Special Guest Post and Book Review: Just Friends with Benefits by Meredith Schorr Blog Tour

      Just Friends with Benefits by Meredith Schorr is a fabulous chick lit novel that you won't want to miss this summer! The whole time I read this book, I kept visualizing it as a movie. I would be so excited if someone were to pick it up and it had a chance to become a blockbuster hit on the big screen! It's got all the right elements of fiction that keep me reading and turning each page faster and faster. In fact, one of the things I loved most about JFWB was Meredith Schorr's skill at taking a traditional theme of chick lit – finding love – and mixing in all kinds of alternative and sometimes, unusual experiences, characters and events to create a story of love, friendship, work and life.

In JFWB, readers are introduced to an easily likable main character, Stephanie Cohen, who is determined that this is the year she will find love. (This idea totally reminds me of an episode – or I guess season – of Sex and the City when Charlotte declares to all of New York City, in a somehat dreunken state, that this is the year she will be married.) Stephanie has tried all kinds of ways to meet men, from going out to bars, to dating on the internet and the more traditional “set-ups” between friends. When she decides to go a completely different route to get her man (by looking into her past), she feels that she is ready to move fast and forward. Of course, life is never that simple and the target of her dreams does not fall into place so easily. And so sets up a rollercoaster of love and emotions, friendship and the opposite sex and in the process, Stephanie learns a lot about herself, life and love.

Read the novel in its entirety to find out if Stephanie's blast from the past turns out to be the One for her. You won't be disapointed. I was really surprised that this was Meredith Schorr's first novel and can't wait to read more from this budding author. 4 Stars

***If you can't get enough of JFWB or Meredith Schorr, please read on to the Q&A I got to do with Meredith Schorr. I hope you'll find it just as fun as I did learning more about her and her novel. If you still can't get enough, please check out more of her blog tour stops across the Internet.***

Q&A: Catching Up with Chick Lit Writer of Just Friends with Benefits, Meredith Schorr

Q. I often hear “write what you know” and read that your novel, “Just Friends with Benefits”, was inspired by real life. How much “real life” is in it? Where do you draw the line between fiction and reality?

MS: JFWB is definitely fictional. Nothing in the story really happened, at least in the context in which I wrote it but many of the characters are based on people I know or have known. Stephanie's friends from college were loosely based on a group of people I met when I went on vacation with a guy I was dating one summer. And Stephanie is very much like me. My friends and family will not let me dispute that statement! I think the scenarios that played out in the book are true-to-life and that was because I drew from my own experiences when writing them - I know a lot about friendship (fortunately) and also about mistakes and misconceptions many women make in dating and relationships (unfortunately).

Q. You refer to your novel as “chick lit”. How would you define the genre? What does it mean to you?

MS: I define chick-lit as light reading, generally targeted to women who read for entertainment and escape. What separates it from "women's fiction", in my opinion, is that the tone and voice are more "easy-breezy" and the plot usually centers around a woman (or women) who is struggling to find her place in the world, whether it be relationships, career, friendship etc. She does not have to be in her 20s or even in her 30s in my opinion as long as she is learning something about herself and the tone is light. I do not limit the term "chick-lit" to novels about brand name shoes, fancy cocktails, cruel bosses and dating disasters. I like to refer to my novel as "realistic chick lit" in that even women who do not typically read what might have been defined as "chick lit" in the past will likely relate to and enjoy my book. And I have been told that is the case!

Q. Just Friends with Benefits doesn’t take on the stereotypical/traditional roles and scenarios of most chick lit novels. What made you decide to go this alternative and unique route?

MS: Thank you for noticing :) I actually never made a conscious decision to leave out stereotypical scenarios of many chick lit novels. I simply wanted to write a story that was not only humorous, but relatable and since, as mentioned above, Stephanie is much like me, I wrote the story with my own experiences and thought processes in mind. I'm a very down-to-Earth, albeit quirky at times, chick. And much like Stephanie, I was a late bloomer - I like to think I'm still blooming!   

Q. Can you explain a little about how you became a writer? Did you have any specific influences (people, events or other)?

MS: I honestly had no idea I wanted to write until I was a full-fledged grown-up. In fact, my sister used to write speeches for me in high school! It wasn't until writing became an integral part of my job as a Trademark Paralegal that I realized how much I enjoyed even writing emails to clients. I was told I was a good writer and ate it up and so I dabbled in fiction. I started with a children's story but it wasn't for me and then I began to blog and was hooked. People actually enjoyed my blogs and would comment on how well I expressed myself in writing and I think it was probably their encouragement that made me pursue it further. That and the fact that I loved doing it. 

Q. I read that one of the first things you did in your writing career was take a class at one of the Gotham Writer’s Workshops online. How was it? Would you recommend this or any other preparatory steps to aspiring writers out there?

MS: I actually took two courses with Gotham. Both classes were "live", not online. I took the first class just to try something different. When I started the second class, I had already started writing JFWB and I learned so much even from the first critique session. I have to give a lot of credit to the teacher and students in that class for everything they taught me about plot development, conflict, and pacing. Extremely helpful! I'm not sure a class is for everyone and I honestly do not think someone can really be taught to be a good writer - an author's voice should be natural and unique to them and I'm not sure it could be taught nor do I think it should be specifically modeled after someone else's voice. But I do think all writers can learn from constructive criticism and the opinions of others. I think it is important to have someone objective read and critique our writing.

