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No Plot? No Problem! by Chris Baty (book review)

January 23, 2023 by Karin Beery Leave a Comment

You’ve always wanted to write, but . . . just haven’t gotten around to it. No Plot? No Problem! is the kick in the pants you’ve been waiting for.

Let Chris Baty, founder of the rockin’ literary marathon National Novel Writing Month (a.k.a. NaNoWriMo), guide you through four exciting weeks of hard-core noveling. Baty’s pep talks and essential survival strategies cover the initial momentum and energy of Week One, the critical “plot flashes” of Week Two, the “Can I quit now?” impulses of Week Three, and the champagne and roar of the crowd during Week Four. Whether you’re a first-time novelist who just can’t seem to get pen to paper or a results-oriented writer seeking a creative on-ramp into the world of publishing, this is the adventure for you.

So what are you waiting for? The No Plot? approach worked for the thousands of people who’ve signed up for NaNoWriMo, and it can work for you! Let No Plot? No Problem! help you get fired up and on the right track.


This book was recommended to me by another writer, so I picked it up to see what it’s about. I didn’t know anything about it before hand, so I didn’t realize it’s essentially a guide on how to succeed at NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month). Though the book is geared toward completing NaNoWriMo (writing 50,000 words in thirty days), this book could also be titled “How to Finish Your First Draft,” as the emphasis really is on finishing that first round of your book in all it’s terribly glory.

I know many people who do well plotting and outlining manuscripts for weeks (or months) before writing — this book isn’t for them. It’s for those writers who can’t seem to finish the first draft.

This book won’t tell you how to write well or how to create dynamic characters. The point is to simply FINISH THAT MANUSCRIPT! If that’s your biggest struggle, this is the book for you.

A couple of things worth mentioning:

  1. This really is written for people ACTIVELY writing 50,000 words/month. If you aren’t, then you can skip four chapters near the end (one for each week of a monthly writing spree).
  2. The font is a bit smaller than usual, which isn’t a huge issue, but I did find it hard to read the gray sidebars. Not only was the font smaller, but the thin letters on the gray page were hard to read. I skipped most of those as it wasn’t worth the effort to try to read them (younger people might not have that issue).

Overall, I would definitely recommend this to anyone struggling to finish their first draft. This truly is a book about how to get yourself to write 50,000 words/month, but it’s not going to help you write something coherent. (You’ll have to edit for that.)

Get your copy here!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Filed Under: book reviews Tagged With: book review, fiction writing, fiction writing tips, rough drafts, writing advice, writing tips

Writing Tips … Sharon Norris Elliott

January 16, 2023 by Karin Beery Leave a Comment

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)
CWWN.tv: Search for Sharon Norris Elliott or Life That Matters (the shows)

For past author interviews, click here!

Filed Under: interview Tagged With: author interview, Christian nonfiction, editing tips, self-editing, Sharon Norris Elliott, writing nonfiction, writing tips, writing tools

Writing Tips with Sharee Stover

January 3, 2023 by Karin Beery Leave a Comment

If you’re writing romantic suspense, you won’t want to miss today’s interview. Award-winning Love Inspired Suspense author Sharee Stover shares her tips, suggestions, and encouragement.

Welcome!

What is your favorite craft book?
Any of the thesaurus books from Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi are a MUST HAVE in my opinion.

Which do you think is the most underrated craft book? Why?
I’m unsure it’s underrated, but it’s one that I think is essential. GMC by Debra Dixon.

What is your favorite (or most anticipated) writers conference?
Writers Police Academy by far was my most favorite of all the conferences I’ve attended. 

What’s your favorite other source (YouTube, podcast, etc.) for writing tips/info?
I use YouTube, podcasts, newsletters, online classes, etc. and especially love any features with forensic specialists.

Who is your writing mentor/inspiration? Why?
I’ve been blessed with several wonderful mentors over the years who have prayed with me, critiqued my work, and offered wisdom in my writing journey. I appreciate candidness, but also love having their kind support on those super rough days.

What’s the worst writing advice you’ve ever received? Why was it bad?
I can’t say I’ve ever had bad writing advice.

What’s the best writing advice you’ve ever received?
Learn craft. It’s important to understand the rules before you go breaking any of them if you choose to do so.

What would you say is the best writing tip for new authors?
Get involved with writing groups and attend conferences. There’s a great wealth of information out there. Use it!

What is your best self-editing tip or advice?
I always do an audio read through of my books. Our minds can tend to fill in anticipated words even if they’re missing from the page. Hearing the words helps me to filter out typos or missing information as well as listen to the characters’ dialogue interactions.

Please share your most encouraging tip for frustrated/discouraged writers.
Pray before you start, while you’re writing, and when you’re finished. A rejection letter isn’t the end of your journey. It’s a part of the process, see it as a learning opportunity. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a short break, then start again. Never give up. Never give in. Writing is tough. But there’s so much involved in the journey beyond a published book. Be willing to learn. Nobody knows it all.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

Thank you for the wonderful opportunity to join you today!


Proving his innocence may cost him his life…

After a brutal attack, US marshal Riker Kastell regains consciousness only to find a murdered gang member in his mudroom. Even worse, Eliana Daines—his ex-sweetheart—has a DNA program that pinpoints him as the murderer. And Eliana’s technology has them both targeted by criminals.

Now he and his K-9 must protect Eliana…and find the killer who looks just like Riker before they become the next victims.


Award-winning, Publisher’s Weekly Best-Selling author, Sharee Stover transplanted from Colorado to the Midwest where she lives her happily-ever-after with her real-life-hero husband and three wonderful children. A self-proclaimed word nerd, she loves the power of the written word to ignite, transform, and restore. She writes Christian romantic suspense combining heart-racing, nail-biting suspense, and the delight of falling in love all in one. Sharee also enjoys reading, crocheting, and long walks with her obnoxiously lovable German Shepherd. Visit her at www.shareestover.com.

Website: https://shareestover.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/shareestover
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorshareestover/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shareestover/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/sharee-stover
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/shareestover
Amazon Author Page: https://amazon.com/author/shareestover
Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3PgASBB

Filed Under: interview Tagged With: author interview, Love Inspired Suspense, romantic suspense, writing a book, writing advice, writing fiction, writing tips

How I Write: Heidi Glick

December 19, 2022 by Karin Beery 2 Comments

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/
https://www.instagram.com/glick.heidi/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7035003.Heidi_Glick

Filed Under: interview Tagged With: author interview, fiction writing, How I Write, romantic suspense, self-editing, writing fiction, writing suspense, writing tips, writing tools

How I Write: Kimberly Novak

December 12, 2022 by Karin Beery Leave a Comment

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

Filed Under: interview Tagged With: author interview, children's books, children's fiction, editing tips, writing, writing tips, writing tools

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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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