IWSG for September and Links!

{Note to followers: if you want an email when a new post goes up, go the right column and subscribe for emails. Thanks.}

Insecure Writers Support Group

Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds! Co-Hosts: Tyrean Martinson, Tara Tyler Raimey Gallant Beverly Stowe McClure

September Question: Have you ever surprised yourself with your writing? (For example, by trying a new genre you didn't think you'd be comfortable in?)

Short Answer: All the time. Everyday. ;-) 

Long Answer: I've been working on my present WIP since March 2008. It was only this May that I realized the theme of my story. It's been in front of my face the entire time. I write Christian Women's Fiction. Here's my short pitch. 

Laura Grace Bradshaw, retired teacher, childless, and recently widowed, defies her narrow-minded family and her small Southern church when she opens her home to abused twelve-year old Samantha Smith, who might be the key to long-buried family secrets.

Do you see the theme? I didn't. It's a Good Samaritan story. Truly, I hadn't seen that until lately. I added an epigram and some scripture at the end to show the theme more clearly. Will those additions be part of the published version? I have no clue. Only the Good Lord above knows that. 

When I pitch it at the national ACFW conference in Dallas later in September, we'll see if any of the agents like it. Whatever happens, I know the best will be. I trust the new understanding to see me through. 

What about you? What's the craziest thing you've learned from writing?

Links:

• "The Seven Most Common Manuscript Submission Mistakes"
• This is an oldie, but a must read: "Will Literary Agents Really Read Your Query Letter?"
• "Why Agents Reject 96% of Author Submissions"
• Do you need more focus? Try the Pomodoro Technique: "What to be More Focused & Productive?
• Jane Friedman gives us clues on "The Challenges of First-Person POV"
• Sometimes, the necessary, stark truth hurts, but don't let it stop you from creating--"Want to Earn a Living Creating? Here's Your Mountain"
• Past or Present tense? I have a preference and Novel Writing Help's "Past Tense or Present Tense" explains why for me. What about you?
• I love, love, love this one: "Writing Insights Part One"

Next post: September Book Pusher, of course. ;-)