Suzanne Woods Fisher's Blog, page 34
October 17, 2016
Author Spotlight: Susan May Warren
Today’s spotlight: Susan May Warren.
[Leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of Wild Montana Skies by Susan May Warren. The winner will be announced in the next Author Spotlight feature. Jordann Langness is the winner of Irene Hannon’s “Tangled Webs.” Email me with your mailing address, Jordann, and I’ll get a copy sent to you.]
Welcome, Susan! So glad you were able to swing through today…and tomorrow is release day! First, draw us a verbal sketch of your life:
For the last fifteen years, we lived in beautiful northern Minnesota. However, just last year we had a complete life change and became empty nesters! So much fun—we lost our minds, packed up our house and moved! We now live in Minneapolis and are loving every moment of it. I live with my hot husband of 27 years, Andrew, and my cute baby labradoodle, Mitty.
Tell us about your new release: What inspired this particular story?
Wild Montana Skies is the first in a 6 book series about the brave men and women who rescue the lost in the PEAK Rescue team, a search-and-rescue outfit located in the shadow of Glacier National Park. With an ongoing thread of mystery that runs through each book, each book highlights one member of the team, exploring their challenges, hopes and romances as they face danger and sacrifice. Set against the rugged, beautiful backdrop of Montana, the stories are taken from real-life events that show us just how faithful God in when our darkest fears come true. It’s epic adventure and romance with a touch of wilderness suspense that I think my readers—both old and new—will love.
How can readers connect with you?
I’m easy to find—
https://www.facebook.com/SusanMayWarrenFiction/
When did you get bitten by the writing bug?
I’ve always been amazed at the journey God has taken me on. I started writing in high school, but I never dreamed I’d actually be an author. I just tried to do the best with what God had entrusted to me, and for me that meant writing missionary newsletters while we served in Russia. I honed my skills through my newsletter, and then, after a number of years, began to write devotionals and magazine articles. Although I tried my hand at writing novels (I wrote 4 before I ever had one published), I never thought I would get anything published. But I diligently studied craft and analyzed books, even though I was hidden away in Siberia. 50 novels later, I’m still learning, and still trying to be a good steward of what God has entrusted to me.
After you started writing seriously, how long was it before you were published?
It took me four years and four novels from sitting down to write my first novel to getting published.
Aside from a cup of good, strong coffee, what helps you get all of your “brain cylinders” firing so you can write well?
POPCORN! No, seriously, there is something about “crunching” that gets my brain working. Or maybe it’s the salt. Or the fact I can sit and watch a movie and NOT write, (usually what is happening when I’m eating popcorn).
In all seriousness, however, I often take a walk with my dog when I’m stuck. (The dog gives me someone to talk to!) And, if I’m really desperate, I call my writing partner, Rachel Hauck.
Do you have any favorite places and routines when you write? How many hours a day do you spend writing?
I write in the chair I inherited from my Grandma. It’s a tall wingback chair, needs reupholstering, and has tiny pink flower. Completely ugly…but it has the magic.
Do you prefer reading physical books or e-readers?
I love the smell of a “real” book. But I love the convenience of my e-reader. Maybe they could make scent packets like they do for cars.
Why do you write?
Oh boy. Why do I breathe? For me, as a writer of inspirational fiction, so much of my own journey in writing a novel is digging in deep in the Word, discovering the truths God wants to teach me as I process my character. As an author, this is my Eric Liddell moment—I feel God’s pleasure when I write. I know God better when He shows up on the page, when I know we are partnering in these stories. I guess you could say writing for me is a way of worship.
How would you describe your writing style?
I’m not elegant writer—I write very deep POV, very much in the character’s skin. I love a great sentence, but I don’t agonize over it. I would rather sacrifice prose for clarity. I try and write honestly, accurately, beautifully and clearly.
What are you best known for … writing or otherwise?
Oh, I think people know I like to have fun. Usually, I’m one of the instigators of the party. I guess the thing is, I work hard, very hard. So when I’m not working, I like to have fun.
If you could write any book–on any topic–and be guaranteed a publishing contract, what topic would it be? (Or genre?)
TIME TRAVEL!!
Can a person make a living as a writer?
Absolutely—I always say that being published isn’t magic…it’s hard work. If you’re willing to do the work, you can make a living as a writer.
What advice would you give to new writers?
Read – figure out why you like the book, Read more, Write, get feedback, implement feedback, Read, Write more, and eventually go to a writer’s conference and pitch your story. Most of all, spend time in the Word, filling up, so you can pour out.
Anything new for you on the book horizon?
I am just finishing the edits on book #2 in the series, called Rescue Me. What happens when the rescuer needs to be rescued? It features deputy Sam Brooks who has to helm the rescue of a group of teenagers as well as his own when their van goes over the side of a mountain. Sam, of course, is not alone—he’s with beautiful Willow Rose, who, unfortunately, is the sister of the girl he is dating, a conundrum that takes on epic proportions when he finds himself falling for her in the midst of their survival. Set in Montana in fall, during the turn of the seasons, Sam and Willow fight injury, the weather and a feral grizzly as they fight to bring everyone home. The story takes a look at the idea of rescue…and asks, who really is our rescuer?
Thanks for having me today!!
Thank you, Susan, for taking the time to drop by!
****
A little more about Susan…
Susan May Warren is the bestselling, Christy and RITA Award–winning author of more than fifty novels whose compelling plots and unforgettable characters have won acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. The mother of four grown children, and married to her real-life hero for over 25 years, she loves travelling and telling stories about her life overseas (Russia) and northern Minnesota.
Susan holds a BA in mass communications from the University of Minnesota. Several of her critically acclaimed novels have been ECPA and CBA bestsellers, were chosen as Top Picks by Romantic Times, and have won the RWA’s Inspirational Reader’s Choice contest and the American Christian Fiction Writers’ prestigious Carol Award.
