Loading ...Interview, Chat and Contest with Author Julie Kenner
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 Julie’s books.
Interview:
Hi Julie!
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 Julie’s newest book release Demon Ex Machina.
BBB: What are the most challenging and the most rewarding aspects of writing?
JK: The most challenging is finding the time — I’ve got two kids (5 and 7, soon to be 6 and 
and I homeschool them, so time is at a premium in my household! The most rewarding is two-fold: feedback from the readers is by far the most rewarding, but there’s also a more personal, internal reward that comes from telling a story that’s floating around in your head. From getting it down on paper and seeing imaginary characters coming to life on the page!
BBB: Do you consider your Demon Hunting Soccer Mom series paranormal romance or urban fantasy? and do you think it is important to distinguish between the two?
JK: I was talking with my editor about that at Dragon*Con, and we both think it’s Paranormal Mommy Lit. Between the two, it’s definitely more toward the urban fantasy side of the equation. The big theme is family more than romance, and although there is a definite romantic subplot that runs through the books, “romance” was never my intent with the series as a whole. I do think it’s important to distinguish, although becoming less so. For one, it’s a necessary evil, as “genre” is how books are sold in to the bookstores. More than that, though, there’s the question of reader expectations. A reader expecting a romance who gets a mystery instead is going to be irritated, and so will most romance readers who *unknowingly* pick up an urban fantasy, and vice-versa. And just because the lines between romance and UF are blurring, that expectation still exists and should be honored. It’s the same across all genres, and not exclusive to books. Remember the brouhaha when the movie The Break-up came out? Marketed as romantic comedy, and it wasn’t…and viewers were ticked off!
BBB: If you had to go back in time to change one thing, what would it be?
JK: In history, or in my history? That’s a hard question, and considering I write paranormal, it’s also hard to answer, because, hey, change one thing in history, and maybe I wouldn’t even exist!
So, with that caveat, I would have stayed in college longer. I blew through school, and graduated after two and a half years. I wish I’d stayed the full four and really experienced what college had to offer. Actually, I would have done college in a foreign location for a semester or two!
If I was changing something in history, I have to say there are a lot of things to choose from. If it’s me saying “poof!” I’d make it so that Hitler was never born.
BBB: What is the most ridiculous thing that you have thought about doing to any of your characters?
JK: This question has me stumped. I’ve been sitting here thinking and thinking and thinking and was even considering asking if I could just cut the question, but I think it makes more sense to try to articulate why I’m stumped, and I think it’s that I don’t really “do” anything to my characters. If they take ridiculous action, then it’s because that’s what the characters would actually do, if that makes sense; in other words, it serves the story. But I’ve never thought, “Gee, Heroine really needs to do something goofball now, I think running naked through the neighborhood except for bunny slippers would be a good thing.” As for what ridiculous things my characters have done…um. My mind is a blank! Kate’s come up with some pretty crazy excuses, and hiding a dead demon in the pantry is pretty ridiculous if you forget the surrounding circumstances. And I suppose a wise-cracking ferret is ridiculous by definition… So maybe I do put in more ridiculous stuff than I think?
BBB: I read that your Demon Hunting Soccer Mom series was picked up by Warner Brothers and 1492 Pictures. What is the status on that project? Will we see Kate kicking demon butt on screen soon?
JK: That would be so much fun! But the answer with Hollywood is always, don’t buy the dress for the premier until the thing’s in the can! I was in Los Angeles last year and went to 1492’s offices and it was great to see what a wonderful feel they have for Kate and how much they really love the character. They’ve been working on the script, and have had some powerhouse screenwriters come in to do punch ups and stuff, but as of right now, it’s still solidly in Development Hell. So keep your fingers crossed!
BBB: You have a new paranormal romance series coming out next year. what can you tell us about it? What made you decide to branch out into this area?
JK: To answer the first part last, the story idea just blew me away and I was, truly, compelled to write it. The idea is a series of paranormal romantic suspense novels that take place in and around a paranormal judicial system that co-exists, for the most part unknown, with our own world. Think Men In Black, but without the wacky humor. The first book is the reader’s entre into that world, and the heroine’s as well: She’s a hot shot assistant district attorney hand-picked to be a prosecutor within this world. Not only is the situation completely freaky to her, but she’s shocked when she realizes that the defendant in the murder case she’s assigned to is a deliciously sexy man she’d recently had a one-night stand with…and he’s a vampire!
I don’t have an excerpt posted on-line yet, but I did do a reading at Armadillocon, and I recorded the reading, then uploaded it to my podcast. You can listen to it here: http://juliekenner.podbean.com/2009/08/25/when-blood-calls-excerpt/
BBB: How do you keep track of your world building?
JK: I’m still looking for the perfect method. For a while, I used electronic notecards, and I do like that method, but I have to remember to sync between computers when I travel. More recently, I’ve been using Evernote, which I now sing the praises of everywhere I go. It’s free (unless you upgrade, which I do) and fabulous! And I can have it on my iPhone! I create a notebook for the series and then tag my heart out, so I always have my notes at my fingertips.
As for the original building of the world, I do a very rough outline in synopsis and then fill in as I’m writing. I’m not someone who has a 400 page dossier on the world before I even start writing the books.
Oh, and post-it notes. Even with Evernote, when I’m in a book, my office is a sea of Post-it notes…
BBB: What do you feel are the benefits of the new electronic readers such as Kindle 2 or Sony Digital Book Reader
JK: Hmmm. Well, it’s certainly a wonderful boon to not be using paper, but paper is recyclable, and my guess is that most mass market paperbacks are printed on primarily recycled paper. But I have absolutely no idea what the environmental impact is of the manufacturing/degradation/waste product of the plastic that makes up the kindle/sony/etc. cases or the impact of the electronic ink or the LED screens. I imagine there are toxicity issues with the batteries, as well (certainly cell phone batteries must be properly disposed of in order to not create leakage through landfills, and I imagine the lithium batteries in these readers are the same). I think the gut reaction is always to say, “Yay! Paper saved! A big red plus on the pro-environment side, and no counterbalancing negative impact!” and if that’s true, then I say “Fabulous,” because I love my Kindle and my Kindle iPhone App in a way that borders on scary. But I don’t know for certain; I’m simply not informed on that issue. I will say that for my personal environment it has a huge impact. I have no room left in my house. None. Zip. Most of my books are now boxed up and cataloged on Library Thing. And most of my new books? Well, they take up no space at all, because I buy them on my Kindle.
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?
JK: I think they have a positive impact. I know that personally, I’m a lot more likely to impulse buy a book on my Kindle. Not only that, but I download samples left and right, whereas before, I would have scribbled a title that looked interesting on my hand, a scrap of paper in my purse, or a receipt (yes, you now have a sad and pathetic peek into my life). And then I’d lose it. And then, a month later, I’d have time to read and money to spend and think, “What was that book with the yellow cover that sounded so cool?” Most likely, I’d end up not buying it, because I have two kids and that means my memory is like a sieve. But with the Kindle, it’s already on my machine. I scroll through, find it, read the sample, and order it. (I think that so far, I have only not ordered one book for which I ordered a sample.) Plus, Amazon has the “If you like this, you may like this” feature, which, imho, works so much better than the categorization of books you find in a brick and mortar store. Because if I liked X in romance, I really *might* like Y in sci-fi, but most bookstores don’t make that connection (some have very proactive staff, and do, and kudos to those stores!). All in all, I think the electronic stores and electronic readers are a boon. But hopefully a boon that doesn’t cause even more brick and mortar stores to close!
BBB: I understand that your latest release Demon Ex Machina is book five in the series. How many other books do you have planned for this series and what is next?
JK: Book five ties up loose ends in a major story arc (please note that I didn’t say “completely, firmly, and 100% resolves” ), and so it’s a good place to take a bit of a break. My fear with series (both as a writer and as a reader) is that they can turn stale, and because of that, I’m focusing on other projects next year while I work out where we’re going next with Kate. I do have another story arc planned, and I imagine it would be four or five books as well.
In the meantime, though, Kate and Allie are going to be included in a short story anthology. Be sure to check my website, as I’ll post details of that as soon as I have them.
BBB: Can you tell us about your different series and the general storylines that drives them?
JK: Sure!
Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom Series: Kate Connor is a former demon hunter for a secret arm of the Vatican turned stay at home mom. She thinks life is calm and quiet, but when demons come to her home town, she’s thrust back into the work force, and has to slide back into the demon-hunter role…even while keeping her past a secret from her family (at first, anyway!) (Paranormal Mommy Lit, or Urban Fantasy)
The Blood Lily Chronicles: This series starts in November with Tainted
Code Breaker Series: When a madman begins playing a MMRPG in the real world, three woman and three men are forced to interpret a series of cryptic clues as they run for their lives in order to evade an assassin determined to kill them, win the game, and get the prize. Each book stands alone, but over the course of the whole trilogy, you readers learn who the bad guy is who’s manipulating things behind the scenes. (Chicklit suspense)
Aphrodite Series: A series of paranormal romances featuring superheroes descended from Greek gods (who weren’t really gods, but it was such a great cover story for our heroes!) (PNR)
Ghoul Series: Beth Frasier is on track to be the valedictorian of her high school when a senior jock vampire turns her into a vamp. Now she has to figure out how to be human again, because colleges don’t admit the dead! (Young adult)
Shadow Keeper Series: A series of paranormal romantic suspense novels set in and around the Preternatural Enforcement Coalition, a judicial system that mirrors our own familiar court system, but designed to apprehend, prosecute, adjudicate and detain those paranormal creatures who break the Covenant, a series of laws first formalized in the cuneiform writing of ancient Sumaria, kept alive and updated today by a paranormal legislative body with authority over all the shadow creatures. Located physically beneath courthouses and government buildings throughout the world, the PEC is a secret organization known by only a select group of humans. The PEC stands as guardian over the meshing of the human world and the Shadow world. Should it fail in its mission–should the dark run rampant–then the world that we know would cease to exist and demonic anarchy would thrive.
By the way, if you visit the ShadowKeepers site (http://www.theshadowkeepers.com or http://www.jkbeck.com) you can register to win a Kindle and also order a cool promo button!)
BBB: Though the tone of the Blood Lily Chronicles is darker than that of the Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom series, your signature humor still peeks through. Do you consider this a necessary ingredient in your stories?
JK: Yes and no. As you said, some books (like Tainted and the upcoming Shadow Keepers series) have considerably less of that, um, snark. In some cases, that voice is simply more suited for the stories and vice-versa. When that’s the case, the snarky humor usually ends up being “owned” by a single character, because I do think it’s hard for me to write something or even to interact with the world without that humor coming through. I hope that makes sense to someone other than myself!
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?
JK: The Demon Hunting Soccer Mom series, but I can’t say my dream cast because, hey, might jinx stuff!!! Seriously, though, I think it would make a fab movie, but I also think it would make a great TV show. Very Desperate Housewives meets Buffy or True Blood.
BBB: Our reviewer Lori asks “I absolutely adored your YA series. Do you have any more books planned in the Ghoul series? Please tell me there is more Beth Frasier coming…….”
JK: Tell Ace!!!!!! I’m dying to continue the books, but the decision has yet to be made. Soon, I’m told …
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?
JK: I think the future is incredibly bright, and I’m loving the variety of inventive, wonderful stories I’m seeing on the YA shelves. Would that I could clone myself or stop time, because I’d love to write more YA!
BBB: Luke Skywalker or Han Solo?
JK: When I was young and watching Star Wars in the theater (dang, I just gave away my age!) I was all about Luke. Then I hit puberty, and wised up. Han Solo, baby. All the way.
BBB: You have mentioned that you would love to be a Broadway star but can’t sing. Have you ever thought of getting into musical movies? (Hey, if Natalie Wood could have her songs dubbed, it could work for you too) and who would you choose to be your singing voice if you did?
JK: Um, no. I can’t say that I’ve ever thought of that! I’ll add it to my pile of things I want to do. As for dubbing, that would be Kristin Chenowith, who originated Glinda in WICKED on Broadway. FAB voice!
One last thing, if I could: I’d like to invite BBB readers to listen to the Tainted podcast. I’m podcasting the entire (yes, the entire) text of the novel, and it’s already up and running even though the book is a November release. You can listen or subscribe (or learn more) at http://www.kennercast.com (I’m also podcasting both of the books in the Ghoul series. The Good Ghouls’ Guide to Getting Even
Thanks so much for having me here!
****************************************************
Learn more about Julie Kenner below:
Read Reviews of her work here.
To visit the author’s website go here.
To visit the author’s blog go here.
***********************************************
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 9/23/09 at 11:59 pm PDT to do the different things that YOU choose to do. Contest is open to readers worldwide except where noted.
Julie is also giving away some amazing prizes to TWO lucky readers! Contest is open to readers worldwide except where noted.
Prize 1: A $50.00 Amazon.com Gift Card
Prize 2: A $50.00 Walmart Gift Certificate
1. The easiest way to enter is by purchasing copies of Julie’s books.
From Amazon:
Books in the Kate Connor, Demon Hunter series in the order they should be read:
Carpe Demon
California Demon
Demons Are Forever
Deja Demon
Demon Ex Machina
Books in the Good Ghoul’s series in the order they should be read:
The Good Ghouls’ Guide to Getting Even
Good Ghouls Do
The Blood Lily Chronicles
Tainted
Torn
Turned
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 Julie a question or leave a comment. It can be ANY question you like. No questions/comments = no entries! You can come by through 9/23/09 and ask Julie 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=11014 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 Julie by joining her here:
Newsletter: http://www.juliekenner.com (there is a link to subscribe to the nl on the page)
Twitter: http://twitter.com/juliekenner
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/JulieKenner
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/juliekenner
RULES AND LEGAL DISCLAIMERS
GENERAL CONTEST INFORMATION:
The contest ends on 9/23/09 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
(1 votes, average: 5 out of 5)
Loading ...
Thanks so much for having me here today!
[Reply]
Welcome to BBB Julie! It is so great to have you with us. I am a HUGE fan of Kate and your work.
What do your kids think about having a best selling author for a mom? And do you ever enlist them for help with parts of the books if you get stuck?
[Reply]
Hi Julie! Thanks for joining us. (Saying hi from soggy Georgia).
So, what genres do you read in for fun?
[Reply]
When do you have the time to research for your book and also research for your homeschooling and do you sometimes try to do both at once,,,love your books am a huge fan
[Reply]
This was a great interview. I first read Carpe Diem the night one of the Harry Potter books was released (read the first couple chapters waiting in line). While I loved HP, I couldn’t get this book out of my head. I promptly went back to the store and bought the book. I’ve been hooked since.
[Reply]
Hey everyone! Thanks for the warm welcome! The kids still think everyone writes books
I remember when we were in a bookstore a few years back and I was signing stock, and Catherine looked around, perplexed, and said, “So where are Daddy’s books”!! V. cute! But she is starting to get it, and she does volunteer to help, but there’s not a lot she can do. I have enlisted her to be my designated scanner-she scans in contracts and royalty statements and stuff like that.
As for Isabella, she’s still just going with the flow…
Fun reading: everything, really, but mostly thrillers. Lately, I’ve been on a nonfiction kick, too. Anyone else read FREE? It’s a fascinating economics book (seriously!) on the Free economy that’s been created by the Internet.
As for research, I’m not as in love with research as some writers are. I’m way more about being IN the story, so I do as little as possible before hand — just enough to figure out what I’m doing and get a roadmap — and then I research as I go. I will say that researching demon stuff can be both fun and creepy!
As for the homeschooling, that I do on weekends, getting ready for the next week. Fortunately, with a 5 and 7 year old, the time investment on my part isn’t yet what it’s going to be when we hit the higher years! (Although we are doing Latin, and I’m only a few steps ahead of the 7 year old!)
[Reply]
Wow!!! I’m not sure I’ve ever had my book mentioned in the same sentence as Harry Potter. Now THAT will impress the 7 year old!
[Reply]
How did you get your first efforts published? Did you use an agent right away, or did you have a friend or acquaintance help you break in the field?
[Reply]
I greatly respect that you homeschool. To have time to write as well is amazing. My mother homeschooled 9 of us. What curiculum do you use.
[Reply]
Hi Julie!!! Thanks for stopping by!!! Wow…I’m just totally blown away by all of the series and other projects you are working on. I’m definitely going to need to check out Kate and the Lily series. I was wondering what first got you interested in writing paranormal romance/urban fantasy?
[Reply]
LOVE your books, but I’ve had to fight with my husband to get hold of a copy - he rushes to get it first!
(RSVP noted)
Do you know if a lot of men read your books?
[Reply]
Ooops.. I forgot that I had RSVPed!
[Reply]
Hi Julie,
1)I’m not into soccer, hockey is my sport, lol, but love the way the Demon Hunter series sounds, also The Blood Lily Chronicles, that’s up my alley.
At least I can start that series fronm the start.
2)I rsvp’d
3)posted on my blog:http://dinasthoughtblog.blogspot.com/
4)BBB is perm fav on my blog also:http://dinasthoughtblog.blogspot.com/
5)posted on Myspace blog:dlsmilad
6)friended Julie on Myspace:dlsmilad
7)posted on Facebook:DinaStornello
8)sent a freind req for Julie on Facebook
9)following Juile on Twitter:dlsmilad
10)posted on Twitter:dlsmilad
11)signed up for Julie’s newsletter
I’d love to add to Goodreads and Shelfari, but don’t know how, sooooo if anyone knows how, please let me know.
