By Patti Shene Gonzales I’m a procrastinator. The one thing in my life I procrastinate most? My writing. When I was pursuing my Bachelor of Science degree in nursing at what was then University of Southern Colorado in Pueblo, we were assigned a “term paper.” I assume a student was expected to work on the project for the majority of …
Meet Deadlines with Simple Math
by Tamela Hancock Murray During your publishing journey you may have the delightful problem of too many deadlines. You may have to ask yourself if you can accept another contract because you’re so busy. I’ve advised many clients about this over the years, taking them from panic to peace. Simple math can help. Determine time Look at all your contracts …
An Unexpected Opportunity
By Mary Lou Cheatham Do you ever find a review of your novel that you wish would go away…simply disappear from Amazon…and not be there when you visit your product page next time? As writers seeking to improve our skills of communication, we thrive on helpful criticism from critique partners, critique groups, and even negative reviewers. But you have a …
Moment to Moment
By Tanara McCauley I recently joined the ranks of writers who pen speculative fiction. While I’ve read it for years and tend to favor a well-written epic fantasy over any other genre, it wasn’t until I felt God’s leading in that direction that I decided to step out in obedience and try to write my own. I initially found myself …
Sherwood Forest Intervention and Other Tools to Keep Writing
By Susan A.J. Lyttek “Curses,” Robin Hood muttered, obviously not intending I hear. But I have great ears. “I had pleaded with her to cease this interference.” He bowed to me again. “My apologies, milady. We appear to be at the mercy of the author.” “Author? As in the writer of a story?” He nodded. “Do not fret. When I …
Making Wise Investments
By John W. Tucker Balance in each day’s activities is something we all strive for. Full-time or part-time writers, we must plan ahead and stay focused when we write. Think of the potential activities a writer may be involved in: writing into an article or book daily, writing a blog weekly or biweekly, setting aside money toward a writer’s conference …
To Preach or Not To Preach
by Lynn Hobbs I’m often asked how much is too much in placing scripture or prayer in a Christian fiction novel. No one wants their character to preach unless that character is indeed a preacher. Too much and the reader may lose interest. Readers want to read a story. With that in mind, I weave my story and concentrate on …
When You Feel Talentless
By Rondi Bauer Olson A few months ago I had a difficult time leaving behind the world of a book I’d read. I thought about the characters and plot for weeks, reread the book a couple of times, and journaled my favorite passages. At first, I just enjoyed the experience. I gained a better understanding of people from a certain …
Four Little Words to Help You Prep for the ACFW Conference
By Beth K. Vogt For those of your prepping for the upcoming conference, here are four words to guide you, and yes, I used the acronym A.C.F.W. Even if you’re not attending the conference, these four words apply to every writer’s journey: ADJUST your expectations. We pack a lot of things to bring to the annual ACFW conference, but one …
“Go North, Young Author!”
By Ramona Richards Here we are, setting on top of the conference and as a Nashvillian, I’d feel amiss if I didn’t at least offer up some suggestions about the city you’re about to visit. Nashville is a glorious, friendly place, and I hope you’ll all have a good time. GETTING AROUND/SAFETY The Omni Hotel is at the edge of …