Her novels You Don’t Know Me and Take a Chance on Me were Christy Award winners, and six of her other books have also been finalists. In addition to her writing, Susan is a nationally acclaimed writing teacher and loves to speak at women’s events about God’s amazing grace in our lives.
For exciting updates on her new releases, previous books, and more, visit her website at www.susanmaywarren.com
October 10, 2016
Author Spotlight: Irene Hannon
Today’s spotlight: Irene Hannon
[Leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of Irene’s newest book, “Tangled Webs.” Winner will be announced in the next Author Spotlight feature. Congratulations to Jeannie Dannheim, winner of “Kit Kat & Lucy.” Please email suzanne {at} suzannewoodsfisher {dot} com to claim your prize.]
Welcome, Irene! Thanks for coming by during “Tangled Web’s” busy release week. A few years ago, I met you during a Revell dinner at ACFW, but I didn’t get a chance to talk beyond an introduction. In fact, I don’t know what part of the country you live in.
I live in the Midwest and share a lovely two-story colonial home with my very own hero—my husband, Tom.
So fill us in on “Tangled Webs.” What inspired this particular story?
This is the third book in my Men of Valor series, which features brothers with special forces backgrounds. (Note: each book can be read as a standalone novel.) With this book, I wanted to develop a romance between two wounded souls struggling to find their path in life, and also to explore the question of just how far a person will go to protect someone they love. In this case, that’s the dilemma my very atypical—and in many ways sympathetic—villain faces.
Here’s the blurb: After a disastrous Middle East mission ends his six-year Army Ranger career, Finn McGregor needs some downtime. A peaceful month in the woods sounds like the perfect way to decompress. But peace isn’t on the agenda once he crosses paths with publishing executive Dana Lewis, a neighbor who is nursing wounds of her own. Someone seems bent on disrupting her stay in the lakeside cabin she inherited from her grandfather. As Finn and Dana work together to discover who is behind the disquieting pranks, the incidents begin to take on a menacing tone. And when it becomes apparent Dana’s foe may have deadly intent, Finn finds himself back in the thick of the action—ready or not.
Why do you write?
Because I can’t not write. Seriously. I was born with the writing gene—or, as some might call it, a writing compulsion. There are stories in me that have to get out. Plus, I love playing with words. Language is powerful, and using words to create emotion or a sense of place or a mood or witty dialogue—what could be more fun than that?
How would you describe your writing style?
I write suspense more in the tradition of an Alfred Hitchcock movie, with a strong psychological component, rather than the action-adventure style of a James Bond flick. With my suspense novels, my style is reminiscent of Dee Henderson’s early work, like The Guardian, or Nora Roberts’ suspense novels (without the vulgarity or sex scenes). My contemporary romance books are similar in style to those written by Debbie Macomber or Robyn Carr.
What is the role and importance of an agent?
I think this varies from author to author. Some writers have a strong collaborative relationship with their agents. They may bounce story ideas off them, ask them to review or edit manuscripts, rely on them for career planning, and of course they want them to sell books. I had an agent briefly, but discovered that the only service I was using was contract negotiation—and after spending more than two decades with a Fortune 500 company in a high-level position, I was comfortable doing that myself. So we parted ways. Again, it’s a personal choice. I know many authors who couldn’t imagine navigating the publishing business without their agent.
What is the smartest writing advice you ever got?
Never expect anyone to care as much about your books—or your career—as you do. Learn the business—and review every contract yourself even if you have an agent.
Who’s your favorite character you’ve written so far? Explain:
I couldn’t possibly pick a favorite character. Each one is special to me. But the character who’s received the most reader comments is Charley Lopez in my Oregon-coast-based Hope Harbor series. He’s a secondary character who appears in every book—a renowned painter who has run a taco stand on the wharf for as long as anyone can remember. There’s a touch of mystery about him that intrigues readers.
If your house were on fire, what one thing would you save?
My laptop. I can’t believe how reliant I’ve become on electronics! But if there was time, I’d also grab my Raggedy Ann doll, which is in a box on the shelf in my closet. It brings back so many happy memories from my childhood.
What drives you to succeed?
I’m a first born with a typical Type A personality. Enough said!
Anything new for you on the book horizon?
I’m glad you asked! I’ll have a new Hope Harbor book out in April, Sandpiper Cove, and in October 2017 I’ll launch my Code of Honor suspense series, which features three childhood friends from difficult backgrounds whose bond has been strengthened by time—and danger.
Thanks again, Irene, for taking time for this blog interview. So how can readers connect with you?
I’m very active on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Irene-Hannon-426433004084567/), tweet every day or two (https://twitter.com/IreneHannon?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor) and have a website where you can find all kinds of info about me, including a complete book list (http://www.irenehannon.com/).
Readers, don’t forget to leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of “Tangled Webs!”
October 3, 2016
“Kit Kat & Lucy” by Lonnie Hull DuPont (Revell)
“We’ve lost our connection to the land. We’ve lost our connection to animals.”
That comment, uttered in a business meeting, was the trigger for author DuPont to rethink her city life and (eventually) head back to rural Michigan, where she was raised. It wasn’t an easy transition, not until two kittens burst into her life. Those two little balls of fur changed DuPont’s life…all for the good.
Kit Kat & Lucy is part memoir, part cat-lover stories. It speaks to all of us who allow an animal–any animal–into our heart. DuPont is a fine writer–I opened the book and had trouble putting it down. And that’s coming from a dog lover!
Readers…leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of Kit Kat & Lucy!
September 27, 2016
Wednesday, 9/28, 10 am @ LifeWay Books in Irvine, California
Tomorrow morning, I’ll be up at 4:30 am to head to the airport for a 6 am flight. Going to LifeWay in Irvine, California, for a “See you at the Store” event at 10 am. Come by to say hi if you’re in the area!
Here’s the address:
LifeWay
The Market Place
13370 Jamboree Road
Irvine, CA 92602
September 26, 2016
Author Spotlight: Johnnie Alexander
Today’s spotlight: Johnnie Alexander
[Leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of Johnnie Alexander’s latest book, When Love Arrives (Revell Books).Winner will be announced in the next Author Spotlight feature.Congrats to Carolyn R. for winning a copy of Jan Drexler’s book, Mattie’s Pledge. Carolyn…please email me with your mailing address: suzanne @ suzannewoodsfisher.com.]
