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August 2, 2009

Meet Writer Jill Kemerer

Posted by Keli Gwyn under American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, plotting pointers, writer interview, writing | Tags: ACFW, plotting pointers, romance writers, Romance Writers of America, romance writing, writing |
[39] Comments

Jill Kemerer writes “sweet, emotional, sparkling romance novels.” Her seven completed manuscripts include contemporary category romance as well as romantic suspense.

Jill grew up in the Midwest and fell in love with romance novels when she was thirteen. She attended Saginaw Valley State University where she graduated magna cum laude with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering. After working as a Control Systems Engineer for a few years, Jill realized that wasn’t for her and resigned in order to raise her children and pursue her dream of writing.

A self-professed hopeless romantic, Jill married her high school sweetheart. She and her family live in southeastern Michigan along with a guinea pig and a gigantic, fluffy, spoiled Himalayan cat named Cookie.

When Jill isn’t busy mothering her two young children or putting her characters in peril, she likes to read, take walks, crochet and indulge in Jamocha Almond Fudge ice cream.

Join me as we learn more about Jill and her writing journey.
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Jill Kemerer
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Jill Embarks on Her Journey

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•You wanted to write since you were twenty and discovered Harlequin romances. You quit your job several years ago to raise your children. When they started school, you were finally able to pursue your dream of writing. What thoughts went through your mind? Did you experience any doubts or simply sheer delight?

I’ve had many doubts over the years. Writing books as a career seemed as foreign to me as acting in movies. However, once I got the notion in my head, it wouldn’t go away.

And yes, sheer delight overwhelmed me from the second I started writing my first romance, which I decided would have no conflict and the hero and heroine would only experience good things. The book ended at page twenty. Needless to say, I had a lot to learn!

•You’ve been writing for three years now and have produced seven novel-length manuscripts as well as several short stories. Where did the idea for the first book originate? Was it a story dancing in your head for a long time, or did it come together once the demands of the job were behind you?

The idea for my first completed novel came to me after I read Ayn Rand’s The Fountainhead. The only character I could relate to was a minor character, a downtrodden niece of a mean famous man. I thought, that girl needs a vacation, but she’ll never take one. My book, The Millionaire’s Island Captive, featured a hunky hero who kidnaps the niece of a mean old man. The hero whisks her away to his private island where they fall in love.
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Jill’s Process

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On your excellent blog where you offer “motivation and encouragement from one writer to another,” you shared that you’re a plotter. Since you’re an engineer, the fact that you’re organized and detail-oriented makes perfect sense to me. I’m sure your character charts, GMC lists, outlines, one- and four-page synopses, and scene charts are wonders to behold and would make other plotters smile and pantsers shake their heads.

•How much time do you spend plotting and creating your worksheets prior to starting a story?

I spend roughly one to two weeks researching my characters, plotting, and creating my worksheets. And, I can’t take credit for the concept. I adapted another writer’s Excel spreadsheet to accommodate portions of Randy Ingermanson’s snowflake plotting method, and I added my own character and scene charts to keep everything in one file.

•The idea of keeping scene charts intrigues me. What do you include in them? How much time does it take to maintain them?

The scene chart has virtually eliminated my problem with saggy middles and plodding pace. And when I take a few days off of writing, I don’t waste time getting back into my story or wondering what my characters are going to do next because the story is all laid out. The scene chart works well for me because it’s simple yet complete.

My scene chart has the following categories: Scene number, POV, Location, Scene Question, Scene Conflict, Plot Points, Chap/Scene.

The first section helps me keep track of how many scenes are in the book.
The point of view section helps me maintain a balance when I write in more than one POV.
Under Location, I list the initials of the characters, the day and time, and where the scene takes place.
The scene question can be tricky. Basically, what does the viewpoint character want in this scene?
The Scene Conflict tells why the viewpoint character can’t have it.
Plot Points tags sub-plots, external/internal conflicts, romance journey, faith journey, etc… This helps me see if a scene is necessary to further the plot or not.
Finally, the Chap/Scene shows me which chapter the scene takes place. For instance, if it’s the second scene in chapter 13, I’d write 13:2.
By the way, I include sequels in this list and just make a note that it’s a sequel.

Maintaining the scene list takes very little time. I’d say five minutes a day is generous. Naturally, some scenes will change during writing, but I stay very close to the plan and I update it each day when I finish my pages.

•I was impressed when I read that two years into your writing journey, you took a summer away from your writing to study craft. What led you to do so? What are some of the resources you found most helpful and why?

