Adventures in Teen Drama

Hey all,

Thanks to everyone who entered my contest to win the Australian cover of CT Fashionista. The winner is -Courtney Slavin! Congrats Courtney. :)

Last night we went to a friend's birthday party at this bar in Southie where they have trivia night. Was pretty fun - lots of great people there - but I realized I kind of suck at trivia. Sigh. I'd imagined myself so much smarter. But the questions were REALLY HARD! :)

Anyway - here's something fun and self-indulgent. One of the things I do when I research for my YA books is I go back and read my journals from back when I was in high school. Gets me into the mindset of a teen. And since you guys are along for this crazy ride - I thought I'd share an entry with you. This is from July 20th, 1991 - so nearly 14 years ago. That would make me 17 years old. I call this entry - adventures with an alpha guy.

July 20th 12:49am
Well, I guess it's really July 21st. I had the (f word)ing best day today. I worked until 2 then at 3:30 I went over Aprils and me, Ape, and Shiela went to N. Andover where all these bands were playing and Guido's Dead was one of them. We, along with a wicked lot of people that I know were these and Brian was there and he had his 9 foot Burmese Python. I touched it. It was kind of neat.

Then we went to Jim B's house to go swimming. While there, Brian comes up behind me while I was talking to Mark and put his head on my shoulder, not kissing, but having his lips touch my neck. He's like, "I know you want to kiss me!" I said, "Nah, I already have." Mark was like, "Ooh she burnt you, Brian!" But Brian, the ever coolness himself goes, "Yeah, and I gave you to Russell." So I got the ultimate burn!!! So anyways then April, Kim, Chrissinda, Sheila, Jim, Jay, John, Grahmn, Brian and some other people decided to go to the beach. I went in April's car and sat in the front with Ape on the left and Big Bri on the right. I had only eaten a chocolate chip cookie and small fri in 2 days and was dying of hunger so I was like, "Brian want to buy me some fries?" cause before he said he owed me some. (I had bought myself some and he ended up eating them all before.) He said he had no money or he'd love to. Hell, he'd even take me out to dinner.

When we got to the beach, we ony stayed for about 15 minutes. Some girl asked Brian to sleep with her on the beach, but he declined. (Surprises never cease!) He kept pulling my hair on the way home. He said I was giving him "bedroom eyes" and was "so glad he didn't go off with that girl." When I got out of the car, he made a loud kissing sound and goes, "Thanks for the kiss!" I kicked him. Now I'm home, the end.

Brian is so forward. It makes me nervous sometimes. But he is so hot - I find him sexy. Isn't that awful to write? I have no idea why I do. I would kiss him if I was positive the whole state and the wrong people wouldn't find out. He is the best kisser and if he keeps coming on to me, I'll just have to go for it!
Love,
Marianne

Funny, huh? The adventures in teen love. So dramatic! So does the young Marianne succumb to her forbidden desires? Does she indeed go and make out Brian? And what happens when her mother finds her journal and reads all about it?

You can tell me if you have any interest in me continuing the saga. :) I won't be offended either way.

Marianne

Gamer Girl

I've been a blogging slacker - I apologize! I actually did write a post yesterday, but it got eaten by blogger and I didn't feel like retyping. I promise to get back on the blog bandwagon asap.

In the meantime... MJ Rose does this cool thing on her blog where she posts author backstories. How they went about getting published or decided to write the book they did, etc. I did one for her and it was posted today if you want to take a look. Be sure to read the other authors' backstories as well. Very interesting reading!

I got copies of the Australian version of A CT Fashionista in King Arthur's Court yesterday. They're sooo cool. And in trade paperback size too! I love it! Of course they changed my tag line "Sex and the City...of Camelot" to "Desperate Housewives...of Camelot." Heh. I guess that's more timely...? Anyway - they sent me 6 copies and I really only need 1 or 2 - so I figure we should have a contest. So here's my question. You can find the answer in my excerpt. I'll draw a name from the correct entries tomorrow AM and send the winner a book.

QUESTION: What crest (color and animal) does Lancelot wear on his chest?

Remember: EMAIL ME with the answer - don't post it in the comments section. :)

It's pouring rain out AGAIN today. I freaking hate that. I can't even remember what the sun looks like! Seriously, the only thing to do in this weather is PLAY VIDEO GAMES! Woot! Which I have been doing way too much of and staying up far too late for. But it's fun. So that you can share in my geekiness, I am posting a screenshot I took below from the game I play. It's my gaming friend and I hanging out, watching the sunset. (I'm the girl, obviously.)You can click on it for a larger version...

Okay, you're scared now, huh? :) Well I can justify all this by telling you that I'm doing it as research for my new Smooch YA book that I'm working on - The Camelot Code. The main characters in the book - Sophie and Stuart - are online gamers. So I'm doing my homework. Really. Sacrifices must be made for authentic sounding books. :-P

Okay must go -
Marianne

The Camelot Code & Bad Reviews

I finished writing Boys that Bite earlier this month and have been taking a bit of a break on the whole writing thing, which is good actually - to refresh my batteries, etc. But it's also bad in a way cause well, I've got a lot of books to write. So I'm pleased to say this AM I got inspired to write the first thousand words of The Camelot Code, which is a Dorchester Smooch book. It's a time travel, like CT Fashionista, though very different in character and plot. Here's a blurb:

The Camelot Code
When fifteen year old computer whiz and gamer grrl Sophie Sawyer hacks into a website to cheat on a school project, she finds a strange code that whisks her back to the days of Camelot ? to a time where the legendary King Arthur is about the pull the sword from the stone. But what happens when Merlin suggests Arthur, the once and future king, return with her to experience the future firsthand? How is Sophie going to explain to her parents why she has a knight in shining armor living in her bedroom? And what happens when Arthur refuses to go back to Camelot to fulfill his destiny, because he?s now dating the high school?s head cheerleader?

I know it's going to be a lot of fun to write. I really enjoy writing YA books.

In other news, I got a SCATHING Amazon review last night. Major ouch.

Truly Terrible, May 23, 2005
Reviewer:M. Geyser "VBVA" (honolulu, hi United States) - See all my reviews

Kat is one totally annoying chick and Lancey was whipped, no redeeming qualities whatsoever. I had looked forward to this book very much, a big waste of paper and ink. I couldn't suffer much more beyond the 1st chapter.

Now, I was kind of sad at first to read this. I mean I love my hero Lancelot. And I think he has lots of redeeming qualities. He may be chivalrous and loyal and dedicated to a fault, but he's so not whipped. (Then again, probably hard to tell by only reading the first chapter- since he's in it for all of about 3 pages)

But then I looked at her other reviews - to see what she DOES like. Turns out she's a big fan of the Super Soaker Cps 2100. I felt a little better. **grin**

Anyway - hope you guys don't mind me poking fun at my reviewers. I feel that a truly bad review loses its devastating power when shared and put in perspective. And besides, I'm trying to journal the whole publishing process here in this blog. So that's good and bad. And my last justification is this: they put their opinions out there on the Internet for everyone to see. I have the same right to do so.

Honestly, I don't mind when people write what they honestly feel about a book. I get the fact that not everyone will love my writing style. But at the same time, I have to figure out a way to blow these reviews off in my mind so I don't sit and sulk about them. :-) What I always tell myself is that some of my favorite authors get the same kind of hot or cold reviews. People either love them or hate them - but at least they feel strongly about their work. Never a "meh" reaction.

So I don't end on a negative note, here's a very positive review I just got over at B&N.

A reviewer, May 20, 2005, A GREAT READ
I am normally very picky about my time travel romances i buy but i am proud to have spent my hard earned money on this one. Kat is funny, sarcastic, and independent, and the love story in it is beautiful. Hope there will be a sequel soon.

So there you go. You can choose which one you agree with. :-) BTW if anyone has read CT Fash and liked it and has a few extra minutes, I'd love for you to go over and write an Amazon review for me today. I hate having the bad reviews up at the top...

Thanks for listening to me blab. Got to get ready for work now... This whole "writing my new book"business is cutting into my blogging time. LOL.

Marianne

How Soon is NOW?!

Was out dancing last night til 2am. It was worth the tiredness though. The club we went to is this place in Cambridge called Manray where on most nights it's a goth club and/or a gay club. But on Saturday nights they have a more mainstream new wave night where they play 80s alternative, industrial, goth, and new wave music. There's still a huge goth and/or gay scene that attends the club, but there's no dress code or gender preference requirement to get in the door.

Anyhow, for those of you following the "RT DJ who didn't know The Smiths" thread I've been weaving in and out of posts since attending the St. Louis Roaring 20's party, you will be VERY HAPPY to know the lovely DJ at Manray (on his own accord!) played HOW SOON IS NOW by the Smiths. The very song I've been waiting to dance to for three weeks now!! Needless to say, I was soooo excited!!

He went on to play many more 80s new wave classics from The Cure, Violent Femmes, Depeche Mode, Morrissey, Duran Duran, New Order, Joy Division, etc. etc. etc. I danced 3 HOURS STRAIGHT, stopping only to get water. (I was driving and not drinking.) It was soo much fun. I love dancing to that kind of music. It brings back such memories. Just makes me so happy. There's some kind of magic in dancing. And I love the idea that people of all backgrounds and styles and philosophies can get together and become one on the dance floor.

