Book reviews have been a staple on my blog since the very beginning. I love to read, and I love to share good books. Those are the only kind of books I do share; you’ll never hear about a book I didn’t enjoy. I don’t promise reviews in exchange for free books; what would I say if I didn’t like the book? I take pride in giving honest recommendations.
When I discovered that my bloggy friend Beth was writing a book, however, I threw caution to the wind and harassed her for an advanced copy. It wasn’t really a risk, though. I love Beth and her writing, and I knew that I would love her book, Order of Seven.
And I did. Here is the review I wrote for Order of Seven on Goodreads:
There are two reasons I love a book: the story and the writing. Both have to be amazing, or the novel will fall short. I loved Order of Seven. Beth Tehilo tells an engrossing and unique tale; by the end of the second chapter, I was fully invested in Devi’s search for her people and her purpose. Using succinct yet layered prose, Beth creates a mysterious world within our own, with just the right amount of romance, angst, and adventure. While this novel will appeal to a YA audience, anyone who loves to get lost in a good book will not be disappointed.
Beth was kind enough to sit down with me for an interview last week. We had a lovely conversation via Face Time (I was her first), and in my excitement I talked over her at least five times. I typed as fast as I could as she talked, but Beth’s answers are paraphrased because I’m just not that fast. My comments are in italics.
This is Beth and me, if the interview had taken place in person. On a beach. And I had really big hair.
Most of the characters in your novel have extraordinary powers. What are YOUR extraordinary powers?
My sense of humor gets me through everything; that is my superpower. If I had to choose a true one, I would want the power of telepathy.
At this point I started thinking about how pretty and kind and smart Beth is, just in case.
I know that this novel started as a short story for a writing group – how in the world did you come up with the idea?
In 2003 or 2004, I started writing down all these ideas, in a notebook that I still have. I was inspired by books I had read in my twenties, specifically Ishmael by Daniel Quinn. The novel’s premise focuses on thinking about our responsibility as human beings on this planet. It was thought-provoking, not preachy.
Years later I wrote a short story for my writing group, about a nameless girl needing to go through a nameless guy to get to her tree where she channels. My husband read it, and told me to elaborate – he wanted to know more. I had a light bulb moment when I made the connection between this short story and all the notes I had taken years before. The nameless girl became Devi, a name I had written in my notes, and the rest of the story evolved from her.
If you ever doubted the power of jotting down your thoughts and ideas, doubt no more. Who knows what brilliance you may scribble in that journal?
Tell me one of your favorite sentences in the book.
It’s one of my favorites because this moment in time is pivotal for Devi. This whole weekend changes her life.
I’m being purposefully vague here with Beth’s answer, to avoid spoilers. It sounds like a simple romance, but it’s much more significant.
One of your characters, Baron, is certainly leading man material. Have you ever called your husband by his name by mistake? Or maybe on purpose.
Everyone in my family has been called Baron or Nodan (another main character) – my husband, my kids, my dog. Even my kids’ friends – I’ll call out to my son, “Nodan is at the door!” “Um, Mom, it’s Nolan,” he’ll say.
In my very sophisticated book club, we always cast the movie of the book we just read. Any ideas about who you’d like to see cast when Hollywood comes knocking at your door?
Absolutely for Devi; I’ve known since Day One that it would be Saoirse Ronan. Baron is the most difficult one to cast, since I don’t have a true visual. The French model Jean-Francois Poirier would be a good call. For Nodan, I’d choose albino model Amal Sofi.
I did not link to photos of these people, because I don’t like to have any visuals of characters before I read the book. But you can easily google all three of them if you must know, or if you are curious after you read the book.
I was grinning like a fool when I read your Acknowledgements page; I’m sure I got some odd sidelong glances from my fellow elliptical exercisers at the gym. But I think it is the coolest thing that I just finished a damn good book by someone I know! And if you count me as one of your blogging community, then you gave me a shout out, so thank you. Do you ever pinch yourself and say “Holy sh*t I wrote a BOOK!”?
A hundred times a day!
What’s your lucky number? If it’s not seven, it should be now.
Seven has always been my lucky number! The book title was originally Tree of Life, but my beta readers preferred Order of Seven. They thought Tree of Life sounds new-agish.
I agree – “Order of Seven” is intriguing and mysterious. Even though my lucky number is eight.
