Vanessa Hall's Blog, page 13
January 20, 2023
Writers’ Vision Blog Tour: Interview with Kaytlin Phillips
VH: What first inspired you to begin Writers’ Vision?
KP: At first it was a crazy hairbrained idea that I quickly dismissed as another one of Kayti’s crazy thoughts; I have lots of those. But it wouldn’t go away. God kept bringing me back to my need for community and the lack of it, I couldn’t find what I was looking for and I kept being nudged in the direction of creating what it was that I felt I wanted. And that’s how WV was born.
VH: Did you ever imagine yourself starting something like Writers’ Vision, or was it a sudden idea?
KP: I didn’t imagine I would start something like this, because honestly I don’t feel qualified. I don’t feel like I know enough about writing, but God has been showing me more and more it’s not about what I know but what He is telling me to do. So, though I may not know everything there is to writing or publishing, I do have a passion for story telling and for helping others to understand the power of their words.
VH: What’s the motto/mission statement of Writers’ Vision, and how did you come up with it?
KP: I don’t have it officially written anywhere (still need to do that) but to me the motto and mission of Writers’ Vision based off the verse I chose for the site, is to serve God in all we do, reflecting who He is in all we write. We strive to help others succeed in perfecting their writing ‘vision’.
The whole reason WV was started was to create a space for Christian Creatives to connect, to get inspired, to talk about what they are struggling with or celebrate their victories. It’s a family more than a community.
VH: What is the hardest part of running Writers’ Vision?
KP: Probably keeping up with the content. Between trying to figure out who to interview and ask to guest post and when to post everything it gets hectic. Then I’ve had to give up on trying to keep up with everything being posted in the community because running the site and making it more accessible for everyone is taking up most my time. But it’s been great!
VH: What is your favorite aspect of the website/community?
KP: Most members have told me their favorite part is the community, and I have to say I love the community too! It’s just great to connect with other writers for sprints and edits and just anything. But I also enjoy the blog, the encouragement and empowerment I strive to deliver over there often does me a lot of good, and I hope does some good for our members and subscribers!
VH: What’s your long-term goal for the website?
KP: The long-term goal is to reach as many writers as possible and let them know the power they have. That stories are never just stories, that the world needs to hear what they have to say. I want WV to be a place of encouragement and motivation for writers, an empowering space that helps them see their true worth and potential, while also helping them make friends and connections with other writers.
VH: Since life can be so busy, how can people get involved from least amount of commitment to most commitment?
KP: Subscribing to the blog requires the least amount of commitment, but lots of benefits since you’ll be notified of new posts, interviews, and anything that’s going on around the site publicly.
Being a member I would put a mid-tier level, you can interact in our private community and read others works, answer questions, ask your own questions or post your writing. It’s a fun space that we’re always updating to best serve our members.
The highest level of commitment would be volunteering to help around the site by writing guest posts or coming aboard the team to help send out interviews and line up guest posts. I have several people who have helped with guest posts and who have been interviewed that are members and one full-time fellow team member. Louise Taylor is our story contest manager and keeper of my sanity; she’s been a real blessing!
Thank you so much for having me, Vanessa! I had so much fun answering your questions!
About
Hello, I’m Kaytlin!
A homeschool grad, blogger, influencer, and the author of the MG fantasy World of Silence, Co-Author with my sisters, Marisa and Jaiden, of the YA Fantasy series The Dragon Prince Chronicles, and have been featured in the Seize the Night Anthology.
I first discovered a love for writing at the age of seven when I plagiarized a Roy Roger’s film into my own book. Since then I’ve become more creative and write books of my own invention, which are usually stories of hope, purpose, and redemption. More often than not you can find me with my nose in a book, whisked away to some fictional setting.
Through my stories I long to present the Savior and His overwhelming love for us, I want everyone to know they are never too far gone for God to save them and that everyone has a purpose!