Q. Do you have a specific routine or process to your writing and/or what does your writing space look like?

MS: My writing space can look like a table in Starbucks, the waiting room at a doctor's office, a seat on the train etc. - I tend to write in short increments of time, whenever I get the chance. But when it comes to editing, it's my two-person kitchen table, overlooking 2nd Avenue in NYC!

Q. Are you working on any other books at the moment or have plans for more in the future?

MS: I completed my second novel this summer and it's currently in final revisions. I hope to begin the submission process in September. I have a few ideas floating around in my head for a third but nothing has stuck yet.

Q. What are some of your other favorite books to read? Genres? Authors?

MS: I read a lot of chick lit and women's fiction - shocking! Some of my favorites include Something Borrowed, Love the One Your With, Jemima J, The Opposite of Love, 29, Save as Draft and Skipping a Beat. (I could go on...) I love Emily Giffin. LOVE. A new favorite is Adena Halpern. And Julie Buxbaum is brilliant.

Q. I love your blog and how you “put yourself out there” for others to read and share in your experiences. Do you have any suggestions to other bloggers?

MS: In full disclosure, now that I'm trying to build my name as a writer, I find blogging to be tricky since I don't want to be anonymous anymore and yet am not comfortable letting it all hang out. At first I thought I had to blog about writing and publishing and not only did I struggle coming up with topics, but I did not enjoy the process very much. I decided recently to stop putting so much pressure on myself and simply write what was on my mind regardless of whether it was centered around writing.

My target audience is readers not writers and I have a feeling my personal blogs are more interesting to them anyway. I still have to reign myself in from putting anything in my blog that I wouldn't want read by total strangers, friends and family, an ex boyfriend or a current crush, but at least I enjoy the process once again. My advice to other bloggers is to blog about something that is interesting to you so that your passion shines through in your writing. It also makes sense to know your target audience and what topics would draw them in. Finally, I would advise bloggers to be comfortable about the material they are putting out there on display. Oh, and I am glad you love my blog - thank you!

Q. What are your interests/hobbies outside of writing?

MS: I love to exercise, particularly running. I'm running my first half marathon in September. I'm a baseball fan - New York Yankees all the way! And I cannot live without music or television, or my friends and family. I am endlessly interested in my friends and family.

Q. What is something that most people wouldn't necessarily know about you (that you would be willing to share here, of course!)?

MS: I am incredibly hard on myself. Even in my proudest moments, I often have doubts and questions. I drive my closest friends crazy, but I have gotten much better at enjoying the moment, accepting credit and kudos and talking myself off of the self-doubt ledge! Late bloomer - I told you!

A big thanks to Meredith for participating in the Q&A and a big thanks to Samantha at Chick Lit Plus and Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours for setting up the interview and book review with Meredith Schorr.

Special Author Interview & Book Review with Lynda Renham, Author of Wedding Cake to Turin

Q. I often hear “write what you know. Was there any truth to your novel, Wedding Cake to Turin?

LR: Wedding Cake to Turin was born after a visit to Turin. We actually went to a wedding and did, in fact, escort a wedding cake. The story can be read on my humorous blog at http://lrcook.wordpress.com/2009/10/17/wedding-cake-to-turin/The idea for the novel was conceived after this trip, although my trip was obviously less traumatic than Charley’s.

Q. You refer to your novel as “humorous chick- lit suited for women between the ages of twenty-five and fifty-five”. How would you define the genre? What does it mean to you?

LR: I think my novel could be described as a “Romantic Comedy” and very much written tongue in cheek. The Chick-lit genre has a wide definition and I wouldn’t attempt to define it. I love an easy read and that is Wedding Cake to Turin.

Q. I read that you have been working on the craft of writing since you were 10 years old. How did you become a writer? Did you have any specific influences (people, events or other)?

LR: Yes, I have been writing from a young age. I remember being highly influenced as a young teenager by the likes of Sylvia Plath and Iris Murdoch. My novel ‘The Diary of Rector Byrnes’ which I published under the name of Mary Renham was very much influenced by Iris Murdoch. I stopped writing during a difficult period in my life and it was only after my second marriage and my husband’s persistent support that I began again. I started writing for “The Scavenger” online magazine for which I became an associate editor. I have since written many articles and several novels. It is hard to recall how I became a writer. It just feels like I have always been one.

Q. Do you have a specific routine or process to your writing and/or what does your writing space look like?

LR: I love writing in our summer house and find it very odd to write anywhere else. Usually the door is open and the cat is lazing around outside. I play lots of music, usually through my headphones. Every novel I have written has had a music connection. I type them straight onto my Netbook and Andrew (my husband) listens to the work I have done later that same evening and we discuss any changes that could be made. I usually work in the afternoons.

Q.I read that you are working on another novel to come out later this year, called Croissants and Jam”. Can you tell us a little about it?

