by Crystal Caudill | Aug 23, 2017 | Writing Craft
Voice seems to be one of those elusive things I have encountered as an aspiring author. What is it? How do you know what your voice is? How do you know if it is unique? Until recently, I just avoided the whole issue because it seemed so convoluted.
But the day must come when we chase down that elusive concept in order to fully develop into who we are. So here it is, wrong or right, my own view and explanation of voice.
Author Voice:
An author’s voice is not one tangible element in a novel, it is the culmination of all the flavors an author brings to their writing. From genre choice, to settings, typical characters, humor, to even word choice – it all goes to develop a unique voice.
Take a look at this picture:
What story comes to your mind?
My first thought was a woman lying in bed, fumbling for a shoe to throw at the cat that never stops meowing out her window. Typical image? Yes, but give me time and I will develop it into a storyline that is unique. What if she killed the cat by accident? And what if it was her neighbor’s prize winner? Or even better, there was a note attached to it revealing a danger no one could have foreseen. Oh, so many ideas are skittering through my mind…
Maybe your first thought was a mystery, a ghost story, or something altogether different. Your author voice can change depending on your genre choice, and most of us tend to pick a particular genre and stick to it.
Three Examples:
Mary Connealy has a voice I love. She has humor focused on the cowboy days of the west. Her females are almost always strong, independent women with quirky ways. Her characters are always unique and at odds with each other. Whenever I pick up one of her books I know there will be an element of danger, sweet romance, a splash of humor, a cowboy setting, and characters that make me smile.
Jen Turano is another author with a unique voice. Whenever I pick up one of her books, I know they are going to take place in a city setting, with characters who are oddball in some way, danger will ensue, and hilarity prevails. When I need a good laugh, I turn to her or Karen Witemeyer.
My friend and critique partner, Joanna Davidson Politano, will be releasing her debut novel in October. While I won’t share details of her story now (you will have to wait until next month) Joanna has a voice that makes me swoon. Whenever I read her submissions, I know I will step into a Regency world clouded with mystery. Her books read like a mix of Bronte, Daphne Du Maurier, and Dickens. To read her work is to float through a world that entrances and intrigues, and I absolutely cannot wait for you to read her books!(Okay, swooning over.)
Bottom line, your voice is what a reader can expect to find when they pick up your book.
Finding Your Voice
Evaluate your writing. Do you notice certain trends? Are your stories dialogue heavy? Witty? Detail oriented? Do you add humor to your work? A little? A lot? Do you have odd ball characters? Do you choose a particular type of hero?
What settings do you tend to choose? Cities, the country, a particular region? Are they darker, brighter? Winter, Summer, Autumn, Spring? That can change with each book, but if you notice a particular trend, that just may be part of your voice.
Is your writing very formulaic or is it organic? Susie May Warren is very formulaic in her writing. She works in twenty chapter patterns and has a plan of what has to happen in each segment of her story. For others, there is no discernable pattern beyond the standard three-act plot.
By evaluating your writing, you can determine your strengths and weaknesses, elements that you want to refine and improve upon, maybe even elements you want to weed out of your writing altogether.
My voice is still developing, but I have decided that my voice includes a few elements: Danger and murder plots, women who are independent but get into lots of trouble, heroes who generally fall into the law enforcement category, clear villains, a splash of humor (although nowhere near the amount I thought I would have), and broken families. Forgiveness, redemption, and family are strong threads in what my stories encompass. Do I have a lot of work left? You betcha! Is my voice completely clear and finished? Nope, but I am working on it.
Now it is your turn to share. Comment below.
What do you want a reader to expect when they pick up your books? Have you discovered your own voice? Do you agree or disagree with my view of author voice? What would you add to this?
by Crystal Caudill | Aug 15, 2017 | Author Interviews
I have had the blessing of meeting many wonderful authors through American Christian Fiction Writers, and Betty Owens is one of them. I met her at my very first writer’s group meeting and have been in awe of her ever since. Today, I am grateful to get to introduce this wonderful author to you today.
The Interview
Can you tell us a little about the various series/books you have written?
I started out writing western romance. I put those efforts aside when inspired to write a story that became the first Jael of Rogan novel, The Lady of the Haven. I never set out to write fantasy, but made the decision as I got to know my character. Writing fantasy was pure fun. I meant to write three to five novels in the series, but stopped after A Gathering of Eagles (Book 2). I’d written a novel about a young woman coming of age in the 1920’s (Amelia’s Legacy). It was picked up by Tracy Ruckman of Write Integrity Press, but she wanted a 3-book series. The Legacy series was born. Carlotta’s Legacy is book two of that series.
