Trashionista: Book Websites

April 22, 2010 9:38 PM

The Rowan Coleman Short Story Competition

If you're an aspiring writer, then you may be interested in the following news. Rowan Coleman, author of The Happy Home for Broken Hearts and The Accidental Family, recently posted on her blog about her new short story competition.

Fancy winning some creative writing mentoring from Rowan herself, agent feedback, tea and cakes at Random House and a host of other exciting prizes? Well, here's your chance.

To enter, you must submit a short story, of no more than 1,000 words, on the subject of STARTING OVER. Obviously, this must be an original story that has not been published elsewhere.

The competition is open to all UK residents who do not have a publishing contract or agent.

To read more about this exciting competition, check out the rules and how to submit, then head on over to Rowan Coleman's blog to find out more.

Good luck!

Posted by Elle Symonds on April 22, 2010 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 17, 2010 10:17 PM

RNA Award Winners!

The Romantic Novelists' Association yesterday presented their awards in honour of the RNA's 50th anniversary. The winners were announced at the Pure Passion Awards lunch in London.

Authors Joanna Trollope and Maeve Binchy each picked up a Lifetime Acheivement Award for their contributions to the genre. Joanna Trollope said: "I am amazed and thrilled to be given this, and so touched, too. Of course it means a lot in itself, but it means even more to me because I have such admiration and respect for the RNA, which must be one of the most professional and supportive of literary associations around, as all its aspiring writer members know, and of course, I was one of them, once...So my pleasure and gratitude are very heartfelt."

Lucy Dillon scooped the Romantic Novel of the Year award for her book Lost Dogs and Lonely Hearts, and Nell Dixon picked up the award for Love Story of the Year for Animal Instincts, published by Little Black Dress.

RNA Romantic Film of the Year, chosen by the general public via Lovereading.co.uk, was won by An Education (written by Lynn Barber, movie script by Nick Hornby.)

In addition, the Romantic Comedy Award was presented to Jane Costello for The Nearly-Weds, and the People's Choice Award - a new award which recognises new or developing authors - was won by Louise Douglas for Missing You.

Katie Fforde, Chair of the RNA, said: "The new awards introduced to celebrate the RNA's 50th year not only showcase this fantastic, best-selling and popular genre but also provide a wonderful excuse for readers to get to know new writers across the diversity of themes and plots that comprise the romantic fiction genre. These Pure Passion Awards have enjoyed a higher standard of entries than ever before but the judges were unanimously won over by Lucy Dillon and Nell Dixon, whose character development and storylines kept us hooked to the very last page. Clearly the public, who were invited to vote for their favourites for the first time in the new People's Choice and Romantic Film Awards, were equally as excited by the books as they pointed us to the clear winners."

Congratulations to all of the winners!

Posted by Elle Symonds on March 17, 2010 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 9, 2010 2:35 AM

New-look author websites!

Just when I'm planning on a personal website redesign of my own, two of my favourite authors emerge with fantastic new-look websites to provoke some web-envy. Shopaholic author Sophie Kinsella has a brand new web design - click here to check it out!

In addition, Ilana Fox (author of The Making of Mia and upcoming novel Spotlight) re-launched her website today - and it looks fantastic! For more information about Ilana and her books, head on over here.

Posted by Elle Symonds on March 9, 2010 in Book Websites | Permalink | Comments (3)

February 12, 2010 10:11 PM

RNA's Pure Passion Awards

The RNA (Romantic Novelists' Association), yesterday launched a new set of awards in celebration of the Association's 50-year anniversary.

The Pure Passion Awards will include not just the Romantic Novel of the Year and Love Story of the Year awards, but also some new honours - The People's Choice Award. the Rom Com Awards, and Romantic Film of the Year.

According to the RNA website, the Pure Passion Awards will be promoted nationally in both libraries and retail outlets. Author Katie Fforde, Chair of the RNA, said "In our 50th year we are celebrating with more awards and more opportunities which provide a wonderful opportunity for readers to be introduced to writers they may not yet have heard of.

"We are proud to showcase contemporary women's fiction, chic lit, sagas, and historical fiction. Some are written by newcomers and some by more established authors. What links them all is that they have been selected by discerning readers to be loved by everyone."

The winners will be announced in Kensington on Tuesday 16th March.

Click here to read the full story.

Here are the shortlists...

The Love Story of the Year
The Notorious Mr Hurst, Louise Allen, Harlequin Mills & Boon
Animal Instincts, Nell Dixon, Little Black Dress
Always the Bridesmaid, Nina Harrington, Harlequin Mills & Boon
Fair Deception, Jan Jones, Robert Hale
The Wedding Party, Sophie King, Hodder
Claimed for the Italian's Revenge, Natalie Rivers, Harlequin Mills & Boon

The People's Choice Award
Missing You, Louise Douglas, Pan
Remembrance Day, Leah Fleming, Avon
I Heart Hollywood, Lindsey Kelk, Harper
Rich Girl Poor Girl, Lesley Lokko, Orion
Heiresses, Lulu Taylor, Arrow

The Romantic Comedy Award
Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend, Jenny Colgan, Sphere
The Nearly-Weds, Jane Costello, Simon & Schuster
50 Ways to Find a Lover, Lucy-Anne Holmes, Pan
Rumour Has It, Jill Mansell, Headline Review

RNA Romantic Film of the Year
Confessions of a Shopaholic, Sophie Kinsella, Black Swan (Transworld)
An Education, Lyn Barber, Penguin
The Time Traveller's Wife, Audrey Niffenegger, Vintage (Random House)
Twilight: New Moon, Stephanie Meyer, Atom, Little Brown

Posted by Elle Symonds on February 12, 2010 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 29, 2010 9:43 PM

NEWS: Celebrity memoirs are here to stay, apparently

Just when you thought you'd seen enough of them over the Christmas period, it seems as though celebrity memoirs will not be going away anytime soon. According to The Bookseller, publishers believe that the memoir market is 'here to stay', despite poor sales last year.

Books from celebrity favourites such as Ant and Dec and Peter Kay will continue to grace the shelves, with some new additions in 2010. Michael McIntyre, Michael Parkinson, Russell Brand and Keith Richards will all each have memoirs released later this year.

Non-fiction director of publisher Hodder & Stoughton, Rowena Webb, told The Bookseller: "We certainly do think the celebrity memoir is here to stay . . . people are looking for strong stories, big careers and very often people who can write themselves. Those people who span the generations, books that the whole family can gather around and listen to."

And Katie Price, aka Jordan, will be releasing yet another memoir - entitled I'm Still Standing - pretty soon. (Like we didn't see THAT one coming.)

To view the full article, click here.

Posted by Elle Symonds on January 29, 2010 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Memoirs | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 15, 2009 5:20 PM

The New Romantics

What do Kate Harrison, Lucy Diamond, Matt Dunn, Sarah Duncan, Veronica Henry, Jojo Moyes and Milly Johnson have in common? Well, they have just set up a site called The New Romantics, a group dedicated to promoting commercial novels that deal with relationships and love...

If you head on over to their site you'll find events, reading group campaigns and on line promotions. Right now they have a fabulous competition where you can win one book a month for a year.

There is also a debate coming up in Richmond-upon-Thames entitled What's Love Got To Do With it, along with more information about the authors, links to their blogs and extracts from their books.

Posted by Helen Redfern on February 15, 2009 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 1, 2008 1:49 PM

BRAND NEW BOOK NEWS: Postcards From Yo Momma

Blook news! Doree Shafrir and Jessica Grose have bagged a book deal based on their blog of mom emails, Postcards from Yo Momma.

Hyperion editor Gretchen Young bought the book at auction and is planning to market it as a Mother's Day gift book.

[Via Galleycat]

Related posts: Judging panel for Blooker Prize | From blog to book

Posted by Sarah Painter on May 1, 2008 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Non Fiction, You heard it here first! | Permalink | Comments (11)

April 21, 2008 1:24 PM

Jennifer Weiner podcast

Jennifer Weiner did an author event at the Free Library in Philadelphia early this month to promote Certain Girls.

For those of us who missed it, the library has very kindly made it available as a podcast. Woo-hoo! Jennifer's says (on her blog): "Download, and hear me talk about the Jew thing, balancing work and motherhood, and why you should never try to breast-feed in a sweater dress."

Posted by Sarah Painter on April 21, 2008 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Podcasts | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 10, 2008 4:03 PM

Rate My Book Cover

You know we're obsessed with book covers, right? Well, we're not alone... Galleycat is calling for a Go Fug Yourself for book covers (well, Trashi is getting close!) and Greenleaf Book Group has launched a website called Rate My Book Cover.

Small presses and self-publishers can submit their cover art for rating before they go to print. The site aims to improve book packaging quality, and declares: "Your Mom won't tell, but we will!"

Related posts: Does a book cover matter? | US versus UK covers

Posted by Sarah Painter on April 10, 2008 in Book Websites, Book covers, Book related | Permalink | Comments (1)

February 15, 2008 2:07 PM

Jennifer Crusie, Lani Diane Rich and Anne Stewart podcast

We've recommended the Will Write For Wine podcast before, but this week's episode deserves a special mention.

Lani Diane Rich, Jenny Crusie and Anne Stewart get together at Jenny's house in Ohio and talk about collaboration (and wine, of course). Since Jenny and Anne worked together on The Unfortunate Miss Fortunes (with Eileen Dreyer) and they are all currently working on Dogs & Goddesses, they've got a lot to say...

What are you waiting for? Go listen!

Related posts: Podcasts archive | Crusie/Mayer writing workshop

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 15, 2008 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Podcasts | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 12, 2008 5:36 PM

HarperCollins to give freebies

HarperCollins has launched a new scheme that will see complete books available online for free for a limited time (a month per title).

The publisher is interested in seeing how free access to the texts affect sales. Two of the confirmed authors in the scheme are Neil Gaiman and Paolo Coelho.

Gaiman is no stranger to offering his words for free. He keeps a wonderful blog, and has some stories on his website. He explains that it is about finding new readers. He said: "I very much doubt that I discovered a single one of my favourite authors by buying a book."

Related posts: Harper Teen FanLit | Stardust by Neil Gaiman

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 12, 2008 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 29, 2008 5:48 PM

Writer's caves

I'm interested in everything to do with authors and the process of writing (no, really?) and, let's face it, I'm nosy, so this was right up my street.

US Romance writer Paige Cuccaro has collected pictures of author's caves (also known as their offices, writing spaces, or kitchen tables...) I'm not sure what amazes me more; Bob Mayer's unnaturally tidy office, or the number of writers who have fantastic bay windows and gorgeous views. Take a look here.

Posted by Sarah Painter on January 29, 2008 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (2)

Fancy writing a Mills & Boon?

Ever fancied trying your hand at a Mills & Boon novel? If you're an aspiring author, the chances are it has crossed your mind...

The Times has a great article with tips straight from the Mills & Boon HQ. Alternatively, go to the Mills & Boon website for guidelines on each category (Blaze, Medical, Historical etc) and get stuck in.

Related posts: Mills & Boon centenary | Mills & Boon on your mobile

Posted by Sarah Painter on January 29, 2008 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 25, 2008 3:57 PM

Adopt A Writer

No. Not literally. Supporters of the Writers Guild of America strike have come up with a genius idea. They have pulled together writers who blog to create the Adopt A Writer website. Featuring working writers, it aims to give an insight into writer's lives, finances and experiences of the strike.

Writing is such a misunderstood profession. People either picture the super-rich and successful or someone living penniless in a garret. Hopefully, Adopt A Writer will give a more balanced, infomed view, as well as rallying support for the strike.

Posted by Sarah Painter on January 25, 2008 in Book Websites, Book related, Movie News, Opinion, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 2, 2008 5:05 PM

Mills & Boon's centenary

Millsandboon Mills & Boon, one of the most successful book publishers ever, is celebrating its centenary this year. Yep, 100 years of bodice-ripping, dashing doctors, rich sheiks, and smart modern romances.

Visit the website for special offers and competitions throughout 2008.

Posted by Sarah Painter on January 2, 2008 in Book Websites, Book related, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

Want to get published?

I know that lots of you are authors-in-training and perhaps you've set 2008 as the year you will finish that novel/submit that novel/write a better novel. I know I have.

Since Miss Snark has hung up her stilettos and the Crusie/Mayer Writing Workshop has come to an end (sob!), I thought I'd recommend a couple of websites for 2008.

First up is a pretender to Miss Snark's throne, Nathan Bransford. He's an agent with Curtis Brown and seems to be dishing out the same straight-talking advice on queries. He's not as funny as Miss Snark, but not as scary, either...

For an editor's view, try Evil Editor. In addition to judging queries, he holds contests and sets writing exercises.

Or, Editorial Anonomous. This one is from a children's book editor, but lots of the advice is applicable across genres and it's very readable.

Of course, if you haven't seen it already, Miss Snark's archive is still available and well worth a look...

Posted by Sarah Painter on January 2, 2008 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 28, 2007 1:53 PM

The Writers' Workshop resources

Whether you've started scribbling, have completed your magnum opus, or are just thinking about the possibility of one day, maybe, writing a book, check out The Writers' Workshop; they've put up a comprehensive list of articles with all you need to know.

[Thanks Emma]

Related posts: The Crusie/Mayer workshop | Tips for new writers

Posted by Sarah Painter on November 28, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, Opinion | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 27, 2007 12:28 PM

TRASHIONISTA RECOMMENDS: Some lad-lit blogs

How could I not know that Nick Hornby had a blog? Perhaps because it's fairly new - that's my excuse anyway... If you're as in the dark as I was, read it for yourself here. He hasn't updated in a little while, but the rest of his website is a worthwhile browse, and hopefully he'll blog more soon...

Non-fic lad lit fave Dave Gorman, on the other hand, has been updating like billy-o (as my mum would say). Read his blog here, and find out all about what he's been up to, the music on Homes Under The Hammer and the deterioration in quality of a well-known chocolate egg. It's good stuff.

Finally, sometime Gorman collaborator Danny Wallace has a website, where he doesn't blog, but does post occasional news and... 'titbits' might be the right word. There's also the chance to download some video podcasts of the author/TV presenter/head of the Karma Army...

Related posts: Top 10 lad lit | From book to blog.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 27, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Memoirs, Modern Fiction, Non Fiction, Technology, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 21, 2007 3:44 PM

Read Louise Doughty's 'Novel in a Year'

I've said it before and I'll say it again: I love Louise Doughty's columns in The Telegraph. Last year, she documented her progress as she attempted to write a novel in a year, and this book, unsurprisingly called A Novel in A Year is a compilation of her weekly columns. For anyone who missed a few, or indeed missed the whole thing, this will make not only educational but entertaining reading too. I'm planning on snapping it up asap.

Incidentally, Louise Doughty's excellent columns continue but at a more relaxed pace: they're now called A Writer's Year.

Related: BOOK REVIEW: Wannabe a Writer?

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 21, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, New Releases, Non Fiction | Permalink | Comments (2)

TRASHIONISTA RECOMMENDS: Good Reads

Good Reads is a site in the tradition of Librarything and Shelfari. That is, yet another addictive book-related website for me to spend time on instead of doing anything more productive... sigh. (I warn you: once you log in, it's hard to leave, so join up at your own risk!)

The idea behind the site is simple: join up and then add books you've just read, books you want to read next and books you're reading now. You can add reviews and read other people's, get book suggestions based on what you're reading, and the best bit: add 'friends' in the same way as sites like Myspace and Facebook - you can even form groups, so you could create a virtual reading group online and have book chats over Good Reads.

So many possibilities, so many chores being ignored...

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 21, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, Technology | Permalink | Comments (2)

August 17, 2007 7:16 PM

TRASHIONISTA RECOMMENDS: Magical Musings

At Trashionista, we love us a good group blog. So I was delighted to stumble across (seriously - who knows what I clicked to get there, I'm just glad I did) another one: Magical Musings.

Bearing the tagline "Five writers who believe no story is complete without a little magic", the bloggers write novels ranging from historicals to fantasy to romantic fiction, and you can find out more about them all here.

They have some really interesting book-related blog posts on the main page, such as what happens when one of your must-read authors falls off your must-buy list (Adriana Trigiani, I'm looking at you!) and how much sex is OK in YA? (Read it and see!)

Great. Just what I needed: another must-read bookish blog... pretty soon I'll have no time to write anything myself!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 17, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Opinion, Supernatural, Trashionista Recommends, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (1)

August 13, 2007 6:52 PM

TRASHIONISTA RECOMMENDS: Dear Holly

A couple of months ago, Keris told us about Holly Shumas's new book debut, Five Things I Can't Live Without. She'll be reviewing it soon, but in the meantime you might like to take a look at the author's excellent web site, which includes an interactive advice section, Dear Holly. Follow that link for questions from readers and answers from Holly herself on all manner of dating dilemmas.

Why don't more authors do this? I'd love Marian Keyes's advice on skincare and Sophie Kinsella's tips on shoe shopping...

Which author would you most like a Q & A with, and on what topic?

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 13, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Irish Authors, Marian Keyes, Modern Fiction, Recent Release, Romance, Sophie Kinsella | Permalink | Comments (0)

Blog a Penguin Classic (and get a free book and internet fame in the process...)

Here's something we found out about thanks to the lovely Camilla, editor of our sister (wedding-themed) site, Bridalwave.

Blog a Penguin Classic gives readers the chance to sign up to review one of Penguin's 1400 titles for the website - sign up, and if you're quick enough, you could be chosen to receive a free book which you'll be asked to blog about for the site.

Be warned however - you don't get to choose your title! But it could be a great way to expand your reading horizons (sort of like a bookish lucky dip).

The next batch of books hasn't been released yet but keep checking the site to stay on top of things and read the current batch of reviews here (scroll down).

