Author: Elaine Cooper - Writer Encouragement

Elaine Marie Cooper is an award-winning author of both fiction ("Fields of the Fatherless") and non-fiction ("Bethany's Calendar"). Her usual genre is historical fiction set in the era of the American Revolution. She began writing as a child and somehow couldn't stop. ;) Her Deer Run Saga is being re-released by CrossRiver Media in 2015. "Saratoga Letters" is contracted for release in early 2016. Her work has also appeared in Splickety Prime Magazine, Prayer Connect Magazine, "I Choose You" (Romance anthology) and Fighting Fear: Winning the War at Home by Edie Melson.

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Writer Encouragement

Discouraging Moments: How to Refocus

By Elaine Marie Cooper

I had a very discouraging book signing last night in Saratoga Springs, NY for my novel, “Saratoga Letters.” Don’t get me wrong. Everyone at the bookstore was so friendly and great to work with. Visitors were interested and gracious. What discouraged me was the lack of local interest in a significant historical site just 15 miles away.

The discussion with the visitors and staff mainly focused on the history of the town itself: What buildings had burned. When the town was in its downturn. When the gentry from New York improved the scenery—and raised the rents.

When I brought up their town’s involvement in the huge bicentennial commemoration of the 1777 battle that was the turning point of the American Revolution —it’s listed in the top 15 most significant battles in history—blank expressions stared at me.  This battle paved the way for the creation of a completely new country based on life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The success of the American Patriots at Saratoga drew in both financial and military support from Europe. Without it, America’s chances of winning against the most powerful army in the world would have been nearly impossible.

Without the Battle of Saratoga, we might not be Americans.

Here, practically in their backyard, was a memorial of the most significant battle in the formation of our country. My research for the bicentennial in 1977 showed their town was involved in a big way in the event. None of the visitors to my book signing were aware that folks had come from around the world to attend.  Or that Today Show personality Tom Brokaw was the guest speaker. Or that a huge ball was held in the town’s Casino ballroom to honor those who fought for freedom just a few miles away, 200 years prior.

I was disheartened.

Yet I had to reflect on my own heart and the things that should be right in front of my eyes that I often miss.

In my world, I can be myopic when it comes to what is important around me. Do I stress about deadlines or other obligations while forgetting the bigger picture? Do I get so involved putting out the fires of a busy schedule burning on my planner that I don’t read God’s Word and forget WHY I’m writing for Him?

Just as the nearby battlefield of Saratoga should be a reminder to the Saratoga Springs residents about the freedoms they enjoy, my focus should be on writing to honor the Lord and do His work, rejoicing in the freedom this country offers me to write without fear of persecution. To write for His glory.

May I never forget the spiritual battles in my own backyard. May I always keep my focus on the Savior who fought the ultimate battle against sin so that we can be spiritually free.  May I use the liberty won at Saratoga so long ago, to write for my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who gave His all for my freedom from sin.

 

 

 

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Uncategorized Writer Encouragement

Hawks Seeking Prey

Elaine Marie Cooper

On the way to meet a friend for coffee the other day, my eye caught a site both beautiful and terrifying: A hawk swooping through the air. It came to rest on a pole, which gave me the opportunity to admire the creature’s beautiful feathers. Reddish brown wings and speckles of brown and white across its proud-looking chest were magnificent. What a gorgeous bird I thought. Gorgeous and deadly.

The hawk wasn’t there to preen its feathers; it was looking for prey. Perhaps a rabbit, mouse, or even a small pet left unattended would be snatched in its talons and carried away to experience a horrible death. Suddenly the bird didn’t seem so beautiful; it seemed terrifying.

I put the thought of this bird of prey out of my mind as I met my friend to share coffee. During our conversation she revealed a startling story about a recent discovery in her marriage that left her reeling. I was shocked and listened intently, while offering consolation as best I could. We had sweet fellowship that ended too quickly but we determined to meet again soon.

 

During our conversation, I thought about dinner the previous night with friends of my husband and I. I asked about a mutual friend on Facebook who I hadn’t seen in sometime. “You hadn’t heard? He’s in jail,” my friend informed me. I was so shocked that you could have knocked me out of the restaurant booth with a paper napkin. Especially when my friend shared the reason: child molestation.

Both of these individuals caught in sin were regular churchgoers, masking their sin behind the guise of pseudo-Christianity.

After pondering these back-to-back revelations, I thought of that hawk, looking so gorgeous yet ready to kill and destroy. Just like the evil one who can appear as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:13-14). And like the evil one, he seeks out any weakness in our armor. “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8 NIV)

 

As writers for the Lord, we may have a giant target on our backs that encourages the evil one to set his eyes upon us, aiming arrows of deceit that can make us fall for his deception.

 

“It won’t matter if I write erotica under an assumed name. It pays the bills so I can afford to write Christian fiction.”

 

“No one will know if I’m watching this movie. My readers probably wouldn’t care, even if they knew.”

