Posts Tagged ‘ACFW’

Posted on January 17, 2012 - by Shannon Vannatter

Interview with Denise Hunter

Shannon here: This fall–in between deadlines–I set out to find an agent and my writing twin. When a writer sends proposals to agents or editors, we’re supposed to compare our books to published novels. I needed a published author who writes similar to me to compare myself to. 

I’d heard of Denise Hunter, seen her at the American Christian Writers Conference, and knew she was a best-selling contemporary romance author. I bought The Convenient Groom and immediately wished I’d come up with such a great premise.

At ACFW this year, I introduced myself to Denise, told her why I bought her book and how much I loved it. She asked if I’d found my writing twin. Not by a longshot. Denise is a much better writer than me.

Since then I’ve read A Cowboy’s Touch, Driftwood Lane, The Accidental Bride, and Smitten. I read the last two in one weekend. Both of them.

I’ve discovered so many authors with a book I love, but then I’m often disappointed by at least one of their books or I don’t like the others as well as the first book I read by them. Not so with Denise Hunter. I’ve loved everything I’ve read by her and would be hard pressed to pick a favorite. Next on my list–Seaside Letters. So without further ado, here’s Denise:

• What is the biggest writing challenge you’ve encountered this past year – craft, career, writing life, etc? How did you solve it?

My biggest writing challenge is finding my way through the middle of my stories. It really is like driving at night, and you can only see as far as your headlights will shine. I get through it with lots of prayer and lots of forcing myself to sit and work when I’d rather be doing anything else (laundry, dusting, toilets, ANYTHING).

Shannon: Okay, maybe we are twins. The middle befuddles me too. But not enough to make me want to clean or do laundry.

• If you weren’t a writer, what would you want to be?

I enjoy design—actually started college as a commercial art major—so that’s what I’d do. Maybe even designing book covers to combine my interests.

• Where is the coziest spot in your home?

My spot on the sofa/recliner. That’s actually where I work.

• What is your favorite time of the day?

The evening, after dinner, when all the day’s work is done and the family is just hanging out.

• In what ways do you think your writing journey has benefited your family? How does your writing affect your family?

Great question! Besides the obvious financial benefits, my career has made me a happier more well-rounded individual. It has forced me out of my comfort zone in a lot of ways. One of the best things about writing, though, is that it has allowed me to stay home with our kids.

• If you could pick a theme song to play every time you entered a room, what would it be?

LOL! “Move” by Mercy Me. Sometimes I need extra motivation.

Shannon: Mercy Me is my favorite group.

• What is your most laughable dating story?

When I started dating Kevin (my husband) I turned into an instant klutz. I spilled, I dropped, I tripped. Only around him, mind you. I still do that.

• Which amusement park ride is your favorite and why?

Definitely roller coasters. But due to an old neck injury, I can’t ride them anymore. So I just live vicariously through my boys, who love them as much as I do.

Shannon: I grew up 5 miles from Six Flags over Georgia and never met a roller coaster I didn’t love.

•  What do you think is the greatest invention of all time?

The internet. Research is SO much easier than it used to be. And communication! It has its negatives too, I know, but it’s so easy to keep in touch with family and friends now.

• Would you rather live a week in the past or a week in the future??

Interesting question! A week in the future. I prefer the unknown.

• How do you balance writing, exercise, home, etc.?

Not very well! The home and writing I’ve got down pretty well. The exercise, not so much. A couple months ago we even moved the treadmill into the living room so it would stand over our shoulders making us feel guilty. I’ve used it once since then. I do much better when it’s warm out though. I like to walk outside.

• Would you rather meet your great grandchildren or great grandparents?

Great grandchildren, just to be certain I’ll get to, and because I DID meet my great grandparents.

• Who is your biggest cheerleader?

My pal Colleen Coble. She’s everybody’s biggest cheerleader!

• What actor/actress would you want to play Shay Brandenberger from The Accidental Bride?

Mandy Moore.

• What is the best book you’ve read recently, and why did you like it?

“Redeeming Love” by Francine Rivers—although it wasn’t my first time reading it. The message of love and redemption is amazing.

• What or who makes you giggle and why?

Bffs Colleen Coble, Diann Hunt, and Kristin Billerbeck. Because we know one another so well. Also my church small group, for the same reason.

• What is your favorite season and why?

Spring and fall. Because we only get about two seconds of each in Indiana!