The book party beforehand was a lot of fun too. Very fancy - with a bartender and catered food. I've never had someone throw me a party with catererd food before! It was so sweet of my friend to do so. People have been so nice about the whole book thing. I think everyone had a good time at the party. I know I did. My friend made adorable little bookmarks to stick in the copies of CT Fash. Of course, I forgot to grab one for myself! :-)

Unfortunately I have to go to a board meeting today for my local RWA chapter. I'm going to be soooo tired.

To brain dead for Question of the Day. It'll return tomorrow, I promise. If you're dying to answer something, Diana has a question for you on Comfort Films.

Oh and you can see from Alison Kent's blog, I've been "TAGGED". I promise to respond to that later today or tomorrow AM at the latest. :-) I know exactly who's going to get tagged next!!

Marianne

You Spin Me Right Round Baby, Right Round

I'm tired this morning cause I stayed up til 2am online gaming with some friends. I convinced a new friend to go buy the game we play and last night I was showing him the ropes. I love sucking people into my gaming universe. Mwahahaa. I THINK I've got him hooked already, but only time will tell. He's already a gamer, so really, it's an easy sell. Place the crack in front of him and.... heh.

Anyone who says videogames are NOT addicting is crazy. I don't think of them as a bad thing by any means. It beats shooting up heroin, right? But these online role playing games are super time suckers. Anyway - in case you are curious - this is the game we play. World of Warcraft.

I found out yesterday that another author, Joshilyn Jackson is addicted to the game as well. Unfortunately she's on a different server so we can't play together. But I'm still psyched to know there are more of us author/gamers out there!!

Anyway, enough Geek Talk. And just to prove I really do have a life as well **GRIN**, tonight a sweet and wonderful friend is throwing me a garden party to celebrate my book release. (I feel like I'm getting married with all these parties - I LOVE IT!) THEN later on, some friends and I are going to a club which plays only 80s new wave music!!! In other words, the DJ is guarenteed to not only know, but also PLAY the Smiths. Maybe more than one song!!

This is the first time I've been dancing since RT, so I'm going to enjoy myself.

Okay so that brings us to the QUESTION OF THE DAY. (And you thought it was going to end up being about videogames, didn't you!? What a relief!)


What was the record, cassette tape, cd that as a teen or pre-teen once you bought did not leave your player for months. The one you could never get sick of listening to.

Mine would be Nine Inch Nails - Pretty Hate Machine. Every song reminded me of some real life teen angst I was going through. All sung by Trent Reznor's powerful, soul sucking voice. I could listen to that album forever and never get sick of it.

Then some stupid boy who was a DJ I was dating borrowed it to use during a school dance. (He had terrible pop stuff so I was trying to educate him. See - I was criticizing DJs even back then!!) Anyhow, then we sort of broke up and he never gave it back.

Hmm... I wonder if it's on iTunes...

Anyway - what's yours?
Marianne

TGIF

I love yesterday's comments on first celebrity crushes! Some great ones in there. And I'm happy that I'm not completely alone with my Luke Skywalker obsession, though it does appear that Han Solo still has more groupies. Ah well. Less competition for Luke, I suppose. BTW, I also used to pretend I was Princess Leia, until that awkward moment when I learned she and Luke were twins. Um...

Still virtually touring with the Girlfriend Cyber Circuit. Today I'm scheduled to appear on Melanie Lynn Hauser's (Confessions of a Super Mom) Refrigerator Door blog. Andi Buchanan's Mother Shock blog, Ann Marie Michaels (Cooking to Hook Up) blog, and Kathleen O'Reilly's (The Diva's Guide to Selling Your Soul) Diary of a Mad Romance Writer blog.

Also, I realize I forgot to mention yesterday I guest blogged on E. Lockhart's (The Boyfriend List) blog. I did a "Boyfriend List" of my own for her... including all my little grade school to high school boyfriends. How fun is that? I love exposing all my childhood secrets on the Internet. hah. Check it out if you have a chance.

I'm soo happy it's Friday!! AND it's not supposed to rain this weekend - knock on wood! It's rained the past four weekends in Massachusetts. BLEH. I can not WAIT for summer. I used to live in San Diego and it was sunny and nice every single day. I want that back!!

Okay, you guys seem to like my questions of the day (and I love reading your answers!) ... so here's another...

What is your favorite romantic movie and why?

It doesn't have to be a classic. For example, I'm going with Reality Bites, a love story for Gen X, starring (yum!) Ethan Hawke and Winona Ryder and Ben Stiller.

The unrequitted love (til the end) of Ethan and Winona. The akwardness and torment after they sleep together and he runs away. Her having to choose between the well meaning corporate dork who can make all her dreams come true (while inadvertantly cheapening them in the process) and the dark, tortured poet who can't make a commitment to save himself even though he loves her with every fiber in his being.

What can I say? It's not Casablanca, but it's something I, as a Gen X'er, really realated to. I've watched the movie more than a dozen times and still cry during the section where he calls her from the hospital and hangs up before saying anything.

Okay, what's yours? It can be anything - from Gone with the Wind to Pyromaniacs: A Love Story. Everyone's different and what speaks to you may not speak to anyone else and you know what? That's okay!

Mar

Life, the Universe, and First Celebrity Crushes

Hey all,

Still on the Girlfriend Cyber Circuit virtual booktour. Check me out on Alison Pace's (If Andy Warhol had a Girlfriend) blog, Johanna Edward's (The Next Big Thing) blog, and I believe later today Joshilyn Jackson's (gods in Alabama) blog.

All this touring, without ever leaving my seat. Nice. If any 0f you found me from their sites - welcome! Thanks for stopping by! If you have any questions/comments about CT Fashionista, life in general, or 80s song lyrics, feel free to post them in the comments section. :-)

So are any of you Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy fans? Remember how I said I wanted to see that movie? Well, someone just told me yesterday that they turned it into a LOVE STORY!? Huh? What was Hollywood thinking? That's just wrong. I'm no longer interested in seeing it. Such a disapointment.

Keeping on the movie note, anyone see Star Wars at midnight last night? Not me. I'm waiting to see if it comes out at the Omni IMAX theater. I saw Episode 2 there on the huge screen with the killer sound system. It made up for the bad acting and stupid plot. Well, sort of. Okay, not really. But isn't Hayden Christensen kind of hot?

I loved all your 80s movie comments yesterday, btw. So many good ones. I also got an email yesterday from a 16 year old named Abby (hi Abby!) who says this:

P.S.- Favorite movie of the '80s is definitely The Breakfast Club.

And yes, I realize that I wasn't born until '88, and that the only movies I actually watched in the '80s were those that included Big Bird or Barney. But I watched Breakfast Club for my sociology class last year, and it's definitely a keeper.

People are watching Breakfast Club as part of a Sociology class? That's sooo very cool! Thanks for sharing that, Abby!!

Okay here's the new question of the day:

Who was your first celebrity crush?

Mine was Mark Hamill, aka Luke Skywalker. I never realized this was unusual, but now that I'm an adult, I've realized that most people saw Han Solo as the sexy one. Me, I loved Mark. Okay, he didn't age well, I understand. But come on - in that black suit in Return of the Jedi... This is what 9 year old fantasies are made of!!

Andrew McCarthy and Simon LeBon come in a close second and third.

So who was your first celebrity crush? Come on - dish!
Marianne

Out of this Blogosphere!

When I started blogging, I wondered if I'd think of enough things to say. Now it seems like I never have time to blog about everything that I want.

So.. quickly:

1) I've invited to join a really premiere group of paranormal romance writers for a new blog project called Out of this Blogosphere. MaryJanice Davidson, Angela Knight, Julie Kenner, Robin Owens, CJ Barry, Nina Bangs, just to name a few. The project was spearheaded by Gena Showalter and agent/author Deidre Knight. It's going to be really cool! I'm so psyched to be a part of it. You can see the web ring link on the right column of my page.

2) I'm currently on tour with the Girlfriend Cyber Circuit. You can find an interview with me on Gayle Brandeis's blog today. I believe I will also be featured on Karin Gillespie?s Diary of a Hype Hag blog and Megan Crane's blog later today. I love the Girlfriend Cyber Circuit. As an author, it's a great, free way to publicize your books. And as a reader, it's fun to learn about some of the great new books coming out.

3) "A Connecticut Fashionista in King Arthur's Court" was selected as a TOP PICK over at Romance Readers of the Heart. And what a great review!!! Thanks soo much ladies!

4) It's my MOM'S BIRTHDAY! HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM! (GAH - now I'm wondering if Mom is reading my blog. It's hard enough thinking of my dad reading my book... luckily he says he skips the sex scenes...)

5) It's also my dog's birthday. However, I know she doesn't read my blog so I can trash her. ;-)

AND FINALLY:

QUESTION OF THE DAY (So this isn't all about me)

What is your favorite teen 80s movie?

Mine is "Some Kind of Wonderful." I had a relationship similar to that in high school/college. A guy I was in love with who I had to play the "best friend" role with, while he dated other girls. I did end up getting him in the end (as Watts does) but then realized we were probably better off as friends. Or um, enemies, actually. :-) But as for the movie, I still cry everytime I watch the last scene where Eric Stoltz gives Watts the earrings. Now that's romance to me. I wish I could write something that powerful.

Plus I love the Flesh for Lulu theme song, "I Go Crazy." I'm sure the RT DJ never heard of it though.

Lights, Camera, GAH!

Okay, so I've worked in TV for 9 years. You'd think it wouldn't be a big deal at all for me to go in front of the camera to do a live interview about my book, right?

Um, turns out - WRONG.

