 Guest Author: Sophie Littlefield (and Giveaway!) Posted by Kate Carlisle Jan 25 2012, 12:05 am
Sophie and I have something in common – we’re both statuesque blondes capable of killing a man with a shoehorn and a—whoa! What I meant to say was that we both love to write books that appear in different sections of the bookstore. You all know that I write both romance for Harlequin Desire, as well as the Bibliophile Mystery series for Signet. (ONE BOOK IN THE GRAVE: A Bibliophile Mystery, will be out on February 8, and the ebook novella PAGES OF SIN is available now!) Well, Sophie’s books are in *three* sections of the bookstore! She writes dystopian fiction (such as HORIZON, which is a hot new release this week, don’t miss it!), crime fiction (the fabulous BAD DAY mystery series), and young adult fiction. I thought it would be fun to chat with Sophie about how we find ways to connect with different audiences, and whether our inability to pick a genre and stick with it is a sign of sheer brilliance or emotional instability.
Sophie: Like you, Kate, I think I’ve always had more ideas than I could possible commit to the page. It always mattered far more to me to have a chance to write than what name eventually appeared on the cover, so when one of my publishers brought up the possibility of a pen name, I wasn’t especially bothered.
Kate: One thing I’ve found is that though the genre changes, my voice doesn’t. In other words, whether a reader picks up one of my Desires or one of the Bibliophile Mystery books, she’s going to get a fast-paced story with lots of humor. Do you find the same is true of your books? Is your voice consistent? If so, how would you describe the similarities that readers will discover in your books? If your voice changes, how would you describe that? Sophie: I’m a bit schizophrenic in that regard. My first series – the Stella Hardesty “BAD DAY” series – is sassy, snarky, and humorous. None of my other work is those things: my young adult novels aspire to reflect the inner landscape of girls on the brink of womanhood, and my dystopian fiction is highly introspective and emotionally raw.
Kate: In HORIZON, heroine Cass Dollar faces evil from humans struggling to survive in a post-apocalyptic world… and yet, romance is a part of her life, as well, with not one but two love interests vying for her attention. Does romance play a role in each of your different series? Sophie: Kate, I think you know my little secret – that I got my start writing romance fiction. I have five unpublished romance novels in the drawer, and I learned all my early lessons in the company of other romance writers, who are still among my closest friends and mentors. It’s hard for me to imagine being satisfied with a book unless I’ve put a romantic relationship close to the core. That said, I’ve wandered a bit off the path from the traditional romance arc. Human attraction is more mysterious to me all the time; I find that as I get older, I know less than I ever did about why people are drawn to each other, or what rules are or should be in place. For me, it’s far more interesting to write a nontraditional or fraught or doomed love affair, letting it unspool along with the rest of the story, than one whose ending I think I know at the outset. I will admit to occasionally falling for my fictional heroes. It’s an occupational hazard for those of us with zesty imaginations, don’t you think, Kate? Kate: I definitely do! I have Derek Stone, Brooklyn’s love interest from the Bibliophile Mystery books, on speed dial. Thank you again, Sophie, for stopping by the Lair! Everyone, be sure to check out Sophie’s website, www.sophielittlefield.com, and comment today for a chance to win a copy of Sophie’s latest, the fabulous HORIZON! How do you discover new writers? When you go into a bookstore, do you automatically head to one particular section, or do you browse a bit? Have you ever tried a new genre because a book was written by one of your favorite authors? TweetPosted in contest, dystopia, guest blogger, Kate Carlisle, mystery, sophie littlefield, YA, young adult Comments73 thoughts on “Guest Author: Sophie Littlefield (and Giveaway!)” |
  
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Hi, Sophie! Hi, Kate! I confess you’re a new-to-me writer! I rarely have the luxury of browsing in bookstores, but do often find new authors through blog visits such as this one
Or sometimes I’ll hear a recommendation from a friend. And yes, I’m willing to try different genres if a favorite author is spreading her wings…
Hey, Fedora, how do you discover new chooks? LOL!
have fun with him Fedora
Helen
Speaking of spreading wings … congrats on snagging the chook, Fedora!