Shannon: My favorite seasons too. I hate being hot or cold, so I love the in between.

• The biggest challenge in writing this book?

The middle—always!

Shannon: Ditto!

• What do the Post-Its around your computer/screen/ bulletin board say?

They’re my lists of what I need to buy, who I need to call, and what I need to get done.

•  What is your favorite research or reference book or tool??

“Writing the Breakout Novel” by Donald Maass.

•  What is the most unusual costume you ever wore at a Halloween party?

I was Gilligan one year. It seriously disturbed my husband.

• If you could have free unlimited service for one year from a cook, chauffer, personal secretary, housekeeper, or masseuse, which would you choose and why??

Oooh, I want one of each! Probably the cook. I love to bake—cooking, not so much.

•  Which character in your books is the most like you? How?

Definitely Reese in “Smitten”. I wrote that one with my 3 friends Colleen Coble, Kristin Billerbeck, and Diann Hunt. In order to keep our characters consistent throughout, we gave each of our protagonists a healthy dose of ourselves. 

Shannon: Thanks for agreeing to the interview, Denise. I so thoroughly enjoyed it.

My take on Denise’s books: I hated for each book to end, but each gave me that satisfying ahh moment. I love the characters, fell in love with each hero, and marveled at each great, complicated story premise.

The Convenient Groom: She wrote the book–literally–on finding the right mate. But does she really understand what love’s about? Five hours before her Nantucket beach wedding–and on the eve of her big book launch–celebrity marriage counselor Kate Lawrence has everything in place.

A Cowboy’s Touch: Abigail is just in Moose Creek, Montana for the summer to temporarily care for her great aunt. But a tender-hearted cowboy beckons her to stay.

I love the characters and ached for them. I truly couldn’t see how this story could end happily-ever-after. So many complications.

The Accidental Bride: Shay Brandenberger is raising her daughter in Moose Creek, Montana, on her childhood ranch, nestled against the Yellowstone River. Despite the hard work, she can’t seem to keep her head above water—and now the bank is threatening to foreclose. She prays for a miracle, but the answer she receives is anything but expected.

Having agreed to play the bride in the Founders’ Day wedding reenactment, Shay is mortified to be greeted at the end of the aisle by none other than Travis McCoy, her high-school sweetheart—the man who left her high and dry for fame and fortune on the Texas rodeo circuit.

Then the unthinkable happens. Thanks to a well-meaning busybody and an absentminded preacher, the make-believe vows result in a legal marriage. But before Shay can say annulment, Travis comes up with a crazy proposal. If she refuses his offer, she may lose her home. If she accepts, she may lose her heart.

Shay isn’t sure if the recent events are God’s will or just a preacher’s blunder. Will trusting her heart to the man who once shattered it be the worst mistake of her life? Or could their marriage be the best accident that ever happened?

I loved the hero, Travis. So tough, yet gentle. I loved Shay’s temper, yet Travis knew just how to settle her down.

Driftwood Lane: Meridith believes she is capable of weathering any storm. But she’s never experienced a love powerful enough to uproot her…until now.

Besides the romance and the complicated premise, I loved the one upmanship basketball scenes between the hero and his best friend. And I was reminded that all I really need is a solid foundation through Christ. Everything else is just a bonus.

Smitten: Welcome to Smitten, Vermont. With the help of four friends, it’s about to become the most romantic town in America.

About Denise:  Denise lives in Indiana with her husband Kevin and their three sons. In 1996, Denise began her first book, a Christian romance novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she’s been writing ever since. Her books often contain a strong romantic element, and her husband Kevin says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too! Learn more at www.denisehunterbooks.com. 

Posted on October 25, 2011 - by Shannon Vannatter

GMC: The Engine Behind Your Characters & Plot

GMC. The first time I heard of it, I’d signed with an agent. Back in 2002 with my original version of White Roses. She told me I should read GMC. I thought car. She patiently explained that it’s a book—GMC: Goals, Motivation, & Conflict by Debra Dixon. It was out of print, but I found a copy for $19.95. I was a stay at home mom and it wasn’t in our budget to pay that much for a used book.

Shortly afterward, the agent downsized her list and I was one of her clients that got cut. Looking back, I don’t know why she signed me. She’s a good agent, still in the business, and has sold a lot of books. All I can figure is that she saw promise, but soon realized she didn’t have enough time to polish a diamond in the rough. And I don’t blame her. I know now that my writing wasn’t anywhere near publishable then.

