Big News! Interview with Author Laura Renegar and Agent Laura Zats!

Today I get the honor of being part of an amazing announcement while also having the honor of interviewing the two lovely ladies involved in that announcement. Needless to say, Olan Rogers has said it perfectly. I'm excited!

Laura Renegar's been sitting on some amazing news. That news is actually what this post is about. Well, that and also Laura Zats news. It's been tough keeping this in the bag, but we all did it. And now that it's finally time to let it out, we can finally say that my AMAZING FRIEND AND CP, LAURA RENEGAR, HAS SIGNED WITH AGENT LAURA ZATS OF RED SOFA LITERARY!

Check out Red Sofa announcing Laura Zats, (in a really cool way in my opinion,) to the agency by clicking here!

CONGRATULATIONS TO LAURA RENEGAR AND LAURA ZATS!!

I sat down, or actually emailed, both super awesome Laura's and interviewed them. So keep reading and learn more about soon-to-be Best Seller Laura Renegar and agent extraordinaire Laura Zats! I promise, with these two, you won't regret it!

 INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR LAURA RENEGAR

1: To start this interview out how about we start by having you tell everyone a little something about yourself.

I’ve always lived in North Carolina except for three weeks studying in Cambridge, England while in college. I have a great husband, two creatively fun daughters, two fish, two woolly worms, and a new chi-weenie mix puppy. I love playing guitar. My favorite movie is Jaws.


2: Since this is a big announcement interview, who did you sign with and why?

I signed with Laura Zats, a new agent at Red Sofa Literary. After reading my full, Laura requested a phone chat. I was super-impressed with her professionalism, her drive, and her passion for my manuscript. She asked great questions and answered all mine with confidence and clarity. I loved her enthusiasm and her editorial suggestions. We really clicked.


3: What was the title and genre of the MS you queried? Was it your first book or are there more hidden away?

I queried Laura with my contemporary YA called ASHES AND INK. I’ve written a chapter book manuscript and several picture book manuscripts, but this was my first YA. My current WIP is a YA thriller.


4: Did you do any fun research for your book? What was it?

ASHES AND INK centers around a tattoo shop, so I spent time in one. I took notes on everything from equipment to facial expressions. It was so much fun! The tattoo artist I hung out with was fabulous and witty and altogether awesome. I love watching people get tattoos and hearing the stories behind why they choose what they choose.


5: We all know querying's hard and rejections happen. What was your query stats?

I started querying ASHES AND INK (formerly called INK) back in 2012. I received my share of requests and rejections, but many of the rejections came with personal feedback. I took a couple of big breaks from querying (even withdrawing some fulls from agents) to do two major revisions that utilized some of that feedback. Not long after finishing my last revision, Laura requested a partial after reading my pitch on Twitter’s PitMad.


6: If you could share one piece of advice for querying authors, what would it be?

Don’t give up! Do your research to find out the good, the bad, and the ugly about the agents before sending them your best and already critiqued and revised work. I may have slipped in more than one piece of advice there. We writers tend to be a bit verbose!


7: Now for THE CALL! What was it like? Are there any questions you feel every author should ask during the call?

I have a great imagination, so I’m often am a little disappointed by reality, but the phone call was all that I’d hoped it would be! It is so awesome to talk to an agent that connected with my story and felt all the feels I’m hoping my readers will feel. She asked lots of questions, and I was relieved none of my answers scared her away. As for what questions a writer should ask an agent, I think that depends on what’s important to the writer. For me, good communication is a must, so I asked questions to find out her style and preferences. It was also important for me to know where and how far she thought my novel could go, so I asked about that too. I asked lots of questions and took lots of notes.


8: I'm loving that both you and your agent's names are Laura. It's like you were meant for each other. And I know you've just signed, but is there anything you'd like to share about Ms. Zats? (Feel free to gush.)

Laura is AMAZING. She’s professional, but personable. She’s hard-working. She’s got mad editorial skills, and I am thrilled to be partnered with her!


9: What do you feel all authors should have when writing, querying, and also when they're on submission?

I am incredibly thankful for writer friends and critique partners like you, Jamie! I love having other writers to bounce ideas off of, to help me strengthen my manuscript, pitches, and query letters, and I’m thankful for those moments when they’ve commiserated or celebrated with me. And it’s fun to read and brainstorm on what they’re working on too. The writer’s journey doesn’t have to be a lonely one!


10: Would you like to share the query that grabbed Ms. Zats attention?


Dear Ms. Zats,



With a slip of paper and a lighter, Mazie ruined lives. With her sketch pad in a tattoo shop, she’ll try to save one.