 

“What I do in the privacy of my home is no one’s business. So what if there’s porn on my laptop? It has no impact on my writing whatsoever.”

 

 

It’s easy to lie to ourselves. After all, the evil one is the father of lies (John 8:44)

May I encourage you to clean up your act? And I don’t mean self edit those mistakes in your manuscripts that make an editor cringe.

If you’re dabbling in sin, talk to a pastor or Christian counselor that you trust. Stop pretending that it doesn’t matter. Because if God called you to write, the evil one delights when he sees you fall. He loves that domino effect as we lead others down that slippery slope of sin.

 

Image of hawk courtesy of panuruangjan via freedigitalphotos.net

Image of claw courtesy of Pansa via freedigitalphotos.net

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Writer Encouragement

Humility Without The Humbug

Elaine Marie Cooper

As I dropped off several of my novels at the bookstore before Christmas, I noticed a man that I assumed was a customer speaking with a young man at the desk. I waited my turn until the employee looked at me as though he was ready to help me.

Maybe he’s his friend and just stopped in to visit.

I proceeded to explain that I was dropping off books to sell on consignment when the “friend” said to me. “How do you do that?”

“Do what?” I was confused by his question.

“Get your books in print.”

That was a loaded question that I didn’t have a lot of time to answer but I explained briefly that I’d attended writer’s conferences and connected with editors and publishers there.

He glanced at a woman sitting behind the desk and said, “Where can I find out about writers conferences?”

I saw the woman’s face and it was clear she didn’t want to have a discussion with the man. The situation became even clearer when he told the store employees that he had a great idea for a book and needed to find a publisher. “The book is called, ‘Tinkerbelle Joins the Army.’” He was obviously feeling inspired and excited by the prospect of seeing his story in print.

Fighting back laughter at the title, I said, “You can do a Google Search for writers conferences. They are held all over the country.”

“Oh, I need to find one in Des Moines. I don’t drive.”

I felt sorry for the man who obviously had some serious limitations in his life. But I was even sorrier that I had almost laughed at his book title.

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Who was I to look down my nose at someone who I assumed would never make it in the publishing world? Who was I to laugh at a title that I thought was ridiculous? Who was I to snicker behind the man’s back, the way I’d seen others in the industry make fun of those who seemed unworthy?

 

I felt a definite check in my spirit that I was not to demean another with my judgment—or in my actions. When the man saw my name on my books, he held out his hand to me and said, “Can I shake your hand, Elaine Cooper?” I forced myself to smile and extended my hand to respond to his shake. “Nice to meet you,” I answered.

And it truly was nice to meet him. Because he reminded me that dismissing this simple man’s dreams was akin to dismissing the importance of the “surplus population” that Ebenezer Scrooge hated in Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” My initial lack of humility in looking down at this customer that everyone tried to ignore was akin to saying “Bah, humbug.” Instead I should have treated him with the warmth that Jesus would extend. I should have said in my heart and in my words, “God bless us everyone.”

And if you ever see a book entitled “Tinkerbelle Joins the Army,” know that I had the privilege of meeting the author and shaking his hand.

Merry Christmas!

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Writer Encouragement

What’s Your Perspective?

Elaine Marie Cooper

With six simple words, a writer friend completely changed my perspective: “You have had a great year.”

A great year? I almost balked. Yes, it was so great that I had an infection that destroyed some of the bone in my leg, underwent two surgeries to repair the damage, spent six weeks in daily IV antibiotic infusions, spent days and weeks fighting anxiety, depression, and pain, and had to cancel three trips—one a much-anticipated book tour for my latest release. I fretted over numerous bills and an inability to work for weeks at a time. Great year?

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But then I paused. What was she seeing that I was not? I began to reflect on my year

I watched with joy as my younger son married his precious wife. I was able to spend my grandchildren’s birthday with them before I discovered I needed surgery. I had two books release (one a re-release) and now look forward to the re-release of the third and final book in a trilogy. I obtained an agent. I grew closer with my social media friends as well as friends at church with whom I shared my struggles. When not on pain meds, I was able to write more deeply. I accomplished edits on three books. I had the elders at my church pray for me before my last surgery and I came through amazingly well. I graduated from physical therapy in less than a month.

In short…I not just survived…I thrived. With God’s help and the prayers of His people, it truly has been a great year.

So what about your year so far? Has it been all “gloom and doom” as I was viewing the events of this past year? Are you doing as I was and focusing on the negative?

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Are you a writer who sees all of your inadequacies and perceived failures in the last year? Or have you tried to focus on your writing successes, however small you may think they are?

If there is one thing I’ve learned first hand this year as I’ve watched so many friends deal with so many struggles, we all have something—days we’d rather forget, pain that may or may not heal, disappointments that leave a void in our hearts. Yet if that is all we focus on, then we are missing the full story—the part that God wants us to dwell upon.

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:8-9

The God of peace has been with me. That deems it a great year.

