Interview: Author and Prayer-Warrior, Cherie Hill

I remember running across Cherie's blog a couple years ago. She was a kindred spirit. Her insightful articles about the truths of God's Word had me returning to her blog every time she posted. Her commitment to praying for me convinced me that she took her ministry seriously. Today I have the privilege of hosting author and prayer-warrior, Cherie Hill! Join me in welcoming her!
  

Maria: Welcome to Life Lessons, Cherie! Tell us a bit about yourself:

Cherie: Thank you for this opportunity Maria! I love how Life Lessons connects us with others in the world working to fulfill God’s purposes in their lives! It encourages me greatly!

There’s an old me, that lived by the flesh, longing for what only the world gives, and there’s the “new” me that lives on Living Water alone, after meeting Jesus at the well. But some things don’t change even through that encounter:  I’m a homeschooling mom of two boys, wife, and most importantly, devoted servant to the Lord. 

My favorite times are those when I get one on one with God in the great outdoors, so I’m thrilled beyond belief that our family is currently in the process of moving to Colorado! My joy is helping others to hear God’ voice, through His Word, via my ministry ScriptureNow.com

Maria: Congratulations on your upcoming move! How did you get started as a writer?

Cherie: I can honestly say that I’ve never aspired to be a writer. I’m having a hard time convincing myself that I am one! LOL 

Truly, literally it started in the wee morning hours as I sought the Lord in the depths of emptiness. I met Jesus at the well when my life had been emptied and there was nothing left. It was there that He offered me Living Water and I began to be filled with His Truth. I’d been believing lies for far too long―He refreshed and renewed my soul and then asked me to step out in faith and begin a ministry called “ScriptureNow.”

The purpose is simple: connect people around the world with God’s Word. As prayer requests poured in, God’s Spirit began to speak to me, and I began to write. I have truly known what it is like to experience His heart flow in and out of my own. The joy is overwhelming.

Maria: Wow -- now that's encouraging! How has your relationship with Jesus Christ impacted your writing?

Cherie: My relationship with Jesus IS my writing. My writing comes from sitting daily at His feet. My books are mostly revelations of my own inner walk of faith displayed in my books. What I've found is that my own struggles with faith are no different than those of others around the world. I've discovered that what God has spoken to my heart has a dramatic impact on the hearts of others. As God has encouraged and strengthened my heart, it is through my writings that I have been able to encourage and strengthen others.

Maria: Awesome! Give us a sneak peek into your upcoming release:

Cherie: My latest release will be published by Dec. 10^th 2012. I am incredibly excited about this book as its message is one that is powerful and can have a life transforming effect on the reader. The title, “empty.” says it all. I’m continually hearing, through my ministry, the cries of emptiness within people around the world. They thirst, they’re dehydrated, life has drained them dry, and they are desperate. The purpose of the book’s message is to lead people to Living Water, the only thing that satisfies the soul.

Maria: Sounds fantastic! And SO timely - what a wonderful gift to give this Christmas season: an introduction to the Savior.

With the many demands on your time, I understand you've started your own publishing services. What do you offer?

Cherie: This has been an amazing turn in my journey of life. I never anticipated offering publishing services until I began to have other Christian authors reaching out to me for help. I have experienced great success through the Amazon.com CreateSpace and Kindle Direct Publishing programs. I have learned “tricks of the trade,” and have enabled other authors to catapult their books into BestSeller and Hot New Releases lists on Amazon. I offer full paperback and ebook editing and formatting as well as professional cover design and synopsis writing. It is a great joy to help others to fulfill God’s purposes for their lives through their writings! My publishing services website is:

http://www.WriteSourcePublishingServices.com

Maria: You're a wealth of information Cherie! What advice would you give a first-time author?

Cherie: Before publishing, talk to me. : ) The publishing industry has been turned upside down, and that is a true benefit for authors. I have seen authors who were turned down hundreds of times by traditional publishers, now able to make sizeable mortgage payments through Amazon.  Amazon provides EVERYTHING you’ll need to give your writings maximum visibility. Of course, that does not always mean there is a guarantee of sales. But it’s like walking into a book store and seeing your book on a front table display―it’s front and center. And Amazon’s promotional tools allow you to take your book and make it HIGHLY visible to the WORLD!