Fast forward to 2008. I went to the ACFW conference in Minneapolis, where I had a paid critique for Rodeo Dust with Margaret Daley. In my original version, my heroine is at the State Fair of Texas, touring livestock barns with a co-worker/date. Even though, she hates farm animals and she has a rule about not dating co-workers.

Margaret: “Why would the heroine go to place she doesn’t enjoy with a co-worker on a date when she has a rule not to date co-workers?”

Me: “So she can meet the hero there.”

Margaret: “You need to read GMC.”

Okay. I gave in. You don’t have to beat me over the head with it. When I got home, I ordered the book. By then, Debra Dixon had gotten the rights back and I got a new copy for $19.95.

I read it from cover to cover and discovered a whole new world. A world that makes everything your characters do—make sense. I changed it to where my Rodeo Dust heroine went with her brother to the fair because she wanted him to date her best friend. So she accompanied them, so it wouldn’t seem like a date and they could realize how much in common they had. See how much better that is?

I also worked out the GMC for White Roses and every other book I’d been reworking for years. Now, I carefully chart out my GMC before I start a book.

Most of the time anyway. I jumped into a story not too long ago, just because it had been bugging me for a long time. I wrote the first three chapters in a hurry, then had an editor express interest when I showed her the One Sheet. I sent it to my critters, Brenda, Lorna, and Jerri. 

Brenda: “I don’t understand her goal.”

Me: “Oops. I just dashed it off and forgot to do the GMC.”

I worked out the GMC and made changes. Brenda liked it. And so did I

So for a short lesson:

G – Goal: This is what your character wants. 

M – Motivation: This is why your character wants the goal.

C – Conflict: This is why your character can’t reach their goal. 

My heroine wanted her brother to date her best friend because she wants them both to be happy, but they wouldn’t agree to go out on a date.

Thus my Rodeo Dust heroine tours the livestock barns, hating every minute of it. But her brother and best friend love it, proving that they should live happily ever after, just like she knew they should. It makes perfect sense for her to be there. And while she’s there, she meets the hero.

This is only the GMC for the first scene. Your GMC for the entire plot needs to have much more at stake. Something like, if the heroine doesn’t get her brother and best friend together, her brother will accept that job offer in China.

I could get into a lot more detail, but I believe that’s called plagiarism. In short, your story should have an over-arcing internal and external GMC. But each scene should have GMC also. If you work out the GMC for every scene, everything your character does will make perfect sense. 

Maybe if I’d have gotten the book back in 2002, I’d have sold White Roses in 2003 instead of 2009.

To get into all the intricacies of internal and external GMC, I highly recommend the book. This is one of the few craft books that doesn’t make my brain glaze over. It’s all laid out in a simple, easy to understand format. Debra Dixon is now an acquisitions editor at a publishing house. And since 2008, I’ve had editors actually ask me about my characters’ GMC during pitch sessions.

Posted on October 6, 2011 - by Regina

SAME OR DIFFERENT?

This year, at ACFW, I learned that short women would not make good stagecoach drivers. I learned that green beans can be cooked a variety of ways and STILL not be what I consider “done.” I learned that a few minutes of prayer in the prayer room is an amazing way to start a full day.

It was my second conference. I wasn’t as nervous as last year, and I expected it to be similar. It was. It was also different. WHAT was different? The conference? Or ME?

 

What was the same:

• Amazing worship with author Rachel Hauck and company (I still feel sorry for the guy manning the computerized lyrics!)
• Master-of-ceremony duties by the inimitable Brandilyn Collins
• Inspirational sessions with an amazing keynote speaker – last year was “Bug man” novels author Tim Downs, this year premier historical author Tracie Peterson. What an amazing speaker and woman of God.
• Recurring-theme food – last year was asparagus at every meal. This year? Crunchy green beans. This Southern girl likes her green beans cooked DOWN, y’all.
• Wonderful classes that made me stop and think deeply about what I write, why I write, and for WHOM I write.

