Erin R. Howard's Blog, page 10
November 7, 2018
Wisdom Wednesday: Laura Hilton & Rachel J. Good
It’s our first Wednesday during NaNoWriMo!
How’s your writing going? I’m playing a little bit of catch up today, but I have new words on paper, and that’s all that matters!
Here’s a little bit of Wisdom Wednesday to get you back to writing and reaching your goals.
Name: Laura Hilton
Genre: Christian fiction Amish
Latest Release: Love’s Christmas Blessings
Writing Tip for Authors:
Don’t wait for inspiration. Just write. It’ll come.
This is a huge tip that has helped me so much in my writing journey. I think new writers have this idea that writing is going to be amazing because of inspiration. That’s not always the case. Most days, I have to force myself to sit down and write, but as you said, the words will come.
Writing Tip for New Writers:
Read, read, read. Learn the rules. And write
Yes. Don’t stop reading and learning. Get craft books on writing, brush up on grammar skills. Keep reading, learning, and writing.
[image error] Christmas…
A time for fellowship, family, and love. Enjoy two novellas from beloved Amish authors and fill your heart with the wonder of the Christmas season.Winter’s Treasure
Paris and Quil have sparks from the beginning, especially since his appearance causes a vicious rivalry between friends. But who can resist when a chance meeting beginning with donuts and coffee ends with a missing person, puppies, a skunk, and a sleigh ride—not to mention a trip the Amish young people plan to Niagara Falls. Could it also involve falling in love?
Mistletoe and Miracles
An exhausted son, Daniel, and a recent widow, Fern, join forces to brighten a grumpy old man’s day and cheer up a shy, displaced little girl. However, things take a serious turn when Fern’s daughter goes missing on a school field trip. With a little help from Daniel, Fern discovers more than just her daughter’s whereabouts. Will four lonely hearts create special bonds to make it a Christmas to remember?
[image error]
Laura V. Hilton is an award-winning, sought-after author with over twenty Amish, contemporary, and historical romances. When she’s not writing, she reviews books for her blogs, and writes devotionals for blog posts for Seriously Write.
Laura and her pastor-husband have five children and a hyper dog named Skye. They currently live in Arkansas. One son is in the U.S. Coast Guard. She is a pastor’s wife, and homeschools her two youngest children.
When she’s not writing, Laura enjoys reading, and visiting lighthouses and waterfalls. Her favorite season is winter, her favorite holiday is Christmas.
[image error]
Inspirational author Rachel J. Good writes life-changing, heart-tugging novels of faith, hope, and forgiveness. The author of several Amish romance series, she grew up near Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, the setting for many of her stories. Striving to be as authentic as possible, she spends time with her Amish friends, doing chores on their farm and attending family events.
Rachel’s Amish series include Sisters & Friends (Charisma House & Harlequin), Love & Promises (Hachette/Grand Central), Hearts of Amish Country (Annie’s Book Club), and the forthcoming Surprised by Love (Kensington). She also has several anthologies in print as well as the Amish Quilts Coloring Book.
To learn more about Rachel, visit her at www.racheljgood.com.
Laura’s Social Media:
http://www.amazon.com/Laura-V.-Hilton/e/B004IRSM5Q
visit my blogs: http://lighthouse-academy.blogspot.com/
twitter: @Laura_V_Hilton
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Laura-V-Hilton/161478847242512
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/vernetlh/
Rachel’s Social Media Links:
https://www.facebook.com/racheljgoodnovels/
https://twitter.com/RachelJGood1
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14661177.Rachel_J_Good
https://www.pinterest.com/racheljgood1/
https://www.amazon.com/Rachel-J-Good/e/B019DWF4FG
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/rachel-j-good
https://www.instagram.com/rachelj.good
Newsletter sign-up: http://bit.ly/1qwci4Q
Thank you for joining us today!
Make sure you check out their social media links, blogs, and their new release, Love’s Christmas Blessings.
[image error]
November 6, 2018
Book Signing|Meet & Greet
Starting a new book is exciting!
