Tuesday Tip: How Short is Too Short?

Tuesday Tip

So, you're stuck on your current work in progress and ready to give up on writing. Perhaps it's time for a change of pace. Consider writing a short story.

A short story is a fictional tale, limited setting, and one major event. It is intended to be read in a single sitting. They are generally under 1000 words. Some people create a number of related short stories and compile them into a novella. There is even a category called micro-fiction, where the word count is under 100 words.

Another popular trend is "flash fiction." These stories are between 250-1000 words. They are particularly popular in the science fiction genre, as they are just short enough to leave the reader with questions to ponder.

All of these are options to consider if you are feeling stuck or have a limited amount of time to write.

March Featured Book #2 … And a GIVEAWAY!

Before sharing my review, here's a bit of information from Lee.

A Word from Lee …

Greetings! Lee Tobin McClain here, giving some background on my latest novel for Love Inspired. Engaged to the Single Mom comes from a couple of pretty deep places in my heart.

First, I'm a single mom myself. And while my situation is not in any way as challenging as my heroine's —I have a home, a job, and a healthy child — it's still hard to raise a child alone. Worries and struggles loom larger when there's no one to share them. At the end of a long day, there's no one but you to kill the spiders, repair the furnace, and calm the juvenile emotional storms. You're forced to rely on your own inner resources and on the Lord.

Though single parenting is a difficult path, there are so many blessings along the way. Most of the single moms I know have grown into strong, resourceful people because of the difficult path they've taken. And most of us are very close to our children. My daughter is the best part of my life, and raising her well is worth any difficulties I face along the way.

So my novel features a single mom. With all of Angelica's struggles, and with how adorable her son Xavier is, you really want them to catch a break … especially a break in the form of handsome veterinarian Troy Hinton! It's my hope that readers will be rooting for these three to form a family as much as I was. Of course, as the author, I had to put them through all kinds of challenges first!

The other reason this book hits close to home for me is its focus on dogs. I love animals, and my little senior rescue dog is my best friend. Dogs never have a bad day, they're always glad to see you, and they have hearts full of love. I think everyone would be happier if they'd adopt a rescue dog! So writing a story about a whole farm full of rescue dogs was a joy. I'm especially fond of Bull, Troy's old bulldog who faces his own challenges during Engaged to the Single Mom. And good news: if you like Bull and the dog rescue farm, stay tuned for book two of the series; they'll be back in early 2016.

Meanwhile, consider taking a look at my website to learn about my independently – published series. The Sacred Bond novels feature heroic, passionate former delinquents who grow up to be heroes. You can download a book one for free, and if you like that, sign up for my newsletter for another exclusive freebie!

Thanks for letting me be on the blog, Leslie! If your readers comment today, let's enter them into a drawing for a copy of Engaged to the Single Mom, okay?

Sure thing, Lee! Just for commenting, you can be entered into the drawing to win an electronic copy of Engaged to the Single Mom. Leave an email address in your comment, which must be posted by March 31, 2015. I will do a random drawing and contact the winner at the beginning of April.

My review…

Single mother Angelica Camden is struggling to do her best for her son Xavier, who has leukemia. She needs to find a house, a job, and a father figure for him. She reluctantly takes a job with local veterinarian, and her ex, Troy Hinton. She broke their engagement after a devastating event, which she never shared with him. Troy believes her to be disloyal, but he needs the help so he hires her for the sake of Xavier. Troy loves his job, but longs for a family. Xavier longs for a father. Would a marriage for Xavier’s sake be possible? Can they learn to trust each other? How will things change when Angelica’s secret is revealed? The author makes a solid Love Inspired debut. At only six years of age, Xavier is a strong character who will tug at the reader’s heartstrings. Angelica demonstrates that it is possible for one to keep their faith through life’s struggles. Overall, this is a heart-wrenching, yet sweet, tale of trust, hope, and second chances.

