writing tools | Write Now Editing

How I Write: Penelope Kaye

November 21, 2022 by Karin Beery Leave a Comment

“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

October 24, 2022 by Karin Beery Leave a Comment

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/

How I Write: Leslie L. McKee

October 10, 2022 by Karin Beery Leave a Comment

Writing and editing go hand in hand, but success in one doesn’t automatically translate into success in the other. There’s still a lot of hard work involved, and it can take years to succeed in both.

But for professionals like Leslie McKee, the hard work is paying off. A successful book editor, Leslie became a published author last year, and today she’s going to share her tips and suggestions with us. Welcome!

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

At this time, I mainly write devotions, and I’ve written a few flash fiction stories. I am starting to work on some ideas for future projects, which are a children’s book and a nonfiction book.

While I wrote a lot when I was younger, my current journey began when an editing contact presented me with an opportunity to participate in a devotional compilation. I agreed before I gave myself time to think about the fact that I’d never written a devotion before 😊 That led to a contract for ten devotions to be included in the Just Breathe devotional journal compilation (published in 2017 by Ellie Claire/Worthy Publishing).

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

At this time, I’ve only had one book published: my devotional journal, Hope Amid the Pain, which was released in October 2021. I worked on the book for close to three years, from start to publication. Most of the book was written over the course of one month, and I largely wrote it for myself. The introduction and back matter came later, after I decided I was going to self-publish or seek out a traditional publisher. I worked with an independent editor, which didn’t take long. I signed my publishing contract in April 2021, and the book was published six months later.

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

I’ve attended a few conferences (in alphabetical order: ACFW, Breathe, KCWC – Kentucky Christian Writers Conference, KidLIt Virtual Conference, Kingdom Writers Conference, Mt. Zion Ridge Press Conference, Penned Con, and She Speaks). Over the past few years, I’ve attended them virtually, which I LOVE doing! I’ve been able to attend conferences that I wouldn’t have been able to attend in person, and I’ve been richly blessed by the knowledge gained at all of these. I can’t choose just one favorite. I really enjoy the opportunity to learn more about the craft, as well as the numerous connections that are made at conferences.

What conference do you most want to attend?

Since I wear a variety of hats, I’d like to do many conferences (writing, editing, and speaking). I like the general writing conferences, since they cover both fiction and nonfiction, and many seem to cover speaking, as well as general practices such as marketing. Some on my radar for the future are Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference and Writers Digest’s Annual Conference. I’d love to attend one overseas, as well.

What’s your writing day like?

I don’t have a specific schedule, which does create a problem for me. Since I am an editor, my clients’ stories come first most days. At this time, I work on my writing where I can fit it in, which often is in the evening. When I wrote Hope Amid the Pain, I almost exclusively wrote it in the evenings (and much was done during the month of November, for NaNoWriMo.) I’m working on creating a schedule where my writing is worked into my day so I can have a bit of “off-time” in the evenings.

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

So far, I’ve only written/published one book. For that book, as well as the devotions I’ve written for compilations, I have done a bit of both. In general, I choose a Bible verse and let that lead me through the devotional content. When I wrote the flash fiction stories, which were quite outside my wheelhouse, God dropped the ideas in my head, and the stories came together quite quickly. For the projects I currently have in progress, I have a general outline for what I’d like to cover, as well as a few examples, but I haven’t got much beyond that at this time.

What’s surprised you the most about the publishing process?

I’ve been associated with the publishing industry for close to twenty years (as a reviewer then an editor and now as an author), so I knew quite a bit about the publishing process. However, I’ve learned that putting on an author hat is quite different from the editing hat I’ve worn for many years.

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

I used a freelance editor for my debut book. I’m an editor myself, and I wasn’t sure if I’d be self-publishing or submitting to traditional publishers. I know the importance of hiring an editor, so I didn’t want to skip that step. Thanks to my membership in The Christian PEN, I already knew a number of freelance editors, so it was somewhat easy to choose one who would be an appropriate fit for my manuscript.

Why me? Is God punishing me? Is my faith not strong enough for God to heal me? How can I achieve my dreams? What’s my purpose?

If you’re someone living with a chronic illness or chronic pain, these are just a few of the questions you’ve likely asked on more than one occasion. You may feel overlooked or even resentful. You try to stay positive, but some days it’s hard. It’s natural to feel this way and grieve, but it’s still possible to have a hope-filled life. God has a purpose for the pain.

