No Matter What... Just Write

 

I'm convinced that writing is an art that's never perfected.

One can never receive enough help, so when I opened a rejection letter full of advice from White Rose Publishing I saved it. My journey had just begun, and the information they offered was extremely beneficial.

Below I have shared their tips for romance writers, but if you're hungry for more you can head to their articles page which is full of some really good writing tips.
http://www.pelicanbookgroup.com/ec/table/writing-tips/

Lastly, I want to say that no matter what... just keep writing! Never allow anyone's advice to make you feel boxed in. Tell your story your way. Be true to yourself and your way of expression, because someone out there will understand your bent and "get" you.

Happy Writing!
 

ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIP DEVELOPMENT - In romance, the boy-meets-girl, boy-loses-girl, boy-gets-girl-back formula must ALWAYS be present, and the story must end in Happily-Ever-After (HEA). Development of the relationship is crucial. The hero and heroine should be together as much as possible throughout the story. Remember that the word "hero" and the word "heroine" imply courage, intelligence and compassion. While heroes and heroines should be flawed, they cannot act in a completely un-heroic manner.

AVOID TOO MUCH BACKSTORY (and/or information dumps) - Since it pulls the attention from the developing relationship, backstory should be used sparingly. With little exception, action must be in the present so that we journey with the hero and heroine as their romance is blossoming. When it is necessary to divulge past events, the information should be sprinkled throughout the story rather than being "dumped" in large blocks of text.

AVOID TOO MUCH "TELL" – In romance it is best to SHOW a story rather than TELL the story. Start in the middle of the action, preferably when the hero and heroine meet. Rather than TELLING the reader how the heroine or hero feels, show them with emotions. Convey character and action. Do not allow thoughts and feelings to be internalized with no interaction.

NEVER ALLOW THE SECONDARY CHARACTERS TO OVERSHADOW THE HERO/HEROINE - When secondary characters are present, write a quick paragraph about their meaning in the novel and then move back to hero and heroine—the main plot. Don’t convey a secondary character’s life history on the page. That is, don’t give them "air-time" in a story about the hero and heroine. Secondary characters are there simply as a foil for the protagonists. The story belongs to the hero and heroine. Remember, in whatever role they play, secondary characters must also serve to move the hero and heroine towards their HEA and should never overshadow the main romance.

POUR ON THE ROMANCE - White Rose Publishing requires the romantic element to be fifty percent or more of the story. This means the relationship development of the hero and heroine must constitute at least half of the book. Usually, this means that during that half, the hero and heroine are interacting with one another in a manner that furthers the romance. Eg. If your book is two hundred pages, the hero and heroine should be together on at least one hundred pages.* Remember, this "togetherness" must be an interaction that moves the romance towards the HEA. * (This is estimation, not concrete calculation.)

HAVE A STRONG POINT-OF-VIEW (POV - also called head-hopping) - It is imperative to stay in one POV throughout a scene. This means that if we are in the heroine’s POV, she cannot know what other characters are thinking unless they vocalize it. She cannot know another character’s reasons for doing something; she can merely observe actions. Eg. The heroine can know that the hero opened the window. She cannot know he opened the window because he wanted to let in a breeze (unless he tells her so).

In romance, the hero and heroine are generally the only characters who are allowed a "voice." Exceptions can be made, depending on the skill of the author. For example, the villain’s POV can be used as a plot device to further the story. It is preferred each chapter or scene reveal only one POV.

CLEAR TIME/PLACE – Setting is important to a story. The reader must be transported into the scene. Sensory images are important. While long sections should not be dedicated to solely describing the scene, each scene should contain enough information to keep the reader engaged. Settings should also be realistic. For example, if the hero and heroine are at a noisy baseball game, it’s going to be difficult for them to whisper to each other from across the bleachers.

REALISTIC CHARACTERIZATION AND/OR DIALOGUE - It is imperative that characters are three-dimensional. Each should have a distinct personality and should not come off the page seeming wooden. Readers should know the hero and heroine enough to be able to talk about them as though they were real people. As we live a scene with them, we should learn how they feel about what’s happening. Those thoughts and emotional reactions give us insight into character—what makes them unique people.

Dialogue should sound realistic. This means that in an historical, dialogue and phrasing should not sound modern. Similarly, this means that a well-educated person should not "sound" illiterate, nor should an illiterate character speak as though they are well-schooled. Dialogue should be intertwined with action or inner dialogue beats that help the characters come to life and also make it unnecessary for most speech tags.

