Lisa Jordan began 2011 with the thing every writer longs for: news of a publishing contract. The Pennsylvania resident and early childhood educator started writing at 16. As a full-time work-at-home-stay-at-home wife and mother, Lisa spends the majority of her time teaching toddlers and preschoolers, caring for her husband and two sons, ages 20 and 17, and writing. She also enjoys reading, knitting and hanging out with the Coffee Girls, a group of non-writing friends who enjoy crafting. A fan of the television series, NCIS, Lisa writes contemporary romance. She serves as the forum coordinator for MBT, as well as editor for the Voices e-zine.
Lisa, given your contract, you were the obvious choice for this month’s Meet the Voices. I think every one of the Voices was beyond excited for you upon learning you had received “The Call.” Given your recent success, what was the biggest writing challenge you encountered this past year – craft, career, writing life?
Patience. I’m so not a patient person. The writing industry requires a boatload of patience. My agent submitted my requested manuscript to an editor in April 2010, but we learned in September that she never received it. My agent re-submitted my requested manuscript to the same editor in October. Three months later, my agent called me with the incredible news that my first book had sold.
Patience is problematic for a lot of writers. How did you address this issue?
I had a chat with God. He reminded me who is in control, although, at times, I wanted to be. A friend shared a quote that convicted me to surrender my plate to God. He asked me to clear some space and just trust Him. I prayed over my schedule for two days, made the changes, and the next day, my agent called with my first sale news. Surrender and trust aren’t always easy, but God knows what He’s doing.
Yes, He always does. I almost hate to ask this next question, because you’ll have plenty of new experiences to fill your time now that you’re a contracted author, but please tell us one thing you are doing this year to kick your writing up a notch.
I’m planning to write four books this year for Love Inspired. My debut novel, Lakeside Reunion, comes out in November. I’d love to have most of the series written and submitted by December 31.
As far as writing craft goes, I’m working on word painting and adding symbolism and metaphor to my novels.
Lisa, that’s a huge goal on top of all your other writing activities and the additional responsibilities that will come your way for promoting your book. But you already wear so many hats. It won’t surprise me in the least to see you meet that goal. What is the one thing you learned that you can share with other writers?
Take your time to learn the craft. Don’t be in a hurry to get published. Enjoy and celebrate each phase of the writing journey.
Let’s talk some fun things. What’s the last book you read?
Susan May Warren’s Mission: Out of Control. I’m currently reading Rachel Hauck’s Dining With Joy.
And what’s your favorite writing aid – tool, craft book, snack?
Favorite writing tool – my MacBook.
Favorite craft book – The My Book Therapy Book Buddy
Favorite writing snack – popcorn and water.
Now, tell us about your current WIP.
My current WIP is the sequel to my debut novel. This one is tentatively titled Fresh Brewed Romance. Here’s my pitch line: He was the last man she wanted to see again, but finding him now was a matter of life and death.
Lisa, thanks for sharing with the Voices this month. We’re all looking forward to your November release and wish you much success.
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Patricia Woodside does business and financial analysis by day; she reads and writes by night. She is the mother of three sons and is a transplanted New Yorker living in Florida. She is working on her first inspirational romance.