To connect with Lee…

Website/Newsletter: http://www.leetobinmcclain.com

Tuesday Tip: Make Time Your Friend

Mother Teresa stated, "Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin." 

Everyone must figure out the best way to make use of the little time we are given, and writers are no exception. There never seems to be enough time. We are spread so thin, between being a parent, a child, an employee, or whatever roles we are called to play.

So, how can you find more time in your day for writing? Here are some suggestions:

1. Schedule It: In order to be sure that it is a priority for your day, schedule time for writing.If you treat it like an appointment, you will be less likely to push it off for unexpected events that occur.It may be easier to schedule a set amount of time for the entire week, so that way there is some flexibility on a day-to-day basis.
2. Eliminate Time Wasters: This could include decreasing the amount of time spend on social media, watching television, running errands, or even household chores (though you will need to do those at some point!).While you do need downtime in your day, you may be wasting more time than you realize.
3. Writing Corner: Designate a specific place to write. This could be a room or corner in your house, or it could be the local coffee shop. Choose whatever works best for you.
4. Use Your Time Wisely: Don't be overly focused on achieving a set word count every day. The most important thing is to write. And if you happen to be stuck, remember that any writing is better than none. Write a letter to a friend or even a shopping list. Just write!

The important thing is to make your writing a priority. If you don't, no one else will either.

March Featured Book #1

Before sharing my review, here's a bit of information from Amy.

A Word from Amy...

I think most writers would agree that any truly heartfelt story draws at least some inspiration from people and events which have touched their lives. Then Sings My Soul is no exception. I braided three of my passions together to create this story: my work as a registered nurse caring for elderly patients and their families; my grandfather, who was a savant hobby lapidarist and died a month shy of his 95th birthday; and my love for the people of Ukraine (where my ancestors are from). I wanted to reveal the hope that exists in an often forgotten segment of the population — the elderly — while at the same time show how God moves steadfast and unchanging, but also unexpectedly, through our lives. I incorporated these things into the story of 94-year-old Jakob quite like the way a lapidarist goes about his craft, through the ugly, even filthy beginnings of a raw stone, to the cutting and angling of the different facets of a gem, and eventually to the shine and brilliance of the finished piece. I developed quite a crush on Jakob as I wrote, and I think — I hope — readers will find courage in his often painful but ultimately triumphant journey. So many times we cannot see God in the midst of our journeys. As Jakob and his daughter Nel navigate what seem like overwhelming loneliness and endings, they find that God never left them, and that he is working on and through all of our stories, always. (A note to readers: the blue gemstone on the cover is one my grandfather actually faceted! There is an explanation of this very special stone in the back of the book.)

My review...

Nel Stewart returns home after the death of her mother to help care for her father, Jakob, who is suffering from dementia and a broken hip. Nel feels she failed her parents by not being there and plans to remedy that, even if it costs her a relationship with her boyfriend. Jakob is carrying a lifetime of shame and guilt and does not want to be a burden on anyone. He agrees to share his story with Nel after she discovers information regarding his brother and a life in the Ukraine that she knew nothing about. Will learning about her father’s past bring healing and a renewed relationship for them? Told in alternating time periods and viewpoints, Sorrells deftly tackles a difficult to read topic in a raw yet gentle way. Sensory details, lyrical prose, and dramatic scenes wrap the reader as the story unfolds. The horrors associated with Eastern Europe in the early 20^th century are skillfully balanced with present-day hope. The religious aspect does not overwhelm, instead exemplifying people relying on God, His amazing grace, and His unconditional love. This book is one to read in a thoughtful manner (and not just skim) so that the descriptions can be fully appreciated and understood. The characters will stay with you long after the final page.

To Connect with Amy...

