Loading ...Interview, Chat and Contest with Author Mindy Klasky
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 12:00 pm Central. 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 Mindy’s books.
Interview:
Hi Mindy!
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 Mindy’s newest book How Not to Make a Wish.
BBB: What are the most challenging and the most rewarding aspects of writing?
MK: First off, Rachel, thank you for inviting me to Bitten by Books! I look forward to answering your questions, and to corresponding with readers in comments!
The most challenging aspect of writing is creating fresh storylines within the requirements of genre expectations. I try to do this by building interesting characters who can carry forward the traditions of romance and fantasy while adding a little (OK, hopefully, a lot!) of individual spice.
The most rewarding aspect of writing is hearing from readers who truly connect with my characters. One of my most cherished letters was sent by a reader who brought Girl’s Guide To Witchcraft
BBB: What was it like to write a character, Jane Madison, who shared the same profession as you? Did you find this more limiting, or more freeing?
MK: I enjoyed being able to use my librarian background to flesh out Jane’s daily life, in the same way that my experience as a stage manager added to the texture of How Not to Make a Wish. Knowing those professional fields, I was able to provide realistic details, often harnessing them for comic effect. (A lot of my librarian friends empathize with Jane’s frustrations – especially the attempts by some of her patrons to get her to do their kid’s homework!) Knowing the technical details freed me to spin out some of those details into plot twists.
BBB: Do you consider your paranormal romance or urban fantasy? and do you think it is important to distinguish between the two?
MK: As a reader, I don’t distinguish a great deal between paranormal romance and urban fantasy. I believe that readers find stories that are meaningful to them, and that spine labels on books are only one possible way of locating those good reads.
As an author and a conference panelist, though, I am accustomed to discussing the differences between the genres (e.g., paranormal romances end with “happily ever afters”; urban fantasy generally has greater attention to strict world-building and the creation of magical systems.) My favorite classification tool, though, dictates that a book is a paranormal romance if there’s a half-naked man on the cover; it’s an urban fantasy if there’s a tattooed babe.
When I’m forced to name a category, I say that my books are paranormal romances, but I prefer to say that they are contemporary romantic fantasies. (Yeah, that doesn’t quite fit on the spine, but I can be difficult that way!)
BBB: What is the most ridiculous thing that you have thought about doing to any of your characters but never did?
MK: I come up with ridiculous plot twists every single day that I sit down to write – my readers should be grateful that they’re spared most of those!
My favorite ridiculous-challenge that has never seen the light of day is to write a first-person novel keeping the gender of the narrator indeterminate. I still toy around with this idea when I’m between novels, but I doubt it will ever see the light of day.
BBB: How do you keep track of your world building?
MK: I carry a small notebook with me whenever I’m out, where I record world-building notes that come to me out of the blue. (”They don’t kill with swords; they kill with soul-searing mind-spells!”) And yes, I used to worry a lot about getting arrested, if anyone ever found my notebooks – until I lost one of them in a Large Chain Book Store, and no one even blinked an eye when I claimed it at the information desk a week later.
During the actual crafting of a novel, I rely on a series of research files in Scrivener. I keep one file where I list the physical characteristics of every named character, one file that lists each person I need to thank on my acknowledgments page, and multiple files for the research specific to that book. For one work in progress, that means I have a file with URLs to web pages about obscure diseases, one file with URLs to web pages about obscure supernatural creatures, and one file with extensive genetic analysis solicited from a genetic counselor, so that I can best understand the transmission of certain traits. I also keep a dictionary by my side at all times, to check on those words that I think I know how to use, but I’m just not certain….
BBB: What do you feel are the benefits of the new electronic readers such as Kindle 2 or Sony Digital Book Reader
MK: I haven’t done a lot of study about the environmental effects; I suspect that at this point, each e-reader is a net loss environmentally. While the e-readers save trees from being cut down for the paper of books, each e-reader comes shipped in substantial paper-based packaging. In addition, e-readers are manufactured in plants that contribute to air, water, and noise pollution. At the end of e-readers’ lives, the devices will likely find their ways into landfills, with potential risk of heavy-metal contamination of those sites.
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?
MK: Currently, e-readers do not have a substantial impact on authors’ financial bottom lines – most readers of e-books would likely have been readers of print books if e-books were unavailable. I hope that e-readers expand the universe of readers in the future, bringing in current non-readers through the portal of technology.
Ultimately, I fear that e-readers will cut into most authors’ bottom line, as the cost of e-books rises (most publishers sell their hardcover books at $9.99 as a loss leader), and as publishers insist that authors accept a lower percentage for royalties.
The question, of course, will be whether enough new readers appear to counterbalance the lower royalty rates that publishers will mandate. My fingers remain crossed, which makes it difficult to page forward on my e-reader.
BBB: Can you tell us about your paranormals and the general storylines that drives them?
MK: My current series, the As You Wish series, traces a wish-granting genie whose magic lamp passes from one woman to another in various professional theater communities. Each volume is wholly self-contained, with the genie as the only common thread between books, so that readers can come in to the series whenever they wish.
Of course, wish-granting never quite goes as planned – the wishers in my books learn a lot about their careers, the importance of their family and friends, and their own ability to control their personal and professional lives.
BBB: What else do you currently have in the works? When can we expect your next book?
MK: The second volume of the As You Wish series, When Good Wishes Go Bad
BBB: Do you plan to write any more traditional fantasy in the future?
MK: I have some traditional fantasy novels that I’m working on, in my down time between books under contract. At the moment, though, none is ready for prime time. (I’m enjoying playing with dragons, and codes, and magic spells, however, in the one that is closest to completion!)
BBB: If one only one of your stories 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?
MK: The Jane Madison series has been optioned, and ABC Family has agreed to distribute any completed made-for-TV movies. (I’m still waiting, though, to learn whether the movies actually get made – a script is currently being revised.)
In my absolute dream cast, I’d see Amy Adams as Jane, Jon Hamm as David, and John Cho as Neko. (OK. I really just want to sit on the set with Jon Hamm…)
BBB: Where do you see the paranormal/urban fantasy 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?
MK: Paranormal romance and urban fantasy have enjoyed several years at the height of popularity. I think it’s only natural that favorites ebb and flow, and it wouldn’t surprise me to see sales downshift somewhat.
I suspect that we’ll see both genres transition over the next few years, testing boundaries as they cross with other fields. For example, I think that we’ll see time travel introduced as a more common element, to bring in the feeling of historical romance. I also think that we’ll see more obscure settings explored (e.g., rural towns, Africa, South America.)
BBB: Do you have any personal traits that you have written into the characters of your books?
MK: My characters are typically an amalgam of myself and my friends. I often incorporate private jokes into characters’ thoughts and speeches. I tend to share amusing “life coping strategies” that I’ve gleaned from my friends. (For example, Melissa’s Five Conversational Topics for first dates, in the Jane Madison series, was a tactic employed by a now-happily-married former housemate.)
I’ve also drawn extensively on my careers and my avocations – I’ve spent time as a librarian (Jane Madison series) and stage manager (As You Wish series), and I’m able to spice up the books with details from those lives.