Hi Fedora! Pleased to make your acquaintance here. Over the last few years I’ve met readers from all genres – it’s turned out to be one of the best perks of being an author!
Hi Sophie! Hi Kate! What a fun interview. Sophie, THREE genres? I think you’re just showing off!
Congratulations on all your success. The books sound great. Actually I get a lot of recommendations for new authors right here in the lair. We only have the cream of the crop bellying up to our bar. Isn’t that right, cabana boys? (Incoherent mutters from cabana boys ensure. It was the firm picnic day yesterday).
holy cow have i ever been hanging out in the wrong digs. y’all have cabana boys? well move on over sister and I’ll for sure sit at the bar. And yup….i have a little teeeeny focus problem
LOL Anna! Yes, Sophie is just a big show off! But that’s okay when you’re as awesome as she is.
She sure seems to be holding her own with the cabana boys at the bar. And did you notice how expertly she commandeered the chocolate fountain earlier? She fits right in with this wacky crowd. Next thing you know, she’ll be taking that rooster home with her!
Congrats on the release!
I have tried new genres because a favorite author wrote a book in it. Its easier to bridge the gap and try something new if I know I already like the way the author writes and tells a story.
A fav way to find completely new authors for me is anthologies. I have found many many new ones this way.
wow donna, perfect segue into….i will soon be appearing in an anthology with some amazing authors. I’m not allowed to talk about it yet (the duct tape over my mouth is really starting to itch) but I can’t wait!
Ooooooooh! That’s so exciting! Can’t wait to hear more, Sophie!
Ooh! Anthology! I love those! And yep, great way to find new authors, too! Can’t wait to hear more, Sophie!
Hi Sophie and Kate. I’m so impressed with the range of stories you write. My mind is boggling at the idea of keeping track of it all (can you tell I have enough trouble delivering on one genre?). It must be fun though. Do you find you get to write each one when you want to or to deadlines mean sometimes you’re yanked from the story you most want to write to focus on something else?
As for where I find new reads – friend’s suggestions, blogs and radio/newspaper interviews with authors.
well hi annie! yes, i’m often yanked from one project to another. publishing calendars mean that i might be working on a first draft in one series, edits in another, and copy edits in yet another. it’s a little mind-boggling, but i keep pretty detailed documentation on each. I call my files “series guides” but they are really just word documents with a lot of tables and charts. And what writer can exist without a zillion post-it notes?
I love bookstores. I’m on a first name basis with staff in my two favourite. New book displays always attract me. I also talk to the staff & ask: “What’s new? What’s good?” The Internet is also a GREAT source, of course.
hey mary – nothing will ever replace a dedicated hand seller at a favorite bookstore. Those people are worth their weight in gold. I have a few favorites – I think most of us hardcore readers do.
Hi Sophie and Kate
You are a new to me author as well Sophie and wow on writing 3 different genres I am not a writer but you sound as if you really enjoy it.
How do you discover new writers? I usually find new authors on blogs and have discovered lots of great ones and from recomendations from friends.
When you go into a bookstore, do you automatically head to one particular section, or do you browse a bit? I always head to the romance section first but yes I then browse for something that might take my interest.
Have you ever tried a new genre because a book was written by one of your favorite authors? Yes I have and have enjoyed them very much.
Thank you Kate for inviting Sophie along today and Sophie it is lvely meeting you and I will be keeping an eye out for your books
Have Fun
Helen
hi helen,
i must say that you’re the kind of reader that we authors adore – open to new things, and building our community by talking books with friends. I wish I could promote more book dialog – on any genre! – in more people’s lives.
Hi Kate,
I can’t imagine the creative genes that are lurking in your body. Congrats on three releases in three different genres!!
When I go to a book store I first check on the display tables and endcaps. Next , I head to the romance section. I purchase by the book’s back blurb. I check out known and unknown authors. Some of the authors I’ve heard mentioned on blogs or on review sites.
I will try new genres but I primarily read contemps, historicals and suspense. I have several paranormals but I find I really have to be in a certain mood to read them.
