Swooning with Austen's Heroes...Part 2

Last time I introduced the 6 Austen-hero-types, but only expounded on the first two. As a refresher, here are the 6 categories:

The Reluctant Hero

The Subtle Servant

The Good Guy

The Best Friend

The Reformed Rogue

The Anti-Hero

Though the last two hero types seem to cause greater swoon-power, I am equally impressed (and enamored) by the next two Austen heroes.

The Good Guy

This hero is good for goodness sake. The heroine meets him within the first chapter or two, and there is an immediate kinship because this hero has the ability to create instant camaraderie. He doesn’t brood, is honest, hopeful, encouraging, and usually has a fantastic sense of humor. Though – I’d have to say most of Austen’s heroes have solid senses of humor, this one may have of the best.

Henry Tilney

Austen describes our first glance at Henry as this: "rather tall, had a pleasing countenance, a very intelligent and lively eye, and, if not quite handsome, was very near it."

Henry Tilney, a second born son and one of the few ‘good’ clergyman in Austen’s novels, stands in contrast to many of her other heroes. He’s open, friendly, honest, has a fine income, quick wit, and teases the conventions of society. Much like Henry Higgins in My Fair Lady, he takes the poor, inexperienced heroine, Catherine, under his wing to guide her in ‘polite’ society – most of the time tongue-in-cheek style. Unlike Henry Higgins, he does not carry the same arrogance or self-importance, but seems genuinely kindhearted and goodnatured. Plus, he’s good to his sister and likes to read novels ;-)

In all honesty, how can you not like a guy who says stuff like this:

Miss Morland, no one can think more highly of the understanding of women than I do. In my opinion, nature has given them so much that they never find it necessary to use more than half.” -Ch 14 of Northanger Abbey

Austen's Mr. Bingley and perhaps Colonel Fitzwilliam might fit in here too.
Justin Wells from Margaret Brownley’s A Lady Like Sarah

Red Dawson from Mary Connealy’s book Montana Rose (FAVORITE Connealy classic)

Harry DeVries from Siri Mitchell’s She Walks in Beauty (FAVORITE Siri historical)

George Bailey from It’s a Wonderful Life

Captain America, Superman

David from my novel, The Thorn Keeper

August from my WIP, The Thorn Healer

Red Shirt from Laura Frantz's novel, Courting Morrow Little

And Jack from While You Were Sleeping

 

The Best Friend

This is the man who not only provides a solid friendship, but is a confidante for the heroine. The difference between him and the Good Guy type is the depth of relationship he already possesses with the heroine. His closeness, many times, fogs up the feelings of love growing between the two, and may become entangled with conflict, irrational behavior, withdrawal, and conflict before the pair realizes what revelation is taking place in their hearts. In my opinion, solid friendship is a prerequisite to true love, and there is rare beauty in a gentle transition of platonic relationship deepening with romance.

Within the uniqueness of this romance is the need the hero might have to 'set the heroine straight'.  Their close relationships encourages the hero to feel a particular need to keep the heroine on the right track and perhaps even reprimand her if she sways off.

Mr. George Knightley – George Knightley seems to possess all the makings of a perfect hero and without the brooding of Mr. Darcy or bitterness of Captain Wentworth (though both of those heroes are fantastic). He is prone to ‘right wrongs’ to the point of being a bit bossy sometimes, but his intentions are to bring Emma back to the woman he knows she truly is on the inside. Their friendship gives him the intimacy of knowledge about her which a shorter acquaintance might not provide. Controlled, even-tempered, and logical, Mr. Knightley only loses ‘his cool’ when he becomes aware of his deepening feelings for Emma, to which he then responds with foreign internal feelings such as jealousy and impulsivity. He is the epitome of kindness, and is quick to assist the needs of the women of his acquaintance. And though he sees clearly Emma’s flaws, he loves her still, perhaps his love even deepens because of the solid foundation of their friendship.

 John Brady in Julie Lessman’s novel A Passion Denied

Gilbert Blythe from the Anne of Green Gables series

Sam from my debut novel, The Thorn Bearer

Harry from When Harry Met Sally

Adrien from Siri Mitchell’s novel Kissing Adrien

What do YOU think of these two Austen hero-types? Have you ever written a Good Guy or a Best Friend? In my current historical romance I have a 'Best Friend' hero. In the third book of that same series, I have a Good Guy.