I’d received my first critiques, my first lackluster contest results, and my first rejection—all in a week’s time. At that point, I’d written four novels, and I was still in that lovely dream world where I thought maybe my first book would sell.

Reality kicked me in the ribs! I promptly went into humble mode, locked up my laptop, and checked out every writing craft book I could find at the library. I studied grammar, the writing life, plotting, scenes, conflict, editing, and even screenplay writing.

I wish I could say I became a master of craft in one summer, but for me, applying what I learn takes time. I’ll probably always be honing my craft. In fact, I should take every summer off to study!

As far as resources, two books really stood out for me: Self-Editing for Fiction Writers by Renni Browne and Dave King, and Save the Cat by Blake Snyder. They gave me useful tools to take my writing up a level. I know you’re a fan of Self-Editing too, but I had to mention it because it’s my favorite writing book.
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Peaks

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•What have been some of the highest highs on your journey so far?

Earning confidence in my writing. My last book came together for me in a way none of my earlier works had.

Another high was an extremely nice rejection letter I recently received from an editor. I practically hyperventilated—okay, I did hyperventilate–when I read “you’re clearly a talented writer…”

I also highly value the unexpected warmth of the writing community. I love meeting other writers, and I’ve been blessed with some great and supportive friends. And Keli, being interviewed on this blog is way up there on my high list!
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Valleys

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•Like all of us pursuing publication, you’ve experienced some lows, such as the day you received your first rejection on your wedding anniversary. Ouch! How do you deal with the downsides of the writing life?

The biggest downside I’ve had to overcome is my insecurity with my writing. When I received my first rejection, I struggled with doubts. I prayed daily and wondered how I could have been so arrogant? Sometimes when I pray, I hear answers, right then and there in my head. Instead of hearing “give it up—you stink,” I heard happy laughter and “but I like your writing, even where it is right now.” Does that make sense? It was such a turning point. I realized I don’t have anything to prove.

This path is not about fame or bragging rights; it’s about sharing a bit of me. I aim to get published, and I do everything in my power to achieve that goal, but I’m relaxed about it. If it takes a few more years, that’s okay. This attitude has been such a blessing and has allowed me to bypass many self-induced valleys.
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Partners on Jill’s Journey

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•When you decided to write with the goal of publication, you joined a local writers’ group. What do you see as the benefits of participating in such a group?

Writers are generous, supportive, and they understand your ups and downs in ways others can’t. The first group I joined, Pen to Paper, helped me get started writing because we had assignments. We met twice a month, and I found the discipline necessary. The members taught me so much, and although I had to quit the group due to time constraints, I’m still good friends with them.

I’m a member of Romance Writers of America® and American Christian Fiction Writers and I recommend both. I’ve gotten resources, met other writers, and learned industry ins-and-outs from my local chapter, Maumee Valley Romance Writers of America.

•In addition to your writing associations, you also have some great critique partners. How did you link up? Are you able to meet, or do you exchange via email? What have been the greatest blessings of working with these women?

I’d been looking to join a critique group with like-minded writers for roughly six months when one of the bloggers I follow, Terri Tiffany, posted about critique groups. She seemed interested in belonging to one, so I contacted her. We felt three to four members ideal and quickly added two other fellow bloggers, Cindy Wilson and Wendy Miller. We set a few ground rules, the most important one being if anyone felt the group wasn’t for them they could quit at any time. Friendship is much more important to me than a critique partner, and sometimes a group isn’t a good fit.

I’m happy to say we all work well together, and I’m very thankful to the talented ladies who have helped me polish my work. It’s a joy to read their classy writing. My writing could never be described as literary! I wish we could all meet in person, but we live in separate parts of the country. Our critiques are all via e-mail.
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Jill’s Journey Continues

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•I noticed on your blog that you returned from RWA® Nationals last month having made the decision to focus on contemporary category romance rather than romantic suspense. Why is that?

Because I need to be beat over a stick to figure out what’s obvious? No! I’d submitted to Harlequin Romance and Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. The last few books I wrote helped me find my voice. I write small town, quirky characters. I don’t excel at gritty suspense or glamorous locations. The agent I pitched to offered good advice: to focus on one line. The editor I pitched to gave me honest feedback about my story line, and it hit me that I haven’t submitted to the line I’m best suited for: Love Inspired. I think I could become a good suspense writer, but at this point, my voice stands out in contemporary romance.

•What are you working on presently? A new contemporary or something else?

I’m preparing to rewrite a Christmas book I’d written with Steeple Hill Love Inspired in mind. It’s a funny, emotional book and I can’t wait to return to it.

