Into the Fire

As a non-bestselling author, I've learned a few things along the way, having started this writing novels thing later than most. So here's what I'm going to tell you about me.

Who I don't want to be as an author:

I don't want to be an author who ignores the fact that I can promote other authors who I enjoy and appreciate. No matter their success – be it spectacular or moderate or little-known – I can write posts about them, do reviews of their novels, and suggest readers look into their work. 

I don't want to be an author who focuses on myself and my work without recognizing and giving credit to other authors. I know the audience for my work might not be the typical Christian Fiction reader, but I can prop up other authors who write with a different style or in a different genre. 

Where I might have – well, actually, I confess I have – criticized a novel or two for the writing, the story, the characters, etc., I no longer do that. It's not a gracious thing to do, and sometimes it's simply a matter of taste. If I don't like a book, you won't read about it. 

What I will say I don't like:

I'm not fond of the trendy covers, story-types with catchy new genre titles. I read a few genres outside of my favorites but only by authors whose writing I can appreciate. 

I don't care for the major conflicts in romance novels that are a result of a refusal to communicate honestly – which is why I read very few romance novels in spite of writing love stories heavy on the romance. 

Just my Wednesday Wanderings . . . 

Father, please continue to encourage me to be the one you designed me to be. I'm always desperate for you. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.