And, if I’m going to be painfully honest, I have to admit that the chaotic love life of my characters tends to be taken from my own earlier days. Most of Melissa’s disastrous dates have their roots in my own romantic debacles, and a couple of Jane’s and Kira’s most challenging moments come directly from my past. I found my true love, though, and I am pleased to let my characters find theirs.
BBB: If Kira had a theme song what would it be?
MK: The theme song from the Mary Tyler Moore show (”Love is All Around” by Sonny Curtis)! (Kira even lives in a house on Lake of the Isles, in Minneapolis, which was where Mary’s apartment was located. She doesn’t wear a beret, though…)
BBB: Do you have any plans for book signings/ readings anytime soon? If so, where can our readers find you?
MK: With the calendar year wrapping up, I don’t have any specific signings or readings scheduled in the near future. I will, though, likely attend RWA Nationals in Tennessee next July. And people can always keep track of my appearances and reach me through my website at http://www.mindyklasky.com
Rachel, thanks so much for the opportunity to speak to so many of your readers. I look forward to answering questions in the comments, throughout the day!
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Learn more about Mindy Klasky 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 11/10/09 at 11:59 pm Central to do the different things that YOU choose to do.
She will be giving away SIX great prizes. Open to readers worldwide!
Prize 1: $25.00 Amazon.com Gift Card
Prize 2: 5 copies of How Not to Make a Wish
1. The easiest way to enter is by purchasing copies of Mindy’s books.
From Amazon:
Buy any of Mindy’s Books Here
From Barnes & Noble:
Buy any of Mindy’s Books Here
Good for 300 entries per book you purchase by using the links above.
OR you can use the Barnes & Noble link HERE to make your purchase of ANY kind of merchandise during the contest. You can also use the Amazon 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 Mindy a question or leave a comment. It can be ANY question you like. No questions/comments = no entries! You can come by through 11/10/09 and ask Mindy 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=12737 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 Mindy by joining her here:
Newsletter (bottom of page): http://www.mindyklasky.com/contact.html
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/mindy.klasky
5. Enter the Kindle Contest here: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=12677 AND join us at our daily book chat here: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=12724. Good for 50 entries per action.
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(1 votes, average: 5 out of 5)
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Thanks for spending your time with us today, Mindy. “How Not To Make A Wish” sounds like a fun read.
My question is, what do you think draws people to paranormal and/or Urban Fantasy?
Steps 4,5,& 7 are done.
I have RSVP’d
I have spread the word here:
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http://www.myspace.com/fallonhadley
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Thanks,
Fallon H.
[Reply]
Hi there. Mindy! I am new to your work so I am eager to start reading the books. I really liked your answers to the questions about the e-readers. I know a lot of people think they are better for the environment, but you made a very good point about the manufacturing and packaging aspects. THanks fro taking the time to share with BBB and us. Look for forward to checking out the As You Wish series, Lisa
[Reply]
Hi Mindy. Thanks so much for joining us here today.
I am a high school librarian, so am of course thrilled to see a series with a librarian character.
What genres do you read in for fun?
You mentioned RWA — do you ever attend other fan conventions?
(I did RSVP)
[Reply]
Hi Mindy! Thanks for being here with us today! I enjoyed your interview!
I was wondering, who are your favorite authors?
Also, when did you start writing?
5.entered and joined
7.receive BBB newsletter, friends w/ BBB on Goodreads and member of the Blood Bank as Amanda Leigh
[Reply]
oops, and I rsvp’d!
[Reply]
Hello Mindy, I loved the Glasswright Series.
What books are you currently reading?
[Reply]
It’s wonderful to see so many people here, right at the crack-of-interview-dawn!
Fallon - I think that readers are drawn to paranormal romance and urban fantasy because we’re taught to understand those stories from the very beginning of our awareness of storytelling. We grow up with fairy tales and myths and legends, so we understand the “rules” behind them. The contemporary pr/uf genres even *increase* the familiarity, by placing regular people like you and me in the middle of the stories. We can identify with enough of the story to be comfortable, but we’re exposed to enough of creative newness to remain interested.
Lisa M - Thanks for your kind words! E-readers are definitely here to stay - it’ll be interesting to see how our world changes because of them!
Carol M - I read a lot of YA fiction for fun (some of the really angsty stuff, and some of the paranormal/UF stuff.) I also read a lot of non-fiction (especially creative non-fiction, on narrow topics.) Of course, nearly half of my reading is genre-related, keeping up to date on what’s new in romance and fantasy!
Amanda L - I started writing a sequel to the Lord of the Rings (working with my best friend), when I was 13 years old. I started writing seriously when I was in law school, in the late 1980s. I sold my first novel in 1998.
As for favorite writers, there are so many… I’m a huge fan of Maria Snyder and Jeri Smith-Ready (both of whom are friends.) I like Rachel Vincent’s Shifter series. I really enjoyed a couple of forays into historical romances this year - Joanna Bourne’s SPYMASTER books and Deanna Raybourn’s SILENT books….
I’ll check back later in the day to answer more questions!
[Reply]
Hi Minday, thanks for being here today with us. You answered a lot of the questions I wanted to ask, the only thing i can think of is what are you reading now or what would you like to read if you had the time? Love your stories. the genie is just wonderful and true to how genie would act.
3. spread the word:
http://www.goodreads.com/heidi330
http://www.twitter.com/heidi330
http://www.myspace.com/heidi330
http://www.facebook.com/heidishafer
bloodbank.com/heidi330
4.friends w/Mindy will send email when get it
5.rsvp, already did kindle
Heidi S
7.friends w/BBB, get newsletter, bloodbank
[Reply]
Hi Mindy!!! Thanks for stopping by. I was wondering what first got you interested in writing contemporary romantic fantasies. Plus, I completely agree with your cover assessment.
[Reply]
Hi Mindy! It’s so good to see you “out and about” again! You know how much I love your works, so I’m really excited to see you have new goodies for my consumption. What do you have cooking in that marvelous brain of yours for our future enjoyment?
[Reply]
I am looking to add your books to my TBR Pile right now.LOL
I also entered and joined & receive BBB newsletter, friends w/ BBB on Goodreads and member of the Blood Bank. I am a busy girl.
Debby Creager
creagers@windstream.net
[Reply]
Cyd - Thanks for the kind words about the Glasswrights series! I had a lot of fun creating Rani’s world and figuring out exactly how it worked - especially how the Thousand Gods worked in to everything.
I’m currently re-reading Robin McKinley’s SUNSHINE - I have three vampire books under contract to Mira, which I’m about to start writing, so I wanted to re-read one of my favorite vampire novels of all time. I can’t say I’m disappointed in re-visiting the great world that Robin created!
Heidi S - I’d love to have more time to read traditional fantasy novels - those great doorstopper novels that I loved when I was in school. I have Patrick Rothfuss’s NAME OF THE WIND on my to-be-read pile - maybe I just need to take a really long plane flight somewhere, so that I can read through it!