I also created a story based on the Biblical book of Ruth, Annabelle’s Ruth, Kinsman Redeemer series. (I’m fond of apostrophes.) Write Integrity Press released that one in between the first two Legacy books. Book 2 is Sutter’s Landing, which released June 20.
If someone were reading your books for the first time, which book would you recommend they start with?
Annabelle’s Ruth, for reasons mentioned in the next question. But, if they are fans of inspirational fantasy, I’d say The Lady of the Haven. I love that story too. I will say, I’m not a romance writer, but there is romance in all my books. Sutter’s Landing, sequel to Annabelle’s Ruth, is the most romantic. I enjoyed writing it so much, I may keep it up.
Which is your favorite book you’ve written so far? Why?
I love Annabelle’s Ruth. It’s the book of my heart. It’s inspired by my favorite Biblical story, and also loosely-based on my mother’s early life. Set in a small West Tennessee town where I lived as a child, the story contains faces and voices from my childhood.
If you could be any of your characters, which one would it be? Why?
Oh, if we’re going to venture into fantasy, I’d love to be Jael of Rogan, the Lady of the Haven. She takes God at His word. “Nothing is impossible.” Her faith lands her in some scrapes, but she doesn’t back down. And it would be really cool if I could disappear now and then.
What was your journey to publication like?
I self-published the Jael of Rogan novels, since at the time, I was told Christian fantasy didn’t sell. I’m not the bravest person on earth, by far. I didn’t submit to a lot of publishers. I never thought I was good enough to compete. But I worked hard at it, Along the way, I met Fay Lamb through ACFW Scribes (a large online critique group sponsored by ACFW). She encouraged me to submit my story to Write Integrity Press. At that point, my husband told me I’d be published before the year was out. I wasn’t so sure, especially when December 31 rolled around. But right around noon on New Year’s Eve, my phone rang. Guess who it was? Tracy Ruckman, of Write Integrity Press. She wanted Amelia’s Legacy. My husband said, “I told you so,” because I had just signed a contract and we had several hours left of the year.
What is one piece of advice you would give aspiring authors?
Don’t give up—pursue your dream of publishing.
What is the best way a reader can help authors succeed?
Readers are our lifeblood! If you love a book, talk about it on social media, and among family and friends. Figure out how to write reviews (they don’t have to be perfect or long, just positive). “I loved this book!” This is a fantastic review, especially when accompanied by five stars.
What are you reading right now?
I am so far behind on my reading, but I’m nearly finished with Revisionary, by Kristen Hogrefe. It’s a fascinating dystopian. She’s a new author to me, and very talented. Next up in my Kindle is, Imperfect Bonds by Elizabeth Noyes. She’s an excellent writer of suspense-filled edge-of-your-seat adventures. And the guy on the cover definitely has my attention. Can’t wait.
What do you like to do when you aren’t reading or writing?
Is there anything else? Ha-ha. I love to piddle around in my flowerbeds, spend time with family, and walk miles and miles.
Do you have any upcoming projects, releases, or sales?
Sutter’s Landing is still pretty new, having just released in June. The Kindle version of Carlotta’s Legacy was on sale for 99 cents, but I’m not sure it will be by the time this posts. I’m working on the third book in the Legacy series. It has no title at present. I’m certain it will contain an apostrophe, though.
“Still reeling from tragic losses, Connie and Annabelle Cross face life with their signature humor and grace, until fresh hope arrives on their doorstep.
In early spring of 1955, Annabelle Cross and her daughter-in-law, Connie have nearly made it through the first winter on their own. Then the skies open up as West Tennessee and much of the south endures one of the worst floods in history. As many of their neighbors endure losses due to the flooding, Annabelle and Connie sit tight on dry ground.
As spring gives way to summer, Annabelle begins to dread Connie’s upcoming marriage and removal to Sutter’s Landing. Though she’s happy to note the growing affection between Alton Wade and her daughter-in-law, their marriage means Annabelle will be on her own for the first time in her life.
Connie’s doubts increase when Alton’s bigoted brother Jensen uses every opportunity to drive a wedge between them. Is she doing the right thing? Did she move too quickly? Unexpected summer visitors and anticipation of a new neighbor provide diversion and open possibilities for both Annabelle and Connie.”