What was different:

• I went to the prayer room. Jim Peterson was on duty, and everyone who came in, he offered to pray with them, or not, whatever made them comfortable. I prayed alone, but when I left, I spoke to him, thanked him for being there. He grinned and said, “what part of New York did you say you were from?”
• I wasn’t a first-timer anymore. Besides my good friends, I saw others that I remembered, and that remembered me. What a great feeling!
• Instead of rooming with 3 other ladies, I took my husband with me. Last year was more chaotic and fun, but this year was more calm and relaxing – and I needed that.
• I got to eat at the AV guys’ table at the banquet – Yes, seating was a challenge, but personally, I think we ended up at just the right place. Those guys were great!

A few things about the conference made me feel like it was truly meant for me to be there. When Janice Thompson opened the first workshop with prayer, I cried. First, because I was finally THERE, and was going to meet Janice Thompson, one of my favorite authors, and second, because of her prayer. She truly ushered in the Holy Spirit. The name of the workshop was “Plotting Your Fiction Career.” What could have been an all-business, how-to-get-to-the-top how-to course, but it wasn’t. We heard Janice’s testimony about how she was called to write full-time.

That wasn’t the last I heard about plotting. DiAnn Mills’ sessions on “How To Write a Bestseller” focused on plot and how to dig DEEEEEEP within yourself, not just your character, to make your book the best it can be. Susan May Warren’s “Book Therapy Live” took a passage, piece by piece, and did a live critique. Janice’s other session, “A Merry Heart: Writing and Selling the Humorous Novel,” and Susan’s other session, “All Glammed Up,” helped me know how to put some polish on a story.

Needless to say, I’m still in information overload. I’m one of those people who try to glean as much learning as possible from any opportunity. Since I’ve been home, I’ve just today pulled up my manuscript. Would you believe I’ve already found things I want to change?

I was supposed to be at ACFW this year. I was supposed to get those amazing hugs from my sisters in Christ, and fellow-writers. I was supposed to meet the new people I met and with whom I enjoyed a meal, or a bit of downtime between sessions or appointments. I was supposed to grow as a writer, and as a Christian. I was supposed to meet God there, and I did.

There’s an old saying common in the Jewish faith: “Next year in Jerusalem.” For ACFW members, right now, it’s “Next year in Dallas.

What will be different next year?

Posted on September 29, 2011 - by Shari Barr

When Inspiration Fades

Every so often I go through a phase where I want to chuck the whole writing thing and ditch my dream of writing a novel for adults. I get frustrated when plot eludes me, my characters sound weak and boring, or that little voice inside me taunts, “You’re wasting your time. No one will publish this book, anyway.” And, as most writers know, there’s an easier way to get a paycheck. The reasons not to write go on and on.

Usually this feeling passes.

The last few months have been different. The story that’s been in my mind for over a year simply won’t fall into place. I played with the age of my protagonist, her relationship with the hero, and I switched story lines so many times, my daughter would ask, “Which version are you working on today?”

When none of the versions worked, I turned to God. “If I’ve completed my job as a writer and will never publish another book,  please take away my desire and replace it with something else fulfilling.”

Though I’d asked God to take away my desire before, I had never asked Him to replace it with something different. Since He never took away that passion, I was convinced I was meant to write. Well, this time was different. The desire disappeared–just like that. I really didn’t care whether or not I wrote another word. But, no fulfilling replacement materialized, and it scared me.

For years, I had identified myself as a writer, and when the desire died, I felt lost and confused. Now what? I almost backed out of my commitments with the ACFW conference, but I decided to go ahead with my plans, asking God to spell things out for me in St. Louis.

In the weeks before the conference, little signs popped up every now and then. I caught a portion of the back of a stranger’s t-shirt that read “Quitting is easy…,” and a woman commented on our blog about a style of book she would love to read (and which I’ve dreamed of writing.) I was reminded of Jim Carrey in Bruce Almighty when he asked God to show him a sign about the fate of his career. Signs popped up as Bruce drove along—“Dead End,” “Detour Ahead,” “Road Closed,” and Bruce still didn’t get the message.

Were the t-shirt and the blog comment signs from God? I wasn’t sure.

So, I set out for ACFW with only a one-sheet based on my “version-of-the-day,” not even a sample chapter, to show editors and agents at my appointments. The response I received from a consultant, gave me my answer. The story inside of me is meant to be written. She suggested a better beginning scene and a place to end. Her enthusiasm and encouragement gave me the confidence I need to keep plugging away. It’s enough that she sees merit in my idea.

The speakers’ messages at the conference couldn’t have been more appropriate, either. Discouragement is the work of Satan—not God.

