tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post707685757117802980..comments2023-10-27T11:41:01.596-05:00Comments on SORMAG's Blog: Panel: Meet the Christian AuthorLaShaundahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02882241010643308240noreply@blogger.comBlogger54125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-20065116307381980422007-08-29T09:34:00.000-05:002007-08-29T09:34:00.000-05:00Oh No! I've been having problems with the internet...Oh No! I've been having problems with the internet yesterday and this morning. I've tried to post this not below like 10 times. I really hope this works this time.<BR/><BR/>Jill, thank you so very much for your recommendation. Will look out for those books and yours too Nikki. <BR/><BR/>Nikki, very glad you are doing something on muslim half way houses. Not the easiest of subjects to tackle but much needed. Here is my email address if you would like to ask me any questions on this issue: shobamano@yahoo.com<BR/><BR/>So sorry for the late reply. Internet troubles. Jill enjoyed your workshop. God bless you all.Shobahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/03838877174671249539noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-11696042499111755572007-08-28T23:01:00.000-05:002007-08-28T23:01:00.000-05:00Thanks everyone! Here are all my answers to the qu...Thanks everyone! Here are all my answers to the questions asked during our panel. They were some great ones. <BR/><BR/>I guess my question is...How do you find enough time to write, spend time with your family and spend time with the Lord?<BR/><BR/>To be honest, I don’t find the time. I steal it! The truth is, there’s only so much time and you have to decide what you’re going to do with it. During certain seasons, writing is one of my top priorities. I try to incorporate my Bible study and prayer with my writing. They are a preparation.<BR/><BR/>Is a discussion of supernatural phenomena accepted at all in Christian romance novels?<BR/><BR/>As I think Jill said, it’s not really considered paranormal (ghosts, demons, etc) but supernatural (as in more than you see in the natural). That said there are many good books of this type in the Christian market including Frank Peretti’s Present Darkness books, Ted Dekker’s novels and others. In romance specifically, my friend Claudia Mair Burney’s EXORSISTAH series comes to mind. It is scheduled for publication in late 2008 I think.<BR/><BR/>What’s something you wish you’d known earlier that might have saved you some time/frustration in the publishing business?<BR/><BR/>Have mercy. The slowness! Publishing is slower than any industry I have EVER seen. If they tell you a month, make it three. (There are those quick jewels in the business though that surprise me all the time. Gotta love that!)<BR/><BR/>If you write contemporary romance, would you suggest the writer use a pen name for their Christian fiction works?<BR/><BR/>So you’re saying that you’ll be writing mainstream contemporary romance (with sex scenes) AND Christian fiction? If so, I’d say yes, get a pen name. Christian readers understand when I writer changes from mainstream to Christian fiction but can be quite hurt and confused if they find both kinds of books from the same author recently. Some publishers in the Christian market frown upon it as well. Did I get that wrong? Are you writing in more than one genre? Christian and something else? If not, you’ll want to build your name I’d think.<BR/><BR/>How do you write your story, on the computer, long hand, talk in a tape recorder?<BR/><BR/>Believe it or not, I still write in longhand sometimes. I’m often out and about with my kids or at appointments and I can’t always drag my laptop around. It also gives me another draft when I type it in. Most times though, it’s tip-tap away. I’ve tried the voice thing, but it didn’t work for me. There are always quite a few paper-and-pen scenes though.<BR/><BR/>First question: Over the years, I've found that Christian fiction is moving away from inclusion of a conversion story. Not that they're being eliminated, just that the market has realized that not all Christian stories need one. In my opinion, it's important to see people of faith living and struggling with their faith, as much as it is to see people accept the Christ's love. Thoughts?<BR/><BR/>Great point. For me, it’s all about what the story requires. Some books end up with more of a subtle spirituality and others have scripture, church scenes and the whole deal. That said, lots of folks get saved in my books. LOL<BR/><BR/>Second question: When you write Christian novels, do you find that the faith aspect of the story is there from the beginning or do you have to go back and layer it in? <BR/><BR/>Again, it depends. The faith aspect is always there for me in the sense that I see the character’s struggle. Sometimes it’s quite apparent from the beginning down to the chapter and verse. Other times, I do have to layer that in. Or not. <BR/><BR/>Third question: What advice would you give a new novelist interested in breaking into Christian fiction? Do you have any frame of reference on whether it's harder to do than in secular fiction?