Writer’s Life: Varina Denman

Welcome to another edition of Writer’s Life, my interview series with authors of sweet or inspirational romance.

I’m so excited to have Varina Denman as my guest! I met Varina a few years ago at the ACFW conference. We, along with Jill Lynn, were finalists in the Genesis contest. Varina’s kind smile and witty conversation drew me to her immediately. She ended up winning the Genesis! Her debut novel, Jaded, released in March, and if you sign up for her newsletter (link is below), you’ll automatically be entered to win a copy of Jaded!

Let’s get to it!

1. What about writing makes your heart sing?

I know this is going to sound crazy, but I love editing! When I first start a story, it’s total drudgery coming up with the plot. But once I’ve got it all thrown onto the page, I enjoy moving scenes around, tweaking characters, and polishing grammar. And then when I start feeling the scene as though it’s happening to me…then my heart sings.

2. What is the biggest hurdle you’re facing right now as a writer?

Oh. My. Goodness. That would have to be the deadlines, and the marketing, and attempting to juggle the two at the same time. Wow. For years, I’ve heard authors talk about how crazy it can be, but I really couldn’t imagine what they meant. Until now. I don’t have time to wipe my nose! Not that I’m complaining. All good things, right? I prayed long and hard for this, so I might as well buckle my seatbelt and enjoy the ride.

3.What do you do to fill your creative well?

REST. I don’t get enough sleep, so when I do, it makes an enormous difference. It’s almost comical. I can sit in front of the laptop, pondering a problem scene for hours with no hope, but after a good night’s sleep, the answer just pops into my head.

In addition to rest, I fill my creative well with housework, or mindless exercise, or romantic movies. The housework option may sound strange too, but when I’m the only one home, I get involved in monotonous chores and let my mind wander. Then my subconscious starts working on plot holes, and I don’t even have to try.

4. What are you working on now?

Right now I’m finishing up book three in the Mended Hearts series. It’s titled Jilted, and it ties-up all the loose ends that were left hanging in Jaded and Justified. Even after three books, I enjoy working with Ruthie and Fawn and the other characters. And I enjoy the small town setting. Often, I want to go there, just so I can get that rest I need.

Many thanks to Jill, for inviting me to your blog. I’ve enjoyed being here!

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Varina, I can relate to everything you wrote! I’m not a multi-tasker. My to-do list scares me! But one-by-one, I get things done. Still, I get panicky at times. Rest is so important. I get more sleep in the summertime, so I’m looking forward to the warmer weather. Congratulations on your books!! The series sounds wonderful!

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 Jaded ~

 

Having been unjustly shunned by the local congregation, Ruthie Turner despises the church members who refuse to speak to her. When the new preacher asks her out, Ruthie’s bitterness is put to the test. Against her better judgment, she falls in love then re-examines Christianity while he risks his reputation to be with her. Their relationship reveals a string of secrets which turn the little church upside down as Ruthie learns to forgive.

Jaded is a love story, not only between a man and woman, but also between the church and the lost.

Purchase Jaded HERE!

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About Varina ~

 

 

Varina Denman writes stories about the unique struggles women face. She has five children, teaches creative writing and literature, volunteers in her local homeschool cooperative, and boasts sixteen years as a home educator. She resides with her family in North Texas. Her first novel, Jaded, won the 2013 ACFW Genesis Award.

Connect with Varina Denman: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads

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Click on the box to sign up for Varina’s newsletter! You’ll automatically be entered to win a copy of Jaded!

 

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Do you get enough rest? Any tips you can share?

My extremely talented critique partner and one of my best friends–Wendy Paine Miller interviewed me on HER BLOG today!

She’s also part of a huge giveaway with nine authors of women’s fiction!! Click here, Spring Giveaway, for her post with the easy entry options!!

Have a terrific day!!