LR: Yes, I am very excited about this novel. ‘Croissants and Jam’ is also a romantic comedy.

In the novel, the reader goes on a journey with the heroine (Bels), who is off to Rome to be married. However, she has doubts that Simon is the right man for her. A mishap on the plane means her flight gets diverted. A chance encounter with another passenger leads to nothing but trouble and Bels find herself struggling to get to her wedding rehearsal on time. He life is thrown into turmoil when she finds herself deeply attracted to the Good Samaritan who has offered to drive her to Rome. Hilarious situations arise as she tries to get to her fiancée. Does the marriage go ahead or is her heart stolen by her travelling companion? Read the book to find out. A delicious fun, cheeky read with lots of tasty food references.

Q. What are some of your other favorite books to read? Genres? Authors?

LR: I like chick-lit and adore Louise Bagshaw’s books. I also enjoy the classics and Jane Austen and the Bronte’s are particular favourites. Having lived in the Middle East for some time, I very much enjoy novels that are based there and one of my favourites is ‘Mornings in Jenin’ by Susan Abulhawa. A new author I am enjoying is Roni Cooper.

Q. I notice you have several web sites where you post information and various articles as well as several book sites where readers can buy Wedding Cake to Turin. What can you tell aspiring authors, bloggers and readers about self-publishing? Do you have any suggestions for anyone seeking to take this route?

LR: As you may already know, many writers have taken the self-publishing route, of course, John Grisham, being the most well-known. The only advice I can really give on taking this route is proof read, proof read and proof read even more. It is not an easy road and a great deal of enthusiasm is needed and of course, much self-publicizing. The important thing is to never give up and to be ruthless with your work. If it is boring, delete it. If you’re rambling, delete it but always be ruthless.

Q. What are your interests/hobbies outside of writing?

LR: I love photography, eating copious amounts of yogurt, playing with my cat and needlecraft. Once a week I crash out with Andrew on the couch for a DVD fest, which is my all-time favourite thing.

Q. What is something that most people wouldn't necessarily know about you (that you would be willing to share here, of course!)?

LR: I have twenty three loyalty cards from our local supermarket. Why? The loyalty card assistant is a Jude Law look alike. I cannot resist him. If he tells me something has double loyalty points, I want it. I once came home with several tins of dog food (triple points) and I don’t even own a dog!

Like the interview? Want to learn more about Lynda Renham and her writing? Check out her blog at www.renham.co.uk and keep reading to check out my review of her novel, Wedding Cake to Turin…

Wedding Cake to Turin by Lynda-Renham Cook

Self-published author Lynda Renham Cook has written an action-packed, chick lit adventure story full of stilettos and designer dresses, guns, cops, movie stars and beautiful people. And the excitement certainly does not stop there. From plane rides, to mafia men, weddings, affairs, Italy and Facebook, Wedding Cake to Turin is up with the latest trends and doesn’t leave anything uncovered.

Leading lady, Charley, works at the trendy company Our Celebs, where she is personal assistant (and girlfriend) to boss, Nigel. When Charley suspects Nigel of cheating on her with her best friend, Sam, it puts a real damper on Charley’s Christmas. As if things couldn’t get worse, Nigel announces at the company Christmas Party that Charley is to fly to Turin, Italy on Christmas Day to deliver a Wedding Cake to one of the hottest actors in the world at the moment, Marc, and his fiancé.

Charley meets the most gorgeous man on her plane ride by the name of Michael who showers her with attention and gifts after mere hours of knowing her. Michael has a knack for showing up at the worst and best possible moments all at once. Is he too good to be true? Another new friend, Felicity, is sent alongside Charley as her assistant to make sure the cake gets delivered to Marc on time and in one piece; but when Felicity and Marc meet, sparks fly between them and his wedding…well…you’ll have to read to find out!

Wedding Cake to Turin brings on a whirlwind of events from page one! You’ll feel like you’re right alongside Charley during every agonizing and exciting minute of her saga. Author Linda Renham applies some of the more traditional elements of chick lit to her novel but then she mixes it up with many of her own scenarios, characters and creations. A very entertaining and fast-paced read with a gorgeous cover.


Get your own copy of Wedding Cake to Turin on Amazon in paperback or find it in their Kindle e-bookstore.

Special Author Interview & Book Review with Marika Christian, Author of Phone Kitten

Thank you very much to Marika Christian for taking the time to answer a few of my burning questions about her and her newest release. Marika Christian is the author of the debut novel, Phone Kitten. Visit her blog, Miss Quoted, at http://marikachristian.blogspot.com/ to learn more about the author and where to buy her book. Please continue reading after the interview for my review of Phone Kitten!

Q. I often hear “write what you know”. Does “Phone Kitten” have any personal background to it? 

MC: Phone Kitten is nothing but personal experience, except for the murder part. I’ve never solved a crime, but I did take jobs at two different phone sex services, both successful, both still in business. Every call that is featured in the book, is a call I actually took. 

Q. Phone Kitten is about a female phone sex operator who also becomes a sleuth. What inspired you to combine contemporary women’s fiction with a little mystery? 