<BR/><BR/>I think my advice would be the same to any writer: Read. Read. Read. Write. Write. Write. And then start over. The only difference would be not to try and write Christian fiction to get published necessarily. It has to be a genuine belief of your own or it will show, I think. The market is tight everywhere in publishing but God is still on the throne, so get to writing!<BR/><BR/>What was your best fan letter and your worst?<BR/>Ha! In truth I love the support and mail from my readers. Someone always blesses me with a note when I most need it (which is always). I don’t know that I can pick a best or worst but I do have a funniest from each category. I got a scathing review on one book one month from someone and then a five star plus review on another book from the same person! God used that to remind me that opinions are just that. (Nice notes are still great to get though!)<BR/><BR/>Is there a way to weave in scripture without flat out saying what the scripture is? I know we can paraphrase, but I wanted to just get your thoughts on not sounding too preachy?<BR/><BR/>I think it can be done. I’m a strange bird that does actually think in chapter and verse, so sometimes my characters do too! LOL Sometimes it may be the same sentiment but expressed differently. More of a scriptural principle. I love things that point me back to Jesus. Just give me a good story too.<BR/><BR/>There seems to be a trend, especially among publishers of African-American fiction, to urbanize everything, meaning adding sex, profanity, drugs, etc.<BR/><BR/>Yep. You should see my books in a sea of booty and breasts. I’m glad to be there though. Sometimes AA Christian fiction can be in the Christian fiction section and/or the AA section, so check both.<BR/><BR/>Is this trend affecting Christian fiction?<BR/>There are urban stories, but I don’t think they all have sex or profanity. There are lots of books with church titles or settings that don’t profess to be Christian fiction. That’s why venues like Sormag, recommendations from friends, church book clubs and Christian fiction events are so important.<BR/><BR/> What are things that should or should not be a part of Christian fiction? <BR/>A few years ago, I would have had a complete list for you. Today, not so much. I think it’s more in the execution than anything. Each day in the Bible I read about sex, murder, sin…but I can read it all to my children. (“Adam knew his wife and she conceived.” A lot happened in that sentence, amen? There is an expectation based on the label “Christian” though and that’s why CBA (Christian Booksellers Association) publishers don’t allow the things you mentioned. Christian bookstores won’t sell them. Unfortunately there aren’t many AA authors in CBA yet. That said, there are great Christian books (even urban ones) to be had. You just have take it book by book and author by author.<BR/><BR/>Is there anything that crosses the line?<BR/>It sounds like you’ve drawn your own lines. I think that’s best. As I said, the Bible is a good model. It covers just about everything.<BR/><BR/> What is the distinction between "Christian" and "inspirational" fiction vs. urban?<BR/>To me, Christian means inspired by Christ and inspirational means it will inspire me and make me feel hopeful. The word inspirational is often used to mean Christian though because that’s what they call Christian fiction in the Romance Writers of America, so it’s an often used term by booksellers, publishers and authors. As for urban, I think contemporary in the city. My novel PINK is often shelved with the urban books, but it’s definitely Christian. <BR/><BR/>Sorry for penning a book. I was trying to do it in blogger and the posts didn’t appear so hence the novel of answers.<BR/><BR/>Thanks for having us LaShaunda! This was great as usual.<BR/><BR/>Blessings,<BR/>Marilynn<BR/><BR/>http://www.MarilynnGriffith.com<BR/>Serious Faith. Serious Fiction. Serious Fun.upwordshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02640686375678197712noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-42542564905808621952007-08-28T22:01:00.000-05:002007-08-28T22:01:00.000-05:00Hi Everyone,I'll comment on a few posts:* Re: LaSh...Hi Everyone,<BR/><BR/>I'll comment on a few posts:<BR/><BR/>* Re: LaShaunda's question "What's something I wish I'd known earlier about the publishing buiness...":<BR/><BR/>When my first book was contracted, I didn't realize that not only would I become a published author, I'd also very quickly have to become a marketing guru. The in-house publicist assigned to my novel took a new job three months before my book's release date, which left me scrambling to help the publisher spread the word. Since then, I've worked as closely with my publisher as possible to find out what they're planning in terms of marketing and publicity so I can supplement their efforts with my own.<BR/><BR/>2. Re: How do I write: Definitely via computer - My brain moves faster than my fingers, so I need all the help I can get to keep up. However, I always have paper handy - near my bed, in my purse, in the car - for when those brilliant ideas, phrases or pieces of dialogue float my way.