Letters, Words, Hearts

Nomade by Jaume Plensa

When a writer walks through a sculpture garden, her heart frenzies at the meanings behind the art. From one artist to another, we get it. Don't we? Read this description of Nomade:

"The sculpture exemplifies Plensa's ongoing interest in ideas presented in written text, as wel las the human body and how it perceives the world around it. He has described individual letters or symbols as components that have little or no meaning on their own, but blossom into words thoughts, and language when combined with others. Plensa's screens of letters offer a metaphor for human culture, in which a person alone has limited potential, but when formed into groups or societies, becomes stronger."--from the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park Visitor Guide


At first glance, this piece of art is a simplistic sculpture with letters that I've recognized from the time I could speak. I even snapped a shot of my new kindergartner in front of it, thinking, a perfect backdrop for her school beginning.

But, it's not just that.

Not when you stand beneath the towering nomad at night, with the lighting just so--hinting that there is something more. And there is so much more after reading the artist's intent, isn't there?

Writer, have you ever considered that while your letters and words might not be unique, but the connectivity of them in a unique order, with unique meaning, translate into a story of great potential? One that describes the human heart in a special display of humanity?

In the art above, I have found a beautiful example of the existence God has invited me into, not just as a human (hehe), but as a writer.

Writers are part of this special metaphor of culture. We are individuals that cleave to a whole society of artists and become stronger in our relationship. Not only on a personal level, but in our art. A book is never only one person's doing, is it? I am learning that after receiving my first revision letter (all you experienced authors snicker, I know). But, after years of critiques and chipping away of my pride, I receive the voices of editors without anger. Fright, well, yes. Uncertainty? A smidge. But, after learning to value of others' voices spoken over my work, I cannot help but accept and revise. I know that this book will only make it to a shelf by the hands of many. It's potential is limited in my hands alone, it must be given over to others.

Writers, we are not islands, even if we choose to be as we write in our caves. We are connected to this fantastic whole which make our potential burst forth into the flowering of creativity refined especially for the human heart.

In a matter of days, I will join in with the whole. I'll be among the people who share my vision to weave Christ's love in the crafting of letters and words and stories. And the writer people to which I belong, as individual as each of us may be, will find that we are so connected by passion and art, that our potential rises to heights beyond ourselves.

The ACFW conference is a mirror image of this art above. As many individuals unite for a cluster of days to form this beautiful whole.

I daresay that whole actually takes on a different body.

Not a nomad.

Possibly a Savior. One on a cross.

We are all parts of the body of Christ, individuals working together to strengthen this goal--

God's love displayed by letters and words.

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Angie Dicken is a full-time mom and lives in the Midwest with her Texas Aggie sweetheart. An ACFW member since 2010, she has written seven historical novels and is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of The Steve Laube Agency. Angie also spends her time designing one-sheets and drinking good coffee with great friends. Check her personal blog at www.angiedicken.com and connect at:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/dicken.angie, 

Twitter: @angiedicken
Pinterest: pinterest.com/agdicken

The Birth of a Dream

I stopped by a garage sale in my neighborhood a while back.

In the driveway was a box of a few books. As I was looking through them, the lady managing the sale told me, "There are a bunch of other books over here too if you're interested."

I walked over, and yeah, I barely could control my grin.

JACKPOT!

I bought 15 books from that garage sale at .25 cents each. Most all in like-new condition. (most of these weren't ones I would have purchased new anyway, but for a quarter I'd give them a try, so no writer's guilt...)

The writer I am had to ask who the reader of the house was. Come to find out, it was an elderly woman who was "downsizing" and moving into an apartment/assisted living.

Instantly my mind went to my own grandma. Memories of going to her house and searching her bookshelf flooded my heart. My grandma's bookshelf held my first taste of Christian Fiction, Janette Oke, Lori Wick, and Grace Livingston Hill, to be exact.

A few years ago, my grandparents moved into a nursing home/assisted living facility, and my mother salvaged a few of the books for me from the similar garage sale.  There are no words to tell you how special those books are to me. They are how I fell in love with books, they are what birthed the dream of being a writer someday.

Sometimes, in all the craziness of everything, I like to pick one of them up, snuggle up with a blanket, and read one of those "old" books of grandma's. They make me smile, they made me remember, and they make me appreciate the journey.

