Tricia Goyer HomepageTricia Goyer

Living God’s Word One Step at a Time

You are here: Home / Archives for guest post / Writer Wednesday

Writer Wednesday

by 14 Comments

Writer’s Desk with Carrie Anne Noble

Writer’s Desk with Carrie Anne Noble

In the wake of her thrilling past as a theater student, restaurant hostess, nurse aide, and newspaper writer, Carrie Anne Noble now crafts enchanting fiction for teens and adults. Her debut novel The Mermaid’s Sister won the 2014 Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award for Young Adult Fiction and the 2016 Realm Award for Book of the Year. Her other books include YA fantasies entitled The Gold-Son and Gretchen and the Bear. Carrie lives in the Pennsylvania mountains, where she enjoys taking walks, frolicking with her half-Corgi, and hosting the occasional mad tea party. Connect with Carrie on her website, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Bookbub, and sign up for her newsletter.

Q&A with Carrie Anne Noble

TG: Everyone always asks for an interesting fact, we’re going to flip the question. What is one boring fact about yourself?

CAN: I eat peanut butter toast for breakfast almost every day.

TG: Where did you get the inspiration for The Mermaid’s Sister?

CAN: My initial inspiration for The Mermaid’s Sister came to me as I sat beside my sister’s hospital bed in October 2012. She was dying from cancer and shrinking away. I thought, “What if she was becoming something magical instead? What if she was transforming into a mermaid?” In the weeks after she died, I wrote the first draft of The Mermaid’s Sister, creating a world sprinkled with magic where Clara, whose sister was slowly becoming a mermaid, wrestled with grief and the question, “Who am I without my sister?” I like to think the tale has two happy endings.

TG: Do you have any habits or rituals as a writer?

CAN: I like to get up before the rest of the family, read the Bible while my tea is brewing, and then head upstairs to my office. There, I read over a little bit of what I wrote the day before, put on my writing music, and get to work.

TG: What habits would you encourage others to take up to be a more productive writer?

CAN: First of all, treat writing like it’s your job—even if it’s only a part-time thing for you—and let your family and friends know that this work is as important to you and must take priority. Also, connect with other writers who will encourage you on your journey and will hold you accountable for getting the work done.

TG: What do you snack on or drink while writing?

CAN: My childhood best friend keeps me stocked up with lovely varieties of chocolate and tea. And I love potato chips very, very much. Unfortunately, they end up in the keyboard if you’re not careful.

TG: How do you overcome writer’s block?

CAN: I do “morning pages” when I get stuck. It means free-writing five pages as soon as you wake up before your mind gets cluttered with other stuff. Whatever I’m stuck on, whether it’s a plot thing or just a general “now what,” it almost always works to generate new ideas and rekindle my enthusiasm for the story. It’s pretty magical.

TG: Are you an “edit-as-you-go” writer or do you wait until the very end before you do any editing?

CAN: I confess to doing a lot of editing along the way—although it’s no replacement for the later editing. This explains why it takes me a while to get a book done!

TG: What would you say is the most common mistake new writers make?

CAN: Being afraid to share their work with a critique group, or with a more experienced writer friend at the very least. It’s definitely scary because writing is so personal, but no one can grow into a better writer without some help.

TG: What is the best piece of writing advice you’re ever received?

CAN: There’s a Neil Gaiman quote that’s stuck with me for years, and it’s probably a paraphrase or a conglomeration of several things he said, but it’s “Keep writing, and finish things.”

TG: What is coming up next for you?

CAN: I’m working on a YA novel set in the 1980s, in which a girl obsessed with the faerie realm gets a “wrong number” telephone call from a bridge troll with ill intentions. It may contain autobiographical elements.

Enter for a chance to win a copy of The Mermaid’s Sister*

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Due to shipping costs, the giveaway for the physical copy is open to US mailing addresses only.

More about The Mermaid’s Sister

Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award Winner for Young Adult Fiction

Realm Award Winner for Best Speculative Fiction of the Year

There is no cure for being who you really are…

In a cottage high atop Llanfair Mountain, sixteen-year-old Clara lives with her sister, Maren, and guardian Auntie. By day, they gather herbs for Auntie’s healing potions; by night, Auntie spins tales of faraway lands and wicked fairies. Clara’s favorite story tells of three orphaned infants―Clara, who was brought to Auntie by a stork; Maren, who arrived in a seashell; and their best friend, O’Neill, who was found beneath an apple tree.

One day, Clara discovers iridescent scales just beneath her sister’s skin: Maren is becoming a mermaid and must be taken to the sea or she will die. So Clara, O’Neill, and the mermaid-girl set out for the shore. But the trio encounters trouble around every bend. Ensnared by an evil troupe of traveling performers, Clara and O’Neill must find a way to save themselves and the ever-weakening Maren.

And always in the back of her mind, Clara wonders, if my sister is a mermaid, then what am I?

Purchase a copy of The Mermaid’s Sister: Amazon | Book Shop

Sharable Graphics! Just click, save, and share!

by 21 Comments

Writer’s Desk with Allen Brokken

The Writer’s Desk with Allen Brokken

Allen Brokken is a teacher at heart, a husband and father most of all. He’s a joyful writer by the abundant grace of God. He began writing the Towers of Light series for his own children to help him illustrate the deep truths of the Bible in an engaging and age-appropriate way. He’s dedicated 15 years of his life to volunteer roles in children’s ministry and youth development. Now that his own children are off to college he’s telling stories and sharing clean humor on social media. Connect with Allen on his website, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest, TikTok, BookBub, and sign up for his newsletter!

Q&A with Allen Brokken

TG: Everyone always asks for an interesting fact, we’re going to flip the question. What is one boring fact about yourself?

AB: The very first thing I do EVERY morning is make coffee, have a very brief bit of hygiene, when the coffee is done I take a walk. Pretty much every day between 5:30 am and 7:00 am even on the weekends.

TG: Where did you get the inspiration for Light of Mine?

AB: When my kids were young there was really nothing better than getting out of my car at the end of a long day at work and having my three little kiddos run up to me and give hugs because Daddy’s Home! As a father of three young children I was very concerned about the direction society was taking. I wasn’t sure that with how things were going that I had the knowledge or the skill to train them up in the way they should go, as the Bible directs.

Then in 2008, I took a new job that had me traveling four days a week. It was one of the hardest times of my life, the stress of a high-pressure job, the loneliness of being on the road, and the uncertainty of being a young parent really brought me to the end of myself. However, all of the travel gave me a lot of time to study the scriptures and learn from the writing of great bible teachers.

It was during this time that I began to write stories for my children. At first, I brought my children’s stuffed animals to life for silly adventures. But then one day while we were putting together a play fort in our back yard I saw a sunrise pattern in the wood at the top of the tower. I thought:

“What if there was a Tower of Light shining God’s goodness over the children and their animals?”

“What if the children experienced the indwelling of the holy spirit in a real way like Sampson or David?”

“What if the full armor of God was physical armor they could use to defeat the darkness?”

As I shared my story with my children, they loved it.

TG: Do you have any habits or rituals as a writer?

AB: I’m blessed to be a fast writer, I can compose about 1000-1200 words an hour. However, that’s the hyperfocus superpower I get from having ADD. That said, I don’t control when I get hyperfocus. So I have to have a fairly structured process for corralling the chaos of how my brain works. If you check my social media you can see the “burn down chart” I use to track finalizing things. Without deadlines and publicly shared micro-goals, I would get nowhere, but inevitably there are days I need to “catch up.”

TG: What habits would you encourage others to take up to be a more productive writer?

AB: I feel like we all need a tribe. My tribe is the Realm Makers consortium which is a group of Christian Writers of speculative fiction. Within that group, there’s a small critique group the Iron Sharpeners that I just rejoined after taking a break while my day job was in flux. There’s nothing better than getting the point of view of half a dozen people on a particular theme. There’s also just an act of bringing diversity to your thought. For example, I’m not, nor have I ever been, nor ever will be a 12-year-old girl or a mother of 3. Having my characters critiqued by women makes them so much more believable. Plus going back to my “chaos” writing style having to submit content every two weeks keeps me writing.