There are plenty of bloggers who are aspiring novelists. But writing non-fiction has to be a completely different ball game than writing fiction. What is the difference for you? Is one harder than the other, or more enjoyable? Is your style different for both?
Non-fiction, particularly blogging, gives you immediate gratification. You write, it’s all you, and it’s out there. In that sense, it’s a little easier than fiction. Novel writing is a marathon, but it’s not as limiting. There is a freedom and whimsy in fiction writing that makes it more enjoyable than non-fiction.
Let’s get back to Baron. He has tons of tattoos, and they are a part of the story, not just eye candy. And I happen to know you dig tattoos. Do you have one?
I have three, with aspirations to get more. I have one on each hip bone: a yin and yang and a Celtic sun. On the inside of my ankle, I have a Kokopelli.
The legend of Kokopelli dates back over 3,000 years, and among other things he is known as the Storyteller.
Your characters discover a great deal about tribal history and culture as they look for answers; how much of that is real? Did you do tons of research as you wrote? I know I could Google it, but it’s much cooler to just ask the author.
A ton of it is real – about half. Many real locations inspired me, and I used them and then created the fictional details. El Árbor del Tule is real, as is the church in New Mexico. The tribes are fictional, although I watched videos of Africans speaking English in their tribal dialect to get a feel for the way some characters would speak.
The only other author interview I’ve ever done was done completely in haiku form. Let’s do that!
Me:
Write me a teaser
To convince a reader
To read your new book!
Beth:
Gritty fierce story
Will consume and possess you
Plus Baron. Nuff said.
Order of Seven will be published on April 7th, but you can preorder now on Amazon. I’m also giving away a copy – do you want one? If you do, just tell me so in a comment, or send me a tweet or a shout out on Facebook. If you share on social media and tag me, you’ll get an extra entry. I’ll randomly choose one winner and send him or her a book hot off the presses! I’ll close entries at 11:59 pm on April 3rd.
First of all, how exciting for Beth and then, how exciting for you! It’s so fun to get an advanced copy (especially when it’s a good book). Sounds like you got lucky and Beth wrote an amazing book. I call that a “win win”. Can’t wait to read this book, I am very intrigued by your description!
It’s a tough book to describe, but you won’t be disappointed, Kirsten.
I want to read it and it sounds like something my oldest daughter would totally love as well!! One entry for me and one for her???
Sure 🙂
Well I thought I left a comment here…great interview, Dana, and I do love the photo. I thought the book was so good, I’d want to win a copy even though I’ve already read it twice. Yup, twice. On my phone! It’s that good.
Lisa – you did leave a comment – they both went to spam. That happens sometimes – no clue why. And yes, you need a hard copy – it’s easier on your eyes!
Oh no spam land! Heh. It happens. I kind of figured I must have gotten distracted and didn’t hit send or something.
I am excited about a hard copy – very.
Lisa, you are responsible for a lot of writer-happy-inducing comments today. *swoon*
I speak only the truth.
Beth’s book sounds great. And those two sentences you highlighted – they hooked me. They are awesome. Great job ladies. Will be ordering Order of Seven.
I think you’ll really enjoy it, Julia!
YAY! Thanks, Julia! You’ll love it!
Does the picture come with the book?
Can it if I win?
Was that a creepy request?
*snort* I think the picture *should* come with the book!!! hahaha
Thanks, Kimberly!
Not at all. Well, a little. But I don’t mind.
I will read anything you recommend, Dana, and that is the cutest photo ever! I have not officially met Beth but congrats to you, Beth, on the book :). Exciting and inspiring! Can’t wait to read Order of Seven.
Thanks so much, Nikki!! Yeah, when Dana showed me that photo I laughed so hard!
UGH sorry, I mean Nicki! i know another who spells her name Nikki and I was on autopilot. 🙂
That’s a heavy burden to carry, Nicki…ANYTHING I recommend? I appreciate your confidence. That’s why I won’t read a book in exchange for a review – I’m not going to sing praises if I don’t mean it.
Awesome interview, Dana and Beth! I’m such a fan of this book I kinda want to win one even though I’ve already read it (twice…shh). Love the photo of the two of you on the beach. 😀
It’s a keeper, right? I’m buying a hard copy as soon as I can – because it’s Beth.
Absolutely. And I love hard copies of books, period. Kind of a nerdy book collector that way.
