Write Now Editing

Writing Tips from Crystal Caudill

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What is your favorite writing craft book?

Writing with Emotion, Tension, & Conflict by Cheryl St. John

Which do you think is the most underrated writing craft book? Why?

Can I say my favorite book again? I never see it suggested to people, but it truly is one of the best books I’ve read. Mainly because I can read it and use the hands-on practice with the actual story I’m writing. It serves as double duty for my growth as a writer and for the writing process.

What is your favorite (or most anticipated) writers conference?

I love the ACFW National Conference because of all the people I get to connect with. ACFW Virginia’s Royal Conference is an amazing virtual conference. You can’t beat the price, you get access to the recordings, and lots of great opportunities to network.

What’s your favorite other source (YouTube, podcast, etc.) for writing tips/info?

I love Editing Insiders with Janyre and Sarah on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/groups/EditingInsiders). They always provide great information and lots of help. The Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference (https://www.blueridgeconference.com/blog/) and Steve Laube Agency (https://stevelaube.com/blog/) blog posts come to my inbox every day.

Who is your writing mentor/inspiration?

I look to Michelle Griep and Elizabeth Camden as my inspirations. The intriguing way Michelle describes things, her characters, and her story lines all inspire me to write better. I’ve been known to buy extra copies of her books and analyze the daylights out of them. Elizabeth Camden’s way of weaving in history in such a thorough manner without detracting from the story never ceases to amaze me.

What’s the worst writing advice you’ve ever received? Why was it bad?

“This is the only way to write a good story.” I’ve heard it from multiple presenters, and early on in my career, when their methods didn’t work for me, I felt like a failure. I know longer enjoyed writing.

What’s the best writing advice you’ve ever received?

“Take what works for you and ditch the rest.” After years of being told there was only one way to do things, that statement completely changed my writing life. I realized we all have different methods that fit our personality. It was okay to take a part of an idea and incorporate it into your method and ditch the rest. I wasn’t a failure.

What would you say is the best writing tip for new authors?

Don’t be in a rush. Take your time to learn everything you can. Practice what you learn. Get lots of feedback from those who are farther along in their journey. You are not on a deadline. Consider it “getting your degree” before getting the paying job part of your career.

What is your best self-editing tip or advice?

Have a computer program or someone else read what you have written out loud to you. I can’t tell you how many mistakes I’ve found just by listening as I follow along with the text.

Please share your most encouraging tip for frustrated or discouraged writers.

Go back to your reason why you write and literally write it down. Answer why you are going to do this even on the days you want to quit. Reread it every time you want to quit. And don’t compare your journey to others. God made your journey as unique as He made you.

Tell us about your newest release/upcoming release.

We Three Kings: A Romance Christmas Collection follows three generations of the Weise family. Meet Aldrich Weise on a Gilded Age Christmas-themed sea voyage with a criminal aboard, Lieutenant Charles Weise after WWII as he restores art to its rightful owners and hope to a broken German community, Brendon Wise as he leads a Christmas light festival to help those in, and the women who capture their attentions and their hearts.

Crystal Caudill is the author of “dangerously good historical romance,” with her work garnering awards from Romance Writers of America and ACFW. Her debut novel Counterfeit Love was a 2023 Carol Award finalist. She is a stay-at-home mom and caregiver, and when she isn’t writing, Crystal can be found playing board games with her family, drinking hot tea, or reading other great books at her home outside Cincinnati, Ohio. Find out more at crystalcaudill.com.

Website: https://crystalcaudill.com/
Newsletter Sign-Up: https://bitly.com/CaudillNews 
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Those who sign up for my newsletter get a free e-copy of my novella, Counterfeit Truth, the prequel to my Hidden Hearts of the Gilded Age series about 19th century Secret Service operatives hunting counterfeiters and finding love in the process.

Writing Tips from Terri Gillespie

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What is your favorite craft book?

Building Believable Characters by Marc McCutcheon. One of the best all-purpose writing helps.

Which do you think is the most underrated craft book? Why?

I have to go with Building Believable Characters for the win, Karin. With a character questionnaire, character thesaurus that includes face and body types, personality/identity, facial, body and vocal expressions, even clothing, dialects and foreign speech and names and surnames from around the world, for me it is my go to for over twenty years.

What is your favorite (or most anticipated) writers conference?