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 13, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Classic Novels | Permalink | Comments (4)

August 7, 2007 5:17 PM

The importance of being low: authors obsess over Amazon rankings

Authors: how bothered are you about your ranking on Amazon? It seems some authors can't stop checking how well their new releases are selling, even up to several times a day!

There's an article in the New York Times about how distracting Amazon rankings can be, and just a few weeks ago in The Telegraph's book section I read an excellent piece on the same subject in author Louise Doughty's weekly column about being a writer (which is always the first place I turn btw!)

Author Aaron Shephard has even created a new website, Sales Rank Express so authors can access their ranking instantly.

But maybe that time would be better use disconnecting from the net, and getting on with your next masterpiece...

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 7, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 2, 2007 11:52 AM

Sage advice on collaborating from Jenny Crusie and Bob Mayer

Despite the popularity of co-authored novels (especially as some of the collaborations do so brilliantly *coughNannyDiariescough*) and despite being a frequent collaborator herself (see here, here and here...) Jenny Crusie contends that it's not the easy, fun option it may sound.

Something I guess Janet Evanovich has already discovered...

Read Jenny and one of her many collaborators Bob Mayer on the subject at their excellent joint blog/teaching project, He Wrote, She Wrote.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 2, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Romance, Series | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 30, 2007 11:50 AM

Exclusive excerpts on the New York Times books site: Rules for Saying Goodbye and more

Keris has highlighted the difference between the UK and US covers of new book Rules for Saying Goodbye by Katherine Taylor before, and also talked about the fact that the author has taken offence to her book being described as chick lit. (Sigh).

Now you can see for yourself whether it seems like something you want to read (whether chick lit or not...) as The New York Times has an excerpt (the first chapter, in fact) on their website.

You can also read the first chapter of Sammy's House here and the opening of Lisa See's Peony In Love here. What a fantastic resource!

(If they ask you to sign in to read those, I'd do it - they never bug me with emails and offers).

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 30, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 27, 2007 8:45 AM

Is The Great Big Glorious Book for Girls... an insult to women's intelligence?

In The Guardian books blog, writer Melissa McClements despairs of a new book, The Great Big Glorious Book for Girls, which apparently is (according to the book's website): "... an irresistible celebration of girlhood, exquisitely illustrated, deliciously packaged and packed with exciting things to keep every girl, from eight to 80, entertained throughout the years ... It will take women back to a time when we made cup cakes with our grandmothers and a campfire with our friends, we played hopscotch, and domestic crafts were celebrated."

But are books like this undoing the good work of feminism by encouraging women and men to adopt stereotypical gender roles? Or should the liberated woman bake if she wants to? Is it patronising to have a book for 'girls' rather than 'women' and is it even more patronising to assume we all like the same traditional pursuits?

Also... is it wrong that I became very excited when I saw the website contains instructions on doing a proper french plait? (Finally!)

Related: Gloria Steinem on chick lit.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 27, 2007 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, New Releases, Non Fiction, Opinion | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 24, 2007 12:45 PM

The best days to sell books?

You might think that the day the new (last) Harry Potter was released would be a bad day to try and get readers interested in buying any other kind of book, but you would be wrong.

That's according to Elaine Viets of The Lipstick Chronicles blog. In a recent post, she explains why Harry Potter nights can be one of the very best days to sell books.

Find out more here (and don't forget to check out the rest of this excellent blog!

Related: Book websites archive.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 24, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Modern Fiction, Opinion | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 23, 2007 8:38 AM

Harriet Klausner: the speediest reviewer of all time... or a total con artist? Discuss.

Debate is raging is some corners of the bookish blogosphere about reader and reviewer Harriet Klausner's claims to have written over 12,000 reviews since the year 2000. (Makes my wrists seize up just thinking about typing that much!) That breaks down to 4 books a day, 7 days a week.

So is she a freakishly book-obsessed speed reading talent? Or a book blagger rather than a blogger, who's only pretending to have read some of the books she writes about and who makes things up based on the blurbs on the back of books? The fact that her reviews are almost always 4- and 5- starred has also raised suspicion.

Read more about this whole controversy over at Bloggasm...

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 23, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, Opinion | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 17, 2007 4:24 PM

Bookslut prefers misery lit to chick lit (oh-kay then...)

Much as I find literary book blog Bookslut an informative and (mostly) enjoyable read, they have got it in for chick lit big time over there. (To each her own? Not so much).

On the site today, Jessa Crispin suggests that the current glut of books about women having nervous breakdowns (yes, apparently there is such a glut) could be an extension of "the chick lit backlash", suggesting: "Perhaps writers were as desperate as readers like me to see a female character be portrayed as a whole person."

So portraying a woman as a whole person = writing about her in the depths of misery? Wow, I feel invigorated. Better put down my fantastically entertaining books about women dealing with the ups and downs of modern life and read about some real women for a change!

Remind me, I forget (I'm just a simple-minded chick lit fan): is life supposed to be all about misery for the modern day woman?... Or about reading what I want and enjoying myself?

I know which I prefer.

Your thoughts, please...

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 17, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, Opinion | Permalink | Comments (2)

July 16, 2007 4:22 PM

Maria McCarthy's writing for publication workshop

Put Saturday 8th September in your diary if you're interesting in going to Cardiff for a writing workshop with journalist and author (of The Girls' Guide to Losing Your L-Plates, which Keris loved) Maria McCarthy.

Maria says she'll be giving advice on getting fiction, non-fiction and journalism published including developing feature ideas, approaching editors, getting an agent and copyright and business matters. The workshop will be held from 2-4pm at Chapter Arts Centre, Market Road, Canton, Cardiff and costs £10 (£8 concessions).

For more information or to book a place, check out Maria's website.

Related posts: Review: Wannabe A Writer? | Review: See Jane Write

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 16, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Modern Fiction, Non Fiction | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 12, 2007 9:15 AM

Get a new dictionary and help a charity at Waterstones

As a child, my mum was so excited by her first dictionary that she made it her bedtime reading for weeks. Ah, the ~~'50s~~ '80s were a more innocent time, weren't they?

But who doesn't love a good dictionary? For writers they're pretty essential, which is why I know some of you will be interested in a Waterstones offer that not only gets you money off a brand new dictionary, but helps a charity, too!

Carry on over the cut to find out how it works.

Hand in any old dictionary at your local Waterstones book shop, and they'll give you a voucher for £15 off the new Collins dictionary - instead of £35, this mammoth volume will cost you just £20. And your old dictionary will be sent to Book Link, a charity that sends books to schools in Africa.

(It says on the site that this ended in June, but it's been extended until August, so if you need a new dictionary you might want to buy it soon!)

Related: Donate spare books to charity.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 12, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, New Releases, Non Fiction | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 10, 2007 4:50 PM

'How to Shop' - EXCLUSIVE Mary Portas giveaway!

Maryqueen The brilliantly savvy fashion/shopping expert Mary Portas, also known as Mary, Queen of Shops after her fabby BBC programme, has released a new book: How to Shop with Mary, Queen of Shops . It's a beautiful hardback, jam-packed with useful information from a mistress of retail.

And we have a copy to give away to one lucky Trashionista reader!

If you'd like to win, carry on over the cut to find out how...

To be in with a chance of winning:

Simply email us at editor@trashionista.com with your name and address and MARY in the title. Please also put 'no' in the body of the email if you wouldn't like to receive further information from Ebury/BBC books. I'm sorry, this giveaway is UK only.

And that's not your only chance to win: until the end of July there's the chance for 5 people to win £100 Oasis vouchers over on Mary Portas's website, which is well worth a look in any case.

Good luck!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 10, 2007 in Book News, Book Websites, British Authors, Competition, Fashion-Lit, New Releases, Non Fiction, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

TRASHIONISTA RECOMMENDS: LouderVoice.com

LouderVoice is an interactive reviews site where readers can post reviews of films, restaurants, TV shows and of course, books. A new Twitter-based feature now makes it even easier to add your reviews to the site - this article on Twitterati explains how it works.

And! If you have Twitter and haven't added us yet, please click here and do so, asap - Keris updates that thing like a crazy lady. (And I mean that in a good way).

Trashionista Recommends archives.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 10, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, Technology | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 3, 2007 12:47 PM

Why we love Austen... or not?

An article in Salon.com (via Bookninja) suggests that the recent resurgence in popularity of Miss Jane Austen is because, as one interviewee suggests: "Everybody really wants to be Jane... to wear long ball gowns and go to dances and be genteel.” Also: we love the romance... bless our pretty little heads.

Surely there's a little more to it than that? The quality of the writing, the subtle social satire? Anyone?

Related: The Austen backlash begins.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 3, 2007 in Book Websites, British Authors, Classic Novels, Opinion | Permalink | Comments (0)

Bridget Jones Online Archive

Isn't the internet great? Following Diane's fab Bridget Jones reminiscences, I mentioned that I used to have the original newspaper columns. This led me on my own trip down memory lane which led, inevitably, to Wikipedia, where I found that the original columns (along with some other great stuff) are online.

Yes, hotfoot it over to the Bridget Jones Online Archive and party like it's 1995!

8st 13, alcohol units 2 (excellent), cigarettes 7, calories 3,100 (poor).

Related posts: WIN! A copy of Bridget Jones's Diary | Bridget Jones's Diary review (book) | Bridget Jones's Diary review (film)

Posted by Keris on July 3, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 2, 2007 11:56 AM

YA star Megan McCafferty invites you to create a trailer

Big fan of (famously plagiarised) YA chick lit author Megan McCafferty?

Why not show your love by entering her contest to make a trailer recapping the plots of the first 3 novels in her famous Jessica Darling series (so that's Sloppy Firsts, Second Helpings, and Charmed Thirds). The trailer should be 3 minutes or less, and Megan will blog about entries as they come in, before picking her favourite - the creator of which will win a bag full of signed books.

So why not give it a go? - You couldn't possibly do worse than this...

More details and how to enter here. [Via Galleycat].

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 2, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Series, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 29, 2007 4:35 PM

No more Literary Chicks

Ever-fabulous group chick lit author blog Literary Chicks has closed down. Nooooooo!

The blog - which featured Michelle Cunnah, Whitney Gaskell, Alesia Holliday, Beth Kendrick, Eileen Rendahl and Lani Diane Rich, along with various guest bloggers - has been going since August 04, but the chicks have decided to say goodbye.

The archives are still there, though, so if you've never visited, stop by and laugh until you cry. And then cry a little bit cos it's over. Sniff.

Posted by Keris on June 29, 2007 in Book Websites | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 25, 2007 8:15 AM

Jennifer Crusie's tagline competition

Jennifer Crusie is asking for help from her readers for the sequel to Don't Look Down.

The book within the next Agnes book needs a catchy tagline: can you think one up? (I can't, slogans fox me - I'd be terrible in advertising!)

If you think you can help the great Ms Crusie with your brilliant word power, click here to find out more. [Via Nicola Pedley]

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 25, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Modern Fiction | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 22, 2007 12:24 PM

Jen Lancaster launches Mamapop's book club

I know, I can't seem to shut up about Jen Lancaster or Mamapop lately (maybe next week...?) but this I had to share: Jen Lancaster, Mamapop.com's resident author/avid reader, has just launched their book club with the inaugural (little political pun intended!) read: The Washingtonienne, Jessica Cutler's infamous blook.

If I wasn't on a book buying ban (I've got too many!), I'd be tempted to join in myself... Perhaps it's a choice for you if Richard and Judy's picks for this summer don't appeal?

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 22, 2007 in American Authors, Bonkbusters, Book Websites, Book related, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 20, 2007 9:37 AM

Jen Lancaster's summer read recommendations

Hot on the heels of The Philadelphia Inquirer's recommending beach reading, the very funny and fab Jen Lancaster gives her selection of great summer reads, and hints at what she'll be talking about next. (Here's one clue).

You can find out more from this post at great pop culture blog Mamapop.com (You don't have to be a mama to love it, I'm a biiiiig fan.)

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 20, 2007 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Modern Fiction | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 19, 2007 12:46 PM

Win five fab books with Shiny Shiny!

As if all the Trashionista competitions we give you aren't enough (some very exciting ones coming soon, I promise!), our sister site Shiny Shiny is giving readers the chance to win FIVE fab Friday Project books, including A Girl Called Madonna and Confessions of a Chatroom Freak.

Find out more, including how to enter, by directing your mouse in this direction.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 19, 2007 in Announcements, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Competition, New Releases, Non Fiction | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 15, 2007 2:00 PM

BOOK NEWS: I Was a Really Good Mom Before I Had Kids

I don't know what would tempt me to read this memoir/advice book more: the refreshingly honest and funny title...

...or the gorgeously yummy-looking front cover. (Go see).

And I don't even have kids!

Watch a video from the authors if you'd like to know more.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 15, 2007 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Self development, Technology | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 14, 2007 8:08 AM

TRASHIONISTA RECOMMENDS: Writers Revealed

Writers Revealed is a live weekly podcast hosted by HarperCollins senior online marketing manager and editor and publisher of the literary magazine Small Spiral Notebook, Felicia Sullivan.

The show features live discussions, book giveaways and author interviews. Leslie Bennetts (author of The Feminine Mistake), Joshua Ferris and Michelle Goodman, and John McNally have already appeared with Julianna Baggott, MJ Rose and Curtis Sittenfeld coming up. You can listen to previous shows online.

Trashionista recommends archive

Posted by Keris on June 14, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, Podcasts, Trashionista Recommends | Permalink | Comments (2)

June 13, 2007 11:28 AM

AUTHOR INTERVIEW: Jessica Conant-Park and Susan Conant

Conantpark_bw We've had a mother-son interview before, but this is the first mother-daughter writing combo to talk exclusively to us at Trashionista! And I'm excited they did, as I loved their books - Steamed and Simmer Down - and can't wait for the next in the series (Turn up the Heat, out March '08). In the meantime, we have this great interview...

Please describe your latest book in 15 words or fewer:

Jessica: Humorous and romantic culinary chick lit mystery set in the Boston restaurant scene. Recipes included!

Where do you like to write your books (in bed, a coffee shop, an office)?

Jessica: I write in my office surrounded sticky notes with book ideas scrawled across the yellows squares. I have visions of becoming totally organized and working in a neurotically neat space, but I suspect that will never happen. For reasons I don’t understand, there is no overhead light in my office, but I do have a grow light for my plants which casts a bizarre pink glow throughout the room, so that makes for an interesting atmosphere. (The neighbors must wonder if aliens have landed their ship in our house.)

Susan: Outdoors, often on the back steps.

Your favourite chick-lit book?

J: simply adore The Hazards of Sleeping Alone by Elise Juska. (By the way, this is one of those books where the cover doesn’t match the story.)

S: Pride and Prejudice. Or maybe Emma. Yes, is Jane Austen the true mother of chick-lit?

Your favourite female heroine (if different from above!), and why?

J: Charlotte from Elise’s book is such an interesting and endearing character and her faults make her progress all the more meaningful. I love flawed characters; I mean, who wants to read about somebody completely perfect?

S: Elizabeth Bennet, who married the eternally irresistible Mr. Darcy.

What tips would you give to any of our readers who want to become writers?

J: Start writing! It sounds obvious enough, but I know many “writers” who have yet to put anything down on paper. Don’t hem and haw over everything you write because you can always go back later and edit, delete, or expand on whatever you’ve written. I hate writing the first few paragraphs of a book so I often just skip ahead and write the opening lines later, otherwise I might sit poised over the keyboard for days waiting for some brilliant line to come to me... Do not try to copy another author’s style or your writing will be disastrous. I love Elinor Lipman’s books [me too! - Diane], but never in a million years could I write the way she does - I can only imagine how hideous my attempts would be. Show your work to someone. Anyone. As terrifying as this is to new writers, you must have someone else read what you’ve written. Be open to feedback and constructive criticism because that is how you improve!

S: If writing does not come naturally to you, quit trying. Read instead!

What are you reading at the moment?

J: Pick Your Poison by Leann Sweeney.

S: Anne Tyler’s Digging to America.

What are you working on now? (If you can give us a hint!)

J: I’ve been busy gathering materials for our website and am itching to get writing again. My mother and I are getting ready to sign a contract for two more books in the Gourmet Girl series so we will start plotting the fourth mystery very soon.

S: I was outlining my second cat lover’s mystery, but Holly Winter’s malamutes leapt in and shoved the cats aside, so I am writing my nineteenth dog lover’s mystery.

What question have you never been asked in an interview, but think you should have been? (Tell us the question and answer it too, if you like!)

Jessica: Your husband is a chef so you must eat like a queen all the time, right? A: Yes, it’s foie gras and fancy chocolate cakes for dinner every night. Okay, not exactly, be we do eat well. My husband, Bill, works most nights so I’m often left to fend for myself. When he is home and cooking, his food is always spectacular.

Susan: What is a Harvard-Radicliffe summa doing writing dog mysteries, cat mysteries, and chick-lit? Answer: Having fun.

Thanks so much, Jessica and Susan!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 13, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Crime / Mystery, Interviews, Modern Fiction, Recent Release, Romance, Series | Permalink | Comments (0)

What book first got you hooked?

The ever-interesting Bookninja asks and answers the ever-interesting question: "What book first got you hooked on reading?"

That's because book charity First Book is running a What Book Got You Hooked? campaign to raise awareness of its objectives: donating books to low-income families. This summer they'll have given away 50 million copies. Now that's impressive. (And nearly as many books as my to-be-read pile contains, ha ha.)

Anyway, to answer their question, for me... it was probably something by Enid Blyton.

How about you - What book first got you hooked?

Related: Donate spare books to charity.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 13, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (8)

June 11, 2007 3:58 PM

What's your "Judy Blume moment of truth"?

In honour of the release of the fabby-looking Everything I Needed to Know About Being a Girl I Learned from Judy Blume, Beth Kendrick of The Literary Chicks.com is asking the above question. (Your moment might be that "that all the really cute, sporty boys preferred your busty, bubbly best friend to you, just because you were a freakishly flat-chested introvert who preferred Sylvia Plath to Seventeen," says Kendrick). Read more here.