Links!Writers’ Vision: Home | Writers’ Vision (sistersthree3.wixsite.com)
Kaytlin Phillips: Kaytlin Phillips | Instagram, Facebook | Linktree
Tour ScheduleMonday, Jan 16thWriters’ Vision – Kick-Off Post
Vanessa Hall – Spotlight
Louise Taylor – Spotlight
Tuesday, Jan 17thPearl Christine – Spotlight
Sisters Three – Spotlight
Wednesday, Jan 18thLouise Taylor – Guest Post
Allyson Jamison – Interview
Thursday, Jan 19thLorelei Angelino – Spotlight
Madisyn Carlin – Spotlight & Guest Post
Lillian Keith – Spotlight & Interview
Friday, Jan 20thKristina Hall – Interview
Vanessa Hall – Interview
Annabelle Batie – Spotlight & Guest Post
Abbigail Befus – Interview
A.J. Syngraféas – Guest Post
Weekend Off….Monday, Jan 23rdJoelle Stone – Guest Post
Louise Taylor – Interview
Writers’ Vision – Mid-Tour Recap
Tuesday, Jan 24thAbbigail Befus – Guest Post
Issabelle Perry – Guest Post
Wednesday, Jan 25thSaraina Whitney – Guest Post
Grace A. Johnson – Spotlight
Allyson Jamison – Guest Post
Thursday, Jan 26thGrace A. Johnson – Interview
Sisters Three – About Writers’ Vision
Friday, Jan 27thGrace A. Johnson – Guest Post
Annabelle Batie – Interview
Writers’ Vision – Wrap-Up Post
January 16, 2023
Guest Post!
I had the opportunity to guest post on Allyson’s blog, and it’s all about suspense today! 
And if you missed it, Allyson guest posted on my blog just a couple days ago with a wonderful post about consistency and writing habits. Be sure to check it out here: Guest Post by Allyson Jamison.
Blog Tour – Writers’ Vision: What Is It?
Writers’ Vision is…
Writers’ Vision is a community where Christian creatives can connect and receive feedback, advice, encouragement, and even form friendships. Originally started in 2021 as a writers’ critique site, Writers’ Vision has expanded to include creatives of all levels! From authors to bloggers and even editors! Whether it is a community you are looking for or simply encouragement and advice, Writers’ Vision is here to help!
Our Community space where we share bits of our stories is open to a wide variety of genres and is for making your manuscript what you envisioned it could be.
The Community is a place where authors and bloggers can receive Beta reading services from readers and fellow authors. But it’s not just another critique group, it is a friendship, a coming together for the benefit of all involved.
Writing to Awaken HopeThe Official Blog of Writer’s VisionWriting to Awaken Hope is the official blog of Writers’ Vision and is full of encouraging posts, interviews, stories, and even useful skills and resources for authors and bloggers alike.
Our Writing ChallengesWriters’ Vision host a writing challenge/competition every three months! The prompts range from sentences, word count restrictions, picture prompts, and even collages!
The challenge winner has their story posted on the Writers’ Vision blog and, of course, given bragging rights.
You don’t have to be a member of the Community to enter or even be subscribed to the blog.
You don’t have to be a member of the Community to enter or even be subscribed to the blog.
Kaytlin PhillipsHello, I’m Kaytlin!
A homeschool grad, blogger, influencer, and the author of the MG fantasy World of Silence, Co-Author with my sisters, Marisa and Jaiden, of the YA Fantasy series The Dragon Prince Chronicles, and have been featured in the Seize the Night Anthology.
I first discovered a love for writing at the age of seven when I plagiarized a Roy Roger’s film into my own book. Since then I’ve become more creative and write books of my own invention, which are usually stories of hope, purpose, and redemption. More often than not you can find me with my nose in a book, whisked away to some fictional setting.
Through my stories I long to present the Savior and His overwhelming love for us, I want everyone to know they are never too far gone for God to save them and that everyone has a purpose!