TG: What do you snack on or drink while writing?

AB: Coffee … lots of coffee. I don’t know that I have a particular food. I find myself eating a lot of celery lately, but that’s more New Year’s resolution than anything else.

TG: How do you overcome writer’s block?

AB: I write something else and or work with other people’s content. I have some other content I’ve started and may produce in the future, but the other thing is I do daily videos on social media. Mostly Dad Jokes, occasional Star Wars humor, or writing-related posts. I read a lot of other people’s jokes for inspiration for my channel and read a lot of other authors as well.

TG: Are you an “edit-as-you-go” writer or do you wait until the very end before you do any editing?

AB: That’s a tough question. For the first draft, I do a lot of “blast” writing where I get on, tear and just write. When I do that I turn off Grammarly and ignore anything else. But if I’m not in a blast I like to keep the grammar prompts on just to keep the words tighter. Also, the bi-weekly critique group adds some discipline to the grammar because you don’t want bad grammar to distract them from the conceptual questions you might want to make.

TG: What would you say is the most common mistake new writers make?

AB: I made this mistake and most people do. There is a huge desire to promote and sell your book on social media and a lot of pressure to do so either from publishers or from your own pocketbook. After six years of doing it wrong, I realized that people expect your social media to be you and not just an ad for your stuff. So, find a thing you enjoy that’s part of you…I’m a Dad telling Dad Jokes it’s just part of who I am and there are people who resonate with that. Over time people get to know the real you and want to see you be successful. Then if what you write fits their preferences they’ll buy.

I’m not saying you don’t advertise on social media, I use paid ads all the time. But I leave that to the ad engine and my channel is just me as much as I can…unless I’m having a huge sale. 😉

TG: What is the best piece of writing advice you’re ever received?

AB: When you ask for writing advice, and someone with experience gives you writing advice, actually do what they say. In 2018, I was in a session at Realm Makers where a smaller publisher was talking about getting published. I later had a pitch appointment with her, and her feedback was I needed to take a break from my project, for a while, and really rethink it because in her opinion at the time what I was doing was unmarketable. That hurt. However, I listened to her, took time off, wrote in a completely different world for about 6 weeks, and then came back and with the help of some amazing people transformed … Darkness Cloaks the Land into Light of Mine.

TG: What is coming up next for you?

AB: Book 5 in the series Wellspring of Life is launching right here on Tricia Goyer’s show in November. Then the final book 6 Demolishing the Stronghold will be out in 2023. After that, I’m looking to make single-character early-reader chapter books in the same world.

Click on the graphic below to watch my interview with Allen Brokken on Light of Mine

Enter for a chance to win the Ultimate Light of Mine Unit Study Bundle.*

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Due to shipping costs, the giveaway for the physical copy is open to US mailing addresses only.

More about Light of Mine

After their parents’ mysterious disappearance, Lauren Aiden and Ethan discover the Armor of God.

Will their faith be strong enough to keep dark forces from destroying the Tower of Light?

Alone on the farm, twelve-year-old Lauren and her brave little brothers, Aiden(9) and Ethan(5) must guard the Tower of Light that will guide both parents home. But when a hooded stranger is caught trespassing the farm, and a new bishop claims the church, confusion pervades their close-knit community. Will the children be able to recognize who is a threat to the Tower and who is there to help them protect it?

With little else but the aid of a trio of blessed pets, three holy weapons, and their growing faith, the children find it is up to them to stop the agents of The Dark One from putting out the Light and dooming the heathlands to Darkness.

“Every child who can read chapter books has read this book as quickly as they could because the next child was ready to snatch it from them! We highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the rest of the series.” – Erin Slocum Home School Mom, For Him and My Family

Fans of Little House on the Prairie will feel at home in the series’ classic farmstead setting, and the sincerity of the children’s love for one another— nurtured by the example of their parents—will bring a smile to readers and listeners of all ages.

Light of Mine helps teachers and home educators enhance their student’s learning experience. It contains a reading comprehension section with questions from throughout the book. This provides educators with potential reading assignments and discussion topics. The section also provides access to a downloadable four-week unit study from Towers of Light Christian Resources.

Purchase a copy of Light of Mine: Amazon | BookShop.org

Sharable Graphics! Just click, save, and share!

by 20 Comments

Writer’s Desk with Mary DeMuth

Let me say here that Mary DeMuth’s The Most Misunderstood Women of the Bible: What Their Stories Teach Us About Thriving is one of the best books I’ve read in a really long time. Mary is one of my long-time friends in real life, and I’m so excited to be featuring her on Writer’s Desk.

Make sure you scroll to the bottom of this post and click the link to watch our candid conversation. Also, enter for a chance to win one of three copies of The Most Misunderstood Women of the Bible!

The Writer’s Desk with Mary DeMuth

Author and speaker Mary DeMuth has written over forty fiction and nonfiction titles. In her spare time, she loves to cook and has hosted thousands of people over the years, including hundreds in France where her family lived a few years ago. She lives in Texas with her family of five, a needy dog and two feuding cats. Connect with Mary on her website, WeToo, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, listen to her podcast, and sign up for her newsletter!

Q&A with Mary DeMuth

TG: Everyone always asks for an interesting fact, we’re going to flip the question. What is one boring fact about yourself?

MD: I don’t like coffee.

TG: Why did you write The Most Misunderstood Women of the Bible?

MD: I knew how hard my own journey was in being misunderstood by others, and I had also fallen in love with rapid reading the Bible. I began to see how other biblical women managed the pain of misunderstanding. That intersection informed the book.

TG: Did you have any surprises or learning moments while writing this title?

MD: How very real the biblical women became to me. They breathed and lived and had bad days and good.

TG: What do you hope readers take away from your book?

MD: To realize it’s not their job to micromanage their reputations, and also to fall in love with the Bible.

TG: Do you have any habits or rituals as a writer?

MD: When I’m on deadline, I create a graphic where each box = 1000 words. Then I relentlessly, daily color in a square. Typically I color in two or three boxes a day. It’s a visual reminder of my progress.

TG: What habits would you encourage others to take up to be a more productive writer?

MD: Write every weekday, and give yourself a word count. Make yourself do it. Create a chart and check it off. Writing is a muscle that must be exercised daily.

TG: What do you snack on or drink while writing?

MD: Hot tea (sometimes) and this particular dark chocolate.

TG: How do you overcome writer’s block?

MD: I typically don’t have it. I don’t allow it. Like Tricia, I just keep writing.

TG: Are you an “edit-as-you-go” writer or do you wait until the very end before you do any editing?

MD: I dump, then edit later.

TG: What would you say is the most common mistake new writers make?

MD: Not writing consistently. Not being teachable. Not knowing the publishing industry. Not understanding the importance of marketing in making a career.

TG: What is the best piece of writing advice you’re ever received?

MD: Go where you want to take the reader.

Click on the graphic below to watch my interview with Mary DeMuth on The Most Misunderstood Women of the Bible

Enter for a chance to win one in three paperback copies of The Most Misunderstood Women of the Bible.*

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Due to shipping costs, the giveaway for the physical copy is open to US mailing addresses only.

More about The Most Misunderstood Women of the Bible

Understanding Isn’t Overrated.

Ask any woman—most of us know what it’s like to be misheard, mischaracterized, or misrepresented by family, friends, or strangers. Few of us feel deeply known and understood all the time. Worse, many of us have endured long, painful seasons of misunderstanding in which the people around us have questioned—or worse, judged—our motives and actions. We have asked ourselves, How do I correct these misperceptions? Do I try to defend myself—or does that only make me look guilty? How can I recover my joy even if someone believes something about me that isn’t true?

This problem—and your feelings and questions about it—is nothing new. In fact, women have faced it since the dawn of time. In this engaging book, Mary DeMuth tells the tales of ten women in the Bible who were misunderstood in their own time and often still are—bringing to each of them a deep humanity that makes her, and her problems, more relatable to twenty-first-century you. If you are struggling with feeling misunderstood, let these stories inspire you to grow and remind you that you are not alone. And remember: There is always One who understands you perfectly and stands ready to comfort, strengthen, and defend you through every situation you face.

