Write Pathway

AND THE WINNER IS....

2011-08-14T23:48:00.005-04:00

THE WINNER IS...Jenny Thornton of Seven Springs, NC.

Congratulations, Jenny! I know you will love Susan's book Inside Story. She is a great writer!

Thanks to all of you who read the interview and commented. A special thanks to those who followed me and commented.

Please come back soon to see what’s up at Write Pathway.

Interview with Susan Page Davis

2011-07-16T10:00:00.000-04:00

Good morning Susan, and welcome to Write Pathway, a place for writers and editors to meet. We are so pleased to have you with us this morning. So let's get started with our interview.

What would you do with your life if you didn't write?

I would probably hold some 9 to 5 job, as I have two teenagers heading off to college in the fall. Before I wrote fiction, I was a news correspondent, so it’s hard to imagine not writing in some form.

How many rejections did you get before you published a book?

I can’t even remember. The first book I ever wrote was rejected about fourteen times. It’s never been published. But I wrote several more books before I was published. I’m guessing a total of at least thirty rejections.

How many books have you published? Are all of them published by Traditional publishers?

So far 32 novels and two novellas (not counting anthologies), and yes, all published traditionally. I have five more under contract and somewhere in the process between contract and publication, and one story collection I posted myself as an e-book that has never been a paper book, though the title story was published in Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine. (Mailbox Mayhem).

Tell us a bit about Inside Story, the book we’re giving away next week.

Claudia Gillette is a high-powered magazine writer who wants to forget her small town roots as a Franco-American girl from Maine. She’ll take almost any risk to get a good story. Most people find her a bit overpowering, but Lt. Bill White is fascinated by her. Bill is part of a Navy special operations team supervised by Claudia’s brother-in-law. When she learns the unit includes a woman, Claudia knows she has to get that woman’s story for her magazine. She pulls some strings, and to Bill’s horror, she drops into his unit’s top secret mission at a critical moment.

What gave you the idea for the Frasier Island Series?

This is actually the third book in the Frasier Island series, but it can be read as a standalone. The series is about Navy personnel in unusual situations. Book 1 has three people guarding a secret on an island outpost (Frasier Island). Book 2 has Claudia’s sister, Marie Belanger, running for her life after witnessing a murder (Finding Marie). The idea for Frasier Island came first.
My son and I were discussing science fiction, and he said he wanted to write a SF book. One thing led to another, which was a challenge—who could complete a SF book first? Well, my book turned out to be romantic suspense, not SF. The only thing remotely Sci-Fi about it is the mysterious substance found in the water near Frasier Island. And my son’s book? He didn’t finish it, so I think I won.

What’s something you wish you’d known earlier that might have saved you some time/frustration in the publishing business?

I used to be a panster, but I reformed. Now I outline in detail before I ever begin writing.

Where do you find your story ideas?

The idea for Inside Story sprang from the earlier books in the series. Claudia appeared briefly in Finding Marie, when her sister Marie was missing. My readers loved Marie’s family (and her husband Pierre’s large French family too) and asked if I would write about the other siblings. So in this case, I had the character, Claudia, established as a journalist, the girl who left home and made good. She apparently “had it all,” but I knew she wasn’t happy with the life she’d made for herself. I wanted to tell her story and show her longing for the simple domesticity her sisters had. So I put Claudia in several intense situations and showed her unhappiness growing.Other starter ideas for books have come from lots of places. It could be something I’ve read or heard or seen on TV. It could be a nugget I discovered while researching something else, or an odd bit of trivia that caught my fancy.

Usually my story ideas start in one of two ways-—with a character I want to portray (like Claudia) or with a situation I populate with people who can best execute it (like the discovery of the mysterious “stuff” in Frasier Island).

What two or three things would you do differently if you were starting your publishing career today?

Go to conferences for fiction writers sooner (like ACFW). I would not assume some editor would read my book, love it, and publish it without changing a word.

Describe your favorite writing spot.

My desk, which is in a corner room. I can look out any time, but being in my familiar place with all my “tools” handy keeps me from being too easily distracted. I have lots of research books around me, along with files, printer, maps, and so on.

What is the first thing you do when you begin a new book?

Make a 3-ring binder containing sections for contract, timeline, synopsis, and research topics. Later I add reader mail, correspondence, and whatever pertains to that book. My Inside Story binder contains a lot of information about the Navy, mountain gorillas, Peru, and guerilla warfare, for instance. I also make cards for each character with a thumbnail sketch of their appearance, relationships, and other facts I might want to refer to again (make of car, for instance, or key dates in their lives).

Have you received a particularly memorable reader response or peer honor? Please share.

I’ve written 15 books for Heartsong Presents, and this year their readers chose me as their favorite author. That was a huge honor, and very humbling when I look at the list of authors who write for them.

Congratulations, Susan. That is quite an honor---to be chosen as your readers favorite author. What’s next?

My historical romance, Captive Trail, will release in September. It’s part of the new Texas Trails series, from Moody Publishers. I’m excited to be writing this series with authors Darlene Franklin and Vickie McDonough. You can read more about it on my Website: http://www.susanpagedavis.com/historicals.html

Tell us about your e-books.

