. My first novel was a paranormal, this one is science fiction, and the next one I hope to get out there is urban fantasy mixed with romance. I like to write about people, and as a part of that, I like to ask the question: What if? This is why I am drawn to speculative fiction in general.

In this case, I began with the question: What if the entire human race stopped aging? As soon as I had done that, I created Grace, a person with strong opinions and a soft heart, to show us that world.

What has been the oddest question ever asked of you as an author?

“Are you psychic?” To understand, you need to know that my first novel, Touch of Fate, was about a clairvoyant. I suppose, in retrospect, the question isn't all that odd, but at the time I was floored. I felt as if I were supposed to be psychic, and that by writing a fiction novel without that kind of direct experience, I was some kind of fraud.

Now I know that readers expect the book to be about the author's experiences, to a greater or lesser degree. And, as a writer, I know that every word I write is drawn from my experiences, just twisted into a fun game of make believe. The trouble is, readers don't always correctly guess which aspects of a book are from *personal* experience.

Good point, Christine! Is there a lot of you in your character, Grace?

Some. I'm not tough like she is – I don't know any martial arts, nor can I fire a weapon (my husband helped me realize those parts of the book – we did some role playing to try out various moves), but there is something inside of Grace that is like me. Among other things, I truly don't think the entire human race should live forever. I think our race lives on through our children, and that caring for them is how we live forever (not necessarily by having children, which is why I felt it was important for Grace to have opted out of having her own children).

Since authors are expected to actively promote their books, what part of promotion have you found to be the most difficult? The most fun?

The answer is the same to both questions: Networking

It has taken me some time to figure this thing out, and here's what I finally had to learn (Brace yourself for a moment of complete honesty.): Self confidence.

The biggest mistake I made in marketing my first novel was not feeling confident enough in myself or my work. I practically whispered its existence to everyone I knew. My husband did a better job getting the word out than I did. I'm not sure if it's part of being an artist, part of being human, or just part of being me, but I do worry what other people think.

With The Immortality Virus, however, I have pushed aside my feelings of self doubt, at first pretending confidence. And the weird thing is, I'm not pretending anymore. I'm engaging with people – interesting and friendly people – who want to build relationships. I'm' making friends over this book, and that is a lot of fun.

Now for the fun tidbits:

Steak or salad?

Yes.

LOL! Okay, next question: Early bird or night owl?

Neither. You need to catch me in between.

Favorite form of exercise?

Lifting a spoonful of ice cream.

Oh, me, too! What kind of ice cream?

Chocolate chip cookie dough. I figure it's slightly less bad than just eating cookie dough. :)

Which historical event do you wish you could have witnessed?

My own birth. I'm sure that sounds weird, but I have often daydreamed about going back in time to visit my past self at various points, maybe even imparting wisdom I wish I'd had at the time.

Plans for the summer?

Teach my kids to swim and ride bikes, hang out at the pool, try to get in better shape, and finish my latest novel.

Care to tell us a little more about your next novel?

I was hoping you'd ask about that, because I've recently finished the rough draft of an entire series (with a four-book arc), and I'm super excited about it!

The first book in the series is tentatively named Cassie Scot: ~~Para~~normal Detective, and here's the pitch I'm using to try to attract an agent:

Cassie Scot is the unmagical daughter of powerful sorcerers, living between worlds but not quite belonging to either. All she wants is to be normal, but she soon learns that earning a living as a private investigator in the shadow of her family's reputation isn't easy. When she is pulled into a paranormal investigation, and tempted by a powerful and handsome sorcerer, she'll have to decide where she truly belongs.

Wish me luck with this one – I still don't have a publisher, although I am determined to see it in print. I'm trying to find an agent because I'm curious what it might be like to use a large press to publish a novel, although I'm still quite open to pitching this to Twilight Times once the buzz from The Immortality Virus dies down. They've been great to work with!

Oh, clever title, indeed. Keep us in the loop about your journey to publication with this one! And many thanks, Christine, for stopping by and visiting with me. I had a great time. And best of luck with The Immortality Virus. Folks, it is now available as an e-book on Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble (see link below)

Thank you, Darby! It's been fun.

Christine Amsden's website
Barnes & Noble

Amazon.com

Susan Goldsmith Talks About Her Debut Novel: ABITHICA

2011-04-21T00:12:00.001-06:00

One of the greatest joys of being a writer is meeting amazing people who share my passion for books. Today, I'm so excited to welcome my dear friend, Susan Goldsmith to my blog. Susan and I are both debut authors with Twilight Times Books.

Susan, would you please tell us a little about yourself and your book?