MC: Mysteries have always been big with me. Growing up, I read a lot of Nancy Drew and Trixie Belden.  When my family would vacation in Germany, my aunt, who worked at the military base, would bring me boxes of novels by Victoria Holt. They always had a bit of mystery as well. And never doubt the influence of Scooby Doo. You can never go wrong with a mystery-solving dog.  

Q. Can you explain a little about how you became a writer? Did you have any specific influences (people, events or other)? 

MC: When I was a little girl, I got a typewriter for my birthday and I would write about my dog, Trixie, having tons of adventures. I think I always dreamed about being a writer, but dreaming it is different from doing it.  It wasn’t till I moved to New Orleans that I really started working at it. New Orleans is such a creative city. There are days when I look around and I think “This is where I live!” It’s still exciting and new. When I arrived in New Orleans, I was lucky enough to meet up with a mentor who guided me along the way. It was a combination of the right people, meeting at the right time, and being in the right city. New Orleans is magic that way. 

Q. Who is your all-time favorite character and why?

MC: Elizabeth Peters’ Amelia Peabody. She’s very stubborn, she’s believes she’s always right, yet she’s deeply sentimental, and addicted to romance. She uses her parasol as a weapon. She is wonderfully flawed, and still tendered-hearted and funny.  I love her. Her relationship with Emerson, her husband, is wildly passionate. I’ll confess to having Crocodile on the Sandbank as an audio book. I listen to it often, and when it gets to the part about their first kiss, I always catch my breath, stop what I’m doing, and listen. Best Kiss Ever. You can’t go wrong with Amelia.  Elizabeth Peters is the best.

Q. Do you have a specific routine or process to your writing and/or what does your writing space look like?

MC: I’ve always been a night owl, so I don’t start till late in the evening. I make a pitcher of iced tea, I read the last thing I wrote, I probably make a few changes, then I dive in.  I have a play list made up of songs that remind me of my characters that I listen to while I write. Once I’m in the story I just let it take over.  My work space is small and a little cluttered, but I like it that way. 

Q. Are you working on any other books at the moment or have plans for more in the future?

MC: I’m currently working on a sequel to Phone Kitten. Emily has a new job, some new friends, neighbors, and a new mystery to solve. She’s got a few more stories in her. Luckily, I like spending time with Emily.

Q. How do you balance writing with your job in telecommunications?

MC: I’m lucky enough to work from home, and my schedule is pretty much mine to make. While I do have to manage my time and make sure I get my hours in, it also gives me the ability to write more then a 9-5 job would. If I could stop myself from playing on the Internet, things would be perfect.    

 

Q. What are your interests/hobbies outside of writing?

MC: I love taking my dog, Dash, for walks in the French Quarter. He’s very friendly and he likes to visit a few of our friends.  I always take my camera. I’m not a great photographer, but it’s hard to take a bad picture when you live in such a beautiful city.  I also do a lot of cross stitch. This year I’m making all my Christmas gifts. I just finished a zombie pillow. 

Q. What advice do you have for wannabe writers out there?

MC: I would pass on the advice I got from an award-winning mystery writer. She told me at one point something in the story you are working on should make you cry. I’ve never forgotten that.  Also invest in a really good chair. Your butt’s going to be sitting in it for awhile. 

Q. What is something that most people wouldn't necessarily know about you (that you would be willing to share here, of course!)?

 

MC: I liked pomegranates before they were “cool”, I hate the thought of running out of ice, I got my first cell phone last year, I’m left-handed, and I carry two gris-gris in my pocket at all times because I’ll take all the luck I can get.

Cover found on Goodreads

Phone Kitten by Marika Christian

In the debut chick lit comedic mystery and thriller, Marika Christian has created an intriguing world in which a young woman takes on two new roles in her life. First, Emily Summers loses her job at a local newspaper after her competitive and underhanded boss steals her writing. Jobless and nearly penniless, Emily capitalizes on another talent – her sexy phone voice – and becomes a phone actress, answering the calls of lonely, desperate and horny men. When one of her regular callers shows up in the paper – murdered – Emily takes on yet another role as a murder detective, using her old editorial skills and calling on her memories of girl sleuths from her youth, a la Nancy Drew. Emily puts herself in harm’s way again and again, meeting with a lot of dark people in shady places. As if Emily doesn’t have enough on her plate, she meets a new guy at school who she’s crushing on hard but she doesn’t want him to find out anything about her new double life; and soon she finds out he's got a secret of his own. Will Emily be able to juggle all the people and craziness in her life and solve the murder?? Find out in this hilarious new mystery thriller from Marika Christian. This was a really good story and I am even more impressed since it was a first novel. The main character was I am eagerly anticipating a sequel to this creative story.                                        3 Stars

A big thanks to Marika Christian and her publisher for sending me a copy of her novel to read and review; and another big thanks to Samantha of Chick Lit Plus for her coordination of the Blog Tour for Phone Kitten. For more stops on the tour, please visit the site at http://chicklitplusblogtours.wordpress.com/2011/05/24/phone-kitten-by-marika-christian/.






Visit Chick Lit Plus
Blog Tours
 for more stops on the
Phone Kitten Tour!!