I recently had the rights revert to me for Inside Story, and have posted it as a Kindle e-book with a new cover (made by my awesome youngest daughter, by the way). I have 12 e-books now, and I love having that many books available to people who want to read on their computer or a book reader. See Inside Story at: http://www.amazon.com/Inside-Story-Frasier-Island-ebook/dp/B004TMMZ26/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1301060930&sr=1-1

Why do you keep writing?

Because I have a lot more stories to tell. If the Lord quits giving me stories, I’ll stop.

Well, Susan, I've read your Frazier Island series and loved every one. I wish you much success as you continue the journey to accomplish what God has laid on your heart. I'm sure He has many more wonderful stories for you to share with us. Again, thank you so much for sharing with us today.

CONTEST: Win a copy of Inside Story

You can be a winner today! Leave a comment for one entry or "Follow Me" for two entries. If you are already a follower, but have not posted your picture on the Follow Me site, you can add your picture for two entries.

2010-10-04T00:49:00.006-04:00

Janice Hanna Thompson is back!

Write Pathway welcomes back Janice Hanna Thompson to talk about her latest book, LOVE ME TENDER:

Hi everyone! Thanks for stopping by to share in the excitement of LOVE ME TENDER, my latest inspirational romance. When I heard about the new “When I Fall in Love” line at Summerside, I flipped! Why? Because I love the ‘50s, and I love music! (The line is based on song titles from the 1930s to the 1970s.) I happen to be a playwright with a really fun musical comedy titled JOHNNY BE GOOD, a story that’s near and dear to my heart. I decided to put a twist on that stage play and turn it into a rockin’ romantic novel! With that in mind, I hope you enjoy this “Hollywood Heartthrob” interview with four of the main characters from the novel.

Hollywood Heartthrob, “Man About Town” Columnist:
Welcome, readers! This is Sunset Sam, columnist for Hollywood Heartthrob magazine, here to interview several characters from LOVE ME TENDER, a new book by author Janice Hanna Thompson. I read the book in preparation for this interview and had a hip-hip hoppin’, be-be-boppin’ time reading about the characters down at Sweet Sal’s Soda Shoppe in Laguna Beach. I’ve been to Sweet Sal’s many times, of course. Everyone in Hollywood knows it’s all the rage. Where else can you get a big, thick cheeseburger, hot, salty fries and the thickest chocolate malts in the country? Now that I’ve enticed you with the food, let’s have a little chat with some of the key players in our story. We’ll start with Debbie Carmichael, daughter of the owners of Sweet Sal’s.

Sam: Debbie, could you tell us a little about what your day-to-day life is like?

Debbie: Most of the girls my age are in college, but I decided to stay in Laguna Beach and help my parents out at our family run soda shop. I have the best life ever! I live across the street from the Pacific Ocean, and love spending time at the cliffs, watching the waves lap the shore. When I’m at the soda shop, the jukebox is always playing. I’m gaga over Elvis’s new song, “Love Me Tender.” It’s all the rage with teen girls right now. Of course, I’m also head over heels for Bobby Conrad, but don’t tell my friends, okay? They think I’m more mature than most of the other teen girls who hang out Sweet Sal’s. Of course, I’m a little distracted by that new guy, Johnny Hartman. He’s so sweet and handsome, and I hear he’s a great singer, too!

Sam: Johnny, I read in another article that you came all the way from Topeka Kansas to Hollywood to make it big. How does Hollywood compare to Topeka?

Johnny: There’s really no way to compare Topeka to Los Angeles. People out here (in California) are more up on current styles, the hottest tunes and the hippest actors and actresses. Back home, folks are so grounded. That isn’t always the case here in L.A. I hope I don’t sound too stuck up when I say that back in Topeka, I was a big fish in a small pond. And because my dad’s a pastor, I had plenty of opportunities to sing in church. But out here in L.A. no one even knows who I am. My agent, Jim Jangles, is working hard to get me a gig on television. I’m auditioning for Arthur Godfrey’s Talent Scouts soon. Say a little prayer for me!

Sam: Bobby, I understand you were slotted to sing at the fundraiser at Sweet Sal’s Soda Shoppe, but had to cancel. Could you explain your sudden departure?

Johnny: Yes, I was scheduled to sing at the fundraiser, but just got word that I’ll be filming my new movie that same weekend. I was really disappointed to have to tell the Carmichaels the news, but hopefully they understand. I think it’s going to be okay, because my agent, Jim Jangles, is sending his latest prodigy—a kid from Topeka named Johnny Hartman—in my place. I hear he’s quite a singer.

Sam: Sal, could you tell our readers about some of the Hollywood stars you’ve met over the years?

Sal: First of all, thanks for including me in this interview! It’s been decades since I was a teen, but I still secretly read Hollywood Heartthrob magazine. (Shh! Don’t tell my husband, Frankie, or my daughter, Debbie!) I’m blessed to be the co-owner of Sweet Sal’s Soda Shoppe in Laguna Beach, and I’ve met a lot of stars who’ve come through on their way to places like Dana Point and San Diego. Some of my favorites are: Doris Day, Gregory Peck, Frank Sinatra, Audrey Hepburn, Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Ozzie and Harriet. There are dozens more, of course. I want to personally invite all of your readers to stop by Sweet Sal’s Soda Shoppe so that they can see the photos on our walls! And while you’re here, why not enjoy a creamy chocolate malt?