Tasting A Dream

Many of my followers know that I've written a novel. Years and years went into editing, cutting, and perfecting this book. I started writing my inspirational women's fiction novel in 2007. It was more of an "off and on" hobby, but in the Fall of 2010 I truly (and urgently) felt the Lord call me to give the book my full attention. I cut out all TV and any extra reading to give my writing/editing just that. My husband and boys can attest to my obsession! There were many days I'd forget about dinner and would have to throw a family-sized lasagna into the microwave and call it a meal! Finally, after a year and several months, my manuscript was complete. Oh, let the angels sing!

However, I had no idea that finishing the book was just the beginning...

My dream (lofty as it might be) was to be discovered by some huge, incredibly famous Christian publishing house and win lots of awards and accolades. However, my bubble was quickly burst when I realized how hard it is to break into this industry. The simple fact was (and is), if you're not going to self publish, you'll most likely need an agent. So, I had to pull up my bootstraps and figure out what to do.

The very first website that helped me was: www.michaelhyatt.com. I found some great articles for first time authors and some wonderful and basic general information. I even ordered his book on writing a winning book proposal (http://michaelhyatt.com/writing-a-winning-book-proposal ) which helped me tremendously. Furthermore, I scoured the websites of numerous agents - whether they represented my genre or not. I wanted to learn as much as I could, and doing this helped me gain a fuller understanding of the publishing world. In fact, I printed off so many articles I literally filled a binder!

So, when people ask me how to get started I warn them that it'll take time, time, and even more time. The best advice I could give a hopeful writer is to finish his/her book. Make it perfect. Then spend time researching what to do and which agents to pursue. Self publishing is also a viable option, especially if you have the resources to do so. I've had several friends do quite well self-publishing, and they have raved about the care they were given.

Can you taste your dream? Whatever it is, I say go for it! It may take time, and lots of frozen meals, but I can assure you it'll be well worth it!

Facing My Giant

For the past several days I've been painting a 9-foot tall Goliath. Ah, the things we'll do for our church's preschool kids. By the way, please resist commenting on Goliath's double jointed and disproportionate legs and arms!!! I am not an artist - just a committed (and crazy) volunteer!

Anyway, back to my deep thoughts for the day... As I was painting Goliath, I reflected on a time when I had to face my own sort of "giant" and failed. My giant's name was Intimidation, and his purpose was to shut me up.

I can still feel the track marks left from being thrown under the bus. To explain, I was falsely accused of saying something I didn't say simply because the girl who vomited out some information she shouldn't have shared saw a good opportunity to shift the blame.

Clueless of this betrayal, I was called into my director's office and questioned. Thankfully, and because she knew my heart and character, she didn't believe the accusations. With my director's blessing I went directly to the source and her partner hoping to clear the air. My biggest mistake was going alone.

Rather than being able to explain, I was berated because of what the guilty girl had said that I'd said. Funnily enough, while I was being told off, she stood cowardly by the supply cabinet and away from our conversation. I look back now and wish that I'd had more confidence to fight for myself, but I didn't. Intimidation won and the rest of the school year I was anxious. afraid, and overly reserved.

Right now I'm studying Nehemiah with my church Bible Study group. People often refer to Nehemiah as the "weeping prophet," but boy are they wrong. Yes, Nehemiah did cry, but his tears were for his own nation, his people, and for his beloved Jerusalem whose walls were deteriorating.

The reason I mention Nehemiah is because he was not only a wonderful leader, he was crazy brave! You see, he had his own "giants" to contend with. They came in the form of a governor, an officer, and an Arabian leader. When it came down to it, these three men went after Nehemiah because his plan to rebuild Jerusalem's walls threatened their own interests and territories. They wanted to protect themselves and their own positions.

What were their tactics? Lies and physical threats. But Nehemiah never wavered. He knew that God had called him to lead this reconstruction project, so he called his people to pray, stand guard, and trust in God.

The same held true for David, who actually did defeat (and behead) the real Goliath. Even though David was a boy, he wasn't scared by Goliath's taunts or threats. He put his hope in the One TRUE God who is mighty to save.

I look back on that school year and I can see why the enemy wanted me silenced. I was beginning to step out of my comfort zone and talk about Jesus to some of the other women. I was starting to diligently pray for certain girls whose hurts were brought to my attention. Ultimately, I was learning to look outside of myself to the needs around me and, frankly, the enemy didn't like it. I was threatening his position and territory.

What about you? Are you facing intimidation or accusations that make you want to run and hide? Rather than cower in fear, let's take Nehemiah's advice and PRAY, stand guard, trust God, and continue on with our calling.