I’d love a copy! I’m always told to read her blog because I’m told that I’d love her style! I do love humor. I do wish I had telepathy too. I always wonder if anyone really does.. and if so.. would I really want that? (probably but I’d rather fly first)
Hi Tamara! Well, yes, I must say if you like funny you will enjoy my blog. It’s kind of a party over there. Nothing but silly. 🙂
And I think you’re right….paranormal gifts are romanticized, but would we really want to be able to read minds….or be invisible….or wait. Yes. Yes we would.
I would too, Tamara – or bet yet, just automatically transport. Think of how much money I’d save on airfare, and how easy it would be to visit all my blog friends!
Awesome interview and I love how her story developed! Would love to win a copy 🙂
You are entered – good luck!
I hope you do! Good luck! Your blog is gorgeous. 🙂
I’ve already pre-ordered so I won’t put my name in the hat to win one. This was an excellent interview. Thank you for not sharing images of who would play the parts. I don’t know the people she named so that’s good. I like to have my own visual as well. I love that quote and I can’t wait to get to it in the book.
Your big hair is hilarious!
Isn’t it? I didn’t notice it until I was trying to fit my face in there, and there was just so much hair.
Hi Kenya!! Yeah, Dana and i both agreed that sharing any character or scene visuals would be a bad idea. I don’t like to have those put in my head before I read the book either, but, I do like seeing what the author envisioned *after* I’ve made my own visuals. I made a pinterest board (it was a secret board forevah, but I just recently made it public) but I don’t really advertise it because I want people to read the book first….THEN, if they find the board and want to check it out, fine. Thanks for preordering! Can’t wait for you to read it!
Entering for a chance to win! Have to throw out support for another blogger/novelist (though I remain unpublished). Good for her!
Consider yourself entered, Liz. And when you get published, let me know!
Thank you, Liz!!! I’m trusting Dana to let us know when your novel publishes!! Good luck!
Two of my favorites in one place!! I knew you would love this book, Dana!! What an amazing story our Beth has weaves together for is. This one sticks with you, and for me, those are the best. I love the pic. I want a real one. And I want to me on the other side of you.
I want that too! I told Beth I may crawl into Lizzi’s suitcase and hitch a ride with her to Texas. One day…
DO IT!!!
Absolutely splendid. Not only is there a chance to win a copy of this wondrous book (I can’t preorder it here in Canada – tried an order of seven, eight and even nine but no luck for the Canucks) but you two are together! Not only in a conversation but in a photo? Yes! Oh just imagine what you could do with a selfie stick!
KELLY! So lovely to see your cheerful face! Thanks so much! and I’m soooo bummed you can’t preorder from Canada, (I have no idea why) but soon you’ll be able to order in your preferred format from several different places. Only about 2 more weeks…..yay!!! xoxo
and I know for a fact you can order it from anywhere in the world as of April 7!
I’m pretty sure I would hurt myself with a selfie stick!
Excellent!
Congrats, Beth.
What an accomplishment.
And I LOVE your favorite sentence!!!! xxx
Thank you, Kim! And oh that sentence….if you only knew (hopefully you will very soon!) there’s a lot going on in that sentence.
Isn’t it awesome? And as Beth said, it means so much more than it seems to mean…
Sounds intriguing! I don’t know if I could get through an entire interview if my best friend wrote a book! I’d be giggling and squealing too much for her to say anything!
Once I got over the awesome-ness of talking face to face with Beth, I controlled my fan girl tendencies. I think.
HI Rabia! To be honest, we handled it pretty well, I thought. We smiled really big through the whole interview though. hahaha It was so much fun.
Well, crap. Some of these were the very SAME questions I wanted to ASK BETH!!! I just started reading her book last night… couldn’t stop. Was up way too late because of this relentless tale… and well, Baron. 😉
That’s why I didn’t read any other interviews before I did mine, Chris! I don’t mind if you repeat though. So glad you are enjoying the book!
Hi Chris!!! *waves wildly* I’m so excited you’re enjoying the book. I hope it takes you on a journey you won’t forget.
and yeah….Baron keeps everybody awake till the wee hours of the morning’……
🙂
I want to have big hair and be on the beach with Beth!
I feel like a complete loser that I have not a clue who even one of those actors is. WHY are they all French?
I forget my son’s name all the time, and I only have one. And no pets.
Great interview, ladies!!!