Sam: Debbie, a little birdie told me that you and the other girls in Laguna Beach are gaga over Elvis, Pat Boone and Bobby Conrad. Now that you’ve gotten to know (and love) Johnny Hartman, what would you say sets him apart from the other great singers you’ve known?

Debbie: Oh, no doubt about it. . .Johnny isn’t just a great singer, he’s got a heart of gold. I especially love his strong faith. Unlike so many of the other singers in town, he doesn’t put himself first. With Johnny, it’s God first. . .all the way! And when he sings. . .man! That voice! It’s a smooth as velvet. (And it doesn’t hurt that he’s so dreamy! Talk about handsome!)

Sam: Johnny, you’ve been asked to fill in for Bobby Conrad at the Laguna Beach fundraiser. Can you tell us how you’re feeling as you look forward to the big day?

Johnny: I don’t mind admitting I’m a little nervous. Who wouldn’t be? Thousands of girls from Orange County and beyond are looking forward to seeing Bobby Conrad in person. Now I’ve been asked to fill in for him. I’ll be lucky if they don’t boo me off the stage or toss rotten tomatoes at me! Hopefully, my new love song—the one I wrote for the gorgeous Debbie Carmichael—will win them over. I hope so, anyway!

Sam: Bobby, many Christians have a hard time hanging onto their faith once they achieve stardom. You seem so grounded. What’s your secret?

Bobby: I always try to honor God in everything I do—whether it’s movies or songs for the radio. There’s a verse that I love, and it’s one I try to live by: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” The way I look at it, if I make a choice to put God first, He’s going to bless me above and beyond anything I could ever ask for, anyway. Even if He didn’t bless me, though, I would still serve Him. It’s really the only way to live a fulfilling life. (And trust me when I say that people out here in L.A. are looking for ways to live a fulfilling life!)

Sam: Sal, we were sorry to hear about your husband’s health problems. How is he doing now?

Sal: Praise the Lord, Frankie seems to be doing a little better. His heart attack several months ago really shook us up. And we got behind on the mortgage, which has made me a little nervous. Still, I choose to trust God. And now that everyone in town is banding together to put on the fundraiser to save the soda shop, I’m feeling more hopeful than ever!

Sam: Debbie, is there anything you’d like Hollywood Heartthrob readers to know as we end this interview?

Debbie: Yes, I would like people to know that it is possible to live in Hollywood—to be a big star, even—and still be a person of faith. I’ve witnessed it in Bobby Conrad’s life, and in Johnny’s, too. I’d also like to share that putting your trust in God is really the only way to go. Some problems are just too big for us to handle on our own. When my dad got really sick, I made up my mind to try to “fix” the situation. What I’ve learned is this—only God can truly “fix” anything. And trust me when I say that His “fix” is far greater than anything we could ever dream up!

Sam: Thanks so much, folks! It’s been a great interview.

Well, there you have it, Hollywood Heartthrob fans. This is Sunset Sam, signing off for this week. See you next time!

***************************

Janice's book can be purchased on her site at www.janicehannathompson.com or at http://www.amazon.com/.

~ YOU CAN BE A WINNER. ENTER TODAY~

GIVEAWAY INFO: Janice is hosting a giveaway on her facebook page(http://www.facebook.com/jhannathompson). To enter, leave a comment on her page with the name of your favorite ‘50s star (movies or music) and explain why you liked him/her. The drawing to win the Be-Boppin’ ‘50s Basket (filled with great ‘50s memorabilia) will take place on the weekend of October 29th – 31st. Why? Because that’s the same weekend Janice is directing a local (Houston) production of JOHNNY BE GOOD the musical comedy that served as inspiration for LOVE ME TENDER.

Write Pathway Welcomes Alice Wisler

2010-09-07T07:00:00.000-04:00

Hello, Alice, and welcome to Write Pathway. I’m thrilled to have you here to share some special thoughts about your life and your writing journey.

Hi, Ann. Thank you for inviting me to join you.

I know that you spent a good part of your life in Japan. Has growing up as a missionary kid in Japan influenced your writing?

I think spending my childhood in Japan has given me a global view. I've always been interested in other people, cultures, and countries. Both my elementary and high school had kids from all over the world. I love to travel. My novels have an international scope to them even though they are all set in North Carolina. For example, the one coming out this October, Hatteras Girl, has a Korean-American as the main character.

Do you ever cook Japanese food at home?

Since I spent so much time in Japan, my favorite foods are Japanese. I love sushi—the real Japanese kind without the cream cheese and avocados. Yes, I will make several dishes that are sentimental to me. My husband and kids like using the Japanese bowls and chopsticks when I make sukiyaki, nabeyaki, or udon for dinner.

Alice, I recently attended one of your “Writing the Heartache” workshops. Did your writing journey begin with writing your heartache? Did becoming a writer come from your need to do this or have you always had that “writer” somewhere deep inside you?

Ever since I was six in a plaid skirt and red tights, I wanted to write. I used to write stories and illustrate them with stick figures. Then I’d staple the pages together. My first grade teacher had me read the stories to the rest of the class and even to the third and fourth grade classes.

