Pattern Recognition/Deep POV/California Pastors/Encouragement/Crocheting

1.  Has your novel been rejected multiple times? Writer Unboxed shares the secret to more efficient revision: pattern recognition. This is an excellent article for both the newbie and more experienced writer.

2.  Lisa Hall-Wilson talks about how to fix the problem when distance creeps into deep POV. In case you don't know what deep POV is, she also starts off with an excellent definition.

3. Faithwire reports on California pastors determined to open their doors on May 31st. They are not asking for permission.

4.  Alicia Bruxvoort posts at Encouragement for Today: "I Love the Way You're Loving Me!"

5.  Many folks have picked up new hobbies during the lockdown. Crocheting is a fun and rewarding activity. I discovered this board of Pinterest with lots of free and easy patterns.

Writers:  Do you actively study the writing craft? What kind of activities do you engage in to improve your writing?

Readers:  Have you picked up any new hobbies over the past month or two? Please share.

Photo Credit:  Bartek Ambrozek

Synopsis/Defense Mechanisms/Liberties/Encouragement/Succulents

1.  Jane Friedman posts on "How to Write a Novel Synopsis." Writing a novel is hard work, but condensing it into a synopsis...not for the faint of heart.

2.  Wow! Lisa Hall-Wilson writes, "Using Defense Mechanisms To Create Emotional Depth In Fiction." Good stuff, people.

3.  WND reports on Kansas City, Missouri's mayor demanding churches provide the names, addresses, and phone numbers of anyone showing up for worship services. Many would have us believe that it's okay to trample on Constitutional rights if politicians deem something is an emergency. They have gone too far as many incidents show. I don't  know about you but I haven't drunk the Koolaid.

4.  Encouraging news - Faithwire reports that 21.5% of non-Christians say Coronvirus Pandemic has led them to read the Bible.

5.  Spring is when succulents wake up from their winter sleep and have a growth spurt. Unfortunately, if they haven't been getting enough light, they may be getting tall and stretched out. Check out this post by The Succulent Eclectic on how to remedy this situation and save your plant.

Writers:  What is the hardest writing task for you?

Readers:  Which link attracted your attention? Why?

Photo Credit:  M B

Newbies/Emotional Context/COVID-19/Devo/Recipe

1.  OK, newbies, here are six things not to do when you're starting your book (or blog). Check out Cathy Fyock's article on The Write Conversation.

2.  Lisa Hall-Wilson asks, "What Is Emotional Context And Why Does Your Story Need it?

3.  Faithwire reports on Homeland Security's comments that summer heat and sun may kill COVID-19.

4.  Edie Melson, at The Write Conversation, talks about, "Walking Through The Storms of Life."

5.  With warm weather on the horizon, Averie Cooks gives us a no-bake recipe for chocolate peanut butter fudge bars. Just the name has my mouth watering!

Writers:  What are some of the things you learned NOT to do as a writer?

Readers:  We're going through some trying times with COVID-19. How are you handling the stress?

Photo Credit:  the_franz

Isolation/Platform/Intelligent Design/Devo/Progress Report

1.  Frank McKinley, at the Positive Writer, talks about why writing in isolation is good for you. My own experience mirrored his. I get too distracted if the Internet, email, music, or other things are vying for my attention. Check it out. You may find a tip that makes your writing life more productive.

2.  Platform is one of those words writers love to hate. Publishers demand Social Media numbers most of us can only dream about. Lisa Hall-Wilson addresses how to build a platform on Facebook. She has a unique way of approaching the subject that I found helpful.

3. Christian Astrophysicist offers a brilliant reply to Richard Dawkins criticism of intelligent design. See the article on Faithwire. Home school people - you might find this valuable for your curriculum.

4.  Rhonda Rhea's devotional on The Write Conversation tells us about "Scratching Where It Itches." I'm sure that captured your attention. LOL! She uses humor to talk about a serious subject.

5.  You may recall that I've started a modest succulent collection. I'm not a great photographer, but the photo at the top of this post shows that I haven't killed any of them yet! My Jade plant is growing so fast that it will need a bigger pot soon. 

Can anyone identify the plants in the pictures below? I know one of them is  an  Echevieria (Sp?). There are so many varieties that I'm having a hard time locating their names. The one in front is so pretty with green leaves tipped in red.

Writers:  Please share some of your platform-building hacks.

Readers:  Are you a gardener/houseplant lover? What was your favorite project this summer?

Photo Credit:  Susan J. Reinhardt

Reviews/Marketing Myths/Chick-fil-A/Speakers/Drying Herbs

1.  Amazon reviews affect readers' buying decisions. How do you get those reviews for your book? Check out Penny Sansevieri's article at Jane Friedman's blog.

2.  Lisa Hall Wilson talks about 6 Marketing Myths That Harm Fiction Writers. The Internet and the publishing industry seem to be changing at warp speed. Methods that were the gold standard years ago do not necessarily apply today. Check out her post.

