Gail Carriger

Dear Lord Akeldama: The 2011 Edition, Part Thirteen

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 16:28:33 GMT

Rebecca asks:
Opera, play, or symphony?
Play darling beccalite, whenever vampirically possible, but sometimes one must put in an appearance elsewhere. Operas are suited only to those who like opera girls, and in the symphony everyone sits, you can't observe what they are wearing at all well. So it's the play for me. I am a particular fan of Shakespeare, I do like men in tights.

Lady Emma of Portsmouth asks:
I assume you are acquainted with many noteworthy vampires, but I have to ask, are you acquainted with any werewolves... ..or are there any werewolves you hold in high regard?
My dearest pink peppercorn of Portsmouth, I don't hold anyone in high regard, that would be vexing for all concerned.

Suzanne asks:
Have you ever been at a loss when it comes to your distinctive and flowery terms of endearment [eg. my rose petal] that you use so frequently?
My darling grape-seed of the morning dew, me? Never! My creator, on the other hand, often walks around making tea and muttering endearments to herself and, on occasion, pauses mid conversation to make a note. Sometimes I suspect she created this Dear Lord Akeldama column so she could keep in practice, if you take my meaning. There was also one hilarious conversation with Gail's editor over whether my little terms of endearments ought to be capitalized, I was, naturally, in favor.

tsgeisel asks:
How do you feel about Fezes?
That a once fine chapeau has been subsumed by the supercilious.

Julia ask:
How long does one stay a drone before, Master/Mistress willing, succumb to the transformation? May I be so bold as to also ask how long you stayed a drone?
Ah me, such a serious question. When to metamorphose a drone is like knowing when to remove the tea bag from your cuppa. When the tea is ready, my butterfly upon a lilac branch . . . when the tea is ready, out comes the soul! I suppose one might say, if the drone has seeped properly into vampire culture, if he fits, if he is not . . . too bitter. One must be careful, of a certain, not to leave the drone for too long, he becomes too strong, too attached to humanity, too tannic. His soul not longer has anything left to give to immortality. It is a delicate balance. And the difficulty is, as with tea, every drone is a different blend and must be soaked for a different length of time. Oh look at me! I am soooo poetic!

wolfgang20 asks:
Have you had your portrait painted by any of the great masters? If so which ones? I can imagine you looking even more wonderful than usual in the fashions of the first Charles.
Oh, my dear you flatter me so! I might have sat for the occasional painter in my time, they have a prediction for putting me in as the pageboy or wearing yellow, I am never certain whether to be flattered by this or not.

scullerym8d0182 asks:
Lord Akeldama, I am a girl of considerable girth and would like to find a corset to affect the illusion of a waist, but alas sizing seems horribly confusing. Any tips?
My dear sudsy muffin, what would I know of ladies foundation garments? I pass you along to my creator . . .
Gail will be taking this question in her RETRO RACK blog very soon . . . And it's up!

GAIL'S DAILY DOSE

Your Moment of Parasol . . .

Your Infusion of Cute . . .

Your Tisane of Smart . . .

Your Writerly Tinctures . . .
Interesting data website of SF/F in Spanish: La Tercera Fundacion.

Timeless: Galleys done, Timeless now in production. The release date on Amazon has been corrected.

Etiquette & Espionage: Working third pass final edits. Release date Fall 2012.

The Parasol Protectorate Abroad Book the First: Prudence floats!

BIG FAT SPOILER ALERT! Really, DON'T READ THE BLURB ON AMAZON if you haven't read the other books first!

Book News:
Roswell Patch Soulless review.
Novel A Day reviews Changeless.
I Believe in Fairytale reviews Blameless.
Heartless review.

Quote of the Day:
"Tea to the English is really a picnic indoors."
~ Alice Walker

Dear Lord Akeldama: The 2011 Edition, Part Ten

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 21:12:25 GMT

In which Lord Akeldama answers all your most pressing questions.

fan art by Rebecca Nandi

The Secretary of Defense of Awesome asks:
I am in a fashion crisis most dire! A dear friend of mine is getting married next month, and lovingly chose a steampunk theme. Two weeks ago her seamstress backed out of making the dress (She hadn't even begun after six months!) and I recently learned that the bride and I are working off the same pattern! I have had to make adjustments to it (because I am short and round, where the bride is tall and graceful). Our color palates are different (copper, gold, and lovely paisley for her, green and brown for myself) but I still question showing up to a wedding in similar attire to the bride. She insists there is no problem, but I am nervous. Would it be scandalous to dress similarly to the bride? (Also, the Bride would love to know your thoughts on errant seamstresses)
My dearest button! This is such a traumatic fashion emergency, I have moved you to the top of my queue. Working off the same pattern is indeed a crisis! Is there any way in which you might change the lines significantly, by, perhaps pinning a light scarf about the neckline, or at the waist? Adding a bustle? Or augmenting with some kind of steampunk cargo belt of this style? Or, you might take a leaf (or a feather as it were) from young Miss Hisselpenny's book and wear a ridiculous hat. This will distract from an similarities to the bride's attire.

Ivy fan art by Rebecca Nandi

As to my thoughts on the seamstress, hound her out of town immediately! Tar and feathers, or molasses and glitter! Such shocking behavior.

adelheid p asks
If you could rewrite one piece of history, what would it be?
Oh my dearest tiggle-pump, without question, the invention of crocks. So unfortunate. Closely followed by the 1980s. I can't even talk about the 1980s, it upsets me so.

isalicefantasy asks
Dear Lord Akeldama, have you experimented much to design your perfect beverage, or was Pink Slurp a miraculous discovery that made dabbling never necessary?
I shudder to think upon it, but there was once, my darling lilac candy, a time before champagne. Those were dark times ~ dark, bubble-less times. However, as soon as I learned of the lovely fizzy stuff I knew I should acquire some and mix it with Darkest Red for a truly delectable drink.

ashura oh asks
If your very existence depended upon this one decision, which one would win the cup - lace or ruffles?
Lace ruffles, of course! Silly muffin, I know a trick question when I see it.

ladytesser asks
There are some decades/centuries in which the fashion is gorgeous and compliments the male or female form the most - and there are those decades of fashion in which we wonder why the designers bother with anything more than a potato sack. What is your opinion on the matter of 'recycling' fashion trends and how far should such a practice be allowed to go?
It is a sad sad day where there is no originality in style left to us, my darling speckled wren. I do feel sometimes that we may have reached that point. So often I have seen it all before. But then again, that may be the consequence of vampirehood. Then suddenly some new exciting fabric appears and all my maudlin humors are dissipated.

More from Lord Akeldama in future . . .

Gail's Daily Dose
Your Moment of Parasol . . .

Your Infusion of Cute . . .

Your Tisane of Smart . . .
Ballroom in an abandoned mine.
Your Writerly Tinctures . . .
Open Thread: The Best Notebooks via Corporette. I comment in favor of ledgers.

Timeless: Copyedits back in, awaiting galleys.
Etiquette & Espionage: The Finishing School Book the First: First run passes from editor, much tweaking.
Secret Project PPA: Only a twinkle in my little eye.

BIG FAT SPOILER ALERT! Really, DON'T READ THE BLURB ON AMAZON if you haven't read the other books first!

Book News:
Guest blog over at the Steampunk Party at Marie Treanor’s Romantic Theme Party

Quote of the Day:
"Young ladies seldom drink more than three glasses of wine at dinner; but married ladies, professional ladies, and those accustomed to society and habits of affluence, will habitually take five or even six, whether in their own homes of at the tables of their friends."
~ Etiquette for Gentlemen, 1850
That a lot of wine!

NYT #11 & Dear Lord Akeldama: The 2011 Edition, Part Nine

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 19:51:51 GMT

Before I allow the Good Vampire to hijack my blog, I'd like to give a heartfelt thanks to all my fans who went out in a rush and purchased Heartless as soon as it released. You did it, Gentle Readers All. You bumped Heartless onto the New York Times Mass Market Bestseller list at #11, Publisher's Weekly at #12, Amazon Bestseller List for SF/F at #8, and USA Today at #109! So very exciting!! Squee! I've only been NYT #20 before, and I've never made USA's list at all. Thank you soooo much!