Heather C - thanks for the cover agreement
As for my switch to writing contemporary romantic fantasies (thanks for picking up my terminology!) - I wrote an incredibly dark, incredibly grim, incredibly depressing traditional fantasy novel which (incredibly!) found no buyer. After finishing that long slog, I decided to try something that was its polar opposite. I submitted a three-paragraph proposal for GIRL’S GUIDE TO WITCHCRAFT, and my career shift had begun!
Sir Tim - greetings, kind sir! It’s great to see you here! After the three genie books in the As You Wish series come out (HOW NOT TO MAKE A WISH in stores now, WHEN GOOD WISHES GO BAD in stores April 2010, and TO WISH OR NOT TO WISH in stores October 2010), I will launch a new vampire series! I don’t have the details yet - I’m currently working through them with my editor - but you know that I’ll be broadcasting them far and wide, once I get started on the books!
[Reply]
Hi Mindy!
2. I wanted to say I loved your comment to Fallon
3. Tweeted: twitter.com/mom2moms
4. Signed up for newsletter & on facebook
5. Done & Done
7. Follow BBB via newsletter, BB, Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, Facebook fan page, & good reads.
I RSVP’d
[Reply]
what are some of the things you do to prepare yourself to write the stories you write?
[Reply]
Mindy,
I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoy your books! They are such a joy to read…oh and I love the humor you add!
Keep writing
Jennifer
[Reply]
Hi Mindy! I absolutely love your Jane series and am very happy to see you on the BBB. Much love. I am laughing cause John Cho plays such a tough character on Flashforward, I just can’t imagine him as Neko. I always got the impression that Neko was Jane’s JUST JACK. Congrats though, I think the books would go over very well on the little screen. How exciting! When this does happen, how involved are you in the process, or do you just sell the rights and hope for the best. I would have a heart attack that they would completely break my characters down.
For the contest: I am BBB all the way (except myspace - sorry that site scares me) Goodreads, Blood Bank, Facebook, Twitter
I already own all the Jane books, but I will buy How Not To Make a Wish very soon…that is if I don’t win it!
[Reply]
Hi Mindy!! I RSVP’d! Glad you could strop by. I liked your answers during the interview!
I haven’t read your books yet - but I’m adding them to my list! Don’t you wish you could have more time in a day!?
My question - if you could “live inside” in ANY novel in history - which would if be?? Who would you be? Would you change anything that happened or leave it as the author intended?
Another question- pick 3 authors from history that you would like to invite over for dinner!
Have a great day! It is a dreary reading day here. (no complaints here!) we’re going to get lots of rain tonight/tomorrow.
[Reply]
Loved the Jane Madison books, and just finished the sample of HOW NOT TO MAKE A WISH on my e-reader; I’ll be downloading that one soon! I can’t wait to see your take on vampires. Just wondering, you’ve used your librarian and theater experience for earlier series - any chance you’ll use your legal experience for this one?
BTW - I’m also a law firm librarian. It gives me a little thrill that “one of us” has made it.
4. Signed up for your newsletter.
[Reply]
Michele H - Thanks for stopping by! I really liked Fallon’s question!
Jessica C - I tend to do research as I’m writing (an old habit, from writing legal briefs when I was a lawyer - I’d make all sorts of wild assertions, then leave myself notes saying “find support for this.”) I do, though, prepare outlines before each novel - a short paragraph explaining the action for each chapter. I find that I stick to my outlines pretty closely while I write; they’re the major preparation that I make for my stories.
Jennifer T - Thanks so much for your kind words!
Rachel - That’s the thing - I think that John Cho has the flexibility to play both his Flashforward role *and* Neko! If the TV movies go forward, I don’t have a lot of control over the production. I’ve seen the treatment, though, and I think that the first one holds very true to the feeling of the books, even though a few details have been changed. (It *is* a little scary to think about those changes displayed in public!)
Libby L - Wow… any novel… Here’s my problem making a choice - I really like my creature comforts. You know, modern plumbing, central air conditioning… If I could carry those comforts with me, I might put myself into Jane Eyre. I’d keep most of the book the same, but I’d probably skip the blinding that happens in that last chapter… (Astute readers will note that David Montrose, the hero of the Jane Madison series, resembles Mr. Rochester in more than a few respects.)
As for dinner companions? I’d love to bring together Homer (did he realize what he was starting with The Odyssey?), Jules Verne (did he ever imagine how popular steampunk would be today, as a thriving form of speculative fiction?) and JRR Tolkien (does he even recognize The Lord of the Rings in the plethora of fantasy published today?)
[Reply]
Hi, Mindy! Great to have you here- wonderful interview! Can’t wait to read your books =)
*I RSVP’d
*Entered the Kindle Contest
*Joined the daily book chat
*SUBSCRIBED to the Bitten by Books newsletter
*Joined The Blood Bank (/JuliaS)
*Good Reads Friend: RRRobot
*Myspace Friend: /dominicandjulia
*Twitter Friend: OnlyDomKnowsMe
*BBB is on my blog list at rexreadingrobot.blogspot.com
[Reply]
Hi Mindy,
Do you base your characters on people that you know?
RSVP’d
Friends with BBB on Goodreads
Subscribe to BBB newsletter
[Reply]
I read all the Jane Madison books and loved them–and loved HOW NOT TO MAKE A WISH even more! (Much to my amazement.) I can’t wait for the next book to come out, and have already bought a bunch of extra copies to give to my friends–even gave one away at my own author event on Halloween (since the theme was “Passionate about Paranormals”). Yay Mindy!!!
[Reply]
Is your genie like the French chick from X-Files, or more like a traditional genie?
Thanks for being here today.
5. did Kindle contest and heading over to today’s book chat.
7. Friends on Facebook and newsletter with BBB
RSVPd
[Reply]
Hi Mindy,
Gotta love that cover, the book sounds cute too. Would love to read it.
So my question would be, was there anyone in your book that you did not mean to like and suddenly did?
Lol, I know totally strange question. I just mean if characters suddenly grow on you without you even meaning them too
RSVPEd
[Reply]
Hi Mindy,
What made you decide to write about genies? I’m sensing maybe you’re an “I Dream of Jeanie” fan?
[Reply]
Mindy, thank you for answering those questions!
interesting answers. I agree w/ you on going back into Jane Eyre with creature comforts. I can imagine myself sitting there twiddling my thumbs without TiVo & the Internet. OH! & I can’t imagine going back without my Ipod! The horror. 
You mentioned my all time favorite author for the dinner party question! I adore Tolkien. (he has 2 shelves on my bookshelf) I would love to ask him what he thinks of the impact he’s made also. He dedicated so much of his life to creating Middle Earth (history, Elvish, etc..) I would love to pick his brain!
I am intrigued one of your characters has similar qualities to Mr. Rochester! I must read that!
*adds to list*
[Reply]
Hey Mindy! Myself, I personally always enjoyed the world you created for the Glasswrights series. So, my question is, what is your favorite aspect of that world? And how did you decide which god to use where (as sometimes I think one that wouldn’t have been my first consideration was used)?
(#2, #4 and RSVPed)
[Reply]
Who is your fav secondary character ever?
