Erica Vetsch's Blog, page 111
June 16, 2019
Writing Amish Fiction 101
by Jan Drexler
Many people ask me why I write Amish fiction. The simple answer? It’s because it gives me a chance to explore my family stories. Ancestors on both sides of my family were Amish, Mennonite, or German Baptist Brethren. A large part of my family is still Brethren, and I have distant relatives in both the Amish and Mennonite communities in Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.
What is it about the Amish that makes them so fascinating? (Keep reading – I share my own opinion below!)
Whatever draws readers to Amish fiction, it works. The Amish market is strong, and Amish fiction fans are as loyal as they get – holding their own with Cozy Mystery fans.
Amish fiction has been around for a long time. The genre as we know it started with the publication of Beverly Lewis’ first book, The Shunning, in 1997, but the first Amish fiction book was Roseanna of the Amish by Joseph Yoder, published in 1940.
If you’re wondering if the Amish fiction “bubble” is about to burst…well, I think the answer is “not quite yet.” Love Inspired is publishing twelve new Amish titles in the next six months, and independently published Amish stories are exploding.
But while traditional favorite authors like Beverly Lewis continue to sell well, what about newer authors? How do YOU break into the Amish fiction field?
1) Write a good story and tell it well. This is the first rule in every genre. There is no difference whether your heroine wears a bonnet or a saddle blanket – A good story written well is what every reader (and publisher) is looking for.
2) Know your genre. Read as many Amish fiction books as you can get your hands on by the stand-by authors with good reputations. I mentioned Beverly Lewis above, but others are good, too. Suzanne Woods Fischer, Wanda Brunsetter, Amy Clipston…the list goes on, and includes our own Debby Giusti! Speaking of Debby, don’t forget to read the sub-genres: suspense, cozy mysteries, and historical. (Oh yes, I’d love for you to read my books, too!)
3) Know your subject. There is nothing more frustrating for me than to read an Amish fiction story that uses the “Amish” name as window dressing! Many authors think they can stick a bonnet on their romance heroine and the book will sell.
This last point is the most important one, I think. There are a lot of myths going around about the Amish people – and most of them are spread by authors who don’t do their homework.
Why is this important? Because publishers are looking for authors who can write authentic stories. Authors who have done their research and can weave the Amish lifestyle and beliefs into their books. They will satisfy the most demanding readers, and we all love to please our readers!
How do you learn about this vast subject?
First, if you can, visit an Amish community. Believe it or not, there are Amish communities in almost every state. The Big Three (in order of size) are Holmes County, Ohio; Lancaster County, Pennsylvania; and Elkhart/Lagrange Counties in northern Indiana. The website AmishAmerica.com has a listing of Amish communities by state.
Second, do your homework. Understand that the Amish culture is more about their beliefs and faith than anything else. Learn about Amish doctrine, the Anabaptists, and a bit about Amish history. There are many myths surrounding the Amish, such as “Amish aren’t Christians,” or “Amish people are always good and kind, the perfect Christian ideal.” Actually, like everyone else, the Amish fall somewhere between these two extremes.
Here is a list of some of my favorite books for research:
The Amish Way: Patient Faith in a Perilous World
Amish in Their Own Words
A History of the Amish
Amish Grace: How Forgiveness Transcended Tragedy
Amish Society
(click on the book titles above for the links to their Amazon listings)
As you do your research, I hope you will begin to understand why readers are drawn to this interesting and unique group of people.
I promised I would tell you why I think Amish stories continue to be popular, and here it is:
The Amish, historically and in general, see the world in a dualistic manner rather than the pluralistic view that our culture holds. Any issue is black and white with no gray areas. Something is either right or wrong. We may think this is a simplistic way of looking at the world…but that’s the draw. It’s what gives the Amish their simplicity, their peace, and their ability to treat the rest of the world with grace.
Now it’s your turn. Have you ever thought about writing an Amish story? Or maybe you’ve thought about writing a story from your own family’s past! Tell us about it!
One commenter will receive a copy of the first book in my "Amish of Weaver's Creek" series, The Sound of Distant Thunder.
Or you can order your own copy
HERE!Katie Stuckey and Jonas Weaver are both romantics. Seventeen-year-old Katie is starry-eyed, in love with the idea of being in love, and does not want to wait to marry Jonas until she is eighteen, despite her parents' insistence. So much can happen in a year. Twenty-year-old Jonas is taken in by the romance of soldiering, especially in defense of anti-slavery, even though he knows war is at odds with the teachings of the church. When his married brother's name comes up in the draft list, he volunteers to take his brother's place. But can the commitment Katie and Jonas have made to each other survive the separation?
And book two in this series is available for pre-order!
Preorder HERE!
Ruby Weaver's curly red hair isn't the only thing that sets her apart from her Amish community in 1863. Twenty-eight and single, Ruby doesn't believe a woman needs to be married in order to be happy. Her ailing friend Lovinia Fischer, however, has other ideas and wants Ruby to promise to marry her husband after she dies. Never imagining she'd have to fulfill that vow, Ruby agrees. And she's not the only one. Lovinia has extracted a similar promise from her husband, Gideon.
With both Ruby and Gideon reluctant to keep their promises, a compromise must be reached. Ruby will spend her days with Gideon's family--helping to raise the children and keep the house--but her nights will be spent at her sister's neighboring house. But this arrangement raises eyebrows in their conservative Amish community, and it soon becomes clear that Ruby must make a decision--marry Gideon or turn her back on her friend, the children she's grown to love . . . and their father.
Jan Drexler brings a unique understanding of Amish traditions and beliefs to her writing. Her ancestors were among the first Amish, Mennonite, and Brethren immigrants to Pennsylvania in the 1700s, and their experiences are the inspiration for her stories. Jan lives in the Black Hills of South Dakota with her husband of more than thirty-five years, where she enjoys hiking in the Hills and spending time with their expanding family.www.JanDrexler.com
Many people ask me why I write Amish fiction. The simple answer? It’s because it gives me a chance to explore my family stories. Ancestors on both sides of my family were Amish, Mennonite, or German Baptist Brethren. A large part of my family is still Brethren, and I have distant relatives in both the Amish and Mennonite communities in Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.
What is it about the Amish that makes them so fascinating? (Keep reading – I share my own opinion below!)
Whatever draws readers to Amish fiction, it works. The Amish market is strong, and Amish fiction fans are as loyal as they get – holding their own with Cozy Mystery fans.
Amish fiction has been around for a long time. The genre as we know it started with the publication of Beverly Lewis’ first book, The Shunning, in 1997, but the first Amish fiction book was Roseanna of the Amish by Joseph Yoder, published in 1940.
If you’re wondering if the Amish fiction “bubble” is about to burst…well, I think the answer is “not quite yet.” Love Inspired is publishing twelve new Amish titles in the next six months, and independently published Amish stories are exploding.
But while traditional favorite authors like Beverly Lewis continue to sell well, what about newer authors? How do YOU break into the Amish fiction field?
1) Write a good story and tell it well. This is the first rule in every genre. There is no difference whether your heroine wears a bonnet or a saddle blanket – A good story written well is what every reader (and publisher) is looking for.
2) Know your genre. Read as many Amish fiction books as you can get your hands on by the stand-by authors with good reputations. I mentioned Beverly Lewis above, but others are good, too. Suzanne Woods Fischer, Wanda Brunsetter, Amy Clipston…the list goes on, and includes our own Debby Giusti! Speaking of Debby, don’t forget to read the sub-genres: suspense, cozy mysteries, and historical. (Oh yes, I’d love for you to read my books, too!)
3) Know your subject. There is nothing more frustrating for me than to read an Amish fiction story that uses the “Amish” name as window dressing! Many authors think they can stick a bonnet on their romance heroine and the book will sell.
This last point is the most important one, I think. There are a lot of myths going around about the Amish people – and most of them are spread by authors who don’t do their homework.
Why is this important? Because publishers are looking for authors who can write authentic stories. Authors who have done their research and can weave the Amish lifestyle and beliefs into their books. They will satisfy the most demanding readers, and we all love to please our readers!
How do you learn about this vast subject?
First, if you can, visit an Amish community. Believe it or not, there are Amish communities in almost every state. The Big Three (in order of size) are Holmes County, Ohio; Lancaster County, Pennsylvania; and Elkhart/Lagrange Counties in northern Indiana. The website AmishAmerica.com has a listing of Amish communities by state.
Second, do your homework. Understand that the Amish culture is more about their beliefs and faith than anything else. Learn about Amish doctrine, the Anabaptists, and a bit about Amish history. There are many myths surrounding the Amish, such as “Amish aren’t Christians,” or “Amish people are always good and kind, the perfect Christian ideal.” Actually, like everyone else, the Amish fall somewhere between these two extremes.
