writing

October 9, 2023 by Tricia Goyer Leave a Comment

How Growing Your Dreams Helps Your Kids Grow Theirs

As a mom of ten kids I hear a lot of dreams.

“I want to be a firefighter.”

“I’m going to be a fashion designer.”

“I’m going to write kids’ books!”

When kids are little dreaming big comes naturally. Yet as they get older they are discouraged. They realize dreaming means doing … and doing means hard work!

So how do we encourage our kids to keep dreaming? By following our own dreams! It’s then we become a first hand example that hard work pays off!

But how do you start? Here’s how:

1. State your dreams … and keep asking your child about hers.

I was 22-year-old when I dared to tell a friend that someday I wanted to be an author. She encouraged me and we walked the journey together. Now we’re both authors of multiple books. The first thing to do is tell someone who you trust about your dream. Then ask that friend to keep you accountable toward following it.

Likewise, take time to ask your child about her dreams. When my daughter Leslie was just 9 or 10-years-old she told me she wanted to be a missionary. I listened, bought her books about missionaries, and we went on our first missionary trip as a family together when she was a teen. She’s now serving full-time in Europe. While I miss her being close, I love to see what God is doing with her life!

2. Take time to be delighted … and encourage your kids to delight in who God made them.

I find delight in creating stories, in talking about characters, and in reading books. I don’t hide these loves from my kids, instead I model enjoying these things.

God gave me unique gifts and talents, and as I delight in Him, He makes these desires come to life. As Psalm 37:4 says, “Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”

What brings delight to your child’s heart? Make sure you point those things out, “I see that you love singing. I believe God put that love in you. Let’s pray together and ask Him how He wants you to use this delight.” We delight ourselves in God when we see Him as purposeful in our lives, and also when we help our children discover their purpose.

3. Take baby steps toward your dreams… and watch your kids follow.

What’s the best way to teach? Lead by example. Maybe you haven’t taken the time to take steps toward your dream. Today is a great day to start!

Likewise, ask your child, “What is one dream you could start working on today?” You might be surprised by the answer. Once your child states a dream help her figure out small steps. Then, you can even ask your child to help you be accountable to your dreams, too.

Growing your dreams starts with intention. And while it may seem selfish to put time into something beyond from your family or work, it’s important to follow through. When you do you’ll be giving your child an example of what dream-following looks like. And a few years from now, when you look around, you might just discover that your children has dreams that are sprouting up, too!

What I didn’t realize when I first dared to plant my dreams is that my kids would benefit from the harvest. I’m seeing that more and more each day. My writing is something my whole family is thankful for!

Looking for a relaxing read? Check out my book Planted With Hope! It’s the second book in the Pinecraft Pie Shop series. Here’s a short description:

When Hope Miller is offered the plot of land behind the Me, Myself, and Pie shop to start a garden, she jumps at the chance. Finally—some space away from her four sisters! But everyone in town seems to have an opinion about what she should grow and how she should grow it. When the widower schoolteacher, Jonas Sutter, asks if his students at the Amish school can help turn the plot into a community garden, Hope only halfheartedly agrees, wondering if she will ever get the peace and quiet she craves. And will she get anything to grow?

The stories of friendship, community, and unexpected love within these pages will plant real seeds of hope within your heart.

September 13, 2023 by Tricia Goyer 12 Comments

Writers, Do Not Give Up On The Book Of Your Heart!

Do you have a book that you’ve been wanting to write? Do you think it’s a great idea, but it’s been hard to convince a publisher the same? Do you feel discouraged and want to quit? Today I want to talk to writers and encourage you: writers, do not give up on the book of your heart!

In 1999 I had an idea for a book for young people called Prayers that Changed History. As a homeschooling mom, I kept coming upon these GREAT stories of prayer such as:

Governor William Bradford praying for rain for the failing crops in the New World, and nine hours later clouds rolling in after a severe drought.
John Newton (who penned the hymn Amazing Grace) nearly sinking in a storm on his slave ship and crying out to God for mercy. God saved the ship and John’s soul that night.
And Florence Nightingale who, at sixteen years old, feeling called into God’s service. She prayed and committed herself to God and years later she became the “Mother of Nursing.” Nursing practices around the world have been transformed because of Florence.

As a homeschooling mom, I knew that Prayers that Changes History was exactly the type of book I would buy for my kids. After all, I want my kids to know about heroes of the faith. I want them to understand the power of prayer.

This book was finally published in 2015 … sixteen years after I first got the idea and pitched it to a publisher. I LOVE getting feedback from parents and kids who are so excited about this book. I love that kids are learning about historical people and answered prayers. I love that they’re learning how to pray.

I’m so thankful that I did not give up on the book of my heart. And I encourage you too. Writers do not give up on the book of YOUR dreams!

To encourage you to keep going, here are a few things you need to know:

What you need to know …

1. Know that writing is a challenge.

It is hard work, and a great idea doesn’t automatically translate into a great book. Every writer struggles! Don’t feel as if you’re not the only one. Everyone has fears about not being good enough. No one writes ‘great stuff’ in their first draft. Writing is supposed to be hard. Overcome those fears one word at a time on the blank page.

2. Understand that not everyone will get what you’re doing.

There are some agents, editors, and publishers who will not like your idea or your writing. But then again, there will be someone who does. I happened to connect with an editor who immediately understood and loved my idea for Prayers that Changed History, but before that, there were many editors who turned it down. Not every idea is a good fit for every editor or publisher. But, take heart, writers; do not give up!

