Wedding Score Blog Tour- Guest Post by Amanda Tero

Hello everyone!

I’m so excited that Amanda is back, celebrating her new book, Wedding Score

Thank you, Medomfo, for allowing me to visit your blog! You asked me to share a little about how singleness and life in general affects my writing. That definitely gives me a lot to think through, and I hope I can share it in an understandable fashion!

 

My family likes to tease that “Wedding Score” is myautobiography. It’s not… kind of. I do have a lot of me within the pages though. For instance, I’m a musician (though I have only played for about a dozen weddings, not over a hundred, like Stephanie) as well as an upper-twenties single. I have had several close friends go through dating, engagement, and marriage, and have experienced the shifting relationships with all of those. 

 

I think I can safely say that every author’s life experiences directly influences their writing. Some of the ways that my life has shaped my writing is in what I write. Personally, it’s nothealthy for me to write a lot of romances, where I can “live out daydreams” in stories because I can’t live them in reality. Instead, I want my writing to not just focus my readers’ hearts on Christ; I need it to help me put my own focus where it needs to be.

 

My writing-time throughout the past few years has shifted drastically. In actuality, writing is more of my side-hobby, as I teach piano and violin part-time, attend college full-time, and tutor English part-time. In my experience, I have found the absolute worst thing singles can do is live for themselves. There is that fine balance between drowning out your discontentment with busyness and being busy because you’re serving the Lord (and yes, I have been in both places before). Personally, I have received such a blessing in the times that I have invested in others’ lives—whether it is through teaching or writing.

 

Each year, I just have to give my writing over to the Lord. It is something I’m very passionate about, yet He has also led me to do more than just write. It never ceases to amaze me how He will allow me to write something in His perfect timing. “Wedding Score,” for instance. I’ve had the idea simmering since 2016, but God definitely wanted me to grow through the years 2017, 2018, and most of 2019 before writing this story. The things I experienced as four of my siblings and multiple cousins married have been powerful lessons that have shaped my life and also made “Wedding Score” much more impactful. There are some raw moments in Stephanie’s lives, just like there are raw moments in our own lives. But, by the grace of God, I was able to write all of those difficult scenes with such a great peace and contentment because of what He has done in my life. If I had married before writing this book, I could have thought back to my single years, but it’s not the same as writing it as a single. So, though I still would love to have been married by now, I really am grateful to be in this season of life because I am seeing how God is using it far greater than I imagined.

 

For all of the singles out there reading this, God has a beautiful plan and purpose for your lives. It may not be exactly what you have planned out, but if you surrender to Him and live for Him, He can make such a beautiful testimony out of your life! It will not be easy, but it will be worth it!

Thank you so much Amanda for being on the blog today!

If you want to learn more about the Wedding Score, simply continue reading 💖

Most girls dream of their wedding days. Except me. I’m too busy practicing piano and being the live soundtrack for everyone else’s weddings to think about my own. 

I’ve survived most of my twenties with harmonious chords and pleasant days. So why is it that now, at twenty-seven, a discordant feeling presents itself? 

Is there a solid solution to loneliness when there is absolutely no potential husband on the horizon?

A CONTEMPORARY CHRISTIAN SHORT READ

 
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes&Noble | Kobo | Signed paperback 

About Amanda

 

Amanda Tero began her love for words at a young age—reading anything she could get her hands on and penning short stories as young as age eight. Since graduation, she has honed her writing skills by dedicated practice and study of the writing craft. She began her journey of publication with a few short stories that she had written for her sisters and continued to add to her collection with other short stories, novellas, and novels. It is her utmost desire to write that which not only pleases her Lord and Savior, but also draws the reader into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.

Connect with Amanda

| Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Blog | Goodreads | Amazon | 

amandaterobooks@gmail.com

How to Write Christian Suspense-Guest Post by Angela Watts

Hello everyone!

Today as part of her blog tour for her new book Seek, Angela has kindly written a guest post on writing Christian Suspense.

HOW TO WRITE CHRISTIAN SUSPENSE

Christian suspense is an entertaining genre and is full of variety. There are many articles on how to write good suspense fiction and how to give your reader a wild ride (and I recommend looking such posts up on Google!). As Christians, we should thrive to portray the Lord in our fiction, too. This might seem hard to do when suspense fiction often deals with rough content and serious themes.

I firmly believe that a novel can be a real nail-biter, while still showing God’s power and mercy. If anything, having God in your story will strengthen the novel’s themes. Here are a few tips I have on how to do that!

PRAY ABOUT IT

Don’t ever forget this step! We cannot write fiction that glorifies God—no matter what genre—without prayer. Ask the Lord what you should write and ask Him to give you strength and wisdom while you write. If you are struggling with a theme, pray about it.