Here is a list of some of my favorite books for research:
The Amish Way: Patient Faith in a Perilous World
Amish in Their Own Words
A History of the Amish
Amish Grace: How Forgiveness Transcended Tragedy
Amish Society
(click on the book titles above for the links to their Amazon listings)
As you do your research, I hope you will begin to understand why readers are drawn to this interesting and unique group of people.
I promised I would tell you why I think Amish stories continue to be popular, and here it is:
The Amish, historically and in general, see the world in a dualistic manner rather than the pluralistic view that our culture holds. Any issue is black and white with no gray areas. Something is either right or wrong. We may think this is a simplistic way of looking at the world…but that’s the draw. It’s what gives the Amish their simplicity, their peace, and their ability to treat the rest of the world with grace.
Now it’s your turn. Have you ever thought about writing an Amish story? Or maybe you’ve thought about writing a story from your own family’s past! Tell us about it!
One commenter will receive a copy of the first book in my "Amish of Weaver's Creek" series, The Sound of Distant Thunder.
Or you can order your own copyHERE!Katie Stuckey and Jonas Weaver are both romantics. Seventeen-year-old Katie is starry-eyed, in love with the idea of being in love, and does not want to wait to marry Jonas until she is eighteen, despite her parents' insistence. So much can happen in a year. Twenty-year-old Jonas is taken in by the romance of soldiering, especially in defense of anti-slavery, even though he knows war is at odds with the teachings of the church. When his married brother's name comes up in the draft list, he volunteers to take his brother's place. But can the commitment Katie and Jonas have made to each other survive the separation?
And book two in this series is available for pre-order!
Preorder HERE!Ruby Weaver's curly red hair isn't the only thing that sets her apart from her Amish community in 1863. Twenty-eight and single, Ruby doesn't believe a woman needs to be married in order to be happy. Her ailing friend Lovinia Fischer, however, has other ideas and wants Ruby to promise to marry her husband after she dies. Never imagining she'd have to fulfill that vow, Ruby agrees. And she's not the only one. Lovinia has extracted a similar promise from her husband, Gideon.
With both Ruby and Gideon reluctant to keep their promises, a compromise must be reached. Ruby will spend her days with Gideon's family--helping to raise the children and keep the house--but her nights will be spent at her sister's neighboring house. But this arrangement raises eyebrows in their conservative Amish community, and it soon becomes clear that Ruby must make a decision--marry Gideon or turn her back on her friend, the children she's grown to love . . . and their father.
Jan Drexler brings a unique understanding of Amish traditions and beliefs to her writing. Her ancestors were among the first Amish, Mennonite, and Brethren immigrants to Pennsylvania in the 1700s, and their experiences are the inspiration for her stories. Jan lives in the Black Hills of South Dakota with her husband of more than thirty-five years, where she enjoys hiking in the Hills and spending time with their expanding family.www.JanDrexler.com
June 14, 2019
Weekend Edition
If you are not familiar with our giveaway rules, take a minute to read them here. It keeps us all happy! All winners should send their name, address, and phone number to claim prizes. Note our new email address and please send your emails to Seekerville2@gmail.com
Monday: We welcomed Cate Nolan as a new regular blogger! We look forward to having her post later this month!
Tuesday: Amanda Barratt dropped by and encouraged us with some great ways to reduce the stress in our lives. She generously offered a copy of her exciting new release: My Dearest Dietrich. The winner is Dalyn!
Wednesday: Ruthy was here on Wednesday and Thursday and she had so much fun talking with folks about getting off their duffs and moving forward... in her usual and quite expected warm and loving manner. (eye-roll) But she had a great book drawing and the winners of her newest Martha's Vineyard mystery "Just Over the Horizon" are OLIVIA and Annie Rightler!
Friday: Susie Finkbeiner offered hope to all those Thriving In The of Discouragement. Laurie Wood will be receiving a copy of All Manner of Things.
Monday: Have you ever considered writing Amish Fiction? What are the challenges authors face with this sub-genre? Jan Drexler will be here with tips and advice!
Wednesday: Publishers Weekly Bestselling author Debby Giusti offers sound advice for the writing journey. Be sure to stop by and leave a comment to be entered into a drawing for one of Debby's latest releases. Friday: Winnie Griggs will share keen insights into her world.
Thankful for the Cowboy -- releasing in September! Available now for Pre-order!Hero Tom MacKinnon rides up driving a wagon with a second wagon trailing him. He and his sister want to be hired to build windmills. They’ll ask for very little money and, in exchange heroine, Lauren Drummond, newly widowed mother of four nearly grown sons, will help them learn to survive in the Sandhills of Nebraska. What to grow, what to hunt, how to build a sod house.
Tom’s windmills will save her ranch. Lauren needs three windmills on this drought year or her growing herd of cattle is going to die of thirst. She agrees to teach him the ways of the Sandhills, and to give him fifteen head of cattle.
She’s not ready to think of another man. But Tom changes her mind. His little sister and one of her sons find love together before Tom and Lauren do.
SUMMER OF SUSPENSE ANTHOLOGY ON SALE NOW!
NINETY-NINE CENTS!!!!! WHAT???? Yes, on sale right now during pre-order time, 16 suspense novellas from sixteen wonderful authors for .99. Think beachreads... think hot days of summer... think dog days.... think cool refreshment and great stories, all about 15K long, the kind you can sit down and read in one sitting and not miss a meal. :) On sale at Amazon, Nook and Apple! Links are below, and one of those .99 deals you say "What? There must be a catch."No catch.Just 16 authors who want to give you a sampling of their work.How amazingly smart and sensible of them! Nook
Apple
Amazon
COVER REVEALAMISH SAFE HOUSEreissued in a two-in-one withMINDING THE AMISH BABY,by Carrie Lighte!
Love The Scene You're With by Marie Wells Coutu at Seriously Write
It's Never Too Late to Start a Brilliant Career from the Wall Street Journal
How To Survive a Conference Even If You're An Introvert by Cat Rose at The Creative Penn
The Challenge of Book Cover Design by Jane Friedman at Jane Friedman
6 Requirements of Writing Better Character Goals by K.M.Weiland at Helping Writers Become Authors
Book Proposal Basics: Synopsis, Series, Sample by Tamela Hancock Murray at Steve Laube Agency
Writing A Novel? Here Are 7 Friends You Need by Karen Dukess at Writer's Digest
Take Two: Creating Multi-Layered Villians You Love To Hate by Jeanne Veillette Bowerman at Writer's Digest
June 13, 2019
Thriving in the Midst of Discouragement
by Susie Finkbeiner
It was in seventh grade the first (and last) time I wrote one of those “do-you-like-me?” notes. You know the kind. Where the recipient is asked to check a box “yes-no-maybe”. I used my friend’s green pen to write on the lined looseleaf paper and drew a heart in one of the corners.
Don’t worry, I scratched out that heart before having a friend deliver it to the boy of my thirteen year old dreams.
I got the note back between classes with a big black X in the box next to the dreaded word “no”. Then, just below my note, the heartthrob had written, “Maybe you should have prayed about it first.”
YOWCH!
My little heart was broken.
We’ve all had these deflating moments, haven’t we? If we’re honest, we’ve had several of them. Whether we’ve experienced the rejection of a love interested, a letdown at work, or discouragement in our writing life, it all stinks.
Often these disappointments leave us feeling dejected, hurt, and even downright depressed. It’s tough, isn’t it?
So, how can we make it through our seasons of discouragement in once piece? More than that, how can we end up thriving out of a time when we’re deeply discouraged?
I’ve got four ideas for you that have worked for me over the past few years when I’ve gotten a “no thank you” from an editor or a less than flattering review online. These have even helped when I’ve faced difficulty in relationships or on the job.
1. Acknowledge the hurt: I tend toward the optimistic. I like looking on the bright side. But sometimes when disappointment comes my way, it’s important that I don’t ignore the pain. See, if I push down the feelings about the rejection (whatever it may be) I only set myself up for an emotional eruption later on. Instead, I need to look into the hurt, name it, address it. Then I can move past it.
Next time you encounter discouragement, make sure you take a moment to face it and give yourself the space to mourn or cry or grumble. But don’t stay there forever (more on that later).
2. Phone a friend: After I encounter a hurt or any kind and address the pain, it’s important that I don’t isolate. So, I get a hold of a friend for a little bit of commiseration, encouragement, and spurring on. This could end up as a coffee date, a FaceTime call, or just a handful of texts exchanged back and forth.
I’m careful to choose a friend who can understand the situation, who can give a good pep-talk, and one who cares enough about me to not let me wallow in my hurt. I pick a friend who will spur me on to get back to the good work God has for me to do.
Good friends have this amazing ability to see the best in us, even when we’re blind to our virtues and talents. And, when it comes time, we can return the favor, serving our friends with an uplifting word when they’re in need.