Join Amy and her stories in the following locations:

Website: http://amysorrells.wordpress.com
Email: aksorrells@gmail.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/amysorrells
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-K-Sorrells/265415650723

Instagram: http://instagram.com/amyksorrells/
Sign up for my newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/EBFPT
Amazon Author Page: http://amazon.com/author.amysorrells
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6999533.Amy_K_Sorrells
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/amysorrells/

Tuesday Tip: Overused Words

Tuesday Tip

When writing, you can do yourself, and your editor, a favor by eliminating some overused words. There are some that are universally overused, and these should be replaced with fresher ideas. Here are some to avoid when possible:

wonderful                                               amazing

it                                                             literally

really                                                      very

exactly                                                    actually

stuff                                                       things

whatever                                                 seriously

bad                                                         fine

suddenly                                                 probably

good                                                       happy

Every writer has key words that they fall back on at times. Look back over your writing and see if you can identify other words to add to this list. In the long run, your readers will thank you. And so will your editor.

February Featured Book #2

Before sharing my review, here's a bit of information from Lisa.

A Word from Lisa...

     In MANHUNT, Eric has been transferred to a team of US Marshals who catch wanted fugitives, which is a far cry from his ‘calling’ as a WITSEC handler. He’s unhappy, and questioning if this can be God’s will for him. Hailey is his partner on the Marshals’ team, a single mom determined to keep her work and home lives separate. It was so much fun to throw all kinds of crazy situations—a devastating flood, an escaped fugitive and an unsolved theft from years ago—at Eric and Hailey, just to keep them guessing about how they were going to get out of it!

     My next LIS book EASY PREY features Jonah Rivers, Eric and Hailey’s team leader. Easy Prey is coming fall 2015!

  

My Review...

MANHUNT by Lisa Phillips: After a felon they are transporting escapes, US Marshals Eric Hanning and Hailey Shelder are on high alert. The duo has butted heads in the past, but this time they must work together. Eric has recently been transferred out of WITSEC, and he is not impressed to be sent to a small town in Oregon to apprehend a fugitive. As a single mother, Hailey has no time for romance. When her 12 year old daughter is almost kidnapped, Eric and Hailey find their bond strengthening. It is likely that the escaped felon is linked to stolen jewels, and that Hailey’s ex-husband is somehow involved. It appears that someone believes Hailey is involved, too. When the felon vows to seek revenge, many people will be placed in danger, including her daughter. Can they trust the members of their own team to help keep them safe?  An escaped fugitive, a flood, dirty cops, an ex-husband, and an unsolved theft combine to create intense action that begins early on in this page turner. Hailey is a strong, determined character. Eric will be familiar for readers of other books in the series. The romance and faith elements do not overwhelm. There is a good buildup of suspense, vivid imagery, and lots of close calls to engage the reader.

To Connect with Lisa...

You can find me at www.authorlisaphillips.com where you can sign up for my mailing list, and find out what’s Coming Next.

You can also find me on Instagram and Twitter @lisaphillipsbks and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/LisaPhillipsNataliaGortova

Tuesday Tip: Inspiration

Tuesday Tip

Inspiration can hit when you least expect it, so be sure to carry a notepad (or have a note-taking app on your cell phone). Inspiration could strike while standing in line or sitting in a doctor's office. These are perfect opportunities for you to take note of your environment. However, if you are looking for more ideas on how to find inspiration for your next story, here are a few suggestions:

1. Read: Try branching out from what you typically read. It may inspire you to try something new in your own writing.
2. Conversation: Sometimes you just can't help overhear conversations. You may find an interesting snippet that could be the basis for your next story.
3. Movies:  There are numerous songs and stories based off of a line or scene from a movie.
4. Writing Groups: Brainstorming with other writers could lead to new ideas.
5. Nature: Stepping outside and enjoying God's creation can be extremely inspiring.
6. Dreams: Keep a notebook beside your bed and jot down what you remember.Perhaps these can be worked into your next story.
7. The Dictionary:  Randomly open it up and choose a word.Do some free associating and see what you come up with.
8. Free writing:For five minutes, sit and write about anything and everything that pops into your mind.Don't try to edit it, just let the words flow.
9. Change Your Scenery or Routine:  Something as simple as changing your location can give you a different perspective and possibly fresh ideas.
10. Try Different Creative Outlets: For instance, paint, sing, or dance. Doing something different, yet also creative, could inspire you in a new way.

