Write Now Editing

Writing Tips … Sharon Norris Elliott

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Speaker, teacher, and author Sharon Norris Elliott has received some good and bad writing advice throughout her career. She’s sifted through them all to find the gems, and she’s sharing many of them with us today. If you need writing tips, encouragement, or inspiration, you’ve come to the right place.

Let’s welcome Sharon!

What is your favorite writing book?
A Whack on the Side of the Head by Roger von Oech

Which do you think is the most underrated writing book? Why?
The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing. If an author doesn’t understand marketing, it doesn’t matter how great the book is because people will never find it in order to read it.

What is your favorite (or most anticipated) writers conference?
No conference has taken the place of the granddaddy of them all, The Mount Hermon Christian Writers’ Conference. I started attending as a hopeful author and ended up serving on the faculty for 20 years. The conference was a family reunion. You attended whether you had a proposal to pitch or not. Now, my favorite conferences are the West Coast Christian Writers’ Conference and the Colorado Christian Writers’ Conference

What’s your favorite other source (YouTube, podcast, etc.) for writing tips/info?
Some webinars from time to time. I listen to workshops taught by other industry professionals that are presented at the online conferences at which I am also a faculty member.

Who is your writing mentor/inspiration? Why?
There were so many: Susan Titus Osborne, Gail Roper, Florence Littauer, Kathy Collard Miller,  Joyce Dinkins, Patricia Raybon, Marlene Bagnull, Linda Evans Shepherd, and others.

Some of these women ran conferences or organizations that I was able to work with, many times in leadership capacities. Others are editors and writers who shared their knowledge and expertise with me. All of them believed in and still believe in me, never letting me forget I had gifts and could use them to glorify God. They all treated me like I was really a part of this industry until I realized that truth about myself.

What’s the worst writing advice you’ve ever received? Why was it bad?
Write for the African American community and concentrate on one specific genre. This was bad advice because it tried to put my writing in a small box.

I don’t write “Black” books; I write Christian books. And God has led me to write women’s nonfiction, Bible studies, devotionals, children’s books, parenting books, and teen/YA books. I would be “disobedient to the heavenly vision” if I stuck to just one genre.

What’s the best writing advice you’ve ever received?
Find my voice and communicate by using it.

What would you say is the best writing tip for new authors?
Be teachable and listen to professionals in the industry. Get to know someone in the industry who has your best interest at heart and stick with that person as your mentor.

What is your best self-editing tip or advice?
Read back over everything. There will always be mistakes. Then have someone else—someone impartial and professional—edit your work and consider what that person says about changes that need to be made. Choose carefully the hills you will die on. Everything is not worth a live or die fight.

Please share your most encouraging tip for frustrated/discouraged writers.
Keep at it. The best writers, authors of classics you’ve probably read, were rejected many times before they experienced publishing success. No one is perfect. You will never stop learning.

This is a distance race, not a sprint. Decide that you are in this for the long haul. And whatever you learn, be determined to teach that to someone else. You will never lose by giving back. You get better at what you are able to teach.

Tell us about your newest release/upcoming release.
My newest upcoming release is Didn’t See That Coming: When How They’re Living’s Not How You Raised Them. This is my third parenting book and launched from Elk Lake Publishing on January 3! Later this year, my 7-book children’s series will continue with the next two books: Special Church Snack (explaining communion) and Funny Math (explaining the Trinity).

Is there anything else you’d like to share?
The next semester of my AuthorizeMe Academy Masterclass Series begins March 4, 2023. If you’re interested in taking your book from idea to manuscript to masterpiece, and being taught personally by Dr. Sharon, register at www.AuthorizeMe.net.