Anxiety/ Fear sign courtesy of Stuart Miles, via freedigitalphotos.net

Peace card courtesy of digitalart, via freedigitalphotos.net

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Writer Encouragement

The Power of a Literary Paintbrush

Elaine Marie Cooper

We’ve been doing quite a bit of painting at our house lately. A lot of painting. Our goal is to put our house on the market and a fresh coat of paint makes a big difference in rooms that haven’t felt the strokes of a brush in some years. The fact that our unique home is nearing its centennial makes the need for fresh color even more important. First impressions matter.

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But it’s been hard work! Can you say “aching muscles?” Even the tendons in my fingers are complaining. But add my neck, arms and seemingly every other muscle in my body and I know that I have labored. But the results will be worth it when it’s ready to present to the public and that “For Sale” sign appears in the yard.

Have you ever thought of your work-in-progress as a piece of art that needs readied for the marketplace? Our first, second, and even third drafts need the stroke of words that describe setting, emotion, and artistic flair that reflects our writer’s voice.

Consider the difference in these phrases:

“He felt ashamed” vs “His cheeks burned as he avoided the professor’s gaze.”

“He was angry” vs. “The veins in his neck bulged as he pointed his finger in his enemy’s face.”

“She was hurt” to “She clutched her stomach and moaned.”

“She felt guilty” to “She stuttered her words as her face flushed.”

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The first phrase in each example is what they call “telling.” The second phrase is “showing.” These phrases paint a picture for the reader that brings the characters alive.

These examples of showing are just a few of the suggestions from “The Emotion Thesaurus” by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi. These authors have a series of books on ways to describe characters and setting that can be artistic strokes of life for your book.

Like the strokes of my paintbrush will, hopefully, help my house be more marketable, so the goal of your artistic edits should be to help your novel or book be a better seller. And ultimately, that is the reason for edits: To create an unforgettable manuscript, beloved by many.

Happy editing!

 

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Writer Encouragement

Will I Ever Write Again?

Elaine Marie Cooper

I don’t think there is a writer among us who does not ask this question at least once: Will I ever write again?

The circumstances that might prompt such a self-reflection are numerous: A long illness, caregiving for a loved one, divorce, death in the family, losing one’s main source of income. The list could go one. Regardless of the details, it involves such an upset in our lives that the last thing we want to think about is pouring our energies into the written word. We are exhausted and stressed. It’s all we can do to survive emotionally and physically.

I’ve seen writers who underwent chemotherapy put aside their writing for months and even years. Yet once the “chemo fog” lifts, I’ve seen their muse come to life, bigger and better than ever. Just today I saw a Facebook post from someone re-discovering her gift after a long absence due to illness. I recently experienced a complete lack of enthusiasm to write when I underwent weeks of surgeries, pain and illness. Now that I’m on the other side, the joy of writing has returned. For a writer, it is a blessing beyond any other.

Perhaps you are in the middle of a major crisis that has not just dampened but has destroyed your desire to write. Take heart. God is not finished with inspiring your muse. Perhaps He is plowing the field of your mind with fertile soil. The pain you’ve endured may sprout into words you might never have written without undergoing the very circumstances that withered your desire in the first place.

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Keep reading during your time of drought. Read whatever ministers to you in both fiction and non-fiction. Read for pleasure. Write reviews online of the books you read to help other authors. Read God’s Word. And when you emerge out of the darkness, look for the light of God’s inspiration and draw strength from Him. He Who created your gift will not leave it void.

 

Image of sad woman on sofa courtesy of marin, via freedigitalphotos.net

Image of hands typing via suphakit73, via freedigitalphotos.net

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Uncategorized Writer Encouragement

Be Careful How You Live

Elaine Marie Cooper

“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 5: 15-20

Being careful how we live in the evil days. So what does this have to do with encouragement for writers, you might ask? I would answer, “Everything.”

There is not a day goes by when the news is not inciting pain in our hearts as we hear of more unrest, murders, and other terrible “deeds of darkness.” It is enough to cause even the strongest Christian to tremble and become consumed with anxiety and depression. Yet these days of evil do not take God by surprise. Instead, He has given us a means by which we can fight the enemy that seeks to consume our minds with fear. It is called speaking to one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. It is singing and making music in our hearts and giving thanks to God our Father—not for the evil deeds but for our hope in Jesus Christ.

Is this our natural response to frightening news that toys with our minds 24/7? Of course not. It is a decision that we make.

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It takes a conscious choice to turn off the constant news and put on Christian music that will uplift our spirit. I find that, even if I’m working and barely paying attention to the music in the background, the message of the music is making an impact. In the quiet moments, I find the words of the songs playing through my mind and uplifting me, shifting my focus from this world to the heavenly realm.

 

As writers for the Lord, we need to be aware that we “struggle not against flesh and blood…but against the powers of this dark world.” (Ephesians 6:12) The battleground is our mind. If we are frozen by fear, we become ineffective at spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Don’t let the evil one control the input. Take back control over what you allow into your minds and hearts. “Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord.”

