Take Five: Heart’s Blood by Juliet Marillier
By Therese Walsh | November 3, 2009 |
WU contributor and bestselling fantasy author Juliet Marillier has a new book out! Heart’s Blood hits shelves in the US and Australia today. To celebrate, she would like to offer two copies of her new book to Writer Unboxed. Becoming eligible for one of these copies is as easy as leaving a comment at the end of this post between now and Sunday, November 8th. We’ll choose two winners at random after that date and announce shortly thereafter.
Want to know more about this fabulous new book? Without further ado, our Take Five with Juliet Marillier.
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Q: What’s the premise of your new book?
JM: The major theme of Heart’s Blood is acceptance: learning to see beyond people’s outward flaws to their inner qualities. Parallel with that is learning to accept yourself. Acceptance lies at the heart of the fairy tale Beauty and the Beast, on which Heart’s Blood is loosely based. It means coming to terms with the past, good and bad. Communication and miscommunication form another theme. Heart’s Blood contains extracts from diaries, letters and journals, which weave the stories of past generations into the main narrative. And then there are the mirrors …
Q: What would you like people to know about the story itself?
JM: The first person narrator, Caitrin, is a skilled scribe. Running away from home, she ends up at Whistling Tor, the crumbling fortress of reclusive chieftain Anluan, where she is hired to sort and transcribe a disordered collection of family documents. As she works through these, Caitrin uncovers a dark story spanning four generations. At the same time, her presence triggers profound changes in Anluan’s eccentric household.
This is not simply a fairy tale retold. The novel contains several interweaving story elements. There’s the historical: the setting is twelfth century Ireland, the Anglo-Normans are advancing towards Connacht, and Anluan may lose his territory. The supernatural: a curse has been laid on Whistling Tor and its chieftain by a misguided ancestor, crippling Anluan’s capacity to act. The family drama: the documents reveal the tales of several generations of Anluan’s forebears, and a perilous, hundred-year secret. And then there’s Caitrin’s own story. What is she running from? Why has she turned her back on her home and family?
Readers should know that despite the title, this is not a vampire story! Heart’s blood is the name of a rare herb that features in the plot.
Q: What do your characters have to overcome in this story? What challenge do you set before them?
JM: I made significant changes to the story of Beauty and the Beast. In particular, I wanted to create a ‘Beast’ character who would be real to today’s reader. Anluan is burdened by both a physical deformity, caused by a childhood illness, and by bouts of depression. His beastly qualities are caused, not by a magic spell, but by misfortune, the limitations of early medieval medicine, and superstition. He faces challenges from the external world, not only the Norman advance but also the prejudice and mistrust of his people and the curse that lies over his household. Before he can tackle any of these, he must learn to believe in himself.
Rather than send Anluan a ‘Beauty’ who is physically perfect, strong-hearted and capable, I had Caitrin bring her own set of personal difficulties to Whistling Tor. I felt it would be much more dynamic if both the Beast and his Beauty had a journey to make towards healing. They behave like real people, not fairy tale characters, so it isn’t a straightforward process.
Q: What unique challenges did this book pose for you, if any?
JM: In my previous books, the supernatural element has always been based on the mythology or folklore of the setting. For instance, in the Sevenwaters books the mythological races of Ireland make an appearance, and Wolfskin features the oath of loyalty between a berserk warrior and the Norse gods. Heart’s Blood is my first ghost story. I did a lot of thinking about what it would mean to come back from beyond death, the nature of purgatory, and other thorny issues. I hope my somewhat unusual take on this makes sense to readers!
The main story, narrated in first person by Caitrin, unfolds as the tales of past generations are gradually revealed through the documents she is reading. I found it technically challenging to pace this well and maintain tension without stretching credibility.
The biggest challenge was one I’ve blogged about here in the past – I wrote the first few chapters of Heart’s Blood, then set them aside for a year to write a different book, which an editor had decided she wanted first. Picking the project up after that long break was difficult, and it took me a while to re-engage with the story and the characters. But I’m happy with the end result.
Q: What has been the most rewarding aspect of having written this book?
JM: At the time I began Heart’s Blood I was feeling frustrated at US editors’ lack of interest in a bigger, more historically based project I wanted to do. Who wouldn’t want to write what she loves and believes in, rather than what the editor thinks will sell? However, as I make my living as a writer I knuckled under and wrote the shorter, more romantic book required, and Heart’s Blood is the result. Of course, once I got going I came to love the oddball cast of characters and to enjoy the technical challenges presented by the story structure. Now that Heart’s Blood is in print I can truthfully say I’m proud of it. Beauty and the Beast is my favourite fairy tale. I hope my novel does it justice.
