My motivation for writing the books: I have always loved stories—reading, watching, and creating them. And, most of all, getting to know the characters. Aurelia first introduced herself to me several years ago on a yellow notepad and began complaining about being stuck at a boring party with an itching ankle. I probably chose to write her story first because she was the most demanding. All of my characters have their own lives to lead, and I am extremely fortunate that they let me in, with the provision that I honestly tell their side of things.

How long does writing one of my books take: Quite a while. I’m not sure when I began most of my stories. I remember the experience, but typically I have scribbled down the opening pages, imagined the rest of the story in my head, and left the characters languishing in notebooks for years prior to tackling a complete first draft. I pledge to do better, but we shall see. In general, I would say the process of that first full draft through the final copyedited revision takes about three years.

What surprises me the most about the process of writing: How sneaky the villains are. In Aurelia, the villain changed. I did not realize who was the real villain until the fourth revision of the book. In Academy 7, two of the villains introduced themselves as main characters. Very duplicitous.

What is Aurelia about: It is a young adult fantasy about a princess who should not be a princess. Think Cinderella inside out, and with an assassination plot. See my About Aurelia page to learn more.

What is Academy 7 about: It is a young adult science fantasy about two teens who risk everything to attend the most prestigious school in the universe.

What is Exile about: It is the continuation of Aurelia and Robert's story! See my About Exile page to learn more.

What is Salvation: Salvation is a young adult contemporary novel about Salva (Salvador Resendez), a young man who doesn't want to be everyone's salvation, and Beth, the walking disaster area. See my What's Next page to learn more.

When does Salvation go on sale: January 2013

Where and how to purchase the books: They should be available in most bookstores that carry young adult books, though you may need to ask smaller stores to order a copy. I know my books are available through all the bookstores on my Perfect Places to Purchase My Books page.

Who is publishing my books: Penguin Books is the parent company. Speak is the imprint. Other books on the same imprint include The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton, Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson, and The Reluctant Heiress by Eva Ibbotson.

Possible sequels: Aurelia, Robert, and I are thrilled to say that Exile, the sequel to Aurelia, was published in April! I would love to write still more about Aurelia, Robert, Aerin, and Dane!

What is it like working with an editor: I have been blessed to work with Angelle Pilkington and Kristin Gilson, both editors who have provided wonderful insight for bringing the characters in my stories to life

What is it like working for Penguin: They’ve been very supportive. The covers of all the books are gorgeous! They put Aurelia on the back cover of their spring catalogue and released it in larger numbers than normal for a first time author. I hope the readers like my books as much as they do!

What are your goals for your books: I hope people read them and fall in love with the characters and want to read them again and again.

What are your goals for the future: I would like to support the literary community as much as possible. I'm presenting community workshops and visiting schools, libraries, and bookstores (guest speaking page). I'm also trying to learn about on-line marketing. Mainly, though, I want to write and share all the other stories that are in my head.

What events do you have coming up: See my event schedule.

Do you have any suggestions for aspiring writers: Write the stories you love! Choose the one that is the most demanding, the one that refuses to leave your head, and write that one first. Then the next and the next and the next!

How do you deal with writer's block: I have far more ideas than I have time to write about them. That said, when I am working my way through a manuscript, it isn't always fun or inspiring. I deal with the tougher sections in three main ways: 1. I have a scheduled time for writing, and I make myself stick with it. Generally, once I sit down, the section I have been worrying about works itself out. 2. I write down the questions I have been struggling with. I find that once I actually make myself write them down, I often know the answers. 3. I try researching about the topic with which I'm struggling. An hour or so on the internet or reading the encyclopedia can give me all kinds of ideas I did not know were available.

How did you become published and do you have any tips for writers who would like to become published: First I committed myself to finishing a book that could actually be published. Aurelia volunteered for the position. Then I committed the time to completing the manuscript and learning as much as I could about the submission process. I have created a Submission & Publishing Tips page based on my personal experience which I hope is helpful. There are many wonderful writing organizations that offer workshops, classes, and retreats for aspiring writers. See my Friends and Writing Resources page.

Who would you like to thank for helping you accomplish your goal: My parents who let me live in their basement while I was revising full time. My critique group members and other proofreaders who read my drafts and gave me suggestions as well as support. My best friend, Maria, who proofread my books and designs my website and postcards. My friend, Dawn, who is doing the technical work on my website. My first editor, Angelle Pilkington, who decided to take a huge chance on a princess who should not be a princess and an author who has never been very good at staying inside the box. Kristin Gilson for stepping in to help polish Academy 7 and to edit Salvation. Michael Frost, Linda McCarthy, and Theresa Evangelista for their absolutely breathtaking covers. And all the readers, students, friends, librarians, teachers, co-workers, parents, and bookstore workers who have been so supportive on this crazy learning curve!