Before my son Daniel died, I had some pieces published in Standard Publishing’s devotionals, the Upper Room, and a short story in a David C. Cook publication called Sprint. But after he died in 1997, my writing took on a new level. I wrote to keep sane and was amazed when told that my articles and poems helped others in their grief.

How did you transition from writing about Daniel and the heartache to writing novels? And when did you begin your first novel? How long did it take you to write Rain Song?

Rain Song was a work-in-progress for about eighteen months. I started it in 2004 and worked on it off and on. I changed it from first person to third and then back to first. In 2006, an agent said she loved the novel and wanted to represent me. Ever since I was little I wanted to write a novel. So this has been a life-long dream for me.

Most writers attend writers conferences to learn how to improve their craft and to pitch their books to agents and publishers. Did you pitch your books at a writers conference? Would you like to recommend your favorite conference?

I have never been to a writers’ conference. I found my agent online; I’ve yet to meet her in person. I sent a query email to her at the end of August 2006 and she said she liked the story line and asked to see the first three chapters. After she read those, she wanted the whole novel. I had to rewrite it quickly as it was not yet completed in the new version. My agent called two weeks after receiving the entire manuscript to say she loved Rain Song and wanted to represent me. I was contracted nine weeks later for a two-book deal with Bethany House.

Your books are written in first person. Since I have found few books written in first person, I was eager to read Rain Song and How Sweet It Is. Why did you choose to use first person?

One of my favorite authors, Elizabeth Berg, writes in first person. I guess you often write what you enjoy reading. Amy Tan wrote the Joy Luck Club in first person—that is another of my favorite books. First person is the easiest and most comfortable style for me to write in.

Your latest book, Hatteras Girl, comes out in October. Is it also written in first person?

Yes, and my fourth novel due out in October 2011 is also in first person. I guess I’m just a first person type of gal.

What gave you the idea to write Hatteras Girl?

I love my time spent each year on the North Carolina coast. The Outer Banks is especially meaningful to me. Part of me has wanted to run a bed and breakfast, except I think I'm probably too lazy to do a good job. So I let Jackie and her friend Minnie, have the desire to run one—the old Bailey House—located in Nags Head. The house is not without its problems and the handsome realtor does not help in the long run. There is romance in the novel, because I think when you are on the North Carolina coast, it's always romantic.

Tell us a bit about your novels.

My first novel, Rain Song, is set in Mount Olive, NC, home to the famous Mount Olive Pickle Company. The title was taken from a Japanese children's song because the novel has a connection to Japan. How Sweet It Is takes place in the Smoky Mountains, right in Bryson City, NC. All my novels deal with special recipes because cooking and eating well are important aspects to living well. That’s what Virginia Woolf said and I agree with her.

Since you are a North Carolina author and your books so far have been set in NC, I’m sure you are a big seller in your state. Personally, that’s one of the things I loved about your books; I knew all the settings very well. Does the setting of a novel matter a great deal with regard to who buys it?

I think people generally like Southern fiction. Southerners find it comforting and northerners find it nicely peculiar.

You told me that you are facing a deadline with another book. Would you like to share something about what we can expect or do you plan to surprise us?

The tentative title for my fourth novel is A Wedding Invitation. This novel takes place in Falls Church, VA, Winston Salem, NC and the Philippines. It’s a story about second chances. Samantha, the main character, spent a year in a refugee camp in the Philippines as a teacher, and when a student from her past meets her again in a cemetery in Winston Salem, all sorts of interesting things happen.

The journey to publication is often a struggle and can be very discouraging. Is there a word of advice or encouragement you’d like to pass along to beginning novelists who are trying to get published?

Write often. Read the authors you like. Edit, edit, edit. Try to avoid as many clichés as you can. Stretch your vocabulary and observe the world around you to get a handle on realistic dialogue. Keep striving for your goal. It can happen. Hang around those who encourage you and believe in your dream.

Alice, thank you so much for sharing about your writing journey. Every time you share, you help other aspiring writers.

Come back next week to learn more about Alice and her

Writing the Heartache ministry.

And the Winner is...

Alice will give a copy of How Sweet It Is to the winner of the September contest. Be sure to leave a comment to enter the contest. Become a follower and you can enter twice. Tell your friends to visit http://write-pathway.blogspot.com/ and enter the contest. Winner will be drawn September 30.

More With Janice Thompson

2010-05-01T13:03:00.003-04:00

"How To Get Started as a Freelance Writer"

Join us for a Webinar on May 4

Space is limited.Reserve your Webinar seat now
at:https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/849708201

Join full time author and teacher, Janice Thompson, as she shares the inside secrets to getting started as a successful freelance writer. With 20 years experience, nearly 60 published books, and tons of published articles to her credit, Janice can help you to get started, the RIGHT WAY. Webinar topics include:What is "freelance" writing, anyway? Where do I go to learn the writing craft? Where's the money? How do I get my foot in the door? How do I get an editor to sit up and take notice? What tools and resources do I need to get started? How much does it cost to get started? Get the information you need to get started on your freelance writing career. Sign up for this webinar today. It's FREE!

Title:

"How: To Get Started as a Freelance Writer"
Date: Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Time: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM CDT

After registering you will receive a confirmation e-mail containing information about joining the Webinar.