Because this writing life IS a journey, a crazy, fun, scary, wild, sweet, wonderful journey.

It also makes me appreciate anew the simple act and pleasure of reading a book.

Those "non"-bookies don't always understand this emotional connection we have to a book. It doesn't really make a lot of sense. But it's special. I can't aptly put it into words (oddly enough!) but it just plain is!

Discussion: What was your first "memorable" book you read? Who inspired YOUR writing journey at it's infant stage?

Hope Within A Volatile Industry- A Guest Post by Allen Arnold

Today, I'm honored to welcome to the Alley an industry superhero who's also a dear friend and mentor, Allen Arnold. He is now offering freelance services to help writers shape the stories God has placed on their hearts. To read more about that, check out his bio. I hope this post encourages you today, whatever wilderness you're facing. - Ashley Clark 

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The publishing industry is not for the faint of heart. Not for those working in it – or the writers desiring to be part of it.

Bookstores are closing. Christian Fiction – as a category – has been in a dramatic decline in recent years. Numerous Christian Fiction imprints have shut their doors, while the publishing houses that remain in business continue to reduce staff and marketing budgets.

If signing with a publisher seemed daunting in the past, the odds are exponentially smaller today.

That’s what is happening in the world around you.

Yet, you are called to write. The story burns deep within – consuming your thoughts and imagination. It isn’t something you can simply ignore.  The story demands to be told.

It’s hard enough just finding time to create between caring for your children, paying the bills, and keeping the chaos of your home at a manageable level. It feels like a losing battle.

But when the industry appears to be have lost its way too, it can seem too much.

It’s understandable that you’re weary and disheartened. You’ve put so much time into this story. Sacrificed so much to pursue your calling. But success hasn’t come.

If the world really needed your story, why hasn’t anyone else (starting with an agent and publisher) caught the vision? Or maybe you have an agent and have been published...but the results have been modest at best.

Maybe the current closed door is your answer. Maybe it’s time to accept reality and let go of your dream. Get busy doing something more productive.

That’s why I’m writing this post. God wants me to be a voice that reminds you of this fact. He loves your stories. He understands the cost is high, but it is worth it. Especially when you shift your definition of success to the time you spend getting to know Him as you create with the Creator.

The invitation is both passionate and intimate.

“Stay with me, __________  (put your name here). Take heart. We can do this together. Please don’t quit. Remember, you are not alone. I have given you this talent and longing – and I will see it through. Just stay with me as you create.”

Do those words sound too good to be true?

I didn’t make them up. That’s the invitation we’re given in Psalm 27:14. I just personalized it to the specific call He’s given you. Let the words sink in deep.

“Stay with God!
Take heart. Don’t quit.

I’ll say it again: Stay with God.”

                       (The Message Translation)

Here’s the deal. None of us will ever control the publishing industry. It is filled with good people who love story and who are doing the best they can – but their world has forever changed and continues to change daily.

Publishing houses – once acclaimed for being influencers of popular culture by finding new voices to introduce to readers – now look to popular culture to tell them whom to publish. That’s why the first question asked in acquisition meetings is almost always: “How many followers does this writer have on social media? What is the size of their tribe?”

The ideas and content and storytelling used to come first. Those were the filters upon which publishing decisions were made. Now it is weighted far too heavily on social media. The problem is – a person can have a significant following online and sell very few books because the very followers willing to read the occasional tweet for free have little interest in paying $25 for a 100,000 word book.  And many talented writers find themselves without a contract largely because they have immersed themselves in the art and craft of story more than courting “likes” on social media.

I cast no blame on the publishing industry. I invested much of my career in that realm, and they are my colleagues. In any industry, less risk is taken in tough times. And unpublished writers with a huge following seem like a smarter bet than an unpublished writer with few followers. The problem is – this tact takes the publishing team’s eye off fresh ideas and their own instinct for good stories. The industry, in short, has shifted from being proactive to reactive.

This post isn’t about whether to pursue traditional or indie publishing. Either could work, and both options have costs and benefits. Ask God which path he is encouraging you to pursue. He’d enjoy having that conversation with you.

Photo by arztsamui from freedigitalphotos.net

I simply want to remind you that God loves writing with you. That is the primary reason he gave you the gift of story – so the two of you could create together. Spend time on the playground of ideas together. So you could get to know Him as Creator.