When God didn’t give me a fulfilling replacement for writing, I now know why. I am supposed to keep on writing—for Him.

Posted on September 27, 2011 - by Shannon Vannatter

Singing Praises of ACFW

I sing ACFW praises every chance I get. What an awesome organization. What an awesome conference. Put together by an awesome God. This year, I met Lynn Coleman, founder of ACFW. We chatted about how she wanted to start a Christian writing group to support and uplift one another, with no competition or jealousy. Like most things, ACFW started small as American Christian Romance Writers.

I discovered it by google in 2004. By 2005 when I attended the conference in Nashville, the name had changed to American Christian Fiction Writers. Though I’d been to numerous local conferences, writers’ group meetings, and workshops, ACFW made me realize I only knew the basics about writing.

ACFW goes deep in helping writers improve their craft. So deep, it boggles. I always get brain freeze and have to sort through what I learned when I get home. And yes, even though I’m published and an old hand at working with editors, I still learn from ACFW.

I had so many appointments, interviews, and meetings, I only got to go to four workshops this year. But I still learned. I’m not sure what yet, haven’t had time to sort it out. Oh, I did learn that the voice that tells me I’ll never get another book published when I don’t have a current contract or deadline, that’s the enemy and he tells all writers that. Now I know to ignore him and press on.

ACFW is also about having friends along for what can be a very solitary journey. I took the solo route until 2008. Though I’d been to the conference for 3 years, I stood on the fringes and wished I had someone to hug and cry over like all those other writers. In 2008, I met Linda from my local zone and rode with her to Minneapolis. I met my critique partners face to face, met their friends and Linda’s friends. We all went out to dinner together and had so much fun. The next year when I met them, I hugged and cried over them.

Lorna is my designated shoulder for phone calls or in person. Lorna and I have traversed our getting published journey together. When my husband is at work—I call Lorna and blubber over disappointments or triumphs in writing. When my husband isn’t at ACFW—he hasn’t been able to come since 2007—I blubber on Lorna over disappointments and triumphs. Lorna is getting soggy.

Linda is my designated roomie. We often dance in our room over triumphs. Dawn is my designated can’t find her writing friend. I once called her husband at home in Iowa trying to find her in the hotel so I could get the pie I left in her room. This time, I called a friend at home also named Dawn in my quest for Dawn’s room and went to the wrong room looking for Dawn.

Brenda, my other critter, is much better in person than in bobble-head form. We’ll look forward to seeing her in Dallas. Maybe we can wish her there. Kim and her sweet southern accent were missed this year, but Regina brought her husband. I wonder how many times did I say, “I love to hear him talk.” I also got to connect with Shari again. The only problem is there’s never enough time to spend with my writer friends.

ACFW is the highlight of my year. The knowledge to gain, the friends to hug, the contacts to be made. The kind of place where I can walk up to the keynote speaker–who is always way above the realm I live in–and thank them for what they said to inspire or encourage me. Knowing that all those writers sleep-walking through the conference totally get me. They hear voices too—not only their characters’, but God’s.

Posted on July 1, 2011 - by Kav

ACFW Book Club

I don’t have any conference stories to share as I’ve yet to attend one (but y’all make me want to go more than ever now!) so I am going to blog about the ACFW book club instead.

First off, there’s something you need to know about me.

Drum roll please.

I love books.

Yes, really! I know, I know, I hide that fact so well, don’t I? But it’s true and the only thing I love more is talking about the books I’ve read. Hence my fascination with book clubs.

I’ve belonged to a few over the years but invariably found myself confronted with a to-read list that just didn’t appeal to me. Mainstream fiction can push the limits of my standards in both language and graphic sexual content and I began to find that even trusted authors were venturing places I just didn’t want to go. And when my last ‘real-live’ book club decided to dabble in erotic fiction I was out of there. Fast!

Not long after that Lorna introduced me to Christian fiction – my new all-consuming passion. But alas, no one in my ‘real life’ reads it so where could I go for a good book chat?

Online of course.

I joined the ACFW book club about a year ago and have enjoyed sharing my views with other ardent readers…and – bonus – the authors of the books we discuss stop by to chat as well! Now that never happened in any ‘real life’ book club I ever attended.

It was a bit daunting at first…expressing my views in such a public forum. Yeah, I know, I blog for goodness sake, but it seemed scarier to ‘speak out’ on ACFW’s official book club site. And did I mention that authors read what you say? (I’m not a groupie or anything – honest – but actual authors that you’ve read are on there commenting on what you commented on!)