3. Know that some projects take time to flesh out.

Sometimes a manuscript needs to be rethought or reshaped. When it came to writing the final manuscript of Prayers that Changed History, I spent more time teaching children how to pray than I’d originally planned. My book idea changed for the better, and I’m excited that it did!

4. Know that sometimes God needs to mold you to make the message mean more.

I personally learned a lot about prayer from 1999 to 2015. I know that my book is different (and better) because of what God taught me.

5. Know that God’s timing is perfect.

God knows when a book is needed. I don’t think it’s any coincidence that Prayers that Changed History was released around the same time as the movie The War Room. There is a theme that was happening that year. God is bringing people to His knees, and it’s amazing that He desires for children to learn about prayer, too!

To encourage you to keep going, there are also a few things that you need to do:

Writers, do not give up. Here is what you need to do …

1. Keep writing, researching, and praying.

I started a filing drawer filled with stories about answered prayer. Whenever I’d come upon a story, I’d photocopy it and put it in a file. Then, when the time was right, I had all the material that I needed. Even as I worked on other projects, I kept this one in the back of my mind.

2. Keep studying the writing craft.

Like any career, writing takes time, effort, and knowledge. The more you study the craft of writing, the better you become as a writer.

3. Consider self-publishing.

When I first came up with this book idea in 1999, self-publishing was an expensive venture. You had to hire an editor and a printer, and the end result was 1,000 copies of your paperback book in your garage. Today, self-publishing is altogether different. It’s easy, it’s cheap, and it’s a great way to get your book published and in the hands of readers.

If you have a book that you’ve been wanting to write … keep going.
If you have a great idea … trust your gut.

During this time in history, we have amazing opportunities to share our words around the globe. If you have a book on your heart, don’t give up!

Resources on Prayer:

Resources on Publishing on Kindle:

Kindle Direct Publishing

Resource on Self-Publishing

TheCreativePenn.com

Happy Writing!

Does Your Teen Dream of Becoming an Author?

Does Your Teen Dream of Becoming an Author? Or do they dabble in writing but also want to improve for college or their future career? Or are you a homeschool parent who’s looking for supplementary writing education? If so, I’m excited to share what I’ve found!

Does Your Teen Dream of Becoming an Author?

For the past 20 years, I’ve been teaching adults how to fulfill their call to write and discover their place in the Christian publishing industry. However, at the homeschool conventions and writing conferences I attend, I keep hearing the same question: “What recommendations do you have for my teenager who likes to write?”

For the past couple of years, I’ve been looking for the right answer to this question.

This is why today, I’m excited to share that I’ve discovered the perfect program for teens who love writing. It’s called the Young Writer’s Workshop, and as of last week, I’ve just joined them as their newest instructor.

WHAT IS THE YOUNG WRITER’S WORKSHOP?

The Young Writer’s Workshop is an interactive, online learning community for Christian writers aged 12-25, where students get access to:
1) New writing courses every month on topics like writing consistently, crafting powerful messages, and publishing their work
2) A safe, encouraging community site full of other young writers and
3) An ever-growing content library of writing lessons

Our goal is to take young writers seriously and give them encouragement and direction as they pursue their writing goals. Specifically, we teach content on how to improve their writing and share their writing with others.

In addition to the lessons I’ll be regularly teaching for the Young Writer’s Workshop, I’ll also be pioneering the newest addition to the program: “Write with Me” sessions, where I’ll take a page from a famous book, unpack the author’s techniques with students, and then guide them to learn how to replicate that author’s personal style.

In the program, students can also join writing groups, participate in live writing events, get accountability and support for their writing, have their questions answered by published authors, and find the motivation they need to improve as writers.

WHAT YOUR STUDENT WILL LEARN

This program is first and foremost to encourage young writers to pursue excellence in their writing and cultivate marketable skills.

This is of value whether your child uses writing to publish a book or whether they use their writing in another career. Writing well is an extremely portable tool.

A recent survey of American corporations and government entities found that good writing skills are vital to gaining a job and advancing in one’s place of employment.

In YWW, your student will learn how to…

— Write well (so they can clearly communicate to their intended audience)
— Sell their skills (e.g. by creating a platform, blog, email list, or website)
— Engage others to support their craft and share their vision
— Give and receive criticism humbly
— Understand the business/career side of writing
— Gain the confidence and motivation to stick with things
— Become more discerning as they learn how to better evaluate the written word

LEARNING MORE ABOUT THE PROGRAM

As you can tell, I’m pretty excited to join the Young Writer’s Workshop team to impact and shape the next generation of writers.

Enrollment for the program is currently closed until May 10th.

But I have a special link you can use to claim a $1 monthly trial to the program when enrollment opens in May.

You can claim that $1 offer and learn more about the program by following this link.

I can’t wait to meet your students in the program!

Tricia

My Review of the Movie Redeeming Love

Today I’m sharing my review of the movie Redeeming Love. Like many others, I’ve been anxiously awaiting the transition from book to movie. With such an important message it’s no wonder the movie is drawing lots of commentary. Let’s talk about the movie and how it might be a great retelling of a timely message from God to His people.

My Review of the Movie Redeeming Love

I saw Redeeming Love last night. I’ve previously read the novel by Francine Rivers. And, reading through the Bible 7-8 times, I’ve read the book Hosea numerous times, too.

