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| Marianne Evans |
In this latest season of
my writing life, I’m forcing myself to embrace the truth that not all writing
is linear. Sometimes the process of crafting a book isn’t A-B-C-D. Sometimes
it’s more like B-D-A-C. Sometimes stories piece themselves into existence like
a jigsaw puzzle of sorts, scenes connecting and blending into a smooth and ultimately beautiful whole, but not in any kind of
neat and immediate sequence.
It used to be that when I
sat down to write, I’d pick up where I left off, re-read to add polish, layers
and any needed corrections. From there, I’d continue to create a story in a very
straightforward manner. Now, my writing time is more scatter-shot, and I find I
can’t force myself to sit and write what simply isn’t “there” for me yet. It
took a lot of writer’s block and coaching to get me to realize my writing has
had to shift and evolve—yet remain continuous of flow and most of all
true to its story/character arc--due to restricted time at the computer.
What have I learned? How can I encourage you if you face the same issue?
Write the scene you’re
called to write. Craft the book you’re called to write. Let passion and your
writerly joy of creating drive the process of bringing your characters to life.
Breathe to life those three key elements by infusing your book with heart, because what you're called to write comes straight fro)m there. For me, whatever scene (or project) I'm called to create, whether it comes to me in any kind of logical sequence or not, is a nudge from God that moves me forward.
Embrace the journey.
That’s been a mantra of mine since I began writing. It’s great, at times
like this, to gain an ordained reminder of why that phrase means so much to me.
The journey is the goal…not just the destination. Hope that encourages you!
Until next time, friends.
~~~~~
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| Nobody's Baby But Mine |
Elementary school counselor Charlotte Latherson is focused on Dylan's case for reasons both personal and professional. His mother was Charlotte's best friend, and the loss has transformed the once joyful and engaging little boy into a reticent, downtrodden kindergartner.
Charlotte is well aware of Noah's history. Other than a close relationship with his sister, Noah's life has been solitary; he keeps to himself and builds strong walls of protection around a heart. Can he provide what's best for Dylan?
At times they butt heads over the youngster's life, but as they struggle, God opens a loving pathway in their hearts. While Noah fights for a child he feels is nobody's baby but his, Charlotte wonders if the feelings they share can't create the bridge to a miracle.
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Marianne Evans is an award-winning author of Christian romance and fiction. Her hope is to spread the faith-affirming message of God’s love through the stories He prompts her to create. Readers laude her work as “Riveting,” “Realistic and true to heart,” “Compelling.” Her Christian fiction debut, Devotion, earned the Bookseller’s Best Award as well as the Heart of Excellence Award. Her follow-up novel, Forgiveness, earned Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year honors as did her book Hearts Communion. She is also a two-time recipient of the Selah Award for her books Then & Now and Finding Home. Marianne is a lifelong resident of Michigan and an active member of Romance Writers of America, most notably the Greater Detroit Chapter where she served two terms as President. You can connect with Marianne at www.marianneevans.com.
