Hi, Nicole! Can you tell our readers a bit about yourself?

Hi! I’m Nicole Lesperance, and I write strange and magical books for young adults and middle grade readers. I live just outside of Boston with my family and my two black cats. In my spare time, I like to knit, practice yoga, and read tarot cards.

When did you first discover your love for writing and stories?

Back in fourth grade, we had designated writing time, and our teacher would give us those blue essay booklets and tell us to write literally anything we wanted for like twenty minutes every day. I started writing epic, mulitpart stories about the OG Disney characters (Mickey, Minnie, etc.) going to haunted houses and meeting gorey, untimely ends My teacher would read them and leave little comments like “Goodness, how are they going to get out of this?” (spoiler: they weren’t). I still remember the rush, like the stories were almost coming out faster than I could write them down, and feeling like I had magical powers to create something out of nothing. I’m so grateful to that teacher for encouraging what was essentially fanfiction but developed into a lifelong love for storytelling and writing.

Quick lightning round! Tell us:

• The first book you ever remember reading: I started reading really young, so I don’t have a specific memory of my first book, but I loved Astrid Lindgren’s books, especially Ronia, the Robber’s Daughter. I also had a big phase of reading and rereading The Secret Garden.
• The one that made you want to become an author: The two books that made me fall in love with YA and realize that my writing style could be a good fit for it were Lips Touch: Three Times by Laini Taylor and Chime by Franny Billingsley.
• The one that you can’t stop thinking about: I read the Locked Tomb series by Tamsyn Muir last year and am OBSESSED with it. Like the rest of the fandom, I am eagerly awaiting the final book, and in the meantime I’m planning to reread the series, because the books are so complex and there are so many clever little secrets and clues hidden everywhere and I’m excited to find all the ones I missed.

Your latest novel, A Spell to Wake the Dead, is out August 26^th! If you could only describe it in five words, what would they be?

Occult, moonlit, coastal, macabre, suspenseful

What can readers expect?

A Spell to Wake the Dead is a witchy YA thriller about two best friends who find a body washed up on a beach one night. In an effort to solve the mystery, they use witchcraft to contact the sprit of the dead woman … and it ends up being a very bad idea.

Where did the inspiration for A Spell to Wake the Dead come from?

This is going to sound funny because the book is fairly gruesome and full of murder, but it’s my love letter to Cape Cod in the off-season. I grew up there, and it’s strange to live in an area that transforms into a vacation paradise three months out of the year, but the rest of the time, it’s just a normal (but still beautiful) place where regular people live. I feel like most visitors don’t get the full picture of Cape Cod, so I wanted to lean into the dark, windy emptiness of late autumn and set my story there. Mazzy and Nora’s journey with withcraft is loosely based on some of the dabbling that my sister and I used to do as teens, as well as my own experience with tarot cards and other witchy practices.

Were there any moments or characters you really enjoyed writing or exploring?

I loved sending my characters to all the places that my friends and I used to haunt as teenagers on Cape Cod. Moonlit beaches, shadowy graveyards, Scargo Tower, Grays Beach, etc. Obviously we weren’t investigating murders or sneaking into morgues or anything, but it was fun to take my real memories and weave the story into them.

Did you face any challenges whilst writing? How did you overcome them?

In the middle of revising this book, I broke my heel in a freak accident involving a loft and a ladder. You wouldn’t think this would affect my ability to write, but I usually go for long walks to do all of my brainstorming and plot planning. So for a couple of months, it was really hard to get my brain into creative mode, but I figured out some workarounds, like listening to playlists, freewriting, and taking long showers. I have no idea why showers work, but they are magical for idea generating.

What’s next for you?

I’m working on a couple of different projects at the moment, and I can’t say much about them except that they are magical/speculative and weird, just like all of my other books.

Lastly, what books have you enjoyed reading this year? Are there any you’re looking forward to picking up?

I’m a huge T Kingfisher fan, having read A Wizard’s Guide to Defensive Baking a few years ago with my son. Recently, I read her book What Moves the Dead, and it was pure gothic perfection, so eerie and mysterious and disturbing with just a hint of wry humor from the narrator, which doesn’t sound like it would work but totally does. As for upcoming books, I’m really excited for Margot Harrison’s The Library of Fates, which comes out in December!

Will you be picking up A Spell To Wake The Dead? Tell us in the comments below!

The post Q&A: Nicole Lesperance, Author of ‘A Spell To Wake The Dead’ appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Intrigued? Well read on to discover the synopsis and an excerpt from Nicole Lesperance’s The Depths, which is out now.

Eulalie Island should be a paradise, but to Addie Spencer, it’s more like a prison.