For those who aren’t familiar with the biblical narrative, Hosea is a prophet of God who is asked to physically portray a message of repentance to a woman named Gomer. The name Hosea means “salvation,” and his life was a prophecy to the nation of Israel. Hosea’s wife was a prostitute who continued to return to her sin. Yet even then, Hosea would go to her and “redeem” her, repurchasing her from the darkness she had surrendered herself to.

Hosea’s life was a prophecy to the people of Israel, a statement that although God will bring judgment to sin, He will also always bring His people back to Himself through His love. The cycle of repentance, redemption, and restoration is evident in this story.

In 1991, my friend Francine Rivers published a book that follows this storyline. Although I started it many times, I only finished it last year because it’s a brutal story. In it, Angel is sold into prostitution as a child, and as an adult, she’s tried to escape, but she finds herself right back where she started: in prostitution.

Through the pain, Angel has lost her soul. There is no hope for a future until a man named Michael Hosea comes and tells her that God told him to take Angel as his wife.

I will not go into all the details, but this story is HARD and heartbreaking. With the tenderness of Christ, Michael loves Angel, yet she rejects him again and again.

Seeing Michael’s heartbreak is difficult. I wanted to shout, “Just accept his love! Why won’t you accept his love?” And that is when it hit me. This is Christ and me. So many times, I’ve tried to do things my way, yet Jesus is right there just wanting me to accept the love He has for me. THIS is what made me cry when I watched Redeeming Love. I saw Christ’s love displayed for me so clearly. But I’m getting ahead of myself …

My Review of the Movie Redeeming Love

I want to go back and say that I’ve known about this movie for the last four years or so. (Maybe longer.) You see, Frani is a good friend of mine. Over the previous eighteen years, we’ve both been part of a group of writers who have gotten together every summer to Plot, Pray, and Play. So I’ve prayed for this movie for many years, and I honestly think it turned out amazingly beautiful. Hard, yes, but amazingly beautiful. There isn’t one scene I would change. I know the purpose of every scene and why it’s essential to the story.

More than that, I know Frani is a woman of Scripture and prayer. On days when we were playing and plotting, Frani often sat pouring over Scripture at the dining room table. When she writes about a topic in fiction, Frani wants to know every place God speaks on that topic before writing one word. And you know what? God displayed what He had to say about redemption through the real-life story of Hosea marrying a prostitute.

When it comes to people speaking against this movie, their main concern is the sexual content, and I want to address that. (Let me remind you, this story is about a prostitute!)

First, the sexual scenes that hint at Angel’s abuse are AWFUL. Like my husband John told me, “No one should call those scenes pornography or worry they’ll bring arousal. Instead, what they bring is complete heartbreak.” Enough abuse is shown that Angel’s pain is clear, and it’s not pretty.

Second, there are scenes of married love–these are the hot and passionate ones. And do you know why they are essential to this story? Because as someone who was used and abused, sex was not a gift for Angel to give or receive until she allowed herself to love and be loved. When Michael and Angel, man and wife (finally!) come together, that’s how it’s displayed: as a beautiful gift. As healing. As hope.

Now you may say, “Well, that shouldn’t be shown in a movie.” My response is, “Okay, then close your eyes if you don’t want to see it.”

Actually, I had to go to the bathroom, and I missed the big sex scene. That works, too! (It’s funny how the timing worked out. I just really had to go.)

Yet when I asked my husband John about it later, he had something insightful to say,

“To deny the positive sexual experience is to accept the negative.”

Is that profound or what?

As horrible as sexual abuse is, married love and sex are beautiful. The fact that someone can find healing after such abuse is a true miracle. And that’s the whole point of this story: redemption.

True love, God’s love, can bring healing to the darkest of places.

Now, if you choose not to see Redeeming Love, that’s fine. It’s your choice. But I want you to know the heart behind this movie and this story. So then, if you choose to watch, you’ll see Francine’s heart. But more importantly, you’ll see God’s heart. No matter what you’ve done or how you’ve hurt Him, God’s love is faithful, and He longs to redeem you and make you His own. Now that’s a beautiful story.

-Tricia Goyer

Here is the trailer that might help you decide:

https://youtu.be/6Z-0C02cqFo

January 31, 2022 by Tricia Goyer Leave a Comment

The Next-level Journey for Storytellers

Today, I’m excited to share about The Next-level Journey for Storytellers–The Winter Creativity Summit for writers offered by Realm Makers. I attended the Realm Maker’s Conference in 2021 and I was amazed to find such an encouraging, tight-knit community of writers and mentors in the fantasy writing genre. As an author of over 80 books, I know that going the distance is hard. It takes the support of a team and the encouragement of a community to help you make it to the finish line. Let’s talk about how you can grow in community with the Winter Creativity Summit for writers.

The Next-level Journey for Storytellers

Getting started as a writer is one thing. Going the distance… something else entirely. Why do so few authors taste success? And of those who do, why do even less manage to stay creative over time?

This advanced gathering is crafted for the dedicated novelist who has done well… but knows that far more awaits. It’s also a chance for the not-yet-published writer to discover the best foundation for shaping stories and pursuing dreams of becoming a published author.

Allen Arnold created this brand new advanced course to propel serious authors and their stories to the next level. In this fast-paced, interactive summit, you’ll discover ways to:

step deeper into your creativity with the Creator
restore your heart and release your stress
experience exponential growth that keeps your creativity—and readers—buzzing
spot and defeat the blind spots that bog down your success
see your brand and approach to writing with new eyes
embrace your truer calling and maximize its potential

This unique event offers equal parts creative breakthrough and storyteller soul-care. It’s dedicated time to re-chart your future and renew your intimacy with God in the very things that make you come alive.