Especially when the novel you finished not long ago is with your publisher and going through the editing process. My mind is in three different places at once. Talking about my first book, getting ready for the second book to release in February, and writing the third book in the series.
My mind is definitely on all three today. Tuesday’s are my Mondays (we are at St. Jude on Mondays) and it seems like my “to-do” list is longer than usual.
However, I wanted to take a moment and let you know about an upcoming event that I’m really excited about!
This Saturday, November 10th, I will be at the Just For You Vendor and Craft Show at the Mayfield Fairgrounds from 10-4.
I will have copies of The Seer for purchase and would love for you to stop by and chat with me.
Books make lovely Christmas presents, and The Seer is perfect for both teenagers and adults. There are also 70+ other vendors there (I can’t wait to do some shopping myself!)
Make plans to come out to the Craft Show and stop by my table. I would love to show you my book, answer questions, and talk about writing!
[image error]
November 1, 2018
Celebrating You
Happy National Author’s Day!
When November 1st rolls around, my mind always goes to two things. Thanksgiving and NaNoWriMo. Thanksgiving is a time that always makes me happy. The beautiful fall day mixed with yummy food (turkey!) and family. I can’t get in the Christmas mood until turkey day is over.
NaNoWriMo also plays a huge role. Before this year, I used NaNoWriMo to accomplish the dream of finishing a novel and working on several book ideas that never came to fruition. However, it always gave me discipline and helped me to realize that I can do this crazy thing called writing. It didn’t matter if I made that 50,000-word goal or if my word count fell under that amount.
I was writing every day and that’s what’s important.
This year, I’m approaching NaNoWriMo differently. Since last time, I’ve published my first novel and completed my second novel in that series. The Soul Searcher (book two) is with my publisher and about to start the rounds of editing before it releases in February.
My goal for this year’s NaNoWriMo is book three in The Kalila Chronicles and start on a new project that has slowly crept it’s way to my heart, a novella series. This new fantasy series will be in the same story world as The Kalila Chronicles, but with new characters and societies.
What are your goals for NaNoWriMo? Leave me a comment and add me as a buddy. Mine is erinhoward2002.
To all my author friends, Happy National Author’s Day!
As this is my first National Author’s Day, I’m thankful for all of my readers, publisher, and author friends who encourage me every day. You all are the best!
[image error]
October 31, 2018
Wisdom Wednesday: Ada Brownell
Happy Halloween!
My social media is flooded today with pictures of costumes, and I love it. We went to a few trunk or treats over the weekend since it’s supposed to rain today.
Not only is it Halloween, but it is the last day to get everything ready for NaNoWriMo! Yep. The craziness of chasing after the 50,000-word goal starts tomorrow. I’ve participated several times over the years, whether I was starting a brand new project like it asked for, or finishing up a novel that was already started. Sometimes, we need the boost that NaNoWriMo gives us. It’s a chance at becoming disciplined in our writing.
To get us in the spirit of NaNoWriMo, our Wisdom Wednesday guest is author Ada
Name: Ada Brownell
Genre: Fiction and Non-Fiction
Latest Release: What Prayer Can Do
Writing Tip for Authors:
Think. What is the worst thing that could happen to my character in this situation, and is there a way out? For non-fiction, think. Is this idea original? Could I make it original by approaching the subject from a different angle or using illustrations that make it different?
I love writing my characters into corners to see what they would do about the situation. It’s a great way to help if you’re feeling stuck.
Writing Tip for New Writers:
With non-fiction don’t start writing until you think about the story or the subject and try to define questions readers might ask. Take notes on your thoughts. If you think it through, you don’t necessarily have to create an outline. But let your illustrations and transitions guide you to the ending you want. I never outline fiction, but in the same notebook where I write profiles on my characters, I also make a list of complications for the plot. It’s not a story unless there is conflict.
Conflict is what drives the story. I like to make an outline when I’m starting and then let the characters take over the story. I tried planning every detail in my earlier writings, and always felt stuck. Now that I’ve found a good balance between the two, it’s easier for me.
