Inspired by Life ... and Fiction

Novelists bound by the pen, sisterhood, & more

One Essential Way to Boost Productivity

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Last year I hit a new record. I wrote five full-length novels. Three of the five were YA (Young Adult) books which are slightly shorter in length (and require less research) than my adult historicals. However, five is quite the accomplishment for me considering my busy schedule with five children and homeschooling. I’m often asked, “How do you do it?” I never have a perfect answer. Mostly … [Read more...]

The Voyage

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I once heard a speaker compare life to a kayak trip downriver. Sometimes the waters are smooth and we can enjoy a leisurely journey, admiring the beauty all around us. But every now and then we hit the rapids and we’re suddenly thrown into a mad scramble to stay afloat. As we navigate past rocks and other dangers, overwhelmed with fear, we wonder if life will ever be serene and peaceful again. … [Read more...]

It’s Edit Letter Time!!!!

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This may sound crazy, but I got the best email. It was my edit letter on my next book. Delayed Justice will release later in 2018, and I've been on pins and needles since I sent the book in to my publisher and new editor in November. The holidays and life has the edit coming back to me now. [Tweet "@cara_putman talks about edit letters and why authors (and readers) should love them. #amreading … [Read more...]

Thanks a Lot!

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Two more chapters to write and I will be able to type those wonderful words—THE END. The novel I’ve been laboring on for nearly a year is almost finished. Maybe I’ll be able to enjoy the Christmas season with my family this year without stressing over my deadline. But when I tried to start my computer yesterday morning, eager to make the final sprint to the finish line, I discovered that it had … [Read more...]

Why the Traditional Publication Process Takes So Long

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One question that readers often ask me is: “How far in advance of publication do you work on your books?” A friend just asked me that question while I was working in my church’s Library Cafe on Sunday. Among the library books on display, she saw my first orphan train book, With You Always, and wondered when the second book in the series was releasing and if I’d written it yet. I told her … [Read more...]

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