Visit retreat.realmmakers.com for complete details!

Check out this free webinar, from Realm Makers

Storyteller Soul Care, with Allen Arnold

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cX9c0yQYLIA

January 12, 2022 by Pamela Black 5 Comments

Expert Advice Featuring Rachel Dodge + A Giveaway!

Welcome to our new feature: Expert Advice, where we feature the amazing experts from the Write That Book Club with Tricia Goyer! If you’ve ever wondered about the expert advice our leaders provide, now’s your chance to learn more about the group experts you can connect with as a member of Write That Book Club.

In this episode, we’re featuring Rachel Dodge. Rachel is the bestselling, award-winning author of The Anne of Green Gables Devotional: A Chapter-By-Chapter Companion for Kindred Spirits and Praying with Jane: 31 Days Through the Prayers of Jane Austen.

Her newest book, The Little Women Devotional: A Chapter-by-Chapter Companion to Louisa May Alcott’s Beloved Classic, released December 1, 2021. Learn more about what Rachel brings to the table and be sure to stay tuned to the end of this post for a chance to enter to win a signed copy of The Anne of Green Gables Devotional: A Chapter-By-Chapter Companion for Kindred Spirits plus a bookmark and sticker!

July 31, 2021 by Pamela Black Leave a Comment

The Story Behind A Valley of Betrayal

Today I’m sharing the story behind A Valley of Betrayal. The Spanish Civil War started July 17, 1936, and is widely considered the dress rehearsal for World War II. The history is fascinating and inspired my Spanish Civil War Series which looks through the eyes of those who might have lived through those turbulent times.

The Story Behind A Valley of Betrayal

A few years ago, when I was researching my fourth World War II novel, Arms of Deliverance, I came across a unique autobiography. One B-17 crewmember I read about claimed to make it out of German-occupied Belgium after a plane crash due, in part, to his skills he picked up as a veteran of The Spanish Civil War. Reading that bit of information, I had to scratch my head. First of all, I had never heard of the war. And second, what was an American doing fighting in Spain in the late 1930s? Before I knew it, I uncovered a fascinating time in history—one that I soon discovered many people know little about.

The Story Behind A Valley of Betrayal

Nazi tanks rolled across the hillsides, and German bombers roared overhead, dropping bombs on helpless citizens. Italian troops fought alongside the Germans, and their opponents attempted to stand strong—Americans, British, Irishmen, and others—in unison with other volunteers from many countries. And their battleground? The beautiful Spanish countryside.

From July 17, 1936-April 1, 1939, well before America was involved in World War II, another battle was fought on the hillsides of Spain. On one side were the Spanish Republicans, joined by the Soviet Union and The International Brigade—men and women from all over the world who have volunteered to fight Fascism. Opposing them, Franco and his Fascist military leaders were supported troops, machinery, and weapons from Hitler and Mussolini. The Spanish Civil War, considered the “training ground” for the war to come, boasted of thousands of American volunteers who joined to fight on the Republican side, half of which never returned home.

The Story Behind A Valley of Betrayal

Unlike World War II, there is no clear line between white and black, good and evil. Both sides committed atrocities. Both sides had deep convictions they felt worth fighting and dying for.

Fayon, Spain – July 26, 2014: Recreation of the battle of Fayon ( Zaragoza ), passed during the Spanish Civil War in 1938. In the photography they appreciate groups of soldiers, recreating the above-mentioned battle.

Loyalists

The Loyalists—also know as the Republicans, were aided by the Soviet Union, the Communist movement, and the International Brigades. If not for the weapons and volunteers from these sources, their fight would have ended in weeks rather than years. While many men fought side by side, their political views included liberal democracy, communism, and socialism. The Catholic Basque Country also sided with the Republic, mainly because it sought independence from the central government and was promised this by Republican leaders in Madrid.

Nationalists

The Nationalists, or Francoists, were aided mainly by Germany and Italy. The Nationalists opposed an independent Basque state. Their prominent supporters were those who believed in a monarchist state and fascist interests. The Nationalists wished for Spain to continue as it had for years, with wealthy landowners, the military, and the church running the country. Most of the Roman Catholic clergy supported the Nationalists, except those in the Basque region.

During the Spanish Civil war, terror tactics against civilians were common. And while history books discuss the estimated one million people who lost their lives during the conflict, we must not forget that each of those who fought, who died, had their tales. From visitors to Spain who found themselves caught in the conflict, to the communist supporters, Basque priests, and Nazi airmen each saw this war in a different light. These are the stories behind A Valley of Betrayal.

A Valley of Betrayal

For reasons beyond her control, Sophie finds herself alone in the war-torn Spanish countryside. What was once a thriving paradise has become a battleground for fascist soldiers and Spanish patriots. It doesn’t take long for Sophie to realize just how far from home she really is.

Caught in the middle of what is quickly becoming a bloody battleground, she receives tragic news, but remaining in Spain is her only option. The route to safety is blocked and fighting surrounds her. On her darkest night, Sophie takes refuge with a brigade of international compatriots. It is among these volunteers, through the use of her fiancé’s camera and her art, that she pledges to make the plight of the Spanish people known around the world.

A Valley of Betrayal is book one of a three-book series and is perfect
for women who like reading romantic novels inspired by historical periods, international fiction, or literature inspired by the Spanish Civil War written by Hemingway, Dos Passos, and George Orwell.

