Zombie Love
I’ve started a new book. A creepy YA. Any guess what the title is? That’s right! Zombie Love.
Someone suggested writing about what scares me. Well, what could be scarier than knowing something–or someone–is in the room, but you can’t see them? That’s the problem for Amy Love. Amy’s skin prickles into icy goosebumps whenever “they” are in the classroom. She refuses to acknowledge their presence. Afraid of what might happen if she does. But, now, they are done being ignored . . .
I’d categorize Zombie Love as a teen chick lit w/paranormal elements. I’m starting chapter three as soon as I sign off here. Can’t wait to see how Amy attempts to handle this. She’d turned to her best friend for help, but it looks like a certain hottie at school might have more of a clue about the freaky.
So, that’s what I’m writing. As far as what I’m reading, last night I just finished Extras by Scott Westerfeld. I’m curious . . . if you’re a writer, what are you writing? If you’re a reader, what are you reading? If you’re neither, what are you doing here?
January 21st, 2008 at 6:51 pm
Ooh, that sounds creepy! Have fun with it!
Well, I’m both a writer and a reader. Right now I’m writing YA, too. It’s ultimately a romance with historical and fantastic elements, much like Shannon Hale or Gail Carson Levine or Robin McKinley (and I hope at least half as good!). As for what I’m reading, I just finished both The Devil in the White City and Beastly (by Alex Flinn), so I’m on the prowl for something new. Good thing I have a ready supply of books here!
January 22nd, 2008 at 9:55 pm
That sounds like a great story! Me, I’m scared of REAL human killers, but I can’t even let myself think about them long enough to write about it. Yeesh!
I finished my revise on book 3, VIOLET BY DESIGN, today! Yay! Now… I need a new idea.
I’m reading NOT ANYTHING by Carmen Rodrigues… so far, so fun!
January 23rd, 2008 at 3:28 pm
Great idea! I’m a huge fan of YA chick lit with paranormal elements. You get so much… with paranormal there’s usually some kind of adventure, you get the chick lit elements of personal accomplishment/discovery, and of course the trials and tribulations of a teen!
I’m currently reading, ahem, 4 books. One about eating, one about obituaries, one about mediation, and one about 17th century China. A little random! Writing-wise I’m working on a WIP that I’m really excited about. I sat down and thought about what appeals to me when I write, what I like to read, and what I’ve always wanted to write but that I’ve been too afraid to tackle. There’s mystery, romance, political items, and (hopefully) a nice adventure.
January 24th, 2008 at 8:55 am
I’m a big reader. Just finished Guns, Germs and Steele. A fascinating book. No real YA theme to it, but still great. Now I’m on to East of Eden by Steinbeck. That author is amazing. Again, no YA to it, but still a stellar book.
January 24th, 2008 at 11:26 am
Your WIP sounds GREAT- awesome premise!
I’m working on MY IMMORTAL- due on my editors desk in 5 weeks, and no, I am NOT panicking– no way– not me!!
And, I am reading a James Van Pragh book- (the one with the pink cover)- for “research.”
I saw him last night, and while he did not speak to any of my dead friends, he spoke to many others. . .
Happy writing!
January 24th, 2008 at 1:42 pm
Caryn . . . Interesting mix of books you read! From the blurb, Beastly reminds me a little of a YA Beauty and the Beast. Not sure if it goes there but I might have to check it out. Your YA sounds like a cool mix. I’m sure if it’s inspiring you, it’s going to turn out fabulous!
Melissa . . . Congrats on finishing your revise. Great cover for Violet By Design. Now, call me crazy, but I can’t seem to find book #2. Violet on the Runway is #1, right? BTW, thanks for your post on Heath Ledger. I hadn’t heard
Stephanie . . . You’re writing a book you’ve been afraid to tackle? I’m hooked already!! Can’t wait to hear more about it.
Lyle . . . Hadn’t heard of GUNS before…the blurb sounds intriguing. And I agree, Steinbeck’s an amazing author. I need to pick up another one of his books.
Alyson . . . Good job on not panicking, not at all, not even a teensy weensy bit
I’m sure MY IMMORTAL will be fantastic. I really enjoyed FAKING 19. And KISS & BLOG is my next TBR of yours. Good job on cranking those babies out!
January 24th, 2008 at 1:57 pm
I’m a reader - as many as I can get my hands on. The book de jour is “Deception on His Mind” by Elizabeth George. Love, love, love her mysteries, even though I never used to be a murder mystery fan, she converted me. Wow, can that woman write. I’m not sure about creepy YA, though paranormal YA sounds like fun. I love the excerpt from your book Susan!
January 25th, 2008 at 12:47 pm
Judy– I’m a new fan of Elizabeth George as well! I’ve only read one of her books but I have several others lined up.
January 25th, 2008 at 7:25 pm
Awww, thanks, Susan! I hope it turns out well. As for Beastly, good call! It actually is a young adult take on Beauty and the Beast. It’s a modern retelling about a high school boy with a truly beastly personality. When a witch turns him into a creature that reflects who he truly is instead of the handsome, popular guy he’s used to seeing in the mirror each morning, he has to see himself for who he truly is, grow up, and find a worthy love. It was romantic, suspenseful, and often hilarious. Just lots of fun!
January 26th, 2008 at 10:43 am
Judy . . . I’ve heard others rave about Elizabeth George as well. No worries about my current YA, Judy. It has creepy *aspects*, but all in all, I think I write pretty light. For example, a line I wrote yesterday in Chapter Five was “I was possessed, not deaf.”
Stephanie . . . See! I knew there were lots of EG fans out there
Caryn . . . I love hilarious. Beastly’s officially been added to my TBR List!
January 26th, 2008 at 11:19 am
Excellent! Hope you enjoy it.
February 3rd, 2008 at 9:29 am
I’m not quite sure what to write right now, but it’s great that you found something so unique and fun! I need to think about what scares me….writer’s block for one!
February 3rd, 2008 at 5:19 pm
Caryn . . .
Virna . . . I’m seeing a heroine with writer’s block. Her novel is due in a week. No novel, no paycheck. And she owes money, bigtime. Perhaps her life depends on it. If she doesn’t pay her bookie, well, finger across the neck (if you know what I mean). You’ve got a book there, babe. Start writing.