February Featured Book #1

I was fortunate enough to interview Shelley at the ACFW convention in St. Louis, MO on September 26, 2014. You can read our interview at http://www.rtbookreviews.com/blog/81657/author-qa-shelley-shepard-gray-talks-amish-fiction-self-publishing-and-more

Before sharing my review, here's a bit of information from Shelley.

A Word from Shelley…

     I'm so excited about this year's series, "The Amish Brides of Pinecraft"! Ever since I discovered that Pinecraft was an Amish snowbird and vacation community located in the heart of Sarasota, I yearned to set a series of novels there.

     Last year, after my editor approved the location, my husband and I took a trip down south to Sarasota. We went at the end of February, and I have to admit that I was as anxious to go on a research trip as I was to get warm! Everything had been gray and snowy here in Southern Ohio for months.

     One fun coincidence that happened was that my Amish friends from Sugarcreek just happened to be vacationing in Pinecraft at the same time. My husband and I spent an afternoon with them one day. They were so gracious! They took time to show us all of the sites. Before long, I was completely charmed by the area. The buildings are quaint and lined by sidewalks. Palm trees and flowers were everywhere, many Amish and Mennonites rode red bicycles, and everyone seemed to be in a happy, relaxed frame of mind.

     I couldn't wait to begin writing the series!

     I decided to make up the Orange Blossom Inn and have it serve as the home base for all four books in the series. I created the character of Beverly Overholt. She owns the inn and hosts most of the main characters in the books. After that, I got to work on plots for each book.

     The series begins with The Promise of Palm Grove. In this book, Leona Weaver must decide whether to hold tight to past choices she's made or take a chance on the promise of what could be. I hope everyone enjoys her story as much as I enjoyed writing it.

My Review…

THE PROMISE OF PALM GROVE by Shelley Shepard Gray: Amish friends Leona, Sara, and Mattie arrive at a B&B in Florida for a two-week vacation before Leona’s marriage to Edmund. While Leona believes Edmund to be a “gut” man, she has doubts about spending the rest of her life with him. As a result, their relationship has been strained recently. She is concerned about sharing this revelation with her friends for fear of their reaction. Local Amish man Zachary Kaufman is the opposite of Edmund. After spending a brief period of time with Zachary, Leona remembers the feelings of joy that have been missing in her life. She begins to experience a sense of peace. Will Leona follow her heart or her sense of duty, as she has committed herself to Edmund? This is the first installment in the "Amish Brides of Pinecraft" series. There are a number of intriguing secondary characters who will hopefully be featured in upcoming sequels. The flow is even and doesn’t feel rushed, giving the reader time to really enjoy the characters. Vibrant descriptions and details bring the plot to life in this heartwarming tale of new beginnings and renewal. In fact, the reader may find themselves wanting to book their own trip to Pinecraft.

To Connect with Shelley…

Readers can find me at: http://www.shelleyshepardgray.com/

Or on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/ShelleyShepardGray

Or follow me on Twitter @ShelleySGray

Tuesday Tip : Write Daily

"On writing, my advice is the same to all. If you want to be a writer,write. Write and write and write. If you stop, start again. Save everything that you write. If you feel blocked, write through it until you feel your creative juices flowing again. Write. Writing is what makes a writer, nothing more and nothing less." — Anne Rice

"Just write a little bit every day. Even if it's only for half an hour —write, write, write." — Madeleine L'Engle

Tuesday Tip

If you want to be a writer, it is important to make writing a daily habit. It should become as natural to you as breathing. Don’t worry about editing, just write. While every attempt may not be a best-selling book, it is important to keep plugging away. Strive for at least one complete page per day, even if it is just daily observations. For some, long-term goals can seem a bit daunting. Stay focused on short-term goals and you will keep your writing, and career, on track. Once you finish a short-term goal, aim for a new one. It is important to continue plugging away, even when the going gets tough and you want to quit. Look for friends or other writers to connect with who will encourage you on a regular basis.