Heroes According to Jane Austen - Part 2

Last time I introduced the 6 Austen-hero-types, but only expounded on the first two. As a refresher, here are the 6 categories:

The Reluctant Hero

The Subtle Servant

The Good Guy

The Best Friend

The Reformed Rogue

The Anti-Hero

Though the last two hero types seem to cause greater swoon-power, I am equally impressed (and enamored) by the next two Austen heroes.

The Good Guy

This hero is good for goodness sake. The heroine meets him within the first chapter or two, and there is an immediate kinship because this hero has the ability to create instant camaraderie. He doesn’t brood, is honest, hopeful, encouraging, and usually has a fantastic sense of humor. Though – I’d have to say most of Austen’s heroes have solid senses of humor, this one may have of the best.

Henry Tilney

Austen describes our first glance at Henry as this: "rather tall, had a pleasing countenance, a very intelligent and lively eye, and, if not quite handsome, was very near it."

Henry Tilney, a second born son and one of the few ‘good’ clergyman in Austen’s novels, stands in contrast to many of her other heroes. He’s open, friendly, honest, has a fine income, quick wit, and teases the conventions of society. Much like Henry Higgins in My Fair Lady, he takes the poor, inexperienced heroine, Catherine, under his wing to guide her in ‘polite’ society – most of the time tongue-in-cheek style. Unlike Henry Higgins, he does not carry the same arrogance or self-importance, but seems genuinely kindhearted and goodnatured. Plus, he’s good to his sister and likes to read novels ;-)

In all honesty, how can you not like a guy who says stuff like this:

Miss Morland, no one can think more highly of the understanding of women than I do. In my opinion, nature has given them so much that they never find it necessary to use more than half.” -Ch 14 of Northanger Abbey

Austen's Mr. Bingley and perhaps Colonel Fitzwilliam might fit in here too.

Justin Wells from Margaret Brownley’s A Lady Like Sarah

Red Dawson from Mary Connealy’s book Montana Rose (FAVORITE Connealy classic)

Harry DeVries from Siri Mitchell’s She Walks in Beauty (FAVORITE Siri historical)

George Bailey from It’s a Wonderful Life

Captain America, Superman

And Jack from While You Were Sleeping

The Best Friend

This is the man who not only provides a solid friendship, but is a confidante for the heroine. The difference between him and the Good Guy type is the depth of relationship he already possesses with the heroine. His closeness, many times, fogs up the feelings of love growing between the two, and may become entangled with conflict, irrational behavior, withdrawal, and conflict before the pair realizes what revelation is taking place in their hearts. In my opinion, solid friendship is a prerequisite to true love, and there is rare beauty in a gentle transition of platonic relationship deepening with romance.

Within the uniqueness of this romance is the need the hero might have to 'set the heroine straight'.  Their close relationships encourages the hero to feel a particular need to keep the heroine on the right track and perhaps even reprimand her if she sways off.

Mr. George Knightley – George Knightley seems to possess all the makings of a perfect hero and without the brooding of Mr. Darcy or bitterness of Captain Wentworth (though both of those heroes are fantastic). He is prone to ‘right wrongs’ to the point of being a bit bossy sometimes, but his intentions are to bring Emma back to the woman he knows she truly is on the inside. Their friendship gives him the intimacy of knowledge about her which a shorter acquaintance might not provide. Controlled, even-tempered, and logical, Mr. Knightley only loses ‘his cool’ when he becomes aware of his deepening feelings for Emma, to which he then responds with foreign internal feelings such as jealousy and impulsivity. He is the epitome of kindness, and is quick to assist the needs of the women of his acquaintance. And though he sees clearly Emma’s flaws, he loves her still, perhaps his love even deepens because of the solid foundation of their friendship.

 John Brady in Julie Lessman’s novel A Passion Denied

Gilbert Blythe from the Anne of Green Gables series

Harry from When Harry Met Sally

Adrien from Siri Mitchell’s novel Kissing Adrien

What do YOU think of these two Austen hero-types? Have you ever written a Good Guy or a Best Friend? In my current historical romance I have a 'Best Friend' hero. In the third book of that same series, I have a Good Guy.

