Friday, March 9, 2012

Jessica Shirvington Author Interview


Photo Content from Jessica Shirvington

Jessica Shirvington is the author of THE VIOLET EDEN CHAPTERS also known as THE EMBRACE SERIES, stand alone novel, BETWEEN THE LIVES and has an exciting new duology called DISRUPTION on the way in 2014.

An entrepreneur, author, and mother living in Sydney, Australia, Jessica is also a 2011 & 2012 finalist for Cosmopolitan’s annual Fun, Fearless Female Award. She’s also one of the lucky few who met the love of her life at age seventeen: Matt Shirvington, a former Olympian and current sports broadcaster for Foxtel and Fox Sports. Married for twleve years with two beautiful daughters, Sienna and Winter, Jessica knows her early age romance and its longevity has definitely contributed to how she tackles relationships in her YA novels. 


        


Tell us your latest news.
My most exciting and immediate news is that EMBRACE is being released across the US and Canada on March 6!

On top of that, I just found out I'll be in the US in September for a book tour so I am mega excited about that too!

How would you describe yourself in three words?
Loyal, determined, messy

What’s one thing that readers would be surprised to find out about you?
Possibly that I wasn't an avid reader in my teenage years. I loved reading a few select series but otherwise didn't discover my real passion for books until I was in my twenties.

Did it take a long time to get your first book published?
No. I was very lucky. I was introduced to my now agent and from there the process was very fast indeed. I think I signed my first three book deal about a month after signing on with her.

For those who are unfamiliar with your novel; Embrace, how would you introduce it?
EMBRACE is the story of seventeen-year-old, Violet Eden, who discovers that she is caught up in this ancient battle between exiled angels on earth and angel-human warriors that fight against them called the Grigori. Violet’s destiny is entwined in this eternal battle and she must make her choice – to follow the path that has been set for her, or turn her back on her destiny. It is a story of free will, choice and consequence. And at the heart of it all she is torn between the two men in her life; Lincoln – her long time crush and the one person she thought she could trust until she discovers he has been lying to her for the past two years, and Phoenix – the exiled angel who is supposed to be her enemy but somehow always seems to be there when she needs someone and stirs feelings that she doesn’t fully understand.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating Violet?
How much she has taken on a life of her own. Sometimes I'll be writing a scene and her character will simply surprise me. I know it sounds kind of strange, but I admire her and I feel for her, for all the things that she must deal with.

If you could introduce Phoenix to any character from another book, who would it be and why?
No one. He's my character and I'm a little possessive! :)
The truth is, I struggle to take my characters out of the world I have created for them, and I don't really want to. For me, they are so real in that world, but anywhere else ... it just doesn't feel right.

Do you have plans for a new book? Is this book part of a series?
EMBRACE is the first book in the Embrace Series. The second, ENTICE, will be released in September 2012, the third, EMBLAZE, will be out March 2013, and I am currently working on the fourth, ENDLESS.

Why do you feel you had to tell this story?
I wanted to tell a story that got into the minds of teenagers on the cusp of adulthood. The dilemmas that they faced and big decisions and most importantly, the inner torment teenagers seem to be able to put themselves through better than any other age group. There are lots of reasons why this story came to be and I guess it ended up being this domino effect - on thing leading to the other. But one of the big inspirations behind this book was the quote that leads chapter 1: "Outside, among your fellows, among strangers, you must preserve appearances, a hundred things you cannot do; but inside, the terrible freedom!" For me, in may ways, this quote sums up a large part of growing up.

Why Young Adult? What are some of the challenges of writing for this age group?
I never considered not writing for the YA audience. I love YA, I read YA, I think a lot of the best stories come from a YA setting and it was perfect for the story I wanted to tell. The main challenge is always keeping it real. Some readers expect a watered down approach to YA, but I disagree. It should be just as intense, should be just as honest and believable - but it must always be respectful of the readership. The challenge is to put it all out there and know that young teens are going to be reading this. And at the end of the day, teens are the biggest critics - they see falsehood so fast - therefore, you can't for a minute take the genre for granted.

Name a few of your favorite books and tell us why they inspire you.
Chronicles of Narnia - C.S. Lewis. An absolute master of imagination and in-depth thought.
Harry Potter Series - J.K. Rowling. Any author and books that can command the attention Harry Potter has is incredible. Just thinking of the amount of young readers she has inspired is mind blowing. The story itself is uber-intellegent, both-gender embracing and amazing adventures.
Hunger Games - Suzanne Collins. Running Man, meets Fifth Elements, meets Lord of the Flies - This series set a new benchmark in modern storytelling. She is an amazing author and Katniss is an amazing heroine.

Can you share a little of your current work with us?
I really would, but it is all under lock and key at the moment. I can however let you know that more details will be posted on the Embrace the Series website in the near future: www.embracetheseries.com

When asked, what’s the one question you always answer with a lie?
Possibly when my oldest daughter asks me if she runs as fast as my youngest daughter!