System RequirementsPC-based attendeesRequired: Windows® 7, Vista, XP, 2003 Server or 2000

Macintosh®-based attendeesRequired: Mac OS® X 10.4.11 (Tiger®) or newer

Please feel free to share this announcement with your writing groups! We can host up to 100 in the room.

Janice Hanna Thompson
"Love, Laughter and Happily Ever Afters!"
MY WEBSITE: www.janiceathompson.com
MY FREELANCE WRITING COURSE: www.freelancewritingcourses.com
MY LATEST BOOK: It Had to be You (Revell)

Meet Janice Hanna Thompson

2010-04-29T11:57:00.005-04:00

Write Pathway
Sunday, April 25, 2010

Today I'd like to introduce you to Author and Writing Instructor, Janice Hanna Thompson. Janice is adding a new dimension to her career this month as she launches her online courses. I have had the privilege of taking the current course with Janice and cannot tell you how much she taught me about making the most of the opportunities that are available to freelancers. After you read this interview, check out her Web site and sign up for a course that is sure to help you make money.

Ann: Janice, please tell us a little about your new venture?

Janice: Of course! Thanks for asking. On April 20th, 2010, I debuted my new writing course “Becoming a Successful Freelance Writer” at http://www.freelancewritingcourses.com/. The sole purpose of this venture is to teach struggling freelance writers how to earn money with their writing. Here’s how it will work: students can purchase one lesson (for $24.95) or all ten (for $199). They don’t have to feel compelled to buy the whole package, though they will get a package price, if they do. Each lesson will include an audio file and a video power point presentation of me teaching the lesson (available with just a click of the mouse), a corresponding audio script, a downloadable worksheet, a bonus feature, and full access to the site’s forum, where I will meet with authors for some group mentoring (at designated times). Right now there are ten lessons, but eventually those ten lessons will become ten separate categories with multiple lessons in each. For example, the current lesson on magazine article writing will eventually have multiple other lessons underneath it—all meant to teach writers how to make money writing articles. People who take these courses will have the benefit of meeting other freelancers in the forum and can also chat with me about their projects. Best of all, the site will continually grow. New, fresh material will always be available. (I’ll be recording new lessons routinely.) I’m so excited, because I know that struggling freelancers can and will learn how to make money with their writing.

Ann: What prompted you to set off on this new adventure?

Janice: For years I’ve been writing novels and non-fiction books. I’ve been so blessed to have over fifty books published, as well as dozens of magazine articles and even a movie script. It’s been quite a ride. . .and it’s not ending anytime soon! I’m currently contracted through 2011. The longer I’m in this business, however, the more I’m aware of the basic need of the average freelance author to make “better” money. Sure, many of them eventually sell books. They get advances and royalties, (though, not often in the range they had hoped). As a full-time freelancer, I’ve faced this myself. Several years ago, I found myself hollering, “Where’s the money?” I made up my mind to find as many creative ways as I could to bring in money as a freelancer. I’ve learned so much since then, and want to share what I’ve learned with others, so that they can benefit, too.

Ann: Why are you so passionate about teaching others how to make money with their writing?

Janice: I meet so many struggling writers. So many are just hoping and praying to sell a book. They pour all of their energies into that venture. Most don’t realize that they could be making money much sooner if they would explore other avenues (besides just books). The possibilities are endless. If I can share what I’ve learned about the money-making aspects of writing, then I’ve helped another struggling writer on his or her journey.

Ann: Tell us a little about your own writing.

Janice: As I mentioned above, I’ve written just about everything! Most of my writing is for the Christian market, so my stories have a clear faith element. Lately I’ve been writing romantic comedies, (most recently the “Weddings by Bella” series), but I also enjoy writing mysteries, kid’s stories, historicals and more. I continue to write magazine articles, because they provide a great financial supplement. I’m also very excited about my many write-for-hire projects, because a huge chunk of my income comes from those. To learn more about my books visit my author site at http://www.janiceathompson.com/. Books can be ordered directly from the site.

Ann: What has it been like, supporting yourself full-time as a freelancer? Is there really money to be made?

Janice: As I mentioned, there was a time (back in 2007) when I wasn’t sure I could do it. At that time, I hadn’t set any real goals for myself. That all changed in the fall of 2007 when I began to strategize about the future of my writing. Instead of worrying about the challenges I faced, I got busy and put together a plan. I began to look for non-traditional ways to earn money with my writing. . .and it worked! That’s not to say I’ve “arrived,” but I have managed to support myself full-time from that point till now.

Ann: I think the writing industry would be very competitive. Why do you want to see others succeed? Aren’t you shooting yourself in the foot when you hand off potential freelance jobs to other authors?

Janice: The writing industry is competitive, but that doesn’t mean I am! Sure, I want to make a name for myself, (most writers do), but I’m equally as interested in training up other writers to be the best they can be. Why? I believe that Christian writers have been called by the Lord to spread His love through their writing. How will they get the word out if someone doesn’t show them the ropes? I love to see others succeed because we’re all one big happy family and we care about each other.

Ann: I know that you worked for several years as a writing teacher at a school of the arts. Could you share a little more about that?

