The Soft Middle ~ Guest Post by Susan Reinhardt (and giveaway!)

While chocolate will always be my favorite, I reach for hard candy when I have a cold or tickle in my throat. Since I'm an impatient eater, I end up biting and chewing this type of confection. One day, I came across a yummy caramel with a soft center. At the point when I wanted to "be done with this thing already," the creamy goodness stopped me in my tracks.

Writing has the same effect on me. I need to take my time and learn my lessons. But, oh how I want to bite down and finish this task. Where is that soft center that keeps me engaged in the process? I'm so tired of revising, re-writing, and editing that I could scream.

Then, a non-fiction editor accepts one of my devotionals. An agent and two authors urge me to stay the course. Ah, the soft middle! A word of encouragement keeps me interested. Maybe if I stick with this writing long enough, I'll succeed.

UPDATE:  I stuck with it, and guess what? My novel, The Moses Conspiracy, is now published! Here's a short book blurb:


A trip to post-terrorized Washington, D.C. in 2025 and a buggy accident in Bird-in-Hand, PA set in motion evets that expose a diabolical plan to destroy the Christian community. Ellie and John Zimmerman find themselves embroiled in a life-threatening investigation, fighting a shadowy enemy.

Convinced it's now safe to visit D.C., Ellie and her firstborn, 8-year-old Peter, travel to the nation's capital. Both mother and child make an effort to enjoy the sights, but they're unprepared for the challenges they face. Her nightmares come true when she and Peter are separated.

Writers: What's your "soft middle?"

Readers: Have you ever taken time to express your appreciation for someone's writing? Do you

not only recommend their books to others, but also let them know you're spreading the good word?


You can find Susan at Christian Writer/Reader Connection, Facebook, and Twitter. The Moses Conspiracy is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Kobobooks.

To enter Susan's giveaway head over to this link: a Rafflecopter giveaway for a chance to win her novel and a $25 Amazon card! (U.S. Residents only)

Alley readers!

Be sure and leave a comment about YOUR soft middle and what you're doing to make it stronger and be entered to win a copy of Susan's ebook!