Interview: Alyson Noel

The superb Alyson Noel is the author of fly me to the moon, Cruel Summer, and most recently, Evermore, the first in her immortals series. (My review of Evermore can be read here.) I was lucky enough to conduct an interview of sorts with her, so without further ado, the fabulous Alyson Noel, ladies and gents:

In Evermore, a lot of your characters seem to have unique names. How did these come about?
I love unique names! In fact, I sort of collect them. Whenever I think of a new one I add it to my “unique names” file, then cross them off as I use them!

That's pretty cool - I used to have a name notebook as well, but lost it. Maybe I'll take up that practice again. What's a little known fact about you?
Hmmm, after high school I flew to London, England by myself and stayed for two weeks. It was a trip that spawned a life-long love of travel!

Damen definitely has flair, when it comes to romance. What would your ideal date consist of?
An impromptu trip to Paris where we dine at a tiny, locals only, bistro, then stroll along the River Seine, gazing at the stars. Either that or backstage passes to a U2 concert—I’m flexible!

Mmm... Describe (in as much detail as you like) your favourite meal/dish.
Oh, I have many! And I was lucky enough to marry a gourmet cook since I can’t even boil water without burning it! But my favorite type of cuisine is French Bistro (hence the date above!). Pommes Frites, cassoulet—it’s all good!

Yum! What's writing like for you? Do you try to get in the zone, do it at a specific time, or place, need anything in particular, etc.
I used to be very particular, needing to be at home, in my office, at my desk, with lots of quiet time. But last summer I was on deadline just as my husband’s family reunion was looming near, and since I wanted to go, I was determined to break myself of this habit. So I dragged my laptop along and wrote in the hotel room during the day and came out to socialize at night. Everyone joked that I was a vampire, but it worked—I met the deadline and managed to have some fun! But even though I know I can do it, I still prefer to write at home, in my office, at my desk . . .

What are your major pet peeves / endearing quirks?
When I was a flight attendant I had a gazillion pet peeves—the result of serving thousands of people each day. But now that I’m basically a shut in, I can’t really think of any other than people with a bossy, self-important, “me first” attitude.
Endearing quirks? Well, I pronounce the word “thing” like “theen.” I’m not sure if it’s endearing, but there it is!

Aww, that is cute! Words of wisdom - give a quote of personal significance?
Two of my favorites are:
“Be the change you want to see in the world.”- Ghandi
And:
“The cheapest way to feel good about yourself is by feeling superior to others.”- Deepak Chopra
They pretty much sum up how I try to be in the world!

Can you give us a hint about what's to come in Blue Moon?
Here’s a little cover copy:
Just as eager new Immortal Ever’s powers are increasing, her beloved Damen’s are waning. In an attempt to save him, Ever travels to the magical dimension of Summerland where she discovers an ancient text that details the workings of time. Now Ever must choose between turning back the past and saving her family—or staying in the present and saving Damen . . .
It’ll be in stores on 07.07.09
THANKS SO MUCH FOR THE INTERVIEW!

And thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions! Doesn't the cover for blue moon look just gorgeous? I know I'm looking forward to its release; how about you?