I do follow authors I know to other genres. I love: Jayne Ann Krenz, Lori Foster, Susan Wiggs, Nora Roberts, Suzanne Carr, Elizabeth Hoyt , Heather Graham, Kresley Cole, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Linda Lael Miller, Christina Dodd, Janet Chapman….
that’s a great author list….you have good taste Miz Laurie. I’m an endcap browser too. Last year I had lunch with a B&N exec who explained to me more about how endcaps are constructed and stocked. it was fascinating – i always go there first to see what’s new that has caught the booksellers’ attention.
I used to find new authors while browsing in the bookstore or going to the library. Now I find more of them on the internet through sites like this.
the internet’s been a great boon for adventurous readers. There are a lot of things we haven’t ironed out yet, but in general I think we can thank the internet for widening the boundaries of genre fiction. I too have found some great new authors this way.
Hi Sophie – welcome back! I still have your book A Bad Day for Sorry in my TBR pile – which I bought after your last visit!
I guess that tells you where I get a lot of my new author recommendations *g*. Along with our fab friends at The Romance Dish. Beyond that, it tends to be friends recommendation or who I meet at conference.
I rarely read outside the genres I like – too many books, too little time – so will follow an author I like if it’s to a genre I like, but otherwise, probably not. Unless, of course, the concept really intrigues me. Jess Andersen is a great example of that – I wouldn’t normally read something like her Nightkeepers, but because she’s a dear friend and I love her Intrigues, I did give it a try. Plus the concept appealed, having been to Mexico. Similarly, Virginia Kantra and her selkies.
hey anna – thanks so much for picking up SORRY!
sounds like your TBR pile might look a little bit like mine. Funny, I too just picked up my first selkie book!
I love reading a little bit of everything, so the entire bookstore gets my attention. And I’ll definitely following a writer’s trail through genres. No problem! Sophie, you were blessed by the cover gods; I would pick those up off the shelf in a heartbeat.
Making the time to visit blogs like the bandita’s Lair
is my #1 way of discovering new authors.
And may I say Whoop! on a new Brooklyn adventure! Brooklyn is actually influencing my middle daughter’s career choice. She wants a degree in library science; now she’s added learning bookbinding to her wishlist, and she’s volunteering at our local university in the archives. Romance books change lives!
thanks gillian – it’s true, I have been blessed by some of the best covers out there. I have absolutely nothing to do with the process so I can’t take any credit! And congrats to your daughter – she sounds like one of the good ones
Hi Sophie,
Mostly i found new writers from facebook and blog
When i go into a bookstore, for new book, i will read the synopsis first and if i like the book, i will buy it but if i’m still doubt, i will ask my friend and try to find the author on facebook or see the rating on goodreads then buy the book if i like ot.
I will definitely try the new genre book was written by one of my favorite authors
eli you have identified all the places we authors are encouraged to build a presence – facebook and goodreads were intimidating to me at first, but when I began to think of them more as gatherings of readers, that helped. have to say i’m still figuring out goodreads though
Me, too! I confess, I love the games that are played in some of the groups. I’m a game nut!
Hi Sophie!
I discover authors from all over the place. Sometimes friends put me onto them, other times, I’ll be browsing through a bookstore and find something catches my eye and I’ll like it. Then, a parcel will arrive in the mail, and there’ll be a pile of books in that parcel and the next thing I know, I’ve found an author in there I can’t get enough of!
Like Nigel Goodall. I read one of his biographies, and now I want to read all of them; all because his style is so brilliantly light and easy to read. Not bad, eh?
There’s also Bookcrossing, Librarything.com, Goodreads.com and my monthly book magazine: ‘Good Reading’ magazine… a brilliant, wonderful magazine put out by a Brisbane-born editor who had a dream of putting out a mag about authors, books and reading… and it came true!
hi Mozette – I’m still addicted to book magazines myself. I read RTBookReviews and Publishers Weekly, and I read the New York Times book review every week. These are singular pleasures, so different from going online. I hope they never disappear!
I also have 1000+ strong library of books here at home to pick and choose from. More often than not, I forget who I’ve got tucked away in my bookcases in my home office.
And yes, I’ve made it a rule that this little office is the only place the books are allowed to live. They are not allowed to venture beyond the door and out into the hallway; as once they do that, I know they will act like rabbits and multiply – taking over my house as I know it… then? Then, I’ll have a bigger problem than I know what to do with!