Welcome, Johnnie! Congrats on your new release. Give us an idea of where you live…and with whom.
To visit me, you’ll have to wind your way back into a Tennessee cove then drive up the hill and park near the garage. A calico cat may give you a disdainful look, but just ignore her. Expect to hear barking from the canine chorus. After we’ve said our hellos, I’ll introduce you to the collies, our AmStaff mix, and Rugby, my nine-pound papillon who trees the resident raccoons.
Tell us about your new release. What inspired this particular story?
Brett Somers, the hero of When Love Arrives, played more of an antagonistic role in the first book in the Misty Willow Series. To be honest, he was a conceited cad whose world got turned inside out.
In this story, he’s trying to reconcile the consequences of his past with his new-found faith. Though a skilled businessman, he senses he can’t bargain with God. All he can do is trust His love and mercy.
I guess Brett himself inspired the story. This is his journey away from a “looking out for #1” kind of life.
All I did was introduce him to a young woman unlike anyone he’d ever dated before. She captures his heart until he learns they share the same childhood tragedy. But what he thinks of as her betrayal forces him to face the ugliness of his past.
Aside from a cup of good, strong coffee, what helps you get all of your “brain cylinders” firing so you can write well?
Please don’t take away my writers guild card when I publicly confess that I don’t drink coffee. Just never developed a taste for it. During my last writing sprint toward a looming deadline, I drank way too much Coke. Now I’m trying to eliminate it altogether, but that hasn’t happened yet. Perhaps tomorrow??
What has been the biggest help to you in the journey to publication? Writers’ conferences? Writing groups? Your mom as your first-draft reader?
Three things: attending writers conference, participating in amazing critique groups, and entering contests. This is the best advice I can give to anyone who seeks a writing career. The conferences are great for learning and networking, the critique groups help identify your weaknesses and your strengths, and the contests provide (mostly) impartial feedback.
So which book have you re-read the most?
Besides the Bible, I’ve read these books multiple times: Les Miserables, The Secret Garden, and The Sand County Almanac. Oh, and Tolkien’s The Silmarillion.
Right this moment, what does your office look like?
Just looking around, I’d have to say my writing room looks rather neat and tidy. Bookshelves line the wall behind my desk which is a narrow wooden top painted dark teal. It’s angled toward a window so I can see the down the hill. It’s getting late so Rugby and my collie Griff are stretched out near my feet. Mounted posters of two of my book covers are propped on my cedar chest. Messy papers are tucked in a drawer of a small chest. Out of sight and out of mind (at least for today).
What book is on the top of your TBR pile?
I’m currently reading The Knight by Steven James and The Patmos Deception by Davis Bunn. Next up is The Black Moon, the fifth book in the Poldark series by Winston Graham.
Ever had a bad review? How did you handle it?
One of the first reviews I received, a 2 on Amazon, wrecked my heart. I didn’t talk about it to anyone for months, and whenever I thought about it, the embarrassment and humiliation washed all over me again. I just wanted it to go away.
But bad reviews are part of being a writer. I know now that if all the stars are fours and fives, potential readers may question whether the reviewers are all friends of the author. So a few lower ratings provide a kind of balance. That doesn’t mean they aren’t still hurtful, but they no longer devastate me.
I read the negative reviews because I want to grow as a writer. I read the positive reviews because they warm my heart. LOL!
What’s your favorite writing snack?
Twizzlers.
What are your biggest distractions?
The antics of the dogs and the cats.
What do you least like about being a writer? Most like?
I struggle to come up with new story ideas. Even if I know a certain event or setting, those initial decisions about who the characters are and what they want are difficult to make.
As I wrote that, I realized there’s a connection between what I like least and what I like best that I hadn’t picked up on before.
One of the best things about writing is when a character surprises me. I may think I know what’s supposed to happen only to have something occur I never thought of. Those moments are deeply satisfying.
So creating characters is difficult but when they become their own persons—that’s golden!
My great adventure has been…the alpacas. I wanted one for a long time, but back then I lived in a Florida subdivision. No place for an alpaca!
But after I moved here, God granted my crazy dream. For a couple of years, my daily chores included feeding and watering, not just one alpaca, but a herd of twelve. I learned to give shots, clean up afterbirth, and hold on tight to a long neck when I had to. I also saw newborns take their first adorable clumsy steps.
Circumstances have changed again, and we sold the herd a few months ago. As much crazy fun as it was to own alpacas, I believe the future beckons with promises of great adventures still to be had.
How can readers connect with you?
Facebook is probably my favorite place to hang out—on both my personal profile and my author page. Join me at: Facebook Profile (Friend or Follow!) or Facebook Author Page.
I also am on:
My websites are www.johnnie-alexander.com and www.mistywillowseries.com.
Thanks again for dropping in to share your story, Johnnie! Keep us posted on the drinking-too-much Coke habit! 
September 23, 2016
Amish Wisdom Harvest Bounty Giveaway!
Happiness is not perfect until it is shared.
Fall is officially here, and Suzanne Woods Fisher and the Amish Wisdom contributors want to celebrate the changing of seasons with a special Harvest Bounty giveaway! Enter the giveaway widget below for the chance to win to a set of 14 books, plus autumn-inspired goodies handpicked by some of the contributors. See below for a list of participating authors and prizes. One entrant will win, and he or she will be announced next Friday, September 30th, on the Amish Wisdom blog.