As a reward I bring you a long awaited new installment of . . . .

~ Dear Lord Akeldama ~

Jami asks:
Honestly, my dear Lordship, which look do you prefer if you had to be stuck with a look from one of these two decades? The 1970s or today?
My dearest paisley pump, you make a very strong case for the 1970s. (I do hope you are aware of the rather interesting psychological theory that people fetishize the attire of the period in which they formed their sexual identity? Not that I would want to say anything about your age, of course. But that does explain why I am so very fond of boys covered in oil.)

And d c m asks:
Sir you said in your last post that you had much to say about the 1970s. Do please tell us what where your favorite things about the 1970s? Please don't hold back.
The 1970s have much to recommend them ~ trousers to the waist, high heels for men, shine and sparkle, disco balls.

However I see two significant flaws. One is the moustaches: a horrible, prevalent, overabundance of lip-caterpillars everywhere! I shudder to even think upon it.

The second is orange, brown, and avocado. I enjoy a bright color or two, but no excuse has ever been that might satisfy me on the subject of muted tones.

As to today, I do agree with Jami who laments the regrettable fundament exposure that seems to have taken hold of today's youth, but fortunately that is not the all-pervading standard of attire. You neglected to limit me in my modern choices, and I am a dabbler in many modes of attire. For example, who can help but love the rich purples, silvers, and blood reds of those adorable little Gothie boys with the eye makeup and the tragic expressions? Don't you just love the idea of making them cry, seeing if that is waterproof mascara? Or the delicious revival of chapism, tweed and pips and bicycling with umbrellas. Or steampunk, who could not love such options in apparel? I might argue, indeed, that no time period has gifted men with so many different options. So I am afraid buttercup, that my choice is now.

Kiya V asks:
My Dearest Lord Akeldama, I must ask you: Glitter? Acceptable in moderation? Acceptable in abundance? Dear woman, put the glitter down and back away slowly? Just your general opinion on the acceptability of glitter in fashion would be wildly appreciated.
I am a fan of glitter as applied in a moderate manner to the exterior of clothing. It can be quite lovely around the neckline or cuffs of an evening gown. Too much and a woman looks immodest. A lady wears her sparkles, the sparkles do not wear her! Nor do I condone flagrant scattering of loose glitter. Glitter should not be allowed to run rampant and outside of one's immediate control. Nothing is more revolting than unwanted glitter transmission, or UGT as some call it. *Insert delicate shudder here.*

Oh and one teensy tiny little thing more ... Yay or Nay on these shoes?
Mmm, perhaps with a little white dress, or something quite neutral, like grey. I would be very very careful with such shoes.

Rebecca asks:
What becomes of your outmoded clothes? Do you rework them in the new style? Bestow them on your drones? Donate them to the deserving poor?
My dearest darling dew on a rose petal, I donated them to the undeserving poor, of course! That way I know they will be misused properly.

Your moment of parasol . . .

Gail's Daily Dose
Your Infusion of Cute:

Your Tisane of Smart:

Your Writerly Tinctures:

Timeless: Finished with last draft, awaiting copyedits.
Etiquette & Espionage: The Finishing School Book the First: Fourth draft turned in!
Secret Project PPA: Only a twinkle in my little eye.

BIG FAT SPOILER ALERT! Really, DON'T READ THE BLURB ON AMAZON if you haven't read the other books first!

Book News:
In which I am asked why I must be so heartless.

Quote of the Day:
"Another novelty is the tea party, an extraordinary meal in that, being offered to persons that have already dined well, it supposes neither appetite nor thirst, and has no object but distraction, no basis but delicate enjoyment."
~ Jean-Anthelme Brillat-Savarin

Manga Art Launch: Lord Akeldama

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 17:36:43 GMT

A quick note, Gentle Reader, before we start for those of you waiting on your stickers from the contest, I'm waiting them to be shipped to me. Since it was a last minute decision to award runners up, I only recently ordered them. And it's me, so I really wanted to find pretty ones, I do apologize for the delay.

And now, we have the initial sketches for Lord Akeldama!

It was impossible not to grin at Lord Akeldama; his attire was so consistently absurd. In addition to the heels, he wore yellow checked gaiters, gold satin breeches, an orange and lemon striped waistcoat and an evening jacket of sunny pink brocade. His cravat was a frothy flowing waterfall of orange, yellow, and pink Chinese silk, barely contained by a magnificently huge ruby pin. His ethereal face was powdered quite unnecessarily, for he was already completely pale, a predilection of his kind. He sported round spots of pink blush on each cheek like a Punch and Judy puppet. He also affected a gold monocle, although, like all vampires, he had perfect vision.
~ from Soulless

My manga artist's name is Rem. The Soulless manga is coming out via Yen Press. It launches officially at Comic Con in San Diego July 21. It will be available serialized in Yen Plus, a monthly online anthology. starting July 11, and as a full book next spring!

Your moment of parasol . . .

Gail's Daily Dose
Your Infusion of Cute:

Your Tisane of Smart:

Your Writerly Tinctures:
Dan's interesting diatribe against Literary Studies

Timeless: Finished with last draft, awaiting copyedits.
Etiquette & Espionage: The Finishing School Book One: Rough draft done. Working on first read through.
Secret Project PPA: Only a twinkle in my little eye.

BIG FAT SPOILER ALERT! Really, DON'T READ THE BLURB ON AMAZON if you haven't read the other books first!

Book News:
My first Heartless review from Sarah. She says, "It really is the novel where you get to learn just that little bit more. As if that weren’t enough, there’s a really good twist at the end that has huge repercussions for the Woolsey pack and under the full moon, everyone shows their true natures."

Quote of the Day:
"A good book on your shelf is a friend that turns its back on you and remains a friend."
~ Author Unknown

Dear Lord Akeldama: The 2011 Edition, Part Eight

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 17:08:42 GMT

Lady Star asks:
Would you have any intelligence on the Hedgehog incident, the when, and what happened?
Hedgehog incident, what hedgehog incident? How can I not know of such a thing. Boys! Where are my boys?

Terry Asks:
What is your favourite toothpaste or powder? The originator of TOOTHLESS needs t'know.
A very important, although somewhat indiscreet, question, my little fizzy swizzle. I use pure bicarbonate of soda, I see no reason to dally with the latest product where one's fangs are concerned.

LouLouHN asks:
Dear Lord Akeldama, Do you actually know Oscar Wilde *personally*?
My dearest bumpkin, who?

Cee asks:
Would you share your feelings on inter-supernatural/species relations? Do you think such a union would be frowned upon in the supernatural realm. I know that ❤ love ❤ "conquers all" but do you feel a pairing such as this would find understanding and compassion from your own kind? Inquiring minds want to know.
Moonrise of my heart, I imagine there might be insurmountable difficulties not to mention logistical complications. You would not, after all, wish to see a pairing of wolf and wasp, now would you? They two are simply not compatible. As for compassion, I am afraid my dear, I have yet to meet a vampire that dabbles in such a fine emotion, including yours truly.

Lady Rune asks:
Is there any chance that dear Biffy will be able to help poor Ivy change her taste in eye bleedingly bad hats? As much as Alexia loves her friend please tell me there is hope!
I am very sad to say, rose petal of spring, that having read most of Ms. Carriger's future offerings, that there is absolutely no hope whatsoever. Sometimes, even my dear Biffy is powerless, and we all must simply turn away our collective gaze and think of England.

My dears, I am in need of more questions, I have only one in the docket concerning the 1970s upon which I have much to say. However, a single question does not an advice column make. Please feel free to leave more questions bellow or to send them to Ms. Carriager by whatever means you wish: twitter, facebook, email, carrier pigeon.

Your moment of parasol . . .

Gail's Daily Dose
Your Infusion of Cute:

lord akeldama by doyouraiklose
Your Tisane of Smart:
Two Nerdy history Girls on travel in 1808.
Your Writerly Tinctures:
Writing with support.

Timeless: Finished with last draft, awaiting copyedits.
Etiquette & Espionage: The Finishing School Book One: Rough draft done. Working on first read through.
Secret Project PPA: Only a twinkle in my little eye.

