Category Archives: Writers and Books

I look forward to the Write! Canada conference every year. It’s professional development, spiritual renewal and going home all in one, even though I’ve never lived in Guelph. The conference feels like home because among this eclectic mix of writers from beginners to professionals, I belong.

Have I published a novel yet by going? No. Have I improved the quality of said novel(s)? Significantly. Written other things? Yes. Found an agent? Yes. Been encouraged? Encouraged others? Yes to both. Made good friends? Definitely. Eaten well, slept little, laughed? Check, check, check.

Up to 250 Canadian writers and editors who are Christian will gather in Guelph, Ontario from June 14 to 16, 2012 for the 28th annual Write! Canada conference. Sponsored by The Word Guild, the conference features engaging keynote speakers, in-depth continuing classes, wide-ranging workshops, and a host of other learning and promotional opportunities.

Check out the faculty interviews and regular updates on the Write! Canada page. Registration is now open!

Interviewed at Canadian Christians Who Write

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We are as dynamic and varied as our country. And like snowflakes, no two of us are alike.

Our views, be they denominational, theological, ideological, political, social or personal, are uniquely our own.

Yet we share a common belief that Jesus is Lord, and a common passion for writing.

So says the home page of Canadian Christians Who Write. The blog’s host, Jayne Self, posts weekly interviews, and I was pleased to be invited to visit. You can find our conversations at Janet Sketchley part 1 and Janet Sketchley part 2. And be sure to check out the “recent posts” list on the right-hand side of the blog to see who else has been featured. It’s a great way to get to know some new-to-you writers, or maybe get to know a favourite a bit better.

Eclectic Reading Challenge

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Thanks to Stephanie Nickel at Steph’s Eclectic Interests for pointing me to Book’d Out’s Eclectic Reader Challenge. The challenge is to read and review one book in each of 12 categories this year. Not that we’re going to stop at reading only 12 books in 2012!

The official categories are:

Literary Fiction
Crime/Mystery Fiction
Romantic Fiction
Historical Fiction
Young Adult
Fantasy
Science Fiction
Non Fiction
Horror
Thriller/Suspense
Classic
Your favourite genre

Since I don’t particularly enjoy following instructions without tweaking them a bit, I’m replacing literary with how-to and horror with westerns. Been hankering to read a Louis L’Amour for a while now. It occurs to me that poetry is another good genre category. Not going to add it here, because I wouldn’t have a clue how to review it. I’m not officially joining the challenge either, since I’ll be posting some of the reviews here and some at speculative, sporadic… and slightly odd. (Tweaking again…)

If you blog book reviews, check out Book’d Out’s Eclectic Reader Challenge, because there’s a prize up for grabs.

My eclectic challenge choices (I’ll add links to my reviews as they’re posted):

How-to/Instructional: How to Write Science Fiction and Fantasy, by Orson Scott Card
Crime/Mystery Fiction: Death of a Couch Potato’s Wife, by Christy Barritt
Romantic Fiction: Critical Condition, by Sandra Orchard
Historical Fiction: Ellenvale Gold, by Amanda Deed
Young Adult: Oak Island Revenge, by Cynthia d’Entremont
Fantasy: The Way of Kings, by Brandon Sanderson [Replaced with Warbreaker, by Brandon Sanderson … saving The Way of Kings for 2013]
Science Fiction: Judgment at Proteus, by Timothy Zahn
Non Fiction: Your Church Is Too Safe: Why Following Christ Turns The World Upside-Down, by Mark Buchanan
Western: Forlorn River, by Zane Grey
Thriller /Suspense: Gone to Ground, by Brandilyn Collins
Classic: The Mysterious Island, by Jules Verne
Your favourite genre: Not even sure what this is, these days, but I’ll have fun picking a good book!

Interview: The Editors of A Second Cup of Hot Apple Cider (part 2)

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Last Friday we began an interview with N.J. Lindquist and Wendy Elaine Nelles, the co-editors of A Second Cup of Hot Apple Cider. [If you missed it, here’s part one.] Here’s where we left off:

Janet: I’m not sure where you found time to write, but you each contributed a piece for the anthology as well. Was it difficult editing one another’s work without that second, impartial editor?

NJL: We tried to get at least a first draft done before the submissions deadline because we knew how swamped we’d be after that. I actually tried writing about four other short stories before I hit on the one that we used in the book.

I have two terrific concept/substantive editors who live close-by, so they always read my work first anyway. (My #2 son and my husband, in case you’re wondering.) They give me very honest and often annoying feedback. So I don’t think editing our own pieces was a huge problem. I think I was as tough on Wendy as I’d been on everyone else.

The real problem was that we kept leaving our own pieces to the last to edit, which wasn’t good.

WEN: Yes, we were tough on each other’s pieces too, and we went through a number of revisions just like everyone else. But it was hard slogging because we were completely exhausted by the time we focused on finishing our own pieces at the end.