And if you still haven’t gotten your fill of Marika Christian and Phone Kitten, please log on to Twitter on July 14^th at 8pm CST for a TwitParty hosted in conjunction with Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours. Use #CLPMarika to get involved!!



Special Author Interview & Book Review with Cassandra O'Sullivan Sachar, Author of Little Miss Teacher

Cassandra O’Sullivan Sachar is the debut author of Little Miss Teacher, a novel about a young woman growing up and learning her way through her first year of teaching. The author gave me the time to answer a few questions I had for her and I hope you enjoy the interview; and after reading the interview, please check out my review of her first novel.

Cassandra O’Sullivan Sachar is currently on a blog tour, hosted by Chick Lit Plus (CLP) Blog Tours. Than you so much to both Ms. Sachar and CLP for offering me the opportunity to read, review and interview Ms. Sachar and Little Miss Teacher. For previous blogs and her next stop, please visit her page at Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.

           

Q. As a high school English teacher, yourself, how autobiographical is Little Miss Teacher?

COS: I believe that all writers provide insight into their lives and personalities through their writing.  From my title and content, it's pretty obvious that I looked to my career and experiences for some of my inspiration.  I'm well acquainted with life inside a high school, and that's part of the reason I gave Candace the job of a teacher; I knew I could make it realistic, and I've read several chick lit books about young women starting out in various careers.  We've read about fashionistas and nannies, so why not write about a young teacher?  Everyone has some idea of teachers, since we've all had them, but Candace's story isn't just for teachers; in some ways she's an Everywoman, struggling to find herself as she begins her "adult" life.  I definitely based a few of Candace's classroom adventures upon some of my own as a new teacher (including that first memorable scene... THAT was awkward!).  Still, though, Candace is not Cassandra, and I haven't modeled any single character on a real person. This is something I had to tell some of my students who read the book:  It's a work of fiction!            

Q. Who (or what) have been some of your influences on your path to becoming a teacher? A writer? Do you prefer one craft over the other or do you think you will always do both?

COS: Even before I learned to write, I was a writer.  My mother and I created these fabulous little books; I would draw the pictures and tell her how the story went, and she would scribe my words.  I have her to thank for helping me develop my talent and passion in both reading and writing.  I have folders full of early writing attempts: poems, short stories, a few ill-fated one-act plays, and several beginnings of novels.  I knew I would write a book someday, and I have always thought of myself as a writer, even when life is busy and I don't take the time to write.  When I'm not writing, I mull over ideas for my next project.  As for teaching, I never really expected it.  During my senior year of college I finally realized that I had no real plan for a career after graduation.  Many other English majors have been drawn to teaching for the same reason as I was:  love of the subject.  My friend Joe, who was an English education major, suggested that I turn to teaching.  I graduated with my degree in English and spent the next year gaining teacher certification.  For someone who never saw herself as a teacher, my profession has fit me beautifully, and I have thrived working with teenagers.  I'm currently pursuing my doctorate in education, so I see myself teaching for a long time.  I use my summers off to focus on my writing.  I can't say that I prefer one over the other:  I am both a writer and a teacher.   

Q.  I read that you also published a mystery book for middle school readers called The Hidden Diary. What made you take the leap to women’s fiction or chick lit? Do you have a preference for one genre or another?

 COS: I love mysteries and young adult literature, but I love my chick lit as well.  I actually haven't published The Hidden Diary yet, but it's ready for publication.  Since it's only available as an eBook, I've held back on releasing it, as I'm not sure that the age group does much reading at way (I've been meaning to research this as soon as I have time!).  I feel comfortable in both genres; I like reading and writing both.  Although many authors stick with one age group, sometimes I'm in the mood for one kind of writing over the other.  If there's an interest from the public, I'd love to spend another year in the classroom with Candace as a more experienced teacher, but my current project is a collection of scary short stories for middle grade readers.     

Q. As a teacher, you play an instrumental role in the lives of adolescents who are transitioning into the next stage of development. Little Miss Teacher plays on this theme of struggle and growth as well as its main character, Candace, who is also going through a transitional time in her life. What type of advice do you have for students and/or readers? Would you want your students read your book?

 COS: My advice for students and readers is to allow yourself to be vulnerable and ask for help when you need it.  Too many of us walk around wearing masks, hiding our feelings and pretending that everything is fine when it's not.  It's okay to cry, it's okay to mess up, and it's okay to get help.  Look at Megan (in Little Miss Teacher):  by not dealing with her problem, it got totally out of hand.  As for students reading my novel... it feels a little funny, like they're seeing me in my swimming suit or something!  I didn't tell my students about publishing Little Miss Teacher, but they found out anyway, of course!  Due to the adult nature of parts of the novel, I would feel a little awkward about recommending that students read it, but I am proud of the book as a realistic depiction of a young woman's life. 

Q. I read on Smashwords that you enjoy many extracurriculars – in addition to your family, pets and two careers. How do you find time for it all?

COS: I am really good at time management!  I try to multi-task; I make to-do lists and grade papers while I'm waiting at the doctor's office or during my daughter's soccer practice.  When I'm on the elliptical machine or exercise bike, I do my school reading.  Still, though, I allow myself time to just relax.