3. Remember what you’re worth: It’s tempting when receiving a rejection to think our value is less because of it. Sometimes it takes a hit on our self esteem. We beat ourselves up, allow self-doubt to fill our minds with mean words, and stop believing in the good God has for us.
So, when in seasons of disappointment, we need to change the narrative. We need to stop believing that our worth is in what we do, how we do it, or in what we accomplish. Our worth is in who created us, desires us, and redeems us.
Our worth is in being the dearly loved children of the One who holds the universe in the palm of his hand. Our value is in the One who paid it all so that we could have life in him. We are treasured above anything we could comprehend. We are children of the King.
That’s our worth.
Does that take away the sting of disappointment? Well, not always. But it will put it into perspective, reminding us of what’s most important.
4. Try again: When we encounter rejection in any form it can become an excuse to give up. But that’s not necessarily the best option. It can also be tempting to lick our wounds, focusing on our hurts over long.
I like to say that rejection/disappointment isn’t the end. It’s a chance to try again.
So, put some ointment on those hurt feelings, brush yourself off, and get back to the work. And as you’re going along, remember that Stephen King had stacks and stacks of rejections before he heard “yes” for the first time. Elvis got fired after his very first performance (probably because of those fancy dance moves). Marilyn Monroe was advised to get a clerical job when auditioning for modeling jobs.
But they all tried again. And again. And maybe even a dozen more agains.
Does it take courage? Yeah. Does it take grit? Absolutely.
Will it be worth it in the end? In one way or another, YES!
When I was in seventh grade, the note with the big, fat “NO” box checked, my first response was to stuff my head in my locker where I sobbed as quietly as I could. Then I told my besties what happened, letting them buy me an unreasonable amount of chocolate from the vending machine.
It wouldn’t be my last heart break, and it wouldn’t be my biggest. But as I grew up and matured, I learned that my worth couldn’t depend on anything except my claim as daughter of the King.
I tried again and again. Then, one day, I caught the eye of really great guy who would end up saying “I do” to me.
Did it all work out the way I’d expected? Not at all! Did the various disappointments hurt? Oh yeah.
But in the end God provided more than I could have dared ask or desire.
And our Father is faithful to work all things together for the good of those who love him over and over again. Watch for him to do his best in the midst of our heart break.
How do YOU deal with disappointment or rejection? Who is the friend you call first when you’re feeling low and need a pep talk? Is there a verse from the Bible that lifts your spirits when you need to remember your worth?
I’d love to hear from you!
>> Susie has graciously offered one reader a copy of her latest release, All Manner of Things. Just leave a comment below for her to be entered for your chance to win.
Susie Finkbeiner is the author of All Manner of Things as well as the CBA bestselling Pearl Spence Series. She lives with her family in the beauty of West Michigan.
After Annie Jacobson's brother Mike enlists as a medic in the Army in 1967, he mails her the address of their long-estranged father. If anything should happen to him in Vietnam, Mike says, Annie must let their father know.
In Mike's absence, their father returns to face tragedy at home, adding an extra measure of complication to an already tense time. Letter by letter, the Jacobsons must find a way to pull together as a family, regardless of past hurts. In the tumult of this time, Annie and her family will grapple with the tension of holding both hope and grief in the same hand, even as they learn to turn to the One who binds the wounds of the brokenhearted.
It was in seventh grade the first (and last) time I wrote one of those “do-you-like-me?” notes. You know the kind. Where the recipient is asked to check a box “yes-no-maybe”. I used my friend’s green pen to write on the lined looseleaf paper and drew a heart in one of the corners.
Don’t worry, I scratched out that heart before having a friend deliver it to the boy of my thirteen year old dreams.
I got the note back between classes with a big black X in the box next to the dreaded word “no”. Then, just below my note, the heartthrob had written, “Maybe you should have prayed about it first.”
YOWCH!
My little heart was broken.
We’ve all had these deflating moments, haven’t we? If we’re honest, we’ve had several of them. Whether we’ve experienced the rejection of a love interested, a letdown at work, or discouragement in our writing life, it all stinks.
Often these disappointments leave us feeling dejected, hurt, and even downright depressed. It’s tough, isn’t it?
So, how can we make it through our seasons of discouragement in once piece? More than that, how can we end up thriving out of a time when we’re deeply discouraged?
I’ve got four ideas for you that have worked for me over the past few years when I’ve gotten a “no thank you” from an editor or a less than flattering review online. These have even helped when I’ve faced difficulty in relationships or on the job.
1. Acknowledge the hurt: I tend toward the optimistic. I like looking on the bright side. But sometimes when disappointment comes my way, it’s important that I don’t ignore the pain. See, if I push down the feelings about the rejection (whatever it may be) I only set myself up for an emotional eruption later on. Instead, I need to look into the hurt, name it, address it. Then I can move past it.
Next time you encounter discouragement, make sure you take a moment to face it and give yourself the space to mourn or cry or grumble. But don’t stay there forever (more on that later).
2. Phone a friend: After I encounter a hurt or any kind and address the pain, it’s important that I don’t isolate. So, I get a hold of a friend for a little bit of commiseration, encouragement, and spurring on. This could end up as a coffee date, a FaceTime call, or just a handful of texts exchanged back and forth.
I’m careful to choose a friend who can understand the situation, who can give a good pep-talk, and one who cares enough about me to not let me wallow in my hurt. I pick a friend who will spur me on to get back to the good work God has for me to do.
Good friends have this amazing ability to see the best in us, even when we’re blind to our virtues and talents. And, when it comes time, we can return the favor, serving our friends with an uplifting word when they’re in need.
3. Remember what you’re worth: It’s tempting when receiving a rejection to think our value is less because of it. Sometimes it takes a hit on our self esteem. We beat ourselves up, allow self-doubt to fill our minds with mean words, and stop believing in the good God has for us.
So, when in seasons of disappointment, we need to change the narrative. We need to stop believing that our worth is in what we do, how we do it, or in what we accomplish. Our worth is in who created us, desires us, and redeems us.
Our worth is in being the dearly loved children of the One who holds the universe in the palm of his hand. Our value is in the One who paid it all so that we could have life in him. We are treasured above anything we could comprehend. We are children of the King.
That’s our worth.
Does that take away the sting of disappointment? Well, not always. But it will put it into perspective, reminding us of what’s most important.
4. Try again: When we encounter rejection in any form it can become an excuse to give up. But that’s not necessarily the best option. It can also be tempting to lick our wounds, focusing on our hurts over long.
I like to say that rejection/disappointment isn’t the end. It’s a chance to try again.
So, put some ointment on those hurt feelings, brush yourself off, and get back to the work. And as you’re going along, remember that Stephen King had stacks and stacks of rejections before he heard “yes” for the first time. Elvis got fired after his very first performance (probably because of those fancy dance moves). Marilyn Monroe was advised to get a clerical job when auditioning for modeling jobs.
But they all tried again. And again. And maybe even a dozen more agains.
Does it take courage? Yeah. Does it take grit? Absolutely.
Will it be worth it in the end? In one way or another, YES!
When I was in seventh grade, the note with the big, fat “NO” box checked, my first response was to stuff my head in my locker where I sobbed as quietly as I could. Then I told my besties what happened, letting them buy me an unreasonable amount of chocolate from the vending machine.
It wouldn’t be my last heart break, and it wouldn’t be my biggest. But as I grew up and matured, I learned that my worth couldn’t depend on anything except my claim as daughter of the King.
I tried again and again. Then, one day, I caught the eye of really great guy who would end up saying “I do” to me.
Did it all work out the way I’d expected? Not at all! Did the various disappointments hurt? Oh yeah.
But in the end God provided more than I could have dared ask or desire.
And our Father is faithful to work all things together for the good of those who love him over and over again. Watch for him to do his best in the midst of our heart break.
How do YOU deal with disappointment or rejection? Who is the friend you call first when you’re feeling low and need a pep talk? Is there a verse from the Bible that lifts your spirits when you need to remember your worth?
I’d love to hear from you!
>> Susie has graciously offered one reader a copy of her latest release, All Manner of Things. Just leave a comment below for her to be entered for your chance to win.
Susie Finkbeiner is the author of All Manner of Things as well as the CBA bestselling Pearl Spence Series. She lives with her family in the beauty of West Michigan.
After Annie Jacobson's brother Mike enlists as a medic in the Army in 1967, he mails her the address of their long-estranged father. If anything should happen to him in Vietnam, Mike says, Annie must let their father know. In Mike's absence, their father returns to face tragedy at home, adding an extra measure of complication to an already tense time. Letter by letter, the Jacobsons must find a way to pull together as a family, regardless of past hurts. In the tumult of this time, Annie and her family will grapple with the tension of holding both hope and grief in the same hand, even as they learn to turn to the One who binds the wounds of the brokenhearted.