As the industry has changed, I am also saddened by so many authors publishing through subsidy publishers who are charging an unbelievable amount of money to publish; providing a less than average product, and leaving the author with little to no royalties. I have clients that have published with TOP subsidy publishers and have been grossly disappointed. So, I’d encourage anyone who is thinking of publishing to contact me . . . I consult on publishing for FREE!

Maria: You can't beat a free publishing consultation!  What words of wisdom would you like to leave with our readers?

Cherie: Truthfully, if I could speak anything into anyone’s life it would be this: Trust God’s Word and keep walking in faith even through your doubt. Keep your eyes on Jesus and you’ll find yourself walking on water.

Maria: So beautifully put! Reminds me of some words of wisdom penned by King Solomon: "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths," (Proverbs 3:5-6; KJV). Thanks so much for joining us today, Cherie! I look forward to reading your new book and seeing how God continues to use the many ministries He's entrusted to you!

Connect with Cherie:

http://www.amazon.com/Cherie-Hill/e/B002BM00SC/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1354046601&sr=8-2-ent

www.cheriehillblog.blogspot.com

www.scripturenow.com

www.writesourcepublishingservices.com


*Cherie Hill is the founder of ScriptureNow.com. She has a BA in Psychology and is trained in Biblical Counseling through the AACC.

Cherie is an Amazon.com Bestselling Christian Living author. She has been ranked #6 in Bestselling authors for Amazon in the Religion and Spirituality category and is consistently in the top 20. Her published works are: "Waiting on God," "Be Still: Let Jesus Calm Your Storms," "Beginning at the End: Finding God When Your World Falls Apart," "The Ways of God: Finding Purpose Through Your Pain," and "Hope Being Gone."

Cherie writes the Christian Women's column, "FAITHLIFT" for CWAHM.com and is a contributor for FAITHVILLAGE.com, as well as several other on-line Christian magazines.

An Interview with Author & Speaker Merisa Davis

Remember The Cosby Show? A situation comedy that aired from September 1984-April 1992, TV Guide named it, "TV's biggest hit in the 1980s..." The star of the show, of course, was Bill Cosby. According to Wikipedia, the show was "based on comedy routines in Cosby's standup act, which were based on his family life."

This past spring I had the distinct pleasure of taking a writing class taught by none other than Bill Cosby's cousin, Merisa Davis. A multi-talented lady, Merisa is the author of "Bill Cosby IS Right: But What Should the Church Be Doing About It?" 

Recently, I had the privilege of catching up with Merisa. I invite you to grab a cup of coffee and join me in welcoming Merisa Davis!

Maria: Thanks so much for taking time out of your busy schedule to join us! Tell us a bit about yourself:

Merisa: I am from a real life “Cosby show” family with four boys and a girl. Everyone always compared me to quirky, fashionable Denise Huxtable. I grew up in Charlottesville, VA  and went to college at LibertyUniversity…I actually have two degrees from Liberty. My first job out of college was as a TV reporter and anchor at my hometown station of WVIR-TV. I now work part time at WATC-TV 57, a Christian station here in Atlanta. I also have a women’s ministry and travel around the country.      

Maria: You definitely stay busy! Are there any funny stories you can tell us about Bill Cosby?

Merisa: Whenever I do book signings and events for “Bill Cosby IS Right," everyone always wants to tell ME about THEIR favorite Bill Cosby story or episode from “The Cosby Show!!”

 

My own favorite “Bill Cosby” story is on one of his albums where he tells about how his wife is gone for the weekend and he decides to let the kids eat chocolate cake for breakfast. Then the kids start singing “Dad is Great! He Gives Us Chocolate Cake!” and then his wife finds out!

