VIDEOS: Charlaine Harris in Portugal

As part of Charlaine Harris‘ European Book Tour, Charlaine was in Lisbon, Portugal on March 12 and 13, 2010 to promote her latest Sookie Stackhouse novel coming out in May, Book 10 – Dead in the Family.  Below is a series of videos taken at the book signing and talk at Maxime’s.  Enjoy the videos!

Charlaine Harris Loving True Blood

Recently, DigitalSpy.com had the chance to interview Charlaine Harris about True Blood and her opinions of it. Be warned, some spoilers are present, so if you don’t want to know anything, don’t read this!

The interview opens with Charlaine discussing how she reacted to offers to make her Southern Vampire Mystery books into a TV series. She said that she had three interested parties, but of course Alan Ball’s offer was the most interesting, so she chose him to create the show we all know and love.

In fact, just like the rest of us, Charlaine follows the show and loves it. She says,

“I’m amazed! I love Alan’s creativity, I love the cast – I’ve just been very impressed with the way he’s stayed true to the spirit of the books. I’ve been with the characters for so long, but I admire the way they’re taking the parts and making them their own.”

Charlaine openly admits that she has no involvement with True Blood except for having created the source material, so it makes sense that the different visions she and Alan have of the characters create different outcomes. Those differences allow for fans of both True Blood and the Southern Vampire Mysteries to be surprised as new materials continue to be released by both series.

Charlaine also talked about how different her books and True Blood are. After all, she’s writing directly from Sookie’s point of view, and Alan cannot do that, as TV is an entirely different medium that typically requires an omniscient point of view, which means that the entire world of True Blood is a bit more fleshed out, especially when it comes to secondary characters. Charlaine is also very grateful to Alan that he has kept his promise to her by staying true to the spirit of the books and Sookie’s many adventures (something Charlaine repeats several times throughout the interview).

Ask if there have been any changes that she hasn’t like Charlaine stated:

“There have been some sub-stories that I wasn’t as nuts about as others, but there hasn’t been anything I’ve really hated. I wasn’t too keen on the voodoo story, but I see now why they introduced it in the second season. Once I saw it, it all made sense.”

Speaking of Sookie, Charlaine is a huge fan of Anna Paquin’s portrayal of the spunky lead character on True Blood. In Charlaine’s words,

“Anna Paquin does a fantastic Sookie! I was so excited when she wanted the role and I think she’s doing a wonderful job.”

It’s wonderful to hear that Charlaine enjoys Anna’s amazing performance as much as the rest of us fans do! After all, who else could play Sookie now that we’ve seen Anna take on the challenge so well? The same sentiment goes for the rest of the actors we know and love, like Stephen Moyer, Sam Trammell, Rutina Wesley, Ryan Kwanten, Alexander Skarsgard, etc. As Charlaine says,

“It’s bizarre seeing famous faces acting out my characters – it’s very strange and I’m still trying to get used to it! But of course, seeing my name up there every week is quite a thrill!”

Charlaine was also quizzed about whether or not she would ever pen an episode of True Blood. She said no, because she’s too busy writing the books and can’t imagine trying to make space in her calendar to do such a thing. After all, Charlaine’s contract has 13 in total Southern Vampire Mysteries in it, and we’re still awaiting the next installment to the series as it is. Charlaine said that while writing the next book, she will consider whether or not to finish the series at the 13th book. Her decision will not affect True Blood, as she and Alan Ball are writing slightly different stories, and so far True Blood is only contracted up to Season 4.

The close of the interview was where the big spoilers could be found. Charlaine said that she has no plans to turn Sookie into a vampire, and also that the series will not end with Sookie dying.

It’s interesting to hear what may or may not happen to Sookie in the future, even though Charlaine wasn’t asked and gave away no real clues as to who Sookie will end up with. It will be very interesting to see how Charlaine will wrap up the series when it does finally come to an end.

SOURCE: DigitalSpy.com

(Photo credit:  authorauthorshreveport.com)

VIDEOS: Charlaine Harris Talks In-Depth About Dead in the Family

Charlaine Harris is a real life steel magnolia. She is always so polite and charming, with just a hint of “don’t mess with me” underneath (anonymous Amazon book reviewers be warned!).

This interview was recorded in Poland where Charlaine was promoting the upcoming release of the 10th Sookie Stackhouse novel, Dead in the Family (DITF).

In the interview Charlaine discusses her work, in particular DITF and the True Blood series on HBO. The interview contains some book spoilers – so don’t watch the videos if you don’t want to know. I won’t reveal them here. Charlaine also answers questions from her fans, including some tips for aspiring writers.