If I can do more things, I’ll post again.
Thank you,
Dina S.
dlsmilad@yahoo.com
[Reply]
Posted on Twitter here: http://twitter.com/tempest1952/status/4175131691
[Reply]
How did the idea for the series come to you and where do you feel it will go over the years?
[Reply]
Hi Julie. What inspired you to start writing? And is there anyone in your real life that has inspired a particular character?
Already friends on MySpace and Facebook. RSVP’d and signed up for Julie’s site newletter.
Ursula D (ursuladrake@rocketmail.com)
[Reply]
[...] · Reply · View tempest1952: Julie Kenner interview and giveaway here today: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=11014 2009-09-22 16:11:27 · Reply · View amybrecountwhit: TENNER ARC GIVEAWAY: The Mark [...]
That is a lot of interesting series you are writing
Is it hard to keep the stories straight all the time?
Rsvped
[Reply]
Thank you Julie for stopping by the BBB. Your series sounds great and I will have to check it out. More for my TBR pile. lol
Where do all of you ideas come from? Do they just pop in your head or do you work on it?
I blogged at http://katiebugdomesticdiva.blogspot.com/2009/09/julia-kenner-is-at-bitten-by-books.html
I also joined the mailing list on Julies web site.
[Reply]
Welcome to BBB Julie and thanks for playing with us! LOL I’ve read the first 2 books in the Soccer Mom series but am sadly behind on the rest. (must rectify that SOON!) How did you come up with the idea for the Soccer Mom series? Really all of your series too but that one has really peaked my curiosity.
Thanks again for the great interview!
[Reply]
How I got published: I knew NOBODY in the industry when I got published, and didn’t even know about RWA when I first started writing! Here’s my little summary from my FAQ:
I’ve fiddled with writing my entire life, and have the boxes and tubs filled with paper to prove it. But I never got serious about finishing a novel until early 1997. Prior to that, I’d started researching the romance market, but I hadn’t seriously put pen to paper. In 1996, I learned about RWA and soon started researching in more depth. I got heavily involved with the Austin chapter after I returned from a trip to Las Vegas, wherein I had spent seven unexpected days recovering from emergency surgery, and my husband spent seven days gambling without me. Which, frankly, is the only reason I remember the date. I finished one manuscript, had it rejected (but the good kind of rejection) and started a second. That second manuscript finaled in several first chapter contests through RWA and an editor requested the full. I spent a hectic two weeks writing the last one hundred twenty pages, mailed that puppy off, and in June of 1999, it sold. Much champagne was imbibed.
In other words, I was fortunate to have won two RWA sponsored contests, and got requests for the full mss because of both of them. Those books became NOBODY DOES IT BETTER and THE CAT’S FANCY.
I’m a big fan of contests
I also had agent interest because of the contests (I hadn’t queried), but I was a lawyer and figured I could do it on my own. After I negotiated the first contract with Harlequin, I saw firsthand how an agent earns their 15%! I contacted one of the agents who’d pursued me after the contest, who I’d hit it off with, and she signed me and negotiated for CAT.
[Reply]
(RSVP’d yesterday)
Hey, Julie! I completely admire the way you can write, home school, and still manage to stay off the “crazy train”! Makes me feel like brushing off my childhood dreams of writing again, even if it’s only for myself and my children! I am curious as to how long you’ve been writing - have you always “made up stories”, even as a child, or is writing something you started as an adult? (Oh, and Happy Early Birthday, too!)
1. Posted to Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/chefbeyerlein?ref=profile
2. Posted to Shelfari: http://www.shelfari.com/groups/10429/discussions/144045/Interview-Chat-with-Julie-Kenner-9-22-23
3. Sent Julie a friend request on Facebook yesterday
4. I’m already a newsletter subscriber (that’s how I found out about this chat!)
5. Posted to Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/213748-author-julie-kenner-s-interview-and-contest
6. Sent Julie a MySpace friend request
-Amanda B.
[Reply]
Thanks for the homeschool kudos! It is a big time committment, but it’s important to me, so it’s worth it!
We use The Ordinary Parents Guide to Teaching Reading and Singapore math for the little one, along with K-12 Kindergarten history.
For my 7yo, she’s doing 3rd grade work (mostly) and we’re using the Lively Book of Latin & Minimus (we finished Prima Latina), Singapore Math, Story of the World and K-12 for History, K-12 for science (that’s new this year), um… Writing with Ease, a variety of stuff for grammar… I feel like I”m missing something, but am too lazy to go look in The Box I use to keep the day to day materials!
[Reply]
Forgot to say: NINE. Wow! And I thought juggling 2 was hard! My cousin homeschooled 5!
[Reply]
Loved your books! I found you quite by accident thank to Amazon’s suggesting books due to purchases. I RSVPed on Facebook and have it posted http://www.facebook.com/MargieHall twittered it http://www.twitter.com/margie2092 and signed up for Julie’s newsletter.
Do you find it difficult to come up with such new and interesting charters and do you base them on everyday people?
[Reply]
How I came up with Kate (copying from my website. Is that a cheat?)
Kate Connor has become much like a best friend. And like a good friend, we became acquainted in the most unexpected of ways.
It was 2003, and I was up for contract with Pocket, and trying to think of something to submit as my option book. I’d just written two romantic comedies for them, and wanted to go with a romance series, possibly paranormal. I had an image of a group of guys—very alpha males—with long, black leather coats that billowed as they marched over the marshy ground, each searching out evil, battling it, and finding love in the process.
At the same time, I was a relatively new mom, and the chick lit market was just taking off. I wanted to do something mommy-ish, though. And as I was brainstorming both of these desires with my critique partner, Kathleen O’Reilly, I had one of those V-8 moments. Or, to create a better metaphor, I had a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup moment: two great tastes that go great together. A soccer mom. And a demon-hunter.
Right then, Kate was born, and I banged out the first chunk of chapter one. It hasn’t changed much since that first hour at the keyboard. (Though the title did change: Demons & Dirty Diapers really didn’t do it for anyone.)
I tentatively sent it to my agent to see what she thought. Fortunately, she loved it, and I put together a proposal. We sent it to multiple publishers, Berkley snatched it up, and days later, Hollywood came knocking.
[Reply]
Men: I get a lot of fan male from men, which is awesome, as I think the Kate books aren’t necessarily *for* women. They’re adventures!
Why I write Paranormal: It’s what I love! I was weaned on Bewitched and I Dream of Jeannie and it’s in my blood!
Thanks for the comments on my characters. No one is based on any particular person, though of course life is pulled in throughout! Lots of my children are in Timmy
[Reply]
What a great interview. I don’t know if I could be a stay at home mom, homeschool and write books. I would go crazy. Is it hard to juggle or do you have it down to a system? Or do you play it by ear as your day goes along? I already own a couple of your books but they are still in my TBR pile. Which apparently is too big. I definitely RSVP’d so I wouldn’t miss it. And I signed up to be Julie’s friend on Facebook.
[Reply]
The Soccer Thing: Um, there is no actual soccer in the books!! In fact, my original editor wanted to change the title because of that. I went into full-blown lawyer mode and advocated we keep it, providing her with all sorts of citations proving that “soccer mom” had become a political definition rather than specific to a sport. For a mom who carts her kids around!!
I’m not even sure I’ve ever seen a soccer game all the way through. (Hanging head in shame…)
[Reply]
Hey Julie. So who do I contact Ace and demand more Beth Frasier? They must let you keep writing that series. So good to have you here at BBB. I am also a big Kristen Chenowith fan and was lucky enough to see the entire original cast of Wicked on Broadway. And I am with you on the Hans solo issue as well. He has certainly aged alot better…….
I rsvped and I am here(>:
[Reply]
Good afternoon, Julie.
What is your opinion on book trailers, please? Do you think they help in book sales?
Thanks,
Tracey D
I RSVP’d
I subscribed to Julie’s newsletter
I follow Julie on Twitter (as bl0226)
[Reply]
Julie, first thanks for being here at BittenByBooks. I enjoy both your adult series and your new young adult series.
My question for you is—how did a working lawyer get into urban fantasy? Like John Grisham writes allot with lawyers as the leads.
[Reply]
Back in an hour or so! I’m on the road today (a homeschooling trip to Corpus!) so I’ll pop back in when we hit a wifi spot down the road. Must go pack the munchkins into the car!!!
Great questions and comments, y’all!
[Reply]
Julie, I have read all of your Soccer Mom books and love them. How many more are you planning on writing for the series.
