Yes, I did. In fact, I was a bit obsessed; while many other people in my graduate program were getting published in literary magazines and winning awards, I was just writing this little book of mine. I was determined to have a finished novel by the time I had graduated.

--What can readers expect next from you?

I try to keep pretty quiet about my ( Read more... )

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Before we dive in with Elizabeth's gorgeously illustrated interview, let's get caught up with the others.

Rachel Hartman and Stephanie Kuehn on CHARM & STRANGE.

Corey Whaley and Carrie Mesrobian talk SEX AND VIOLENCE.


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BELLE EPOQUE was inspired by a short story by Emile Zola. The story is about an agency of ugly women who are rented out, essentially as props, to society ladies to make them appear more beautiful. Fascinating and horrifying, it seemed completely relevant to today’s world. It was a light-bulb moment for me, the idea of expanding this into a young ( Read more... )

--First, give us the vital stats on IN THE SHADOW OF BLACKBIRDS. What was the inspiration for the novel? How long did it take to write? Was this truly your first book, or are there secret manuscripts lurking in desk drawers or dark closets?

Various moments in my life served as inspiration for this novel:

At the age of 12, I watched a TV show about ( Read more... )

Morris Award Interview Season is upon us! For the next few weeks, as is our tradition here at Mirth & Matter, we the Previous Winners have the honor of introducing this year's Finalists to you. Here is our upcoming Morris Award Interview schedule (and links)! Don't forget to stop by and help welcome everyone to the family!


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They're two days early! Historically, YALSA has announced the William C. Morris Award finalists on the first Friday in December, but this year they're getting a head start on the party. Congratulations to all of this year's nominees, and stay tuned for our traditional Morris Award celebration here on Mirth & Matter!

From YALSA:YALSA selected five ( Read more... )

Winners of the 2013 William C. Morris Award for a Young Adult Debut!


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This week, in addition to all the Morris Award festivities, I had the opportunity to interview one of my alltime favorite authors, James P. Blaylock, for the sci-fi/pop culture blog borg.com... and I'm excited to share that interview with my readers here, as well. Enjoy!


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Today I'm excited to host our fourth and final installment in this year's annual Morris Award interview series, with my conversation with Seraphina author Rachel Hartman! (Unfortunately, despite multiple efforts and the kind assistance of Morris Award committee chair Joy Kim, we were unable to reach Laura Buzo, author of Love and Other Perishable ( Read more... )