Q. What do you love most about being a teacher? Least?

COS: I love seeing students blossom as writers.  So many students hate writing and/or think they're bad at it; I try to change their perceptions.  There's nothing like seeing students discover that they have the ability to write.  Teachers love their jobs because it's an amazing feeling to impact students and help them find the potential within themselves to succeed.  I'm not so crazy about grading papers... the stacks are endless! 

Q. What do you love most about being a novelist? Least?

COS: I love the creative process.  I start with a kernel of an idea and watch it grow into something so much bigger.  I really started caring about Candace as I wrote about her, even though (obviously) I knew she wasn't real.  She became real to me, and I hurt with her when she was rejected; I felt proud of her when she succeeded.  My least favorite part about writing is the publishing process.  All those rejection letters start to sting after a while, which is why I finally decided to publish Little Miss Teacher as an eBook.  I was sick of having a finished manuscript, a book I was proud of and wanted to share, simply on my hard drive with no one to read it.   

Q: Do you have a certain routine to your writing? A daily schedule? A favorite room, laptop, table, writing tool or anything else?

COS: When I'm focusing on a project, I force myself to write five pages at least every other day.  The pages might be great, or they might be terrible, but they'll get done, and that's the method that helped me finish my two novels.  I believe heavily in the revision process; the book you read is vastly different (and much better) than the one I completed almost four summers ago.  I can write anywhere- in fact, Little Miss Teacher traveled to New Orleans and Tucson with me, since I didn't want a vacation from it when I took my vacations.  I wrote part of the book in my grandmother's living room while she watched TV.  I always write on a laptop; when inspiration strikes me, I'll jot down ideas on little scraps of paper, but I always type my "real" writing.

Q. If you could “teach” wannabe writers out there one thing, what would it be?

COS: Just do it- just write.  It doesn't matter if it's terrible; you can always revise it later.  I've heard so many people say, "I should write a book," but they never do it.  Whether or not you get published, I think that the creation itself is worth it.  If you never even try, how will you know what you can accomplish?   

Q. What is something that most people wouldn't necessarily know about you (that you would be willing to share here, of course!)?

COS:  I was published for the first time when I was in high school.  My 12th grade English teacher recommended that I submit an essay I wrote for his class to a literary magazine called Merlyn's Pen.

Thank you so much to Cassandra O’Sullivan Sachar for taking the time to stop by Lip Gloss and Literature, answer my questions and allow me to review her fantastic debut. If you would like to learn more about the author, her book or anything else, please visit her on Facebook page.

And now, for my review of her debut novel, Little Miss Teacher.

Little Miss Teacher by Cassandra O’Sullivan Sachar

Little Miss Teacher was a really enjoyable debut that gave readers an inside glimpse into the first year of teaching through the eyes of Candace Turner. What I loved most about this story was the change over time and growth. In the first chapter a student proclaims to Miss Turner, "I can see through your blouse", horrifying Candace; and by the story's end Candace is able to stand her ground when, in the library, a young African American student, boldly accuses her of being a racist for asking her to adhere to the rules of the library. The transformation of character and the growth Candace shows is quite admirable to watch and look back on.

Candace’s first year in teaching is nothing short of a nine-month long roller coaster ride in education. Candace meets and goes on a date with a seemingly suave male teacher, who turns out to be a little too smooth for her liking. Luckily nothing too serious happens and it just becomes one of her lessons learned. She’s given the opportunity (and responsibility) of going on a business trip to New Orleans to learn about a new teaching program being implemented at other schools, where she must attend conferences and speeches, take notes and then present the material back to her own school administrators upon her return. Her teacher friend and confidant convinces Candace to chaperone her first prom, where she is the only adult there who gets all dressed up in a shiny new dress, circa Prom 2010. After prom, and to Candace’s embarrassment, she learns just how quickly social networking and photography can damage your self-image when a student posts their picture from the dance on Facebook. Candace deals with many self-image issues, naturally, being the teacher of so many teenagers, but one particular issue comes as a shock when best friend and roommate confesses to a serious eating disorder. Later, Candace must also deal with the heartache and pain of losing her dream crush, Charlie.  It’s definitely a school year to remember.

Cassandra O’Sullivan Sachar provided a very detailed description of every character and each scene. As a reader, I felt like I was right alongside Candace, starting out as a teacher at a high school and just beginning to enter the real world of work, love and friendship. I thought it was really smart, fitting and cute how the author set up each chapter as a “Lesson” learned and then proceeded to detail one event or situation after another. The story, overall, read very true to life. It makes one wonder about the divide between fact and fiction. I would love to read another book by Cassandra O’Sullivan Sachar. She definitely did her homework in writing this book!

3 STARS

Special Author Interview & Book Review with Kaira Rouda, Author of Here, Home, Hope

I felt so lucky when Book Sparks offered me the opportunity to become a part of their fantastic book tour and book blogging program for Kaira Rouda’s novel Here, Home, Hope. Here, Home, Hope tackles issues related to families, parenting, marriage, and friendship. There is plenty of drama, conflict and excitement in this standard-sized novel of women’s fiction and a thoroughly excellent debut from Kaira Rouda. As a reader, I could not have asked for much more. Stick around for my book review but first, here is a glimpse at the life and works of Kaira Rouda, author of Here, Home, Hope, herself.