I did RSVP for the contest
[Reply]
12)ok, figured out how to post as an event on Goodreads:DinaStornello
still not sure about Shelfari though. ;(
Thanks for answering about the soccer thing Julie.
Dina S.
dlsmilad@yahoo.com
[Reply]
Hiya xxxx
I LOVED the interview. Not only have I now discovered a new author I wanna check out, but the Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom Series sounds like it’s right up my alley!! I hope it makes it to the big (or small) screen in the not to distant future — that will boost your market no end
Thanks for taking the time to discuss your work, Julie! Now, off to the to-read list and add Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom Series to it.
R.S.V.P’d
FACEBOOK / joannekenrick
TWITTER / joannekenrick
MYSPACE / http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.ListAll&bID=511251367
BLOGGER / http://joannekenrick.blogspot.com/2009/09/julie-kenners-interview-at-bitten-by.html
I subscribed to Julie’s newsletter
I am now following Julie on Twitter / joannekenrick
I sent a friend request via facebook to Julie
I’m already a friend of BBB everywhere I can think of! LOL
I added as a friend on goodreads / http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2492435
I added Carpe Demon (Adventures of a Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom, Book 1) to my to=read list at goodreads
[Reply]
Julie,
Your books have been on my “to be read” list for far too long. After reading your interview, I think I need to do a quick run to the bookstore. I really enjoy paranormal books with a hint of humor. I recently read the first Jaz Parks book (I forget the author’s name) and it sounds like you have a similar writing style.
My question to you is which authors have inspired you the most, either in your childhood or as an adult.
Thanks,
Theresa.
I RSVP’d for the event and sent a friend request on facebook.
[Reply]
Hello Julie,
Which of your characters would you most want to take to lunch?
~I RSVPed and post here:
http://marvelousbookpage.blogspot.com/
http://twitter.com/cydjules
facebooked
[Reply]
Hi Julie, I admire how you handle a career and homeschooling your kids! How old do you think your kids have to be before you’ll allow them to read your paranormal novels?
Ven D
[Reply]
Hi Julie. I rsvp’d and wasn’t sure I could find some time to drop by, but I did! I hope the movie deal works out for you! I didnt even realize you wrote other series besides the demon hunting soccer mom one, so now I must go check them out!! Requesting you on FB as well. have a great day and thnaks for taking the time for this intereview!
[Reply]
oh, yeah, following ion twiteer, requested on myspace and also newsletter. thanks!
[Reply]
Julie,
Do you plan on letting your kids read your books someday?
RSVP’d, friends with BBB on Goodreads and subscribe to the BBB newsletter
[Reply]
Following her on Twitter, Facebook, and Myspace, already have her newsletter.
HI! Do you have a favorite so far in your books, well, perhaps the later ones? Mine is The Cat’s Fancy. I read it all the time whenever I want so sweet funny love.
[Reply]
Hi Julie! Thanks for being here with us today! I just had a quick minute to stop by. I was wondering, what authors most inspired you? Also, as an author of paranormal books, do you believe in the paranormal existing in our world?
-I think I RSVP’d (I meant to) and joined Julie’s mailing list.
[Reply]
Forgot to say I RSVP’d!
[Reply]
Hey Julie!
This was really great! Keep writing and I know everyone will keep reading!
WONDERFUL interview! I had no idea you had so many series! I am awed and impressed! Now tell me, when do you sleep?
hugs,
Tess
[Reply]
I’m in San Marcos! On our way to the beach…and, bother, it’s RAINING. The girls are not happy!
Speaking of the girls, several folks have asked if I’ll let them read the books…absolutely! Catherine is a huge reader (Isabella’s still learning) and in a few years she’ll be old enough for the Ghoul and Demon books. (I have a lot of tween/teen Demon series readers). Right now, she’s up to book 3 in Harry Potter, and I’m debating whether Goblet is too dark. Probably another year.
The other series that have a lot of sex will be a longer wait, but ultimately I’m fine with both girls reading them … so long as they’re fine with the fact that mom wrote them!
[Reply]
Sleep? I’m not sure I’m familiar with that term. Can you explain?
[Reply]
How do I keep the stories straight (is it hard?) and where to I get my ideas? For the stories, partly I think it helps that I write fast, so I can keep all the pieces jelling in my mind. But when I move to another story and then have to get back in the series, I rely on various story bible tools. I think I mentioned Evernote in the interview, and it’s AWESOME (http://www.evernote.com - great for organizing your whole life. Man, I sound like a commercial!). I read an interview with Nora Roberts recently, and it sounds like she keeps it all in her head. I am in awe!
Where do I get my stories? Wal-Mart, Aisle 13. Um, seriously, I don’t know. I do know that I have more story ideas than I could write in this lifetime. I need a clone! Or Calvin’s Duplicator!
[Reply]
How to I juggle my life, and what about Beth:
Hmmm….if you want more Beth, send an email to me (juliekenner@gmail.com), I’ll collect and forward to Ace! Probably shouldn’t send a bunch of people to my editor’s email addie, LOL!!
As for juggling my life, I **aspire** to have a system. Mostly, I write a little in the morning (I want to write more in the morning, but I’m not a morning person) then do school with the kids. I got a smart phone (first a BB, now an iphone) so I could do email while I was with them. When they have “recess” I write (or deal with admin stuff), and then I write again in the p.m.
So, really, I’m back to the schedule I had when I was practicing law. The kids are my “day job” and I write around it!
We do school year round, too, so that I can go to conferences and stuff guilt free. If you go to SFF cons, you may meet (or have met!) my kids, too!
[Reply]
Hi, Julie. Very interesting stuff you are up to! I’m definitely looking up Carpe Demon - “paranormal mommy lit” - perfect!
My question: When will you buckle down and write the full “for public” version of Kitty Claws? It’s a great title and I’m sure you could work something paranormal into a book like that.
ps I RSVP’d.
[Reply]
What do I think of book trailers; do I think they sell books? I wish I knew! I know that I’ve never done one (was going to, and it fell apart with the group I was working with) and I probably will with the J.K. Beck books next year, b/c I want all the name recognition I can get with a new name! But I think the trailer market may be getting saturated. Personally, I don’t watch them, but that’s more a function of limited time! As a former film major, though, I would love to actually story board and put my own together. But, again, there comes a point when I have to say, um, no, you have NO time!
I do think that a book trailer certainly does hurt sales, and the bookstores seem to love them, and I’ve got to figure they know what they’re doing! I bet it does help. If anyone has the Secret Formula For Rocking Sales, please shoot it my way!
[Reply]
Why paranormal/UF instead of legal books? You know, I actually originally started trying to write a legal thriller (and I still have one idea that I LOVE and think is marketable), but at the time, I was frustrated with the litigation problem and the inherent waste in the discovery process, and that frustration was coming through in the writing! Like I said earlier, though, paranormal is in my blood, and I think I finally just realized that through writing trial and error!
[Reply]
Hi Julie! I just want to thank you for sharing your characters with us! I have only read through the Demon Hunter series so far. It’s got me hooked! I look forward to reading the other books/series you’ve written.
Question: How do you decide how far you want to take a character? You said that the 5th book completes an arc (I can’t wait to see), and you have ideas for another 4-5 book arc.
[Reply]
Quite a few questions still up I haven’t addressed, but must get back on the road. Will stop again once we’re on the far side of San Antonio! (And the rain is letting up. Yay!)
[Reply]
Hi Julie, Great interview. I haven’t read any of your books but now that I heard about them I’ll be buying them soon. The Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom Series sounds like a fun read.
[Reply]
I forgot to say that I RSVP’d for the event
[Reply]
Hi Julie!
Welcome to Bitten by Books! I had your Aphrodite books and enjoyed them. However my fellow book loving sister stole them and took them with her to California leaving me without! I now have to buy those books back plus your other ones.
Now I know each book an author writes is usually a “baby” to them. But you have quite a few going. I was wondering what your favorite series was and why?
[Reply]
Hi Julie! I love your books and can’t wait to read this new one. Your YA books sound really good also. If you could travel anywhere in the world with one of your characters..who would you travel with and where would you go?
[Reply]
Fond Greetings Julie Kenner! Oh man, it has been quite some time since I read most of your Aphrodite Series. My friend Keeshe loaned me all the books she had at the time. I’ve never read the last book. Too many books and authors to read so little time.
I haven’t had a chance to try out your other series.
The only question I can think about is… If you could colllaborate on a writing project with any writers/authors out there, alive or dead, who would it be and why?
Dina - I’m in the same boat. I would post it up on my Goodreads and Shelfari but don’t know how to go about it.
* I RSVPed!
