Like many self-employed entrepreneurs, I probably won’t take the weekend off completely, but I will take some time to enjoy family and friends and remember what this weekend is about — those who gave their lives so I can live mine.
Thank you to those who make Memorial Day weekends possible. Your sacrifice is not forgotten.
Not all editors are created equally, as Terri Wangard discovered in her early writing days. She persevered, though, and is now a multi-published author. Today, she shares some of her tips and the strategies that worked for her.
Welcome! I always like to start with the fundamentals: what do you write and how did you pick your genre?
I first started writing contemporary romance in the early 2000s, until I put writing aside for a few years. After reading Debbie Macomber’s Twenty Wishes in 2008, I decided to write again. This time I was inspired by letters written in 1947-1948 by distant cousins in Germany to write a WWII novel. An editor told me I’d probably need to write a series, so I kept going. My last two books are WWI era, but I have ideas for going back to WWII.
What’s the most difficult part of writing your genre? How do you work through those challenges?
Maintaining the historical accuracy. I believe that’s so important. I may go overboard. My first three books (the Promise For Tomorrow series) are based in the 381st Bomb Group of the 8th Air Force. The group’s flying schedule is readily available. I slavishly stuck to it. Only one mission did not occur, and I noted that in the Author’s Note at the end. With my Lusitania novel, that too has a strict timeline.
How long does it take you to: write the book? Edit it? Finalize it?
Too long! Writing a book takes a year. I’m a weekend writer. I know others work full-time and still manage to write a little each day, but that doesn’t work for me. My job entails enough computer work. I’m prone to migraines and don’t need more time staring at a screen. After I finish and get beta readers’ opinions, I get a proofing copy and fill it with post-it notes where I want to check a fact, use a better word, tighten it. My biggest challenge in finalizing a book is getting all the formatting codes right. They tend to change, and I end up with blank pages.
If you’ve written multiple books, which was harder: the first book or the following books? Why?
My last book, and I’m not sure why. Half way through, I totally bogged down. Finally, I set it aside for half a year and wrote a contemporary novella. Then I was ready to dive back in and got it finished.
How do you combat writer’s block?
If it’s minor stuff, like how to turn a phrase, I’ll play games—spider solitaire, free cell—until I’m ready to go. Depending on the weather, I may go for a bike ride. If I’m having a major problem, like with my new book, I set it aside. That was the first time I interrupted a book and worked on another project.
How do you prepare to write your books: pantser, plotter, both, something completely different? Describe your strategy.
Lots of research. Lots of notes. I don’t make a complete outline, but I have an idea of what each chapter will feature. Changes do take place. I guess that puts me somewhere between pantser and plotter. My biggest problem is keeping track of my notes and finding them when I need them.
If you’ve ever worked with a freelance editor, how did you find that editor? How would you describe the experience?
Before my first book was published, I sent it to an editor, who made worthwhile suggestions. I sent her my second book. The results shocked me. Nothing was right. DNEs (data not in evidence) were all over the manuscript; apparently everything should have been revealed in the first few pages. She suggested I should be writing for young adults. At the same time, this novel was a Genesis finalist. I took the critique to the ACFW conference, where I had a mentoring session with Gayle Roper. She advised me not to take it to heart. (Whew!) With my last two books, I worked with two different editors, who both were helpful.
How do you self-edit your manuscript?
Since I self-publish, I order a proofing copy and read through it for any typos, anything that needs to be verified, or I may decide something doesn’t need to be there, or is repeated, and delete it. With my latest book, The Storm Breaks Forth, I read the book backwards, as suggested by author Lisa Carter.
Terri Wangard grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin, during the Lombardi Glory Years. Her first Girl Scout badge was the Writer. These days she is writing historical fiction, and won the 2013 Writers on the Storm contest and 2013 First Impressions, as well as being a 2012 Genesis finalist. Holder of a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in library science, she lives in Wisconsin. Her research included going for a ride in a WWII B-17 Flying Fortress bomber. Classic Boating Magazine, a family business since 1984, keeps her busy as an associate editor.
www.terriwangard.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AuthorTerriWangard
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/terriwangard/
Twitter: @terriwangard
Instagram: terriwangard
All writers dream of getting published, but not everyone realizes that getting that first book published is just the start of the journey. Staying published is hard work. Author Tracey Lyons shares some of her insights from her years of experience as a successful novelist.
Thank you for being here! Let’s start with talking about what you write.
I write Amish fiction for Harlequin Love Inspired. My agent suggested I try to write in the genre because the historical market was fading. I’m previously published in historical romance with several different publishers. She felt my voice would be a good fit for the Amish genre.
What’s the most difficult part of writing your genre?
I have to say the most difficult part of writing in the Amish genre is there’s so much to learn about the culture. They are a fascinating group of people. And every single community is different in how they dress and the things they are allowed to do. I also struggle with being authentic to the culture.
How do you work through those challenges?