Please share!

What's Up the Street For Next Week?

Pepper here, and I’ve brought you some glimpses of Autumn in the Blue Ridge Mountains. I hope you enjoy these pictures I took while hiking with my family this weekend, and may you enjoy the beautiful artwork God uses to usher in Autumn.


So, let’s talk about setting.

What setting are you using in your WIP? Why did you choose that setting? How have you made the setting its own character?

What do we have for you this week?

Monday – Plotting With a Pantster ;-) Taking the Hero’s Journey on Pepper’s new WIP.

Tuesday – October 20th was the National Day on Writing and Sherrinda’s here to share a post entitled “Why I Write” (maybe she’ll share some tasty excerpts from her medieval…hint, hint)

Wednesday – Mary Vee adds another thoughtful post from her mentoring series. On Begin Mentored: Our Responsibilities

Thursday – Romantic Suspense 2011 Genesis winner Renee Ann Smith is Casey’s guest today.

Friday – Krista’s back to surprise us with another fun-filled post as only she can write.


SIDEWALK TALK

Mary Vee helps celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness month as a guest blogger on Debra Ann Elliott's blog: http://www.highheelshotflashes.blogspot.com/ . Stop by and be inspired as Mary shares about God’s blessing in the battle.

If you missed ACFW or want to catch up on the workshops you didn’t get a chance to attend, check out Afictionado’s quick glimpse into each workshop or continuing session. It is ACFW’s ezine. Learn more about it at http://www.acfw.com/ezine/archive/2011/10/15

Sarah’s ACFW recap is up on her blog (along with her new bio pic which is FANTASTIC). Check it out at http://sarahforgrave.com/2011/10/19/acfw-conference-recap-and-pictures/

Something New:

from Thomas Nelson

Love By the Book by Cara Lynn James

A Vision of Lucy by Margaret Brownley

A Reluctant Queen by Joan Wolf

From Revell

A Necessary Deception by Laurie Alice Eakes

Hello Hollywood by Janice Hanna Thompson

Deeply Devoted by Maggie Brendan

A Heart Revealed by Julie Lessman (featuring The Writers Alley’s own Casey Miranda Herringshaw) 



From Bethany House

Love on the Line by Deeanne Gist

House of Secrets by Tracie Peterson

Reclaiming Lily by Patti Lacy

Wonderland Creek by Lynn Austin

From Zondervan

Belonging by Robin Lee Hatcher

Naomi’s Gift by Amy Clipston

Shadow in Serenity by Terri Blackstock

Romancing the Blog - The *S* word

Yes.

We are talking about sex on the writer's alley today.

Any questions?

No, no, no, not like technical, high school health question stuff. (You can all say a big *phew* here!)

How about this question: How do we, as Christian writers, deal with sex in our novels?

I think we can all agree that a fictional detailed version of the actual act is a no-no. We can also, I presume, agree on the fact that the condoning of the act outside of marriage is a no-no too.

What we can, and should have, in our novels is this:

Sexual Tension.

For fun, I looked on the oh-so-reliable Wikipedia for a definition. (No, I did not Google it for obvious reasons!)

Here is what I found:

Sexual tension is a social phenomenon that occurs when two people interact and one or both feel sexual desire, but the consummation is postponed or never happens.

It is a common feature of plot and characterization in works of fiction. This longing is often suggested by incidents of intimacy; for instance, when two people or characters are alone, are physically close, but desire is never explicitly expressed.

I LOVE this definition... it even mentions fiction novels! How about that! And for the Christian novel, where our characters, for the most part, are waiting until marriage to "consummate," this type of tension is normal and needed.

Without this tension, there is no romance.

Now, don't get me wrong. Romantic love isn't all about sex. But it is a part of it. And if the tension is absent from your romance novel, readers will be able to tell, and most won't like it very much.

What does sexual tension in a Christian novel look like?

This can vary greatly depending on the author, as well as the author's audience and publisher.

It can be something simple like:

Luke sat in the chair next to Maggie, and when he stretched out his lanky legs under the table, his knee brushed her skirt, making her heart throb at a wild pace. (from Maggie Rose, by Sharlene MacLaren, my current read! Love it so far!)