Did you grow up with Judy Blume? I loved Starring Sally J. Freedman as Herself and Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret. Blume created teenage characters with real concerns that girls could relate (and sometimes aspire) to...

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 11, 2007 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK NEWS: Pretty Fat by Jen Lancaster

I loved Bitter is the New Black and will be reviewing her latest, Bright Lights, Big Ass soon, so I was excited to hear about Jen Lancaster's next book, which she's currently both writing and losing weight for:

Called Pretty Fat, the book has another of Lancaster's trademark subtitles: One Narcissist's Quest to Discover If Her Life Makes Her Ass Look Big; Or, Why Pie Is Not the Answer, and is "the story of the heretofore-unabashedly-plus-sized Jen's quest to lose fifty pounds in six months by any means possible", according to her website.

Book news archives.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 11, 2007 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 30, 2007 8:57 AM

Read 'Cancer Vixen' online at The First Post

I was surprised (in a happy way) to learn that daily news website The First Post is featuring Marisa Acochella Marchetto's Cancer Vixen online, for everyone to read (yay!)

I'd still recommend buying the book but you can now see why it's so good by clicking here.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 30, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (1)

May 29, 2007 5:15 PM

Miss Snark says goodbye

Miss Snark, the wisest and wittiest blogging book agent (and a huge George Clooney fan) has hung up her heels for good: she'll blog no more.

If you never got around to reading her fabulous advice, don't worry: it's all there in the archives. But the Snark has "gone dark". *Sob!*

Book websites.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 29, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (0)

Living with a writer: mixing art with life...

I love Sue Hepworth's blog, and while I was reading recently, came across this story which illustrates what it's like living with an author... (Gus is the hero of Plotting for Beginners, just to give you the context). Poor writers' spouses...

Related: Top 10 books I reviewed in 2006.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 29, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, British Authors | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 28, 2007 11:57 AM

TRASHIONISTA RECOMMENDS: Early Ink website

This site sounds like an exciting idea: Early Ink's aim is to help publicise new books so it features all the news on books about to hit the shops, and even excerpts that you can print out, PLUS audio and video promos. [Via CrusieMayer.com]

"Help build buzz for your favorite author's next book by leaving comments or by linking its preview to your choice of social bookmarking Web sites," says the site.

Sounds good for authors and readers alike - just the sort of site we like!

Related: Trashionista recommends | Book websites

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 28, 2007 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, New Releases, Technology | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 23, 2007 3:41 PM

YAY OR NAY WEDNESDAY

I'm still not entirely sure how this might work, but I think I understand the basic idea: Simon and Schuster, one of the biggest publishers in the world, is hoping to take advantage of Media Predict, a new company that believes the public has an eye for what media is worth (books included). You participate by playing a virtual stock exchange game, in which you gauge the worth of certain products - and the executives at Media Predict take notice.

But should books be chosen on the basis of public opinion? Isn't there the chance we might miss a classic of the future? Or do we know more than any stuffy old editors? Should we be able to decide a book's worth? The main question I really want the answer to, though is this:

Can the general public predict which books will succeed and which will flop (without even reading them)? Tell us Yay or Nay - and why!

Yay or Nay archives.

[Don't forget it's Yay or Nay day at Hippyshopper, Bridalwave, Dollymix, Corrie Blog, Catwalk Queen, Kiss and Makeup, The Bag Lady, Shoewawa and Shiny Shiny, too!]

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 23, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, Technology, Yay or Nay? | Permalink | Comments (2)

Bookswim: Lovefilm/Netflix for books?

This is an idea that to my knowledge hasn't reached this side of the pond yet, but it would be a great idea for book fiends like me, who want to save a few bob and slow the destruction of the rainforests, whilst still getting to read all the new bestsellers. (Authors may not be so keen, however...)

A new site called Bookswim allows Americans only (darn it!) to rent books by post in the same way that Netflix or Lovefilm (depending which side of the Atlantic you're on) does for DVDs. It costs around $20-30 a month, but there's no late fees, so if you're tied to the house, or your library card is racking up enormous fines [Keris!], this could be a godsend... [Via Galleycat].

Here's how it works if you're interested.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 23, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (4)

May 22, 2007 10:03 AM

The Daily Mail book club features Julie Myerson (and more!)

It may not be my favourite newspaper (no offence to its readers!) but the book coverage at the Daily Mail keeps getting better. Their book club choice for May is The Story of You by Julie Myerson, and you can read more about the book and its author here.

If you want to get ahead, their June pick is The Vanishing Act Of Esme Lennox by Maggie O’Farrell and upcoming authors include More on Monday favourites Bill Bryson and Marina Lewycka (with her new novel, Two Caravans).

Don't forget you still have until July 2nd to enter their first novel competition, too.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 22, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 16, 2007 5:00 PM

YAY OR NAY WEDNESDAY

If you're a long-time Trashionista reader, you'll know by now what a 'blook' is, but if you're new (hello and welcome!) you might not, so I'll explain: it's just a blog turned into a book.

The annual Blooker Prize for the best blook of the year has just been announced, and the winner (netting himself a nice wad with the $10,000 prize) is Colby Buzzell, whose memoir My War: Killing Time in Iraq most impressed the judging panel. But should it have?

From now on, US soldiers will not be allowed to write 'mili-blogs' about their time in Iraq or any other part of the world. Do you agree this is for the best? Is it okay if their time in the military is over, or is it always too dangerous a compromise to national security? Will more soldiers be traumatised if they can't set down their thoughts? Is it okay to write it all down as long as it's not published, or is it always too risky? Is freedom of expression too important to be censored in this way - or is the military right? That's a lot of questions, but it all boils down to just one:

Should soldiers be allowed to write blogs, books or blooks about their experiences? Tell us: Yay or Nay - and WHY?

Yay or Nay archives.

[Don't forget it's Yay or Nay day at Hippyshopper, Bridalwave, Dollymix, Corrie Blog, Catwalk Queen, Kiss and Makeup, The Bag Lady, Shoewawa and Shiny Shiny, too!]

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 16, 2007 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Memoirs, Opinion, Recent Release, Yay or Nay? | Permalink | Comments (4)

"Unconfident and hideous"? You too could be a writing success story!

I loved this quote from The Guardian's interview with literary novelist Charlotte Mendelson: "I wasn't posh and I wasn't confident, and I was really hideous".

Isn't it comforting to know that even published authors who are critically revered have their crises of confidence too, and don't necessarily have an easy life? (Although I have to say she hardly looks hideous now...)

Her book When We Were Bad is out now.

Related: Book related| Author interviews

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 16, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Modern Fiction, New Releases | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 15, 2007 12:58 PM

TRASHIONISTA RECOMMENDS: Snowbooks

We don't usually recommend particular publishers, but Snowbooks is definitely worthy of a special mention. They're a small press, so turn out just a handful of books each year - but they're all of very good quality. So far we've reviewed Taking The Plunge, Drugs are Nice, Mama Lama Ding Dong and one of my favourite books of last year, Plotting for Beginners.

Not only that, but Snowbooks have a beautifully designed website, with a very interesting blog.

And you can catch up with them on Myspace and Twitter, too!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 15, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Memoirs, Modern Fiction, Recent Release, Trashionista Recommends | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 14, 2007 1:17 PM

Literature... on Twitter?

Yes, unlikely as it may seem, Twitter, which allows you to send messages of up to 140 characters to a group of friends, has become the new cool place for ~~book geeks~~ readers to hang out.

Twitlit brings you the opening line of a book every day, and a link to click to find out which one it is. (I haven't recognised one yet, but I'm having fun guessing!)

Bafab also have a Twitter account, as do Book Blog and Book Two.

I don't know of any chick lit authors with Twitter accounts yet, but if you do, please let us know!

In the meantime, all of us Twitter addicts have a spiritual home over at Twitterati.tv, another brilliant Shiny site.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 14, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, Technology | Permalink | Comments (2)

Upcoming bloggy book from Fussy and Finslippy

Two of the wittiest women in the blogosphere, Eden Kennedy of Fussy and Alice Bradley of Finslippy are currently at work on a new joint book about... well, they're not saying. But I can't wait to find out!

And uber-blogger Dooce is now at work on her (court-ordered) book too.

If you're a blook fan like me, this is the mother lode.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 14, 2007 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Non Fiction | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 11, 2007 12:11 PM

Karyn Bosnak on Radio Scotland

Yes, Trashionista favourite Karyn Bosnak was interviewed not in Scotland, but by BBC Radio Scotland - almost as good!

You can listen to it here via their archives. (It's the one called Fortune Tellers and should start playing straight away...) [Via Pretty* in The City]

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 11, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Memoirs, Technology | Permalink | Comments (1)

May 10, 2007 9:42 AM

What's on your bedside table?

Book-wise, I mean - we don't need to know about any mouldy coffee cups! Sarah Crown at The Guardian books blog asked the question last week, inspired by a regular feature in Mslexia. I'm not just linking to that because she mentioned me (promise!), but because I'm interested:

What are you reading now?

What else do you have lined up?

Basically, what's on your bedside table, and why?

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 10, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, Opinion | Permalink | Comments (10)

Grammar Girl Mignon Fogarty's quick and dirty audiobook!

As a podcast fan, I've been aware of the Grammar Girl phenomenon for some time. If you're not, here's the scoop: it's a hugely popular website and podcast where grammar expert Mignon Fogarty (yes) gives her "quick and dirty tips for better writing". There's actually nothing dirty about it, it's just good grammar sense, delivered in a fun and intelligent way.

Which is probably why Oprah recently had Mignon on her show to explain the accept/except and lie/lay distinctions, among other points of English. According to Galleycat, the Oprah experience has created huge demand for the book Fogarty will release next year. To take advantage, she's mixed an audio version herself in super-fast time and it's available now via her site.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 10, 2007 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, New Releases, Non Fiction, Podcasts, Technology | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 9, 2007 9:04 AM

Simon & Schuster to launch author videos site

Publishers Simon & Schuster are to launch a new video website with news and insight from some of their best-loved authors (Jennifer Weiner, perhaps?)

Called BookVideos.tv, it will launch in June. [Via Galleycat]

Technology archives.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 9, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Technology | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 7, 2007 10:21 AM

Shanna Swendson's new book: Damsel Under Stress

Lovely author Shanna Swendson, a long-time friend of Trashionista, has a new book out now called Damsel Under Stress, the third in the series which began with Enchanted, Inc and continued with Once Upon Stilettos.

In honour of the release of her new book, she's featured on Joshilyn Jackson's fabulous blog this month: read what she has to say here.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 7, 2007 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Series | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 1, 2007 8:24 PM

Something exciting: Wednesday on Trashionista!

And not just one exciting thing either - it's going to be a brilliant day tomorrow!

First, Sandi Kahn Shelton is going to be stopping by on her blog tour with a special blog post related to her book, A Piece of Normal, which we'll review later in the week.

As if that wasn't enough, we have OUR MOST EXCITING AND SPECIAL interview yet lined up for tomorrow afternoon - who could it be...??

Carry on over the cut for a clue.

She's Irish.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 1, 2007 in American Authors, Announcements, Book Websites, Book related, Interviews, Modern Fiction, New Releases | Permalink | Comments (7)

April 30, 2007 11:03 AM

Create your virtual bookshelf with Shelfari

This new site caught my eye: at Shelfari, you list the books you own in a similar way to LibraryThing and Reader 2, only instead of a list of books with pictures, you end up with a 3D picture of all the books on your shelves... and you can discuss them with your online friends via the site.

Looks like fun! Has anyone tried it?

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on April 30, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 24, 2007 8:27 AM

Interview with Aury Wellington...

No, not on here (unfortunately): editor of controversial anthology This Is Not Chick Lit, Elizabeth Merrick launched a new series of author interviews on Bookslut this week. Her inaugural interviewee is Aury Wellington, author of controversial YA book Pop!

Find out how she writes, what her big break was (clue here) and why her mum always wanted her to join the army... all by reading the interview.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on April 24, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Debut Novels, Interviews, Modern Fiction, Recent Release, Television, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (3)

April 16, 2007 1:18 PM

Blogger's quest to read only celebrity biographies for a whole YEAR

Now this is an interesting proposition: we've all read a celebrity autobiography or two, haven't we? (And some of us - even I! - may have read a ghostwritten one...)

But Mark Farley, blogger at Bookseller to the Stars has taken things one further, by challenging himself to read nothing but celebrity memoirs for one whole year, from March 1 2007 onwards... Why? Well, read more about it here and find out!

Have you ever attempted any type of year-long reading quest? Are you tempted to?

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on April 16, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Celebrity Authors, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (5)

April 10, 2007 6:29 PM

Faber's book club guides

Here's something useful, whether you're in a book club or not: publishers Faber have produced a series of online guides (in PDF format) to some of their most popular books, including A Complicated Kindness and The Bell Jar.

Just clicky here to peruse them...

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on April 10, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Classic Novels, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction | Permalink | Comments (2)

April 2, 2007 5:12 PM

Valerie Frankel talks to Joshilyn Jackson

Joshilyn Jackson can always be relied upon for interesting reading material - from gods in Alabama to Between, Georgia to her fantastic blog.

Each month she hosts a different member of The Girlfriends Cyber Circuit, a group of authors who arrange virtual tours around each other's sites to help promote each other. This month, she's asking Valerie Frankel about her new book, about a woman who's jilted (almost) at the altar and as ever, it's a fun read.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on April 2, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Interviews, Modern Fiction, New Releases | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 27, 2007 4:10 PM

In defence of romantic novels

At the risk of incurring the wrath of literary snobs (as I did a couple of weeks ago when I blogged that chick lit... could be good), Guardian books blog writer Henrietta Clancy is today standing up for that frequently maligned genre, the romance novel. In particular, Mills and Boon.

Do we have any big romantic fiction fans out there? I'd always prefer chick lit and, to be honest, romance doesn't appeal to me (maybe I'm just not very romantic) but, of course, I won't sneer at anybody who enjoys it! Unlike some people.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on March 27, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, Modern Fiction, Opinion, Romance | Permalink | Comments (3)

March 16, 2007 11:23 AM

BOOK NEWS: Shaggy Blog Stories

As everyone in the UK will know, it's Comic Relief this evening. (If you're not in the UK and have no idea what I'm on about, click here for all the info).

Anyway! Blogger troubled-diva decided to set up an ambitious project to raise money for Comic Relief: he put together in just one week a book of 100 amusing blog entries from British bloggers, with profits going to Comic Relief. Called Shaggy Blog Stories, you can buy a copy from Lulu.com and benefit a great cause.

With my declared penchant for bloggy books, I'm definitely going to snap one up!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on March 16, 2007 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction | Permalink | Comments (5)

March 15, 2007 10:44 AM

In defence of chick lit

I'm sticking up for chick lit (to the dismay of some of my commenters over there!) on the Guardian books blog: read it here.

And if any of you lovely chick lit readers and authors would like to answer chick lit's critics, please hop on over and leave a comment (I think you have to register but it's easy, promise). Ms Shanna Swendson, you'd have something great to say, I just know it... as would so many of you.

*Go chick lit, go chick lit... *

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on March 15, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, Opinion | Permalink | Comments (16)

March 13, 2007 4:20 PM

Galaxy Book Awards shortlist announced

The Galaxy British Book Awards, formerly just The British Book Awards (those ones that Richard and Judy present where they always shout slightly embarrassing 'impromptu' interviews across the stage to the people giving out the books, I'm sure you've seen them on TV) have announced their shortlist. And they're now calling themselves The Oscars of the Book World. Posh!

Carry on over the cut to see the books in the running and for details on how to vote (for Marian Keyes!)...

The full list, with several categories, is very very long (despite the name 'shortlist'!) so it's better viewed via the awards' website. Perhaps of most interest to Trashionistas is that Marian Keyes's latest, the wonderful Anybody Out There? has been nominated for Sainsbury's popular fiction award. To vote for Marian, or any other book, click here. (Go now - hurry!)

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on March 13, 2007 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Irish Authors, Marian Keyes, Modern Fiction, Prize Winners, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 12, 2007 12:49 PM

Books the British public just couldn't finish!

Normally at Trashionista we concern ourselves with those books you just can't put down, but today we're talking about books you struggle to pick up again after reading a few pages/chapters...

The book world is all a-flutter today about a new survey which shows the most frequently abandoned reads: top of the list is 'challenging' Booker Prize winner Vernon God Little by WBC Pierre, which 35% of 4000 surveyed readers apparently gave up on. It was joined by Salman Rushdie's The Satanic Verses and classic of the impenetrables: Ulysses by James Joyce. The only female author at the top, and the biggest surprise, is that 32% of adult readers couldn't make it through Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (although, actually, you can add me to that list - Quidditch World Cup? Snoozeathon! Pick up the pace, JK...)

If any of those books are on your personal unfinished list, The Times helpfully tells you how they end, and The Guardian digests them for you.

So... what's the book you just couldn't finish? Find out mine over the cut!

For me it's William Faulkner's famously difficult The Sound and the Fury. (With no differentiation in tenses and no idea which character is talking, it's a 'puzzler', to say the least). On the other hand, I managed to get to the end of the execrable Citizen Girl - but wished I hadn't bothered!

How about you?

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on March 12, 2007 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, Prize Winners, Rubbish Books | Permalink | Comments (5)

March 6, 2007 12:12 PM

TRASHIONISTA RECOMMENDS: Holly's Inbox

Are you ready for the "Bridget Jones's diary of the digital age"?

New website Holly's Inbox is a real time novel set in the reception area of a city investment bank. When you go into the site it is like you are accessing Holly's actual inbox and reading her emails as they come in.

I've just read week one and I can see it could become totally addictive.