So remember, if God has given you this story, then He will see it through. What happens with it may be far different than you can imagine today. But if you stay with him, he will see your Story (the one you are living) and the story you are writing through.

I’m not a prophet, but I will go out on a limb and say the world of publishing will continue its volatile swings. New technology will emerge, and fresh ideas will continue to shift the balance of power. Those who know the reader best will do the best over time.

But no matter what happens within the industry, the world needs more stories crafted from those who are spending time in creative fellowship with God. It needs stories written for the restless from writers who have learned how to rest in the midst of the storm.

God is not worried one bit over the seismic shifts in the publishing industry. He isn’t confused about His purpose or timing for your story.

He’s inviting us to put on His armor and continue the stories we’ve been given. The ones we were born to tell.

And He’s told us how to do it.

Stay with Him, protect your heart, and don’t ever quit.

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Allen Arnold's mission is to help artists pursue God and their gifting from an awakened heart in intimacy and freedom. He cut his teeth in the advertising world (think the HBO series Mad Men on steroids) and then spent more than twenty years in Christian publishing. As the founding Fiction Publisher for one of the world's largest Christian publishing houses, Allen oversaw the development of more than five hundred novels. In his current role at Ransomed Heart, he oversees content from the mountains of Colorado for the transformative ministry. Before becoming a Board Member for ACFW, he was awarded their Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012 for his substantial contributions to the world of Christian Fiction.

He knows first-hand how common it is for creators to become disheartened, overwhelmed or burnt-out–as well as what it takes to help the dreams of writers become reality.  He enjoys helping writers shape their stories and discover how to create with God. If you're interested in learning more, e-mail him at Allen@RansomedHeart.com.

March Release Madness!!

It’s time to celebrate March Release Madness!!

Here at the Alley we love to read, write, eat, fellowship, and encourage other authors, so at the end of each month, we are going to feature a celebration of upcoming releases and news!!

Who doesn’t like a party, right?

So here are a few March releases that have popped up on The AlleyCats radars!

 Our very own Krista Phillips’ second novella is set to release in March. A Side of Hope.

Spy of Richmond by Jocelyn Green

A Horse for Kate by Miralee Ferrell

Jaded: A Novel – Varina Denman

Then Sings My Soul by Amy Sorrells

The Tomb by Stephanie Landsem – 3/17

Mist of Midnight by Sandra Byrd - 3/17

By Your Side by Candace Calvert

Dauntless by Dina Sleiman

After a Fashion by Jen  Turano

Stranded by Debby Giusti

An Uncertain Choice by Jody Hedlund

If you’re looking for a new story to read, March has plenty of choices for you!

Reminders:

Carol Awards and Genesis entries end on 3/15, so send in your published

novel or polish up your prepublished manuscript before then.

New Adult--- What in the world is it and can Christians write it?

Have you heard of the "New Adult" genre?

It's a newish genre that is being bantered around lately and stirring a wide range of opinions on the matter.

I did lots of searches this past week on the New Adult genre and came up with quite a few different definitions.

A common perception is:

"New Adult is just YA with sex scenes added in."

If that is the case, it leaves those of us who write fiction from a Christian world view in a bit of a conundrum. Can we adequately write "New Adult" fiction if the key difference is graphic sex scenes that are usually missing from our novels?

My answer: YES YES YES!!!!

OF COURSE we can.

The thing is, I don't agree with the definition of New Adult being "YA + SEX." And many authors who write "new adult" fiction agree that it is an unfair over-generalization.

New Adult is more about creating fiction that addresses the lives/issues/struggles of those who have left teenagerdom behind and entered the world of adulthood--ages 18-26ish. College, first real jobs, first true loves, and yes, even figuring out how sex plays a roll in their adult life.

I have this secret for you...shhhhh... don't tell anyone...

CHRISTIANS HAVE SEX.

(I know... you're shocked... You TOTALLY thought the whole stork thing, didn't you...)

And Christian "new" adults, especially in our current hypersexualized society, have a struggle in front of them went it comes with dealing with this issue. Ignoring sex and the desire/temptation thereof does no one any good.

Writing "New adult" fiction from a Christian worldview has the ability to SHOW not TELL... show the struggles--the failures--the consequences. There are a lot of great non-fiction books out there for Christian adults on the topic of sex, both for singles and married couples. But in story form? Not-so-much.