Purchase a copy of The Most Misunderstood Women of the Bible: Amazon | Baker Book House | BookShop.org

Sharable Graphics! Just click, save, and share!

by 1 Comment

Writer’s Desk with Valerie Fentress

Writer’s Desk with Valerie Fentress

Valerie Fentress writes children’s books hoping to communicate biblical truths through simple stories. She is the author of Beneath the Hood, and an avid blogger. Valerie lives in Texas with her husband and three boys, who challenge her daily to find joy between imagination and chaos. You can connect with Valerie on her website, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and sign up for her newsletter.

Q&A with Valerie Fentress

TG: Everyone always asks for an interesting fact, we’re going to flip the question. What is one boring fact about yourself?

VF: According to my husband I’m boring because I like to go to musicals, operas, historical sites, and museums of all kinds. As a birthday present one year, I wanted to take my family to a nearby Creation Museum, and it was one of my favorite birthdays.

TG: Where did you get the inspiration for An Easter Bunny’s Tale?

VF: When my boys were young, and just starting to recognize holiday traditions, my husband and I discussed whether or not the Easter Bunny would be a part of our celebration. We chose no since the bunny didn’t really represent anything biblical. But my kids loved all the easter bunny things, so a question of how to use the easter bunny to point to Christ wedged itself into my head. That was over ten years ago, and the story has grown and changed a lot since then. This Easter season I am so thrilled this story can be used to communicate the gospel to kids.

TG: What habits would you encourage others to take up to be a more productive writer?

VF: My biggest encouragement is to set a daily word count goal and stick to it. Start off with a small word count, mine is 500. I rarely ever do less, but I often exceed the goal, which is empowering. Being consistent is something my ADHD brain struggles with, so making small attainable goals helps me feel successful. Also surrounding yourself with other writers, either in a critique group or writers group, is so valuable and encouraging.

TG: What do you snack on or drink while writing?

VF: Currently I am off coffee, to work on some health goals, so water is what fills my cup most days. Snack-wise, there is usually a small bowl of cranberries and mixed nuts nearby.

TG: How do you overcome writer’s block?

VF: The best way I’ve found to overcome writer’s block is to change my creative output. If writing is a struggle, I pull out some colored pencils or paints and try to express myself in another creative way. Sometimes I try to draw something from the current work in progress, but when I leave the project completely for a day or two that’s when an idea will hit and get me back on track.

TG: Are you an “edit-as-you-go” writer or do you wait until the very end before you do any editing?

VF: I usually wait till the end, unless the annoying red or blue lines pop up while I’m writing. Those correcting lines are very distracting. I also wait till the end so I can read the whole thing out loud to my boys. They are the best test audience most of the time.

TG: What would you say is the most common mistake new writers make?

VF: To not seek outside help. The more eyes you can get on the project the better the outcome will be. There is a lot of fear of ideas being stolen, but I’ve found such joy in sharing my work with my writing community. I’ve become a better writer because of them.

TG: What is the best piece of writing advice you’ve ever received?

VF: Always keep learning and studying your craft. Learning is a bit of an addiction for me, hence why the ‘my to read’ shelf is always packed with books. There is always something to be learning in the writing and publishing world. Taking classes and reading up on those subjects don’t always change how I’m writing, but they give me pause to think through my writing process and if there is a better way to approach it. I think that is how good writers become great writers because they are always trying to improve on what they have done before.

TG: What is coming up next for you?

VF: For right now I’m working on prepping for next year’s blogs, as well as lining up interviews for my Again and Again Book Reviews, which is keeping me busy over at my blog. I have a couple of projects in the wings that should be out in 2023. My newsletter is the best place to keep tabs on what’s coming up.

TG: What book(s) are you currently reading?

VF: I just finished Once Upon a Wardrobe by Patti Callahan, and my 10-year-old has been begging me to read Raising Dragons by Bryan Davis, so I think that is next. As well as Sally Clarkson’s 10 Gifts of the Heart and the 40 Day Sugar Fast by Wendy Speake. Like I said, I love learning.

TG: What is your favorite place on earth?

VF: It’s a tie between Prague and Budapest. I traveled there after high school and was just mesmerized by the history, architecture, and culture. Like my husband says I’m ‘boring’.

TG: Cats or dogs?

VF: Dogs, please! Besides being allergic to cats, and my first job at a Vet’s office was to clean litter boxes, I definitely prefer dogs. I even trained a service dog in college. There’s a saying floating around the web that explains why dogs don’t live as long as humans. It says that dogs live short lives because they are born knowing how to love, and we live longer because we have to learn how to love.

TG: What is one thing you can’t live without?

VF: My croc flip-flops. I don’t have the best feet. While I’d love to walk around barefoot all the time, my feet don’t like that. So, croc flip-flops are the best of both worlds. Plus they protect me from my kids’ lego minefields.

TG: What is the best song to blast when you need to be pumped up?

VF: Happy Dance by Mercy Me is a quick way to turn a frown upside down at our house, or Rock what you Got by Superchick is a way to remind myself I can do hard things.

TG: If you could time travel to any point in history when would it be, and who would you be hanging out with?

VF: Oh there are so, so, so many places, people, and times I’d want to go. This is a hard question for a history buff. If I had to pick just one I’d say the renaissance, and I’d want to hang out with Michelangelo while he’s painting the Sistine Chapel. The scale, talent, and biblical depictions are so amazing, that I’d love to ask him a few questions.

TG: If you weren’t a writer, what job would you have?

VF: I really have no idea. Before writing and motherhood, I was in cancer research, and I’ve had opportunities to be a teacher, nurse, in retail, and many others. In all of those, I’d be writing on my lunch break. So I think I’m finally settling into where God wants me to be.

TG: Who is your dream co-author?

VF: This question is almost as bad as the time travel one. Children’s Book wise, Tama Fortner, I love her books and the way they communicate biblical truth in such powerful and simplistic ways. If I were to write a full-length novel, it would have to be Ted Dekker. He has such a masterful way to communicate the gospel in ways that appeal to a very broad audience.

More about An Easter Bunny’s Tale

Who is the Easter Bunny?

Let him tell you the tale of how everything has changed, even himself.

Follow a little rabbit, as he discovers a familiar voice in a garden one night. The man is God in the flesh, of this he is sure, and he cannot help but follow Him, as He is captured and put on trial.

The little rabbit is confused at what he sees, but as he hides and waits he discovers true transformation. Now he can’t wait to tell you and his friends about the good news he has found.

Will you help to share his tale?

Purchase a copy on Amazon

Sharable Graphics! Just click, save, and share!

by 10 Comments

The Writer’s Desk with Jay Payleitner

In today’s age, it’s a matter of when not if you will be confronted with conflict. It’s inevitable. That is why Jay Payleitner’s new book, Don’t Take the Bait to Escalate is such a needed resource. Jay’s book will guide you through four factors you must not overlook, three mistakes you must not make, fourteen conflict-resolution skills you can quickly master, and thirteen easy-to-use tactics and tricks.

If you deal with people at all (and we all do), you have to grab a copy of Jay Payleitner’s Don’t Take the Bait to Escalate.

And be sure to scroll to the end of this post to find out how you can win one of three copies!

The Writer’s Desk with Jay Payleitner

Jay Payleitner is a nationally-known speaker and writes easy-to-read, hard-to-put-down, make-you-think books.

He has written 30 books and sold more than a half million copies. Prior to becoming a full-time author and speaker, Jay Payleitner served as a freelance radio producer for a wide range of international ministries including the Salvation Army, Prison Fellowship, Bible League, Voice of the Martyrs, and National Center for Fathering. For more than a decade, he produced Josh McDowell Radio, Jesus Freaks Radio, and Today’s Father.

Jay is a nationally-known speaker for Iron Sharpens Iron and the National Center for Fathering and has emceed men’s events, led marriage retreats, keynoted writers’ conferences, preached at weekend services, spoken at women’s lunches, and facilitated creative training sessions. He has been a guest multiple times on The Harvest Show, Moody Radio, 100 Huntley Street, and Focus on the Family.

