AUTHOR CECY ROBSON
As promised, Cecy Robson is here for an interview. Her awesome three-book series, “The Weird Girls” will be released soon with Penguin’s Signet Eclipse. Here’s your chance to get acquainted with her before she hits the big-time, so consider yourself lucky.
My questions are in black, while her answers are in a friendly shade of blue.
Hello, Cecy. Thanks for coming!
Hey, Joe! Thanks for having me.
Well, let’s start off by talking about your characters because you’ve created some great ones. You have a hot-tempered girl who can control fire (Taran), a shy girl who can heal people (Emme), a knife thrower (Shayna) who talks like a surfer dude, and a smart-as-a whip protagonist who turns into a tiger, or sometimes just part of a tiger (Celia). But let’s get down to the real issue – at least for your male fans. Namely, which one of your characters is most likely to make a sex video and leak it onto the internet to drum up publicity? And can we get a copy of it?
If given a choice I’d have to say Taran, my little vixen, is most likely to make a sex video for fun. If it leaks, it’s likely because she took the wrong guy to bed and he released it without her consent. Taran’s bedroom romp with the wrong kind of guy is not anything new. In fact, it’s what lands her and her sisters in vampire court in the opening pages of SEALED WITH A CURSE.
Vampire Court? Is that like traffic court? Did she run over a vampire with her Volkswagon Jetta?
I’m glad it’s NOT like traffic court. Otherwise “driving without a seatbelt” offenses would end with torture and/or decapitation.
Ah, violence. I’ve noticed a certain amount of it in your books, and by “a certain amount” I mean quite a bit. Do you like a good fight, Cecy? Are you a fan of the UFC? Mixed martial arts? Cable news networks?
Why yes, Joe. As a matter of fact I enjoy a good rumble. I grew up watching Kung-fu Theatre, “professional” wrestling, and occasionally watch UFC matches with my husband. There was also a reality TV show on a while ago called Fight Quest―in which two men travel the world to learn various martial art techniques―which I loved. I draw the line at cable news. Some things are just too violent. *shudder*
I think part of what we love about supernatural characters is their ability to kick ass. If you had the opportunity to throw bolts of lightening and fire, how many people would you incinerate in a year? Be honest, and keep in mind that I know you’re originally from New Jersey.
Hmmm. In all honesty I have to say none. Mostly because I was raised Catholic and the guilt associated with such an upbringing haunts me to this day. I do, however, take revenge on my guilt by dressing up my vamps like naughty Catholic schoolgirls.
Whoah! Now that’s interesting! While everyone out there is busy thinking filthy thoughts (hey, I know the kind of people who read this blog), let’s talk about love. There’s some romance in your books. Your main character seems to think about it a lot, and she seems lonely. Why did you make her that way? Was it something personal, or was it something you think many girls will relate to?
My series is actually an Urban Fantasy Romance so there’s action and romance on every page. Celia’s loneliness developed from how I perceived humans would react in the presence of a tiger. Although they couldn’t necessarily “see” Celia’s inner beast, they could sense her on a primal level. And while most humans agree tigers are beautiful creatures, they’re not foolish enough to approach one―much less cuddle up to one. Because of this innate fear, most humans stay far away from Celia―leaving her lonely, dateless, and awkward around males. I think any woman who’s ever felt like the odd gal out can relate to Celia. I know I can. When the sisters move to the mystical region of Lake Tahoe, however, Celia encounters other preternaturals. And let’s just say vampires and werebeasts don’t scare easily.
I originally thought the concept of four gorgeous girls being “weird” was far-fetched―because let’s face it, attractive girls get a lot of forgiveness in our society. But after reading the book, I’d say you definitely pull it off. These girls would have some social problems.
The girls definitely face social scrutiny since humans sense something different about them. “Different” isn’t typically embraced by human society and “weird” just plain terrifies.
Let’s talk about music. Poof! Your book has been turned into a movie. What is the soundtrack like? Or is it eerily silent?
My ideal soundtrack would have to be both dark and sexy like AFI’s Prelude 12/21. Enter Sandman by Metallica is one I listen to prior to writing fight scenes and would fit during a more heated supernatural smack-down. I’ll also need something gut-wrenching. A time will come when Celia’s heart is basically destroyed. The Washing of the Water by Peter Gabriel captures that moment beautifully.
I’d have to say those tunes capture the vibe of the book perfectly.
Speaking of Celia, she is a nurse. In fact, all your characters are nurses. What’s going on with this? Do you envision a day when they will start a detective agency or something? Because I can’t picture Taran or Celia emptying bedpans. Also, Emme has the power to heal people. Shouldn’t she at least be an MD?
Excellent questions. Um, no. The girls will not have their own detective agency. Sorry if this disappoints all the die-hard mystery readers out there.