The only thing missing is more members so beware I’m on a recruiting hunt. You can sign up here. http://www.acfw.com/book_club and you don’t have to be an ACFW member to join.

Book selections are announced at the beginning of the month and discussions start on the 20^th.  That gives everyone ample time to read the book before the chattin’ begins. Recently the book club has started selecting two books a month so a reader can participate in both or pick just one.

June was Heartsong/Love Inspired month at the online book club. I participated in a discussion about Second Chance Ranch by Leann Harris. You can read my review of the book here: http://bestreads-kav.blogspot.com/2011/06/second-chance-ranch.html

Looking forward to July, the book club has selected two romantic suspense titles:

Deadly Ties by Vicki Hinze

No Safe Haven by Kimberley Woodhouse and Kayla Woodhouse – I just finished this book written by a mother/daughter duo. A real nail-biting, wilderness survival, cloak and dagger with a touch of romance kind of read. And co-author Kayla was twelve at the time of writing! The book is told in three POV and Kayla wrote the twelve-year old daughter’s point of view. She’s a bit older now and an absolute sweetheart. You can watch a youtube video of Kimberley and Kayla introducing their book here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RM2nD5Ec0sY

Have I convinced you to join the ACFW Book Club yet? Hope so…but if you still need more of an incentive, check out their lineup for the next couple of months.

August

Yesterday’s Tomorrow by Catherine West

A Cowboy’s Touch by Denise Hunter

September

Surrender the Wind by Rita Gerlach

Out of Control by Mary Connealy

October – Youth Picks

Waterfall by Lisa T. Bergren

Found in Translation by Roger Bruner

For a detailed description of all of these books check out this link from the ACFW site.

http://www.fictionfinder.com/book_club

Hope to see you at one of the upcoming book discussions!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on June 30, 2011 - by Regina

ACFW – WONDERFULLY STRANGE

The 2010 American Christian Fiction Writers Conference in Indianapolis was my first experience in attending a writing conference of any type.

It was big.

It was a little scary.

It was a little strange.

I didn’t KNOW any of these people.

But I went anyway. I caught a ride in Louisville with two total strangers. OK, they were strange (pun intended ), but I knew them as my fellow Inkspirational Message bloggers, and we had emailed extensively. And the strange part was that we picked up as if we’d known one another all our lives.

I roomed with three total strangers. Again, strange, but not. Two of my roomies were old friends from a fanfiction site that brought me on board their writers’ group. The other roomie was a dear Inksper, too. We hit it off immediately. You’d think four women sharing a bathroom and two beds, all their luggage stacked at the foot of those beds, would get a little crazy. Oddly enough, it didn’t. It was fun. It was edifying, and it was like coming home after a long, stressful day. And I think I only tripped over suitcases one time.

Other strange facts about attending ACFW: People you’ve “seen” on other blogs, thanks to name tags, rush up to you and hug you. Agents and editors that you imagine will totally intimidate are friendly and pleasant. Authors that you consider the “big names” in Christian Fiction chat with you about their kids on the elevator.

And something that I didn’t take advantage of, that I know I will if I’m blessed to go this year, is the Prayer Room – there are people praying for God to speak to us at this conference. I know that doesn’t happen at your normal, everyday conference.

I loved the sessions, I loved the worship times, the meals were fantastic (can anyone say ASPARAGUS?), and the company? Priceless. My first lunch I was blessed to sit between two published authors, Kaye Dacus and Martha Rogers. Unlike meals at other conferences I’ve attended where you tend to just seek out your own group, I didn’t feel the urge to seek out my roomies necessarily, but simply soaked in the essence of fellow writers from all over the world. Yes, a gentleman next to me at the Awards Banquet was from outside the US.

One of the goals I had before attending, last year, was a completed manuscript. I knew there was no sense in pitching a story if it were not finished and I was determined to get every bit of my money’s worth out of this conference. So I finished my first manuscript. I pitched. I had my manuscript requested.

This year? My goal is to relax and wait for God to work. I can’t make it happen, only God can. He gave me a storyline and characters that could last through two more books. He’s made me love the publishing industry. Maybe my job, in the world of writing , is to encourage other writers. I can do that. I love writers. I love the angst they go through, and the process that the brain goes through to develop a story.