Sometimes a simple, accidental touch can invoke tension.

Or it can be a little more pronounced like:

He walked faster.


He was a pastor, a man of the clothe, someone whom others looked up to and yet... He wanted to touch her, to fill her eyes with longing.


He walked faster, still.


He wanted her in every way that a man could want a woman. God forgive him.


This time he broke into a full run.

(from A Lady Like Sarah, by Margaret Browley, a book I highly recommend!)

I like this because here is a preacher, someone who should "have it all together" and even he is tempted. And what does he do? He flees temptation. A great lesson to learn! When the going gets hot... leave till you cool down. :-)

It's like chocolate. Wanting it isn't bad. It's having it that creates the problem. (i.e. my waist-line that refuses to recede anymore!)

Or, it can be very obvious like:


Jack's mouth found mine, and we fell against each other. It felt so good to be touching someone. Him. He rubbed his thumb over the button at the nape of my neck, the only button on my dress, but it didn't open. I pulled back his T-shirt from his pants and slid my hands up his back.


"No," He said, and shoved me away. "That's enough."


I slapped him.

(From Home Another Way by Christa Parrish, not an a-typical romance but an intriguing and thought-provoking novel that again, I highly recommend!)

I really liked this for a couple of reasons. First, he is a Christian and she is not. He is also a pastor. (Is this a theme?!?) There is some backstory that makes this even more interesting, but I'll not give that away. Second, he shoved her away like she was a hot potato. And she kinda was. Third, she slapped him. Now THAT is some tension, folks!

How much is too much?

This is a question I cannot answer for you (beyond what I mentioned as no-no's earlier).

Every author is different. Every publisher is different. And the audience for each novel is different. All of these 4 things play a huge part in knowing what is acceptable.

Personally, I use the M factor. My mom. If I'm so embarrassed by a scene that I don't want my mom to read it, then I know I've probably gone a little far. This won't work for everyone, but my mom and I have read Christian romance novels for a long time, and have very similar taste, so this is an instinct I can trust.

You'll also find many people VERY opinionated on the matter. Judges in contests can be opinionated (I've had a LOT of 'this wouldn't fly in the CBA' comments) but ya know what? So can reviewers. Francine River's OH SO popular and time-tested novel, Redeeming Love, has 18 one-star reviews. (It also has over 700 5 stars...) But one of the themes of those 18 low reviews (and probably some of the 2 star ones I didn't read too...) was the amount of sexual description in the novel. One even said, "This is pure, unadulterated porn."

Julie Lessman, another fav author of mine, also has some fun reviews as well. My favorite (from my brief glance through her amazon reviews) was one that said, "I find it hard to believe this was a Christian book," when the review almost directly above it said, "I am sorry I wasted my money on this book. I didn't realize that it was a Christian book. I started skipping over all the Bible verses and all the preachy parts about what God would want. It became just too nauseating, too much!!!"

There are quite a few others I could name, but suffice to say: YOU CAN NOT PLEASE EVERYONE.

The only one you should really worry about pleasing is God.

Discussion: Do you have any self-imposed limits on how to handle sexual tension aspect in your writing? Do you tend to like the sweet romance... or the more edgy? Any examples of authors who do a good job at creating this tension between characters without stepping over the limits?

Interview with Author Margaret Browley

Pepper here, and I'm so excited to have Margaret Brownley visiting the Alley today. Her debut INSPIRATIONAL novel, A Lady Like Sarah, came out in April and to learn more about it you can visit Margaret's website at http://www.margaretbrownley.com/

or read my review at http://www.pepperbasham.com/search?updated-max=2010-04-17T15%3A21%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1

It was a fabulous story.

Okay, okay - enough monologue here. Let's get on with this interview.

Help me welcome, Margaret Brownley.

Margaret,



It is such a pleasure to have you with us today on The Writers Alley – and just in time for your new release, A Suitor For Jenny. It comes out in September and I can’t wait to read it. If it’s anything like your novel, A Lady Like Sarah, it’s bound to be an exciting and heartwarming adventure.

So, we’d love to learn a little more about you. When did you begin writing? A Lady Like Sarah was not your first published work, right?

