Rebecca is another friend I met through my local ACFW group. We both enjoy writing fantasy/spec fiction and have exchanged stories via email for editing and critiquing. I appreciate her thought provoking questions and comments.
Here are links to some of Rebecca’s projects:
The Red Unicorn
Haley’s Horrible Day
MG: What was the catalyst to get you started in your writing?
RB: When the movie version of Return of the King came out, I was frustrated by the fact that Arwen seems to return more for the love of her son than for the love of Aragorn. She never makes a decisive statement that Aragorn's love is worth dying for, and I wanted her to, so I rewrote a couple of the scenes and posted them on fan fiction web sites. It was very cathartic.
MG: How long have you been writing?
RB: About five years now, I think.
MG: How often do you write? Do you have a routine?
RB: I'm trying to develop a routine and to train myself to write every weekday.
MG: What kind of stories do you tell?
RB: I write fantasy and science fiction, mostly for young adult and juvenile audiences. I've done some stories based on the lives of Biblical characters (similar to Francine Rivers). I also have written a number of short dramas which have been performed for church events and one which we posted on YouTube.
MG: Do you have any other pursuits besides writing?
RB: I'm the mother of two teenagers, therefore I do a lot of driving, watch a lot of drumline shows and choir concerts and help with a lot of homework. I enjoy live theater and performing.
MG: Do you have a favorite author and/or genre that you read?
RB: I love fantasy and my favorite author is C.S. Lewis.
MG: If you could keep only two writing books, what would they be and why?
RB: I loved How to Write Science Fiction and Fantasy by Orson Scott Card. One piece of his advice has stuck with me. He says don't let your stories lie about like lazy teenagers, getting fat and doing nothing. Sure, what you're writing today won't be as professional as what you write next year, but get it out there anyway. Submit to the most prestigious market you can imagine will accept your work first. Maybe you'll get lucky.
Formatting and Submitting Your Manuscript by Cynthia Laufenber is the second book I'd keep because it is the quintessential guide to making manuscripts of every description appear professional and marketable.
MG: Why did you decide to pursue publishing?
RB: I'm pursuing publishing in order to reach an audience. I want to get my work into the hands of people who will enjoy it and benefit from reading it.
MG: What has been the most difficult aspect of trying to get published?
RB: Waiting to hear back regarding submissions (which usually takes several months) and finding editors who will accept submissions from new authors.
MG: What one piece of advice would you give other writers, either about writing or about seeking publication?
RB: Finish what you start, then submit what you've finished.
Read more interviews here.
