Are You Tired? You’re Not Alone By Marie Wells Coutu

Everyone seems to be wearied by 2020. 

The pandemic, the election, hurricanes, fires, a derecho*, illnesses and deaths of loved ones, layoffs and closed businesses, canceled events. Even Black Friday will be different this year, to avoid “spreader” crowds. 

We’re just so tired of it all. 

On Facebook, Kermit the Frog declared he would not set his clock back when Daylight Saving Time ended. “I don’t want another hour of 2020,” he said. 

I get it. 

This post is as much for me as for you. 

When Discouragement Strikes, Try These Things By Sondra Kraak

When I wrote my post two months ago, promising to be back in April with thoughts on discouragement, I had no idea how apropos it would be.

No doubt, discouragement has crept into some aspect of your life these past weeks of unprecedented self-isolation. I’ve seen many writers on Facebook talking about how hard it is to write during this season.

On a personal note, my family’s summer plans were destroyed, not just because of coronavirus, but because of an unexpected health problem with my husband. We had planned months for our family sabbatical, during which we’d travel around the west backpacking and camping, making memories our children (ages 13 and 10) would remember forever. A once in a lifetime trip, we called it. It’s been hard to let myself feel the disappointment of this loss.

Perhaps you are suffering from the same heaviness of having life—and your carefully laid plans—upended by circumstances beyond your control.

This heavy mantle is what I call discouragement. Discouragement is disappointment on steroids. Disappointment is a natural, emotional reaction to something that doesn’t go our way, someone who’s let us down, or an expectation not met. Discouragement is when that disappointment takes up house in our hearts. When I am disappointed, hope still glimmers at the edges of my frustration. When I am discouraged though….hope is locked away, and the key is nowhere to be found.

Kind of like what we see with Cleopas and his friend as they walked away from Jerusalem toward Emmaus after Jesus’ death. Luke 24 tells us this story, highlighting the soul-crushing discouragement of these disciples. Unaware that they are walking with Jesus, they say to him, “They crucified him, but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel.”

My breath catches at the utter sorrow of this statement.

“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life” (Proverbs 13:12).

Maybe discouragement is making you sick. This is no light thing with no easy solution. Seeking a licensed counselor is always a wise option. We are, as this pandemic has showed us, community-oriented people who need to talk, pray, and be with others. Finding someone to help you work through the deep waters of life is a great option.

Asking questions of ourselves is also a great option, and maybe the place to begin. Ask yourself:

• Where am I discouraged? If it’s hard to pinpoint, imagine yourself as Cleopas and his friend. Finish this statement, “I had hoped….” Journal out where your emotion takes you.

• And now ask, what am I going to do about this discouragement? Cleopas and his friend pushed on in normal activities: they ate because they were hungry. Sometimes, it’s as simple as that. Do the next right thing. At other times, it’s more complex. Thomas had to touch Jesus to move past his discouragement. Peter had to have a fireside fish-fry with Jesus, in which he humbled himself before his Savior three times with, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.”

Here is an example from my career as a writer:

• I am discouraged with my sales. I had hoped that I would make more money last year to help my family, but the world of independent publishing is a hard one right now.

• I am going to set deadlines for myself and keep writing. I will not look at the sales of others. The next right thing is the next sentence typed. And then after this book, I’m going to take a break—whatever that means. This break will probably include some humble fireside fish eating with a risen Savior, and maybe some professional help if I feel so led.

Finally, from a practical standpoint, here are some tips for writing through discouragement in this crazy time.

• Don’t neglect your physical needs of healthy food, exercise, and sleep.

• Check in with a writer friend once or twice a week for encouragement and accountability

• Don’t pretend everything’s fine. Journal each day, allowing yourself to confess hard things.

• Set boundaries with the members of your household. Let others know your expectations about when and how much you want to write.

• Keep a list of the things that must be done (laundry, vacuuming, etc.), then don’t let that list control your time. Do a few things each day and draw others into the tasks. You don’t have to do it all.

• Tend your soul. Pray, read scripture, listen to music, list thanksgivings. Whatever feeds your spirit, do it. Reach for joy but give yourself permission to feel discouraged.

How are you doing as a writer right now? I’d love to hear stories from the front lines of your battle with discouragement, or simply your new way to do life as a writer during this time of quarantine.

Reach for joy but give yourself permission to feel discouraged. @SondraKraak @MaryAFelkins #amwriting #encouragement #authenticity #seriouslywrite

Connect with Sondra
Website  www.sondrakraak.com
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Such A Hope
NOTE: On sale for $0.99 through April 28.