[image error]
Does God still heal bodies, work miracles and answer prayer?
Ada Nicholson Brownell’s latest book, What Prayer Can Do contains amazing testimonies of how God intervened in people’s lives when they prayed. Read about a blind man instantly healed, even after he learned Braille. A child with hydrocephalus healed after prayer. A forest fire turned away. Sinful rebellious people changed in a moment. Marriages saved, and many other miracles.
Fifty-five chapters and wonderful testimonies written by Ada Brownell about What Prayer Can Do originally published in The Pentecostal Evangel.
WHAT HAPPENS IF A DESIRED MIRACLE DOESN’T COME? The book begins with an introduction from the author, “Why I Still Believe God Heals, “that explains why she knows God still does miracles even though she lost a daughter to cancer. The article was first published in the online version of Enrichment Journal, a magazine published by the Assemblies of God for Spirit-filled ministers.
Buy the whole book, What Prayer Can Do here: http://ow.ly/9CEI30h4IdL
[image error]
Ada Brownell has been writing for Christian publications since age 15 and spent much of her life as a daily newspaper reporter. She has a B.S. degree in Mass Communications and worked most of her career at The Pueblo Chieftain in Colorado where she spent the last seven years as a medical writer. After moving to Springfield, MO in her retirement, she continues to freelance for Christian publications and write non-fiction and fiction books. She occasionally writes op-ed pieces for newspapers, and judges writing contests.
Ada’s Social Media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/#!/AdaBrownellWritingMinistries
Twitter: @adabrownell
Blog: http://inkfromanearthenvessel.blogspot.com Stick to Your Soul Encouragement
Amazon Ada Brownell author page: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001KJ2C06
Thank you for joining us today!
Are you participating in NaNoWriMo? Add me as a buddy: erinhoward2002. Comment below with yours and what project you’re working on!
[image error]
October 26, 2018
Recharge
There are so many things that I miss about having my store, but one of the biggest is seeing all of the handcrafted items in front of me and my craft room upstairs where I had rows of yarn and craft supplies at my fingertips. Next on my endless “to-do” list is to set up a special writing space, and a separate craft room where I can have all of those supplies back within arms reach.
I have to write. There’s no other way to describe it the feeling of having to get words on the screen or on paper. I have to know what is going to happen next to the characters and story that constantly consumes my thoughts.
For some, writing may be their primary source of creativity, and while that’s true for me in some ways, I have to do other creative things to recharge so to speak. Writing, while rewarding and my ultimate passion, can drain me.
To recharge, I find my hands have to busy, whether it’s crocheting, painting, re-creating crafts I see on Pinterest.
I have to make something.
My bestie builds furniture or remodels her house to be creative. I’m fascinated that she can take an idea in her head, go to the hardware store, buy materials, and come home to measure, cut, and hammer. I can help her with a project, but it’s not what recharges me. She will be the first one to tell you that while she prefers to fix a house up, I would rather have it already finished.
Learning how to balance a schedule is something that I’ve always struggled with, and I’m so busy that I tend to get caught up in everyday tasks that I haven’t taken the time to recharge. In an effort to be more balanced, I’ve started up crocheting again, reading books for fun and making more crafts.
Here are some fun creative projects that I’ve recently worked on. Crochet washcloths, face scrubbies, and a Leukemia Door Hanger for my son.
[image error]
[image error]
What’s something that you do to recharge? Leave me a comment and a picture if you have one, and drop by on Fridays for more creative projects.
October 24, 2018
Wisdom Wednesday: Normandie Fischer
When you think about writing, do you think about the whole process or do you dream about your story but never seem to get anywhere? While we should always have a dream to achieve, it’s what comes in the middle that makes that dream come true.
Today, author Normandie Fischer is here to tell us what exactly it takes to make that dream come true. Welcome to Wisdom Wednesday, Normandie!
Name: Normandie Fischer
Genre: Women’s Fiction
Latest Novel: The Sea Prayers
Writing Tip for New Writers:
You’ve heard it from myriad sources, the same advice, the same words of encouragement. Keep writing. Keep going. Persevere.