Just like all True Blood fans, Charlaine is eagerly looking forward to Season 3 of True Blood and is thrilled at the casting of Joe Manganiello as Alcide Herveaux, describing Joe as much more handsome than the Alcide she imagined in her head.

Charlaine is currently writing the 11th Sookie novel, some short stories and the Sookie Companion which is due out next February.

And as for Bill and Sookie getting back together? Charlaine tells us we’ll just have to wait and see…

Enjoy the videos!

(Photo credit:  charlaineharris.com)

Special Offer for Charlaine Harris Biography

If you are a big fan of Charlaine Harris, who brought us the Sookie Stakehouse series which was later turned into HBO’s hit show True Blood, then you will have a limited chance to receive Bluewater Productions‘ Female Force comic book biography of Charlaine Harris. As we previously mentioned here the book will trace  Charlaine’s career from the publication of the lighthearted Aurora Teargarden mysteries to the phenomenon of her vampire-infused Sookie Stackhouse stories.

For a limited time you can receive a copy of this book signed by the book’s artist, Nathan Ooten, and will include a copy of the original sketch for only $10.00. This copy can only be ordered on through http://kimberlysherman.webs.com/biographypromotions.htm.

All orders must be in by March 22 to be able to get this special fan favorite. This would be perfect gift for any True Blood fan!

SOURCE:  kimberlysherman.webs.com

(Photo credit: Nathan Ooten via kimberlysherman.webs.co)

VIDEO: Charlaine Harris Talks True Blood, Dead in the Family and Vampires

Charlaine Harris has been a busy bee during her European Book Tour. While in the UK, Charlaine was interviewed by Brit television channel Sky TV to talk about her Sookie Stackhouse series, True Blood, the upcoming release of Dead in the Family, and the current popularity of vampires.

In the first clip of the interview, Charlaine discussed her reasons for writing the Southern Vampire Mystery novels. She stated that she was at a crossroads in her writing career-having written more conventional mystery novels, she thought it would be fun to write mystery stories involving supernatural creatures, and add a “dash of explicit sex.” However, Charlaine did not want to write from the vampire point of view, but rather thought it would be more entertaining to write from the perspective of a young woman trying to date a vampire and the problems she’d face.

Regarding True Blood, Charlaine had nothing but glowing remarks to say about Alan Ball’s direction with the show and treatment of the characters. Charlaine mentioned that she’d received many other offers to develop the books into a series; however, she admired Alan’s work and it was a thrill for her that he wanted to work with the Sookie books.  She trusted him and felt comfortable with him. For that matter, Charlaine remarked that she has enjoyed what Alan’s creative team has cooked up to “amplify the characters and bring them forward.” Charlaine was particularly envious of the creation of the character of Jessica, and said, “I wish I’d thought of that.”

As for casting, Charlaine stated that not only do they have to cast people who look good, but who can also act, and “Ball got ‘em right.” Charlaine was quick to mention that Chris Bauer who plays Bon Temps’ police detective Andy Bellefleur looked exactly as she imagined the character in the book. Additionally, Kristin Bauer, who plays tough-as-nails Pam, is very close to the Pam from the novels and that both Chris and Kristin were fantastic casting choices!

When asked about the next installment in the Sookie Stackhouse series, Dead in the Family, Charlaine commented that it’s all about family – Sookie’s “strange and extended family,” Bill’s family, and Eric’s. It will be a complicated book and involves a lot of history.

When discussing the rise in popularity of vampires in pop culture, Charlaine observed that in today’s culture we worship youth and fitness – eternal perfection – which while unattainable to us mere humans, vampires can possess these qualities. Additionally, the economy has played a role in the type of entertainment people consume. Charlaine added that people traditionally turn to fantasy when there is an economic slump like the one that most of the world has been experiencing for the past couple of years.

Inevitably, the question of how Charlaine’s novels compare with other series such as Twilight and The Vampire Diaries came up. Charlaine offered that her books pre-date Stephenie Meyer’s books, but more importantly, target a different kind of audience. Although she’d never read or watched The Vampire Diaries, Charlaine pointed out that the series, much like Laurel K. Hamilton’s series, target different audiences as well. People can read all the different series and come away with different entertainment experiences.

To watch the interview with Charlaine with Sky TV click here.

To enter Sky TV’s competition to win one of five signed sets of Charlaine’s books click here. (Note: This promotion is open to all UK, Isle of Man, Channel Islands and Republic of Ireland residents only).