Leslie is an author, editor, and reviewer. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and The Christian PEN. Her devotions have been published in compilations by Ellie Claire (2017 and 2020). Her flash fiction stories have been published with Havok, Splickety, and Spark. Her devotional journal (HOPE Amid The Pain: Hanging on to Positive Expectations When Battling Chronic Illness and Pain) was released in 2021. She enjoys reading, crocheting, spending time with family and friends (and her turtle Speedy!), and rooting for the NY Giants.

Website: https://leslielmckee.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leslielmckee
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leslielmckee/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LeslieLMcKee
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7300724.Leslie_L_McKee
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Leslie-L-McKee/e/B09G26L6BW?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1663249020&sr=8-1

Guide to Fiction Writing by Phyllis A. Whitney (book review)

October 3, 2022 by Karin Beery Leave a Comment

One of today’s leading novelists gives practical advice on how to write publishable fiction. Planning a novel, characterization, suspense, flashbacks, beginnings, and endings are all covered; a checklist for revision is also included.

Published in 1982, I wasn’t sure about this book at first, but someone recommended it so I thought I’d try it.

This was such a refreshing read. It isn’t a universal writing book (if you do this, then this will happen), but it really is a look at Whitney’s writing process. With 75 published novels from 1941-1997, she obviously had some success, but what I appreciate about her approach is that she simply explains what worked for her (passed away in 2008).

I’ve read quite a few writing books, so I found it fascinating how many things have changed as well as how many have stayed the same. She discusses many things that we have different names for these days, but the basics are the same. I especially appreciated her comments on how many new writers make excuses and fear edits. I hear the same things today, including comments about how it was easier to publish “back in the day,” but Whitney’s book makes it clear that most of the struggles are still the same.

If you’re looking for a new approach to writing books, it’s definitely worth picking up — sometimes we tune out tips because we’ve heard the same phrases over and over again, and her different terms and styles make you pay attention. There are a few things to keep in mind though:

Flashbacks, Transitions, & Time: Some of that chapter will apply for those writing dual/split timeline novels, but flashbacks are a bit out of style in the 2020s.
Getting Your Novel Published: Most of this info is outdated. Ignore her tips on working the process (of submitting and agents–those no longer apply), but heed her encouragement on surviving the process (it’s a marathon, not a sprint).

Rated PG.

Get your copy here!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

How I Write: Penny Zeller

September 26, 2022 by Karin Beery 2 Comments

All writers dream about signing with their dream agent, who helps them break out with their first novel to become a NYT best-selling author.

Success rarely looks like that, though. For most authors like Penny Zeller, it takes more work and effort than that, but she has some tips and suggestions to help authors make the most of their long (sometimes frustrating) journeys.

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

Thank you, Karin, for inviting me to be here today. I primarily write Christian historical romance. I first started writing this genre with my Montana Skies Series and found that I loved spending time in the late 1800s/early 1900s. It was a simpler and more wholesome time and, as someone who loves to read historical romance, a good fit.

I have also written two contemporary Christian romances, which I really enjoyed, and my agent recently encouraged me to also pursue writing romantic suspense. I love to read this genre, and I’m excited to see where God leads me regarding writing it.

No matter what genre I add to my list, I know I will never be able to stop writing historical romance as that is my first “love”, no pun intended.

You’ve written multiple books. Which was harder: the first book or the following book?

The first novel I wrote for publication, McKenzie, was written during a particularly difficult time in my life while I was recovering from a car accident and back-to-back bacterial infections. The words flowed easily, for which I’m grateful, because it took my mind off of my situation. In that way, the first book was much easier.

Sometimes subsequent books are harder, especially if it’s the start of a new series, simply because I’m starting from scratch. At the same time, sometimes they are much easier because I’ve learned so much (and still have so much to learn!) about the writing process.

What writing book do you want to read next? Why?

I just noticed that volume two of The Conflict Thesaurus is out. I have the entire collection of these helpful books by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi and can’t wait to add this one to my writing library.

What’s your writing day like?