Washington Territory, 1871

Anna Warren grew up on the seat of a wagon, the daughter of Seattle's busiest freighter. After her father’s death—a tragedy away from home—she returns to their cabin on the outskirts of Seattle, seeking the sense of belonging that eluded her childhood. But will her desire to pray for miraculous healing for the sick and wounded endear or alienate her to the community? Her most aggravating challenger is also her staunchest defender and has brown hair and eyes, stands six feet tall, and farms with unchecked tenacity. Tristan Porter. This farmer her father had befriended holds more secrets than Yesler’s Mill holds logs.

When ugly rumors arise about her spiritual gift and her property, Anna fears her quest to find belonging will be thwarted.

Tristan holds the truth to set her free, but revealing it will require him to face the disappointments of his past and surrender his plans for the future—a sacrifice he’s not sure he can make.

Waiting, Writing, Waiting, Writing...

In my home office, I sit at my desk and write new stories. Devotions, articles, children’s stories, fiction, blog posts and even snail mail letters and cards to friends and family.
When the coronavirus news entered everyday news and conversation, I noticed writers asking questions like, “Should I put aside my writing for now? Publishers are not
looking to acquire any new stories. Maybe I should not write anything new.”

These were conversations found on social media and in writing groups. I am thankful to writers and publishers who are encouraging writers to keep writing. Every day brings the opportunity to write. This is a great time to encourage other writers.

While we wait for restaurants to open for inside dining, stores to open without taped lines on the floor directing us where to stand, the social distancing requirement of staying six feet apart to end and other ways we are being affected, keep writing.

Yes, keep writing. Jot your story ideas on a notepad, make a list on your phone, create a colorful folder to keep at your writing desk and fill it with ideas for stories.
Whenever a story idea comes to your mind, be prepared to save the thoughts. Distractions can easily make us forget a great story line. Don’t let distractions take away your creativity.

While we wait, let’s write. Write about the impact of the coronavirus, write about things you hear or read that have an affect on daily life, write a joyful article that will help people during this time of sadness. Write about the compassion you witness or hear about.

During this waiting time, remember to write, write, write. Encourage authors by posting reviews for their books. Comment on social media posts and send uplifting words to another writer. Your words can have a positive impact.

During this waiting time, remember to write, write, write. @mimionlife #seriouslywrite

Are you writing today? Share some favorite topics you will be writing about in the future.

Blessings,
Melissa Henderson

Melissa Henderson is a writer of inspirational messages. Her first book for children, “Licky the Lizard”, was released in 2018. She also has a story in the compilations “Heaven Sightings” and “Remembering Christmas”. She contributes articles and devotions to various magazines and websites. Her passions are helping in community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon and Stephen Minister. She and her husband Alan moved from Virginia to South Carolina to be near son, daughter-in-love and first grandchild. The family motto is “It’s Always A Story With The Hendersons”.
Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and at http://www.melissaghenderson.com

Website and blog : http://www.melissaghenderson.com
Amazon link to "Licky the Lizard"
Facebook : Melissa Henderson, Author
Pinterest : Melissa Henderson
Twitter : @mimionlife

Writing Through the Storm by Angela Ruth Strong

Angela Ruth Strong

Find it challenging to write right now? You're not alone. Fellow MBI author Angela Ruth Strong is here to share her advice for writing (or not) during tough times. Read on. ~ Annette


How has the pandemic affected your writing? We all wanted more time to write, but quarantine can be a little extreme. It’s especially hard to focus your creative energy on imaginary problems when you’re facing real-life challenges.

On the other hand, writing can be a great way to express emotions or escape from the constant, depressing news updates.

So what should you do? Here are some options:

1.) Use your extra time to write that novel you’ve been putting off. Apparently, this is what Shakespeare did during the Plague, and there is currently a Quarantine Writing Challenge going around. I offer these tips to help leave your worries behind and get words on the page.

• Set goals. This can be a chapter a day, a word count goal, or even just setting a timer for yourself. Do the math to figure out how soon you want to finish the book, then divide the work up so you know what you have to do each day. My writing friends and I have sprints where we race each other for half an hour to see who can get the most words in. This keeps us focused on moving forward when it would be so easy to get distracted by changes at home or in the world.

• Find a schedule that works. If you have kids home from school or your spouse working from home, your writing time is going to look a little different. You might need to plan to get up early before everyone else or write after they go to bed. If you don’t make these kinds of adjustments, you could end up frustrated by unmet expectations and quit. You can’t control the things that happen outside your home, but you do get to control your time. Use it wisely.

• Turn off social media. This will be easier for some more than others, but it’s a must for me. If I get distracted by every little Facebook ding, I never get deep enough into the story that the words start to magically appear on their own. I sabotage myself. However, when I let myself be completely immersed into the joy of writing, I come out fulfilled and encouraged, able to face my own challenges with a newfound strength.