She didn’t mean for anyone to get hurt. Now, fresh out of juvie for arson, fifteen-year-old Mazie is abandoned by her bitter Aunt Deb minutes after she’d signed for Mazie's release. While living on the streets and drawing flash for a tattoo shop, Mazie learns that Samantha, the daughter of the firefighter killed in the flames Mazie started, has disappeared. When she finds out a serial kidnapper is on the prowl, and that Samantha is likely one of his victims, Mazie hunts for clues that could save Samantha from becoming the next body to wash ashore.

Bringing Samantha back to her family could help make up for the tragedy she caused and put an end to Mazie’s nightmares. But finding Samantha means NOT laying low—a risky gamble since Aunt Deb already has Mazie running from the cops for crimes she didn’t commit.

ASHES AND INK is my contemporary young adult mystery complete at 52,000 words. It will appeal to fans of fast-paced suspense such as Lisa McMann’s WAKE trilogy.

I am an active member of SCBWI Carolinas and served in the past as the chapter’s online networking coordinator. I have also had an article published in Writer's Digest's 2010 SONGWRITER'S MARKET.

I was thrilled when you favorited my pitch on PitMad yesterday. Congratulations on your internship. It sounds like Red Sofa Literary is super-impressed with your knowledge of Young Adult literature. Thank you for considering ASHES AND INK. I have pasted the first fifteen pages below and would be happy to send more at your request.

Sincerely,

Laura Renegar


11: Would you like to share any words of wisdom or anything else?

I found online contests and pitch sessions to be super-helpful for honing pitches, discovering agents, and networking with other writers. It might not work for everyone, but I got some terrific requests from them, and ultimately, it’s how my agent found me!

Congratulations for signing with the lovely, Laura Zats!! I'm so proud of you!!!

INTERVIEW WITH AGENT LAURA ZATS

1. Thank you so much for doing this interview and congratulations! How about we begin things with you telling us a little about yourself?

Thanks so much for having me! Well, when I was little, I'd always say I wanted to be a book editor when I grew up. Mostly because I thought it meant reading all day. I actually fulfilled that childhood dream when I entered the book world. I started as an editor, and in true the-grass-is-always-greener fashion, I wanted to see what that whole agent thing was about! I was recently announced as an Associate Agent for Red Sofa Literary, which means that I actually get to read a LOT more than I do as an editor! I've got a soft spot in my heart for coming-of-age YA novels, but I can read and fall in love with just about anything. 

Beyond books, I love to brew beer, swing dance, cross stitch, and bake cookies and shove them on unsuspecting acquaintances. I also still don't know how to spell "acquaintance" on the first (or second) try.

2. What made you want to become an agent?

When I started working with Dawn Frederick and Jennie Goloboy of Red Sofa Literary, I didn't really know what an agent did. But after a while, I began to see that being an agent is essentially one part matchmaker, two parts #1 fan. I love how agents are the fairy godmothers who make an author's dreams come true. They pick writers up when they're down, and give them this amazing support system, and really, an agent's entire career is based on positivity. Books they love. Authors they care deeply about. And I wanted to be a part of it. Luckily, Jennie and Dawn decided they'd want to keep me!

3. What are you looking for when going through the slush? Dark and gritty or sweet love stories? Or would both be something you'd be interested in representing?

I tend to gravitate towards the grittier side of things, not because the books are dark, but because they tend to have a bit more depth than the lighter books. I want layers to my books. Even a sweet romance needs to have some depth: fully-formed supporting characters, a history for the MCs, and a few side-plots to pull you through the main one. 

I'm not usually going to reject something based on the type of book it is (unless it falls outside of my representative categories), but I only fall in love when a book has enough meat to it to keep me emotionally satisfied long after I finish reading.

4. What genres do you represent?

I represent fiction. Middle Grade, YA, and New Adult, contemporary Women's Fic, science fiction/fantasy, romance, and erotica.

5. What are you not looking for in a manuscript?

Unless it's a romance, I don't want a book where the main plot/conflict is a romance. I'm not looking for books where the action is primarily made up of the universe acting on a MC. I want to see agency. I'm also not terribly into mainstream creatures (angels, vampires, etc). If fantasy is your game, I'd like something lesser-known and rooted in historic conceptions of said creature.

6. You currently signed my lovely CP and friend, Laura Renegar, as a client. Yay! What drew you to her book Ashes and Ink?

I found Laura through Pitch Madness (#PitMad), which is a Twitter event where authors have 140 characters to pitch their book to the world. I loved that it was set in a tattoo shop, so it had this gritty edge to it from every direction. But I fell head-over-heels when I saw that the MC was fully-formed from the beginning of the first page. She had demons, and a past, but she was fully committed to moving beyond that history to create something new.

7. If you weren't an agent or in the publishing world, what would you be doing right now?

Editing! Well, I actually also do this right now, but it was my first love and I'm not planning on stopping! But if I wasn't allowed to be in the publishing world, I'd probably be living in a tiny apartment in Dublin and traveling to exciting places every weekend.