I deliberately chose to write someone else’s story, because I think too often writers who are Christian focus only on their own experiences when many other people have wonderful stories others would benefit by reading. But writing a 3,500 word human interest profile is a huge amount of work, because you have to get to know the people, do lengthy interviews, ask the right questions, transcribe everything that was said, organize the material, condense it all, focus on the story aspects, get the answers to any missing details, retain the other persons’ voices… and make sure that you have represented them fairly, accurately and compellingly.

Janet: Contributors had to be Canadian who are Christian (as defined by their acceptance of the Apostles’ Creed). They also had to be members of The Word Guild. What collective benefit does this bring to contributors and to TWG?

NJL: If I’m going to invest my time in someone, I want it to be for a person who understands the value of being part of a team. So working only with members of The Word Guild seemed logical to me. No, just becoming a member by paying one’s dues doesn’t guarantee the person won’t just get what he or she wants and then leave, but it’s a start.

Also, The Word Guild is promoting the book, so it’s only logical to prefer that the writers in the book be members.

WEN: I think that people don’t always understand that both the Hot Apple Cider books were created to benefit ALL members of The Word Guild, whether or not they were chosen to be in the books. We’re modeling what it means—and the amount of work it takes—to produce an excellent product that can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with any other book on the market. We’re modeling working together as a team, to the benefit of enhancing everyone’s career. We’re increasing the public profile of all Canadian writers who are Christian, and everyone who’s in The Word Guild.

I like using the analogy “a rising tide lifts all boats.” We are working hard to enlarge the market and strengthen the publishing community for all Canadian writers who are Christian.

Janet: The Word Guild raised the money to pre-purchase 30,000 copies of A Second Cup of Hot Apple Cider to donate to World Vision for their Girls’ Night Out and Couples’ Night Out programs. This happened with the first book too, so obviously it’s considered a win-win deal. What are the key benefits to TWG?

NJL: When we began The Word Guild, there were certain “givens” in terms of the book publishing industry in Canada.

A. Few people (including staff in Christian bookstores) were even aware there were Canadian writers who were Christian.

B. Since there was virtually no publishing in Canada, you pretty well had to get published in the United States, and the fact that you were Canadian was rarely mentioned, even in Canada.

C. There was a stigma that Christian books published in Canada weren’t very good, since most of them were self-published.

So the benefits to The Word Guild are the ability to get a lot of Canadian writers’ work in one book, you have clearly Canadian content, and you have a terrific book published in Canada. And an extra 30,000 copies are being given out across the country.

WEN: To this day, many people—including staff in Christian bookstores or church librarians—may be surprised to hear that authors published in the U.S. such as Janette Oke or Mark Buchanan are Canadians. Yet today, I’d estimate at least 95% of the product in Canadian Christian bookstores is American. The Word Guild has done a lot in the last 10 years to change public perceptions, but we’ve to a lot more to do.

Yes, the Hot Apple Cider books are a win/win situation for everyone. The writers help the humanitarian ministry of World Vision. World Vision gets a valuable gift to distribute at its events. The writers get their work directly into the hands of 30,000 potential buyers. Attendees are excited to receive a gift, and become aware that Canadian writers are worth reading. They hopefully become more interested in seeking out Canadian writers, so they can read stories relating to their own country, their own culture, their own history, their own neighbours.

Janet: The quieter member of the That’s Life Communications publishing team is Les Lindquist, who’s been assessing the changing trends of publishing and handling contracts and other details.

NJL: Without Les, there would be no organization called The Word Guild, no publishing of Hot Apple Cider, nada.

Janet: I’m thankful to be a contributor to A Second Cup of Hot Apple Cider, and have enjoyed reading everyone else’s stories. The anthology has the same restful artwork as the first volume, and it’s a delightful gift book as well as one to keep at home. Dare I ask if there’ll be a volume three?

NJL: We hope so.

WEN: Some experts say that writing a good book is just 10 percent of the work, promoting it effectively is the other 90%. So although we’ve made history by holding over 150 promotional events in seven provinces since the book was released, we’ve only scratched the surface of what could be done to make more people aware of this great book. Helping A Second Cup reach its potential and its audience is the focus for now. But building on everything we’ve done to expand the series would be great.

Janet: With the intensive editing behind you, what projects are you working on now?

NJL: I basically stopped writing close to ten years ago when I began the process that ended up in the founding of The Word Guild. I feel that A Second Cup of Hot Apple Cider is a fitting finale for my years of involvement in virtually every aspect of The Word Guild. It meets our initial mandate of having a team of people working together, helping people develop their skills, and working together in marketing and promotion.

I have about 24 books I’ve begun in the past, and I want to get busy on finishing some of them. High on my priority list is the third of my Manziuk and Ryan mysteries, and then I have a fantasy I need to figure out what to do with, and some other novels and non-fiction, including a memoir. I have lots to keep me busy.