10 Questions with Kaira Rouda, Author of Here, Home, Hope

Q. I’m so excited to have you on my blog dedicated to everything Women’s Fiction/Chick Lit. As a woman who is so greatly involved in empowering women of all ages.

do you ever get flack for being labeled a “chick lit” writer? What’s your take on the whole debate over the label?

I’m thrilled to be here! Thank you for having me. And as for being labeled a “chick lit” writer, I’m happy to be labeled in the fiction world at all at this point! It has taken me so many years to finally see my dream of publishing a novel come true that you can call it whatever you’d like – as long as you like it! In fact, HERE, HOME, HOPE just won a 2011 Indie Excellence Award in the Chick Lit Category. So I’m celebrating my chick-lit ties.

Seriously, though, I do understand the debate, and I would love to come up with a description for what it is I write that doesn’t imply frivolity, which is the problem with this particular label. Labels in general are limiting. While the tone of my work overall tends to be light, there are deeper messages in all of my novels and the characters certainly aren’t all “chicks”. There are hens, too.

I’ve found throughout my career that women are the toughest on other women. So if we all stick together, celebrate each other’s work and voices, our differences and our common struggles, labels fall away, and we all are elevated. Together women are unstoppable.

Q: Congratulations on all your charitable contributions and business awards! How do you find time for everything?

Thank you! It’s funny, when I look back at the awards and the like, the ones that mean the most to me are the ones that signify a milestone accomplishment – starting a shelter for homeless families; starting a fast-growing business; creating a brand. I love the creation process – whether it’s business or books. It’s my passion.

I learned a long time ago that balance is something I swing through on the way to something else. A priority to me, in my life, always has been giving back to the community. I truly believe we need to LEAD the change we want to see in the world. We cannot just complain about what’s not right – we need to do our part to help solve the problems.

And, for me, I am blessed with a supportive husband and partner who stands beside me every step of the way, and kids who understand that when I’m happy and fulfilled I’m a better mom. 

Q.  As an entrepreneur and very accomplished business woman, do you have any advice you could offer women who are in the process of building their careers and/or pursuing their dreams?

     Well, yes, I have a bunch of advice, actually and that’s why I wrote my first book: REAL YOU INCORPORTED: 8 Essentials for Women Entrepreneurs. (Wiley) The book is packed full of inspirational profiles and an 8-step process for articulating your personal brand and bringing it to life as a unique competitive advantage. While I wrote the book for entrepreneurs, I’ve been thrilled to find that women who are pursuing more corporate career paths also find it important to define their personal brands. In our world of 140 characters and constant information, it’s critical to be able to articulate your strengths and passions.

Another key point: Don’t let others get in the way of pursuing your dreams. Hurdles are for jumping. If I let a 15-year stack of rejections stop me, I wouldn’t be doing this interview today.

Q. What advice do you have for wannabe writers out there?

See above. But also, embrace the power of choice that is available today. There are so many more ways to facilitate the dream of publishing your work. Publishing is in the middle of a tremendous shift. Keep an open mind – and never give up.

Q. I read on your web site that you spent much of your growing up years moving around. How did this affect you? Do you have a favorite place and why?

That’s a great question! Actually, that piece for my website is the first time I’d written about my rather nomadic upbringing. What I believe it gave me was a distinct feeling of place, of setting. I longed, not surprisingly, for roots. But, I also enjoyed the time spent experiencing different parts of the country. All in all, it was the best of the roots and wings childhood.

My favorite place in the world is beside the ocean, with family and friends. Any ocean. I’ve been that way for as long as I can remember. And now that we are living in Southern California, my Midwestern friends come to visit, and I’ve been blessed with great, new friends here. 

Q: How did you come up with the fictional town of Grandville? Does it draw from the various places you lived?

Grandville is very much the setting of my life: Upper middle class suburb, often adjacent to a well-respected college. Setting to me is the backdrop that allows my characters to wander and become. I would love to attempt a novel not set in the suburbs, but for now, that’s the setting that speaks to me.

Q. Sounds like you’ve always known you wanted to be a writer. How did you make the final leap from behind the scenes, writing for marketing and advertising copy, to the front lines, writing your own novels?

I’ve been on the front lines, so to speak, for many years, too, just not as a fiction writer. I was the Central Ohio society columnist for 10 years, and I’ve written for numerous regional and national publications during my career. In fact, it was important to me to keep writing for publication even if my day job involved marketing or business writing and later management. Secretly, at night mostly when the kids were asleep, I’d work on my novels. I finished the first manuscript back in the mid-1990s. You’ll never read that one, but it was a start. I’ve been writing and submitting queries and receiving rejections ever since. Two years ago, when my husband and I sold our company, I decided it was now or never. I put my full heart into my longest-held dream – much like I’ve told numerous other women to do – and finally, my dream has come true.

Q. What do you love most about being a novelist? Least?

I love the creation process. Sitting down and starting a story. I am the worst at revisions. As we speak, I should be revising. Perhaps I’ll procrastinate a bit longer.