For readers who don’t know, most writers/authors are introverts. I also have adult attention deficit disorder. Therefore, unfortunately, I don’t look forward to conferences—except to see friends—because there are too many people and I struggle with sitting in classes. Now, having said that, I believe the best writers’ conference is the American Christian Fiction Writers annual conference (www.acfw.org). I also believe it is a must for new writers.

What’s your favorite other source (YouTube, podcast, etc.) for writing tips/info?

Hands down, Thomas Umstaddt’s podcasts and newsletters, Author Media. I’ve learned so much from him. He’s been at it for ten years and is recognized by publishers, agents, editors, and bestselling authors. (https://www.authormedia.com/)

Who is your writing mentor/inspiration? Why?

Angela Hunt. With over 160 publications in both fiction and nonfiction she is, to me, the premier author. I call her the Meryl Streep of authors—she’s incredible versatile and talented. Hers was the first Christian fiction novel I read. The Debt was such a powerful book and demonstrated to me that Christian fiction could have edge with real life issues. I met Angie at a writers’ conference in Philadelphia nearly twenty years ago when I took her classes on plotting. A conversation over dinner began a friendship that has been such a blessing.

What’s the worst writing advice you’ve ever received? Why was it bad?

“Write what you know.” Given I don’t know much about a plethora of themes, especially those relevant to this generation, I must research. Although . . . I suppose I can pull from my experiences and various emotions for general character development. What do you think?

What’s the best writing advice you’ve ever received?

From my mentor, Angie: “Your first draft will always be [garbage].” Think of Ezekiel’s dry bones (Ezekiel 37).

What would you say is the best writing tip for new authors?

“Just write.” Whether you begin writing on a legal pad, journals, slips of paper, backs of envelopes, or your laptop, write. Write every day in some form or another.

What is your best self-editing tip or advice?

Don’t begin editing until you’ve finished the first draft. Trying to edit while writing the first draft will keep us in the weeds. Until we finish the first draft we really don’t understand how to edit the story properly anyway. Just write!

Please share your most encouraging tip for frustrated/discouraged writers.

Find a writers’ group or buddy. We need other writers/published authors who see us and will be honest about our weaknesses yet encourage our strengths and cheer us on. Take the time to develop these relationships—which means reciprocity—because they can help us out of the self-pity pit. As well as talk us off the ledge of discouragement.

Tell us about your newest release/upcoming release.

A Penny Saved. A middle-grade fantasy/mystery co-authored with Cynthia L. Simmons about a twelve-year old boy, Mason, whose world turns upside down when he, his mother, and sister move into their grandfather’s house. Mason’s grandfather, a retired history professor, stays in his office filled with musty, dusty books, never realizing there’s a magical treasure hidden in plain sight. An 1860 Indianhead penny, named Penny, who is alive!  When Penny goes missing, Mason helps his grandfather find her. Will Mason find Penny, and learn her secret?

Sweet Rivalry. A contemporary romance about twin sisters separated by a troubled mother as toddlers. They are reunited twenty years later through their love of baking. But can they truly be a family after such trauma—and family secrets?

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

Thanks so much for this opportunity to share a little about my great passions—the Lord and writing! Keep reading and writing!

Award-winning author, YouTube personality, and speaker, Terri Gillespie writes stories and devotionals that speak of the power of the Father’s redeeming love and healing. She and her husband reside in the beautiful hills of northwest Georgia, but occasionally make their way to Chicago to visit their daughter, son-in-love, and grandson, the inspiration for Mason.

Website: https://authorterrigillespie.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terri.gillespie.author
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTerriGillespie/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/TerriG_Author
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/terrigillespie_author/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TerriGillespieAuthorforAuthors

Writing Tips from Debbie Wilson

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What is your favorite craft book?
On Writing Well by William Zinsser

Which do you think is the most underrated craft book? Why?
I can’t think of one.

What is your favorite (or most anticipated) writers conference?
Blue Ridge Christian Writers Conference. Love seeing fellow authors and always learn a lot.

What’s your favorite other source (YouTube, podcast, etc.) for writing tips/info?
I’m a member of Jerry Jenkin’s Writers Guild, and I’ve enjoyed some of Thomas Umstattd Jr.’s writing courses with Author Media.

Who is your writing mentor/inspiration? Why?
When I became serious about writing I took courses from Jerry Jenkins Writing for the Soul. DiAnn Mills was my mentor. She is a caring and wise mentor.