Links!Writers’ Vision: Home | Writers’ Vision (sistersthree3.wixsite.com)
Kaytlin Phillips: Kaytlin Phillips | Instagram, Facebook | Linktree
Tour ScheduleMonday, Jan 16thWriters’ Vision – Kick-Off Post
Vanessa Hall – Spotlight
Louise Taylor – Spotlight
Tuesday, Jan 17thPearl Christine – Spotlight
Sisters Three – Spotlight
Wednesday, Jan 18thLouise Taylor – Guest Post
A.J. Syngraféas – Interview
Allyson Jamison – Interview
Thursday, Jan 19thLorelei Angelino – Spotlight
Madisyn Carlin – Spotlight & Guest Post
Lillian Keith – Spotlight & Interview
Friday, Jan 20thKristina Hall – Interview
Vanessa Hall – Interview
Annabelle Batie – Spotlight & Guest Post
Abbigail Befus – Interview
A.J. Syngraféas – Guest Post
Weekend Off….Monday, Jan 23rdJoelle Stone – Guest Post
Louise Taylor – Interview
Writers’ Vision – Mid-Tour Recap
Tuesday, Jan 24thAbbigail Befus – Guest Post
Issabelle Perry – Guest Post
Wednesday, Jan 25thSaraina Whitney – Guest Post
Grace A. Johnson – Spotlight
Allyson Jamison – Guest Post
Thursday, Jan 26thGrace A. Johnson – Interview
Sisters Three – About Writers’ Vision
Friday, Jan 27thGrace A. Johnson – Guest Post
Annabelle Batie – Interview
Writers’ Vision – Wrap-Up Post
January 13, 2023
Guest Post by Allyson Jamison: 6 Ways You Can Build Consistency as a Writer
Our desire is to become a better writer. To learn and grow and see the fruits of our labors. We want to wake up one day and suddenly see how far we’ve come. How much better a writer we are.
This desire will hit strong and we’ll write nonstop for several days in a row, maybe even a week or two. But then it happens. The motivation runs out. We skip writing days. We go weeks, even months, without writing a word.
What do we do about this? How do we grow that consistency? How do we balance the busyness and responsibilities of life with our writing life? How do we find time for it all?
These are all popular questions and tough ones to answer. It all depends on your personal life and what you’re willing to sacrifice for the things you love. And how much diligence you have to get a project done.
Sound like something you’re interested in? Read on.
How are you spending your free time?Life is understandably busy. We have responsibilities that can’t be ignored no matter what age you are or what season of life you may be in. Life is busy.
But, no matter how busy life is, we all have free time. That half hour you spend drinking coffee in the morning. All the time you spend checking social media or texting friends. Your lunch break. In the evening before you go to bed. Watching movies. We all find time to do the things we enjoy… But you have to get your priorities straight.
I’m not saying you should become an unsocial recluse and stop texting your friends or become a workaholic and never stop for meals. There is importance in finding time for yourself, but there’s also things you can cut back on to find time for other things.
How long do you spend on social media in a day? How long do you spend in the morning getting ready? How long do you spend on your lunch break? These are all times you could be writing!
Make a goal to only spend, say, five to ten minutes on social media and spend the rest of the time usually spent there writing. Or even make it a goal to only get on a couple times a week so it’s not a distraction at all.
Is there a way you can speed up your mornings? Or maybe you could get up earlier so you can squeeze in a pajama writing session before the busyness of the day kicks in (this is one of my favorite writing times).
Is it possible to write while on your lunch break? Even if it’s only ten to fifteen minutes of quality writing time–even if it’s only five minutes!–it’s words that you managed to get in today.
It’s all about your priorities. If writing is a priority, you will find time for it. Talk to your family and ask if it’s possible for an hour in the afternoon uninterrupted. Rearrange your schedule so that you can have more time for it. If it’s not a priority for you, though, then it will show in the amount of time you find.
Plan for writer’s blockAnother thing that always trips writers up is running low on mental energy. If we write, write, write, with little to no breaks then there’s no doubt that our brains will get tired and we’ll need a break. This is when writer’s block, self-doubt, or procrastination kicks in.
If you take the proper time here and there to read a book, take a walk, go on a picnic, or anything else that might fill your creative well then you won’t spend as much time facing these road blockers. Find out what fills your creative well and intentionally incorporate those activities into your day to day life. This is what I’ve done for myself and I was amazed at the improvement I saw in my life. You can see the same in your own life.