What question are you never asked in interviews but wish you were?
Ah, I can't think of anything. I think interviewers pretty much cover most things sooner or later. There is nothing I'm aching to tell the world currently.

If you could be any mythology creature, what would you be?
An angel. I've done so much research on them and the possibilities are endless. Just the prospect of being able to answer some fairly big questions would be a major draw card.

What’s the worst job you’ve had?
I worked in a pharmacy when I was a teenager. I just couldn't do the whole shop thing and felt awkward a lot. I only lasted a few months until I started working in a busy cafe. It was much more my pace.

White wine or red?
Red until about a year ago, now I can't seem to want to drink anything other than Chardonnay.

What's the loveliest thing you have ever seen?
My daughters. And I get to see them every day - it's very cool.

What would I find in your refrigerator right now?
Nothing you could trust! Actually I did an online shop today and I'm hoping the delivery will arrive before I have to drop my daughter to school in the morning (her lunchbox will appreciate it).


It starts with a whisper: "It's time for you to know who you are..."

On her 17th birthday, everything will change for Violet Eden. The boy she loves will betray her. Her enemy will save her. She will have to decide just how much she's willing to sacrifice.

Dangerously exciting and darkly romantic, EMBRACE is a compelling novel of good and evil, seductive desires and impossible choices. A centuries old war between fallen angels and the protectors of humanity chooses a new fighter. It's a battle Violet doesn't want, but she lives her life by two rules: don't run and don't quit. If angels seek vengeance and humans are the warriors, you could do a lot worse than betting on Violet Eden.

LINCOLN: He's been Violet's one anchor, her running partner and kickboxing trainer. Only he never told her he's Grigori—part human, part angel—and that he was training her for an ancient battle between Angels and Exiles.

PHOENIX: No one knows where his loyalties lie, yet he's the only one there to pick up the pieces and protect her after Lincoln's lies. In a world of dark and light, he is all shades of gray.Two sides: Angel or Exile.
Two guys: Lincoln or Phoenix.
The wrong choice could cost not only her life, but her eternity...


Praise for EMBRACE

"One of the best YA novels we've seen in a while. Get ready for a confident, kick-butt, well-defined heroine... This title will have a place on my keeper bookshelf for years to come!" 
RT Book Reviews

"The angel mythology's in-depth description adds complexity to the novel . . . Fans of romantic fantasy with a paranormal twist will find Violet and her adventures captivating." VOYA Magazine

"Shirvington's debut is smart, edgy and addictive-and sure to leave readers clamoring for the rest of the series... The story is rife with action and romance. A must-read for paranormal fans young and old." Kirkus


Embrace surely promises to be one exciting series. Jessica Shirvington’s debut book is loaded with romance, adventure, and angels with an interesting story that will keep readers on the edge. I was completely mesmerized the moment I read the first page and it was virtually impossible to put down.

From the beginning, we are introduced to a very strong and cunning character, Violet. She sets out on a journey to learn more about herself and her mother, specifically her mysterious past. After learning more about her inexplicable life, she has to decide whether to continue and accept her fate or turnaround and go back. Her decision is heavily influenced by two entirely different guys in her life who will force her to make a choice. I love the fact that she is imperfect. She will take chances, make mistakes, and is willing to make sacrifices. This beautiful character that Shirvington created has a natural connection with its readers.

The world that Shrivington formed is brilliant, beautiful, and sophisticated. The characters breathing in this advanced world are totally remarkable and unforgettable. I enjoyed Phoenix’s personality and how it added spark to the story. There are some hot steamy scenes within the pages but it is tastefully done.

Embrace takes Angel-themed paranormal romance to whole new levels. It is beautifully written and it is packed with romance that will cover all of your emotions. It is not just your typical good vs. evil story. There are plenty of action and mystery with a profusion of surprises and secrets. Prepare to put on your life vest as you will be immersed from the start.
You can purchase Embrace at these following Retailers:
  

And now, The Giveaways.
Thank you JESSICA SHIRVINGTON for making this giveaway possible.
1 Winner will receive one Copy of Embrace by Jessica Shirvington.
1 Winner will receive one Signed ARC Inside Sleeve of EMBRACE Poster from Jessica's Collection.
jbnpastinterviews

25 comments:

  1. hahhaha awesome interview! My sister is currently reading embrace!
    It sounds really good!

    Thanks for the giveaway as well!
    -Farah @MajiBookshelf

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  2. Great Interview--book sounds awesome, and thanks for the giveaway!

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  3. Hmmm well, I'm a Mama to 2 beautiful girls named Brooke & Liliana who are my entire world!
    I'm engaged to the most wonderful man who ever came into my life and I have a Jack Russell named Simon.

    Thank you for this great interview and giveaway!!

    Good luck everyone!! xo

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  4. Awesome interview, I cant wait to read this, I've wanted to for awhile now. I have 2 great boys 16 & 20 now, almost all grown up and they are my best friends, I have 1 cat and 1 dog and have the most amazing boyfriend who is my other half, I can't believe I had to wait 18 years for him to find me. :)

    Great giveaway, thank you :)
    Nat
    nataliejhillier@yahoo.ca

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  5. Thank you for the interview!