The girls are nurses because their creator is also one. I wanted to give them a profession I was familiar with and one where they could all realistically work near each other. Babies settle Celia’s beast. Therefore she is a labor and delivery nurse, as is Shayna. Women in labor everywhere would want someone like Shayna cheering them on. They’d also want someone like Celia to care and protect them during one of the most terrifying moments of their lives.
You’re right, Taran doesn’t empty bedpans. She works in the cardiac catherization lab which is more technical. Emme can heal wounds, but she can’t, however, cure diseases. She also couldn’t openly practice as a doctor without alerting humans of her power. As the most sensitive and caring of the sisters it’s only natural for her to work in hospice. While she can’t save those close to death, she is able to grant her patients a peaceful goodbye.
I hear that nurses work long shifts. Did you ever take your eye off an EKG and scribble down a story idea?
Heh, heh. My RN job is actually pretty intense. I’ve never written
anything at work aside from jotting down a few notes while on a break.
Now that’s dedication. How much writing do you do every day? Are you very disciplined? Or does your agent call you up screaming for the rest of the story?
I write any chance I get which is at the very minimum 6 hours a day,
Monday-Friday. I have a tendency to turn things in to my agent early―like
WAY early. My next novel is due December 15th and I just finished writing it. My agent, Nicole, and I usually do a few passes before I submit it to my editor, hence the need to get it done early so it’s in the best shape possible.
Do you eat anything while you write? Foie Gras? Anchovies? Chocolate bars?
I’m a picker so I usually try to have grapes on hand. My favorite though
is buttered popcorn sprinkled with chocolate-covered raisins.
Do you have a special outfit you wear when you sit down to write? Like a superhero costume?
My favorite thing to wear when I write is my pajamas. But I actually do
have a cape on hand for writing emergencies.
If this book was a movie, would it be rated G, PG, PG-13, R, or something else I’m not familiar with?
Somewhere between PG-13 and R. If it were on TV it would definitely
belong on cable. *tap, tap, tap* You hear that HBO / Showtime?
Well, let’s hope some network person out there is listening.
Thanks for coming, Cecy. All your promotional information is posted below.
Thank you, Joe. It’s been a pleasure being here.
Anyone who leaves a comment on this blog and also “likes” Cecy’s Facebook page will automatically be entered for a chance to win a free Weird Girls gift pack. I won’t tell you what’s in it, but it could be a new Cadillac – or it might even be a water bottle, a magnet and some lip balm. Leave a comment, hit the LIKE button, and you might find out.
But if you really want to do something useful, preorder the books at http://www.cecyrobson.com. DO IT NOW! You can also find Cecy’s bio and a ton of other information there.
THE WEIRD GIRLS: A Novella, Dec. 4th, 2012
SEALED WITH A CURSE: A Weird Girls Novel, Dec. 31st, 2012
A CURSED EMBRACE: A Weird Girls Novel, July 2, 2013
Published with Penguin’s SIGNET ECLIPSE
cecyrobson.com
facebook.com/Cecy.Robson.Author
twitter.com/cecyrobson
Great interview. I think I’m going to have check these books out when they’re published with all the nice things that Joe has written about them. And he doesn’t say too many nice things; but to be fair that was at work, about work and about the New York Jets.
Hey, I always praise the Jets when they win the big game. Every time.
Thanks, Guido. I hope you’ll enjoy them. Sorry about Jets, I’m rootin’ for them.
Entertaining interview Joe! I thought Cecy’s responses to your questions were very honest and inciteful. I’m looking forward to reading her books in the future.
Thanks!
Thanks, Happy Bill. Hopefully my books will make you even happier!
Great interview.
I have to say/write, the thought of attractive ass-whomping vampires dressed as naughty Catholic schoolgirls written by a babe in her pajamas is a concept that invites/demands further exploration.
The concept of attractive babes being weird is sort of a ‘dog bites man story’ as I’ve never met an attractive babe who wasn’t weird, or a babe who wasn’t weird. I mean that in the best possible way.
If I was on Facebook, whatever that is, I’d check ‘likes’. And if I win the Cadillac, I’m replacing the door handles with working Colt 1845 pearl handled revolvers and turning the trunk into a full service recording studio and meditation center.
Thanks for the interview Joe and thanks Cecy for the mental image of vampire babes with ‘issues’ kicking ass and exacting revenge AND receiving forgiveness from society is a good one, as if that ever happens in real life.
Surf’s up,
DeeK
Dennis, that has to be the greatest and most entertaining answer I’ve ever heard. Thanks for stopping by!
Watch out for DK – he isn’t just from Jersey. He’s from Jersey City.
A sympathetic but never sycophantic interview. Good stuff. Cecy seems like a professional and productive author. Interesting how some authors wear specific clothes when they’re at work. I wonder what Happy Joe wears when he writes his blog. Please tell me he wears SOMETHING…
Usually just a pair of socks, Ben.