<BR/><BR/>3. Re: Should our fiction contain overt conversion stories? <BR/>I'm in the camp that believes the conversions are more effective if they are subtle. Yes, many of us have experienced, or know of someone who has had a life-changing experience that led to a powerful connection with God. But often, transformation occurs as God whispers to our souls - in the manner in which He sees us through trials, or showers us with love from an unexpected source, or gives us peace in the midst of turmoil. If we can write stories that convey a character's growth and yearning for God through these kinds of scenes, the overt conversion isn't as necessary.<BR/><BR/>* Re: Fan Letters:<BR/>I love hearing from readers who share with me how one of my books has drawn them closer to God or helped them understand themselves or someone they love better. The most memorable letter I have received so far came from a woman who lived in Georgia and was contemplating suicide when she received "Speak To My Heart" as a gift from her mother. She read it in one sitting and afterward felt led to reconnect with God and return to church. That was an humbling reminder that although I want my books to entertain readers, they are indeed forms of ministry. As far as bad fan mail, hmm, that's a tough one, because I consider most feedback from readers helpful in some way, even if they didn't necessarily "get" my characters or agree with my ending. <BR/><BR/>Stacy Hawkins AdamsStacy Hawkins Adamshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17674133850159108939noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-66944582877040827962007-08-28T22:00:00.000-05:002007-08-28T22:00:00.000-05:00Just wanted to tell you all thank you for visiting...Just wanted to tell you all thank you for visiting this panel today, for your questions, great answers, and interaction. Blessings to you all!<BR/><BR/>--Marlo SchaleskyMarlo Schaleskyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04690265597462589967noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-85878547153910068692007-08-28T21:54:00.000-05:002007-08-28T21:54:00.000-05:00Publishing TrendsThere seems to be a trend, especi...Publishing Trends<BR/><BR/>There seems to be a trend, especially among publishers of African-American fiction, to urbanize everything, meaning adding sex, profanity, drugs, etc.<BR/><BR/>Is this trend affecting Christian fiction? What are things that should or should not be a part of Christian fiction? Is there anything that crosses the line? What is the distinction between "Christian" and "inspirational" fiction vs. urban?<BR/><BR/>Donna,<BR/><BR/>The ‘trend’ to add sex, profanity and other illicit acts has been written into books long before African Americans became more than an after thought in the literary industry. <BR/><BR/>It is sad to say, but in our current state, there are still mindsets that believe there are only certain things African Americans can identify with, will read or are expected to write. Case in point, I had several houses interested in my manuscript. In their opinion, in order to make it a marketable project the following suggestions were made:<BR/>1. Make the female protagonist more realistic by having her curse whenever she was angry<BR/>2. Minimize the fact that she prays<BR/>3. Christians like more spice in their novels so we should have her a bit more provocative in her dress. This would lead to a steamy scene my readers would remember and encourage others to read also<BR/>4. Certain words like expunge, assuage and emasculate were circled and suggested to be removed because ‘my’, code for African American readers may be distracted by them<BR/>5. The entire passage showing the male protagonist going over his one, three and five year business and personal plans was referred to as unnecessary<BR/>6. Rather than the male engaging in intelligent conversation it was suggested he spend his off work hours on the ball court doing his ‘homeboy’ thang!<BR/><BR/>Is this trend affecting Christian fiction? <BR/>I believe that this is affecting the Christian fiction market it a negative way. More so because a majority of what is being promoted in the genre is not, I repeat, is not Christian fiction, but is being marketed as such because it may have a church member or pastor within the cast. There are many great books being written by African American authors in a variety of genres that are not being published simply because of the lack of the ‘urban flavor’ that is expected from us.<BR/><BR/>What are things that should or should not be a part of Christian fiction? Is there anything that crosses the line? <BR/>We live in a time where there are people searching for God, but may or may not attend a church or have ever read a bible. What will reach one sect of people may not be the tool that touches another. That is the beauty of having writers from a variety of cultures, experiences and with various spiritual gifts. There are themes that are central to the story that may be on the dark side of the street. It takes prayer and skill to concisely portray without offense. <BR/><BR/>What is the distinction between "Christian" and "inspirational" fiction vs. urban?