• Write out of order. This is my secret for meeting deadlines. Though I can force myself to write a scene I’m not feeling, it’s slow and painful. If I can jump to the scenes already fully formed in my imagination, it’s a better use of time and more fun. Then those scenes that lacked direction earlier now have a target for which to aim.

• Don’t let yourself edit yet. There will be time for this, but you don’t want to lose momentum. You’re also still too close to the story to know whether that scene that needs reworking is going to get cut or for you to see your mistakes and moments of brilliance for what they really are. Plus, your ending might surprise you, in which case you’d have to go back and change all those things again anyway. Get to the end so you have a whole story to work with. And also, get to the end because it’s one of the best feelings in the world, and all our emotions could use a little boost about now.

2.) Write something different. This is what I’ve been doing through my chemotherapy treatments. As much as I would like to finish all the novels on hold in my head, I lack the creative energy needed to make up stuff from nothing. Instead, my brain is contemplating the meaning of life, and I’ve had this well spring up of inspiration I’m compelled to share. I’ve done so through my newsletter, blog, and the devotionals I’ve been asked to write. This isn’t the career I planned for myself, but it’s been good for my own spiritual and mental health as well as connecting with readers on a different level. God doesn’t waste a thing.

3.) Take a season off. This isn’t for everyone, and it isn’t quitting. When I went through my divorce, there was no way I wanted to keep writing romance, so I didn’t. I know another writer who had to back out of a book set because she was in the middle of a move. Transition is hard, and your health is more important than your characters. Maybe your family needs you right now. Maybe you’re healing from a loss. Give yourself time to breathe. Be still, and let God fight for you. He’s always working behind the scenes in ways not even you can imagine.

Be still, and let God fight for you. He’s always working behind the scenes in ways not even you can imagine. #amwriting #writingcommunity #quarantine #Christfic @AngelaRStrong

Once you’ve found the writing choice that is right for you, don’t feel bad about it. Every author faces conflict that affects their work.

I remember Linda Windsor saying that when she turned in her manuscript after her husband died, the editor remarked that it looked like a rough draft, and she hadn’t even realized it. Robin Lee Hatcher shared that when going through her divorce, her editor had to make her add conflict because she subconsciously refused to let her characters face any of the pain she was dealing with.

I wish you the best with wherever you are at, and I look forward to reading all the deeper messages that will come from what you learn through your trials.

~~~~~

A Latte Difficulty

Can two baristas track down a gunman after the espresso shot heard ‘round the world?

When Marissa witnesses an attempted murder during the 4th of July parade, it starts a battle for her independence. She is forced to hide out in a safehouse, leaving her co-owner, Tandy, to run their coffee shop, track down the criminal, and, worse, plan Marissa’s wedding. Thankfully Tandy has help, but can she really trust the P.I. in a bow tie, her new deaf barista who acts more like a bartender, or a wedding planner who’s keeping secrets?

The threat on Marissa’s future goes from bad to worse when her bridal gown is covered in blood. Though her fiancé, Connor, agrees to give up his identity to join her in the Witness Protection Program, Marissa refuses to wave the white flag. Instead, she enlists Tandy to help her fight for truth, justice, and the Americano way.

~~~~~

Angela Ruth Strong sold her first Christian romance novel in 2009 then quit writing romance when her husband left her. Ten years later, God has shown her the true meaning of love, and there's nothing else she'd rather write about. Her books have since earned TOP PICK in Romantic Times, been optioned for film, won the Cascade Award, and been Amazon best-sellers. She also writes non-fiction for SpiritLed Woman. To help aspiring authors, she started IDAhope Writers where she lives in Idaho, and she teaches as an expert online at WRITE THAT BOOK. She’d loved it if you stopped by her website for a visit at www.angelaruthstrong.com.

The Goldilocks Syndrome By Patti Jo Moore

Once upon a time there was a writer. She loved to write, and happily enjoyed exploring life and new adventures with her fictional characters and settings.

When the writer decided to submit her writing, something happened to her. She was filled with doubts. What had once been an exhilarating (at times) writing experience, now became drudgery. She questioned herself as she finished each scene of a story. Had she included enough action in her stories, or were they dull? Was her story too brief, or could she have added more chapters? Had she put in too much description, often reading like “flowery prose” or did she need more description in her scenes, to make them come alive for readers?

These questions bounced around in the writer’s head, zapping all the previous enjoyment out of her writing experience. She began thinking of the well-loved story about a little girl named Goldilocks, who took a lovely walk one day and ended up in the home of a bear family. If you’re familiar with the story, you know that Goldi tried out the family’s chairs, beds, and even their breakfast they’d left cooling on the table while they enjoyed a walk that morning. Our heroine wasn’t satisfied with the original items she tried in the bears’ home. The chairs were either too big or too little, until she sat in one that was just right. The beds were too hard or too soft, until one was just right. The porridge was either too hot or too cold, until one bowl was just right.