I was featured on CN8's Nitebeat last night. A cable program that is aired all down the eastern seaboard to anyone who has Comcast cable. When asked to be on the show, I thought, "Hey, no problem." I wasn't nervous at all. Until I got there. And got made up by the makeup artist. And went under the hot lights. And chatted live and off the cuff for 8 or so minutes with the male host about my book. And tried to make witty commentary when he brought up Fabio.

For those of you who've never done it, I'll tell you now. It was scary. Very, very scary. And I'm a freaking TV Producer! I calm people down in front of the camera for a living. I tell them it's no big deal. Don't be nervous. It's just two people chatting.

I'm such a liar.

Hopefully I came off sounding okay. Hopefully it will introduce some new people to my book. Cause after I came off the set, I was SHAKING. Luckily the host, Barry Nolan, was great and asked good questions. That was the only thing that got me through it.

The things we do to promote our books!
Mar

Just another Manic Monday

It's Monday so my big post is over at the Literary Chicks blogsite. I must confess I kind of got a bit snarky this morning... but it was fun. Check it out. Comment here if you like, since they don't have comments enabled.

I'm going to be on TV tonight! The Comcast Cable station CN8 is hosting me on their Nitebeat show at 7pm. I'll be doing a live (gah!) interview with Barry Nolan (Former anchor of Hard Copy) about CT Fashionista. If you live on the eastern seaboard and get Comcast cable, check it out. If you miss the live version, but have ON DEMAND, you can find it stored there after it airs.

That's all for now! If you want more blog hopping, be sure to check out Liz Maverick's real life "Conference Chicken" photos! (Just don't ask her about the poem!) Scary stuff. And MaryJanice Davidson has finally gone to the dark side and started a blog. Woot! You've got to read her rant on Beverly Feldman shoes!! And finally, feel free to add to the lively "Hot British Men" discussion going on in the comments section of my post yesterday.

Marianne

Sin City and "Ohhh Aflie!!"

Sin City was really really cool. It was literally a comic book, come to life. Amazing visuals. Just so creative and artistic. I adored it. Sure, the storyline was a little weak, but the special effects more than made up for it. Oh, it's really, really violent as well. (After all, it is a Rodriguez/Tarantino flick.) So if you're sensitive to that kind of stuff - stay away. But if you like overly stylized films, make sure you see it before it leaves theaters.

I also rented Alfie (The Jude Law version) and watched it in the afternoon. All I can say is - how is it possible for one man to look sooo good? Jude Law is my ultimate guy. There is absolutely no one in the universe who outranks him in the looks and charm department. Then again, I've never been one of those girls who goes for guys who are really muscular and masculine. I hate Alpha heroes. As those of you who know me in real life can vouch for, I've always been a sucker for a well dressed, lanky, English "pretty boy" who is intelligent and charming. (And hopefully not gay!) I think it all stems back to my early obsession with David Bowie...

Marianne

Happy Saturday!

Happy Saturday!

For those of you who asked, the party was great. It was at this hip bar called "The Living Room" on Boston's waterfront neighborhood. Very cool space which, as its name implies, has loungy couches which make for a very relaxed atmosphere. I hadn't planned on staying for more than a drink, but then I got to talking and actually stayed much later and had a lot of fun.

Then this AM I went shopping and found some new work clothes (which I sorely needed) and a dress for the Golden Hearts/Rita dinner they're having at the National RWA conference this year. The dress is really cool - it's white and flowy and sort of looks like a Greek Goddess kind of thing. Not something I normally would have ever thought of wearing, but I love it. Now I just need some silver strappy sandals and cool jewelry.

Parties and shopping. This is what weekends should always be made of.

I think I'm going to the movies tonight. Not sure what we're going to see. I've been outvoted on Hitchiker's Guide to the Galaxy already. (My friends aren't as geeky as I am.) I'm thinking maybe Kingdom of Heaven would be good - as it's one of those ones you want to see on the big screen. I heard that Kung Fu Hustle is funny, but maybe that's better as a rental. I hardly EVER get to the movies - so I want to be sure to see something good.

Okay I've bored you long enough with my weekend ramblings! Hope yours is just as fun!
Marianne

Add it Up, Add it Up

So much blogging to do ... so little time to do it in...

One - If you haven't been following The League of Extraordinary Gentlewomen on Gena Showalter and Diana Peterfreund's blogs, you must go there now. Absolutely hilarious stuff. And you will find out my super alter ego -- Comedia! Able to save a sagging plot in a single humorous bound! But beware - the villians writers face - Bad Covera, Overlord Leixicon, Fickle Muse - are strong enemies indeed.

Two - Found a cool new review of CT Fashionista if you're into reading that kind of thing.

Three - IT'S FRIDAY!! Wooooot! And I'm off to a PARTY.

Four: Speaking of Diana - she goes on a good rant about YA fiction on her blog today. Okay, it's more like a discussion, rather than a rant. But read it. It's good.

Five - Red Pen Diaries does a RT wrap-up. Interesting and honest analysis of the conference. No mention of zoot suits.

Six - eFoodie talks about my book release party and what a cool bar Croma is. I agree!!

Seven - I never did post the martini recipes from aforementioned Croma party. Here you go. Drink up! Just don't drive afterwards. I'd never forgive myself.

The Fashionista Martini
1 oz Citadelle Apple Vodka
½ oz Brandy
½ oz Cointreau
Garnish with an Apple Slice

King Arthur's Martini
1 oz Patron Gold Tequila
1 oz Grand Marnier
½ oz Orange Juice
½ oz Fresh Lemon Sour
Garnished with an Orange Slice

Mancusi's Martini
1 oz Parrot Bay Rum
1 oz Blue Curacao
½ oz Pineapple Juice
Garnish with an Orange Slice

Eight - "Oh I forget was eight was for... but nine... nine... "

Nine - If you don't know what that above song lyric is from, go sit in the corner with the RT DJ who didn't know who the Smiths were.

Ten - I'm KIDDING. I'm not a musical snob. Really. But come on - who can name that tune!?

Okay this blog has gone downhill fast. Must start weekend.

Marianne

GCC: The Bitch Posse

Ooh - we've got a great book up today as part of the Girlfriend Cyber Circuit! I'm so excited about this one. It's called "The Bitch Posse" and it's a St. Martin's book by debut author Martha O'Connor.

The dark story of three very different best friends whose lives change forever on one fateful night in high school, The Bitch Posse explores secrets, lies, betrayals and the deep relationships we form that no one can truly understand

Edgy doesn't begin to describe this one. I mean how many books out there come with a warning label? Or have been nominated for the Nerve.com's Henry Miller Award for best literary sex scene? I ask you!?

Anyhow, enough of me blabbing - here's the blurb:

With bold and unflinching language, O'Connor weaves past and present from the perspectives of three best friends, Rennie, Amy, and Cherry as rebellious teens and then as grown women in their mid-30's coping with the repercussions of their actions. As high school seniors, the girls form a tight circle of friends which they name the Bitch Posse? in order to lash out against tumultuous situations in their lives. But as steadfast as their friendship is, it's not enough to protectthe girls from circumstances that cause all three of their lives to spiral out of control.

Rennie has a doomed affair with her married drama teacher, which results in her bearing the psychic weight of an abortion and a blighted love. Amy's parents think their daughter has thrown over her bad-news friends, and upon learning their daughter has become a drug and alcohol addict (not unlike themselves) they turn their backs on her. Cherry's mother finds solace in cocaine, then heroin, leaving her daughter to target her rage at someone, anyone, over whom she has control.

Flash-forward to the present, where one girl is now a wife and mother-to-be, trying to uphold a life of normalcy for herself and herfamily. One is a writer with a sexual addiction that sucks her into destructive relationships. And one is incarcerated in a mental hospital ? and has been since one fateful night fifteen years ago, when a betrayal led them to commit a crime that profoundly changed their destinies. Fascinated by the struggle between good and evil within the human spirit, Martha O'Connor delves into the dark side of human nature, the intensity of female friendship, and the possibilities of redemption inTHE BITCH POSSE.

Emotionally raw, upsetting, and provocative, this is the introduction of a huge new talent and will leave readers reeling this season. As Edmund White says, "The Bitch Posse is a debut worthy of Joyce Carol Oates."

Doesn't that sound sooo intriguing?? Oh, I know, I know.. You guys just want to read this potential award sex scene don't you? Sigh. I try and try to educate...

Fine. Here you go. Make sure your children are out of the room first.... I'm so not ready to start corrupting minors on this blog.

Marianne

When Editors Go AWOL

Okay, not really AWOL, but my editor Kate Seaver officially announced yesterday that she's leaving Dorchester and moving on to be a senior editor at Berkley. I'm sooo sad. I mean, happy for her, of course, since it's what she wants, but sad for myself cause I loved working with her soo much.

The good news is they've replaced her with the darling Leah Hultenschmidt, who is really nice and smart and likes the Red Sox. So I'm not as sad as I would be otherwise. I'm sure Leah will be great to work with. Leah will also be taking over the YA "Smooch" line, so if you have any of those types of stories, send 'em to her now instead. Congrats Leah on the promotion!!!

I don't mean to get mushy here - so not my style - but really, Kate changed my whole life by giving me my first book deal. She believed in me when no other editor did. She loved my writing and encouraged my weird, off-the-wall cross-genre stories. She is a true gem of an editor and Berkley is lucky to get her.

I'll miss you, Kate!!

Marianne

Party Pictures!

Hi all,

Well, I'm happy to report that the book release party was a rousing success. We had a GREAT turnout and everyone seemed to have a blast. The Mancusi martini was yummy - though I only had a taste. (I was sort of afraid that drinking a whole one would have an adverse affect on my signing books ability.)