First of all, I want to thank you for having me.

To answer your question, I’ve actually published more than 20 books and have written for Harlequin, Penguin and St. Martin’s Press. A Lady Like Sarah is my first inspirational novel. It’s a Women of Faith selection, a 2010 RITA finalist and a CBA and ECPA bestseller. Not bad for someone who flunked 8th grade English and could barely get through history. (To this day I can’t diagram a sentence.)

I’ve always wanted to be a writer and wrote my first “novel” in 5th grade, a mystery with no ending. It wasn’t until my children were out of grade school that I began writing in earnest. I wrote four books, including the world’s worst romance, before selling my first.

What inspired you to begin your novels in the West? Is there something in particular you enjoy about that era or setting? ( or both) :-)

I like writing about change and the West meets that criteria with both barrels blasting. The westward migration freed women in ways never before imagined. Women abandoned Victorian mores and fussy, confining clothes. The gun may have won the west, but it was the women who tamed it. They brought churches, schools, and newspapers to remote and even lawless towns. It must have been a shock to the male ego to have to deal with those strong and unconventional women—and this is at the very heart of my stories.

What’s your writing process like, Margaret? Do you plot out the story first, plan a little then write a little, or scribble by the seat of your pants?

Plan a story? I don’t even plan dinner. All I need is a basic idea and I’m off and running. I never know what’s going to happen from day to day—and that’s the fun of it. Since I don’t even plan meals, even dinner is a surprise.

Of the characters you’ve written, who do you like best and why?

Tough question! It’s kind of like choosing your favorite child. I’m kind of fond of Sarah in A Lady Like Sarah because she’s unique and has to struggle so hard to become a lady. But you have to laugh at the heroine of A Suitor for Jenny, the second book in my Rocky Creek series. She knows how to find husbands for her sisters—or so she thinks. Boy, does she ever have a lot to learn about matters of the heart.

When you write your novels, do you go straight through for a first draft, or do you stop along the way and edit?

A little of both. I generally write the book from beginning to end. This means I have to work every day so I don’t lose the rhythm. If I skip a couple of days I have to read everything I wrote prior to get back into the swing of things. I fiddle around with sentences or add research information as it occurs to me, but I don’t do much editing during the creative process. Once I get my story on paper I take a couple of weeks off to distance myself from the book and reintroduce myself to friends and family. I then sit down and work on the final draft.

Why do you enjoy the writing world? Is there anything in particular that moves you most?

I love the idea of creating something from absolutely nothing. I can’t knit a sweater without yarn. Nor can I cook a meal without ingredients. I can’t even grow a garden without soil and water. But I can create a book from nothing more than a wisp of an idea and a blank page. I love that!

Sarah, in A Lady Like Sarah, is such a spunky and compassionate character. How does Jenny measure up when compared to Sarah?

Jenny is very different than Sarah. She’s terribly motivated and is never caught without her infernal notebook. In seeking husbands for her two sisters she surrounds herself with lists, schedules, and etiquette books. Worse, she puts every perspective suitor through the PHAT (Ptotential Husband Aptitude Test). It takes a very strong and motivated hero to peel away her defenses and find the soft, vulnerable and lonely women inside.

What advice would you give to those of us learning the writing craft? What encouragement?

I would say this: Enjoy the process. You have the luxury of taking as much time as you need to write your book. You can give it all the love and attention it needs without worrying about meeting a deadline and having to deal with the business of writing. Write every day, cherish your writing friends, and hold on to the dream.

Thanks so much for your encouragement, Margaret - and I can't wait to find out how you create another fantastic heroine and loveable hero in A Suitor For Jenny.

Thanks for being with us today.
You guys can find out more about Margaret on her website at http://www.margaretbrownley.com/
or on her group blog at http://www.petticoatsandpistols.com/

What's Up The Street For Next Week?

In honor of our guest this week, Jen Stephen's post on goals, the weekend edition is all about making a goal and reaching for it.

Do you have any goals?

Have you reached them?

Or do you need to set a new one?

Take a small step in faith. Reach for the stars! You might be surprised at what you find.