WEN: I have lots to keep me busy too. Like N. J., my energies were completely used in writing and editing related to The Word Guild or Hot Apple Cider books in recent years, with time for just a few freelance articles. I’m working on developing several non-fiction books I’ve envisioned, as well as using my experience to produce some e-books and webinars geared to teaching writing.

Janet: I look forward to what we’ll see from you both in the future. The Lord continue to equip and bless you, and to accomplish great things through you.

Interview: The Editors of A Second Cup of Hot Apple Cider

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Since A Second Cup of Hot Apple Cider: Words to Stimulate the Mind and Delight the Spirit was released in May 2011, the book’s writers have participated in more than 150 readings and signings in seven provinces.

A Second Cup of Hot Apple Cider is an all-Canadian book that is receiving five-star reviews. The inspirational collection of stories by writers who share a Christian faith perspective contains short fiction, poetry, and personal experience articles, all of which provide hope and encouragement. [See more about the extensive cross-Canada launch.]

The book signings continue, and they’re listed on the Meet Us page of the hotapplecider.ca website. If there’s one near you, drop in to say hello!

In the January/February 2012 issue of Faith Today, reviewer Violet Nesdoly wrote, “Though the writing styles are varied, the book [A Second Cup of Hot Apple Cider] was skilfully edited to preserve the individual voices while providing a smooth read.” [Faith Today review, part one and part two.]

The anthology’s co-editors, N.J. Lindquist and Wendy Elaine Nelles, did an amazing job of pulling the selections together, and they’ve taken time to answer a few questions:

Janet: A year ago now, you were both putting in some incredibly long hours to get the book ready for print. The initial work had started in August 2010, and for four months (October/10 to January/11), you were working seven days a week. You barely took time off for Christmas or New Years. This is the second volume of Hot Apple Cider, and you knew what you were getting into. What made you believe so strongly in the project?

NJL: Back in 2007, I was very frustrated because there were so few Christian books being published in Canada and there was very little support. When the opportunity arose to work with World Vision Canada, to have Canadian books given out at their events, I was determined to find a way to do it. That led to Hot Apple Cider in 2008, which was written by 30 authors who had already published books.

However, I really wanted to have an open call for stories so that newer or unpublished writers could have a chance to be included. I knew that if the opportunity to produce a second book arose I would grab it. It was a terrific opportunity to help a whole bunch of new writers learn about the editing and promotion process, not to mention having their voices heard. And it also means another great book going out to readers.

WEN: We believe strongly in the project because of all the many benefits it creates. We’ve showcased 60 Canadian writers who write from a Christian faith perspective in the two books. The first book became a Canadian bestseller, and the second book is well on its way. Mainstream stores like Chapters/Indigo are willing to stock it and hold book signings. Christian book retailers are becoming more aware of Canadian writers.

Janet: I know from personal experience that you didn’t just take whatever stories people turned in (my first submissions didn’t make the cut). Briefly, what submission criteria helped you choose the best of the best?

NJL: The pieces had to fit our themes, they had to be new (not reprints), they had to have originality and good writing, and the writers had to be willing to make changes and, ultimately, to trust us—or at least be willing to dialogue with us if they disagreed with a change we suggested.

Janet: Many of the final selections came in much rougher form than readers see in the book. The two of you make a formidable and effective editing team. I’ve heard contributors say they wished all their publishers edited like you do. Not only does this give a stronger result, in some cases it’s an investment in the development of new writers.

NJL: Thanks for your comments. Yes, there was a lot of editing. I’d say maybe 10 to 15% of the pieces required only minimal work on our part. Several final pieces actually involved combining two (in one case, three) smaller pieces. A number were almost completely rewritten or reordered. But we didn’t mind investing our time and energy if we felt the writers were learning, and of course, if we felt the resulting book would be great.

We could have rejected pieces that needed a lot of work, or picked more pieces that were okay but not great, or we could have gone in and made the changes on our own, but we wanted the writers to be involved in every part of the process, so they would understand the many facets of good editing, from concept through substantive, fact-checking, copy-editing, and proof-reading.

WEN: Publishing the two Hot Apple Cider books is being done for higher purposes. N.J. and I both invested much of the past decade in founding and building The Word Guild and directing the Write! Canada writers’ conferences, and working on these books is being done with the same vision, the same passion and philosophy. Our goals are to bring glory to the God we serve, to help readers who need to read these books, to strengthen the Canadian Christian writing and publishing community, to develop members of The Word Guild to become better writers, and to raise the bar of professionalism.

So we were willing to invest vastly more time and energy into the editing process than any other “commercial” publisher would, whether secular or Christian. From a strictly business or financial viewpoint, publishers can no longer afford the intensive editing and mentoring of promising writers that we were willing to do. So the Hot Apple Cider books are unique projects, which the publishers Les and N. J. Lindquist who own That’s Life! Communications were willing to do.