3.  Faithwire tells how Chick-fil-A almost shut down in the 1980's. See what turned their business into a success. They are now the third largest restaurant chain.

4.  Yvonne Ortega posts at The Write Conversation on Spiritual Preparation for Speakers. Whether you're an author, minister, teacher, or counselor, this article can benefit you.

5.  If you use herbs in your cooking, you might like this article on how to dry them without sacrificing flavor. The Backyard Garden Lover gives several methods that produce excellent results.

Writers:  Which marketing myths surprised you? Please share.

Readers:  Do you review books on Amazon or other sellers? Please share.

Photo Credit:  Ana Labate

Time/Book Cover Design/Christian Airline/Devo/Amish Cleaning Hacks

1.  Lisa Hall-Wilson gives 5 Ways Time Affects How We Write. In deep point of view, we're not supposed to name emotions. However, there are exceptions. She explains the principles involved. I think even non-writers will find this article fascinating since it gives insight on how we process traumatic events.

2.  Carol Ashby posts at Seriously Write about designing book covers that appeal to both men and women. Since many authors are now going the Indie route, they're assuming full responsibility for every aspect of production. Don't miss this valuable advice.

3.  Christian Headlines reports on the world's first Christian airline. They will provide churches and missionaries with easier travel.

4.  "What is a God Adventure?" This devotional on CBN made me think, especially as the new year is fairly young. Check it out.

5.  I came across an item on Pinterest about Amish Cleaning Hacks. Check out some of their tricks for discouraging pests, degreasing, etc.

Writers:  Either fiction or non-fiction - how do you go about designing your book covers?

Readers:  Do you enjoy reading devotionals? What are some of your favorites?

Photo Credit:  Michelle Seixas

Incorrect Phrases/Powerful Antagonist/Victory/Devotional/Valentine's Day

1.  Zoe M. McCarthy talks about Incorrect Construction of Common Phrases. This was a fun read. I discovered a few that I've been using wrong.

2.  Having a powerful antagonist in your story is key to challenging your main characters no matter what the genre. Lisa Hall-Wilson gives 9 Tips For a Powerful Antagonist.

3.  Breaking Christian News reports on a victory for several Christian Ministries after a 4-Year Legal Battle regarding abortion.

4.  I've gotten into the habit of going to bed too late. Then I have trouble getting up at 5:00 AM and hit the snooze button: once, twice, ugh - three times. When I saw this article, "Escaping the Power of the Snooze Button," I had to read it. Yeah, it hit me right where I live.

5.  Valentine's Day is around the corner. I saw these cookies on FB and had to share them. Here's the tutorial.

Writers: Which common phrase tripped you up?

Readers:  When reading a book, how important is a strong antagonist to you? Please share.

Photo Credit:  Piotr Koczab

Stumped/Red Flags/Homeschool/Devo/Fudge Recipe

1.  Have you ever been stumped on how to get your character out of trouble? Dr. Richard Mabry shares how he handles this problem. Check out his post at Seriously Write.

2.  Lisa Hall-Wilson gives us red flags for author intrusion in deep pov (point of view). Internal dialogue works only if it feels organic to the reader. This may seem like heavy stuff, but whether you're experienced or a newbie, you can get something out of this article.

3.  Lifesitenews.com reported on a Virginia county that wants to repeal a law allowing homeschooling for religious reasons. Homeschool families have long been under attack. This is just another example.

4.  Lynn J. Simpson has a devotional entitled, "Words Richer Than Gold."

5.  When that chocolate craving hits, you might want to pull out this recipe for fudge. Averie Cooks shares an uncomplicated version to satisfy your sweet tooth or treat the kids in your family.

Writers:  Do you ever get your characters into trouble and then wonder how to rescue them? Please share.

Readers:  Do you collect recipes online? Have you tried any of them? Please share your experience.

Photo Credit:  Jesus Manuel Nieto Bobadilla

Setting/Subtext/China/Dating Advice/Leftovers

1.  For me, setting is one of the most difficult elements of writing a novel. I came across an excellent article on the Writer's Digest website. It's great for writers at all levels.

2.  Lisa Hall-Wilson writes on, "4 Ways To Replace Dialogue With Subtext." This article gives valuable tips on how to strengthen deep point of view. Newbies, don't be put off by the title. You can master this even as a beginner.

3.  Christian Headlines reports on a crackdown of religious expression in China. 300 Chinese schoolchildren were instructed to fill out a form and specify, "no religion."

4.  Lynn J. Simpson not only provides sound advice on dating, but also shares some of her exquisite photos.

5.  Yesterday was Thanksgiving here in the United States. Many of us enjoy the turkey and stuffing (or dressing, if you prefer to use that term), but how do we make it appetizing day 2, 3, and 4? Food Network  gives some interesting recipes. I particularly like the one with stuffing bites and cranberry pesto. 

Writers:  Which writing article did you find most helpful and why?