Posted by Keris on March 6, 2007 in Book Websites, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Trashionista Recommends | Permalink | Comments (1)

February 26, 2007 10:21 AM

TRASHIONISTA RECOMMENDS: Reader Girlz

Created by Young Adult authors Justina Chen Headley, Janet Lee Carey, Lori Ann Grover and Dia Calhoun, Reader Girlz is a new online book community "celebrating gutsy girls in life & lit".

Each month, they will showcase a YA novel "featuring a strong female character (or two!)". The first book is Justina Chen Headley's Nothing But the Truth (and a few white lies). Join the club by friending them at MySpace or read the current issue here.

Find out more over the cut.

But that's not all. They also want to encourage readers to become active in their communities. "We want to connect you with stories that will change the way you and your friends see yourselves, and inspire you to have the guts to make history of your own. So you'll see lots of great community service ideas that tie in with our featured books."

A fabulous idea and an entertaining and intriguing site, I'm sure you'll agree.

Trashionista recommends archive

Posted by Keris on February 26, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (3)

February 15, 2007 2:33 PM

Munchkin's Bookshelf

I asked you last week about your favourite independent bookshops and Susan Helene Gottfried recommended this one, Munchkin's Bookshelf, which looks fantastic. And not just because it looks like Meg Ryan's shop in You've Got Mail.

Any other recommendations?

Posted by Keris on February 15, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, Opinion | Permalink | Comments (1)

February 14, 2007 2:23 PM

Win a trip to New York

Marian Keyes has a new website for Anybody Out There. Along with a biography, FAQ*s, character profiles (for all the Walshes!), there's also a chance to win a trip to New York: two return flights, four nights accommodation and a discount card for Macy's. Plus 10 runners-up will receive a set each of all Marian's books signed by Marian! The closing date is 4 March 2007.

Oh and don't forget the Funny Side of Love weekend this weekend on E! and Paramount (in the UK).

*Asked what she's reading at the moment, Marian admits she's currently "mildly obsessed with Michael Connolly," as is Megan Crane!

Posted by Keris on February 14, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, Competition, Irish Authors, Marian Keyes, New Releases | Permalink | Comments (2)

January 30, 2007 2:49 PM

Sushi for Beginners on Oneword Radio

Marian Keyes's novel Sushi for Beginners is being read by actress Niamh Cusack on Oneword Radio. I didn't find out about it in time to let you know about the first episode, but the second (of ten) is broadcast this afternoon at 4.00pm (GMT). Daily broadcasts are 12.00am, 8.00am and 4.00pm and you can listen online (UK only, unfortunately).

Posted by Aigua Media on January 30, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, Irish Authors, Marian Keyes | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 29, 2007 10:46 AM

Free online novel

Author and journalist Bill Stephens is publishing his novel, Horizons Past, online for free. Along with a new chapter each week, the website also features a forum where you can "comment, critique, offer plot revisions, or just chat."

Stephens calls his style "Nicholas Sparks with a sense of humor" and the book’s premise sounds entertaining:

Take "Notting Hill" (1999 movie with Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant - Hollywood actress falls for the owner of a small travel book store in London's Knotting Hill area) and set it on the Texas Coast, add substance, a sand poet, intrigue, a hurricane, and a pinch of Anna Karinina (sic), and you have the story line. Cultures collide and humor abounds when the movie star (think Sandra Bullock) encounters the reclusive Texas beach sand poet (think Harrison Ford).

[via Publishers Lunch]

Posted by Keris on January 29, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 23, 2007 4:47 PM

Meet the Author

We've linked to Meet the Author quite a few times here at Trashionista and now author and journalist William Leith writes entertainingly in The Guardian about his experiences recording his own 90 second pitch and reveals it costs publishers £400 to get one of their authors featured.

So what do you think? Is it £400 well spent or would you rather authors stayed at home in their pyjamas?

Posted by Keris on January 23, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 19, 2007 12:10 PM

BOOK NEWS: Isabel Losada's 'Men!'

Men Non-fiction author Isabel Losada, who normally concerns herself with global issues, self improvement and reasons to be glad has a new, more romantically-themed book due for release here at the end of April.

Called 'Men!' her working subtitle was 'Where the **** are they?!' but she's now settled on 'Forget the fiction! Where are the interesting and available men?' (Answers on a postcard, please...)

On her blog she discusses the vexed issue of covers, and why she picked red rather than white (less self help-looking, apparently).

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on January 19, 2007 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Girly Stuff, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Romance, Self development | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 17, 2007 10:38 AM

Book clubs - not just for books?

Anyone who knows me will laugh/nod their head in recognition when I say that I'm far too much of a control freak to be in a book club and have other people set my reading list. Plus, I have way too many books lined up to review! But there's no denying their popularity, and I have enjoyed some of the books about book clubs. (This one more than this one, which I found shocking in its pro-life propaganda - but that's anther story!) And if it's good enough for Rory Gilmore, it can't be a bad idea...

But a recent post on the Galleycat book blog suggested that book clubs are more about gossiping, or wine-drinking, or problem solving than actually talking about books! I can see that might be the case if you're with a group of good girl friends, but perhaps not so much if you're part of a group at say, your local library... Apparently clubs are now evolving to include meals, movie adaptations and other social activities (so more of a get-together than a 'book club' then...)

Are you part of a book club? Do you actually read and discuss the books, or does your attention wander? We'd love to know!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on January 17, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Memoirs, Modern Fiction, Opinion | Permalink | Comments (3)

January 16, 2007 11:29 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life by Amy Krouse Rosenthal

I have not survived against all odds.

I have not lived to tell.

I have not witnessed the extraordinary.

This is my story.

So begins this wonderful book.

Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life is Amy Krouse Rosenthal's autobiography - kind of. It's an alphabetised account of her experiences and thoughts on life, large and small, interspersed with a chronology of her life experiences, from how she came up with the idea of the book ('evolution of this moment') to why she could never concentrate during Laverne and Shirley...

I love the odd touches throughout the book: from the photocopied documentation of Amy's attempts to get out of a parking ticket on the grounds of karma (read the book to find out if it worked) to the reader's agreement that begins with a standard 'you agree not to reproduce, replicate or reprint...' and continues to 'at the end of each page you agree to thrust your arms upward and emit a loud, staccato hey!') But although it's a very funny book it's not a superficial or silly one - Amy shares some very personal facts and difficult experiences, including unexpected deaths of loved ones. It's a completely absorbing read.

Although this was without doubt the best book I read in 2005, I've hesitated in reviewing in for this long because I wasn't sure I could do it justice. The only way to really grasp how great it is is to read it, but you can read excerpts on the book's own site. It's definitely quirky and might not be to everybody's taste, but I think most people will appreciate the witty chronicling, the dry humour, the superb writing and the occasional moments of real sadness and poignancy.

This is one of those brilliant books that makes you wish you'd written it yourself.

Rating: 5 out of 5

Like this? Try Cancer Vixen by Marisa Acocella Marchetto.

DID YOU KNOW? In a lovely gesture, if you read the book and love it, you can email the author via the site and tell her so - and she promises to write back individually and thank you (I've done this, and she's fab).

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on January 16, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Rating: 5/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

Pulpwood Queens go Hollywood book festival

If you're in the Texas area, or can be this weekend, The Pulpwood Queens Go Hollywood! Girlfriendslogora book festival ("where tiaras are mandatory and reading good books is the rule!")is being held in Marshall, Texas from 19-21 January. Excitingly for fans of Galleycat, book blog supremo Ron Hogan will be on one of the panels.

Here's a detailed schedule and more information (in pdf format).

And if you're more British-based, don't forget about Aye Write! in Glasgow this February.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on January 16, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, New Releases | Permalink | Comments (0)

Five chapters

Five chapters is a new, free internet-based way to read great fiction. A story is published every week, with a chapter every weekday. And! You can submit stories for publication, as well as reading them...

Find out more.

Related: The neverending story...

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on January 16, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, British Authors, Modern Fiction, New Releases | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 11, 2007 6:40 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Dating Amy by Amy DeZellar

Datingamy Amy DeZellar's Dating Amy is a memoir of, as the subtitle says, "50 True Confessions of a serial dater".

Amy went on fifty dates (although not with fifty men!) and chronicled her adventures on her website, datingamy.com. Her goal was to get some paid writing work, maybe publish a book... and perhaps even find love, too.

And we know it worked at least partly, as here's the book of the experience, which she adapted from her dating blog...

Amy goes out with men she meets via internet dating sites, meets at parties or bars, and men her friends set her up with. Sometimes I wasn't clear why she was going on a second date with some of these men, as the first one had gone so horribly! It all makes for interesting reading though. (Could that be why...?)

The book looks at some perennial dating questions: is it nicer for a man to say he doesn't want to date you again after just one date - or better to ignore you forever more? Why are some men so great on paper and a let-down in real life? And are men really all about sex and women all about commitment?

There's nothing hugely original about the concept, we've had a raft of similar books, both fiction and non-fiction, about serial daters. But this book is an enjoyable addition to the genre, and although I sometimes felt frustrated with Amy's choice of man (!) and the fact that she often said she couldn't get any paid writing work (had she sent out freelance ideas? Anything? We never find out) I'm still glad she wrote this book, and even more glad Amy dated all those men... so no-one else has to!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Year of Yes by Maria Headley.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on January 11, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 10, 2007 7:40 PM

YAY OR NAY WEDNESDAY

Take a wander over to brilliant books site bookburger to have a look at this book cover, for YA novel Anatomy of a Boyfriend.

Does it denigrate males? Is it offensive?

Or... do you like it?

Tell us: is it a Yay or Nay - and why!

[Don't forget it's Yay or Nay day at Hippyshopper, Bridalwave, Corrie Blog, Catwalk Queen, Kiss and Makeup, The Bag Lady, Shoewawa and Shiny Shiny, too!]

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on January 10, 2007 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Romance, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (7)

January 9, 2007 4:09 PM

The Crusie/Mayer writing workshop

This is exciting news: one of our all-time favourites Jenny/Jennifer Crusie and her collaborator Bob Mayer have launched an online writing workshop, set to run throughout the whole of 2007! (If that doesn't inspire you to write a brilliant chick-lit novel, what will?)

It's free to participate and you can ask questions and make relevant comments on each virtual lesson. Find out more here. The authors freely admit they're using the opportunity as prep for an upcoming writing book they're going to produce - but I don't think that's any bad thing!

Here's the course syllabus - scroll down for recent lessons.

[Via author Kate Harrison's blog].

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on January 9, 2007 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 5, 2007 6:36 PM

Book challenges

Denise of fab book blog, Books in Bed has set herself a reading challenge for 2007. She’s going to read a book for each letter of the alphabet: from A Town Called Alice to Zoia’s Gold.

I set myself a 52 books challenge last year and I know that former Trashionista editor, Jenni, is going for a book-recommendation challenge so what about the rest of you? Any weird and wacky reading plans in your future? We’d love to hear about them.

Posted by Keris on January 5, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (5)

Plotting for Beginners sites

Remember how much I loved Plotting for Beginners? Well, co-author Sue Hepworth has now updated her blog and main character Sally's blog, so I (and you!) have some great reading to catch up on - and to tide me over until the next book. What a treat for a Friday afternoon!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on January 5, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Recent Release, Technology | Permalink | Comments (0)

Amazon.com launches a podcast, Amazon founder launches rocket?

It's all going on in Amazon-related shenanigans! When I read that the founder of Amazon.com had bought a rocket I began to realise I HAD been spending too much money there. Independents here I come! Maybe...

The good news is you can now listen to all things Amazon, for free - they've launched a new monthly podcast called Amazon Wire, "an original, free podcast about books, music, movies, and those who create them." Sounds fun, no? You can download it or stream it via the site, and the first episode focuses on the best books, films and music of 2006.

[Via BBC News and Amazon.com]

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on January 5, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Podcasts, Technology | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 2, 2007 5:29 PM

Tips for new novelists

If your New Year's resolution (sorry, I said that dreaded word!) is to finish the book lingering at the back of your sock drawer/hard drive (or in my case, to think about starting one... baby steps) then author Laura Lippman's excellent advice should help. I love her tips on finding an agent:

"Finished? Time to find an agent. Yes, you need one. Even if you manage to sell your book on your own, or win a contest that ends in publication, you'll need an agent. Spend a day at a library or well-stocked bookstore. Surf the Internet. Find books that are similar in genre, story and/or tone with your (now-finished) book. Check to see if the writer mentions the agent in the acknowledgement section. If so, this functions as a pretty good reference, don't you think? Do you publicly thank people who did a crummy job?"

I also love the fact that she admits to stealing the tips idea from Jennifer Weiner, whose wonderful advice can be found on her website.

So get to it, potential authors! But not before you're finished reading today's posts on Trashionista, obviously.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on January 2, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 18, 2006 5:33 PM

AUTHOR INTERVIEW: Meg Cabot

Megcab2 My co-ed Keris out-and-out worships (well, pretty much!) the lovely Ms. Cabot, and I think she's a darn fine YA and chick-lit author too, so we were delighted when the Princess Diaries author took part in the famous (hey, it could be!) Trashionista author interview...

Please describe your latest book in 15 words or fewer:

Princess Diaries, Seventh Heaven, is the seventh book in the Princess Diaries series.

Where do you like to write your books (in bed, a coffee shop, an office)?

On my 12 inch PowerBook G4, in bed.

Your favourite chick-lit book?

I'm a big fan of Sophie Kinsella's Shopaholic series, Megan Crane's English as a Second Language, Valerie Frankel's Hex and the Single Girl, Susan Juby's Alice series, and Michele Jaffe's Bad Kitty.

Your favourite female heroine (if different from above!), and why?

Princess Leia Organa from Star Wars. Because she's socially conscious AND a dead shot with a laser gun (and she understands keeping your hair out of your eyes while shooting stormtroopers is important).

What tips would you give to any of our readers who want to become writers?

Write all the time. Never stop sending out your stuff. And remember that the first Princess Diaries got rejected seventeen times before my current publisher finally bought it.

What are you reading at the moment?

Cancer Vixen by Marisa Acocella Marchetto.

What are you working on now? (If you can give us a hint!)

Princess Diaries 9 (there are only going to be 10 full-length books in total, so we're almost at the end), in which everything that occurs in After Eight, Princess Diaries 8 (out in January) finally sinks in. [We'll be reviewing 8, 9 and 10, no doubt!- Diane]

What question have you never been asked in an interview, but think you should have been? (Tell us the question and answer it too, if you like!)

There is no question I have never been asked. There are questions I can't believe I've been asked--such as the time a guy asked me if I'm still upset, like my character Princess Mia, that my boobs are so small--but I've been asked them all. By the way, the answer no...my boobs may be small, but they are spectacular.

[That's a Teri-Hatcher's-guest-spot-on Seinfeld reference, fact fans!]

Thanks Meg!

Meg's fabulous site / Interview archives

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on December 18, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Interviews, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Recent Release, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (4)

December 15, 2006 4:11 PM

Bookhitch- a search engine for books

Do books need a separate search engine all to themselves? Bookhitch.com says yes!

Find out more- and look for a book, or (if you're a published author) add your own...

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on December 15, 2006 in Book News, Book Websites, Technology | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 12, 2006 9:30 AM

TRASHIONISTA RECOMMENDS: Nancy Pearl's Book Lust Wiki

Nancy Pearl’s first book of reading recommendations, Book Lust, has been on my Amazon wishlist since 16 March 2004 (I just checked). While I haven’t had a chance to read it yet (and no-one’s bought it for me; Christmas is coming, you know!), I just discovered Nancy’s Book Lust Wiki site.

Subtitled “a community for people who love books” (just like Trashionista!), once you register you can easily edit the content and add your own contributions (which is what a Wiki is, in case you didn’t know).

Nancy Pearl is a “rock star librarian” and has even had a Librarian Action Figure made in her likeness. In 2004, she became the 50th winner of the Women’s National Book Association Award for her contribution to the world of books and there is so much on the site it would take days to investigate everything. From Nancy’s “reading itineraries” to book club picks to children’s books to out of print books, it’s an incredible, informative and user-friendly resource.

Trashionista Recommends archives

Posted by Keris on December 12, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, Opinion | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 11, 2006 1:51 PM

Donate spare books to charity

Christmas is coming and it’s likely that anyone reading this will receive at least a couple of books as gifts. But what to do with the tons of books already cluttering up the place? We can’t all have unlimited shelf space and Christmas is for giving, after all.

We’ve mentioned book-swapping sites before, but you might also consider libraries and hospitals, who often accept book donations, or you can donate them to CharityBooks whose aim is to get the best price for your nominated charity. There may also be a book recycling bin at your local recycling centre. [via Mslexia]

Posted by Keris on December 11, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, Opinion | Permalink | Comments (0)

Unsuggester- addictive Librarything fun

Oh thanks Librarything, like I needed another way to waste time on the internet! Unsuggester is a new feature on the site that allows you to enter any book you own/love/have just read and find out its exact opposite- the book you're least likely to love.

There's also a more practical Book Suggester, with positive suggestions, if you want to be all conventional...

I tried them both with Bridget Jones's Diary, and the results were:

Unsuggester: Exegetical fallacies by D. A. Carson

Suggester: Bridget Jones : The edge of Reason (followed by Divine secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood, About a Boy by Nick Hornby and The Nanny Diaries)...

Which seems about right!

There's also something called Librarysuggester, which is based on your whole library. Fun!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on December 11, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, Technology | Permalink | Comments (17)

December 7, 2006 11:12 AM

Read mum-lit novel The Mummybiz online... as it's written

Fiction and non-fiction about the trials (and joys, of course!) of motherhood are hugely popular now, allowing women with children to share their feelings / read books they can relate to.

