Welcome & Winners!

Thanks for visiting Romance Writers on the Journey, where I interview not-yet-published writers and debut authors. There are also articles of interest to those on the path to publication.

Scroll down to read the most recent post. Click on the page links above to learn About This Blog, see lists of my past and future guests, or view some helpful resources.

Be sure to look at the bottom of the posts, where you’ll find information on my current drawing. I hold three regular drawings a month: on the 10th, 20th and last day of each month.

On the first of every month, a lucky commenter will also win a First Sale Scrapbook.

Congratulations to Gwynlyn MacKenzie, winner of the First Sale Scrapbook for October. She left a comment for my guest Autumn Jordan.

Congratulations to Susan J. Reinhardt, my November 10th drawing winner, who won a DVD of Amazing Grace starring Ioan Gruffudd. She left a comment for my guest Terri Tiffany.

Joy on the Journey ~ Keli

 

Meet Debut Author Lynnette Bonner

After ten years of waiting, Lynnette Bonner’s debut novel, Rocky Mountain Oasis, is on the shelves. Her inspirational historical, about a mail-order bride who comes west to marry one man but finds herself wed to his cousin instead, was published by OakTara.

Lynnette, the daughter of missionaries, was born in Malawi, Africa. She attended a Christian boarding school in Kenya from fourth grade through her high school graduation, although she did spend a total of three years in the U.S. during that time. She speaks the language of Malawi, Chichewa, and understands a little Swahili, the language of Kenya.

After graduation, Lynnette started college in Washington State. While there, she met and married her redheaded pastor husband. They spent eight years of their married life living in Pierce, Idaho, where Rocky Mountain Oasis is set. They and their four children, who range in age from six to sixteen, once again call Washington home.

When Lynnette isn’t writing or caring for her family, she keeps busy running her on-line business selling Legos on ebay. Although she has little time for her hobbies and interests these days, she enjoys horseback riding and crafts, including rubber stamping, scrapbooking and tole painting. If some of her dreams were to come true, she’d be found living in a log cabin in the country with a maid, a cook and an unlimited supply of Swiss chocolate.

Join me as we learn about more about Lynnette and her journey to publication.

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First Steps on Lynnette’s Journey

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•Ten years ago, you began writing. What led you to start Rocky Mountain Oasis?

At the time I started Rocky Mountain Oasis, I lived in Pierce, Idaho. Pierce has a very interesting history and it was while researching the history of the town that I realized an amazing story could be told around the historical facts. Rocky Mountain Oasis actually started its life headed in a different direction, but the more I researched the more the story changed.

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•Mail-order bride stories are my all-time favorite reads. Why did you choose to make your heroine, Brooke, a mail-order bride? What challenges did you face in writing about a couple thrust into marriage by circumstances beyond their control? What rewards?

I guess I made her a mail-order bride because I like those types of stories too. And it fit with the way her uncle would have treated her

One of the challenges of writing this story was that I have never myself been forced into a relationship with someone I’ve never met. A lot of thought went into wondering how my characters would respond to certain situations, because of my lack of experience in those areas.

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•You completed the book in a year and submitted it to an e-publisher, who published it. However, that experience didn’t go as planned. Please tell us what happened and how the experience affected you.

The e-publisher was an early promoter of ebooks. However, the editor and owner of the company got sick and could no longer run the business. My book had only been out with them for about 2 months.

I think the effect it had on me was one of encouragement. At least one person liked my story enough that they were willing to put effort and finances behind it. And if that one person liked it, then that gave me hope that I would eventually find another editor that liked it too.

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A Dream Put on Hold

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•After the disappointing experience with the e-publisher, your book remained on your computer for several years. You weren’t writing or submitting. What lessons did you learn during that time?

Yes that is true. Life sort of intervened to put my writing on hold for a bit. Some of those life-issues were a newborn, 3 homeschooled children, a cross country move and starting up a business.

Still through all those years, the Lord kept writing at the back of my mind. I wasn’t submitting Rocky Mountain Oasis anywhere, but I kept praying about it. I remember specifically telling the Lord that if He wanted the book published he would have to drop a publisher in my lap because I didn’t have time to pursue one. And I left it in His hands. I figured He gave me the story; He could get it published if He had given it to me for others to read too. Looking back on that time, I think the biggest thing I learned is that it is never a mistake to trust in the Lord.

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•How did you keep your writing dreams alive when life intervened?

Honestly, I think that if you like to write it is a gift from God. And if God gives you something, He keeps the passion for it alive in your heart even when you can’t see that anything will ever come from it. I hope to use this gift wisely for Him. I wasn’t doing a lot of writing during those years. But story has always been my passion.

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•Even though you weren’t actively submitting Rocky Mountain Oasis or writing another book, did you find characters and plots coming to mind? What did you do when that took place?

Yes, I did write some (very little) during those years. And as proof I have several books that I’m in the middle of. I’m one of those writers who will work on a story for awhile, but then I have to let it sit and figure out where the story line is going. I generally move onto another story for awhile, until I get a feel for what my characters would actually do, then I can go back to the first story. I currently have 5 books in various stages of completion. And a second book that is finished and contracted to OakTara.

