Nancy Mehl lives in Festus, Missouri, with her husband, Norman, and her very active puggle, Watson. She’s authored twenty books and just finished a new series for Bethany House Publishing. The first book in her Finding Sanctuary series, “Gathering Shadows” was released in May of 2014. The second book, “Deadly Echoes” became available in February. The third book, “Rising Darkness will release late in 2015.
Connect with Nancy...
Website: www.nancymehl.com
Blog: http://suspensesisters.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nancy-Mehl-Fan-Page/124075957622557
Purchase: Deadly Echoes (Finding Sanctuary)
Author Interview | Nancy Mehl
You and Writing Tell us a little bit about yourself: How did you start writing? What has kept you writing?
...I started writing when I was 45. I’d thought about it off and on, but one day I finally decided to give it a try. It didn’t take long for me to discover I loved writing novels. After a few years, I went before the Lord and asked Him if this was something He actually wanted me to do. I didn’t want to spend years doing something that wasn’t His will for me. He answered me in the affirmative, and I’ve been writing ever since. When things get tough, I fall back on my belief that I’m called to write.
Do you have a favorite book or work that you’ve written? If so, why?
...No, not really. I’ve written suspense and cozy mystery. I enjoy both genres. Cozy mystery is fun to write, but with suspense, I can address more serious topics. I think these genres help me to express myself fully.
What was the hardest thing about publishing? The easiest?
...The toughest thing is trying not to worry about sales. It can really drive you nuts. I’m learning to cast my care and leave that in God’s hands.
...The easiest? Making so many wonderful friends. It’s so satisfying to get an email or a letter from a fan telling you how much your books mean to them. I’ve been able to connect with many readers on Facebook, and they mean the world to me.
Tell us a little bit about what you’re working on currently.
...Actually, right now I’m writing an Amish cozy mystery for Guideposts. I’m working with one of my all time favorite editors. It’s been so much fun.
...I recently finished the third book in my Finding Sanctuary series. Rising Darkness brings back two characters from my Road to Kingdom series. I felt I’d left them hanging in “Unbreakable.” It was very satisfying to complete their story
What is one take-away from Deadly Echoes that you hope readers identify with?
...In Deadly Echoes, I broach the subject of jealousy. Comparing yourself to other people. I hope readers will identify with Sarah’s struggle to feel worthy of God’s love. Hopefully, those who deal with this problem will find something to help them. I want them to realize that God completely accepts them – just as they are. And that He loves us unconditionally.
Writing
Where do you find inspiration for your story/characters? Are they based on real life or pure imagination or both?
...Both. Sometimes a news story or something I’ve read will spark an idea. However, I have a very fertile imagination. I’ve never had a hard time coming up with an idea for a book.
When you write, what is your overall intention with your stories?
...In every story I write, I try to inject this: That God has a wonderful plan for our lives. (Jeremiah 29:11) I want them to walk away entertained but also encouraged to believe they are important to Him.
What advice would you give to aspiring authors for writing and/or publishing?
...Learn your craft. Don’t try to publish before you’re ready. There are lots of ways to publish, but it can be hard to recover if you put out something that isn’t good. Wait. Trust God. Talk to knowledgeable authors. Most of them will give you good advice. Join ACFW! (American Christian Fiction Writers.) There are so many resources available and lots of great people to encourage you.
You Would you prefer chocolates or flowers on Valentines Day??
...Flowers! They’re not as fattening. LOL!
On Valentines Day would you rather stay in or go out?
...I’m a home body. If given the chance, I might never leave my house. But on Valentine’s day, I like to go out to eat. It makes the day seem much more special. However, we go out to lunch. That way we can avoid the crazy crowds at night.
**Enter to win a copy of Deadly Echoes by leaving a comment below!**
(U.S. Residents only - winner announced Feb.18)
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I'm so encouraged by your commitment to asking the Lord about continuing your writing! That's great advice for anyone who is seeking to write because it is a big time commitment (especially if you're writing for publication). I also know what you mean by having lots of story ideas. I find them popping up all over the place...if only my brain could write them down hehe ;) Thank you so much for stopping by Thinking Thoughts today, Nancy. It's a joy to have you and I'm so grateful you're giving away a copy of Deadly Echoes! Readers, don't forget to leave a comment.
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