June 11, 2019
Acceptance: An Often Unappreciated Skill
By pesky blogger and amazingly happy inspirational author Ruth Logan Herne
(Who happens to have a brand new mystery out right now!!!! Book 25, the final book of the Mysteries of Martha's Vineyard series, oh my stars, I am so happy right now!)
JUST OVER THE HORIZON
I try to be very accepting of people.
(Stop choking.... that is not a nice reaction)
That doesn't mean I always like what they do, or approve of it, but by the right of adulthood and the grace of a free nation, they get to make their own choices and mistakes, just like me. I used to be more critical and then I had one of those FLASH!!!! moments of insight when I realized I was just being a jerk, so I stopped that. Because it's really not pleasant to be a jerk. To them, or you.
So I've improved on that scale. That's good, right? Not perfect, but I figure "Let it be... Let it be..." very Paul McCartney friendly of me.
But then it comes to the whole "God's will be done" thing and the "God's timing" and oh, yes...
"God's got this".
Some might call it lack of patience.
I will argue that point and say I have a lot of patience, but I want total world-domination-type control and I want to make things happen now. Like right now. Like ten minutes ago, right now, and why doesn't the world see that it should happen that way when I can see it so clearly?
So it's not about patience.
It's acceptance and I have a problem with that.
I am the epitome of the "New York Minute" and I don't think it's because I'm from New York. I think I just have frenetic energy and I don't understand the laid-back choices of folks who say one thing... then do another.
Actions Speak Louder Than Words.
This is huge for writers. I saw a stat that said that over 85% of RWA members will never write a book.
WILL NEVER WRITE A WHOLE BOOK.....
But they love writing.
(Excuse me while I put my puzzled face on....)
They love the "social aspects of writing".
And then there are folks who look at this amazingly wonderful career and treat it like a job.
WHAT??? A JOB???? RUTHY, WHAT ARE YOU SAYING?????? THAT'S SO MEAN!
(Ruthy sighs and waits for the drama queens and kings to calm down, and this is where the acceptance comes in...)
There is nothing wrong with loving your job. Let that sink in, darlings.
It is okay to love your work. It is okay to excel at your craft. It's okay to put in time every day and keep trudging ahead because if you're willing to do that... and if you have a modicum of talent... you can build your own success. And if you're not willing, that's okay, too... but don't get in the way of those who are willing to do the job.
Lots of folks fear success. They fear the work or the rejection or the time invested or the changes that must, must, must be made if you're going to make it in the traditionally published world.
They fear people who are going to remind them to pull up their big girl (or boy) panties and get on with it.
They fear failure.
Bah.
Humbug.
Failure's just another word for "Keep trying. You're not quite there yet."
Failure's no big deal.
Quitting...
Now there's a big deal. That's a huge deal. Like ridiculously huge.
And that's where the acceptance comes in as far as writing goes. I have to accept a bunch of things I hate. I hate that I have two young friends, parents of young children, and they are both fighting cancer and working to stay alive until a cure is found... I hate that I know people whose beautiful baby didn't survive the birth process.... I hate that I have to watch people I love suffer with dementia and watch them become someone else as the disease wins the battle for their brain.
But for writing, acceptance means I can accept that not every publisher, editor, agent, reader or author is going to love my work.
Big deal. And I don't mean that disrespectfully, it's just that authors have the option to write their own destiny if they are willing to do the work and willing to hire an editor and scrub and polish.
We have so many choices now. Not to litter the landscape with awful stuff or poorly written nonsense (and I've seen my share of that out there) but to exercise the choices we have and the opportunities we've been given, but first... we must put in the effort to accomplish the goal/task.
And on my part, I can accept that if 85% of the people who maintain that they want to be writers, never write a book, I'm looking at some great job security.
PARTY BONUS!!!!!
Because if you're in that 15% of productive people, well, my friends.... we'll probably see you setting sail off of Unpubbed Island some time soon because a world of opportunity awaits you if you simply Don't Quit.
And I can accept that 24/7/365 because if God gave you this unique talent, I'd love for you to use it to the best of your ability. So while my One Word for 2019 is "Accept", you can see that I have issues with it... That while I love God, I don't want Him to take my friends away.
And when I see people squandering a God-given talent, I cringe... because at some point we have to face that Good Lord and I want to be like that Erma Bombeck quote I have in my kitchen:
When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and I could say, "I used everything that you gave me."
Yeah. That. Hey, Ruthy brought a copy of that new mystery to give away to someone who wants to chat about writing, reading, procrastination and/or what is it about books that you love? Leave a comment below and she'll enter you into the drawing for this beautiful Book 25 of the "Mysteries of Martha's Vineyard"!
Multi-published, award-winning inspirational author Ruth Logan Herne lives on a pumpkin farm in Western New York where this year's constant rainstorms have created a VGF. (Very Grumpy Farmer). In light of that, Ruthy hides where and when she can to create wonderful stories that people love to read because she's as normal as they are... with a dash of snark. Email her at loganherne@gmail.com, friend her on facebook, follow her on Twitter (where she is frequently amazed and chagrined by how mean some folks can be.... under their very silly names.) Or swing by her website ruthloganherne.com.... she'd love to chat with you!
(Who happens to have a brand new mystery out right now!!!! Book 25, the final book of the Mysteries of Martha's Vineyard series, oh my stars, I am so happy right now!)
JUST OVER THE HORIZON
I try to be very accepting of people.
(Stop choking.... that is not a nice reaction)
That doesn't mean I always like what they do, or approve of it, but by the right of adulthood and the grace of a free nation, they get to make their own choices and mistakes, just like me. I used to be more critical and then I had one of those FLASH!!!! moments of insight when I realized I was just being a jerk, so I stopped that. Because it's really not pleasant to be a jerk. To them, or you.
So I've improved on that scale. That's good, right? Not perfect, but I figure "Let it be... Let it be..." very Paul McCartney friendly of me.
But then it comes to the whole "God's will be done" thing and the "God's timing" and oh, yes...
"God's got this".
Some might call it lack of patience.
I will argue that point and say I have a lot of patience, but I want total world-domination-type control and I want to make things happen now. Like right now. Like ten minutes ago, right now, and why doesn't the world see that it should happen that way when I can see it so clearly?
So it's not about patience.
It's acceptance and I have a problem with that.
I am the epitome of the "New York Minute" and I don't think it's because I'm from New York. I think I just have frenetic energy and I don't understand the laid-back choices of folks who say one thing... then do another.
Actions Speak Louder Than Words.
This is huge for writers. I saw a stat that said that over 85% of RWA members will never write a book.
WILL NEVER WRITE A WHOLE BOOK.....
But they love writing.
(Excuse me while I put my puzzled face on....)
They love the "social aspects of writing".
And then there are folks who look at this amazingly wonderful career and treat it like a job.
WHAT??? A JOB???? RUTHY, WHAT ARE YOU SAYING?????? THAT'S SO MEAN!
(Ruthy sighs and waits for the drama queens and kings to calm down, and this is where the acceptance comes in...)
There is nothing wrong with loving your job. Let that sink in, darlings.
It is okay to love your work. It is okay to excel at your craft. It's okay to put in time every day and keep trudging ahead because if you're willing to do that... and if you have a modicum of talent... you can build your own success. And if you're not willing, that's okay, too... but don't get in the way of those who are willing to do the job.
Lots of folks fear success. They fear the work or the rejection or the time invested or the changes that must, must, must be made if you're going to make it in the traditionally published world.
They fear people who are going to remind them to pull up their big girl (or boy) panties and get on with it.
They fear failure.
Bah.
Humbug.
Failure's just another word for "Keep trying. You're not quite there yet."
Failure's no big deal.
Quitting...
Now there's a big deal. That's a huge deal. Like ridiculously huge.
And that's where the acceptance comes in as far as writing goes. I have to accept a bunch of things I hate. I hate that I have two young friends, parents of young children, and they are both fighting cancer and working to stay alive until a cure is found... I hate that I know people whose beautiful baby didn't survive the birth process.... I hate that I have to watch people I love suffer with dementia and watch them become someone else as the disease wins the battle for their brain.
But for writing, acceptance means I can accept that not every publisher, editor, agent, reader or author is going to love my work.
Big deal. And I don't mean that disrespectfully, it's just that authors have the option to write their own destiny if they are willing to do the work and willing to hire an editor and scrub and polish.
We have so many choices now. Not to litter the landscape with awful stuff or poorly written nonsense (and I've seen my share of that out there) but to exercise the choices we have and the opportunities we've been given, but first... we must put in the effort to accomplish the goal/task.
And on my part, I can accept that if 85% of the people who maintain that they want to be writers, never write a book, I'm looking at some great job security.
PARTY BONUS!!!!!
Because if you're in that 15% of productive people, well, my friends.... we'll probably see you setting sail off of Unpubbed Island some time soon because a world of opportunity awaits you if you simply Don't Quit.