Jay and his high school sweetheart, Rita, live in the Chicago area where they raised five great kids, loved on ten foster babies, and are cherishing grandparenthood. Visit Jay online at his website, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Q&A with Jay Payleitner

TG: Everyone always asks for an interesting fact, we’re going to flip the question. What is one boring fact about yourself?

JP: I make a darn good chicken soup and apple cobbler. Boring, right? Either of those could be the highlight of my month. I can do road trips and adventure, but hanging out at home with family is my sweet spot.

TG: Why did you write Don’t Take the Bait to Escalate: Conflict is Inevitable. Being a Jerk is Optional?

JP: I’ve written more than 25 books and given hundreds of talks and interviews — mostly on how to improve relationships. Frequently after talks or during interviews, questions come up regarding conflict. In their family. At work. Among friends. With strangers.

In these discussions, it became clear that most people – when in conflict – do things that make it worse! And the conflict escalates!

I thought this was something I could fix that would be my gift to humanity! Why? (1) I’ve endured and observed my share of conflicts. (2) I thought my ability to tell stories and deliver real-life takeaways could apply. (3) I thought I could sell a ton of books.

TG: Did you have any surprises or learning moments while writing this title?

JP: Yes! Conflict is not a negative. It’s a positive. (Or should be.) Most conflict can actually be an opportunity or gateway for positive change. EXAMPLES: Cuban Missile Crisis led to the hotline between the White House and Kremlin. Hitting bottom in marriage forges the relationship. Union negotiations make better cars and more profits. Two ballplayers vying to play shortstop will create lifelong friends. In the Bible, a woman caught in adultery about to be stoned led to Jesus drawing in the sand and gospel truths.

TG: What do you hope readers take away from your book?

JP: People in conflict — whether that conflict is long-term or unexpected – don’t typically think about picking up a book. They just grit their teeth and deal with it. Even if it’s eating their soul. They think conflict is just something they have to live with – and that’s no surprise. Conflict is everywhere! This book will help them look at conflict in a new way. To find hope. And even look forward to their next conflict, because they see a resolution and victory. This book is pre-emptive and preventative.

Also, most other books on resolving conflict focus on workplace issues. But it turns out the most frequent and challenging conflict happens among family, friends, neighbors, and in the community. We cover all that!

BTW: These are the Four Factors that are central to the big idea in the book:
1. Decide what you really want
2. Know the risks
3. Empathize with your adversary
4. Expect the win

TG: Do you have any habits or rituals as a writer?

JP: (1) Clear my inbox as a warmup to the day. (2) If a publisher has a request I can clear from my to-do list in less than 15 minutes, just do it. Even if they’ve given me a two-week deadline. (3) Ideas sparked in the shower take precedent. Nothing interrupts me until I capture it on my keyboard. Sometimes in a towel. (4) 3:00 PM nap.

TG: What habits would you encourage others to take up to be a more productive writer?

JP: Let’s say three: (1) Insist on deadlines. If the publisher or editor doesn’t give you one, then make your own. And make them tight. (2) Treat it as a business, even if it’s ministry. (3) Kill your darlings.

TG: What do you snack on or drink while writing?

JP: Coffee. Lots of coffee. Diluted lemonade. Mixed nuts from Costco. After finishing a chapter, sometimes I reward myself by walking around, checking on the kids, and eating an apple. (Years ago, someone asked my son, Max—in kindergarten—what his daddy did for a living. Max said, “He eats apples.”)

TG: How do you overcome writer’s block?

JP: There’s no such thing as writer’s block. Just sit down and start working.

Sometimes that means hashing out an idea rolling around your head. Often that means editing the last thing you wrote. If nothing else, read some non-fiction about what you’re writing on. Not to steal someone else’s ideas, but to remind yourself there are all kinds of boneheaded and worthless opinions out there that needed to be straightened out. Hopefully, you stumble across a blog post that ticks you off. Your rebuttable may be your next chapter or paragraph. If you do come across a pertinent fact worth including in your own manuscript, make sure you give credit where credit is due.

If you’re writing fiction, try doing a bit of extracurricular research on one of the themes in your novel. Keep digging until you uncover an unusual insight about the time period, geography, culture, jargon, the profession of your main character, or some other factoid. Let that revelation help you turn the corner in your writing.

TG: Are you an “edit-as-you-go” writer or do you wait until the very end before you do any editing?

JP: I need to be very happy with a sentence or paragraph before moving on to the next. I need to be very happy with a chapter before moving on to the next. Of course, when the entire first draft is complete, I set it aside for a few days and later spend another two days making a thousand small tweaks. Changing tenses. Replacing words. Formatting. Nothing major, but then I know the editor will be smiling.

TG: What would you say is the most common mistake new writers make?

JP: SETTLING. Don’t send it unless it’s your best work, nicely polished. A good idea poorly executed will never make it passed the gatekeepers. On the other hand, maybe the most common mistake is HESITATION. If the idea shines through, it doesn’t have to be perfect. In other words, know when it’s time to send it in or send it out.

TG: What is the best piece of writing advice you’re ever received?

JP: As soon as you get a contract for a book, polish the proposal and pitch your next book.

TG: What book(s) are you currently reading?

JP: I don’t read books. At least that’s the joke in my family. My wife and four of my kids are voracious readers. I read one or two fiction books per year. Maybe a bio. I will read all kinds of non-fiction books on creativity, humor, media, publishing, advertising, faith, devotionals, parenting, marriage. Mostly skimming, skipping chapters, not cover to cover. And I read two newspapers every day. Plus industry and lifestyle magazines. But you won’t find me curled up in a comfy chair reading the latest novel. There’s a good chance that cover to cover, front to back, every word, I have literally written more books in the last 15 years than I have read.

But to answer your question, I just read The Boys, biography of Ron Howard and his brother, Clint.

Watch my interview with Jay Payleitner on Don’t Take the Bait to Escalate

Enter for a chance to win one in three paperback copies of Don’t Take the Bait to Escalate.*

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Due to shipping costs, the giveaway for the physical copy is open to US mailing addresses only.

More about Don’t Take the Bait to Escalate

Turn conflict in your favor.

The Bible tells us that as far as it depends on us, we’re to be at peace with all people. But what happens when conflict is unavoidable?

Here’s some good news: There are sociologically sound ways to deescalate conflict and win negotiations without acting like a jerk.

Even better, you can actually emerge from conflicts with a stronger relationship with the person who was your adversary—whether it’s on the job, with your neighbor, in your marriage, or in a dark parking lot.

When it comes to your current (or next) conflict, remember that resolution starts with de-escalation. This book will show you:

• Four factors you must not overlook
• Three mistakes you must not make
• Fourteen conflict-resolution skills you can quickly master, and
• Thirteen easy-to-use tactics and tricks

When facing conflict, you don’t have to choose between running away and an ugly confrontation. This book offers you a winning game plan. You’ll handle conflicts with faith and confidence—and perhaps even a touch of eagerness. Loving your enemy starts here.

Purchase a copy of Don’t Take the Bait to Escalate: Amazon | BookShop.org

Sharable Graphics! Just click, save, and share!

by 19 Comments

The Writer’s Desk with MD House

Last year I introduced you to M.D. House and his Barabbas series. M.D. is back again, this time with the final installment in the Barabbas Trilogy — The Barabbas Legacy. From the moment I started reading the Barabbas Series, I was drawn into early church history. The world and the people came alive to me in amazing ways. Beautifully written, these stories stayed on my mind and heart long after I closed the books.

I really love these books, and hope you’ll push them to the top of your TBR pile!

Be sure to scroll below to see one of five copies of The Barabbas Legacy paperback and one of two audio copies!

The Writer’s Desk with M.D. House

M.D. House is the author of The Barabbas Legacy, as well as the first two books in the series, I Was Called Barabbas and Pillars of Barabbas. He also wrote the science-fiction novel, Patriot Star, with a sequel coming in 2022.

Before beginning his second career as a writer, he worked for twenty-five years in the world of corporate finance, strategic planning, and business development. Now, he lives in the mountains of Northern Utah with his wife, where he spends his time writing and enjoying his children and grandchildren. Connect with M.D. House on his website, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Bookbub, Goodreads, and LinkedIn.