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Lynnette’s Dream Comes True

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•After years of waiting, you once again sent Rocky Mountain Oasis out in the world. On June 9, 2008, you heard from OakTara, the first publisher you’d submitted to in six years. Please tell us about The Call or, in your case, The Email. What was happening when you received it, how loudly did you shout when you realized you’d sold your book and who were the first people with whom you shared the good news?

I still smile when I think about that day. I was having trouble with my email provider. None of my emails would download. So I had hopped on my hubby’s computer to go online and check with the provider to see what was going on. I wasn’t even planning on reading email, but as I scanned the page searching for the link I needed I noticed in the Inbox an email with the subject Rocky Mountain Oasis. I froze. Blinked. Saw that is was from OakTara. And read the subject again. Then with trembling fingers I clicked to open it.

You see, I had basically written OakTara off as a rejection. I had submitted to them in December and here it was June and I still hadn’t heard from them. Since their guidelines at the time stated authors would hear back in 8 weeks, I figured my window of opportunity had shattered several months previous. But the first line of the email read, “Rocky Mountain Oasis is precisely the type of novel OakTara is interested in….”

I was home alone. My husband had gone hiking with our boys. And my mother, who spent many years as an English teacher and helped me a great deal with the book, was on a flight to visit her brother in Texas. I couldn’t get a hold of anybody! I kept trying my mom, leaving messages, and chewing my fingernails until she finally answered after she arrived at my uncle’s house. Not too many other people at the time even knew that I was trying to get published.

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•I understand a newly contracted author’s life changes in many ways. What were the biggest adjustments you had to make once you’d signed your contract? Were most of the changes what you expected, or were there some surprises?

Actually I think the biggest challenge for me after signing the contract was the long wait until the book was made available. Once the editing/design/finalizing started I was happy to put in the extra time.

Also, one thing of interest for me was that I suddenly found myself switching from wondering if an editor was going to like the book, to worrying if my readers were going to like the book. (But I did have the few hours of blissful joy on the day I got the email. )

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Lynnette’s Partners on the Journey

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•You’ve written blog posts on the value of critique partners. How did you locate yours? What makes your relationships work so well?

I love my critique partners. And actually, the group I’m with now didn’t have any say in my Rocky Mountain Oasis manuscript. OakTara accepted the manuscript just a month after I joined my crit group. So RMO was critiqued mostly by family and friends.

I found my current critique group through my local Christian Writers network. They have a coordinator and she assigned me to my group and it worked out wonderfully.

I think our relationships work well because we are not afraid to state what we are feeling. (You know those raw-hide chewy bones your dog loves so much? As a writer, you need to develop skin the consistency of those. And who better to help you than you critique partners. ) That said, in our group we make sure to also encourage the good things we see. And really, I’m blessed to be in a group with excellent writers who humble me with their awesome advice for improving my craft. (I’m humbled after I’m done grumbling. ) If you are a writer and you are not in a critique group, you are missing out on improving your craft.

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•Keeping a dream alive for the better part of a decade can’t be easy. Who have been some of your staunchest supporters along the way, and what did they do to encourage you to follow your dream?

Several people come to mind.

First, my mother. She told me from the time I was little that I had the imagination of a writer. And she spent countless hours on my manuscript for me. With each rejection she would encourage me that I had a good story and to keep going.

The second person that comes to mind is a lady named Cheryl. Cheryl read my book when it came out with the e-company. She bought several copies to share with her friends and relatives and she consistently asked me how my writing journey was going and told me how much she loved my story. “You just have to get that published,” she would say. She has a wonderful encourager’s spirit, and I benefitted from it.

Finally, I would have to say my husband. I am blessed beyond measure in the love of my life. He never scoffed at my dream, or put it down because it wasn’t making any money or going anywhere. In fact, he told me, “You can do anything you set your mind to.” Had he belittled my writing in any way, I don’t think I would be here today. I so appreciate him!

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•OakTara, which was founded in 2006, publishes inspirational fiction. What can you tell us about the company? And what is it like to be part of the OakTara family?

Answer: You can read more about OakTara by going to their website at http://www.oaktara.com. They are growing rapidly, and I think they are a company to watch over the next few years.

I’ve enjoyed being part of the OakTara family. On their website they have forums where many of their authors go to talk about different things and I’ve gotten to know several other OakTara authors through that and other venues like blogging. Their editors are great to work with, and I feel blessed to have a book out with them.

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Lynnette’s Debut Novel

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•Please tell us about Rocky Mountain Oasis.

Brooke Marie Baker, eighteen, has been sent west as a mail-order bride. As the stage nears Greer’s Ferry, where she is to meet the man she’s pledged to marry, she tries to swallow the lump of nervousness in her throat. Can it be any worse than living with Uncle Jackson…or Hank? she wonders. All men are the same, aren’t they? But with her parents and sister dead, she has no choice.

Sky Jordan, a rancher, holds a single yellow daisy in his hand as he watches the ferry cross the river. Ever since he’d found out his surly cousin, Jason, had sent for a mail-order bride, his mind and heart had been ill at ease. No woman deserves to be left with the likes of Jason. But now he questions his own plans to claim the bride for himself. Why am I drawn to this woman I don’t even know?

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Lynnette’s Journey Continues

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•Rocky Mountain Oasis is on the shelves, and OakTara has contracted the second book in your Shepherd’s Heart series. I’ve seen on other blogs that you have several projects going at present. Please tell us what they are and how you manage to work on so many at once.