– blurb from Amazon.com
About Betty:
Betty Thomason Owens is a multi-published, award-winning author of historical fiction and fantasy-adventure. She is an active member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), where she leads a critique group, and serves as vice-president/secretary of the Louisville area group. She’s a mentor, assisting other writers, and a co-founder of a blog dedicated to inspiring writers. She also serves on the planning committee of the Kentucky Christian Writers Conference.
Her writing credits include a 20’s era romance, Amelia’s Legacy (2014), Carlotta’s Legacy (2016) Books 1 & 2, Legacy Series from Write Integrity Press (WIP), and the Grace-Award-winning Annabelle’s Ruth (2015), and Sutter’s Landing (2017), Books 1 & 2, Kinsman Redeemer Series, also from WIP. She has two fantasy-adventure novels, The Lady of the Haven and A Gathering of Eagles, in a second edition published by Sign of the Whale BooksTM, an imprint of Olivia Kimbrell PressTM.
Connect with Betty:
Amazon Author Page
http://bettythomasonowens.com
https://twitter.com/batowens
https://facebook.com/betty.owens.author
https://pinterest.com/btowens
https://writingpromptsthoughtsideas.wordpress.com
by Crystal Caudill | Aug 8, 2017 | Author Interviews
This week I would like to introduce you to nonfiction and fiction author, Harriet Michael. I have had the privilege of getting to know Harriet through my ACFW Writer’s Group. Harriet is a wonderful woman who gives me the inspiration to keep on going.
About Harriet Michael: 
Born in Nigeria, West Africa, as the daughter of missionaries, Harriet E. Michael is a writer, gardener, wife of over 37 years, mother of four, and grandmother of two.
She is the author of three books, “Glimpses of the Savior” published by TMP Publishing, “Prayer: It’s Not About You,” a finalist in the 2011 Women of Faith book contest, published by Pix-N-Pens Publishing Company, and “The Whisper of the Palms” published by Olivia Kimbrell Press.
Her stories, articles, and devotions have appeared in publications by Focus on the Family, Lifeway, Standard Publishing, David C. Cook Co., Bethany House, American Life League, Crosswalk.com, Christian Communicator, Judson Press, The Upper Room, Pentecostal Publishing House, Smyth and Helwys, and more.
Thank you for taking the time to answer these questions, Harriet.
You have many writing projects out there, both non-fiction and fiction. What are some of your current projects?
I am working on two books at the moment and will be getting a contract for a third any time. I’m under contract with Pix-N-Pens Publishing for a devotional book about prayer that I am co-writing with my childhood friend, Shirley Crowder. That book has a tentative release date of early December. Shirley and I have also been told we will be getting a contract for another nonfiction that PNP will release sometime next year, summer or fall of 2018.
In addition, my husband and I have co-written a book about his time as a trustee at Southern Seminary from 1984-1994. This book is at the “finding a publisher” stage. We have an agent friend who has been helping us. We recently sent him the finished book proposal along with several strong endorsements of the book so now the waiting game begins.
I also constantly freelance small pieces and have many of those irons in the fire, as always. I have a short story out in the newest Chicken Soup for the Soul (the one about dogs that released Aug 6) and several articles and devotions in various stages of publication.
What has been your favorite project so far? Why?
I don’t think I have a favorite. I really have only written two fiction works—a novel and a short story. The short story is, as of yet, unpublished. Both are fiction based on fact. Writing fiction and writing nonfiction are very different experiences and I am hard pressed to try and decide which I like more.
Writing nonfiction, which I do most of the time, feels like an itch I get to scratch. It’s pulls at me, begging me to write it. So, the experience feels quite satisfying, like soothing an itch or fulfilling a calling. Writing fiction, on the other hand, feels like play. It’s a lot of fun but in some ways less satisfying. Still, I thoroughly enjoyed it and hope to write more fiction in time.
What has God taught you along your publication journey?
That question almost makes me chuckle. One of the greatest lessons He teaches me in the publication journey is humility. I am always amused and often embarrassed at the mistakes an editor or publisher finds in my work that I did not catch.
He has also taught me patience, many times over!
What is your work schedule like when you are writing?