Janice: From 1996 – 2001 I taught creative writing at a Houston area school of the arts that catered primarily to home-school students. What a blast I had! (Truly, these were some of the best years of my life.) Several of my students traveled with me to national writing conferences (like Mount Hermon and ACFW), and a few went on to be published in various genres. My students will tell you that I was the most creative teacher on the block. I was always looking for a new, fresh way to teach the writing craft. My writing lessons have been compiled into a text, which I titled, “Creative Writing for the Christian Student.” It is available to freelance writing course participants. I love stirring up the creative gifts in my students! I hope that shows in these lessons!

Ann: If you could list one of the biggest frustrations that freelance writers face, what would that be?

Janice: The biggest frustration of all is this: Some markets don’t want to pay. This is especially true when it comes to the Internet. It’s so challenging to make a living when you can’t figure out who pays and who doesn’t! But that’s why I created this course! There are so many markets that do pay, and many of them are relatively untapped. Freelancers can earn money. . .they just have to discover where the money is! (And I plan to help them in that journey!)

Ann: You’ve said there’s money to be made. . .but where? What avenues are available to freelancers?

Janice: At http://www.freelancewritingcourses.com/, students will explore multiple areas where they can earn money with their writing. Lessons include: · Setting Career Goals · Magazine Article Writing · Write for Hire Work · Marketing and Public Relations · Becoming a Public Speaker · Becoming a Creative Writing Teacher · Making Money as an Editor · Writing and Selling the Non-Fiction Book · Writing and Selling the Novel Secrets From the World of the Pros Each lesson will cover a host of possibilities and will give real, practical suggestions. Ann: You’ve mentioned other lessons that aren’t yet available. Could you share a few here? Janice: Sure! Each of the ten topics listed above will eventually become its own course (with multiple lessons in each). I’ll be heading back into the recording studio soon to cover the topic of magazine articles more thoroughly. I’ll also record lessons covering all aspects of fiction writing. We’ll talk about passive vs. active writing, plotting, characterization, and much more. I’ve also got a host of lessons coming up related to non-fiction books. We’ll delve into specific topics related to write-for-hire work (my favorite!) and will share a host of lessons on marketing and PR. Hang on for the ride! Participants in these various courses will get the tools they need to work as a pro in the industry.

Ann: How, exactly, will these courses work?

Janice: When participants sign up and pay, they will be granted access to the “inner sanctum” of the site, where they can view the various components of the lessons, (the audio file, audio script, worksheet, power point and forum). I would suggest folks start with the first lesson (Setting Goals) and go from there. They can print up a copy of the worksheet and follow along with the audio and power point presentation. Then, at a designated time, participants can meet with me in the forum to discuss the topic at hand. I love the fact that this is all so user-friendly and participants can work at their own pace.

Ann: If you could tell beginning freelancers one thing, what would it be?

Janice: Don’t give up. Keep going and keep looking for creative ways to make money. Examine new markets. Learn all you can about the industry. Become friends with editors. The potential for money-making is there, but much of it is relational. Ann: Why do you feel so strongly about stirring up the gifts? Janice: There’s a scripture I love where the apostle Paul speaks to his young protégé, Timothy: “For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.” (II Timothy 1:6 NIV) The King James version uses the words “stir up the gift” instead of “fan into flame the gift.” The idea is the same. Gifts need stirring and fanning. As a published author, I make it my goal to “stir the gifts” of those hoping to be published (or hoping to be published in more markets). I know that these lessons will stir people up. I could sense it as I recorded them. Changing lives. . .and encouraging writers. . .what could be better?

Ann: I understand you won the 2008 American Christian Fiction Writers “Mentor of the Year” award. Could you tell us more about that? What role does mentoring play in your life and how will you incorporate mentoring into your online writing courses?

Janice: I have a theory about mentoring. I believe that everyone should have someone they’re mentoring and someone they’re being mentored by. If we ever think we’re too “big” to be mentored, we’re in trouble! And it’s imperative that we pour into the lives of those who are learning the writing craft, especially if we’re published and/or doing well in the industry. I’m tickled that I received the ACFW Mentor of the Year award. I can think of nothing better to be remembered for than mentoring others, to be quite honest. Writing books is great, sure. And getting my name out there is fun, too. But if I don’t mentor. . .if I don’t pass along what I’ve learned, then my writing is nothing but selfish pleasure. I don’t ever want to be known as a selfish author. I want to be known as a giver and an encourager. My prayer is that people who take this course will see my heart for all writers to succeed and earn money doing what they love!

Winners for week 2

2009-12-14T10:53:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Natalie Driggs of Wilmington, NC and Hanne Moon of Collinsville, MS, our winners for the second week of our New America contest.

Thanks to those who visited Write Pathway and left a comment. You might be a winner next week.

Blessings,
Ann

Winners for Week 1

2009-11-28T13:22:00.006-05:00

Congratulations to our winners this week. Richard will be sending a copy of New America to
Jenny Thornton of Seven Springs, NC and Amy Simon of Jackson, WI.

Thanks to all of you who entered the contest. Remember that we will give away two more books next week. So stop by again and leave a comment. Be sure to tell your friends about our contest.

See you next week!
Ann

NEW AMERICA Interview and Contest

2009-11-20T08:53:00.009-05:00

Available now! New America: A Novel by Richard Leonard

"If you save someone's life, they belong to you forever."