PLOT IT

Suspense fiction is tricky. You’re more than likely juggling a plot and more than one subplot. In the beginning of a suspense, whatever is a stake must be shown. As you plot the story and develop the character’s motivations, this is when you decide on the story’s themes. This is when you discover what the character’s will go through and how they will grow in Jesus as the story goes on. Whether your character is a Christian from the start of the book or finds Jesus at the end, you still should have and understanding of the spiritual journey that will take place in the novel. Write down your Scripture verses for the story and characters. Brainstorm Biblical themes and morals and how they will play into the story. This is the crucial time where you develop how your suspense novel will glorify God!

BE BOLD ABOUT IT

You don’t know if someone besides a Christian will pick up our book. If someone who isn’t a believer picks your novel up, will they get a entertaining book with only brief Scripture verses about God? Just because we label our books Christian doesn’t mean they will have strong messages. I firmly believe if something is marked as Christian, it should be Christ-centered. God shouldn’t just be mentioned once!

When writing Christian suspense, I believe we should be bold about it. We don’t have to shy away from rough topics, instead, let’s show how God can still be found through dark times. Let’s show how God can give real peace even when life is tumbling to ruins. I know some Christians believe strongly in being subtle when it comes to portraying God in stories, but I believe we should ask God what He wants from us. If He calls us to be bold in our writing, be bold! If He wants us to be more subtle, go for it! But never let fear stop you from writing what God calls you to write.

~~~

There we have it! A few of my tips on portraying Christian messages in your suspense stories! If you would like some recommendations on Christian suspense, I personally love Dee Henderson, Frank Peretti, Ted Dekker, etc.

I would love to hear your thoughts on this matter, too!

God bless,

Angela R. Watts

Thank you so much Angela for these amazing tips!

If you want to learn more about Angela and her book, just keep reading!

Angel Cutler’s routine life is overturned when local ganglord Viktor Marino tries to kidnap her. When she finds out her adopted sister is back in town and working with Viktor, Angel has to run away with the protection of two total strangers. Can Angel have faith in God to protect her family when she can’t?

Elijah Davis has seen Viktor bleed once, and to save his family, he’ll make it happen again. But who is the One Eli can turn to when he realizes he can’t protect his loved ones alone?

Hiding from gangsters and gunfire, the trio struggle to seek God above all else and trust that His plan is greater than their own. Or Viktor Marino’s.

Angela R. Watts is a Christian fiction author who strives to glorify the Lord in all she does. She’s a homeschooled highschooler living at Step By Step Sanctuary, Tennessee, though with Gypsy and Norwegian in her blood, she tends to travel. She’s been writing stories since she was little, but also enjoys chores, painting, and watching sunsets.

Blog | The Peculiar Messenger

Website | Reveries Co.

Facebook | AngelaRWattsauthor

Twitter | PeculiarAngela

Instagram |angiewatts

Do you want to get into the blog tou even more? Why not enter the giveaway?

1st Place: A signed paperback of Seek and a mug with a Scripture verse on it!

2nd Place: An ebook copy of Seek!

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/67236cd73/?

If you want to follow more of the blog tour, just have a look at the blog schedule to keep up to date😊

Saturday, December 1st

Book Spotlight | Gracelyn Buckner, Literatura

Guest Post | Abigail Harder, Books, Life, And Christ

Book Review | Loretta, Just Writing

Sunday, December 2nd

Book Review + Author Interview | Molly Anne, Qadash – Set Apart, For Him

Author Interview | Shine, HauntingGhostTown

Monday, December 3rd

Guest Post + Book Spotlight | Liz, Home With The Hummingbirds

Book Spotlight + Author Interview | Michaela Bush, Tangled Up In Writing

Tuesday, December 4th

Book Spotlight | Faith Potts, Stories By Firefly

Guest Post | Grace Maples, Proclaiming His Excellencies

Wednesday, December 5th

Book Review | Kellyn Roth, Reveries

Book Spotlight + Guest Post | John-Clement Gallo, JC’s ShadowBlog

Guest Post | Medomfo, Writings From A God Girl

Thursday, December 6th

Book Review + Author Interview | A. Kaylee Harrison, Kaylee’s Kind Of Writes

Book Review + Guest Post | Parker Hankins, Pencils And Pianos

Guest Post | Sara, R535

Friday, December 7th

Book Review | Hannah Gridley, Heart Of The Rose

Book Review | Chloe, Purely By Faith

Writers Boosts: Cheerleader Sessions

Hello everyone!

Today, I wanted to introduce you to an amazing writers mentorship program called Cheerleader Sessions.

Cheerleader Sessions is run by Livy Lynn Jarmusch and Isabella Morganthal. They provide an hour’s Skype session , or a series of email correspondences, where you talk about your current writing/blogging journey in different areas, e.g. platform, novel writing, publishing etc.