As writers, we can easily slip into the Goldilocks Syndrome, trying and trying to get our stories “just right” but in the process never being satisfied, feeling frustrated, and never releasing them. We’ve all heard the advice that at some point, we must let our stories go. Yes, easier said than done. But we don’t want to reach the point where our writing is a headache-inducing chore and we dread our writing time each day. Sure, it’s hard work. Very hard at times. Yet we can still find joy in our writing, and pray that our writing brings joy into our readers’ lives.

If you’ve ever held onto a story for a long, long time, you may have experienced well-meaning family and friends, their surprised faces not unlike the bear family when they discovered Goldilocks asleep in Mama Bear’s bed. They may say something similar to: “You still haven’t finished that story? When will it be ready?” So after we’ve written and rewritten, polished and made our stories the very best they can be, we do need to release them and move on. There are more adventures just waiting to be written, and many happy hours of writing ahead.

Thank you for bearing with me for this post. 😉 Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to have a bowl of porridge—I mean oatmeal—as I happily contemplate ideas for future stories. 😊

Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established. Proverbs 16:3

Sadie's Dream

In a coastal Georgia town in 1900, a young woman prepares to serve as a missionary in Africa.

After being jilted the previous year, she's certain she's meant to remain single.

When she meets a handsome businessman from Savannah, she begins struggling with doubts.

Over time she learns that the Lord's plans are best, and dreams really can come true.

Patti Jo Moore is a retired kindergarten teacher and lifelong Georgia girl. She loves Jesus, her family, cats, and coffee, and is blessed to be published with Forget-Me-Not Romances. When she’s not spending time with her family (including her sweet grandbaby) or writing her “Sweet, Southern Stories” Patti Jo can be found feeding cats—her own six and local strays.

She loves connecting with readers and other writers, and can be found on Facebook at Author Patti Jo Moore or her personal blog at http://catmomscorner.blogspot.com

Rules of Survival for Writers by Gayla K. Hiss

Gayla K. Hiss

In my latest book, Cold Pursuit, the hero has a set of rules for surviving the wilds of Yellowstone National Park in winter. While I was writing the book, I took a trip to Southern Utah and hiked through a couple of slot canyons, which are very narrow, cave-like passages with only enough room for one person to squeeze through at a time. From that experience, I developed my own set of rules for making it through a slot canyon, which can apply to making it as a writer as well.

1. Don’t go it alone. Like hiking in narrow, dark canyons, writing can be a very daunting and lonely endeavor. It’s important to have people around to encourage and support us and help us out of a jam. For writers, this could be a critique group, a writers’ organization, or just good friends we can count on.

2. Never give up. It can be easy to become discouraged when we keep hitting dead ends and unexpected twists and turns, but if we keep persevering, we’ll eventually get through.

3. Don’t lose your way. I discovered in the slot canyons that as long as I went in the direction of the sunlight at the end of the tunnel, I would eventually find my way out of the canyon. Likewise, we Christian writers must keep following our Light and not go off course by worrying about worldly concerns like sales numbers, marketability, and what people will think of our books.

4. Once we’ve committed, there’s no going back. Maybe you’ve discovered that your journey is harder than you thought it would be, and you’re tempted to turn back. If you do, you may never have the satisfaction of conquering your canyon (or book). Chances are, you are probably closer to succeeding than you think. The Apostle Paul said, “…press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” —Philippians 3:13-14.

When we apply these rules to our writing, we discover that we have what it takes to get through the tight spaces. Like hiking in a slot canyon, we may not be able to see the light at the end of tunnel right now, but if we walk by faith and not by sight, eventually we will.

Your turn: Have you been tempted to turn back? How did you handle it? What's some advice you have for fellow writers who may be facing their own hurdles?

A Writer's Survival Guide by Gayla K. Hiss

~~~~~

Cold Pursuit

Can they elude the relentless danger before it’s too late?

A December tour of Yellowstone National Park sounded like the perfect escape from Faith Chandler’s problems at home—until she discovers her tour guide is her jilted childhood sweetheart, Jake Mitchell. Faced with guilt from her past mistakes, plus a disturbing pattern of suspicious incidents, Faith has second thoughts about staying on the tour.

Despite her misgivings, the serene splendor of the winter wonderland provides a much-needed respite from her stressful life and gives her a fresh perspective. After a little soul-searching, she wants to come clean with Jake. But can he forgive her for the heartache she caused—or the truth she’s withheld from him? Meanwhile, Jake wants to keep Faith at a distance, yet he must protect her from the menace stalking his tour group.

As her enemies close in like ravenous wolves, Faith is the only one who can stop the mayhem by finding the missing piece of the puzzle. Is it a smoking gun—or a trap set to destroy both her and Jake?

