1) Christian fiction authors are a community. ACFW is a party with 700 in the writing family. Next month I'll be at a retreat for published authors that is also all about community. We share the journey with a minimum of competition. It is AMAZING to be part of this world.
2) I get to interact with the best folks. I'm working on my next World War II novel. I like to call it
research, write, research, write, research some more. Because my heroine is a photojournalist, I've been on the hunt for resources. I've found a few, but because of #1 above, I emailed my writing buds Sarah Sundin, Dan Walsh and Tricia Goyer to see if they'd run across any great books they'd recommend I read. Dan recommended one that lead to me finding another AMAZING book. And Tricia is going to actually loan me a few of hers. Sarah had a couple thoughts, too. Have I mentioned they're AMAZING. And the bibliography for this book -- I wish I had a couple weeks to devour all the books instead of focus on the Italy chapters.
3) As I research, I find a zillion ideas for future books -- books that will highlight the way God is always with us. I can't read about the battle around Anzio and Monte Cassino, Italy -- known as Purple Heart Valley -- without wanting to weep at the lives lost. At the same time I am challenged and inspired by a generation that fought the hard fight. Don't we need that kind of challenge? I know I do!
Has God placed you in community? How has that helped you on your journey?
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