NJL: As to how we work, I tend to lean more toward the bigger picture things such as concept editing, substantive editing and general flow, while Wendy is much better at seeing inconsistencies, fact checking, grammar, and details in general.

WEN: We both did all the levels of editing, from developmental down to copy editing, on all the pieces. But we each came at the pieces from different viewpoints, experiences and skill sets, so we each would spot different things. It’s a prime example of the teamwork The Word Guild has been trying to exemplify since its inception 10 years ago. And it proves the old adage, two heads are better than one.

NJL: Wendy and I each read and discussed each piece, then we each did first edits on about half. I did the poetry and short stories and some of the non-fiction while Wendy stuck to first edits on non-fiction. Then we switched and each did a second edit of the one the other had done first edit on. Then each piece went to the writer, who could agree or disagree, add or delete as suggested, and so forth. Then we did the process a second time, and then a third time, each time getting more detailed and hopefully having fewer and fewer things to change or correct. This went on until all three of us were satisfied (Wendy, me, and the writer).

WEN: Some pieces went through three “back and forths” with the writer to get to the final version, others went through seven or eight.

Janet: I’m not sure where you found time to write, but you each contributed a piece for the anthology as well. Was it difficult editing one another’s work without that second, impartial editor?

[For NJ’s and Wendy’s answers to this and more, read the rest of the interview.]

Interview: Australian Author Paula Vince

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Paula Vince is a wife and homeschooling mother of three children, who lives in South Australia’s Adelaide Hills. She has always loved writing fiction as she believes a well-written story has the power to stir hearts like nothing else.

Paula’s most recent novel, Best Forgotten, won the Grand Prize in the 2011 CALEB Awards. The CALEBs are awarded annually to showcase the pre-eminent works of Christian literature (fiction, memoir, general non-fiction, devotional and poetry) written by authors of Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.

Janet: Welcome, Paula, and thanks for taking time to join us. Congratulations on the CALEB! Tell us a bit about Best Forgotten.

Paula: It’s about a young accident victim who wakes up in hospital without a clue who he is. Not only does he have nothing in common with his family but he develops a strong aversion to the person he used to be. The more he learns about himself, the more puzzled and upset he becomes. He finds out that his best friend has disappeared without a trace on the night of his own accident and he can’t shake off a hunch that he might have been involved. The more he tries to investigate, the more likely it appears that he was part of something really shady and sinister. He’s torn between wanting to find out and being afraid that he’ll have to face horrible consequences when he does.

He’s both hero and detective of his own story and terrified that he may also turn out to be the villain. And readers who enjoy a bit of romance won’t be disappointed.

Janet: Definitely sounds like a puzzle! Where did the story idea come from?

Paula: I’ve been fascinated by the relationship between our thinking patterns and what we make of our lives. Do our seemingly random choices have the impact to come back when we least expect them to and impact the rest of our lives? I’ve had this amnesia story swirling around in my mind for years while I’ve worked on other projects. One day, the plot seemed to take shape really quickly and I couldn’t wait to get started on it.

Janet: Another of your novels, Picking up the Pieces, was the winner of the religious fiction category of the 2011 International Book Awards. I guess this was a banner year for you! Would you like to tell us a bit about that book too?

Paula: Just before I started writing it, I’d been reading books with extremely nasty villains, which started me wondering what deeply rooted unhappiness would inspire a person to commit a serious crime. It seemed tragic that already troubled people had to bear a load of guilt and censure on top of whatever they’d done. I longed for a different story in which the hero/criminal is treated with the same sensitivity and compassion as his victim, so I decided to write one.

My main protagonist is a sensitive and introverted young man who commits a crime entirely out of character for him in a moment of extreme emotional stress. The story is about how each of the two main characters, he and the girl, deal with the aftermath and there’s a wonderful surprise at the end. I wanted Picking up the Pieces to be a book to turn stereotypes on their heads.

Janet: What are you working on now?

Paula: Another contemporary drama with a thread of mystery. Its working title is Along for the Ride. I’m tackling the questions of divine healing and whether God works independently or in response to our faith. The two main characters have been brought up in strong Christian households but realize that their concepts of God have always been far more limited than they’d care to admit.

Janet: You’re a deep-thinking writer! Of the seven novels you’ve written so far, do you have a favourite character or story?

Paula: So far, I have three favourites. I have a soft spot for Picking up the Pieces and Best Forgotten because I got so excited by the issues I tackled.

My other favourite is called The Castle of Light, the middle book in a fantasy/adventure trilogy. The central character was a ‘baddie’ in the first book but I decided that I understood and liked him. The second book in the trilogy was my attempt to convince readers who’d started the story hating him finish up understanding and cheering for him too.

Janet: That sounds like quite the challenge, but I’m guessing it worked fine where you’re pleased with the result. Speaking of challenges… homeschooling and writing…. Tell us what a typical day looks like.

Paula: I like to get up before the kids and use that creative time straight after sleep to work on my books. Only then can I work in total silence. Once the family is awake, housework, lessons and ‘Mum’s taxi-service’ takes over.