Now, as part of Time for Mum, a motherhood website, novel The Mummybiz is being published online as it's written, allowing readers the chance to influence edits and get a sneak peek at what could be a future classic of the 'overwhelmed mum' genre!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on December 7, 2006 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, New Releases | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 6, 2006 5:52 PM

YAY OR NAY WEDNESDAY

Last week, those publishing books drawing on their past crimes were, not surprisingly, roundly chastised - unless they showed some contrition, by giving their advance to charity, for example.

This week - another controversy! The Guardian reports that author Susan Hill has been banned from the pages of an unnamed book review section after she claimed that book bloggers hold more power than the traditional press. (Yay! Say we). John Sutherland, another British author, was most condescending about online book reviewers, claiming their (our) motivation is, "Partly for freebies. But more because they enjoy shooting off their mouths. And they enjoy the power." (And also because we get to walk around wearing crowns and velvet robes...)

Do you think book bloggers - whether paid or not - have as much sway as the traditional media? Do you trust them (us)? What about the reviews on Amazon: is it a dangerous trend when the views of so-called 'amateurs' can be read by so many people? Or is it a wonderful thing?

To any (or all!) of those many questions, tell us: Yay or Nay, and why?

Yay or Nay archives.

[Don't forget it's Yay or Nay day at Hippyshopper, Bridalwave, Corrie Blog, Catwalk Queen, Kiss and Makeup, The Bag Lady, Shoewawa and Shiny Shiny, too!]

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on December 6, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Opinion, Yay or Nay? | Permalink | Comments (7)

December 5, 2006 8:49 PM

TRASHIONISTA RECOMMENDS: Oneword radio

Oneword Radio is a digital and online radio station featuring "the best in books, drama, comedy & discussion" and includes serialisations of bestselling books read by great actors.

On Tuesday, 26 December you can catch the first of nine episodes of Allison Pearson's I Don't Know How She Does It, read by Samantha Bond and Gary Armstrong and also Jane Eyre (the first of 52 episodes!) read by Juliet Stevenson. Plus every weekend you can enjoy extracts from Mills & Boon novels.

Posted by Keris on December 5, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, Trashionista Recommends | Permalink | Comments (0)

Books of the year lists

Yep, it's that time of the year when newspapers ask distinguished authors / writers / commutators / anyone willing to talk to them which were the best books of the year. And we can try to guess who's telling the truth or just trying to look clever... There's a fair bit of clever posturing (or very, very serious readers- perhaps both) in the Guardian's list (scroll down for details on how to send in your top choices before December 17th). The Observer's list includes suggestions from Malcolm Gladwell and Lionel Shriver and The Times has more lists than you can shake a stick of mistletoe at. Finally, here's the New York Times' editors pick of the 10 best books of 2006. [You may have to be logged in too see that - but it's worth registering, and free].

Check out our Trashionista Top 100 Extravanganza throughout December for a more chick-lit interpretation! (Tomorrow: Top 10 non-fic chick lit...)

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on December 5, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 30, 2006 11:45 AM

Watch Madonna talk books

Well, it makes a nice change from hearing her talk about adoption, Africa, etc etc etc! She talks about her hugely popular The English Roses book, and its new sequel The English Roses: Too Good To Be True. And she makes some great feminist points about books for young girls!

The interview is in four parts, all on YouTube.

[Via Book Trailer Park].

Related: Kylie joins celebrity authors.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 30, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Celebrity Authors, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Series, Technology, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 28, 2006 11:32 AM

Marian Keyes news- she's on Strictly and on film!

Mariankeyes Anyone who watched Strictly Come Dancing's sister show It Takes Two yesterday will have seen footage of the lovely Marian Keyes behind the scenes on Saturday's SCD, giving her unique take on the series- inspecting the underwear arrangements inside the girls' dresses (not whilst anyone was wearing them, I hasten to add!) and screaming with such excitement at meeting Lilia - she almost provoked the poor girl to need a restraining order. Then she treated us to a little of her dancing... hmm. All in all, very entertaining. If barmy.

AND! Did you know that there's a film of her novel Last Chance Saloon? If you did, you're more informed than I am! Called ‘Au secours j’ai trente ans’ (which Babelfish translates - I suspect a little too literally - as "With the help I am thirty years old") it's a French film that sadly doesn't have a subtitled version available on English or American Amazon, but you can buy a copy via the French version of the site. A reviewer there only gave it 2/5, but Marian says in Further Under the Duvet that she thinks it's a very good adaptation - and you can't say fairer than that!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 28, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Irish Authors, Marian Keyes, Modern Fiction, Movie News, Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

Trashionista Recommends: Book Reporter

Book Reporter is a site with author interviews and book info that's a great read any time of the year, but especially at Christmas! (Can you tell I'm in the seasonal mood? I love me some Xmas, and it's December this week so there's no excuse not to join me!)

Check out Book Reporter's "What to Give/What to Get" (I like the way that's phrased!) guide to Christmas new releases/old favourites for all the family... and look at the homepage, too.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 28, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Celebrity Authors, Classic Novels, Debut Novels, Trashionista Recommends | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 27, 2006 10:34 AM

Mediabistro's 12-week novelist courses

NaNoWrimo is reaching its end - how are you all doing? Close to hitting 50,000 words, I hope? (My arms ache just thinking about it!) If you haven't quite made it, or you think three months is a much more sensible amount of time to write a novel in, you might be interested in the Media Bistro course, 12 Week Novelist: Chick Lit Edition. Nano specialist and friend of Trashionista Francesca Segre is teaching it, and it runs from January 10 - April 16. The only downside? You have to be living (or staying) in LA... There is a general 12-week novelist course which is available online, though.

NaNovember archives.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 27, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, NaNovember | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 24, 2006 11:55 AM

Colour in your own covers!

If Keris's post yesterday inspired you, but like me you're more at home with a packet of colouring pencils than some fancy photo-editing software, this might appeal to you.

Ceri Radford of The Telegraph's books blog reports that Penguin are releasing special (I presume limited-edition) versions of six classic books, including Emma, with high-quality plain paper front covesr, for you to decorate yourself. Called 'My Penguin' you can find out more on the website, and see pictures of other people's efforts. (Some are fantastic, others... a bit more avant-garde, let's say!) A great gift idea anyway, available from 30 November for £5 each.

[Via The Telegraph books blog and Penguin's website].

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 24, 2006 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Classic Novels, New Releases | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 23, 2006 1:56 PM

Karyn Bosnak's new YouTube videos

Karyn Bosnak is the latest author to hop on the YouTube bandwagon, with a new series of video posts she's calling 'Storytime'. Watch the first one here and find out about her friend Mark, her lazy eye, and even a bit about her novel, Twenty Times a Lady. She's a natural! (Much like our Shiny media colleagues, who've been at this YouTube lark for ages now- such trendsetters...) Word on Karyn's blog is that a new Storytime is due very soon.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 23, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, Recent Release, Technology | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 21, 2006 9:35 AM

Support a Trashionista Part 2

Remember last month we asked you to vote for Trashionista reader Jenny Gardiner's book, Sleeping With Ward Cleaver, in the American Title contest? Well, Jenny's made it through round one and has a message for us Trashionistas!

Thank you all so much for taking the time to vote for me in Round One of Dorchester Publishing American Title fiction contest. With your help, I have moved on to Round Two, and now have a one in eight chance of winning a publishing contract and getting this book published!

Voting for this round has begun and ends on 26 November. The easiest way to vote is via email with SLEEPING WITH WARD CLEAVER in the subject line. Or to follow the contest, go to the Romantic Times site and click on the American Title icon on the right side, halfway down the page.

Congratulations and good luck, Jenny!

Posted by Keris on November 21, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 20, 2006 1:03 PM

Reader 2- The new Librarything?

Reader 2 (I know, I think that's supposed to be the mathematical 'squared' sign but my PC wouldn't play ball) is a new site that allows you share your book lists online, in the manner of Librarything. Only... it's not quite as pretty-looking, is it? Still, the big advantage of Reader 2 is that it's totally FREE! (My favourite price).

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 20, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, Technology | Permalink | Comments (0)

Trashionista Recommends: Fresh Yarn

You know how much we love Hillary Carlip here at Trashionista, so we were excited to discover Fresh Yarn, a site she set up to feature personal essays by some great memoir/essay writers. (The current issue includes a very timely essay, The Federlines and Us by Elizabeth Crane). Hillary edits the site and it's updated with six new essays every month with past issues still available to read in the archives. If you're already up to date, the new issue will is due on 1st December.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 20, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Non Fiction, Opinion, Trashionista Recommends | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 16, 2006 11:45 AM

Celebs donate their favourite childhood books to the Right to Read auction

The National Library for the Blind is running a Right to Read initiative, highlighting book access problems for people with a sight problem or reading disability. To raise money for the scheme, which aims to provide access to books for all, celebrities are donating books for auction. As Corrieblog reports, books include Julie Hesmondhalgh's own personal copy of Little Women, which you can bid for here.

There's also a copy of Pooh bear classic, Now we Are Six, donated and signed by Nick Hornby, and Colin Firth has donated The Wonderful World of Oz.

Here's the full list of items for auction.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 16, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Classic Novels | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 15, 2006 7:25 PM

TRASHIONISTA AUTHOR INTERVIEW: Jenna Bayley-Burke

Jenna2 Jenna Bayley-Burke is the author of Just One Spark which she wrote as part of NaNoWrimo. Here, she talks to us (and coming soon- a guest blog from Jenna!)

Please describe your latest book in 15 words or fewer:

Mr. Buttoned Uptight needs a girlfriend and a caterer, so decides to multi-task.

Where do you like to write your books (in bed, a coffee shop, an office)?

I like to write at coffee shops with my favorite coffee-of-the-month (maple latte, try it!), however, I do most of my writing in bed with my laptop, and my kidlets sleeping down the hall.

Your favourite chick-lit book?

Hmmm. Favourites are overrated. Kristin Lobe's Paris Hangover for the setting and her use of description, Jane Porter's The Frog Prince for the way she layers in emotion, and Saralee Rosenberg's Fate and Ms. Fortune for the humor. You didn't really expect me to pick one? Please, that's like eating one M&M. No one does that!

Your favourite female heroine (if different from above!), and why?

Oh! I just read the Santa, Baby anthology, and loved Toni Larson from Carly Phillips' Naughty Under The Mistletoe. I'm always a big fan of heroines who know what they want, and take it.

[Expect a Trashionista review of Santa, Baby, which also features a Jennifer Crusie novella, in December].

Carry on over the cut for the rest of our interview with Jenna...

What tips would you give to any of our readers who want to become writers?

Read your favorite authors as you would textbooks. Look to see from whom you can learn emotion, setting, humor, sensuality, action, etc. And write. That's the main thing.

What are you reading at the moment?

Well... Raising a Reader, YOU on a Diet and Off Her Rocker by Jennifer Archer. Just finished an advance reader's copy of Vicki Lewis Thompson's My Nerdy Valentine last night. Fantastic!

What are you working on now? (If you can give us a hint!)

My NaNoWriMo, Sure Thing. It's difficult because it uses the characters and time line of Just One Spark. It's hard, but Kate & Derek needed their own story.

Thanks Jenna! Jenna's new novel Cooking Up a Storm is released on December 1st.

Jenna's blog / Interview Archives / Nanovember archives

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 15, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Interviews, Modern Fiction, NaNovember, New Releases, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (2)

November 14, 2006 10:51 AM

One year... 150 books

Despite what my parents might think, I'm not even close to having read 150 books this year ( I suspect Keris might not be far off, though!) But Kristin of the Books for Breakfast blog is doing just that, and is reviewing all her reads, too on her excellent site. Find out more.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 14, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors | Permalink | Comments (4)

November 9, 2006 5:19 PM

That Extra Half an Inch by Victoria Beckham digested by The Guardian

If you've never read The Digested Read in The Guardian, you're missing out. It's a hilarious (and very biting) feature that summarises new releases in the style of the original. The latest victim is Victoria Beckham's new book, That Extra Half an Inch, and it's hilarious!

The digested read begins: I have no qualifications to write this book; that's why I've got someone else to do it for me. But let me share my insights anyway. First I'd like to knock something on the head. The idea that, once you have a bit of money, you start wearing couture and stilettos all day and live on caviar and champagne is just nonsense. They've both got far too many calories...

Read it in full here.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 9, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, Celebrity Authors, New Releases, Non Fiction | Permalink | Comments (0)

HILLARY CARLIP ON... Being an oddball

In a guest essay for Trashionista, one of my favourite memoirists of all time, Hillary Carlip, author of the fabulous Queen of the Oddballs, talks about why it's good to be odd...

What is an Oddball?

A lot of people keep asking.

To me an oddball is someone who's on the sunny side of weird. Its someone who's an eccentric, a trailblazer, somewhat mistrustful of the tasteful and the restrained; has an irresistible impulse to gild lilies, act forty-five when they're thirteen and thirteen when they're forty-five, travels off the beaten path. Its anyone who's ever been called an iconoclast or a cock-eyed optimist, and those who are not afraid to do things unaccording to plan.

I've been on the road for the past several months for my Queen of the Oddballs book tour, and my suspicions have been confirmed -- there are major oddballs everywhere! It's been so incredible hearing that my specific and unique escapades and adventures are so universal, touching a nerve in those who at one time or another have felt like an outsider -- like they didn't belong. That's what Queen of the Oddballs is really about. It's not only a fun-filled romp through a creative live lived to the hilt, and true stories of my growing up on the fringe of celebrity, it's also about coming to terms with feeling different and actually taking that a step further by embracing that, going for it fully, and celebrating your inner oddball!

It means the world to me to hear from people who have been entertained and inspired by the book, and are giving their oddballness a chance to thrive.

Remember: Be an oddball! Rebel, reinvent, creatively express. Commit random acts of oddness, and let your freak flag fly. Do things unaccording to plan. I hope you enjoy my book!

ps: There are a few mo' dates added to my tour! If you're in LA, Pittsburgh, Chicago, or Sioux Falls South Dakota, I'd love to meet you! (OH, and I might be doing an event with my Memoirists Collective peeps in NYC in October -- stay tuned!) And lots o' news and fresh new video clips on my website www.queenoftheoddballs.com.

Thanks Hillary!

Excerpted with kind permission from Hillary's Myspace page. (Make us your friend, too!)

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 9, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (1)

November 8, 2006 12:22 PM

MOVIE NEWS: Forget About It

Caprice Crane's second novel Forget About It isn't due until late 2007 but according to the author's (jam-packed) website it's already headed for the big screen... starring Scarlett Johansson. If it's half as good as her first novel, it should be great- and make a very decent rom-com, fingers crossed!

PS: Scarlett likes her book-to-movie adaptations, doesn't she? The Horse Whisperer, Ghost World, Girl With a Pearl Earring, A Good Woman, The Black Dahlia, The Nanny Diaries, The Other Boleyn Girl... she's Hollywood's book-to-movie go-to girl!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 8, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Movie News, New Releases | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 7, 2006 2:50 PM

Marian Keyes's favourite dancer/ girl crush talks to TV Scoop

Lilia01 Over on TV Scoop right now you can read an interview with Marian Keyes's favourite Strictly Come Dancing dancer and the subject of her "girl crush", Lilia Kopylova. Just click here!

On her monthly blog the author said: "This year: The return of SCD means that I've moved from my Summer crush on Davina McCall to my Autumn crushes on Claudia Winkleman and Lilia Kopylova." On Strictly's sister show It Takes Two last Friday she added that she loves Lilia because she likes to think that if life had turned out differently, she could have been her. Turns out Lilia is hugely flattered as she's a huge Keyes fan and wants to meet her. (Don't we all!) Surely the BBC can make it happen?!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 7, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Irish Authors, Marian Keyes, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

NaBloPoMo

Bear_seal_sm Yep, that's NaBloPoMo. Sounds a bit unwieldy, but it's the blogger's answer to NaNoWrimo, and I'm kicking myself 'cos I discovered it one day after the deadline to sign up! (That's not a problem with NaNo, by the way- you can sign up until the 30th November, although you may have a struggle finishing 50,000 words in that time- still, good on you if you do!)

Anyway, with NaBloPoMo, which means National Blog Posting Month, you have to post on your blog every day to qualify (strictly no backdating). And there are prizes too!

As I've said, it's too late to sign up for this year but there's a long list of contributors (scroll down... wow) so you can still join in the fun by reading and discovering new blogs. Of course, here at Trashionista, we post at least four times a day, five days a week, with or without NaBloPoMo!

Nanovember archives.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 7, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Technology | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 6, 2006 1:22 PM

What kind of book are you?

What's your literary personality? (A paperback romance, a classic novel- maybe even a colouring book?!) Find out here. If you're wondering, I'm apparently a college textbook. Great.

[Via The Happy Booker].

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 6, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (3)

November 3, 2006 1:13 PM

Jenny Crusie on being a "quote whore"

Yesterday was a momentous day in Trashionista history, as my co-ed Keris and I actually... met! in person! (And swapped a frankly immodest amount of books). And we chatted about books quite a bit, too... (well, what did you expect?!)

"Have you seen Jenny Crusie's latest blog?" she asked me. I hadn't, but I checked it when I got home, and it's very entertaining (and informative). Called Confessions of a Reformed Quote Whore (!) it's about the practice of giving author quotes for new releases. If you've ever wondered if an author really enjoyed the book they're raving about on the cover, find out there!

Next month we'll (very excitingly!) have an interview with Ms Crusie *squeal* and a review of her latest, too. (It's Christmas-themed...)

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 3, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Modern Fiction | Permalink | Comments (2)

A novel in a year

During November, which we've re-named NaNovember, we're of course exploring the idea of writing a 50,000 word novel in a month. But a month might not be the right timescale for everyone...

In The Telegraph (in print and online) experienced novelist Louise Doughty is running a creative writing class via the newspaper, with a lesson each week bringing you to the goal of a novel in a year (still an impressive feat if you're a beginner, no?) She's already on week 43, but all the archives are online and make a great resource no matter how long it takes you to finish your novel! There's a message group so you're not alone (there's apparently been a huge response) and an introduction to the whole concept here.