And a smile, too, I bet. Thanks for stopping by.
Great interview. I love the idea of strong, weird girls kicking ass. This world needs more of that. Finally, being weird is coming into vogue! I’ve waited a long time for this day to come…
I’ve been waiting, too, Jill. Weird is not a bad thing, it’s just . . . different. And sometimes “different” can be wonderful. Thank you for stopping by.
Great interview! Very friendly and relaxed and very funny. I’m looking forward to reading these books when they are published. Good job in convincing me that I need to pick up these books and experience for myself what Cecy has to offer. Thanks Joe
Thank YOU, Robert. And I must say, Joe did an awesome job with the interview questions. I’m kind of waiting for him to be famous. It’ll happen–in a good way, too!
Wow, Joe – cool interview! What could be more topical at this time of year, and she’s a Jersey Girl! Great Blog! Keep it coming!
Yes, I am a Jersey Girl. And see, America, we’re not all so bad . . . or crazy . . . or unstable or . . . well, you get the gist. Thanks for stopping by, Happy Sue!
Hey Joe, great interview! All the characters are nurses?…it’s sure to be a very interesting read. As a school nurse, I’ve often said I could write a book!
Ann, if you want to write a book–go for it. Let your imagination go crazy. Good luck, Ann!
Thanks for this higly entertaining interview. It’s easy to see why Cecy has landed a three book deal. My second novel is an Urban Fantasy with a major dolop of paranormal (vampire) romance so it’s easy to relate to everything Cecy has to say about her interesting characters. I’m making a note to check out the books when they are released.
Awesome, David. Hey good luck with your series. UF is my baby-daddy. I can see why you love it.
Very cool, thank you both. Always amazing to see how characters come about and how writers draw from what’s in their own backyard. Stories sound VERY interesting… will definitely check out Weird Girls series. Happy Joe soundtrack?
Thank you, Remotely Happy Tom. You get major cool points for just selecting such a name. Good luck to you, dude.
Really fun & well done interview! Great questions and the book sounds really cool & interesting!
Thanks, Lauren! And thank you for stopping by.
Great interview, Joe – I’m tempted to check out Cecy’s work (and I’m a guy) – at least I think I am . . . .sounds like fun
Check it out for sure, Bill. I think my work will appeal to a male audience. You’ll have to let me know what you think. Like my husband says, “You have such kick-ass action and great humor, I think most men will overlook all that lovey-dovie crap.” *tap, tap* Happy Joe, do you feel the same?
Did you know that Lars from Metallica always regretted not allowing Enter Sandman to be used in the Kill Bill movies? Cecy might have a chance! Looking forward to the book series.
No way! Well, I hear Lars is also from Scandinavia and he eats fish out of little cans. Thanks for the info, Brooklyn.
Wow! Maybe I still have a chance . . .
Lars will not regret having Enter Sandman on The Weird Girls soundtrack–at least I hope he won’t . . .
Would you rather be normal or weird? That’s an actual question on OK Cupid, which I recently joined. I immediately checked weird, as I assumed any normal person would. Much to my surprise, a lot of people would rather be normal…how weird.
I’m all for weird and I’m all for girls who kick ass, so this series sounds like great fun. Congratulation to Cecy and thanks to Joe for bringing her to our attention.
Thank you so much. I’m hoping in the Urban Fantasy realm, “weird” will be embraced as beautiful.
Great interview Joe! The questions were both entertaining and thought provoking. Cecy & her books sound awesome…plus she likes Metallica! Keep the blog posts coming!
Thanks, April. Yeah, Metallica is an awesome band. I especially like the songs from the first four CDs.
Thank you, Happy April. Joe, I don’t care what Mickey Mouse says. YOUR blog is the happiest place on earth!
NICE! Great interview AND the series sounds like a lot of fun!! A little something for everybody, with the action & romance.
Very cool –
All the best,
Jg
Thank you, Jg. You’re very cool to stop by!
Very nice Joe, congratulations and good luck with the book…
Thank you, Tom. I appreciate you stopping by!
Neat interview, Joe, no question was run-o’-the-mill, and there was a nice repartee between you and Cecy; I especially liked some of the comments (sounds like Dennis K w/b a good writing partner, Cecy and/or Joe!) Good luck with movie rights!
Movie rights? Oh, Selena, from your typing fingers to God’s ears. Thanks for stopping by!
She had me when she said she grew up watching pro wrestling. But what matters is, does she still watch it?
I will check this book out. I’m all for reading about hot babes.
Thanks, Alexander. Sadly, I don’t watch pro wrestling anymore. And the hot babes in my book look forward to you reading about them.