Readers:  What special holiday foods were on your Thanksgiving table this year?

Photo Credit:  Elvis Santana

Writer Voice/Discouragement/Possible Cure/Inspiring Post/Recipe

1.  For all you newbie writers and for those still confused about writer voice, Lisa Hall-Wilson clarifies its meaning. https://lisahallwilson.com/how-to-discover-your-author-voice-and-why-you-probably-already-know-it/

2.  Janet Sketchley posts at the Seriously Write blog about discouragement and thoughts of quitting her writing. https://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2018/08/quitting-time-by-janet-sketchley.html

3. Cancer is a horrible scourge, so any news pointing to a possible cure produces great hope. Breaking Christian News reports on development of a drug for acute myeloid leukemia.   http://www.breakingchristiannews.com/articles/display_art.html?ID=25446

My husband died from the acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a different form of the disease. Please pass this information along to anyone who is suffering or has a loved one battling leukemia.

4. Dena Netherton volunteers at a crisis pregnancy center. In this post, she gives a glimpse of her activities. She may never know the full impact of her work, but she knows God is weaving the threads into a bigger tapestry. https://denanetherton.me/2018/08/23/a-single-thread/

5. I don't know about you, but I love pasta salads. Unfortunately, most of them require mayonnaise or creamy dressings, which I can't eat. Averie Cooks came up with a Skinny Italian Pasta Salad recipe that I just printed out. If you try it, please let me know if it's as tasty as it looks.  https://www.averiecooks.com/skinny-italian-chicken-pasta-salad/

Writers:  Have you ever been confused about "writer voice?" What is your definition?

Readers:  Which topics in the Friday posts speak to you? I'd be interested in your feedback. :)

Photo Credit:  Bartek Ambrozik

Deep POV/Novel Pacing/Recall/Devo/

1.  Lisa Hall-Wilson, at Beyond the Basics, talks about how to get inside your characters' heads and make readers care. There are some interesting quotes from Ted Dekker.

2.  Yup, this is Lisa Hall-Wilson week here at Christian Writer/Reader Connection. In this post, she talks about the Pace of Your Novel. This is one I'll have to read multiple times to fully absorb.

3.  Breaking Christian News announced a recall of Lane Cedar Chests. 14 Children have suffocated to death after being trapped in them. If you have one in your home, whether an heirloom or newer, please read this post for information and instructions.

4.  Adelee Russell, at Rewritten talks about, "How Far Will You Go?" When God is moving you to take a step of faith, will you do it?

5.  As a reader, I sometimes come across a word or phrase that startles me. "Did they even use that terminology in this time period?" I had a question this week about the phrase, "piece of work." It was used in a derogatory sense. I looked it up online and found a website, Word Detective.com, that answered my question.

Writers and Readers:  Which link was your favorite this week and why?

Photo Credit:  Cecilia Picco

Indie Tips/POV/Persecuted Christians/Devo/Recipe

1.  Erica Liodice posted at Writer Unboxed about avoiding publisher's remorse. With so many people choosing the Indie route, it's easy to get tripped up. The writer gives some excellent tips on what to NOT do when preparing your book for readers.

2. Lisa Hall-Wilson gives 5 Ways Deep Point of View Delivers a Punch in Action Scenes. This is for the more advanced writer. If you're unfamiliar with Deep POV, it would be good to study the basics first.

3.  Faith, Family America reports on Vice-President Pence's plan to aid persecuted Christians in Iraq.

4. Audrey Frank shares a devotional on, "Why  Writers Need Each Other." While directed at writers, it will speak to the heart of every believer.

5.  Be still my heart! Flourless, peanut butter, chocolate chip muffins are only 100 calories each.

Writers:  Are any of using the Indie route to publication? If so, what tip at Writer Unboxed helped you the most?

Readers:  What are your favorite go-to recipes? Please share.

Photo Credit:  Davide Guglielmo

POV/Writer's Block/Unborn Babies/Failure Isn't Forever/Recipe

1.  Point of View presents some sticky problems for writers. As we advance, we can still get caught with challenges in this area. Lisa Hall Wilson writes about 4 Point of View Breaks that Sneak In Even When You Know Better.

2.  Jane Anne Staw guest posts at Jane Friedman's blog on the subject of defeating writer's block. I've been struggling with my Work in Progress. I picked up several important tips from this article.

3.  Christian Headlines reports that Indiana's governor has signed a bill stating that unborn babies are persons. A criminal can now be charged with murder if a pregnant woman is attacked and she loses her unborn child.

4.  Andy Lee guest posts at The Write Conversation on "Failure is Not Forever." Whether or not you're a writer, this post applies to all of us.

5.  Melissa Lester shares a simple French Country Salad on her blog. It looks like a refreshing dish for a spring/summer lunch.

Writers:  Do you ever suffer from writer's block? How do you overcome it?

Readers:  Which link was your favor this week and why?

Photo Credit:  John Olsson