•Are you in the process of submitting your works to contests, agents or editors?

Yes, I recently submitted the partial of my latest romantic suspense, The Lies that Bind, to an agent and an editor. I will enter it into one contest this summer.
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Five Facts About Jill the Writer

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~ I never write in PJs because I need to feel professional.

~ I snack on fresh fruit when I write because I could eat wood chips and not notice. I don’t want to waste the calories!

~ I keep an idea journal and add to it whenever something strikes me.

~ My writing makes me laugh out loud during my first draft, but I cringe while revising.

~ Sometimes when I’m in the writing zone, I get that first date, fluttery feeling. Isn’t that the best feeling?
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Five Fun Facts About Jill the Person

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~ I love to polka!

~ I used to live on a Civil War Battlefield and could practically see the ragtag Confederate soldiers picking their way through the overgrown forest.

~ My family has to drag me away from the rabbit barn at any county fair.

~ I’m fascinated with frugality. I may have read every book written on the topic.

~ I think the tradition of afternoon tea should make a comeback. Naturally, I’ll need a few servants, several friends to call (you’re all invited), and a big manor house to host it in, and maybe my hubby will need to be knighted?
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Jill’s Question for You

•I’ve enjoyed having you as my guest, Jill. Thanks for your great answers to my questions. And now it’s your turn to ask a question of your visitors. What would you like to know?

What holds you back in regards to writing? Your own inner demons or outside constraints? Or maybe nothing holds you back? My hat’s off to you!
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Learn More About Jill

Visit her blog – http://jillkemerer.blogspot.com

Visit her Web site – http://www.jillkemerer.com

Friend her on Facebook: Jill Kemerer

Follow her on Twitter: jillkemerer

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Meet Writer Jody Hedlund

Posted by Keli Gwyn under American Christian Fiction Writers, Genesis contest, plotting pointers, writer interview, writing, writing coach, writing contests | Tags: ACFW, Jody Hedlund, plotting pointers, romance writers, romance writing, writing, writing contests |
[52] Comments

Jody Hedlund knows how to have double the fun. Upon returning to her writing after a long absence, she wrote two inspirational historical romances, which she entered in the 2009 Genesis contest sponsored by American Christian Fiction Writers. Both finaled! Awesome agent Rachelle Gardner read partials of the two books and offered Jody representation in May.

Jody’s father, a twin, served in many congregations throughout the mid West, and she grew up as a pastor’s kid or PK. She married her college sweetheart, a Christian counselor, whose mother is also a twin. Jody and her personal hero have five children: a twelve-year-old son, nine-year-old twin daughters, a five-year-old son and a three-year-old daughter. In addition to the seven family members, the Hedlund house is also home to a dog, two cats and two hamsters.

When Jody isn’t busy loving and serving her large family or crafting her award-winning stories, she likes to READ, READ, READ!

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

Jody Embarks on Her Journey

•You fell in love with writing in elementary school. Early in your married life, you began writing novel-length romances after you heard a radio interview with Lori Wick in which she shared the steps on her path to publication. What was it about Lori’s journey that inspired you to write five books in five years?

Writing has always been my first love. I’ve written since the day I could spell and compose sentences, filling notebook after notebook with stories. I started college with every intention of getting a degree in writing. However, when I looked at other majors, I broke up with writing for a while in order to “date” around.

For a time I tried another career, but it didn’t take too many years for discontentment to settle in. Hearing Lori’s interview rekindled my interest in writing. She talked about how and where she wrote and made it seem possible and fun. Ideas for stories began to blossom and the longing for my first love returned with full force. I ran back to my writing, embracing it with all the passion in my heart. It was during this time, before having children, when I wrote my first five novels.

•A nine-year writing drought followed, after which you resumed writing. What led you to return to your earlier dream of being published and start a new story?

I hadn’t planned on veering off the writing path. In fact, I was fairly adamant that I wouldn’t ever give up my writing. It had become very important to me—perhaps too important. I was just beginning to garner interest from the world of editors. I was honing the craft. I loved what I was doing.

Then I gave birth to twins. I continued to try to carve out writing time, but since I already had a two year old and now preemie twins, my writing time grew less as I grew busier caring for my growing family. Gradually God began to steer my heart away from my writing and I was able to willingly give it up for a time.

In hindsight, I can see that God orchestrated the move off the writing path in order to mature me, educate me, and deepen my reservoir of life experiences. And I truly believe it was his nudge that pushed me back onto the path again.