Thanks so much, Juliet! Heart’s Blood sounds fantastic. Readers, don’t forget to leave a comment for your chance to win a copy of Juliet’s new novel.
Therese Walsh (she/her) co-founded Writer Unboxed in 2006 and is the site’s editorial director. She was the editor of WU’s only book, Author in Progress, and runs the Writer Unboxed UnConference.
Her second novel, The Moon Sisters, received starred reviews and was named one of the best books of the year by Library Journal and Book Riot.
Learn more about Therese on her website, and sign up for her newsletter to be among the first to hear about any new projects.
Just started re-reading Daughter of the Forest to make way for the copy of Heir to Sevenwaters which is winging its way to Alaska. Wonderful to hear that there’s another Marillier novel on the horizon. I adore the fusion of “fairy tale,” Irish history, and fantasy. Can’t wait to read it.
I’m commeting! I’m commenting! (pathetic fan girl slinks away :-)
.-= Keziah Hill´s last blog ..Wacky weekend =-.
Beauty and the Beast has always been my favorite fariy tale too. I can’t wait to ready Heart’s Blood but I wish I didn’t have to wait so long with Amazon. (We don’t really have a book store here, at least not with books past the 1990s, aside from way too many copies of Twilight)
from what i’ve read in this blog, i think the bookwill be very interresting, and it really made me curious how the stories will begin and end :)
This sounds like a great take on Beauty and the Beast. I wish it great success and hopefully you will get to write that other novel you spoke about.
Great Interview! My current novel is loosely based on Beauty and the Beast as well. Thank you for sharing your journey. Can’t wait to read Heart’s Blood!
Can’t wait to read Heart’s Blood. It will be interesting to see how the Beauty and the Beast story will be treated and I’m intrigued by the ghost story too!
This novel sounds amazing, I love this website. I’m going to come back and spend more time here. Thank you, and good luck, Juliet! Congratulations! Kerri
I’m looking forward to this release.
Ms. Marillier will forever by one of my favorite authors:)
I am a francophone from Quebec and I practice my English by reading novels. I love stories of fantasy and I work on a writing project of love story of fantasy in this moment.You are an inspiration to me!
Juliet Good luck, I wish you much success!
This book does sound very interesting. Love the message it sends. Will be interested to check it out
Love the concept!
Glad to have found your blog. Would love to read Heart’s Blood. Thanks for offering this opportunity to win a copy.
Another book I can’t wait to read! I love how you take those fairytales and twist them. I love the Irish setting, Ireland being one of my favourite countries in the world. The people there were so nice and good-natured. I will return there somewhere in februari.
I hope you will continue to write fairytale fantasies.
All of the advice given to unpublished writers usually boils down to ‘write the book you want to write.’ Does getting published limit this freedom so much? If so, how do you keep your interest in the project your editors/agents want rather than the one you want?
Sounds like a great book that I’ll definitely have to go pick up…looking forward to it!
Wow, I love how Juliet took the fairytale and gave it (a lot of) her own twists. It sounds really intriguing, and well thought out. (Which poses an interesting contrast to my OMGWINGIT attitude for NaNoWriMo, lol.)
The cover is also beautiful, btw.
.-= Kristan´s last blog ..National Crazy Month =-.
Wow. Great opportunity. I’d love to participate in that contest!
What Juliet tells us about her new novel really makes me curious! Sounds great!
Plus, I really appreciate these TAKE FIVE you do now and then. Keep them up, please!
.-= Darkstar´s last blog ..Von Blogger zu Blogger =-.
Wow, this sounds like a wonderful book . . . but why is it considered fantasy, instead of historical or historical romance?
I love the idea of the fairytale twist and would like to be included in the drawing.
.-= Margaret A. Golla´s last blog ..Dis and Dat =-.
this story sounds wonderfully exciting. can’t wait to pick up my copy! i wish you much luck and success with its publication!
Just was introduced to Ms. Marillier by a friend…love love love the Sevenwaters Trilogy and spare book and am thrilled to have the opportunity to read another possibly through this contest! Yeah! Just ordered Wolfskin thru paperbackswap and it is on its way!
I love Beauty & the Beast and Juliet Marillier’s previous work. Behold the comment. ;)
Can’t wait to read it; I’ve been waiting for it for a couple months now. Yay! It’s finally November!
Beauty and the Beast has long been my favorite fairytale as well. And Juliet Marillier is one of my favorite writers. A perfect combination! I’m looking forward to reading her newest in a line of great works.
