Today’s week 7 and we’re visiting with:

Ann Marie Bryan

Here’s what she has to say about her own writing process.

Regarding my writing process, I carry the storyline in my mind until I
have a good grasp on where I’m heading with it. During that time, I get
to know the characters – their backgrounds, personalities, likes and
dislikes, pain points, etc.

There are three elements that are always present in my writing – a
central theme, a major event that has changed the protagonist’s life,
and conflict. I like to write about characters who are total opposites,
because I have to take them out of their comfort zones and also find the
common thread that will create harmony between them. In all of this, the
characters have to remain true to their personalities yet be open enough
to understand each other. The lessons learned are priceless.

My preferred time to write is in the morning… early morning, when it is
quiet and I can hear myself think. Using Microsoft Word, I do an outline
of what I’m hoping to achieve in each chapter. After that, I am all
about getting the story out of my head. There’s always a rush to
complete this because I need the characters to stop talking.

When I am away from my laptop, I use the memo pad on my cell phone to
note things that I would like to add to the story. I do research while I
am writing.

There is no better feeling than completing the first draft. Then, the
rewrite begins. During the rewrite, I add to the outline to keep tabs on
pacing, character development, conflicts, resolutions, etc. I will do
another rewrite/self edit to make sure the story is authentic. When I am
positive that this is the story I would like to present to the world, I
prepare the back cover description and come up with a suitable title and
cover.

Next, the editing process begins. Usually, I will send my manuscript to
four beta readers/first round editors. When I get back their responses
and make the appropriate corrections, I then send my manuscript to a
professional editor and after that, a proofreader.

The most dreaded part of writing for me is the absolutely necessary
editing process. I’m handing over my “baby” for a thorough examination
and that can be nerve-racking. Quite often, I’ll wondered if my editors
will understand the message I’m attempting to convey. Happy to report
that usually they do. However, there is nothing quite like making those
editorial changes. It is time-consuming and exhausting. Yet, it must be
done because I want to release my best book.

Advice for aspiring authors

Determine why you desire to write. Don’t be overwhelmed by your lack of
knowledge about writing or the publishing industry. Educate yourself.
Select an individual, group or organization with the knowledge and
ability to help you succeed. Do research to obtain information on how to
best leverage your knowledge and abilities to fulfill your dream of
becoming an author. Benchmark against the best in the area of your
writing assignment. Nevertheless, be a trend-setter. Do not be afraid to
break new ground. Importantly, read, read, read…especially other
authors in your genre. Above all, trust God; He will bring it to pass.
Ready! Set! Go!

Ann Marie Bryan is a dedicated, graceful, multi-talented leader with a
passion for excellence. She is the CEO & Founder of Victorious By
Design, an organization committed to providing top quality professional
writing services, comprehensive personal and professional development
programs and exceptional performing arts services to meet the unique
needs of individuals and organizations.

A Christian Fiction author, Ann Marie writes to educate, inspire and
empower others. She desires to tell great stories with fascinating
characters to show the awesome power of God in the lives of people and
places. Shades of the Heart is the first book in her bestselling,
Encounters of the Heart series. Book 2 – Mirrored Hearts: Sealed By Fire
was released February 2016. Her new release, A Place For My Heart, is
the highly anticipated third installment in the series.

Ann Marie’s greatest passion is to empower others to succeed by tapping into their God-given potential. She enjoys writing, reading, dancing,
teaching, meeting people and traveling. With all the knowledge and experiences that God has so graciously blessed her with, Ann Marie is
determined to make her life a ministry for the Lord.

To learn about Ann Marie’s books visit her Friday Features post,  where she visited my special Friday blog just a couple of weeks ago and also visit all of her social media sites at her:

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