  

I am proud of my cousin and all he has achieved in television, he is an inspiration to me and others as he shares his family humor and gift of storytelling.

Maria: Seems the gift of storytelling runs in your family. Give us a brief overview of your book:

Merisa: “Bill Cosby IS Right” is about Dr. Cosby’s controversial comments given in his speech celebrating the 50^th Anniversary of “Brown v. Board of Education,” which was a major news story. I took Dr. Cosby’s entire speech and created ten chapters, and examined the problems facing Black America, using the Bible to provide spiritual solutions. The book also documents the church’s role in the Civil Rights struggle.   

Maria: Fascinating! What inspired you to write your book?

Merisa: When Dr. Cosby was attacked by the liberal media for his statements, I became upset. I knew the Bible supported everything he said and that was the ultimate authority on all issues. Also, at the time I was enrolled in my graduate studies at Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary, and my leadership there encouraged me to become a published author.   

Maria: I know encouragement goes a long way for those of us in the writing field. How has your Broadcasting and Journalism background aided in the publication/marketing process?

Merisa: Because of my Journalism background, I understand exactly how a newsroom works, and how producers and reporters decide which story gets on the air. This knowledge helped me to get publicity and sales for “Bill Cosby IS Right.”

Maria: Way to use your expertise! How has your relationship with Jesus Christ impacted your writing?

Merisa: My relationship with Christ is everything and my all in all. It was the Holy Spirit’s leading for me to write “Bill Cosby IS Right” and also to choose a career in Journalism. I am an avid student of the Word of God and thus the Bible impacts my words. Also “Bill Cosby IS Right” launched my ministry.

Merisa Davis with Dr. Fred Luter

The Word lets us know that “A man’s gift makes room for him and brings him before great and mighty men.” My gift of writing is from the Lord, and has opened many doors for me and allowed me to meet and discuss world issues with Gen. Colin Powell,  Dr. Ben Carson, Dr. Ben Kinchlow and members of the Martin Luther King family as well. Just recently I was able to spend time with Dr. Fred Luter, who is the President of the Southern Baptist Convention, and he was supportive of “Bill Cosby IS Right” as well. I am grateful for God choosing me to be a writer and I want to use my talents to further God’s kingdom.

Maria: That's wonderful! I had the privilege of attending a 6-week class you taught entitled, Publishing a Christian Book. Give us a summary of the class and when you’re scheduled to teach it again.

Merisa: The class is how I give back to First Redeemer Church, where my ministry was launched. The class teaches people how to organize their thoughts and guides them through the publishing process using materials by Thomas NelsonPublishers, which is one of the nation’s premier Christian publishers. There are many people who have a desire to write a book but do not know anything about the process. My class de-mystifies the process and helps them to write their vision and make it plain.

I teach the class once a year and will teach the 2013 class in the Spring. Signup begins in March.  

Maria: I know your class was extremely helpful to me, so those of you who are local, be sure to make note of that date. What goals do you have for the future?

Merisa: I hope to someday teach at the college level and desire to obtain my PhD in Communications. 

Maria: Great goals! Share some lessons you’ve learned on your journey as a writer:

Merisa: Double check your facts and have a good editor to make sure the product looks clean and professional.

Maria: What words of wisdom would you like to leave with our readers?

Merisa: Recently I had a 12-year-old girl take my class and she has co-written a book with her Grandmother - Alive in Him  -  that was released  in April 2012. Her book is doing very well and she has plans to write a series! I would encourage everyone who desires to write a  book to prayerfully consider following their dream, because if God helped the 12-year-old do it, He can help you too!!!    

Maria: Thanks for those encouraging words of wisdom. I look forward to seeing how the Lord continues to use you and your ministry in the days ahead!

Good news! Merisa has graciously agreed to give away a signed copy of her book, "Bill Cosby IS Right: But What Should the Church Be Doing About It?"

 *Leave a comment to this post, include your email address in the following format: morgan(dot)maria(dot)i(at)gmail(dot)com. Entries without an email address are not eligible.