SOURCE: SkyTV

(Photo credit:  charlaineharris.com)

Charlaine Harris Spends Time with Fans in Poland

On March 5, 2010, Charlaine Harris spent time in Warsaw, Poland, as she continues her tour across Europe to promote the Sookie Stackhouse series. She did a Q&A session with the fans, several media interviews, and a book signing. About 100 people showed up. One group that was particularly excited to see her was the “Truly Bitten” fan club. On their forum, they posted pictures and personal accounts from the event.

The videos embedded below show the Q&A part of the evening. Charlaine talks about how she developed Sookie to be a character whose story she would want to tell for many years over the course of the series. She recounts the reasons that Alan Ball’s offer to adapt her books was the best one. She calls him a “genius” and says she loves his storytelling and the fact that she can still be surprised by what happens, even though it’s based on what she wrote. She thinks that everyone in the cast is great and enjoys seeing how they have grown into their roles.

She also discusses the current trend in fantasy, especially with vampires. She didn’t set out to write about vampires but about Sookie–all the supernatural creatures were just a way to make Sookie’s story more interesting. Charlaine talks about reading other vampire literature to see how different authors approach the same mythos in unique ways.

It seems like everyone was charmed by Charlaine’s sense of humor, and that it was truly a special experience for them to see her and talk to her about her books and True Blood!

SOURCE: trueblood.eev.pl

(Photo credits: trueblood.eev.pl)

Charlaine Harris Talks Sookie and True Blood on her European Book Tour

As she travels around Europe over the next couple of weeks, Charlaine Harris will have the opportunity to meet and speak with many of her international fans. She will be in the UK next week, so the local newspaper in Nottingham, England, interviewed her about her books and the experience of having them adapted into a television series.

Of course, Charlaine would not reveal any major spoilers about Dead in the Family, which will be out in May 2010, but she did say fans would be surprised about what happens to Sookie next. She also hinted at the appearance of a new supernatural being:

“In the next book there’s an incidental character who’s of another race. And there are still some fairies hanging around. Hope you enjoy them.”

On the subject of True Blood, Charlaine said how much she loves the show and enjoys seeing her stories and characters through executive producer Alan Ball’s interpretation. Asked about True Blood’s British star, Stephen Moyer, and his performance as old-fashioned Southern vampire, Bill Compton, Charlaine had very nice things to say about him:

“I admire Stephen. I’m so pleased he’s in the series, and I think he’s given Bill depth and great appeal.”

Charlaine also hinted at a possible adaptation of the Harper Connelly series. She has been approached by people interested in making a tv show, which “may happen, may not.” Her work is certainly in high demand right now! Harper would be an interesting character to see come to life, but for now we’re all just trying to make it through these last 3 months until we get to see Sookie and our beloved Bon Temps folks on our television screens again!

SOURCE: thisisnottingham.co.uk

(Photo credit: arkansaswriters.com)

Win An Advanced Copy of Charlaine Harris’ Dead in the Family

Are you dying to know what happens in Charlaine Harris‘ next installment of the Southern Vampire Mysteries / Sookie Stackhouse novels? Here’s your chance to win an advanced copy of ‘Dead in the Family‘ before it hits the shelves in May!

Here’s what you need to know:
Although the contest is being held in the UK, two lucky winners will be chosen from an international pool of commenters. To increase your chances of being one of the lucky two winners go to Suzanne McLeod’s blog and leave ONE comment with up to five questions you would like Charlaine to answer during her interview for the Gollancz website. The most interesting/creative question will be chosen and that person will receive an advanced copy of ‘Dead in the Family‘.

You can increase your chances by linking the contest from your social media site, personal website, blog, etc. Each link you provide to others will enable you to ask FIVE MORE questions in another comment (for example, if you link the contest from your Facebook, Myspace, and blog you will be able to add three more comments with up to five questions each).

The second advanced copy will be selected randomly, so the more questions and comments you are able to leave, the higher your chances!

Please check the link for the official rules and regulations, and let us know here at TrueBloodNet.com if you’re a winner. Good luck!

SOURCES: Suzanne McLeod Blog

(Photo credit: Charlaine Harris)

True Blood’s Upcoming (Unofficial) Companion Book

Fans cannot get enough True Blood. And lucky us, neither can writers.

“Truly, Madly, Deadly: The Unofficial True Blood Companion” by Rebecca Wilcott will provide readers with episode analysis, interesting essays, and insightful interviews. Wilcott is keenly aware of the attention span of the internet age and takes that into consideration when arranging her interviews.