Forced to tag along to the remote island on her mother’s honeymoon, Addie isn’t thrilled about being trapped there for two weeks. The island is stunning, with its secluded beaches and forests full of white flowers. But there’s something eerie and unsettling about the place.

After Addie meets an enigmatic boy on the beach, all the flowers start turning pink. The island loves you, he tells her. But she can’t stop sleepwalking at night, the birds keep calling her name, and there’s a strange little girl in the woods who wants to play hide-and-seek. When Addie learns about two sisters who died on the island centuries ago, she wonders if there’s more to this place, things only she can see.

Beneath its gorgeous surface, Eulalie Island is hiding dark, tangled secrets. And if Addie doesn’t unravel them soon, the island might never let her go.

Leaving Billy outside, I step into the ruins. The temper­ature drops, and the musty air makes me cough. As I wipe the bloody flecks onto the leg of my shorts, a vine slithers out from a crack in the foundation, and I stomp on it, crushing the leaves and stem before it can blossom. It’s unbearable that those flowers are growing from my blood. The island is taking pieces of me and making them part of itself. As gorgeous as it is, I don’t want to be part of this island.

“You okay in there?” asks Billy.

“Fine.” I grind my heel into the vine and keep moving.

Lenora’s harp lies in the same position, and I feel slightly guilty for having broken its last surviving string. There’s nothing else in the room, but Lenora’s presence lingers, just barely perceptible, like the traces of someone’s perfume.

It’s hard to get the half-rotten harp upright with a tree growing through its center, but I manage to get it diagonal, and then I sit on the ground and slide my shoulder under­neath. Time and nature have taken their toll on the instru­ment, but it’s somehow even more lovely with the real vines intertwined with the carved roses. I’ve got no idea how to actually play it, so I’ll just pretend. As my fingers drag across the invisible strings, I feel a shuddery vibration go through the harp, through the ground, through the walls and the trees and even the humid air around me.

“Whoa,” whispers Billy outside.

Aa-dee-dee-dee, call the birds, like they want me to play again, but something about it feels wrong. Like I’m summon­ing things I shouldn’t be.

“What’s that near the bottom of the harp?” Billy pokes his head through a former window. “It looks like writing.”

Gently, I set the instrument down, then find a stick to clear away the leaves and dirt. Twining among the roses is a line of hand-carved text.

J, may this music bring me your love.

I read the words out loud.

“Nope, I don’t like that,” says Billy.

“J has to be Jonah, right?” I say.

“I hope you didn’t just summon his ghost by pretend-playing the harp,” says Billy.

It’s obviously a joke, but I grit my teeth because I just had the same thought about summoning.

My chest clenches up suddenly, and then I’m coughing so hard I have to hold on to the mossy black wall of Lenora’s house to stay upright.

In seconds, vines sprout from the earth, spiraling in a semi­circle around me, trapping me against the wall, and all I can manage is a half-hearted kick to get them away, but more take their place. Still I cough, my lungs on fire and my head spin­ning, as tendrils slither like snakes over my arms, my shoulders. Flowers bud and blossom, their petals turning from white to pink. They yawn open like they’re breathing me in, like they want to eat me, and I’m coughing too hard to pull them off.

Billy rushes into the room and stomps a vine with his bare foot, then yelps in pain. He starts ripping away the plants, whose flowers are deepening to red, then purple as they spiral higher around me, crowding in closer, closer as I gasp for breath.

“Don’t move,” he says, as if I could do anything else. Finally, I manage to draw in a full breath of air, then another, and I yank the rest of the vines off my torso, my legs, my neck. My gaze snags on something sticking out of a crack in the mossy wall.

“Come on!” Billy pulls me through a path he’s cleared, but I lunge back and shove my hand into the crack. A narrow object tumbles out, and I barely manage to catch it before it falls into the swarming vines. We race out of the house and up the dirt path, not slowing until we’re far from the valley.

“Stop,” I gasp, crouching and breathing as shallowly as possible. I will not cough again. I cannot.

“You’re okay,” says Billy, panting. “Everything’s okay. Look, no more vines.” He’s wide-eyed, his face pale, and if he’s anything like me, his heart is almost beating out of his chest.

“What . . . was that?” I gasp.

“I have no clue,” says Billy. “Hold still.” He pulls some­thing from my hair. A tiny, perfect flower the color of blood. We both stare at it for a long moment, and then he throws it into the bushes.

Aa-dee-dee-dee, trill the birds.

The post Read An Excerpt From ‘The Depths’ by Nicole Lesperance appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

With a new (and hopefully better) year now in full swing, we are antsy to get our hands on so many books! Middle grade novels are upping their already strong game in 2021 with a plethora of diverse and inclusive plots. From thrilling sequels by household names such as Victoria Schwab and Hena Khan, to promising debut authors like Nicole Lesperance and Alyssa Colman, 2021 looks like a promising year for middle-grade novel lovers.