    About myself? Hmmm...I like teddybears and apple cobblers. I have a hard time spelling "guarantee" because "gua" just doesn't look right. English isn't my first language, but I am at the point where I think in English more than in my mother's tongue even though I keep thinking I might be betraying my native language...that whole "the language you think in when doing complicated math" thing? doesn't work with me.

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  6. Me? I'm awesome. Nuff said :D

    Shaina Jachim
    shaina333@comcast.net

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  7. hmmmm about me, well im wicked as :) i love my books and my 2 babies, have an amazing job that helps pay for my addiction lol

    great interview and giveaway, this book sounds amazing :)

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  8. I'm a mother of a 14 year old, I recently got married, I am currently in college to get my nursing degree and I love to read. Thank You for the interview and contest. :)

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  9. Lol, um, I'm a pre-Uni student who loves to read YA and adult fiction, paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and the likes. I've been seeing Embrace a lot around the blogosphere lately, and I'd really LOVE to read it!:D Thanks for this giveaway!

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  10. Um... I'm 27 I love reading (ALOT) I have a wonderful husband and two wonderful kids... thats about it lol

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  11. I'm a mother of two young children, a voracious reader, writer, editor, book reviewer, and book blogger. Aside from my current addiction to Twitter, I also frequent vintage shops for interesting pieces, and my favourite weapon of choice is my red lipstick.

    Thanks for the chance at winning this giveaway.

    Zara D. Garcia-Alvarez
    zgarcia(dot)alvarez(at)gmail(dot)com
    On Twitter: @ZaraAlexis
    My blog: The Bibliotaphe's Closet - http://zaraalexis.wordpress.com

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  12. I'm an author and lover of books. I'm happily married to my high school sweetheart, am 1 of 4 sisters, and a twin at that. I have a Rottweiler named Nahla and a crazy ninja cat named Sookie. :)

    Thanks for the great giveaway!

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  13. Thanks for this great giveaway!
    Lets see... I didn't like to read until about 3 years ago. Now after almost 300 books I can't stop reading. I love and collect Disney stuff. I even have 2 tattoo's. Tinker bell on my ankle and a Mickey Mouse hat on my wrist. Plan to get more.
    -Maritza R

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  14. Well I'm Melissa I'm 23 and I live in Spain :)
    nathielgold@gmail.com

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  15. Oh, me? I'm a lost, sick teenanger on recovery. To run away from my sickness I read books. It makes me better. Oh, I'm from Poland, and my city is on the UNESCO list. Just random thing.

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  16. Well, I'm 19 and Wenglish (As I've lived half my life in England and the other in Wales) ;). I love reading, writing and drawing. I'm a natural blonde in disguise and I'm an animal lover. That's me in a nutshell.

    Thanks for the give away by the way! :P

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  17. I'm not very interesting really. I'm a 26 year old from Chattanooga, TN. I love to read and write (when I can pull my ideas together in a cohesive manner). I'm married to a local radio DJ (CMA & ACM award nominations for Morning Show Personality & Station of the year) and yes, I'm bragging a little bit because I'm awfully proud of him.
    Thanks for another great giveaway Jean!

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  18. I can't wait to read this book! I love the cover.
    I'm 18. I'm studying to become a publisher. I live half of my time in Arizona and the other half in Ohio. I have two cats. Anddddd... that's pretty much it. I'm not all the interesting. I spend most of my time reading and sleeping. Hahaha

    Thanks for the giveaway! :)

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  19. Ughhh Jean you know Im no good at telling people about myself..It took me hours to write that little bit i did lol..
    I guess a short version is Im 21, married, love to read, co-owner on Paranormal Reads, review for Jean BookNerd and I have a cat. Thats pretty much it lol :)

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  20. Well, you know that I am a bookaholic and I LOVE to read! I enjoy looking for awesome pics, and I am the owner of 2 fan pages!! Black Words-White Pages, and A Tale of Two Raccoons! I am a book blogger just starting out! Had my first big giveaway on BWWP sponsored by Nely Cab! I help admin author pages & Melissa Ringsted's editor page! Willow Cross, Kymberlee Burks-Miller and Nathan Squiers were my first author friends. Thats about it!
    Thank you sooo much for the awesome giveaway, Jean! I soo want to read this book!

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  21. Well I'm 19 and a complete bookworm and have a large collection of books, but am a firm believer of you can't have to many books :)

    Thanks for the amazing giveaway !!!!

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  22. nothing much to say I am a middle aged college student :)

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  23. Well, I love to read and participate in giveaways :) Nothing's better than free books! :D

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  24. Thanks so much for another awesome giveaway <3


    I am 23 years old, I am addicted to reading. I love writing reviews and getting other people excited about books that I have read or going to read :)

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  25. I'm 35, from Sydney Australia.I love to read when I find time around my 3 children, often staying up half the night to read a good book without interruption :)

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