Suzanne Woods Fisher:
The Devoted and an Amish potholder set
Kate Lloyd:
Signed copy of Leaving Lancaster and folding tote-bag
Laura Hilton:
Winner’s choice of book, a dishtowel, potholders, a prayer journal and an adult coloring book
Jennifer Beckstrand:
Honeybee Sisters Cookbook and mini beeswax candle
Melodie Davis:
Amy Clipston:
An Amish Harvest, The Courtship Basket, and Amish goodies
Shelley Shepard Gray:
Signed copy of Snowfall and an Amish-made potholder
Emma Miller:
The Amish Bride and a fall-themed item
Adina Senft:
The Longest Road and an Amish-made pot holder from Lancaster county
Ruth Reid:
Signed copy of A Dream of Miracles and a Starbucks giftcard
Mindy Starns Clark:
The Amish Clockmaker, an autumn table runner and fall-themed decorative container
Molly Jebber:
Grace’s Forgiveness and potholders
Jan Drexler:
Mattie’s Pledge and a fruit of the Spirit coffee mug
Click here to view this promotion.
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*Only U.S. addresses are eligible to win.
September 19, 2016
Author Spotlight: Jan Drexler
Today’s spotlight: Jan Drexler
[Leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of Jan’s newest book, “Mattie’s Pledge.” Winner will be announced in the next Author Spotlight feature. Congratulations to Betty, the winner of Mike Nappa’s “Raven.” Betty, please email suzanne {at} suzannewoodsfisher {dot} com to claim your prize.]
Welcome, Jan! Thanks for dropping in so close to your book’s release day! Let’s start with the basics: What part of the country do you live in? Who fills up your household?
My husband and I live in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota. Mt. Rushmore, Badlands National Park, Devils Tower National Monument, Wind Cave National Park…these are our neighbors! We live where other people take their vacation.
And our household is shrinking quickly. Up until June, all four of our adult children were living at home. But then our youngest son found a house to share with friends, our daughter married the love of her life a week later, and in February our oldest son is marrying our daughter-to-be. It’s been a whirlwind, and we’re not done yet. The son left at home is finishing up his undergraduate work in another semester or so, then he’ll be off to grad school.
In a way, we’re looking forward to an empty nest…but we’re glad that so far they’re all staying in the area. And then, of course, we still have the dogs at home…including the one who is actually a cat (but don’t tell her!)
Fill us in on “Mattie’s Pledge.” It’s part of a series, right? What inspired this particular story?
“Mattie’s Pledge” continues the story that started in “Hannah’s Choice,” as the families from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania meet up with their friends in Somerset County to head west to Indiana together.
The story was inspired by the research I’ve been doing, trying to learn about my Amish ancestors. I knew that my ancestors had gone west from Lancaster County, to Somerset, to Holmes and Wayne Counties in Ohio, finally settling in northern Indiana. Research can answer the questions of what happened, who was involved, and when they did things, but writing fiction is the way I explore why my ancestors made the move to Indiana in the 1800’s.
So, Jan, if you weren’t able to write, what would you do?
I love teaching, and the day I retired from homeschooling (also known as my youngest son’s high school graduation) was a hard day. So if I wasn’t able to write, I would probably either work as a consultant in the homeschooling community or teach in a Christian school. Neither one of those options sounds as much fun as writing is, though!
What book is on the top of your TBR pile?
My TBR “pile” is a bookshelf…or two. But the book on the top right now is “The Silmarillion” by J.R.R. Tolkien. I read voraciously, and in several different genres. Next after Tolkien is “As the Crow Flies” by Craig Johnson, and then “Her Unexpected Family” by Ruth Logan Herne.
If you could write any book–on any topic–and be guaranteed a publishing contract, what topic would it be? (Or genre?)
I’ve had this idea that’s been at the back of my mind for a while now. I’ve always loved family sagas, even though they aren’t popular these days. But I’ve gotten to know a family who are fourth generation ranchers, and their story is fascinating. Cowboys, Native Americans, the Badlands…. I’d love to write their story as historical fiction.
Ever had a bad review? How did you handle it?
Every author gets bad reviews, and they happen for a lot of different reasons. If something in my writing has offended someone or they don’t like something I’ve said, I want to know. If they have a legitimate reason for giving the bad review, I consider their points. But most of the time, the reviewer is just having a bad day. I tend to forget about those reviews.
What’s one thing you learned about the publishing industry in last five years? Last year? Last six months?
I started writing fairly recently (2011), so everything I’ve learned about the publishing industry has been in the last five years. It’s been a steep learning curve!
But the one thing that has really stood out to me is that no one knows what will be the next big seller. Authors, agents and publishers try to guess, but we don’t know what the readers will want in twelve to eighteen months. So the main thing is to stay flexible!
How do you solve a grammar dilemma?
I do what I told my children to do when we were homeschooling: Write the sentence the way you think it should be written, then look at it. Does it look right? Then it probably is.
If I can’t solve the problem that way, I have fabulous editors I can rely on to give me the right answer.
Best indulgence:
A fire in the woodstove, a fine old movie on television, and a needlework project in my hands.
Anything new for you on the book horizon?
“Naomi’s Hope,” the sequel to “Mattie’s Pledge,” is coming out in June 2017! Watch for it!
So how can readers connect with you?
Several ways!
Website: www.JanDrexler.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/JanDrexlerAuthor
Twitter: www.twitter.com/JanDrexler
And on Mondays at the Yankee-Belle Café: http://yankeebellecafe.blogspot.com/
Thanks again for dropping in to share your story, Jan. And readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of Mattie’s Pledge! And don’t forget to stop in next week to see if you’ve won!
September 12, 2016
Author Spotlight: Mike Nappa
Today’s spotlight: Mike Nappa.
[Leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of The Raven by Mike Nappa. The winner will be announced in the next Author Spotlight feature. Congratulations to Shirley Chapel, the winner of Jane Kirkpatrick’s “This Road We Traveled.” Shirley, please email suzanne {at} suzannewoodsfisher {dot} com to claim your prize.]]
Welcome, Mike! Tell us about your new release, The Raven. What inspired this particular story?