After receiving a journalism degree, I was an undercover private investigator, worked as an outside sales rep, and then spent five years in pharmaceutical sales. Today, I’m living my dream with my high school sweetheart and our two daughters in The-Middle-of-Nowhere, Arizona, where I spend my days unleashing my rampant imagination and documenting all the crazy places it takes me.

And your book?
Abithica must borrow all that she is from others: names, lives, even bodies, but only for periods of time she cannot control. What is she, and why is she compelled to fix the lives of the people she inhabits, even the despicable ones? When she switches into the troubled life of Sydney Turner, she ends up breaking the one rule that has sustained her, the one thing in her control—never get attached—and learns the pain of loving and being loved in return.
My vacuum, Thomas Moore and my very persistent imagination were the inspiration behind Abithica. Maybe I should explain that. You see, all my best thoughts have come while pulling a vacuum. Now enter Thomas Moore. He wrote a book called Care of the Soul. In it, he asked a very profound question: what is your worst fear? Hmmm, what is my worst fear, I wondered. Naturally, I grabbed said vacuum and unleashed my imagination.
Losing my husband and children was the answer. Oh, but what if I was taken from them without their knowledge and they didn’t even know I was gone? Ouch! That would definitely suck. But what would suck even more is if another soul took my place and I was there, unseen, invisible, watching their lives continue as if I had never existed.
I was getting closer to my worst nightmare, but I wasn’t quite there yet. It needed a little something more. Got it! What if the body I was in had never really belonged to me in the first place? What if it was me who had been the intruder all along? I had been borrowing the woman’s life… and now… she wanted it back.

The question became an obsession, and my vacuum and I spent a lot of time together. Soon, the idea of “switching” was born. It grew legs and arms and even acquired a face, Abithica’s face.

Give us your tagline.

What if you knew you were about to be torn from your body and replaced by an impostor in a seamless switch forever separating you and the one you love? Would you do whatever it took to stay? Even if YOU happened to be the impostor?

Which character was the most fun to write and why?

I could sit in Eliam’s head all day, a smart-aleck, troubled teen with ADHD, who’s too self absorbed to even realize he’s in danger. He was effortless. All I had to do was let go and give him the reins.

Why this particular genre?

I blame Stephen King, Richard Bach, Anne Rice, Stephenie Meyer, Cassandra Claire, Audrey Niffenegger, Kresley Cole, Markus Zusak, and all the other authors I couldn’t get enough of. I guess it’s true. We are what we read.

What has been the oddest question ever asked of you as an author?

I was once asked if I like to read. Huh?

Since authors are expected to actively promote their books, what part of promotion have you found to be the most difficult? The most fun?

I had no idea what a Blog was. When I first heard the word, images of dead things crawling out of a grave fluttered across my mental screen. Yup, WAY too much Stephen King when I was younger. Twitter was the sound a bird made, and Facebook was some sort of on-line photo album. A dating service, maybe? Don’t even get me started on websites. Climbing Mt. Everest seemed an easier task then creating one of those!

But after it’s all said and done, I love the interaction, crave it even. I have met so many wonderful people, especially on Goodreads, my home away from home.

Okay, now for some fun tidbits:

Steak or salad?

Steak.

Early bird or night owl?

Early bird! I get up every morning at 4:00 a.m. to exercise with my husband. You see, I’m a big ball of energy, without that daily release, I’d be bouncing off the walls.

Favorite form of exercise?

Anything that gives me an excuse to be outside: running, hiking, biking, rollerblading, playing catch in the backyard, soccer, horseback riding… anything but golf.

Which historical event do you wish you could have witnessed?

I would have loved to witness the candid discussions of our founders as they hashed out the precise wording of the U.S. Constitution. Better yet. Since we’re fantasizing here, let’s bring them back! What would they say about America today?

Hearing Stephen Hillenburg pitch Spongebob Squarepants would have been a kick too! On paper, his idea must have sounded… well… a little out there. Go Spongebob!

Plans for the summer?

I’m not sure where we’re going yet, but I can guarantee it will have an ocean and lots of sand.

Thanks for stopping by and visiting with me, Susan!

Susan Goldsmith's website

Amazon

Barnes & Nobles

My review of Abithica:

For Abithica, love may prove to be either her downfall or her salvation.

Susan Goldsmith's debut novel, ABITHICA, is beautifully written and the characters are so real, they kept talking to me in my head even after I finished the book. If you like a unique twist on angels and paranormal romance, pick up ABITHICA this summer. It is one of the best paranormal romances I've read and Susan Goldsmith introduced twists and turns in the plot I never saw coming.

It was one of the few books I've read this year that I couldn't put down - it was that good. Here's hoping Ms. Goldsmith is working on the sequel!

I think I'm going to start a fan club....

JOYFUL NEWS FOR E-BOOK READERS!!!