When you’re not constantly being stopped by your mental energy taking a dip, you can work harder on building your consistency and growing as a writer.
Make it funWriting can feel like a chore at times–especially if you’re trying to build consistency. It becomes just another thing on your to-do list that needs to be checked off. But it should never be a chore!
If your writing has become a chore, then I suggest taking a step away from it and reevaluating why you write. Writing should always be fun and exciting, something you love doing. But sometimes you need to help yourself in this area and make it fun for yourself.
There is a trend going around about “romanticizing” your writing, and, I have to admit, I’m a fan. It’s all about making your writing space lovely or your writing time fun. It’s about reconnecting with your writing and remembering what you love so much about it. This is important as a writer. You should never forget what you love about your writing!
So take some time, find out what makes your writing time fun and then incorporate that. For me, it’s having a clean desk, candles, and the perfect music playlist. With these elements, not only can I have a more focused writing time, but I fall in love with it while I’m doing it.
Set a daily writing goalIf you’re working on building consistency then something that could be very beneficial for you is to set a daily writing goal. This is what made the ultimate difference for me back when I was struggling to find a more consistent writing schedule. Even if this word goal is only one hundred, that’s one hundred words that you made time to write each day. And by the end of a month or two, you’ll be amazed how many words you’ve racked up!
Now, a daily word goal isn’t for everyone. I’ve found some people who have said having a daily word goal is more stressful and blocking than helpful for them. Even for myself, these days I’ve found that they can be too stressful sometimes. But when I was focusing mainly on consistency, they were a lifesaver for me and they might be for you as well.
I would suggest giving them a try. If it doesn’t work for you, there’s no harm in stopping. At least you tried! I still enjoy them on occasion, especially if they’re a part of a word crawl. The point is to find what motivates you to sit yourself down day after day and write the words that are locked up inside of you. Don’t hold them back, let them out and see the beauty that comes from it.
The two day ruleI recently heard someone say in terms of working out not to take two days off in a row. Taking a day off is fine and needed a lot of times, but it’s when you take that second day off that it becomes easier to take another day off and another and another… until before you know you’ve taken weeks off.
I believe that this applies in terms of writing as well. There’s no harm in taking a day off here and there–in fact I encourage it! But it’s when you start taking multiple days off in a row that you hit the danger zone. Set a goal for yourself to not skip two days in a row, even if that means you’re only writing every other day. Do not take two days off.
Find a support team and personal cheerleaderWhat the turning point was for my path to consistency was finding an accountability partner. (She also happens to be my best friend so that’s a win win. ;)) I never thought I needed an accountability partner–never realized what having one would do for my writing. But it was what made all the difference in my writing career. Without her, I would have given up a long time ago.
She’s my personal cheerleader that I can always count on to celebrate my wins with me, be there when I need a pick-me-up, or challenge me to work harder than I otherwise would have. An accountability partner was what led me to being a consistent writer. We critique each other’s works and push each other to become the best that we possibly can. I will always recommend writers finding an accountability partner, especially if they’re working on building consistency.
A support team is also great. Community is more important than a lot of writers give it credit for. There are a lot of great writing communities out there and more continually popping up for writers of all ages to find and grow from. Your support team can even be as simple as your family. They’re the best support team you could have!
ConclusionThese tips are in no certain order, they are simply pointers that I think will set you off in the right direction. Consistency is hard to maintain as a writer and very easy to break. It will take a lot of diligence and hard work to find this in your own life. Are you willing to put in the time?
Once you finally have a consistent writing schedule, you will notice a huge difference in your writing. When I was younger, I always thought consistency was overrated (showed what I knew, right?). But when I actually took the time to build consistency in my own writing life, I suddenly realized how much my writing was improving as a result. And now as I look back over the past couple of years, I’m amazed by how far I’ve come.