I RSVPed
I shared on twitter http://twitter.com/alicia0605
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I have not read any of your books before but they sound wonderful! I will definitely check them out. What are some of your favorite paranormal/urban fantasy authors/books?
RSVPd
Friends with Bitten by Books here:
Subscriber
Facebook Fan Page: Rae Pavey
Good Reads: Raelena
Myspace: Raelena Pavey
Facebook: Rae Pavey
Twitter: @throuthehaze
blogroll:
http://throuthehaze-reads.blogspot.com/
[Reply]
Hi Mindy
Are you still writting books for your other two series or have you concluded them. The Jane Madison series and the Glasswright series?
I RSVP’d
4. I joined Mindy’s newsletter
5. Entered the Kindle contest
7. Am friends with Bitten by Books.
[Reply]
Hey Mindy!
Thanks so much for joining us today!
I love all of your covers, who does the artwork? Do you get any creative input into it?
Rachel
[Reply]
[...] Interview, Chat and Contest with Author Mindy Klasky Interview, Chat and Contest with Author Mindy Klasky [...]
Julia - Thanks for stopping by!
Deb - ::mwah:: I’m honored that you’d choose WISH for a Halloween give-away!
REB - my genie isn’t like the X-files one (I actually hadn’t seen that episode when I created my genies…), but I wouldn’t say they’re “typical” either. You can get an idea of what mine are like, by reading my short story, “Wishful Thinking” here: http://eharlequin.com/article.html?articleId=1438
Linda - Thanks for your comment about the cover - I love, love, love it! For the most part, I’m in the school of “I write my characters, and I know who they are when I create them”, so I’m rarely surprised by what they do. That said, I turned out to like the hero of HOW NOT TO MAKE A WISH a *lot* more, in retrospect, than when I first created him. Part of that “like” is from a scene that my editor suggested I add, very late in the writing process - it’s the most tender exchange between the hero and heroine, and I felt myself “slip” a little bit into infatuation
RJ Edwards - I’m not really a “Dream of Jeannie” fan; I last watched it in syndication when I was in elementary school… I’ve always been fascinated, though, by the idea of magical creatures who grant wishes - one of my favorite books, as a very young child, was about a fish that granted wishes to the man who caught it. The danger of asking for the wrong wish has always fascinated me!
Libby - I somehow suspect that there are a lot of us Rochester fans out there
Tolkien was one of my first literary loves, and I still consider his novels to be the reason that I’m a writer today (even though my current work has a very different tone from his!)
Kali - Thanks for the kind words about the glasswrights! I loved the research that I did on medieval glass craftsmanship - it was some of the first “applied librarianship” that I ever committed! As for the Thousand Gods - I spent a lot of time debating which gods should be responsible for which things. I mean, if you have a “god of weather” do you need a “god of thunder” separate from a “god of lightning” separate from a “god of rainstorms”? I ended up keeping *pages* of notes - especially when the sense-connections to the gods become apparent, through Berylina…
Alicia - Great question! Perhaps my all-time favorite character in fantasy literature is Alaric Anthony Morgan, in Katherine Kurtz’s Deryni series. Since he serves the king, who is an “on-stage” character in many of the books, I’ll say that Morgan is a secondary character. But wow - there are *so* many others who come to mind!
Raelena - As I mentioned earlier, I’m a big fan of Maria Snyder, Jeri Smith-Ready, and Rachel Vincent. I’ve also liked some of Gena Showalter’s novels - I think she balances a lot of humor with a lot of passion. I also really enjoyed C.E. Murphy’s series.
Belinda - At this point, I don’t have any plans to write additional Glasswrights or Jane Madison novels. That may change somewhere down the line, though…
Rachel - Thank you *so* much for having me today! For the Jane Madison books and the As You Wish books, I complete an “Art Survey” for each volume, sending my publisher detailed descriptions of the plot, the key symbolism in the books, the appearance of characters and places, and links to photos of people who look like my characters. The covers are then designed by Harlequin’s in-house staff, based on my information. I usually see early versions; for HOW NOT TO MAKE A WISH, I saw a mock-up that had a different model and slightly different cover elements, and we discussed changes at that point. The cover designer for the As You Wish series is Margie Miller - who did a great, great job!
[Reply]
Hi Mindy,
I rather enjoyed your interview today with BBB~ Thanks so much! Your statement that “I come up with ridiculous plot twists every single day that I sit down to write – my readers should be grateful that they’re spared most of those!” made me automatically think of myself and my great imagination. I know that when I am writing, my over active imagination can really interfere at times (Cause for wild thinking and writing, lol), as well as the times that it is a great asset. Do you feel that you have a great imagination, which is like mine in that it is a great asset that sometimes likes to overwhelm you if you would let it have free reign?
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Ok! Just want to comment, since I already asked a question. I can’t decide which series I want more. Jane Madison or The Glasswrights. I’m giggling like a school girl. I guess that means I’ll have to get them all.
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Are there just some books by paranormal/urban fantasy authors that you just don’t like?
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Hi Mindy and thank you so much for coming to play today! I read Girl’s Guide to Witchcraft and I laughed so hard so many times that my boss threatened to drug test me at least three times. I think that Jane’s familiar is proabably one of the very best characters I’ve ever read.
The boring stuff:
I RSVP’d. I follow BBB on Twitter and FB, and you’re on my blogroll at http://www.readinsomethingcrazy.blogspot.com. I also joined Mindy’s fan page on FB.
Thanks Rachel for the great contest and thanks again Mindy for coming out to play!
[Reply]
Hello Mindy! And Welcome to BBB! Sorry to say that I have not read any of your books, and I did perk when I noticed a fantasy. Romance and Fantasy are two genres that I like (along with paranormal).
So if you could collaborate on a writing project with anyone, alive or dead, who would you choose and why?
RSVP
Joined her newsletter
Just friended her on facebook (Rachel Flesher)
Posted about the chat-contest on my facebook
Entered the book chat!
Twittered about it (raonaidluckwell)
BBB is the top link on my blogger’s link section (visionarydruid.blogspot.com)
Posted about the chat-contest on my blogspot
Posted about it on my myspace’s blog and bullentin board (www.myspace.com/visionarydruid)
Posted about it on my livejournal (morriga.livejournal.com)
[Reply]
Hi, Mindy! It’s great to have you here! What is your favorite book of all time?
(RSVP’d.
Friends with Mindy on Facebook.
Friends with Bitten by Books at all venues.)
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Mindy,
I found your response regarding e-readers very interesting. I was under the impression that e-books and the like were a positive change for authors, so I’m definitely concerned. I am a firm believer in the Artist making more than the “management”.
I could be the exception to the norm, but I am Kindle User and I’m definitely purchasing more books than I ever did. I used to read maybe 3 books a month tops and usually only when someone I knew recommended it to me. I’ve had my Kindle for a year this month and I have 534 Kindle books in my collection.
Anyway, I’m purchasing this book tonight, It looks like a really fun read. Thanks for taking the time to talk to us.
Kim F.