They then discuss ways on how you can improve even more, and create a special PDF called The Game Plan, which is written differently for each individual depending on what they’ve discussed. The Game Plan gives you a step my step plan for each area on what to do.

What is brilliant about Cheerleaders Sessions is that you can book as many times as you want

I’ve known Livy and Bella for over a year now, and I can definitely say that I’ve been more motivated to write knowing that they have my back, whether it’s on Skype or simply just sending a random Insta DM.

So check them out here and I hope you will love these two ladies as much as I do 💖💖💖

And definitely check them out on Instagram @cheerleadersessions for daily doses of inspiration- they’re currently going a series called 12 Days of Marketing, which is mainly geared towards writers, but I think any businessperson or creative will benefit from their tips😊

Writers Boosts: Abbiee Emmons

Hello everyone!

This month and during December, I’ll be picking some of my favourite creators , writers and resources that I think others can benefit from.

So without further ado, I present to you Abbiee Emmons!

If you enjoy writing tips, productivity, music , dream chasing and vlogs, I definitely recommend checking Abbiee out here. I’ve been tuning in to her YouTube channel and blog since May, and honestly, the way she communicates is just incredible. She makes writing so clear and productivity so simple and doable. And even if you are just having a bad day, her content just makes you smile anyway.

Oh, did I mention that she has awesome writing worksheets and music players specifically for writers and creators? Check her out on Spotify @abbieewithan_ie to get access to musical inspiration 😊

That is basically my reasons in a nutshell, because I could bore you if I go on, but do seriously check her out, especially if you’re a waffle lover(she loves her waffles too😊)

How about you?

Do you blog about writing as well?

Drop your blog link in the comments below 😊

How to stay Inspired with a busy life

Hello everyone!

I hope that you’ve had an amazing October.

For the writers, NaNoWriMo starts tomorrow. Well, most writers. For me, trying to do NaNoWriMo in November is one of the most stressful things ever, especially when it goes on top of school, exams, orchestras, you name it.

So what am I going to do in November? How am I going to keep being productive with my dreams if I’ve got all of this work?

Well, guess what? I’m still really motivated no matter how busy I am. There is a way that you can still be productive and motivated to achieve your dreams whilst having a busy life.

Do you want to know?

Just sit down, and keep reading my friend:

1. Listen to Music

Honestly, that’s one of the best inspiration sources ever! One of the reasons why I am always busting with ideas is because I listen to music 24/7. If you want to get encouraged, inspired and motivated, then just press play on your Spotify or whatever you use to listen to music 😊

2. Read, read, read

Seriously, just read! Whether it’s a book, magazine, newsfeed, blogpost or even the crazy thing that I’d social media! There will be moments when you’re reading when you will suddenly go, “Oo! I’ve got to use this at some point!” God gave us eyes- we might as well use our eyes to inspire us!

3. Set monthly goals

As you know, I set 4-6 goals a month, major or minor, to complete. Whether you set goals daily, weekly or monthly, knowing that you have goals will motivate you to complete them, and it will inspire you to do even more things that maybe you wouldn’t usually do.

4. Journal

Yeah, I love journalling. Whether it is through art or writing, just capturing what’s happened in the day is an amazing feel, and sometimes when I look back, I suddenly get an idea for a project that I could do in the future.

So there you have it. 4 Ways to help you stay inspired even when you’re busy.

How about you?

Do you have ways to keep you motivated when you are busy?

SpireGirl Interview: Meet Michaela!

Hello everyone!

Today, I am interviewing Michaela from Tangled up in Writing, another lovely blogger for SpireGirl.

1. When did you start blogging?

I’ve blogged off and on for about 6 years, but I started doing it with dedication in 2017.

2. What’s your blog about?

My blog is geared towards helping Christian readers/writers find great books and writing resources/tips as well as discussing my own writing process 😊

3. Do you have any other hobbies or jobs?

. I’m an equestrian and play the violin; I also work as an aide for disabled individuals.

4. Are you working on any projects at the moment?

I’m always working on something, haha! Right now I have two series to finish and several standalone books to outline.

5. What’s your favourite Bible verse and why?

My favorite Bible verse is Joshua 1:9. It reminds me that God is with me no matter what and that I shouldn’t be scared of what the future brings because God’s already there.

6. Who is (one of) your hero(es) and why?

