2018 Conference Keynote Ronie Kendig, and “New Story Smell”
If you were at a book event and someone asked you, “Why do you write?” what would you say? For me, writing is therapy. It’s the way I explore life and the adventure of it, the way I have an incredible sense of God’s presence as story elements I never dreamed of take shape and actually make sense (imagine!). I simply can’t not write.
Share a tidbit that has helped you in writing and/or marketing.
Do you have a mentor and/or author/and/or book that helped you this past year. Absolutely–Susan May Warren is a godsend and a brilliant woman. Her creativity is amazing, and she is filled with wisdom and graciousness–she loves to give and help others. She has helped me this year as I build my indie titles and generate income. She’s always encouraged me, right from the beginning of my career. And she’s, quite simply, a gorgeous friend!
What frustrates you the most, the editing or marketing? YES! Oh, was I supposed to only choose one? Honestly, they both drain me sometimes. Editing–as we all know–helps the story, but it is really rough on me, since my first love is “new story smell.” Marketing is draining because it steals so much time from the creative side of being a writer. Ultimately, but help our novels find readers they wouldn’t otherwise find, but I prefer to sniff that new-story smell and ride the “high” of that first draft and discovering who my character are, who they aren’t, and what will both propel and inhibit their success.