I enjoyed your very lively but relaxed interview. Insightful and unexpected questions, epecially “Do you eat anything while you write? Foie Gras? Anchovies? Chocolate bars?.” I can relate (although I don’t write) That question has legs!
Hey, Kate! Joe’s questions were absolutely chocked full of awesome. Thanks for stopping by!
Well-rounded interview that touches on a lot of things…I especially like the interview question about WHY you created the character the way she is and the response about the inner beast. I can relate to that – exhibiting one trait on the outside and harboring another within.
Thank you, Susan. I think it would have been easy to make Celia too overconfident and too strong because of her inner animal. But I wanted to show as much her beast helps her, it also makes her lonely and awkward, too.
You had me at the Catholic schoolgirls part.
Heh, heh, heh. My she-vamps don’t have a strong a presence in SEALED WITH A CURSE, but they do as the series progresses. They’re obnoxious, spoiled, completely inappropriate and a great deal of fun. As their creator I can make them say ANYTHING I want. Mwahahaha!
Thanks for the interview, Joe! I hadn’t heard of these books before but I think I may snatch some up to tuck away for Christmas… my daughter is at just the right age. Plus then I can borrow them from her… hehehe.
Thanks, Sonya. A word of warning, this is an adult series. I’m not sure how old your daughter is, but it’s something to consider. Either way I hope you enjoy the novels. Thanks for stopping by.
Fine interview getting to the heart of the book quickly. Nice job Joe and has my interest piqued for a new author……….. thanks!
Thank you, Sunni! I hope you enjoy my Weird Girls Series.
I would definitely watch this if it were a show. Throw in a bit of dark humor and it would be perfect. The soundtrack would be great too since I love AFI and Metallica!
If you like dark humor, Jesse, you’ll definitely enjoy my Weird Girls. Ah, yes, let’s hope you can see it on tv someday . . .
Great interview and perfect timing – just finished a book and looking for a new read. Thx, Happy Joe – you never disappoint! Cecy – you’re a good soul for not wanting to incinerate anyone; I’m so ratchet, I thought of 17 names in 3 seconds.
Haaaaaa!!!! 17 names in 3 seconds is impressive . . . and a little scary. I hope you enjoy the series. Thanks for stopping by!
Loved this interview and the book sounds like a good read Joe. I will definitely pick up the book. Love your blog too!
Thanks, Sharon. And yes, Joe and his blog rock! I hope you enjoy the Weird Girls series!
I soooooo enjoyed this interview. I didn’t know much about Cecy Robson and her books and your interview was very informative. Most interviews do not “speak” personality, but this one did! You managed to let me get to know her by your questions and capturing her mannerisms and gestures. GREAT JOB! ….and I intend to look into her books, now, as I got the feeling from your interview they will be a great read!
Thank you, Penny. Pssst, don’t tell Joe, but I had A LOT of fun answering his questions. You’re right, he did a great job. Thank you for taking an interest in my Weird Girls series.
Great interview Joe! I love the questions, and the answers were both entertaining and insightful. I cannot wait to read the series. And, as you probably could guess, I’m all for unique and strong girls, who happen to be nurses, doing their thing.
Ha! Should I tell Cecy you are a famous female bodybuilder AND a nurse? Well, I think I just did. I hope things are going well.
That’s just super cool. Go, Pam!
Thanks, Pam. I’m thrilled that you’re excited about my series. Yes, four strong nurses are headed your way.
Hey there Joe! Fabulous interview! Those books sound awesome! I have to mirror Jill in saying that strong, ass-kicking women make for good literature! And as for being weird… well, i not only live in that category, but I wallpapered and put up curtains there- so i’m there to stay! Seriously, wallpaper is hard stuff to remove!! I am definitely going to have to check the books out. I need some good wintertime reading.
(And i’m almost done with the Fifty Shades of Grey series…) Talk to you soon Happy Joe!!
Cecy doesn’t realize that everyone I know is totally weird, ha-ha. I hope you’re having fun in Nebraska.
Hey Meghan! If you like action, you’ll LOVE the smack-downs in my Weird Girls series. Get ready to rumble– and laugh out loud.
Great interview Joe!! My wife and I are both suckers when it comes to the whole supernatural genre and will definitely be checking out Cecy’s books. Lets just say they might be going on Santa’s list this year
On behalf of Santa, his elves, and my Weird Girls, we thank you, Mike. I hope you and your wife enjoy the series.
Oh behalf of Santa, his elves, and me, we thank you. May my Weird Girls visit a stocking near you!
Joe – great interview. Cecy – the series sounds fun, and will make a great gift for my wife. Knife throwing, fire control and transmogrification (or even partial transmogrification) are right up her alley.
Excellent. There’s not enough transmogrification in the world in my opinion. Thanks, Ken!
Your books sound great Cecy .Thank you for sharing with us today.
flanagan@mebtel.net