Monthly Archives: July 2011
Thank you, ACFW
One of the best things I ever did in my writing life was to join ACFW in February, 2000. DiAnn Mills urged me to join a group of writers who had just organized into the ACRW, American Christian Romance Writers. She then … Continue reading
Changes in Publishing: an Optimist’s Perspective Chip MacGregor
Regarding the closing of Heartsong Presents, and the changes it means for Christian novelists, may I offer a perspective from a longtime literary agent? First, this isn’t really a surprise. Mass market fiction in print form is going away — … Continue reading
ACFW’s Volunteer Spotlight
I’m pleased to announce that Lacy Williams, a fellow Oklahoman, is in our Volunteer Spotlight this week. Lacy is currently the president of a local ACFW chapter–OCFW. She schedules and coordinates the speakers for the chapter as well as working … Continue reading
Platform? Dineen Miller
We hear that word a lot these day–Platform. I confess, I used to cringe away from it. The whole concept seemed so overwhelming. Where did one begin? In February, my first nonfiction book, Winning Him Without Words, released. In July … Continue reading
Making Research Fun: Sandra Robbins
Historical figures, timelines, vocabulary, police procedures, crime scene investigation, fashion–the list could go on forever. No matter what genre, every writer knows to craft a book that will hold the attention of readers he or she has to get the … Continue reading
15 Reasons to Attend ACFW: Pam Hillman
How many reasons do you need to attend ACFW? Let the Seekers count the ways…. “Worshipping, fellowshipping, learning and networking with other Christian writers.” ~ Missy Tippens “I credit ACFW and their conference and contests and the connections I made … Continue reading
Finding Fiction’s Media Connection by Cynthia Ruchti
I couldn’t see him. His studio was hundreds of miles from where I sat with my notes, bookmarked novel, and cup of tea. But even from that distance, I could hear the hesitation in his voice during our preinterview discussion. … Continue reading
The ACFW Conference: Mountains and Valleys: Janice Thompson
Good morning everyone! I hope you’re having a happy Thursday. I’m a wee bit late getting this post up because I’ve been sick this week. Things are on the upswing, however! I wanted to share from my heart about some … Continue reading
ACFW Volunteer Spotlight
Donna Schlachter is the volunteer we are spotlighting this week. She has served the past four years as treasurer for HIS Writers. During this time she has taken on many duties outside of a traditional treasurer role in both her … Continue reading
Advice for a Nervous Conference-Goer by Deborah Raney
A writer friend, who will be a first-time attendee for September’s ACFW conference, recently asked me for some advice after she started feeling jittery about the conference. I told her that the newbie orientation will be a great way to … Continue reading
The Right & Left Way to Plan for Conference: Sarah Sundin
Are you a left-brained, list-making, analyzing, outline-oriented writer? Are you a right-brained, creative, spontaneous, seat-of-the-pants writer? Some combination? If you’re attending a writers’ conference, engage both halves of your brain and plan the right way–and the left way. The American … Continue reading
ACFW Conference Blog: What to Expect When You’re Expectant
What to Expect When You’re Expectant by Cynthia Ruchti That swelling in your feet? Expected. The waves of nausea? Expected. The wave of resentment that the person next to you has no nausea at all? Expected. The weight gain, imbalance, … Continue reading
Taking the High Road: DiAnn Mills
We writers would like to take the easiest and surest path to publication, but those distinctions contradict themselves. The surest path is often not the easiest to a bestseller. Good habits and a conscientious effort to work hard at our … Continue reading
ACFW Conference: a Wise Business Investment Plus a Means to Mentor
I think the most common question I’ve been asked since being published has been, “How did you do it?” My answer is always, unequivocally, “With the help of others who were willing to mentor me.” The next question (especially if … Continue reading
ACFW Volunteer Spotlight
This week we are highlighting Jill Hups. She has been with HIS Writers from the beginning. She served a four-year term as secretary, and when she reached term limit, was willing to serve as vice-president. A visionary, she makes extra … Continue reading