I have a better routine in the school year instead of the summer, even though I am busier in the school year. I work as a substitute teacher, three days a week and somehow having that routine helps me use the other two days for writing more efficiently. In the summer, I have a long list of projects I want to get done, and then I find weeks have gone by without meeting my writing goals. Basically, I try to sit down at the computer for a few hours at a time at least two days a week. But I do not have a specific routine, and I write as the need (or deadline) arises.
What is one of the most surprising things you have learned while working on your projects?
Actually, the fact that I can write at all is a surprise to me. In high school, I loved writing but hated all the red marks I received for all of my punctuation and spelling mistakes. To see something I have written, all cleaned up by an editor, in a form that appeals to readers, is still a pleasant surprise to me.
What are you reading right now?
Betty Thomason Owen’s, “Sutter’s Landing” I loved the first in this series and am enjoying this sequel a lot.
What do you like to do when you aren’t reading or writing?
I enjoy family and church things like Bible study, fellowships, fun with my family. I also love working on projects around the house—painting, gardening, redecorating. I enjoy drawing too, but do not do it very often.
Connect with Harriet on her Amazon Author Page, Facebook, or her Blog: http://harrietemichael.blogspot.com/.
Then come back next week to meet Betty Owens, author of Sutter’s Landing.
by Crystal Caudill | Jul 25, 2017 | Author Interviews
Last week you read my review of new-to-me author Monica Mynk’s book, The Billboard Bride. If you haven’t read it, I suggest you do. It was a cute story with lots of humor. Today, Monica has graciously agreed to be interviewed.
Monica Mynk is a wife, mother, and high school science teacher from Central Kentucky. She has worked with college, teenage, and middle-grade girls in both secular and spiritual arenas for over twenty-five years. She has also served as Bible class teacher, Bible camp counselor, ladies’ day speaker, ladies’ devotional leader, and youth coach for the Lads to Leaders/Leaderettes program. She has always been an avid reader and loved creative writing, and has devoted many years to independently studying the craft.
Thank you for agreeing to an interview, Monica.
How would you describe yourself in five words?
Motivated daughter of the King
As a wife, mother, teacher, and speaker, how is it you have time to write?
Well, years ago I read a quote from Khaled Hosseini, who wrote The Kite Runner and A Thousand Splendid Suns (if you haven’t read these books, stop reading! Go right now and get them!). He was a doctor, and woke up at 5:00 a.m. every day to write. I thought if he can, why couldn’t I? So I force myself to. That’s how I ended up with eight books and more coming.
“Pennies make dollars, and words make novels.” – Monica Mynk
How has your writing journey impacted your faith?
Writing has certainly deepened my faith. I started writing fiction several years ago after losing my best friend to cancer. When I started, it was therapy. Friends and fellow ACFW writers like Rose McCauley, Ralene Burke, Betty Thomason Owens, and Victoria Bylin offered advice and inspiration. Now, it’s a huge part of who I am. Sometimes I write blogs about Bible journaling and contextual studies, which has been awesome! If you want to get started with Bible Journaling, I highly recommend Kathy Pollard’s blog: http://comefillyourcup.com/features/bible-marking-features/
How do you minister to others?
I write broken girls, as reassurance that they can find their way back to God. I speak at ladies days, mostly at Churches of Christ. My usual topic is Ungodly Clutter, which is the title of my ladies Bible study book. Other topics include Being Less, What’s Your Calling? and A Sweet-Smelling Savior. More information is available at this link: https://monicamynk.com/speaking/
What was your publishing journey like?
My writing journey is complicated. I was with a small publisher, but have since retained the rights to all my books. I now do everything under my DBA, Prodigal Daughter Publishing. It was a leap of faith for sure, but this works out so much better for me. I often donate books to homeless shelters and such. It’s nice to be able to purchase my own books at the Createspace price instead of having to pay extra to someone else. I’ve learned every step of the process, from cover design to editing to formatting, and sometimes (when I’m not swamped with teaching) I offer these services to other authors. https://monicamynk.com/author-services/
The prices listed are general, but I will try to work with an author to meet their budget when I can. I especially like to do chapter edits, which is a good way for someone who’s never had an edit to get their feet wet with the process.
Are you a planner or a seat of your pants plotter?
I’m sort of a hybrid between a pantser and planner. I free-write about 10,000 words to “find the story” then plan each chapter out in great detail. I keep a ton of notes. Otherwise, characters have odd hair color or name changes!