Mike Nappa: There were two things that came together to inspire the “Coffey & Hill” story of THE RAVEN. First, for awhile my wife and I got on a kick of watching the TV show, “Brain Games” on the National Geographic channel. One of the regulars on that show was “deception specialist” Apollo Robbins. This guy is one of the modern masters at close-up magic and sleight of hand—fascinating to watch. I’m a total fan. So much so that I thought, hey, I should write a story about a guy who’s something of a “deception specialist” like Apollo Robbins. Next thing you know, The Raven was born in my mind.
The second inspiration for THE RAVEN came out of my novel, ANNABEL LEE. In that book, one of my characters, Samuel Hill, bought a fancy red dress for his ex-wife (and my lead detective) Trudi Coffey—but she never got to wear it! In my mind, Trudi likes to get dressed up and go out on the town, but ever since she and Samuel divorced she rarely gets the chance. So I thought, what situation can I put Trudi in where she finally gets a chance to fancy up and put on that red dress? Chapter one of THE RAVEN was my answer.
After you started writing seriously, how long was it before you were published?
Mike Nappa: Believe it or not, the first thing I ever tried to publish actually got published! (Sort of.) It was an article for a youth ministry magazine published by Group Publishing. I was working as a youth pastor at the time, and it seemed a natural step. I wrote up a five-page article that I thought was perfect and mailed it off to the editor. (Yeah, that was back when we did thing by mail!) A few weeks later, I got an envelope back from the editor. It was my article. In green pen, on the front page, she’d written, “I like this.” Pages 2 through 5 had all been crossed through with a big green “X.” At the bottom of the last page, the editor had written, “Give me more like page 1, and I’ll buy it.”
So I took the challenge.
I rewrote the article and sent her five pages “like page 1.” She bought it, published it, and I became a regular writer for her magazine over the next several years. She also passed my name to other editors in the book department at Group Publishing, and pretty soon I was writing for them too. Three years later, Group hired me as a youth curriculum editor, and the rest, I guess, is history.
Best author moment? Worst author moment?
Mike Nappa: I think my best author moment and worst author moment are probably the same moment.
When my son, Tony, was nine years old, we used to sit around and entertain ourselves by making up stupid jokes. You know, silly things like, “Why did the boy throw his pencil out the window? He was skywriting!” After several weeks of Tony and me trying to top each other, my wife pulled out a recorder. “We should start collecting some of these,” she said. “We might want them someday.” Sometime later, I decided to transcribe a few of the recordings and was shocked to discover we had over 100 silly jokes. Well, I am what I am, so it wasn’t long before my nine year old son (and me) had a book deal. That was kind of a cool thing, so when the book came out (my son was ten years old by then) the publisher invited him to make an author appearance at a book convention in Nashville. After a little lobbying, they let me tag along too.
On the signing day, we showed up at the publisher’s booth, and there was a table with stacks of our joke book on it, and a sign announcing when we’d be there. “Tony,” I said, “right now nobody has any idea who you are. When you sit down at that table, you’ll be famous for about an hour. Then, when you get up, no one will care who you are again, so be ready for that.” A few minutes later we sat down. The line for our autographs snaked down the aisle and around the corner! We signed (I think) about 200 autographs over the next hour. People lavished us with praise, fawned over us, and told us how great we were. Then our hour was up.
We stood up, stepped about five feet away from the table, and suddenly were forgotten. Our line dispersed, people walked up and down the aisle, ignoring us completely. We couldn’t have paid a passerby to take our autograph! So we learned something about the reality of so-called “fame” that day. It was a good lesson for my son—and probably both my best and worst author moment all wrapped up in one.
If you weren’t able to write, what would you do?
Mike Nappa: Honestly, I thought I was going to be a youth pastor my whole life—that’s what I first studied in college. My bachelor’s degree is in Christian Education, with a minor in Bible Theology. It wasn’t until I was 40 years old that I finally admitted writing was my true career and went back to school to earn a master’s degree in English literature and composition. So if I couldn’t write, I think I’d want to go back to being some kind of pastor or church worker. I really enjoyed doing that, years ago.
Can a person make a living as a writer?
Mike Nappa: Nope. If you stand in a room with 100 writers, chances are pretty good that only two or three are actually paying their bills by writing words on a page. The rest of us are supplementing our incomes by marrying sympathetic spouses or working “real” jobs outside of our writing career.
The exception would be “journalists” who make a living as staff writers (employees) of newspapers or magazines or large websites. But most of us just write because we “can’t not write .” And so we take whatever income we can make from writing and assume our “other” career is the price we pay for the privilege of publishing.
What is the role and importance of an agent?
Mike Nappa: I’m frequently asked, usually sarcastically, often with a bit of a frustrated whine in the voice, “Do I really need an agent to publish books?” My opinion after two decades in the publishing business is this:
Yes, you need an agent. And that stinks.
You ought to be able to approach any publisher directly with your book ideas and proposals, but that’s just not the way publishing works in the 21st century. An agent’s primary job is to build relationships with the decision-makers at the different publishing houses, and then those relationships allows him or her to approach the publisher for you, knowing that your work will at least be considered for publication. Without that kind of relationship, most publishers will either fire off a rejection without ever looking at your book, or even worse, ignore your submission and never respond to it.
Here are situations when you might not need an agent: If you already have a relationship with a particular editor or publisher; if you have a friend that already publishes with a particular house and he or she passes on your manuscript to his or her editor; if you self-publish a book and it sells over 20,000 copies without the help of an established publishing company.
Don’t have any of that? Then yes, you need an agent. Suck it up and do the work required to get yourself a reputable agent. Complaining about the “rules” of this industry doesn’t get you published. Trying every random idea in order to shortcut your way around the need for an agent is almost always a waste of time. You want to publish? Do the work. Hard work trumps talent (or even lack of talent sometimes) and creates opportunity. Do the work, keep doing the work, and then work some more—and you’ll be able to find the agent you need.
What is the smartest writing advice you ever got?
Mike Nappa: My first boss when I went to work at a publishing company was a guy named Stephen Parolini. Early in my tenure there, he dropped a manuscript on my desk and told me (kindly) it wasn’t good enough. “As you’re rewriting,” he said, “think of your three very best ideas. Then go with your fourth idea.”