BIG FAT SPOILER ALERT! Really, DON'T READ THE BLURB ON AMAZON if you haven't read the other books first!

Quote of the Day:
"We had a kettle, we let it leak;
Our not replacing it made it worse,
We haven't had any tea for a week...
The bottom is out of the Universe!"
~ Rudyard Kipling

Dear Lord Akeldama: The 2011 Edition, Part Seven

Wed, 11 May 2011 17:38:46 GMT

Normally, Gentle Reader, Lord Akeldama answers the questions in the order he receives them, but he jumped this one up the cue for relevance's sake.

wolfgang20 asks:
I would be most interested to know Lord Akeldama's comments on the wedding dress. Does he prefer it to Diana's (I assume they were great pals)? I assume that the current queen does not take much notice of his fashion comments at her twice weekly meetings with him (or does he bite his tongue & not mix business with pleasure?)
[This is a question was almost important enough to bring Lord Akeldama to seriousness. I did say almost. But here, in the end are his thoughts on the Royal Wedding.]
That lovely Katiebumpkin, she tries so hard, dear little thing. My but she has rather shrunk of late, has she not? I do think there is something far more appealing about a curvaceous brunette. Now we blonds, we can be waifish, but brunettes must either be strapping or shapely, in my considered opinion. In choosing a classic Grace Kelly style dress our little Katiekins manages to satisfy the most while offending the least, a desirable quality indeed in prospective nobility. An even more desirable quality in a politician.

As to Diana, the very largeness of her dress must be considered a positive, and the creamy color was rather nice, but the woman had short hair. I simply could never quite recover from the shock. Short!

Tthe Queen Herself? Well, you have only to see what that woman wears to know she cares very little for my opinion on the matter. It is a source of great sadness to us all, no doubt. I wont even mention the Windsor Forehead Exposure Issue. I am reminded of a bit of doggerel I once picked up down the Nib & Crinkle, "Like an army in defeat, his hairline beats a brave retreat . . ."
(For the record, my creator rather liked the later reception gown with cardigan. But then, Miss Gail does adore a cardy.)

Kiya V asks:
Dear Lord Akeldama have you or would you ever consider keeping drones of the female Persuasion?
My dearest darlingest ladybird, how do you know I haven't already?

MG asks:
Do you prefer the opera or the theatre, or is it a werewolf only pastime?
Oh la, both, and the ballet as well, upon occasion. So long as it is a comedy I'm not particular, although the opera is better dressed as a general rule. It's those terrible maudlin tragedies I can't possibly stomach. It's simply too horrible to think anyone actually dies.

mjspice asks:
What would you do if Prince Poppycock challenged you to a singing duel?
Bow out gracefully. That pink is a paragon, I could never even approach his level of talent. Now, his wardrobe on the other hand . . .

isalicefantasy asks:
When confronted in public about your choice of attire, what is your specific reaction? It is so frustrating when people attempt to mock me for various fashion ventures. I would love your advice.
Rise above it all, my pansy, with the certain knowledge that you are the better for a superior appearance. Should someone criticize your choice of a summer cape, for example, you might say, "Well of course not everyone has the right proportions to carry off a cape. You, for example, are regrettably short. I recommend a cropped jacket or something similar from last season. Oh, I see, you already have one." Pity them, my dear. In the end they can only benefit from your advice.

More from Lord Akeldama in a few weeks.

Your moment of parasol . . .

Gail's Daily Dose
Your Infusion of Cute:

Your Tisane of Smart:

Your Writerly Tinctures:
Twitter versus Facebook for authors.

Timeless: Third draft done and in to editor!
Secret Project F: It is ALIVE!
Secret Project PPA: Only a twinkle in my little eye.

BIG FAT SPOILER ALERT! Really, DON'T READ THE BLURB ON AMAZON if you haven't read the other books first!

Official Timeless Cover Launch

Quote of the Day:
"I have written - often several times - every word I have ever published."
~ Vladimir Nabokov

Dear Lord Akeldama: The 2011 Edition, Part Six

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 17:12:58 GMT

Dear Lord Akeldama . . .

Mary D asks:
What is your considered opinion on the nature of *sparkling* vampires?
Everyone should sparkle darling, not just vampires! I suggest diamonds are a good beginning or possibly sapphires. Then you can move into the arena of more strident colors such as emeralds and rubies. Really, my darling girl, the more sparkle the better!

Aik asks:
Hi Lord Akeldama, what is your main hobby besides dressing up as a stylish gentleman?
I do adore a little spate of flower arrangement now and then, and I am a great theater and opera aficionado. I wouldn't say no to a good symphony or two when the mood strikes. Now don't let it get out, but I may have also involved myself in a business concern over the invention of a new ablution potion that I am rather whimsically calling bubble bath. Sounds delightfully fun, now doesn't it?

Susana Ricardo asks:
What was your favorite neck of all time?
Now now, my dearest child, a gentleman never bites and tells.

Joana Dias asks:
I think I would just ask "Do you want to be my vampire?".
Why how flattering! My little squash blossom, there are some who have said that I would be anyone's vampire . . . for an evening or two.

PinkStuff28 asks:
What's really like to be a vampire? Are all of those myths true?
It is a whirl of endless parties, long nights, and sweet compliments. All the myths are true, pinky my precious, and a few more I haven't invented yet! Except for the one about the mirror. Can you imagine, me, unable to see my own reflection? Heaven forefend!

Lord Akeldama is delighted to mention that his creator, Gail, will be launching a new blog, Retro Rack, devoted entirely to his favorite pursuit of all time . . . fashion. The first entry will officially drop June 1, and she is considering offering a small bribe in the form a of a very cute little brown plaid purse and a signed book to those who choose to follow her there.

Your moment of parasol . . .

Gail's Daily Dose
Your Infusion of Cute:

Your Tisane of Smart:
Roman Tomb Found Under Naples Toxic Waste Dump
Your Writerly Tinctures:
How not to respond to a bad review in three links. 1. The beginning of the kerfuffle, 2. the book reviewed on Amazon: The Greek Seaman (You MUST check out the sarcastic 5 star reviews ~ hilarious), and 3. the author's blog.

Timeless: Second draft back, working 3rd draft.
Secret Project F: It is ALIVE! (But sleeping while I finish edits on 5.)
Secret Project PPA: Only a twinkle in my little eye.

BIG FAT SPOILER ALERT! Really, DON'T READ THE BLURB ON AMAZON if you haven't read the other books first!

Manon Goudreau's lovely sketches of a certainly newly minted werewolf from Book 3. I think they could reasonably be Professor Lyall also.

Quote of the Day:
"Why oh why must editing always take twice as long as you think and be twice as hard as it should?"
~ Gail to Dan at a Recent Writing Date

Dear Lord Akeldama: The 2011 Edition, Part Five

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 16:58:11 GMT

ashura_oh asks:
I (rather pale, ashen blonde) just can't decide about a basic colour to base my wardrobe on this season. Any recommendations?
A very interesting question, for spring there are a number of whites on the runway, but that would not suit one such as you. And for fall 2011 it's all blacks and muted forest green and burgundies – again, not for you. Branching out, I'm afraid, is your only choice. I'd suggest some vintage looks (Victorian or 1960s or 1970s depending on your body type) in lovely sea blues and greens, with dove gray and camel making for great neutrals, also soft pale pinks and peach if you aren't afraid of girly.

E(D)U asks:
Ok, so "Who's your dandy?" (You can just say your favorite dandy you ever met.)
Oscar Wilde of course, as if you need ask! Of course, the Pimpernel fellow was terribly clever and diverting.

Sniffly Kitty asks:
What gadget in the modern age would you love to have?
The electric curling iron, without out a doubt!

Debbie asks:
What do you most like about being a vampire?
The ever-changing fashionable world, naturally. Or should I say supernaturally?

Dovile asks:
What is your favorite perfume?
Well I must say I do find that Sunshine endeavor quite revolting, not to say insulting. I like fruity blends, apricot and peach, so summery.