Most of all, I like to pray for those who are writing stories that lift up my Lord. Will you pray with me, for those attending, or who WANT to attend ACFW, and maybe can’t?

ACFW is a revival for writers. Some people would think it strange. But really, can it get any better than that?

Posted on June 29, 2011 - by Brenda Anderson

ACFW Conference Makes the Grade

As a mom with three teens, one thing I’m very cognizant of is my children’s grades. I know very well the excellence my kids are capable of, and their grades are one indicator of how hard they work.

Plus, those grades give me a reason to give my children a well deserved, “Great Job!”

Which is exactly what I want to say about the ACFW Conference and to all those involved: “Well done!” And for your superb efforts, I reward you with the grade of …

F

Oh wait! Please! You’re looking at this from the wrong perspective (and we writers know all about perspective, don’t we?) Honestly, F is the best grade possible. F stands for many wonderful things, not just the fluffy adjectives fabulous and fantastic. Just read on, you’ll see …

FICTION - While there are several excellent conferences around the country, ACFW is unique for its focus on fiction. Other conferences’ loyalties are split with poetry and memoirs and how-to books; ACFW is fully fiction.

FOOD - Oh my! Just the thought of the scrumptious appetizers, salads, entrees, and desserts makes my mouth water. The entire dining experience makes you feel like royalty.

FAITH - The most important and binding reason for us joining together. How many conferences–writing or otherwise–begin and end with prayer? 

FRIENDS - The friends I’ve made through ACFW aren’t just “writer” friends, they’re lifelong friends. They’re the ones who will be with me in all my joys and pains. What a blessing!

FELLOWSHIP - Perhaps what I look forward to the most is gathering with attendees to fellowship with the Lord. People from many denominations, and authors who write in varying genres, stand together singing, worshiping the one true God, praising Him with one heart, reminding us He is the reason we write.

FAILURE - Oh, there I’ve upset you again, but failure is to be celebrated. Really. Don’t believe me? Then read my blog post, Famous Failures, from a few weeks back.  Chances are most of us will experience failures at the conference. The question is, what will you do with that failure? It’s okay, normal, and very human to feel bad about it. But then take that failure and celebrate it and use it as a stepping stone for improving.

That’s called learning.

Have I convinced you that the ACFW Conference earned the grade of F? Whew. I’m glad. I was a little nervous there, but I knew you’d appreciate seeing it from a unique perspective. Maybe you even have your own word to add to the list.

So, go the ACFW Conference this September in St. Louis. You’re sure to have a fun, fantastic, and fabulous time!

Posted on June 9, 2011 - by Shari Barr

ACFW-”TAKE ONE”

When I attended my first ACFW conference last year in Indy, I was prepared to learn from the best. After all, that’s what conferences are for. I knew the Christian atmosphere would be a refreshing aspect, but I have to admit I wasn’t prepared for the overwhelming family-like ambiance to permeate such a large conference.

After depositing my bags in my room, I headed down the hallway to go to the lobby. A familiar looking woman waiting at the elevator smiled and extended her hand. “Hi, I’m Colleen Coble,” she said.

I know! My thoughts screamed as my jaw dropped to the floor and full-fledged jitters began. In an effort to not look like a complete doofus, I closed my mouth, extended my hand, and then introduced myself. My first celebrity handshake! Ooh, the thrill! 

We made idle chitchat until the elevator door opened. Once inside I glanced at the name tags on the other women in the car, most of whom I recognized from their books’ back covers. Their friendliness filled me with a sense of confidence and hope that maybe I could reach the status they’d already achieved. Though my name tag read “First Time Attendee,” the writers I met made me feel like we’d known each other forever, even those with dozens of bestselling books gracing bookstore shelves. Nervous anticipation followed me at every turn, especially when I met Janette Oke later and she graciously allowed me to have a picture taken with her 

Though bonding with other Christian writers was an amazing experience, the highlight of the conference was the evening worship sessions. Over the years, doubts have followed me, even after I’d published several books. I’ve often wondered if I was wasting my time. Would my time be better spent in a different endeavor—one where the rewards were more readily apparent? Was there a better, easier way to form a ministry? After listening to the worship sessions I knew, yes, there was an easier way. But, better? Not for me.