I’ll start with the last part of this question first. I think God wires us all differently. I’m just wired weird, I guess. I already explained a little about why I work on several books at once, so let me tell you a little about each of my works in progress.

Under the Grape Arbor: Fitness trainer Taysia Green has had her heart broken, not once but twice, by Kylen Sumner. And now he’s home. Claiming he wants back into her life for good. But there are haunting secrets she’s never told him.

Presently Untitled: Damera’s husband Kent was murdered before her eyes and she basically shut herself off from the world. Now Kent’s twin brother is trying to get her to live life again, for the sake of his niece. But why does she keep finding things out of place at home – doors unlocked, cupboards left open? Has Kent’s killer escaped from jail?

Trail of Chains: East Africa, 1866. MacKendra Ryan stares in horror as a neighboring tribe captures the village her father has been doctoring. Her friends are chained together, children are killed. She wants to rush to their aid, but Trent Dawson, the annoyingly handsome adventurer who is only here to hunt and take trophies, holds her back with a hand over her mouth warning that now is not the time for action. But if not now, when?

Another untitled story, this one a fantasy of sorts: Sasha’s isle has been taken over by evil King Kourom who wants complete adulation from his subjects. But she has a dream. A great eagle warrior will come. And he does. The only problem is, he’s second in command of the king’s army and dead set on keeping his rank along with its perks.

Fair Valley Refuge: Victoria Snyder is adopted. No one knows. And she likes it just fine that way. Getting close to people only opens up the possibility of hurt. But when circumstances throw her together with 3 orphans and her handsome childhood friend, will she be able to resist his wooing?

Wow! Those are some compelling blurbs, Lynnette. I won’t be surprised to see those stories get snatched up when you finish them.

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Five Things Lynnette Has Around Her When She Writes

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~ Coffee, because it is a bad habit.

~ Total silence, because I get distracted by music and other people in the room.

~ Too much clutter because I can never seem to find time to sort through my stacks.

~ Access to the internet for quick research.

~ Chocolate if it isn’t all eaten yet.

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Five Accomplishments That Have Meant the Most to Lynnette

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~ I’d have to rank leading my kids into a relationship with the Lord first. I pray they continue to walk with Him so their lives will be full of happiness.

~ Marrying a wonderful man who loves God more than he loves me.

~ I’d always wanted to visit Zanzibar. I got to do that several years ago. Beautiful place – and my Africa novel is partly set on the island.

~ Finishing my first novel was quite an accomplishment. It felt good to get it done, even though I didn’t know if it would ever see the light of day.

~ Finding a publisher for the book.

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Lynnette’s Question for You

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•I’ve enjoyed having you as my guest, Lynnette. Thanks for your great answers to my questions. Now it’s your turn to ask a question of your visitors, so have at it.

Oh, I like this! Well, I’m mostly a romance writer so, thinking specifically of the romance genre, what is it about a book that makes you want to read it more than once?

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Learn More About Lynnette

Visit her Web site ~ http://www.lynnettebonner.com

Visit her personal blog ~ http://www.lynnettebonner.com/blog

Visit her group blog ~ http://www.authorculture.blogspot.com

Friend her on Facebook ~ http://www.facebook.com/lynnettebonner

Follow her on Twitter ~ Lynnette Bonner

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Leave a Comment for Two Chances to Win

To leave a comment, click on “Comments” below the date in the title at the top of the post.

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My Regular Drawing

My next drawing will take place November 20th. I’m giving away a wooden plaque with the words ~ and they lived happily ever after . . .

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To enter the drawing, just leave a comment on any blog post by November 20th and enter your email address when prompted. (I don’t share your information or add it to any mailing lists.) On November 21st, I’ll post the winner’s name in the Welcome post at the top of the blog.

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You could also win a First Sale Scrapbook

If you’d like to have a chance at winning a First Sale Scrapbook created by me, your blog hostess Keli Gwyn, leave a comment on any post between now and November 30th. Be sure to include your name and email address when prompted if you want to be entered in the drawing. (Your information will not be shared.) Click red link above to see samples of covers and pages.

On December 1st, I will choose one person who will have her/his choice of covers on an 8×8 inch, twenty-page scrapbook in which s/he can document that long-awaited first sale. The pages will cover various milestones including The Call, signing the contract, receiving the first advance payment and holding your debut novel in your hands.

(No scrapbooking skills required. You just add your photos and journaling.)

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Note: Offers void where prohibited.

Prizes will be mailed to US addresses only.

Odds of winning vary due to the number of entrants.

 

Meet Writer Laura Graham Booth

Two-time Golden Heart® finalist Laura Graham Booth writes award-winning romances that fall where women’s fiction meets contemporary romance. In addition to her 2002 and 2007 GH finals, her stories have placed in a number of chapter contests.

Laura always wanted to be a writer but took the “scenic route” to get there. In college, she majored in mathematics instead of English and spent the next fifteen years designing computer software. When she and her husband moved from Pennsylvania to Maryland, it seemed like the perfect time to take up a new hobby: writing the romance novels she’d always loved to read.

Embarking on a new quest, motherhood took her life in another direction, but she finally figured out how to combine all her interests. Today Laura juggles her time writing romance novels; running her own business, LGB Designs, where she designs websites for authors and small businesses; and taking care of her growing family.