That is what you have to look forward to, my friend. If you build and maintain a consistent writing schedule for your life, in a couple years you’ll be able to look back and marvel at everything you’ve accomplished. And that is an incredible feeling indeed!
So tell me, how much time are you willing to dedicate to your writing career? What things are you willing to sacrifice in order to find more writing time? Which of these tips resonated with you the most? How are you going to walk away and use them in your day to day life?
January 11, 2023
Cover Reveal: Dreams of the Heart by Penny Zeller
Sometimes the hardest battles take place in the heart.
Poverty and abuse at the hands of her drunkard father leaves Hannah Bane trapped and alone. Without hope, she prays for a miracle just on the off-chance God will hear her. Will the new deputy, who seems to be watching her every move, be Hannah’s one chance to escape the only life she’s ever known?
For as long as he can remember, John Mark Eliason has wanted to be a deputy sheriff. When a job opens in the nearby town of Poplar Springs, he eagerly accepts, but finds his greatest mission won’t be tracking down criminals and bringing justice to the ruthless Wyoming town, but saving a woman he barely knows.
Will an unexpected answer to a difficult situation show how love can endure—and even thrive—in an unconventional situation? Or will fear and uncertainty keep two hesitant hearts apart?
In the sequel to Forgotten Memories, award-winning author Penny Zeller weaves a tender tale of faith, romance, and humor in a memorable story that reminds us God hears every prayer and has a plan for every life.
January 9, 2023
Writing Goals for 2023
Well, that’s a lofty title, isn’t it? But since it’s the first month of the new year, I thought I’d talk about my writing/publishing goals.
Let’s glance at my former goals for publishing, shall we?
Publish Unworthy in February 2022.
Check! Evgeny and Sasha were released to the world on February 6th, I believe, with much travail. Per usual.
Publish Untold in July 2022.
Check – barely. Untold was published on July 30th, I believe. (I’m forgetting my children’s birthdays, now, which is awful.) 
Publish Unforgiven in January 2023
*crickets*
Well, as you can see, that one is not going to happen. I’m on the second round of edits in Unforgiven, and we still have a long way to go. And you know what? That’s okay. We can’t always operate by our own timetable, but rather the Lord’s.
So my new goal for Unforgiven—and for 2023!—is to publish that book sometime before the end of the year. (Which very well may turn out to be December 30, 2023.) I’m also hoping to write and publish another Christmas novella in the Grace Sufficient series around next Christmas (but please don’t hold me to it.)
On the writing side of things, I’m dearly hoping I can finish the sixth book in the Grace Sufficient series (if I don’t, I might lose my mind), and begin another project outside of modern-day Russia. I deeply love my fake people in Russia, but sometimes I need a break.
And on top of all of that, I’m hoping to retain my sanity and get a full-time job.
Whew. Just writing all of that makes me feel a bit overwhelmed, and maybe you’re one of those people with lofty goals and aspirations. Goals are good things—they can push us to keep working even when we don’t feel like it—but we also have to accept that we might fail at reaching that goal. We are only called to give our best, and the Lord’s Will shall be done. He will give us the strength we need to accomplish what He’s called us to—whether that’s publishing one book in five years or writing an entire novel in a month. He is faithful Who has called us.
So surrender your goals to Him, for His Ways are best.
What are your writing goals for 2023?
“But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31
January 6, 2023
Review: Love’s New Beginnings by Penny Zeller
Love’s New Beginnings by Penny Zeller
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What a sweet novella to begin the Wyoming Sunrise Series! I enjoyed getting a glimpse at younger versions of Lydie and Solomon, but even if you haven’t read the first book in the series yet, you will enjoy this gentle Christmas novella.
Characters: Lydie was such a sweetheart. Her disposition and patience even in the face of some rather trying moments was commendable, and I loved her passion for teaching. Her doubts and fears in the face of her new career were so relatable, too. And the Aunts! They were hilarious, and I would’ve loved to see even more of them. (I think they’re coming in another book?) Solomon was also in a similar situation to Lydie’s – trying to prove himself worthy of a new job. His diligence and perseverance shone through his actions. Watching Lydie and Solomon get together made for a sweet romance – and at Christmastime!