Special thank you to all the folks at Croma they really went above and beyond the call of duty to ensure this party was a success. And the waitstaff was fun and friendly. If you ever need a venue for a special event in Boston - I highly recommend you give them a call!

My friend Mary was nice enough to take photos. Here are a few:

Those are just a small sampling. She took about 40 photos - so if you were there and want to see all of them - you can find them here.

Anyway - thanks to all of you who came. It was such a blast! I love you all.

Marianne

Everyday is like Tuesday...

Tonight's the night of my book release party! Whoo hoo!! I know you're probably sick of hearing about it at this point, so all I'll say is I hope to see some of you there - and if you can't come, but still want to sample one of the three specialty martinis, Fresh Fiction has put the recipes on their website. And I promise to post pictures.

Watched a very interesting low-budget movie last night on Starz called "A Midsummer Night's Rave." It was basically the plot of the Shakespeare play, but set at a Southern California rave. Very different. I really liked it, but then, as a former raver girl, I'm a bit biased.

Other things of note:

Dorchester posted some more photos from the RT Convention. Check 'em out.

Author Liz Maverick FINALLY hopped on the blog bandwagon and now seems quite addicted to the sport! (Told yah, Liz!) Since she's such a world traveler, her blog has exciting photos of places like Thailand on it. (And blatently stolen RT photos from me!) Oh, and if you've come from her site to sulk with the people who don't know who The Smiths are, the lyrics she quotes are from a "They Might Be Giants" song. Go on back and pretend you knew it all along. I won't tell.

Okay enough blabbing for now...
Marianne

Good Looking Guys of Boston Unite

Think there will be a bunch of hotties at my Boston book party tomorrow night? Vanessa Virtue has laid down the gauntlet and perhaps we will all benefit from her cute-guy crisis challenge!!!! :-)

BTW... you've heard the one about the infinite monkeys and the infinite typewriters producing Shakespeare, right? Well what if you offered them blogging software?

I don't know where my friends find this stuff. Honestly.

Marianne

Guest Blogging

As I mentioned before, I'm guest blogging once a week at the Literary Chicks site this month. My Monday blog is up there now. It's on getting a buzz going on your book when you don't have any money to do so. Check it out! If you have any comments on my post there, you can post them here, as they don't allow comments on their blog.

I've decided I like comments. Thanks Larrissa for convincing me!! :-)

More later...
Marianne

Boo -- No Emmy!

Well, the Emmy awards dinner was last night. I didn't go 'cause I didn't have a spare $110 to spend on a ticket. Anyway, it was lucky I didn't, 'cause I didn't win. Booo! But I'm not too broken up about it. After all, I won the last 2 years I entered and this year I HAVE A BOOK. Which is, in my opinion, far more exciting than some statue. :-)

I got a really nice new review up on Amazon yesterday and part of it cracked me up. It said, "This Author was SO obviously raised in front of a TV, receiving the typical American educational upbringing courtesy of modern day television programing." ha!

My mom would sooo freak out if she read that! And actually the reviewer is completely wrong. Growing up, my brother and I had no cable, we weren't allowed to watch MTV or HBO over friends' houses, and were sent to a private Christian school. Very, very sheltered from anything worldly.

It wasn't til I was older that I crash coursed pop culture because I was so starving for it by that time. :-) Became a child of the 80s, and never looked back.

Still, it was a really nice review, so thanks to whoever wrote it.

Marianne

Random Stuff

Hey all,

Got my cover flats and galleys for Sk8er Boy yesterday. That was a fun surprise. I think publishers put them in the same envelope on purpose so authors are like "Ooh cover flats!" and then "Ugh, galleys." heh. But since Sk8er Boy is only 45k, it'll take no time to read through them. Also, I love the cover even more now that I see the flats. So cute.

My editor at Berkley also wrote me yesterday saying that she loved Boys that Bite, calling it "wonderful" and saying it's "one of those few YA books that really gets the combo of sweet and spicy just right." Awh! I was really nervous about whether they would like it or not. With Kate at Dorchester, I feel I know her well enough now to get what she likes. But with Berkley, I was completely in the dark. So what a relief. The changes she asked for are really, really minor as well. Yay! Also, what's cool is she said the publisher is so excited about this book they're releasing it in April now instead of May! I cannot WAIT to see the cover! I hope it's Buffy the Vampire Slayer'ish and not too cartoony.

Don't forget if you're in the Boston area that I have a book release party on Tuesday after work. (Around 6:30pm - 8:30pm) It's at Croma Boston (formerly Davio's) 269 Newbury St. They put me on their website, which is cool (www.cromaboston.com) and check out the specialty martinis they are offering: A Fashionista Martini, a King Arthur Martini, and even a Mancusi Martini. Too cool! I've never had my own drink before. :-) Something tells me my handwriting is going to be awfully sloppy for those signings!!!

More tomorrow...
Marianne

Hang the DJ, Hang the DJ, Hang the DJ

This is another RT story. You know the girl in American Pie who always says, "One time in band camp"? Well, for the next week or so, that's going to be me.

One time in RT...

It's Saturday night. The Dorchester Roaring Twenties party. There's flappers. There's a DJ and dancing. The wine's flowing and everyone's in the mood to party. Except for one little problem. The music SUCKS.

So Cindy Holby, Dorchester author, goes up to the DJ.

Cindy: "Hey can you play some dance music?"

DJ: Well, I played dance music the other nights and people are sick of hearing the same songs.
(evidently he has limited supply of this so-called "dance music" though he seems well stocked in 70s disco diva empowerment songs.)

Cindy: Um, well people are leaving in droves because of this "new" music you're playing, so maybe some repetition wouldn't be such a bad thing.

DJ: (shrugs) Well we'll see what I can do.

Well, the music does not get better. In fact, it starts "Raining Men." So Chris K. and I decide perhaps the man behind the turntables needs a more "specific" request, rather than the vague term "dance music." But what should we request?

Well, first we decide it must be 80s music. Then we decide The Smiths "How Soon is Now" would be a good choice. (Of course, this is a true testament to our state of mind, as this song is not exactly an upbeat dance tune, but whatever.)

Chris goes to tell the DJ and comes back a minute later.

Chris: He doesn't know the Smiths.
Me: You mean he doesn't HAVE The Smiths.
Chris: No. I mean he doesn't know them. He's never heard of them.
Me: What the...?

Could it be possible? Could this man never have become acquainted with Morrissey and Johney Marr and the whole depressing gang? I mean, I understand that not everyone listens to the same type of music. Not everyone was a child of the 80s. But this guy's a DJ. He makes a living playing music. You'd think the influential 80s new wave band would have somehow, at some point, shown up as a blip on his radar. Sure, maybe he doesn't put them into regular rotation, but not ever heard of them?

We took a impromptu poll and discovered, to our shock and horror, that there were several people there who also did not have any clue as to who The Smiths were. So very sad to think that a band that so profoundly influenced me as a high schooler could have completely escaped notice by others.

So.... anyway - if you're one of those people who have been missing out on some truly excellent 80s music, please take note of the following links and get ready for some Smiths 101.

• Ask Me, Ask Me, Ask Me
• Shoplifters Unite
• It May All End Tomorrow
• Cemetary Gates
• Morrissey Solo

That should get you started!! Just don't get too depressed... ;-)

Marianne

Buzzing about the Daily Buzz

Wow - yesterday sure was a busy day at Cosmos and Chat. I usually get around 30-40 visits a day - yesterday I got over 100. I'd love to think it's because you missed me while I was away at RT, but I'm guessing it had more to do with me posting pics of Chris Kesslar. Sigh. But hey, I'm sure Chris doesn't mind me exploiting him to hock books, right? After all, it's good for Dorchester, too. ;-) (Note to self: bring camera to Nationals...)

Today "A Connecticut Fashionista in King Arthur's Court" was featured on the WB's "The Daily Buzz" show as a May pick of the month. (The other pick was Kyra Davis's RDI book Sex, Murder and a Double Latte.) Lit Chick Kristin Harmel wrote a terrific review! You can check it out here.

Okay gotta run out on a shoot. May try to write more later as I feel rather chatty today.

Marianne

Literary Chicks

I think I mentioned before that I am the Literary Chicks guest blogger this month. I did my first post today, if anyone wants to wander over and take a peek. :-) I'm psyched to be a part of such a fun blog site, even if it is only for a month. I'll be posting once a week - normally on Mondays, but they gave me a much needed dispensation this week cause of my RT exhaustion. And I'll be giving away books over there as well.

Mar

RT Photos!!!

Okay here you have it!! Photos from the Romantic Times Convention. Let me know what you think of Dorchester senior editor Chris Keesler's Zoot Suit!! :-)
Marianne

Crimson City Girls - Liz Maverick and Marjorie M. Liu

Liz Maverick and me - introducing RT to Chick Lit (no, it's not gum!)

Mystery Chick Susan McBride and Everything Chick Alesia Holliday
The Chick Lit Panel - Michelle Cunnah, Alesia Holliday, Shane Bolks, Liz Maverick, & me
Look Ma! I'm on a poster!
My very first book signing! Too bad I didn't sell as many copies as Laurell K. Hamilton
Speaking of the illustrious Laurell... Maybe some of her fame will rub off on me!
Mr. Romance Pageant - insert snarky comment here.
Me and Dorch editor Chris Keeslar, vamping it up at the Dorchester Roaring Twenties Party
Stylin' Pimp hat, Chris. Doesn't Dorchester Diva Diane Stacey look adorable?
Diane with Dorchester's newest Lolly - American Title Winner (!!) Janice Lynn. Also Joy Nash

GCC: gods in Alabama

Okay we'll get to the juicy RT pics in the next entry (patience is a virtue, Diana **grin**) But first up we have a Girlfriend Cyber Circuit book to tell you about. Joshilyn Jackson and her Southern Fiction book gods in Alabama.