 

Image of woman listening to music courtesy of Imagery Majestic via freedigitalphotos.net

Image of violinist leaping in he air courtesy of Koratmember via freedigitalimages.net

 

 

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Uncategorized Writer Encouragement

Expert Gardeners – Expert Editors

Elaine Marie Cooper

It was early summer and the New England Asters were lush with leaves. But a knowledgeable gardener gave instructions concerning the long, gangly stems.

“They need to be trimmed way back to about six inches or so.”

Six inches??

“Yes, don’t worry, it will grow back and it will look even better.”

I still doubted but I trusted the gardener’s experience. So I began to clip, even though I cringed. I felt like I was ruining the plant by removing all those pretty leaves.

How will it ever be beautiful again?

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And yet within weeks the stems filled out, growing upward and outward. By the time fall was near, the blooms were everywhere. The plant was more beautiful than when it started.

 

 

*     *     *

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Often we writers fear the trimming process. We think by editing what seems to be the perfect story, book, or article, we are losing the beauty that we see. It might even seem like we are ruining what we thought was important.

 

But editors—the expert gardeners—see the big picture. They know what will turn our writing into something wonderful—a thing of flowering beauty. Editors are trained to read a manuscript with readers in mind. We are often too close to our own work to realize that by making a few changes, we can help the reader better understand our story. And we definitely want our readers to be happy.

Sometimes suggested edits can be discussed between writer and editor. Often there is a reason to leave well enough alone. But overall, I agree with most edits suggested by the experts when I am going through the trimming process.

It can feel uncomfortable at the time. But the finished work will usually show the proof of the editor’s expertise.

It can be a thing of beauty, just like the asters in fall.

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Writer Encouragement

A Time For Everything

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven.” Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV

As I sit here with my handy walker next to me and my braced leg elevated to keep down the swelling in my knee, I think about all of my writer friends, acquaintances, and all the potential friends I had hoped to meet who are gathering in writers conferences around the country. I am tempted to feel sorry for myself because I was planning on attending a writer’s conference. Yet circumstances changed all of that.

I don’t pretend to understand why my knee surgery of a year ago became infected, but I am forced to deal with all the ramifications: Two surgeries this summer, lots of pain, and multiple physical therapy sessions. Then there’s that nagging thought: We had just paid off all of last year’s medical bills.

I must confess, though, that accepting the Lord’s “activity under heaven” that He wants me to do can be both humbling and, at times, depressing. But He has had some heart-to-heart discussions with my spirit concerning my will vs. His. His will trumps every time. (And no, this is definitely not a political statement…)

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Scripture clearly tells us that “there is a time for everything,” and this summer is not my time. It is my time to rest in Him and perhaps—on a day when I am clear-headed with fewer pain pills in my system—I can spend some quality time researching and writing.

 

Why, I cry out to the Lord? And what can possibly be the benefit of any of this? Again, I don’t have clear answers. But occasionally, glimmers of heavenly light shine upon the faces of other patients who I meet at the infusion center where I go daily for my IV antibiotics. It gives me perspective about the patients who have fear-filled eyes who aren’t just dealing with infection, but are facing cancer.

God sees the bigger picture.

I know that no experience is wasted in God’s Kingdom, nor are there any mistakes wrought by the hand of the Creator. So when I think about the changes in my plans for this summer, I pray that I will remember to ask God how He wants to use me in His plan.

Have the dreams for your writing schedule taken an unexpected diversion from your well-plotted strategy? Maybe you are attending a writer’s conference but your hoped-for meeting with an editor or agent didn’t go as you imagined. Rather than feeling crushed and defeated, ask God what His strategy is in this season for your activity under heaven. It may not fulfill your dreams for this moment, but it will undoubtedly fulfill God’s agenda for you. And His timing is always perfect.

 

“What does the worker gain from his toil? I have seen the burden God has laid on men. He has made everything beautiful in its time.” Ecclesiastes 3:9-11 NIV

 

Image of green typewriter from Just2Shutter via freedigitalphotos.net

 

 

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Writer Encouragement

When Plans Change

By Elaine Marie Cooper

Life can throw curveballs at you. You’re certain one moment what will take place tomorrow. Then the unexpected happens and you shake your head, wondering what happened.

Life happened. I think Scripture addresses this situation in James 4:13-17. We never know what plans God may have for our tomorrow.

The unexpected happened to me just this week as I had plans to attend a writer’s conference in Wheaton, Illinois, in June. But my knee doctor said otherwise. Surgery is in my immediate future instead. I wanted to cry but preferred to hold onto my tears until I arrived home.

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Despite my grieving over this loss, I felt a deep inner peace that it would be OK. God was still in control and I could rest in Him, placing all my fears into His hands. I would miss visiting with my writer friends at the conference. I looked forward to classes and workshops. I had great plans! But God had other plans. And His ways are always best, despite my personal preference.

