Introducing my alter ego LEE STRAUSS!

Yes, I'm splitting myself in two. Why, you ask? Because I've realized recently that Elle Strauss has become a brand. Elle Strauss books are light and humorous and enjoyed by younger  readers (as well as old, I'm told.)
=)

Which is great, except that I also write books that are darker and more serious for mature YA and adult readers. I didn't want someone to pick up one of these books and be shocked or disappointed because it was such a deviation from what they expected.

Which why I'm happy to introduce to you my alter ego LEE STRAUSS

"Lee Strauss writes science fiction and historical YA for mature YA and adult readers. She also writes light and fun stuff under the name Elle Strauss."

I'd love it if you liked my new Lee Strauss author page.

The first book to be released this September by Lee Strauss is the first volume in an ancient Rome novelette trilogy called JARS OF CLAY.

EDIT: I've pushed the release back to October. The first book to be released in September is PERCEPTION.

Sixteen year old Helena Vibius is the daughter of a wealthy business man in the city of Carthage, North Africa in the year 199AD. She’s not granted a tutor like her two older brothers are and must be satisfied with the teachings of her father. Which she is not.

Eighteen year old Lucius is a freeman--not a slave--living and working on the Vibius compound. His biggest desire is to learn about the world and one day leave Carthage to see it. A serendipitous meeting with the master’s daughter presents an opportunity. Should he take it?

Helena agrees to secretly teach him, a rebellious gesture that surely could do no real harm--as long as they’re not caught. And she mustn’t fall for this servant boy, either. 

Sometimes one does what one must not.

I'm really excited (and kind of nervous) about this new direction. I'd love to spread the word so if you'd like to feature Jars of Clay let me know!

Thanks!!