Here's a blurb:

When Arlene Fleet headed off to college in Chicago, she made three promises to God: She would never again lie, she would stop fornicating with every boy who crossed her path, and she'd never, ever go back to her tiny hometown of Possett, Alabama (the "fourth rack of Hell"). All God had to do in exchange was to make sure the body of high school quarterback Jim Beverly was never found. Ten years later, Arlene has kept her promises, but an old school-mate has recently turned up asking questions. And now Arlene's African American beau has given her a tough ultimatum: introduce him to her family, or he's gone. As she prepares to confront guilt, discrimination, and a decade of deception, Arlene is about to discover just how far she will go to find redemption - and love.

Sounds intriguing, huh? Joshilyn got a starred review from Library Journal. They said, "Forget steel magnolias---meet titanium blossoms in Jackson's debut novel, a potent mix of humor, murder, and a dysfunctional Southern family."

If you're curious how she got her interesting title and what's influenced Joshilyn in her writing, you can check out a q&a she has on her website. And if you're curious what's up next for this talented Southern novelist, you can read about her upcoming novel Between, Georgia.

You can order gods in Alabama here.

Back from RT!

I am back from RT and what an amazing time I had. It was soo much fun. I could go on all day. I also have PICTURES - including way cool blackmail ones of Dorchester editor Chris Keesler in a Zoot Suit during the Dorchester Roaring 20's party. **grin** I'm too exhausted to upload at the moment, but I promise they're worth the wait!!

Anyway - if you have yet to experience the madness of RT - I highly recommend it for next year. I wasn't sure I would like it, but I had a really good time. I was able to connect with many readers and booksellers and met and signed a lot of books at the booksigning. I was pleased to hear people come up and say, "Oh I've heard of this!" or "I've been dying to get this!" And especially pleased to hear the Barnes and Noble bookseller walk by and remark, "Oh this book's doing REALLY well." Yay!!

And the parties were really cool as well. There was a masquerade ball - and you should have seen all the people's costumes. Then the next night there was a Vampires in Oz ball, which was also quite interesting. But the best party of them all was the Dorchester Roaring 20s party. Even though the DJ didn't know who The Smiths were (sorry Chris!) we danced until they kicked us out. Then we went up to the bar and hung out until 3:30am. I was sooo tired the next day, but it was totally worth it.

I hung out mostly with the Dorchester crowd - many of whom I met in person for the first time. What a great group!!! Everyone made me feel like I was part of the family. I love that! Unfortunately my editor Kate Seaver couldn't come, which was sad, but Chris K took care of us all very well, along with Diane Stacey who is so fun and nice!!! Wait til you see Diane's flapper costume. It rocked!!

I'm sad to have to go back to reality today, but I guess we'll always have conference chicken. (Sorry private joke - trademarked by Liz Maverick so I am not at liberty to explain.) Now I can't WAIT for Nationals. Though I'm thinking that won't be as much fun since there's no dancing...

Marianne

Bye til Sunday!

I'm off to the wacky wild world of RT... Will report in on Sunday when I return. I promise to take lots of pics!

See ya soon!
Marianne

"Meh" Blogs

My friend Diana writes:

I begin to wonder if I'm supposed to be using my blog for thoughtful, erudite posts about the art of storytelling or the endless pursuit of craft or something that marks me as a *real* writer, rather than silly internet quizzes, snapshots of my flowers, or pointless regurgitations of my GH scores.

Then she contemplates giving up blogging altogether because of it.

Now, as a rule, I hate blogging about blogging, but I had to address this one. As a blog reader, I very much enjoy rambling posts about nothing. I like to find out what went on in that author's life that day. How she's feeling, what she did, her doubts, hopes and fears. What she's looking forward to, what she dreads. In fact, I'm not such a big fan of the essay blogs--if I get in the mood to read them though, there's plenty of sites that post thought-provoking stuff every day the week. But truthfully, I often prefer reading off-the-cuff comments about whatever is on the blogger's mind at that moment. This, to me, is the real attraction to blog reading.

You're never going to find long, thought-out, witty prose on my blog. Like I said, there are plenty of other sites that offer that - so I know you won't to go starving for it. My blog only promises "rambling thoughts and other fun stuff." It's a place where anyone who'd like to can travel the road to publication with me. Witness my doubts, hopes, and fears -- unedited and imperfect and not in essay form. I'll take you on field trips to cool and disturbing stuff I found on the web. And once in a while we can even take quizes to find out "what kind of X" we are.

I'm not going to apologize if sometimes it's boring. Cause other times it's exciting. (Okay, maybe not exciting, but at least a bit juicy...) And Diana, I don't think you should either.

Marianne

An Australian Fashionista...

Ooh check it out! In Australia, CT Fashionista is being published by Random House and there's a completely different cover. I just found out what it looks like today. Take a look:

I think it's pretty darn cool, don't you? Very different than the US version. (Which I also like.) It's so interesting to see what the different cover artists have Kat wearing. In the actual book she starts off wearing Armani silk pants and a D&G black top. And then she pretty much wears medieval clothes for the remainder of the book. But I guess that's not sexy enough for a cover.

Marianne

The Great Amazon Mystery

So I told you two days ago about my one star review from Amazon and how the person said my writing was excellent, but personally didn't like first person and thus found it unreadable.

Well, that review has mysteriously disapeared.

Where did it go? I have no idea. Did the reviewer have a change of heart? (If so, thank you reviewer, thank you, thank you, thank you!) Did someone click "Report This" and "Unhelpful" and Amazon agreed and took it down? Even though it was a strange review, I've read much more biting things that aren't removed, so I can't imagine this is the case. But if not, then what?

Oh well, I'm not trying to look the gift horse in the mouth, believe me. Whatever the reason, I'm just glad it's gone. Still, this whole Amazon phenomenon is very interesting...

Marianne

Performance Anxiety

Deidre Knight (as author not agent) has a good post about first book performance anxiety on her personal blog today. I found it very helpful and reassuring...

Marianne

Lyme Disease, Amazon, & Kwana

The poor dog that we're babysitting starting badly limping this weekend. We took him to the vet and found out he has high levels of lyme disease. Ugh. Poor little guy - he's only 10 months old. They put him on antibiotics and he seems to be doing better, but still. Yuck. Such an awful disease for dogs and humans. :-(

In book news, watched Amazon ranking yesterday. Low of around 8,000. High of about 25,000. Not sure what that means, of course, so really even mentioning it is silly. I won't go look again. Really, I won't. **grin**

Monday shout out to my friend Kwana - a most excellent chick from NYC. She just got an agent!! You go girl!!! Kwana's the artist behind the Chick Lit group's artwork. Very talented in lots of ways.

Gotta go to work... more later.

Marianne

Yup, I'm fluffy and first person

Don't you hate when people inadvertantly insult you and they have no idea they're even doing it? I went out with a group of people last night and this girl was like:

Girl: "That's so cool about your book coming out."
Me: "Thanks."
Girl: "I'm going to buy it and I'll even read it."
Me: Um, okay. Cool. (thinks: EVEN read it?)
Girl: "I mean I don't NORMALLY read those kinds of books - well, that's not true. I do like SOME fluff, I guess...
Me: Um...

And honestly, I know she was trying to be supportive and nice, while at the same time informing me of her normal, much more intellectual taste in literature. So should I be grateful that she's going to do me the favor of lowering herself to my level to read my book? Hmm...

Please people hear me now! If you dont't want to read CT Fashionista, you don't have to. Honestly, I don't mind. I won't be insulted. I know it's not for everyone. For example, my first Amazon reviewer. She was so mad that it was written in first person, so she gave me one star, even though she said the writing is excellent. Um... I understand that some people don't like first person, but did you have to destroy my Amazon rating due to your personal preference of POV?

Sigh.

Onto more fun positive stuff:

Found this cool site that tracks blogs called Technorati. You can type in something and it will list all the blog mentions in the last few months. Pretty cool.

Author Gena Showalter writes in her blog that she's been "itching to get her greedy hands on" CT Fashionista and that she's "so excited about it." Awh, thanks Gena!! I can't wait to read your first Alien Huntress series book "Awaken Me Darkly." It looks so good!! :-)

And finally, my agent read "Boys that Bite"... and says it's "submit-ready." Yay!! Hopefully Cindy and Susan at Berkley will love it too!!

Happy Sunday!
Marianne

Stressin'

Thanks to those of you who said they headed to the bookstore to see if CT Fashionista was there. I haven't heard of any sightings yet, but I'm sure it'll be soon. I'm told it's actually a good thing for an author if the bookstores don't put the books out early because it negatively affects your chances for bestseller list. You want to have everyone buy the book in the same opening week to get the biggest impact on the lists. NOT that I think I'll be a bestseller, believe me. Just sayin.

I'm so glad it's Saturday. This week dragged. I think it's the book anticipation that's making my everyday life miserable. I imagine this is what a pregnant woman feels like a week before she's due. Excited, scared, uncomfortable, drained. The works.