The nudge to start writing again came after I’d finished reading a number of historical research books (which I read partly because I love history and because I teach my children at home and read a LOT of history to them.) As I read the history books, my writer’s mind began to fill with story ideas. Finally about two years ago, my overloaded brain demanded expression and I began jotting down a new novel idea. When I did, I sensed God’s smile and nod of approval. It was time. I could write again.
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Jody’s Process

On your excellent blog with its 100+ followers, On the Path, you shared some of the steps in your process: research, plotting and characterization. It’s clear you’re a plotter. Those of us who are pantsers would, I’m sure, like to know what goes into your preparation, while those of us who are plotters will ooh and aah and see if we can pick up new ideas. So, I’ve got a question on each aspect of your process.

•Do you perform most of your research before you begin a story, or do you ferret the needed facts as you go? How do you determine when you’ve done enough research? Or is there such thing as enough?

Since I write historicals, I spend an enormous amount of time (sometimes weeks) researching before I start my actual writing. I read just about everything I can get my hands on that relates to my story. The historical research helps me find plot ideas and define setting and characters. Once I have the basics for the plot and know my characters, then I feel the freedom to start writing. However, the research continues throughout the entire book on all of the little details that need fleshing out.

And you’re right! There’s never such thing as enough research! I’ve learned sometimes I have to just stop and write already!

•I was impressed by the description of your plotting notebook. How long does it take to create this helpful tool? What do you see as the major benefits of doing so?

I am indeed a planner! My plot notebook is nothing too fancy—just the blank pages of a 5-cent, college-ruled, spiral notebook. Before I start writing, I fill up the first third with plot points. My hero and heroine each have a page devoted to three main plot strands: external plot, internal/spiritual plot, relationship plot. I devote a page or two to both subplot ideas and set pieces (major scenes/conflict). I also develop a story timeline with a very brief outline of the chapters and where they fit into the timeline. And finally, I devote a few pages to the story premise, book hook ideas, and back cover blurb.

The last two-thirds of my plot notebook is for my chapter-by-chapter outlines. Before I start a chapter, I outline each scene in the chapter (usually between one and three scenes). This outline consists of the basics: time, setting, POV, hook, ROP, sensory and historical details to include, and then all of the scene goals/conflict.

•Impressive! I’m sure your plot notebook is a great help to you. One question, though. What does ROP stand for? That’s a term I’m unfamiliar with.

It stand for Read-On-Prompt, in other words ending a scene with something that makes the reader want to turn the page and keep reading.

•Regarding characterization, you said, “I developed a four page worksheet for my major characters and it has about 50 questions that I answer and analyze. Then I fill out a one page worksheet for each of my minor characters.” What are some of the major areas you cover in your questions? How does having these worksheets assist you?

My character worksheets contain EVERYTHING you could possibly want to know (and not know!) about my characters. The major areas include: the GMC’s—goals, motivations, and conflicts; personality types, character tags, family history, and much more.

If I know my characters inside and out, then when I start to write, I’m able to BE that character when I’m writing in his or her POV. Of course I always learn more about my characters as I get into the story, but if I fill out my worksheets thoroughly first, then I have less editing to do later.
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Peaks

You’ve had two major highs recently, and I couldn’t be happier for you. First, you finaled in a prestigious contest. Next, you received representation from none other than your dream agent.

•What were you doing when you received the news that both your entries in the ACFW Genesis contest had finaled? Was your reaction subdued, or did you squeal so loudly your kids came running?

The day I received the call from the contest coordinator, I was out running errands. When I stepped inside, the first place I looked was my answering machine. Low and behold it was blinking with a new message. I couldn’t keep from thinking what if it was THE call. . . I prayed really hard it wasn’t another of the hundred-a-day ad calls that I get. Then I closed my eyes, hit the button, and held my breath.

The voice on the message said: “Congratulations, Jody. I’m calling to tell you that both of your contest entries finaled in the Genesis contest.” Immediately my heart zoomed into full speed and I started screaming. I freaked out my kids and traumatized my cats. It was a good thing our doors and windows were closed or the neighbors might have decided to call 911.

•The double final gave you a good reason to contact Rachelle Gardner, who already had one of your manuscripts. What took place after you sent that email? Are you still happy dancing?

A full of one of my books had been sitting in Rachelle’s slush pile for months. When I finaled in the contest, I emailed her to update her on the status of my MS. Not too long after that, she emailed back and asked to see the first 50 pages of both of my books (one she already had, and the one I was finishing writing). We emailed back and forth a few times, then finally she sent me an email that made my heart stop: I’d love to have a phone conversation with you sometime soon. Could you send me your number and some possible good times to talk?