* Signed up for her newsletter
* Followed her on Twitter (RaonaidLuckwell)
* Twittered about it
* Followed her on Facebook (raonaidluckwell/rachelflesher)
* Posted about it on facebook
* friended her on myspace (www.myspace.com/visionarydruid)
* Posted about it on myspace’s Blog and Bullentin
* Posted about it on my blogger (visionarydruid.blogspot.com)
* posted about it on my livejournal (morriga.livejournal.com)
[Reply]
Hi Julie,
I can’t believe I left my RSVP and almost forgot to come back to say HI.
Great interview. I am amazed at what you do with the home schooling of your children and still find time to write novels in several genres. Your books all sound terrific. My favorite genres are 18th & 19th century historical and time-travel. Have you ever considered writing a book in the historical genre or a time-travel (modern to past)?
[Reply]
Jason B
Have you ever considered wco-writing a book? I have often wondered what you and Richelle Mead could come up with when teamed up.
[Reply]
I RSVP’d!
Hi Julie -
It’s mind boggling to me that you can write so many different stories. I imagine several storylines are a work in progress at any given time. How do you decide what to focus on each day?
[Reply]
Julie,
Ever auction off critiques for a good cause? I’d bid! Seriously, as a working mother of two little ones – 2 and 6 – you are an inspiration. I’m amazed how you balance it all, and how personable you are. I’m “friends” with you on Facebook (under another name) and follow you on Twitter with my writing name. And, whenever I’ve responded, you’re always quick and pleasant with responses.
Plus, I enjoy your work. Already had Demon Ex Machine pre-ordered through Kindle, and I’ve added Tainted and Torn to the kitty. Looks like you’ll keep me busy reading this fall/winter.
[Reply]
Hi Julie! Great interview. Wanted to say how much I”m looking forward to seeing what happens with Kate and her brood. And I’m SUPER excited about Tainted, Torn and Turned coming out. The covers are fantastic and I have a sneaking suspicion that what lies within will be even better. The new Shadow Keeper series is 100% in my to be read pile and I’ll definitly keep an eye open for it.
No real questions. Just wanted to say you gave a fantastic interview and I can’t believe you’re answering blog comments on a road trip:) You’re my hero!!
[Reply]
This is Julie’s critique partner, and she’ll be back shortly as soon as she gets to a Wi-Fi hotspot. Stay tuned for more demon derring-do…. Right now, she’s wearing her Mommy-hat.
[Reply]
Hi Julie *Waves*. I’m a big fan of the Demon-Hunter series and I’m so glad the fifth one is finally coming out! I understand what you mean about not telling you characters to do something ridiculous. Especially if you write in first person. They are more in charge often.
My question is what are some of your all time favorite books? Like books you would ave no problem be trapped on a island with?
[Reply]
RSVP’ed
Friended Julie on Facebook
[Reply]
Wow! There is NOTHING on I-37 between mid-San Antonio and … wherever I am now. (At a McDonalds, and saw a sign about Lake Corpus Christi, so must be getting close. Going to be a rainy beach weekend. Oh well. More shells, right?
Back to questions! All time favorite books: Atlas Shrugged (re “reading” in audiobook right now), A Wrinkle In Time, Half Magic, any of the JD Robb books, Harry Potter (all, but esp 1 and 3), From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, Dracula, Agatha Christie (pretty much anything), oh, gosh….I’m missing a billion here…… What a hard question!!! What would be best would be to be trapped with my Kindle (filled to the brim) and a solar power thingie
[Reply]
Hey Jess, waving!
Louisa! Hi! And yes, I do auction critiques off sometimes. Usually I do Brenda Novak’s auction (somehow I missed it this year; I’m not sure how that happened) and I’ve done it for other charities. A few years ago I did a charity for money for medical care for orphans in China (Isabella was born with a cleft lip/palette, and we were about to head over and get her! Love Without Boundaries is an awesome organization!). I want to put together another auction, but, gee, now that Isabella is actually here, finding time is hard, LOL!
And thanks for pre-ordering! You rock!
So, the answer is yes, if the timing is right! I’m playing the deadline game until mid-December. But after that….
[Reply]
Susan — I do tend to have a lot of stories going on in my head, but I’ve learned that I have to actually write one at a time in order to keep the thread (I can break away for copyedits, notes, galleys, whatever for another, but essentially, I write one at a time).
I’m friends with Julia London, and there was a period where she was writing one book in the morning, and another in the afternoon! Even without the kiddoes, I don’t think I could switch gears like that!!!! (I have no idea if she still does that, but it sure impressed me at the time!)
[Reply]
Howdy Julie and welcome! I have to say, I stumbled across you quite by accident. I got a copy of your Blaze novel THE PERFECT SCORE and just loved it so much that a friend reccommended the Demon Hunter series to me.
So, since you write in a few different genres, which is your favorite? What genre have you always wanted to tackle?
Again, thanks for coming to hang out with us!
The boring stuff:
BBB is on my permanent blogroll at http://www.readinsomethingcrazy.blogspot.com
I RT the event announcement this morning (asphaltcowgrrl)
I posted it to my Facebook page as well (www.facebook.com/amyinholt)
Um… I RSVP’d this morning as well
Oh, and I’m a friend and a fan of BBB on Facebook
I think that’s all…
Thanks also to Rachel and BBB.
[Reply]
Re co-writing — I have considered it, actually. There’s a story a friend and I want to do (he’s primarily a gamer and screenwriter, and the story is WAY cool! We’re hoping to find time to do a proposal after the first of the year and test our “working together” waters). I also used to write screenplays (never produced, alas) with a fellow attorney in Los Angeles, and it was great fun working with him. Timing and coordination is hard, though! (Oh, and I think it would be great fun to write a graphic novel, and that’s all about collaboration b/w the writer and the artist, at least, as I understand the process!)
BTW, I met Richelle for the first time at Dragon*Con, and she’s awesome, isn’t she?
[Reply]
Historical or time-travel -
Short answer: Yes.
Long answer: Ummm.
Longer answer: My love, love, love is medieval romances in the vein of the older Julie Garwood’s, and that was what my first aborted attempt at a romance was. But I got 90 pages in and realized that I knew NOTHING about the period (except what I read in romances and The Pillars Of The Earth, which was the same time period — oh, add that to one of my favorites!). I had a scene where the hero was asking a boy to run find something out, and I had him pull a sword. And I was like: what did the sword look like? what was the metal? Would he give a coin to the kid? Did they use coins? Who minted them? What were the roads like?
Nowadays, the internet could pretty easily address that, but this was, um, 1995 or 1996, and, hey, life was hard in the pre-Google days ….
Basically, I realized I have no head for historical facts. I’d have to re-do the research with every book.
That being said, though, I have written a time travel novella (from the present to the Roaring Twenties) that was in an anthology that came out two(or so) years ago. Perfect Timing. And the project I want to co-write is set in the past. And there’s a thriller I’ve bounced around in my head that, while set in the present, jumps to the past for the clues and backstory.
See what I mean? Lots of stuff rattling around up in my head!
[Reply]
Genres: My favorite that I’ve written: Anything paranormal
Want to tackle: Race for your life historical thrillers in the vein of Dan Brown or Steve Berry.
[Reply]
BTW, glad you loved The Perfect Score! That was a really fun Blaze to write!
[Reply]
Character I’d travel with: Kate Connor, because, hey, she kicks butt, drinks Starbucks, and Allie could babysit my kids!
Writer I’d collaborate with: Oh, man, that’s hard. That’s really, really hard. Ummmm. Maybe Terry Brooks or Christopher Moore, because OMG, can you imagine what a hoot it would be working with those guys?
[Reply]
I have not read your books but now that I have heard about them I will be buying very soon.
My question is Who is your favorite character in your books and why?
I RSVPed
[Reply]
Thanks for answering the questions! I LOL’d soooo many times during The Perfect Score that my boss thought I was losing my mind… So, I would LOVE to read a medieval romance with that kind of humor to it. It’d be A Knight’s Tale all over again (with a demon??). LOL
[Reply]
My favorite series, and how far to take a character:
My favorite series: I’ll steal from Nora Roberts, and say it’s the one on sale right now
Seriously, though, the great thing about my job is that I love what I’m doing as I’m doing it, so I really do love all my stories, and I’ve gotten to stretch in a writer in different ways with each of the series. I know it sounds like a cop-out answer, but I promise it isn’t!
As for how far to take a character, I think it really depends on freshness — both in my writing and in the character itself. As a reader of a series, I like the familiarity of returning to a world and characters, but if the characters never change, I want to smack them upside the head or hurl the book across the room. So it’s a fine line. With the specific example of Kate, I’ve got a “place” for her to go next, and I think that’ll take about four books to arc through. With Beth, I’ve got at least a three book arc I could do (fingers crossed!), but with the Code breaker series, it really was a 3 book arc. Taking it further might be fun, but the story was done. I hope that makes sense!