8. Everybody has a weakness. So, chocolate or Nutella?

Ugh! I'm actually allergic to hazelnuts, even though I LOVE Nutella...so, if I want to avoid being bumpy, I would have to say chocolate!

9. Is there anything you feel a potential client or every author should ask during THE CALL? What would you recommend not doing?

Don't be hasty. The call is not an offer. It's an interview. And it's an interview where we're trying to decide if it's worth our time to work with you, and we'll probably have a long, long list of things for you to fix about your platform or MS. You're allowed to not jive with the agent, and you're allowed to say no, but you need to think about it, take your time, and make sure it's the best option for you.

10. What is the best way to query you?

All I want is a query letter in my (virtual) mailbox! And I would hope that it goes without saying, but the best way to query me is with a book that fits into a genre that I actually represent.

11. And finally, if you could give a piece of advice to potential new agents, interns, and authors, what would it be?

Focus on what you love. Trends come and go, and there's always new technology or something shiny and topical, but if you're working on something you love, you'll never miss the boat.

Congratulations on becoming an Associate Agent at Red Sofa Literary! May you receive all of the amazing queries your inbox can handle!

And congratulations on signing the always spectacular Laura Renegar as your client!!

I'd like to thank both Laura Renegar and Agent Laura Zats for doing these interviews and I wish you both nothing but success!

If you'd like to share your congratulations to both Laura's, you can leave them in the comments or tweet them directly. You can find Laura Renegar here and Laura Zats here. I'm sure they won't mind all of the pixel confetti and drinks!

Until next time, happy reading and writing everyone!

The Stars Fell Sideways Blog Tour: An Interview with the author: Cassandra Marshall

By the book here!

Yesterday Cassandra Marshall's debut YA Steampunish Fantasy novel, THE STARS FELL SIDEWAYS, was released into the world. Today, I get the honor of holding an interview with Ms. Marshall. We will talk about the book and much more. So sit back and get ready for some fun!

Let's start by having you introduce yourself, shall we?
I'm Cassandra, freelance book editor, lit agent staff, YA writer, and I'm obsessed with my dog Mollie. I live near Capac, MI, a teeny-tiny town that doesn't have high-speed internet but has a lovely library that does.

Oh, cozy libraries with internet in a tiny town! That's how my hometown was for a long while. And Mollie's a cutie! You're obsession is a must with her. :)

How long did it take you to write TSFS?
I wrote it after NaNo '10. I was exhausted by that book so I wanted something new and fun and different from anything else I was working on. I wrote it quickly, spurred on by writing buddies that were loving the pages. I finished it, let it sit for a while, edited, edited edited, let it sit, edited again, and started querying widely in March 2011.

I'm so glad you got exhausted with your NaNo project because it allowed you to write such a wonderful story. And are you sure you edited? *looks and counts. 1, 2, 3, and 4* Yep! You did indeed! Hehe ;) (FYI for those who don't know, editing and revising are a huge part of the process. That's why I have to kid at Cass, because I know.)

What does Mollie pup think about being a star in your books? (I love Mollie in TSFS btw. She's one of my 3 favorite characters.)
I keep telling her she's a birdie and she just runs to the window to look out. I think she's confused. :P

Aw! So cute. It's okay, Mollie. You'll get that bird someday.

Think fast! Hawaii or Alaska? Why?
Hawaii, easily. It's so beautiful there!

And warm. Let's not forget about warm. Ha!

If you had a TARDIS for one day, what would you do with it? 

I've only ever seen one episode so I'm not altogether sure what's possible to do with one...

Let's just say you'd do ALL THE THINGS with it. And for other who may not know what a TARDIS is, here is a definition.

Imagine this: TSFS is being made into a movie. Who would play Alison, Pom, Erik, and Corben? (Yes! I had to include him cause he's yummy! Haha.)
I'm not picky, I would be thrilled if there was a movie made. But my wish list cast? Molly Quinn, Emma Watson, Kay Panabaker, Dakota Fanning, Shailene Woodley, or Saoirse Ronan for any of the girls. Matthew Goode, Tom Sturridge, Ethan Peck, Eddie Redmayne, Tom Hiddleston, Joe Jonas, or Ben Barnes for any of the boys :) I realize that this is a pretty pale cast, but that's how I thought of the four of them them in my head. Of course other characters have a bit more spice, like Jones I imagined looking like Dayo Okeniyi, Thresh from The Hunger Games, and I can imagine quite a few of the native Atlanteans have a bit of a tan by nature too. 

I def see Dakota Fanning, Emma Watson and Joe Jonas. All are great picks and I'd definitely go see that movie!