You have eight books out now, The Billboard Bride being the newest. What inpired you to write The Billboard Bride?
The Billboard Bride is a story for my daddy. I designed the cover, and my friend Lora Doncea edited it. It’s 100% about my stubbornness during my teen and college years. Dad is my champion and my rock, and the character of Wayne Lee was inspired by him. A farm accident and diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease have slowed him some, but we’ve had so many great farm memories over the years. I also wanted to write something light and funny, in contrast to the romantic suspense I normally write. It’s meant to poke lighthearted fun at the over-the-top bridezilla movement. Hopefully, no one in real life is stubborn enough to take things as far as Melanie did, but these days I’m not so sure. My favorite parts to write were the scenes with Gertie. It may seem kind of crazy giving a cow a personality, but true farmers know they really do have their own character.
Out of all your books, if you could be one character, which one would you be and why?
If I could be a character from one of my books, I’d be Callie from Cavernous, because of her bravery. I write brave characters in the hopes that if I ever have to face a situation so frightening, I won’t back down from my faith. Steadfast like a tree…
Who is your fictional man crush?
My fictional man crush? Hmm…great question! I think maybe Max Jacobs from Ronie Kendig’s Nightshade. His struggle with PTSD was so real and touched my heart.
What is your favorite joke? Corny or otherwise.
My favorite joke. Well, you did ask for it 🙂 What do you do with a sick chemist? Answer: If you can’t helium or curium, you have to barium.
Oh my goodness! I love that one, Monica! I am a corny joke fanatic! Is there anything else you would like to share with my readers?
I’m always looking for reviewers and will happily send free digital copies to anyone who’s interested.
Thanks for sharing Monica! I really appreciate you taking the time to share with my readers.
If you are interested in learning more about Monica’s books or her speaking engagements, check out her website at https://monicamynk.com/.
by Crystal Caudill | Jul 18, 2017 | Book Reviews
The Billboard Bride by Monica Mynk
Monica Mynk was a new to me author who delighted me with her humor and Kentucky girl antics.
The Billboard Bride is the story of a stubborn bride and an ex-pro baseball player who takes care of the crazy girl determined to spend thirteen days up on a billboard waiting for an apology from her two-timing fiance. It is a story of second chances, forgiveness, and new hope.
People who like funny, sweet romances will enjoy this well-woven story.
Being a Kentucky girl myself, I enjoyed all the nods to Kentucky country living – especially Ale-8-One, my favorite local drink. Monica really brings the small community to life – the good parts and the bad parts of small community living.
The characters were memorable and realistic. Melanie, the heroine, was a dramatic Kentucky girl whom I could see myself in so much that it had my ribs hurting from laughter. Even city-boy Kyle was a man I admired and chuckled at many a time. The poor guy was left to run a farm by himself while his grandfather was out of town. Gertie, the cow, was definitely a favorite.
The plot itself was believable and enjoyable. I won’t give anything away, but by the end, I even felt a little sorry for the two-timing fiance… well at least a very little. Both Kyle and Melanie are far from their walk with God, so there are great lessons on forgiveness and trusting in God that really resonate. Although so preaching was involved, it was well written and intriguing. I never felt preached at.
Monica’s writing was smooth, humorous, and very professional. Although she said this book was a break from her normal romantic suspense writing, I am looking forward to exploring her other books. Join me next week for an interview with Monica Mynk herself!
“Melanie Turner’s taking stubborn to new heights…
When she discovers her fiance’s infidelity mere minutes before their wedding, Melanie snatches Daddy’s shotgun and climbs a billboard on the farm neighboring the church. As family and friends plead with her, she grows more determined. She’s not coming down until that sorry Stephen climbs up and apologizes. No matter how long it takes. Problem is, Stephen’s not coming, which leaves Kyle Casey in a real bind.
His grandfather left him in charge of the farm, and he’s struggling with the responsibility. And as a permanently suspended ex-pro baseball player, he doesn’t need the publicity her melodrama’s sure to bring. His mind changes when the preacher of the church, convinces him that helping Melanie is the right thing to do. While the hours turn into days, he sits with her on the cramped billboard deck, enjoying her company far more than he should. As they both discover they’ve spent their lives focused too much on self, can this washed-up pro athlete and spoiled-rotten tomboy find a path to peace and renewal?”
– excerpt from Amazon.com
Purchase your copy at these links:
Amazon.com
Barnes and Noble