And I can accept that 24/7/365 because if God gave you this unique talent, I'd love for you to use it to the best of your ability. So while my One Word for 2019 is "Accept", you can see that I have issues with it... That while I love God, I don't want Him to take my friends away.
And when I see people squandering a God-given talent, I cringe... because at some point we have to face that Good Lord and I want to be like that Erma Bombeck quote I have in my kitchen:
When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and I could say, "I used everything that you gave me."
Yeah. That. Hey, Ruthy brought a copy of that new mystery to give away to someone who wants to chat about writing, reading, procrastination and/or what is it about books that you love? Leave a comment below and she'll enter you into the drawing for this beautiful Book 25 of the "Mysteries of Martha's Vineyard"!
Multi-published, award-winning inspirational author Ruth Logan Herne lives on a pumpkin farm in Western New York where this year's constant rainstorms have created a VGF. (Very Grumpy Farmer). In light of that, Ruthy hides where and when she can to create wonderful stories that people love to read because she's as normal as they are... with a dash of snark. Email her at loganherne@gmail.com, friend her on facebook, follow her on Twitter (where she is frequently amazed and chagrined by how mean some folks can be.... under their very silly names.) Or swing by her website ruthloganherne.com.... she'd love to chat with you!June 10, 2019
Stress Reduction for Writers - Guest Blog by Amanda Barratt
Erica Vetsch here: I'm so happy to host Seekerville (And my personal) friend Amanda Barratt on the blog today! I've known her for a long time, and she's as sweet and fun as can be, and we share a love of all things historical! She's got a fantastic new book which you can be entered to win by dropping a comment and talking about her timely blog topic today!
Three Tips to Beat Stress—Writer’s EditionAmanda Barratt
Being a writer is stressful.
No, let me go a step further. Life is stressful. It’s busy, it’s cluttered, and sometimes, instead of churning words, we just want to curl up with a blanket and eat chocolate and watch Clark Gable movies. I know I’m not the only one. ;)
When we’re stressed by externals, we’re not producing at our full potential. Of course, there are the big stresses—illness, the death of a family member, the loss of a job. During those times, we’re sometimes called to take a step away and put writing on the back burner. Or dig deeper into grace and keep pushing onward with God’s help.
What I’m talking about is the everyday stress—all those little pebbles that pile on top of us and become a boulder. You’ve dealt with them. I’ve dealt with them. I still deal with them on a daily basis. But after studying productivity and how to live a calmer life, I’ve discovered a few tips that, though they don’t eliminate stress entirely, do help alleviate it. Today I’m going to share those tips with you.
1—To-Do Lists—I’m a paper person. I love pens and planners and pretty notepads. Living a less stressful, more organized life means I can indulge my office-supplies obsession to the fullest.
Lists accomplish two objectives. When we take time to write out what we want to do, it helps us see what we’re actually doing, trim away the unnecessary, and zero in on the essential. Also, putting it down on paper eliminates the excuse, “Oh, I forgot.” Unless you lose the paper! Each week, I write out a to-do list for every day. As the week goes on, I edit those lists based on what comes up. A sample list for a Wednesday might be:
1—Write 2k on novella in the morning.2—Deep clean the upstairs bathroom.3—Work 3-7 p.m. (Working a part-time day job along with writing makes lists like these essential in juggling everything.)
2— Clear the Clutter—There really is truth to The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up.It’s been proven that external clutter also clutters the brain. Trying to write a scene when your office is strewn with piles of papers and last week’s breakfast dishes is going to be more difficult than if your office is clean and organized. Once you have an organization system in place, it’s a matter of maintenance, which can be done in a few minutes each day. I try to tidy my office after every writing session—throw away any papers or Kleenex (I write sad books!), straighten my research materials (I usually keep them in a single stack on my bookshelf or file cabinet), and make sure everything is ready for the next day. I don’t always do this, and sometimes on deadline, my office can go weeks without being straightened. But I put in effort to make the time because my creativity reaps the rewards. I’m also a fan of a minimalist approach in decor, which helps give my brain the white space it needs.
An extra credit tip I’ve found especially helpful is simply this—don’t bring stuff into your house. Toss junk mail as soon as possible. Weed out often, and don’t over-purchase. The same goes for your virtual space. Unsubscribe from unnecessary emails, and have an organization system for your inbox. The more cluttered your spaces are, the more stress you’ll experience, whether consciously or subconsciously.
3— Set Reasonable Goals—A planner is also a great place to set goals and plan writing time. Figure out your deadline (whether it’s self-imposed or the one set by your publisher), and then figure out how long it takes you to produce the number of words required to meet it, plus editing time. For example, if you write 1000 words per day, it will take you thirty days to write a 30,000 word novella. Of course you’re not going to write every day, but calculate when you will. Think of those blocks of time as appointments, and keep them. Knowing you’re going to keep those appointments eliminates the stress of wondering how you’re going to get it all done.
Notice I said reasonable goals. All the time management skills and to-do lists in the world are useless if you’re overextended. When we’re at that place of defeated exhaustion or constant adrenaline, our life and work ceases to have joy. All of us have different levels. Never feel guilty if you’re not as productive as a writer you follow on social media, or aren’t one of those super-moms that has their children in five different extracurricular activities. Being intentional about pursuing writing has meant that I’ve had to say no to many other good things, and that hasn’t always been easy. Slowly, I’m learning to say no, schedule wisely, and carve out time for myself. Which leads to my last point . . .
3—Take Time for Self-Care—Let me start by saying there’s a difference between self-care and mindless activity. The former nourishes the heart and the latter serves only to numb the mind. I’m going to be brutally honest and say that sometimes I waste waayyy too much time scrolling Facebook. While I love social media, it’s easy to get sucked in, and that always isn’t the best use of limited time. So one of my goals this year is to cut down on the time I spend, and use the extra for something else. Figure out what actually brings you joy, and carve out time for those things, even if it’s only a few minutes a day. Something as simple as reading a chapter in a good book, taking a walk outside, or watching a movie in the evening can help you press pause and replenish peace and physical energy. Exercise is also one of the things I do for self-care. Though it isn’t something I necessarily enjoy doing, I do enjoy the benefits, and try to schedule at least two sessions a week.
As Christian writers, the most important thing we can do to feed our souls is to spend intentional time in prayer and study of the Word. Martin Luther is famous for saying “I have so much to do that I shall spend the first three hours in prayer.” Seeking God and surrendering our stress to Him will give us a peace that even the most organized life cannot surpass. Giving the first minutes of the day to God in prayer and Bible study goes back to the verse in Matthew that says “seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and all of these things shall be added unto you.” As we commit to spending time with Him, even in the midst of stress, He will be faithful to give us wisdom and strength.
Let’s talk stress and time-management! What areas do you struggle with most? What tips and tricks have you found most helpful?
GIVEAWAY— To celebrate hanging out on fabulous Seekerville, I’m giving away one copy of my latest release My Dearest Dietrich: A Novel of Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s Lost Love.
ECPA bestselling author Amanda Barratt fell in love with writing in grade school when she wrote her first story—a spinoff of Jane Eyre. Now, Amanda writes romantic, historical novels and novellas, penning stories of beauty and brokenness set against the backdrop of bygone eras not so very different from our own. Her novel My Dearest Dietrich: A Novel of Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s Lost Love, released from Kregel Publications in June 2019.She’s also the author of My Heart Belongs in Niagara Falls, New York: Adele’s Journey, as well as seven novellas with Barbour Publishing. Two of her novellas have been finalists in the FHL Reader’s Choice Awards.
Amanda lives in the woods of Michigan with her fabulous family, where she can be found reading way too many books, plotting her next novel, and jotting down imaginary travel itineraries for her dream vacation to Europe.
Connect with her on Facebook and visit her online at www.amandabarratt.net.
My Dearest Dietrich Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0825446058?pf_rd_p=c2945051-950f-485c-b4df-15aac5223b10&pf_rd_r=4TTNQ05KGN2ZEH3RK4PD
Find me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/amandabarrattauthor
My Dearest Dietrich: A Novel of Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s Lost Love
A staggering love illuminating the dark corners of a Nazi prison…Renowned German pastor and theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer is famous for his resistance to the Nazi regime and for his allegiance to God over government. But what few realize is that the last years of his life also held a love story that rivals any romance novel.Maria von Wedemeyer knows the realities of war. Her beloved father and brother have both been killed on the battlefield. The last thing this spirited young woman needs is to fall for a man under constant surveillance by the Gestapo. How can she give another piece of her heart to a man so likely to share the same final fate? Yet when Dietrich Bonhoeffer, an old family friend, comes to comfort the von Wedemeyers after their losses, she discovers that love isn't always logical.Dietrich himself has determined to keep his distance from romantic attachments. There is too much work to be done for God, and his involvement in the conspiracy is far too important. But when he encounters a woman whose intelligence and conviction match his own, he's unprepared for how easy it is to give away his heart.With their deep love comes risk--and neither Dietrich nor Maria is prepared for just how great that risk soon becomes.Based on detailed historical research and including photos from both Maria's and Dietrich's lives, this is a true love story at once beautiful and heartrending. My Dearest Dietrich sheds new light on a world-famous theologian . . . and the woman who changed his life.