Rhianna asks:
Any special advice for a vampire dandy in training, Lord Akeldama?
Nothing is more important than good posture, clean shoes, and a perfect manicure. And of course, surrounding one's self with pleasant attractive company can only improve one's own personage and impression.

More from Lord Akeldama in a few weeks.

Your moment of parasol . . .

From Priscilla's Parasols.

Gail's Daily Dose
Your Infusion of Cute:
Costumes based on Soulless!!
Your Tisane of Smart:
Time Travel Kitchen on Fresh Fruits and How to Serve Them.
Your Writerly Tinctures:
An agent workshops a query letter

Timeless: Second draft out to second reader.
Secret Project F: It is ALIVE! I start fixes and writign tomorrow.
Secret Project PPA: Only a twinkle in my little eye.

BIG FAT SPOILER ALERT! Really, DON'T READ THE BLURB ON AMAZON if you haven't read the other books first!

New interview up over at Stellar Four.

Quote of the Day:
"I could speculate, but it would be just speculation and the kind of thing that you would get in with a science fiction story. And if I was doing a science fiction story then I would come up with what can go wrong with this system."
~ Gene Wolfe
...commenting about the future of book publishing technology

Dear Lord Akeldama: The 2011 Edition, Part Four

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 18:47:39 GMT

Mbreakfield asks:
What is your opinion of Dracula?
It seems to me, my dumpling, he was rather misunderstood. I am afraid his biography might have had a hint of conservative propaganda about it.

Two nun asks:
Is Dorian Gray a supernatural? And if so, where is he?
Dear me, I do believe you are asking the wrong Dandy. I suggest you best query Mr. Wilde for that information.

Gonçalo Mil-Homens asks:
Do you know any Vampy Eire?
Have you made the acquaintance of Miss Thursday Next? I recommend directing you question at her a charming young lady, and so very diverting. Or have I the wrong Eyre?

Carlos asks:
How do you look at this new wave of "I want to be human" vampires?
I find it disturbingly regressive, somewhat akin a human suddenly wanting to be a fetus. At some point we must all admit to our toothy selves that such desires are childish. Also, one shouldn't play with one's food. One shouldn't even play as one's food. Oh, I'm so diverting.

Catarina asks:
Do you read vampire fiction? Did you like any of the vampires described there?
Of course I do, my poppet, I adore High Fantasy. I must say I find a certain young Eddy perfectly scrumptious. A bit brooding at times, and strangely fascinated with schoolgirls, but we all have our youthful indiscretions.

Audra asks:
Plaid -- is it ever okay? (What if it's taffeta or silk?)
Plaid, ever under contention, must be handled with extreme care and attention to detail. There are not many fashions I claim are better left to the ladies, but plaid, I feel, may be one of them. Far to many actors have a propensity for plaid, and those (dare I say it?) gentlemen simply takes such things too far. Poor Mr. Tunstell, I fear, has quite gone over to plaid.

More from Lord Akeldama in a few weeks. Keep the questions coming, if you would be so kind, for eventually I will run out.

Your moment of parasol . . .

Gail's Daily Dose
Your Infusion of Cute:
More on the Little White Dress that is all over the runways (and how not to do it). I got inspired, hit up a thrift store and found this:

In lace, which is another big trend for spring, but a little long (I'm not of the tall and willow variety) and needed some repairs so I fixed it up, shortened it and added sleeves.

I'll probably pair it with a black or brown belt and dark tights as seen on the runways. I also found the cutest tiny little belt to wear all wrapped around my wrist like a cuff! Such fun.
Your Tisane of Smart:
Squid stories: Love me, love my tentacles
Your Writerly Tinctures:
Sometimes I'm a little scared by the similarities between self and this other author. Admittedly she is blond and a lot tinier than I am but we share a retro fashion sense and . . . have almost exactly the same handwriting. Freaky.

Timeless: Clomp, clomp, comp. So close, so close!
Secret Project F: We're waiting. We're waiting.

BIG FAT SPOILER ALERT! Really, DON'T READ THE BLURB ON AMAZON if you haven't read the other books first!

Blameless is now available from Audible. Changeless still isn't. What can I say? Publishing moves in mysterious ways, it's wonders to . . . annoy. Or something.

Quote of the Day:
"In a good play, everyone is in the right."
~ Fredrich Hebbel

Dear Lord Akeldama: The 2011 Edition, Part Three

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 01:34:40 GMT

More from Lord Akeldama!

Nina asks:
Who’s your favorite shoe designer?
Oh, what a delightful question! Right now I am most enamored of that charming Mr. McQueen fellow, but this is subject to change without notice (as is often the case with fashion).

Antonia asks:
Which great actor/actress would you have turned into a vampire if you had the chance?
Oh dear, there are so very many sweet young things to choose from. These days I find myself thinking in terms of the benefits to posterity. I'm getting soft in my old age. Not an actor per-say, but what world couldn't use more of that charming gentleman, Mr. Oscar Wilde?

Llehn asks:
What attire would you never be caught dead in (um, no pun intended)
Darling I will never understand the propensity for all black, it's terribly terribly depressing. And poly-fleece, such a gauche modern affectation, I can hardly even speak of such an abomination.

Fredamans asks:
Of all the books and trinkets you have appeared on, which is your favorite and why?
I would refrain from pointing this out, under most ordinary circumstances, but you did ask. My creator has been most remiss in not insisting that I be on the cover of any of her books. Until that time, I do not have a favorite.

More from Lord Akeldama in a few weeks.

Your moment of parasol . . .

Gail's Daily Dose
Your Infusion of Cute:
Runway Daily has some adorable retro inspired dresses all under $100. I think you could also take inspiration from these and find some great thrift store dresses shorten the shirts and remove sleeves and get something similar.
Your Tisane of Smart:
Steampunk Octopus
Your Writerly Tinctures:
A cute little story about the power of social media

Nightlife Books says, "Finally I have to say that this is the first novel I have read that has made me prefer werewolves over vampires, and that is a rather hard thing to accomplish. Well done Ms. Carriger.
SPOILER ALERT!
Even bigger SPOILER ALERT! Really, DON'T READ THE BLURB ON AMAZON if you haven't read the other books first.
Available for preorder on Amazon and yet again with the SPOILER ALERT.
Steampunk II: Steampunk Reloaded.
The Mammoth Book of Paranormal Romance 2.

Timeless: Clomp, clomp, comp.
Secret Project F: We're waiting. We're waiting.
CAKE in Space: Trunked.

Quote of the Day:
"The only way a woman can ever reform a man is by boring him so completely that he loses all possible interest in life."
~ Oscar Wilde

Dear Lord Akeldama: The 2011 Edition, Part Two

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 17:48:36 GMT

As promised, Gentle Reader, more Dear Lord Akeldama for you! Don't forget to leave your questions for the honored sir if you have any.

@tiffanyreisz asks:
What are you, Lord Akeldama? Are you an Earl or a Duke or a Baron? Or are you a Lord in the way Lady Gaga is a Lady?
My dearest girl, that is rather an impertinent question, don't you feel? The important thing is that I have status to which I can elude. It should never be addressed directly. That would be bragging.

@_dchan asks:
Dear Lord Akeldama: Do you prefer trousers or knee breeches?
As occasion demands, my little gherkin, as occasion demands. That said, there is something about knee britches, especially the well-fitted satin ones that is so very youthful and flattering.

@LoulouHN asks
Lord Akeldama, I have some trouble concerning colour schemes. I thought cream/white and black/navy were unacceptable, but some of my friends strongly disagree. What would you say?
Oh dear, but they are all rather dull, aren't they sugar plum? How about a nice gold and crimson? Or perhaps silver and royal blue? So much more flattering to the complexion.

@luvinjrandsmoke asks:
Dear Lord Akeldama, what is the best refreshment for a cold night when one is not a vampire?
A young mortal of my acquaintance suggests warm milk with a dollop of coffee liquor and a sprinkling of cinnamon if you are suffering from insomnia. Another dear friend is awfully fond of the odd dash of amaretto in her tea. I, however, must return to tradition in being excessively partial to the hot toddy: lemon, brandy, honey, and boiled water.