~~~~~

Award-winning author Gayla K. Hiss began her writing journey painting landscapes. In her imagination, characters and scenes came to life as she painted beautiful natural settings. Her inspiring novels combine her love for the great outdoors with romance, suspense, and adventure. Her book Wildfire recently won the Faith, Hope, and Love Reader’s Choice Award for romantic suspense. Gayla and her husband often tour the country in their RV, visiting many state and national parks. She enjoys hiking, camping, and traveling, and lives in the Pacific Northwest.

Connect with Gayla:
Website: https://www.gaylakhiss.com
Facebook: https://goo.gl/BrIW6P
Goodreads: https://goo.gl/ywcRaL
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/gayla-k-hiss
Amazon Author Page: https://goo.gl/WrzGcD

Writers are Warriors by Melanie Campbell

Melanie Campbell

Writers are warriors.

Maybe you haven’t thought of yourself as a warrior when you sit at your computer and start typing. But if you’re writing the stories God has called you to write, you can expect it to be a battle. It’s not the kind of battle you can prepare for by taking up karate or lifting weights at the gym (though those things may help with stress relief!). The battles we face are the kind the Bible tells us about in Ephesians 6:12:

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.

My debut novel, One Woman Falling, took years of starting and stopping before I completed it. The story of a woman who flees an abusive marriage and fights for custody of her four-year-old daughter was based, in part, on my own experiences. My heroine’s longing to see waterfalls also came from my love of nature and how I hear from God when enveloped in the beauty of His creation. My hope in writing the story was for other women in the same situation to realize God is there for them, even if they feel utterly alone and afraid. For readers who had never been in an abusive situation, my hope was they would have a new insight into the plight of abused women and their struggles.

While my intention in writing was to illustrate God’s love and offer hope to others, I had no idea of the trials I would face and how they would challenge me in those principles during the process of putting words on paper. Old wounds were reopened. Daunting obstacles stood in my way. I wanted to quit. I’ve heard of similar situations from other writers: the journey of writing their first (and subsequent) novels was its own story, with multiple plot twists and a black moment.

While these obstacles may be the enemy’s attempt to discourage us, I believe most are allowed or orchestrated by our loving Father, who knows the areas inside our hearts that need healing. It may be tempting when faced with these trials to put our writing aside and come back to it when we are up to the task. There are times when hitting pause is the only option. Having gone through this, though, I believe we are to press on and keep writing. Our trials, our pain, and ultimately our healing, will come through in our writing, creating a genuine story filled with emotional depth . . . a story that can bring hope and healing to the one who reads it.

It’s how God uses writers. He calls us to the front lines of the battle and equips us with words and stories to break through the darkness.

Your turn: As a writer, have you felt like a warrior? What are some topics you’ve written about that challenged you, maybe even nudged you away from the keyboard for a while? How did you overcome?

Writers are Warriors by @MelanieJean_27

~~~~~

One Woman Falling

After an unexpected police visit, Cassie realizes the survival of her four-year-old daughter, Renee, depends on Cassie’s courage to leave. What she doesn’t plan on is Derrick’s vengeful custody fight.

While walking through the treacherous world of divorce, Cassie is encouraged by her spunky new friend, Missy Langdon, to pursue her love of waterfalls. Cassie finds solace in the waterfalls on the agonizing weekends she’s forced to hand Renee over to Derrick. Meanwhile, unexpected help comes in the form of Brian Sutton, an attorney at the firm where Cassie works—but what price will she ultimately pay for his assistance?

As Derrick’s threatening behavior escalates, Cassie questions her choices. How long will her daughter suffer before the custody case is resolved? Why is she drawn to waterfalls during this chaotic time? And who will stand with her when everything comes crashing down?

~~~~~

Melanie Campbell is a member of Oregon Christian Writers and ACFW. She wrote her first story when she was eight years old and has been in love with the power of storytelling ever since. She is also passionate about social issues and holds a degree in Sociology from the University of Oregon, which she obtained during her stint as a single-mom. She’s now married and lives in Oregon’s beautiful Willamette Valley with her husband, their three children, and several spoiled pets. When not writing, she does the bookkeeping and other office work for her husband’s painting business, obsesses over the well-being of their three daughters, and cooks healthy meals. In the spring, you may find her hitting the trails to one of Oregon’s magnificent waterfalls.