So, here are the goals this week for the Alley. The only question is, will we make them? ;-)

Monday- Join Dr. Pepper as she prepares to go to the ACFW conference next month!! (We all are still a bit jealous). Excitement and preparation abound as she gets ready to pack her bags and fly off to Indy, but first she posts about one sheets and the "visual pitch."

Tuesday- Sherrinda is swamped with 12 hour work days and moving, so today is a SURPRISE day! Except something great, but different from the normal schedule. ;-)

Wednesday- Mary gives a glimpse into the art form in writing we all long to understand on a deeper level- metaphor and similies, grace and depth to add to your fiction.

Thursday- Casey tackles the controversial topic of swearing in fiction. Agree? Disagree? Stop by to share your opinion.

Friday- The final installment of "Tips From Those That Have Gone Before Us" with author Michael Snyde on "Considering Your Audience"

Saturday-  Our special guest is an interview with author, Margaret Brownley! Stop by to glean from her words of wisdom.

SideWalk Talk
Mark your calendar and ceck out the amazing lineup of authors we are inviting over for a chat in the month of September!

Amanda Cabot coaches us on keeping our series accurate.

Cara Putman takes a moment to share her wisdom just before the ACFW conference.

James Scott Bell, best selling author and teacher at the ACFW conference, shares an interview he had with our own Pepper!

Joseph Bentz instructs us on the importance of living with our characters.

What a lineup! Takes my breath away, so exciting to have them all visit here very soon!

News Stand

The winner of Cara Lynn James's novel, Love on a Dime is.... A.J. Hawke!!! Congratulations!

Stop by Operation Encourage an Author this coming week to support author Vanessa Johnson and enter to win her novel, Sacrfices in the Name of Love

Casey is currently doing several giveaways on her blog, stop by Writing for Christ to enter to win for your favorite new read.

Sherrinda is busy moving and getting back to work this month, but stop by her blog, to show a bit of support.

Krista is still away on maternity leave with her precious baby, Annabelle, but stop by her blog to hear the latest and pray for this precious new life.

Pepper has a new job! And is moving! And is trying to get a new story written that her agent has requested! (and is feeling a tad overwhelmned) Visit her blog would you and let you know she isn't alone?

Mary always has a new Bible story written in her own fictional account on her personal blog, check it out this week!

It's going to be a great week on the Alley! We look forward to sharing it with you.

What's Up the Street For Next Week?

Well, as usual, the Alley has been crowded with a wonderful array of visitors over the summer. Authors of various genres have stopped by our little corner to share their wisdom, humor, and experiences. At a glance here are a few of our past special guests:

Janice Thompson

Christa Allan

Deb Raney & Tamera Alexander

Myra Johnson

Michelle Sutton

Margaret Daley

Mary Connealy   

And so many more.


That’s not all. There’s more to come. Just stick around and find out.

What’s going on this week? In celebration of the school year, we have school buses - of all various shapes and sizes. Anyone here NEVER ridden in a school bus? Or do you have some fantastic school bus story from your past? :-)

Monday – One of the hot topics for the ACFW First-timer’s orientation loop is One Sheets, and Pepper’s learning along with the others. But she’ll share her take on the ‘one sheets’ and provide a few links to help you along.

Tuesday – With life on the move and a full work schedule, Sherrinda will fill us in on writing, work, and everything in between. :-)

Wednesday – Mary gives us a few tips about the future in Writing Today for Tomorrow’s World.

Thursday – Stop by and check out Casey’s post, When Description Goes Too Far – like that could ever happen. ;-)

Friday- It’s another writing tip day with Krista’s special guest, Michael Snyder, and his post Consider Your Audience

Saturday – Award winning author, Angela Hunt, stops by for an interview. Don’t miss it.


SIDEWALK TALK

August 28 – Interview with Margaret Brownley

September 4 - Amanda Cabot talks about the good, the bad, and the ugly of writing a series

September 11 – Just before ACFW, Cara Putnam stops by during her busy schedule to join us.

September 18 – An interview with award winning author and speaker, James Scott Bell

September 25 – Joseph Bentz joins us to teach us the Value of Living Permanently with Characters

Blog Stop?

Found a new blog this week hosted by Abingdon Press editor Barbara Scott. Check it out at http://therovingeditor.blogspot.com/

Have a great week and enjoy!

What's Up the Street For Next Week?