Q&A with M.D. House

TG: Everyone always asks for an interesting fact, we’re going to flip the question. What is one boring fact about yourself?

MDH: I’m terrible at video games.

TG: Where did you get the inspiration for The Barabbas Legacy?

MDH: Interesting question. I originally intended to write just science fiction and fantasy (clean, with strong religious and moral themes), but a few years ago the story of Barabbas grabbed hold of me—and wouldn’t let go. I figured one book would be enough, but by the time I finished Book 1, Book 2 was already half-formed. The same thing happened from Book 2 to Book 3. The story feels complete with the trilogy, though it’s open to some spin-offs.

TG: Do you have any habits or rituals as a writer?

MDH: I really enjoy 25-minute power naps in the early afternoon now, usually after I work out. Helps me keep going, sometimes late into the evening. I’m also a grandfather, so that might be part of the affinity for napping. 🙂

TG: What habits would you encourage others to take up to be a more productive writer?

MDH: Set daily goals for what you want to accomplish, specific to certain projects, and do your best to achieve those goals until you reach major milestones. It keeps you progressing, and meeting those goals is both motivating and inspiring. Also, forgive yourself if things come up and there are days you can’t hit those goals. Just saddle up the next day.

TG: What do you snack on or drink while writing?

MDH: It varies. Whatever things struck my fancy at the grocery store the prior week, for the most part. I’ve been trying to make the snacks healthier, but I’m not always successful at that. I don’t drink sodas anymore, so it’s mainly water, with the occasional smoothie or Bai coconut thrown in. Oh, and chocolate. Plus, chocolate.

TG: How do you overcome writer’s block?

MDH: After doing so much writing over the years, including for my various employers (I’m fastidious with emails, by the way, because they’re such an important form of communication now, and I’ve sent tens of thousands of them), I rarely experience writer’s block. As long as I have some direction in mind, the words usually flow. When they don’t, prayer and the scriptures always help. Not sometimes. Always.

TG: Are you an “edit-as-you-go” writer or do you wait until the very end before you do any editing?

MDH: I definitely do some editing on the first draft, but I try not to get too bogged down, so as not to impede the flow of ideas. Lots of editing happens after Draft 1, of course, including at least one set of extra eyes.

TG: What would you say is the most common mistake new writers make?

MDH: I think it’s not visualizing scenes well enough. I’m constantly trying to improve at that. It’s not just dialogue, but actions, reactions, nuances, etc. that match the characters and are logical/believable.

TG: What is the best piece of writing advice you’ve ever received?

MDH: Hone your talent and don’t give up. Writing persuasively and impactfully is a skill that must be developed like any other skill, and you can’t just practice once in a while and expect to be really good. (I’ve learned it doesn’t work with basketball, either.)

TG: What is coming up next for you?

MDH: Too much, probably, but it will be a fun challenge. I still do some part-time work in my first career, and I have three writing projects going at the moment. I’m about to add a fourth, and maybe a fifth. Some people are really good at handling multiple projects like that (witness Brandon Sanderson), but I’m still learning.

Watch my interview with M.D. House on The Barabbas Legacy

Enter for a chance to win one in five paperback copies or one in two audiobook copies of The Barabbas Legacy.*

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Due to shipping costs, the giveaway for the physical copy is open to US mailing addresses only.

More about The Barabbas Legacy

In this poignant capstone to the trilogy, the man called Barabbas—infamous former thief, murderer and prisoner turned Christian—and his wife Chanah continue their mission of spreading the gospel across the known world as cauldrons of political and military chaos boil across the Roman Empire. Nero is increasingly erratic, and it’s only a matter of time before the sharp knives of imperial politics finish him off. Various successors vie for position. Who will strike first, and who will come out on top?

Meanwhile, the rebellion in Judea has intensified, the Jewish zealots exerting great influence over the minds of the people. General Vespasian and his son Titus aim to put a permanent end to the insurrection. How many lives will ultimately be sacrificed on the great altar of Jerusalem? Can the Jewish nation survive the fulfillment of Jesus’s prophecy? What will become of the Jewish Christians and the apostles and sisters who lead them? And where will Barabbas and his family find lasting peace?

Purchase a copy of The Barabbas Legacy: Amazon

Sharable Graphics! Just click, save, and share!

by 9 Comments

The Writer’s Desk with Daniel Schwabauer

The Writer’s Desk with Daniel Schwabauer

Daniel Schwabauer is an award-winning author and teacher. He is the creator of The One Year Adventure Novel, Cover Story, Byline, Amazing True Life Stories, and The Legends of Tira-Nor.

His professional work includes stage plays, radio scripts, short stories, newspaper columns, comic books, and scripting for the PBS animated series Auto-B-Good. His young adult novels have received numerous awards, including the 2005 Ben Franklin Award and the 2008 Eric Hoffer Award. He graduated with honors from Kansas University’s Masters’s program in Creative Writing in 1995. Be sure to visit Daniel on his website, Instagram, and Facebook!

Q&A with Daniel Schwabauer

TG: Everyone always asks for an interesting fact, we’re going to flip the question. What is one boring fact about yourself?

DS: I am allergic to gluten and algebra.

TG: Where did you get the inspiration for (insert featured book)?

DS: Maxine Justice: Galactic Attorney began at the intersection of two ideas. I’ve always wondered why in science fiction stories aliens try to conquer Earth through force. It never works, and surely there’s an easier way. How about something cheaper and more likely to work, such as a hostile corporate takeover via intergalactic law? The second idea had to do with the sort of hero Earth would need during such a catastrophe. If the villains were basically alien lawyers, wouldn’t our last-ditch defender have to be a lawyer too? Who better to represent us than a young ambulance chaser desperate for relevance and cash?

TG: Do you have any habits or rituals as a writer?

DS: My good writing habits boil down to a love of reading and enough self-discipline to write regularly. I also have a ridiculous habit of scribbling my ideas on the two huge white boards that dominate my office. I like to pretend that the colorful, illegible scrawls are reminiscent of A Beautiful Mind, but they are closer to something a four-year-old might write in response to the question, “What is your favorite bean?”

TG: What habits would you encourage others to take up to be a more productive writer?

DS: Reading and writing are essential, but one habit that gets overlooked is participating in a live critique group. Finding like-minded writers who can provide you with feedback will grow your skills faster than anything else. And it’s not just the receiving of critiques that will help you. Giving feedback is even more important because it forces you to come to terms with your own ideas about what makes a story work.

TG: What do you snack on or drink while writing?

DS: Gluten-free pretzels, iced tea, and, in my worst moments, Klondike ice cream bars.

TG: How do you overcome writer’s block?

DS: I write small “sketches” of scenes and ideas that have no formal structure other than the need to get at the heart of a story. For me, writer’s block simply describes the fact that I haven’t yet discovered a doorway into my story idea. I may know the idea, but the passion isn’t there yet, so the words won’t come. Finding a solution means trying various dramatic situations and characters and conversations until something clicks and I land on a theme or a voice or a conflict that makes me want to write. When curiosity appears, I know the story will follow.

TG: Are you an “edit-as-you-go” writer or do you wait until the very end before you do any editing?

DS: I typically don’t do any small edits until the work is completed. But I will go back and rewrite a chapter when something important to the storyline becomes obvious. Sometimes this happens because my critique group readers have pointed out a flaw or suggested an idea that changes the shape of the story.

TG: What would you say is the most common mistake new writers make?

DS: It’s common for new writers to identify so strongly with their work that it becomes difficult to separate their words from their self. Thus any criticism feels crushing—as if the lack of storytelling mastery is a reflection of their character or a black mark on their personality. Writing fiction well is very difficult because it requires that you understood both the language of Story and human nature. But even more than this, you have to master the ability to manipulate what will happen in an unknown reader’s imagination through the mere use of words. It’s like mastering the piano on an instrument with the strings removed. Fiction is hard. It takes time and practice and feedback—and still more and more practice—to learn how to do it. I wish I could tell every new writer to divest themselves of the burden of being brilliant, or even good, and to simply write for pleasure. Writing bad fiction is necessary to learning to write good fiction.

TG: What is the best piece of writing advice you’re ever received?

DS: Write for an audience of one.