<BR/><BR/>In terms of the literary, Christian works can encompass a wide realm of writing. Inspirational tends to be more light and often extends pearls of wisdom.<BR/><BR/>Fiction and Urban can in many cases be used interchangeably. Fiction is a work born from ones imagination and is not necessarily based on fact. Urban is a tag used to identify a more gritty writing. It is also a tag-word often incorrectly applied the works of a majority of African Americans.<BR/><BR/>Linda!<BR/>www.lindabeed.com<BR/>www.myspace.com/lindabeed<BR/>http://lindabeed.blogspot.com<BR/>lindaonassignment@yahoo.comAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-86639782487011277152007-08-28T21:49:00.000-05:002007-08-28T21:49:00.000-05:00Before the evening is over, I just want to tell yo...Before the evening is over, I just want to tell you all to keep on keeping on. There's definitely more than one way to skin a cat, and writing is one way to minister to those that might not be receptive any other way.<BR/><BR/>Wishing you continued success!rhondajjosephhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/11308067926425435693noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-90088038086627034012007-08-28T20:38:00.000-05:002007-08-28T20:38:00.000-05:00Hi Sheila,Yes, if the stories are mild, your real ...Hi Sheila,<BR/><BR/>Yes, if the stories are mild, your real name should be no problem at all. I like using my real name and wouldn't personally consider a pen name for books.Marlo Schaleskyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04690265597462589967noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-32510487550634015682007-08-28T20:33:00.000-05:002007-08-28T20:33:00.000-05:00Thanks Marlo & Linda for answering my question. It...Thanks Marlo & Linda for answering my question. It's always good to get different point of views on this. My current stories are mild so writing under my real name shouldn't be an issue.Sheliahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05734974809699446926noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-36664092086466286512007-08-28T18:40:00.000-05:002007-08-28T18:40:00.000-05:00Nice to meet you, Michelle! Congrats on the releas...Nice to meet you, Michelle! Congrats on the release of your first Christian fiction novel and your wedding anniversary.<BR/><BR/>May God bless both mightily,<BR/>Marilynn Griffithupwordshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02640686375678197712noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-8501847401515350352007-08-28T18:28:00.000-05:002007-08-28T18:28:00.000-05:00Michelle Larks here,This is my short bio, and forg...Michelle Larks here,<BR/><BR/>This is my short bio, and forgive me if I dissapear, we have a test going on at work and I'm on the on-call person for the month. I am a new Christian fiction author. I have self-published four books beginning back in 2003. I contributed to two faith based anthologies last year, in addition to two contemporary fiction/romance novels. My first Christian fiction novel with Urban Christian Books will be released on October 30th and it's titled, Keeping Misery Company.<BR/><BR/>In addition to writing, I'm a System Programmer and have been in the IT field for over 25 years, I have two adult daughters, who've moved out of the nest, and my husband and I will celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary on Thursday.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-63068711306827538602007-08-28T17:58:00.000-05:002007-08-28T17:58:00.000-05:00Hey everyone! Great discussion. Here's a short bio...Hey everyone! Great discussion. Here's a short bio for me:<BR/><BR/>Marilynn Griffith is wife to a deacon, mom to a tribe and proof that God gives second chances. She's served as Vice President of American Christian Fiction Writers and has served on faculty of many writer's conferences. She's written seven novels to date about faith, friendship and forgiveness, including a multicultural series about four fashion designers in New York City and the Sassy Sistahood series, one of the first African American chick lit series in the Christian market. When she's not speaking, writing or chasing her seven children, Marilynn blogs at Faithchick.com, a Christian chick lit blog she founded and retreats to her closet to hear God's voice above the din.<BR/><BR/>Glad to be here!<BR/>Marilynn<BR/><BR/>http://www.MarilynnGriffith.com<BR/>Serious Faith. Serious Fiction. Serious Fun.upwordshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02640686375678197712noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-89485484171314864412007-08-28T17:20:00.000-05:002007-08-28T17:20:00.000-05:00There seems to be a trend, especially among publis...<I>There seems to be a trend, especially among publishers of African-American fiction, to urbanize everything, meaning adding sex, profanity, drugs, etc.