I’ve never written a novel in a household where there isn’t at least one little baby. At the moment I have a 16-year-old son, 13-year-old daughter and 7-year-old son. I believe making time to pursue your own projects is very important for homeschooling parents.

Janet: Yes, it’s important for parental sanity and as an example to the children. What got you started writing?

Paula: I’ve been an avid reader since I was very small. I always hated coming to the end of a great story because I wanted to know even more about the characters I’d come to love. I used to imagine my own future stories for them until I probably had enough ideas to fill several more books. One day, when teachers were asking us what we’d like to do when we left school, it dawned on me that I’d love to write fiction. If I had characters of my own to imagine plots for, I could stay with them for as long as I pleased and craft their stories to suit myself.

Janet: What’s one key thing do you want readers of Best Forgotten to take away when they’re done?

Paula: To think about what you think about every day. If you battle with despondency and depression, it may be worth examining the thoughts and attitudes that replay themselves over and over through your mind. My hero figures out that he was actually happier in a way when he had amnesia because he didn’t have his usual destructive thoughts to deal with. When his memory returns, he realises that he’s in a good position to start fresh and actively choose to accept or reject what he finds filling his head.

Janet: What’s it like when someone tells you they’ve changed because they connected with some aspect of your novels?

Paula: I appreciate it more than I can say. As I know many people making an active difference in the world, such as pastors, doctors, missionaries and teachers, it’s easy as a writer to wonder if I’m also making a difference in my own quiet way. When people take the time to tell me that my stories have blessed them and helped them to make positive changes, it’s awesome.

I’ve appreciated and taken on board many ideas from fellow authors over the years and love to think I can return the favour.

Janet: Is there a particular song or Scripture verse that’s made a big difference for you?

Paula: I love Romans 8:28. “We know that all thing work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose.” This verse features strongly in Best Forgotten too.

Janet: What do you like best about the writing life?

Paula: I love playing around with different word combinations until they express exactly what I’m trying to say. I love the feeling that the characters are my friends and when readers tell me that they feel like their friends too, that makes my day.

Janet: What do you like least?

Paula: I’m not a natural salesperson, so trying to promote and market my books has caused me headaches over the years. The financial strain has been problematic too. My husband is currently a full-time student and bringing up three children on what we earn has caused us plenty of stress.

Janet: What do your family think of your writing?

Paula: They say, “It’s good!” They are a family of few words. Seriously, I think they are proud. My husband and eldest son have been counted among my editors and I’ve taken advice of theirs on board. My daughter has enjoyed some of my books too and even my youngest son catches the enthusiasm when I’m working on something.

Janet: Writers are told to read widely and voraciously. I think that’s one of the perks of the deal. What are you reading these days?

Paula: I love to read other works of Christian fiction. Contemporary, historical, fantasy, it’s all great. Strengthening peoples’ faith through the medium of stories is very rewarding, whether I’m writing or reading. Recently I’ve been reading new novels written by other Australians. This is particularly exciting because until recently, we haven’t had many Christian fiction authors. North America has held a bit of a monopoly on the genre and it’s wonderful to see Aussies joining the ranks. I feel like a pioneer and I’m looking forward to seeing what the future holds for Aussie fiction.

Janet: With Amazon and with the variety of e-book formats available, it’s great that readers from around the world can read works from other parts of the world. What are you listening to these days?

Paula: I admit that I enjoy listening to pop rock and love ballads from the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s.

Janet: What do you like to do to get away from it all?

Paula: I enjoy bushwalking, hiking and long country drives. Each day I try to fit in a walk around my own district. I find taking a night drive with good music playing is a wonderful way of getting ideas flowing. Family outings and holidays are always enjoyable too.

Janet: Tell us some of the things you love most about living in Australia.

Paula: I love our warm climate and vast space. I love our unique flora and fauna and breathtaking coasts. I love the particular style of humour and candour of Australians. Many Aussies, like me, can claim to be descended from strong and admirable people of faith who lived rugged, gruelling lives. I love to think I have their blood flowing in my veins.

Janet: It looks like you’re part of a vibrant network of Christian writers. How has being part of Omega Writers benefited you? And are you involved with other writers’ groups?

Paula: Omega Writers and Christian Writers Downunder, my two favourite groups, are great at offering support and keeping each other in touch with opportunities and competitions as well as what we’re all doing. I’m also beginning to look into joining some international writing support groups too.

Janet: It’s great that with email we’re not limited to the few writers we may know within driving distance. What would you say to a beginning writer?

Paula: Firstly, write the sort of material you love to read yourself. Stay true to your own voice and don’t be concerned about fitting yourself into some niche or conforming to what you believe ‘the market’ is looking for.

Secondly, make sure you begin with the expectation that you’ll have to go over your material and re-write several times. Train yourself to enjoy the many polishing and editing stages as much as you enjoy the initial creative rush.