Mind. Blown.
I’ve followed that advice ever since, and it has never failed me. The simple truth is that there are thousands of very creative people competing with me for every opportunity I pursue. If my only asset is that I can think of ideas somebody else can think of too, then I’m not going to last very long as a writer. But if I can keep coming up with that “fourth idea”—that unexpected, unique, compelling, surprising idea—then maybe, just maybe, I can stick around this fickle industry for a few days more. Thanks Steve!
If your house were on fire, what one thing would you save?
Mike Nappa: I’m going to give you the needlessly long, bloviating response to that question. (Hope that’s OK!) If you want the short answer, just skip to the last sentence in this section. Otherwise, here we go…
When I was a kid, I was captivated by superhero comics. I liked most any superhero, but my favorite was always Captain America. At that time, Stan Lee was a driving force behind most Captain America comics and every time I’d read a new Cap story, I’d feel wistful about it, wishing that I could grow up to write Captain America comics.
Well, sadly, I’ve never written a single panel of a Captain America comic, or any Marvel comic for that matter—but I did grow up to become a writer, and I have published my share of adventure and suspense stories. Even in a detective story like THE RAVEN you can see influences of Stan Lee on my writing style. So when Stan the Man himself made an appearance at a Comic Con just a few hours from where I live, I made an appointment to meet him. (What that means is, I paid an exorbitant price for a ticket that allowed me to take a 30-second picture with the legendary comics creator. Yeah, I’m that kind of nerd.)
I had Stan sign the oldest Captain America comic in my collection, “Tales of Suspense #58,” and then when they ushered me next to him for my photo op, I held up that comic and leaned down and whispered in his ear: “I want you to know I became a writer because of you,” I said. He grinned for the picture and said to me in that deep, Stan-Lee bass voice, “I’m so delighted.”
Click. Camera flashed and Stan’s people pushed me away. But I had my comic and I had my memory. It felt pretty good.
So, if my house was on fire and I could save only one thing, it’d be my Stan Lee-signed copy of the 1964 edition of Tales of Suspense #58. Excelsior!
If I could go anywhere, it would be…
Mike Nappa: Disneyland, with my wife, just long enough for us to breathe in the air on Main Street USA and see her smile like she’s finally made it home again.
How can readers connect with you?
Mike Nappa: The most reliable way to get in touch with me is through the “Contact Us” page at my e-magazine, www.PopFam.com.
Thanks, Suzanne!
Thank you, Mike, for taking time for such a great interview. Loved, loved, loved your responses! Especially the story about you and your son at a book signing. May the Lord bless and extend the reach of your writing gift, Mike.
Readers, don’t forget to leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of The Raven by Mike Nappa. The winner will be announced in the next Author Spotlight feature, so check back next week to see if you won!
September 6, 2016
Author Spotlight: Jane Kirkpatrick
Today’s spotlight: Jane Kirkpatrick
[Leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of Jane’s newest book, “This Road We Traveled.” Winner will be announced in the next Author Spotlight feature. Congratulations to Patricia Smith, the winner of Melody Carlson’s”The Christmas Angel Project.” Please email suzanne {at} suzannewoodsfisher {dot} com to claim your prize.]
Hi Jane!
Thanks for stopping by my blog…on the day before your book’s release day! Let’s start with the basics: What part of the country do you live in? Who fills up your household? 
I live on the high desert of Oregon. That means it’s pretty dry here in the foothills of the Cascade mountains. My husband and I have a couple of acres and two dogs: a wire-haired pointing griffon and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (who runs the show.)
Tell us about your new release: What inspired this particular story? 
This Road we Traveled is based on the life of a 66 year old woman, her daughter and granddaughter. In 1846, Tabby’s family was heading to Oregon from Missouri but they didn’t think she could make the trek because of her age and because she was lame. One hundred 50 years later, she was named the “Mother of Oregon” by the state legislature. I’m always asking, “How did that happen?” I’d heard about this woman’s trek (yes, she hired her own driver and talked her 78 year old brother-in-law into going with her). At a book signing a woman came up to me and said “I’m with the Friends of Forest Grove and we think your next book should be about Tabbithat Moffat Brown.” Well, that set me researching!
When did you get bitten by the writing bug?
I always loved words even as a child. I thought “butterfly” was a pretty funny word because I lived on a dairy in Wisconsin and I knew butter didn’t fly! I wrote poems and little plays. In my mental health administrator role, I wrote letters to state and federal officials and I’d get replies and phone calls! So I knew that words had power.
After you started writing seriously, how long was it before you were published?
My husband and I made a decision to leave suburbia and “homestead” on 160 remote acres in Oregon. When I wondered what I’d do there, I felt a calling to write. So I took a couple of classes at the community college and my instructor said he thought I could sell some of the assignments. And I did selling a big four page spread in Private Pilot the week before we headed to our new homestead adventure. The early sales were non-fiction. My first book was published six years after the magazine articles sold. The first novel sold three years later and there has been a book (sometimes two) each year since for 25 years.
Aside from a cup of good, strong coffee, what helps you get all of your “brain cylinders” firing so you can write well?
Reading poetry. Knowing I have a deadline!
Do you have any favorite places and routines when you write? How many hours a day do you spend writing?
I usually write in my office that has a beautiful bookcase and a desk my husband built for me when I first said I wanted to be a writer. I look out on a lovely yard and a field of wildflowers with a labyrinth in the middle of it. Sometimes deer wander through in the morning and while I can see the houses across the road, I feel pretty private though not like when we lived on our ranch with the nearest neighbor seven miles away.