And as mentioned, the new adult genre is really NOT all about sex. There are a lot of things new adults have to tackle. Drugs/alcohol/integrity at a job/bullying--while these aren't narrowed only to new adults, they are big topics for that age group, and we should not be afraid to throw the realistic life issues at our characters and see how they handle them. We have fascinating concepts we can weave in there too. Things like God's GRACE and MERCY and REDEMPTION. Even forgiveness-- both of others, and learning to forgive ourselves.

Discussion: What are your thoughts on this new "genre"? Have you ready any books from a Christian perspective that would fit? Do you think it is possible to tackle tough issues that new adults are facing in fiction without crossing "CBA" lines?

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Krista is a follower of Jesus, a wife, a mother, and author of Sandwich, With a Side of Romance (which just so happens to feature a 20-year-old heroine, GO FIGURE!) She blogs about finding JOY in the journey of LIFE at http://www.kristaphillips.com. She is represented by the fab agent, Rachelle Gardner.

The Catalyst of Your Story

Why do you write?

Are your stories really that important? They're just fiction, right?

Who do you write for anyway? Seems a self-centered task when you get so much joy out of writing stories from your head. Are you really writing for God...or are you just writing for you?

You may never get published...isn't it a waste of time?

I ask myself these questions often. And when I do, I tiptoe along the edge of doubt, scared that I will fall into a realization that this dream is simply a fabrication of my heart--an exciting way to convince myself that I am doing something bigger with my life than vacuuming and cooking dinner.

Up until last week, I fumbled in the dark, searching for light on God's truth in my calling. I struggled to commit to the hoped-for answers to the above questions.

On Flickr by Leucippus

      And then...

I discovered that writing really isn't my calling after all.

I sat in a workshop, exhausted from networking, trying to ignore the what-ifs of a writer's conference, and listened to a vibrant Karen Ball pour forth her wisdom:

There is one calling in life: "To reflect Christ to a broken world. "

 And a writer's task is to fulfill that calling by writing.

Wow. This really takes the writing and puts it in it's rightful place...as a means to get to Christ.

With this humbling perspective on our craft, literary agent, Karen Ball, facilitated discussion with one question more eloquent than the ones I pondered above....

What's your catalyst?

She opened the mic to the many authors in the room, and I heard fabulous stories about their catalysts which spurred their stories. I searched myself, allowing Karen's explanation to scare away the darkness of not knowing, and welcoming a wash of light in my very core.

She had explained that a Christian writer's catalyst is nothing less than God-inspired. That at the very core of Christian writers who have been given the task to write to fulfill our Great Calling, is God using a story that is uniquely their own. If God is at your core, then His whisper is your catalyst for your stories. You cannot simply walk away from that, but you must be a good steward of your passion initiated by God...AND WRITE!

On Flickr by ErinKPhoto

Tears poured down my face when the wash of light became a bright shine in my core, revealing my very catalyst for writing.

Ok. I'll share.

 Having grown up in a rich cultural heritage, one that can be all-consuming, defining not only my favorite foods and precious traditions, but also defining God within the realm of the culture, I finally had to break free and find God outside of the cultural box. A process over several years of searching and heart-ache and self-discovery.

And you know what? Every single one of my stories--no matter if they are set in Texas or Utah, the Amazon or Germany--illustrate a culture and a piercing through the boundaries of that culture with a universal truth about God.

My catalyst is finding God regardless of culture or man-made boundaries. I always knew I wrote about cultures for a reason, and I attributed it to my involvement in women's ministry and outreach. But I didn't realize it went further than that. I hadn't made it personal, until Karen made me search for it.

God has been inspiring specific stories based uniquely on me, without my knowledge of His reason, until now. How uniquely Him to work without my understanding, right?

The definition of catalyst is: In Chemistry, a substance that causes or accelerates a chemical reaction without itself being affected. (from dictionary.com)

Think of the Holy Spirit as that substance...He is never affected, never changing...but causes or accelerates a reaction in the spirit of man.

On Flickr by Velo Steve

God is working through us, to gain reaction. God is breathing His everlasting, never- changing truth in our stories to cause a spiritual reaction in the reader...or even in ourselves. He stirs up passion within us, that accelerates our stories to reflect Christ to a broken world...our very calling.