Might sound clichè, but my Mom’s my hero. She inspires me to pursue my goals, encourages me in our faith, and is my biggest fan.

7. What tips do you have for Christian girls and women who want to use their gifts to serve God and achieve their dreams?

Don’t try to bury or hide your gifts because they’re leading you somewhere that you’re afraid of — say, teaching or public speaking — because God has a plan for you and will give you the strength you need to go down that path. Sometimes, the easiest path is not the right one. Pray continually to keep in touch with Him so you can use your gifts to their fullest extent, and never allow yourself to grow stagnant. Finally, don’t let the world corrupt your gifts — stay true to what you know is right as a follower of God even if you’re scorned or treated badly for it.

Thank you so much Michaela! Be sure to check out her blog Tangled up in Writing this week for all kinds of encouragement.

How about you?

What hobbies have you recently become more dedicated in?

Happy one year birthday WFAGG!

Oh. My goodness! It’s been one year since I started this blog! It’s crazy to think that one year ago today, I posted my first ever post, nervous about whether it will really kick off.

And it has, in an even more beautiful way that I could ever have imagined.

I have participated in more than 20 book and website launches! And this is my 53rd blog post! Isn’t it crazy? But nothing is crazy with God’s help.

And this wouldn’t have happened if it wasn’t for the love and support of you, my readers. So thank you. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

I pray that this blog will continue to bless more people for the future.

SpireGirl interview: Meet Lydia!

Hello everyone!

Today, I also have the privilege of interviewing another SpireGirl blogger, Lydia from Spoonful of Surprises 😊

1. When did you start blogging?

I started my blog, Spoonful of Surprises, almost a year ago.

2. What’s your blog about?

A lot of things, honestly. 😂 I try to stay in the line of encouraging other girls to embrace their faith and creativity.

3. Do you have any other hobbies or jobs?

I love handlettering, writing, watercolors, and just about anything artsy. I would love to make that into a business someday. ❤️

4. Are you working on any projects at the moment?

I’m working on creating a YouTube channel. Brainstorming, filming, making thumbnails, etc. I’m also working on a story that I’m super pumped about.

5. What’s your favourite Bible verse and why?

Hmmm. It’s really hard to choose. There’s so many good ones!! My favorite one just may be Jeremiah 29:11. When I’m getting stressed or worried, it’s SO helpful to know that God knows what He’s doing with my life.

6. Who is (one of) your hero(es) and why?

One of my biggest heroes is Queen Esther. 👑💕 She leapt over so many obstacles to fulfill the purpose that God had for her.

7. What tips do you have for Christian girls and women who want to use their gifts to serve God and achieve their dreams?

Remember that YOU MATTER. No matter how many times you may feel like no one is reading or listening, God gave you your dreams for a reason, so keep on keeping on. 💖😉

Thank you so much Lydia! Make sure that you check out her blog Spoonful of Surprises this week for posts of inspiration and encouragement 😊

How about you?

Are you into art as a hobby or even as a career?

SpireGirl interview : Kaelyn!

Hello everyone!

Today, we’re getting to meet Kaelyn, one of our lovely bloggers for SpireGirl 2018!

1. When did you start blogging?

I started blogging in 2015 and then I stopped. I came back to it in the year 2017 and I have been blogging since.

2. What’s your blog about?

My blog is about Jesus, what I am learning about Him, mission trips I have hard, vacations, and other cool blogs I know about. 🙂

3. Do you have any other hobbies or jobs?

I love to read and I enjoy writing and making up stories. I also love to sing and I sing in a choir.

4. Are you working on any projects at the moment?

Well, I have some school projects, a series I am doing on my blog. Plus, I am working on some of my story ideas.

5. What’s your favourite Bible verse and why?

Right now is is Psalms 46:10, ” Be still and know that I am God.” This verse has been coming back over and over again and God just telling me to rest.

6. Who is (one of) your hero(es) and why?

Jesus is my number one hero because without Him I would not have salvation. Another one of my heroes is a doctor I had in fourth grade when I had a brain disease. He helped me find the right treatment, with God’s help. : )

7. What tips do you have for Christian girls and women who want to use their gifts to serve God and achieve their dreams?

Well, I say to pray continually, talk to God, and just be in His presence. What I like to do is journal with God. I put down my dreams, experiences, and what I am learning with Jesus. In Philippians 1:6 it says, ” And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” Also, I encourage you to read Jeremiah 29:11 and Matthew 7:7.

Thank you so much Kaelyn! And be sure to check out her blog Kaelyn’s Life this week for inspiration and encouragement 😊

How about you?

Do any of you have blogs?