Think of your favorite line from a book that's stayed with you. What is it and where did it come from?
In the final Harry Potter book, when Harry turns the resurrection stone three times and his parents and Lupin and Sirius are there and he's about to go face Voldy-- '"Stay close to me," he said quietly.' 

*tears up* Oh, that line! Yes, such a great one. J.K. just has a way with words! *fan girl*

What made you want to write a steampunkish fantasy?
I didn't start out to, it just happened that way!

Isn't that how all the great books start? ;)

Chocolate or veggies?
Veggies!

*gasps* Blasmphemy! Just kidding. Veggies are very good and good for you. I especially love carrots!

When writing, what's your favorite drink to have by your side?
Tea! I'm working through a box of orange and starfruit green tea at the moment that is HEAVENLY. 

Oh, that does sound good! *holds up cup of black tea with lemon* I don't drink tea often, (yeah I do!) But when I do, I drink awesome tea. Drink awesomeness my friends.

Night or morning?
Night.

Couldn't agree more. Moving on!

What made you self publish TSFS?
So many agents were loving it, just not enough to rep it. I let it sit a few months without thinking about it and when I re-read it I cried, I loved it so much and didn't want it to just sit in a drawer anymore. So then here I am :)

*nods* I think we all know how you feel. While I still hope TSFS and you find a home with an agent, I am very happy I get to pimp out this wonderful book like a BOSS! It is as wonderful as you are my friend and I really do believe others will think so too once they read it.

How many years had you been querying TSFS before making the decision to self publish?
Just 1.5

Not bad. But in querying land, it feels like forever. I know. *hugs you and all querying writers*

If you could have a slumber party with 9 people, who would you invite?
J.K. Rowling, Jane Austen, Benedict Cumberbatch, Laurence Fox, You, My mom, MolliePup (does she count as a person?), Emma Watson, Anne Hathaway, and Mary Magdalene. 

*holds in fan girl squeals* I'd be honored to attend that slumber party as well as everybody else who reads this. And yes, MolliePup counts as a person. We love her so!

Does Mollie pup have anything she'd like to add to this interview?
Squirrel? 

Where? Haha! Just kidding. Good answer, MolliePup!

And finally, what is your favorite excerpt in TSFS and why?
"Corben nudged me in the side as we approached the Palace and gruffly pushed me into a store. He walked up to the counter while I stood blinking at the now-dim surroundings. Sure the pants all us miners wore were thick and scratchy and binding, but that was tons better than some frilly dress lined with lace.

We were in a dress shop and I immediately felt defensive.

“I’ve finally got the chance to wear what I want to, and you pull me into a dress shop? Forget it, I’m not wearing a single stitch that’s a pastel color. It’s pants only, or I go home.”

The woman at the counter looked at me and frowned, and two girls nearby shuffled to the back of the store to peer at me over a few racks, their pink and pale yellow dresses swishing behind them. They giggled as they looked me up and down.

I got pissed. “What’s so wrong with pants, huh? My skin is covered, there are no bare ankles! Pants pants pants! It’s not a dirty word!”

The expressions of the two girls changed from amusement to pity. The lady at the counter returned with a small navy lump of cloth and Corben took it. The lady offered her hand and Corben kissed it.

All my anger dissipated. Of course Corben had admirers, of course he must have had a girlfriend. He hadn’t mentioned having one yet, but he was kinda quiet anyway. Other than hanging out with me the past few days, he had given no signs that he was interested.

And really, what did I care? I was leaving as soon as I could anyway. Best to not get involved.

Corben said goodbye to the counter woman and walked towards me and the door. He paused briefly before he left and whispered, “Pants is the word for undergarments. I believe the word you are looking for to describe the fabric on your lower appendages is trousers.”

Oh. Right. Stupid archaic language. “Yes, TROUSERS! I totally meant TROUSERS!” I called out to the shoppers before turning and hauling ass out of there."

Haha! I love that excerpt. Always makes me laugh.

I hope you all enjoyed this interview because I know I had fun doing it! Go buy THE STARS FELL SIDEWAYS  today! It's a purchase I promise you will not regret!

Remember to stop back by here on October 8 for details to the Spooktacular Pitch Extravaganza! Until next time, happy reading/writing everyone!

Are You Too Picky? Interview with Lisette Brodey author of Molly Hacker Is Too Picky!

This week only, Molly Hacker Is Too Picky! for kindle is on sale for .99! Grab it while you can!

1. Lets begin with having you introduce yourself.

Hi, Jamie. Thanks for having me here. I am originally from Philadelphia, but I moved to New York after high school to attend Pace University. I lived there for ten years and then moved to Los Angeles. It's a long story: I came back to the east for many years, and now am permanently resettled in Los Angeles.