Will forward copy of receipt to email address provided
RSVP’d and commented
Sharing on Facebook
Entered Kindle contest
Will attend daily chat
Subscribed to Newsletter, Facebook and GoodReads
[Reply]
Mindy, while I haven’t read any of your books, I do have book 1&3 in the Jane Madison series and as soon as I get my hands on book two, I will read them. I tend to have to have several in a series before reading them and I have heard lots of praise on your series. Love Genie stories so ”How Not to Make a Wish” is also on my wishlist. My question—What books do you have on your TBR list?
RSVP
2 Done
4 Done
5a & b done
[Reply]
Hey Mindy,
Great interview. My question is what sets your book apart from others in this genre?
Thanks
rsvp’d
friended Mindy on fb
friend of BBB here,fb,myspace/vamplubber
entered Kindle contest
Will attend daily chat
Shared on FB
[Reply]
Hi Mindy!
Thanks for being here with us today. I have not read any of your books yet, but I’m looking forward to them. I have heard great things about your books and I can’t wait to find out for myself. I have two questions. 1. If you had a day to yourself and you could do anything, be anything, or go anywhere, what would you do? 2. Which of your books should I read first? I’m wishing you Much Continued Success, and I will be looking out for new releases in the future. Happy Reading:))
I RSVP’d
3.I spresd the word on my FB http://www.facebook.com/tawania
4. Sent friend request on FB
5. Entered the Kindle Contest and Posted on FB
7. Friends with BBB, get newletter, member of the Blood Bank
[Reply]
What a wonderful interview. I have found so many great authors this way. I will request our Library get a copy oy of your books for our patrons.
4,5,7 Done
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Wow, as a librarian I am looking forward to reading this series. It is always interesting to me to hear about author’s research.
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Mindy,I haven’t read any of your books, yet. I did purchase “Girl’s Guide to Witchcraft”. Witches & Cats are right up my alley. I’m looking forward to reading it. I do love your cover art for your books!
Kristi
[Reply]
Hi Mindy,
I enojyed Magic and the modern girl
rsvpd
entered kindle contest
friends w/BBB on FB, FB fan grp, Goodreads: Dina Stornello
freinds w/BBB on myspace:dlsmilad
follow BBB on Twitter:dlsmilad
friended Mindy FB:Dina Stornello
BBB perm fav in blog:http://dinasthoughtblog.blogspot.com/
gets BBB newsletter
get Mindys newsletter
posted on FB:Dina Stornello
posted on Twitter:dlsmilad
bloodbank member:Dina S http://bittenbybooks.ning.com/profile/DinaS
thank you,
Dina S.
dlsmilad@yahoo.com
[Reply]
I enjoyed the interview - I haven’t had a chance to read any of your books yet, but I’m definitely intrigued and I’m going to be looking them up.
I RSVP’d, I follow BBB on Twitter, MySpace and subscribe to the newsletter.
[Reply]
Hey Mindy!
Great interview. The way you describe your books and your writing, I can tell you love both very much. I haven’t had the honor of reading any of your books yet, but I’m looking forward to adding quite a few to my TBR pile.
My question for you is, how long were you writing seriously before you got published (or landed an agent?)
Thanks so much for stopping by!
-Lisa B.
I RSVPed
5. both parts done
7. already done
[Reply]
I RSVP’d.
Hi, Mindy,
I enjoy your books, and this new series sounds awesome!
Jon Hamm… Did you mention Jon Hamm?!? Big sigh…
[Reply]
Sorry I couldn’t make it to the live chat
I haven’t read any of Mindy’s books but have added them to my TBR list. i requested the 1st book from the library so hopefully I’ll be a fan soon! They sound like really funny, smart reads!! Cant wait to get into them!
Thanks,
Valorie B
Contest #’s 4,5,7 Done! and I RSVP’d!
[Reply]
Hi Mindy,
Just wanted to stop in to say Thanks for coming, and sharing with all of us; esp. for the questions answered. Great interview. Congrats on the upcoming releases, and the movie op.
I have to agree I’ve been surprised by comments I’ve seen from authors on ebook pub. I have a hard time believing what the publishers are saying that it cost the same as publishing & distributing a paper book. I read accounts of some that have self published for awhile and at a much lower cost…. interesting.. makes me wonder if publishers aren’t trying to snooker authors into lower %’s.. anyway…
Hope to be able to read some of your work soon.. quite a few good rec. here..
Question … who/what is your favorite non human character from any media form/any time.
Thanks again for coming to BBB
RSVP’d comments/questions
will have to come back later w/ rest of contest stuff..
[Reply]
I agree with you and don’t distinguish between paranormal romance and urban fantasy. I just read what I like and anything in those genres appeal to me. I haven’t read your novels yet but after reading about them, I have added quite a few to my to be purchased list and amazon wish list for Christmas. Thank you for sharing your wonderful writings with us.
[Reply]
Leslie D. — I think that my greatest asset as a writer is the way that I create characters, and the little ways that I flesh them out into being real people. While I have to use my imagination in creating my plots, I don’t think that mine is wild enough or bizarre enough that it overwhelms the rest of my story!
Fallon - Read both old series - and then the new one (As You Wish!)
I can’t decide which series I want more. Jane Madison or The Glasswrights. I’m giggling like a school girl. I guess that means I’ll have to get them all.
Darchole -
There are some books that I just can’t get into. Usually, that’s because the authors use “shorthand”, failing to create unique characters or plots, but only relying on stock phrases, set-ups, and language. If a book hasn’t gripped me by about 50 pages, I set it aside - my TBR pile is too tall to keep reading things that don’t captivate me!
Aymee — Thanks so much for the kind words about Jane’s story! I love Neko - he was one of my favorite characters to write.
Raonaid - Wow. I’m not a very good collaborator - I’ve never written a short story (much less a novel!) with another author. I suspect that it would be fun to work with Jane Austen, to see how she’d adjust to my slightly crazy take on our modern world!
[Reply]
hi, I rsvped. I just bought your first book yesturday can’t wait to get it and read it
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Jennifer L — I have different “favorites” for different types of books. I think that Wallace Stegner’s ANGLE OF REPOSE has some of the most beautiful language I’ve ever read. I think that Joanna Bourne’s THE SPYMASTER’S LADY has some of the best historic detail and the sexiest interplay between characters that I’ve ever enjoyed. I think that THE LORD OF THE RINGS most changed my life, because it was the book that made me want to write! But I don’t have a single favorite book…
Kim F - I hope that I’m wrong, and that publishers will manage to stay solvent while paying authors relatively high rates. I fear, though, that the loss leaders that they’re selling now will come back to haunt them… (Please let me be wrong!) (I’ve heard that many Kindle users, like you, buy more books than they did prior to owning their Kindles.) I hope that you enjoy HOW NOT TO MAKE A WISH!
Lisa - My TBR list has about 100 books on it, so I won’t bore you by listing them all here. Next up, I’m going to be reading some category romances (Silhouette Desires), to get a better feel for that genre. I hope you enjoy the Jane Madison series, once you get to it, along with HOW NOT TO MAKE A WISH!