The good thing is I'm not alone. Even bestselling authors like Katie MacAlister still agnst about their upcoming books. Actually, maybe that's actually a bad thing, as it means that many books down the line I'll still never get over the stressed out feeling. Of course, I think I'd feel better if my book was NUMBER 35 on Barnes and Noble's sales rank as Katie's is, rather than 51,285. Ah well. :-) Maybe someday...

Hey - this is cool. My friend Marley does a blog in the voice of a character of her novel Vanessa Virtue. And it was quoted in the Boston Globe online blog log. Neat, huh?

Oh and Alesia Holliday mentions CT Fashionista in her PWOPB (Procrastinating with other people's books) list on the Literary Chicks blog. BTW I'm going to be a guest literary chick on this blog in May.

Okay that's all for now. Happy Saturday everyone.

Marianne

Gah!!

I just learned that Amazon and Barnes and Noble are now shipping copies of CT Fashionista! It's on sale. It's really on sale. Hmm.. I wonder if stores have it yet.. will have to check!

Hopefully now some people will buy it....
Mar (freaking out.. a lot)

Okay I can spill now!!

Yay DIANA!!!!

Fiction Debut:

Yale grad Diana Peterfreund's CONFESSIONS OF A (SECRET) SOCIETY
GIRL, following the irreverent and intrigue-filled adventures of an average college student who just happens to be a member of one of the most notorious secret societies in the world, to Kerri Buckley at Bantam Dell, in a significant deal, at auction, by Deidre Knight of The Knight Agency (NA). Film rights are with Matthew Snyder at CAA.

I'm sooo proud and happy for you, Diana!!! And totally drooling over the SIGNIFICANT DEAL part!!!!!! How much do you ROCK!?!?

Go congratulate her.. NOW!

Mar

Shhhh

Don't you love/hate it when a friend tells you their exciting news but hasn't officially announced it yet so you can't post big cheering words on your blog about them?? Ah well. Stay tuned!

Mar

Newbs!

Sometimes if you've been on an email loop for a while, all the questions asked become super annoying. You've heard and answered the same ones a thousand times and you're sick of the list being clogged up by them. And in the back of your mind, you're thinking to yourself, "God save me from newbies!" It's mean, but you know you do.

An example of one such post:

Hi all,I'm new to this email loop but have been loving the discussions so far. Now I have a question to pose. How does one write a chicklit synopsis? I guess what I'm asking is whether it's diff than say a straight romance type synopsis. I mean, should the synopsis be witty and funny and have attitude like the book? Or more straight - just stick to the facts/plotline? Does anyone have an example ofa good chicklit synopsis they could post (or email me)? Since it's such a new genre, there's not as much info about it as other types of synopses.Thanks!

Okay now who wrote this post? Someone just getting into the genre. Someone totally clueless. Someone you might like to hit over the head with a rubber mallet and say, "Do your homework!"

Someone like... me!!!

Yup - I pulled this post from the archives of the Chick Lit loop. I originally posted it August 2003. I was working on my first chick lit and had just joined the loop and really, honestly, had no idea how to write a chick lit synopsis. Sadly, no one responded to my post and I was left to fend in synopsis land by myself. I remember feeling like such an outsider - all these cliquey writers had their own friends and discusssions and didn't care about me and my little just-started manuscript.

I almost quit the loop right then and there.

Anyway - I guess my point is, lest we forget, we were all newbies in the writing world once. We weren't born all knowing. So when someone asks what you might consider a dumb question, think for a moment where they are coming for. And maybe answer the "dumb question," even though you've answered it a thousand times before. Because in this way you will nuture and grow that writer and someday they will be able to pay it forward to other newbs.

Back in the summer of 2003, the prolific Alesia Holliday hadn't made her first fiction sale. Lani Diane Rich didn't have a title for Time Off for Good Behavior. Katie Maxwell had to head to the bookstore to get a glimpse of her first Emily Smooch book. And I was a complete newbie, writing a little book I called "A Connecticut Fashionista in King Arthur's Court" - with no idea how to write a synopsis for it.

Just sayin'

Marianne

In my hot little hands

Yesterday, for the first time ever, I got to hold my novel in my hot little hands. It was a totally surreal feeling - to skim through an actual novel and see my words, my sentences, my paragraphs -- staring back at me. At times it doesn't seem like it could possibly be real. Yet here it is. My dream as a tangible object I can pick up and read.

I have a book. A real book. Weird.

Now all I have to do is get people to read it....
Marianne

Agent Obscura

PS - my YA agent, Nadia Cornier, interviewed me today in her blog. Check it out. :-)

Mar

GCC: Cooking to Hook Up

I love today's Girlfriend Cyber Circuit guest author. Ann Marie Michaels has written a nonfiction book called "Cooking to Hook Up:The Bachelor'sDate-Night Cookbook." What a terrific concept!

This book is all about teaching guys to cook for us girls -- depending on the type of girl. It's a great gift for single guys, as well as husbands, boyfriends, brothers, etc.

Here's a blurb:

It's a fact. Women will always choose men with wooden spoons over men with Gold Cards (unless you're in L.A.). But there's a world of difference between any dinner and the right dinner. Should you serve sushi or meatloaf? Play Sting's greatest hits or the latest Yo La Tengo single? Wear the Birkenstock sandals or the Armani loafers? It all depends on the Girl.

Casanova, arguably the most successful seducer in history, had a simple philosophy: Get to know the woman, find out what she lacks, and provide it. Seduction through food is a time-tested technique. However, and this is the big however, you must choose the right food, the food that works for that particular girl. Cooking to Hook Up gives you complete meals designed for every female taste.

Sound complicated? It isn't. All you need is a small supply of tools, a permanent stock of twelve staple foods, and ten additional ingredients you can buy through the express lane (plus a pit stop at the liquor store). There are fifty complete meals, including dessert and optional "bonus points".
----

Cool, huh? My husband definitely won me over with HIS cooking abililies. Now I'm wondering if he had some secret book. :-) Of course, in my case, the poor guy is STILL cooking for me - 5 years later - as I'm a complete failure in the kitchen and can't properly boil water. I bet sometimes he wishes he ordered take out on our first date... heh.

Anyhow - as the blurb for "Cooking to Hook Up" suggests, the first thing a guy has to do when preparing to cook dinner for a girl is to determine what kind of girl he's cooking for. Which means - BLOG QUIZ TIME!!! Woot!

I am Indie Girl Click on the picture below to read more: Take the 'What Kind of Girl Are You?' quiz at CookingToHookup.com

So there you have it. I think that's pretty right on for me. But what kind of girl are YOU?

After you're done figuring out who you are, go check out "Cooking to Hook Up" by Ann Marie Michaels. A delicious read from the Girlfriend Cyber Circuit.

Marianne

Boys that Bite #1 Complete

I put "The End" on Boys that Bite this morning. Actually, I put "To Be Continued" as it's a series, but hey, at least it's "the end" for now. No matter how much you enjoy writing a book, it always feels great to finish, and this is no exception. Now I'm just giving it one final polish and letting my agent read it and then it'll be sent on its merry way to Berkley. I'm very happy with how it came out, if I do say so myself.

Since I'm going to RT next week, I figure I'll wait til I get back to start the next one. Yes, I'm giving myself one week off. So generous, I know.

Speaking of RT, aka the Romantic Times convention in St. Louis, I'm very excited about going. I've never been before, but it looks utterly wild. Also, it'll be the first time ever I'll be signing books. Gah! I can't even believe that!!

Okay, I know this is the most boring blog entry in the entire universe, but I have this Laurell K. Hamilton book that's calling to me....

Marianne

Party Like a Rock Star

When I was in college, I was a big time raver chick. In fact, I prided myself on finding venues to dance at 6 out of the 7 nights a week. (I never could get my Tuesday night fix!) From clubs to raves -- if it had a dj and a dance floor, I was there. I even worked to help promote certain club nights/rave parties and worked as coat check girl at The Loft, this after hours club in Copley. Because I did all these odd jobs, I met everyone and usually got in free everywhere - which was an added bonus since I was also a poor starving college student at the time. :-)

So why am I telling you all this? Well, it turns out one of my former raver buddies Camper English (Yes, that's his real name and he even used to wear a t-shirt to parties that said "I am a happy camper") has written a book called "Party Like a Rock Star, Even if You're as Poor as Dirt." How cool is that?

What does this book cover? Well for example, in chapter five you've got "Getting Trashed Without Spending Your Cash" and in chapter ten there's tips to "Save Your Money For Rehab: Dirty Discounts and Other Easy Ways to Save." And of course Chapter 2 has the secret info on getting into clubs for free.

Honestly, this is such a FAB concept!! Why wasn't this book out when I was a college kid? (Oh yeah, cause then Camper was in school too and still honing his techniques. )

Camper's book comes out in June. I haven't seen him in a million years (he lives in San Fran now where people still party after age 30, LOL) but I totally remember him as the sweetest, nicest blue haired guy you could ever meet and everyone in our little Boston scene loved him. So go buy his book! :-)

And if clubs aren't your thing, at least check out his "hate blog." Too funny!

Marianne

Publisher's Weekly Review :-)

Okay, I swear I'm not going to be the author that shares every single review she receives, but this one's a biggie and since I already blogged earlier this week about how I was scared of what it would read, I figure you might be curious if I got shredded. Anyhow - this the review that will appear in Publisher's Weekly on the week of April 25th!