TG: What is coming up next for you?

DS: I’m planning to write more about Maxine’s courtroom and galactic shenanigans. At the same time, I’m also researching and working on my dissertation on the language of Story, so I don’t have as much time for fiction as I’m accustomed to.

Enter for a chance to win a signed copy of Maxine Justice: Galactic Attorney.*

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Due to shipping costs, the giveaway for the physical copy is open to US mailing addresses only.

More about Maxine Justice: Galactic Attorney

Can Justice Save the Earth from Extinction?

Maxine Justice is an ambulance-chasing lawyer desperate for relevance and cash when aliens hire her to represent them before the United Nations. An off-planet consortium wants to heal humanity of every natural disease in exchange for 30% of Earth’s gold reserves.

The deal launches Max to legal stardom and makes her an international target for assassins. MediCorp, Star Cross, PharFuture—the big medical companies all have good reasons to want Max out of the way. Worse, she discovers her alien clients may be planning something more sinister than anyone has imagined.

Can a lawyer who failed the bar exam three times find some way to save the world from global and interstellar conspiracies? Or will humankind’s future end in a galactic courtroom?

Purchase a copy of Maxine Justice: Galactic Attorney: Amazon | Enclave Publishing | BookShop.org

Sharable Graphics! Just click, save, and share!

by 5 Comments

The Writer’s Desk with Andrew Farley

The Writer’s Desk with Andrew Farley

Andrew Farley is quietly helping millions of people discover the beauty of their new identity in Jesus Christ. He serves as lead pastor of Church Without Religion, a non-denominational church on the high plains of West Texas. Andrew is also the author of seven bestselling books, including The Naked Gospel and Twisted Scripture. Andrew Farley LIVE, a nationwide call-in radio program, airs across North America every weeknight at 8 p.m. Eastern Time. Be sure to visit Andrew on his website, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and sign up for his newsletter.

Q&A with Andrew Farley

TG: Everyone always asks for an interesting fact, we’re going to flip the question. What is one boring fact about yourself?

AF: I’m allergic to chicken, turkey, eggs, and dairy. Now, imagine going out to dinner and needing to avoid all those things! It makes ordering very interesting…. er, boring.

TG: Why did you write The Grace Message?

AF: I wrote The Grace Message to showcase how much better the Gospel is than how it’s commonly portrayed. What the average person hears is: “Jesus saved you. Now, get busy – do more, be more, love more. God likes a future version of you that performs better, and you need to get there. Your heart is not right with God, but you need to live right. You’re a sinner, but you need to live holy.”

Good luck with all that! I wrote The Grace Message to highlight where we’ve failed to infuse God’s grace and our new identity into what we believe.

TG: Did you have any surprises or learning moments while writing this title?

AF: Yes, I did! I was surprised by how many emails and real-life experiences I had to go through to find the best ones to use. The book is filled with pushback from those who weren’t sure about God’s grace and testimonies of those whose lives have been transformed. This book has more stories and personal interactions than any of my other books, and it took a lot of reviewing of my past interactions to find the best ones!

TG: What do you hope readers take away from your book?

AF: I hope they see how radical God’s grace really is – that, as believers, we are fully forgiven, completely loved, and never abandoned by God. Living under God’s grace is way better than any of us can even imagine.

TG: Do you have any habits or rituals as a writer?

AF: I change locations every couple of hours. I find that changing my setting re-energizes me. Whether it’s my living room, a coffee shop, or a patio overlooking some water, I’m always on the move!

TG: What habits would you encourage others to take up to be a more productive writer?

AF: For me, productivity comes from pouring my ideas out on the page, not judging them. Just write. The best way to get something done is to start. So, if you’re writing a book, you don’t need to start at the beginning. You can begin anywhere you like. What part are you inspired to write today? Write that part. Then build the book later. Also, don’t judge any of your writing until you’ve got an entire first draft cranked out. Only then is it time to start cutting, editing, and polishing. That’s my method.

TG: What do you snack on or drink while writing?

AF: Maple water is my new thing. It’s like a natural and healthier Gatorade. Great taste. Nothing artificial. It’s from Canada (real maple syrup straight from the tree is used!), and it tastes great.

TG: How do you overcome writer’s block?

AF: Exercise. Once I’ve had a half hour or more of exercise, it clears my mind to write again.

TG: Are you an “edit-as-you-go” writer or do you wait until the very end before you do any editing?

AF: I wait until the end so that my own judgment calls about the writing don’t discourage me. I get an entire first draft done before I do any editing.

TG: What would you say is the most common mistake new writers make?

AF: As I said earlier, it’s difficult for some people to just get started. They’re staring at a blank page trying to write the first sentence. That’s why I say, “Start anywhere. What inspires you today? Write that! You can put all the pieces of the book together later.”

TG: What is the best piece of writing advice you’re ever received?

AF: Write to help people. Write from your heart to the reader’s heart.

TG: What book(s) are you currently reading?

AF: Right now, I’m reading I Can Only Imagine – the memoir of Bart Millard, the lead singer of MercyMe. Bart is a friend of mine, and the movie and book about his life are both fantastic.

Enter for a chance to win one in three paperback copies of The Grace Message.*

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Due to shipping costs, the giveaway for the physical copy is open to US mailing addresses only.

More about The Grace Message:

What Is God’s Grace—and What Does It Mean for You?

Grace. It’s a word we’ve heard since the very first step in our faith journey—but do we really believe in God’s grace?

Grace raises eyebrows. It begs questions. Grace turns everything upside down. The Grace Message invites you to discover the best flavor of Christianity and celebrate the good news of the Gospel to the fullest. Here, you’ll learn:

• how to abandon rule-based living and stop trying to measure up

• why your new identity in Jesus matters more than you can imagine

• how you can now enjoy God’s New Covenant way of grace

Bestselling author and radio host Andrew Farley’s no-nonsense straight talk will awaken you to a revolutionary perspective every healthy Christian should have.

Life is too short to miss out on God’s best—and what you don’t know can hinder you from experiencing Jesus in every area of your life. So if you’ve been weighed down by ruthless religion, or you’ve been searching for that high-octane version of the Gospel that you know must be out there somewhere, here it is. This thought-provoking book will challenge you to dismiss the lies you’ve believed and to make up your own mind about how big God’s grace really is.

“Andrew Farley shows why the good news is actually great news. This extraordinary, battle-tested message of hope and freedom has a proven track record of transforming lives. The Grace Message is bursting with truth. The love of God practically drips from its pages. Read it and see for yourself!” —Bart Millard, singer/songwriter for MercyMe

Purchase a copy of The Grace Message: Amazon | BookShop.org

Sharable Graphics! Just click, save, and share!

by 5 Comments

The Writer’s Desk with Emily Hayse

The Writer’s Desk with Emily Hayse

Emily Hayse is a lover of log cabins, strong coffee, NASCAR, and the smell of old books. Her writing is fueled by good characters and a lifelong passion for storytelling. When she is not busy turning words into worlds, she can often be found baking, singing, or caring for one of the many dogs and horses in her life. She lives with her family in Michigan. Be sure to visit her on her website, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and sign up for her newsletter.

Q&A with Emily Hayse

TG: Everyone always asks for an interesting fact, we’re going to flip the question. What is one boring fact about yourself?

EH: I’m a careful driver. All the itty-bitty safety laws, I follow them.

TG: Where did you get the inspiration for Seventh City?

EH: It was a mixture of many things. When the idea hit I had just read a story about conquistadors looking for El Dorado (The King’s Fifth by Scott O’Dell) and the Iditarod had just finished and I was going through the post-race blues. I was working through some things in my life that required a lot of courage from me and I was listening to King and Lionheart by Of Monsters and Men which is largely about facing fears. Then I had the thought cross my mind that the north had had their own share of gold rushes and mines and that it would interesting if someone set an El Dorado legend in the north. I had grown up with stories and videos of Alaska, so it was very much part of my childhood, and all the pieces just sort of clicked into place: a girl whose life is turned upside down by invaders looking for gold and has to face her worst fears.

TG: Do you have any habits or rituals as a writer?