@MsBobbilicious asks:
Dear Lord Akeldama, how can I rekindle my honey's desire? I know you'll have the perfect advice!
I find that most gentlemen respond well to flattery and even a tiny taste of aggression, they are so unused to such things, poor lambs. To be wanted, my dear, can never be underrated. Also, do not discount the power of a good bottle of bubbly to relax the morals and lighten the heart's affections.

More from Lord Akeldama in a few weeks.

Your moment of parasol . . .

Gail's Daily Dose
Your Infusion of Cute:
A grandfather clock in Lord Akeldama's drawing room is knocked over in Heartless. I imagine it looking much like one of these.

Your Tisane of Smart:
Amazingly good blog on Period Fashion: Mourning Dress includes Victorian (and later).
Your Writerly Tinctures:
PW on the Borders kafuffle and The Street's more doomy coverage. And, clearance sale proof?

That Bookish Girl says, "With Alexia, Carriger creates a fascinating heroine that is charming, spunky, hilarious and completely unique."
SPOILER ALERT! Series review from Gingersnaps.
Even bigger SPOILER ALERT! Really, DON'T READ THE BLURB ON AMAZON if you haven't read the other books first. All caught up, no new reviews lately.

Heartless: Copy edits done. It's available for preorder on Amazon.
Timeless: Back at it.
Secret Project F: We're waiting. We're waiting.
CAKE in Space: Trunked.
Steampunk II: Steampunk Reloaded is out.
The Mammoth Book of Paranormal Romance 2 is out.

Quote of the Day:
"We have seen a turquoise pin worn in a violet-coloured cravat, and the effect was frightful."
~ Routledge's Etiquette for Gentlemen (c. 1850)

Dear Lord Akeldama: The 2011 Edition, Part One

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 22:12:50 GMT

Lord Akeldama got so many questions, Gentle Readers, I thought that in grand Dear Abby Column style, he would only answer a few at a time. I'm thinking, perhaps one Dear Lord Akeldama Blog every three weeks or so. Sound good to you? Yes? Please feel free to continue to ask Lord Akeldama pressing questions on love, life, and shoe style. Happy reading!

Via livejournal anonymous asked the following:

Will you stay with Biffy?
How impertinent! As if I should go around asking you about your private life without a proper introduction.

Who made you?
Gail Carriger, naturally. What a silly question.

How many cats have you allowed to share your homes over the years?
Just the one, nine times over. Oh dear, I am so amusing!

If the queen changed one of your drones would they be able to enter your territory comfortably?
A queen must change all my drones, dearheart. I do not possesses the necessary equipment myself. Whoever thought such a phrase would come from my pen, sad but true.

What is your favorite book?
Book? Must I? I prefer plays, the art of the stage, the drama, the showmanship. I have a particular fondness for A Midsummer Night Dream, all those sprightly fairies leaping about in very tight britches ~ enchanting!

Are you gay or have you just been around long enough (and done enough) that you have transcended the traditional sexual dynamic?
I like to think of myself as very gay, the center of any party even, a social Charybdis, if you would. I am afraid I don't quite comprehend the meaning of the traditional sexual dynamic to which you refer. It must be some newfangled modern euphemism. Or is it a contraption of some kind? In which case, I should set the drones on to procuring one immediately, it sounds most entertaining.

LadyTesser asks:
Lord Akeldama, I admire your fashion sense, and have wondered if one of your drones is a fashion designer or you simply patronize a specific house of fashion?
I certainly have some drones who are particularly adept with the tying of a cravat, but none of them engage in any kind of trade, my dear. Heavens forefend. Generally, I go where the whims of Bond Street take me, although I do have a few dear friends in Paris who keep me abreast of the latest fashions.

More from Lord Akeldama in a few weeks.

Your moment of parasol . . .

Gail's Daily Dose
Your Infusion of Cute:

Your Tisane of Smart:
How to make proper introductions in the modern world.
Your Writerly Tinctures:
A list of P. G. Wodehouse's characters. The man was a genius with names, matched only by Dickens himself. I can but aspire to such greatness.

Pulpfan's mathematical assessment.
SPOILER ALERT! The Savage Stacks says, "Fantastic storytelling. As I said with the first one, I did not think I would like these books, being not much into the supernatural scene, but the best part of the Parasol Protectorate books is that the supernatural are everyday, so it doesn't bother me much."
Even bigger SPOILER ALERT! Really, DON'T READ THE BLURB ON AMAZON if you haven't read the other books first. That's What She Read says, "Alexia Maccon is my hero. Her no-nonsense, pragmatic, non-emotional approach to life is equal parts hilarious and inspiring." And also, rather charmingly, "When looking for something fun to read that will help one forget all worries and cares, look no further than the Parasol Protectorate series. They are seriously good for the soul, whether you have one or not."

Heartless: Finished draft 8, turned in! It's available for preorder on Amazon.
Timeless: Back at it.
Secret Project F: We're waiting. We're waiting.
CAKE in Space: Trunked.
Steampunk II: Steampunk Reloaded is out.
The Mammoth Book of Paranormal Romance 2 is out.

Quote of the Day:
"Never take favourite dogs into a drawing-room when you make a morning call. Their feet may be dusty, or they may bark at the sight of strangers, or, being of too friendly a disposition, may take the liberty of lying on a lady's gown, or jumping on the sofas and easy chairs. Where your friend has a favourite cat already established before the fire, a battle may ensue, and one or other of the pets be seriously hurt. Besides, many persons have a constitutional antipathy to dogs, and others never allow their own to be seen in sitting-rooms. For all or any of these reasons, a visitor has no right to inflict upon his friend the society of his dog as well as himself."
~ Etiquette for Gentlemen
{a constitutional antipathy to dogs ~ I love it. I have a constitutional antipathy to uggs}

Lord Akeldama Character Study

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 21:01:38 GMT

Alexia looked uncomfortable. "I know!" She was wondering how a hive might react to a preternatural in their midst. Not very kindly, she suspected. She worried her lower lip. "I simply must speak with Lord Akeldama."
Miss Hisselpenny looked, if possible, even more worried. "Oh really, must you? He is so very outrageous."
~ from Soulless

The ancient vampire sashayed forward to greet her, both arms extended, dressed in his version of the "casual gentleman at home." For most men of means and taste, this meant a smoking jacket, opera scarf, long trousers, and soft-soled derbies. For Lord Akeldama, this meant that the jacket was of pristine white silk with black embroidered birds of some lean oriental persuasion splashed about, the scarf a bright peacock patterned teal, the trousers the latest in tight fitting black jacquard; and the shoes cut in a flashy wingtip style with a black and white spectator coloration that was held by many to be rather vulgar.
~ from Changeless

"My darling Chamomile Button!" he wrote. "I received your card, and given certain recent intelligence, it has occurred to me that you may be in ever-increasing need of accommodation but were far too polite to request it openly. Let me tender my most humble offer, to the only person in all of England currently thought more outrageous than myself. You would be welcome to share my unworthy domicile and hospitality, such as they are. Yours, et cetera, Lord Akeldama."
~ from Blameless

Professor Lyall continued. "Lord Akeldama seemed the best solution."
Lord Maccon wrinkled his nose at that and huffed derisively.
Professor Lyall, Lord Akeldama, and Lady Maccon all pretended not to hear.
~ teaser from Heartless

Original Notes
Long Blond Hair
Effeminate/Pixie Features
Blue Eyes
Says "LA"
Definitely older than 400

Drones Include:
Biffy
Viscount Trizdale (Tizzy)
Eustace
Emmet Wilberforce Bootbottle-Fipps (Boots)
Shabumpkin

Lord Akeldama likes to dress with Rococo Influence. His house is very lavish full of gilded furniture, shepherdess carpets of Georgian style, and frescoed walls with cherubs engaging in salacious activities. I did a blog design board for his house.

Here is a collection of images that remind me of Lord Akeldama.

Extras:
Lord Akeldama engages in the public column advising on fashion and love. Dear Lord Akeldama
The Mad Hatter interviews Lord Akeldma.