What’s the worst writing advice you’ve ever received? Why was it bad?
This is more of an experience than advice. At my first writer’s conference, I met with an agent whose first questions was, “Tell me about your national platform.” I’d spoken and ministered in different parts of the country, but I didn’t have a national platform. His body language told me he wasn’t interested in anything I had to say after that. I left wondering if I’d made a mistake even attending the conference.

What’s the best writing advice you’ve ever received?
Work on your craft.

What would you say is the best writing tip for new authors?
I’d repeat the above. Work on your craft. I’ll add, learning a new skill takes time. Give yourself grace and enjoy the process of discovering your lane.

What is your best self-editing tip or advice?
Jerry Jenkins says to be a fierce self-editor. I love watching him edit drafts. Use action verbs instead of passive, show don’t tell, and give the reader credit. In other words, resist the urge to explain everything. Your reader gets it.

Please share your most encouraging tip for frustrated/discouraged writers.
Do the work and growth will come. Keep expanding your skills and knowledge. As I think Jon Acuff said, “Don’t compare your beginning with someone else’s middle.”

Tell us about your newest release/upcoming release.
Little Strength, Big God presents timeless truths to slay our giants.This Christian Living/Bible study looks at those who became strong in battle. Consider their predicaments.

What if you had to choose between―

– Drowning your baby or letting your worst enemy raise him?
– Bowing before an idol or being thrown into a fiery furnace?
– Compromising your convictions or being tossed to the lions?
– Living in fear or leading ill-equipped volunteers against an intimidating enemy?

The believers who faced these decisions felt their limitations yet found strength in the Lord. We can too! The men and women highlighted in the last half of Hebrews 11 help us turn our weaknesses into strengths for God’s glory.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Karin, thank you for your writing and encouragement to writers. And thanks for inviting me to be with you today.

Debbie W. Wilson is an award-winning author, Bible teacher, and former Christian counselor who speaks and writes to connect fellow sojourners to the heart of Christ. She and her husband lead Lighthouse Ministries, a non-profit Christian counseling and Bible teaching ministry. Connect with Debbie, find free resources, and learn about her books, including Little Strength, Big God at debbieWwilson.com.

debbieWwilson.com
https://twitter.com/DebbieWWilson
https://www.facebook.com/debbie.wilson.963871
https://www.pinterest.com/djwwilson/

Book Recommendations from Melissa Heiland

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There was an issue…

If you didn’t know, I run two blogs: this writing-centered blog and a reading-centered blog at www.karinbeery.com. I’m usually very good about keeping the guest authors organized. Except for this year. I sent the wrong questions … again. I promise to be better next year. Until then, here’s Melissa Heiland!

What was your favorite picture book as a kid?
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

What was the first “real” book (with chapters and without pictures) you remember reading?  
Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder

What was your most favorite book in high school?
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

What was your least favorite book in high school?
Moby Dick by Herman Melville

What was the last novel you read?
Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah

What was the last nonfiction book you read?
Prayers for My Teen by Mark Gregston

Which book lived up to the hype (from the past 1-2 years)?
Digital Body Language by Erica Dhawan

Which book do you love that needs more hype?
Prayers for My Teen by Mark Gregston

Next novel on your TBR (up to three). 
Night Road by Kristin Hannah
True Colors by Kristin Hannah
Between Sisters by Kristin Hannah

Next nonfiction on your TBR (up to three).
The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness by Tim Keller
His Needs, Her Needs by Willard F. Jr. Harley
Jesus in Me by Anne Graham Lotz

Tell us about your newest release/upcoming release.
Each of the forty entries include a short and meaningful devotional, a prayer prompt, and journal space for writing—or even drawing—your thoughts. As you come before God each day, you will be affirmed in his love, care, and devotion. And as you finally let go of the lies of confusion and condemnation, these truths will set you free. It’s a resource to complement professional counseling that can be turned to not once but many times to be reminded of God’s care.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?
In addition to No Shame, Melissa has authored several works, including A Mother’s Journey (written for expectant mothers), A Mother’s Comfort (written for baby’s first year), and You Are Wonderful, Psalm 139 for children. (Available in English and Spanish)

Melissa Heiland holds a BA in Education from Wake Forest University and a Master’s of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Central Missouri State University. She’s worked in pregnancy care ministry for over 25 years and has served as a full-time missionary with the International Mission Board since 2000. She is the Founder of Beautiful Feet International, an evangelical mission organization that plants international pregnancy centers in over 20 nations.  She trains pregnancy center staff and volunteers worldwide. She received the 2014 EvanTell Matthew 4:19 award and the 2022 Heartbeat International Servant Leader award.

https://www.beautifulfeetinternational.com

Writing Tips from Dyann Shepard

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What is your favorite craft book? 