Since my first book released, I’ve had folk approach me: “I’m going to write a novel someday.” Or, “I could write a novel if I chose to.” Or, “I have a perfect idea for a book.”
The I’m-going-to, the I-could-if, and the perfect-idea folk have one strike against them. All their writing is dream-based, when what they need is to begin. Just begin. And then—oh, and this is the hard part—keep going.
Bringing a novel to completion and then to publication is hard work. It takes determination and perseverance, especially if you care about quality. Quality is hard-won. Quality takes time and a willingness to listen and learn.
Back when I was editing for a small press, I ran into writers with good ideas who were convinced they knew far more than I—or any other editor. Convinced they’d written a great piece, they weren’t willing to learn. They knew better. They didn’t need an editor. They didn’t need to listen.
Well, fine, but that’s never true for anyone. We all need other eyes, other perspectives, an editor’s honing skills. I use both a content editor and a copyeditor because I want my work to be the best it can be.
Writing is hard work. Sticking with it, learning and growing, is even harder. Oh, and then there’s the miserable part that involves rejection—from agents and publishers, from readers. No one wants to hear that her story isn’t good enough, but I don’t know a single author who hasn’t had to cope with rejection along the way. It’s part of the process.
How you handle it depends, in large part, on your reasons for writing. If you write for glory and fame—and actually think you deserve both—the devastation of rejection will be a lot more painful than if you write because it’s your passion, your calling.
I’m convinced I’m supposed to write. I love to do it, and even without an audience, I’d continue. As a woman of faith, I also write to please my Lord, which means I adhere to the command in Ecclesiastes 9:10: “Whatever your hand finds to do, do with all your might.”
With all my might. With all the care I can give it, with all the perseverance it might take, with all that is in me, with humility, as an offering. And the rest is up to my Lord.
I couldn’t agree more!
Normandie, you’ve given a great insight on what is needed to turn those dreams into a reality.
[image error]
A waitress, a megastar, and an ex-addict wage war for the heart of a young girl.
Thirteen years ago, a spiked drink left Agnes with a permanent reminder of the man who date-raped her.
Her daughter looks like him, sounds like him, and even listens to his platinum records (of course, the dude’s a mega star because nothing is fair) but Brisa is everything Agnes has in the world. At least, she is until the day this music star sets his sights on getting himself a ready-made family.
He’s got millions of dollars, millions of fans, a high-powered legal team, and half Brisa’s DNA. Agnes has a run-down house, a friend who’s almost three years sober and afraid to say he loves her, and a lawyer willing to work pro bono.
Oh, and the whole town of Beaufort. That’s right. She’s got all those Beaufort folk at her back, praying to the God she has rejected, and not one of them is going to let Brisa go without a fight.
Another story of faith redemption from the author of Sailing out of Darkness.
[image error]
Normandie Fischer is a sailor who writes and a writer who sails. After studying sculpture in Italy, she returned to the States, graduated suma cum laude, and went to work in the publishing field, moving from proofreader up the ladder to senior editor, honing technical tomes, creative non-fiction, and, later, fiction.
She and her husband spent a number of years on board their 50-foot ketch, Sea Venture, sailing from San Francisco to the Sea of Cortez, Mexico, and on through the Panama Canal. They now live in coastal North Carolina, where she takes care of her aging mother and, whenever possible, enjoys her two grown children and two grandchildren. She is the author of six novels.
Make sure to connect with Normandie on social media and her blog, and check out her latest release, The Sea Prayers.
Website: www.normandiefischer.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WritingOnBoard
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NormandieFischer/
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Normandie-Fischer/e/B00BSIF2NI/
The Sea Prayers Purchase Links:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H2MWMYC/
BOOKs2Read: https://www.books2read.com/u/m0geDl
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-sea-prayers
Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-sea-prayers-normandie-fischer/1129474278
Ibooks https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id1435120402
Thank you for joining us today!