I’m honored Rachelle offered me representation. Since there are SO many other awesome writers vying for agents, I still have to pinch myself to remind myself that I’m not dreaming, that I really have made it over the agent hurdle!

•Rachelle sent one of your stories out on submission, and you garnered serious interest from one house shortly thereafter? How does it feel to be sooo close?

Rachelle is an incredibly hard worker! She’s strategic and knowledgeable, and SO good at what she does. I’m incredibly blessed. But getting an agent is only one hurdle. I’m realizing there are many more to jump!

I have had some interest from one publishing house and it’s been exciting to go through the process of having an editor and editorial team evaluate my story ideas and my writing skill. I’m learning so much about the industry, but there’s also been a LOT of waiting! You’d think I’d be a pro at waiting by now, but I’m not sure that it ever gets any easier!
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Partners on Jody’s Journey

•I understand you worked with Tiffany Colter of Writing Career Coach. What led you to hire her as “your coach for the journey,” and how have you benefited from her counsel?

Earlier in the year I joined a critique group through ACFW. I quickly realized that I would not be able to keep up with editing for my critique partners and still have enough writing time in my already limited schedule. After only a week, I backed out of my group. About that time, Tiffany Colter ran a critique special on her blog. I talked with my husband about the possibility of hiring her. I knew I needed objective feedback and hiring an editor seemed like the perfect solution.

I began sending Tiffany a few chapters at a time. We immediately clicked. She was brutal with my writing and I loved it. I didn’t want someone tiptoeing around trying not to hurt my feelings. I wanted honest, critical feedback and that’s what she gave me. In the process she was also incredibly encouraging and positive about my writing skills. Her feedback was just what I needed to polish my manuscripts.

•Your agent, Rachelle Gardner, is your newest advocate. What’s been the most surprising aspect of being her client? The most humbling?

Rachelle is a very popular agent in the blogging world. If you haven’t read her blog, it’s full of excellent advice for writers: Rants & Ramblings. I’m humbled that she agreed to represent me. Her attitude and encouragement make me want to become an even better writer!
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Jody’s Journey Continues

•You have a house seriously considering one of your stories, having survived the Editorial Committee and moved on to the Publishing Board? What are you doing while you await the outcome? Do you have a new story underway? Another inspirational historical, perhaps, or something different?

I’m really anxious to start another book, but at the present time I’m in limbo. I have several story ideas/research that are in the works, but the direction for my next book depends on what happens with the Publishing Board of this particular house. When I do get the green light to go ahead with my next, it will definitely be another historical!
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Five Facts About Jody the Writer

~ Most Words Written in a Month?

I’m a slow-and-steady kind of writer. I write about 5000 words a week. Not much more and not much less!

~ Most POVs in a Book?

So far, I’ve never had more than two POVs in a book—one for the hero and one for the heroine. I think it keeps the romantic tension higher to focus on just the two MC’s.

~ Most Handsome Hero?

I have to admit, I think all of my heroes are handsome! But that’s because I believe true beauty comes from within, and my heroes, despite their flaws, are always noble and honorable.

~ Most Obstinate Heroine?

One of my heroines is a noblewoman and very proud of her status. I enjoyed pairing her with a man of humble origins and letting the sparks fly!

~ Most Fun Writing a Scene?

I love writing the climax scene, where the danger and problems are as bad as they can get. It’s so fulfilling to find a workable, but unique way to bring about a resolution.
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Five Fun Facts About Jody the Person

~ I have at least 30 house plants. No, I don’t live in a greenhouse.

~ I can’t wait for the day when my daughters can do all the cooking!

~ My favorite food is Dark Chocolate Lindor Truffles.

~ Of my five children, my shortest hard labor was twenty minutes, longest two hours.

~ I confess: I like cold Michigan winters.
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Jody’s Question for You

•I’ve enjoyed having you as my guest, Jody. Thanks for your great answers to my questions. And now it’s your turn to ask a question of your visitors. What would you like to know?

Since I’m getting a new view of the editorial side of publishing and their ideas of what they think will sell, I’m curious to know what time periods and settings of historical romance you think are the most popular right now and why?
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Learn More About Jody

Visit her blog, On the Path (http://jodyhedlund.blogspot.com)

Friend her on Facebook: Jody Hedlund

Follow her on Twitter: JodyHedlund
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Romance Writers on the Journey