*Receive an extra entry by becoming a follower, or by reminding me that you're already a follower.

*Receive a bonus entry by posting about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook, and/or Twitter.

 Please be sure and let me know you did so in your comment.

*This is open to US residents only. My sincere apology to those followers outside the US.

*Deadline to enter is midnight Eastern Standard Time, Tuesday, October 9th, 2012. Winner to be announced in Thursday's post. The winner will be notified via email.

Connect with Merisa:

http://www.merisadavis.com

   

Do You Know the Author?

A celebrity was coming to our town. Terry Kay - the writer who was named a 2012 Author of the Year by the Georgia Writers Association (GWA), was scheduled to speak and host a book signing just minutes from my house.  The Forsyth County Public Library and LiteracyForsyth teamed up to feature Kay's book, "To Dance with the White Dog," as part of this year's Forsyth Reads Together program.

What a fantastic opportunity to meet an award-winning author! Kay's website further reinforced my decision to attend, "A celebrated Georgia writer, Kay was inducted into the Georgia Hall of Fame in 2006. He has also received the Townsend Award, the Lindberg Award, the Appalachian Heritage Award, and in 2009 was selected for the Governor's Award in the Humanities. Three of his novels - "To Dance with the White Dog," "The Runaway" and "The Valley of Light" - have been produced as Hallmark Hall of Fame movies."

I turned into the crowded parking lot. After buying a copy of "To Dance with the White Dog," I found a seat among the couple hundred people who were in attendance. Terry Kay would speak following a brief reception. For a man who never intended to write a book, his career as an author has been prolific.

I was more than willing to stand in the long line to have Mr. Kay sign the book I had purchased. And I was richly rewarded. A true Southern gentleman, somehow he knew I was a fellow writer. As I read the inscription in my book, I couldn't help but smile, "For Maria Morgan - A maker of words - Terry Kay."

Although the opportunity to meet such a well-known author doesn't come along often, I was reminded of  all the occasions I have to meet with another Author. The divine Author - the author and finisher of my faith (Hebrews 12:2). On a daily basis, He invites me into His presence.

   

His words are clear, "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus," (Philippians 4:6-7; KJV).

He is the King of kings and Lord of lords, and yet He still has time for me. He bids me to come boldly into His presence (Hebrews 4:16). This Creator of the universe, loves me unconditionally and has a plan for my life(Romans 5:8; Romans 8:29).

Are you acquainted with this Author? You don't need to schedule an appointment, or wait for Him to visit your town, You can get to know Him today (Romans 3:23; 6:23; 5:8; 10:9-10; 10:13). What step will you take to develop a relationship with Him?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the opportunity to know You and to share my burdens and requests with You. Help me not to take it for granted. Draw me closer to You today. In Jesus' name, Amen.  

Interview with Author, Keli Gwyn

I remember her friendly email, "Thanks for subscribing to my blog. I hope you find my posts enjoyable. From time to time I like to surprise a blog visitor with a little package of goodies. I'd like to send you one..." From our first interaction, she struck me as a talented writer, and a woman with the gift of encouragement.

Who is this inspiring lady? Grab some iced tea and join me in welcoming - Keli Gwyn!

Maria: Tell us a bit about yourself:

Keli: I’m a native Californian. My teacher husband and I live in the majestic Sierra Nevada Foothills just seven miles from Coloma, where James Marshall discovered the shiny nuggets that started the Gold Rush. I’m smitten with the Victorian Era, the period in which my stories are set.

While writing is my passion, I do possess some others skills. I play a fierce game of Whack-a-Mole, can still recite the first two paragraphs of the Gettysburg Address I memorized back in seventh grade, and can put away an impressive amount of my husband’s homemade shortbread in one sitting.

Maria: Wow! Remind me NOT to challenge you when you have a mallet in your hand! All joking aside, give us a sneak peek into your debut novel, A Bride Opens Shop in El Dorado, California.

Keli: Widow Elenora Watkins is determined to provide for herself and her daughter without relying on anyone else. Can she run a successful business after falling for the competition? Miles Rutledge finds himself willing to do anything to keep Elenora in town. But can he win her heart while putting her out of business?