Want more 2021 releases? Check out our lists for Most Anticipated 2021 Books, 2021 Queer Book Releases, 2021 Fantasy & Sci-Fi Book Releases, 2021 Romance Book Releases, 2021 YA Book Releases, and 2021 Queer SFF Book Releases.

Read on to discover the out-of-this-world novels that are heading your (or your kids’) way in 2021!

JANUARY

The Nightmare Thief by Nicole Lesperance
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In the tradition of Natalie Lloyd and Ingrid Law comes a whimsical debut about a girl, her family’s dream shop, and a nightmare thief determined to change the course of her life as she knows it.

Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Artemis Fowl meets Men in Black in this exhilarating debut middle grade fantasy, the first in a trilogy filled with #blackgirlmagic, about a young girl who must earn a spot at the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs in order to find her missing brother—only to discover that her unprecedented levels of potential and power have marked her as a suspect in the ongoing fight against an evil magical threat.

The Sea in Winter by Christine Day
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In this evocative and heartwarming novel for readers who loved The Thing About Jellyfish, the author of I Can Make This Promise tells the story of a Native American girl struggling to find her joy again.

Clues to the Universe by Christina Li
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

This #ownvoices debut about losing and finding family, forging unlikely friendships, and searching for answers to big questions will resonate with fans of Erin Entrada Kelly and Rebecca Stead.

Unplugged by Gordon Korman
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From New York Times bestselling author Gordon Korman comes a hilarious middle grade novel about a group of kids forced to “unplug” at a wellness camp—where they instead find intrigue, adventure, and a whole lot of chaos. Perfect for fans of Korman’s The Unteachables, the Masterminds series, and Carl Hiaasen’s eco mysteries.

Magic’s Most Wanted by Tyler Whitesides
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Magic is closer than you ever thought possible in this madcap middle grade adventure perfect for fans of James Riley and Chris Grabenstein.

FEBRUARY 

Red, White and Whole by Rajani LaRocca
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A heartbreakingly hopeful #ownvoices novel in verse about an Indian American girl whose life is turned upside down when her mother is diagnosed with leukemia.

The Greatest Superpower by Alex Sanchez
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Fans of Alex Sanchez, the award-winning author of Rainbow Boys and the Lambda Award-winning novel So Hard to Say, will delight in his new middle-grade novel, which addresses the complexities of gender identity with honesty, humor, and heart. Readers will be encouraged to find their own superpowers thanks to Sanchez’s story, which gives face to a traditionally invisible minority and focuses on what it means to be yourself.

Ancestor Approved ed. By Cynthia Leitich Smith 
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Edited by award-winning and bestselling author Cynthia Leitich Smith, this collection of intersecting stories by both new and veteran Native writers bursts with hope, joy, resilience, the strength of community, and Native pride.

The Hatmakers by Tamzin Merchant
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

An enchanting fantasy adventure about the importance of bravery, resourcefulness, and following your heart from a debut author.

The Deepest Breath by Meg Grehan
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

An accessible and beautifully written middle grade novel-in-verse by award-winning Irish author Meg Grehan about Stevie, a young girl reckoning with anxiety about the many things she has yet to understand—including her feelings about her friend Chloe. Perfect for fans of Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World, Star Crossed, and George.

The Mysterious Disappearance of Aidan S. (as Told by His Brother) by David Levithan
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

New York Times bestselling author David Levithan takes young readers on twisting journey through truth, reality, and fantasy and belief.

MARCH

Bridge of Souls by Victoria Schwab
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Cassidy Blake takes on her most dangerous challenge yet in the latest book in this New York Times bestselling series.

The Accidental Apprentice by Amanda Foody
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A boy who accidentally bonds with a magical Beast must set off on an adventure in the mysterious Woods in this whimsical and cheeky middle grade fantasy debut that is perfect for fans of Nevermoor and How to Train Your Dragon.

Amina’s Song by Hena Khan
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In the companion novel to the beloved and award-winning Amina’s Voice, Amina once again uses her voice to bridge the places, people, and communities she loves – this time across continents.

Breathing Underwater by Sarah Allen
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Breathing Underwater is a sparkly, moving middle grade novel from the author of What Stars Are Made of, and a big-hearted exploration of sisterhood, dreams, and what it means to be there for someone you love.

The House that Wasn’t There by Elana K. Arnold
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

National Book Award finalist and Printz Honoree Elana K. Arnold returns with a powerful, heartwarming, unforgettable story of the mysterious ways in which we’re all connected, and what those connections mean. 

The Girl Who Stole the Elephant by Nizrana Farook
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Own Voices debut author Nizrana Farook spins an exciting, page-turning tale in a lush, vibrant, fictional Sri Lankan setting and featuring themes of friendship and loyalty, risk and reward, and heroism. A great middle-grade escapist novel and readaloud! 