Laura lives with her family and two fat cats along the Chesapeake Bay, where she spends entirely too much time looking at sailboats, knitting and daydreaming.

Join me as we learn about more about Laura and her writing journey.

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The Early Days of Laura’s Journey

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•You began your first story years nearly ten ago. What prompted your decision to embark on your writing journey?

I’ve always been an avid romance reader. When my husband and I moved to Maryland ten years ago, he took a job that involved a lot of travel, leaving me in a town where I hardly knew anyone outside of my small office. As a result, I indulged my love of reading and developed a very expensive Barnes & Noble habit. My husband suggested that I write that book I was always talking about writing… so I blame him for my writing addiction!

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•Your first story was a Regency romance, which, as I understand it, is the only historical you’ve written. Why did you begin with that tale? Were you enamored with Jane Austen? Had you just drooled over Colin Firth’s rendition of Mr. Darcy? Do you have a fascination with English titles and estates? Or all three?

I’ve always loved to read historical romances. They sweep you so far away from reality. Most of the heroes are wealthy, titled men who don’t have to work for a living. The heroines are young, gorgeous, privileged women who spend their days paying calls and preparing for balls. It’s hard to keep worrying about your own job or paying your bills when you’re reading a story like that!

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Laura’s Change of Direction

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•After completing that Regency, life intervened and you were unable to write as much as before. When you could, though, you worked on your second book. But this was a contemporary romance. What brought about the change of subgenres?

When my husband and I decided to start a family, some of the “romance” of a time period with high infant and maternal death rates disappeared for me! I started writing my first contemporary romance as a little break, always intending to go back to historicals. But writing historicals was challenging for me, because of the large amounts of research involved. I was petrified of getting something horribly wrong, so I’d often get stuck for days on a tiny detail.

My contemporaries are almost always set in places I’ve lived, so it was much easier for me to write those settings and add rich details without worrying that I was making a mistake. Plus, I really like writing contemporary characters. I can relate to a woman juggling a career and motherhood much better than I can relate to a sixteen-year-old virgin heiress in search of a titled husband!

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•You’ve completed two contemporaries. What ideas sparked them?

I get ideas everywhere! Most of them come from what-if questions. My historical came from the question, “What if a woman thought she had both bloodlines and dowry, and then found out she had neither?” My first contemporary romance wondered, “What if a female musician thought she was on top of the world… until one tragic night when her world fell apart?” I love putting characters in situations they didn’t expect and seeing how they cope with adversity.

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•Since one of your heroes is a software engineer, I wonder, how much of your stories stem from your own experiences? Do your characters have aspects of your personality, or are they different from you in every way?

I doubt any writer puts themselves entirely into any character. I tend to think that real people are so complex, there’s no way we could completely describe them in 100,000 words and still have room for a plot and other characters! But I do pick tiny pieces—habits, gestures, speech patterns—from people I meet in real life. I believe that really talented authors are able to take fictional characters and give them those truthful “grains” that make them become real people in our imaginations, so that’s what I try to do in my own work.

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Laura’s Successes

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•Your first milestone occurred three years into your writing journey. You received the call many a writer longs to get. A Romance Writers of America® board member called in 2002 to tell you your Regency, If You Knew Me, was a finalist. Even though it’s been over seven years since that momentous occasion, I’m sure you can still remember your reaction. Please share it with us.

I was totally flabbergasted. It was my first book, and the GH was the first contest I’d ever entered. So getting that call really was one of the biggest surprises of my life!

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•Wow! How impressive to land a GH final in your first contest. That must have been so encouraging. RWA called again in 2007 when Sing for Me finaled in Single Title Contemporary. Was your whooping and hollering as loud as the first time—or even louder?

I think it was probably louder. The first time around, it seemed so easy. But between 2002 and 2007, I’d received a ton of rejection letters, was having a hard time finding time to write, and was halfway convinced that I should just give up. But I really loved that story and spent a couple of months before the deadline gutting it and putting it back together again. Finaling in the GH told me that maybe I’d finally figured out how to edit!

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•Your stories have placed in a number of chapter contests, including The Golden Pen, The Marlene and The Sheila. Which of your wins have meant the most to you, and why?

They’ve all meant a lot, so it’s hard to pick one. I’ve made some wonderful friends through my GH finals. But the good wishes and support I’ve received from my local chaptermates for my finals in chapter contests have also been wonderful.

I think the most fun I’ve ever had at an awards program was this past October, when my good friend (and conference roommate) Carla Kempert and I tied in the Put Your Heart in a Book Contest. It was so much fun to go up to receive our awards together!

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Laura’s Process

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•How do you juggle your writing, website designing and personal endeavors? Do you adhere to a strict writing schedule with daily goals for word or page count, or are you grateful for blocks of time you’re able to carve out of your busy life?

I am very grateful for any blocks of time I can carve out! I try to set schedules, but they rarely turn out as planned. The web world moves quickly, so if I’m in the middle of designing a new site, that tends to take over. And when you have a job and kids, there are always interruptions and crises you didn’t plan on dealing with that day. I tend to go on writing jags where I write a lot in a shorter period of time, then take time off to think about the story (and deal with my other responsibilities).