Above all, enjoy every moment. Let it always remain a great privilege and pleasure rather than a chore.

Janet: Words of wisdom! Thanks so much for taking time to let us get to know you a bit, Paula. May the LORD continue to bless you and make you a blessing to others—in every area of your life.

===

A young accident victim wakes up in hospital and can’t remember who he is. Why does he have nothing in common with his family? Why does he despise the person he was supposed to be? Why has his best friend disappeared without a trace? And is somebody after him?

His family can offer no solutions. His girlfriend is strangely aloof. And he cannot shake off a feeling that the answers will prove more foreboding than his amnesia. Yet he must find out before he runs out of time. Paula Vince has woven elements of secrecy and suspense with her trademark warmth and compassion to bring you a new, fascinating story.

Best Forgotten is the CALEB Award fiction winner for 2011

You can find Paula Vince at Apple Leaf Books, and all of her books are available to order through the Apple Leaf store. Her books are also available through Amazon.ca, Amazon.com, and Amazon UK, as well as through the Kindle ebook store.

Paula also blogs at It Just Occurred to Me… and The Vince Review.

Interview: Janet C. Burrill

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Janet C Burrill Janet C. Burrill is a Canadian author celebrating the 2011 release of her first novel, Dark Clouds of the Morning. Because we share the same first name, I’ll be using initials instead of first names in the conversation below. To make it easier, remember the guest author’s comments are always in bold.

JS: Welcome, Janet Burrill, and thanks for joining us. You’ve published shorter work before, but congratulations on your new novel! Tell us a bit about Dark Clouds of the Morning.

JCB: The story centres around the Halifax Explosion, Canada’s worst disaster, and the world’s worst prior to the atom bomb. I created a cast of lovable characters who experienced various true-to-life situations that survivors went through at that time.

JS: Where did the story idea come from?

JCB: I became interested in the Halifax Explosion from hearing my mother tell what she knew about it. Years later, I became more interested, and decided I’d like to write a Christian novel set in this time period.

JS: Dark Clouds of the Morning is set in 1917, and the setting of Halifax, Nova Scotia, has changed a lot since then. You did a lot of research into the time period as well as into the explosion itself. Care to share some of the stranger bits of trivia you picked up?

JCB: There is a lot of material out there, where one may learn more about the subject. I collected every book I could find on it, as well as accessing information from the N. S. Archives. I discovered, for example, that the train from Boston, bearing doctors and nurses to aid in the disaster relief, ran into complications. A fierce snowstorm blew in from the Atlantic seaboard, and stalled the train on Folly Mountain, 75 miles from Halifax. Despite the efforts of the engineer and train crew, the train was immobile for several hours. All on board were frantic; Halifax needed them.

I discovered, too, that soldiers wives whose husbands were overseas were classed as prostitutes. As such, they were not given much, if any, financial help for their needs.

Another shocking thing I discovered was that those Canadians who bore German surnames were treated unfairly and blamed for the explosion. Many of the men were incarcerated, and their children had the distress of being cruelly mocked by their peers.

JS: I hadn’t known these things before reading your novel! Another thing I was surprised to learn was that the burial efforts for the Titanic victims in 1912 actually helped the citizens of Halifax when the explosion occurred five years later.

JCB: Thankfully, those who had worked to set up and operate a morgue for the Titanic victims were still around. They quickly came forth to offer their services to do the same for the explosion victims.

JS: Do you have a favourite character in the novel?

JCB: You bet! It’s the heroine, Jennie. (I’m mighty fond of several others, too.)

JS: Is there a sequel in the works?

JCB: Yes, I’m pleased to say that I’m working on it now. It follows the same characters, and introduces a few new ones.

JS: Dark Clouds of the Morning was a few years in the making, and as a member of your critique group I enjoyed hearing the early excerpts. I’m sure the sequel will come together faster because you’ve already done the research, but how long did book one take to write?

JCB: Oh, my! I’m sorry to say it took ten years, and that is because certain events in my life kept me away from writing for a while. I pray, Lord willing, this new book will come together much more quickly.

JS: Writers are told to read widely and voraciously. I think that’s one of the perks of the deal. What are you reading these days?

JCB: I always have a book on the go. There are several authors I enjoy, like Jan Karon, of the Mitford series, and Michael Phillips and Judith Pella, who co-authored the Stonewycke Trilogy, of which I’m now reading the second book. These last are historical romances, which are my favourite. (Maybe that’s why I prefer to write them.)

JS: What do your family think of your writing?

JCB: I am blessed! They all love what I write, brag about me (blush!) and help sell my books.

JS: Is there a particular song or Scripture verse that’s made a big difference for you?

JCB: God is my fortress and my strength. In Him do I trust.

JS: What’s the most surprising thing you’ve ever done?