From obscurity in Compton, CA to preaching from sacred pulpits, to commanding main stages teaching others how to write their books and understand the Bible, Dr. Sharon Norris Elliott encourages us to “Live significantly!” This inspiring message has driven Dr. Sharon to become an award-winning author, editor, agent, engaging speaker, and licensed minister. She is a graduate of Biola University and HSBN International School of Ministry in association with Gateway International Bible Institute, author of 13 books, and a member of several prestigious organizations. Dr. Sharon is also co-director of the WCCW conference and a Christian broadcaster with HSBN.tv. She is founder/CEO of the successful AuthorizeMe® Literary Firm (www.AuthorizeMe.net). Dr. Sharon and her husband James live in Southern California; attend Christ Second Baptist Church of Long Beach; and enjoy traveling to visit their children and grandchildren.

Website: www.LifeThatMatters.net
Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/SaneWriter/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AuthorizeMeNow/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Sanewriter
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sanewriter
LinkedIn: Dr. Sharon Elliott
HSBN.tv: Search for Sharon Norris Elliott or Life That Matters (the shows)
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For past author interviews, click here!

How I Write: Heidi Glick

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We’re getting close to the end of the year, but we have time to squeeze in a few more interviews! This one’s for you plotters and suspense writers–Heidi Glick is both, and she’s here to give us a peek at her writing life. Welcome!

What do you write? How/why did you pick your genre?

I write romantic suspense and suspense with romance elements. I chose my genre because I enjoy suspenseful movies and books. In addition, it’s easier to create tension because I can include suspense and romance. I write Christian fiction because I want to share my faith and encourage readers in their walk with God, but I want to do so in an entertaining way.

What’s the most difficult part of writing your genre? How do you work through those challenges?

For me, the hard parts of writing suspense include researching and drawing out suspense. I rush through things, so I have to leave a note in my manuscript to go back and draw out the suspense. With research, I have worked with Wesley Harris, who is a consultant with Write Crime Right. Also, I have sought research help from friends and family. Basically, if you have an area of expertise, watch out, because I might ask you some questions.

What’s your favorite book on writing? What do you like about it?

My favorite book on riting is Save the Cat Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody because it’s formulaic, and I’m mainly a plotter. The Emotion Thesaurus (by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi), which is a reference guide more than a book on writing, comes in as a close second. I use that book almost daily. I like it because sometimes it’s hard to describe emotion, and I like to vary my descriptions.

What’s your favorite writers conference? What do you like about it?

While not a traditional writing conference, my favorite is Writers’ Police Academy (WPA) because it’s like Disney for suspense writers. I had the privilege to attend WPA in Wisconsin for the first time in June 2022. The guest speaker was author Robert Dugoni. I liked WPA because it was fun and helpful in terms of law enforcement research.

What’s your writing day like?

Because I’m a stay-at-home mom, my day is never the same. Just this past week, my children had two two-hour fog delays, which meant I didn’t start off my day writing. Today, Lowe’s came to my house to take measurements for flooring, so again, I didn’t start my day off writing. I don’t have a regular schedule. I make a list of things to do and try to get done as much as possible. I focus more on long-term goals versus a rigid, daily schedule.

How do you prepare to write your books: pantser, plotter, both, something completely different? Describe your strategy.

I’m 98% plotter and 2% pantser. I outline and then write in layers, similar to a method advocated by author Hallie Bridgeman. I find I focus better on individual elements of writing better in separate passes of a document.

What advice do you have for new authors?

My advice for new authors today differs from the advice I gave years ago, though some of it remains the same. I still recommend joining a professional writing organization. After that, I would tell new authors to decide if they are a pantser or a plotter. If one is a plotter, I recommend reading Save the Cat Writes a Novel. Conversely, if one is a pantser, then I recommend reading Story Trumps Structure by Steven James. Finally, I would recommend signing up for at least one writers conference.

What does your revision process look like?

I self-edit my manuscript, then sub it to a critique group. Afterward, I submit to beta readers. Sometimes, in between, I submit portions to a subject matter expert or sensitivity reader. I review the manuscript again after I have made all changes from others and then submit the final product to my publisher.