Ooh, I love fairy-tale retellings and I love Juliet Marillier’s books. I’m excited to read this.
I have now finished Heart’s Blood. For being a fantasy novel, it struck true to home for me. These characters are flawed, they struggle, they fight for a chance at life. They support one another, test each other, make each other cry (along with me). Accepting differences is key to the story, and for me personally, well, my family is big and each of us are different but we come together when it matters most! Juliet once again gives me another family to love! I loved this book, I was sad to say goodbye to Caitrin and Anluan at the end. I hope we can visit them again.
I think Juliet Marillier is an awesome fantasy author. My favorite is the sevenwaters triology. I have this book on my to be read and bought list. Can’t wait to escape in this fantasy!
Just finished “Daughter of the Forest,” which I heard about through this blog, and I confess I’m hooked. Love the use of mythology and fairy tale, and how it pushed the original concept a bit further. Excited about Heart’s Blood, interested to see where Marillier will take it.
I am thrilled to read this book! I think it will be nothing like any of the other books she has written. Ive read a few pages on her website and am thirsting for more!Should be great!
I am really excited to read this book! I love Beauty and the Beast, and this story just seems so rich and detailed. I can imagine how frustrating it would be to have an editor nix your story idea – it was related to Dark Mirror, wasn’t it? – but I’m greatly looking forward to this offering.
You’re consistently one of my favorite authors, and I’m always happy whenever a new release of yours comes out.
Have you ever considered writing a book based on Sleeping Beauty?
I love fairy tales, particularly those re-envisioned. Looking forward to reading this one.
I am surprised to hear Heart’s Blood described as a ghost story… sounds intriguing. I’m looking forward to it!
This book sounds lovely. I’ve been looking forward to it for awhile now. I love ghost stories, and the girl scribe running from her demons sounds interesting. The male lead with his disability, and dealing with depression is something I can relate to personally.
I have enjoyed Juliet Marillier’s novels so far, and can’t wait to read this one. I wonder if Heart’s Blood will ever be released on audio?
I can’t wait to read it. I love Juliet Marillier’s books.
.-= Lost Wanderer´s last blog ..First Day of NaNoWriMo Over and the Word Count is… =-.
I’m adding it to my TBR!
To read about paper, parchment and print and to find that a scribe has made a difference to her own and someone-else’s life is the essence of what writing is about. Thank you Juliet for putting this forward.
This sounds like a great story. I hope I didn’t read your post too quickly and miss it, but can I ask how much time you spent researching to get the detail/background material for this story?
I would love to win a copy. lauramctx at yahoo.
I can’t wait to read Juliet’s new book! It seems so exciting; I love the Sevenwaters books, and Heart’s Blood seems like it’ll be just as awesome.
Thanks for such good books, Juliet!!!
It sounds gorgeous, Juliet! Can’t wait to read it! Esp as Beauty and the Beast is my favourite fairytale too..
I have all Juliet’s books. They are amazing. Can’t wait to have this one as well. They make me dream and feel like one of the characters. They are magical. A goog book is the one that makes you completely alienate from reality while you’re reading it and all Julie’s books do that. Thank you so much and please, please never stop writing.
My copies of the Sevenwaters trilogy are plastic-covered so they don’t get fall to bits with too much rereading – can’t wait to try this new novel from such a lyrical writer (and Australian!). Must stop by my local bookshop and pick up a copy to wallow in this weekend.
I absolutely adore Juliet Marillier books. The best part is the blend between historical and fiction, it really draws in readers to a fantasy world that doesn’t have to be so far from reality. LOVE IT!
I’ve already got a copy and read it through (so I don’t want to win the copies on offer) but I just wanted to say that fans of Juliet’s previous novels won’t be disappointed! It was a lovely book, and the development of Anluan and Caitrin was beautifully executed. Thanks for another fantastic book, Juliet!
I LOVE Juliet’s books – I’ve read them all, and I’m looking forward to reading Heart’s Blood as well!
Marillier’s books are must-get books for me, although I confess that I have purchased them as trade paperbacks.
Yes, I will admit I discovered your books through another blog ( The Book Smugglers) and just picked up Daughter of the Forest. I am anxious to read it because so many people love your work.
The fairytale retelling you describe in Heart’s Blood appeals to me, because it’s is aspects and not a straight retelling. You out your mark on the story.
Thanky ou for the contest and I look forward to reading your books :)
.-= Jennygirl´s last blog ..Teaser Tuesday (Nov. 3) =-.