Next week, we'll look at the experience of writing a novel in just three days- and review the results!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 3, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Modern Fiction, NaNovember | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 2, 2006 7:58 PM

NanoMonkeys: The NaNoWrimo podcast!

Yep, we're NaNoWrimo [National Novel Writing Month] mad at Trashionista this month and if Keris's explanation has made you want to give it a go yourself, the NanoMonkeys specially-created Nano podcast might inspire you. Episodes so far include an interview with NaNoWrimo founder Chris Baty and an episode on "accepting the horror". Expect tips and inspiration in coming weeks.

They're also taking part in a Q and A via Second Life tomorrow (Friday)... details here.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 2, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, NaNovember, Technology | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 31, 2006 11:23 AM

Laurell K. Hamilton essay

Happy Halloween! As today is October 31st, I thought it was a good time to bring you this essay from Laurell K. Hamilton, which she wrote for the wonderful books site/shop Powells. It's about dealing with rejection- and how a determined writer should never give up!

Not very spooky perhaps, but her books are a little more Halloween-appropriate, as discussed in last week's Thursday Three.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 31, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Modern Fiction, Recent Release, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK NEWS: I Like You: Hospitality Under the Influence

Amysedaris_1 Anyone who's read any David Sedaris will know that his family's a little...kooky, to say the least. So when I tell you that his little sister, actress/comedian and now author Amy Sedaris, has brought out a new book about entertaining, you'll understand that she's not exactly positioning herself as the new Martha Stewart. The title of her book, I Like You: Hospitality Under The Influence might be another clue, too! The recipes are real, but the delivery is definitely tongue-in-cheek.

According to her website*: "Sample chapters include: A Greek Dinner Date; Grieving; Entertaining Children; A Rich Uncle Comes to Visit; Baby Shower; The Elderly; Cooking for Oneself; Picnic; and a variety of courtships, such as dating a hunter, a dieter, or an alcoholic."

*great name! Nothing wrong with some healthy self-esteem.

If you like this type of fun and determinedly non-politically correct home entertaining guide, you might also enjoy A Slob in the Kitchen (Recipes and Entertaining Advice from a Housewife Superstar ) by the ever-humble U.S TV presenter/model/author Karen Duffy.

Fanny Craddock must be turning in her grave.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 31, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, New Releases, Non Fiction | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 30, 2006 11:22 AM

Writers talk about writing- all day long!

Writers FM is a twenty-four hour radio show broadcast over the internet. You can listen to it via the website (all day long, should you wish!) or download it in podcast form. It features author interviews, writing chat and even music, too. When I tuned in, there was an interesting discussion on writer's block.

Another great writing-related radio show now available in podcast form is Writers on Writing. Upcoming guests include the wonderful Kate Atkinson and Oprah fave Janet Fitch and past guests include... well, pretty much everyone (check out the list on the site, and the teeny writing they had to use to cram in everyone's name!)

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 30, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Crime / Mystery, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Technology | Permalink | Comments (3)

More Richard and Judy book news

What's the best gift book to get your mum, dad, boyfriend or best friend? Well, as you should already know, Richard and Judy will be helping you make that choice on December 9th, and we now know (thanks to Bookseller.com) that Rupert Everett, Billie Piper, Gordon Ramsay and the Little Britain boys Matt Lucas and Matt Walliams will also be there to help decide on the best books for Xmas 06. Discover the top picks on Saturday 9th December.

And! Over on the 4 Radio website you can download discussions of this year's R & J book club picks (or the first four of them, anyway: Arthur & George, Empress Orchid, The Farm and Moondust). The new Richard and Judy book club will be coming up early next year (I'm excited!)

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 30, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Celebrity Authors, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Richard and Judy, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 27, 2006 3:18 PM

Book stuff on Handbag.com

Handbags and books have been linked for a long time. Not only is, "A handbag?!" a famous funny line from The Importance Of Being Earnest but they're the perfect place to stash your latest read for bus journeys or a quick lunchtime catch-up. Plus, you can buy bags that look like books.

So it's no surprise that women's website Handbag has a thriving books section- with book news and reviews and a recently-revamped books message board, which even has its own monthly book club. Plus, they're offering an exclusive free story, The Commuter, as a podcast for your journey to/from work. (The blurb uses the phrase "agony of single life" which frankly makes me blanch, but you don't have to let that put you off!)

If you want to read more bag-related news, visit our sister site The Bag Lady.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 27, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Classic Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Non Fiction, Recent Release, Technology | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 26, 2006 11:30 AM

Alison Pace's next book (and what she's watching now she's finished it!)

If you've never read the blog of Pug Hill author Alison Pace, then you've been missing out on a great read- and her latest book-related gossip. This week she revealed that she has turned in the first draft of her third novel, Through Thick And Thin, which is to be released late summer next year. She also discussed her new favourite TV show (which I can't wait to see, after watching the first ten minutes on Youtube): Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip. Another one to add to our list of chick-lit authors' fave TV shows!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 26, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chocolate and books- delicious!

Galaxy There's nothing nicer than curling up by a winter fire with a big bar of chocolate and a good book, is there? Chocolate manufacturers have obviously caught on to this fact, as Aero has teamed up with Amanda Holden to sponsor their book club (current read: The Three Day Rule by husband-wife team Josie Lloyd and Emlyn Rees; past reads include Twenty Times a Lady by Karyn Bosnak and The Accidental Mother by Rowan Coleman). Galaxy chocolate also have a book club in the pages of Glamor magazine (UK only), where recommended books have included The Tenth Circle by Jodi Picoult. And! Galaxy have now created a special suede book cover- which would make a very luxe Christmas pressie for any book-lovers you know. And I do mean luxe- it's £30 from Selfridges, but would hide the fact that you're reading this, or preserve your copy of this. (Of course, if you wanted to be a lot less tasteful, there's always Flapart instead...)

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 26, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Josie Lloyd & Emlyn Rees, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 25, 2006 1:58 PM

Are you the Next Great Crime Writer?

Enough of this namby-pamby girlie nonsense (I'm joking, of course), Court TV is running a contest to find the Next Great Crime Writer.

The judges include crime authors Faye Kellerman, Jonathan Kellerman and Lisa Scottoline (watch her welcome message on the site - frightened me out of my wits), and the prize is a book deal with Regan (an imprint of HarperCollins).

Sadly (for us Brits) it's only open to US residents over the age of 18 and the closing date is November 27th. [via MediaBistro]

Related posts: HarperTeen FanLit / Avon FanLit

Posted by Keris on October 25, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Crime / Mystery | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 24, 2006 12:34 PM

Adopt a book!

Children, unwanted animals, books... Soon there will be nothing you can't adopt! The British Library, which has the world's greatest collection of books, is offering the chance to adopt a book for yourself, or as a present for a loved one. It's really more like sponsoring a book, as you don't actually get to take it home and read it, but you do get to help preserve our literary heritage. And you can choose which book to adopt! Prices start at £25 and there's more information on their website.

[Via Mslexia magazine].

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 24, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, Classic Novels | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 20, 2006 12:13 PM

TRASHIONISTA RECOMMENDS: Hags, Harlots, Heroines

Hags Harlots Heroines is a tongue in cheekily named site dedicated to women's storytelling. It's free to join and you can submit your own stories or read other people's. There's also a book club, book reviews, a handy links section and lots of writing advice. The website blurb says that HH is,

"The site where you can explore and develop your creative writing skills, get your short stories and poems published online, receive feedback and writing tips for fiction and non-fiction, with particular support for writing about women, and where you can meet fellow writers."

Not bad for nothing!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 20, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Trashionista Recommends | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 19, 2006 11:00 PM

More book-swapping sites

We've told you before about Read It, Swap It and Bookmooch and now we bring you news of two more book swapping sites: What's On My Bookshelf and SwapSimple (for videos and DVDs, too).

Have you used any of these sites? What did you think?

[Via the Librarything blog].

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 19, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (0)

Hollywood cupcake competition

Ellen Meister, author of Secret Confessions of the Applewood PTA has a fantastic contest on her website.

In the book a Hollywood studio announces plans to shoot a major movie in the local schoolyard. When the women of the town learn that the star of the movie is George Clooney, inevitably "decorum crumbles like a cupcake from last week's bake sale".

You can win a basket of books for your school library (US only) by choosing "which Hollywood leading man you'd most like to offer your cupcakes to". Choices include Mr Clooney himself (of course), Antonio Banderas, Matthew McConaughey and Brad Pitt.

Posted by Keris on October 19, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Competition, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction | Permalink | Comments (3)

The 'Stuff On My Cat' book!

Elvisstuff Popular website Stuff On My Cat treads a fine line between hilarity and mild cruelty. Believing that "stuff + cats = awesome" the site features a variety of pictures of cats with... stuff on them. (Cats + remote controls = unhappy cats). Chick lit author Karyn Bosnak even chronicled her attempts to get her cat Elvis onto the site (she eventually succeeded with the photo on the right).

Now Galleycat reports that Stuff On My Cat the book is coming- and in honour of this, publishers Chronicle are holding a competition for cat-owning booksellers with a place in Stuff's upcoming 2008 calendar up for grabs...

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 19, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Non Fiction | Permalink | Comments (2)

October 18, 2006 7:36 PM

Courtney Love's a chick lit nicker

You know the title of Caprice Crane's debut Stupid & Contagious* comes from a Nirvana song, right? So what do you think happened when Courtney Love (former wife of Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain) spotted the book in a shop?

Well, according to E! Online, she sang the entire chorus of Smells Like Teen Spirit (after asking "You guys do realize what this says, right?") and then walked out of the shop with the book, but without paying for it.

Caprice happily reports the incident on her MySpace page. You can't buy that kind of publicity!

* review coming soon!

Posted by Keris on October 18, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (4)

Second Life: Get INSIDE books...

If you haven't heard of Second Life, I'm not quite sure how to explain it to you! It's basically a computer simulation (with over a million participants) in which you're represented by a virtual alter-ego and can interact with other people's alter egos via the internet. You can attend virtual concerts, go shopping, work (should you want to!) have virtual meetings, parties and holidays. You can even er, have cyber sex- or a change of gender... (You're telling me it's weird!)

And now novelist JC Hutchins allows you to go inside one of his books within the virtual world. Surreal! Which book would you like (or hate) to get inside?

[Via Miss Snark].

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 18, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Technology | Permalink | Comments (6)

October 17, 2006 11:14 AM

The Good Girls Kill For Money Club

Here's a great website that I've just discovered: with a name like The Good Girls Kill For Money Club how can you not be intrigued?

It's the blog of five female crime authors and recent posts include thoughts on mothers-in-law, discussions of plot, and an interview with blogging literary agent Miss Snark. I love the design almost as much as the content: the author photos are all black and white Audrey Hepburn-style poses and the banner is very 1950s kitsch, with the tagline, "Coffee, Tea or Murder?" Perfect for fans of Crusie and Evanovich style fiction!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 17, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Crime / Mystery, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction | Permalink | Comments (0)

Bookcrossing: telephone boxes are the new cafes

You've all heard of Bookcrossing, right? It's where people leave their old books for others to find, read, and continue to pass on, with all transactions being recorded via the Bookcrossing site. It's been going since 2001, and in 2004 "bookcrossing" was added to the Oxford Dictionary.

Traditionally people leave books in cafes or (in summer) on park benches but now The Telegraph reports that in the London's financial district, telephone boxes are the new bookcrossing hot-spot. (I guess they have to be used for something- there can't be too many City types without a flash mobile!)

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 17, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 16, 2006 5:30 PM

Reading Strictly Come Dancing?

Bruce_tess02_1 [Note to readers: please pardon the following self-indulgence!]

I was trying to work out a way to subtly mention that I'm now writing weekly Strictly Come Dancing updates for TV Scoop but I've realised that in life, as in the show, it doesn't do to be subtle! Both Keris and I are massive fans of SCD and if you are too, here's where to read my updates on Week 1 and Week 2. (Look out for them every Monday from now on if they tickle your fancy).

I thought that perhaps I could relate this topic to books by linking to a plethora of Strictly-related books, but no such plethora exists. There's just a kind of SCD annual (which nevertheless looks fabulous!) Here's this year's, and last year's.

If you search for "come dancing" in Amazon books, you're also offered this and this... Hmm.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 16, 2006 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

Support a Trashionista!

Trashionista reader Jenny Gardiner's humorous women's fiction manuscript, Sleeping With Ward Cleaver, is a finalist in the American Title contest (modeled on American Idol!), the prize for which is a publishing contract!

Over the next six months, voting will be conducted for two weeks per month via the Romantic Times website, with low-voting finalists being eliminated each round. Voting dates are Oct 16 (i.e. today!) -29, Nov 13-26, Dec 18-31, Jan 22-Feb 4, Feb. 19-Mar 4. So why not support a Trashionista and cast your vote today!

Carry on over the cut for more about Jenny's book (it sounds great) or read an extract here.

Sleeping With Ward Cleaver is a coming-of-middle-age novel about Claire Doolittle, who realizes her life hasn't quite met up with her expectations. Overwhelmed with the demands of motherhood and life in general, it doesn't help that the funny, romantic and thoughtful man she once married has turned into a real-life version of Ward Cleaver, the famously dull, bossy father from the 1950's sitcom Leave it to Beaver. And last person in the world Claire ever imagined having to sleep with for the rest of her life is a man whose sex appeal more closely resembles that of George Washington than George Clooney.

Throw in an ex-fiance who returns via email to try to woo Claire back with promises of what was, and a sexy young colleague of husband Jack's, whom Claire suspects of some sort of hanky panky, and you having the makings for a mid-life crisis that threatens to plunge Claire's world into chaos.

Posted by Keris on October 16, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

Playtrade- a new way to buy (and sell) books

Anyone who's used Amazon over the last what- three or four years? Should be familiar with Amazon marketplace- their system for buying and selling used books. I always thought Play.com, while a fabulous site (free P&P, people!) was missing a trick by not having anything similar. But now they have! Playtrade has many of the same features of Amazon's Marketplace, but only approved traders with a track record in book sales can sign up to sell stuff at present. (I would think this will change pretty soon). I think prices will need to come down soon, too- When Play is offering a book at £1.99 including shipping, I can't see that Playtraders offering the same for £6.88 are going to get much business... but it's early days, and I see potential!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 16, 2006 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Opinion | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 13, 2006 12:12 PM

Meet the authors at Barnes and Noble

Yes, I guess if you're lucky enough to live near a Barnes and Noble, you might regularly Logo_bn05 get the chance to see best-selling authors in their natural habitat. But anyone who doesn't need not miss out any longer, as Barnes and Noble has a Meet the Authors podcast, featuring audio and video interviews with well known authors such as Jennifer Weiner, Sue Monk Kidd and Armistead Maupin.

All the instructions and links you need can be found on the site.

Told you it was a techie day! (For more tech-related stuff, you can always go to our sister site Shiny Shiny, for technology with a girly slant- and panda videos).

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 13, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Modern Fiction, Technology | Permalink | Comments (0)

Book Trailerpark- for book trailers news!

I've talked about blogging this week and last, and we've told you about the popularity of book trailers before. I guess the logical amalgamation of both these things is Book Trailerpark, a new blog about book trailers. It's only been running since October 9th, but it's fascinating already- although they could include a bit more about women's fiction... I'm sure they will soon! Anyway, here's a trailer they recommend, for Julie Powell's fabulous Julie and Julia (vegetarians beware...)

[Via Galleycat].

(Clearly we're in a techie mood here today!)

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 13, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Memoirs, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Non Fiction, Recent Release, Technology, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 12, 2006 5:36 PM

THURSDAY THREE: From book to blog

Last week's Thursday Three looked at bloggers who became published authors, and this time: the reverse! That's authors who set up blogs after becoming successful writers (to the glee of their readers!)...

First up has to be Jennifer Weiner, whose Snarkspot site is hugely popular and has been name-checked once or twice (or 500 times) on this here site. She not only discusses latest events in her life (and keeps you up to date with all her tour dates, book readings etc) but she takes a healthy interest in book news and issues- defending women's right to write whatever kind of fiction they want.

What will the other two sites be? Carry on over the cut to find out...

Faster than Kudzu is Joshilyn Jackson's fantastically funny and entertaining web log, where she discusses her writing, random pop culture events and bizarre twists of fate. Always witty, unpredictable and a guaranteed cheerer-upper.

Finally, we couldn't leave out the lovely Marian Keyes! Hers is not a blog as much as a monthly newsletter which you read via her site, but it's like reading several lovely blog entries all at once, as she shares her writing news and personal news in her eminently likable, chatty way. Fans can sign up for the newsletter by email, too.

What are your favourite author blogs? (Yes, any published authors reading - you can share your own!)

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 12, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Irish Authors, Marian Keyes, Modern Fiction, Tuesday Three | Permalink | Comments (2)

October 11, 2006 12:45 PM

Mary Sharratt's dressed-up book tour

Mary When we interviewed Joshilyn Jackson, she told us she was reading (and "really digging") The Vanishing Point by Mary Sharratt*, so it was natural that we'd want to interview Mary, too. Mary's something of an innovator- instead of taking her book tour high-tech, she went way low tech: inspired by the seventeenth-century setting of her novel, she undertook a tour in historical clothing! Read a fascinating tour diary here or visit Mary's site for more info- where she's promoting her latest book, the decidedly modern-sounding collaborative effort, Bitch Lit...

*Which was one of the recommendations on the Bafab home site, incidentally.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 11, 2006 in American Authors, Bafab, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 10, 2006 2:10 PM

Literature Map

I've just discovered a peculiar site called Literature Map. You type in the name of an author and it comes up with a map of other authors you might like.