Heidi Glick has a B.A. in biology from Cedarville University, a Master of Technical Communication from Utah State University, and a passion for writing Christian fiction. Additionally, she is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Faith, Hope, and Love Christian Writers and has written two articles for Intercom. Before becoming a suspense writer, Heidi taught science to middle and high school students and edited science documents. Heidi resides in rural Northwest Ohio with her husband, two children, and six pets. Heidi’s first novel, Dog Tags, is available through Pelican Book Group, while her second novel, Hold for Release, is set for release from Pelican Book Group in 2023.

http://heidiglick.weebly.com/
https://www.facebook.com/authorheidiglick
https://twitter.com/HeidiGlick1
https://sleuthsandsuspects.blogspot.com/
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https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7035003.Heidi_Glick

How I Write: Kimberly Novak

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I’ve said it before and I’m sure I’ll say it a thousand more times–there’s right way to publish book. It all depends on your goals and motivation.

Children’s book author Kimberly Novak is a perfect example of that. By understanding her publishing goals, she found the right path for her book, and she shares her experiences with us today.

Welcome!

What do you write? How/why did you pick your genre?

Creating inspirational gems for God’s glory is my writing focus. My background in spiritual direction fuels my passion for writing in a way that enhances the reader’s relationship with the Lord. Much of my writing comes from life experiences or those God has inspired. Most recently, children’s Christian fiction has become dear to my heart as a creative way of sharing the power of prayer with the younger generation.

What’s your favorite book on writing? What do you like about it?

In my quest to produce authentic faith-based content, I look to the wisdom in The Art of Spiritual Writing by Vinita Hampton Wright. I keep this manual prominent in my writing space and refer to it often. Within its pages, Vinita covers the craft of spiritual writing from its meaning through publishing. Among the detailed and simple-to-follow suggestions are relevant self-care notes for the writer.  Also noteworthy is my favorite chapter, “So, Where Is God in All This?” I recommend this book as a must-have tool for the Christian Writer.

What’s your writing day like?

I pray daily and allow God to guide my writing time. I seek my notebook for inspirational notes, words of wisdom, and topic outlines. Often, I will jot notes down by word or phrase, returning later to create something that makes sense. I allow my writing day, as in all days, to be led by God. If He wants words on paper, it will happen.

How do you combat writer’s block?

I am motivated and inspired when listening to Christian Music or soft instrumental music. The practice of having music on in the background stirs creativity while giving me energy as I go. Entering into prayer is also another big way I combat writer’s block. Asking God to guide my mind, allowing me to know the words and topics that benefit His glory.

How do you prepare to write your books: pantser, plotter, both, something completely different? Describe your strategy.

I am very visual and use this method to outline many projects. The best and most creative way I have done that is by using masking tape to mark off three columns on my office wall. The tape lines mark the beginning, middle, and end. My notes are usually written on post-its and in random order. When I am ready to get the outline going, I place the sticky notes in the column I feel they belong. When the notes are all placed, I arrange them in an order that makes sense.  This method is fun and an excellent tool for getting creativity flowing.

Are you self-published or traditionally published? Why did you decide to go that route?

Bella’s Beautiful Miracle is self-published. The decision was made when I met a Christian singer, one I consider a mentor. During that conversation, I asked her if she had any insight for an unknown author looking to share the message of God’s Love. Her response was, “If you have a message to share, get it out there.” Using that guide, I knew I wanted to publish the book without painstaking years of manuscript submissions. I sought out predominantly Christian and Catholic Publishing Houses. After much research, manuscript submissions, and a few rejections, I knew Trilogy Christian Publishing was a good fit for Bella and her miracle.

What advice do you have for new authors?

I offer the same advice I received. If God has placed a story on your heart and the ability to share it, go for it!  Don’t wait until the perfect time, publisher, or financial situation. Take everything you receive to God through prayer and allow His guidance. If something does not feel right, it probably isn’t but ask God to decipher that for you. Have fun and enjoy producing wonderful works and projects enhancing the lives of others.

If you’ve ever worked with a freelance editor, how did you find that editor? How would you describe the experience?