Hi Sophie! Hi Kate!
I love discovering new authors. I mostly find them through friends, blogs, review sites and RT Magazine. The nearest decent bookstore is 40 miles away so I don’t have the opportunity to do much bookstore browsing. I miss that.
I have followed some of my favorite authors into new genres and sub-genres. If I enjoy an author’s writing style I’ll usually follow them wherever their muse takes them.
40 miles! Oh no, that’s inhumane!
Thank heavens for the internet for you. I hate, hate hate running out of things to read. Of course, the last time that happened i was probably ten. I have a GIANT purse so I can tote a book, a magazine, AND my kindle everywhere i go.
Hi PJ! {{waving madly!}} I didn’t know you were so far away from a bookstore either! Thank goodness for blogs and internet shopping and RT, right?
And I have to add that I learn about many new authors from visiting the Romance Dish!
New authors are always a delight to discover. Either browsing in a bookstore when I have time but usually on blogs and posts where I can learn about books. Congratulations and best wishes.
thanks annie! this is a great example of a blog that is really more of a community. I love seeing it thriving and it’s a real treat for an author to visit.
I enjoy learning about new books out there. Whether through friends, the library, or bookstores it is a pleasure. An author whose books interest me can write in any genre making life interesting.
i’m like you, ellie – i don’t much care what genre someone works in if their voice is compelling.
I get a lot of recommendations from different blogs. Otherwise I browse the new books in the library or pick up whatever looks interestin in the local used book store. And if I like an author I will try books they’ve written in a different genre if the story sounds interesting.
hi sandy, it’s interesting that the readers I’ve met here are likely to follow authors to new genres. I think that speaks well of you because it signifies and open-mindedness that you don’t see everywhere. Bravo!
I often discover new writers through blogs like this one.
hi minna! just returning from lunch with a friend – so nice to see so many “bandits” joining the conversation!
I discover new author through the blogs. When I go into a book store the first place I go in new releases and then to the romance section.
there is certainly something irresistible about the new releases section – I think they actually *smell* different
To find other new authors I check the computer. Read about what/who other authors read. If there is a particular series I like I look for other series like it.
I’m always curious about what other people are reading – to the extent that I’m probably a little rude about it. If I see someone reading a book I’ve heard about – on a plane, at the grocery or restaurant – i have no shame about asking them how they like it.
If one of my favorite authors jumps the train and goes off into another genre, I usually following for at least the first book. For example, Julie Garwood and Catherine are two of my favorites and both started off with historical romance. They now write a lot of suspense and I’ve read all of them. Thankfully, both of them will throw me a bone with a new historical every few years.
the Catherine I’m referring to is Catherine Coulter. I guess I was typing too fast.
I think it’s key that authors remember what their readers enjoyed…and provide what they are clamoring for. When a favorite author (elizabeth george comes to mind) goes too long between books, I get antsy.
Hi Sophie! I’m so impressed by authors who manage to bridge genres. I’m a bit schizophrenic when it comes to both my reading tastes and my writing habits, so not only do I follow my favorites from genre to genre, but I hope to do it myself one day. I’ll definitely be adding you to my TBR pile!
why, thank you keri! while there are people who stick resolutely to one reading niche, i have found that romance readers tend to be very broad in thier interests. And they discover real gems that way. One of my favorite books last year was about…taxidermy. yes, it’s true! I had no idea I would love it so much since the subject didn’t interest me, but the writing was superb.
Hi Sophie – Welcome back!
I’m so impressed with your productivity. I struggle with one book a year. I’m in awe.
I find new authors here – and in judging the RITA awards
Can’t choose what RWA is going to send me, but when I find an author I love I’m a fan for life. Doesn’t really matter what they write as it’s the voice I love.
hey donna, i *just* received my RITA package. And yes, that is a great way to find new authors. I’m knee-deep in the first book, and it’s truly terrific.
Hi Donna! I just received my RITA books, too. So many good ones, I can’t wait to get started reading. Last year I fell in love with one author I’d never read before. After the finalists were announced, I sent her a fan girl letter.