And some new thoughts and sketches of Lord Akeldama

The Last Ketchup and Up Coming Character Study

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 18:51:01 GMT

To be done with one project, my sweetie-darlings, is merely to turn about and commence another. Yes, Heartless is in, but with no time to rest on my laurels. (There may be a little champagne over Christmas and perhaps I might buy myself today's infusion of cute.) (I should imagine resting on laurels would be mighty uncomfortable anyway.) Because I must begin Timeless.

I continued to wax lyrical, or at least snark, on the subject of inanimate objects over on Babel Clash. This time it is Low Tech Solutions to High Tech Problems

Speaking of which, Gentle Reader, it's been very cold these last few weeks. Or the California equivalent of very cold which, frankly is not "very" for everyone else. But it has caused me to bring out the hot water bottle. Mine has an absolutely beautiful cover knitted to match my decor by the lovely Miss Kalandar of the Brass Needles Podcast.

I have never understood why Americans are so opposed to the menial hot water bottle. Like the tea cozy, it seems one of those brilliant low tech solutions that has never made it across the pond.

VVB32 is having a little ode to Lord Akeldama.

I thought that meant is was about time to give you his Character Study. As always it will be in it's own very special separate blog coming up shortly. Hope you enjoy.

Your moment of parasol . . .

Gail's Daily Dose
Your Infusion of Cute:
Object of desire. Camel driving gloves with bow.
Your Tisane of Smart:
Very exciting new blog via a fan, Time Travel Kitchen
Your Writerly Tinctures:
Advertising that works?

An extraordinarily witty review from The Write Thing. "Some very-steampunkish-indeed pseudo-scientific conversation takes place, delightfully brief and hinting at a much wider world of inventions. All this malarking about with inventions leads us, inevitably, to the great joy of refined steampunk, the joy of the gadget. Rest assured that Soulless is brimming with delightful gadgets both new and familiar, practical and impractical. Carriger has clearly given most of the inventors in her world Douglas Adams’ philosophy on invention. If one could spent dozens of hours and pounds designing and producing a complex device to automate a task which could be accomplished with a minimum of manual effort, then clearly the device is both laudable and worthwhile. Bauhaus would have a fit over self-unfolding carriage-bound parasols, steam-powered tent-pole planting devices and acid-etching note-taking devices."
SPOILER ALERT! Books and Movies says, "Just like the first book in the series, Changeless is full of witty dialogue, laugh-out-loud moments, and, of course, impeccably tasteful fashions."
Even bigger SPOILER ALERT! Really, DON'T READ THE BLURB ON AMAZON if you haven't read the other books first. Naughty Edition Reviews Blameless.

Heartless: Finished draft 8, turned in!
Timeless: It begins.
Secret Project F: We're waiting. We're waiting.
CAKE in Space: Trunked.
Steampunk II: Steampunk Reloaded is out.
The Mammoth Book of Paranormal Romance 2 is out.

Quote of the Day:
"All romances end in tragedy. One of the key people in a romance becomes a monster sooner or later."
~ David Cronenberg
(A rather amusing quote if you consider the fact that my key people are, by definition, monsters.)

More Ketchup

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 22:07:10 GMT

Ketchup seems to be my life right now, Gentle Reader. I'm sorry I have nothing more witty to say. Soon I hope to be back to blogging norm but right now anniversaries, writing, negotiations, publishers, rain, broken car, and a whole host of other niggling details are interfering in this, obviously, the most important part of my day. Here's a fun little bookmark that turned up on Facebook:

Changeless is nominated for a 2010 Goodreads Choice Award for Paranormal Fantasy. According to the missive I received: The polls are open to all readers throughout the month of December, and the winners will be announced in the January 2011 newsletter.
So do please vote of me if you feel like it.

Someone posted this image to Facebook recently of both the German and English cover art. It's rather lovely, I feel.

Soulless takes on yet another language!

In other news I am thinking of doing another Dear Lord Akeldama column, so if you have any questions for the Good Vampire, do ask away. Also look for his Character Study, coming soon to a blog near you.

Lastly, victory is mine, I have finished Daft 8 of Heartless, and I *think* that's it until copy edits, Gentle Reader. I can but hope. I'm really pleased with it, this one is my quazi-Sherlock Holmes ode. It was fun to write, but a real pain to edit for some reason. Funny how each book has it's own set of quirks for the writer. I wonder what Timeless will be like. I guess there is only one way to find out . . .

Your moment of parasol . . .

Gail's Daily Dose
Your Infusion of Cute:
Loved Jasper Conran's Spring Summer 2011 retro inspired collection, very Dirty Dancing. And just a tip off, I'm seeing white lace dresses all over the Spring/Summer 2011 runways. Retro, floaty, structured, tight, full skirts, you name it.
Your Tisane of Smart:
Cute idea for a gift when you can't think of anything else.
Your Writerly Tinctures:
A fan recently asked whether cons were "worth it". The answer depends on many factors, the cost of the con, the kind of con, the stage you are in your career. I passed the buck on to my dear (tolerant and game) friend J. Daniel Sawyer who posed an excellent blog on the subject. If you want a little more meat on the cost of promotion as an author, you can try Tee's Price of Publicity. I may do my own blog on this subject if there is enough interest. At my particular career stage (different from both of hte above two gentlemen) convention appearances have different repercussions. I will hint that there are many reasons I am cutting back on conventions next year, and leaning more and more in favor of solo signings ~ something most authors oppose.

The eclectic-eccentric says, "I have re-read very few books this year, much less than normal, but I could not resist re-reading this one." teeny tiny
SPOILER ALERT! In which Changeless (the red-headed stepchild of my series so far) makes a Best Of 2010 list!
Even bigger SPOILER ALERT! Really, DON'T READ THE BLURB ON AMAZON if you haven't read the other books first. Faded Hat's review.

Heartless: Finished draft 8, turned in!
Timeless: Just an outline, making sure I pick up cookies and threads.
Secret Project F: Axed down and back with the agent.
CAKE in Space: Trunked.
Steampunk II: Steampunk Reloaded is out.
The Mammoth Book of Paranormal Romance 2 is out.

Quote of the Day:
"No tale tells all."
~ Alexei Panshin

Much Ketchup and the German Editions

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 19:05:05 GMT

Sorry, sorry, Gentle Reader, I'm not being cagey, just overwhelmed. Guess what I did all weekend? Yeah, edits. I finished my latest draft of Heartless at around 3 AM last night, and it should all be clean sailing from here. Glamorous life of an author. So, we will get on to the German Editions, but first . . .

I've put the slap down on appearances in 2011. No more than I have already committed to. And if I have committed and you have published the info, please don't flipping panic on me and send me a stressed-out email. Yes, I will be there. But no more requests please for 2011. I'm done. Stick a fork in me. However, I don't have them all up on my website yet. So don't you panic either, Gentle Reader, I may be in a city near you next year. Maybe. Right now the winners are: San Jose, LA, New York, and Dallas. With Reno, Frankfurt or San Diego, and Madison dashing behind as possibilities.
I am delighted to announce that the Soulless audiobook made Audible's Best of 2010 list.
Goodreads has a triva page up for Soulless.
My books are in the new Google bookstore and my agent has a blog on the subject (of the bookstore, not my books being in it).
I'm appearing for the next two weeks on Babel Clash with N.K. Jemisin. My first blog is Lonely Writer Seeks Supportive Technology
Oddball mile marker #456 On the Road to Authordom: my series has now appeared in someone's OKCupid profile.

And now the fated . . .

German Editions

So those of you who belong to the Parasol Protectorate Facebook group (or are active on twitter) will already know that the German Editions have hit the web. Several of you have been kind enough to contact me with your thoughts.

These editions have different titles and covers (like the audiobook) from the American/British editions. This does make me a little sad, for as many of you (my brilliant fans) have guessed, the titles are also hints/cookies as to the meat of the story in each book, and link to the greater story arc. However, I understand it is common practice to change titles.

Soulless ~ Glühende Nacht ~ Glowing Night (or something like)
Changeless ~ Entflammte Nacht ~ Ignited Night/Night in Flames (or something like)
Blameless ~ Brennende Nacht ~ Burning Night (or something like)

There are many possible explanations for this alteration. The first covers might have been too expensive or too steampunky, the titles might mean something different in German, or have already been used by a German popular TV show, or be excessively boring. (However, they may find that the title they chose for Blameless, is better suited to Heartless ~ yes, that is a Big Fat Hint.) (Is this the point where I say, the original title for Soulless was Without a Soul?)