“… a chunk of my interviews will run as unique sidebars to retain the pace of the conversation  and the interviewee’s original voice. Cause that’s the best kind of chit chat, isn’t it? The kind that feels like you could be in a pub or coffee shop, just two people getting more and more jazzed about their topic.”

Interviews include Kristin Bauer (Pam), Patricia Bethune (Jane Bodehouse), AND the creator of Sookie and her world, Charlaine Harris. The cover art of this upcoming book was recently released.

“Truly, Madly, Deeply: The Unofficial True Blood Companion” has a tentative release date in, you guessed it, June, from ECW Press.

SOURCES:

scifiguy.ca

rebeccawilcott.com

(Photo credit: rebeccawilcott.com)

Charlaine Harris: A Female Force To Be Reckoned With

In exciting news for fans of HBO’s “True Blood” and the Sookie Stackhouse series on which it is based, author Charlaine Harris will be featured in Bluewater Productions’ Female Force comic book biography series.  This follows hot on the heels of the news that Charlaine’s Harper Connelly series is to be published in graphic format.

Bluewater Productions is a publishing company that specializes in comic book, graphic novel and multimedia stories of classic myths, science fiction and superheroes.  They have also recently begun to publish the biography comic series FEMALE FORCE and POLITICAL POWER.  According to the Bluewater Productions, Charlaine is the first subject of a graphic format biography to agree to participate in its production and spent considerable time with the comic’s writer, Kim Sherman.

Female Force: Charlaine Harris will trace the writer’s career from the publication of the lighthearted Aurora Teargarden mysteries to the phenomenon of her vampire-infused Sookie Stackhouse stories.

Here is the Official Press release:

Bluewater brings to life the story of Sookie Stackhouse’s and “TRUE BLOOD” creator

It’s the rare author who achieves superstar status. Stephen King, Anne Rice, Tom Clancy, John Grisham and J.K. Rowling may be household names. But for every one of them, there are hundreds of struggling writers who watch as their masterpieces never make it anywhere near the New York Times’ bestseller list.

For most of the more than 20 years that Charlaine Harris has spent writing mysteries, she fit squarely into that later category. She had her fans, but she was nowhere near a household name. Then she created a character called Sookie Stackhouse, and everything changed.

Sookie Stackhouse is now the featured character on HBO’s hit southern gothic vampire series True Blood. And Harris, who will release her 10th Sookie Stackhouse book this summer, is finally one of those household names.

This May, Harris will also star in her first comic book, as the subject of Bluewater Productions’ latest entry in its popular Female Force line of biographical comics. Harris herself participated in Female Force: Charlaine Harris, granting extensive interviews to writer Kim Sherman. This marks an important first for Bluewater: Harris is the first celebrity to be interviewed for the Female Force series.

“Gathering first-hand information and feeling the strength that Harris exudes, both personally and professionally, immensely contributes to the originality and authenticity of this Female Force book,” said writer Sherman.

Nathanlie Ooten provided the interior art for Female Force: Charlaine Harris, while artist Patricio Carbajal provided the cover.

Female Force: Charlaine Harris will trace the writer’s career from the publication of the lighthearted Aurora Teargarden mysteries to the phenomenon of her vampire-infused Sookie Stackhouse stories.

This book is an especially appropriate one for Sherman. Earlier, Sherman wrote Bluewater’s Fame: Robert Pattison, profiling the actor who stars as the vampire with a conscience in the hit Twilight movies. In profiling Harris, Sherman is again exploring the world of literary vampires.

For Bluewater president Darren G. Davis, the Harris biography provides another chance to introduce new readers to the world of comic books.

“With our Female Force, Fame and Political Power biography comics, we’ve introduced countless new readers to the joy of sequential storytelling,” Davis said. “These comics have proven to be exceptionally popular. We expect Charlaine Harris‘ story to attract even new readers to the graphic format.”

Female Force: Charlaine Harris will retail for $3.99, and will include 32 pages.

“Charlaine Harris is an inspiration to young writers everywhere,” Davis added. “Harris never quit on her dreams to become a published writer. And she kept writing until she reached the explosive success that her Sookie Stackhouse books now enjoy. I’m thrilled to present this talented writer’s story to the fans who only know Stackhouse from True Blood.”

Way to go Charlaine!

SOURCE:

MTV Splash Page

Bluewater Productions

(Photo credit: Patricio Carbajal via Bluewater Productions)

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