Because there are a lot of misconceptions about Christian fiction writers and the market we write for, I thought it would be fun today to share an updated post. See if you can identify. What We Wish You Knew… 1. We write in many different genres within the Christian market. Yes, even the (*gasp*) inspirational romance genre. 2. We …
Heartfelt, Homespun Fiction and Why We Love It
I talked to a friend recently who adores Heartfelt, Homespun Fiction (which, of course, happens to be my tagline.) “What do you like about it?” (I was curious and–yes, I admit–I wanted to use her answer for this blog post.) She thought for a moment and then smiled. “It’s like a hot fudge sundae. Sweet and satisfying, but leaves me wanting …
10 Pieces of Advice for Beginning Writers
Twenty years ago, the world of writing was a much different scenario. Writers had fewer irons in the fire and more time to create. The internet was still new, a “social media presence” unheard of, and snail mail the order of the day. Today, we have the ability to research from home at the touch of a keyboard. We can …
Be a Different Egg. Don’t Get Scrambled!
We’ve all met those folks who are “different eggs.” They march to the beat of a different drum. They come from various walks of life and they have a unique approach to the world around them. Maybe you’re one of those eggs–a delightful creative who thinks in the abstract and acts on “gut.” If that describes you, here’s what I …
Meet Marjorie Vawter (And a Giveaway!)
Sometimes, in life, you meet certain folks and you just click. You might share similar life philosophies, spiritual beliefs, and mutual goals. Bonus points include: a funny bone, a compassionate heart, and truth with tact. (I call these God-ordained appointments “Jesus Hook-Ups.”) I first met Marjorie (Margie) Vawter a little over a year ago at our local ACFW MozArks chapter meeting. I …
Delicate (and some not so delicate) Questions Answered
During my writing journey, I’ve been asked some delicate (and some not so delicate) questions. These range from the bold Would you mind reading my 400 page manuscript and then get back to me? to the more common So…how do you get an agent anyway? Well, pull up a seat and let’s chat. I’ll pour the coffee. You pass the …
Your Brand: Bland or Glam?
If you write, no doubt you’ve given some thought to your “brand.” (And if you haven’t thought about it, now’s the time!) “Brand” to an author is what water is to wildflowers. It quenches, sustains, and breathes life into an otherwise drab existence. Like our taglines, our brands are uniquely us. They’re the picture that comes to mind when folks hear our …
Ditch Doubt, Define Your Destiny
As a child, I knew I was different. When I was about seven, my second grade teacher confirmed it. (“It” not being tangible in terms of a label per se, but more a stark realization than anything else.) Mrs. K spoke with deliberate, adult-like precision and put it into perspective for my little girl brain. Her words transcended my finite knowledge of a …
I Bared it All and You Can, Too.
Yes, today’s blog post title is a shameless play on words, but please, “bear” with me. (Stale humor–I know. Still recovering from weeks of little sleep. But…the good news is my mama’s on the mend.) A few months ago, I talked with someone about a subject near and dear to my heart. Writing, of course. In fact, it was that conversation that sparked today’s thoughts. …
The Story We Must Tell
A familiar voice I’ll always remember was Paul Harvey’s. The Rest of the Story Harvey won over millions with his easy-going demeanor and his “regular guy” persona. I was a young girl when I first heard the radio broadcaster and I liked him immediately. Something about the way Paul Harvey spoke and how he carried himself on air resonated with me. He seemed real. Someone I’d want to know better. He …