Journal
My Favorite Bit: Delilah S. Dawson talks about WICKED AS SHE WANTS
The first thing you should know is that Delilah S. Dawson’s new book isn’t a vampire novel. At all. Don’t let the fact that some people drink blood fool you for a second. Here’s the cover copy.
True love’s kiss isn’t enough for this Blud princess. But blood and music may win her heart forever. . . .
Delilah S. Dawson’s delightfully dark series takes readers into a clever new world of endless discoveries and sensuous encounters that will leave them breathless.
After four years crammed in a suitcase, drained and unconscious, Ahnastasia Feodor, Crown Princess of Freesia, is not sure which calls to her more: the sound of music or the scent of blood. The source of both is the handsome and mysterious Casper Sterling, once the most celebrated and self-centered musician in Sangland. Fortunately, bleeding one’s subjects dry is expected of Blud royalty. Much to Ahna’s frustration, however, the debauched and reckless enigma—he is definitely not a Bludman, though not exactly human either—is her only ticket back to her snow-rimmed and magical homeland. Ahna needs Casper’s help to defeat an evil sorceress and claim her throne—if she doesn’t drain him first. But as they team up for a harrowing journey filled with pirates and painted ladies, daimons and dashing Bludmen, her craving for blood becomes an unrelenting hunger of the heart. . . .
So what’s her Favorite Bit?
DELILAH S. DAWSON
A beautiful, half-dead princess and a drunk musician face off, a delicate bargain hanging between them. Does she beg him to help her, promise him riches or love?
No, she threatens to kill and eat him and then says this: Nothing shall be more beautiful than your death.
And that’s possibly the only thing that could convince him to help her. That’s where their romance begins.
If you’re a fan of Walt Whitman, you might recognize that quote as a slightly altered line from his poem Starting from Paumanok. It’s the first of dozens of little Whitman Easter eggs scattered throughout Wicked as She Wants, which seems like your basic steampunk paranormal romance but… isn’t.
My Blud series takes place in a parallel universe called Sang where half of the people and most of the wild animals are blood drinkers. Bludmen aren’t magical, undead, or sparkly; they’re simply a long-lived people who subsist on blood and are often ghettoized by the frightened humans. The bunnies are fuzzy little murderballs, and the horses are man-eating monster steeds.
And the world has other twisted versions of what we have on Earth, including analogous historical and literary figures that are slightly skewed. In Sang, Willem Sharkspeare wrote A Big Kerfuffle Over Nonesuch and Mr. Willowbee ran away with Miss MaryAnn in Sagacity and Susceptibility. The book’s heroine, Ahnastasia, is a Sangish version of Princess Anastasia Nicolaevna of the Romanov dynasty, albeit with fangs and talons. But for some reason, Walt Whitman never existed in Sang, which means there’s no version of Leaves of Grass, which leaves the book’s hero, Earth transplant Casper Sterling, sincerely vexed.
I still remember the chills I got the first time I read Whitman and understood that he’d perfectly captured the existential angst, spiritual joy, and earthy passion of humanity. Whitman became the secret muse of this book, and there are dozens of slightly altered quotes from his works in the text. Many of them are said by Ahna, especially at times when Casper might otherwise give up on her, their quest, or himself.
One of my favorite bits is when Ahna finds this written in his journal:
I, now thirty-seven years old in perfect health begin
Hoping to cease not until death
Fuck you, Walt Whitman.
Since Casper’s favorite writer doesn’t exist in the new world where he’s trapped, he’s desperate to cobble together as much as he can from the quotes he half-remembers. And it makes him furious that he can’t capture it exactly. Just as he’s a world-class pianist who has never been inspired to create his own unique works, so is he obsessed with
Whitman and focuses on recreating Leaves of Grass instead of writing his own poetry. For Ahna, who has never been to another world and doesn’t know of Walt Whitman, the words come unbidden, simply a part of who she is. And that helps Casper finally accept who *he* is, once he learns to really listen.
Part of the joy in hiding Easter eggs is knowing that every now and then, someone might pick up on one and smile. As an accidental romance writer who rages against the faction of the literary world that looks down on the romance genre, I also take a sneaky pride in mixing “real” literature into a book that Whitman fans might sneer at simply because there’s a buff dude with a ponytail and blouse on the cover and sex spelled out in delicious detail on the pages once Casper and Ahna get down to business.
I believe that reading and writing poetry can be empowering, and I also believe that reading and writing sex can be empowering. Whitman pushed boundaries with his philosophy on love and passion, and I hope that my book, in some small part, pays homage to his playful but serious rebellion.
