Today we welcome debut author Barbara M. Britton and get to know a little more about what makes her tick. Barbara, welcome!
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I write on a paper notepad with a pen or pencil. Yes, I write everything long hand and then I type it into a computer. I’m not the best typist (I was one of two freshman put in biology class instead of typing) so it is easier for me to scribble what is going on in my head and transcribe it later.
What makes this book special to you?
“Providence: Hannah’s Journey” was my first Biblical Romantic Adventure and my first story to win a writing contest in the inspirational category. I had to chuckle when judges said they liked my “modern Biblical voice.” What is that? I really do talk normal. Okay, I use a few Wisconsin words like bubbler and brat (this is not a nasty kid, but a sausage). Hannah’s story was the fourth book I wrote, but the first to be published.
Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
The dreaded middle is the hardest part for me to write. I have a good idea where to start my stories, and I know there will be a happy ending, but all those chapters in-between have to be structured just right. Attention spans are getting shorter, so I try to keep my pacing fast and my dialogue interesting. And of course, there has to be a point to the scene I’m writing, or the middle will “sag.” Writing is a lot of hard work and perseverance.
Do you have any advice for other writers?
The best advice I received as a newbie writer was to join a professional writing organization and attend conferences centered on writing. Since my first book was a romance, I joined Romance Writers of America and got involved in the local chapter, Wisconsin Romance Writers of America. I served on the WisRWA board for five years and made several friends, one of which is my critique partner. A group of us meets once a week to write, brainstorm, and talk shop. I also take online courses and attend workshops on the craft of writing. I also would encourage writers to never give up. I was told my writing was “too clean and wholesome” but I stuck to my beliefs and eventually sold a story. I also belong to the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW).
Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
Yes, a huge thank you for reading Hannah and Gilead’s story. With so many books to choose from, I am grateful they chose mine to read. Please leave a review if you enjoyed the book. Some books don’t get “seen” at online book stores unless they have fifty reviews.
Thanks to Barbara for stopping by today. Be sure to pick up her debut Biblical fiction, Providence: Hannah's Journey.
>>>For the Giveawy: Barbara & COTT are offering two (2) free eBook copies of PROVIDENCE to two readers of this blog post. Simply leave a comment below with your name and contact information so we can notify you via Email should you be one of the winners.
This giveaway ends one week from today on Monday, September 26 at Midnight, Central. Don't miss this chance to read what promises to be a great book. AND, be sure to view the book trailer below..
Oh, those sagging middles...! The middle of a book is my hardest part to write, as well. Love getting the story going - the first few chapters come easily. :)
ReplyDeleteHey, I think a little Wisconsin lingo might make a biblical fiction entirely unique. lol
I think you are on to something, Delia. I can dress my characters in green and gold (Go Pack Go!) and they can drink from a bubbler, and eat brats and cheese.
ReplyDeleteI always struggle with the middle, as well! I love setting up the beginning and bringing everything to a close at the end, but the middle is where I sometimes lose control. Glad to know I'm not the only one.
ReplyDeleteOfficial CP here! I already bought my copy, so no need for a freebie! This book is worth the cost of admission and then some! I dare you not to fall in love with my book boyfriend Gilead! Holy Hottie! Congrats Barb!! Such a well-deserved sale for an awesome writer!!
ReplyDeleteI always write the first three chapters last. Hmmm... The way to prevent the sagging middle is crisis and disaster, crisis and disaster. Barb, you're a master at that! Already bought my copy as well, no need for a freebie. Congrats!
ReplyDeleteYes, Betsy, loved Gil.
Thanks for stopping by Betsy and Carla. Thanks for the love. It's nice to have a few more Wisconsinites chime in, and WisRWA members to boot!
ReplyDeleteAw, thanks Meg. It's fun writing Biblicals where the tribes of Israel are fighting each other, or someone else. It makes for a lot of action.
ReplyDeleteLove, love, loved this book! I'm so glad you followed your heart and didn't give in because it was a wonderful story. I agree with Betsy...Gil is a holy hottie indeed!
ReplyDeleteAnd, I'm with you on those sagging middles. I'm fighting one myself now. And I still marvel how you can write everything out long hand. You're an inspiration in many ways!
(P.S. I already have a copy of the book so no need to enter me in the drawing.)
Hi, Barbara, It's been fun being a part of this blog tour featuring you and your book. I, too, am a fellow Wisconsonite, living up in Indianhead country :)
ReplyDeleteReading all these comments, I not only want to read this book, but I'm in there right along with the rest of you about those "saggy middles" - - -
So far, it looks like the only two in the running for the drawing here, as far as I can tell, are Delia and Carla, but there's still time for others to enter.
Thanks, Barb!
Thanks for having me on your blog, Peggy. I'm feeling the love from all my Wisconsin friends.
ReplyDelete