If you enjoy A Valley of Betrayal, check out the other books in the series – A Shadow of Treason and A Whisper of Freedom.

June 1, 2021 by Tricia Goyer 1 Comment

Tips and Tricks for the Productive Writer

These Tips and Tricks for the Productive Writer will help you get organized, prioritize, and finally write that book you’ve been dreaming about all your life. As an author of over 80 published books, I have some insight on this subject and now I’m sharing it with you. So let’s get writing!

Tips and Tricks for the Productive Writer

Can I be honest with you? After almost three decades as a writer, (and almost 80 books!) I’ve found what works–and what doesn’t–for me to be productive. In fact, some say I’m one of the most prolific writers they know. While that all seems encouraging and uplifting for me, the truth is I’ve learned lots of “tricks” along the way.

And now, I want to help you Improve Your Writing Productivity by doing what you can, when you can, in the best way you can. And I believe that anyone can use these productivity hacks to get going and finish their best work. That’s why I’m sharing this teaching session from The Sister Circle Event Bundle. This online event is now available through The 2020 Sister Circle Online Event Bundles!

During my session, we tackled:

Choose your friends wisely. Surround yourself with encouraging and inspiring people who believe in your dream.
Consider what you read and what you watch. Is it uplifting, inspiring? (Catching the theme?) Do you feel energized after reading/watching or depressed and drained? (I don’t watch the news for the very reason it fills me with worry and fear.)
Read the Psalms and praise God. Fix your thoughts on Him!
Spend time alone with your spouse. Keep that relationship strong.
Get up and MOVE! I wake up before everyone else and ride my exercise bike for one hour. Just sitting without movement in my day drains me and makes me overwhelmed and tired.
Could you Improve Your Writing Productivity by being present with the people you are with? Yes! Take a break from your smartphone. When my family is around me, my phone is tucked away and I’m fully engaged with them. When they know I’m there for them they are much more supportive of me taking time away to write.
Clean out your emotions. Are you worried about something? Are you sad? Let the emotions out. Sometimes I have a good cry because I miss my son, daughter-in-law, and grandson who live 2,000 miles away. If I try to keep these emotions inside they come out in other ways. I’m gray for weeks and weeks . . . and unproductive.
Get a life coach. I’ve been able to talk through my life with someone who knows how to direct me with questions (and is familiar with the writing business). Without fail, there is some time within each session that I have a “light bulb” moment.
It might seem difficult to ask for help. But it’s one of the ways to Improve Your Writing Productivity that has been a game-changer for me. It’s crazy how often I struggle without even thinking to ask for help. When I ask my husband or kids to make dinner, watch the toddler, or let me run to Panera for a few hours, they are usually happy to oblige. I just need to ask.
Focus on ONE THING. Pray and ask God for the “one thing” that you need to do at that moment. Sometimes it’s writing. Sometimes it’s something completely different, but whatever it is, do it with ALL your heart, serving God as you work! I hope and pray these 10 Unexpected Ways to Improve Your Writing Productivity can help you put in the time and effort needed to finish the book God has called you to write. Your words matter and the world needs to hear them. Don’t let your life pass you by and regret not sharing your message with the world.

And SO MUCH MORE!

While this is not the live experience, this bundle is still packed with practical wisdom to help you navigate the rest of your year well. And the added benefit is hearing me share from my heart in ways you won’t hear anywhere else. I can’t wait for you and I to connect on this important issue of producing the great writing God has called you to create!

Join me, friend! Sign up for The Sister Circle Online Event Bundles here: Sister Circle Event Bundles

Warmly,

Tricia

P.S. In full disclosure, if you purchase a bundle via my link, I’ll receive a commission. That’s one reason why I only recommend events I truly believe in.

April 14, 2021 by Pamela Black Leave a Comment

Are You Ready to Write a Big Sky Novel with Me?

Are You Ready to Write a Big Sky Novel with Me? Are you passionate about writing sweet romance in a unique Amish community, with a meaningful faith arc for your characters? You might be a Sunrise author in the making!

Write a Big Sky Novel with Me

I’m so excited to announce that I’ll be the lead author in Season 4 for Sunrise Publishing! What a great honor and joy it is to join together with them to create new novels for my Big Sky Amish series. Each novel in Season in Sunrise Publishing’s Big Sky Amish Collection will each feature a separate romantic story based in my fictional Montana Amish community of West Kootenai, Montana. The stories will follow a hero and heroine (Amish or otherwise) who eventually find their happily ever after—though not without a little drama and trouble along the way.

I’ll be selecting three Draft Authors to write two stories each (making six total). Each Draft Author will have one book due in 2022 and one book due in 2023 (published in 2023 and 2024, respectively). Each story in Season 4 will be approximately 60,000 words.

Draft Authors may make use of characters and settings in my Big Sky Series and should consider how the story ideas they pitch will fit into the current stories I’ve written. If using a character from my current series as the main POV character, Draft Authors are free to develop backstories as needed.

Though each Draft Author will be given a two-book contract, those who are auditioning only need to submit ONE story idea/proposal to be considered.

Required elements of a strong story proposal are knowledge of Amish life and the elements of writing an Amish romance, as well as light incorporation of my characters and settings from the Big Sky Series.

Beside Still Water

Write a Big Sky Novel with Me

Curious about the Sunrise Publishing deadlines you’d need to adhere to if we agree to work together? Here’s a list of the most important ones for Season 4.