Please consider this steampunk vampire sex book my barbaric yawp.
RELEVANT LINKS:
WICKED AS SHE WANTS: http://books.simonandschuster.
Website: http://www.delilahsdawson.com
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/
BIO:
Delilah S. Dawson is a native of Roswell, Georgia and the author of the paranormal romance Blud series for Pocket, including WICKED AS THEY COME, WICKED AS SHE WANTS, and two e-novellas, THE MYSTERIOUS MADAM MORPHO and THE PECULIAR PETS OF MISS PLEASANCE. Her first YA, a creepy paranormal called SERVANTS OF THE STORM will be available in 2014 from Simon Pulse. RT Book Reviews has called her “a wonderfully fresh new voice!” and “on the fast track to the top of the genre!”
Want to listen to me read aloud the UK edition of SHADES OF MILK AND HONEY?
For the next few days, I’ll be reading aloud the page proofs of the UK edition of Shades of Milk and Honey. The purpose of this is to help me catch errors that I might otherwise miss. Since the UK edition is two chapters longer than the US edition, there are a significant number of changes.
If you want to listen, you are welcome to drop in to the Google+ hangout and listen while I read. It will take several days for me to get through the entire book and will include periodic muttering as I try to figure out why I made certain choices.
To join in, I ask only that you mute your microphone while I’m reading. You may make comments in the sidebar. We may occasionally pause for chatter.
The read aloud will start at 10:00 am Central on Tuesday May 1st, using Google Hangouts.
Writing Excuses 8.17: Microcasting
You love ‘em, we love ‘em, and there’s never a shortage of questions so here’s another another fast-paced Q&A. Here are the questions that we field in this episode:
- How do you prepare to write?
- How do you write stories that are important without being heavy-handed?
- Magical realism vs. Fantasy — what’s the difference?
- Do you have recommendations or techniques for serving as a beta reader?
- Is it possible to do a serial with short stories and novellas all in the same setting?
- Why do publishers say they want crossed-genre books, but they’re not publishing crossed-genre books?
- Picture books and books for beginning readers: can you ‘cast on this for us? Answer: not until we’ve got an expert guest in that field. If you want that info, go to SCBWI.org
- Can you do a ‘cast on reading aloud? Answer: yes. This is not that ‘cast.
- What is the primary thing you’ve learned from reading Literary Fiction that has informed your Genre Fiction writing?
Reminder: I’m reading at Powell’s in Beaverton tonight at 7pm
This is a photo from my appearance at the University Bookstore in Seattle, but it gives you an idea of what the reading will be like tonight at Powell’s in Beaverton . I’m going to preview part of Chapter 1 of book 4, Valour and Vanity. That’s not due out until 2014, but I sometimes enjoy being a tease.
I’ll also perform the tiny little puppet show, and answer any questions you have.
Also, members of the Oregon Regency Society will be in attendance.
If you can’t make it tonight, Powell’s takes pre-orders and I can sign and personalize for you. (800) 878-7323
I hope you can make it out.
What I wore to the Oregon Regency Society’s Spring Ball
My book tour “happened” to time out to allow me to attend the Oregon Regency Society’s Spring Ball. The theme this year was “In Celebration of Shakespeare” so I went as Ophelia.
I’ve added rosemary, for remembrance, and there’s fennel for you… I’ve also added ferns to my hair, instead of the usual ostrich plumes, to represent her impending float down the river banks. It was seriously tempting to dampen the entire dress, in part because young ladies would sometimes do that to make it more transparent and clingier.
I am not that racy, however.
The ball was, as my grandmother used to say, a grand excess. It was lovely to see everyone again and to dance and dine in company.
Back to Seattle
I’m heading back up to Seattle to read at the University Bookstore tonight. For this one, I’ll be wearing full Regency dress and perform the tiny little puppet show. I’m also going to be reading different material from what I read at the SFWA reading series.
When: April 25, 2013 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Where: University Book Store
4326 University Way Northeast
University of Washington,Seattle,WA 98105
Some of you have remarked on the back and forth nature of this trip, since I’m alternating between Portland and Seattle for a couple of days. This is why I take the train. I get three hours of down time in which I can’t really do anything except nap, watch the scenery, and write. Carving out writing time on a book tour is tricky at times and this is a good way to make sure it happens for me.
Plus there are a ton of people that I want to see in both cities. Will I see you tonight?
Hello Portland!
