by Lynn Hobbs I’m often asked how much is too much in placing scripture or prayer in a Christian fiction novel. No one wants their character to preach unless that character is indeed a preacher. Too much and the reader may lose interest. Readers want to read a story. With that in mind, I weave my story and concentrate on …
When You Feel Talentless
By Rondi Bauer Olson A few months ago I had a difficult time leaving behind the world of a book I’d read. I thought about the characters and plot for weeks, reread the book a couple of times, and journaled my favorite passages. At first, I just enjoyed the experience. I gained a better understanding of people from a certain …
Four Little Words to Help You Prep for the ACFW Conference
By Beth K. Vogt For those of your prepping for the upcoming conference, here are four words to guide you, and yes, I used the acronym A.C.F.W. Even if you’re not attending the conference, these four words apply to every writer’s journey: ADJUST your expectations. We pack a lot of things to bring to the annual ACFW conference, but one …
“Go North, Young Author!”
By Ramona Richards Here we are, setting on top of the conference and as a Nashvillian, I’d feel amiss if I didn’t at least offer up some suggestions about the city you’re about to visit. Nashville is a glorious, friendly place, and I hope you’ll all have a good time. GETTING AROUND/SAFETY The Omni Hotel is at the edge of …
Why Writers Need Poetry
by Susan A.J. Lyttek When I teach high school creative writing, we devote the entire first semester to poetry. Just typing that line, I can hear people reading this (at least some of you) groaning in agony. Why on earth would I do that? Do I love torturing youth with thees and thous? Do I want to see them bang …
Don’t Be a Conference Statistic
By Tamara D. Fickas Statistics show 70% of writers won’t follow through on a request at a conference from an industry professional to send their work. Shocking, I know. I always wondered about those writers. Why would they go to all that work and not follow through? It didn’t make sense to me. Then I went to a conference. I …
Preparing for Conference: Getting Permission
By Mesu Andrews As a little kid I was anxious to grow up, to go where I wanted, and to do as I wished without asking permission. Now, I’m beyond grown up but still asking permission for many things–especially at writer’s conferences. Permission to switch workshops. Permission to sit at a meal with a particular editor or agent. Permission to …
Does Writing Give You a Pain in the Neck?
By Patricia Bradley Did you know that writers as a group have more shoulder and neck pain than the average person? Is it any wonder why? We spend hours and hours sitting at a computer, staring at a blinking cursor. And not only do all those hours affect our neck and shoulder muscles, they add extra padding where we don’t …
Turning Pro: Business Planning for Writers
By Preslaysa Williams Writers, are you ready to take your business to the next level and turn pro? Then you need a business plan. It doesn’t have to be a long, complicated document. Your written plan will help you determine what you want from your career. Here are some basic elements and questions to ask as you craft your business …
How To Take Perfect Pictures
By Emilie Hendryx The ACFW conference is just around the corner and I’m here to talk about how to look great in photos. Okay…I’m sure that’s actually the last thing you’re thinking about as you prepare for the conference. I know that prepping for appointments, printing out one-sheets, and packing are higher up on your list, but as a photographer, …