On my writing days, after Bible time and breakfast, I launch into checking my social media, emails, calls, and other messages. Then I begin working on my current project. After lunch, I exercise, then return to writing. One of the things I do that I find very helpful is to punch in the number of words in my WIP into my desk calculator and set the timer. How many words can I accumulate in that time? This holds me accountable if my mind starts to wander or I’m tempted to check social media. Many times after dinner and my family is in bed, I return to the computer. Some of my best writing has occurred in the late evening hours.

How do you combat writer’s block?

That is a really good question. Writer’s block is tough, and it can hit at the worst and most unexpected times. I have found the more I force the words, the harder it is. Instead, when writer’s block makes its entrance, I take a break for a few days and give my mind a rest. I take the opportunity to dive into a book I’ve been wanting to read or tackle neglected chores.

Before long, a scene is begging to be penned and I’m back to writing.

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

I am a pantster. I rarely write all of the scenes in order and I never outline when I write fiction. I actually watch the scenes play out in my mind and attempt replicate them somewhat on paper.

I do keep a notebook and pen on my nightstand so I can take notes because ideas always seem to arrive at the most inopportune times (like when I should be sleeping!).

What advice do you have for new authors?

I would tell them to persevere. I know that sounds cliché, but it is so critical, especially in those moments when the obstacles mount and it seems like our writing is going nowhere beyond our own computer file. If God has called you to write, He has a purpose for that writing. We may never be best-selling authors, but our writing can still make a difference to those who read it.

God calls us all to do different things for His Kingdom. If He has called you to write, seek His guidance. Never give up, even when you feel like it or when someone has unkindly criticized you. Seek to please and honor Him in whatever you write, whether it be for the secular or non-secular market; whether it be fiction, nonfiction, poetry, song lyrics, or a screenplay. Find a mentor and be open to ideas and suggestions from one who’s “been there, done that”. One final note: join forces with other Christian writers. After all, we all work for the same Boss.

What does your revision process look like?

Editing is my least favorite thing when it comes to writing a book (I’m sure I’m in good company!). I usually wait several days before embarking on editing because my eyes become too accustomed to the story and I find that I have a tendency to miss things. I print out the manuscript and find a comfortable location, usually in my outdoor office at the picnic table, or curled up in my recliner. I go line-by-line and read through it, marking it up with my bright pink pen. Then I go back and make changes and repeat the process. Usually, there are a million arrows where I’ve added scenes and asterisks indicating where I need to insert the added scenes. If someone were to find my notes, they’d never be able to decipher them!

Some memories are best forgotten…

The Wyoming Territory is rife with lawlessness and disorder, something Annie Ledbetter and her parents discover when their wagon train is robbed. Seven years later, Annie settles into her lifelong dream as a teacher in the small town of Willow Falls. When she meets handsome rancher Caleb Eliason through a humorous misunderstanding, she is quickly drawn to his kind heart and charming smile.

Former outlaw Caleb Eliason embraces his chance at a fresh start. Gone are the days of robbing stagecoaches and wagon trains. When he falls in love with the new Willow Falls teacher, he doesn’t realize they’ve met before—under much different circumstances. When his past comes to light, will it put the growing love between them at risk?

Can forgiveness and redemption heal two broken hearts or will the past keep them from sharing a future?

Penny Zeller is known for her heartfelt stories of faith and her passion to impact lives for Christ through fiction. While she has had a love for writing since childhood, she began her adult writing career penning articles for national and regional publications on a wide variety of topics. Today, Penny is the author of over a dozen books. She is also a homeschool mom and a fitness instructor.

When Penny is not dreaming up new characters, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, camping, hiking, canoeing, reading, running, cycling, gardening, and playing volleyball.

She is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency and loves to hear from her readers at her website www.pennyzeller.com and her blog, random thoughts from a day in the life of a wife, mom, and author, at www.pennyzeller.wordpress.com.

Website: www.pennyzeller.com
Blog: www.pennyzeller.wordpress.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pennyzellerbooks
Twitter: https://twitter.com/PennyZeller
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Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/penny-zeller
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/zellerpenny/
MeWe: https://mewe.com/i/pennyzeller
Amazon Author Central: https://www.amazon.com/author/pennyzeller
Newsletter Sign up: https://mailchi.mp/8c1dae400a24/penny-zeller

How I Write: Penelope Kaye

How I Write: Christina Sinisi

How I Write: Leslie L. McKee

Guide to Fiction Writing by Phyllis A. Whitney (book review)

How I Write: Penny Zeller

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