June 9, 2019
Seekerville Welcomes a New Regular Blogger!
Missy Tippens
If you saw the Weekend Edition, then you've been looking forward to the reveal of an addition to Seekerville. I'm pleased to let you know that author Cate Nolan will be joining us! Cate has been a regular blogger at the Yankee-Belle Cafe (a spin off from the Seekerville Village) for several years, so we know she'll fit right in. Welcome, Cate!
In her honor, I'm re-sharing one of her inspiring guest posts from the Archives from October 12, 2015...
Writer's Write
by Cate Nolan.
I remember seeing a craft book with that title and thinking how simple it sounded.
Some days writing is simple. Some days it’s even glorious. But some days it’s just plain hard work.
In preparing this post, I’ve been reflecting upon the seasons of this writing life.
We have those hopeful spring days when every seed of an idea is a beautiful story waiting to be nurtured.
Spring gives way to writing’s summer - long carefree days of playing with characters, splashing around in plot puddles, maybe chasing the fireflies of our dreams.
Glorious autumn yields a writer’s heart grateful for God’s bountiful harvest of words. We approach our writing each day refreshed, renewed, and with joyful anticipation.
But what about the bleak winter of a writer’s soul?
What about those days when you can’t string two words together without cringing? When your mind feels like that image of the writer’s trash bin full of crumpled paper.
How do we find motivation to keep pounding the keyboard when that bright and shiny beloved idea has become a problem child who refuses to cooperate? Those days you are absolutely convinced this creature will never come close to your hopeful imaginings?
I think, that as writers of inspirational fiction, we have a secret weapon to keep us going through those dark days. We have the knowledge that we are serving our God with our work.
It’s not always easy to keep that purpose in mind. I’m hoping, with this post today, to begin a conversation that will inspire us to remember the importance of our work - especially during those times when doubt prevails.
For a long time I hesitated to write inspirational fiction because I lacked the confidence to tackle something so important. Who was I to preach through my writing? The task was too daunting. Eventually, though, through prayer and conversations with other writers, I came to understand that the answer was simply that as a child of God it is my calling and my responsibility to share his love.
When I was writing Christmas in Hiding for the Killer Voices contest, I was teaching full time, tutoring after school, and trying to keep a husband and dog fed and happy.
I was also up against a hard deadline that at times seemed impossible to meet. I was ready to toss in the towel more often than I care to remember.
But just when I needed it most, I heard a song that put it all in perspective for me. The TV show Nashville has a lot of great music, but one song in particular spoke to me - specifically these lyrics from the song It Ain’t Yours to Throw Away.
The lyrics literally jumped out at me. Whenever I even considered quitting, I’d put that song on and keep writing. What if God had given me something special to say? What if by quitting, I was saying no to Him?
I’ll tell you, that thought was a powerful motivator!
More recently, I came across a quote by Sarah Young in Jesus Calling Morning and Evening Devotional.
She says: “There are no limits to what My great Power and Glory can accomplish!”
Think about that. There are no limits to what God can do through our writing - except those we impose upon ourselves.
Several weeks ago, I heard a reading from the Book of Numbers (11:25-29) The people were trying to get Moses to stop Eldad and Medad from prophesying. Moses responded, “Would that all the Lord’s people were prophets, and that the Lord would put his spirit on them!”
So every time you think you can’t do it, every time you’re tired of rejection or bad reviews, remember that secret weapon. Remember that we write in service of an awesome God.
There was another song I had on repeat while I wrote Christmas in Hiding. I thought it was rather appropriate since it was the version from The Voice. Holly Tucker singing How Great Thou Art never failed to move me and I wrote the song into my story, giving it to my heroine, Callie to sing at the lowest point in her life.
The day before I got the call from Emily Rodmell, I was walking home from church when suddenly the church bells began to peal a song I’d never heard them play before. Yes, How Great Thou Art. I still get emotional remembering that moment. It felt very much like a sign of approval. I try to remember that feeling too when the demons of doubt assail me.
Last week Mary Connealy wrote about the cord of three strands and said,
I’d like to add to that and say we write stories of faith and that makes us writers who are not easily broken. We have God on our side because we are telling faith-inspired stories. Through our writing, we are being his disciples. If we allow ourselves to be open and let his love and grace work through us, there are absolutely no limits to the stories we can tell and the light we can bring into this world.
Missy Again...
Please join me in welcoming Cate! We look forward to hearing from her later this month on her regular blog day.
Cate Nolan lives in New York City, but she escapes to the ocean any chance she gets. A devoted mom and teacher, Cate loves to leave her real life behind and play with the characters in her imagination. She’s got that suspense writer gene that sees danger and a story in everyday occurrences. Cate particularly loves to write stories of faith enabling ordinary people to overcome extraordinary danger.
Where you can find Cate:
http://www.catenolanauthor.com/
Facebook
Twitter
http://www.yankeebellecafe.blogspot.com/
http://www.craftieladiesofromance.blogspot.com/
If you saw the Weekend Edition, then you've been looking forward to the reveal of an addition to Seekerville. I'm pleased to let you know that author Cate Nolan will be joining us! Cate has been a regular blogger at the Yankee-Belle Cafe (a spin off from the Seekerville Village) for several years, so we know she'll fit right in. Welcome, Cate!
In her honor, I'm re-sharing one of her inspiring guest posts from the Archives from October 12, 2015...
Writer's Write
by Cate Nolan.
I remember seeing a craft book with that title and thinking how simple it sounded.
Some days writing is simple. Some days it’s even glorious. But some days it’s just plain hard work.
In preparing this post, I’ve been reflecting upon the seasons of this writing life.
We have those hopeful spring days when every seed of an idea is a beautiful story waiting to be nurtured.
Spring gives way to writing’s summer - long carefree days of playing with characters, splashing around in plot puddles, maybe chasing the fireflies of our dreams.
Glorious autumn yields a writer’s heart grateful for God’s bountiful harvest of words. We approach our writing each day refreshed, renewed, and with joyful anticipation.
But what about the bleak winter of a writer’s soul?
What about those days when you can’t string two words together without cringing? When your mind feels like that image of the writer’s trash bin full of crumpled paper.
How do we find motivation to keep pounding the keyboard when that bright and shiny beloved idea has become a problem child who refuses to cooperate? Those days you are absolutely convinced this creature will never come close to your hopeful imaginings?
We can overcome.
I think, that as writers of inspirational fiction, we have a secret weapon to keep us going through those dark days. We have the knowledge that we are serving our God with our work.
It’s not always easy to keep that purpose in mind. I’m hoping, with this post today, to begin a conversation that will inspire us to remember the importance of our work - especially during those times when doubt prevails.
For a long time I hesitated to write inspirational fiction because I lacked the confidence to tackle something so important. Who was I to preach through my writing? The task was too daunting. Eventually, though, through prayer and conversations with other writers, I came to understand that the answer was simply that as a child of God it is my calling and my responsibility to share his love.
When I was writing Christmas in Hiding for the Killer Voices contest, I was teaching full time, tutoring after school, and trying to keep a husband and dog fed and happy.
I was also up against a hard deadline that at times seemed impossible to meet. I was ready to toss in the towel more often than I care to remember.
But just when I needed it most, I heard a song that put it all in perspective for me. The TV show Nashville has a lot of great music, but one song in particular spoke to me - specifically these lyrics from the song It Ain’t Yours to Throw Away.
“What if you’re just a vessel, and God gave you something special? It ain’t yours to throw away.
The lyrics literally jumped out at me. Whenever I even considered quitting, I’d put that song on and keep writing. What if God had given me something special to say? What if by quitting, I was saying no to Him?
I’ll tell you, that thought was a powerful motivator!
More recently, I came across a quote by Sarah Young in Jesus Calling Morning and Evening Devotional.
She says: “There are no limits to what My great Power and Glory can accomplish!”
Think about that. There are no limits to what God can do through our writing - except those we impose upon ourselves.
Several weeks ago, I heard a reading from the Book of Numbers (11:25-29) The people were trying to get Moses to stop Eldad and Medad from prophesying. Moses responded, “Would that all the Lord’s people were prophets, and that the Lord would put his spirit on them!”
So every time you think you can’t do it, every time you’re tired of rejection or bad reviews, remember that secret weapon. Remember that we write in service of an awesome God.