EH: I like to have music in my ears and coffee next to me when I write. I’ve kind of trained myself to get in the zone when those two things are in place. And when I start a new story I usually create a Word document, a notepad for notes, a playlist, and a Pinterest board and those help me form the story at the beginning and give me something to go back to if I take a break.

TG: What habits would you encourage others to take up to be a more productive writer?

EH: Find out what system or routine works for you creatively and don’t be afraid to experiment to find it. And set yourself deadlines and learn to stick to them. Learning to write whether or not you’re in the mood will take you a long way in becoming productive.

TG: What do you snack on or drink while writing?

EH: Coffee and La Croix are my go-to drinks and I usually find unique snacks for my different projects. However, cheese and crackers, shortbread, and Oreos are some of my reoccurring favorites.

TG: How do you overcome writer’s block?

EH: Rest, exercise, good movies, good music. Also, I look at the manuscript and see if I took a wrong turn in the plot or in a character arc because I find that many times forcing the story in a direction it wasn’t meant to go is the quickest way to grind it to a halt.

TG: Are you an “edit-as-you-go” writer or do you wait until the very end before you do any editing?

EH: A little bit of both. I do just enough to keep the manuscript tidy, I fix typos and tweak wording or will occasionally redo a scene I don’t like, but not enough to slow down my forward momentum. I don’t like coming back to a really messy manuscript.

TG: What would you say is the most common mistake new writers make?

EH: I don’t know about the most common, but something I’ve noticed a lot is rushing the process or expecting results fast. Writing and publishing is a long game and if you don’t take time to really just fall in love with it and enjoy it, you’ll probably get burned out on it pretty quickly.

TG: What is the best piece of writing advice you’re ever received?

EH: Just don’t quit. Authors are always learning and growing and changing in their craft. If you keep going, you’ll probably turn out to be a pretty good writer.

TG: What is coming up next for you?

EH: The final book in my western fantasy King Arthur trilogy, In the Glorious Fields, releases March 29th! I love the western genre and getting to put it together with the King Arthur legends and a touch of fantasy has been a blast.

Enter for a chance to win a paperback copy of Seventh City.*

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Due to shipping costs, the giveaway for the physical copy is open to US mailing addresses only.

More about Seventh City:

“Let me tell you a story that happened so long ago that only the hills and rivers can remember the time . . . .”

All her life, thirteen-year-old Maki has heard tales of the legendary city of gold, buried deep in the northern frontier. But when her village is burned and her brother captured by cruel invaders, the legend becomes desperately real.

Armed with a wolf-dog and a heart of courage, Maki sets out on a journey that will demand all her strength and cunning. She is determined to bring her brother home at all costs. Yet as her quest leads her deep into a wilderness of ancient dangers, Maki realizes that even for her, some prices are too high to pay.

Purchase a copy of Seventh City: Amazon | BookShop.org

Sharable Graphics! Just click, save, and share!

by 9 Comments

The Writer’s Desk with Kate Angelo

If you are a fan of romantic suspense along the lines of Lynette Eason, you are going to LOVE Kate Angelo and her new book Driving Force. From the first page, you will be swept up in the action, and you won’t be able to stop turning pages until you’re finished. Kate is definitely a name to watch in romantic suspense! But don’t take my word for it — Driving Force releases on March 22. Be sure to pre-order your copy now so it will show up on release day.

Enter below for a chance to win a paperback or e-copy of Driving Force! 

The Writer’s Desk with Kate Angelo

Kate Angelo is an author, minister, and public speaker from Southwest Missouri who works alongside her husband strengthening and encouraging marriages and families through their ministry. As the mother of five mostly grown children, she is fluent in both sarcasm and eye rolls—subjects she never intentionally taught while homeschooling. With her chihuahua taking up half of her desk space, she writes suspenseful stories of imperfect people who encounter hope and healing through Jesus. Kate is a tech enthusiast, coffee lover, productivity guru, accomplished knitter, avid boater, prayer warrior, and known klutz. Visit her on her website, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Bookbub, Amazon, and sign up for her newsletter.

Q&A with Kate Angelo

TG: Everyone always asks for an interesting fact, we’re going to flip the question. What is one boring fact about yourself?
KA: This seems like one of those crazy interview questions designed to see if I can adapt and manipulate the question into something that is the opposite of boring. Hmm, how about this one…I’m an insurance companies’ biggest nightmare. I’m such a klutz, I tend to meet my insurance deductible every year with injuries. There… there’s nothing more boring than insurance, now is there?

TG: Where did you get the inspiration for Driving Force?

KA: This is a really awesome story that boils down to one word: God.

I know a lot of authors say that about their books, but I’m talking literally. You see, a dear friend of mine sent me a link to Sunrise Publishing’s audition page for Season 3 with Lead Author, Lynette Eason. Not only did I feel like I wasn’t quite ready to live up to the Eason name, but my friend told me about the audition two days before the closing date! I wasn’t sure I could make it by the deadline. I prayed with my husband and decided I would do my best and let God do the rest. The only problem…I didn’t have a story idea.

The night before auditions closed, I surrendered it to God. I laid it out for Him saying, “I’ve got nothing, God.” I knew if God wanted me to audition, I had to trust Him to give me a story premise that would blow everyone away. All night long I dreamed about the story premise. I woke up the next morning around 4 am and the story premise was bubbling out. I ran to my desk and typed it all up, then asked my husband his thoughts. He helped me tighten things a bit, and with one last prayer, I submitted my audition.

Imagine my delight when Lynette Eason called to tell me I’d made the cut! There is no doubt in my mind that the story idea really came from God!

TG: Do you have any habits or rituals as a writer?

KA: My biggest writing habit is to start early. I get to my desk by 5:00 a.m. every morning and dive into my Bible study and prayer time. When I delve into a Bible study, it sets my day on the right course. If I skip (hey, I’m human!) then my day usually ends in a self-induced trainwreck of sorts.

After Bible time, I jump into writing sprints. This means I set a timer for a particular time, and I write until the timer goes off. Even if I’m not sure what I’m doing or where I’m going in a scene—or worse, I’m out of coffee…I keep my hands moving until the timer is up.

TG: What habits would you encourage others to take up to be a more productive writer?

KA: First, get up earlier and get to work earlier. We all have the same amount of time in the day, it’s all about what we do with that time. Though anything before 5 does seem a bit insane…

Next, I encourage writers to use a journal or planner of some kind. I prefer the bullet journal method, which is a method of writing down tasks and either completing them or migrating them to a future date. Doing this gets every task I’m juggling out of my head and clears up space for creativity. I write down every task as it pops into my head so I can stop ruminating and reminding myself about it.

My final advice is to consume media that is a nourishment to your brain, not a parasite. Instead of watching the latest sitcom, I listen to a podcast that will teach me something. For example, as a suspense author, I tend to listen to an FBI case file review podcast that explains the crime, but also the methods the FBI used to capture the criminal. If you’re a historical fiction author, try David Barton or Bill Federer. Also, keep reading and learning about your Bible. There are so many great characters in the Bible waiting to speak to you!

TG: What do you snack on or drink while writing?

KA: Fingernails. I am a suspense author after all. Nail-biting suspense is a thing.

Okay, I’m joking. I actually do NOT bite my nails after breaking the habit. The two most common beverages on my desk are water and coffee. I don’t do a lot of snacking while I work because I’m too focused (okay, lazy) to leave my desk. If I do snack, I prefer nuts, cheese, olives, or other low-sugar snacks which I tend to consume more during Zoom meetings than while writing.

TG: How do you overcome writer’s block?

KA: Writer’s block is really a fancy way of saying “writer’s procrastination”. So many of us will wander away from our desk (looking for a snack) only to see that the kitchen could use sweeping, or maybe the driveway needs power washing, and we use the excuse to avoid writing and eventually claim we’re blocked. (Sorry, I think I’ve given away the author’s secret!)

The simplest way to get over writer’s block or writer’s procrastination is to sit down and write. Set that timer for 25 minutes and do NOT stop. Even if you’re typing something like, “I don’t know what to type and I would really like to get the driveway power washed, but no. I’m gonna stay here and do this.” Eventually, the words will come, and you might find yourself writing a story about a woman who sees a murder while power washing her driveway. (Hmmm…)

Also… and this is a big one, learn that you don’t need to check every notification on your phone or computer. Shut that out until you meet your word count or until that timer goes off!