Russia might want its territory back. Should New America, the fledgling Christian nation on Siberia's east coast, pursue a defense treaty with its decadent mother country? Sent to the United States on a fund-raising mission for a New American presidential candidate, a young lawyer grapples with a dilemma. A woman whose life as an abortion survivor is endangered by the Fugitive Fetus Law appeals for his help. There's only one way he can rescue her, and that way will jeopardize his relationship with his New American girlfriend.

**********************************************************

Ann Knowles from Write Pathway recently spoke with Dr. Richard Leonard about his latest book, New America.

Ann: Richard, I wanted to interview you because I believe that New America is a book whose time has come. You dare to step into the future and give us a story that almost seems like it is based on today's culture in America.

So let's get started. I know that you are a minister. Since you are also a writer, do you consider yourself a bivocational Pastor?

Richard: Actually, I am “retired.” Except for a few interim pastorates (most recently 2004-05), I have not been employed as a minister since 1980. I worked for Rand McNally as a transportation data analyst and retired from there in 2001 after twenty years. At different times I have also been a college professor and dean of a graduate school. Since 1993 I have done work-for-hire editing and writing from time to time, mostly through the Livingstone Corporation. But my fiction writing has always been on my own, more or less as a hobby rather than a vocation.

Ann: Tell us your educational background?

Richard: I majored in music at Illinois Wesleyan University (B.A., 1960), then attended Boston University School of Theology (S.T.B., 1963) and earned the Ph.D. in Biblical Studies (Old Testament) from Boston University (1972).

Ann: So many authors say that they always wanted to write. Is writing something you have always wanted to do?

Richard: I have been writing since childhood; going through some memorabilia recently I found a story I had written as a child that my mother had saved. I won two short story awards in high school. For many years most of my writing was for academic purposes, including pieces I wrote in a college writing class and, of course, term papers for college and graduate school and my Ph.D. dissertation. I also usually wrote out my sermons when I was serving as a pastor. I started writing for hire when asked to be Scripture Editor for The Complete Library of Christian Worship (Hendrickson, 1993) and have continued off and on since then.

Ann: What prompted your decision to become a writer?

Richard: I never made such a decision. I have always had a penchant for creating and organizing, and writing has been part of that thrust along with other activities such as photography, composing music and web site development. When I started writing fiction it was for a specific purpose, to bring across a theological or cultural message through the medium of narrative instead of direct discussion.

Ann: What types of writing have you done?

Richard: Short stories, sermons, academic papers, theological studies, technical writing, children’s stories, novels, poetry, blogs, newspaper and web site copy, and commentary on the photos in my railroad web site (http://www.railarchive.net/).

Ann: What motivates you to write?

Richard: The creating and organizing impulse mentioned above, the furtherance of hobby interests, and the desire to propagate Christian truth as I understand it.

Ann: What kind of projects are you currently involved in?

Richard: Because we have been involved in relocating in recent months I do not have a current writing project. I am also a publisher (see www.laudemont.org/lp_books.htm) and that is an ongoing activity. I self-published my latest novel, New America, in January 2009. Also, my web site management is an ongoing project; see http://www.forecyte.com/ for the list of sites I manage, including our ministry site, http://www.laudemont.org/.

Ann: I know your wife writes poetry. Do you two ever work together on projects?

Richard: Yes, I publish the poetry magazine she edits, WestWard Quarterly (http://www.wwquarterly.com/ ), and publish her poetry chapbooks. We have also shared some writing projects, such as our incomplete novel The Twilight Side of the Hill.

Ann: Where do you get ideas for your books?

Richard: My ideas for fiction come from life experiences, from an awareness of theological or cultural issues that could be highlighted through narrative form, or from a desire to do something differently from the way it is usually done. For example, I was disturbed that Christian readers are drawn to fantasy that partakes of magic or the occult, so (together with my youngest daughter) I wrote a fantasy-adventure where the characters encounter the God of the Bible — under another name — instead of dealing with wizardry.

Ann: Which of your books has given you the greatest sense of accomplishment?

Richard: I think Heart of the Highriders (mentioned above) gave me the greatest sense of accomplishment because it was co-written with my daughter, Charity Silkebakken (see http://www.haxbooks.com/).

Ann: How do you come up with characters? Do you have some type of form that you fill out to plan for your characters and their characteristics?

Richard: My characters are usually modeled after people I have known, picking up major traits or combining traits from several people into one character. Often I have “written myself” into one or more characters. In my latest novel, for example, I identify with at least two characters who have traits similar to mine.

Ann: Are you a “fly by the seat of your pants” writer or do you plot everything before you start writing?

Richard: I have a general working concept of where the story needs to go, but as it develops I add twists and turns I had not thought of before. For example, in Heart of the Highriders I had not planned to have one of the “villain” characters turn out to be the secret illegitimate son of a major good character. And in New America it was an afterthought to make one of the characters a handicapped person, adding to the novel’s diverse cast of characters.

Ann: Let’s talk about your latest book, New America. You had some interest for this book from a traditional publisher, didn’t you? Why did you decide to self-publish?

Richard: There was one “feeler” from a standard publisher but after they considered the proposal they turned it down. I do not write according to the contemporary template for Christian fiction, so I could never find a publisher or even an agent that would take it on. I decided to self-publish to get the project behind me.

Ann: When I read New America I thought it was a very fitting book for today’s culture. What have others said about it?