Deana H. -My books grew up in the chicklit tradition (Bridget Jones’s Diary, etc), so they have a lot of humor in them. My characters inevitably learn to rely on themselves and their own strengths (in addition to solving the other plot points in their stories.) I realize that these two points don’t make them *unique*, but I do think that these concepts distinguish them from a lot of the paranormal romance and urban fantasy out there!
Tawania - At this point, I’d love to have a day just to read, uninterrupted by other live obligations! Of course, if I could fit a massage and a really good fruit-and-cheese plate in there, too, I wouldn’t complain! If you’ve never read any of my books, I’d start with the most recent - HOW NOT TO MAKE A WISH!
[Reply]
Heather R — Many thanks for your kind words! Of course, I’m a major fan of libraries - I hope your patrons enjoy my books!
Kimberly - I’ve always found it fascinating, too, to learn how different authors complete their research. My research style definitely comes from juggling a lot of requests at a fast-paced reference desk.
Kristi — I hope that you enjoy GIRL’S GUIDE! I don’t have the witchy abilities, but I definitely love cats
And I think that the cover art captures the tone perfectly - I’m really lucky with that.
Dina - Many thanks! I enjoyed pulling together the conclusion to all the Jane Madison threads.
Barbara - Many thanks - it’s always great to “meet” new people!
Lisa B. — Many thanks! I’ve always been a great fan of reading, and I’m thrilled to get to carry that through in my writing!
[Reply]
Hi Mindy! Welcome to BBB!
2. What was your inspiration for your books?
RSVP’d For this and tommorow’s
4, 5, and 7 done
[Reply]
Karen W. — I just finished watching the last episode of Season 3… Now Jon has time to play David
Valorie B — I hope that you enjoy the books! (And yes, I do pride myself on their being relatively “smart” reads!)
iokijo — Publishers are definitely using e-books to subsidize other editions of books (in the same way that they freely use hardcover, trade paper, and mass market to derive the total balance sheet for any individual title.) With the economy as bad as it is, publishers are trying to keep things together like most other businesses. Alas, authors are likely to get squeezed, as “content” is valued less and less by society. Sigh….
As for my favorite non-human character? Temeraire - the main dragon in Naomi Novik’s series about the Napoleonic Wars - with dragons!
Gayle O — I think we both agree that genre labels are useful to some extent (e.g., separating non-fiction from speculative fiction), but that micro-definition of genres can be detrimental to everyone! When books are too hard to find, we all lose…
Renee - Many thanks!
[Reply]
Hi Mindy,
What a great interview! I haven’t had the chance to read any of your books yet, but I will definately check them out. Thanks for chatting with us today!
RSVP’d
Posted link to event on Twitter: http://twitter.com/SimmieTaye
Joined Mindy’s Newsletter
Sent Friend Request on Facebook
Entered Kindle Contest
Joined Daily Book Chat
Friends w/ BBB on both Facebook Accounts: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000076576133&ref=profile
Sent request on Goodreads
Friends on Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/kimmie_hodges
Following on twitter: http://twitter.com/SimmieTaye
BBB Link is posted on my myspace under books section: http://www.myspace.com/kimmie_hodges
[Reply]
Mindy,
Thanks. Gawd I love Bridget Jone’s diary. I look forward to reading your book. I love a funny book. Thanks again.
[Reply]
Hi Mindy welcome to BBB
Im new to your work o my question is do you like your coveres or would you change them in some way if so how would you change them in some way
mindy
subscribed to your news letter
added you to face book : Beverly Gordon
BBB
I rsvped
im already friends with you on
Facebook Fan Page: Beverly Gordon
Good Reads: Beverly Gordon
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/forever14n9
Facebook: Beverly Gordon
Twitter:http://twitter.com/bainesgoddess
im on the blood bank : Beverly Gordon
i receive the news letter
i entered for the kindle
I attended the chat
shared on face book: beverly Gordon
twitter: @bainesgoddess
myspace: http://www.myspace.com/forever14n9
and my blog : http://zenes-escape.blogspot.com/
[Reply]
great interview I too am and this series to my wish list and since the next one comes out next year guess i’m starting my list for then too.lol
[Reply]
Hi Mindy, glad you are here today. I have not heard of your books before, but I love the storyline. Genie lamps-how fun!
rsvpd
Tweeted http://twitter.com/EllzReadz/status/5577594006
subscribe to BBB newsletter
Blood Bank member http://bittenbybooks.ning.com/profile/ElieNicewonger
also friends @
Facebook fans
myspace
facebook
twitter (tweeted about @ Ellz Readz)
goodreads
BBB is always on my blogroll http://ellzreadz.blogspot.com/
[Reply]
great interview!!!
I RSVPed
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5 (both) & 7 done!!
[Reply]
Mindy- How long were you writing for before you got published?
[Reply]
I did RSVP & asked a question (9)
[Reply]
Hi Mindy,
My question is how did you come up with the idea for the book ‘how not to make a wish’?
4. Add Mindy on Facebook.
5. I entered the Kindle contest.
7. BBB Newsletter subscriber
Already a fan on BBB facebook fan page & the other facebook page.
[Reply]
Thanks Mindy for sharing a little bit of you and your process of writing. I haven’t had the pleasure of picking up your books but wishes and genies sound fun.
My question to you if you could write a perfect day for yourself - what would it be? (i.e. activity, company, food, clothes)
I RSVP’d
[Reply]
Great interview.
Thanks Mindy for doing this. I havent had the chance to read any of your books yet but I have them on my wishlist, so I am hoping soon.
Are there any authors that have been inspirational to you?
You can witness one event but not influence it - past, present or future - what would it be and why?
Thanks!!
____________________________________
Contest stuff:
RSVP’d
2. questions above
3. posted here: http://donnasbloghome.blogspot.com/2009/11/bbb-chat-and-contest-with-mindy-klasky.html
4. both done
7. all previously done except blog roll
[Reply]
Hi Mindy,
you are a new for me author. the books sound great.
- what’s your favorite quote ?
- describe your writing in 2 words please
I had Rsvp’d
2. 2 questions asked
4. had sent the friend request to Mindy in fb
7. fan and friends with BBB in FB
[Reply]
I haven’t read your books before, but now I wish I had. They sound so good! The next time I am at the book store, which will be very soon, I will be looking for your books.
I RSVP’d
[Reply]
hi lol
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Sounds like fun! I like reading about librarians and their funky personalities.
I would like to ask you this: Do you think humor is a talent or is it something we have to work on?
Thank you!
Aori H.
[Reply]
I meant to post this list earlier - I had to wait til I was able to get back online.
I RSVP’d.
I commented/asked 2 questions.
I forwarded confirmation emails from Facebook.
- posted links on Twitter:
http://twitter.com/ailish79/status/5563318532
http://twitter.com/ailish79/status/5568738450
http://twitter.com/ailish79/status/5575632919
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=1264897826&share_id=200417210621&comments=1#s200417210621
On my blog:
http://solvioleta.wordpress.com/2009/11/09/interview-chat-and-contest-with-author-mindy-klasky/
- signed up for her newsletter. Forwarded email.
- friended her on Facebook - forwarded confirmation.
- I receive the BBB newsletter.