In the workshop, we also focused on that passion which comes from our catalyst. Karen spurred on conversation among the group, and came up with these points:

• Passion to write should never come before our Family and Scripture. 

• Be leery of things that kill passion: Shame, expectations, guilt, worry, fear, busyness, discouragement (and stay in the Scriptures to combat these things!)

• Nurture that passion to grow in a God-ordained way: Spend time with like-minded people, read, get away from writing when you need to, worship.

Search yourself. Discover your own catalyst. Seek the very reason God has accelerated your story to change lives of those around you. And kindle that passion. God can use your writing in many ways: before, during, and after publishing. He may choose to use it to reach a large readership, or put it in front of an editor who might need your words to cross their desk--an example pointed out by Karen. There are endless ways God will use your words.

 Above all else, know that the very reason you formed those words in the first place is for Him. 

So. What's your catalyst?
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Angie Dicken first began writing fiction as a creative outlet during the monotonous days of diapers and temper tantrums. She is passionate to impress God's love on women regardless of their background or belief. This desire serves as a catalyst for Angie's fiction, which weaves salvation and grace themes across cultures. She is an ACFW member and CEO of a family of six.

 

 

Lessons from Short-Straw Bride by Karen Witemeyer

Photo by njaj at freedigitalphotos.net

I just finished reading Short-Straw Bride by Karen Witemeyer, may I just say, I was enthralled. Karen wove a beautiful story with such AWESOME (hear me in a sing-song-voice!) romance. Seriously, the romance in this book was tangible and swoon-worthy, and kept me turning the page awaiting for more.

But what really struck me was the underlying lesson to be learned through Karen's story.

First, let me tell you a bit about the story. Travis Archer and his four brothers were sworn by a dying father to protect their land at all cost. In doing so, the Archer brothers become recluses, never stepping off the land, and striking fear to any and all trespassers. It's when Meredith Hayes comes to deliver a warning that things go awry and she becomes the bride of one of the Archer men. It's a story of budding love and trust in one another.

What stood out to me was the whole idea of the Archer men not leaving the land. EVER. They had a friend come to them to barter for supplies and food, but they never stepped off the land. So once Meredith entered the picture, Travis is forced to deal with her wanting to go to town and teach at the freedmen's school. Travis fears for her safety, for he cannot protect her beyond the borders of his land. What's interesting is that he could have gone with her as her body guard, but he doesn't. He doesn't leave the land, because he must protect the land. He ends up trusting her to God as she goes to teach, which is great, but the thing is, he still doesn't trust God enough to step off the land himself.

Not only do the Archer men not leave the land, they do not tolerate trespassers. They carry rifles and shoot at those who come on their land, hoping to scare them off and leave them alone. They live in fear, really. It is only when a friend of Meredith's comes looking for work, that they give in and allow them to stay. It isn't easy, but because they trust Meredith, they allow the newcomers in. (and are eventually blessed by that!)

As these men meet more people through Meredith's influence, they step out of their comfort zone and step off the land. They are met with others who come to their aid. They are supported. They didn't have to fear, for they found friendship.

And this is a message for us today. So often the busyness of life keeps us in our own little bubble. When we do have free time, all we want to do is hole up and be at home. We want to bury our nose in a book, or a movie, or lose ourselves in the stories we weave, ignoring the world around us.

But that is not what God wants from us. Look at Jesus and His ministry. He was with people a lot of the time. He ate with sinners, healed the sick, cast out demons, and cared for the people around Him. Sure, he had time alone, praying by Himself, praying with his disciples, but He spent the majority of his time loving people.

We need to be with others. Yes, writers must have time alone to write, but Jesus has a mission in this world and it is to love. To love Him and to love others. We need to connect with others and live life outside of our bubble. It's in this reality that we experience life...life you can write about!

Have you been living in a bubble? How have you made the effort to get out of your bubble and live life? How will you, if you haven't already?

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This post is brought to you by

 Sherrinda Ketchersid

Sherrinda is wife to "Pastor John" and mother to three giant sons and one gorgeous daughter. A born and bred Texan, she writes historical romance filled with fun, faith, and forever love.

Self-Editing Checklist: Voice and Viewpoint

If you've been following along in this series, hopefully your scenes are taking shape with purpose and consistency. This week we'll take a look at voice and viewpoint. So without further ado, here are Points 4 & 5 of my self-editing checklist.