Submissions Close – May 16, 2021

Contracts Offered – June 15, 2021

In-Person Brainstorming Meeting in Minneapolis, MN – September 12-17, 2021*

First Chapter of First Book Due – October 2021

First Three Chapters of First Book Due – November 2021

Full First Book Due –Author 1: May 2022/ Author 2: June 2022 /Author 3: July 2022

*Please note: There will be two in-person brainstorming meetings total, one for each set of three books. However, the only dates that have been set are for Retreat 1. The second retreat will take everyone’s schedules into consideration and will most likely take place in the second half of 2022.

Along Wooded Paths

Are you ready to audition?

An audition for Sunrise Publishing consists of the following information:

Your contact information
A small personal note as to why writing for Sunrise interests you
A short note on your writing schedule and how you plan to meet the deadlines
The proposed premise for your story and what you like about it. Please note, if you have more than one premise idea (not required!), you may include them all in one submission.
A short resume of your writing history (e.g., stories completed and their status, courses taken, conferences attended, awards won, etc.)
A sample of your writing (one scene, 1500-2000 words). Please note, this can be a scene of the proposed premise or not. However, if you are chosen to move on to the final round of auditions, you will be asked to submit a scene with your proposed premise.

In order to prepare the best audition possible, first carefully read all of the information under the For Writers tab.

Take Me to the Audition Page!

Beyond Hope’s Valley

Write a Big Sky Novel with Me

Sunrise Publishing was FB LIVE as they introduced me as the Season 4 Lead Author. I loved chatting with Publishing Director Susan May Warren about what we are looking for in our Big Sky Amish authors, the submission process, deadlines, and more.

You can watch our FB Live video below.

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=454502698965960

So, what do you say? Are you ready to write a Big Sky Novel with me?

February 10, 2021 by Tricia Goyer 1 Comment

A Time to Forgive ~Flash Fiction

There’s a time for everything under the sun–including a time to forgive. In this flash fiction piece, I explore how forgiveness comes when we share our stories. This Black History Month I feel honored to be a guide sharing a tour of the location of the 1957 riot at Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas–my home. It is my hope that this speaks to you and gives you insight into the struggles that faced our nation during that turbulent time and how grace might come through facing our past and asking for forgiveness.

A Time to Forgive

There were nine—the Little Rock Nine. And Linda needed to ask their forgiveness

Linda sat in the passenger’s seat and stared in awe at the buildings passing by the window. Her heartbeat quickened, and her jaw dropped open. “Oh wow! I never thought everything would look the same.”

Her daughter, Tracey, glanced over from the passenger’s seat. “Everything?”

“Well, not everything, but so many of these buildings. They’ve spruced up a bit, but I’d recognize this city anywhere.”

“Yes, that’s why I wanted to stay near the older part of town last night. I remember you saying you lived not far from Main Street.”

Linda sighed. “Yes, too bad our house isn’t there anymore. Although, it wasn’t anything special to look at even then. My dad was a butcher. He brought home the bacon but not much else. Still, we were thankful for what we had.”

Linda’s hands folded on her lap, and she wondered how long they’d be staying in Little Rock. She’d been happy to join her daughter Tracey on the drive from Chicago to her new home in Dallas after a job transfer. Linda had assumed that they’d drive through Oklahoma—that was the shortest route, but she’d been surprised to find herself in the city where she’d spent most of her teen years.

“I know you went to high school there, Mom,” Tracey had explained as she planned the detour. “I thought we could take half a day to drive around your old stomping grounds. You can tell me all the juicy stories.” Tracey had chuckled.

Linda had smiled then, but she couldn’t fake a smile now—no matter how hard she tried. Usually, she was an open book, but not this time. When she’d turned twenty, she’d been happy to leave Little Rock, her high school years, and all the memories. For all her life she’d been known as a good Christian woman, but if anyone knew how she’d acted in 1957, they would have been shocked. She took a deep breath and just hoped that she wouldn’t have to walk through the door to those memories today.

“So, what are we going to do?” Linda asked. “I used to love to go downtown and have a picnic on the river. I imagine that area’s been spruced up.”

Tracey turned onto a road that Linda didn’t remember, called Daisy Bates Drive. “Actually, I was looking online and there’s supposed to be an interesting museum at Central High School. I think there was some type of big issue with desegregation. Didn’t you go to school around here at that time?”

Before Linda knew how to answer, the GPS told them to turn into a parking lot, and immediately she knew where she was. The small museum was across the street from an old Mobile gas station that appeared to have been frozen in time. And across from that, Central High School. A hundred memories came flashing back when Linda spotted it. Some of them were good, but the dark cloud of September 23, 1957, hovered over them all.

Tracey parked the car. A hand touched Linda’s.

“Mom, are you alright. You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

Tears filled Linda’s eyes. “Tracey, there’s something I need to tell you. Something I haven’t told you before.”

“Mom, what is it?”

“We’re going to go into this museum, and you’re going to hear about how police escorted nine African-American students to the school—for their first day at Central—and how an angry mob with 1,000 white protesters and the National Guard blocked the way. So much rioting happened that the police had to lead the African-Americans away.”

Images of faces distorted with anger filled her mind’s ear. The roar of hate-filled voices echoed in her memories.

“So you were there, Mom? You remember it?”

Linda reached over and grabbed Tracey’s hand. “Honey, I was one of those protestors. I was only a sophomore myself. And in my mind’s eye, I was screaming more than anyone.”

Tracey’s breath caught in her throat. “Oh, Mom, why didn’t you tell me?”

