1. Video – I put together a little video of my writing process. Check it out — you’ll see how closely I work with my assistants.

2. We’re talking about writing inspirations over at the YA Muses Blog. A great week of posts so far, be sure to stop by!

3. Take a look at my dear friend’s cover for her YA historical, GILT. Absolutely gorgeous, right? This novel is so lush and fabulous. I can’t wait for you all to read it next May!

4. Bookanistas! Lots of great recommendations today:

I spent the past weekend with Talia Vance, Donna Cooner, Katy Longshore and Bret Ballou, my blogging partners at YA Muses. We secluded ourselves near Estes National Park and spent the days writing, relaxing, critiquing and laughing.

A few thoughts I had over the weekend:

• Nothing is as inspiring as being surrounded by talent.
• Nothing is more grounding than a group of friends.
• Nothing is as good for the soul as laughter.
• Critique sessions are better with a fire and s’mores.
• Elk are gorgeous but they make funny sounds.
• I need to see more of Colorado.

I’ll dig in a little deeper over at the YA Muses on Thursday, but for now here are a few pictures.

YA Muses in front of Bear Lake

Big Fella, the Elk bull with the mostest

The walk to Bear Lake. Gorgeous.

1. ARCs! - Want to win an advanced copy of this book over here?—–>
To celebrate the earlier release date of UNDER THE NEVER SKY (January 3rd, 2012! Mark you calendars!) and because of the tremendous response to the ARC contest at the YA Muses, I’m giving away a signed ARC!

To enter, just leave a comment below, or follow this blog. Contest ends August 31st. The winner will be announced September 1st. (Open internationally.)

2. ART! - What Do These Two Works of Art Have in Common?

Munch The Scream

Bernini’s Pluto and Persephone