Maria: Just enough information to get us hooked! Which character in your book can you most easily identify with? And why?

Keli: I identify with the heroine, Elenora. Like me, she’s the mother of a bright, talkative daughter. Ellie tends to be a bit overprotective at times, and I was, too, when our college daughter was younger. I can’t cook very well, and neither can Ellie. She’s a hardworking, determined woman, and I am, too. Like Ellie, when I set a goal, I put my all into achieving it.

Maria: As I read your book, I imagined you to be like Elenora - loved her spunk and determination. What do you hope your readers glean from your novel?

Keli: I hope they enjoy the story and their trip back in time.

On a deeper level, I hope they learn that we are valued not so much for what we do as for who we are. Ellie is out to prove herself on several fronts, but she doesn’t need to. People like her the way she is.

I’d also like readers to understand that the Lord is there for us—even when we don’t sense His presence. When the story begins, Ellie doesn’t believe the Lord hears her prayers or cares about her concerns, but as things progress, she experiences growth in this area.

Maria: Those are important lessons. How has your relationship with Jesus Christ impacted your writing?

Keli: My faith is an important part of who I am. I delight in adding the spiritual element to my stories. As my characters learn valuable lessons about who God is and how He works in our lives, I learn right along with them.

Maria: What goals do you have for the future?

Keli: I look forward to writing many more historical romances and to my continued interactions with readers as well as other writers.

Maria: Sounds like you'll stay busy! Share some lessons you've learned on your journey as a writer:

Keli:

·        * Have realistic expectations.

·         *Take time to study craft.

·        * Don't become a slave to the rules.

·        * Accept feedback graciously.

·        * Enjoy the journey.

      

Maria: Great advice! What words of wisdom would you like to leave with our readers?

Keli:  My one word of wisdom would be: persevere. I’ve interviewed over 100 debut authors, and this trait is one that has come up again and again as being of the utmost importance. Our dreams won’t come true unless we keep on writing and submitting, hoping and praying. Perseverance can lead to rejoicing.

Thank you so much for having me as your guest, Maria. Spending time with you and your blog’s readers is a treat. I’d like to end with a question for all of you.

I really am good at Whack-a-Mole. I once had a crowd gather around to watch me bop those critters as they popped their heads up. What’s one of your little known skills that has impressed others?

Maria: It's been a pleasure Keli! And someday I hope to watch you whack those moles on the head with that rubber mallet! God bless you as you continue to write books that point others to Him.

Good news! Keli has graciously offered to give away a copy of her book, A Bride Opens Shop in El Dorado, California:

*Leave a comment to this post, include your email address in the following format: morgan(dot)maria(dot)i(at)gmail(dot)com. Entries without an email address are not eligible.

*Receive an extra entry by becoming a follower, or by reminding me that you're already a follower.

*Receive a bonus entry by posting about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook, and/or Twitter.

 Please be sure and let me know you did so in your comment.

*This is open to US residents only. My sincere apology to those followers outside the US.

*Deadline to enter is midnight Eastern Standard Time, Tuesday, July 31, 2012. Winner to be announced in Thursday's post. The winner will be notified via email.

Award-winning novelist Keli Gwyn writes inspirational historical romance. A California native, she lives in the Gold Rush-era town of Placerville in the Sierra Foothills with her husband and two skittish kitties.

Connect with Keli: 

Website – http://www.keligwyn.com
Facebook Timeline – http://www.facebook.com/KeliGwyn
Facebook Page – http://www.facebook.com/KeliGwynReadersGroup
Twitter – http://twitter.com/#!/KeliGwyn
Goodreads – http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5411901.Keli_Gwyn

An Interview With Author, Stephanie Reed

Welcome to the launch of Thursday Interviews featuring fellow writers, missionaries, photographers, and other ordinary people who have a passion to use their talents for Christ. It's such an honor to introduce my first guest: Stephanie Reed. She's an author of two published books, with several more in the works - and she also happens to be an amazing sister-in-law! Join me in welcoming Stephanie.