I love the blending of earlier cultures and historical reference with new story-telling. Can’t wait to read this one.
Thanks for all these great comments! I will be back soon with answers for the people who asked questions, am off to do an interview first.
I can’t wait to read this book! I’ve read every single book in the series, and loved all of them! (Faolan rules, by the way. :D) But I think that Heart’s Blood will by far be my most favorite, because Beauty and The Beast has always been my favorite fairy tale. BTW, will there be another Bridei Chronicles book? I’ll be heart-broken if Ms. Marillier doesn’t include Faolan in the book. (And not just as a different character, but including his point of view, like in Well Of Shades). I absolutely cannot wait to read Heart’s Blood, and I believe that Ms. Marillier’s books have been very inspiring for me. I am currently writing my own story, and I am gathering ideas from many different country settings. Ms Marillier’s, of course is foremost. Again, I can’t wait to read this book, and I REALLY hope that I get a copy! It would make me happy for eternity. I’ll be complete!! (at least until the next one comes out. :D)
Long post coming up, to answer your questions!
Isabelle – you may be interested to know that my first book, Daughter of the Forest, has just been published in French. It’s in two parts, Soeur des Cygnes Parts 1 and 2, and the publisher is L’Atalante.
Jeanne, that’s a very good question and difficult to answer. I too would advise unpublished writers to write the book they believe in. This was the first time, after 8 novels, that I’d had a proposal flatly rejected (only by my US editor – my Australian editor was happy with it.) When a series fails to earn back its advance, the editor generally won’t want more of the same. I guess I could have held to my artistic principles, written that series and accepted that they’d be published only in Australia and some European countries. Career-wise it would have been foolish to ignore the big US market, and I do earn my living as a writer. How did I reconcile this? By shaping the new project into something I loved and believed in, which made everyone happy. For aspiring writers, it’s not worth worrying about this kind of thing, which may never happen to you.
Margaret, I guess it is considered fantasy because it has a supernatural element. I don’t consider myself a fantasy writer, just a writer. I view Heart’s Blood as a combination of romance, historical fiction, mystery, family saga and ghost story.
Janelle, yes, the proposal that was rejected was for two more Bridei books to follow The Well of Shades and complete the series. Sleeping Beauty? I’ve considered that, but found the hundred years of sleep a bit of a hurdle. I may yet tackle it some day.
Nichole, it would be lovely to hear Heart’s Blood on audio (thus far there are audio versions of only three of my books.) It depends on whether someone wants to buy the audio rights.
Laura, there was a fair amount of research for Heart’s Blood. I can’t say exactly how much time it took, but many hours. There was the historical background (the Anglo-Normans in Ireland), medical information about Anluan’s various conditions, and the need to find out about certain rituals. The major part of my research was on scribing. I had the help of a friend who is a professional calligrapher (her work appears in the finished book.)
Juliet- I love all of your books, especially Sevenwaters. Read the excerpt for Heart’s Blood on your site and I cannot wait to read the rest! As long as you keep writing, I will be reading =)
I live in New Zealand and so I managed to get my hand’s on Heart’s Blood a few weeks ago. Ha ha! I read it twice within four days.
I loved Heart’s Blood as much as I loved all your other books – and they are among my favourite books ever. I admire the realism and morality that means I can always identify with the characters. I was delighted to learn you were born in New Zealand just because it means there is a New Zealand author I truly enjoy.
I stumbled upon Heir to Sevenwaters during this week’s excursion to the local library. I got caught up in the story in the first few pages. Came online tonight to visit this author’s website, order some of her other books and found this interview. This sounds like a book I really will enjoy reading. I am excited about her approach to the Beauty and the Beast tale. It’s so real life. Thanks for all this info.
Oh wow – thanks for the interview!! So great. And I’d love to be considered for the contest – can’t wait to read this one.
.-= Michelle M´s last blog ..Lit 101: The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins =-.
I’m so excited to read this book, I absolutely love everthing I’ve read by Marillier. I’m always impressed by the strength of her female characters. But what drew me to Daughter of the forest was that Marillier had chosen to re-write a fairy tale, I love the twist that she puts on it to make the characters more realistic.
I wonder if she has ever considered a retelling of greek heroes, or a series on the fianna. I think it would be interesting to read.
Sounds like a fantastic tale Juliet! I can’t wait to read it.
.-= catie james´s last blog ..nanowrimo 09: day one =-.
Well you already know I’m a huge fan. I think the book sounds wonderful and I can’t wait to read it. Mostly though, I’m just hoping you’re healthy and enjoying life.