Christian friends responded to my upcoming summer of surgery with thoughts such as: I wonder what writing you’ll do while you’re laid up? I wonder what exciting plans God has for you instead?

Isn’t the friendship of fellow Christians a gift? They help us see the big picture; the God picture.

I pray that my “fork-in-the-road” testimony will encourage you in your writing plans. Sometimes the unexpected happens, and God redirects. Won’t it be exciting to see where He leads us?

Have a blessed—and hopefully surgery-free—summer of writing!

 

 

Image of doctor courtesy of stockimages via freedigitalphotos.net

Image of typewriter courtesy of Just2Shutter via freedigitalphotos.net

 

 

 

 

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Writer Encouragement Writing Conference

Seven Reasons to Attend a Writers Conference

It’s Spring once again and time to consider attending a writers conference.

Of course you have many reasons not to go:

  • Family
  • Cost
  • You’re not a published writer yet
  • You might have to go by yourself
  • You’re an introvert
  • You have a special condition that requires accommodation
  • You’re not REALLY a writer

Can I encourage you to attend a conference by bursting the bubbles of your angst?

  1. Family. Of course your family is a priority. But are there good friends or a family member who can stay with your kids and see to their needs? If this were a vacation with your spouse, you wouldn’t hesitate to find a qualified sitter. 😉
  2. Cost. Of course there are fees to attend the sessions, as well as for food and lodging. Some conferences cost more than others so check out the expenses listed on the websites. Some conferences are only a couple of days; some last for several days. Look for ones that are closer so you can drive. Ask a friend to share the cost of gas. And by all means, ASK IF THERE ARE SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE! Many conferences offer them.
  3. You’re not a published writer yet. It will likely remain that way, unless you dive into the fray of classes, workshops, and meeting editors and publishers at a conference.
  4. You might have to go by yourself. You could ask a writer friend to go with you or meet you there. Or you could take a deep breath, pray…and head for the conference by yourself. Let God provide the fellowship there that you desire.
  5. You’re an introvert. Most writers are. You will be in great company.
  6. You have a special condition that requires accommodation. Conference centers are wonderful for providing special diets and transportation for those who struggle with handicaps. Check with someone at the conference ahead of time to ease your mind.
  7. You’re not REALLY a writer. REALLY? Then why are you drawn to write? You are a writer if you love to put “pen to paper” and express your thoughts in words. You may not be a published author yet, but Writers Conferences are for all writers. Come join the club!

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Attend and be blessed!

Green Typewriter image by Just2Shutter via freedigitalphotos.net

Girl writing image courtesy of anankkml via freedigitalphotos.net

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Book Reviews Writer Encouragement

Getting Reviews Part 2

Elaine Marie Cooper

If you have not read Part 1 of this two-part series on getting reviews, click here to read it.

Assuming you have been hard at work gathering potential reviewers, you should have sent out dozens of requests by now. Be prepared that you may not receive a reply from some. Others may reply but say they cannot commit to this project at this time. Always send a gracious response in return. Perhaps in the future they may accept another request.

Hopefully you will have an enthusiastic group who are excited to help you launch your book baby.

Here is the next VERY important step: The letter that accompanies your PDF.

Open your letter with an expression of thanks. They are taking out many hours of their time to help you. Be grateful.

Your next paragraph should include something like this:

After reading (Name of your book) please write the review as soon as possible while it is still fresh in your mind. Please send me the text of your review so I can keep a file and use the quotes. Also, please SAVE the review in your files somewhere so you can post it on Amazon and Goodreads when the book releases on (date of release). I will send a jpg of the book cover before it releases.

Road to Deer Run - Cover

Many of your readers may never have written a review before. Here are helpful tips that I include in this letter:

 

  • Include the title of the book in the review
  • If you have any kind of relationship with me (friend, relative, etc.) please do NOT include that in the review.
  • Short reviews are fine—sometimes preferable.
  • Please do not include any spoilers, i.e. giveaways to the plot.

 

You would be amazed at some of the well-meaning reviews that say something like “This author is my best friend!” or worse, give a complete synopsis of the book from start to finish.

Help them out. You will both appreciate the final result.

Hopefully, by the time your literary baby is birthed, it will be wrapped in a snug bundle of positive reviews that will help catch the eye of future readers. Best wishes!

 

Green typewriter image courtesy of Just2Shutter via freedigitalphotos.net

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Things Every Writer Should Know Writer Encouragement

Getting Reviews Part 1

by Elaine Marie Cooper

Many authors, both new and the more experienced, get discouraged when hunting for knowledgeable readers to do advance reviews for new books. It’s all part of the marketing package that authors are expected to develop on their own: Finding folks to read and review their new book “baby.” It’s enough to prod some of us into the fetal position!

I inwardly cringe when I see a fairly new release wallowing on Amazon with a handful of reviews. It makes me want to buy their book and pray I can give it a four or five star review to show the author that I understand all the work that went into birthing their release. There are not enough hours in my day, however, to rescue all the forgotten books destined for an early demise. Readers like to see reviews, and lots of them.