Maria: Thanks for joining me today! Tell us a bit about yourself:

Stephanie: I’m a follower of Jesus Christ, married thirty-one years, mother of a son, daughter-in-law, and daughter, and sister-in-law of this sweet blogger. I love to read and I think I’m a good cook but am actually only average. I know a bit about flowers and birds, I like history, and I’d much rather visit a park or a historical site than go shopping.

Maria: I can attest to the fact that you're a good cook, so you don't need to be so modest. What sparked your interest in the Underground Railroad? Give us a brief description of your books, Across the Wide River and The Light Across the River:

Stephanie: I’ve always liked the idea of everyday people helping others because it was the right thing to do. When I found a family who helped others because God encouraged them to do so, I was hooked.  In Across the Wide River, which is based on a true story, Lowry Rankin is the eldest son of the Reverend John Rankin of Ripley, Ohio. Everyone knows Lowry will be a minister like his father one day—everyone but Lowry. He’s always helped with his family’s station of the Underground Railroad, but it’s not until he’s confronted with the horrors of slavery that his mission becomes personal. In the second book, The Light Across the River, Lowry’s younger brother Johnny has his own struggles with the Underground Railroad, namely keeping the wonderful work his family does a secret. Will he be able to help the real Eliza of Uncle Tom’s Cabin fame rescue the family she came back to deliver to the land of freedom?

Maria: Sounds like we can all learn some valuable lessons from your books. How has your relationship with Jesus Christ impacted your writing?

Stephanie: Writing is very humbling. I quickly came to realize that what I write comes from Jesus Christ and must be given back to Him, successful or not. I wish I could say writing has gotten easier as time goes by, but it’s getting harder! I don’t want to know what it would be like to write without the Lord’s help.

Maria: I love your dependence on the Lord! What are you currently working on?

Stephanie: I am working (and working and working) on my first book for women. I call it Amish historical fiction because it’s set in the 1970s. My name for the three-book series is Plain City Peace. The name of the first book is The Bargain. The publication date is dependent on my edits, which are ongoing. Let’s say late next year? My one-sentence summary for this book is: An Amish girl helps an English boy, a shattered survivor of the Kent State Massacre, find real peace in the summer of 1971. I loved writing about the 70s! My publisher is Kregel; shout out to Steve Barclift, managing editor. I am very grateful for his encouraging support.

Maria: I see some must-reads in my near future! As an established author, what do you do to keep your writing fresh?

Stephanie: Don’t neglect to read widely! Lately I’ve downloaded a few free Christian novels on my Kindle because they’re very different from what I usually read. I try to learn something from each author. I don’t mean analyze a book; that makes reading a chore instead of a pleasure. Using this method, I’ve learned that one way to make a character more likeable is to show that the other characters in the book like him/her.

Maria: Great tips. What goals do you have for the future?

Stephanie: When I get to Heaven, I want to turn a perfect cartwheel. In regard to writing, I want each book to be better than the last.

Maria: I can just see you turning that perfect cartwheel! Love your sense of humor, Stephanie! Share some lessons you’ve learned on your journey as a writer:

Stephanie:

1        * If you have a critique partner, be helpful, kind, and encouraging. Do not slash and burn (guilty).

2        * It is far better to have an agent on your team pre-publication, if you can manage it (I went it alone for the first two books, so I know). Thanks, Barbara Scott! She greatly encourages me

.

3     * Think of editing as a second (third, fourth) chance. Before I was published, I thought editing was polishing, sharpening, and refining my own work, at my whim. Now, the editor says, “This doesn’t work; change it.” Editors may offer general suggestions, but it’s up to you to achieve the desired effect, at least until the next editorial letter. You’ve heard, “Don’t try this at home,” but I say, “Don’t try this without God, and even then, it won’t be easy.”