[Reply]
The kids are getting restless, so I’m hopping back out into the deluge. I think I’m nearing The Civilization That Is Corpus Christi, and hopefully the hotel (on the island, Padre, I think, just past the city). The lady I spoke to when I made the reservation said there was wireless in the lobby, so I’ll be back! I know there are still a few questions left unanswered!
And, you know, send SUNSHINE thoughts Texas-way, would you? I’m trying to convince two little girls that the beach in the rain will be fun. They are dubious….
[Reply]
Hi Julie,
I’m looking foward to The Blood Lily Chronicles and The ShadowKeeper series. Awesome. I signed up for The ShadowKeeper newsletter, I don’t want to miss a thing.
Hats off to you for homeschooling your children. It’s certainly a challenging task that not everyone can do. I know that I could not have homeschooled my children. Uh Uh, no way.
I rsvp’d and I already receive your newsletter.
[Reply]
It’s great to have you here, Julie. WOW, you have accomplished so much and have so much going on! What’s your secret to time management?
(PS - I RSVP’d)
[Reply]
Julie, it’s astonishing how many series you have written! You’re a super mommy!
[Reply]
Hi Julie, I really enjoyed the interview. I haven’t had a chance to read any of your stories yet, and it was great getting to know you.
I rsvp’d
Cathy M
[Reply]
I’m didn’t know that Demon Hunting Soccer Mom is being considered for a movie. That is awesome! I really hope this is one that makes it to the big screen.
What advice to you have for people who want to get published?
I had another question, but I can’t remember what it was. Oh, wait! Now I remember. How do you get the ideas for your stories?
[Reply]
What do you do when you just get into one of those ruts and nothing seems to be working right (in terms of writing)? How do you get past those types of blocks?
I rsvp’d.
[Reply]
Hi Julie! It is great to see you here at BBB blog
Congratulations on your new upcoming release Demon Ex Machina. Sounds so good.
I love your book covers.
My question is do you have any say in how you want your book covers to look?
Hugssss
LindaH
[Reply]
I RSVP’d. Hi Julie! I really enjoyed your interview. Here are my two questions:
1)Since a lot of your books are series, do you find it more difficult to write stand alone stories?
2) If you’ve written stand alone stories, which do you like writing better: stand alones or books in a series?
I sent a Friend Request to Julie on Facebook.
I subscribed to Julie’s newsletter.
[Reply]
Hi Julie,
I’ll be one of the first in line if you write with either of those two guys,
that would be one super book for sure!
I’ve not read any of your books, but they are on my to buy list now!
My question is, which was your hardest book to write, your first or one of your
more recent and why?
RSVP & Twitted
[Reply]
Great interview. It’s wonderful you can homeschool and also have time to write books. Kudos to you. I am following on facebook(katsrus) and twitter(katsrus2003). I also RSVPed yesterday. Everyone has asked such great questions I can’t think of anything differant.
[Reply]
I also homeschool, a seven year old and a fourteen year old. I also have every one of your Aphrodite books on my keepers shelves. Do you think you’d ever write another in that vein? I’ve been wondering about the Beth series, my fourteen year old and I are both interested. I’ll have to pick one up!
I also RSVP’ed.
And I am already a friend on facebook (BrandyJones) *G*
[Reply]
Hi there I haven’t read any of your books yet but they sure sound great. My question is what is your least favorite genre? I know I hate historicals.
ps I RSVP’d
[Reply]
Hi Julie! Just love the Demon Hunter and the Good Ghouls series. I am really hoping for another Beth Fraser book! How do I contact Ace???
I have a couple of questions:
1)Is there a particular scene or a line from one of your books that is a favorite of yours?
2)And considering you homeschool two kids and write your books, i was wondering how many hours a day on average do you devote to writing?
Thanks!
MichelleK
mishcara at gmail dot com
* I RSVP’d
* Shared the event on StumbleUpon (http://mishme.stumbleupon.com/)
* member of the Blood Bank
* already subscribe to Julie’s newsletter (mishcara at gmail dot com)
* already a fan of Julie’s on Facebook (MichelleKrane)
* already a fan of Julie’s on Goodreads (and she’s a goodreads author now…yeah!)(http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1838733-michelle)
* Sent a friend request on goodreads (http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1838733-michelle)
* already a friend of BBB on goodreads too
[Reply]
Before I forget, all these things first –
3 - and will find the mention to this post at at http://home.comcast.net/~loismerritt1013/ on Blog/What’s New page, and at http://ov-099.livejournal.com and I retweeted at @OV_099 and at facebook here: http://www.facebook.com/people/Lois-Merritt/100000225278700
4 - and friended on Facebook
and I RSVPed.
That all aside, here is
-
2 - and a question. Hmm, well, since today is the autumn equinox today, what is your favorite season?
Lois
[Reply]
Great interview. I loved reading all the questins and answers. I can’t wait for your Blood Lily Chronicles series to release.
[Reply]
Forgot to add that I did RSVP
[Reply]
Hi Julie. Glad you are here today. I am late today so most of my questions have been answered. So…
What is one thing your readers would be shocked to learn about you?
I RSVP’d
BBB is on my blogroll, interview announced at
http://ellzreadz.blogspot.com/
[Reply]
I RSVPED
First of all I just have to say- what a wonderful idea your editor had for your baby shower. I’ll bet you were blown away by the “book cover” (check it out at Julie’s website under Bits & Pieces).
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 loved your romance books and have as quickly fallen in love with your YA books.
How many books do you have planned for your “Good Ghouls” series? And what books are on your nightstand right now waiting for you to read?
[Reply]
I love ur books!! I came by Carpe Demon by accident and it is one of my fav. series! I can’t wait for the next one to be released! Where did u come up for the idea for a Demon Hunting Soccer Mom?? Im soo glad you did lol
[Reply]
Hi guys!!! We’re in Corpus, and it’s rainy, but kind of cool b/c the seas are stormy! Starting to get dark, though, and the girls really want to go down to the surf (we have a beachfront room!) so I’m going to do that and then pop back in…looks like the wireless is working, so I should be good.
But first (while I wait for SloPoke, aka the eldest…)
Least favorite genre: I don’t know that I have one, actually.
Brandy, yay on another homeschooler and the keeper shelf, LOL!! I did a Protector story recently in the THESE BOOTS ARE MADE FOR STOMPING anthology that came out, um, last April. Just in case you missed it. As for a book, never say never, but I don’t have a particular idea at the moment.
Hardest book to write: Each one gets more difficult, believe it or not. I think that’s because you don’t “know” as much when you’re starting out, and the more you write the more a) you’re trying not to repeat yourself, and b) you have an internal editor running in your head (who sounds remarkably like your own editor in New York or whereever ). Plus, I think you get more critical of your own work as you go along.
And it’s always hard in the moment, and like childbirth, you forget later just how much you wanted that epidural
Back in a bit!
[Reply]
Hey Lisa! You’re so right about the cover for the baby shower! I burst into tears when I saw it. That was just too, too sweet! I have 3 more books in mind for Beth, but we’ll have to see what happens with the series. Fingers crossed we move forward. I have other YA ideas, too, but right now I’m focusing on the series I have going and Shadow Keepers that’s ramping up!
[Reply]
How long I’ve been writing: Forever! Seriously, I’ve been writing since before I could really read or write. I’d “type” in my dad’s office. (As for Kitty Claus…um, no plans for a blockbuster children’s novel in the works!!)
[Reply]
ps i did RSVP and befriended u on Facebook and Myspace lol My other question which may have been asked already but what is your favorite paranormal author, besides yourself of course lol?
[Reply]
Forgot to say, thanks for the early birthday wishes!!!
Margie, you’re the reason I’m a big fan of Amazon. I love that “if you like this, you should try this” feature!
Lori, forgot to say that I didn’t see Wicked on Broadway
but I caught the tour. I didn’t, however, realize how much the girls would like it. (They LOVE the soundtrack.) The show’s left Texas, though. So in November, we’re roadtripping our way up I-35 to Kansas City so that I can take the girls to a Wicked Matinee (something else I like about homeschooling!)
Which character would I most like to take to lunch…You know, I’m going to go with Elmer. Because how fun to take a talking ferret, right????
Jennifer, sooooo glad you love CAT! that one will always have a special place in my heart (it was before the paranormal boom and before I’d sold, and folks told me I would never ever sell it in a million years!)
Amanda, yes, I do think paranormal things exist in our world, though maybe not as…shall we say…pronounced as exists in paranormal fiction!