#4 - Is my own voice coming through, or is it contrived? Yes, this is the ever-elusive issue of voice. Everyone says it's the first thing editors or agents notice in a manuscript. I'll admit I was skeptical of this until I became a contest judge this year. The unique voices really did stand out above the floundering ones. But how do we know if our own voice is unique?

While it can often be an intangible thing, a good test is this. Have a friend read your work and tell you if they can hear you saying it. I've noticed this phenomenon with my blogging buddies. Ever since I met them at the ACFW Conference last year, I can hear them speaking the things I read on their blogs. That means it's true to their voice.

For more ideas on developing your voice, check out Cindy's post from a couple weeks ago, as well as these posts on Katie Ganshert's blog. (Awesome stuff there!)

#5 - Analyze the viewpoint. Are the characters too perfect? Are you portraying them as real human beings with real-life struggles? For those who write Christian fiction, is there any Christian lingo or jargon that could be confusing?

This point could spark a whole debate of how much "Christian" a Christian novelist should put in their books, but that's a discussion for another day. The key to this point is knowing where you stand on the spectrum, knowing where your target publisher stands on the spectrum, and then staying within it.

Your homework for the next two weeks, should you choose to accept it: Work through some of the voice exercises in Cindy's post and on Katie's blog, then read your scene and listen for your authentic voice. Analyze the viewpoint in your scene and make sure it falls within your target publisher's viewpoint (and yours too!).

Have you discovered your voice? What are some tricks you've used to discover it? How closely do you pay attention to the viewpoint of your novel?

*Microphone photo by Idea go / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

**Glasses photo by dan / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Beyond the Shadow of the Cross

So I was planning on writing a light little piece, giving you some giggles about my writing obsession during the daily grind. But conviction came fast, and I couldn't resist going a little deeper and stirring up some conversation about the industry that is CBA.

It is refreshing to pick up a good wholesome book, identify with a Christian character who is just trying to make Godly decisions in a messed up world. You know as you turn each page, you won't be slammed with a sex scene that makes you blush while your toddlers play on the floor next to you, and you won't find words that give you a sudden appetite for a big ol' bar of soap.

But what if you opened a Christian fiction book, and characters you grow to love don't follow Christ, and never do in the story?

My first question to you is: can we write Christian fiction with ungodly main characters—Christians who just don't get God's grace and are bound to a legalistic, pharisaical worldview, remaining that way through the story; Or the atheist who, because of this type of Christian, has sworn off God, but still has a heart of gold, and impacts a Christian main character in a positive way?


Well, of course we can, but what if we don't end the book with everyone stepping over that faith line...what if we have these types of characters and with great frustration on the readers part, they have no spiritual growth whatsoever? Maybe they are present in the story to highlight a specific theme. Or they push the protagonist along a journey towards God involuntarily.

Another question—Can we write a main character who embraces Grace for the above ungodly folks, and expect our readers to do the same?

I write this because I have written a novel where a main character is an atheist, and I have no intention to convert her. She serves a purpose and highlights my overall theme. I also know of another writer who wonders about using these types of characters in her own writing.

Is this a risk in the CBA market?

Do fiction readers want to be convicted when they sit down with a good book?

What do you think?

Christian Fiction Well Blended

Ever taste a main dish with globs of unmixed ingredients, (did your spoonful have the clump of garlic?) or the mouthwatering Christmas cookies still tempting you to plunge one into you mouth to discover the forgotten ingredient (oops, did I miss sugar?)

I completed the first chapter from my new WIP.

The same night I read the first chapter from one of Mary Connelly's books, turned off the light, and lay in bed thinking about the difference between the two first chapters.

Of course, I noticed her polished writing, hysterically funny text, hooks, tight writing, and etc tempted to stay up late to read more.  BUT--

The number one natural ingredient I noticed in her book was a perfectly blended story line which infused Christian concepts into the heart and soul of the book.

I reflected on her first chapter and immediately wondered how could I add Christian ideals into this story.  That's when God let me know--WRONG! Christian concepts are NOT an added ingredient.

Think of the Christmas cookies mentioned above.  Had I finished baking the first batch and then realized I left out the sugar, or flour, or egg, I might try many methods to put the missing ingredient into the finished product, but  it would never taste right.