4       * Platform is important, but if you write fiction, focus on your writing. If you blog, write in your own voice. Make friends through your blogging and social media outlets. Bestow sincere compliments on individuals—life’s hard, and we could all use the encouragement. The day I stopped trying to get people to follow me on Twitter and gave it up to the Lord is the day I began a steady increase from 400 to over 800 followers. Roughly 1,000 followers is the springboard for a platform. But what good is a platform if you don’t write a good book? J

Maria: Thanks for passing on these valuable lessons! What words of wisdom would you like to leave with our readers?

Stephanie: In terms of sales, my first book has been reprinted twice (small initial and follow-up print runs) but has sold extremely modestly. You would probably gasp at the miniscule amount of the yearly royalty checks—of the “Pizza’s on me!” variety. The second book, which is much better in my humble opinion, has not sold well. In terms of eternal value, however, I’ve heard some very nice comments from individuals. In the end, God determines what constitutes success, so if God has given you a story to tell, tell it.

Thanks for having me, Maria! Your prayer support and humor are much appreciated. I’m so glad you’re part of my family and I look forward to many successful books from you.

Maria: Appreciate your honesty and your dedication to God and using the gift He's given you to be a blessing to others. Thank you for your sweet words of encouragement, and for always being there to guide me along the writer's pathway. And a BIG thank you for the marvelous interview!

*Connect with Stephanie, and purchase her books:

Facebook

Website

Plain and Simple Blog

 

        

Special Guest: Karen Lange

There are plenty of challenges in a friendship, but co-authoring a book with a friend takes this relationship to an entirely different level. Today I have the privilege of interviewing Karen Lange, who is co-authoring a historical fiction novel with her friend, Susan J. Reinhardt.

Maria: Thanks for joining me, Karen! Before we talk about your novel, tell us a bit about yourself.

Karen: I am a follower of Christ, wife, and mother. My husband and I are blessed with two sons, a daughter, a daughter in law, and a very cute 4-year-old grandson. In addition to writing with Susan, I blog, do freelance work, and teach online writing classes.

Maria: You stay busy! How did you and Susan decide to co-author a book?

Karen: We were discussing a particular genre one day. I jokingly suggested that we should write a book about it together. Shortly after, Susan asked me if I wanted to give it a try. And the rest, as they say, is history! This is not something I would consider doing with just anyone. Susan and I have a good relationship and work well together. We 'get' each other's sense of humor, encourage one another, and compromise well.

Maria: Sounds like the perfect combination. Tell us about the writing process. How did you decide who would write each scene?

Karen: Susan has more experience than I do, having several novels under her belt already. She started things by writing the first chapter, and handed it off to me. I wrote chapter two, then sent it to her, and so on. We discuss and agree on basic plot and character information, and then let the ideas flow. For instance, a scene in one of Susan's chapters had me laughing out loud; it was a clever twist and a way to handle a prickly character. It's an exciting process, you never know what one of us will toss the other's way. I enjoy giving Susan mini cliffhangers. I think she likes doing the same thing to me.

Maria: As you continue writing your book and plan for publication, what would you say is the most important thing you've learned from this experience?

Karen: It is important to trust the Lord and persevere, always moving forward. It also helps if you play well with others.

Maria: Well put! Any future writing goals?

Karen: I'd like to see this book through to publication. I also have several nonfiction books I'd like to write.

Maria: Share some lessons you've learned on your journey as a writer.

Karen: The writer's life is not all sunshine and roses, but it is very rewarding. Rejection is part of the process. It stings, but ultimately it takes us where we are destined to go. I believe that God has called me to write, and I continue to trust Him to order my steps.

Maria: Important things to remember. What final words of wisdom would you like to leave with our readers?

Karen: Keep writing! If you feel called to write, commit yourself to writing consistently, whether it is every day, once a week, or whatever. Polish your skills and continue to learn. Always. Be open to feedback; input from others is an important part of the writing process. Thank you for hosting us here at Life Lessons, Maria. It's been a pleasure!