2. I love your book, Molly Hacker Is Too Picky! What made you write, Molly?

I really wanted to take a stand for all the women (and men!) who are badgered to death by friends and family because they're "too picky" when it comes to finding the love of his or her life. My goodness, shouldn't we all be picky in that respect? It's not about agreeing to have dinner at a mediocre restaurant; it's about being happy for the rest of our lives. Be picky!

In addition to standing up for picky people, I wanted to write a more lighthearted book that encompasses themes and situations we can all relate to, but with humor, sass, and snark.

3. When did you start writing, Molly? How long did it take you to finish the final revision?

Well! That's tough to answer. I started writing Molly in 2006, but then I put the manuscript on the back burner to publish my two previously written novels. In 2009, I went back to Molly. I actually finished the writing on New Year's Eve: December 31, 2009. I didn't publish the book for another two years. A lot happened, including a move back to California. Additionally, I spent a lot of time editing the book, blogging as Molly for eight months prior to publication (www.mollyhacker.com), and implementing a professional editor's notes. (I'm not big on rushing books to publication before they are ready!)

4. What did you want to be when you were five?

An actress.

5. Now, I know this answer. But, what do you do other than write?

I work as a background actor in TV and film in Los Angeles. Maybe someday I'll do more than background. 

6. Do you use some of your life in your writing? Any of your experiences in, Molly?

This is a question people often ask writers. For me, I use a lot of what I observe in people and know about people. I've never written about my life experiences directly (by simply changing names), but much of what I write indirectly does have a great deal to do with my own life. I make up a whole lot of stuff, too, but in the end, it all comes from what I have seen, even if not immediately recognizable as such.

7. What was your favorite scene to write?

My favorite scene in Molly to write was the longest. It takes place at a holiday gala in Molly's town. Friend and foe alike come together for a society bash. Relationships are made, relationships are broken, MANY secrets are exposed, and lives are changed forever. Because Molly is written in the first person, it was especially challenging to write a scene involving so many characters.

8. Who is/are your favorite authors? Why?

If I had to choose one, it would probably be Charles Dickens, because I love his colorful, brilliant, larger-than-life characters. 

9. What was the first book you ever read?

I have absolutely no idea! :-) But the first book I remember being read to me was Robert Louis Stevenson's A Child's Garden of Verses.

10. What is your favorite book? Why?

I don't really have ONE favorite book. I mentioned above that I adore Charles Dickens, so I'd have to say that David Copperfield would definitely be on my list of favorite books. I just loved the characters and delicious plotting. One of my very favorite works is Under Milkwood by Dylan Thomas. His writing was just brilliant.

11. If you were on a deserted island and could only have three things for the rest of your life. What would they be and why?

Well, I would go crazy if I couldn't write. So at very least, either a whole lot of paper and pens or a computer. (I suppose it would have to be a computer that is powered by water or sand. Do they make those?) I would also use that same computer to stay in touch with my friends; they are my greatest treasure. And last, but not least, a lifeboat to bring me to safety in case I decide that being on an island for the rest of my life is just a tad too much to handle. :-)

12. How many books have you written? What are they?

I have written and published three novels. Squalor, New Mexico (YA/General Fiction), which has nothing to do with the state of New Mexico, is the story of Darla McKendrick, growing up in East Coast suburbia in the 1970s. It's a coming-of-age story shrouded in family mystery.

Crooked Moon (General Fiction) is the story of two childhood friends who reunite after 23 years apart. Callie and Frankie have lived very different lives and there is a lot of joy and pain in their reconnection. Each woman ends up with a life-altering secret about the other and the burning question of what to do with it.

13. And finally, is there any advice you'd like to share with my readers? Anything you'd like to say?

No matter what you're aiming for in life, keep trying, even on the bleakest of days. Keep hope alive and plant miracle seeds every day. You never know when one might grow.

Thank you for doing this interview. I'm sure my readers will enjoy your answers just as much as I do. 

Thank you, Jamie. You're truly one of the most delightful, talented, and supportive people I've had the pleasure to meet on social media. You rock!

Lisette was kind enough to include an excerpt from Molly Hacker Is Too Picky! I hope you enjoy!

Chapter One: Another Wedding

Three weddings ago, when my best girlfriend, Claudia Porter-Bellman, got married, I swore it would be the last one I would ever attend until I was the bride. Claudia Porter-Bellman — and people tell me I’ve got baggage.

I didn’t, however, count on my mother’s long-divorced best friend, Susan Decker, getting married again. Having tried every trick in and out of vogue to find a husband, Susan was ripe for success. But despite the odds being on her side, I figured Murphy’s law would sabotage her efforts.

Cynical? Nah. It wasn’t just Murphy or the fact that his law had wreaked so much havoc in my own life. It was simply that Susan just seemed too desperate, as opposed to my own state of being: nonchalantly desperate.