I put in Jennifer Weiner and was recommended Jodi Picoult, Marian Keyes, Anna Maxted, Sophie Kinsella and Helen Fielding (no surprises there!) along with Neil Gaiman, John Krakauer, Michael Crichton and more.

It's not particularly useful and loads of the names are misspelled, but it's strangely compelling to watch. Or maybe I should just get out more ...

Posted by Keris on October 10, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (0)

The unexpected bestseller...

What would you guess the twenty-second most popular book on Amazon UK would be?

This? This? Maybe this?

It's actually this! Hmm... maybe more engineers should be reading Trashionista for some more exciting ideas?!

[Via Galleycat].

Posted by Aigua Media on October 10, 2006 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Marian Keyes, Modern Fiction, Non Fiction | Permalink | Comments (2)

October 9, 2006 6:24 PM

Amazon shorts and plogs (explained)

I know, I'm always bringing you news about what the 'folks' (as George Bush would say) at Amazonlogothumb Amazon are up to (like this, this and this) but it's not my fault they're so darn innovative! So at the risk of becoming an unpaid stooge, I wanted to share a couple more of their good ideas with you. (Yeah, I sound like I'm on staff over there, but I'm really not):

Amazon shorts are short stories available for download for 49 cents each at Amazon.com (I'm not sure whether non-US customers can download them, but it's worth a try!) Authors include Lauren Baratz Logsted, Richard and Judy fave Audrey Niffenegger and Paul Reiser, who I'm slightly obsessed with after belatedly discovering Mad About You via cable TV- but you don't need to know about that...

Amazon Plogs is another Amazon.com service, this time for published authors- a blog that is seen by anyone who looks at your book(s)- so you can use it to provide your loyal readers with insider news like tour information or just have a gossip! It's free to anyone with one book or more for sale. Read the FAQ here.

Hopefully all of these wonderful American Amazon innovations will be making their way this side of the pond very soon... please?

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 9, 2006 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Memoirs, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Non Fiction, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (2)

That was the week that was!

Anyone who visited our site last week couldn't fail to have picked up on the party atmosphere! Wasn't Bafab just brilliant? We had a great time, and we hope -and suspect- you did, too! Maybe we even inspired some of you to buy a friend a book... if we did, tell us about it!

We have to thank all of our lovely readers for helping make the week such a brilliant success, as well as the Shiny team for promoting us and for answering our question "If you could buy a friend a book, which would you choose and why?"

And of course, the week would have been nothing without Lauren Baratz-Logsted, Shanna Swendson, Hester Browne, Lily Burana, Laura Dave and Jo Elliot, our wonderful guest blogging authors, for generously writing for us AND donating a book each. PLUS, we had very generous donations from Snowbooks & Seal Press, Faber, Andrea Semple, Kathryn Finney and... I hope I haven't forgotten anybody!

You can still enter our giveaways over the next couple of days, if you were silly- I mean unlucky- enough to have passed us by last week... Check out the Bafab archives for a full list.

Here's to another great week on Trashionista this week- we may not have quite the star line-up of Bafab, but we can promise you great book news and reviews all delivered with our trademark sense of fun. So stick around!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 9, 2006 in American Authors, Announcements, Bafab, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Competition, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Non Fiction, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (2)

October 5, 2006 6:00 PM

THURSDAY THREE: From blog to book

With the news last week that Catherine Sanderson of the Petite Anglaise blog is the latest in a long line of bloggers to be offered a book deal (I'm sure the publicity when she got sacked for blogging earlier this year didn't hurt!), today's Thursday Three couldn't be much more timely: Blooks. That's blogs turned books, of course...

Julie and Julia has to be up first, as it was the inaugural winner of The Blooker Prize earlier this year. It's about Julie Powell's attempts to to cook every recipe in classic American chef Julia Child's Mastering the Art of French Cooking, within one year. Funny, frank and educational, it's about so much more than cooking... The original blog's no longer active but you can read the archives (including a very moving tribute), here. Ever the blogger, Julie also has a new blog.

Continue over the cut for more, dear bleaders (that's blog readers, apparently...)

No mention of women bloggers turned authors would be complete without featuring Jessica Cutler, whose sensational Washington-based 'sex blog' propelled her to literary fame. Perhaps because of the delicate nature of some of the material, her book The Washingtonienne is firmly filed in the Fiction section. But how fictitious is it really...?!

And finally, a huge favourite of mine! Mimi Smartypants is a wonderfully witty and intelligent blogger (even though she prefers to call it her 'online diary'), whose book The World According to Mimi Smartypants she is typically (and erroneously) self-defacing about. It's wonderful!

Which blogs would you like to see made into books? (And don't just say your own!)

Other blookers: Abby Lee and the wonderful Angela Nissel.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 5, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, Memoirs, Modern Fiction, Non Fiction, Tuesday Three | Permalink | Comments (1)

October 4, 2006 11:21 AM

Ally Carter's Audio Advice!

Chick-lit for teens author Ally Carter (whose book- I think it's I'd Tell You I Love You but then I'd have to Kill You-has been optioned to be made into a movie by Disney, aka. the people behind The Princess Diaries film!) is sharing an audio excerpt of advice for writers via her Myspace page. [Click on the third link down in the little audio player in the right-hand side- she has a lovely voice!]

She says, "I know there are a lot of aspiring writers out there, so I wanted to let you know that I've just posted an audio excerpt of the session I did at the 2006 Pikes Peak Writer's Conference on my MySpace.
The session was called "A Movie-Lover's Guide to Writing Novels" and I talked about the craft of storytelling, using some classic movies as examples.
So if you want to hear me talk about some pretty basic (but essential) stuff like plot points, characters, and conflict, check it out." [Via Myspace]

And of course, if you're a myspace member, add us to your friends!

M. Apostilina's Tips for Writers.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 4, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Movie News, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 2, 2006 1:00 PM

Borders Book Club

First it was Barnes & Noble, then Waterstone's and now Borders has its own book club.

The first book to be featured is the new one from Mitch Albom (author of Tuesdays With Morrie), For One More Day. The site features a film of a book club discussing different aspects of the book with the author present (which would inhibit the discussion somewhat, I'd imagine). The site also contains recommendations for further reading and other books you might like, information on how to start your own book club and even recipes for food to make and take along to your own club meetings.

Posted by Keris on October 2, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Interviews, Modern Fiction | Permalink | Comments (0)

Hello and Welcome to Bafab!

It's Bafab- Buy a Friend a Book- week here on Trashionista, starting now! I'm resisting the urge to say "Bafab will be fab!" but truth be told, I'm not resisting very hard...because it will be fabulous!

So what have we got in store for you for this very special week? Well, a Bafab book bonanza with fabulous free books to give away EVERY DAY, plus special guest bloggers whose names (and book covers) you might well recognise...for starters!

Oh yes, it's all going to be happening here on Trashionista, so stay tuned, keep your eyes peeled, don't go anywhere, and all those other old cliches that mean you really won't want to miss this!

You can also check out the other great sites running Bafab giveaways and excusives (but hurry right back!): A Reader's Journal, Bookblog, Front Street Reviews, Life's Weirder than Fiction, Keeper of the Snails, West of Mars, Write with Karen.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 2, 2006 in Announcements, Bafab, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Celebrity Authors, Competition | Permalink | Comments (3)

September 29, 2006 12:14 PM

Trashionista Recommends: Buzz, Balls and Hype

Buzz, Balls and Hype is author M.J Rose's regular update on the world of books and publishing, and it's always fresh, fun and interesting. A PR specialist as well as author, M.J has an interest in both sides of the book world.

I loved this blog by guest author Josie Brown on the right name for your book. (No, not the title, the author needs the right name!- You can vote for the one you like best). And last week, M.J linked to this video which conveys those rough times all writers have... (but don't watch it if cartoon violence freaks you out!)

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 29, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Trashionista Recommends | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner

Shoes4_1 Back in 2001, Jennifer Weiner was a single Philadelphia newspaper journalist who wrote novels in her spare time. In 2006, she's a famous and highly successful chick-lit (although she apparently hates the term!) novelist with a husband, daughter, and cash from Hollywood in her back pocket. We've reviewed all of her other books (including her latest, The Guy Not Taken), recommended her blog more times than I can count- and she's been the subject of a Trashionista Spotlight profile. So it's a little scandalous that we've never reviewed her debut novel Good in Bed.

The story of Cannie, who finds out her boyfriend Bruce has left her for another woman by reading about it in his new magazine column, it addresses issues of family, self-image and love in a way we hadn't seen in chick-lit before. Cannie isn't a Bridget Jones style diet-obsessive- she has phases where she's unhappy with her body, but generally she likes being a larger lady. And she is, we're assured, very good in bed...

If Bruce thought that their break-up was going to destroy Cannie, he was wrong. At first, she's betrayed and devastated, but gradually she starts to re-assess the relationship and realise that she's better off without him. And then he comes back into her life, bringing an added complication... But that's not all she has to think about! Bruce getting a column spurs Cannie to concentrate on her own writing, and good things start happening there, too. And then in a moment of low self-esteem she signs up for a weight-loss workshop and realises one of the doctors there seems to have taken a special liking to her...

This book is unpredictable, yet has a happy ending- but one where not everything is solved. It's more realistic than that. (In fact, I was a bit disappointed that there wasn't one more final conversation settling things between Cannie and Bruce, but that perhaps wouldn't have been very realistic). On the other hand, Cannie's writing success story seems miraculous in terms of the time span of the book but gives the novel a fairy-tale aspect which I think many readers will enjoy and feel she deserves. My only real criticism of the book is that Cannie is supposedly happy with her body, with not being thin. She exercises, is confident and has a good life (when she's not being dumped in the national press, that is) but there's too much mention of how she looks and what she wears for her to come across as truly happy. She should be able to be happy with being a larger size, of course- I'd love there to be more different-sized women in chick lit who aren't desperate to be thin. But with Cannie we're not there yet... Again, maybe because Weiner wants to be realistic? Despite these slight qualms, the writing is so good that I still loved every second of this book. I laughed, I cried... and I only read it by accident!

You see, I was in one of those book clubs where you have to send in a form each month or you're sent the book-of-the-month and the month that Good In Bed was the BOTM, I'd forgotten. I almost sent it back unread but something compelled me to keep it and I'm so glad I did. It's one of my favourite chick-lit books of all time: sharply written with an aspirational yet poignant story and a lot of heart, you'd have to be a hard-nosed Trashionista not to love it.

Rating: 5 out of 5

*Did you know?* A few years ago, Good In Bed was bought by HBO (makers of Sex And The City, of course) to be turned into a TV series, then... nothing.

Like this? Try Conversations With The Fat Girl by Liza Palmer; In Her Shoes by Jennifer Weiner.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 29, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 5/5, Television | Permalink | Comments (4)

September 28, 2006 11:59 AM

MOVIE NEWS: Cancer Vixen

I can't wait to read Cancer Vixen*, Marisa Acocella Marchetto's graphic novel about her diagnosis of and subsequent recovery from breast cancer, so I was excited to hear Cate Blancett is in negotiation for the film rights.

You can watch the book's trailer here.

* instead of "victim", you see?

Posted by Keris on September 28, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, New Releases, Non Fiction | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 26, 2006 11:32 AM

TRASHIONISTA RECOMMENDS: Expanded Books

If you've been paying attention to Trashionista in recent weeks, you'll know that Meet the Author is a fab site featuring authors talking about their work and Vidlit is an innovative book trailers website.

Well, Expanded books is a fabulous mix of the two! Featuring pictures or anecdotes from books, along with interviews with their authors, these three-minute video clips are entertaining, informative- and can help you decide if a book is right for you. Featured authors include Tabloid Love author Bridget Harrison and bestselling medical thriller writer Tess Gerristen. Plus, How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk (that would be nice!)

I can't help wondering how authors feel about all this technology though- Jane Austen never had to make a video or go on a talk show, do modern writers despair of having to be "on show"? Or do they like having a reason to get dressed and leave the house?!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 26, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, New Releases, Recent Release, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 25, 2006 12:03 PM

The Neverending Story- collaborative storytelling for all!

How do you fancy writing a story with a celebrity? (All right, it may be more of a 'celebrity'...)

The Neverending Story is a literary project with a difference. Yes, it never ends! But also, it's a chance to see your literary efforts on the internet and in print (in the books of stories the site plans to make) and to participate in a potentially huge story-writing community. Anyone can start a story, and anyone can add to an existing story until it reaches the desired word length set by the site (between 65,000 and 100,000 words). Act now, and you could add to Kajagoogoo star Limahl's story! (Well, he sang Neverending Story, they had to ask him to join in, didn't they?)

The site also features poetry and reviews and is entirely free to join, but you have to become a member before you add to or submit work.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 25, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Celebrity Authors | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 22, 2006 1:23 PM

Books that get left behind?

As holiday season draws to a close for another year, what happens to the books you've read by the pool? Most of us have read books that are great trashy beach reads, but one read is enough, so what to do with it then? Well, you could use BookCrossing to send it on a journey around the world, or you could plead heatstroke and just...dump it. Galleycat reports that the most-commonly abandoned books are celebrity autobiographies, with Paris Hilton's in top place, and Jordan's "autobiography" A Whole New World in third place (Jose Morinho was second, FYI).

What have you abandoned far from home? (And I'm just asking about books here!)

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 22, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, Celebrity Authors | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 21, 2006 8:06 AM

Trashionista Recommends: The5Spot

I've just discovered a blog by five fab chick lit authors: Megan Crane, Liza Palmer (whose Conversations With the Fat Girl we loved), Jane Porter, Caprice Crane (review of Stupid and Contagious coming up) and Holly Shumas.

It's a great read and they're blogging a lot (tongue-in-cheekily) about this, which I couldn't even face writing about. (They've had hoodies made!)

Posted by Keris on September 21, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 20, 2006 11:29 AM

Google Book Search- free books! (as long as the copyright's expired...)

Googlebook_1 Last week we told you about one way to get public domain books via your computer, and now here's another- thanks to Google. Google Book Search allows you to read any classic books in their collection (for which the copyright has expired) by downloading books as a PDF file. The website explains how it works:

Click a book title and you'll see some basic information about the book. You may also see a few snippets of text from the book showing your search term in context. If the publisher or author has given us permission through our Partner Program then you'll see a few full pages from the book and if the book is out of copyright, you'll be able to page through the entire book. [my emphasis].

[Via The Guardian].

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 20, 2006 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Classic Novels | Permalink | Comments (0)

Darcymania!

I love the title of site darcymania.com (that has to be some hotly-contested virtual real estate!) Home of the author 'Rika', she uses it to display her Pride and Prejudice fan fiction. There's only one story so far but intriguingly, there's a version for 13 year olds and over, and one for 17 years and older (are we entering into slash fanfic with that one? I daren't look!)

As you might guess, she's certainly not the only one, there's a whole internet community of Janeite fan-ficcers.

I must see if knightleymania.com is taken...

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 20, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Classic Novels | Permalink | Comments (2)

September 19, 2006 10:27 AM

Best book in the world

No, I'm not going to tell you what it is! (But you can tell us...)

Fantastic idea for a site The Best Stuff in the World has a book section, where you can vote for your favourite. Current contenders include Pride and Prejudice, 1984 and Richard and Judy prizewinner The Time Traveller's Wife. Plus ten people are bringing down the tone with the not entirely earnest suggestion of "boobies." (That one might just clinch it if we don't all go and vote ASAP!)

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 19, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Classic Novels, Modern Fiction, Richard and Judy | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 15, 2006 10:14 AM

Booker Prize shortlist- predictions proved wrong (again)

The shortlist for The Booker Prize, the biggest event in literary luvvies' year (at least in the UK) was announced yesterday.

Not for the first time, the judges have confounded expectations, with previously short-odds authors like David 'Cloud Atlas' Mitchell out of the running. For your information and delectation, the shortlist is...

The Inheritance of Loss by Kiran Desai

The Secret River by Kate Grenville

Carry Me Down by M J Hyland

In the Country of Men by Hisham Matar

Mother's Milk by Edward St Aubyn

The Night Watch by Sarah Waters.

For what predictions are worth, Sarah Waters is the new favourite to win the prize, worth £50,000 (and an increase in book sales, of course!) The lucky author will be named on October 10th- and we should be prepared for anything...

Have you read any of the nominated novels? Tell us what you thought: editor@trashionista.com

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 15, 2006 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Modern Fiction, Prize Winners, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 14, 2006 4:51 PM

The Book People's bargains

British bargain books site The Book People has some special offers at the moment that might interest Trashionista readers- all six of Richard and Judy's summer reads 2006 for a measly £14.99 (a saving of £27, apparently), the first four Ma Ramotswe stories for a total of £7.99 and all six of Jane Austen's books (the new re-releases with pretty covers) for just £8.99. They also have Jordan's latest, if you're so inclined...

Order online by 9th October using the code 146F and delivery is free.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 14, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, Classic Novels, Memoirs, Modern Fiction | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 13, 2006 10:47 PM

Trashionista Recommends: Heart of Tartness book club

The five romance writers who blog collectively at The Lipstick Chronicles have started a "Heart of Tartness" online book club.

Their first book is The Cinderella Pact by Sarah Strohmeyer (one of the five bloggers, funnily enough!) and the focus of the discussion is Women and Self Worth:

"Are we, like the hair color urges, worth it? What keeps us from accepting and loving ourselves just the way we are? The Pact in the book is made by three friends who vow to change their weight. Do they lose anything with the weight? Do they gain anything in return?"

Read the book, drop by, leave a comment. You know, just like you do here.

Posted by Keris on September 13, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Romance, Trashionista Recommends | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 12, 2006 5:36 PM

Buy A Friend A Book

buyafriendabook.com Buy a Friend a Book week, an encouragement to be generous and, (you won't be surprised to learn) buy a friend a book, is four times a year, once a season... The next week is at the start of October, and we're going to participate! As well as nagging you to flash your cash and buy a good friend a good book (we'll have suggestions for you nearer the time, but here are some suggestions from the site) we're going to have a special guest blogger or two, and a book giveaway! Stay tuned.