I do my best to research the area where my books are set. In this case, I traveled to Clymer, NY and drove around the area taking pictures and visiting shops along the way. I try to put myself in the world of being Amish so my characters come across as the real thing.
How long does it take you to: write the book?
It usually takes me two to three months to write the book.
Edit the book?
The editorial process is shared with my agent and the editorial staff at my publishers. And that takes another two to three months. There are a lot of phases a book goes through. You have your copy editor, your content editor and a line editor. The final process is exciting because I get to see the effort of my team come to fruition in the finished product. So overall from start to finish it’s about a 9-12 month process, give or take.
Which was harder to write: the first book or the following books?
The first book is fun to write because let’s face it, what do we know about writing when we first start out? LOL! We have a story we want to tell and that’s pretty much all we know. There’s a sweet innocence to that first book. But I would have to say the next book I write always seems to be the hardest. When you’ve become multi-published and hit a few best seller lists, the expectation that my next book has to be better than the last one is always in the back of my mind.
What’s your writing day like?
I’m for the most part a morning writer. I start my day with my mug of tea and I find my favorite chair to sit in. I look out the window while I’m drinking the tea and think about what I’m going to work on that day. Then I get to work. Sometimes I write in my office, but most times I sit downstairs in the kitchen or in front of my fireplace and work. Then around noontime I take a break. I might nap after lunch. And then I do edits and work on marketing. Nothing too exciting!!
How do you combat writer’s block?
Let’s face it, writer’s block sucks. And even the most prolific authors suffer from it at one time or another. This past year I had it the worst it’s ever been. I decided to think outside the box. Instead of beating myself up every day sitting at my laptop, staring at that blinking cursor on the screen, I took some in-depth writing classes. One was on strengths for writers. I have to tell you it was so refreshing to look at my career from a different angle. And it really bolstered my confidence as a writer and now I’m back at my work, writing on a daily basis. This is a tough business, but if it’s what you were born to do then you will find a way to make everything work and to find happiness in putting those words on the page.
How do you prepare to write your books: pantser or plotter?
I’m a bit of both. I usually start with a seed of an idea. Like a movie clip, it plays over and over in my head. Then I write the first three chapters and a synopsis. If that makes sense, I then move on to a plot board. This is something I’ve done the past few years. Prior to that I was doing outlines and timelines. But I really like to be able to move my ideas around. And post-it notes on a tri-fold project board work best for me. I also love to do research. So, I have to throw in time for that. I do a combo of books, internet and traveling to the places where the book is set.
If you have an agent, how did you find/pick your agent?
Believe it or not, my agent and I first met years ago when we were both starting out. At that time, she rejected me. Then over the years I published without an agent. Then I went through three agents and kept querying Michelle. She rejected half a dozen projects of mine. When my former agent and I parted ways, I sent Michelle Grajkowski an email telling her I’d left my current agent and would she be interested in repping me? She said yes and the rest is history.
What tips do you have for others looking for an agent?
Know what your writing style is. Have a clear concept of where you want your writing to go. Don’t ever discount a lunch where you’re chatting at a table with an agent because you never know when the timing will be right and you’ll end up working together.
How do you self-edit your manuscript?
I don’t have a huge process, but here it is. I write the first draft as free flowing as I can. However, I tend to edit as I write. Meaning when I sit down in the morning, I look at what I wrote the day before. I make adjustments where needed and then I write the new pages. After the book is complete, I do a read through to make sure it all makes sense. I look for grammar issues, and plot points that might not make sense. I also want to make sure I have clear goal, motivation, and conflict for both the plot and the characters. Then I have a beta reader go through it. My agent reads through it and then off it goes to my publisher for their editorial process.
A Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author, Tracey sold her first book on 9/9/99! Tracey’s books have been translated into several languages. She holds membership in American Christian Fiction Writers and Novelists Inc. A true upstate New Yorker, Tracey writes small town, sweet and inspirational historical romances. She is a National Excellence in Romance Fiction, The Greater Detroit Booksellers best, and OKRWA’s Reader’s choice awards finalist.
Learn more about Tracey and her books by visiting her website at www.traceylyons.com. Or by
following Tracey on social media at:
https://www.facebook.com/TraceyJLyonsAuthor,
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/tracey-j-lyons
Like many writers, Carol Stratton doesn’t limit herself to one niche. She also sometimes wonders what she’s doing! Today, she’s here to tell us how she does it and to share some writing advice.
Welcome! Why did you pick your genre?
I do wonder why I write, especially on those days when nothing exciting comes out of my fingers but jumbled up plot points, dull dialogue, and flat characters. The reward comes when a reviewer says, “This book forced me to look closer at my life,” or “I learned about forgiveness in this story.” These readers encourage me to push on in spite of the hard work. Stories have a way of crawling up into a reader’s soul, able to teach truth (often more effectively than non-fiction). I view my writing as a ministry and find joy when readers catch the spiritual values I weave into my work.