JCB: I would say when I contacted 100 Huntley Street this summer, and told about my book. The kind lady I spoke to said, “We take people, not for what they’ve done, but for what God has done in them. Send us your testimony.” I did, and to God be the glory, they accepted me. You can view the programme here: Janet Burrill interview part 1 and Janet Burrill interview part 2.

JS: Thanks so much for taking time to let us get to know you a bit, Janet Burrill. May the LORD continue to bless you and make you a blessing to others—in every area of your life.

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On December 6, 1917, two ships collided near the waterfront of the Halifax, Nova Scotia Harbour. One was carrying tons of munitions. On impact, a giant explosion occurred, killing and injuring thousands. Can Jennie and her family rise up from the tragedy and trauma to ultimate triumph?

See my review of Dark Clouds of the Morning.

To learn more about Janet C. Burrill or to order signed copies of Dark Clouds of the Morning visit her website. The novel is also available through online bookstores or for order in your local brick-and-mortar bookstore. The ebook is available through Books on Board.

Friday Friends: Ginny Jaques, author of Zinovy’s Journey

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Ginny Jaques is a Canadian author whose debut novel, Zinovy’s Journey, released in October 2011. I first read the opening of an earlier draft of the story in an online contest put on by Marcher Lord Press. Readers were the judges, and the winner got published. I don’t remember who won, but I was disappointed when this story about a guy named Zinovy didn’t make it. I really liked the author’s style.

Janet: Welcome, Ginny, and thanks for taking time to join us. I don’t remember how we eventually connected, but I’m glad we did—and glad Zinovy’s full story is now available.

Ginny: I don’t remember when we first met either. It’s funny how you meet people in situations that you don’t know are going to be significant, so you don’t mark the date on your calendar! I know it was through the Marcher Lord Press contest Jeff sponsored in 2009.

Janet: Tell us a bit about Zinovy’s Journey.

Ginny: Zinovy’s Journey is a speculative novel about a Russian cosmonaut who is preparing to shuttle down to Cape Canaveral from an international space station when the earth below is destroyed in a nuclear holocaust. He’s used to being in charge of his life, but now he’s caught in circumstances that are totally beyond his control. The book chronicles his journey toward acceptance of the truth that he cannot be his own god, and the realization that there’s Someone else, who’s been walking beside him all the time, who is much better qualified to fill that position in his life.

Janet: Where did the story idea come from?

Ginny: The idea came out of one of those “What if. . .?” questions that sometimes send writers off on interesting journeys. I thought, what if, when Jesus comes back to establish His kingdom on earth, there are people away from the world at the time? What would they see, from wherever they were? What would they do? The opening conflict, and the beginnings of a plot scheme developed naturally from that point on.

Janet: Was the Marcher Lord Press contest the manuscript’s first exposure?

Ginny: Yes, the MLP contest was Zinovy’s first exposure. I’d pitched the manuscript to a few editors before, but Jeff was the first one who really listened and expressed an interest in the idea. I had scheduled an appointment with him at the American Christian Fiction Writers conference in Denver, mainly to get advice about who else I might approach. He’d just introduced the MLP contest, and invited me to submit. It was the beginning of the boost I needed to go for publication.

Janet: You chose to self-publish Zinovy’s Journey, with skilled advisers at every step of the way. What sorts of things would have gone wrong if you’d tried it on your own?

Ginny: I honestly wouldn’t have been able to do this on my own. There were just too many things I didn’t know. I knew some things I’d need, like a book cover, and typesetting, but I had no idea where to begin looking for them. Jeff Gerke was encouraging about the manuscript from the start, and he kind of fell into the position of my self-publishing consultant. I’d e-mail him with questions and he’d send back the answers, along with encouragement to go ahead and try things myself. He was literally a God-send.

Janet: I think the biggest danger of self-publishing is not knowing what questions to ask. Well, second-biggest. The biggest is thinking one’s work is perfect as-is and deciding one doesn’t need an editor. You successfully avoided both. Having gone this route, do you expect to do the same with your next novel? There will be a next one, right?

Ginny: Yes, you’re right. If you know the questions, you can find the answers, but if you don’t even know the questions you’re stuck. But it’s gotten easier to self-publish knowledgeably, even since last year when I began this project. There’s so much information out there now.

As for the “perfect as-is” manuscript, it doesn’t take much probing to discover that your work isn’t perfect. If you can’t see it, there will always be people eager to show you!

And about a next novel, no, I don’t have plans. I’m still recovering from this one.

Janet: Recovering. I hear you. What got you started writing?

Ginny: Actually, it was this story that got me started. Unlike other authors, I’ve never had a driving ambition to be a writer. Writing is such hard work, and I’m not highly motivated to do hard work! I would never have done this if the story hadn’t just insisted that I tell it. I’m ashamed to say that, but it’s the truth.

Janet: Writing is definitely something where you have to be motivated or you’ll never get to the end of the first draft. Okay, I’m going to ask a question I personally hate answering. Feel free to pass. What’s the novel’s theme? Or what one key thing do you want readers to take away when they’re done?

