This month I am celebrating my 10 year blogoversary with giveaways and a bloggers special: Bloggers@work.
Ten years of blogging wouldn't be possible without the support, encouragement, comments and inspiration of other bloggers. I love this community and that's why I am hosting some of my favorite bloggers and their WIP (work in progress). This week Susan Reinhardt shares...
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| Susan at a book signing with mom in the background |
What is your current WIP?
Right now, I'm working on a contemporary Christian novel. My prior books were all near-future stories, so this genre is new to me. Here's my blurb: A runaway pastor and a runaway boy discover answers they weren't expecting.
This is the first book in a series. The working title is: Days of Elijah, but I'm not happy with it. If I go with a traditional publisher, they'll have the last word on the title.
Wherein lies your biggest struggle with this particular project?
In a word: editing. I love writing the story, but re-working parts and going over it a gazillion times bores me. This time around I hired a professional editor. Although I still have to make the changes, I've learned so much from her. Editors coach, as well as pick up on manuscript problems (depending on the type of edit you get).
What do you see as the biggest blessing while working on this particular project?
As a seat-of-the-pants writer, I start off with an idea and know where I want the story to end. Apart from that, it's as much of an adventure for me as for the reader. I love asking the Lord to give me characters and situations that will reach deep into readers' hearts. I'm blessed as the story unfolds and first readers/critique partners express their enthusiasm.
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| Susan's books... and more to come! |
Do you have a word of wisdom for writers and their WIP?
Last year at the Greater Philadelphia Writers Conference, I took a Continuing Session with Alan Arnold. He talked about writing our stories with the Lord. Have you ever done something and then understood the principles behind it at a later date? This is what happened to me.
Whether you're a plotter or a seat-of-the-pants writer like me, writing can take on a whole other dimension when you bathe the process in prayer and ask Him for direction. Many times I've been at a standstill, unsure of where to take a plot. After asking the Lord what should happen next, He's always come through. I'll read something that sets off a brainstorming session, wake up with the answer, or even dream an entire portion.
Another helpful suggestion: Never pour out every idea onto the page. Leave the last thought/scene unfinished. You can then pick up the thread at your next writing session and continue. It's a great way to avoid staring at a blank page.
More about Susan:
Member ACFW
Represented by Joyce Hart, Hartline Literary Agency
Susan is a blessing to many bloggers. I have been reading her blogs... well, for a long, long time. And guess what? She is throwing in a giveaway! Make a chance to win a Kindle Edition of one of her books, simply by leaving your comment on this post. She'll draw a name next week!
Hi, Marja - Congratulations on your 10th anniversary as a blogger! Thanks for having inviting me to participate in the celebration. I've shared the post on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and Google+. God bless, Susan :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your WIP's blessings and struggles with us, I am sure many people can relate!
DeleteNice to see Susan here. :) The editing process is a challenging part of the journey, that's for sure! I'll pass on the giveaway since I already have Susan's books. Have a great week!
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by Karen, hmm, maybe someone will write a post one day about the joys of editing :)
DeleteHi Karen - Thanks for stopping by and commenting. I'm thankful for loyal readers. :)
DeleteVery nice interview of Susan. I love that picture. I don't enjoy editing because sometimes I find myself disagreeing with the choices that Microsoft gives me. I am sorry, I have to pass on Susan's giveaway; I don't read very books on Kindle.
ReplyDeleteI am not much of an e-book reader either Cecelia, I am old school I guess :) Thanks for stopping by!
DeleteHi Cecelia - Thanks for stopping by and commenting. That's Sweetie Mom in the picture background. If you're interested, all of my books are available in print on Amazon.
DeleteI love Susan--she is a dear, sweet friend, and her writing is full of creativity and adventure. I only have her first two books, so would love to win her third or the Christmas Novella!
ReplyDeleteHi Jeanette, we've put your name in for the Christmas Novella!
DeleteHi Jen - Thank you for your lovely comment. I'm so thankful for all the wonderful friends I've made in the blogging world.
DeleteHi Marja, thanks for hosting Susan!
ReplyDeleteI write by the seat of my pants too and editing is also my least favorite part...almost like I wrote this post :)
Hi Elsie, thanks for stopping by. We'll put your name on the list!
DeleteLOL! I'm glad I'm not the only one, Elsie. It's a pleasure meeting you.
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