So what’s an author to do? There is really no magic here. It takes planning months ahead—long before your book releases—to gather potential supporters who will help you out. Think of it this way: You would not wait to announce the upcoming birth of your newborn a couple of days before the due date. You would send out notes, allow your friends to give you baby showers, and rev up enthusiasm for the long awaited arrival.

And so it is with a book release. Invite your friends and others to be in on the celebration.

Caution: Do not allow your cat to post reviews on Amazon
Caution: Do not allow your cat to post reviews on Amazon

Start with your social media contacts, who are already excited about your writing. Expand your list to include other authors who write in a similar genre. Gather experts in the field of your topic. Think outside the box.

 

Private message them (or email them if you know their address) to see if they are interested in reading and reviewing, possibly endorsing your upcoming release. Give them a brief synopsis of the book and tell them the genre. If they say “yes,” ask them for their email address so you can send the PDF to them. Never send a PDF to someone who has not agreed to read and review. Unsolicited PDF’s in my inbox = rudeness. Be polite and gracious.

If there are any edit issues because you are sending it early (before final final edits!) be sure to apprise them of that.

Next month I will do Part 2 of gathering reviewers early. Come back in March for a very important letter that you should include with your PDF. In the meantime, start gathering your list of potential reviewers.

 

Green Typewriter courtesy of Just2Shutter via freedigitalphotos.net

 

 

 

Categories
Writer Encouragement

Simple Acts of Kindness

Kindness is such a simple word, yet all too often it seems vacant from our speech.

Perhaps it’s the plethora of reality TV shows where everyone “speaks their mind” in aggressive, hurtful words that are meant to increase the network ratings. Perhaps it has to do with our own inadequacies; if we put someone else down, we think we are raising our own image. Wrong! Or perhaps it’s just that we are born to be self-seeking, focusing on our own needs.

This lack of kindness in our society really hit home to me on a recent out-of-state trip. I was in the restroom stall—sorry if that’s TMI—when I overhead a young woman poking fun at a person I assumed was her sister. “I hate those pants on you. They make your butt look fat.”

Nice, I thought sarcastically. Had I been outside the stall, I would have said something to the evil sister. But being trapped, all I could do was ponder these mean words. Obviously the sister being derided for some fashion faux pas had no recourse but to wear the “ugly” pants, unless she happened to have another pair in her carry on luggage, AND had time to change before her flight left.

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Regardless of Nasty Sister’s words, it would have been so much kinder to wait until they were home and said something in private. Or just keep her mouth closed, period.

 

Although I wish it were not so, I’ve seen unkindness in the Christian writer’s realm. These include mocking another author’s hairstyle at a conference and leaving a conference attendee alone at a table rather than inviting him or her to join your group. A lack of kindness can be found everywhere.

As we begin a brand new year, I pray that writers (including myself) can determine to be kinder. If you can’t review a book, kindly decline, offering well wishes for the book’s success. If you really don’t like a book by a fellow writer, don’t leave a negative review. Privately message the writer if you think that will help them, but don’t publicly deride their words.

If you are at a conference, be a help to your fellow writers, especially the new ones. Don’t just seek out the so-called “famous” authors. Someday, the writer you scorn may be on the best sellers list!

Please remember, we are all children of the King. Determine in 2016 to treat others like the royalty they are.

May your new year be blessed!

 

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. (Galatians 5: 22-23) NIV

 

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Categories
Writer Encouragement

Writers Being Thankful

I am writing this blog on the eve of Thanksgiving. Thinking about this holiday causes me to consider the fact that we only designate one day a year to ponder gratitude. Yet the Bible encourages us to “be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16 (NIV)

So while I know this post will run in the midst of Christmas season, I’m going to claim a day of thankfulness and encourage writers to think about the many people who bless and enrich our lives.

Here are just a few of the folks for whom we can be grateful:

 

  • Critique groups who offer helpful advice.
  • Authors who write better than we do. They inspire us to excel and do better.
  • Spouses who don’t mind eating take-out food when we’re in the midst of editing.
  • That friend or relative who believes we are the best writer they’ve ever read. We know it’s not true, but we appreciate their love and support anyway!
  • Editors who catch all those mistakes that we know are there but we just can’t see. They have our backs.
  • That more experienced author friend who takes us under their wing and helps us become a better writer.
  • The acquisitions editor who says, “Please send me that book proposal.”
  • The fellow writer’s conference attendee who sees you sitting alone at lunch and says, “Can I sit with you?”
  • That author who takes the time to read and review your book, even though you know they are too busy.
  • Your family and friends who will always love you, even if you never become a best-selling author.

 

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So in this Christmas season of remembering the birth of our Savior, let’s remember that the Child born in the manger came to save us and be a blessing to us. Let us, in turn, be a blessing to others. Be an encourager to a fellow writer.

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)

Merry Christmas!

 

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Categories
Writer Encouragement

Writer Interruptions

There it is again—another interruption.