Connect with Melanie:
Website: https://melaniejcampbell.com/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Melanie-Campbell/e/B07V7JPL7S
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/meljeancampbell/
Twitter: @MelanieJean_27

God as Business Manager and Writing Partner by Kimberly Rose Johnson

Kimberly Rose Johnson

Have you ever noticed that the scripture verse you cling to changes, depending on where you are currently at in your life? During the years I was seeking publication for the first time, my verse was Jeremiah 29:11. Now my verses are Proverbs 3:5–6. I tend to quote this passage to myself at least every other day.


I am twenty books into my career as a published, hybrid writer, and I find that I’m closer to the Lord than ever. I feel incapable of not only writing but also dealing with the daily grind of life without Him by my side. I trust Him to guide my words and my career. One of my critique partners says He is her business manager. I love that!


I loved the idea of the Lord being her business manager so much, I gave Him control in that area of my life too. After all, who knows me better, and who could possibly guide my path with perfection like He does? Granted, it’s not always easy to know His will, and there are times I feel like I’m floundering while I wait for direction. The funny thing about that is He has often told me, and I wasn’t listening. It’s only in hindsight that I realize I missed His guidance.


I see His hand in all my books. I had a blast writing my latest release, The Sleuth’s Dilemma, but it wasn’t without its challenges. I’m so thankful He’s not only my manager but my writing partner as well.

~~~~

The Sleuth's Dilemma

Anna loves her job as a high school English teacher until everything goes sideways. The one bright spot in her life is Titus Gains, the school counselor, who is there for her at every turn. Titus’ boss complicates his ordered world when she tasks him with running a meeting that changes everything. How had he not noticed Anna earlier? Someone is out to destroy her, and he can’t let that happen.


As the head of the English department, part of Luke Harms’ job is to make sure everything runs smoothly. Things went haywire when Anna was put in charge of the big writing contest. Entries are missing, Anna appears to be in danger, and her job is on the line. Luke is investigating and wants to make things right for this woman he’s starting to care about. Can a trio of school officials along with Nancy Daley, the town sleuth, stop the saboteur before it’s too late? And will Anna choose the right man, or lose them both?

~~~~~

Award winning author Kimberly Rose Johnson married her college sweetheart and lives in the Pacific Northwest. From a young child Kimberly has been an avid reader. That love of reading fostered a creative mind and led to her passion for writing. She especially loves romance and writes contemporary romance that warms the heart and feeds the soul. Kimberly holds a degree in Behavioral Science from Northwest University in Kirkland, Washington, and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers.


You can sign up for Kimberly's newsletter via her website at: https://kimberlyrjohnson.com/


Website: http://kimberlyrjohnson.com/

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Kimberly-Rose-Johnson/e/B00K10CR6E/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7082210.Kimberly_Rose_Johnson

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1566138407009549/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/kimberlyrosejoh

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/krose1990/

It's Not 'Goodbye,' It's 'See You' by Marianne Evans

Marianne Evans

When my son was a toddler, he developed the most charming idiosyncrasy. He never simply said, ‘Goodbye.’ Rather, with his security blanket tucked safe against his cheek, his eyes drooping with exhaustion after spending a Sunday with his boisterous extended family, he’d wiggle his chubby little fingers at Grandpa and Grandma and murmur, “Buh-bye. See you.”

He never failed to add the ‘See you.’

Over time, the way we interpreted it, a type of instinct seemed to kick in. You see, he never wanted to simply say ‘Goodbye.’ Instead, he clung to the words ‘See you.’ Goodbye was too final. Saying ‘See you’ meant there’d be another gathering, more shared moments, more laughter, more joy and happiness to be found. Together. To this day—and he’s an incredible grown man with a family of his own—he remains the same. That tradition carried over. When we get together, and a parting is at hand, we don’t say goodbye. We say, ‘See you.’

Those precious moments are amplified for me now and I’m hoping that instinct will serve me well as I come to a crossroads and wrestle with a difficult decision. Five years ago to this very month, I joined the Seriously Write team as a monthly contributor. Annette Irby (God bless her – she’s truly a hostess with the mostest) invited me to participate in this remarkable blog and embrace the mission of encouraging fellow authors. Being a cheerleader by nature, I embraced the journey.

During those five years, I gained much more than I gave, believe me, and I pray I’ve succeeded in touching a few hearts along the way. The thing is, life marches in, and marches on. After a lot of prayer and months of deliberation, I’ve decided the time has come to move on. Not to say a dreaded ‘Goodbye’ but to say, ‘See you.’

My prayer for each and every one of you who visit Seriously Write is that you find nourishment, and hope. I want to thank the gifted team that works tirelessly on this blog’s quality, message, and impact. You’re God-given treasures and I’m grateful for the time we’ve spent together, not just as fellow travelers on this crazy-wonderful writing journey, but as fellow travelers on the road to creating stories that honor Christ, affirm faith, and send a message of hope into a hurting world. Sharing my thoughts with you has been a privilege.

