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.

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. Think Star Wars meets The Outsiders.

When did Academy 7 go on sale: May 14, 2009

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 both books are available through all the bookstores on my Perfect Places to Purchase My Books page.

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

Possible Sequels: I would very much like to write more about Aurelia, Robert, Aerin, and Dane. In my head, both Aurelia and Academy 7 are the beginnings of trilogies. The characters are quite certain that their stories are not finished yet and that they have MUCH more to say. The sequel to Aurelia, entitled Exile, is well on its way through the writing process, though I do not know how or when it will ever be published.

What is it like working with an editor: My editor, Angelle Pilkington, is great. I first met her at a Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators conference at Silver Falls where she critiqued the first three chapters of my book. I felt like she understood the essence of my story right away. I agreed with almost all of her suggestions, and when I eventually had to disagree with a recommendation, she understood and accepted the need to follow my instincts.

What is it like working for Penguin: They’ve been very supportive. The covers of both 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 Aurelia and Academy 7: I hope people read them and fall in love with the characters and want to read them again and again.

What are your writing 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.

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 draft and gave me suggestions as well as support. My best friend, Maria, for proofreading my book and designing my website, school brochure, and postcards. My friend, Dawn, for doing the technical work on my website. My editor 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. And all the readers, teachers, librarians, bookstore workers, bloggers, co-workers, and students that have been so supportive on this crazy learning curve!