Guilty Pleasure

by Marielle Carlisle

A few months back I received a mass email from the ANWA peeps announcing the release of Janette Rallison’s newest book:

I thought it my duty to support a fellow ANWA-er, so I got the book from the library and started reading, though not really sure what to expect. Since then ...

I HAVE CREATED A MONSTER!!!

I cannot get enough of Janette’s books! After I finished “My Fair Godmother,” I put all her other books on hold and have raced through them. I just finished

over the weekend and am now reading


an adult romance written under her pen name, Sierra St. James.

Her books are super easy to read, considering they were written for tweens and teens. My husband was intrigued by my new book addiction, but after quickly glancing at the inside jacket cover he turned to me and said “You know, these books were written for girls ages 12-16.” Sure enough, on the inside cover it says “For girls 12-16.” I tried to explain how incredibly funny and witty Janette’s writing style is, but he couldn’t get past the whole I-don’t-fit-the-demographic thing, since I’m a teeny bit older then being a teenager.

When I was in the midst of all this reading frenzy, I received yet ANOTHER mass email informing me about a book signing Janette was having at Desert Ridge. That’s like, right by my house! Sort of. I’d never been to a book signing before, and I just knew that I had to go. My husband, though perplexed about my fascination with these books, wished me luck on my night out as long as I stopped at Costco to pick up a new car battery.

When I arrived at Barnes and Nobles, I discovered that Janette’s signing was part of a teen writing group. I felt so silly. Me, a grown woman with two kids and a mortgage attending a teen writing group. But who cares! It’s Janette! She talked about creating a good story, and I kept meticulous notes on her comments.

Towards the end of the hour, the group leader asked Janette to introduce her books to the group. I was like “Wait, you people haven’t read all her books yet? Are you insane? Get to work!” Then, one of the kids called her Janet. "It’s Janette! Come on people!" Sheesh.

Finally, the talking was over and we could have our books signed. I hesitantly edged toward Janette, clutching her other newest book

When at last it was my turn to meet her, I plopped down in the chair across from her and started blabbering on about how I love her books and that I’m in ANWA and my sister loves her books too and I thought

was my favorite by far and on and on. She smiled sweetly at me, listened to my chattering, probably said some things but I was talking so much I don’t remember what she said, and signed my book. Then it was over.

I was so completely out of it I forgot to have our picture taken together so I could send it to my sister. And since I dawdled at the book signing, Costco closed right as I pulled up for the a new battery.

None of that matters. Because I met Janette Rallison.