Blog sites are excellent places to “meet” new
authors. The Lair has brought us in contact
with many new-to-me authors and I always
follow their suggestions. They haven’t let me
down yet! When I visit my favorite bookseller,
I always browse the new release/new author
section, you never know when you will find a
new voice. Thanks for visiting with us today!
Pat C.
hey pat – you guys have such a great community here – no wonder so many people mention it as a source of recommendations. I’m so honored to be visiting.
Congrats on your book release day! Usually I discover a new book by just seeing the book in person, reading the blurb and trying it. When I’m at the library or bookstore I wonder everywhere since I read multiple genres and just peeks at each section. Sometimes if I try an author I like I will hunt down their backlist and it makes me sad when I find them out of print so I’m all for re-issues. I also look at my recommendations on goodreads.
i know what you mean, and I think the internet is a boon for authors with an out-of-print backlist. It has happened to me a number of times that I wanted to read a book and was terribly disappointed to find it out of print…and I would hunt for it online and in used book stores. but now, the author stands to earn a royalty on such a book, which is a win for everyone – as long as one has an e reader.
I love browsing in bookstores – various sections. I also listen to friends, blogs, websites, etc. to find new authors. and winning one of their books is a fantastic way. I will follow an author since I enjoy variety.
i have gotten to know some great readers through giveaways, and they have ended up being loyal – even following me between genres. I’m a believer in giving away books to help introduce your work to people!
HI Kate & Sophie! Sorry to tell you Sophie, but I’ve never read you. However, I love Kate’s books, so if she says you’re good, you must be! And now I have another author to add to me list. Your books sound intriguing. Thanks for the chat. And Kate – can I get Derek’s number please?
thanks for joining the conversation, sue!
I’m really looking forward to reading Horizon, just as soon as I finish Rebirth.
I discover new authors by reading book blogs and browsing on the book sellers websites. When I go to a bookstore, I look around quite a few sections because I like several genres. I have tried new genres because of the author. For example, the first steampunk romance I read was written by a favorite author in another genre.
that’s how i was introduced to steampunk as well, barbara. though I have no ideas for my own steampunk, i keep thinking of other authors who I think would be great at it…
Hey Kate! Welcome to the Lair, Sophie!!
Kate, are you sure we weren’t seperated at birth? Or maybe just eggs from the same donor? While I’m only published in one genre, I think and write in more than one, too.
As for reading writers who write in more than one genre, or subgenre, my favorite would be, Jayne Ann Krentz/Amanda Quick/Jayne Castle. To me her stories are so good and she handles the time period shifts so expertly, that I can’t wait for each new book. In fact, I have her new book, Copper Beach on my desk waiting for me to either 1) read all my RITA entries or finish writing my historical erotic novella…which ever comes first!
Suz, we MUST’VE been separated at birth! Don’t forget that we also share a deep and abiding love for Julie Garwood, who also writes in two genres! I love JAK/Amanda Quick, too. My favorite of hers is an oldie but goodie, MISTRESS.
AHHH!!! Kate
Mine, too! Cracked me up when the heroine thought she’d killed the hero with her virginity!! HEHEHEHE
Happy book release, Sophie!
I pick up new authors from browsing on goodreads’ lists, book review blogs and friends’ recommendations. When I go to the bookstore, I head straight for the sci-fi/fantasy section and then branch out from there. I have followed authors across genres but as I’ve always just read whatever story intrigues me, there aren’t really many genres I haven’t tried…oh wait…I followed an author across genres from fantasy to chick lit back before I branched out to that genre….so, yes.
thanks
the wonderful thing about sci fi/fantasy these days is how broad the genre has become. there are dozens of new authors and story worlds to explore.
Hi Sophie! Welcome to the lair and thanks to Kate for bringing Sophie here today.
I love bookstores because I always browse outside the genres I traditionally gravitate towards. I will always try everything by favourite writers — one example is Lisa Kleypas, whose contemporary romances are very different in tone from her historicals but still excellent. Did you ever contemplate taking different pen names for all these books?
Congratulations on your new release!
I browse, and I’ll try a new genre by a favorite author. Congratulations on your new release!
I love to read all types of books and review them. Then I pass them on or donate to our County Library.