I am a huge fan of April Kihlstrom’s Book-in-a-Week techniques. I went on a writers’ retreat this fall with my two critique partners, which was amazing. We used mealtimes to talk craft, help each other plot, or figure out some detail that was holding us back, so when we broke off to go write, that time was much more productive than it would have been at home. I’d love to do that again.

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•Do you enter your creative zone most easily when you write in silence and seclusion, find balance working with your family around you, or reach your creative best in a coffee house amidst the bustle of activity?

I need silence and the coffee house. Crazy, right? I have a hard time writing at home, where there are so many interruptions. I always think, “I’ll just…” put in a load of laundry, take care of a quick task online, sort through this stack of mail, etc., and then end up losing my whole morning. When I go to my local coffee shop, there’s loads of noise and confusion, but it’s not my noise and confusion. I don’t have to deal with it, so I can tune it out.

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•As a mathematician and software engineer, I can imagine you have an appreciation for logical progression and order. Does this carry over into your writing, making you a Plotter with a capital P, or do you let yourself go and work with the free form of a pantser?

I’m somewhere in the middle. My first book was written completely by the seat of my pants. I had one idea, and one scene in the middle of the book that I knew needed to be there, but the rest of it sort of came as I went along. That book also has a lot of holes!

I do more planning these days, but I am a very character-driven writer, so my plots tend to come more from how I want my characters to feel than from intricate plot outlines. I think the balance between plotting and pantsing is part of my writer’s journey, and I haven’t quite pinned it down yet.

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Laura’s Journey Continues

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•You’ve completed one Regency and two contemporary stories. What are you working on now?

Another contemporary. This one is category-length, so it’s a big departure for me to try to tell a satisfying story in a little bit more than half the space I’ve had before! But on the other hand, it’s a little bit easier, because the story is so focused on my hero and heroine that I can really let their relationship guide the plot. So far I’m having a blast with these characters, but that may change when I need to cut 50,000 words to fit the specified word count!

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Five Aspects of Writing Laura Most Enjoys

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~ I love writing from the male POV, especially scenes where the hero is interacting with his buddies. I am fascinated by how different men are from women when it comes to hanging out with their friends!

~ I love it when characters surprise me. My friends and family look at me sort of oddly when I tell them that something happened in my story that I didn’t expect, but I think that’s the beauty of pantsing or of BIAW-type writing: You open yourself up to those sorts of discoveries.

~ I love getting to a pivotal scene, particularly the so-called “black moment.” Because I approach romance from the emotional impact side, all the emotions that I put into my characters from page 1 build and build until these scenes explode onto the page and almost write themselves.

~ I love starting a new story: Coming up with a really great, attention-grabbing first scene, introducing each character, and capturing their initial reactions to each other. If I’m not in love with the characters and the story by then, I know readers won’t be either, so it has to feel great.

~ I love writing “THE END.” (I suspect most writers feel this way!) Writing is really hard work for me, so getting through to the end of the book means I’ve put a huge amount of blood, sweat, and tears into that story. Of course, then the editing starts, which isn’t something I love!

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Five Little Known Facts About Laura

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~ I picked mathematics as my college major because when I started college at Virginia Tech, it was the only major that you could transfer into the engineering program from. I never meant to graduate with a math degree, I just thought I should keep my options open! (And, okay, I really wanted to major in English and become a journalist, but the lack of job prospects concerned my parents!)

~ I spent years insisting that I wasn’t a creative person. Mathematicians aren’t supposed to be creative, right? So I took up quilting. Nope, not creative. Quilts use shapes, so they’re mathematical. I took up photography (which I’m not great at, but I mastered the basics). Nope, still not creative. I took up writing. That was just an anomaly. Started designing websites. Nope, it’s programming, no matter how many hours I spend designing in Photoshop. Finally I took up knitting and started designing my own patterns and admitted… maybe I am creative. But just a little bit!

~ I would love to be able to sing, play a musical instrument, or paint. I’ve tried all of the above, but was never as good at any of them as I was at writing, so I gave up. Much to my eternal disappointment!

~ I am completely addicted to knitting. Knitting patterns and the calculations you need to do to obtain a certain shape appeal to the mathematical side of my brain, and the knitting process appeals to my long-denied creative side. It’s all good!

~ I am also addicted to yoga. I am probably the least-athletic person in the universe, but discovering yoga saved me from a life of back pain, for which I will be eternally grateful!

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Laura’s Question for You

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•I’ve enjoyed having you as my guest, Laura. Thanks for your great answers to my questions. Now it’s your turn to ask a question of your visitors, so have at it.

I am always fascinated to hear why people read romance. What makes a book a “keeper” for you? Is it the hero, a plot that keeps you guessing, an adventure that keeps you on the edge of your seat?

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Learn More About Laura

Visit her websites ~ www.lauragrahambooth.com and www.lgb-designs.com

Visit her group blog ~ www.nobodywritesitbetter.com

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Leave a Comment for Two Chances to Win

To leave a comment, click on “Comments” below the date in the title at the top of the post.

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My Regular Drawing

My next drawing will take place November 20th. I’m giving away a wooden plaque with the words ~ and they lived happily ever after . . .

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To enter the drawing, just leave a comment on any blog post by November 20th and enter your email address when prompted. (I don’t share your information or add it to any mailing lists.) On November 21st, I’ll post the winner’s name in the Welcome post at the top of the blog.

