When I left the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference in May of 2010 I overflowed with writerly confidence. My manuscript had received a positive critique. The words “you’re almost ready” had been uttered. I left with marching orders . . . to submit fiction proposals to three agents and one editor. And I intended to. As soon as I incorporated… [ read more ]

Some of the first “grown up” books I can remember reading were in the historical fiction genre. “Prairie romances” I think they’re called now. These days, I still love reading books set in a different time, where the plot and characterizations are influenced by the mores of the day and both time and place are… [ read more ]

Wednesday. At Blue Ridge, everyone is settling in. The newbies are learning their way around campus. The veterans have reconnected with old friends and made new ones. Everything is in full swing. They’ll be challenged this morning with a devotion and some time in worship. So before we dive in, let’s take a few moments… [ read more ]

Tuesday. At Blue Ridge , the conferees are heading to continuing classes and workshops. The paid critiques and meetings with agents and editors begin today. Let’s take a moment to pray for everyone who is about to lose their breakfast or lunch over the prospect of having their “baby” shredded to confetti and for those who didn’t… [ read more ]

I’ve been thrilled with the positive response to the Blue Ridge from Home Conference . I wish this blogpost could be full of all the things I’ve done in the past week to prepare…sadly, I’ve got nothing. The pedicure? Didn’t happen. The new outfit? Fat chance. But, I’m not giving up. Nasty stomach viruses and mountains of laundry notwithstanding, I’m determined to… [ read more ]