What kind of writing challenges are you facing? For me, I had to make the decision to sit down and write (from beginning to end) and not worry if it was amazing or if it was junk. I let that fear hold me back for a long time. It was difficult, but I did it, and it was a little easier with the second book. I’m starting my third book this week, I know I may still have those doubts, but I know I’ve done it twice now, and I know you can too!
[image error]
October 23, 2018
Behind the Story: World Building
Writing is filled with moments that are exciting and brimming in creativity. There are also moments of procrastination and doubt. Learning how to push through the days of zero inspiration makes all the difference in those who write as a hobby and those that write as a career.
There’s a moment in writing that I love almost more than any other aspect and that’s the moment between projects. When I’m dreaming and plotting about what is coming next.
The Soul Searcher is going through the editing phase with my publisher, and I’m starting The Silencer, (book 3) this week. YAY!
However, my brain can’t stop thinking about what is coming next after book three.
The idea of a new project, of world building, is so energizing and exciting to me. I love creating a new series idea and everything that comes along with it. New characters, plots, worlds, and motives all go into world building. This is one reason why I love fantasy writing. With urban fantasy, I’m using our world as the base, but I still get to create, from scratch, a new world to fit in our world. The result of how they react to each other is exciting.
I polled my Beta Reader group and asked what they would like to see next from me. There were several choices: Fairy Tale Retelling, Dystopian, or a novella supernatural series related to my current series world.
It was a close poll!
However, the supernatural series won, and ever since my brain has reeled with all sorts of ideas. I can’t reveal too much yet, (you have to read The Soul Searcher first, so there aren’t any spoilers) but the novella series will be in the same story world as The Kalila Chronicles but with a whole new set of characters and new abilities and societies. I can’t wait to dive in and begin writing and see how these two series are woven together.
World building isn’t just for fantasy writers. Every writer uses this when they create their own stories. Writing friends, what part of world-building do you enjoy the most?
[image error]
October 17, 2018
Wisdom Wednesday: Linda Shenton Matchett
Do you write every day? Do you follow a writing schedule? Or do you write as the inspiration hits?
This week, we have author Linda Shenton Matchett discussing what happens when you commit to writing every day. Thanks for joining us, Linda!
Name: Linda Shenton Matchett
Genre: Historical (mystery)
Latest Novel: Murder of Convenience
Writing Tip:
Write every day (or as close to that as you can.) It’s my favorite tip because writing feeds my soul. I’m happiest when I’m writing, so the idea of doing it every day (even if it’s just one paragraph), excites me. In addition, I know that by writing every day, I am improving my work, keeping my “creative juices” active, and furthering my career by producing stories.
I agree, if I write something every day, even if it’s a little bit, it’s easier to sit down and write more. If I go several days without writing, it’s harder for me to get started again.
Writing Tip for New Writers:
Follow your heart and write what you are passionate about. Don’t try to follow trends, because they will vaporize as quickly as they appear. Writing is a craft that requires study and practice. If you can afford it, attend conferences or take classes, but at a minimum read blogs and articles by successful writers. Most of all: keep writing, and don’t let the naysayers get you down.
Yes! This is excellent advice for anyone starting their writing journey.
[image error]
May 1942: Geneva Alexander flees Philadelphia and joins the USO to escape the engagement her parents have arranged for her, only to wind up as the number one suspect in her betrothed’s murder investigation. Diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, she must find the real killer before she loses her sight…or is convicted for a crime she didn’t commit.
Set in the early days of America’s entry into WWII and featuring cameo appearances from Hollywood stars, Murder of Convenience is tribute to individuals who served on the home front, especially those who did so in spite of personal difficulties, reminding us that service always comes as a result of sacrifice. Betrayal, blackmail, and a barrage of unanswered questions… Murder of Convenience is the first in Linda Shenton Matchett’s exciting new “Women of Courage” series.
