Chopping it Up with Sara Bennett Wealer +Giveaway

Today we have the pleasure of being joined by debut author Sara Bennett Wealer!  Here's a little about her:

Sara Bennett Wealer grew up in Manhattan, Kansas (the "Little Apple"), where she sang with the choir and wrote for her high school newspaper. She majored in vocal performance at the University of Kansas before deciding she had no business trying to make a career as an opera singer. She transferred to journalism school, where nobody cares if you can hit a high C or convincingly portray a Valkyrie.
Since then, Sara has been fortunate to make her living as a writer. She started as a beat reporter, then went on to work in public relations and advertising--even theme park design. Sara lives in Cincinnati with her husband and daughters, and she still sings when her schedule allows--most recently with the May Festival Chorus, the official choir of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.

1. How would you describe your high school years?

Looking back, I’d say they were a whirlwind, though when I was going through them the time seemed to creep by. I had some great opportunities in high school and had some wonderful experiences—especially with music. Socially, I remember feeling really awkward quite a bit of the time. I hadn’t really grown into myself so I sort of ricocheted from hanging with the in crowd to sticking with just a few close friends. I’m not sure how people saw me—If I had to guess, I’d say I was sort of the smart girl with a bit of drama geek thrown in.

2. Which character would you say you identify with the most?

It’s funny because I see a bit of myself in both Brooke and Kathryn. Brooke is a little more like I am today—she knows what she wants, she knows her talents, and she’s driven to succeed. Kathryn’s probably more like I was in high school – quiet, studious, a little shy even though she loves to perform.

3. What in your opinion would be the greatest rivalry of all time?

Sue Sylvester from “Glee” vs. Heather Chandler from “Heathers.” I’m going to assume that everybody here knows about “Heathers.” If you don’t, then you need to watch it this weekend.

4. Brooke and Kathryn loved singing. Do you have any special talents other than writing?

Singing! Although my voice is WAY out of shape these days. I’m afraid to sing along with the radio! I also am a top-notch, grade-A worrier!

5. What are your top 3 YA reads?

I loved Libba Bray’s “Great and Terrible Beauty” series. I’m a big fan of Sara Zarr. And… dang there are WAY too many great YA books out there. Every other book I pick up becomes one of my top reads.


6. Are you working on anything currently?

I’m revising an older novel that I’ve never given up on, hoping to transform it into something that someone will want to publish. I’ve also got three other ideas for new novels vying for my attention. I love them all and can’t decide which one to write first!

Thanks so much for stopping by Sara! To learn more about Sara and Rival check out the links below:


Website
Blog
Twitter

Now on to the Giveaway!! Enter to win this beautiful Star necklace exactly like the one Brooke wears in the novel!

Rules:

• Open to US residents only
• Must be 13 or older
• Contest Ends 2/23