My writing life is sort of a rhythm. Because I have contracts to write books that are due each September, and I have a book coming out each September, how much I write each day varies. From September to December, I’m promoting a book that has just come out, responding and preparing editorial suggestions and researching the next book. I call that my “promoting, editing and researching mode” even though I’m always researching! In March, I start writing the book due in September so in “writing mode” I get up at 5:00AM and write until 8:00am when I have breakfast with my husband. Then I’m back at it from 9-noon; back again from 1-4:00. I read nonfiction books about the subject or period in the evening and treat myself to a good Suzanne Woods or Sandra Byrd book before falling asleep. I follow that routine for most of the spring and summer trying to finish by July so I have a few weeks to let the work sit and stew so I can see it afresh when I search for problems etc. My editor will see it and give me grand advice and then I’ll work on revisions and we are editing etc. until the book comes out the following year. And the cycle starts again. In between I’m teaching, speaking, and having a rich life at my church and my passion for the indigenous people of Burundi, Africa.
What has been the biggest help to you in the journey to publication? Writers’ conferences? Writing groups? Your mom as your first-draft reader?
I have to say other writers have been the biggest help to me and as a result, I try to pass that one. Another writer taught that first writing class and gave me encouragement (Bob Welch was his name). At a writer’s conference, a writer took extra time with me during a lunch break to give me advice and tell me not to be discouraged. I read tons of books “about” writing and at a writer’s conference heard a writer say “don’t go to too many of these. Write instead” which made sense to me. Still another writer told me to make a list of markets when I finished my work and then send my piece out to the first one. When it came back, he said to read it once and then send it out to the second name on the list and so on. We do our best job at seeking a market when we feel good about the piece. And when we get the rejection, we tend to put the work away and never send it out again. Having a next step to take (the next market on the list) means keeping the piece in circulation. I never reached the 10th market before I sold my piece. Not because they were great pieces but because I kept trying. That was great advice.
Why do you write?
I can’t not write. I’ve thought about this a great deal though, especially since I’m not growing wealthy as a writer. I write to make a difference, to tell stories that would otherwise be lost that I think are important. They’re stories about women, strong women, powerful women who often didn’t see themselves that way. They were ordinary by most standards. Joyce Carol Oates said once that a good story needs three things: to create empathy for the character; to give voice to voices seldom heard; to memorialize. I try to do all three but ultimately I write because I feel compelled to.
What are you best known for … writing or otherwise?
I have terminal Pollyannaitis. My friends all look to me to find the good in every situation, to forgive quickly, to diplomatically tell the truth when it needs to be told. I hope my stories do that to now that you ask!
What book have you reread the most?
English Creek by Ivan Doig.
Right this moment, what does your office look like?
It’s trashed. I have stacks of folders on either side of my desktop. Books in the window sill. Manuscript copies on the floor. My beautiful bookcase is full and the front of books are stacked with piles of other books – reference, novels, gifts. I once had three fine young women come to help me clean my office. They were wonderful (and would be horrified to see that I didn’t keep up their good efforts). I found it hard to give things away that were gifts to me. One young mom said “It was given to you to bless you. It’s not blessing you now so give it away to someone so it can bless them.” That helped a lot so I also have a box that I occasionally put items in that I’m willing to let go, savoring the memory but not the item. But when I’m writing, I don’t notice any of the clutter. I’m in the 1850s when the wind is blowing, the snow is falling and my characters are trying to make it home. Clutter in my office is nothing compared to their problems!
Ever had a bad review? How did you handle it?
Oh yes. I’ve had to work on letting go of the word “appalling.” I read from the book Rotten Rejections about famous authors and their terrible reviews. They kept writing so I silence the harpies that would deter me and keep going. I have this phrase: It would be nice if everything went the way I wanted but it doesn’t. That’s what living looks like. One author said that at the first sign of a negative word in a review he throws the review away. He said he also throws away good reviews but he reads them all the way through first. I think that’s a very wise approach.
What are your biggest distractions?
Feeling guilty that I’m not spending more time with my husband and friends. And maybe my dogs who come up and bunt my hand on the computer begging me to go out. Hard not to pay attention to that.
What is the smartest writing advice you ever got?
It was really more promotional advice. I asked my brother, a successful salesman, what he wanted in a product that made it easy for him to sell. He took a few days then called me back. “Two things. You want to make sure it’s the best product around, top notch. Second, you want to have a story.” A Story? “Yes, because if it’s a great product they can buy it anywhere but if they have a story to go with it, then they’ll remember you and buy it from you.” Out of that advice came an understanding of the power of the story. It helps me promote my work because it isn’t about me, it’s about the characters and their stories and what they taught me while I wrote and what I hope they bring to readers. Focus on making it a fabulous story. That’s the advice.
Who’s your favorite character you’ve written so far? Explain:
Ha. The one I’m working on now! Each character had something to tell me, to encourage me, to frustrate me. But when I enter and live the story, that character is the one I care most about. Right now I’m working on a character named Jennie who overcame incredible odds to become one of the first women to graduate from a medical school in Oregon. I love her! I also love Tabby Brown from This Road we Traveled. She was such a pistol, outspoken, enduring, not taking no for an answer. And she never lived with any of her children as she got older. Hmmm, could she have been a bit of a pill to live with?
Are you an introvert? Extrovert? In-between?
I’m an introvert, needing quiet time to gather thoughts and ideas. I can spend hours in my office. When people say writing is a lonely profession I disagree. I never feel less alone than when I’m writing because I have all those characters and a rich imaginary life to entertain me. But I also do public speaking, keynote conferences, teach classes and then I’m very aware of people “out there” and gain energy from helping meet the needs and goals of others. On the Meyers Briggs Personality Inventory, my Introvert/extrovert are equal but I still think of myself as introverted because that’s where I draw my strength from.
My great adventure has been…
Giving up a profession to move with my husband to a remote piece of land seven miles from the mailbox and eleven miles from a paved road. It was the biggest risk of my life, our families thought we had gone off the deep end. It changed my life forever and taught me over and over how faithful God is. We stepped out on a cloud of faith and didn’t fall through. Out of that risk came many tragedies and challenges but also a new profession – writing – and a new family as I worked for 17 years on an Indian reservation, something I had longed to do but didn’t think could ever happen. Then one day, when financially we needed help the most, a letter arrived asking me to work with children with disabilities on the reservation. My first novel grew out of my life working with Native Americans. That never would have happened – nor the writing life – if we hadn’t chosen to trust God for our future and our present. So homesteading is the grand adventure of my life.