I just rode down on the train from Seattle. Thank you so much for arranging the lovely weather to remind me of how much I miss living here.
I have two appearances in town and will be reading different material at each. The first is tonight at the SFWA Pacific Northwest Reading Series at the Kennedy School. I’ll be joined by Nebula award nominee Tina Connolly, and Nisi Shawl at 7:00 tonight.
Will I see you there? Frosty adult beverages…
SFWA Pacific Northwest Reading Series
When: April 24, 2013 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Where: McMenamins Kennedy School
5736 Northeast 33rd Avenue
Portland,OR 97211
The greater Pacific Northwest is home to Ursula K. Le Guin, Kay Kenyon, Jay Lake, Nancy Kress, Brent Weeks, Ted Chiang and Ramona Quimby. Although Ramona isn’t known for her Science Fiction and Fantasy escapades, the rest are, and will be celebrated as part of the Pacific Northwest Reading Series. These free quarterly events provide the Northwest Science Fiction and Fantasy community a chance to gather, network and enjoy readings from local authors.
Each event starts with notes from the host, a leading local author, who has selected two of their favorite writers to complete the evening’s theme. In turn, each is given time to read from their latest work, interpreting and explaining their concepts and vision. In addition, space is provided for networking and conversation.
Set in the pub-like atmosphere of the McMenamins Kennedy School in Portland, OR, events begin at 7:00 pm, and end by 8:30 pm.
About SFWA
Founded in 1965 by the late Damon Knight, Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America brings together the most successful and daring writers of speculative fiction throughout the world. Since its inception, SFWA® has grown in numbers and influence until it is now widely recognized as one of the most effective non-profit writers’ organizations in existence, boasting a membership of approximately 1,800 science fiction and fantasy writers as well as artists, editors and allied professionals. Each year the organization presents the prestigious Nebula Awards® for the year’s best literary and dramatic works of speculative fiction.
I’m hosting the SFWA Reading Series in Kirkland, WA tonight
Tonight, I’m in the Seattle area to read at the SFWA Pacific Northwest Reading Series with Nisi Shawl and fellow Nebula nominee Tina Connolly. It’s an evening of SF and frosty adult beverages. Will I see you there?
Event: SFWA Pacific Northwest Reading Series — Seattle (Kirkland)
Date: 23 Apr 2013 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM PDT
Location: Wilde Rover Irish Restaurant and Pub, 111 Central Way, Kirkland, WA 98033
SFWA Pacific Northwest Reading Series
The greater Pacific Northwest is home to Ursula K. Le Guin, Kay Kenyon, Jay Lake, Nancy Kress, Brent Weeks, Ted Chiang and Ramona Quimby. Although Ramona isn’t known for her Science Fiction and Fantasy escapades, the rest are, and will be celebrated as part of the Pacific Northwest Reading Series. These free quarterly events provide the Northwest Science Fiction and Fantasy community a chance to gather, network and enjoy readings from local authors.
Each event starts with notes from the host, a leading local author, who has selected two of their favorite writers to complete the evening’s theme. In turn, each is given time to read from their latest work, interpreting and explaining their concepts and vision. In addition, space is provided for networking and conversation.
Set in the festive atmosphere of the Wilde Rover Irish Pub & Restaurant in Kirkland, WA, events begin at 7:00 pm, and end by 8:30 pm.
The next event in the Seattle area (Kirkland, WA) will be held on Tuesday, April 23 and will be hosted by Mary Robinette Kowal, accompanied by Tina Connolly and Nisi Shawl.
About SFWA
Founded in 1965 by the late Damon Knight, Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America brings together the most successful and daring writers of speculative fiction throughout the world. Since its inception, SFWA® has grown in numbers and influence until it is now widely recognized as one of the most effective non-profit writers’ organizations in existence, boasting a membership of approximately 1,800 science fiction and fantasy writers as well as artists, editors and allied professionals. Each year the organization presents the prestigious Nebula Awards® for the year’s best literary and dramatic works of speculative fiction.
On my way to Seattle via train.
I’m on my way from San Francisco to Seattle, where I will be reading at the SFWA reading series on Tuesday. I’m taking the train, because I find it restful, compared to any of the other travel options. Here, have some photos.
Last night they brought me a split of champagne, and now I’m heading off to the wine and cheese tasting. And you wonder why I prefer train travel.
Debut author lessons: Hate mail
Yesterday, I got some hate mail for a short story that’s running on EscapePod right now. My reaction to it was to laugh and share it with some friends. At some point in your career, someone will write hate mail for the story or novel you have written.