- I follow BBB on Twitter. (@ailish79)
- I follow BBB on Facebook. (Libby LaRue)
- I follow the Facebook Fan Group.
- I follow BBB on GoodReads. (same)
- I am on the Blood Bank as Libby LaRue
http://bittenbybooks.ning.com/profile/LibbyLaRue
- BBB has a permanent link on my blogroll.
solvioleta.wordpress.com
[Reply]
HI Mindy,
Very fun interview! My question for you is where did you pick up the idea/storyline for the second book?? Had you originally planned for a series type book series rather than a single book?
5 & 7 completed and I rsvp’d
[Reply]
Mindy - I would ask what your favorite Tolkien book was, but I know that is too difficult to answer!
I am such a geek - I have a few different editions of Lord of the Rings. (A copy to carry around, a special edition no one can touch, another that was the first copy I read, etc) Now there is no real reason why I need SO many copies - but each has special meaning/I received during a certain time in my life. I always turn to Tolkien and Middle Earth when I need cheering up or life has thrown a curve ball. hard to explain - it just helps.
After the films, I’d love to go to New Zealand someday!
How do you feel about the movie adaptations? I’ll hush - I could ramble on and on about Tolkien!
[Reply]
any hints on what the rest of the “As You Wish” Series would go?
Friend of BBB at Twitter [im @rubyreads]
[Reply]
Hi Mindy
2.I have not read your books yet just found out about them but I’m diffently Going to check them out.thay look entresting.
3.I have spread the news on my myspace and facebook and here are the links
http://www.myspace.com/sasluvbooks & facebook.com/sasluvbooks
5.I intered the Kindle Contest & The Daily Chat
7.I’m a friend of Bitten By Books on my myspace and on my facebook and I get the news letter
*I RSVPed
From Stacey S
sasluvbooks@yahoo.com
[Reply]
Hello Mindy,
What aspect of the publishing industry surprised you the most when you first got published?
Thanks.
I RSVPed.
[Reply]
Kimberly H. — Thanks so much for stopping by!
Deana H. — I know a lot of people who are scornful about Bridget Jones, but I think that the book captures an incredible flavor, with flair. I re-read it before I wrote the Jane Madison series, and I nearly despaired - I knew that I wouldn’t be able to create anything that good. (In the end, of course, Jane’s story is different, and she doesn’t tell it in the same diary format, so I think I escaped OK
)
Beverly G — I have been very pleased with my covers! I like the way that the Jane Madison covers immediately convey the chick-lit basis for the books, and I *love* the way that the new As You Wish series conveys a similar “feel” with very different substance. At this point, I wouldn’t change a thing!
Jennifer - Thanks for adding me to your wish list!
Elie - Thanks for your comment! I had a lot of fun with genies - especially with creating interesting magic that has certain … limits (because, really, what fun would it be if people could wish for everything, at any time?!?)
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Kayla J. — I always wrote short stories and attempts at novels, even when I was in elementary school. I wrote one traditional fantasy novel, which I finished in 1992, but it was never published. I finished another traditional fantasy novel in 1996, and I sold it in 1998; it was published in 2000.
Van - HOW NOT TO MAKE A WISH grew out of a few threads. I’d worked as a stage manager in high school and college, and I always liked the idea of weaving a fantasy novel into the backstage workings of a theater. When I finished the Jane Madison series, about witches, I wanted to find another type of supernatural creature, one that was relatively under-represented in the novels that are out there. Thus, Teel the genie was born!
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MarnieColette — I’d love to have a day just for reading! (Since I started writing full time, I no longer have my 1.5 hours a day of commuting time, and my reading rate has declined precipitously…) I wouldn’t object if someone tossed in a massage about half-way through the day!
Donna S — In a way, I’ve been inspired by every author I’ve read, from childhood favorites like Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Katherine Kurtz, and Patricia McKillip (all of whom taught me about the power of magic and storytelling) to “literary” authors like John Steinbeck and Wallace Stegner (who taught me about the ability of an author to change the way that people think about real social issues) to mystery authors like Lawrence Block, Sue Grafton, and Sarah Peretsky (who taught me about the importance of character and plot.) I read a lot of different genres, and I think there’s a lot to be gained from all of them. (Of course, there are “negative lessons” - “I don’t ever want to write a book as bad as *that* one ::grin:: - but we won’t go there!)
As for witnessing one event, I’d be fascinated to watch Jesus’s life. I’m not a Christian, but the stories that have grown around Jesus over millenia have influenced world history, and I’d love to see what actually happened as he lived.
Mariska H — In John Steinbeck’s EAST OF EDEN, the mystic figure of the Chinese cook tells the young boys that he cares for, “timshel”, which is Hebrew for “Thou mayest.” I love the power of that potential - thou mayest do good or evil - mankind has the power to survive.
My books, in two words are “smart fun.”
Patsy - Thanks for your enthusiasm! I hope you enjoy the books when you get to them!
Beth - Hi, back at you!
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Aori - I think that humor is a talent, *and* it is something we have to work on! I think that some authors are great at creating humorous situations for amusing characters. Authors, though, can hone their “humor” skills. (The most common reason that funny things don’t “read” funny is because they’re too long; often, authors should edit their funny bits so that all that remains is the pure humor!)
Biki — When I sold my first novel, THE GLASSWRIGHTS’ APPRENTICE, I had written it as a solo novel, but the editor wanted a series of three (which grew to five about six months after the first one came out.) All of hte other series that I’ve sold were pitched to editors as series. Second books are often the hardest in series, because when they’re written poorly, they don’t stand on their own; they only work as “bridges” between first and last books. Both SORCERY AND THE SINGLE GIRL and WHEN GOOD WISHES GO BAD (the second books in the Jane Madison series and the As You Wish series respectively) are stand-alone novels, with wholly-contained plots, so that readers can read them on their own (or, as I hope, as part of the series!)
Libby L — I think that the LotR movies are beautiful, and they capture some parts of the story incredibly (life in the Shire, for example.) I was less impressed with some parts (e.g., the physical appearance of the Ents.) I think it’s always important to remember that movies are completely different entities from books, with different goals, time constraints, cost structures, etc.
Ruby E — The other volumes of the As You Wish series trace the *genie*, not the heroine. While Kira makes an appearance in the second volume, she mostly has a “cameo” role, stepping on-stage to deliver the lamp to its next owner, but not to be a major character in the action. Similarly, the lamp’s owner in the second novel passes it on to the third heroine. Each book is wholly self-contained, but there is one over-arching story for the genie.
Stacey - Thanks for your interest! I hope that you enjoy the books!
Lesley - I didn’t know a lot about the business of publishing when I sold my first book (e.g., that books are sold on consignment to bookstores, so that publishers hold some of the authors’ royalty money in “reserve” against “returns”, books that don’t sell…) The biggest lesson that I learned, though, was how many stages there are to getting a book out, and that an author’s job is not finished when she turns in a manuscript. Each manuscript goes through edits (changes suggested by the editor to better shape the story), copy edits (grammar and other technical changes), and galley proofs, all of which require attention from the author. In addition, the author is responsible for a lot of publicity and promotion for her work. I easily spend 50% of the time that it took me to draft each book doing edits, read-throughs, publicity, and promotion! (And, when my first book came out, I almost collapsed from exhaustion, because I hadn’t realized how many publishing balls I’d be juggling!)