Cheers,
Vic Kerrigan.
Really looking forward to getting lost in this new story – very few books completely sweep me up into a new world, but Juliet’s books are guaranteed to make sure I get no housework done till it’s finished! Thank you for your beautiful storytelling!
Hey Juliet, I am so glad you’re feeling better and that your radiotherapy is over!
I am so very excited about this book! Beauty and Beast is my favorite fairy tale hands down and I have been so excited ever since I found out about the book. Are you going to be writing more books based on fairy tales?
Also, you said the editors are not interested in a fourth Bridei series, but do you think you might still write that down the line? I think many readers would still be interested!!
Thank you for all the wonderful stories – they keep me going!
Huzzah, the new book is out! I will be stopping to pick it up on my way home. :-) Congratulations!
Juliet Marillier has been one of my favorite authors since I first found Daughter of the Forest, and Beauty and the Beast is my favorite fairy tale! When I learned that the two had come together, I was ecstatic! I can’t wait to read Heart’s Blood!
Thank you!
I cannot wait to read this book from my favorite author on my favorite faerie tale. She has such great interpretations I never would have imagined and I am ready to have my mind blown again!
This has been on my TBR list since I first saw the cover. Congratulations on the release!
Wow Hearts Blood sounds amazing. I can’t wait to read it. =]
I’m so excited about this book. Marillier has been a favorite writer of mine for years (my husband has even ceased to roll his eyes when he finds me curled up re-reading her older books).
I’m about a week away from finishing the last edits on my debut novel (avalible January 5th) and have decided Heart’s Blood will make an excellent little reward for finishing. (Plus, it’s a wonderful incentive to actually do it.)
N~
I am so glad that this book is finally out. I simply can’t wait to sit on my reading chair with some herbal tea and bury myself in what I know will be exciting, and enchanting contents of yet another great Juliet Marillier book. Thank you again Juliet, for giving us another great journey. I really feel that your stories leave such a lasting impression, not just after you have read them, but during the reading. I find myself through the day thinking of one of your characters, wondering what they might do, what are they thinking? Sometimes even forgetting that I don’t really know this fictional character, but some how feeling like I am sharing in their struggles in my mind. I can get so submerged in your books, that my husband will sometimes ask me ” Where were you just now?” and then I suddenly start letting out a stream of your tales to drown him in. I remember a long time ago when the very first book I read of yours was Daughter of the Forest. Every morning during breakfast, I would tell my husband what was happening in the story, according to where I was at the moment. He seemed so very into the story I was telling him, that he started to ask questions about it. He was also looking forward to hearing what was going to happen the next morning, when I would wake from yet another night of reading. I recently gave my husband his first Juliet Marillier book. My choice for him was The Well Of Shades. I figured this time he should try and read one for himself, which is much more exciting than I could ever tell any of your stories. I apologize for this very long comment, but it was the best way for me express how much I appreciate your stories, and how they add magic to all of our lives. Thank you Juliet.
I’ve already got my copy! I had reserved a copy through my local book shop. Haven’t yet had a chance to open it but I’m greatly looking forward it.
i have read every book that i have come across that has been writen my Juliet Marillier. I have LOVED them all. I am looking foward to reading this one. I know that it will be great. I have been waiting and now it is time to read. My husban and doesnt like when i get a new book of hers, he says its like have a statue of his wife sitting in the liveing room until i am finished.I CAN’T WAIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Oh, I really hope that you get to write that epic work that you wanted to write because I loved The Bridei Chronicles to pieces! Actually, I’m sure that I would like anything that you wrote!
live experiment (at) aol (dot) com
Yeah, I was so excited to finally read Heart’s blood that I accidentally went to the bookstore a few days before it came out in that shop – they’re still ordering it in. I was like ‘ooookay then, i’ll be seeing you in a few days then’… slightly awkward, it was.
I absolutely love all of Juliet Marillier’s books :) heh I own them all.
My sister first got my into reading them a while back and i’m so glad she recommended them :) my favourite is Son of the Shadows, but close second is Cybelle’s secret.
When a whole group of my friends decided to start a book club, i made them read Daughter of the Forest and since then all my friends have been into Juliet’s works. They’re all waiting for me to buy Heart’s blood so they can borrow it off me after I read it (lazy people who can be bothered going to a bookstore) so I’m guessing it will be making the rounds for quite some time.