If it’s not the screaming baby needing to be fed, it’s the dog demanding another outdoor visit. Or a phone call from your mom who requires another trip to the doctor. Interruptions like these plague a writer wanting to be serious about their work.

“How will I ever get to my writing with so many obstacles?” You throw up your hands in exasperation, wishing you could hole up somewhere and do nothing but write.

But wait. Aren’t these “interruptions” our work? Our life? Dare I say it—our inspiration for our writing?

We can view these common episodes as a negative or a positive. I choose to view them as the latter.

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I remember when my kids were small, I felt like I was drowning in baby spit up, poopy diapers and all the other “gifts” our little ones share with us. In frustration, I decided to turn these episodes into short humorous poems about the daily difficulties of being a mom. Little did I know that these verses would end up on the desk of a features editor at a local paper. My attempts at poetic sanity had led to a freelance job and two newspaper columns.

 

Now, I understand deadlines and contracts, and all the other responsibilities that writers face. And there may be times when a babysitter needs to be hired or your spouse may need to fill in a bit more while you put your fingers to the keyboard. You are blessed if you have a family that supports your creativity.

But a balance needs to be reckoned with. If you are constantly frustrated by these day-to-day interruptions, perhaps an evaluation of your time commitments needs assessment. Have you taken on too many writing assignments? Too many blog posts? Too many contracts to juggle? Remember, you don’t always need to say, “Yes” to every offer. The wise writer prays for guidance.

In Ecclesiastes 3:1 it says, “To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.” (KJV). Is this your season to take on writing tasks that fill your whole day, every day? Or are some of these writing commitments best put off until the kids are in school or have flown the nest?

One thing is certain: Your daily commitments to family that are “swallowing” up your time and energy today will some day change. Your children will grow and then be gone. Your parents will pass on. I’d encourage you to plan your today in such a way that tomorrow holds no regrets.

 

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Categories
Writer Encouragement

Fixing the “Flat Tires” In Our Writing

There it was—the flat tire we dreaded finding. After discovering it flat twice that week, the expected deflation was not a total surprise.

It was an otherwise beautiful fall morning with enough chill in the air to be refreshing and not so many leaves collecting on the ground that they’d stir our conscience to take out the rake. But the flat tire on my husband’s aging Subaru definitely added clouds to this Saturday morning.

We knew it was time to visit the tire store.

The news there was worse than we imagined: Not only did that tire need complete replacing, but every tire on this vintage Subie needed an immediate sounding of the taps. It was time to give them all an honorable burial after years of faithful service.

Inhaling bravely, I nodded to my distraught husband. “Just do it. Buy four new ones.”

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In similar bleak scenarios, writers can struggle with such ominous news about their work: “It’s got too many holes. It can’t be saved like it is.”

 

The analysis might come from a critique partner, an editor, an agent, a publisher. The kinder ones will gently tell you your work needs improvement. Others will perhaps give you a more blunt analysis: It’s flat. It’s hopeless. Start over. Sound the taps.

Words of discouragement can set a writer back, thinking they’ll throw out the original idea all together. But sometimes the core of the story is still a good one. It just needs a retread. A do-over. New life. Fresh opening. More likable characters, perhaps?

I can think of a few stories that I’ve read that could have used an evaluation that challenged the author to do just that. Put the story up on the rack in the repair store and throw out the bad parts. Edit, edit, and edit some more.

You’ll notice that, when we got the new tires, we didn’t get rid of the car. Although ancient, it has served my family for many years now. It still runs, even quite well at times!

So if I could encourage writers who have been given some serious news and suggestions about changing their story or manuscript, I would say, “Take a deep breath. Pray for inspiration. And just do it.”

 

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Categories
Writer Encouragement

Just A Writer

Do you ever feel like “just a writer?” “Just” a wannabe author? “Just” a wordsmith who spends hours inventing characters and hoping someone will read your work?

I encourage you to throw out the word “just” from your thinking. Treat it like yesterday’s trash that’s contaminating your mind. You are not “just” a writer. You are “A WRITER!”

So why are writers—especially Christian writers—important? Because when you feel that niggling urge to create words that are meaningful, then being a writer is “A CALLING.”

There are billions of folks in this world with numerous callings on their life. Some are called to heal, some to organize, some to preach God’s Word, some to be leaders, some to be helpers. The list can go on. But to be called to write is unique in that you can reach people around the world without so much as a passport.

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I know many writers with debilitating illnesses. Many who have difficulty traveling for one reason or another. Some with responsibilities that anchor them to their homes. Yet the message in their words can reach hundreds, thousands, even millions, without so much as using a gallon of gasoline.

“But all I write is fiction. How is that a calling?”

There are thousands of folks around the world who would never think of picking up a Christian non-fiction book. You could find them running away from a Max Lucado book as though rabid dogs were on their heels. Fiction is less threatening, more entertaining, and, if a writer is good, they can slip in the gospel message without scaring off the reader. Christian fiction might be the only Gospel message they’ve ever heard. Who knows where those seeds might sprout?