I looked back at my first chapter and realized adding Christian principals into the story after it had been written would be second rate, cheap, and obvious.  I chose to rethink the story line and considered how I could naturally bring God's love into chapter two or totally rethink the flow of chapter one.

Just because I felt inspired and words flowed from my heart as I tapped the computer keys does not mean that the work I produced pleased God. Maybe I needed to wad up the paper, toss it in the garbage and start the story again.

On the other hand, I could choose to turn the story into an ABA novel, that might work.  I read a novel last year which had been made into a successful movie.  The author wrote an interesting story--well the ending seemed weak, but it had a great plot, the father had Christian principles, the main character developed, etc--but the book was not a Christian fiction book.  Even with the Bible references, church setting for some scenes, and the periodic godly words from the father, this book clearly was not a CBA book.

Some CBA books might have been better classified as ABA.

With the New Year standing before me, I chose to stand up and speak about this issue.  In truth, I am bothered by some CBA books which clearly added Christian concepts as an after thought just to be published in this category.

I'm working on chapter two of my WIP.  I can save the day by letting God shine naturally through the words. Blending His truth, guidance, and Words into the story line before the story reaches a first edit will clearly place this story in the CBA category.

Don't go overboard.  God already wrote the Bible.

Christian fiction serves quite a different purpose.  I guess I want to look at my first published book and know in my heart I wrote an entertaining story that addressed some issue from a Christian point of view without pressure, prodding, or wimping out.

What makes a book a CBA book to you?

Stranger Than Fiction - writing the truth with a twist

I don’t know about you, but I LOOOOVE a good story. How many of you have wonderful memories of someone telling you a story – a fairytale or maybe reading you a good book. The best kinds of stories are those that make us feel like we’re experiencing the action, like it’s part of our lives.

Well, what if it is? Or at least, what if someone in your past, your family history, is telling a story about their lives and it’s too amazing to imagine.

That’s what happened to me about eight years ago – and sparked the creation of several of my novels.

Family history. Truly – stranger than fiction.

As part of my eclectic family history, there are horse thieves, accused murderers, a possible witch, and at the top of the unseemly characters list, my great, great grandfather, John. He was heralded as the meanest man in the mountains. John did many horrible things in his life, but one story is that he traded his wife for a hunting dog. Since he was said to be the meanest man in the mountains, perhaps we should feel sorry for the dog.

As a product of the unique culture of Appalachia, I benefited from a granny who kept a long oral history. I can tell you stories of my ancestors that go back about seven generations, a few maybe longer. And I’ve taken those tales, those memories, and incorporated them into various novels I’ve written or am writing.

As a matter of fact, my novel Here to Stay (WHICH JUST PLACED FIRST IN THE TARA - check the news out here), takes the idea of a young woman searching for the mystery her ancestry and makes it into a fun adventure of romance, discovery, and second chances.

So, how can you discover the stories of your past?

First of all, I suggest you write down the stories of the present. We get so busy that we forget our stories might be interesting someday, and because we have a tendency to forget various parts of the story, we should jot it down along the way. Keeping a journal is a fantastic way to do this.

For example, just a few years ago I had one of those HILARIOUSLY unbelievable moments happen to me. I’d been kind of depressed about some things for a few weeks and was driving to work and praying (as a mom of 5 that’s about the only time I have to be alone ;-) About five minutes into my drive I felt something on my leg. I reached down to swipe it off and felt…FUR. Then the ‘whatever’ scuttled up my leg to my knee. When I glanced down I saw a MOUSE sitting on my KNEE!!!!!

Long story short – before I crashed the van into the ditch along the road, I found a place to pull over and proceeded to beat my purse around the inside of the van (with all the doors open) until that mouse jumped out and headed for the nearest SANE woman :-) Anyway, that story didn’t just get me out of my funk, but it also inspired a scene in a story which then inspired an entire book.

NEXT, Find old…er….well-seasoned people in your family and spend TIME with them. Stories and culture comes from starting a conversation. I’ve been taking notes on my granny’s stories for fifteen years. The tales of her life in Appalachia, being raised by an unpredictable alcoholic father and strong-spirited mother are the inspiration for my YA WWII historical series – kind of like a cross between Anne of Green Gables and Little Women set in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Va.