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You could also win a First Sale Scrapbook

If you’d like to have a chance at winning a First Sale Scrapbook created by me, your blog hostess Keli Gwyn, leave a comment on any post between now and November 30th. Be sure to include your name and email address when prompted if you want to be entered in the drawing. (Your information will not be shared.) Click red link above to see samples of covers and pages.

On December 1st, I will choose one person who will have her/his choice of covers on an 8×8 inch, twenty-page scrapbook in which s/he can document that long-awaited first sale. The pages will cover various milestones including The Call, signing the contract, receiving the first advance payment and holding your debut novel in your hands.

(No scrapbooking skills required. You just add your photos and journaling.)

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Note: Offers void where prohibited.

Prizes will be mailed to US addresses only.

Odds of winning vary due to the number of entrants.

 

Meet Writer Carla Gade

Carla Gade writes: blog posts, articles, website content, curricula. Oh, yes. She writes stories too, including inspirational historical romances. A web designer, she’s owned her own business, CompuStyle, for eleven years.

In addition to writing, Carla is passionate about reading. She does plenty of her own, one of her favorite pastimes being curling up in bed with a good book. In addition, she has a burning desire to help others learn to read. She works part-time as the coordinator for an adult literacy organization and serves as a tutor and tutor trainer. She has taught adult education classes on Internet Genealogy and Website Design.

New Englanders with two grown sons, Carla and her own Hero husband live in Maine with their two spoiled cats. When she’s not designing websites, working at the literacy agency or writing, Carla enjoys photography, home design and genealogy. She also is a rockhound who loves geology and gemology and would love to discover some fossils or gemstones. History and archaeology interest her as well, and she has a dream of exploring ancient ruins and staying overnight in a castle.

Carla has been active in ministry for many years as a small group leader and Bible study teacher. She also serves on the women’s conference team with her church, further putting her creativity to use.

Join me as we learn about more about Carla and her writing journey.

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First Steps on Carla’s Writing Journey

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•You’ve been writing in many forms for years. What were some of your earliest ventures into publication, and what did you learn from those experiences?

When I was in grade school I’d make up newsletters for friends and hand them out. My mother was a teacher and she reproduced them for me on a mimeograph machine. The newsletters were free, so readers couldn’t complain. I guess you might say I was self-published. Throughout the years I continued to contribute to and edited many newsletters. It was a great experience for me and gave me lots of practice.

Later I began submitting articles for print in newspapers and other local publications. That is when I really learned the power of an editor and the blessing of affirmation from my readers. I’ve also written a significant amount of curriculum for homeschooling, children’s and youth ministry, and women’s Bible studies. Although that material hasn’t been published, it has been used and that perhaps is one of the best blessings to me, and hopefully to others.

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•When did you begin your first novel-length story, and what led you to take such a big step?

I never used to even read novels because I always had plenty of stories floating around in my head. Enough to entertain me. I started reading Christian fiction about 7 years ago and it wasn’t long after that when I started writing my first novel. My life has been rather stressful and writing fiction became a wonderful outlet for me.

That first novel soon became a series which I’ve hidden away for some time and is in need of polishing. The theme for the series: Precious Jewels. Since then, I’ve been inspired to write many more stories.

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•On one of your blogs you list three works-in-progress, which include a tale of a gypsy, a Regency romance and a mystery with romantic elements. What sparked each of these historical tales? An actual event? A captivating setting? Characters who came to life and wouldn’t stop talking to you?

I’m very much a theme person. An idea sparks from a Bible verse, an issue or event, sometimes I just get a title in my head. Here’s how these stories came to light.

Dancing with a Gypsy – As I did some historical research I randomly came across information about Gypsies in the 19th century. Suddenly the protagonist, a beautiful gypsy dancer, began to tell me her tale of a life of enduring prejudice and longing to discover who she really was. I wanted her tale to be rather tragic so I included kidnapping and murder!

Evergreen – I imagined a maze of evergreen hedges in the English countryside. This evoked a sense of mystery to me. Of betrayal and danger. Then the wealthy landscape architect who designed the maze came to me, and a jealous antagonist. I heard a harpist playing. A woman who was not respected for self, only her beauty and talent. The theme appeared of finding love that was everlasting, evergreen.

Resurrection in the Cotswolds – This one was unusual as it came from a writing prompt. It brought to mind the Cotswolds in regency England, and there it began. I determined this would be about the rediscovery of life and love for the hero and heroine.

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Carla in Cyberspace

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You’ve been involved with the Internet since its early days. I’m impressed with your personal and professional involvement and think your experience could benefit many of your visitors. I have a few questions for you, so I invite you to don your web professional hat as we take advantage of your expertise.

•You launched your first website in 1996, before many of us were even visiting them. What sparked your interest and resulted in your choice to start a web design business?

I had the chance to learn how to code HTML. At first I thought it was too geeky for me, but when I saw the results I fell in love. My son learned how so I figured I could too. Now I code in my sleep. I love designing and creating webpages. It started as word of mouth actually and became an opportunity to develop a business and a medical professional’s website. That’s when CompuStyle was launched. I enjoy creating site for small businesses, non-profit organizations, ministries, and for writers!