I have worked with several freelance editors. One for Bella’s Beautiful Miracle and others associated with contributing author articles. It is essential that I work with an editor familiar with spirituality and God’s word. I have been lucky that the freelance editors I worked with were within groups I belong to or referred by my peers. I have also experienced incredible editors in the writing departments at local colleges who were very helpful and accommodating.

Kimberly Novak is a wife, mother, author, and spiritual director. Her passion for inspiring and motivating those on a spiritual journey has bloomed into various ministries. Kimberly’s mission is to enhance each journey by guiding others where the light of strength is…God’s love. Find her blog and A Little God Time at www.kimberlynovak.com. Her debut book, Bella’s Beautiful Miracle, A Caterpillar’s Journey, is available now.

Website: www.kimberlynovak.com

Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/kimberlynovakauthor

Twitter: @knovakauthor

Instagram: knovakauthor

Book Purchase Link: Bella’s Beautiful Miracle, A Caterpillar’s Journey

How I Write: Penelope Kaye

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“Does editing ever end?”

Author Penelope Kaye has dipped her quill into several markets, but her passion is children’s picture books. That’s not a market I read OR edit, but Penelope’s advice is truly limitless — it doesn’t matter if you’re writing children’s books or writing adult novels, keep reading for great writing tips!

Thank you so much for being here. What do you write? How did you pick your genre?

I actually write in several genres—Christian nonfiction, children’s picture books, poetry, devotions, articles, and newspaper columns.

My favorite is picture books, both Christian and secular. I began writing seriously in my late 20s, to the point that writing consumed me. When I committed my life to the Lord, the desire for writing completely left. About two years later during a worship service, I saw a picture of a large number of children swarming me and Jesus handing me a gold pen. I knew God was calling me to write stories for little ones. My desire for writing returned, but it took many years before I learned to write from God’s heart.

How long does it take you to: write the book? Edit it? Finalize it?

For a picture book for pre-schoolers, it takes about two hours. For my adult works, it’s usually months.

As far as the editing process, does editing ever end? Honestly, it’s hard to give a specific time frame for that question. I go back over the manuscript numerous times. I read it aloud. I read it backwards. I read it to others to get their feedback. Then I leave it alone for a few days and come back to it for more editing. (For my adult books, at this point I engage a professional editor.)

All of this can take days, weeks, even months before I feel it’s ready to submit to a publisher. And then when I think I’ve reached perfection, another round of edits comes from them. But it’s always rewarding to see the beauty of your heart’s desire when you hold your first copy.

Which was harder: the first book or the following books? Why?

My hardest book was the first one, Making Crooked Places Straight. I had to include a lot of personal examples so readers could relate to the topic of spiritual warfare. Consequently, I had to deal with a lot of spiritual warfare while sharing painful experiences.

How do you prepare to write your books: pantser, plotter, both, something completely different? Describe your strategy.

I derive my stories from titles, and the titles for my books come from literally anywhere—conversations, sermons, workshops, when I’m out and about or on the internet. At the same time, I hear or see a phrase that grabs my attention and I immediately get a picture of a scene or a character, which then drives the story.

Why did you decide to use a hybrid publisher?

I work with hybrid publishers so I’m able to keep all of the intellectual property, which is extremely important to me. I can create other items to sell or give away without a publisher’s approval. Hybrid publishing also gives me the final say in the layout, formatting, editing, etc.

If I’m not happy with any aspect of the direction things are going, I can freely share those concerns with my editor. I don’t sign off until I’m satisfied. I’m not a perfectionist, but I do strive for excellence.

Hybrid publishing also frees me from the actual printing, uploading files, contacting major distributors, etc. I do have the bulk of the responsibility of marketing, but every author does at this point.

I’ve worked with hybrid publishers for all of my books, and each time has been a tremendous learning curve. But it’s been worth it. This latest project especially became a team effort, and we had a great flow of suggestions back and forth that resulted in a beautiful picture book.

What advice do you have for new authors?