I cannot waaait for the shop to get it in!!! I’m so excited :)
I was wondering, have you (Juliet) ever considered writing a novel based on Rapunzel? it used to be my favourite fairy tale, along with sleeping beauty, and I know someone asked about sleeping beauty up there somewhere. Also someone asked about Greek myths, and if you’d ever considered basing a story on one of them (Persephone and Hades?!) I would also like to ask about that too.
Thanks :)
Julia
I can’t wait to read this book! I have to wait for the paper back edition though. When will that be released in the UK? I can’t afford a hard back version, plus have no space to keep it! nightmare.
Cara and Madhura, the future of the Bridei series is on hold right now. I’d love to write another instalment or two, but other projects will come first. Then we’ll see.
Madhura, I’ll almost certainly write at least one more fairy tale-based book (I have written a proposal for such a book, which my editors like.)
Arielle, I’m open to all sorts of ideas. Something based on the Fianna would be a great possibility. I had not considered delving into Greek mythology and I don’t think it’s likely.
Marilee, I hope your husband enjoys The Well of Shades. I think it’s a good choice for a male reader (Wolfskin would be the other obvious choice.)
Everyone else, thanks for the great comments.
I was introduced to your books by my daughter. I loved each in turn, and have added you as one of my favorite authors. I won’t stop till I have read all your books, and then will be haunting the book stores for each new release.
I hope you continue to write in the Sevenwaters series. I saw several possibilities opening up as I read the “Heir to Sevenwaters”.
Juliet Marillier’s writing is utterly magical! She takes the concept of a fairy tale and makes it into something both more human and more beautiful than it ever was before, in all the centuries of its telling (perhaps I’m exagerating slightly, but I’m a BIG fan!) I CANNOT wait to read Heart’s Blood!
I’m really excited to read this book Juliet!
All of your characters always take such a hold of me and they always are so real.
I love how you intertwine fairy tales, myth, fantasy and history :)
When I read that the proposal for the two more Bridei Chronicle books was rejected, I think my heart stopped for a moment. I’d cry if the Bridei Chronicles were discontinued! They are the absolute favorite books in the WHOLE world, and I’d probably recede into a dark corner and have a nervous breakdown if that were the case. :D
Ms. Marillier, I seem to be having some trouble getting past writer’s block, and thinking up some good ideas for stories. Do you have any advice??
I think there’s something about reading a good book that makes a person insanely happy. :D In my school, I’m in the Speech and Debate team; and I was thinking about doing a piece on novels for the expository category. Ms. Marillier, as I said before, you’ve been my inspiration!!! I want to congratulate you on your gift with writing, and I hope you feel better soon!
I am very happy to hear that your novels are now translated into French. I can’t wait to read them!
Thank you Juliet.
This book should be great; I’ve only just read Daughter of the Forest, having been given it for my birthday, but I loved the new take on the fairy tale, and how Juliet addressed all the issues that of course would be there if the story was real, but that are never looked at in fairy tale books (for obvious reasons). I can’t stop going over bits of Daughter of the Forest, but I can’t start Son of the Shadows until after exams… In a way I’m really glad there are so many books of Juliet Marillier’s I haven’t read, as I know I have a lot of good books ahead of me!
Out of 78 comments, I think only 4, or less, are by males. That’s unfortunate.
Julia, I’ve written a short story based on Rapunzel – it’s available on my website as a free download. Not sure about a novel. As mentioned, I don’t think I base a book on Greek history or mythology, but I never rule anything out absolutely.
Holly, the book I’m currently working on is a sequel to Heir to Sevenwaters, and there will be at least one more in the series after that.
Sami, I’m not sure about timing for the UK paperback. I’d guess mid to late 2010. Why not ask your local library to get a copy?
Cara, I might address your question about writer’s block in a future post – too big a subject to discuss adequately here!
Martin, my male readers may be few but they all have impeccable taste in books.
[…] der Website Writers Unboxed, für die Juliet regelmäßig schreibt, ist am Mittwoch ein Interview mit der Australierin […]
I’m really excited about reading this book! It seems wonderful! I love all of Juliet’s books!
Juliet Marillier has written some of my favorite books. In the past I’ve grown a little tired of “Beauty and the Beast” retellings. However I can’t wait to get my hands on this book. I know it will be fabulous since it was written by Juliet. LOVE YOU JUILIET! Hope you’re health is improving and that you’re feeling fabulous!
I have been waiting for a long time for her new novel “Hearts Blood” to be published. My top 5 favorite books are the Sevenwaters Trilogy and the Bridei Chronicles. I grew up on Disney movies and knowing that she wrote a book similar to “Beauty and the Beast” makes me want to read them even more. I am constantly telling others about them. Juliet is my favorite author and her books have inspired me to read, and inspired me to write my own books. I can’t wait until I can read her new novel.