Daydream! Yes, I'm giving you an assignment. I have my great, great, great grandmother's china salad plates from Ireland. She left her home to move to America when she met my great, great, great grandfather. When I pull out those plates, I let my mind wander through what it must have been like to be her. Did she HAVE to marry him because of the famine in Ireland, or was it a love so great she was willing to leave her homeland for him? What kind of guy would inspire that sort of commitment?

 (The picture to the left is Peveril Castle Keep in Castelton, Derbyshire, UK - my ancestor, William Peveril built it in the 12th century)


Genealogy sites are great, but the REAL stories come from PEOPLE. It’s not just about dates and names, the people become three-dimensional when you have a flesh-and-blood person recounting the tale. The REAL challenge is finding the right people.

Do you have some stories in your family’s past that are stranger than fiction? Ones that would be the start of a great book? Or maybe some that have INSPIRED a novel you've already written?
Share with us.

Inspire me please! Huh?

We've all heard the terms. Inspirational Fiction. Christian Fiction. We've also heard the scorn of each off these at one point and time.

"Inspirational is taking the 'Christ' out of it! How dare they!"

"Christian fiction? Seriously? Why does our fiction need to be labeled as Christian? Do we have to have a label? Do we have Christian toothpaste? No! Christian Sloppy Joes? No! "

Well, first, I'm not going into the debate. Mostly because I think it's just plain silly. (No offense...) It reminds me of the whole "Over or Under" debate! Just rip off the toilet paper, okay?

What I will chime in on is what makes a novel Christian or Inspirational. How much "God" must be in your book? Is there a difference between the terms? What boundaries must we have?

DEFINED

Inspirational novels are just that. They are meant to inspire you. To forgive, to love, to hope, to come back to God. Many times inspirational novels have subtle allegories, like Jesus' parables, that inspire you without you even knowing:-) We inspirational fiction authors are sneaky that way!

Christian fiction is also inspirational fiction, however it focuses on God in a deeper and more obvious level. Whereas an inspiry novel my feature a Christian character, the theme may not always focus on the spiritual. A Christian novel, however, will weave into its plot the character's spiritual journey toward a deeper relationship with God.

The best example I can think of off the top of my head would be comparing Denise Hunter to Colleen Coble. (I use these two out of pure fun since they are such good friends and blog together, AND I love both of their books!)

From the books that I've read of each, I would label Denise's novels as Inspirational and Colleen's as Christian. Denise always inspires and her books always carry an allegorical lesson we can learn from, but Colleen takes that a step farther and features characters who have a faith journey as well.

THE "GOD" TEST

How much God should be in our Christian or Inspirational novels? Is there a test??

Nope. And really, there is no answer to this. This is a question for each author to ask God about, because I'm convinced He calls us each to a different level in our writing. Not one is better than the other. God can/does/will use Denise's novels just as much as He does Colleen's.

BOUNDARIES
All this said, there are boundaries on both sides.

There is a point where an author can get too "preachy" and be out of the bounds of writing good fiction. This isn't because there is too much God in a book, but because God isn't organically (or realistically) woven into the theme. It can get tacked on and eye-rolling-worthy, cliche even, to the point where the message is lost or ineffective.

On the flip side, a lot of non-CBA books have inspirational themes such as love or forgiveness. So what differentiates "Inspirational" fiction from secular novels?

Again, my opinion, but I think it is in the limits we set. Bedroom scenes have a point where the door is discreetly shut. "Potty-mouth" words are left out. Violence can still be there, but there are limits. A Christian world-view is upheld. Bad things can be included, however they are clearly labeled as such. (i.e. characters might, behind doors, have pre-marital sex, however it is not shown as okay or acceptable.)

Within the above limits though, WOW. There are a TON of variables. Just when do you shut the door? What words are "okay"? How much violence is too much? I have distinct opinions on those, and when I'm back from maternity leave, will do a post dedicated just to this. However, my main point is this: You, as an author, are accountable to God. If you are obedient to Him in the content you include, that is what matters. Period.

CONCLUSION
Sorry for the headings. I feel like I'm in high-school writing a research paper (Intro, key points, conclusion... LOL.)

In a nutshell:

Inspirational fiction inspires toward Godly Values.
Christian fiction inspires toward Christ.

How is that for simple?

Any questions? Do you agree with my definitions? Would you define your books as Inspirational or Christian? Or do you write for the secular market (which I did NOT touch on here, but is an option many Christians choose as well!)