A CONNECTICUT FASHIONISTA IN KING ARTHUR'S COURT

Marianne Mancusi. Love Spell, $6.99 (368p) ISBN 0-505-52633-6

At the start of Mancusi's sparkling debut, a Gypsy curse propels feisty 29-year-old Kat Jones, associate fashion editor at La Style magazine, from King Arthur's Faire back in time to the real King Arthur's court, where her cell phone doesn't work and the menu doesn't accommodate her low-carb diet. Kat's strange speech (peppered generously with "like" and "totally") makes Merlin and King Arthur suspicious enough to lock her up in a tower, despite the protests of kind Queen Guinevere. Luckily, the gorgeous Lancelot helps her escape. Could this noble knight finally be the remedy to all the 21st-century creeps she dates? Kat is determined to find a way back to the present and to save Camelot from its impending doom, while introducing such novelties as the "Round Table" and modern dance. The interactions between the acerbically sassy protagonist and the stoic knights and royalty amuse, though the difficult and sarcastic Kat can also be annoying. Still, Kat's efforts to figure out the real story of Camelot's destruction intrigue, while her romance with Lancelot puts a nice twist on the modern girl's search for prince charming. Agent, Paige Wheeler. (May)

Obviously I am so so so so thrilled about this. I mean just for a mass market paperback to be selected for PW review is big enough. For them to write such nice things - well, I'm just blown away -- and sooo relieved. :-)

---
And for those of you interested in something other than book news - we went to the Sox game last night and they totally shut out Tampa Bay 10 to 0!!! We had seats behind home plate and it was a lot of fun. I like going to ball games - it's too bad it's so difficult to get tickets usually. And that they're so expensive.

Gotta go write. For some odd reason, Boys that Bite refuses to finish itself.
Marianne

Save Toby! & Other Stuff

I'm not even sure what I should put as witty commentary to this link. You just have to see it yourself... Is it sick? Funny? Creative? Cruelty to animals? A little of all? Will Toby actually meet his doom? Would you give money to save him? Is it wrong I kind of want a t-shirt?

Save Toby

Speaking of t-shirts..ThinkGeek has a lot of cool stuff. (If you are a geek gamer grrl like me..) I know, I know. I've scared you all off now.

BTW I'm experimenting by reactivating the comments section, at least for now. In case you're considering commenting, just FYI, I like comments and feedback -- but not mean rants that say "I am never going to read your blog again." Honestly, if you never want to read it again, I'm cool with that. Really. You can just click away - I don't need an official "goodbye" comment from you for closure.

Not much else is new. Very busy at work. Happy it's Friday. Going to see the Red Sox tonight at Fenway. Woot!


Mar :-)

Sk8er Boy Cover!!

I got the cover for my first teen chick lit book "Sk8er Boy" today. I absolutely adore it. Check it out!!

I think Dorchester is doing a great job of making the newer Smooch covers look more hip and sophisticated. And I was hoping not to get something too young or cartoony looking. This cover reminds me of Katie Maxwell's new Smooch "Life Love and the Pursuit of Hotties." And did I mention I LOVE IT?

Blessed by the cover gods once again. :-)

Marianne

Mean Bloggers

Sorry I didn't post yesterday. Somehow the day just got away from me. Me being so busy is actually a good thing, I suppose. Makes me obsess about the book less. :-)

Literary Chick Alesia Holliday has a great post on meanness and blogging.

I don't mean to go all preachy here, but so many friends have been hurt by vicious and ill-considered blogging, so it's been on my mind a lot. I know there's diatribe as schtick; the shock jocks of the blog-o-sphere. I just don't read it. I wouldn't buy books written by those people, either. Does that make me too naïve to live? Maybe. But it's easier than dodging all that bad karma in these three-inch heels . . .

The post really hits home to me becuase I was a victim of some pretty nasty blogging back in December. Though the blogger didn't mention me by name, she made it obvious who she was talking about - even quoted from my website. I don't want to get into details, but it really hurt at the time and was really embarassing as well. It's one thing when someone doesn't like you and tells their friends. It's another when they post on a public forum for millions to see. Did I deserve her ire? Probably, though it was for something stupid I'd done like 3-4 years before.

That's another good point to make, actually. Be nice and respectful to everyone in the writing world! Always!! From the very start. When I was a complete newbie writer I joined this critique group that was way too advanced for me. And when I realized it wasn't working out, I didn't leave gracefully. Instead I fired off a nasty email - basically out of anger and not thinking it would ever make a difference. As you can see, it did. So please, always, always, always practice netiquette and treat people with respect. And not only cause karma can come bite you in the butt, but becuase it's just the right thing to do and your fellow writers deserve it. :-)

Marianne

Publisher's Weekly & Reviews

The Dorchester publicist told me today that CT Fashionista is scheduled to be reviewed by Publisher's Weekly in the April 25th issue. This fills me with both excitement and fear all at the same time. Excitement because PW is the bookseller Bible - the trade industry publication of who's who in the literary world. They don't review every book either, especially not every mass market book. So it's a complete honor to be chosen for review. That said, it's terrifying because if they absolutely slate me then everyone in the bookselling world will see it. GAH!

You know, as I've gone down the road of publication, I've found the whole review process kind of interesting. You send advanced copies to these people in hopes you will get a good review and thus gain good publicity. But what if you get a bad review? Does it actually hurt more than it helps? I will never forget the poor chick lit author who got 1 star in People Magazine. I mean when she found out People was reviewing her, she must have been filled with joy! Free publicity! In People Magazine of all places! Woot!! But then she gets 1 star. Must have been SUCH a bummer.

Then again, there's those that say any mention - negative or positive - is valuable to building name recognition. So there's that theory as well. Still, I imagine it would really hurt to read someone tear apart your book. There are some sites on the web that are known for their snarky, usually negative reviews and I'm sure CT Fashionista won't escape their notice. :-) And then of course there's Amazon, where anyone can slam you anonymously in front of everyone and you'll not be able to do a thing about it.

There's no real moral to my ramblings... I guess all we as authors can try to do is develop a thick skin and remember - it's NOT PERSONAL. Though that's easier said than done...

Anyhow, cross your fingers the fine folks over at PW love my little fashionista and enjoy her trip to Camelot.

Marianne

The Book Release Party & Fashionista Martini

On Tuesday, May 10th I'm having a book release party for CT Fashionista. It's open to the public (so if you're in Boston please stop by!) and is shaping up to be a lot of fun! We checked out the space last night. It's being held at a cool Newbury Street bar/restaurant called Croma. It's a great location and a really nice place.

The coolest thing is that they have a guy on staff who creates specialty martinis ... and we've convinced the manager to have him make us a special Fashionista Martini!! How cool is that?! hehe. My character will have her own martini named after her. I love it.

We're also doing a deal that the first 50 people who come can get a free beer or wine if they buy a book -- in addition to a yummy spiced pecan sample from our sponsor: Nana's Candies. So make sure you don't come too late! (It'll start around 6:30pm.)

Oh and we'll have other fun stuff too - like a very dishy knight in shining armor type on the premises. :-) I mean a good book, a dishy guy, and a fashionista martini! What more can you want? hehe

Anyhow, hope you can come! Here's the details:

Date: Tuesday May 10th
Time: 6:30-8:30 (or so)
Where: Croma Boston - 239 Newbury (www.cromaboston.com)

I'll post a reminder when we get closer to the date...
Marianne

Book Release Dates!

My agent just sent me the release date schedule of all my books with the new ones added. 2006 is going to be a busy year for me!! Luckily I'm writing for two different audiences - teens and adults. Otherwise I'd be worried that people would start getting sick of me!

Anyway - here's how it breaks down:

2005
CT Fashionista - Dorchester Love Spell (adult) 5/05
Sk8er Boy - Dorchester Smooch (teen) 10/05

2006
Boys that Bite - Berkley Jam (teen) 6/06
Vintage Romance - Dorchester Love Spell (adult) 7/06
Boys that Bite #2 - Berkley Jam (teen) 12/06
Camelot Code - Dorchester Smooch (teen) - 12/06

2007
A Hoboken Hipster in Sherwood Forest (Sequel to CT Fash) - Dorch Love Spell (adult) 2/07

Since Boys that Bite will hopefully be finished up by the end of this coming week, next up I'll be starting my Vintage Romance... which is a pretty cool concept... I'll tell you about it later, when I have more time.

On my way out to Boston for drinks and dinner with friends... :-)

Marianne

New Crimson City cover!!

I know I've blogged before about how utterly cool I think Dorchester's Crimson City series is going to be. My author friend Liz Maverick is the brainchild behind it and she's such a brilliant, talented author. Plus, the concept is so cool. An action romance series with vampires, werewolves, and "mechs", all living together in futuristic Los Angeles. I can sooo not wait!! The books are being written by some excellent Dorchester authors.

Book 1 - Liz Maverick
Book 2 - Marjorie M. Liu
Book 3 - Patti O'Shea
Book 4 - Carolyn Jewel
Book 5 - (Still says TBA...I wish I didn't have so many books to write, or I'd beg to be #4!)
Book 6 - Liz Maverick

Anyway - the 3rd cover of the series is out now. This book will be written by the very talented Patti O'Shea. If you haven't read her 2176 book last year - The Power of Two - I high recommend you check it out.

Anyhow this is what the cover looks like. Soooo cool huh?

Okay, I'll stop gushing now. :-) I'll leave you with some Crimson City Links to check out:

Crimson City Homepage
Liz Maverick
Marjorie M. Liu (Author of A Taste of Crimson)
Patti O'Shea's Blog
Carolyn Jewel
Crimson City Amazon Guide

Marianne

Blogger Fixed!