I will say, the author in me loves how big my name is on the cover, this makes me feel all important and stuff. I also like the color pallet. I think the new covers do pop.

But really, this is me, so it's all about the fashion dahling ~ cut to the quick of my stiletto-wearing little heart. Goth-girl Panda-ear* hair, a sleeveless black tutu dress with Shakespearian collar, and exterior corset? Alexia would have the vapors. Let's not even think about what Lord Akeldama might do if faced with such an outfit. Oooooo, maybe I should have Ivy wear something like it in the next book . . . an author's only revenge, evisceration in print. (Yes, Knight's Tale quote, very good.) But seriously, I understand the appeal. I may have even dressed like that several years ago. (*Panda-ear is a term used by a friend who had a friend named Amanda, called Panda for short, who always did her hair like that. And, yes, when I had long hair I did it up like that, too.)

I'm curious, what are your thoughts on the matter?

Your moment of parasol . . .

Gail's Daily Dose
Your Infusion of Cute:
Steampunk cupcakes
Your Tisane of Smart:
A Victorian Table Setting
Your Writerly Tinctures:
All about properly tracking World Rights Royalty statements

SPOILER ALERT!

Even bigger SPOILER ALERT! Really, DON'T READ THE BLURB ON AMAZON if you haven't read the other books first.
Cookies, Books & Bikes says, "I like this series so far. They are fun, fast paced books with a spark of romance and great dialog. I was very happy with Blameless and gave it 4.25 Stars."

Heartless: Finished draft 7, off to Gamma.
Timeless: Just an outline, making sure I pick up cookies and threads.
Secret Project F: Axed down and back with the agent.
CAKE in Space: Trunked.
Steampunk II: Steampunk Reloaded is out.
The Mammoth Book of Paranormal Romance 2 is out.

Quote of the Day:
"Entflammte Nacht? That sounds like an Akeldama spin-off series."
~ One of the Betas
(Ha! Flaming Night indeed. You can see, Gentle Reader, where the Parasol Protectorate gets its sense of humor.)

OryCon 2010 Convention Report, Friday Day 1

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 22:00:42 GMT

Guest blog over on What Writers Read. I talk about the following: The Native Star, And Then She Was Gone (The Clarke Lantham Mysteries), and a few other books.

OryCon 2010 Convention Report, Friday Day 1

OryCon seemed to me a high cosplay, panel focused, calm energy, charmingly managed convention. For me it was mostly quiet moments people watching, food with friends, and pleasant conversations with fan folk. Friday was a "start as you mean to go on" kind of situation. I had a delicious meal with a lovely group of Portland lady authors and retired early.

What I wore:

What I did: Just the one panel.
First Novels: Paths to the Editor Desk
What it was supposed to be about: An author can struggle for months or years before achieving their first success, but even after writing their opus, they can be tripped up by a process which is both entirely new to them and yet critical to their success. This panel describes what an author may experience as they revel in their first success.
My fellow panelists were: M.K. Hobson, Christina F. York, Bruce Taylor
What we really talked about: our own experiences getting to publication, how different they were from each other, how long it took us to get there. Mary was an excellent moderator and the crowd asked many questions, which is always nice. (Mary also has the most delicious voice and very precise way of speaking that makes her instantly recognizable in a crowd. A rare gift.)

Later on that evening Dan and I wandered out into the park outside the hotel and because he had a new lens and the atmosphere was so misty and wonderful we did a photo shoot. (He's one of my photographers as well as a fellow author and writing buddy. Some of shots came out truly amazing. Here is sample. All images are copyright J. Daniel Sawyer.)

Day 1 Tally:
Pairs of Shoes: 1
Panels:
Hats: 1
Loot: 0
Cups of tea: 3
Costume Awards: 2 (which is odd for someone not wearing a costume)

Your moment of parasol . . .

Gail's Daily Dose
Your Infusion of Cute:
I may love this music video with a total unadulterated passion. I swear I have never seen it before and that it was not, in fact, the inspiration behind Lord Akeldama's character. But it certainly could be: blond dandies, half naked pretty-boys, busty Alexia-like shepherdesses, and . . . a tiny piano.

Your Tisane of Smart:
Brick couch?
Your Writerly Tinctures:
All about side kicks, in which Ivy is mentioned.

Bookewyrme says, "Alexia is absolutely the type of heroine I love to read about, and she certainly did not disappoint in any part of Soulless."
SPOILER ALERT! First two books on Crooked Reviews, "I was drawn to this [series] because the main female character doesn’t quite fit into the typical urban fantasy female lead mold. Sure she’s tough, self-sufficient and speaks her mind (much to her mother’s horror), but she’s described as dark, swarthy, large-nosed and plump."
Even bigger SPOILER ALERT! Really, DON'T READ THE BLURB ON AMAZON if you haven't read the other books first. Aradia says, "the third book of The Parasol Protectorate series by Gail Carriger was too short. Yeah, I know; all my favorite books are too short!"

Heartless: Back from editor Draft 7.
Timeless: Just an outline, making sure I pick up cookies and threads.
Secret Project F: Axed down and back with the agent.
CAKE in Space: Trunked.
Steampunk II: Steampunk Reloaded is out.
The Mammoth Book of Paranormal Romance 2 is out.

Quote of the Day:
But I must go back again to the beginning of this surprising time. While the fears of the people were young, there were increased strangely by several odd accidents, which put altogether, it was really a wonder the whole body of the people did not rise as one man and abandon their dwellings, leaving the pale as a space of ground designed by Heaven for an Aceldama, doomed to be destroyed from the face of the earth, and that all that would be found in it would perish with it.
~ A journal of the Plague Years Daniel Defoe 1722

Dear Lord Akeldama

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 15:51:25 GMT

Locus steampunk issue featuring yours truly and Cherrie Priest – we may, or may not, be the same person.

In other news I am deeply excited to report . . . dum da da dum . . . I have a NEW electric kettle. For a tea drinker you will all be aware that this is a grave, and possibly extremely hazardous move. The tea must flow! My dear old silver bullet was beginning to leak so I invested in the highly recommended glass fancy-dancy Capresso.

So far we are getting along swimmingly and the tea continues to flow.

And now, I bring to you some Dear Lord Akeldama
In which everyone's favorite indomitable vampire wields italics in your general direction.

@CapitolClio Asks what is to be done about men who wear pleated slacks.
Lord A: My darling pumpkin flower, nothing for it, immediate capital punishment. Ooo, snack time for meee!

@medusasmirror Wants to know how to wear a proper hat in a modern car.
Lord A: Darling, invest in a convertible!

@msdawnbaby Lord A, Need ur fab fashion advice. Choosing colors for my wedding. Navy & lavender, what wld u suggest 4 an accent color?
Lord A: Gold, my little perwinkle, lots of gold and sparkles! If you have a werewolf problem, silver is also good. Or champagne. Champagne goes with everything.

@charlesatan Dear Lord Akeldama, I'm a werewolf dating a ghost. Have problems getting intimate. Suggestions on how to overcome problems?
Lord A: Conversation makes for a scintillating start to any evening, and it's something everyone can enjoy. However, and I hesitate to darken your romance, but I'm afraid you may be doomed by compatibility troubles. After all, you go bone bending one a month, and she's got no bones left to speak of.

Anonymous asks: Fear of being bitten by vampires (no offense) & werewolves. What weapons do you recommend while still remaining fashionable?
Lord A: I have it on good authority that hair sticks make wonderful defensive weapons. I myself enjoy the occasion cravat pin of consequence and appeal. Your best defense, however, is in the company you keep, surround yourself with exquisite objects and dazzlingpeople and any attacker will be instantly distracted!

