Hi Friends, I’m almost finished with my next novel, Echoes Across the Moors. That’s novel 23! I plan to release it next February. Stay tuned for the final release date.
I love being able to weave spiritual truths into my novels. As my characters face conflicts and challenging circumstances and they must make choices, I am able to show how some depend on God and look to Him for help and guidance, and others do not. I show the results of their choices and illustrate some important truths while I am hopefully telling an entertaining story. Hearing back from readers who were impacted by these elements in my novels is one of the most rewarding parts of being a novelist.
Reflecting back, what do you see as most significant to your publication journey?
As I look back, I would say joining American Christian Fiction Writers in 2000 was one of the most significant turning points in my writing journey. Up until that time I had been working on my own and just moving along at a slow pace. But after I connected with others who loved to write and wanted to develop their talents and skills to share the stories God put on their hearts, then my writing took off. I am very grateful for those who reached back to mentor and encourage me, and I try to do that for others now.
Who/What spurs you to write? Where do your story and character ideas come from?
I have always been a creative person, and I’ve enjoyed using those creative gifts in many different ways—arranging flowers, painting, gardening, decorating my home, cooking, and writing. I think I enjoy using those creative gifts because they are a reflection of God in me. He is THE Creator . . . and when we create, we connect with Him in some special ways.
Most of the ideas for my stories and characters come out of my research. As I pour over books and articles about a particular time and place and look at images, the story seems to rise out of that research. I do use character worksheets and look for character images online to help me flesh out my characters.
What do you think makes your style of storytelling unique?
I think my artistic background gives me the ability to “see” what I am writing and describe it in a way that transports people to that time and place. With this series I feel my true writing voice is shining through. Reviewers and readers often say my stories are heartwarming, inspiring, and romantic, with themes of God’s love, His forgiveness, and His ability to take even the most difficult problems we face and work them out for good.
What’s your biggest challenge in balancing writing time with your other responsibilities like being a wife, author, speaker, and leader of women’s ministry at your church?
Finding that balance is a constant quest! I am blessed to be in the season of life where my kids are grown and out on their own, so that gives me more time to focus on writing and ministry opportunities. I’m grateful for my husband’s support and encouragement in my writing. That is a huge help. I recently heard a speaker say, “Slay your dragons before breakfast.” She meant she spends time with the Lord and exercises before breakfast each day. That’s great advice, and I am trying to follow it. Put Him first, and other things seem to fall into place. And when things get out of balance, God’s grace is there, and when we call out to Him, He pulls us back to the center.
The leaves are turning and the weather is growing cooler. That can only mean one thing – fall! What is one fall tradition that you are most looking forward to?
I love fall! It’s such a beautiful season. I like to bring down some special decorations and make plans to get together with family and friends for Thanksgiving. I also like baking pumpkin muffins, picking apples, and taking a walk and seeing all the beautiful leaves.
I hope you’re enjoying a beautiful Fall! Here’s a photo from the lake across the street from our house. I enjoy walking there often. The Colors are brilliant this year!
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