I couldn't post yesterday cause Blogger was down. Finally I found out there was a blogger status site and it recommended you delete your cookies and it would load up. So anyone having trouble, that's what you've got to do.

I'll post yesterday's post below... and then today's. :-)

Marianne (Who thinks she might be a tad blog addicted after her frustration at not being able to post yesterday!!)

Pathetic Author Girl

I wish I could be more like one of my writer heroes, Bret Easton Ellis. Here's an excerpt from an interview done by Index magazine, talking about when his first book, Less than Zero, was published in 1985 -- when he was just a junior in college, mind you!

RICHARD: What was that time like for you?

BRET: Well, when Less Than Zero became a bestseller, I suddenly found myself on the Today Show and in every magazine. The media labeled me the ?voice of a generation.? Then the book was optioned for a movie, and I just assumed that happened with every book.

RICHARD: Really?

BRET: My agent called me up at school and screamed, ?You?re on the New York Times bestseller list!? I was in the phone booth in my dorm going, ?I am? Oh, cool, cool. That?s okay.? I didn?t know what that meant. My agent was screaming because it was her first fiction bestseller.

Yup, I wish I could be so cool and detached and ironic about my writing career! I wish I had no ideas or expectations or hopes or dreams for my book. I wish I didn't spend 23 hours a day thinking up ways to market CF and get the word out and the 24th hour worrying that I wasn't doing enough.

Instead I am now Pathetic Author Girl, always obsessing. Worried it won't do well. Hoping that it will. It's a sickness. Really.

For example: Non Pathetic Author Girls go to various bookstores to "visit" their books. To see them on the shelves. To move them to the front of the store if no one's looking. This is excited, but normal behavior.

Pathetic Author Girls go to the bookstore to visit the spot on the shelf where their book WILL BE...next month. Yup, a visit to an empty space. (Good placement in Barnes and Noble, bottom shelf at Borders.) Then, to make matters worse, Pathetic Author Girl goes and "visits" a current book out that has an excerpt to her book in the back of it. (Crazy for You - Kate Angell - in case you're curious.)

Yeah. I know. Totally lame, huh? I so need a life.

Or some pride.

Or a "hang in there" email from Bret Easton Ellis.

But I'm sure he's wayyy too cool to GOOGLE himself and thus will never find Pathetic Girl blog entry. And know how much I need his reassurance. :-)

Marianne

Another Emmy Nom!!!!!!

Woot! I am so excited!

I know usually I talk about book related stuff in this blog, but today I have to tell you about my day job achievement. Last night they held the Emmy nomination party and I GOT NOMINATED!! Yay!!!

See the thing is, I've entered the Emmys two other times (last year and the year before) and both times I've won. So why am I especially excited about this third year in a row nomination? Well... the previous two years I was partnered with a very talented Investigative Reporter. And this reporter has been in the biz for a lot of years and has won like 23 Emmys already. (Impressive, huh?) So the Emmy win was sort of a team effort, you understand.

In 2003 I stopped working for this reporter and started producing my own stories. SO.. I am now a solo operation. Taking the project from conception to finished product. And this Emmy nod is on a piece I produced myself!!

Again, can we say WOOT?!?

Anyway - if you want to read a transcript of the story that got nominated, you can find it here. It's about kids buying and selling their Ritalin medications to get high.

The awards dinner is on May 7th. Wish me luck! (I'm going to need it!!!) But as they say (and in this case it's especially true!) it's an honor just to be nominated.

Hmm.. now I just have to figure out how to showcase my book as part of my acceptance speech. LOL.

Marianne

GCC: The Diva's Guide to Selling Your Soul

It's that time again! Another great book from the Girlfriend Cyber Circuit. Today's guest is Kathleen O'Reilly, author of "The Diva's Guide to Selling Your Soul." Here's a blurb:

The Devil Made Her Do It

What would you sacrifice to be a size zero? For more than a few women, the promise of thin thighs in 30 seconds might just convince them to deal with the devil. Award-winning author Kathleen O'Reilly's The DIVA'S GUIDE TO SELLING HER SOUL (Apr., Downtown Press) is a story for every woman who knows that getting celebrity-style skinny involves a pact with Lucifer?or in this case, the silver-tongued Lucy. She's the trashiest gossip columnist in the city and she's working a pyramid scheme that's truly evil. The more clients our innocent" heroine V recruits for her "Life Enrichment Program," the more of V's decadent desires will come true. Unfortunately, V soon discovers there maybe something worth saving in her after all, which means when she made the deal with the devil she may have truly damned herself - unless she can figure a way out.

Sounds like a great premise, huh? Really got me thinking. So I asked Kathleen if she sold her soul in exchange for her heart's desires, what would be the first materialistic thing she wished for. Here's what she said:

"Oh, that's a toughie, because most of my wishes are not materialistic. A Size six bod, an extra four days in every day.... However, since you SPECIFIED materialistic, I'll bring out my greedy self. A maid service. That's what I want. They could come in once a week and....oh, let's make it EVERY DAY! Someone to make my beds, scrub the floors, go to the post office, make homemade French toast, and laundry! They must do perfect laundry!!!..... Actually, I suppose that's more "little elves" than "maid service," isn't it? Does a little elf service count as materialistic?"

That sounds pretty nice to me as well! And I know my husband would appreciate it -- seeing as housecleaning sort of goes to the wayside when I'm writing, which is almost always. A Hermes "Kelly Bag" wouldn't go amiss either. Or maybe a big plasma tv. Or an Alienware gaming computer. Ooh or a Jaguar Convertible in British Racing Green.

Hmm... I think I'm a little more materialistic than Kathleen.

In any case, check out "The Diva's Guide to Selling Your Soul" from Downtown Press. You can find an excerpt here.

Marianne

Official Slap Your Irritating Co-Worker Holiday

I got this email forward today... way too good not to share!! (Plus then I don't have to come up with anything interesting to write!)
Mar

Monday is the official Slap Your Irritating Co-Workers Holiday:

Do you have a co-worker who talks nonstop about nothing, working your last nerve with tedious and boring details that you don't give a damn about? Do you have a co-worker who ALWAYS screws up stuff creating MORE work for you? Do you have a co-worker who kisses so much booty, you can look in their mouth and see what your boss had for lunch? Do you have a co-worker who is SOOO obnoxious, when he/she enters a room, everyone else clears it?

I am so very very glad to officially announce Monday as SLAP YOUR IRRITATING CO-WORKER DAY!
There are the rules you must follow:

* You can only slap one person per hour - no more.
* You can slap the same person again if they irritate you again in the same day.
* You are allowed to hold someone down as other co-workers take their turns slapping the irritant.
* No weapons are allowed...other than going upside somebody's head with a stapler or a hole-puncher.
* CURSING IS MANDATORY! After you have slapped the recipient, your "assault" must be followed with something like "cause I'm sick of your stupid-a$$ always messing up stuff!"
* If questioned by a supervisor [or police, if the supervisor is the irritant], you are allowed to LIE, LIE, LIE!

Now, study the rules, break out your list of folks that you want to slap the living day lights out of and get to slapping.....and have a great day!!!!

The conference Recap ... and Simon Le Bon!!

Friday night my friends and I went to see DURAN DURAN at the new BU arena. GAH! They put on an amazing 2 HOUR show. It rocked! Simon Le Bon has still got it -- which I find fascinating since I loved Duran Duran since the second grade, LOL. I felt like a little girl again. What a fantastic talent and so very drool worthy. I LOVE YOU SIMON!!

Okay, I'll stop with the obsessed teenage fan thing now. But seriously, if any of you get a chance to see them as they're touring, I highly recommend it. It's a fantastic show. I'm going to download every Duran song onto my iPod now...

Anyway, I also spent the weekend at the New England RWA conference. (only sneaking out to see Simon and the boys.) It was an excellent conference, as usual. On Friday I did an agent/editor pitch help session with Intrigue author Jesicca Andersen and then on Saturday I did my own segment called "Romancing the Media" which dealt with how to be your own publicist and deal with the media the right way. I think it went well - people said they learned stuff, so that's good! If you want proof, they audio taped the session and you can buy tapes on the NEC-RWA website.

I met a lot of great writers and the conference. Everyone was so nice. There was a sort of after-party on Saturday night where I sat and talked to Vicki Lewis Thompson, famed author of the "Nerd" series. She was sooo nice and interesting, as was her daughter Audrey who does her website and stuff. It's so great to meet authors you really like and then find out they're equally as great in person! I also got my tarot read by my conference roomie and Red Dress Ink Chick Lit author Cathy Yardley. (Buy her book Couch World - it's so great!) The cards have predicted good things for me, so we'll see... I have faith in Cathy's deck, actually, cause it predicted my Dorchester sale back at Nationals last July. I also talked with Harlequin editor Julie Barrett for a long time as well. Sounds like they've got a lot of great stuff planned for their Bombshell line.

My agent, Paige Wheeler, was there as well, but she was so busy I barely got a chance to talk to her. Which is fine cause I just saw her recently and we talk almost everyday either by email or phone anyhow. But it was nice to see her all the same.

Okay I could go on and on, but I should get some actual writing done. :-) It's a gorgeous spring day out and I want to go meet my friend Mary to take the dogs hiking later so I've got to get done.

I'll leave you with some Simon pics..

http://www.duranduran.cl/fotossimon.htm
http://www.kraftykards.com/KKMusic.htm

Gah! Makes me want to run out and buy some legwarmers!!

Marianne