Winter Extravaganza: Suzanne Selfors

Suzanne Selfors is the author of Mad Love.

SUMMARY: When you're the daughter of the bestselling Queen of Romance, life should be pretty good. But 16-year-old Alice Amorous has been living a lie ever since her mother was secretly hospitalized for mental illness. After putting on a brave front for months, time is running out. The next book is overdue, and the Queen can't write it. Alice needs a story for her mother—and she needs one fast. That's when she meets Errol, a strange boy who claims to be Cupid, who insists that Alice write about the greatest love story in history: his tragic relationship with Psyche. As Alice begins to hear Errol's voice in her head and see things she can't explain, she must face the truth—that she's either inherited her mother's madness, or Errol is for real. (Publishes on January 4, 2011.)

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Where did you come up with the idea for Mad Love?

I have this fascination with Greek and Roman mythology. In Coffeehouse Angel, I brought Hermes to life. As I was brainstorming my next book, Cupid popped into my head. But I knew I'd do something very different with him. He wouldn't be that cute little cherub that graces Valentine's Day cards. In my story, he'd be resurrected as a handsome, tortured soul.

What was your favorite scene/part of the novel to write?

I really like the scene at the lake where Alice is lying on her air mattress, floating through the lily pads. I based this scene on a lake by my house, where I've spent many summer afternoons doing the exact same thing.

Three words to describe Alice?

Scared, lonely, kind.

If your book was to be made into a movie, who would you want to play as your characters?

I didn't imagine any specific actors when I created these characters. So none really come to mind. If I could choose the casting, and that would be some sort of miracle if the author was asked to cast a film, I would choose unknowns to play the teen roles. Brand new faces. Though I do think Robin Williams would make a great Reverend Ruttles.

Describe the most memorable winter you've ever experienced?

Twenty inches of snow over two days and no power. A brand new baby on the couch, a fire in the fireplace, and candles on the windowsill, the day before Christmas.

What are you favorite things to eat and drink during the holiday season?

This is kinda weird but I really love Soy Nog, it's like egg nog but without the eggs so it's not totally disgusting. And I'm always so happy when the special edition Peppermint ice-cream comes out with those little pieces of candy cane. I'm a peppermint junkie.

What’s on your Christmas list this year?

A kindle. I know, I know, I'm a writer and we're supposed to support the book and I do. I do support the book. And I will always love books and I sleep in a room filled with them. But the kindle is so nice for traveling and I'm excited about this new technology.

Do you have any family holiday traditions?

Get together and try not to drive each other crazy. You know how it is when sisters and mothers get together.

What's your favorite Christmas carol?

Walking in a Winter Wonderland.

Thanks for taking the time to answer my questions, Suzanne!

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PRE-ORDER THIS BOOK ONLINE: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Book Depository

FIND SUZANNE ONLINE: Website | Goodreads

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