<BR/><BR/>Is this trend affecting Christian fiction? What are things that should or should not be a part of Christian fiction? Is there anything that crosses the line? What is the distinction between "Christian" and "inspirational" fiction vs. urban? </I><BR/><BR/>I think if the trend is to add sex scenes, and profanity to the story, then, I think for the CBA, and especially if it is added for gratuitous reasons, it crosses the line. I know my readers expect a good read with quality writing. We all know that people swear, but it doesn’t have to be written into a book to be real. And anything you say with profanity can be said without profanity. But if, per sae, I’m writing about a soldier under fire, and his teammates are swearing, we can say, ie, “he agreed with every word they said, even the ones his mother would flinch at.” Or whatever. Here’s the thing – Christians struggle with the same things that non-Christians struggle with, and if it is an element of the plot, it can be included into a book…in the right way. For example, if there is a character who is living a wild lifestyle, the story demands we write about it – however, we don’t have to go into graphic detail for readers to understand both the situation and how it will affect her (which is really the issue, isn’t it?) I write for people who want a good story – a redemptive story (which means that there are plenty of non-“pristine” characters in my books), that is well-crafted and that tells the story without elements that many Christians would consider offensive. It doesn’t have to be vulgar or borderline pornographic to be gritty and real.SusieMayhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00067175940055792985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-14898015127367274732007-08-28T16:54:00.000-05:002007-08-28T16:54:00.000-05:00There seems to be a trend, especially among publis...There seems to be a trend, especially among publishers of African-American fiction, to urbanize everything, meaning adding sex, profanity, drugs, etc.<BR/><BR/>Is this trend affecting Christian fiction? What are things that should or should not be a part of Christian fiction? Is there anything that crosses the line? What is the distinction between "Christian" and "inspirational" fiction vs. urban?Donna Dhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05655659698027839046noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-64617102300983410452007-08-28T16:10:00.000-05:002007-08-28T16:10:00.000-05:00First question: Over the years, I've found that Ch...<I>First question: Over the years, I've found that Christian fiction is moving away from inclusion of a conversion story. Not that they're being eliminated, just that the market has realized that not all Christian stories need one. In my opinion, it's important to see people of faith living and struggling with their faith, as much as it is to see people accept the Christ's love. Thoughts? </I><BR/><BR/>I agree that we need to address issues that go beyond conversion. There are plenty of Christians out there who, for one reason or another, feel as if they have walked away from God (or God from them), and need the truth of scripture just as much as those who don’t know God. I think it’s important to write the story as it needs to be – for example in one of my books, (In Sheep’s Clothing) I wrote a conversion scene because that is what needed to happen with the character. It depends on the story and on the character. <BR/><BR/><I>Second question: When you write Christian novels, do you find that the faith aspect of the story is there from the beginning or do you have to go back and layer it in? </I><BR/><BR/>Because of the way I plot and develop characters, the spiritual issue of the character is there at the beginning, as a part of their life, and I address it in tandem with the emotional and plot issues. Ideally, they should all work together in synergy. <BR/><BR/><I>Third question: What advice would you give a new novelist interested in breaking into Christian fiction? Do you have any frame of reference on whether it's harder to do than in secular fiction.</I><BR/><BR/>Nowadays, I think they are equally as difficult. However, I also believe that, just like in the ABA, the CBA recognizes a good story when they see it. If you want to break in, first – study the craft of books you enjoy, second – take classes, or attend conferences (like this one), and third – start writing, and get honest feedback from fellow writers. Finally, write the story on your heart – God knows what He wants you to say, and He will take care of the rest.SusieMayhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00067175940055792985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-61383582543472450762007-08-28T16:03:00.000-05:002007-08-28T16:03:00.000-05:00Somebody earlier asked about books with paranormal...Somebody earlier asked about books with paranormal elements. An excellent CBA novel I read with paranormal elements is Eyes of Elisha by Brandilyn Collins. Elisha is a prophet, and the story also involves a murder. Great book! I recommend the one asking the question to read this one. Peretti and Dekker are good but I found them to be much scarier than Collins.Cecelia Dowdyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07173806883218875753noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-29439541463198180022007-08-28T15:56:00.000-05:002007-08-28T15:56:00.000-05:00Cecelia