God's Love in the Book of Psalm (Part One)

One reason I adore the Book of Psalm is the fact that it's (mostly) authored by King David. If I had to describe King David in one word, the word would be REAL. Everything about David was real. From being a childhood shepherd, to a poet/song-writer, to a wicked giant killer, David was all around cool. But let's not forget that he was also an adulterer, murderer, and liar. 

Despite all of his good and not so good qualities, one thing remained the same. David never doubted God's faithful and forgiving nature. In fact, David was said to be a man after God's own heart (Acts 13:22).

Throughout his many songs (or Psalms), we see David's authentic and transparent faith shine through. He doesn't hesitate to acknowledge that life is hard. His life was full of tests, trials, and times of confusion, but one thing David's heart rested upon was God's constant love, mercy, and faithfulness.

As I began to scour the book of Psalm, it became clear to me that God was (an IS) very present. God cares, and we can run to Him and trust Him in all things. He's mighty to save!

Here, come and see what I'm talking about...

Psalm 5:11-12: But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. Surely, Lord, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.

Psalm 6:4: Turn, Lord, and deliver me; save me because of your unfailing love.

Psalm 8:3-4: When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?
(AND yet He does!!!)

Psalm 9:9-10: The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.

Ps 10:17-18a: You, Lord, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, defending the fatherless and the oppressed...

Ps 13:5-6: But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing the Lord’s praise, for he has been good to me.

Psalm 16: Keep me safe, my God, for in you I take refuge.  I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing....” Lord, you alone are my portion and my cup; you make my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance. I will praise the Lord, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure, because you will not abandon me... You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.

 Ps 17:6-8: I call on you, my God, for you will answer me; turn your ear to me and hear my prayer.
Show me the wonders of your great love, you who save by your right hand those who take refuge in you from their foes. Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings

Ps 18:1-3: I love you, Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I called to the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and I have been saved from my enemies... He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me...  As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him. For who is God besides the Lord? And who is the Rock except our God? It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure.

Psalm 23: The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Ps 25: 4-10: Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. Remember, Lord, your great mercy and love, for they are from of old. Do not remember the sins of my youth and my rebellious ways; according to your love remember me, for you, Lord, are good. Good and upright is the Lord; therefore he instructs sinners in his ways. He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way. All the ways of the Lord are loving and faithful...

As I close, I'm reminded of Jesus's words in Matthew 19:26 - "With God, all things are possible!" David certainly understood this fact, although just like us, he had to remind himself of it a time or two.

When you vent your problems in prayer, do you tend to stay in the moment, or are you able to redirect your thoughts to God's capable (and mighty) hands? Why do you think we struggle with fully letting go?

Are We Doing Our Part?

At church this past Sunday, I was approached by a girl named Emily. She asked if I was OK and explained that I had been on her mind and that she'd felt burdened to pray for me. Everything was fine, but her simple concern sincerely touched my heart. We talked a bit longer and she gave me a warm hug. As I watched her walk away I couldn't hold back a smile. Although I don't know Emily very well, I never for one second doubted her love or concern for me.

I've heard people say that they find it hard to trust God because they can't see or touch Him. But a thought crossed my mind this particular Sunday morning. If we are the Body of Christ (and therefore His mouth, His hands and feet) then I just recieved a hug from the Lord. Furthermore, He had clearly used Emily to cover me in prayer, and who knows what unforseen trouble was heading my way.

Ephesians 4:16 says, "From Him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work."

God uses people - His people - to express His Love for us. Emily's simple gesture changed my day and my perspective. I walked away feeling loved, and not just by Emily but by the God of the universe. I can't help but wonder what would've happened if Emily hadn't done her part...

Am I doing mine? Are you doing yours? What are your thoughts?

Considering Others Better Than Ourselves...

Something wonderful happened last week at our son's baseball game. If you know Will then you know he's a pretty talented pitcher for being only 10 years old. He's got a steady hand, a focused eye, and a calm demeanor.

Last week Will had an amazing game, but what floored me was what happened afterwards. It seems that he was going to receive the game ball, but was approached by one of the coaches to allow another boy to get the honor instead. The coach relayed to us that Will didn't even bat an eye. He was happy for the other boy get the ball.

You see the other player is brand new to the game, and he had just made what he thought was a great play. Here's what happened: He was walked to first, stole to second and made it all the way to third when the next batter was struck out making it three outs. This sweet boy ran to home anyway and raised his arms like a champion. He thought he'd made a run for the team and was beaming with pride and excitement.