Other participating sites: Bookblog, Front Street Reviews, Life's Weirder than Fiction, West of Mars.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 12, 2006 in Announcements, Book News, Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (0)

Amazon Unboxed- TV and movies direct to your screen

Remember when I told you that Amazon.com was selling groceries online? Well, with Amazon Unbox they're now expanding their core market and offering TV and films for download, straight to your computer screen. As with Amazon DVDs, you can choose to buy or rent- so there'll be no need to clog up your bookshelves with DVD cases if this takes off!

There's a fairly limited range at present but you can watch episodes of Buffy or 24, or see more of the divine Mr Mcconaghey in film Failure To Launch, amongst others.

Excitingly, there's an introductory offer that allows you to watch your first TV show free. You need to download special (free) software but it all seems fairly straightforward. (I couldn't find anything on the site that said whether UK customers could use it or not, so if anyone has experience of this, please let us know!)

And don't forget Amazon Fishbowl- Amazon's free insider look at books, film and music, presented by Bill Maher.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 12, 2006 in Book Websites, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 11, 2006 12:13 PM

Veronika Asks, authors answer

Veronika Asks is a fantastic new resource for book lovers! Featuring interviews with chick-lit authors like Lauren Baratz Logsted, editor of much-talked about anthology, This is Chick Lit (we have our own interview with her coming soon!) and teen chick-lit author Michele Jaffe, as well as reviews of authors like Melanie Lynne Hauser and Apostilina, it's just wonderful.

Perhaps most impressive, you can also read the site in French if you parlez-vous Francais, and you can send in questions for upcoming authors via email if you wish. Check out the site for more!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 11, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Interviews | Permalink | Comments (2)

September 6, 2006 11:32 AM

Young Writers Alert!

Mark Peter Hughes, British teen chick lit author (now living in Massachusetts) is offering prizes-and presumably internet fame- for teen writers (anyone aged 13-19 on January 1, 2007) in his Wallpaper Writing Contests. For rules and to find out more, check out his website for details. You have until April 30th next year- so plenty of time to perfect your poetry! (or short story...)

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 6, 2006 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Competition, Modern Fiction | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 4, 2006 2:08 PM

MOVIE MAGIC: Twenty Times a Lady

Exciting news! Trashionista fave Karyn Bosnak has revealed on her blog that she's been working hard putting the finishing touches to her screenplay for book Twenty Times a Lady. It might be a little early for a Movie Magic, but we like to be first with the news on Trashionista, so let's get to picking! (Who knows, maybe Hollywood is reading...)

Love interest Colin is a sexy Irish Colin Farrell-a-like, but can you think of anyone better to play the role? For Delilah, think a dark-haired Bosnak... and then there's her sister, overbearing mother and eccentric grandpa. Not to mention all her past lovers!

Ideas?

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 4, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Movie Magic, Movie News, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (1)

September 2, 2006 1:29 PM

Conversations and Cosmopolitans

Cosom_cvr There's a huge amount of book buzz around upcoming title Conversations and Cosmopolitans (subtitle 'how to give your mother a hangover') by mother-son writing team Robert Rave and Jane Rave. When Robert came out to his mother, it was a difficult and confusing time for both of them as they re-negotiated their relationship. Their book shares the difficulties as mother and son "tackle compelling issues such as love, dating, sexuality, body image, and identity."

If that sounds pretty heavy, it isn't! The authors also discuss: “point-if-ication,” being brainwashed into counting everything you eat and putting it into a point system; “me but Latin,” what most gay men are looking for in a potential mate; and an “M’Lynn moment,” based on Sally Field’s character in Steel Magnolias who lashes out at her friends in a fit of despair." In other words, it's frank and funny. It's not released until October but online magazine out.com features an extract from the book in its latest issue, and you can bet we'll be reviewing it soon!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 2, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 1, 2006 11:31 AM

Virtual Book Tours

You know how sometimes you go into a bookshop and there's an author sitting at a table, a pile of books in front of them, an embarrassed look on their face? Well that sad scene could be a thing of the past. Thanks to the wonders of the internet, authors can go on tour without leaving their homes. They don't even have to get dressed if they don't want to. Yes, like garlic bread, virtual book tours are the future.

Continue over the cut to find out how it works.

Basically an author 'visits' a series of websites for an interview or review or they may even guest-edit the site for the day.

A popular tour - and of most interest to Trashionistas - is the Girlfriends' Cyber Circuit, created by Karin Gillespie. So you can start the day with Joshilyn Jackson, visit Melanie Lynn Hauser, drop by Alison Pace's place and say hello to Shanna Swendson. All without leaving your chair. Genius.

Posted by Keris on September 1, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Opinion | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 31, 2006 1:19 PM

Waterstone's Chick Lit Book of the Month

My favourite book shop, Waterstone's (well, I did used to work there), has a new website (it used to partner with Amazon) which features a Chick Lit Book of the Month!

August's is Trashionista fave Jenny Colgan's latest, West End Girls. Read all about it (and add your own two pennorth/cents) here.

Posted by Keris on August 31, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Girly Stuff, New Releases, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

Jennifer Weiner reads from The Guy Not Taken... and there's more!

You've read the review (haven't you?!) and now you too can have a sneak peek at The Guy Not Taken before it's released.

Jennifer Weiner is reading an exclusive extract of one of her stories from the book, "Swim", here (scroll down). You can also catch it here, along with a Book Clubs Q&A (with audio clips of Jennifer answering questions about her books) and first chapters of all her novels. Her jam-packed site's also running a competition where you can win the chance to have Jennifer visit your book club- U.S residents only, I'm afraid!

Finally, watch the ad for The Guy Not Taken here.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 31, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Short Story Collections | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 29, 2006 11:20 AM

Bookmark This!

You know those freebie bookmarks with writing on that bookshops give away? Well, a couple of months ago, I picked one up and it was advertising the Every Object Tells a Story competition. It asked: if you could borrow any item from literature, what would it be? Entrants were asked to send in a story on the topic- and the winning one would be printed on bookmarks given away in shops throughout the country!

Answers ranged from Ma Ramotswe's redbush tea to Tolkein's ring (you know the one!) but the winning writer was Max Porter, who chose to borrow a bike from Flann O'Brien's novel The Third Policeman. His story, I want to ride my bicycle can be seen on bookmarks in shops throughout the country, and you can read the other submissions here.

So... what object would you choose, and why?

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 29, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Competition | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: Girl with a One Track Mind by Abby Lee

Abbylee What kind of girl keeps a sachet of lubricant in her handbag in case she needs to give a hand job? A girl with a one track mind.

Abby Lee is the no longer anonymous (she was recently unmasked as London-based Zoe Margolis) author of the award winning blog Girl with a One Track Mind which records her search for satisfying, adventurous sex. The book charts one year in her life in which she tries everything from one night stands to swingers evenings via domination and lesbian encounters...

Abby Lee is a woman of contradictions. She wants a loving relationship but picks up men in bars and on the internet and then seems surprised when all they want is a one night stand. She thinks her ex-boyfriend is emotionally immature because he’s found a woman he wants to spend time with and be faithful to, rather than taking Abby to a swingers evening.

Despite thinking of herself as adventurous Abby Lee has a very blinkered view of sex. She describes sex as being either vanilla (plain) or BDSM (bondage domination sado-masochism) and can’t see anything in between. She thinks her friends are stuck in sexually boring monogamous relationships yet as her sexual searching doesn’t even produce sex once a month at times, I’d guess that her friends are having far more sex than she is!

Unfortunately this book doesn’t work as a story or a memoir. The main character is not likeable enough and the supporting cast are easily forgotten as most only appear for one night. The details of her sexual encounters are wholly un-erotic. We are given cold hard facts - what she did, who she did it with and how many times she orgasmed - but there is no passion behind her words, no real enjoyment. And I was glad when she finally had sex for the first time that year as I was very bored reading about her tedious masturbation sessions.

I can see why this works as a blog (let’s face it most things are better than working and that’s when people would read it, as a work substitute) but it just doesn’t cut it as a sexual memoir. If you want erotic memoirs go for Anais Nin. If you want deeply disturbing then read The Story of O. If you want annoying and dull then read this. [Nicola Pedley]

Rating: 2 out of 5

Like this? Try Diary of a Manhattan Call Girl by Tracy Quan.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 29, 2006 in Bonkbusters, Book Websites, British Authors, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 2/5, Rubbish Books | Permalink | Comments (12)

New This Is Chick Lit site

We've talked about it here and here, you can read a defence of it here (don't read the comments unless you want to be infuriated) and now you can learn more about it here. There's a discussion forum, special offers and info about the contributors.

Posted by Keris on August 29, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 28, 2006 12:14 PM

FlapArt's Tasteless Titles

Ever read a book that you'd prefer not to be seen with in public? (Like maybe this? or even this?!) Or maybe you Falipo just enjoy messing with people's minds?

Then you'll love FlapArt! The company manufactures book covers to slip over the reading material of your choice. Giving good taste a bypass, fake titles include Do it Yourself Liposuction, Coroner by Correspondence, and How to Overcome Nymphomania (there's also How to Cheat Your Way through College, for those of a milder disposition).

The company ships worldwide and their covers are also on sale in the U.K via The Dog House website. I predict a huge surge in revenue from teenage boys...

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 28, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (0)

Reverse Book Tokens

Booktokens_1 Aside from diamonds or a trip to Hawaii, a book token is the best present anyone could ever get me, so when I heard about Book Aid International's Reverse Book Token scheme, I was intrigued. You simply donate £10 to the charity, and you get a voucher to send to your friend or family member letting them know that 8 books (bargain!) have been sent to people in the developing world on their behalf.

If you're interested, email tokens@bookaid.org to request a voucher and once it arrives, make a donation. If you want to make a more regular commitment join the Reverse Book Club which involves giving £5 every month. (Slogan: "4 books for £5 - and you never receive a single one of them!")

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 28, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (1)

August 25, 2006 11:23 AM

Pages magazine online

Pages magazine is a funky American books mag that's both fun and educational- not dry and stuffy like some more traditional publications (mentioning no names!) And the best thing is you don't even need to buy a copy to enjoy the articles on offer, such as this piece on chick-lit fave Emily Giffin and this article on Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter (shades of Buffy?) author Laurel K. Hamilton. There's also news on new releases and classic re-issues.

Thanks Pages, for giving another me yet another don't-miss books website! I'll be spending all day on the internet at this rate... not that I'm complaining.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 25, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (0)

Mr Nice Guy gives away his novel

Thomas Dowler kept getting "close but no cigar" rejection letters from publishers, which frustrated him. So he decided to take matters into his own hands: he's releasing his first book, Mr Nice Guy, as a free e-book and podcast.* The story sounds suitably Mike Gayle-esque to me: a man is devastated when he's dumped by his girlfriend for being "too nice".

Dowler's hoping this project will gather enough momentum to get him a nice publishing deal for his second novel, Jealous Guy. The author briefly had interest in a screenplay of his first novel but if this project works, he could be writing the screenplay of his own life. Maybe.

*If downloading's not your thing, you can also purchase the Print-on-Demand paperback here.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 25, 2006 in Book News, Book Websites, British Authors, Modern Fiction, New Releases | Permalink | Comments (2)

August 24, 2006 7:58 AM

Judging books by their covers

I've been really enjoying the official Penguin Books blog and yesterday they had some interesting insights into book covers. I also recently discovered this site focusing on cover art. Then a few days ago I saw the cover of A Hopeless Romantic, Harriet Evans's follow-up to Going Home, in The Bookseller and gasped at its gorgeousness.

So it got me to wondering what attracts me about a cover. Continue over the cut to find out (and for more purty covers).

I've mentioned before that a sniff of New York and I'm easy so this one was a shoe-in.

I bought Lisa Jewell's Thirtynothing on the basis of the cover despite the fact that I hadn't been that impressed by Ralph's Party (I know, I need to re-read it).

And this one - cherry blossom and New York! - just makes me sigh with longing.

Apparently, I too am a hopeless romantic. But what does it for you? What kind of cover do you cross a bookstore for? (I'm guessing it's not feet.)

Posted by Keris on August 24, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Girly Stuff, Opinion | Permalink | Comments (7)

August 22, 2006 11:28 AM

Chick Lit Roundtable

Roundtable I've just discovered this excellent chick lit discussion on the Authors on the Web site.

It's a "Chick Lit Author Roundtable" featuring such Trashionista faves as Meg Cabot, Marian Keyes and Jennifer Weiner.

It's a bit out of date (check out the Meg Cabot author photo), but includes plenty of insights into excellent questions like 'What makes a book chick lit?' and 'Is there a value to Chick Lit other than escapism or entertainment?'

Posted by Keris on August 22, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Irish Authors, Marian Keyes, Modern Fiction | Permalink | Comments (2)

More (Almost) Free Books- Bookmooch

A few weeks ago we told you about Read, It Swap It and now we bring you news of the American version: Bookmooch. The same principles apply: list the books you have and the books you want, and swap with others. It's not for you if you like to keep a tight reign on your book collection, as readers can choose to de-list and keep books they love- even if they were once yours. But if you want to expand your reading horizons for the cost of a few stamps, then go for it!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 22, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (1)

August 21, 2006 10:04 AM

Books and Feet!

Shoes3 Shoes4 On her fabulous Snarkspot blog recently, Jennifer Weiner shared her excitement that unlike her previous book covers [and they're all lovely], The Guy Not Taken doesn't feature legs, feet, shoes or some combination of the above. I know what she means- it seems to have become the biggest woman writer cover cliche of all time, as this article points out. [via mimi smartypants].

I mean come on book cover designers, we do sometimes have other things on our mind besides shoes! (I said 'sometimes', don't worry Shoewawa ladies!)

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 21, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, New Releases, Opinion | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 18, 2006 5:28 PM

Re-telling Emma

Amandagrange Now, I'd take Mr Knightley over Darcy any day, so I think this is an exciting prospect: Emma, told from the man's point of view.

Mr Knightley's Diary by Amanda Grange is out here at the end of the month (in the U.S, you'll have to wait until October I'm afraid, but there's an excerpt there on the site). Nothing could be quite as enjoyable as opening a crisp new Austen, but as they're unlikely to discover any more, perhaps this is the next best thing...

Ooh, and while I was researching it, I came across Austenblog- how fab!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 18, 2006 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors | Permalink | Comments (0)

Your guide to POD

With internet companies like Lulu making publishing on demand (POD) easier than ever (and free!) combined with a downturn in the number of new authors taken on by publishing houses, it's no longer true that print-on-demand titles will be a load of old rubbish- some of them will be very good indeed. But how do you know which ones? Well, POD-dy Mouth (get it?!): published writer, teacher and inveterate reader, is the reader's friend (and the writer's friend too- books recommended by PM have had interest from the film world!) She sorts the wheat from the chaff, the*insert bad author here* from the Shakespeare...

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 18, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 17, 2006 11:08 AM

Tips for New Writers!

Apostilina We know that many Trashionista readers are aspiring authors too- and that even those who aren't are often fascinated by the process of creating a chick-lit classic.

Luckily for you (and for us!) chick-lit author Apostilina (Hazing Meri Sugarman, Meri Strikes Back- both of which look GREAT) has offered to share her top tips for writing a book with us!

Carry on across the cut to read her excellent advice.

"So you have decided to write a book. Yipeee! You have carved out time in your life that makes sense, either one day a week, or another plan that is realistic, one that allows you to work or go to school and have a social life, too. And you have at least a general idea for a story. How do you begin?

1) Outline
You really should outline your entire story before you begin to actually write your novel. Even if you make changes, small or big, as you write your novel, your outline will serve as your blueprint and save you lots of time and frustration along the way.

2) Research Like outlining, it will save you lots of time and frustration when you are writing your novel, because you will not have to stop the flow to get information... It is also a good idea to research character elements or traits that may be unfamiliar to you. For example, I have one character who becomes addicted to crystal methamphetamines, something that I knew very little about. But I researched it very thoroughly, and again, the reality was a useful jumping off point, giving me a basis in reality that I could exaggerate for my purposes.

3) Character Descriptions
Not everyone does this, but I have found it to be very useful. After I have outlined and done my research, I write one page on each character in my story and break it down into short paragraphs as follows: Personality, Unusual Traits, Relationship to Main Character, Objective and Conclusion.

Remember, the above steps may seem very technical and unglamorous and dry and somewhat boring. And guess what? They are. At least part of the time. But you cannot drive a snazzy new car if you do not have an engine, and you cannot drink a fabulous cocktail unless you have all the right ingredients ready to mix. Right?

Of course, if you try the above steps, you may find that some of them work for you, and some of them do not, and you may discover other ways that are better. Great! Whatever prepares you the most in terms of knowing your storyline and your characters before you start writing your novel is going to help you big-time!"

[Excerpted with kind permission from the author's Myspace page]. Apostilina's newest novel, Dark Cindy will be out in December.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 17, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction | Permalink | Comments (2)

August 9, 2006 11:36 AM

TRASHIONISTA RECOMMENDS: Meet the Author

Meettheauthor Ever find yourself reading a book and wondering what the author looks like .. or sounds like (especially if there's no author photo - what are they trying to hide, eh?)? Well thanks to the magic of the internet you can now check out your favourite authors in all their bad-haired, shiny-faced glory (although, to be fair, most of them look great).

From Sophie Kinsella talking about "Can You Keep A Secret?" via Jill Mansell and Katie Fforde to Alan Titchmarsh (go on, you know you want to), plenty of Trashionista faves are represented.

Now you never need wonder if your favourite romance author is really a six-foot bloke.

Posted by Keris on August 9, 2006 in Book Websites | Permalink | Comments (0)