[image error]
Linda Shenton Matchett is an author, speaker, and history geek. A native of Baltimore, Maryland, she was born a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry and has lived in historic places all her life. Linda is a member of ACFW, RWA, and Sisters in Crime. She is a volunteer docent at the Wright Museum of WWII and a trustee for her local public
Connect with Linda on social media and her blog, and check out her latest release, Murder of Convenience.
Website: http://www.LindaShentonMatchett.com
Group blog: http://www.stitchesthrutime.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorlindasmatchett
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/lindasmatchett
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/lindasmatchett
Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/Linda-Shenton-Matchett/e/B01DNB54S0
Bookbub page: http://www.bookbub.com/authors/linda-shenton-matchett
Newsletter sign up (receive a free short story with sign up): https://bit.ly/2MXJFgC
Thank you for joining us today, Linda and reminding us how important it is to keep writing every day, no matter how long we sit down to write.
Have a wonderful writing week and join us next Wednesday for another writing tip!
[image error]
October 10, 2018
Wisdom Wednesday: Julie Arduini
Can you believe that we are cruising through October already? It won’t be long and we will be getting ready for Christmas! I’m determined to start my shopping early this year. I tend to procrastinate and wait to the last minute.
Today, I’m excited to have author Julie Arduini with us, sharing her favorite writing tips and her novel Restoring Christmas, which is part of a Christmas box set.
Name: Julie Arduini
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Latest Novel: Restoring Christmas, part of the A Christmas to Remember Boxed Set
Writing Tip:
I have many, but I think as an indie author, the standout is to set deadlines and stick to them. I find when I’m general about when I want a book available, I procrastinate until the date looms and rush. When I set specific word count and chapter deadlines, I force myself to stay on schedule with minimal stress.
I hear you on the procrastination, I tend to do that as well. Setting achievable deadlines is the key to finishing your book on time. I find that when I’m really stressed with my writing, it’s because I’m not setting an achievable deadline.
Writing Tip for New Authors:
I think joining ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) and participating in the critique group is wisdom. I started in the large group, and then branched off into two smaller groups. I’ve learned so much from critique groups. They challenge me to be a better writer and one group also shares prayer requests and has brainstorming sessions. It’s an amazing experience.
I totally agree with you on this. The ACFW is a great way to get connected with other authors and get the support that you need. Critique groups are a fabulous way to challenge yourself and to learn more about the craft. Just remember to keep an open mind, wear tough skin, and know that they are only trying to help you grow.
[image error]
Laugh, cry, and fall in love as you savor these brand-new Christmas romances from some of your favorite authors. Pair with a peppermint chai, hot chocolate, or your favorite wintry flavors, then snuggle down in front of the fireplace with a quilt over your lap… and maybe a purring cat!
Eight authors have joined together in this Christian romance collection that will leave you celebrating the gift of Christmas.
Restoring Christmas by Julie Arduini
Filled with grief and regret, Holly Christmas returns to Geneseo Valley and the family business, The Christmas Mansion. Can Kevin Holt restore her love for the season and the memories she left behind?
[image error]Julie Arduini loves to encourage readers to surrender the good, the bad, and —maybe one day—the chocolate. She’s the author of ENTRUSTED: Surrendering the Present, ENTANGLED: Surrendering the Past, and ENGAGED: Surrendering the Future. She also shares her story in the infertility devotional, A WALK IN THE VALLEY. Her latest releases, YOU’RE BEAUTIFUL, is a book for girls ages 10-100, written with her teenaged daughter, Hannah, and A CHRISTMAS TO REMEMBER is a boxed set featuring Julie and some of the authors from the Inspy Romance She blogs every other Wednesday for Christians Read, as well as monthly with Inspy Romance. She resides in Ohio with her husband and two children. Learn more by visiting her at http://juliearduini.com, where she invites readers to subscribe to her monthly newsletter full of resources and giveaway opportunities.
Thank you, Julie, for joining us today and sharing your tips on setting deadlines and finding a critique group.
Make sure you check out Jule’s newest release, Restoring Christmas and connect with her on social media.