Another blessing about writing is that you can create a variety of messages, and not just in your usual genre. Most writers have blogs. These allow writers to create words that can fulfill promptings that the Holy Spirit places on your mind and heart. While some in the writing field encourage writers to always stay within the expected theme (such as historical fiction), I choose to believe that God wants to use our words to minister and enlighten the audience He has created for our writing.

These last few weeks have revealed horrifying videos about abortion taking place in our country. Although I write historicals, I felt the prompting of the Holy Spirit to create words that will hopefully open people’s eyes in a new way to the atrocities taking place in contemporary America. If you wish to read that blog, you can click here.

So the next time you think you are “just” a writer, praise God for the calling He has placed in your heart. And get writing!

 

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Writer Encouragement

When Discouragement Leads to Doubt

Discouragement happens to everyone at one time or another. When it visits creative writers, we sometimes begin to doubt. We can even get downright depressed.

Am I really called to write? Maybe I’m no good. Maybe I never will be. Maybe I’ve missed God’s will for my life. I’m just so weary, Lord.

I’ve been in that pit of discouragement. I’ll never forget the Spring of 2012 when I had signed up to attend the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. I’d heard it was one of the best for connecting with writers and editors and the atmosphere there usually stirred with God’s Presence. I couldn’t wait to attend, even though I knew few of the people who were going.

The discouragement began several weeks before. First came a family crisis that necessitated a visit to another state. Next came a visit to my son in yet another state to bid him farewell. He faced a dangerous deployment overseas and I wept and prayed he’d return home to us safely. (He did)

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A few days before I packed for Blue Ridge, fatigue and sadness crept in. I emailed a writer friend and told her I didn’t have a clue what to do at the conference. I had a few ideas for books but didn’t know what to do with them. She encouraged me to put together a single piece of paper (called a one sheet) that explained briefly who I was and an explanation of a book idea.

Why not? It couldn’t hurt. I’d invested my time and money in this conference and I might as well take advantage of the opportunity. I ran off several copies of these one sheets, packed my bags and, once again, went to yet another state. I was weary from traveling.

By the time I’d dropped my suitcase in my dorm room in Blue Ridge, I plopped on the bed and wanted to cry. Why am I here Lord? I just want to go home.

Talk about discouraged.

By God’s grace and strength, I fought back at those negative thoughts and prayed for the Lord’s leading in the next few days. Lord, I prayed, use my time here for Your will.

The upshot is, I had the best week at conference, met dozens of writer friends and was ministered to by the incredible praise and worship music. It was a balm to my weary soul.

Oh and, remember those one sheets? Both of those book ideas are now published. They’ve both won Selah awards at Blue Ridge. God is gracious and uses even the weak among us, including yours truly.

If you’re feeling discouraged in your writing and too weary to type yet one more sentence, take a break—a prayer break. Ask Jesus Christ for His guidance and proceed in the strength of the Lord.

[bctt tweet=”Discouragement happens to everyone at one time or another. #writerslife #novel” via=”no”]

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Categories
Writer Encouragement

Listening to Writing Mentors

Writers who listen are writers who learn. If we’re so busy pitching our ideas and promoting our writing agenda, we’ll turn into writers without a clue. And likely, writers without a contract for publication.

Years ago, I was a nursing student and one of my classes was entitled “Therapeutic Conversation.”

The title sounded ridiculous but it was anything but that. It taught me how to really listen to what a patient says, as well as observe their body language and facial expressions. The class coached us in how to rephrase what the person said back to them to be certain we understood their meaning. It forced us to listen, rather than speak all the time.

The biggest thing I learned from that class was how much I talk. That was humbling. I like hearing what I have to say, it seems. But I quickly was educated in the importance of really listening to my patients so I could be a better caregiver of their needs.

I also realized that this can carry over into every area of my life to improve communication with family and friends. It can also carry over into communication with other writers and editors, publishers and agents.

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Often I hear other writers express concern for what they will say at writer’s conferences, especially if it’s there first conference. If they ask me for advice, I encourage them to keep their introductions simple, their words few and their ears OPEN.

It seems we live in a society of talkers. National news interviews and reality TV shows are flooded with talk—and plenty of it. People are talking over people, expressing their thoughts and ideas without a concern for what the other person is trying to say. It gets downright annoying and you come away thinking, did anything get resolved? Did anyone learn anything?

That’s how I perceive some writers I’ve observed who attend sessions with potential mentors—editors and more experienced writers. These fledgling writers talk much, listen little—and already have all the answers. Or so they think.

The way to a potential relationship with an editor or publisher is to listen and learn. Ask questions but hear the answers. In this world of chatter, it can be hard to focus. But for the serious writer seeking publication, wisdom is in the words of the more experienced. I’d encourage some therapeutic listening.

[bctt tweet=”Fledgling writers talk much, listen little #writers #writetips” via=”no”]

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