Welcome to another great week on The Writers Alley, home of the courageous, caring, and crazy. This is the back-to-school edition, bringing in the trimmed pencils and stress of the new school year. Anyone have fond memories of starting back to school?


Here’s the news for this week:

Monday – join Pepper for conference corner, simple tips to prepare for a writer’s conference.

Tuesday – Sherrinda loves to keep us in suspense. She has more surprises underway today, i.e. What to post when you don’t know what to post :-)

Wednesday – Grab your lasso and join Mary with her post, How the West Was Won. What will you learn about writing about the wild west?

Thursday – Pull up a pew and read Casey’s post When Christian Fiction Becomes Preachy

Friday – Krista welcomes author Tamara Leigh for some Tips from Authors.

Saturday – There’s Love on a Dime from author and Seeker Cara Lynn James . Come join us today.

SIDEWALK TALK

August 21 – Interview with award winning author, Angela Hunt.

August 28 – Interview with Margaret Brownley

September 4 - Amanda Cabot talks about the good, the bad, and the ugly of writing a series

September 11 – Cara Putnam joins us.

September 18 – An interview with James Scott Bell

Come join the fun this week! We can't wait to visit with you.

What's Up the Street For Next Week?

Good morning everyone. I’d like to welcome you to The Writers Alley celebration week.


Oh yes – it’s a great week for all sorts of news from our Alley to yours, so – to keep you in suspense, I won’t list what’s going on each weekday. Just stop in to find out the news :-)

Also, check in Saturday for Swashbuckling expert, Marylu Tyndal, as she stops by to talk about writing authentic historical characters.

SIDEWALK TALK

August 14 – Stop by to read about author Cara Lynn James

August 21 – Interview with award winning author, Angela Hunt.

August 28 – Interview with Margaret Brownley

September 4 - Amanda Cabot talks about the good, the bad, and the ugly of writing a series

What's Up the Street For Next Week?

Good morning, everybody.


We welcome you into a new week with rainbows. (Is that not the COOLEST rainbow picture EVER!!)
A spectrum of possibilities waiting to unfold. IN fact, we’re hoping Krista will meet baby Annabelle this week, right Krista? Any time now is good, right?

Life is filled with all sorts of colors. Sometimes the beauty of life seems as elusive as touching a rainbow, or sometimes we don’t even notice the beauty around us because of all the dark clouds. So today, let’s remember the rainbow is bound up in a promise – of love and hope.

Okay –  the news! It’s going to be a GREAT week with lots of tips from the ladies at The Writers Alley.

Monday – To keep up with the fun from last week, Pepper is going to introduce you to the TOP 20 websites for writers, according to the Writers Digest.

Tuesday- Sherrinda will be back from vacation with fun stuff to share. We're not quite sure what yet - but I'm sure it will be fun ;-)

Wednesday – Get ready for a fabulous post by Mary entitled: The Imposing Write Tight Rule- Strangling unnecessary words--and enjoying it

Thursday – Casey talks a little about possessive writers today. For those of us who hold on to each word like Gollum with the ring of power (from Lord of the Rings), then this post is for you :-)

Friday – Even though the highlight of Krista’s life right now is the expected arrival of her new daughter, (due the end of this month) Krista still has enough creative juices to ‘inspire’ others :-) Stop by for Inspire Me Please, Huh?

Saturday – Join us for another intro into e-publishing with Shawna Williams.


SIDWALK TALK

July 31 - Big hats and corsets? Donna Winters drops by to chat about women's fashion from 1900-1905.

August 7 – Swashbuckling expert, Marylu Tyndal, stops by to talk about writing authentic historical characters.

August 14 – Stop by to read about author Cara Lynn James

August 21 – Interview with award winning author, Angela Hunt.

August 28 – Interview with Margaret Brownley

NEWSTAND

This Monday on Mary's blog: Calling All Detectives, Summer Tip for Kids and Families #6

Wednesday and Saturday's Bible story tells of an adventure down one of the longest rivers known to man in a mini ark, small enough to hold one baby, yet save an entire nation.

Pepper’s blog, Words Seasoned With Salt, will feature a few devotions and book reviews, as well as an ongoing series entitled, Chocolate for Moms.