Writers realize that we never know when the writing bug will strike. We might be in bed, church, or even the shower when our creative muse lights upon our brain and clamps down–hard! I know from experience, when the writing bug bites, I have to let nature take its course. The quicker I “treat the bite” (AKA “write”) the better I feel. Years ago, …
The Essence of Our “Brand”
Two of my favorite, feel-good television shows are The Andy Griffith Show and The Waltons. They remind me of the hometown where I grew up. There’s a sense of nostalgia, simplicity, and homespun values, yet there’s also a delicious taste of bitter and sweet. In The Waltons, especially, hardships were often underscored by lessons learned, truths conveyed, and love demonstrated. I grew up in …
Revealing Christ through Our Characters in a Fallen World
Over the past 20 years or so, Christian fiction has evolved. No longer do we dance around delicate issues or insinuate difficulties; Today, we broach sensitive topics with truth, finesse, and grace. Christian authors recognize that in a world of heartache and suffering, our readers long to identify with others who have walked the same road or with those who share …
How to Stand out in the Crowd
I’m in editing mode so today’s post is a slight variation of one from last year. Enjoy! ****** When we’re “in the zone,” sometimes we can get so enamored with our writing that we neglect the one thing that will set us apart from other writers: our brand. Last year, I was privileged to hear Shannon Vannatter speak at a branding and marketing workshop while …
Writing the Write Way
Writers often find other writers’ styles intriguing. We marvel at their creative flair. Their tenacity inspires us. We’re impressed by their God-given ability. Often, we catch ourselves wondering why it seems so easy for them to connect the dots when we’re lost between scribbles. Why is it that some writers’ words seem to burst forth with color and finesse while ours tremble on …
Broaching Sex within Christian Fiction
Anyone who knows me knows that I am a hopeless romantic. I tear up at Hallmark commercials. I appreciate gallantry. I adore a handmade card with a heartfelt sentiment. I am also deeply moved by: that tender kiss between those in love, handpicked wildflowers on a summer day, iced ribbons of moonlight that paint the night sky. When I write, I immerse …
A Short Drive to “Perfectville”
I grew up watching The Waltons and Andy Griffith re-runs. Life on Waltons Mountain and on the quiet streets of Mayberry seemed ideal. The folks there were friendly, faith-filled, and neighbor-oriented. As far back as I can recall, I knew those were towns I wanted to base my fictional series on. I wanted folks (readers) to be able to sit back, kick …
A Few of My Favorite Things
I think as writers, it’s only natural that we project a certain amount of ourselves into the stories we create. Some may refer to “it” as voice, style, or even vision. We breathe life into our characters by way of our own experiences and revelations. Since we’re all unique, it’s important that we stay true to ourselves, and write what we know, …
Why Writers Do What We Do
If you write, no doubt you’ve been asked, “Why do you do it?” Is it for the neck cramps, back aches, carpal tunnel, or crossed eyes? Our 10+ hour days at the computer? How about the bonbons on a silver tray via our assistants? Perhaps, we write for the fame, fortune, and accolades. Hmmm…So many reasons. So difficult to decide. …
August Blog Winner Announced; You Can Win, Too!
I hope everyone had a great Labor Day and didn’t work too hard! Welcome back! Congratulations to the winner of my August blog giveaway, Steven A.! Steven has won some wonderful goodies, plus another surprise thrown in for good measure. Please contact me privately, Steven, with your mailing info and I will get your prize in the mail. Remember, you, too, …