There was another song I had on repeat while I wrote Christmas in Hiding. I thought it was rather appropriate since it was the version from The Voice. Holly Tucker singing How Great Thou Art never failed to move me and I wrote the song into my story, giving it to my heroine, Callie to sing at the lowest point in her life.
The day before I got the call from Emily Rodmell, I was walking home from church when suddenly the church bells began to peal a song I’d never heard them play before. Yes, How Great Thou Art. I still get emotional remembering that moment. It felt very much like a sign of approval. I try to remember that feeling too when the demons of doubt assail me.
Last week Mary Connealy wrote about the cord of three strands and said,
“I think Christian fiction can be so much more powerful than secular fiction. And it’s that third strand—Faith—that strengthens it… The underpinning of faith gives the entire Christian book a depth…And it makes for stories that are not easily broken.”
I’d like to add to that and say we write stories of faith and that makes us writers who are not easily broken. We have God on our side because we are telling faith-inspired stories. Through our writing, we are being his disciples. If we allow ourselves to be open and let his love and grace work through us, there are absolutely no limits to the stories we can tell and the light we can bring into this world.
Missy Again...
Please join me in welcoming Cate! We look forward to hearing from her later this month on her regular blog day.
Cate Nolan lives in New York City, but she escapes to the ocean any chance she gets. A devoted mom and teacher, Cate loves to leave her real life behind and play with the characters in her imagination. She’s got that suspense writer gene that sees danger and a story in everyday occurrences. Cate particularly loves to write stories of faith enabling ordinary people to overcome extraordinary danger.
Where you can find Cate:
http://www.catenolanauthor.com/
http://www.yankeebellecafe.blogspot.com/
http://www.craftieladiesofromance.blogspot.com/
June 7, 2019
Weekend Edition
If you are not familiar with our giveaway rules, take a minute to read them here. It keeps us all happy! All winners should send their name, address, and phone number to claim prizes. Note our new email address and please send your emails to Seekerville2@gmail.com
Monday: Mary Connealy talked about her recent writing retreat with friends - and SHEEP.
Tuesday: T.I Lowe shared some timeless lessons (like, cooking with love not lard) from her heroine Lulu from Lulu's Cafe!
Wednesday: Mindy Obenhaus gave some tips on writing difficult subjects in Tackling the Tough Stuff. The winner of a copy of Her Colorado Cowboy is Samantha!
Thursday: Richard Mabry was with us on Thursday, chatting about working our plans into God's amazing timing and he gracioiusly offered a copy of his newest suspense "Bitter Pill" to one lucky commenter... and the winner is MJSH (Mindy).... And Richard, sorry about the difficulty getting in, we're checking into it!
Friday: Carrie hosted Elaine Stock who gave us some great tips on keeping the romance in a romance novel! The winner of a copy of her new book When Love Blossoms is kaybee!
Monday: Missy Tippens will be sharing some exciting Seeker blog news! We will be introducing a new regular blogger! Don't miss the reveal.
Tuesday: Amanda Barratt gives us some stress-reduction tips for writers!
Wednesday: Ruthy is here on Wednesday and she's talking about acceptance... Her one word for 2019 is "Accept" because she tends to punch things rather than accept things gratefully so she's working at becoming a better version of herself... and to be kind, gracious and accepting. You know how she has kitchen fails now and again and owns them... yeah. Well. Ruthy and acceptance (sigh..... ) a whole other kettle of fish. Just sayin'...
Friday: Susie Finkbeiner is joining us on Friday about finding hope through discouragement.
Come celebrate the release of Pam Hillman's final book in the Natchez Trace series, The Crossing at Cypress Creek at JustRead Publicity Tours! Stop by for more information and enter to win the tour wide giveaway with 3 winners!
Long Days. Hot Nights. Deadly Secrets.Grab this red hot Christian Suspense Anthology bargain for just 99 cents for a short time only before the price increases to 9.99.Start your summer off right with 16 gripping and never-before published tales of Christian suspense from today's most popular mystery and suspense authors.Join Mary Alford, Christy Barritt, Patricia Bradley, Vannetta Chapman, Mary Ellis, Debby Giusti, Rachel J. Good, Ruth Hartzler, Shaen Layle, Ruth Logan Herne, Loree Lough, Elizabeth Ludwig, Nancy Mehl, Serena B. Miller, Samantha Price, Alana Terry on a dangerous journey filled with mystery, suspense, and faith that that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.Pre-Order Summer of Suspense at Barnes & Noble, Apple, and Amazon.
Summer is here and JustRead Publicity Tours wants to help authors to get their words read, and bringing readers words to read. We have two new original tours available for booking. Blind Tours is essentially a "blind date with a book" type of tour. We match an author's backlist title with interested readers. Readers will fill out a "Blind Book Compatibility Form" and we'll arrange to get the author's books to the readers' hands.Quote Tours are social media type tours featuring graphics created by readers and shared across social media of quotes from the featured title.Authors, with this launch, we're also offering a 15% discount towards these tours if you book by July 28, 2019. For more information, fill out our "Book a Campaign" form and we'll be in touch with ideas to help promote your title(s)! (FYI, filling out the form is noncommittal and only used for informational purposes only.)Readers, we're always looking for readers to join our team. Check out our "Join Us" tab for more info!
Jan Drexler's next installment in The Amish of Weaver's Creek series is available for pre-order!
Ruby Weaver is content being single in her 1863 conservative Amish community. However, Ruby’s ailing friend Lovinia has other ideas. Lovinia makes her husband Gideon promise to marry Ruby and has Ruby make a similar promise. With both Ruby and Gideon reluctant to keep their promises, a compromise must be reached. Ruby agrees to be a housekeeper and nanny to the children. Unfortunately, this arrangement raises eyebrows in the community. It soon becomes clear that Ruby must make a decision—marry Gideon or break her promise to her friend. Will Ruby accept Gideon’s proposal or turn her back on the family she has grown to love?
Gideon Fischer’s only desire is to get his family far away from the disastrous effects of the Civil War, find a peaceful place to live, and mourn the death of his wife. However, he has grown to enjoy Ruby’s company and appreciates her help with the housework and the children. But, is she the right person to spend the rest of his life with?
Pre-order here from Barnes and Noble
And here from Amazon
How To Write Interesting Scenes by K.M. Weiland at Helping Writers Become Authors
Description Errors That Result From POV Limitations by C.S. Lakin at Live Write Thrive
Breaking Out of the Genre Pigeonhole: Tips from a Romance-Turned-Mainstream Novelist by Anna Schmidt at Writer Unboxed
A Snapshot of My Writing Process by Cathy Yardley at Writer Unboxed
Testing...Testing...Is This Novel On? Identifying Problems in a Novel by Janice Hardy at Fiction University
June 6, 2019
How to Keep the Romance in a Romance Novel with Guest Blogger Elaine Stock
Happy Fri-yay, Seekerville!! I am delighted to welcome Elaine Stock to the blog today - I love her heart & her books, and it's always a pleasure to hear from her.
Before I turn it over to Elaine, let's take a look at her new book, When Love Blossoms...
The journeys in life take you to unexpected destinations. The love of a good person brings you home.Kierra Madden, proprietor of the Kindred Lake Inn, struggles for stability after her engagement ends, family strife continues, and business slows. When her mom, sister and teenage niece move in with her, life becomes a lot more complicated. There’s certainly spare room…until one guest arrives…on his bicycle. Ryan Delaney is fit and trim…quite the eye candy.
Ryan, a TV news anchor on a leave of absence following a horrific incident, enjoys the peace long-distance biking offers. Only in town to mend his strained relationship with his teen daughter, he never expects to fall for Kierra fast and hard. Despite her policy of separating business and pleasure, mutual attraction pulls them closer until unforeseen consequences threaten to wedge between them.
Surrounded by springtime beauty, will the temptation of desire bloom into a more powerful and lasting love?
Won't you join me in giving her a big Seekerville welcome??
How to Keep the Romance in a Romance Novel
By Elaine Stock
Always a forever first: Thank you, Carrie Schmidt, for all things Seekerville related and especially for your utmost patience and confidence in me.
Hello, Seekerville! Thanks for welcoming me back!
Here are a few not necessarily random tidbits about me:
--I love Cole Porter songs--As a child I paired up my Crayola Crayons in couples (the bright colors were girls, the dark colors boy)--This July 4th will be my 37th wedding anniversary (I was a child bride—LOL!)--When seeing a father carrying a child on his shoulders or a mom kneeling on a cement-hard store floor before her little girl to gently calm the child’s sobs—all complete strangers to me—I will break out in tears over the beauty of family love.
Why? Because in addition to uniting couples in my fictional worlds and tossing at them obstacles to challenge their budding love for each other, I’m Passionate about love’s dynamics between family members. And yes, that is a capital P in passionate!