Back to Susan. One night, an insistent neighbor dragged her to a local community center for a fun night of number calling, and bingo, six months later, she was engaged to a widower of two years.

He was a nice enough man, quite handsome, and seemed to truly care about her happiness. Luckily for me, Susan’s good fortune veered far enough away from my own romantic hallucinations that I was able to attend the wedding without insane pangs of envy stabbing my chest like daggers.

I’ll admit it: watching Susan and her new husband take their vows did fill me with a bit of “why the hell isn’t that me up there?” but having to deal with the busybodies at the country club reception proved to be the real pebble in my Jimmy Choos. Although I had been wise enough to bring Tony Lostanza, my dear friend from high school who was estranged from his wife, my mom had already told a few friends (translation: it was broadcast to the world) that Tony was just an escort of sorts. As if that weren’t bad enough, the ones who didn’t know, but who knew Tony, were horrified that I was attending a wedding, of all occasions, with a married man.

That night, I was forced to fend off several not-so-subtle dirty looks, glances of pity accompanied by sad head shaking, and, once again, comments from those near and dear who felt compelled to remind me that if I weren’t so darn picky, if I would just give a nice man a chance, I wouldn’t have to bring another woman’s husband to my mother’s best friend’s wedding.

If you think I just took all of this in stride, think again. I had no problem letting each and every person know that my business was just that —†my business. With some people, I find the best way to deal with unwanted questions is to ask a few of my own. For example, when my aunt Pauline asked me why a pretty girl like me couldn’t have brought a man who wasn’t attached to someone else, I asked the thrice-divorced sister of my mother to explain to me how settling for three Mr. Wrongs had enhanced her life, and I inquired as to the price of divorce and whether her legal fees had been worth the paltry settlements she had received.

“Smart ass; stay single, Miss Picky,” she snapped, and headed off to articulate her discontent to any random guest with ears willing to be mangled by a wart-nosed barfly.

I knew Pauline would shake off my admonishment the same way my cat shakes off my kisses. She had more important things to concern herself with: after all, a wedding was a perfect place to scour the crowd for Mr. Wrong number four. Pauline had a way of bypassing any man who didn’t have one elbow on the bar and who was able to make it through an evening without slurring his words. Perhaps this had something to do with her less-than-stellar track record. I’m babbling. I need to refocus.

Twice that day, Tony had been asked to temporarily excuse himself so that the presiding snoop could have her way with me. Each time, he looked at me for the green light to do so, which, regrettably, I gave him. I don’t understand why I should be polite to people who I know are about to say or do something rude. I know I said I had “no trouble” standing up to people, and for the most part I don’t, but I should have told them that whatever they wanted to say could have been said in Tony’s presence. In hindsight, I always have some pesky little regret; it’s a bad habit, and I need to work on it.

“Molly, you’re such a pretty woman,” Naomi Hall-Benchley began. “And you’re smart. But smart women often make foolish choices (blah, blah, clichÈ, blah) and being with a married man, even if he’s ‘just a friend,’ is not a good choice. I’ve got great news for you. I’ve arranged a dinner for next week. Art has a new marketing VP who just moved here from Dallas. He’s single, and he’s looking. Great guy and quite the avid golfer.”

I had never picked up a golf club in my life, but suddenly, looking at Naomi, it felt like an excellent idea. She was the town’s premier socialite and often looked more like a wax museum replica of herself than a real person. For years, I harbored fantasies of finding a wick on top of her head, lighting it, and watching her slowly burn to the ground. Just imagining the flame licking every inch of her skintight Herve Leger cocktail dress as her mascara kissed her melting pearls made me tingle with delight.

“And he makes oodles of money,” she jabbered on, subtly glancing from side to side in hopes of being photographed. “What time is good for you? Shall we say seven p.m. next Friday?”

“You know, I’m busy that night. Sorry.”

“No problem, we can reschedule!” She laughed. “Rescheduling is the least of our worries.”

“How about the twelfth?” I asked, as I noticed Tony watching intently from the bar.

“But today is the twenty-seventh…the twelfth is two weeks away!”

“And the twelfth of never is even further away,” I informed her, taking delight as her jaw dropped. I saw Tony laughing now; I knew he couldn’t wait for a recap with his nightcap.

“You’re ungrateful, Molly,” she said, taking a swig of her vodka martini. “I have a perfectly fine man for you, and you refuse to give him a chance.”

Now I was angry. “Have you ever met him?” I challenged her.

“Well, no…” she said sheepishly. “Not yet.”

“But he makes a good salary and loves golf. Those are your criteria for a hot prospect? Does he have a sense of humor? Is he sensitive? Does he do anything but play golf in his free time?”