What’s your favorite book on writing? What do you like about it?
Other than some of the basics like Stephen King’s On Writing, and Elements of Style, I love anything written by James Scott Bell. At my first writing conference, I took a fiction writing class from him and so much of his advice stayed with me. When I read his books I can hear his voice talking to me. His books on Plot and Structure and How to Write Dazzling Dialogue are exceptionally helpful. In addition, he is a fun read.
What conference do you most want to attend? Why?
Well, I’d love to attend the Mount Hermon conference in California. As I grew up around that area, I have happy memories of attending conferences at Mt. Hermon, including becoming a Christian at a Young Life conference. To combine spending a few days in the redwood trees with studying writing … now that would be heaven.
How do you combat writer’s block?
I find taking a break and doing something physical helps to jump start my brain. Doing a mindless task allows my mind to wander. And often a walk is another way to sort out a problem scene.
If you’re self-published, why did you decide to go that route? If you’re traditionally published, why did you decide to go that route?
I decided early in my career I wanted to be traditionally published as it seemed a way to get my stories out to more people. In traditional publishing you have editors who critique your work and make sure your writing is the best it can be. In addition, the traditional publisher offers more marketing support. With Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas I also found a strong camaraderie among the authors as we all helped each other get out the word about any new books. Writing is a lonely endeavor, but having that tribe of other authors has made such a difference. I think without some of my friends I would have quit a long time ago.
I did I self-published a children’s Christmas book last October. I’ve always wanted to write a Christmas book and it seemed like the perfect time. I enjoyed the process of picking out a cover and finding an illustrator. It stretched my creativity as I helped the artist envision my characters. Several times she came up with the perfect picture and I thought, “Oh yeah, that’s exactly how my character looks.
What’s surprised you the most about the publishing process? Why did it surprise you?
My biggest surprise came from other authors. I have been so blessed to have made friends with other writers who choose to spend their valuable time encouraging, praying and supporting me with any new book. In turn, I’ve tried to be a cheer leader for their projects. Often family and friends don’t understand the grueling time, the rejection that is needed to complete a book, so talking over issues and celebrate victories with my writing buddies refreshes me.
I’ve been to secular conferences where the competitive vibe is palpable. Other authors are seen as opponents in a rush to get that coveted contract. But in the Christian community I’ve found a different attitude as we are all trying to do the Lord’s work.
What advice do you have for new authors?
New authors have unrealistic, romantic notions about writing. The truth is writing is hard work with lots of rewrites and rejections. I tell prospective writers not to put “Write a book” on their bucket list unless they understand the time commitment needed to become published. But then I say, “If you can’t not write, you have a writer’s heart.” Some of us are born with a God given desire to communicate, whether through the written or spoken word and we have to follow that path.
How do you self-edit your manuscript?
After I’ve finished a rough draft, I close down my computer and take a break. I may not even write anything for a few weeks while my story marinates. When I come back to review my manuscript I am able to look more objectively at my story and can find it’s horrifyingly awful. After fixing some formatting issues and running spellcheck a second time, I print a clean copy, find a cozy armchair and read what I have. I don’t make changes right away but I do read to see if the plot moves well and the characters are well developed. I may insert notes such as, (need an extra scene here) or (this plot point doesn’t make sense) At this point I am working on the main plot.
After I’m satisfied and fixed my plot and beta reader, I print up another clean copy and examine word choices, setting, and dialogue. I’ve found sitting and reading an actual piece of paper helps me focus and see errors better than when I am editing on my lap top.
A novelist, reporter, and freelancer, Carol has penned 500 articles and two books, Changing Zip Codes, and the award-winning debut novel, Lake Surrender (inspired by her work with autistic students). The sequel to Lake Surrender, Deep End of the Lake, is now available.
An avid hiker and baker she also speaks to women’s groups such as Mothers of Preschoolers. Married to her literary muse, John, they have four children and eight grandchildren and reside in Clemmons. She loves to encourage new writers and readers who have moved.
Website: carolgstratton.com
Facebook: Carol Grace Stratton
Pinterest: Carol Stratton
Twitter @Carolgstratton
Instagram CarolStratton51
Parenting a rebellious teen and autistic son, satisfying a demanding boss, and learning to love again, single mom Ally Cervantes learns when you’re in the deep end of the lake you’d better know how to swim.
Too many well-written manuscripts disappear in the slush pile every year. Make sure that doesn’t happen to your manuscript by implementing these top five ways to impress a publisher.*
These five tricks will help you stand out among the other manuscript submissions and make a name for yourself in the publishing world.
Good luck!
*If these tips made you cringe, congratulations! You couldn’t be fooled. For the REAL top five ways to impress a publisher, sign up for my newsletter today, and you’ll have the list delivered to your inbox this weekend (April 3, 2021—if you discovered this post too late to get that newsletter, contact me and I’ll make sure you get a copy).
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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