As a general rule: Do not respond.
Just chalk this person up as not your audience and move one. Responding can be momentarily satisfying, but is not likely to win the person over and will just waste time that you could spend writing.
Don’t let it affect your writing.
Let me take a moment to talk about this particular piece of hate mail in an alternate history sort of way.
Hello,
I just listened to a podcast of your story “Cerbo un Vitra ujo” and it was such a miserably unpleasant experience I felt compelled to contact you and urgently implore you to take other avocation, _anything_ else will surely bring greater reward to humankind than the threat of you producing another work of similar “art”. Even as snuff porn I have seen dramatically better and more elegant prose. It was a pointless, poorly written, obnoxious waste of my time. The only remotely redeeming aspect to it is that I now know I will never have to expend another second bothering to read anything you write.
Please, for the sake of humanity, give up writing and find something else to do with your time.
Fortunately, I just laughed but…
This is a story that I wrote back in 2005, and I was writing way outside my comfort zone. I don’t write horror so I was taking a chance and stretching. Let’s just pretend that I received this in 2005.
I wonder if I would have taken it more seriously. I was a new writer and I can tell you that I hadn’t received any fan mail yet. If this was the first reaction a story of mine provoked… it would have been harder to laugh off.
Even if I didn’t stop writing, would I have played it safe with my fiction? The scene that most people object to is is the rape scene, which is graphic. In my first draft, I faded to black and got the very good advice that it wasn’t fair to skip the difficult scenes. The fact that it was uncomfortable meant that it needed to be on the page or the protagonist wouldn’t earn the scars.
What if I’d gotten this letter and as a takeaway concluded that the advice to write the difficult scenes was wrong? I mean, authors already tend to live with a certain amount of self-doubt. I suspect I wouldn’t have won the Campbell Award, or the Hugo. The man who sent this might have gotten his wish that he would never have to read anything else I wrote.
All of which is to say these things:
- If you get hate mail, laugh it off. Your future self will.
- Write fan mail if you like stories, particularly to authors you haven’t heard of before.
It’s okay that people don’t like your stories.
People will give you this line about how hate mail means that you are winning. Not really. Hate mailers are just bullies with words. The real thing to understand is that you are writing fiction that you want to read. There are other people who do enjoy the work you produce. Expecting everyone to like every book is as silly as expecting everyone to like [insert favorite niche musical style of your choice here]. People come with a wide variety of styles, tastes, and expectations. Don’t freak out that your work doesn’t appeal to everyone.
If you are going to write back, do it when you’re in a good mood.
But really, don’t waste your time. If you are going to do it, wait until you are in a good mood so you don’t feed the anger. Flame wars eat fiction. Now… I’ll admit I did break my rules and respond to this one, since he had taken the trouble to write to me. If it had been on a blog, or a review site, I would have ignored it. And this is important — people have a right to dislike your work and express that in their own space. Do NOT respond on blogs or to reviewers. The only time you have any leeway to respond is if they enter your space and even then… best to file and ignore.
I’m cognizant of the fact that this is not setting a good example for you, but… I also know that at some point you’ll reply anyway, and this sums up why I think there are worse things than getting hate mail.
Dear [redacted],
Thank you so much for your email. I’m delighted that my work had such an impact on you. I have often felt that the only thing worse than writing a story that someone doesn’t like, is to be an asshole.
Yours,
Mary
Wondering where to find me for the next couple of months?
I’m doing a fair bit of traveling over the next couple of months with the book tour for Without a Summer. I thought it was worth mentioning that if I have two appearances in the same town, I don’t do the same reading at each. Sometimes I’ll be in period costume, sometimes I’ll have a puppet show, and sometimes I’ll read from books that aren’t yet out.
So… come visit me?
Hello San Francisco!
I left the house this morning for another leg of the Without a Summer
Other than a brief period where it looked like I might not get on the flight because it was oversold, the trip here was without incident. Saturday night, I’m reading at SF in SF with Rick Klaw, which should be fun. He’s promoting an anthology, The Apes of Wrath
There’s a very good chance that I might be previewing part of the fourth book in the Glamourist Histories, which maybe, might have a monkey in it. Possibly. Anything could happen. I mean, the book doesn’t come out until 2014, so I wouldn’t be so cruel as to tease you with a preview of it, would I?
So… will I see you at SF in SF?
April 20, 2013 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Where: The Variety Preview Room
582 Market Street
San Francisco,CA 94104
USA
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