“Well, I, I don’t know…”

“No, you don’t,” I scolded. “You don’t care about my happiness at all. You just want to be ‘the one’ who set up ‘Picky Molly Hacker’ and simultaneously score points with Art by playing matchmaker for his new vice president.”

“Now, that’s just silly—”

“Do you think if I were to meet someone new that I would want to do it with people watching, listening to our conversation, butting in to try and push us together? Do you realize this is the twenty-first century?”

“You’re too picky, Molly Hacker. And if you don’t wise up while you’ve still got something to offer a man, if indeed you do, you won’t have all the things that life has to offer. Not to mention that children are best had while one is still fertile.”

I started to roar fire but stopped myself. Tony was approaching, and I didn’t know if his clothing was flame retardant.

I was thirty-two, and Naomi was only eight years older than I was. I wondered if she considered herself to be “old.” But I chose a different question.

“Are you and Art in love?”

“How utterly inappropriate of you,” Naomi said, reeling in feigned horror. “Of course we are. Besides, I live very well. I have a beautiful home, beautiful children, and a full life.”

“But are you in love with him? Is he in love with you?”

“Of course and of course! You’re too picky, Molly Hacker, and deflecting the seriousness of your situation to me will not help you. I’m surprised you haven’t found someone at the Herald. It’s a fine newspaper with some very smart men working there.”

By this time, Tony had arrived and put his arm around me, smiling at Naomi just to rattle her.

“If you don’t mind, Naomi, I’ll do things my own way. Call me funny, quirky, picky, or whatever you like, but I kind of had my heart set on love being part of the equation. Not that it’s any of your business!”

Naomi finished her martini and put it on the tray of a passing waiter.

Tony smiled at her again, this time more broadly. Naomi and I took one last opportunity to scowl at one another, and I swore, no matter whose it was, I would never attend another wedding again†until I attended my own. And I meant it. I sailed through the next year without attending one wedding — despite being invited to three.

***

So here I sit today, August twenty-seventh, just about a year after Susan’s wedding, on a bright and beautiful summer day, glammed up in my dress, as I watch my younger sister, Hannah, get her hair pinned up with flowers for her big day. Hannah is bursting with joy. She’s only twenty-six and is marrying her longtime guy, Matthew. Nobody ever told Hannah she was too picky.

You can grab your own copy of Molly Hacker Is Too Picky! today on Amazon or B&N today!

Thank you again, Lisette for stopping by and doing this interview. Until next time everyone, happy reading/writing!

Introducing Author Julia King: An Interview

Julia King who is represented by Lauren Hammond of the ADA Management Group

The year has just begun and my first post of this year has been out for a little bit, followed by me just celebrating my birthday. (Sorry for the selfish moment. I was just so happy! hehe) So, I sat down and began thinking out what I wanted to do for my next post and that's when I realized that I haven't had an interview on here in a long time.

Well, thinking about an interview made me think of interviewing a fellow author. I've had the pleasure of interviewing a few authors before, and I've found that I enjoy reading their answers more than I do asking the questions!

So, I was sitting there with my new post idea and only one name kept coming to mind. My good friend, CP, and newly signed author, Julia King! I immediately stopped thinking and took to twitter to ask if she'd be interested and was delighted when she giggly said yes! (Jules is a big giggler!) So, now may I introduce you all to my good friend, author Julia King!

1. How about we start off by letting you introduce yourself?

I’m a 29 year old in a super sore 80 year olds body. A long story involving some car accidents (not my fault at all). I work as an Administrative Assistant, but my night job is being an author. I love to sleep. I hate being cold.

I'll agree with you on both sleep and cold!

2. What did you want to be when you were five?

My mind is Swiss cheese. Can’t remember back that far. But I’d probably have liked to continue being a stubborn child, making her parents go crazy because she wouldn’t eat anything.

Good answer. Love the making your parents go crazy part. 

3. What was the most interesting time of your life so far?

Right now! Who’d have thought I’d be an author with an agent.

Me! I knew! And I'm so super proud of you!!

4. You've mentioned before that you lived in England. What was that like? Where did you live?

I lived just outside of London in a city called Maidenhead and loved it lots. While there I worked as an Au Par (nanny). I’m still good friends with the family. I loved the accent, the weather, and driving on the other side of the road. Ok, I never had the chance, but it was super cool.

That sounds like a really cool time of your life! Makes me want to go there right now!

5. What made you write your first novel, FÉLICITÉ FOUND?

A dream that wouldn’t stop taunting me with its image in my mind. I started plucking away on the keyboard writing it. It’s been a fun ride since.

Ah! The dream that won't let go. Most of the best books start with just a dream. You're dream, my friend, was a really good one too! (Can you tell I've read the book? ;))

6. Queries. I have to ask about this. What was the process like for you? Was there a time you ever felt like giving up? What made you push on?

It was awful at first with getting all the rejections, but soon I learned to not take it personally. I had to remind myself this industry is SUBJECTIVE. One agent may like what you write because it’s what they’re looking for. Another may be a completely different situation, but it’s not because your writing sucks. I definitely felt like giving up—on a daily basis. Lots of chocolate pushed me forward and veg’ing on the couch. Ok, seriously, it’s because I know my book is good. I want people to read it. And I’ve never felt so driven with any of my endeavors. I HAVE to be published and there’s no “NO” about it. Having other authors on my sideline, too. They were my saviors because they knew EXACTLY what I was going through.

That is exactly true! No two agents will see things the exact same way. Just like no two readers will see things the exact same way. But that's what makes it good!

7. The big call! You’re represented by Lauren Hammond of ADA Mangement Group, (Super congrats!!) What was that moment like when you got that magical offer that we all dream of?

I thought I was asleep. Really. I kept on pinching myself. Then I ran into my boss’s office and jumped around in a squealing and giggle fest. For at least two weeks I felt as though I was still sleeping. Soon I’d wake up from one of those super great dreams feeling severely disappointed. It’s like you were robbed of the best kiss ever. You know what I mean.

I know exactly what you mean. I'd also love to see the security tape of that little celebration too. I'm sure it's super funny. Hehe :)

8. I know you said that your goal for last year was to have an agent by the end of 2011 and you did! What is your goal for this year?

My goal for this year is to have a publisher if not be published. I wouldn’t mind a boyfriend, either. I’d like to say meet Zac Efron (my current famous crush), but what are the chances? haha

Being published/having a publisher is a great goal! Ah! The boyfriend! We must work on this. LOL! And Zac Efron is something you should never rule out. The world works in mysterious ways. But, we will work on that late. Next question!

9. New Years Eve was just a couple weeks ago. What was your resolution?

I didn’t really make one. Is that bad? I’m sort of still thinking about it.

Not bad at all! I didn't make one either. I figure if you never keep them, why make one?

10. If you could make one wish right now and have it come true, what would it be and why?

To meet some nice guy who wants to spend forever with me. Or to be published.

Not bad. And congrats on not making the beauty queen wish!

11. Lets say you were trapped on a deserted island and could only have three things, (either a person, food, books, whatever you wish!) What would those three things be and why?

1. Totinos pizzas – love those pizzas. Maybe I’m saying it because I just ate one for dinner

2. Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand – my favorite book. Ever! (Or another book, but I don’t want to get religious)

3. If I could fit all my family members into one person that’s who I would bring. That’s cheating, though. 

First, yum! Totinos is always a good choice! Atlas Shrugged is also another great choice. (I think I know the other book you mention.) And family! Okay, I'll let you take them all!

12. What is your guilty pleasure and why?

Sleeping in. I love sleeping. Being in a nice comfy warm bed is divine. Plus, it makes my 80 year old body feel better. :) Another thing would have to be Nutella! Numms.

Both awesome! I was just expecting chocolate. But sleep and Nutella works for me! Moving on!

13. If you could read only one book for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Atlas Shrugged, again. It is poetic beauty in story form. Read it! Love it! Never stop thinking about it!

Now you're just trying to make me read it again! LOL :)

14. Blogging is a great place for authors to reach readers. Why do you blog? What advice would you give authors who want to blog, but don't know where or how to start?

I started off blogging to get my name out there. Who knew who Julia King was back a year and a half ago—no one but my family and friends. Now people know me. Now I blog because I love it. It makes my writing better. I enjoy reaching out to people, giving them something interesting or helpful to read. If someone wants to start blogging, they need to first figure out who their audience is. At that point, target what you write to them.  Be yourself and enjoy what you write.

All wonderful advice! Especially about writing for your target audience. That is an important one!

15. Finally, what advice or words of wisdom would you like to share with my readers and the world?

If you want to write, WRITE. If you want to read, READ A LOT. If you like to write or read, look forward to reading FÉLICITÉ FOUND. Ok, that was a shameless plug. Sorry!  Also, I’ve said it once, twice, three-hundred times and I’ll say it again: SOCIAL NETWORK. You have to get your name out there. You have to find writing buddies to keep you going. It is a must and helps you learn loads to get your book(s) honed into masterpieces.

All great advice. I'd like to thank Julia again for doing this interview. If you haven't talked with her before, then you should really look her up on twitter cause not only will you love her, but you will laugh too! She's just that cute!

Thank you again, Jules!

P.S. I've decided to make post on three days a week from now on. Or at least I'm going to try! Julia is the one who gave me this idea and I thank her very much for doing so. So, look for new posts to be up on every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday! Now, happy reading and writing everyone!