“Honestly, I was afraid of what you’d think of me.”

“Mom, all of us do things we regret.” She turned in her seat to face Linda. “We can leave. We don’t have to go in.”

“Actually, I think we do. I think we’re here for a reason. God put this on your mind for a purpose. This is a part of my heart I’ve been trying to hide for too long.”

A Time to Forgive

Linda’s knees felt week as she walked through the front door of the museum. They walked side-by-side for a while, looking at the displays. Photos, audio, newsreels, all told the story of racial segregation and the events leading up to the Little Rock School Crisis.

The school crisis started with the 1954 Supreme Court ruling stating that segregated schools were unconstitutional. Linda hadn’t paid much attention to the ruling until the summer before her sophomore year. That’s when she heard that there would be black students coming to her school. Even then, she hadn’t given it any more thought until she got to school. Then the more others talked about it, the angrier she grew. Why couldn’t her state, her school, decide for itself who could and who couldn’t enter their school?

Linda was so lost in her thoughts that she didn’t hear the woman approach, placing a hand on your arm. “Ma’am, we’re going to be giving a tour of the school in five minutes if you’d like to join us.”

“Yes, I’d like that.” She turned to Tracey. “Will you come with me?”

Tracey’s eyes were filled with questions. “Yes, of course, but are you sure?”

Linda nodded, and soon she found herself walking through the same front doors she had as a teenager. She listened as the national park’s tour guide told the story, and knots tightened in her stomach.

“Who would do that?” one teenager on the tour commented. “I mean people are people, right?”

And, as they walked to the memorial across the street, Linda knew she had to speak.

A Time to Forgive

“May I say something?” Linda raised her hand. Then standing there, before the small group of people, she told her story. She told about how she’d let others’ hatred pile into her own heart. She shared how much being a follower had caused others pain. Linda swallowed down her emotion as she finished. Then she waited. She expected condemning words, but instead, she noticed compassion in the gazes of those around her.

“That’s brave of you to come here,” one man said. “I’m sure it wasn’t easy.”

“No, it wasn’t but I only wish that I could go back. I wish …” She sighed. “I wish I could ask their forgiveness.”

Then, with a knowing smile, the tour guide approached her. “Why don’t you write a letter? I know some of the Little Rock Nine. It’s not a club they ever wanted to be, but they’ve used their platform to impact others in positive ways. I’d be happy to pass it along.”

“Really?”

“Yes, and include your return address. You never know if one of them will return a note.”

Linda nodded and crossed her arms over her chest. Tracey approached a placed an arm around her shoulders. “I’m proud of you, Mom, for sharing your story.”

“Thank you,” she whispered, “for bringing me here. God knew I needed to get this off my chest.” She wiped a stray tear that threatened to break through. “I’m not sure exactly what I’m going to write, but I know the first sentence: Will you forgive me? And just knowing I can have the chance to write those words has lifted a huge boulder of burdens off my heart.”

A Time to Forgive

Our country needs healing. If you want to reach out in grace towards others and want ideas for how to help bridge the race divide in our country then you might want to read these posts as well:

YOU can be the answer to the race problem

Honoring Black History Month

How to Bring About Racial Reconciliation- Wisdom and Resources

Join me on a Free Virtual Tour of Little Rock!

Want to learn more and see the site of this historical landmark? Join me on a LIVE tour of Little Rock on Wednesday, February 10th at 2:00 pm or Friday, February 12th at 2:00 pm with www.virtualtrips.io

https://www.virtualtrips.io/tours/little-rock-riverside-park

The tour shows Little Rock as being on the pathway for the Trail of Tears. On this trail, the Cherokee, Choctaw, Creek, Chickasaw, and Seminole tribes traveled through the state in the 1830s to new lands in the Indian Territory in modern-day Oklahoma. Visitors will also see a Civil War river crossing location. This tour will take place in Riverside Park, visiting local landmarks and markers. These include an Indian head carving, a Civil War marker, and a historical sculpture garden. We’ll also see the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge, and the tour will end in Downtown Little Rock for a glimpse of the city.

The tour is free and but accepts tips. I hope you’ll join me for this fun and informative tour of Little Rock.

A Time to Forgive was originally published in Mature Living Magazine, September 2017

October 29, 2020 by Tricia Goyer Leave a Comment

How to Ruin Your Writing Day

If you want to know How to Ruin Your Writing Day look no further–there’s always something to distract you from the job at hand. Don’t let the things on this list pull you away from writing the book God has called you to write. You can have a great writing day if you avoid these pitfalls and stay focused.

How to Ruin Your Writing Day

1. Look at the New York Times bestseller list. Or better yet the top ten Christian books. Consider how happy those authors’ publishers are and how much more effective they are at spreading the good news of Jesus.

2. Compare your daily word count with those folks that write a new book every month.

3. Pick up that Pulitzer prize-winning novel. Read it side by side with your most recent offering.

4. Look through other authors’ websites and compare them to yours. Especially note those that have flash video and cool gadgets.

How to Ruin Your Writing Day

5. Start editing the book you just finished. Tell yourself you’re not going to turn it in until everything is perfect.

6. Put together your ideal media/publicity package that you’ll pour money into once your book hits the New York Times Best-seller list.

7. Read Amazon reviews, especially everything under 4-stars.

8. Picture your book as a movie. Pick out who would represent your characters. Imagine how sales numbers will skyrocket when it’s released.