Juliet: your novels are always auto-buys for me. My copy is already in the mail, on its way. If I won another copy I would love to share it with a friend. Your work is inspiring and I am so glad you continue to write and share your stories with all of us.
i am so excited to read this! i’ve read so many re-tellings of beauty and the beast but this one seems the most intriguing and i love that juliet wrote it! she’s by far one of my favorite authors- i first read daughter of the forest during my sophmore year in high school and it completely changed my outlook on the fantasy genre.
I was wanting to read this anyways, but I did not realize until now that it was using Beauty and the Beast as a jumping off point. Ms. Marillier you spoil me too much. After doing such a wonderful job on expanding upon my favorite tale growing up ( that of the Six Swans) I know that this expansion upon Beauty and the Beast (my other childhood favorite)is in capable hands. I’m just as frustrated that you publisher was not interested in a grander historical picture, but I hope to read Heart’s Blood very soon. What a treat that will be.
I can’t wait to get this book and read it! :)
Haha, I stayed up all night last night reading this and finished it today. It does occur to me that being in my early teens and being hooked on Juliet’s books is a bit odd. Oh well. It was a great read once I got past the first 4 chapters – it seemed to me that all the dark, mysterious ghostness wasn’t going to be one of her best, but it soon engrossed me.
I read before in the comments that the Bridei Chronicles is on hold, which is a shame – probably my favourite series of JM’s. I wonder where that series would pick up from now that Faolan’s story is pretty much over? Cheers :).
WOW your new book sounds fantastic! She is my favourite author and I have been so excited, I can’t wait to read this one. Especially since Beauty and the Beast is my favourite fairy tale and I love that she has blended that with ancient Ireland and ghost stories. I look forward to many more wonderful reads from you! :D
Really want to read it. Sounds good!
I write from Germany , I read all your books , the new in english , they are not yet translated , and I love them all ! I cannot say much more than all your fans said already , we are really happy to read your new book , do you Know Clarissa Pinkola Estes , Women who run with the wolves , about the Healing Power of storytelling ?
Kristina, Women who run with the Wolves is one of my favourite, most precious books. It had a profound influence on my attitude to life.
Ashleigh, if I get to write the next Bridei book, it will be set quite a few years later and will feature have two female characters in prominent roles: Ferada and Saraid. Faolan will certainly get a chunk of the story, as will Bridei himself.
I work in a bookstore and as an employee I have the opportunity to really ‘gush’ about great books by great authors. Juliet is my number one pick for a beautiful and entrancing read. These books are so gorgeous, their characters so noble, so loyal, whenever I am having a bad day or need something to smile about I can just flip open one of them (most often Child of the Prophesy) and I am instantly in a much better place.
Thanks for such wonderful stories Juliet!
Jessie
I cant wait for this book to come out! I love you Juliet Marillier!!!
I just LOVE books that expand farie Tales, “Fairest”, “Beastly”, “Birdwing”, “bella at midnight”, and of course “Daughter of the Forest”, to name a few. I just know this new on will capture my soul and never let it go. i can’t wait to read it!!!
I’ve always been fond of the values of human infirmity, not only those of the physical spectrum but also the internal as well. To be accepted and to accept oneself is an area of spiritual growth that I think we all should explore a lot more than we’ve come to in modern times. To teach these values through the weavings of a fantasy story is a great way to go about that change, at least in my knowledge and opinion. The tale of Beauty and the Beast has always been a favorite of mine and to tell it in such a way that it makes the story transcend from a whimsical fantasy realm into that of the present norm has intrigued me. This is a book I very much intend to read soon (when the shackles of fortune grant me freedom again).
As a writer myself, and an avid reader to boot since I first learned how to read, I’ve found that the world of editing and publishing has always been rather lacking in the areas I have always felt were more significant. As you said, being able to write what you want because you love to do it instead of for the sake of profit, that to me is something that should never be challenged. Even now I’m hoping to someday revolutionize that chain of boundaries and see that more books are written out of love than out of monetary necessity.
I’m definitely looking forward to reading this!
read it and it was absolutely beautiful, totally does justice to beauty and beast. your books leave a lasting impression on who ever reads them, the way you, the themes and the motifs and most importantly the characters, they all make a tale worth remembering. I have never ever read any other author that writes like you do Juliet. its mesmerising.