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Hi, who would you say are your top 3 favorite paranormal authors?
3. facebook.com/cassandra.myers
myspace.com/tinkerbellmn84
twitter/bluestarc218
4.Newsletter: signed up with my bluestarc218@yahoo.com email
Facebook: request sent
5. I so want a kindle entered
7. Already receive the newsletter and friends on all places and have been for a while
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I RSVPed. I have read your books and truely enjoy your humor!! Are you that funny all of the time? I’m a member of Blood Bank, htt://bittenbybooks.ning.com/profile/Lisa673 I get the newsletter.
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Hi Mindy, I went and done everything your requests to enter the contest asked for except buying a book. I already belong to the groups and the kindle deal is also done. I am so happy to meet you and hope to be in touch with you and get to read some of your books soon. susan L
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Hi Mindy,
If you could trade places with someone, who would it be and why?
Bridget
Shared:
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http://twitter.com/bridget3420/status/5592942671
blog section - http://www.myspace.com/bridgtlaprairie
Digg - bridget3420
Stumble - bridget3420
Signed up for Mindy’s newsletter
Sent Facebook friend request
5. done
BBB subscriber
Blood Bank member - bridget3420
Facebook fan - Bridget Hopper
Good Reads - Bridget Hopper
Myspace friend - bridgetlaprairie
Facebook friend - Bridget Hopper
Twitter follower - bridget3420
BBB is on my blogroll - http://bridget3420.blogspot.com
BBB is on my blogroll - http://freebies4meandu.blogspot.com
RSVP’d
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Very cool Mindy!
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I RSVPed for this event.
2. I really like what you said about the e-readers. I equate them with the devil, because I love “real” books, but have felt relatively guilty because I do care about the environment. Your points have eased my conscience. Thank you! Also, I’m looking forward to reading your books. Thanks to Bitten by Books, I am finding out about books and authors I may not have otherwise!
3. tweeted: http://twitter.com/truebookaddict/status/5597583039
Facebook share: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/posted.php?id=1354072304&share_id=211301094224&comments=1#s211301094224
7. I follow BBB feed via Google Reader and BBB is in my blogroll: http://thetruebookaddict.blogspot.com/
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I RSVPed for this event.
2. Mindy, I like what you said about the e-readers. I pretty much equate them with the devil because I love “real” books, but I have felt guilty because I do care about the environment. Your comments make sense and are so true…my conscience is eased! Thank you! Also, I’m looking forward to reading your books. Thanks for Bitten by Books, I’m finding out about books and authors I might not have otherwise.
3. tweeted: http://twitter.com/truebookaddict/status/5597583039
Facebook share: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/posted.php?id=1354072304&share_id=211301094224&comments=1#s211301094224
7. I follow the BBB feed via Google Reader and BBB is in my blogroll: http://thetruebookaddict.blogspot.com/
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I RSVPed for this event.
2. Mindy, I liked what you said about the e-reader. I equate them with the devil, because I love “real” books, but I have felt guilty because I do care about the environment. You have made valid points and have eased my conscience. Thank you! Also, I’m looking forward to reading your book. Thanks to Bitten by Books, I am finding out about authors and books I may not have otherwise!
3. Facebook share: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/posted.php?id=1354072304&share_id=211301094224&comments=1#s211301094224
Tweeted: http://twitter.com/truebookaddict/status/5597583039
7. I follow the BBB feed via Google Reader and BBB is in my blogroll permanently! http://thetruebookaddcit.blogspot.com/
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Mindy, sorry my first post was not complete, my question was missing.
If you could rub a magic lamp, what would be your three wishes?
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Ah, thank you for your responce. Do you have a talent or did you have to work at it? =)
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lol I rsvped and as usual I am late.
2. my questions are first what would your three wishes be? And do you have ay other stories or series up your sleeve.
3.done
4. joined her newsltter and fanned her on facebook.
5. joined the discussion had already entered the kindle contest elsewere.
6. friends with bbb and on newsletter already and have you permantly on my blog roll
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I rsvp’d on Facebook
Those are some really interesting thoughts on ereaders…I don’t currenly have one but I also don’t think I’d heard anyone take into consideration all that goes into making them and what happens when they break or get old, etc… And I’m so glad you stopped by BBB, I’m definitely adding your books to my TBR list!
4. Newsletter-joined
Facebook-friended (forwarded the emails in a second)
5. Entered the contest
7. Subscirbe to the newsletter already, Ning member, Facebook fan, Goodreads friend, Myspace friend, Facebook friend (all already) And you’re already on my blogroll here: http://book-splot.blogspot.com
-Lucile O-K
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contest stuff..
2 done yesterday
5b done
7 already sub. to BBB/member blood bank/follow on twitter/FB fan page/FB friend
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Cassandra M — My favorites change over time. Right now, I’m a big fan of Maria Snyder, Jeri Smith-Ready, and Rachel Vincent.
Lisa D. — Thanks for the kind words. I’ve been known to be the snarkiest lawyer in the room. Er, when I wasn’t being the snarkiest librarian in the room. Or, er, the snarkiest writer in the room.
Susan - Many thanks for stopping by!
Bridget - Interesting question… I think it would be fascinating to trade places with my husband - just for a day. I suspect I’d get a whole new perspective on who I am, and just how difficult it is to live with me
Sort of like FREAKY FRIDAY, for the married crowd!
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Michelle M - Thanks for the kind words about my e-reader thoughts. I don’t think they’re the “devil” (although I understand your perspective - I, too, love the look and feel of “real” books), but I think they’re our future as readers and writers. We’ll have to find ways to live with them, and thinking about the entire environmental impact is an important part of that “journey of discovery”.
Elie N — If there’s one thing I’ve learned about lamp-rubbing, by writing the As You Wish series, it’s that wishes *never* turn out the way you think they will! Right now, as I struggle to clear my desk of to-do items, I think that my first wish would be never to need to sleep, so that I could put those hours to a good use! I’m not sure about the others… I worry about the collateral damage my wishes might cause!
Aori - Some parts of writing (and lawyering and librarianing) come easy to me, and some I have to work at. I find it relatively easy to write dialog (comes from my years of stage managing and listening to plays as I looked over scripts to call cues), and I find it relatively easy to write description (comes from my years of reading!) I also write quickly. I have to work, though, on the discipline to turn out 200,000 words a year of published work, and I have to work on being social (I’m a very shy person!) So talent and hard work - all in some sort of balance!
Pamk — I just answered your wishes question, right above! As for other stories, I have a three-book contract for a vampire series, which will be in stores starting in 2011 (after I finish the As You Wish series.) I’m also toying with lots (and lots and lots) of other ideas… If only I had more time!
Book Splot — I suspect that my “cradle to grave” view of ereaders comes from some early projects I did as a lawyer, working on Superfund (environmental contamination) matters! Thanks for stopping by - I hope you enjoy my books!
iokijo — Thanks for stopping back!
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