How to Ruin Your Writing Day

9. Do your taxes. Make income goals. Read your royalty statements.

10. Stare at the blank page.

As you can see there are plenty of ways to ruin your writing day. So, how do you keep from destroying the day you’ve set aside to honor God with your work? For starters–don’t stress. Don’t let the enemy take control of your mindset. You are valuable and loved just as you are, where you are. God isn’t asking for perfection. He’s asking for obedience. If you feel the call to write then do just that–write. Don’t look past the page at editing, publishing, numbers, or all the other things that are possible “next steps.”

How Not to Ruin Your Writing Day

1. One of the best ways I know to get focused and functioning as a writer is to focus on God first. Start with prayer. Ask God to bless your writing day and to help you honor Him. Ask Him to give you the words He would have you write. You aren’t responsible for the Inspiration, just the perspiration. Don’t let the weight of the task wear you down. Remember, God is with you and He is faithful to more than we can ask or imagine.

2. Need words? Get in the Word! It doesn’t matter whether I’m writing fiction or non-fiction, scripture has light for my path. All scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, preaching, and instruction in the ways of the Lord. Let God speak to you directly through His Word and you can be sure the message you share is His.

3. Be present. As much as is possible, set up your writing time to be free from distractions. Turn off the cell phone or television. If you can write without others in the room then do that. Sometimes that’s not possible as a mom. Can you find another mom to swap out a morning or afternoon with? Could you designate an hour during naptime to sit down quietly with your words? Even allowing the kids to watch a short video or play on the swingset in the yard for thirty minutes is one step closer. Remember, obedience over perfection. Take the small increments of time and use what you can.

There are a million ways to fail, but the best way to succeed is to stay determined and never give up. Of course, there will be good and bad days. We all experience that. Don’t let the shortcomings you see cloud the bigger picture of what God wants to do in and through you. When I feel discouraged here is a scripture I cling to:

“And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.”

Philippians 1:6 NLT

The Write Community

Is it time to find the right community to support your writing dreams and goals? Then the Write That Book Club is just what you’re looking for. You know making your writing dreams become a reality is tough. You have ideas but you wonder if any of them are good and you have no idea how to connect with agents and editors, and what in the world is a book proposal anyway?

I’m here to help. And I’ve invited some of my friends to help you too. They are professional agents, editors, authors, and marketing and publicity team members. They’re the best of the best in the Christian publishing industry. Together we want to help you reach your dreams.

It’s all here in Write That Book. This premier group provides education, inspiration, and connection with other writers and experts. Learn all the tricks of the trade while getting your personal questions answered.

Over thirty experts will be available throughout the month to answer your questions. Their decades of experience will be at your fingertips. They not only want to help you, they also want to get to know you better. After all, your words might just be the ones they’re looking for!

I explain it all in this short video:

writing

1. State your dreams … and keep asking your child about hers.

2. Take time to be delighted … and encourage your kids to delight in who God made them.

3. Take baby steps toward your dreams… and watch your kids follow.

What you need to know …

Writers, do not give up. Here is what you need to do …

Resources on Prayer:

Resources on Publishing on Kindle:

Resource on Self-Publishing

Happy Writing!

Does Your Teen Dream of Becoming an Author?

My Review of the Movie Redeeming Love

Hosea’s life was a prophecy to the people of Israel, a statement that although God will bring judgment to sin, He will also always bring His people back to Himself through His love. The cycle of repentance, redemption, and restoration is evident in this story.

My Review of the Movie Redeeming Love

When it comes to people speaking against this movie, their main concern is the sexual content, and I want to address that. (Let me remind you, this story is about a prostitute!)

“To deny the positive sexual experience is to accept the negative.”

True love, God’s love, can bring healing to the darkest of places.

The Next-level Journey for Storytellers

Allen Arnold created this brand new advanced course to propel serious authors and their stories to the next level. In this fast-paced, interactive summit, you’ll discover ways to:

The Story Behind A Valley of Betrayal

The Story Behind A Valley of Betrayal

The Story Behind A Valley of Betrayal

Loyalists

Nationalists

A Valley of Betrayal

Tips and Tricks for the Productive Writer

Choose your friends wisely. Surround yourself with encouraging and inspiring people who believe in your dream.

Read the Psalms and praise God. Fix your thoughts on Him!

Write a Big Sky Novel with Me

Write a Big Sky Novel with Me

Are you ready to audition?

Write a Big Sky Novel with Me

A Time to Forgive

Linda sighed. “Yes, too bad our house isn’t there anymore. Although, it wasn’t anything special to look at even then. My dad was a butcher. He brought home the bacon but not much else. Still, we were thankful for what we had.”

“So, what are we going to do?” Linda asked. “I used to love to go downtown and have a picnic on the river. I imagine that area’s been spruced up.”

“Mom, are you alright. You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

“So you were there, Mom? You remember it?”

A Time to Forgive

Linda was so lost in her thoughts that she didn’t hear the woman approach, placing a hand on your arm. “Ma’am, we’re going to be giving a tour of the school in five minutes if you’d like to join us.”

And, as they walked to the memorial across the street, Linda knew she had to speak.

A Time to Forgive

“That’s brave of you to come here,” one man said. “I’m sure it wasn’t easy.”

A Time to Forgive

Join me on a Free Virtual Tour of Little Rock!

How to Ruin Your Writing Day

How to Ruin Your Writing Day

How to Ruin Your Writing Day

How Not to Ruin Your Writing Day

“And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.”

Philippians 1:6 NLT

The Write Community