Ah, but it’s a romance you want to read, huh? Maybe that’s where I’m a wee different…or not (I’d love to hear your take on this in the comment section), because I believe that for love to be strong and lasting for Jack and Janelle or Alex and Ariel the love must transcend past the point of immediate attraction and desire and encompass how this growing, heating relationship affects their loved ones, be it family or friends. The couple likely won’t hop into their private plane and fly off to a desert island to forever exclude all others from their lives. Love can only thrive when not in isolation.
Enough with the philosophy of love. You’re writers and readers. Are you wondering how to write/read romances that expand beyond the hero and heroine, yet at the story’s end you will sigh (hopefully) in joy? I could spend hours analyzing the authors who are stars at writing romances, but instead I will offer what works for me:
Keep the hero and heroine in the limelight. This is their story. It helps to limit the Point of View to only his and her perspectives.Like descriptions of surroundings, sensory perceptions, and many other etceteras, all secondary characters are secondary including their premise, plot, turning points, and conflicts, yet…The hero and heroine must be seen engaging with these secondary characters (for me, it’s typically family, though you may have another association in mind). For instance, can your heroine ask for advice from an older brother? Will the hero’s aunt, the one who raised him but then disowned him, step back into the picture and wedge between him and this woman he’s falling madly in love with?If your secondary characters’ sub-story is strong enough to impact the hero and heroine then keep their plot line, descriptions (physical, emotional, likes, dislikes, the way they act) to a minimal. They must not take over the story and take away from the romance. Keep the romance in the reader’s mind at all times.
To paraphrase Cole Porter in his song, Let’s Do It (Let’s Fall in Love): everyone and everything falls in love; love is what keeps us alive.
Elaine Stock is an award-winning author of Women's & Inspirational Fiction to uplift with hope of better tomorrows. Her novel, Her Good Girl, received the Outstanding Christian/Religious Fiction in the 2018 IAN Book of the Year Awards, 2018 Readers’ Favorite Silver Medal in Christian Fiction and the 2018 American Fiction Awards in the Christian Inspirational category. Elaine is a member of Women’s Fiction Writers Association, American Christian Fiction Writers, and the Romance Writers of America. Born in Brooklyn, NY, Elaine has now been living in upstate, rural New York with her husband for more years than her stint as a NYC gal. She enjoys long walks down country roads, visiting New England towns, and of course, a good book.
Visit with Elaine at
https://www.elainestock.com
https://twitter.com/ElaineStock
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorElaine.... https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/9873485.Elaine_Stockhttps://www.bookbub.com/authors/elaine-stock
Get a free book at: https://elainestock.com/free-gift-for-you
Amazon Author Page: http://amzn.to/1JYAwNy
Elaine is giving away (1) Kindle edition of When Love Blossoms.
This is Book 2 of the Kindred Lake Series, however it is a standalone read.
US ONLY
Comment below for a chance to win! Which of Elaine's tips most resonated with you today?
June 5, 2019
MY PLAN (AND GOD'S)
By award-winning, multi-published author Dr. Richard Mabry
My writing journey had God’s fingerprints all over it. But there was a time when I had to change my plan. I deviated from it, and I’m glad.
I was fortunate in the beginning to get a fiction contract from a publisher. I left (with their blessing) to accept one from an even larger house. After that one was fulfilled, I went back to my former publisher until they stopped publishing fiction. After that, things got sort of complex, so—like many other authors—I decided to strike out on the “indie” road.
I planned a fairly simple pattern of self-publication: a novel, then a novella, another novel, then another novella. Sounded good enough. But it didn’t work out that way.
I published my novella, Emergency Case , and in the back of it was the “tease” for the novel I was working on. That was to be my next one, but while I wrote, something kept niggling at the edge of my consciousness. Didn’t I have another writing project started somewhere? Well, it could wait. But what was it?
Then, I found the project and remembered why it was still on my computer. At the outset of my writing “career,” I’d become discouraged enough that I had made up my mind to quit. I’d been struggling for four years, without anything but rejections to show for it. During this time, I’d started following various writing blogs, and in hers, agent Rachelle Gardner posted a contest. The person submitting the best first line of a book would win. I was extremely surprised when my submission was chosen. It was, “Things were going along just fine until the miracle fouled them up.”
Subsequently, through a series of events that I remain convinced were divinely ordained, I gained representation by Rachelle, got my first fiction contract, and eventually published a number of novels and novellas—eighteen, to be accurate. All after I’d quit writing.
So why did I go back to this particular line saved on my computer? Because, over the years, I’d written a story around it. That story had gone through several iterations, and on more than one occasion my first reader looked at it and warned that it didn’t sound like one of my novels. But I felt it was a story worth telling, so I continued to work to make it one worth reading. I sent the first chapter to a number of people who’d been influencers for my other novels, and they loved it. So, with some trepidation, I changed my carefully crafted schedule and made this one my next. That novella, Bitter Pill, was released in Kindle and print format on May 29. I hope you agree that it was worth deviating from my plan to publish it.
The lessons here? I see at least two. First, even though you may think you’re through with whatever you’re doing (not just writing), God may have other ideas. Listen to Him. He’s always right. And second, when you make a plan, be willing to change it. Again, God’s ideas are better than ours. Every time.
What has been your experience along these lines? I’d like to hear.
Ruthy here: Richard has graciously offered a Kindle or hard copy of his newest novella "Bitter Pill" to one fortunate villager! Leave a comment below... and think about the good Doc's musing that God's plans are better than ours... every time.
* * *
Dr. Richard Mabry is a retired physician, now writing “medical mystery with heart.” His novels have garnered critical acclaim and been finalists for ACFW’s Carol Award, both the Romantic Times’ Inspirational Book of the Year and Reviewer’s Choice Awards, the Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and the Selah Award. He is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, the International Thriller Writers, and Novelists Inc. Bitter Pill is his latest novella. He and his wife live in north Texas, where he writes, works on being the world’s greatest grandfather, and strives to improve his golf game. You can learn more about him at his website, and via his blogand Facebook page.
June 4, 2019
Tackling the Tough Stuff
I love reading and writing Christian, romance. However, sometimes reality has a way of creeping into our sweet little stories. Not because we want it to, but because God does. As often happens, a writer can be moving happily along, getting to know their characters and then all of a sudden you learn something about that person’s past. Something that has impacted their life. Something terrible that affects how they live and who they are today. Things like abuse, betrayal, drugs, cancer, PTSD, and the list goes on and on.
These subjects have to be handled with sensitivity because we never know what a reader might be going/have been through. Our goal in the face of life’s ugliness is to offer them hope.
How do we do that?
Do your research – Knowledge is power. And as unsavory as some of these topics are, you owe it to yourself and your readers to have a better understanding of whatever it is your character is struggling with and how it could impact their thinking and their day-to-day life. Search the internet or visit your local library for books on that particular subject. If you know someone who’s struggled with that issue, see if they’d be willing to talk with you so you can get a sense for how your character might feel. You don’t need to become an expert, you simply need to be familiar enough with that topic to do your character justice and not insult a reader who might be dealing with the same thing.
Don’t be graphic – This is one of those stretching exercises for writers. Sometimes we think we need to just lay it all out there. But would that be beneficial? Readers have imaginations. We don’t want to plant something in their mind’s-eye that they might not be able to forget.
Here’s an example from Ruthy’s Christy nominated book, Her Secret Daughter.
“I trusted the wrong man, Jacob. After years of being so careful, and prim and proper in a city where that’s not exactly easy, I believed a man who carried date-rape drugs in his pocket. A foolish mistake from a woman who had promised her family nothing would go wrong in New Orleans. And there I was, hating myself all over again, but pregnant this time.”
As readers, we know what happened and our heart goes out to the heroine without being hit over the head with all the details of that painful event.
Unfold the journey – Whether physical or emotional, healing is a process. Don’t gyp readers by having a character afraid to trust throughout a story, then suddenly give their heart away in the last chapter. Trust has to be built. Wounds need to be healed. Little by little, one step at a time throughout the book. So by the time we near that final chapter, we know that our character really is strong enough to take that leap of faith.
Speaking of faith – As Christians, we know that true healing can only come from God. So above all else, pray your way through any story, but especially those that deal with sensitive topics. Because you never know when a reader might contact you to share their experience and tell you that your book gave them hope. And knowing your book has actually reached that one person God called you to write that story for is the most humbling and amazing feeling you’ll ever know. What are your thoughts on these difficult topics? Do you shy away from books that have them or do you feel that they make the characters more real? Share your thoughts to be entered into a drawing for a copy of Her Colorado Cowboy.
Three-time Carol Award nominee, Mindy Obenhaus, writes contemporary romance for Love Inspired Books. She’s passionate about touching readers with Biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. When she’s not writing, she enjoys cooking and spending time with her grandchildren at her Texas ranch. Learn more at www.MindyObenhaus.com