I can't help but think that our previous celebration of Easter had affected Will. Easter is such a perfect time to step back and reflect on all that Jesus did for mankind. He left heaven where he was seated on a throne and surrounded by glory to come and live, breathe, and walk amongst a messed-up people in a messed-up world. Will's tiny sacrifice was nothing compared to our Lord's, and yet I believe it came from the same root -- Love.

Jesus said the greatest commandment is to Love God and Love People. I firmly believe that when we grow deeper in our knowledge and love for God we can't help but to love His people. It becomes as natural as breathing.

I can't claim to know what was going through Will's mind, but what I do know is his joy-filled smile spoke volumes.

                  Love is - considering others better than ourselves... 

I'm convinced that when we walk in love oftentimes our reward is a little taste of heaven.

Kings, Chronicles, and a little Ezra

Day Six's Search for Love:


In my search today, there weren't many verses that touched on God's loves for us. However, the few that I found are the basis for the lyrics behind one of my favorite Chris Tomlin worship songs. Is he a modern-day psalmist or what? 


See if you can figure out which song I am referring to...


1 Kings 8:23 - "O Lord, God of Israel, there is no God like you in heaven above or on earth below -- you who keep your covenant of love with your servants who continue wholeheartedly in your way."


I Chronicles 16:34 & 41 - "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."


2 Chronicles 5:13 - "The trumpeters and singers joined in unison, as with one voice, to give praise and thanks to the Lord. Accompanied by trumpets, cymbals and other instruments, they raised their voices in praise to the Lord and sang: 'He is good; his love endures forever.'"


Ezra 3:11 - "With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the Lord: 'He is good; his love to Israel endures forever.'"


You got it -- His Love Endures Forever!


I've attached the You Tube video of this song for your enjoyment! Rather than type out all of the lyrics, this video shows them line by line.  As you watch, reflect on the goodness of our God. Not only does his love endure forever, he is faithful, strong, and he's with us forever! We are blessed!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVYcDOXczus

God Loves To Show Off

Today as I was running errands, I couldn't help but notice the beautiful array of Bluebonnets. They are everywhere, and the Texas hill country has never looked more glorious.

As I opened my Bible to pick up where I left off, I skimmed the next set of verses on God's love and found one that almost knocked me out of my chair. Job 37:13b says, "(The Lord brings the clouds) to water his earth and show his love."

Clearly, God sent the perfect amount of rain this winter and spring because the display of wild flowers is incredible. I couldn't help but smile at how these simple flowers show off God's glory. I stopped by the side of the road and took a picture to remember this moment. I'm convinced God loves to show off ... and right now all I can say is: God, You Are Amazing!

The earth is full of Your unfailing love (Psalm 33:5).

I'm back!

I apologize for my long absence. I needed to focus on finishing my novel, getting it edited and corrected, and making it ready for the querying process. It's been an all-consuming task, but finally it's finished! And I can honestly say that I'm proud of the final product. Thank you, Jesus!

I have begun sending out queries to different literary agents. With my first rejection under my belt along with several "no response" rejections, this whole process has begun to feel daunting. I sincerely covet your prayers as I continue to "knock" on the many doors before me.

Although I tend to over-think everything, the Lord has (graciously) made it clear that He will be the one to direct my steps. Only God can 'open doors that no man can close, and close doors that no man can open' (Rev. 3:8). So, daily I'm having to choose to trust. Furthermore, my prayer is to the keep the main thing the main thing. Jesus is the main thing, and in the end He is all that matters.

Nevertheless, my first novel is finished. And that (in and of itself) is a huge accomplishment!

Anyway, before I restart my "Love" study, I wanted to share an incredible book I just finished called, The Birthright - Out of the servant's quarters, into the Father's house by John Sheasby. It is a life-changing read. Here is its premise:

If you're one of the millions of Christians weighed down by the guilt of things done, and undone, feeling you are falling short of God's expectations, The Birthright is a liberating, life-changing celebration of your birthright as a child of the King. Whether you are of Reformed, grace-based roots, or Arminian, works-driven traditions, you may have a gnawing sense that you are failing to please the Father. The Birthright will liberate you from the drudgery of 'doing' and help you discover the joy of 'being'--moving out of the servant's quarters and into the Father's house where you are loved, accepted and celebrated . . . simply because you are His child.


If you're interested in reading it for yourself, here's the link to Good Reads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8857922-the-birthright


Until next time!