Samara – I didn’t know who the actors were either. Beth had to dig deep for them, I think – but the lady has a vision!
Samara, you know Soarsi Ronan, you just don’t know her name. She’s been in a bunch of movies. I think she’s swedish or dutch or something….can’t remember. The french guy for Baron was found after an exhaustive, brutal long search through hundreds of hot dudes. Lizzi helped me. 🙂
Thanks for reading, Samara. MWA
Thank you, again, for this Dana! You did an amazing (seriously) job paraphrasing our convo! It was so much fun. And the photo of us? Best thing ever! LOVE.
We look hot, don’t we? Thank YOU for playing along – it was so great to chat with you kinda in-person. And I can’t wait to get my hands on the book – ebooks are great, but I like the paper ones best.
I don’t think I know Beth – better check out her blog because her book sound awesome!!!
Oh, it really is Kim. Beth is an amazing writer – whatever she writes.
Hi Kim! Nice to meet you! Yes, if you like to larf, come on over to my blog. It’s kind of always a party over there 🙂
This is an AWESOME interview!! A very refreshing style 😀 The part about compiling ideas in a notebook is sooo like me. haha I love Beth’s writing, and she is such a wonderful and hilarious person, I just know I’ll love the book! Can’t wait! Btw..the haiku is a great touch!
Thanks – I do love a good haiku. I know what you mean about the notebooks – I’m going to think twice before tossing out old notes from now on.
awww, Johney, you’re so good to me. Thank you for reading and commenting, my friend. MWA.
What a terrific interview! Sounds like a fascinating book.
It really was, Rena. I hope you’ll give it a try!
Thanks, Rena! Dana made it ridiculously fun. 🙂
Great interview Dana! And congratulations Beth! And I love the Q&A about calling your husband by the hero’s name. Too funny – I would do that!
Thanks for reading, Allie! My poor kids….they’ve been called Nodin and Baron literally hundreds of times over the years. And? I named my car Baron, which my husband just rolled his eyes at. But my car….it’s just so dang sexy. I HAD NO CHOICE hahaha
I’m not even writing a book, and I still call family members by the wrong name!
HA! just this morning I called my 7yo by our dog’s name.
I am now very intrigued and want to read the book! I really enjoyed reading the interview, especially the haiku question! Thankfully I just won an Amazon gift certificate so I have some virtual book money burning a hole in my pocket! But I certainly wouldn’t object to winning a copy either 😉
I happen to have a little Kokopelli statue in my living room that I got at a local thrift store. When Sam and I were traveling around South America we stayed in a hostel in Peru called Kokopelli, so it reminds us of our trip.
Hey Bev! I need to tell you how intensely jealous I am that you travelled to Peru! Peru and central america (specifically Honduras) are important locations in the book. And I love that you have a Kokopelli and stayed at the Kokopelli hotel. Too cool! How long was your trip? Did you visit any archaeological locales, like maccu picchu? Did you see the Nazca lines?? I NEED TO KNOW THESE THINGS. lol
I hope you read it and I KNOW you’ll love it.
Ok, now I REALLY want to read your book! Sadly, I did not see the Nazca lines, but I did go to Machu Picchu and saw lots of Incan ruins. I also got to see Tiwanaku, pre-Incan (I believe) ruins in Bolivia near La Paz. My husband and I spent 5 months backpacking around South America 3 years ago right after we got married 🙂
Bev. You are officially the coolest person I know. FIVE MONTHS. *gasp* ohhhh if only I could have a microchip of all your experiences there! I’ve never ever done anything THAT cool. But it’s on my bucket list. To be cool, I mean.
I’m familiar with Tiwanaku (because I watch all things science/history/archaeology on TV). Ohmygosh, how exciting!!!
I am now officially obsessed with you in an unhealthy way.
Well, now you got Beth started Bev! You will enjoy the book even more given your own travels to South America, I think.
You know how much I love to read and totally admit I didn’t know that Beth had written and published this book, but now totally want to check it out after your awesome interview. By the way, the Photoshopped picture of the two of you is the best! 😉
Hey Janine! Yeah when Dana showed me that photo I literally guffawed. HILARIOUS. I just kept thinking…her hair….it’s so BIG. Hahahaha
Glad you enjoyed the interview! It was so fun to actually see Dana face-to-face (over cyberspace, of course, but still) and chat with her!
Thanks Janine – I had to add my goofy spin to it!