Facebook: http://facebook.com/JulieArduini
Twitter: http://twitter.com/JulieArduini
G+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/+JulieArduini/posts
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/JulieArduini
Instagram: http://instagram.com/JulieArduini
Snapchat: https://www.snapchat.com/add/JulieArduini
Goodreads: http://goodreads.com/JulieArduini
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Julie-Arduini/e/B00PBKDRSQ/
Monthly Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/dCFG
Don’t forget to join us in the comment section, and leave a question for Julie. Happy Writing!
[image error]
October 3, 2018
Wisdom Wednesday: Beth Steury
Do you ever have one of those weeks where nothing has gone as you planned? Well, I’ve been in bed most of the week due to illness, so I’m definitely going to need our weekly boost of Writing Wisdom this week!
This week, YA author, Beth Steury is our guest. Thanks for joining us, Beth.
Name: Beth Steury
Genre: YA – realistic contemporary
Latest Novel: before I knew you
Writing Tip:
Just write! Don’t worry about getting it all right, just write. If the beginning alludes you, that’s okay. Whatever thoughts or ideas are fighting to be recorded, start with that. Just write. Thanks to the wonder of word processing, rearranging sentences and paragraphs to achieve the best beginning, middle, and end is a snap. Just write.
I’ve always been the type of writer that likes to write in order, from start to finish. I’ve finally learned how to let go of my “internal editor” and just write, but this is the next step for me. Skipping around when I feel stuck. I’m not sure why this trips me up, but it does. Thanks for the reminder that it’s okay to do so!
Writing Tip for New Authors:
Don’t labor over every word. Doing so greatly hampers creativity. Once the initial thoughts and ideas have been recorded, then it’s time to edit and improve and fine tune every word.
I’m finding that I like the revision stage so much more now that I’ve practiced getting the rough draft down before perfecting anything.
[image error]
After a series of bad choices rocked his world, seventeen-year-old Preston charts a new course as far from his ladies’ man ways as he can get. He distances himself from the dating scene and avoids his party-loving friends—the things that once dominated his life. Then he meets Maggie, the new girl in town, the first day of their junior year. She’s beautiful on the inside and out, knows nothing of his past, and he can’t get her out of his mind.
When a disastrous first date leaves her skeptical about the guys at Madison High, Maggie slows down her pursuit of a guy to trust with her white-wedding-dress future. She wants a boyfriend, sure, but he’d have to be nothing like the jerk who forced her first kiss. Someone more like Preston, who’s been nothing but sweet and helpful, not to mention, easy on the eyes. But he is so out of her league.
Can Maggie afford to let her guard down around the charming Preston? Will Preston’s last jeopardize his chances with the one girl who could anchor his future?
[image error]
Beth immerses herself in the world of YA via substitute teaching, by connecting with the teenage staff and patrons at the fast food joint where she claims the back booth as her office, and by reading YA fiction.
She’s a “cheerleader” for saving sex for marriage and an even bigger supporter of “renewed waiting” because it’s never too late to make wiser, healthier choices. She welcomes questions and topic suggestions for the “Waiting Matters … Because YOU Matter” blog that inspired the Waiting Matters series.
Check out her Choices Matter series that follows Preston and Maggie as they navigate the choppy waters of high school, guy/girl relationships, and sex.
Beth is also active in the adoption community where she writes and speaks about her experiences as a “foundling” who located her birth parents and is enjoying making up for lost time with her biological family.
Make sure you check out Beth’s newest release, before i knew you and connect with her on social media.
Amazon Author Page: www.amazon.com/author/bethsteury
Website: Beth Steury – Saving sex for marriage cheerleader, YA Author, Christ follower
Facebook: Beth Steury, Author
Twitter: @Beth_Steury
Pinterest: Beth Steury, Author
Goodreads: Beth Steury, Author
I hope you all have a wonderful writing week and don’t forget to join us next week for another piece of Wisdom Wednesday.
I would like to know, do you struggle with what Beth spoke about today? Do you get stuck wanting to edit as you write or want to write the story in order? Leave a comment for us!
[image error]