Attend writer’s conferences. Several of them. You may have the gift of writing, but if you don’t understand the craft of writing, your manuscript will go nowhere. I never would have had an award-winning book without the knowledge I gained from conferences. I cannot even begin to place a value on them.

How did you find your freelance editor? How would you describe the experience?

I have worked with two freelance editors. I actually met my first one at church. She was a retired college English professor, and I had wanted to meet her for a long time. We attended different services, so I kept missing her. One day we connected, and I asked her if she would be willing to help me with my manuscript. Long story short, circumstances allowed me to sit with her for hours editing page by page, line by line for five chapters. The knowledge and understanding I gained was phenomenal. Took my manuscript from grade-school level to a doctorate level.

I connected with another editor (for the same manuscript) after one of my endorsers recommended I engage a professional editor to polish things up. Again, she provided outstanding work.

What does your revision process look like?

Messy. I cut and paste; shift words, sentences, whole paragraphs; backspace repeatedly; delete words, sentences, whole paragraphs; and sometimes start all over.

If, in the midst of the messiness, I can’t make the words gel, I print off the page and cross out, draw arrows, scribble, write notes until I’m satisfied. Then I go back to the computer and add it to the text.

A teacher who loves to write, Penelope Kaye has taught in a variety of venues over the years. Her writing includes poems, newspaper columns, and children’s church curriculum, as well as writing and choreographing several children’s holiday programs. Author of the award-winning book Making Crooked Places Straight as well as a writer’s how-to book called Land Media Interviews Without a Publicist, she annually reviews children’s picture books for the highly respected High Plains BookFest. With more than thirty visits to Yellowstone National Park, she is thrilled that the setting of her first picture book, I Do Not Like the Rotten Egg Scent in Yellowstone National Park, encapsulates her vivid memories of majestic landscapes, unpredictable buffalo, Old Faithful eruptions, and, of course, the rotten egg scent. Penelope lives in the Mountain West and enjoys walking, completing word puzzles, and eating blueberries anytime of the day.

Link for website: https://ps2710.com/
Link specific for children’s books: https://ps2710.com/just-for-kids-books-new
Link for children’s letter: https://ps2710.com/letter-just-for-you
Link for children’s freebies: https://ps2710.com/justforkidsresources
Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/Penelope-Kaye-author-718916071559856
YouTube: https://bit.ly/3anTfG1

How I Write: Christina Sinisi

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It’s always a good day to get to know a new writer of contemporary Christian romance — today’s a good day! Author Christian Sinisi gives us a peek at her writing life, experiences, and writing tips for new authors. Let’s find out more…

Thanks for being here today! I sort of spilled the beans, but let’s start with you telling us what you write. How did you pick your genre?

First, thank you for having me on your blog—I truly appreciate it!

I write Christian Contemporary Romance. I actually started writing secular fantasy romance because I love creating imaginary worlds. Over time, though, I would only get so far with those stories and became frustrated. My mentor, Eloisa James, looked at me and said, “why aren’t you writing inspirational? Your faith is so much a part of who you are.” I had no good answer and switched—and am very happy that I did.

How long does it take you to: write the book? Edit it? Finalize it?

This is one of those, “it depends,” answers. My first published book was a novella I wrote in three and a half weeks. This year, I’m struggling to finish one novel. Life happens. In June of 2019, when I wrote Christmas Confusion, I had nothing else going on and could write seven plus pages a day. This year, we were short-handed at work in the spring semester, I’ve taken two big trips, and there’s my new release to market. I’ve learned to be patient with myself. The book will get done as long as I keep moving forward.

If you’ve written multiple books, which was harder: the first book or the following books?

The first book was the easiest. Then, I was on a roll and wrote five more books, one every six months. This seventh book is some of my best writing—I believe—but I’m just struggling to find the time.

What’s your favorite book on writing? What do you like about it?