If you’ve ever experienced self-doubt in your writing career, let me tell you, the ACFW conference is the place to put everything into perspective. There is nothing like surrounding yourself with 600 other writers and hearing a message especially for you—the Christian writer. Associating with hundreds of people who really “get you” does more for self- esteem than you could ever imagine.

Feeling God’s presence as I acknowledge the gifts He gave me is confirmation that I am where He wants me.

Posted on June 7, 2011 - by Shannon Vannatter

Full Circle with ACFW

After four years of attending every local writers’ group, workshop, and conference I could find, I’d sat through poetry classes, children’s books sessions, and nonfiction workshops. I wasn’t learning anymore. I knew there was more to learn, but where to find it. There had to be somewhere I could learn to write Christian Romance only. 

In early 2005, I googled Christian Romance Conference. Number one on the list: American Christian Fiction Writers. It was in Nashville that year—only six hours away. Two problems with that: A. My husband and I are both directionally challenged. We’d never driven that far without someone who could read a map. B. Funds. The cost seemed astronomical to a stay-at-home mom and a bi-vocational pastor.

The positives far outweighed the negatives. Available appointments with agents and editors I’d dreamed of meeting. Workshops geared only toward Christian fiction. Writers writing the same genre as me. The list goes on.

I dreamed about attending the conference and even talked about it with my husband, but neither of us saw any way for us to go. Out of the blue, my mom informed me that my grandmother had left me a savings bond. Just enough to cover the daily rate to attend the conference. Hubby and I managed to come up with enough for two nights in the hotel, Mapquested our route, and headed off to Nashville.

Upon arrival at the hotel, my mouth hung open. Tracie Peterson, acquisitions editor at Heartsong Presents was in the lobby talking to writers. I had an appointment to pitch my book to her the next day. Surely, it wasn’t her. She’d be secluded in her room safe from wanna-be-writers, wouldn’t she?

I grabbed an unknown woman. “Is that Tracie Peterson?”

Later I learned that the woman I grabbed was Margaret Daley. Author of countless books I’d read.

The next day, I was sitting at breakfast when a pretty blonde walked up to me and asked if the seat next to me was taken. When I said no, she sat down and offered her hand. “Hi, I’m Lenora Worth.”

My jaw dropped. I stuttered and stammered. I’d read tons of her books, but couldn’t come up with a single title or character.

My appointment with Tracie Peterson didn’t go as I dreamed it would. She told me my book, White Roses didn’t have enough conflict. But then she brainstormed with me on ways to add the conflict.

I learned more at that conference than I had in the four previous years put together. I went home and applied what I’d learned and reworked my story with more conflict straight from Tracie Peterson’s brain. I resubmitted to HP, but got another rejection. I didn’t realize it at the time, but my writing just wasn’t at publishable level yet.

I attended again in 2006 and 2007 and pitched three different books each year. I consistently got requests from agents and editors and then rejections.

In 2008, we really couldn’t afford for me to attend and besides it was in Minneapolis. Way too far and my husband didn’t have enough days off to take me.

But then I heard about an ACFW local group meeting in Little Rock. I went to two meetings and met Linda Fulkerson. Weeks later, Linda e-mailed me and asked if I wanted to ride to the conference with her.

Once again, money fell out of the sky. But my parents worried Linda might be a serial killer. Daddy ended up taking me to the appointed meeting place for our road trip. I guess Linda made a good impression. He let me go.

That year, I attended the early bird. At Margie Lawson’s EDITS class, it came together for me as if the scales fell from my eyes—I knew what went in a book and what didn’t.

I had an appointment with the new editor at HP, JoAnne Simmons on the last day. By then, she’d heard numerous pitches. As I told her my story, her eyes glazed over until I mentioned the setting and Romance, AR local flavor.

Her eyes lit up. “That sounds like a Heartsong. Send me the full.”

I audibly gasped and clasped a hand to my heart. “Really?”

She laughed. “Yes.”

I went back to my room where Linda and I danced a jig.

I spent two and half months applying the EDITS system to White Roses and sent it to JoAnne. I’m now working on my second contracted series for HP.

If not for ACFW, I’d probably still be sitting through poetry classes, learning at a snail’s pace, and unpublished.

This year, I’m teaching at ACFW—a dream since Nashville. With ACFW, I’ve come full circle.

If you’re teetering on whether or not to head to St. Lou, all I can say is: Go!!!!!

(The picture is of 7 of the Inkspirational Messengers at ACFW in 2010. We’re drinking tea.)