This is the virtual writing desk of YA novelist and Author of Diet Fantasy with Sensawonda™ Artifical Sweetener Lisa Mantchev.

Were you to peer over my shoulder, you would see my black wrought iron inkwell reminiscent of Jo March and her garret hideaway. A computer with six windows open to manage the current work-in-progress. A Pilot Precise V5 Rolling Ball Extra Fine Point in black or blue.

I always decorate the bookshelf to my left with inspiration pieces, which is a great excuse to go antiquing.

If I'm not drinking espresso with the tiniest splash of milk, then I probably have a cup of tea. And if it's not tea, then I'm wishing I had a diet soda.  I should drink more water, but caffeine is my sweet, sweet paramour.

EYES LIKE STARS, Book One in The Théâtre Illuminata trilogy, will be released in the Spring of 2009 by Feiwel & Friends.

— Lisa Mantchev