[Reply]
2 - RSVP & question (#10)
3 - facebook - http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/hcreely?ref=profile
twitter - http://twitter.com/Heatwave316/status/4304238828
4 - newsletter, twitter, and facebook
[Reply]
I’m #89. Sorry! I forgot to include my email address. calypso58@hotmail.com. Thanks!
[Reply]
Kinda random but i was looking on Amazon at your books and did u write the Aphrodite series and if so, which order do they go in?
[Reply]
Hello,
Your books sound interesting. Something new to read that is great!
Okay here are the the questions:
Do you read paranormal romance/urban fantasy? and if you who do you read?
*I RSVP’ed, signed up for the newsletter and added a myspace.
* http://paraurbakpfreak.livejournal.com/
[Reply]
Also, my e-mail is toushiroaoi@yahoo.com I apalogize for the double post.
-Rose G.
[Reply]
Favorite character: Ohhh, that’s a hard one! Like asking who your favorite kid is
I think my most surprising character is Eddie from the demon series. He actually wasn’t in the synopsis, and when he did pop into my head, he was more Donald Sutherland. Turned out way more snarky 
[Reply]
Knight’s Tale is a hoot!
As for time management, because it seems to vary with each book. I think I mentioned that I aspire to be a morning person, and I’m hoping that when I dig into the book after the mss I’m finishing right now, that I’ll be able to readjust my inner clock and be an early riser. But I guess the most important thing is compartmentalizing. THIS time is for this. THAT time is for that. And, you know, not cleaning the house or doing the laundry
[Reply]
Advice for folks who want to get published: Don’t give up! I know bestselling authors who tried for ten years before getting published! Read a lot (not only does it help train your writing “ear” but you have less time for it once you’re published ) and don’t chase trends. Instead, write what you love.
Don’t polish the same chapter over and over again. Move on. That’s how you a) finish a book, and b) polish/refine your voice.
Find critique partners who will actually critique your work (but not be destructive), and join a writing group like RWA (even if you don’t write romance, it’s one of the best organizations around for teaching you about the business and the craft).
And just keep writing …
[Reply]
Hello Julie, if you could meet any author living or dead who would you like to meet ?
I RSVP’ed
[Reply]
Hello Julie,
I picked up California Demon and got sucked totally into the world! How much of yourself and your family did you put into the books? Thanks.
I RSVPed.
[Reply]
Marie — the writing past ruts is a hard thing. I’m fortunate, because it hasn’t happened much to me. I’m doubly fortunate because I have awesome critique partners and writing friends that I can gripe to and talk out the problem (even if I don’t actually see what the problem is) and that helps. But the bottom line is that you (the generic “you”) have to write through it, because the mortgage company doesn’t much care if your muse was sunning herself in Aruba while you were trying to find inspiration! And, yes, bad pages can be edited!
[Reply]
As for book covers, I have very little input. I can say what I think, but it’s not up to me whether a change gets made. Except for one cover (the second cover for The Spy Who Loves Me) I’ve been thrilled with all my covers, though. (One day, I’ll post it on the Internet. The FIRST cover is on my website and I love, but it was tossed before I saw it. Drawn by the same guy who drew the old James Bond covers, and Pocket thought it was too retro looking). My agent and I fought about the 2nd one, which looked sort of like a Charlie’s Angels explosion, and ended up with the cute pink handcuff and martini glass cover.
Other than that though, I’ve been lucky. I love the Demon series covers, and the Givenchy Code, etc. are awesome, and when I opened up the file for Tainted/Torn/Turned, I was blown away. If you look closely at Tainted, you can see the little details, like Lily’s name on the beer pull thing behind her. I was super impressed.
I have so much respect for the art directors. Can you imagine how hard it must be to do covers for all the books that come across their desk and have then look unique and different?
[Reply]
Stand alone v. series — I wouldn’t say I find it more difficult to write stand-alones, but my preference is series, and I think that’s because that’s what I like to read. I’m depressed just thinking about Sue Grafton hitting “Z” (add those to my favorite list) or Nora getting tired of Eve/Roarke! Once I read about a character, I glom onto them and I don’t want to stop at just one book. I think that’s why I rarely read short stories. I want to spend more time with these folks!
[Reply]
Favorite scene or line: I love the introductory letter at the beginning of Aphrodite’s Kiss. I was having a hard time getting across the nature of the world in a traditional prologue, and I was still practicing law (and frustrated by the bureaucracy). The letter still cracks me up. If you’re curious: http://www.juliekenner.com/akiss1.php
Hours each day devoted to writing: I shoot for five (I stay up late). Sometimes I hit more; sometimes I hit less!
[Reply]
Favorite season: Summer!
Something readers would be shocked to learn: Geez, that’s hard! Okay, shocking, but true: I eat the chocolate off the outside of a Snickers before eating the inside. Shhhh! Don’t tell!
[Reply]
Nightstand books: There are too many! I have the latest JR Ward and Gena Showalter’s YA. Wicked Lovely. Rosemary Clement-Moore’s latest, The Splendor Falls. Diary of a Wimpy Kid. The first Morganville Vampire book by Rachel Caine, Old Man’s War by John Scalzi. The list goes on and on because my Kindle is literally on my nightstand, and it’s got a billion books in it
But I think I mentioned that I’m reading The Count of Monte Cristo. And that is one LONG book. So it may be a while. Oh, and The Exorcist. Because my husband and I have a bookclub wherein we read a book and watch the adaptation with a potluck dinner at our house, and that’s our Halloween pick!
Favorite paranormal author: Oh, man! Nope, can’t go there. There are just too many good books, and I’ll forget someone. Besides, I know too many authors, I just can’t pick! My favorite paranormal romance book, though, is not really all that paranormal. Outlander. Every time I read it (or the series) I think that I really need to learn how to make penicillin in case I’m thrust back in time. And identify edible plants. That kind of thing.
[Reply]
I did write the Aphrodite series (this link lays it all out: http://www.juliekenner.com/superhero.php)
But so you don’t have to go over there if you don’t want to:
Aph. Kiss
(Seeking Single Superhero in A Mother’s Way)
Aph. Secret
Aph. Passion
Aph. Flame
(A Step In The Right Direction in These Boots Were Made for Stomping)
[Reply]
I do read pnr/uf, but I don’t have as much time to devote to it as I’d like. I just don’t have that much reading time, and there are too many good books: I’ll leave someone out (sorry in advance!), JR Ward, Gena Showalter, Kresley Cole, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Alisa Sheckley, Diana Rowland, Lara Adrian, Rachel Caine, Jim Butcher, there are more!!!!! It’s late! My mind is mush!
[Reply]
Lesley, more of “me” goes into the demon series than my other books simply b/c Kate’s life is closest to my own than any of my other books, and there are definitely bits and pieces. Certainly the dust bunnies have migrated from my life to Kate’s, and Kate’s backyard is the backyard we had (minus Laura behind her) before we moved from Austin to Georgetown. I plucked a lot of the toddler stuff form my kids (and now wish I’d taken better notes because after five books poor Timmy still isn’t three, but Catherine is almost 8!).
But I don’t have a politico husband, I don’t live in a suburb, I don’t drive a minivan (I wish I did! I could use the room), and I don’t fight demons. (Or maybe I do, and I just can’t tell you …)
[Reply]
Hey! I think I caught up with everything! Yay! You guys are absolutely awesome! I’ll pop back in before I crash and see if there are any last minute questions.
Thanks for such an engaging conversation, and thanks to BBB for providing this incredible forum!
[Reply]
Hi Julie how are you! I have read Carpe Demon and California Demon and I love this series and the titles are great! I also have been reading quite a few Young adult books so I have also read The Good Ghouls’ Guide To Getting Even which I thought was pretty good. I can’t wait to start reading the The Blood Lily Chronicles! Which series is your favorite?
Thanks!
Following her on Twitter-smck27
requested friendship on facebook-smckeehan25
Signed up for her news letter
Posted this contest on Twitter and livejournal- smck27
Stephanie M.
[Reply]
I also RSVPed! Sorry forgot.
Twitter link- http://twitter.com/following
Posted contest link on twitter- http://twitter.com/smck27
Posted contest on livejournal- http://smck27.livejournal.com/
Posted contest on My Blood Bank page link- http://bittenbybooks.ning.com/profile/StephanieMcKeehan
Stephanie M.
[Reply]
Hey Stephanie!
You know, I really don’t have a favorite. It goes back to that picking among your kids thing
[Reply]
Great interview. I love the Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom series and am excited to read the new book and the new series.
Sorry if any of this was asked already but I was just able to get here and havent been able to read all the comments yet.
Are you thinking of any more books in the Ghoul series? The first two were great and I passed them on to my niece who loved them too.
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be?
Thanks!