I you feel good enough to write also write what you want, I for one would buy anything that you wrote knowing it would be great no matter what. when it comes to your stories no one cares what the publishers say.
Can’t wait to read it! I do so enjoy Juliet Marillier’s writing style. Cybele’s Secret is my favourite because of the fascinating setting – I would love to read another story about the dashing, dangerous and oh-so-sexy Duarte!
I really think you need to put up a contest for the cover. There are so many contests for buding writers, but not so many for artist. And as an artist who loves your booksm it would be of the greatest honour to create your next cover. ive seen the pictures on her web sight, some of them are very good, yet they are all people, landscapes are nice too.
Thanks, everyone, for comments! Winners of Juliet’s book giveaway will be announced tomorrow.
just read Ms. Marillier’s post replying to Ashleigh–I am SO relieved! If there will be a new bok in the series, my life will be complete. I reallyfel hard for that series, and I can’t wait to see Faolan happy at last; his UNhappiness, though fictional, made ME unhappy. :D So excited! You rule, Juliet!!!
[…] to three books. Our winners, chosen by a random number generator from the list of commenters on Juliet’s Take Five interview are: #s 68 (Jennifer), 17 (Kristan) and 36 (Prue). Congrats, you three! We’ll be in touch […]
I’m certainly looking forward to reading Heart’s Blood (thank you, Ms. Marillier, for the “not about vampires” dsclaimer!), but now I’m also very curious about that bigger, more historically-based project you mentioned in the interview. Any chance your fans will be hearing about developments with that?
Thanks,
Kristina Dahl
First time on this blog, and I’m very interested in reading this book. I love new twists on classic folklore/fantasy.
Nellie, covers are commissioned by the publisher, and are done either by design staff in the publisher’s office, or by professional artists. In many cases the author has no input at all. I might blog later on the subject of cover art, it’s a fascinating one.
Kristina, the project I didn’t manage to sell in the US was a continuation of the Bridei Chronicles, a series that was always intended to run to more than the existing three books. I had hoped to follow Bridei through to a key point in his (actual) reign. I haven’t entirely given up on this, but it is currently on hold. It seems my adult readership in the US wasn’t as engaged by those more historical, less magical stories (or by my Norse books, Wolfskin and Foxmask) as it was and is by the more romantic, Celtic-flavoured novels told in first person. A shame, because I’m sure The Well of Shades contains my best romance! And I do love writing those more substantial novels.
Adrian, that’s a perceptive comment – I appreciate what you said about the ‘values of infirmity’.
How does a writer weigh up artistic freedom vs the need to make a living? I reckon there is scope for a major discussion on that topic here at some point. The question is fraught with all kinds of dilemmas.
Ms. Marillier, I agree with you—The Well of Shades does contain your best romance story!
By the way, what exactly is the Tuatha De Danaan? I’ve read that it’s a clan of fairy people, but when I look it up, there’s no information of value.
Hello Julliette,
I have read every one of your books and have been longing for your next one. So, here it is.
You are on my list of favourite writers. I would certainly enjoy receiving a copy of Heart’s Blood.
ULALxxxRifka
Cara, the Tuatha de Danann are one of the mythological races of Ireland, sometimes called the Fair Folk. You’ll find versions of the old stories in these books:
Irish Myths and Legends by Lady Gregory
Early Irish Myths and Sagas (Penguin Classics)
Tuatha de Danann means ‘People of the goddess Danu.”
Ms. Marillier,
What a pity it is for me that your project continuing the Bridei Chronicles wasn’t well-received in the U.S.! I do so hope that I’ll get the opportunity to enjoy the continuance of Bridei’s reign via your storytelling prowess someday. Who do I have to accost here in the U.S. to get their heads on straight?! :)
I’ve found myself almost consuming your stories, I’ve had such an insatiable desire to read everything you’ve written! Thank you for the journeys and lessons learned through your characters’ trials, triumphs, failures and redemptive experiences. Each book has held me spellbound, mesmerizing me with the learning of other cultures and customs — historical, fairytale, and in-between — while occasionally breaking my heart then mending it as the stories unfold. Most of the time I think, “Wow, were these written just for me?” because your books have been perfect for my learning and enjoyment, with no exceptions.
I was raised to try to always be teachable, and now, quite fittingly placed into my life, “There is learning in everything,” has become a staple in how I respond to each day’s experiences! The phrase goes through my mind and pops out of my mouth without a second thought sometimes.
Before I have the chance to grab a tangent and run with it, I’ll curb my enthusiasm and not babble on! I’ll end here with, “Thank you!”
Thank you,
Kristina Dahl