TG: Are you an “edit-as-you-go” writer or do you wait until the very end before you do any editing?

KA: I’m a little bit of both. I learned not to agonize over every word because sometimes you’ll want to rewrite the whole scene anyway, and that clever phrase you spent ten painstaking minutes getting just right will end up in the trash. That said, I do try to write a clean first draft that sets mood and tone, but probably needs a good comb-over for echo words, passive voice, and all those other crafty mistakes.

I do a lot of editing after voice dictation. I can get a whole scene written while walking the dog or driving to pick up my groceries, but I need to address the mistakes right away or I’ll forget what the jumbled up words are supposed to mean. I even made a meme about this and posted it on Instagram. (Side note: It’s not a good idea for suspense authors to voice dictate while actually shopping. The other customers do not understand.)

TG: What would you say is the most common mistake new writers make?

KA: Can I steal one from Jerry Jenkins? He says one of the most common mistakes new writers make is not starting with an outline. James Patterson believes the same thing. I’d say these guys know what they are talking about.

Let me reinforce that with this Bible verse: “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” – Proverbs 21:5

If I had to come up with something different, I’d say the most common mistake new writers make is focusing on all their social media instead of their craft. Don’t pour your precious writing hours into YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, or any other social media platform before you have written several novels. Instead, invest that time and energy into learning how to write and edit a novel and actually doing it.

TG: What is the best piece of writing advice you’re ever received?

KA: It’s difficult to narrow it down to just one piece of writing advice, but the game-changer was when Susan May Warren helped me understand that it’s okay to protect my writing time. If I were a judge sitting on the bench day in and day out, I wouldn’t be expected to respond to every phone notification, and my kids wouldn’t barge into the courtroom and interrupt me with little things. The same especially goes for your marriage and family. It’s okay to set some boundaries as long as you also honor, treasure, and prioritize the important things.

TG: What is coming up next for you?

KA: I’ve just signed two contracts with Sunrise Publishing to write two Elite Guardian Collection stories. The first is a Christmas novella with Christina and Grey from Driving Force, and the second is a full-length novel with a NEW bodyguard!

Enter for a chance to win* a paperback or e-copy of Driving Force!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Due to shipping costs, the giveaway for the physical copy is open to US mailing addresses only.

More about Driving Force

He’s the last client she wants to protect…

Elite Guardians bodyguard/former sniper CHRISTINA SHERMAN has protected uncooperative clients before—but this time, well her client is bossy, headstrong and occasionally eats off the floor. Yes, he’s a highly trained military working dog, but certainly her skills could be put to better use, right?

Not according to former Special Forces Air Commando GREY PARKER. He needs her help to protect his dog while he undergoes an experimental surgery that could restore his ability to walk. He just needs someone to keep his canine partner safe. Most of all, Grey wants back on his feet so he can track down a deranged scientist known as The Scavenger who unleashed a nerve agent that left Grey sidelined in a wheelchair.

When an attempt is made on Grey’s life, and dead bodies begin piling up—with evidence the same toxin is responsible—suddenly Christina is tasked with keeping both dog and soldier alive…and with them, the secrets that could stop a terrorist attack.

But this time, even Christina might be in over her head.

Dive into the exciting ignition to the Elite Guardians Collection.

Purchase a copy of Driving Force: Amazon | BookShop.org

Sharable Graphics! Just click, save, and share!

by 12 Comments

The Writer’s Desk with Victoria McCombs

What could be better than a well-written pirate story? Nothing! From the first page of Victoria McCombs‘ Oathbound, I was swept away on an adventure. The dialogue is spot-on, the descriptions are captivating, and the characters are both interesting and exciting. If you’re looking for a FUN high-stakes, swashbuckling adventure you won’t be disappointed! If you’re a fan of Pirates of the Caribbean movies you won’t be able to put this down.

Be sure to read to the end of this post to find out how you can win a signed, personalized hardcover and book swag! 

The Writer’s Desk with Victoria McCombs

Victoria McCombs is the author of The Storyteller’s Series from Parliament House Press and Oathbound. She writes young adult fantasy and adores stories about treacherous pirates and traitorous princes. Her favorite things include peppermint hot chocolate, peanut butter ice cream, game might with family, and Jesus. She has her mom to thank for allowing so many medieval weapons inside the house as she was growing up, which curated her love for that time period. She is a mom of three little boys and a wife to the handsomest accountant there is. Together they live in Omaha, Nebraska. Connect with Victoria on her website, Instagram, and sign up for her newsletter!

Q&A with Victoria McCombs

TG: Everyone always asks for an interesting fact, we’re going to flip the question. What is one boring fact about yourself?

I have a freckle on the inside of my cheek. None of the doctors, dentists, or dermatologists can figure out how it got there but they are all assuming it’s harmless.

TG: Where did you get the inspiration for Oathbound?

When looking for something to read, I found myself craving pirates and realized I’d never read a pirate book. The idea took off from there. Of course, then I saw pirate books being released everywhere, but I was already so in love with these characters that I had to write it.

TG: Do you have any habits or rituals as a writer?

Coffee in the morning, and having a clean workspace. Even with kids around, I need at least a small circle of clean around me to work!

TG: What habits would you encourage others to take up to be a more productive writer?

Outlining! If you come up with a solid outline beforehand, not only will that save you time during editing because you created a well-rounded plot before writing, but it gives you confidence going into the book that it’s going to turn out the way you want and it takes away that sluggish part in the middle where you aren’t sure where to go next. I write books in three months because I first create an outline.

TG: What do you snack on or drink while writing?

White chocolate mochas in the morning and peppermint hot chocolates in the afternoons. I’m drinking one right now!

TG: How do you overcome writer’s block?

Outlineeeeee. I’m very obsessed with having an outline first. It tells you exactly where you are going next, and you can be certain you hit all the points you want at the pace you want and gives you a chance to see the entire book before it’s even written!

TG: Are you an “edit-as-you-go” writer or do you wait until the very end before you do any editing?

I edit as I go. This could stem from my odd hatred for editing, or it could be my need to have a clean environment, but I like knowing that the document I’m working on is polished as I’m writing, and not that I’m leaving a mess in my wake.

TG: What would you say is the most common mistake new writers make?

Not understanding the market. A lot of the bigger plot errors in your book come from not knowing what things people like. This can be fixed by reading the reviews of books on Amazon! Go read the reviews to see what things other readers didn’t like about books, so you see common mistakes to avoid. Or you can see what things people really liked so you know what to include in yours! More than just, love triangles or enemies to lovers, but things like if your character is passive or active, the dynamics of character relationships, pacing, character arcs, use of descriptions—it’s all important to remember what the readers like, and it can save you time from making those bigger errors in your book!

TG: What is the best piece of writing advice you’re ever received?

The plot should be driven forward in each and every chapter, starting with the first, and let it be the character’s (preferably the main character) actions and decisions that advance the plot, not them reacting to outward influences happening.

TG: What is coming up next for you?

Wow, where to start! Oathbound is a trilogy, and I’ve yet to write the third book. But beyond that, I have a four-book series and the final one releases this May! I might or might not have some secret projects brewing as well.

Enter for a chance to win a signed, personalized hardcover copy of Oathbound + fun book swag!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Due to shipping costs, the giveaway for the physical copy is open to US mailing addresses only.

More about Oathbound

Beware the waters. The dangerous deep brings ruin to all.

Emme has spent her life avoiding anything to do with pirates. But the fates are cruel, and now a hidden sickness leads her to partner with pirates for the one thing that can save her—a cure on an island none are certain exists.

The pirate captain’s secrets are darker than the deep and threaten to kill them all. His obligations are tinged with betrayal, for his oathbind must be fulfilled. To ignore it is to invite peril of unimaginable destruction.

As the adventure unfolds, the sea takes more than she expects and the sea gives more than he wants.

Purchase a copy at Oathbound: Amazon | BookShop.org

Sharable Graphics! Just click, save, and share!

Verified by MonsterInsights