Dowdy checking in. Here's my bio below:I s...Cecelia Dowdy checking in. Here's my bio below:<BR/><BR/>I spent the first ten years of my life on a military base in Aberdeen Maryland since my dad was in the Army. We moved to North East Maryland when I was about ten. I always remember the joy of opening a book, and reading mesmerizing stories that entertained me for hours! I went to the University of Maryland in College Park, earning my degree in Finance! My freshman English teacher claimed I was a great writer, and recommended that I change my major from Finance to English, but I didn’t heed his wise advice! <BR/><BR/>Instead of pursuing a literary career, I worked as an accountant for a travel agency for ten years. During that time, I traveled all over the world, including the following places: Germany, France, England, Tahiti, New Zealand, Mexico, Jamaica, Bahamas, Cayman Islands, and Santo Domingo. <BR/><BR/>In 1994, I began writing for fun, and I kept doing it until I sold my first inspirational romance novel. Before I sold my novel, I wrote sweet romantic short stories regularly for national women’s magazines. So far, I’ve published thirty-seven of these stories and I still write for magazines when time allows. I'm now working on another novel, and look forward to finding a publisher for my next piece of fiction! <BR/><BR/>I love both secular and Christian fiction. I also love young adult fiction, and I hope to have my own young adult inspirational series someday! <BR/><BR/>I've been happily married to my husband for three years. We currently reside in Maryland with our son.Cecelia Dowdyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07173806883218875753noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-67377377416894291792007-08-28T15:53:00.000-05:002007-08-28T15:53:00.000-05:00Great discussion on including scripture! I agree ...Great discussion on including scripture! I agree with what Jill said, and it seems, Fon, that you've done a good job with weaving it in for the church scenes. I find that if it would be natural for a character to quote chapter and verse (as in a pastor for his sermon) then it doesn't come across awkwardly at all. It's only when the reference is forced in and feels as if the author has stepped in to make a point. <BR/><BR/>--Marlo SchaleskyMarlo Schaleskyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04690265597462589967noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-51991719434013473572007-08-28T15:26:00.000-05:002007-08-28T15:26:00.000-05:00Thanks very much Jill for your response and congra...Thanks very much Jill for your response and congrats. I totally get what you are saying. And I actually have that in my book...a theme scripture!<BR/>But I do also have some instances where the characters are in church and the preacher takes his text. But I guess in that instance it can't be considered too preachy, because it IS...since it is coming from a pastor. People usually don't call it "being too preacy" when it comes from a preacher (LOL).<BR/><BR/>Thanks again Jill...this conference is great!<BR/><BR/>Fon JamesAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-69582332585815827412007-08-28T14:25:00.000-05:002007-08-28T14:25:00.000-05:00Hi, Fon. Congratulations on the upcoming release. ...Hi, Fon. Congratulations on the upcoming release. <BR/><BR/>I find that if I write true to my characters, the faith elements come out sounding natural. Even secular reviewers have commented on that. The key here is digging deep in your characterization. If your reader senses that your characters' actions, thoughts, and conversations are sincere, they won't feel "preached at" even if the spiritual elements are quite strong. That's the way real life works, too.<BR/><BR/>As far as weaving in actual scripture references. A light touch is best. How many of us actually go around quoting chapter and verse in our day to day lives? However, a good place to mention your Bible references is in the study questions at the end of the book. Not all publishers include those with fiction, but mine does. I love it! I can write thought-provoking questions based on the story and include whatever scriptures I please. Also, sometimes a book has a page at the beginning with a theme scripture listed. <BR/><BR/>Good question.<BR/><BR/>Jill<BR/>http://www.jillelizabethnelson.comJillhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06194057797297228126noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-79678682873791919842007-08-28T14:21:00.000-05:002007-08-28T14:21:00.000-05:00Being PreachyHello Ms. Fon,Your question is one th...Being Preachy<BR/><BR/>Hello Ms. Fon,<BR/><BR/>Your question is one that has been debated on many fronts. What I’m about to say may not make me popular, it is however, what I am finding to be true more often than I care to admit. The word preachy is the buzz word used by many to say ‘I don’t appreciate you showing me something I don’t want to deal with.’ <BR/><BR/>Most readers want to be entertained with the story and it is our job to do so, to a degree. Some will appreciate the planted seed through a particular scenario, phrase or scripture. Others will not. Do the best you can and do not be disheartened by those who are not ready to accept what God has given you to write.<BR/><BR/>Linda! www.lindabeed.com www.myspace.com/lindabeed http://lindabeed.blogspot.comAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-38165861938157587772007-08-28T13:56:00.000-05:002007-08-28T13:56:00.000-05:00Hello everyone,As a new Christian Fiction author (...Hello everyone,<BR/>As a new Christian Fiction author (my book, Back and Forth, is releasing in November), how do you write without trying to sound too preachy? When I was writing "Back and Forth," I tried to make sure that I didn't sound this way because of my target audience, young adults. But I wanted to leave the reader with scriptural references for later on once my book is closed and the GOOD BOOK is open. Is there a way to weave in scripture without flat out saying what the scripture is? I know we can paraphrase, but I wanted to just get your thoughts on not sounding too preachy?<BR/><BR/>Fon JamesAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-61048501243184557592007-08-28T13:55:00.000-05:002007-08-28T13:55:00.000-05:00In Reader HeavenHi Patricia I’m delighted to see y...In Reader Heaven<BR/><BR/>Hi Patricia I’m delighted to see you here.<BR/><BR/>My response to your first question is that our Christian community is one of a variety of cultures with a multiplicity of needs. What is important to one reader may not be at the top of the list for another. Having a variety of authors writing what has been placed in their spirit is a must. Industry imposed limits on the writer, limits the option of choice for the reader, thereby, in my opinion, places a limit on God.<BR/><BR/>The Faith Aspect<BR/><BR/>I believe this varies with the writer and their intension for the flow of the story. <BR/><BR/>Advice<BR/><BR/>My advice to a new author is something I stated in a previous post – do not separate who you are from what you do. Hard only enters the picture when we take God out of the equation. <BR/><BR/>Linda! www.lindabeed.com www.myspace.com/lindabeed http://lindabeed.blogspot.comAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-76265572370564049972007-08-28T13:43:00.000-05:002007-08-28T13:43:00.000-05:00About fan mail:I LOVE fan mail! (So, if you want ...About fan mail:<BR/><BR/>I LOVE fan mail! (So, if you want to send me some, go to my website www.marloschalesky.com and use the contact form to send me some - ha! ;-)) My favorite is when someone writes to tell me that they "got" the deeper themes of my stories and those themes touched and changed them, renewed the wonder of what God's done for them. The worst are the ones that nitpick details, especially details that I've carefully researched and got right . . .except the reader thinks they're wrong. So, I love hearing how my story touched a reader. I don't so much love hearing how the reader thought I could have done something differently.<BR/><BR/>--Marlo SchaleskyMarlo Schaleskyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04690265597462589967noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-49931123008128574622007-08-28T13:29:00.000-05:002007-08-28T13:29:00.000-05:00Requests For BlurbsLaShaunda,This is a part of our...Requests For Blurbs<BR/><BR/>LaShaunda,<BR/><BR/>This is a part of our career that can become a bit sticky if not handled properly. <BR/><BR/>When a request is made the first thing I tell the requester is that I have to read the book. Upon completion I will make the decision as to whether I can give a blurb that is favorable for the author. <BR/><BR/>Favorable does not always mean it will be a stellar promotion, but it will be fair.<BR/><BR/>Linda! www.lindabeed.com www.myspace.com/lindabeed http://lindabeed.blogspot.comAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15713569.post-90174411347768697282007-08-28T13:23:00.000-05:002007-08-28T13:23:00.000-05:00Using A Pen NameWould I use a pen name if I wrote ...Using A Pen Name<BR/><BR/>Would I use a pen name if I wrote contemporary romance then opted for Christian fiction? <BR/><BR/>Shelia, this is a great question and one I have been asked often. My personal response is NO.<BR/><BR/>There are those who will choose a pen name simply because they believe what they have written in the past will limit their ability to be considered a viable Christian author. <BR/><BR/>If the choice is made to write in multiple genres I strongly admonish the writer to be true to the genre. <BR/><BR/>As Christians or one striving for a Christian life, we should never separate who we are from what we do. I have read so-called Christian fiction from 'cross over' authors that was well-written but had no heart connection and was basically smut with a church backdrop. On the other hand I have read books lacking the polish of an experienced writer, but the heart connection compelled me to turn the page. <BR/><BR/>In conclusion I will say this, writing is hard work. I plan to sign me name to everything God blesses me to publish.<BR/><BR/>Linda! www.lindabeed.com www.myspace.com/lindabeed http://lindabeed.blogspot.comAnonymousnoreply@blogger.com