Richard: Most people who have commented on it have said it held their attention--at the end of a chapter they wanted to keep reading to see what would happen next. Several have agreed with you about the book's timely warning. A few have suggested that some plot elements are unrealistic, though I defend them in the preface. I suppose if everything in a work of fiction was totally realistic, we wouldn't need to write it.

Ann: Will there be another book by Dr. Richard Leonard?

Richard: Now that we are resettled in Hamilton, Illinois, Shirley Anne and I might be able to take another look at The Twilight Side of the Hill, which has been on hold.

Ann: What would you like to say to a struggling, unpublished author?

Richard: Write because you love writing and need to create in order to be fulfilled. Try to do something different from what other writers are doing; avoid writing to a template or fitting into a mold. Do not expect anyone else to be eager to publish or promote your book, because others are involved with their own interests and preferences and are may not view your work as fitting into their scheme. Write because it’s fun and because it’s “what you do,” not because you could make any money from it. If recognition and remuneration come, that is the “icing on the cake,” but it is up to the Lord whether or not it comes.

Ann: Do you have other special interest or hobbies?

Richard: Some have been mentioned above. Classical and sacred music have been major interests, and I have composed choral and instrumental works although my only instrument is the flute. From childhood I have followed my father’s railroad hobby and maintain a web site based on photographs of steam locomotives I took in the 1950s (www.railarchive.net/rlsteam ), along with other railroad-related web site work and activities. Some of my scenic photography is on Flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/84519464@N00/ ). Occasionally I build furniture items, such as bookcases, for our grandchildren (of which we have 26), or for our own use. I build web sites using straight HTML and CSS coding (no templates or third-party programs).

Ann: What is your favorite “get away from it all” day?

Richard: I do not have such a day because it would make me nervous to be “getting away” from all the things I need to be doing! I am most relaxed and at peace when creating, and bringing order out of disorder. (My middle daughter calls me “the king of organization.”)

Ann: Thank you so much for sharing with us, Richard. Readers are always interested in learning about the writer from a personal viewpoint. And who better to tell us about that, than the author himself. And about The Twilight Side of the Hill---I really hope you and Shirley Anne will get back to that. I enjoyed reading it when I was in the critique group with you.

CONTEST

Okay, folks, here’s the good news! You can be a winner! For the next five weeks, Richard will give away two copies of New America to lucky readers. All you have to do is leave a comment each week on the Write Pathway blog. Two names will be drawn each week. You may enter every week, but you can only win once. If you win a copy of his book, Richard would like feedback from you about the book. So leave a comment right now and you may be the first winner of a copy of New America.

Thanks again, Richard, for making the book available on “Write Pathway Where Writers and Editors Get Together.”

Be sure to visit http://www.rcleonard.com/ to see more books by Richard.

Safe At Last--A Memory of My Daddy

2009-06-20T19:09:00.013-04:00

meant traveling five miles on foot, part of it down the highway, and

part of it through the swamp and across the stream on the foot-log.

Daddy insisted that I walk as far as I could, and then he would pick

me up and carry me for awhile.

As we made our way to Grandma’s house, I trudged along a

step behind my mother like always, sometimes stepping on her

heels. I whined a lot, hoping Daddy would hoist me up on his

shoulders. Ever since we left home, I had been thinking about

crossing the stream on the foot-log. The very thought of it

terrified me!

A foot-log was just that, a board, 10” to 12” wide, placed across

a stream. Good balance was required to step one foot ahead of the

other and not fall off the narrow board. For my daddy, it was so

easy, but for me, it was a monumental task.

The narrow boards that spanned the stream made it difficult,

if not impossible, for a four-year-old to keep her balance. Worse

than the thought of slipping into the reddish brown water, was

my fear of falling on the knobby cypress knees that reach upward

like the arms of monsters hiding beneath the remains of rotten logs

and gently flowing water.

Nothing calmed my fears until Daddy reached down and gently

lifted me up on his shoulders. I clasped my arms around his neck,

took a deep breath and leaned forward to rest my cheek against

his head. Safe at last! No harm could possibly come to me now!

Daddy continued to carry me on his shoulders, high above the

ground, away from all the things that might frighten me or cause

me harm: the murky water, snakes, frogs and other unseen things

that might lurk in the swamp.

Twenty minutes later, we were at Grandma’s house and my

hand was in the cookie jar. A rabbit whose ears formed the top of

the jar made it easy for a small child to lift the lid and get to the

cookies. All thoughts of the swamp were far away. No need to fear

when Daddy was with me. He always kept me safe!

Daddy has been gone for many years, but I am not without

a Father. As I thought back to this incident, I realized how

my heavenly Father holds my hand and keeps me safe

through all kinds of dangers and dark places. I will have

no fear for He is with me.

I'M A WINNER!

2009-03-09T23:41:00.000-04:00

My friend, Tracy Ruckman, has a new business and a new Web site. Look for her at Write Integrity Editorial Services. (www.writeintegrity.com/) To launch her new business she held a contest with wonderful prizes and I WON a Web site design by Tracy. I am so excited!

You can also find Tracy at http://pixnpens.blogspot.com/ or at www.tracyruckman.com Tracy is a Christian author, editor, and photographer. I guarantee she's someone you want to know. She will be a blessing to your life. Visit her today and you'll go back again and again.