I’m talking about street teams in this post. In the picture are four of my favorite readers, my children! Since I don’t have a street team yet, I chose this picture because they’re doing what a street team member does–promoting an author’s work. For the next few months, besides pounding out a rough draft and […]
The Value of Self-Editing
Editing is a necessary, often grueling task that requires time and skill. Yet, is there such a thing as over-editing? How do you know when enough is enough? Here are five suggestions to make edits a little less taxing.
Creating Memorable Heroes and Heroines
What makes a hero and heroine memorable to readers? Often it’s the fire and ice relationships that make for an interesting read. In the world of fiction, as well as real life, opposites seem to attract. When creating lead characters, writers often choose unlikely combinations. A backwoodsman and a city girl. A rich heiress […]
Practically Painless
When dreaming of being an author one day, I never considered more than seeing my name on the cover and having other people read my words (and love them, of course). Everything else would obviously take care of itself because if a publisher liked my work enough to print it, then it would sell, right? […]
Praying For Your Writing Journey
Like the other Mantle Rock authors, I write from a Christian world view. That means whether or not the Gospel is explicitly stated in the stories, God is always woven into the plot. Because of the Christian component, I begin a writing project and writing sessions with prayer. Sometimes the prayer is as simple […]
Making the Most of Your Writing Time
No doubt about it. Life is BUSY! If we aren’t careful, we can run ourselves ragged trying to keep up. If you’re like me, you often feel pulled in every direction, trying to balance family activities, work responsibilities, church and community functions, and household duties. And I have to wonder, WHEN CAN I WRITE?! To […]
The Power of the Written Word
Is the pen truly mightier than the sword? Words are powerful. They evoke emotions, stir us to action, share valuable insights, and ignite our imaginations. Words can build up, or tear down, encouragement or discourage, depending on how they are conveyed. Writers know well the power of words. The way a passage is written […]
The Second First Time
Five days. Last month I told you I saw the finish line for the publication of my second book, Grasping Hope. Now, the finish line is five days away. Less than a week. Edits have been completed for a while now. I’ve revealed the cover on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and my personal blog. I’ve got […]