Q: Do you have a certain routine to your writing? A daily schedule?A favorite room, laptop, table, writing tool or anything else?

I need a laptop, a cup of tea and my dogs. Right now, I don’t have a daily schedule as I’m really working hard to spread the word about HERE, HOME, HOPE. The way I figure it, if almost 2,000 books are published a day, it’s up to me to let people know mine is one of them. When I walk into a large bookstore it’s daunting and exciting. Exciting to see your novel on the shelf ~ mine is often next to Phillip Roth, no less ~ but daunting to realize just how many choices readers have today. And that’s just in the physical bookstore. So more than anything, today, my routine involves trying to tell people about HERE, HOME, HOPE.

Maybe someday, if I can create thewriting career that I dream of creating, if people enjoy my stories enough, if my kids are all happy and grown, then I could enjoy a pure writerly life. Although, I’m not sure I have the temperament for that. I love my life right now. I feel truly blessed.

Q. What is something that most people wouldn't necessarily know about you (that you would be willing to share here, of course!)?

Most people are surprised to discover that I am a reluctant public speaker. I suppose given my years in marketing and in business, the assumption is that I’m comfortable with that component of this process. I’m not. I, like most writers I have met, love to write. Not talk to big groups. I love being behind the scenes and I love creating. Self-promotion, including public speaking, is a tough but necessary part of being a writer today. That said, I have had a blast so far during my book tour, meeting people, answering questions about the novel and travelling to new places. So far, I’ve had stops in Santa Monica, Malibu, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Capitola, Sacramento, Piedmont, Dayton and Columbus. Next up are Dallas, Phoenix and Indianapolis. Once I get going, start talking, the audience makes it easy. It’s just the starting that’s the tough part.

 Thank you so much for including me here! I’ve really enjoyed answering these questions! 

Thank you so much to Kaira Rouda for stopping by Lip Gloss and Literature today and taking the time to answer my questions.

To visit her on her own site, follow this link: www.kairarouda.com or check her out on Facebook or Twitter.

I absolutely love learning more about my favorite authors and what goes into their creations and hope you will check out my review, next, of Here, Home, Hope.

Here, Home, Hope by Kaira Rouda

In this story Midwestern mom and wife, Kelly Mills Johnson, is about to go through a midlife crisis...or so she thinks. She’s got her T2C –Things to Change – list kept all over the house, little yellow notes strewn about on post-its, reminding her to, be good to herself, try a yoga class, and many other self-help and inspirational mantras. As much as she tries to stay true to her plans and goals, she can’t help this feeling of emptiness inside her; and with her boys at camp for the summer and a successful husband, Patrick, who works long hours, Kelly's been feeling more sad than ever. Just as she’s on the verge of crying at the drop of a hat, again, she is approached by good friend and neighbor Kathryn, who presents her with an opportunity to get outside of herself. Kathryn asks Kelly to look after and care for her anorexic daughter, Melanie, for the summer while she and her husband try to work things out in their disintegrating marriage. Kelly, instinctively agrees and hopes she might be able to be a role model to Kathryn’s troubled teen and if nothing else, maybe she can learn a thing or two to prepare for her two own sons’ teenage years.

In addition to caring for a brooding and health-challenged teenager, Kelly’s other best-friend, Charlotte, introduces her to the real-estate related career of home-staging, and Kelly helps her turn around a home for sale by redecorating it to appeal to the masses of buyers. Within a week the home is sold and Kelly’s found her calling in an illustrious career. Determined to go into business for herself, Kelly doesn’t seem to even have the time to feel sorry anymore. However, ideas and dreams of partnering with Charlotte go out the window when it’s brought to Kelly’s horrified attention that the house Kelly’s just fixed-up has been sold to Charlotte and her new lover, and Kathryn’s soon to be ex-husband. How can Kelly go into business with a friend who’s dating the father of the troubled teen who’s been living with her all summer long?

Kelly confides in her husband Patrick, whose always been supportive and rekindles a relationship with an old high school friend, who turns out to be just the role model Kathryn’s daughter needs to cope with her eating disorder and family melodrama. Before Kelly even realizes it, she just might be the glue that holds her family and friends together (and probably always has been).

Just when everything’s teetering on the edge of disaster, it inevitably blows up. Charlotte and Bruce’s affair is revealed. Progress with Melanie’s eating disorder hits a crucial point. Charlotte receives life-changing news about her own family and soon to be ex-husband. At a time when everyone needs love support and above all, a little hope,  will Kelly and her friends be able to come together?

                                                  4 Stars

This novel tells several stories of courage, change and growth in one. The author sets up the book in expertly defined sections, giving the book its aptly named title: Here, Home Hope. I recommend this book to women of all ages, as there’s a story for women at each stage of life in here. You might find yourself, turning page after page, racing to the end to find out just what exactly Kelly and her friends will do for each other, what they will learn and how they will grow. This was a very heartfelt, poignant, moving novel. A-plus.

View the book trailer of Here, Home, Hope Here. For a reading Guide for anyone seeking to Read Here, Home, Hope as part of their book group, can be found Here or to purchase your own copy of Here, Home, Hope, click Here.