Deb Dixon’s GMC: Goal, Motivation, and Conflict is my go-to book on writing. I always do a GMC chart for the hero and heroine in every book. I also add a couple of rows to her basic chart—personality quirk (something that makes the person interesting) and faith arc (since I’m writing inspirational romance, I believe the characters need to undergo a faith change or struggle).

What’s your favorite writers conference? What do you like about it?

I haven’t been able to attend a Christian writer’s conference in person—so I’m planning on doing so next year. I’d love input as to which to attend. The only problem is, I can’t attend ACFW because the conference takes place in September and I’m a professor. I can’t miss class!

What’s your writing day like?

Over the years, I’ve found myself less and less able to concentrate for long periods of time. But again, I am patient with myself. So, I write a page or two, and then clean something and so on throughout the day. I am writing at best 5-7 pages right now but have been known to write 25 pages in a day when I was younger. I don’t think it’s age, but rather, so many distractions with everyone else at home so much.

How do you combat writer’s block?

Be patient with yourself—if you can only write a paragraph, write a paragraph. Then, do something else and come back and write another paragraph. I do find if I’m kind to myself and no one comes in my office to chat, I can write longer. Also, if life has been busy, and you haven’t been able to write for days or even weeks, reread and remind yourself of the mood and where you were going.

Also, I’m a big fan of storyboarding—if I get stuck, I can glance at the storyboard and remind myself of where I should be in the story.  If anyone is interested in learning more about storyboarding, I have posts on my blog about how to create one.

How do you self-edit your manuscript?

I go through a series of steps. First, I do searches for “bad” words like it, that, and words that end in -ly. As I’m going, I notice if there are any other words that are over-used in the manuscript and do searches for those. As I search, I try to find a better wording rather than those over-used words. If I can’t, I don’t worry too much. Most of the time, I get rid of half or more of those sticky words.

I also search for grammatical errors—looking for blue and red squiggly lines in Microsoft Word as well as rereading.

I have a critique partner who reads for bigger issues. For the last two manuscripts, I have used freelance editors—one is a friend who volunteered, and the other was a local editor who critiqued for free in exchange for a testimonial. I found out about her through one of my two writing groups.

Right now, I’m procrastinating (not for long, but still) going through my latest manuscript for faith development—the last step for me.

Formerly the wild child of three sisters, Emma Marano grew up to be a single mom working two jobs, estranged from her mother, and lying to her friends. She’d told everyone that her daughter’s father wanted nothing to do with his child, but in reality, her own inability to deal with her mistakes and shame led to the biggest lie of her life. But her daughter, Haley, is all Emma has in the world, so how can she regret keeping Haley to herself? Emma’s struggling, though, and her life is slowly imploding.

Right after high school, Justin Lee broke up with Emma Marano and joined the Army, leaving her and all her drama behind. Years later, he stumbles upon her and what turns out to be a daughter he never knew he had. Angry and confused, he insists on having a relationship with his daughter, but to do so, he’ll need to rebuild some sort of relationship with Emma, too. As he gets to know his daughter—and Emma again—he soon realizes that his biggest mistake was leaving her all those years ago. What he dismissed as drama turns out to be a serious mental health issue, and Emma needs help. Now, Justin has to decide if he can see past her flaws and forgive her lies, and together, they’ll have to work to reclaim their love and a faith in each other and in God, or they risk losing something precious in the process.

https://amzn.to/3JBuB2f

A member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Christina Sinisi writes stories about families, both the broken and blessed. Her works include a semi-finalist in the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award contest and the American Title IV Contest where she appeared in the top ten in the Romantic Times magazine. Her published books include Christmas Confusion, Sweet Summer, and Christmas on Ocracoke. By day, she is a psychology professor and lives in the LowCountry of South Carolina with her husband, two children and her crazy cat Chessie Mae.

https://www.christinasinisi.com/
https://twitter.com/christinasinisi
https://www.facebook.com/Christina-Sinisi-Author-105861987440664/?modal=admin_todo_tour https://instagram.com/csinisi123
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/101218889-christina-sinisi
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/christina-sinisi
https://www.pinterest.com/csinisi/

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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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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