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•Writers today are strongly encouraged to have a website, even those who have yet to land their first contract. What do you see as the most important aspects for a not-yet-published writer to include on such a site?

Having a web presence is important. It’s important to remember that you’re not boasting by having a website. It’s an opportunity to notify those in the writing industry of your professionalism and serves as an online portfolio. As you share your work it can bless others, give you an outlet for your creativity, increase your writing experience, allow you to build an audience of potential readers, and connect with peers.

Tell them about you – a little something personal, share your writing journey, and your education and experience. If you have links to published work by all means, include them. You may wish to feature some excerpts from some of your writing. Make sure that it is clear what genre you write, who your potential audience is. Be sure to have your contact information available. You may wish to highlight what your are currently working on and manuscripts that are complete. State if you have earned any awards or won writing contests. Indicate your involvement in the writing community, if you are a member of writing groups, etc. Include your social networking links such as facebook and twitter. Have a clear link to your blog. Be sure to get your own domain, preferably yourname.com.

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•I realize you run a business designing websites for others, but writers who haven’t sold might not have the funds to hire a professional designer even if they would like to do so. What advice would you offer those with financial restrictions who still want to develop a web presence?

The easiest way to go is to set up a blog. It’s free. If you wish you can even get your own domain name which is only about $15 and have it forwarded to the blog. There are also sites online that allow you to create your own homepages for free or at a nominal rate, but beware of hidden expenses. Keep in mind that you want to appear professional, not homemade (ie. don’t use clip art, no blinking lights, tickers, use clean formatting, etc.) Study author/writer sites before you set to work.

Professionally designed basic websites aren’t as expensive as one might think. Your site needn’t be elaborate; a few pages will do. But keep in mind that usually there is a one time development fee and annual fees for webhosting and domain renewal. If I can insert a little plug here, I have special packages that are all inclusive geared for writers that are easy on the budget and can be paid on a monthly basis.

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•I have two blogs, and some of my writer friends wonder how I keep up with them. In doing my research for your interview, I discovered that you have seven blogs. Wow! How do you manage all of them? Do you have shortcuts and blogging tips you could share?

Do I really have that many? I tell you, blogging was the answer to my prayers! Perfect outlet for me. Since I’m a theme person, it gave me an opportunity to organize and share my thoughts.

One of my blogs is simply a format for my writing portfolio. Relatively Speaking is where I blog my family history and on the topic of genealogy. I write about issues, apologetics, and curiosities at Dappled Things. Something Olde features historical ephemera. Media Meanderings is a collection of favorite songs and books, etc. But Journaling the Journey is my personal blog and a launch pad for the others.

I blog topically and on an occasional basis at each of them, so it isn’t burdensome. Although, I’m considering consolidating. My new blog, Writing to Distraction, is all about writing. I hope everyone will visit me there.

Here are a few blogging tips. Get a good blog design so your blog stands out. You can find free backgrounds all around the web. A custom header is a plus. I know a good designer . Make it uniquely you! Including title and content. Some people like to schedule various topics on certain days, that may help your followers know what to expect and when. Never air your dirty laundry online. It may come back to haunt you. Be respectful. When visiting blogs be sure to leave a comment. It’s encouraging to the blogger and you may get a return visit to your own blog. Write your blog posts in wordpad (& save!) and then post it. Many a good blog post or comment has been lost when servers time out.

With the exception of interviews, educational posts, etc. blog posts should not be a lengthy article. Pithy posts are practiced most – there’s a good article about it at ProBlogger. Exchange links with other bloggers to build readership. Blogging should be fun, no need to burn out or revolve your life around it.

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Carla’s Writing Process

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•You run your web design business, work for the literacy organization, blog extensively and spend time with your family. How do you fit writing into your schedule? Do you get up and write while the house is quiet or stay up late? Or do you perhaps write in snatches of time between your other activities?

I only work 15 hours a week for Literacy Volunteers so that leaves me with chunks of time to work on my other projects. I do web design on a project to project basis so that is very manageable. Family time is interwoven throughout my day. I get to spend time with my sons often which is a true blessing since they are busy young adults. This is the second time around with the same husband so we are still on our honeymoon and enjoy spending time together with our reunited family. (A story in itself!) We enjoy spontaneous times together, but it’s also important to plan.

I write whenever I can, but I’m a true night owl. I have some health issues so during times of rest and recovery I get to write a lot. It keeps me encouraged. Typically, I don’t write daily, but often. I do try to learn something about writing each day.

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•On one of your blogs, you mentioned that you plot, plot and plot some more. However, you went on to say that you like to fly by the seat of your pants. So, which are you? Plotter? Pantser? Or a combination of the two?

Oh, I’m definitely a hybrid. My mind is constantly on. It doesn’t take much for an idea to ignite into a whole story. I seem to mix plotting out the story with free writing. I’m a global thinker, but also very detail oriented. There’s no real method to my madness!

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•You’re a writer of historicals, so I wasn’t surprised to read that you love research. One of your blogs, Something Olde, documents some interesting facts you’ve unearthed. How do you go about conducting the research needed for your stories? Do you perform much of it beforehand, or do you consult your sources as needed?

I love to research just for fun. I access the Internet for much of my research, visit places, interview people, and read books. I especially love finding old books with interesting facts. Much research is done initially as I’m exploring ideas for the storyline and characters. Then I’m constantly looking up things as it becomes necessary.