2011-04-15T10:48:00.007-06:00

The ebook version of Griffin Rising is now available for purchase on Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble!!!

But fear not, the print version will still be released in June.

In the meantime, if you would like a signed book plate, contact me at darby@darbykarchut.com.

Along with my book, I am proud to announce two other terrific titles from two other terrific authors. Wave at the nice folks, Susan and Christine. Both are friends and "publishing sisters" from Twilight Times Books. Their books are now availabe as e-books, with print versions coming out in June along with mine. Just how cool is that!

Abithica by Susan Goldsmith (urban fantasy)
What if you knew you were about to be torn from your body and replaced by an impostor in a seamless switch forever separating you and the one you love? Would you do whatever it took to stay? Even if YOU happened to be the impostor?

The Immortality Virus by Christine Amsden (science fiction)
When the cost of eternal youth grows too high, will we give up our chance at immortality?

Book Giveaway over at Goodreads (aka my second home)

2011-04-12T00:22:00.001-06:00

I haven't done a fun giveaway for awhile, so here goes: a signed copy of Griffin Rising over at Goodreads. Follow this link and do that clicky thing on the button: Goodreads.com

And Griffin received two more awesome reviews, this time over at the fabulous Jamie at Jamie's Bookshelf and the delightful Annie at Reading, Writing, and Waiting.

I'm seriously thinking about having I LUV BOOK BLOGGERS tattooed on my ankle.

Have you ever thought about getting a tat? Do you have one? Want to tell us about it? If you don't have one, what image would you get and where would you put it? (Remember, my mom reads this blog, so keep it PG-13, folks.)

Darby Karchut

My Fifteen Minutes of Fame

D-12 teacher combines passions in teen fantasy books

February 18, 2012 9:03 AM

CAROL MCGRAW

A Gentle Reminder

Cover Reveal: Finn Finnegan

The Countdown Has Begun!

Favorite Quotes from My Favorite Authors (continued)

True That

2011 Smart Book Lovers/Sharp Writ Book YA Book

First "Book" Crush

Friday! Yay-day!

That's One Way to Do It

Finn Finnegan on Publishers Marketplace

Young Teens and E-Readers

Writer's Digest Annual Writer's Yearbook for 2012

Finn Finnegan by Darby Karchut

Waiting For...

Merry Christmas!

2011 Sharp Writ Book Awards

Children's Books

Young Adult

Fiction

Non Fiction

Autobiography/ Memoirs

Special / Sponsored Categories (at the discretion of the Judging Panel)Poetry:

Happy Birthday to The Clockwork Giant by Brooke Johnson

What's New In Karchut-land?

Pikes Peak Writers Guild CakeWalk

The Clockwork Giant by Brooke Johnson

Christmas Giveaway

An Angelic Contest

Tumbleweed Christmas by Beverly Stowe McClure, illustrated by Bridget McKenna

Books on Sale - Just In Time for the Holidays

YA Indie Carnvial: A Thanksgiving Scene

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

The Popularity of YA Fantasy

The Ranger's Apprentice: The Lost Stories by John Flanagan

Book Signing

Whacha' Reading?

Griffin Rising: Ebook Sale

YA Indie Carnival: Writing from High School

For the Birds by Aaron Paul Lazar

Griffin on a Pumpkin

Be Afraid! YA Indie Carnival

Sweet Designs Magazine for Teens

Hexed by Kevin Hearne

Book Signing

Back Soon

YA Indie Carnival: Best Fan Moment

The Luck of the Irish

The Freedom of Was

YA Indie Carnival: Why I Luv Basil

2011 Cybils Awards

Hounded by Kevin Hearne

Great Book Giveaway

YA Indie Carnival: Dreamcast for Griffin Rising

YA Indie Carnival

Books May Stink, But They Don't Spoil

Clubbing with Middle Schoolers - Part One

Book Signing

Award Winning Novel (I like the sound of that!)

A Week of Riches

The Moment Every YA Author Lives For

How Do You Do That Thing You Do So Well?

Author Interview with Beverly Stowe MClure

Frankie's Perfect Home by Beverly Stowe McClure

FRANKIE IS COMING

I LUV Book Bloogers (Part Two): Trudy and Yara at Once Upon A Twilight

I LUV Book Bloggers (Melissa at I Swim for Oceans)

A Scary Good Book by Anita Laydon Miller

TeensReadToo.com

Squeeeee-Worthy Good News!

Book Review: Earthling Hero by Anita Laydon Miller

Book Review: Aliens on Vacation

Aliens on Vacation by Clete Barrett Smith

Griffin's Fire - Book Two's Cover Art Is Revealed!

Review: The Emerald Atlas

The Emerald Atlas

Special / Sponsored Categories (at the discretion of the Judging Panel)
Poetry: