Loading ...Interview, Chat and Contest with Author Marlene Perez
A big welcome to our readers today! Be sure to read to the end of the interview to find out how to WIN the fabulous prizes being offered up.
PLEASE NOTE: This is not a fixed time event, the post just goes live at 10:30 am CDT. You can stop by any time during the day or evening and leave your questions and chat.
PLEASE KEEP SPOILERS TO A MINIMUM. Not all of the readers today have read Marlene’s books.
Interview:
Hi Marlene!
Welcome to Bitten by Books, we are excited to have you here today!
I would like to thank you taking the time to join us for the question and answer session with our readers. It has been very interesting to get to know more about you and what makes you tick as a writer! Readers, if you haven’t done so already please stop by and get your copy of Marlene’s latest book release Dead Is So Last Year
BBB: What are the most challenging and the most rewarding aspects of writing?
MP: Staying focused on the deadline in front of me. I’m always coming up with new ideas and it requires great restraint to stay with the book I’m working on, doing all the hard work, instead of chasing a shiny new idea. And to write every day, despite my tendency to procrastinate. I DO write every day, but it’s a challenge to make sure that I give myself that gift of time.
The most rewarding aspect is the letters from fans. I often hear from girls who say they never read before picking up a DEAD IS book, but now, because of the series, are becoming readers. It doesn’t get any better than that. Also, I do really like seeing books with my name on them in bookstores. That NEVER gets old.
BBB: Do you consider your Dead Is series paranormal romance or urban fantasy? and do you think it is important to distinguish between the two within Young Adult genre?
MP: I consider my DEAD IS series paranormal, but not strictly a paranormal romance. The DEAD IS series is a bit of a mash-up and combines mystery, humor, and romance with the paranormal. All of which I love to read. I know there’s a debate in the blogsphere about those definitions, but I like to read everything and I like to write everything, so I don’t really pay that much attention. It might be important to other people, but it’s not important to me.
BBB: If you had to go back in time to change one thing, what would it be?
MP: In the DEAD IS series? Well, maybe I wouldn’t have **SPOILER ALERT ** made a certain ghost go poof quite so soon. I was quite fond of that character. And I’m working on the last DEAD IS book right now and I’m trying mightily not to kill off one of my favorite characters, but he or she may have to go.
BBB: I read that you were the youngest of 12 children? What was it like growing up in such a big family?
MP: It was–interesting. But that’s a whole ‘nuther book in itself. I do think that since there was an age gap between my siblings and me, I gained the ability to talk to people of different generations. And my siblings, who are literally from another generation than me, influenced my love of music from different time periods. Two of my favorite singers are Billie Holiday and Janis Joplin. One of my earliest memories is of one of my brother’s singing The Beatles’ “Help” at the top of his voice.
BBB: How is the corn snake doing? Still keeping your distance?
MP: Definitely still keeping my distance. My husband was talking about getting a new pet the other day. He thought a tarantula might be nice. I put my foot down!
BBB: How do you keep track of your world building?
MP: I have a huge three ring binder “bible” for the DEAD IS series, full of descriptions, photos, songs Lil has played, even a picture of Daisy as a little girl (torn from a magazine, of course.) I add to it for every book I do in the series. I am working on the 4th and 5th book right now, so I went back and re-read the first three. Sometimes, things change in revision. I also have a sharp-eyed editor who catches things. I also have a specific soundtrack for every book I write, not just the DEAD IS series, and I keep that on my IPod.
I’m thrilled that the entire DEAD IS series will soon be available on audio, so I can listen to it! And if I ever re-visit the city of Nightshade (where the DEAD IS books are set) for another series, I can go back and listen to the DEAD IS books before I start writing.
BBB: What do you feel are the benefits of the new electronic readers such as Kindle 2 or Sony Digital Book Reader
MP: I don’t have a Kindle (yet, but my birthday is coming up and my h. is a techie, so it’s possible I’ll get one soon) and I love the thought of saving all those trees.
I can’t imagine not having hard copy books though. Part of me just loves the smell and feel of a book. I do know people who have e-readers and and say when you travel, they’re terrific. You can carry all the books you’ll need in one device.
BBB: What impact do electronic readers create on the bottom line for authors in the end? Do you feel they have a negative impact or positive, or no impact at all that you can see?
MP: I think it’s too early to tell about what impact electronic readers create on an author’s bottom line. At least for me.
BBB: I understand that your latest release Dead Is So Last Year
MP: There will be two more books in the DEAD IS series. DEAD IS JUST A RUMOR will be out in the fall of 2010. DEAD IS NOT AN OPTION, the final book in the series, will culminate with Daisy’and Ryan’s high school graduation, and will be out in the spring of 2011.
BBB: Can you tell us about the Dead Is series and the general storyline that drives it?
MP: The DEAD IS series is about three psychic sisters who solve paranormal mysteries in their California high school. The idea is that the Giordano sisters live with their mom in the small town of Nightshade, but Nightshade is different than other small towns. In the beginning, Daisy Giordano, the main character is aware only of the psychic skills of her mother and two sisters, but gradually becomes aware that there is a whole paranormal community existing in Nightshade.
BBB: Will Daisy’s dad’s ever really return?
MP: Readers will get their answer to that in DEAD IS JUST A RUMOR.
BBB: If one only one of your books could be made into movie or tv show, which one would you love to see come to life and who would your dream cast be?
MP: Dead Is the New Black
There’s a fun site http://www.StoryCasting.com, where you can create “dream casts” for your favorite novels. If anyone does a cast of the DEAD IS books, I’d love to know!
BBB: Do you still write mid-grade novels as Lana Perez? If so can you tell us more about them?
MP: No, I don’t write as Lana Perez any longer. Mostly because I don’t have the time and my heart is really in teen paranormal fiction. But I loved working with my editor on those books at Mirrorstone/Wizards of the Coast, Nina Hess. She’s so good at what she does!
BBB: Where do you see the paranormal Young Adult genre headed? Can you see it slowing down in the near future, or do you think that the immediate future is pretty bright for it?
MP: I think the immediate future is pretty bright for paranormal and/or urban fantasy in general, and particularly in the young adult genre. But like most things, it’s cyclical. The trick is that although the demand is high, teen fans are savvy and have read a lot of the genre. I also want to point out that teen authors have been writing about the paranormal world for years. Annette Curtis Klause (Blood and Chocolate & The Silver Kiss) was writing novels for teens about werewolves and vampires in the 90s, way before the current trend.
BBB: What character in the Dead Is series is most like you? Are any of the characters modeled after your siblings?
MP: I think to an extent, all the Giordano sisters have a bit of me in them, although Daisy is my favorite. I think her sense of humor is like mine and maybe her insecurity. I was the youngest and always felt left out, like Daisy.
BBB: Do you receive mail from many of your teen fans?
MP: I do! I get e-mails almost every day and I always respond. I love to interact with my fans as much as I can. I was surprised at how much mail I get from adult readers who either read the DEAD IS books with their daughters or just love to read young adult literature. In fact, I recently heard from a book club consisting of only adult members, who read and enjoyed the DEAD IS books.
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Learn more about Marlene Perez below:
Read Reviews of her work here.
To visit the author’s website go here.
To visit the author’s blog go here:
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CONTEST: PLEASE NOTE THE NEW CONTEST EMAIL ADDRESS TO SEND YOUR ENTRIES TO BELOW. There are also revisions to the rules for this contest, please read them all carefully. Also, PLEASE LEAVE YOUR FIRST AND THE INITIAL OF YOUR LAST NAME in your comment/post so we can give you the proper credit for your entries.
Readers, here’s how to enter the contest. You can do just ONE or ALL of these things, and each thing you do will give you additional entries at a chance to WIN. REMEMBER you have Until 9/22/09 at 11:59 pm PDT to do the different things that YOU choose to do. Contest is open to readers worldwide except where noted.
Marlene is also giving away some amazing prizes to SIX lucky readers! Contest is open to readers worldwide except where noted.
Prize 1: A $50.00 Amazon.com Gift Card
Prize 2: 5 copies of her book Dead Is a State of Mind
1. The easiest way to enter is by purchasing copies of Marlene’s books.
From Amazon:
Books in the Dead Is series in the order they should be read:
Dead Is the New Black
Dead Is a State of Mind
Dead Is So Last Year
From Barnes & Noble:
Click here to purchase titles from the complete list at Barnes & Noble.
Good for 300 entries per book you purchase by using the links above.
OR you can use the Barnes & Noble search banner on the right hand side of the site or this link HERE to make your purchase of ANY kind of merchandise during the contest. You can also use the Amazon search box or this link HERE to shop as well. Good for 100 entries to the contest for EACH item you purchase. Not valid on past purchases.
It is NOT mandatory to purchase anything to enter the contests, there are plenty of other ways to enter and win. Just email us a copy of your purchase receipt to bittenbybooks.contests @ gmail.com (no spaces). Sorry no faxes or snail mail copies.
2. In order to be entered into this contest the ONE thing you ALL have to do is ask Marlene a question or leave a comment. It can be ANY question you like. No questions/comments = no entries! You can come by through 9/22/09 and ask Marlene your questions. Good for 10 entries. (max 2 questions that count towards entries)
3. Spread the word! Use this direct link to the event: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=11001 on twitter, at another blog, website, Myspace, Ning Group, Facebook, Yahoo Group, Goodreads, Shelfari (any group where it is appropriate). You MUST come back here to this interview and post those links in one response here in this thread so we can verify your entries. Good for 100 entries per place you post the event link.
NOTE: if you post multiple links here, your post will not show up right away. If you don’t see it, don’t keep posting it, we WILL approve your entry later on in the day.
4. Be friends with Marlene by joining her here:
http://twitter.com/MarPerez
http://myspace.com/marleneperez
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Marlene-Perez/95795467203
RULES AND LEGAL DISCLAIMERS
GENERAL CONTEST INFORMATION:
The contest ends on 9/22/09 at 11:59 pm PDT and the winners will be contacted via email. You will receive your prize bag directly from the author. PLEASE LEAVE YOUR FIRST AND THE INITIAL OF YOUR LAST NAME as well as a valid email where we can contact you. REMEMBER the more things you do, the more entries, the greater the chances of winning.
1. Please note, the prize stated IS the prize you will receive, there will be absolutely no substitutions or changes the prize is non-transferable. If you don’t want the prize being offered, please don’t enter the contest. If you ever win an electronic copy of a book, please note that it is ILLEGAL to forward, give away or copy it in anyway once you receive it. Doing so violates copyright. If we find out that it has been done, you will no longer be eligible to win any of our contests.
2. You have THREE days from the day the we contact you to claim your prize by sending your name/mailing address to me. Failure to contact me will forfeit your prize. BBB can at that time, choose either to re-award the prize to another entrant or not.
3. The prize stated IS the prize you will receive, there will be no substitutions, trades or changes. No exceptions. Please do not ask. If for some reason you do not wish to claim your prize, please let me know as soon as possible. Bitten by Books has the option to re-award it or not.
4. Contest is open to USA readers except where noted. The prizes are shipped directly from the author.
5. Bitten by Books is in NO way responsible for the prizes being offered in any of the contests. If for some reason a contributor does not honor their prize, there is nothing we can or will do about it. We are not worried that this will happen, but we want to be very clear that WE are not offering these prizes, the contributor is and it is their responsibility to fulfill their prize obligations.
6. These rules are subject to change or be modified without prior written notice.
7. Contest is void where prohibited.
8. By entering this contest you are agreeing to our terms of entry
(2 votes, average: 5 out of 5)
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Hi Marlene. Thanks for joining us here today.
You mention that you are now firmly ensconced in the teen paranormal genre. Do you read lots of paranormal/UF fiction for fun? What other genres do you enjoy?
(I did RSVP).
[Reply]
Hi, Carol,
I do read lots of paranormal/UF fiction for fun. My goodreads account is where I (try) to keep track of all the books I’ve read or want to read. Right now I’m reading Pride & Prejudice & Zombies and Strange Angels. And I just picked up Soul Enchilada.
[Reply]
Why does Penny dislike Daisy so much and is she a norm?
[Reply]
Good morning, Marlene.
What is your opinion on book trailers (videos). Do you think they help in book sales?
Thanks,
Tracey D
I RSVP’d
[Reply]
Good morning Marlene,
What was your favorite tv show when you were a teen?
I RSVPed and post here:
http://marvelousbookpage.blogspot.com/
http://twitter.com/cydjules
and facebooked
[Reply]
@Cheryl Waters, Penny is lonely and feels like Daisy took her place in the group, so she’s kind of mean to her.
@Tracey D, I’m not sure if book trailers actually help book sales, but they’re so fun! I love watching book trailers. And it’s another way to reach potential readers, so I think they’re a good idea.
[Reply]
Hi, Marlene!
Your books sound really fun and I can’t wait to read them! Plus I like the covers.
Cheers!
Wendy.
[Reply]
Oh! And I RSVP’ed, too.
[Reply]
Hi! I am pretty sure I RSVP’d. I am so into the YA books right now. It started with Twilight and then I was hearing about these great authors, coming to find out the boosk were YA. BUt these books are so incredibly written- they aren’t your typical YA books. Marlene, your books are no exception-I like authors who don’t “speak down” to teens. I look forward to reading them!
[Reply]
@Wendy C, I really like my covers too! I’m really looking forward to seeing the new covers for the DEAD IS books.
@Lisa M., I agree! I love to read YA and was reading it long before I was a published author for teens.
[Reply]
Hi Marlene!
Thank you so very much for taking time out of your busy schedule to be with us here at BBB Today!
My question is, do you think you will branch out into adult paranormal/ urban fantasy in the future or stick with YA?
I have noticed a huge trend of the opposite going on lately. Authors who start out in the adult paranormal fiction are branching into YA.
Do you feel that there is a migration both ways?
[Reply]
My nieces will love your DEAD IS series, if they haven’t already read them, so I am hoping to buy them to give as a gift. Of course, I will have to read them first! They may be for teens, but this adult thinks they sound really good!
[Reply]
@Rachel from Bitten by Books. I started out wanting to write for adults, so it’s possible I’ll go back one day, but writing for teens is challenging and I really love it. The next few projects I have are for teens. It’s always exciting to switch things up creatively though.
I think the migration is working both ways. Melissa Marr, the author of the teen novel WICKED LOVELY recently sold a book for adults. Shannon Hale writes for adults and children.
[Reply]
Oh, and Stephenie Meyer writes for adults too.
[Reply]
Hi Marlene!!! Thanks for stopping by!!! What first got you interested in writing paranormal books?
[Reply]
Marlene your books are awesome. I was surprised that you came from such a big family. I was the last of 13 children myself. I have 6 brothers and 6 sisters. It was certainly different from other peoples families.LOL Thanks for being here today.It has been very interesting.
Debby C
creagers@windstream.net
[Reply]
Forgot to mention that I friended you on myspace.
Debby C
creagers@windstream.net
[Reply]
Thank you Marlene for creating another paranormal series my daughter and I can share and enjoy together. I am looking forward to picking up the first three books in this series this week at the bookstore.
In your interview, you mentioned that you have an ipod playlist for when you are writing. I know of a couple of other authors that give the readers a list of the music they listened to when they wrote the book. Any chance that you do the same? I find that the music an author listens to while writing really pulls me into the book, kind of like the backround music in a good movie.
Also, Do you have teenagers at home to give you ideas? I have a teenager at home and I can’t believe how much it seems like things have changed since I was her age.
Thanks, Theresa
I added you on facebook and I RSVP’d to the event.
[Reply]
Marlene, I can’t wait to read your books!
I rsvp’d, joined Marlene’s facebook fan page and friended on MySpace
[Reply]
forgot to leave name and email
Chris C.
ursuladrake@rocketmail.com
[Reply]
@Heather C, well, this is weird but true. My older sister used to babysit me after school and she was a huge fan of DARK SHADOWS. I was like 4 or 5. So I guess you could say I’ve been interested since infancy.
I also read tons of vampire novels. Anne Rice in high school/college. My current favorite is the (adult novels) Joe Pitt vampire detective books by Charlie Huston.
And I’m also a fan of the Harry Potter books, Chronicles of Narnia. I recently read Sandman Slim by Richard Kadrey (adult book) and LOVED it. The voice was amazing and I like a little dark humor with my paranormal. I’m a member of the fangs, fur, fey live journal community and just reading the books of the members keeps me busy.
[Reply]
@patsy hagen, the first two books in the DEAD IS series are available at the Scholastic Book Fair (for those who don’t know about SBF, information is available here http://www.scholastic.com/bookfairs/), so they’re good choices for middle schoolers and up.
@Debby Creager, wow, it’s nice to hear from someone else from a big family!
@ Theresa D, there’s a playlist for my books on my website (under the books section) but here’s the basic playlist for DEAD IS THE NEW BLACK
“Here Comes Your Man”
—by The Pixies
“Heartbreaker”
—by Pat Benatar
“Evil Woman”
—by ELO
“Another One Bites the Dust”
—by Queen
“Dreamboat 730”
—by Ringside
[Reply]
@Theresa D, my teen daughter doesn’t really give me ideas, but I do run things by her. Like if dialogue sounds realistically teen or if she’s heard of X,Y,Z. She also recommends songs for the prophetic jukebox, but we have similar taste in music. Although she’s much hipper than I am.
[Reply]
@ Medievalgrrl, thanks so much. Hope you like the books. And thanks for friending me on my fan page!
[Reply]
RSVP
[Reply]
Hi there what is your least favorite genre? I don’t really like historical books.
[Reply]
Hi Marlene,
Glad you could be with us today! I’ve not read you books yet, but do plan to
now I know what they are about. And I think my granddaughters will love your Dead series.
My questions are, which was the hardest book to write, your first or a more recent one and why?
Which is your favorite book and your least favorite book and why?
I RSVP & Tweeted
[Reply]
@chris swan, that’s a really good, but hard question. I don’t read as many historicals as I used to, but I can’t really say that isn’t a favorite. I read pretty much everything, although I don’t especially care for Westerns. When I was younger I loved Louis L’Amour, so that’s not even true. It all depends upon my mood. I like it all.
[Reply]
@Sharon K, I think each book has its own challenge. The first published book is hard because the struggle to become published can be discouraging. But I struggle and learn something new with each book. My first young adult novel was published in 2004 and the next wasn’t published until 2008, so the second book was probably the hardest.
I don’t have a least favorite book, but my most favorite book is always the book I’m working on (at least in the beginning. By the end, sometimes I don’t ever want to see it again. But that feeling fades when I hold the actual book in my hand.)
[Reply]
Marlene, do you ever attend fan conventions?
[Reply]
@Carol M., I go to the San Diego Comic Con every year! This year I was on a “Monster Mash” panel. I’d love to hear about more fan conventions though.
[Reply]
HI Marlene! Thank you for being here with us today! I was wondering what authors do you think most inspired you to start writing? Also, as an author of the paranormal, how much do you think the paranormal exists in our world?
Thanks!
-I RSVP’d
[Reply]
Hey Marlene,
Thanks for stopping by Bitten by Books. I have recently found myself picking up more and more YA books to read. I find them a pleasant change for the hardcore romance paranormal books that devour. The give provide me with a breath of fresh air.
As a writer of YA books, why do you think more and more adults are picking them up to read?
Following you on Twitter (MarnieBelle) and of course I have shared with the entire (ok my) twiiter world that you are here visiting.
[Reply]
Hi, Marlene. I too have been reading tons of YA lately. Originally, I was just reading to stay up-to-date (used to teach school). Lately, I am hooked, there has been so many great YA titles and I keep discovering new ones.
Several of my questions were already answered. So I was wondering…
What would your readers be shocked to learn about you?
I RSVP’d
[Reply]
Marlene, you should try Dragon*Con in Atlanta sometime.
[Reply]
“He thought a tarantula might be nice. I put my foot down!”
I hope the tarantula got away in time.
Hi, Marlene. Your books sound great, and I have someone in mind who will be thrilled to learn of them. HOW disappointing that Canadian readers aren’t eligible for your book prizes!
Have a fun day.
Casey
[Reply]
@Amanda L, I’ve always been inspired by Judy Blume. Like many of my peers, I read her books as a teen. I received some practical inspiration from Norma Fox Mazer when I was just beginning. I went to a conference she spoke at (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, http://www.scbwi.org) and she talked about pulling on a fedora to shut out that internal editor. I went home after the conference and started writing. I finished a draft of what became my first novel in six months.
And I’ve seen too many strange things to discount the idea that the paranormal truly exists. So I try to keep an open mind.
[Reply]
Hi Marlene,
I enjoyed Dead is the New Black. Heven’t had a chance to read any of your other books yet.
Am friends with BBB on goodreads and subscribe to the newsletter.
[Reply]
Oh, and I must say that I am with you on the tarantula thing.
I have a pet snake myself, but bugs — yuck.
[Reply]
@MarnieCollette, I think we owe a lot to Harry Potter, The Golden Compass, and Twilight. Those are the books I can think of that started the adults crossing over to reading mid grade and ya novels. There are probably a lot of others that I’m forgetting about.
@Carol M, oh, I just found about DragonCon, but had already missed it!I’d love to go!
@ElieN, I hope my readers would be shocked that I’m old enough to have two teenagers (HA, HA!!) I don’t know why, but sometimes, people are surprised by the music I like.
@C.JuneWolf, It’s my publisher’s rule that they can only ship in the USA. Which is why we have a lovely Amazon GC as well. And if you win, you can use it to buy my books!
[Reply]
Hi,
I rarely read many paranormal since many times they get shoved under by certain on top-movie books, but this definitely caught my interest. I was wondering though, in the interview, you get new ideas and characters often while you write, do you let them slip away or take a minute just to write down the basic to work on them later?
[Reply]
*Waves in warm and fond greetings * Hello Marlene! Welcome to Bittenbybooks!
I’m not a reader of the Young Adult genre; however, my husband is. They’ve just never caught my fancy enough to pick one up. Some of the ones my husband likes (and has been trying to get me to read but fails) and kept in hopes our eleven year old would like to try are the Artemis Fowls by Eoin Coiffer and yes, the Harry Potter books.
Corn snake? Hehe, once upon a time, the hubs and I had an albino corn snake. I remember being deathly afraid of her (but she was gorgeous!). Eventually I came around and fell in love with her. But on the tarantula deal, I’m soo with you. I’m deathly afraid of spiders.
Would you recommend your books to a gamer-type eleven year old boy? With the hubs and I being avid readers (well I’m more avid than the hubs; I devour thrice as many books than the hubs does) we are trying to get our two oldest ones into reading. My eight year old loves the Pokemon manga.
* I RSVP
* Followed her on Twitter (RaonaidLuckwell)
* Posted about it on Twitter
* Followed her on myspace (www.myspace.com/visionarydruid
* Posted about it on my myspace’s blog and bullentin
* Became a fan on facebook (rachel flesher/ Raonaid Luckwell)
* Posted about it on facebook
* Posted about it on my blogger (visionarydruid.blogspot.com)
* Posted about it on my livejournal (morriga.livejournal.com)
[Reply]
@Sandy G, thanks! I appreciate it.
@Jennifer G, oh, I definitely start a file on all my new ideas, and I may even write a couple of paragraphs. I’ll have false starts too, get really excited about an idea and then come back to it and realize I’ve lost my enthusiasm.
@Raonaid Luckwell, well, I’d recommend my books to everybody
but an eleven year old boy isn’t my target audience. I definitely write books for girls. I do love the Artemis Fowl books and there are tons of great books for fantasy-loving boys.
[Reply]
Hi Marlene…. I RSVP”D and made it in time… LOL I understand the tarantula deal… I live with 5 males and they know I hate all things crawly like spiders and snakes…
So my question is… coming from such a big family what was your fave family meal together… ? Did you all find time to sit down together or take turns… LOL
My second question is with your heart not in the YA series, what or who made you decide to try it and on the other hand is there something that forced you to look at it in a different light so you didn’t want to continue?
I have joined the facebook fanclub
Added Marlene on twitter
Tweeted the link
[Reply]
@Shell the HOckeyvampiress, well, there’s a big age gap between the older children and me, so fortunately, my mom didn’t ever have all twelve of us at home at the same time. My oldest brother was grown up and lived in a different state by the time I was born, and several of my older sisters were already married and had kids of their own.
We definitely had all those dollar-stretching dinners though, because there were still 8 kids at home at the same time. I liked scalloped potatoes and ham and spaghetti.
And can you clarify your second question?
[Reply]
oh, forgot to mention: joined your fan page on Faceboof, requested as a friend on myspace. and following on twitter (lasergirl70)
[Reply]
that’s facebook,lol!
[Reply]
I can’t wait to read your books and will go and get all three tomorrow. I love books that my daughter and I both can read and enjoy. We both love this genre and I’m glad you’ve written a series we can enjoy together. Keep on writing so we can keep on reading.
What other YA authors do you read and recommend?
Thanks,
Beth
[Reply]
RSVPed and just wanted to let you know my daughetr and I are both fans of the Dead is series. Looking forward to the next 2!
[Reply]
Thanks for being here today and sharing your thoughts, Marlene. Your Dead Is series is on my wishlist - hope I get to cross some off when the prizes are awarded!
You’ve said you have 2 teenagers. Do your sibs have large families? Do you often have family reunions and are they huge affairs? Must be fun!
[Reply]
Hi, Marlene,
Thanks for being here today. I really enjoy reading the interviews with all of the authors.
I Facebooked, Twittered, MySpaced and requested friendship on MySpace.
Thanks again.
[Reply]
Aside from the editorial staff at Mirrorstone, what was the best part about writing for middle graders? What are some differences between writing for that audience and for teens?
Thanks for the interview!
(I RSVP’d.)
[Reply]
Hi Marlene, I love YA paranormal fiction but I haven’t yet read your books (sorry!) but they are on my radar and I hope to try one soon.
I have two questions for you:
1) What is more important when you write, the plot or the characters?
2) What are you reading now and what is next in the TBR pile?
Thanks!
MichelleK
mishcara at gmail dot com
* I RSVP’d
* Shared the event on StumbleUpon http://mishme.stumbleupon.com/
Also, I didn’t see these in the entry rules but in case they still count.
* Member of the Blood Bank (MichelleK)
* Friends with BBB on goodreads (mcara)
[Reply]
Hi
I was just wondering who is your favorite character out of your book?
I rsvped
[Reply]
@Beth M., I read tons of stuff. My daughter and I both like Holly Black, Cassandra Clare, Mary Pearson, Alyson Noel, just to name a few.
@Lori C, thanks so much!
@Shirley H., I think 5 kids is the largest family for my sibs. It’s very difficult to get everyone together, since we’re scattered all over the place. But even if SOME of us get together, it’s a pretty big party!
@Dianne B, Thanks so much!
@ Alana Abbott, I think a lot of writing for teens and mid grades are the same, because both sets of readers want a good story. The experiences are different, and since readers are looking to see themselves in the story, you have to try to keep in mind what certain age groups are typically experiencing, even in fantasy.
@MichelleK, I think plot and character work hand in hand, but you have to start with a character that readers care about, and will care enough to take the journey (plot) with that character. And by care, I don’t necessarily mean LIKE, because you can dislike a main character but still not be able to stop reading.
Right now I’m reading a couple of books. The Magicians by Lev Grossman and a non-fiction book called A Field Guide to Demons, Fairies, Fallen Agnels, and Other Subversive Spirits by Carol Mack & Dinah Mack.
@AliciaH, I adore Ryan Mendez in the DEAD IS books, but I really like the main character Daisy Giordano. And Flo and Slim are pretty cool too.
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Hey Marlene,
Just wanted to say that, as a friend & fan, I enjoyed this interview.
Cheers,
Cynthia Leitich Smith
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Hi!
Loved reading your BIO! And the picture of your waitress uniform - well just LOVED it!!! What restaurant did you work at?
Befriended on Facebook, twitter, myspace. Off to tweet - tweeted a reply to BBB
link for facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/profile.php?id=699923331&ref=name
And RSVP’d
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Hi Marlene! Thanks for the great interview! I learn about so many great authors and series through BBB!
Do you have to do much research for your books, and do you enjoy it? And do you have a writing group or a critique partner when you write?
I am following Marlene on Twitter @KimBea
I RSVP’ed.
Thanks so much!
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2-RSVP and 1 question
3-facebook - http://www.facebook.com/share.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fbittenbybooks.com%2F%3Fp%3D11001&t=Interview%2C+Chat+and+Contest+with+Author+Marlene+Perez#/posted.php?id=798764554&success
twitter - http://twitter.com/Heatwave316/status/4161178643
4 - twitter and facebook
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Hello Marlene!!!!!
Your books sound interesting. Truthfully I read adult books, but I will check yours out! Okay here are questions:
1. Do you have read any other paranormal romance/urban fantasy authors?
2. Do you have to work at humor or does it come naturally?
I made friends with you at myspace and have posted the link:
http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.ListAll
http://tenshinohanran.livejournal.com/2841.html
Good Luck!
-Aori Hanazari (aorihanazari(@)gmail(.)com
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Hi Marlene,
1)Do you have a fav sport or team that takes you away from your writing?
2)rsvp’d
3)Twittered:dlsmilad
4)posted on facebook: DinaStornello
5)posted on myspace:dlsmilad
6)added as myspace friend
7)blogged on myspace
8)perm fav on my blog:http://dinasthoughtblog.blogspot.com/
Thanks,
Dina S.
dlsmilad@yahoo.com
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@Cyn Leitich Smith, Cyn!!! Oh, if anyone wants to read novels with great twists on paranormal, read Tantalize and/or Eternal.And her website/blog is chock full of info about children’s lit.http://spookycyn.blogspot.com/
@MicheleH, I worked at a restaurant called Happy Chef. I think they’re still around in the Midwest.
@Kimberly B., I’m not sure I HAVE to research a lot, but I do. The things I do in the name of research! I LOVE to spend hours on research. I’m not always sure how I’ll use it, but I know I’ll use it eventually.
And I belong to two critique groups (online) and I also have a couple of go-to friends I ask to read stuff.
@Aori Hanazari, I read really widely in the paranormal/urban fantasy genre. I also watch paranormal shows. I always end up blanking at times like this, but if anyone is interested in my reading habits, please feel free to friend me on goodreads. Also, I belong to the fangs, fur, fey lj community and try to read the fff books.
Well, I crack myself up, if that counts. Humor is so subjective! I just write stuff I think is funny and cross my fingers that someone else does too.
@Dina S, the favorite sport that takes me away from my writing is whatever sport my son is currently playing. Other than that, I’m not a very sporty person. Unless my Wii counts;)
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Hi Marlene, how are you!!! I have read Dead Is the New Black and I loved it! I can’t wait to read the next one Dead Is a State of Mind. I feel the same way about the Kindle (or electronic readers)that they will help save trees:o) At the same time I love buying books. I’m so torn. lol. oh yeah my question I almost forgot. What inspires you to write or what inspired you to become a writer?
Thanks!
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Following her on Twitter- smck27
Posted on Twitter
Posted on Livejournal- smck27
Became a fan on facebook-smckeehan25
Posted this on my Blood Bank page- Steph M
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I think this series sounds very interesting and I am looking forward to reading it. I bet your Dead Is “bible” would be quite a fun book to look through.
I could not imagine growing up with 11 brothers and sisters. The two I had were a pain at times, but I would not trade them for anything. Do you have a favorite family memory that involves all your siblings?
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Oh, I forgot to add my name which is Lori T and that I did RSVP. Sorry for the double post.
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Yes, an lj author!!!!!!! Okie dokie I shall join it as well. and thank you for answering. Your answere made me laugh. XD Now I want to read more.
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I am sorry, I couldn’t find the community, can you provide me with a link? Thank you.
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@Stephanie M, I think I’m compelled to write, rather than inspired. I can’t imagine not being a writer. It’s always been with me, the desire to be a writer, at least since second grade when we did journaling. And I’ve also been a reader for my entire life and that’s the best preparation/inspiration.
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Hi!
I RSVP
The interview was great! Sadly I haven’t read none of your books yet but I do see myself in the future buying the Dead Is series.
I read books on Kindle and overall I prefer the old fashion way, books in hand( sorry trees!)
So my question:
Will you write another series based on minor characters in your Dead Is series?
+already a friend on myspace
+following yout Twitter(@dianareads)
- Diana Marie
dianareads18(at)msn(dot)com
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@Aori Hanazari, this is the Fangs, Fur, Fey link http://community.livejournal.com/fangs_fur_fey/
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@Dianna Marie, I’m not planning on writing another series at this time, but I would like to set another series in Nightshade someday. After I finish the 5th DEAD IS book, I’ll working on a stand alone teen paranormal romance. Like many writers, I have a bunch of projects in various state of completion.
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Hi Marlene,
Welcome to BBB. You mentioned that you receive lots of email. What’s the most bizarre fan mail you’ve ever received?
I’m an international reader.
I RSVPed.
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@Lesley Cheah, Believe it or not, I haven’t had any truly bizarre e-mails. Everyone has been super nice and polite. Except for those scam/spam e-mails that we all get.
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I did RSVP.
Sorry to say I wasn’t aware of your series before. I work as a children’s librarian in a small county library. Like everywhere else, the kids are into the paranormal books. It is nice to hear that yours are written with a sense of humor. Many are so dark. Sex is always a big question/complaint with the parents. What do I tell them about sex in your books when they ask?
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Hi Marlene
* I can’t wait to read you books and get my niece to read them to she is a teen that likes that tipe of book now me I like all tipes of books and all age groups two.
* I have Spread the word on my myspace and facebook here are the links
http://www.myspace.com/sasluvbooks & facebook.com/sasluvbooks
* I have RSVPed
Nice getting to no about your books and you.
Stacey S
sasluvbooks@yahoo.com
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Hi Marlene! I got so excited when I saw you were here on BBB’s blog. I have read Dead Is The New Black and absolutely loved it. I can not wait to get my hands on your other books and read them.
Hugssss
LindaH
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I have posted about this event on my blog by using the share this button. http://readingissomuchfun.blogspot.com/
Hugssss
LindaH
readingissomuchfun @ yahoo dot com
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I have never read paranormal, but the review of your book makes me want to start!
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Why did you start writing the Dead Is series?
Are any of the characters inspired your own friends or family?
Tweeted: http://twitter.com/bookgoil/status/4169425131
I RSVPed.
Friended Marlene on Facebook (Kristen Nielsen) and Twitter (bookgoil)
bittahsweetharmony@yahoo.com
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Hi Marlene!
Welcome to BBB! I really am looking forward to reading this series!
Thanks for stopping by!
(PG - Twitter, FB, and I can’t remember if I RSVP’d for this one or not…)
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Hey Marlene,
I RSVPED
I love the idea that so many exceptional paranormal writers are writing for the YA market. I had always felt this was an area that would help turn kids on to reading and not only benefit the writers now but also later as they made reading a part of their lifetime experience. I personally try to pick up a couple copies of the most requested books to give to a friend that teaches middle school. I also pass on to her all YA books that I read. Even though she is a Math teacher, she keeps a “library” in her room of YA books as a lot of her students are from lower income families. I was happy to add your name to the list of YA books that I have fallen in love with.
Now for my questions—
What books are on your nightstand right now?
What one question do you wish a fan would ask you but never has?
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@Patricia Barraclough, the first two books in the DEAD IS series are available through Scholastic Book Fair, which as you may know, is very careful about age-appropriate content. My DEAD IS series if perfectly suitable for middle school and above.
@stacey smith, I bet your niece loves being related to you! I’m glad to hear you’re fostering her love of reading.
@ ReadingIsSoMuchFun, thanks so much! You’ve made my day
@Lisa Garrett, I hope you enjoy the books.
@Kristen N., I started writing the books because I’d always wanted to write a paranormal novel. And because the first sentence of the book (it’s still pretty much as I first thought of it) popped into my head.
And no, none of the characters are inspired by anybody I know–although I do have a couple of characters named after friends of mine (with permission of course.) The character Wyatt Pearson is actually a mash-up of two great teen writers, Mary Pearson and Melissa Wyatt. We have a group blog called the YA Authors Cafe. And Elise Wilder was named after my friend and teen/middle grade/picture book author Elise Broach. Of course, these characters aren’t at all like my friends, but I liked seeing their names in the book.
@ Virginia Hendricks, thanks so much!
@Lisa Richards, it’s actually pretty embarrassing how many books are on my nightstand right now. I’d say at least 50 books and feel free to check out my goodreads account if you’d like to see the whole list. I just bought PROJECT 17 by Laurie Faria Stolarz (she has a couple of wonderful paranormal series and is a good example of a teen writer who has been writing paranormal/uf for a long time) and ACADEMY 7 by Anne Osterlund. I also recently read and blurbed Nancy Holder’s new book Possessions.
This doesn’t EXACTLY answer your second question, but although I admire what Stephenie Meyer has done for the teen paranormal/uf genre, I wish some fans wouldn’t assume that all teen paranormal writers are jumping on the bandwagon and trying to copy her. The writers I know are all telling the story that is inside them, not jumping on a trend. Most of us are around the same age and therefore, probably had some of the same influences and experiences, which informed our work. Like watching DARK SHADOWS (which for those who don’t know, was a vampire romance television show in the early 70s) reading Anne Rice, watching Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
And thank you all for the wonderful welcome. You’ve all been great! Thanks so much. I hope I managed to answer everyone’s questions, but if not, please feel free to e-mail me at marlene@marleneperez.com.
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Hello! (**waving**)
Just wanted to say that I enjoyed reading your interview! This is actually the first I have heard of this particular series, but I am definitely going to add it to my “seek out” list!
(thanks for the great contest too - retweeting! - http://twitter.com/GRgenius/status/4173248991)
grgenius(at)go(dot)com
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I have to say that I’ve been super lucky and actually won an ARC of Marlene’s first Dead Is and third.
I love this series and it’s on my “gotta have” list.
One thing I like is that her characters do not sound like miniature adults. They come across as very real to me. Great series. With this series wrapping up, what’s next on your list of things to do and genres to conquer?
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Tweeted http://twitter.com/Ziggywag/statuses/4174452222
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@ Gina R., thanks so much!
@Arwen, hi Arwen! I remember you! I’m glad you think the teens sound like real teens. That’s one of the things I’d recommend to writers thinking about writing for teens. Listen to the speech patterns. Although you definitely can’t write exactly how they talk, you do get an idea. It helps that I have two teens, but I also go to the mall and sit at the food court and eavesdrop sometimes.
What’s next on my list? I’m really excited about a new project that I think is SO cool that I don’t want to talk about it yet, because I’m afraid I’ll jinx it. It’s a teen novel. I’d also like to write an adult urban fantasy someday. And maybe re-visit Nightshade eventually, but only if I can find an interesting new story to tell.
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Hi Marlene! Sorry if this has been asked already but what age group do you write for in the YA genre? I ask because my son is getting into reading and loves paranormal.
I blogged about Marlene at http://katiebugdomesticdiva.blogspot.com/2009/09/marlene-is-at-bitten-by-books.html
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@KatieD, the DEAD IS books are for middle school and up. And very cool that he’s becoming a reader!
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I’ve really enjoyed your series and look forward to reading the rest of it. When I first saw it, I picked up the first book thinking I’d give it a try. I read it in one evening and had to run out the next day to grab the other two.
I look forward to seeing where you take us in the next two books.
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@Jessica Coulter Smith, thanks so much! I’m glad you like the series. I’m a little sad that the series is ending, but I really enjoyed writing them.
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The DEAD IS series is another one I need to add to my shelf.
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Oh ya! I think he would like this series. I will have to look into getting him some of the books. Thanks!
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Hi Marlene!
Welcome to Bitten By Books!
Anyway, I was wondering, how did you come up with your titles?
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Hi Marlene
I read Dead is the New Black and really enjoyed it. I’m looking forward to reading the other books also in this series. Can the books be read out of order?
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@CarmenR, thanks so much
@LydaD, I thought of DEAD IS THE NEW BLACK first and then did a whole brainstorming session with my critique group to come up with the other titles.
@RachaelfromNJ, the books CAN be read out of order, but I think it’s better to read them in order. DEAD IS THE NEW BLACK, DEAD IS A STATE OF MIND, DEAD IS SO LAST YEAR, DEAD IS JUST A RUMOR (forthcoming), and finally DEAD IS NOT AN OPTION (forthcoming.)
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Hi Marlene -
My 13 year old daughter loves this series! I wondered if you write exclusively for YA readers or do you have books in other genres, too?
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@Susan Laura G., I’m so glad your daughter likes the series! I write exclusively for teens right now, but I do love to read in other genres too, so it’s possible I’d like to write in other genres, too.
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@Terri Dell, thanks for Tweeting (or is it Twittering?) about this chat.
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Hi Marlene,
I befriended you on twitter.
I have a question for you and if you already answered this, I apologize.
If one of your books were made into amovie and you got to cast the characters, who do you see playing them?
I added these to my reading list. They look really good.
Raine D.
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I am new to your books but they sound good. I welcome you here and hope you do very well. Just looking forward to getting a book of yours in the future and trying to add it to my list of must get books. susan L.
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Hi,
I have to honestly say, “I’ve never heard about your books prior to this event.” Having said that, I will definitely pick up the first in the series and give it a whirl!
Your series sounds very interesting and I love most ALL paranormal adventures!
I joined your MySpace and Facebook pages.
Good luck to you in your future endeavors!
Sue
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I RSVPed
and also asked Marlene to befriend me on myspace.
myspace.com/lydaspen
and also on facebook -username Lyda Davis.
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@Raine Delight, I could see Joseph Gordon Levitt as Ryan (although I think he’s moved on to more mature roles) and Cat Delaney (she was in Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist, I hope I got her name right!) as Daisy. But Flo and Samantha Devereaux are tougher. I like http://www.storycasting.com to cast your favorite books.
@susan leech, thanks! I’m glad the books sound interesting enough to add to your list.
@Sue Roenbalm, thanks!
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@Lyda D, thanks for friending me on myspace!
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I have a question, for the community you gave me, (lj) do you have to be a writer?
Thank you
-Aori Hanazari
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Hello Marlene,
Thanks for answering my previous question. I have another one for you. What is the best unexpected surprise you’ve received from the publishing world?
Thanks.
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Hi Marlene,
Thanks for coming and sharing with everyone here, for the great answers, and for offering everyone a chance to win one of your books.
The YA’s that are out/coming out now are fantastic. I’m kind of glad to be just learning about your books.. I like being able to read several one right after the other instead of waiting a year or so. Really hoping to be lucky on the draw, so I can at least get one.
questions:
What is your favorite paranormal being?
Many authors have mentioned their characters “talking in their heads” which I find intriguing.. do you find this happening to you? If so.. do you find it’s a version of running thru scenarios, or is it closer to a daydream?
Thanks again
iokijo [Jo Ann J.]
following on twitter
retweeted all mentions
can’t remember if RSVP’d
BBB newsletter/bloodbank/twitter
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@Aori Hanazari, you can watch the fangs, fur, fey community if you’re not a writer.
@Lesley Cheah, a really fun surprise was when my publisher sent me “DEAD IS THE NEW BLACK” nail polish and then had the polish as a giveaway at Book Expo.
@iokijo, I pretty much love the gamut of paranormal creatures, but my two favorites are vampires and psychics.
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Hi Marlene
How many books are you planning for the seies?
i rsvped.
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I also added Marlene on fb.
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I LOVE THE BOOKS YOU MAKE! The books, “Dead is the New Black”, “Dead is the State of Mind”, and “Dead is so Last Year” are AWESOME! I finished each of the books in one day because i could’nt put it down! Don’t ever stop making these fabulous books!!!!!!
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