Best indulgence: chocolate
Anything new for you on the book horizon?
This Road We Traveled will release in September and I’m already working on the next one!
How can readers connect with you?
#PioneeringWomen
#ThisRoadWeTraveled
#JaneKirkpatrick
Thanks again, Jane, for taking time to drop in. Readers, don’t forget to leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of “This Road We Traveled!”
August 29, 2016
Author Spotlight: Melody Carlson
Today’s spotlight: Melody Carlson
[Leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of Melody’s newest book, “The Christmas Angel Project.” Winner will be announced in the next Author Spotlight feature.]
Hi Melody! Thanks for dropping in, so close to release day! Let’s start with the basics: What part of the country do you live in? Who fills up your household?
I live in Oregon with my husband of 38 years. We live in a very small town in the mountains and we have a yellow Labrador retriever named Audrey.
Tell us about your new release: What inspired this particular story?
The Christmas Angels Project features four very different women who have lost a beloved friend . . . shortly before Christmas. It’s a tale of friendship, second chances, helping others and finding hope. I honestly don’t remember what inspired the story . . . probably my appreciation for the good solid friends in my life.
So when did you get bitten by the writing bug?
I’ve loved storytelling for as long as I can remember. I always wrote whenever I got the chance—simply for the pleasure of writing. But in my early-thirties, I got serious about writing—maybe that was when the bug really bit me. So I began to write with the hope of publishing and possibly earning some ‘extra’ money. Well, that was more than 200 books ago and I still have the writing bug and don’t plan to recover anytime soon.
After you started writing seriously, how long was it before you were published?
It happened relatively quickly—although it seemed like forever back when I got all those disappointing rejection letters. It would’ve been easy to have given up because for about a year it felt pretty hopeless. But within the second year of seriously writing, I sold some short stories and won a writing contest. I contracted my first book in my third year of writing and submitting. Although I’d already written about six books by that time. All which were published in the next couple of years.
Do you have any favorite places and routines when you write? How many hours a day do you spend writing?
I used to be able to write ‘anywhere,’ and I did. But I’ve discovered that, over the years, I do better with minimal distractions. To that end, my husband just built me a small writing studio (sort of like a tiny house) that’s situated in our backyard, by our pond. It’s nice and quiet and inspiring. My dog Audrey likes it too!
Do you prefer reading physical books or e-readers?
I actually prefer a physical book. I like the feel of it in my hands. I like seeing the cover and reading the back cover copy. And sometimes I like to be able to flip back to reread or check on something. But if I’m traveling (by air) I read on my iPad because I like to travel light.
How would you describe your writing style?
I’ve always said I ‘write by the seat of my pants.’ Other writer friends used to make fun of that, but I’ve noticed that more and more writers are confessing they write the same way. The fun part of writing for me is discovering the story as I go. It’s like solving a mystery. I like being surprised. If I knew what was going to happen or exactly how it would end, I wouldn’t be motivated to write. I also like to write what I call ‘reality fiction.’ I like to tell stories that feel like real life, deal with real problems, and offer some real answers.
If you weren’t able to write, what would you do?
I love anything to do with home design. But I worked for a really good interior decorator for a short time and decided that wasn’t for me. However, I wouldn’t mind house-flipping. In a way, my husband and I have already done that with our own homes. But I think it would be fun to do as a business . . . if I wasn’t writing.
Right this moment, what does your office look like?
Well, like I said, it’s a small writing studio. And I think it’s rather sweet! It has open-beamed pine ceiling with a big paddle fan, and plank fir floors. The walls are painted robin’s egg blue, decorated with nice art. Very peaceful. There’s an off-white linen couch and a leather rocking chair. I have an antique Irish harvest table for a desk. And lots of windows. And, oh yeah, a big yellow dog sleeping in the corner.
Can a person make a living as a writer?
I get asked this question a lot while speaking at schools. Of course, I say that ‘yes’ you can make a living. After all, I have. But then I point out that to make a living you must either A) write a best seller every couple of years, or B) write a lot of books very quickly like I do, or C) be a flexible freelance writer who is willing to do all kinds of writing, or D) be willing to live in a cardboard box beneath a bridge somewhere.
What is the role and importance of an agent?
It’s difficult (if not impossible) to publish with a traditional publishing house without a good agent. However, you can publish indie books on the internet without one. A really good agent is someone who can help with a multitude of things—from knowing the general state of the publishing industry to understanding the components of good writing. For writers seeking an agent, I always suggest that you look at authors who write similar to you and research who their agents are . . . then approach them to represent you. Of course, you should have some fully written books to show them by the time you do this.
Who’s your favorite character you’ve written so far? Explain:
Isn’t that like naming your favorite child? But, okay, I’ll confess. In my novel Finding Alice, the main character Alice, a young woman suffering from schizophrenia, is probably my favorite. Journeying with Alice through her confusing dark world was very meaningful after working with a family member who’d also been diagnosed with the same mental illness. Also because the book, written in first person/present tense, felt very real to me as I wrote it. And it was cathartic.
Describe yourself in one word:
Persistent.
Are you an introvert? Extrovert? In-between?
I’m an introvert at heart, but I know how to force my extrovert to the surface as needed.
The one thing I hope to discover is…
It’s something I probably won’t find out until I’m in heaven. I want to discover God’s purposes in weaving such baffling DNA in so many people. Some friends and family members seem to suffer so much from inherited genetic traits—and I do believe God ‘knit us in the womb,’ but sometimes I just wonder why . . . ? Of course, this gives me ample opportunity to trust God—and that’s a good place to be. But it would be nice to know the answers someday.
Thanks again for dropping in, Melody. How can readers connect with you?
melodycarlson.com
Readers, don’t forget to leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of The Christmas Angel Project!
