10 Minute Writer

Recently, while cruising Writer Interrupted, a social network site created by my friend Gina Conroy, I met a new writer, Lisa Buffaloe!  Lisa is a few steps ahead of me in the writing/publishing journey.  I wanted to interview here about her writing. She graciously answered a few questions.  

(You can read more about Lisa at her sites:  www.LisaBuffaloe.com     and 

 http://www.lisabuffaloe.blogspot.com/

1.  How would you describe your writing? Which writers are your biggest influences? 

 Most of my writing deals with real-life issues and day-to-day living. I strive to keep my blogs and articles uplifting, tight, and if applicable, humorous. My fiction manuscripts contain elements of suspense, humor, and romance. My main goal is to inspire and encourage my readers. God has brought me through many difficulties, and I enjoy sharing the hope and joy that is found in Him.

 I’ve been blessed with mentors like Frank Ball, Lena Nelson Dooley, DiAnn Mills, Cecil Murphey, and wonderful critique partners. For reading, I love God’s word, Beth Moore, Oswald Chambers, Max Lucado, Brandilyn Collins for her riveting suspense novels, Susan May Warren, and a bevy of other authors. Basically any book that helps me grow spiritually and in my writing.

2.  Often your chronic illness and your desire to write are at odds with each other. How do you cope with this?

 Because of Lyme disease, there are days when my body and brain barely function. I’ll admit to being afraid sometimes—it’s hard not knowing what tomorrow holds. However, I really don’t have any guarantee, regardless of my health issues. Whether I have today, tomorrow, or fifty more years, my life is in God’s hands. God is in control—He’s never surprised, nor wringing His hands. I’m learning the less I fight my situation, the easier the process becomes. I know God can heal me, and He will heal me, but until then I’ll rest in His care. There’s a song by Susan Ashton called “Taking my Time.” Susan writes, “…there’s no hurry the world’s not passin’ me by. ’Cause the Lord he knows just where each day goes and I know He won’t leave me behind.” I’m always safe in His hands.

3. You recently acquired an agent.  How did this come about?  What advice would you give to those of us who don’t yet?

 I met my agent, Tamela Hancock Murray at the ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) conference last year. I loved her personality and passion to help writers grow and become successful.

 The best way to acquire an agent is to learn the craft of writing. Competition is fierce to break into the industry, and many writers have wonderful stories to tell, but don’t take the time to work on their craft. Research who you want as an agent and check carefully to make sure they are reputable. Don’t submit a proposal until you are sure your work is ready, and make sure you follow the guidelines listed by the agent on their Website.

 4.  Would you recommend joining organizations like ACFW, why?

 Absolutely! The information and connections made through an organization like ACFW are invaluable to a writer. Forums and the ACFW loop provide writing tips and helps, along with information from writers, editors, and agents involved in the industry. 

5. Would you recommend going to conferences, like ACFW’s?  Why?

 Another hearty yes! Conferences provide classes tailored to the writer to help them grow and learn writing techniques, marketing, and a myriad of extremely useful information. Plus, meeting other authors and those involved in the industry provide wonderful opportunities to network. I have made lifelong friends at conferences, met agents, editors, and publishers. I’m a huge fan of writing conferences. 

6.  What other advice do you have for beginning writers?

 Learn the craft. Read books on the techniques of writing, and read good books in the genre in which you write. Read, read, and read. Subscribe to newsletters and magazines which teach writing. Find a critique group whether online or in your area. Getting feedback on your writing (from someone other than friends and family) helps take your writing to the next level. Enter contests. Contests provide a wonderful way to receive critiques on your work from someone who doesn’t know you. Attend writing conferences. Establish a Web presence. Strive for excellence, and always be open to learn.