Life-Transforming Fiction

The Edgy Inspirational Novel

The age-old controversy. It was the summer of 1976, and I will never forget a conversation I had with the then not-yet-published Frank Peretti. We were enjoying a quick bite to eat in the relatively quiet oasis of the lunchroom, tucked away from the booming thunder of the ski factory where we both worked for the summer. On more than one lunch break, I listened as Frank shared his heart about the need for the church to embrace the arts in ways relevant to the culture, and the controversial minefields that first needed crossing.

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Diary Of A Crazy Writer

Critique Etiquette

In April’s column, I mentioned that writers should judge contests so they can understand what professionals experience when reading their manuscripts. Afterward, I thought of something just as significant—the writers’ points of view, how hard it is for them, especially when someone analyzes their work. Over the years, I’ve submitted my work to contests, fellow writers, and critique groups, and many of them have helped me. 

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Quantum Marketing

How to Get an Editor or Agent

Do you want to get an editor or agent? I have ten marketing methods to make it happen. These aren’t the only ways to make an impact, but believe me, these will make a lasting impression on your dream editor or agent. 1. Pitch editors and agents in the bathroom if possible. It’s where they’re most vulnerable, thus most open to suggestions.

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Character Therapy

Using the Term Psychopath Correctly in Fiction

This month is a good time to clarify the usage of the term psychopath in fiction, given that in April and May I focused on a two-part series on serial killers, many of whom do fit the description of a psychopath. Colloquially, people use the term to indicate that someone is “crazy,” but that would be a gross overstatement. I’ve got family members who are crazy, but they are in no way, shape, or form psychopaths. 

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