Ginny: The theme. Hmm. There are several, but the central one probably has to do with personal freedom—the freedom God grants us to choose our own eternal destiny. We can’t control our circumstances, but I do believe we are in control of how we respond to them—how we allow ourselves to see God in them. I want readers to come away from the story realizing that they have the option of responding to God’s love, and that the choices they make regarding this opportunity are of eternal significance.

Janet: May they see the choice and choose carefully! I know the novel’s just released, but what has reader response been like so far?

Ginny: Reader response has been encouraging. Surprisingly so. I’m pleased that people of both genders and all ages have reacted positively to the book. Even people who are not religious appreciate the story, which pleases me even more. It’s a Christian story, bottom line, but non-Christians have always been my target audience.

Janet: Is there a particular song or Scripture verse that’s made a big difference for you?

Ginny: I’ve always loved the song, “Trust and Obey.” I think it totally sums up the way we should live our lives. It’s the way I’ve tried to walk on this writing journey, just taking one step of faith at a time. I don’t think there is any other way this book could have happened.

Janet: What do you like best about the writing life?

Ginny: Tee hee. See comments above, under what got me started! The thing I like best about the writing life is when the manuscript is done and I can quit. It’s kind of like banging your head against the wall. More positively, I suppose, it’s the sense of satisfaction you get from the finished product. And a chance to curl up with someone else’s good book instead of having to work on your own.

Janet: Ah. “It feels so good when you stop.” I get it. What do your family think of your writing?

Ginny: My family has always been supportive of my writing, but it’s been tough love. They are my most honest critics. It’s probably a good thing that none of them read the whole thing before it was published. I might still be revising! My husband has been very patient with the process, and he fed and clothed me while I wrote. I couldn’t have done it without him.

Janet: Writers are told to read widely and voraciously. I think that’s one of the perks of the deal. What are you reading these days?

Ginny: I read a variety of books. When I’m writing, I try to read authors whose writing styles I admire, because I tend to mimic the style of the writing I’m reading. But now that I’m through writing, I can play around a bit. I just finished Decision Points, George Bush’s autobiography. I wanted to get his perspective on his presidency and it was a great read. Right now I’m reading Helen of Troy, a historical novel written by Margaret George, a delightful writer I met at the Surrey International Writer’s Conference in October. I’ve got a stack of books by my bed and I’m working my way down.

Janet: What do you like to do to get away from it all?

Ginny: I love to go to places that are warm and sunny. We usually go to Los Angeles in the spring to visit relatives, and I soak up the sounds and sights and smells of California. I’m originally a California girl, so the nostalgia is an added bonus.

Janet: What’s the most surprising/fun/zany/scary thing you’ve ever done?

Ginny: I honestly never have done anything surprising/fun/zany or scary, other than self-publish this book. Unless you count spending 20 years as a high school substitute teacher. That might qualify. I’m actually a very boring person. I suppose it’s not very good marketing to say that. Zinovy is much more interesting than I am, though.

Janet: That’s probably true of most writers. We’re alive, but our characters are a bit larger than life. Who wants to read about “normal”? And as a writer, I think taking on the whole independent publishing thing is pretty scary. [Substitute teaching sounds downright terrifying to me. I remember some of my classmates!] I’m curious what prompted a female Canadian author to choose a Russian man as her protagonist. Zinovy’s story could be anyone’s story, from anywhere, and we’re so overloaded with North American protagonists. He makes a refreshing change.

Ginny: I chose a Russian male to be the main character in the novel because I wanted someone who had no Christian background. It intrigued me to think how strange the new world would seem to someone who had no concept of the Kingdom of God. I figured a Russian KGB assassin would be about as far away from that kingdom as anyone could get. I’ve also never really seen myself as a Canadian writer. I’ve lived half my life in the U.S. and half in Canada, so I have more of an international perspective. That worked well for this novel. I agree that Zinovy is really everyman/everywoman. We all are on a heroic journey, looking for God, whether we know it’s Him we’re hungry for or not, and that kind of journey isn’t restricted to national boundaries.

Janet: Thanks so much for taking time to let us get to know you a bit, Ginny. May the LORD continue to bless you and make you a blessing to others—in every area of your life. And may He use Zinovy’s Journey to get many readers thinking about their own life choices.

Ginny: God bless you too, Janet. You’re a gift, and I’m so glad God gave me your friendship.

Janet: Someday we will yet meet in person!

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When the world ends…
Zinovy’s journey begins.

To view the trailer for Zinovy’s Journey or to read a sample chapter, visit the Zinovy’s Journey website. And here’s a link to my review of Zinovy’s Journey.

To learn more about Ginny Jaques, visit her at Something About the Joy and Something About the Writing Journey.

Janet Sketchley

Writing Christian Mysteries & Suspense

Category Archives: Writers and Books

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Interview: Janet C. Burrill

Friday Friends: Ginny Jaques, author of Zinovy’s Journey