To be very honest I have not read a lot of books on writing. Embarrassing, I know. I have taken classes through Speak Up conference and Hope Writers, though. I liked Bird by Bird by Anne Lamont and Eat That Frog by Brian Tracy. Eat that Frog is not specifically a writing book but the principles of doing the most difficult task first are transferable to writing because it is so easy to procrastinate.

Which do you think is the most underrated craft book?

I don’t have a book to note as the most underrated writing book. My goal for 2024 is to read more books about writing. I want to my writing to be excellent and to glorify Jesus.

What is your favorite (or most anticipated) writers conference?  

My favorite is the Speak Up conference in July. I love the courses, the keynotes and the fellowship of Christian writers. My heart is filled to overflowing each year.

What’s your favorite other source (YouTube, podcast, etc.) for writing tips/info?

I enjoy the wonderful tips and tools from AWSA and Word Weavers, Inc., as well as Hope*Writers.

Who is your writing mentor/inspiration?

Carol Kent is definitely my inspiration. I have had the privilege of being in a mentoring program with Carol for the past two years. She is encouraging, inspiring and always looking for ways to make others shine.  Each month she provides focused learning and an opportunity for us to ask questions.

What’s the worst writing advice you’ve ever received?

To be honest, I haven’t had advice that I considered really bad.  I can always learn from others. What I have learned is to have more than one person read my writing.  Sometimes, a reader simply doesn’t get you.  I learned this when I wrote a piece for publication and submitted it for critique to two different editors.  One editor said I should remove a particular paragraph. The other editor said that same paragraph was her favorite and most meaningful.  

Why was it bad?

I did not see this as a bad experience but as an opportunity to learn. This experience taught me not be discouraged and to have more than one person critique my work.

What’s the best writing advice you’ve ever received?

Pray for your readers.  Pray for the one who needs to hear what God has put on your heart to share.

What would you say is the best writing tip for new authors?

Keep honing your craft. Keep learning, then learn, learn and learn some more.

What is your best self-editing tip or advice?

Do not edit as you write.  Dump it all out on the page, then go back and edit. Remove everything that is not pointing the reader to the message you want to convey.

Please share your most encouraging tip for frustrated/discouraged writers.

Don’t give up and don’t fall prey to comparison.  Someone needs to hear God’s message through your voice.

Tell us about your newest release/upcoming release.

My newest release is my book, “Wisdom: Capturing the Power of our Words.” The book is based on a study of the tongue in Proverbs and my upcoming release is “Parables and Paradigms- 52 Devotional Essays of walking with Jesus in the ordinary and extraordinary moments of life.”  This is the working title but it may change. It will be released later in the year or early in 2024.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

It is never too late and you are never too old to have a new calling from God. I wrote my first blog in December 2018 at the age of 71. God was pouring into my life many lessons I wanted to pass on.  I had never written before.  I didn’t like writing as a student. Suddenly, I could not stop writing.  It is my passion.  I realize I have limited years left and my heart’s desire is to share through the joys and sorrows of my life the truth that God will never leave you or forsake you.  As long as you have breath, God can and will use you if you are willing. I love the promise of Psalm 92:14 “Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green.

Dyann Shepard is a wife, mother, grandmother, author, speaker, and mentor. She loves to share the power of God to redeem, restore, and renew our lives especially through tumultuous storms.  Her passion is writing and speaking about the transforming power of Jesus in our daily lives when we open our hearts to Him.  A retired CPA, Dyann is a former staff member of CRU and was a Stephen’s Minister for many years.

www.dyannshepard.com

www.personalparables.com

ABOUT ME

Editor. Teacher. Novelist.
A passionate lover of fiction, Karin doesn't just write novels, she helps others write their best stories! A certified substantive editor with the Christian Editor Connection, her goal is to help authors to put her out of business by equipping them with the tools they need to become better writers.

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Substantive Fiction Editing: A substantive edit looks at the big picture. Start here to tackle the big issues before moving on to the nit-picky details. Substantive edits not only point out … [more]

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Lover of all things fiction, I also love University of Michigan football, the Detroit Lions, Tigers, and Red Wings, kayaking, gluten-free cupcakes, and my husband.

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