APRIL

Cece Rios and the Desert of Souls by Kaela Rivera
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

When a powerful desert spirit kidnaps her sister, Cece Rios must learn forbidden magic to get her back in this #ownvoices middle grade fantasy debut perfect for fans of Storm Runner and Aru Shah and the End of Time.

The Last Windwitch by Jennifer Adam
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

This delightfully classic middle grade fantasy debut, perfect for fans of Serafina and the Black Cloak and The Book of Boy, follows an unlikely young witch as she discovers that she is the key to saving her kingdom.

Sea of Kings by Melissa Hope
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

When their island kingdom falls under siege, royal brothers Noa and Dagan must follow a magical map and confront the legendary one-eyed pirate before evil takes over their world.

The Gilded Girl by Alyssa Colman
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Any child can spark magic, but only the elite are allowed to kindle it. Those denied access to the secrets of the kindling ritual will see their magic snuffed out before their thirteenth birthday. Heartfelt, fast-paced, and utterly absorbing, The Gilded Girl is Alyssa Colman’s sparkling debut novel about determination, spirit, and the magic of friendship.

The Last Shadow Warrior by Sam Subity
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Percy Jackson meets Thor in a laugh-out-loud, action-packed adventure inspired by Norse mythology.

Thornlight by Claire LeGrand
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Resourceful twin sisters and a desperate queen must find a new source of magic to stop their kingdom from being consumed by darkness. This classic fantasy-adventure from bestselling author Claire Legrand is full of twists, turns, and unforgettable moments. Thornlight is a must-have for fans of Tahereh Mafi and Diana Wynne Jones.

MAY

Hazel Bly and the Deep Blue Sea by Ashley Herring Blake
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

For fans of Erin Entrada Kelly and Ali Benjamin comes a poignant yet hopeful novel about a girl navigating grief, trauma, and friendship, from the award-winning author of Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World.

The Shape of Thunder by Jasmine Warga
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

An extraordinary new novel from the Newbery Honor–winning author of Other Words for Home about grief, loss—and how friendship can be magical.

Thanks a Lot, Universe by Chad Lucas
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A moving middle-grade #ownvoices debut for anyone who’s ever felt like they don’t belong.

Rea and the Blood of the Nectar by Payal Doshi
Goodreads | Mango and Marigold Press

Rea Chettri is on a secret quest to find her missing twin brother Rohan and she only has a few days. The clock is ticking in this fast-paced, thrilling and exciting adventure rife with evil creatures, a ruthless villain, and unforgettable friendships.

The Mending Summer by Ali Standish
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Perfect for fans of Orphan Island and Wishtree, The Mending Summer is the next stunning middle grade novel from Ali Standish—author of the Carnegie Medal nominee The Ethan I Was Before and August Isle, Bad Bella, and How to Disappear Completely—about a girl who is struggling to deal with her father’s alcoholism when she discovers an enchanted lake.

Lily’s Promise by Kathryn Erskine
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From National Book Award–winning author Kathryn Erskine comes a heartfelt, poignant novel that tackles grief, change, and the struggle to let your voice be heard. Perfect for fans of Lynda Mullaly Hunt, Erin Entrada Kelly, and Ali Benjamin.

JUNE

Almost Flying by Jake Maia Arlow
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In this unabashedly queer middle grade debut, a week-long amusement park road trip becomes a true roller coaster of emotion when Dalia realizes she has more-than-friend feelings for her new bestie.

Generation Misfits by Akemi Dawn Bowman
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A heartwarming Own Voices middle grade novel about an eleven-year-old Japanese-American girl who finds her true friends when she joins her school’s J-Pop club, from award-winning author Akemi Dawn Bowman.

Ahmed Aziz’s Epic Year by Nina Hamza
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The Best at It meets John David Anderson in this Indian Muslim #ownvoices debut about a champion underachiever who must start over in a new state with the help of three classic books.

The Double Life of Danny Day by Mike Thayer
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A boy who lives every day twice uses his ability to bring down bullies at his new school in Mike Thayer’s humor-filled middle grade novel.

The Stars of Whistling Ridge by Cindy Baldwin
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In this new novel from the author of Where the Watermelons Grow and Beginners Welcome, an almost-thirteen-year-old with an almost-complete sentence for a name embraces her destiny to search for a forever home.

Long Distance by Whitney Gardner
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the creator of Fake Blood comes another exceptionally charming middle grade graphic novel about friendships both near and far, far away.

What middle grade releases are you looking forward to? Tell us in the comments below!

The post Incredible Middle Grade Book Releases To Look Out For In 2021 appeared first on The Nerd Daily.