But, remember…

This doesn’t mean I’m gone forever. Perhaps the team will welcome me back when I have the occasional spark to share. This isn’t ‘Goodbye.’ This is ‘See you.’ And until time comes, may God bless you and shine through you.

With much love,

Marianne

   

*****

Benjamin Fisher melds with quiet perfection into the tapestry of the Fisher family. The youngest of the three Fisher men, Ben is gifted with skills that keep machines running, crops efficiently harvested, farm structures sound and secure.

But there’s one person in the small village of Antioch, Indiana who has noticed and adored the man since her youth. Hailey Beth Thomas. Hailey Beth’s sister is marrying Ben’s brother in a spring wedding that promises to be the event of the season. Thrown together as the heady romance of an upcoming marriage takes place, love and revelation come to life.

Unknown to anyone else, Ben wants to answer a call to the mission fields of North America that will lead him far from the life he has always known. Ben longs to serve, but he wants a life with Hailey Beth as well. Hailey Beth can’t leave Antioch, but can’t bear the idea of losing Ben.

Are they meant to be together, or will God’s call pull them apart just as they’ve found a way to one another?

*****

Marianne Evans is an award-winning author of faith-affirming fiction who has won acclaim from critics and readers alike. RT Book Reviews named her book Forgiveness a 4.5-Star Top Pick and readers laude her books as ‘riveting’ and ‘true to heart.’ She’s a life-long resident of Michigan who calls suburban Detroit home.

Encouraging the Writer Within by Marianne Evans

Marianne Evans

Spring is inching closer and closer - and with it comes the promise of warmer, sunny weather, and longer days. I can't wait! It's time for a solid dose of encouragement and inspiration. 

Hope you enjoy these slices of wisdom and inspiration - and I hope you find your way not just to the bloom of flowers and earthy soil, but an energizing of the writing spirit as well!  Enjoy!

Which of these pearls spoke to you? For me, it was 'Fill your paper with the breathings of your heart.' Powerful - and so true of what we do when we sit down and begin/continue the process of creating. I'd love to hear your thoughts, and your own inspirations! 

Until next month ... happy writing, and keep blooming!

*****

Benjamin Fisher melds with quiet perfection into the tapestry of the Fisher family. The youngest of the three Fisher men, Ben is gifted with skills that keep machines running, crops efficiently harvested, farm structures sound and secure.

But there’s one person in the small village of Antioch, Indiana who has noticed and adored the man since her youth. Hailey Beth Thomas. Hailey Beth’s sister is marrying Ben’s brother in a spring wedding that promises to be the event of the season. Thrown together as the heady romance of an upcoming marriage takes place, love and revelation come to life.

Unknown to anyone else, Ben wants to answer a call to the mission fields of North America that will lead him far from the life he has always known. Ben longs to serve, but he wants a life with Hailey Beth as well. Hailey Beth can’t leave Antioch, but can’t bear the idea of losing Ben.

Are they meant to be together, or will God’s call pull them apart just as they’ve found a way to one another?

*****

Marianne Evans is an award-winning author of faith-affirming fiction who has won acclaim from critics and readers. RT Book Reviews named her book Forgiveness a 4.5-Star Top Pick and readers laude her books as ‘riveting’ and ‘true to heart.’ She’s a life-long resident of Michigan who calls suburban Detroit home.

It's All About Discipline by Marianne Evans

Marianne Evans

My writing time—those moments when I can sit in front of my computer and completely lose myself in my characters my stories—is limited.

Only by acts of supreme discipline, by making sure I commit even a small part of my day—every day—to my craft have I been able to keep moving forward as an author. There are no tricks. No secrets to share. All I have is this, and it’s truth: Long-term writing requires discipline. 

If you find yourself in the same boat as me, keep three words in mind: Sit, plot, type. 

Some of what you produce will be garbage. Some of what you produce will be beautiful, and take you (and maybe even your story) by complete surprise. But at the end of the day, in order to succeed, you have to log the word count. You have to commit yourself to task of sticking to your scheduled writing time even if you’re exhausted, even if that blinking cursor just keeps blinking at you. Push forward, even if you write no more than a few words, a few scene ideas, a few plot twists. 

Also, don’t limit yourself. If you’re trying to write chapter 3, but developments in chapter 5 are calling, write chapter 5. Don’t waste precious time agonizing. Write the scene that’s living in your heart and mind, then save it to be inserted later. Or, outline that plot twist and save it. When I create, I write fresh, and then re-read it the next day when I continue my story. This gives me an opportunity to polish and tweak, to add layers. I review again and again as my story grows, so I don’t hang myself up on writing perfectly the first time. Round one? I simply want to write from the heart. 