__________
Contest stuff:
- RSVP’d
- questions above
- posted here: http://donnasbloghome.blogspot.com/2009/09/great-contest-at-bbb.html
- friend requested on Facebook and MySpace, following on Twitter (DonnaS1) and signed up for newsletter - emails coming once I receive them
[Reply]
Julie, so awesome of you to be here for us! I love the Kate Connor series and am now feeling the need to try the Blood Lily series. Thanks for the nice descriptions of all your series.
Tania L
(RSVP’d)
[Reply]
Hi y’all! Hey Donna! I’d love to do more with Beth/Ghoul, but right now it’s in my publisher’s hands, so I’m waiting to see if they’ll contract me for more books (fingers crossed!). So Beth is in a holding pattern
Dinner with anyone…that’s really tough! At the moment, Felicia Day. The Guild cracks me up, I love her Twitter posts, I just learned that she was homeschooled, and overall she seems really fascinating, energetic and interesting.
[Reply]
Hi Julie~
Great interview! You are very busy and I hope that you are able to write more in your young adult series.
I, also, have to go with Han Solo…yum. Although, I do remember having that same initial draw to Luke…but then I realized Han was the right choice.
I RSVP’d.
[Reply]
At the moment, my 5yo cares about neither Luke or Han. She’s all about R2D2. I figure that’ll pass
[Reply]
Hi Julie, I love Kate’s stories and was going to ask what was her inspiration but you already answered that in the comments. I’m into baseball and a bit of football but from the books I have more of a liking to Soccor now. Thanks for all the wonderful stories. I RSVP yesterday and not sure if I was to mention that. Hope you have lots of sales, Dena W.
[Reply]
Hi Julie,
Unfortunately I haven’t read any of your books yet. Great interview.
Mona H.
[Reply]
Hi Julie
*Did not know that you had so many books that you have writen.When did you start writing?
*I Have Spread the word on my myspace and my facebook here are the links
http://www.myspace.com/sasluvbooks & facebook.com/sasluvbooks
* I RSVPed
Stacey s
sasluvbooks@yahoo.com
Thanks for come I got to find out about a lot of your books that I did not know about.
[Reply]
I hadn’t heard of Mommy Lit until now! I’ll have to check out her books.
Are you a mom yourself and how much of your experience as a mother went into your books?
I RSVPed.
Tweeted: http://twitter.com/bookgoil/status/4312832652
Following on Twitter (@bookgoil)
Following on Facebook (Kristen Nielsen)
Subscribed to newsletter
bittahsweetharmony@yahoo.com
[Reply]
Regards changing one thing in history - you said you would finish your 4 years of college, possibly going to a foreigh college. What is is about foreigh schools that interests people? I’ve heard other’s state they would finish their schooling outside the US. What’s so appealing about foreigh schools?
[Reply]
Hi Julie!
Welcome to BBB! What a great interview! I am looking forward to reading your books. I don’t think I’ve heard of mommy lit before either. Even though I don’t have kids yet, that’s kind of cool!
Thanks for stopping by!
(PG -RSVP, Twitter, FB)
[Reply]
Hi Julie,
You are a new to me authora nd I already added you to my reading list. The series mentioned above look awesome.
I joined your newsletter for Julie Kenner and JK Beck plus I am following you on twitter as well.
Two questions for you:
If your muse were to talk behind your back, what secrets would he/she tell?
If you were a Superheroine, would you wear tights and a cape?
Thanks for coming by.
Raine D.
rainedelight@yahoo.com
[Reply]
Hello Julie,
Thanks for stopping into chat with you us. I always enjoy meeting “new for me” authors and getting to see the real side of them when they interview. Your Demon Hunter Soccer Mom sounds hilarious.
One big question for you —
Do you ever write a character after someone you know? If so when you are made at the in real life do you transfer that anger out on them and make them wear neon green spandex to work?
Thanks for stopping by and I can’t wait to pick up one of your books. Is is necessary to read in order or can they be stand alone?
Happy writing…
[Reply]
Hey guys! Good morning!
I started writing when I was tiny, but never did anything serious with it until I was older. I did newspaper in high school and college, and planned to get a journalism degree, though I ended up in film school and then law school.
I got serious about writing novels in the late 90s (96, I think), wrote one manuscript targeted for Temptation. Got decent feedback on the voice, but the story wasn’t sexy enough. I tried again, and sold that manuscript, along with a paranormal that I’d been working on. But that was after boxes and boxes of “stuff” that I’d been playing with over the years!
I am a mom with two girls, and at least in the Kate stories, a lot of my experience about my oldest daughter’s toddler years are in the stories! I missed Isabella’s toddler years, but bits of her personality still make it into Timmy, too!
About foreign schools, it’s not the school so much, it’s the fact that I like to travel, and love the idea of going to school surrounded by that much history.
My muse would tattle that I pop over to email/twitter/facebook WAY too often!
Tights: depends on the current state of my thighs.
Cape: No way! I’ve watched The Incredibles!
So far I haven’t vented any anger at someone into a character, but if I do, I’m going to SO remember the neon green spandex thing!!!
As for reading in order, for the series books, I’d recommend it. I try to write so that you can pop in later, but I think it’s more fun if you start at the beginning!
[Reply]
Wow this is an amazing contest.
Question for Julie: Do you ever write real life experiences for you into your books?
I now follow Julie on Twitter: katieb206
=]
Katie B.
katieb206@gmail.com
[Reply]
Hi Julie! Is there a genre that you like the least?
[Reply]
Paranormal Mommy Lit — what a great term! It totally fits the series.
I had *no* idea how many different series you were juggling! I’ve read parts of the code-breaker trilogy and the Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom series (and have enjoyed everything I’ve read), but wow, that’s a lot of hats! How do you keep your multiple worlds balanced in your brain?
-Alana (who RSVP’d)
[Reply]
Hi Julie. This is D*C moderator. Thanks for joining us here.
I believe that during the PR/UF panel, you said something about Kate’s series as being Suburban Fantasy. I loved that.
[Reply]
I love the demon hunting soccer mom series and I’m looking forward to reading Demon Ex Machina. My question for Julie is who are your favorite authors to read? And how do you find the time to read other’s books and write your own, too?
[Reply]
Hey y’all! Hey Carol, great to “see” you again! Yes! “Suburban Fantasy!” That’s it exactly!
There’s not really a genre I dislike; I’ll pretty much read anything! Focus on the multiple words is hard, which is why I work on one book at a time, so that I can immerse (or re-immerse) myself in that world.
Favorite authors: too many to list! Right now, I’m on a classic kick. As for time, it’s HARD. I tend to read less than I used to, a few minutes before bed, and audiobooks in the car (when we’re not listening to stuff for school). I’d have more time if it weren’t for the schooling, so in, um, 12 years I’ll be a reading machine again!
[Reply]
I RSVP’d.
Love your books, Julie. Have been waiting impatiently for DEMON EX MACHINA. A year is such a long time! I just discovered your YA books a few months ago and put them on the shelf at our library. I look forward to your new series. Question: who is J. K. Beck? You mention the Shadow Keeper Series in your list above, but say nothing about a different pen name. Are the Blood Lily Chronicles your darkest series? Need to keep my eyes open for this series and get it on the self with your others.
Keep up the great writing. Your fans and we library workers need you to keep the books coming.
[Reply]
The first Morganville Vampire book by Rachel Caine I have been meaning to check it out! I’ve read the first book of J.R. Ward, and I read the Count of Monte Cristo a while ago. I loved it!!!!! What do you think of it so far?
[Reply]
[...] Julie Kenner, author of Demon Ex Machina, by Bitten by Books [...]
Thanks for coming and sharing, especially the indepth answers.
questions.. What is your favorite paranormal being?
Do you drink coffee & what’s your favorite kind.
Sorry I’m on pain medication so questions are pretty lame.
iokijo [jo Ann J]
RSVP’d
follow on twitter/tweeted/retweeted bbb tweets
[Reply]
J.K. Beck is me! I hope you check out the series!
Yes, Blood Lily is my darkest so far, and I’m loving Monte Cristo! I wish I had time to sit down and just read it until I finish!
Coffee: Starbucks Venti Nonfat Latte, though at home I drink Folgers 1/2 Caff. As for “do I drink coffee” - well, does the earth rotate? :))
Favorite paranormal being. I’m not sure I have one. I’m writing a succubus at the moment, and that’s a LOT of fun!!
[Reply]
I don’t really have time but I just dropped by to say I love Julie Kenner, I can’t wait for some charitable soul to let me borrow their Demon Ex-Machina as they don’t sell it in english here in mexico
Paranormal Mommy rocks!
[Reply]
Aw! Thanks Rodrigo! Bummer about not finding it in English, though. Guess that makes sense …
[Reply]