Plot/Setting/Writing Style: While no extreme action or suspense occurred in this book, plenty of character development and escapades kept the plot moving along (including one of the Aunt’s … interesting cooking skills.) The Wyoming Territory setting was interesting, and I enjoyed the small-town feel. Zeller’s writing style worked well for this book and genre – clear, concise, and gentle. A perfect fit for historical fiction!
Theme: One of the biggest themes in this book was moving past bad events/relationships and living the life that you’re called to. Solomon had a lot of forgiving to do toward his grandfather, and he also let himself be defined by what his grandfather had once said to him. More excellent themes was obeying the Lord when He calls you, even if it’s difficult – definitely an important reminder!
Overall, this was a sweet Christmas novella that’s perfect for a relaxing read. Be sure to check this one out if you’re a fan of historical Christian fiction.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
January 5, 2023
Blog Update
Some of you may have noticed I’ve been a bit sporadic with my posts in the last few weeks – yes, my blogging skills are failing me! But I just took a few days off for Christmas/New Year, and I plan to be back now with a more consistent schedule. However, I’m going to drop to posting only two days a week (Monday and Friday) except in the cases of guest posts/blog tours, etc. I’m attempting to boost the quality of my posts and keep my sanity with the busyness of life. So thank you for all your patience over the months (and it’ll be years in the summer!)
Also, if there’s any specific blog post you’re interested in seeing, let me know – whether it’s about writing, music, life. Anything within reason. 
January 2, 2023
Happy New Year! (And Books Releasing in 2023 – Indie Edition)
Happy New Year! I hope you are already having a wonderful start to 2023. I’m soaking in the last few days of Christmas break before all the busyness of life hits, and that means I’m also trying to get more reading in. So in honor of the new year (and my attempts to work on my TBR), let’s look at some upcoming releases in 2023.
Shadows Close In (Kentucky Midnight, 3) by Kristina Hall
Yup, you all know how much I love Mellie and Friedrich, and I’m excited to read this last book in the series. They will have a happy ending! They must!
KEY (The Redwin Chronicles, 1.5) by Madisyn Carlin
After I read IRON last year, I was thrilled to learn that Denton got his own book. And I can’t wait to read this novella. My boy needs some happiness … though I’ve heard it isn’t all uphill from here. *sigh*
Tell Me You Love Me Anthology by Grace A. Johnson
This book is releasing in February, and it’s perfect timing for Valentine’s Day—and perfect timing to remind us all what true love actually is! Prepare for your heart to be shattered, because these stories are beautiful.
Prince of Vengeance (The Dragon Prince Chronicles, 2) by Kaytlin, Jaiden, and Marisa Phillips
After reading the first book last year, I need to see what happens to my people! Tons of action and suspense make this a must-read, and I’m excited to see the gang again.
The Lies We Live (Newhaven Secrets, 1) by Morgan Taylor Giesbrecht
Spy? Doctor? Set in England? WWI? Yeah, this author knows how to put it all together. Historical fiction lovers, you will not be disappointed in this debut!
Dreams of the Heart (Wyoming Sunrise, 2) by Penny Zeller
The continuation of the Wyoming Sunrise series releases in the spring, and it stars John Mark! (Yay for side characters returning for MC roles.) I’m sure this will be another sweet novel filled with that Western, small-town feel that’s just so easy to read about.
December 24, 2022
Merry Christmas
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6
And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.” Matthew 1:21-23
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11
“For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.” 2 Corinthians 8:9
Merry Christmas to each one of you, and I pray you know the Savior Who came down from heaven to humble Himself to walk as a Man on this earth. Perhaps we will never be able to comprehend – save in heaven – how much our Savior suffered for us, but because of his poverty, we are made rich. We now have the very Presence of the Lord with us, because Jesus is our Emmanuel. He is with us, and no matter where we wander, He will hold all believers as His beloved children.
And because of Him, we can rejoice, for He brings peace and joy and rest even in this weary world.
Merry Christmas.