The holidays are coming, and there is so much for which to be thankful, so many blessings to rejoice in and to share. As an author, try to remain dedicated to the stories you have to tell. Guard your time as best you can, and keep pushing forward. It’s all about the discipline. 

Until next month friends—be thankful, share richly, and be blessed!

~~~~~

Dustin Farrell is expected to succeed. He’s gifted with the means and ability to take the world of business development by storm…and he’s doing just that, right on plan. 

As Christmas approaches, he’s called home, to Hope Creek, Tennessee. He’s been given a slam-dunk objective from his investors: Take a small, local art shop and expand it into the retail mainstream. 

Lillianna Bennett, Dustin’s former high school classmate, is part owner of Purple Door Art Market. Long ago, her shy sweetness captured his imagination, but nothing came of the affectionate flame between them. 

Until a reunion at Christmas Inn. Dustin presents his offer, realizing the wallflower of his youth has bloomed into a confident, talented woman with the kind of free-spirited heart for which he always longed. And he wonders: Is a life of expectation, and ‘more’ what he really wants? Will his professional quest end up compromising Lillianna if her gifts and business become part of a wider view? 

Most of all, will love be lovelier...the second time around?

~~~~~

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.

Nine Tips for Finding Balance by Kimberly Rose Johnson

Kimberly Rose Johnson

Nine Tips for Finding Balance

by Kimberly Rose Johnson

This self-proclaimed workaholic learned a valuable lesson—writing should only be a part of a well-balanced life, not all consuming.

I love to write. It’s my passion, and it makes me happy. However, when my boys went away to college, writing became what drove me day in and day out. I had contracts to fulfill, plus other books I wanted to write, as well as a part-time job. I was stressed, overworked, tired, ate too much, consumed too much caffeine, didn’t exercise nearly enough, and consequently my quality of life suffered.

I have always touted balance, but I allowed my passion to take over, and I became out of balance. It had never been my intent to stress myself out. I simply wanted to meet my deadlines and make my readers happy with a new book every three or four months. I’m not doing this any longer.

In 2017 I published nine books! Five of them were books I’d received my rights back on, and one had been in a collection. That sounds easy enough, except that I couldn’t afford the price the publisher wanted to buy the digital files, so I had to get the books scanned. The scanning process causes mistakes! It took me a long time to get through those pages. Suffice it to say it was daunting. On top of that, I had one book release from my current publisher, and I wrote two more novels to finish off an indie series. It was a lot.

That year took a toll on me in every aspect of my life, and I learned a lesson—I couldn’t simply talk about balance, I needed to incorporate it into my life every day.

Here are some tips I’m putting into action:

·                     Spend time in the Bible

·                     Eat wholesome and healthy foods

·                     Make exercise a priority and incorporate weights as well as cardio

·                     Allow wiggle room in my schedule

·                     Give permission to take a day off

·                     Don’t stress marketing—but still do it

·                     Do what is necessary then let the rest go during busy times

·                     Cut back production schedule—I will only publish two books in 2018.

·                     Remember it’s okay to slow down

There you have it, my plan to finding true balance. I leave you with one final thought that Allen Arnold talks about: Co-create with God.

Your turn: Have you ever gotten out of balance in your writing life? How did you get back on track? What are some items on your “finding a balance” list?

~~~~~

The Sleuth's Miscalculation

The Sleuth’s Miscalculation

Two strong-willed sleuths team up to solve a mystery. Can they work together, or will their differences pull them apart?

Librarian Nancy Daley loves a good mystery and enjoys moonlighting as a consultant for the sheriff’s department. When license plates go missing in Tipton County, she’s on the case. This time things are different—she’s been partnered with the new deputy, and he’s not interested in her help. To make matters worse, she’s angered the wrong person and is now being threatened.

Sheriff Deputy Carter Malone expects Tipton, Oregon to be a sleepy small-town, but he miscalculated. He’d come to town for a fresh start with his nephew—one without the issues big cities deal with. Had he made a mistake? To complicate matters, he’s told he must consult with the sheriff’s daughter, who is not in law enforcement. When the minor case they are working morphs into something more, things quickly go from harmless to scary.

Can they solve the mystery before it’s too late, and more importantly, what will they do about their growing attraction?

~~~~~

Faith Hope and Love Reader's Choice Finalist, Kimberly Rose Johnson, married her college sweetheart and lives in the Pacific Northwest. From a young child Kimberly has been an avid reader. That love of reading fostered a creative mind and led to her passion for writing. She especially loves romance and writes contemporary romance that warms the heart and feeds the soul.

Kimberly holds a degree in Behavioral Science from Northwest University in Kirkland, Washington, and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. 

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