@Liliona Dear Lord Akeldama, I have lots of guy friends but they keep falling in love with me and when I don't reciprocate, they bail. What can I do?
Lord A: My little prickly pear, believe you me, I truly understand your dilemma. I prefer the "anything is possible" approach. Always keep your options open! Simply stating something along the lines of: "My dear, how flattering, but I am embarrassed to admit that I have more than enough offers to occupy my time at the moment. Perhaps, in some three or four decades, if you would care to enquire again? My tastes and or inclinations might have changed."

@fangbooks Asks if Lord Akeldama could share appropriate dance steps to use when celebrating another @gailcarriger addict declaring themselves?
Lord A: I shouldn't wish to suggest anything too brash: a small minuet with a final double hand flourish for punctuation should suffice. (I believe the crass modern age may refer to this as Jazz Hands.)

Your moment of parasol . . .

Gail's Daily Dose
Your Infusion of Cute:
Loot from my Blameless book tour. Fans give me gifts! How cool is that?

Best. Fans. Ever.
Your Tisane of Smart:
Sydney Opera House from the front = Darth Vader?

Your Writerly Tinctures:
I Should Be Writing #153 interview with Mary Robinette Kowal is so good. Not just the interview, but Mur's beginning comment are so right on! Also if you like Austen, you should check out Shades of Milk and Honey.

In which Soulless wins over a book snob, "Perhaps it is my delight with etiquette, my love of Victorian literature, the allure of anything British, or just the sheer originality of a spinster supernatural dealing with vampires and werewolves while exhibiting the best of manners, but I truly enjoyed this book. The cleverness far outweighed the tongue-in-cheek cheesiness, and I am quite excited to read Changeless in the coming weeks."
SPOILER ALERT!
Even bigger SPOILER ALERT! Really, DON'T READ THE BLURB ON AMAZON if you haven't read the other books first. Series review from This Aint Livin says,"As if all this wasn’t enough, the books are, quite simply, really, really funny. Carriger has a light and deft touch and it makes the books super enjoyable in the grand old tradition of comedies of manners. They are crisp and very fresh, and if you’re looking for some simply fun reading, I would highly recommend them!"

Heartless: Rough Draft done. First draft with first readers. Final draft due Nov 1.
Super Secret Project F: Under revision.
CAKE in Space: Trunked.
See table of contents here, Steampunk II: Steampunk Reloaded available for preorder, releases November 15, 2010.
Short story turned in. The Mammoth Book of Paranormal Romance 2 available for preorder, releases October 12, 2010.

Quote of the Day:
"My own experience is that once a story has been written, one has to cross out the beginning and the end. It is there that we authors do most of our lying."
~ Anton Chekhov

Minutia: I'm going to OryCon, SteamCon, and PoppyCock Land

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 17:38:37 GMT

Watch the Sky's book club asks me five fun questions here's a sample:
Can you conceive any way your book would work if the main character was male rather than female?
Another fascinating question, and yes. Alexia is rather masculine in some ways, especially for a Victorian female.

It's official I've accepted invitations to be at both OryCon (Nov. 12-14) and Seattle's SteamCon (Nov. 19-21). I hope to see many of you there and have updated the sightings section of my website accordingly.

I'm excited about this jaunt, I'll be doing a fly by the Pacific Northwest during my book tour in September, but this second time around I intend to drive and really take in the countryside. I've not spend much time up north so I am really looking forward to it. Plus it is an opportunity to spend some time with friends I rarely see, so that too is a marvelous thing.

I'm deeply enamored of this young man:

He warms the cockles of my cold old heart. Of course, Lord Akeldama would end up on a reality TV program. "Yes, my little puddings, America is waiting for me!" Oh and you can follow him on twitter!

Gail's Daily Dose
Your Infusion of Cute:
Fashion inspiration: Jane Russell

Your Tisane of Smart:
Viking ‘recycling’ centre discovered at battle of Fulford site near York
Your Writerly Tinctures:
Excellent I Should Be Writing! Chris Lester interviews Liz Gorinsky at the Nova Albion Steampunk convention all about editing and steampunk in particular.

Yummy Man and Kick Ass Chicks says, "Miss Alexia Tarabotti is charming to read. She is quite sassy – well, as sassy as a lady can be during Victorian times – and set in her ways. She’s comfortable with her station in life and doesn’t expect much to change. Her relationship with Lord Conall Maccon, Alpha werewolf, is really sweet."
SPOILER ALERT! Changeless blurb gives away ending of Soulless. 42 SciFi-Fantasy says: "It was a fun and fast read that was thoroughly engrossing, but also provided enough depth and ingenuity to give it substance."
Out September 1, 2010! Even bigger SPOILER ALERT! Really, DON'T READ THE BLURB ON AMAZON if you haven't read the other books first.
Heartless: Plugging away. Due Nov 1.
Super Secret Project F: Under revision. Updated proposal quazi-due July 1 (I'm not going to make it.)
CAKE in Space: Trunked.
See table of contents here.
Short story turned in. The Mammoth Book of Paranormal Romance 2 available for preorder.

Quote of the Day:
"They say dandies don't exercise...but I change my outfit several times a day!"
~ Prince Poppycock tweet

Wednesday DVD Extras: Lord Akeldama's House Design Board

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 18:16:15 GMT

Gentle Reader, here's a little collage of certain images and interiors that made me think of Lord Akeldama's house. As the Parasol Protectorate series progresses, and entirely without my intent, we spend more and more time in Lord Akeldama's house. Mostly Alexia visits his famous drawing room but other areas will eventually appear as well. I guess I just can't help myself, it's a lifetime of Jewish gilt. OK, that was low, but sometimes Girl's Just Wanna Have Pun.

Right, I'll stop now. Here's pretty pictures to assuage your anger.

From Soulless:

Everything was to the height of style, if one were thinking in terms of style round about a hundred years ago. Lord Akeldama possessed real, substantial wealth, and was not afraid to display it openly. Nothing in his home was substandard, or faux, or imitation, and all of it was well beyond the pale. The carpets were not Persian, but instead vibrant flower-ridden images of shepherds seducing shepherdesses under intense blue skies. Were those puffy white clouds? Yes they were. The arched ceiling of the entrance hall was actually frescoed like the Sistine Chapel, only Lord Akeldama's ceiling depicted cheeky looking cherubs up to nefarious activities. Alexia blushed. All kinds of nefarious activities. She turned her eyes hurriedly back down. Small Corinthian columns stood proudly all around, supporting marble statues of naked male gods that Miss Tarabotti had no doubt were authentically ancient Greek in origin.

The vampire led her through to his drawing room. It contained none of the style clutter but instead harkened back to a time before the French Revolution. The furniture was all white or gilded gold, upholstered in cream and gold striped brocade, and riddled with fringe and tassels. Heavy layers of gold velvet curtains shielded the windows, and the plush rug on the floor sported yet another proximitious shepherding event. Lord Akeldama's had only two nods to modern life. The first was evident in the fact that the room was well lit, with multiple gas lamps no less, elaborate candelabras appearing to be only for decorative purposes. The second facet of modernity took the form of a gilded pipe with multiple joints, mounted on the mantle.

Gail's Daily Dose
Your Infusion of Cute:

Your Tisane of Smart:
Food disguised as other food.
Your Writerly Tinctures:
Fighting as foreplay, writing trope.

Celtreads says, "This was a combination of Amelia Peabody and Sookie Stackhouse (Elizabeth Peters and Charlaine Harris) with Amanda Quick thrown in for good measure."
SPOILER ALERT! Changeless blurb gives away ending of Soulless. A lovely and very steampunk-style review from the Steampunk Aviatrix, "Lady Maccon's life is placed in peril on several occasions, and the plot takes not a few convincing twists and turns, leading to a satisfying conclusion - or so one might be led to believe."
Out September 1, 2010! Even bigger SPOILER ALERT! Really, DON'T READ THE BLURB ON AMAZON if you haven't read the other books first.
Heartless: Plugging away. Due Nov 1.
Super Secret Project F: Under revision. Due July 1.
CAKE in Space: Trunked.
See table of contents here.
Short story turned in. The Mammoth Book of Paranormal Romance 2 available for preorder.

Quote of the Day:
"Everything that doesn't kill you, makes you stronger. And later on you can use it in some story."
~ Tapani Bagge