Maria: You're absolutely welcome, Karen! And the pleasure has been all mine! I wish you and Susan the best as you complete your novel, and I look forward to reading it when it's published!

*Karen Lange is a writer, blogger, and online writing instructor at the Coffeehouse for Writers. Her work has appeared in print and online in business, parenting, educational, and writing publications. Visit her blog @ karenelange.blogspot.com or contact her at karenelange@gmail.com. 

Special Guest: Susan J. Reinhardt

I'll be honest, co-authoring a book seems a bit daunting. Two authors with different ideas, coming together to produce a single work. It's easier for me to imagine co-authoring a work of non-fiction. Fiction? Much harder to imagine. But it can be done!

Today, I have the privilege of interviewing Susan J.Reinhardt, the first half of a team co-authoring a gripping, historical fiction novel. Next Thursday, we'll chat with her partner in crime, Karen Lange!

Maria: A very warm welcome, Susan! Tell us about yourself.

Susan: I've been a believer in Jesus Christ since I was 9 years old. I'm a widow, a daughter, a stepmom, and a friend. My passions are studying God's Word, writing, reading, and teaching. In between, I'm an avid couponer, a wannabe gardener, and a happy wanderer through antique malls.

Maria: Wow! Sounds like you stay busy. How did you and Karen meet?

Susan: We met through a mutual friend. I had some research questions, and MaryAnn Diorio suggested I contact Karen. The rest, as they say, is history.

Maria: You obviously have a strong friendship. What made you decide to co-author a book?

Susan: Karen and I often joked about the possibility. We kicked around ideas, and soon the joke turned into serious discussions.

Maria: Tell us about the writing process. How did you decide who would write each scene?

Susan: Since I'd written two manuscripts and had a third underway, I agreed to write the opening chapter. After researching the time period, brainstorming the characters, and deciding where we wanted to start the story, we got to work. We alternate chapters. Other than that, the plot unfolds naturally. As you may recall, I'm a seat-of-the-pants writer.

Maria: You make it sound so simple! Give us a peek into your novel.

Susan: We were fascinated by a historical incident in Colonial times, and used that turbulent period as a jumping off point. Since our book is far from finished, we really haven't started shopping it around.

Maria: What is the most important thing you've learned from this experience so far?

Susan: Up until we started this journey, writing was a God and me adventure. Now, it's a God, Karen, and me project. When we've had different ideas about the direction of the story, I've learned to consider, communicate, and compromise. My relationship with Karen has grown. She's an amazing, godly woman, and has shown me much grace when life got crazy around here.

Maria: Valuable lessons! Speaking of the Lord, how has your relationship with Jesus Christ impacted your writing?

Susan: I'm totally dependent on Him for inspiration, whether I'm writing a devotional or a novel. I want the words I write to be containers of life, not mere entertainment.

Maria: Great perspective. As a writer, what are your future goals?

Susan: I'd like to see this book through to completion and publication. Other projects include a near-future trilogy and more devotional writing. At some point, I'd also like to pick up my speaking/teaching ministry.

Maria: Wonderful! As we wind down, share some lessons you've learned on your journey as a writer.

Susan: A gift for writing is only one component of the equation. Learning the craft/mechanics, as well as the business side, play an integral part in the process. Helping others on their journey is one of my greatest joys. The Christian writing community is awesome!

Maria: What final words of wisdom would you like to leave with our readers?

Susan: Sitting at the Lord's feet and nurturing that relationship will give you the inspiration and strength for the task before you. You'll still have challenges, but the vision He births in you will keep you focused.

Maria: Well said! Thank you so much for stopping by, Susan, and I wish you and Karen well on your co-authored novel!

Be sure to join me next Thursday, February 2nd, when I'll have the privilege of interviewing KarenLange. God bless!

*Susan J. Reinhardt's publishing credits include both online and print publications such as The Secret Place, Vista, Live!, The RevWriter Resource, two anthologies, and Devotions Magazine. Family, church, reading, gardening, and antiquing keep her from ever getting bored.  She blogs at http://susanjreinhardt.blogspot.com.