COVER AUTHOR: Michelle Sutton

EDITOR's NOTE: I think one of the best things about the internet is meeting new people. I met Michelle online and we became fast internet buddies. She is a loyal supporter of Christian fiction. She’s introduced me to some wonderful new authors and I’ve done the same for her. When I try something new with SORMAG, she’s the first to respond with the good or the bad. I always appreciate her honest opinion. When she told me she had a contract on her book, I praised God with her. It is my pleasure to introduce you to my friend and new author, Michelle Sutton.

Michelle Sutton is a member of ACFW, Volunteer Officer on the ACFW Operating Board, Editor-in-chief for Christian Fiction Online Magazine, Sheaf House Marketing Director, edgy fiction writer, book reviewer, avid blogger/alliance member, CWOW blog mistress, mother of two teenagers, wife, pet owner, social worker by trade, and follower of Jesus Christ.

It's Not About Me

Annie has it all. She's attractive, graduated with honors, was accepted at the college of her choice, has supportive parents, good friends, and a steady boyfriend who loves her. One night when an unexpected visitor appears, Annie's safe world is destroyed. As she tries to recover the pieces of her broken life, a war ensues between two brothers who both claim to have her best interests at heart. But who will Annie choose? Or will she decide to turn her life in a different direction?

What would you like your readers to take away from your book?

That love is not just the warm fuzzy you get when a good-looking man kisses you. Seriously, real love is a commitment. Friendship and faith are the best foundation to build a long-term relationship on. Plus, sacrifical love is the best, most secure love there is.

What did you learn while writing this book?

I had a hindsight experience into my youth and how gullible I'd been at the time. It wasn't pretty.

What is the hardest part about the writing business?

Waiting for answers on your submissions.

Do you still experience self-doubts regarding your work?

Not really.

What one thing about writing do you wish other non-writers would understand?

That writing a book is just the beginning of the publication process, and it's not as easy as everyone thinks it is.

What marketing have you found that particularly works well for you?

Blogging and internet marketing.

What are three things you wish you'd known before you reached where you are now?

How long it would take. But then again, I'm glad I didn't know that or I may not have persisted until I sold my first novel.

This month our theme is Getting Out Of The Slush Pile. Do you have any advice for getting an editor/agent to request your manuscript?

You have to write something that is uniquely you and in your own distinct voice. Find it before you submit. When I asked my agent (after we'd gotten to know each other very well) why she signed me on, she said I had a very unique voice. That's very important in this business.

What should a new writer know about the publishing business?

Do you have all night? Seriously, take your time and learn the craft. Don't expect to be a senior just starting out. Take your time and enjoy being a freshman in the biz. You will grow if you keep working at it, and one day it will happen and you'll be a published author.

What was the most profound lesson you learned while writing this novel?

That God uses even the ugly stuff in life to turn our hearts in the right direction.

What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

Time. I never have enough. I'm still working on figuring that out. For now I just take one bite of the elephant at a time. When I'm having a droll moment I tell people I've been gnawing on his stubby little tail for years now.

What was the last conference you attended and what did you like about it?

ACFW in Dallas. It was my first conference as an ACFW Board officer, so that was nice.

What's your secret to balancing career and family?

Get the hubby and kids to chip in and it's not so bad. My family is great this way. It's essential if you are going to progress as an author.

What do you do to make time for yourself?

I just go with the flow. I refuse to stress out. It's that simple.

What was the last book to keep you up at night reading it?

Wiser than Serpents by Susan May Warren.

How can readers get in contact with you? (mail, email, website)

Go to my website http://www.michellesutton.net/ or my blog at http://edgyinspirationalauthor.blogspot.com/ and e-mail me from there.

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