Here are a few tips:

• Make a date with yourself…daily. If needed, write it in your planner or cell phone calendar. Start with a small amount of time at first and build on it throughout the year.
• Have a designated space for writing, whether it’s at your house or the local Starbucks.
• Disconnect during this time. No Facebook updates or tweets. This is your time to write.

January Featured Book #2

January Featured Book #2

Before sharing my review, here's a bit of information from Chris.

A Word from Chris…

Richard Ramsey wrote a screenplay that was made into a film. They had Bible studies created and resources for small groups. But they didn't have a novel, so they asked me to create one. I took the screenplay and the film and with that skeleton wrote around the story, asking questions, filling in information that the film couldn't include. I had a blast doing this. Richard told me early on that he was open to my creative abilities and he let me "sling the cat," as he called it, around the room. So I did. I think the book really adds to the film but doesn't take away from the story.

For example, we are able to go into the backstory of Rose's mother, a relationship she has with a girlfriend, the inner-workings of her home life, and much more. I usually come up with all the plot points and create the "world" of my fiction, but this was a different discipline. I was able to get into someone else's world and play in the world already created.

This book/film is really a response to the whole "50 Shades of Grey" phenomenon. One of the main questions dealt with is romance and sexuality in the context of a Christian marriage. I know that was at the forefront of the sermon series crafted by Pastor Kyle Idleman.

My Review…

THE SONG By Chris Fabry: Jed King grew up in the shadow of his famous father and hopes to follow in his father’s musical footsteps. His father’s mistakes influenced his life. On his deathbed, Jed’s father encouraged his love of music, as well as following God. He wanted Jed to learn from the mistakes he had made and have a better life for himself. Jed struggles to get his career off the ground, so he accepts a gig at a local festival. There, he has a chance meeting with Rose Jordan. His career soars from the song he pens about Rose. It was love at first sight. Rose is a simple, hard-working girl, not equipped for life on the road. Rose wants to stay in her hometown. Wild child Shelby Bale joins Jed on his tour and sets her sights on him, no matter the cost. As fame builds, Jed is spending more and more time away from home and his family. He has a strong faith, but the road and Shelby cause him to lose himself along the way. Will he be able to keep his promises to Rose as temptation builds? There is so much to love about “The Song,” which is written in two parts and based on “The Song of Songs.” Fabry uses the words of Solomon to demonstrate love, as intended by God. The prose is expressive and engaging, and song lyrics are integrated to advance the story. Detailed descriptions make the reader a part of the story. Biblically based marital advice reminds the reader that temptations will arise, but love is a commitment. Heart-wrenching and emotional scenes abound in this tale of fame, fortune, loss, and redemption. 

To Connect with Chris…

Chris Fabry is an award-winning author and radio personality who hosts the daily program Chris Fabry Live! on Moody Radio. He is also heard on Love Worth Finding, Building Relationships with Dr. Gary Chapman, and other radio programs. A 1982 graduate of the W. Page Pitt School of Journalism at Marshall University and a native of West Virginia, Chris and his wife, Andrea, now live in Arizona and are the parents of nine children.

Chris' novels, which include Dogwwood, June Bug, Almost Heaven, Not in the Heart, Borders of the Heart, and his latest release, Every Waking Moment, have won three Christy Awards and an ECPA Christian Book Award, but it's his lyrical prose and tales of redemption that keep readers returning for more.

He has also published more than 65 other books, including nonfiction and novels for children and young adults. He co-authored the Left Behind: The Kids series with Jerry B. Jenkins and Tim LaHaye, as well as the Red Rock Mysteries and The Wormling series with Jerry B. Jenkins. RPM is his latest series for kids and explores the exciting world of NASCAR.

You can find Chris online at http://chrisfabry.com