For instance, one of my works in progress is about the year there was no summer (1816). I learned everything I could about that event, but from journals of real experiences that I found online. When I decided on a setting, I had to learn about how that location and also how they were affected by the phenomenon. When my characters came to life I researched occupations and lifestyle. I found myself looking up things about tanning, buckskin clothing, muzzle loaders, and bear traps. I’d get to a certain part and call my Dad, an “expert” on such things. Sometimes the characters experience something I hadn’t anticipated and it’s time for more investigation. The process of research is just as much fun for me as writing.

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Carla’s Pinnacles and Pitfalls

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•What have been your greatest successes so far regarding your stories?

I used to say that I wanted to be a writer. When I realized that I was a writer it made a huge difference in launching me toward the goal of publication.

Learning the craft and business of writing. I could tell a story but I needed to learn how to write a novel. When I recognized that my writing had improved and I was “getting it” it built my enthusiasm and confidence.

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•What have been your biggest hurdles, and how have you overcome them?

To stay on track with my main goals I’ve been trying to involve myself with projects that have common ground. It helps to make up a personal mission statement.

I’m always distracted by new ideas and sometimes it hinders the completion of other projects. I’ve learned to write them down to come back to later to be further developed.

Discouragement. Not everyone understands the path of writing. I try not to take negative comments to heart and know that there is One who fully understands me and equips me. I’m blessed to have many who affirm what I do.

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Carla’s Journey Continues

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•You’ve written several stories so far. What are you working on now? Another historical romance perhaps?

Mostly editing. I’m polishing up the novels I mentioned above for submission, especially the one about the year of no summer which I call Hope Springs Eternal. I do have another story which takes place on a Maine island in a lobstering community.

I have two new stories that are calling out to me, but they must wait. One is about the fascinating times of one of my female ancestors in the 17th century. And another historical entitled The Silence of Verity Crewe.

I also have a non-fiction project that I’ve been working on for some time. Going to Extremes is a study for women on finding peace in the balance. I’m trying to find it myself first! Then perhaps I’ll pursue publication. I will include this as a speaking topic along with a few other topics that I have spoken to women.

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Five Ways Carla Fuels Her Creativity

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~ Research – I love to learn and gather information. Walking through the pages of time sparks my imagination like nothing else.

~ Sensory stimulation – I’m a very visual person and need to look at color, art, pretty things, interesting things, new things, old things. Tastes, touch, sounds, scents of nature and lots of fresh air. And often just quietness.

~ Exploring – Travel, visiting new and old places near and far (I never get that far, but I can do it online). Exploring new ideas.

~ Inspiration from authors – Reading good fiction, learning from the expertise of published authors and writers on the road to publication.

~ Staying close to the Lord – Bible reading, prayer, fellowship with believers.

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Five Ways Carla Strives to Make a Difference

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~ To raise awareness for adult illiteracy and teach adults to read. It can change lives for generations. To learn more go to www.proliteracy.com.

~ I’ve started participating in Operation Write Home to encourage the military to stay in touch with loved ones and to be an encouragement to them.

~ I like to help others think critically, through reason and apologetics, about their faith or lack thereof.

~ By sharing the truth of God’s love and faithfulness, His hope of redemption, through my writing.

~ By not hiding “my candle under a bushel”. I want to shine for Christ.

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Carla’s Question for You

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•I’ve enjoyed having you as my guest, Carla. Thanks for your great answers to my questions. Now it’s your turn to ask a question of your visitors, so ask away.

Thank you for having me here, Keli! It has been a real blessing.

Here’s my question.  How do you use your writing to influence others?

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Learn More About Carla

Visit her website ~  www.carlaspathways.com

Visit her business website ~  www.compustyle.net

Visit her personal blog ~ http://carlaspathways.wordpress.com

Visit her writing blog ~ http://writingtodistraction.blogspot.com

Friend her on Facebook ~ Carla Olson Gade

Follow her on Twitter ~ carlagade

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Leave a Comment for Two Chances to Win

To leave a comment, click on “Comments” below the date in the title at the top of the post.

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My Regular Drawing

My next drawing will take place November 20th. I’m giving away a wooden plaque with the words ~ and they lived happily ever after . . .

To enter the drawing, just leave a comment on any blog post by November 20th and enter your email address when prompted. (I don’t share your information or add it to any mailing lists.) On November 21st, I’ll post the winner’s name in the Welcome post at the top of the blog.

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You could also win a First Sale Scrapbook

If you’d like to have a chance at winning a First Sale Scrapbook created by me, your blog hostess Keli Gwyn, leave a comment on any post between now and November 30th. Be sure to include your name and email address when prompted if you want to be entered in the drawing. (Your information will not be shared.) Click red link above to see samples of covers and pages.

On December 1st, I will choose one person who will have her/his choice of covers on an 8×8 inch, twenty-page scrapbook in which s/he can document that long-awaited first sale. The pages will cover various milestones including The Call, signing the contract, receiving the first advance payment and holding your debut novel in your hands.

(No scrapbooking skills required. You just add your photos and journaling.)

.

Note: Offers void where prohibited.

Prizes will be mailed to US addresses only.

Odds of winning vary due to the number of entrants.