Inspired to Write--Interview with Author, Paula Mowery

1. What inspired you to write?

My mother worked for a Christian bookstore while I was growing up. She would bring me Christian fiction books to read as well as empty journals. I fell in love with those novels and wrote stories and poems in my journals.
As an adult, I continued to read and write. Then, God started making little statements from sermons stand out or bringing something to mind when I would go to bed. These turned into novels which I kept to myself for many years. Back in 2010, I shared one of my novels with a friend, and she challenged me to pursue publication.

2. What do you write and why?

My first two published works are considered women's fiction though I have written more Christian romance manuscripts. But, God led me to submit THE BLESSING SEER first, and it released in July of 2012.

3. What is your most inspirational story in your life?

Wow, that is a hard one because God has been so good to me. The story of how THE BLESSING SEER was published still inspires me today.
As many first time authors experience, I was scared spitless to submit my manuscript. God was very clear that this was the manuscript to submit and Pelican Book Group was the place. I remember my finger hovering over the send button. I prayed if this was the place for this book that the story would touch someone there. When I received the email from the editor, the first line read: "I was touched by this story." I cried and thanked God for such a clear answer.

4. Do you have a guiding verse for your life and /or writing?

One very important verse has been Jeremiah 29:11 - "For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord, plans to prosper you, not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future."
Because of my timidity and doubts, I have had to trust that God has His plan for me in my writing and my entire life. The next verse in Jeremiah says that if the people will seek the Lord, He will be found. For me that has meant I have to keep my focus on Him for every step in this journey.

5.Tell me about your latest published project

My latest project is a sequel to THE BLESSING SEER called BE THE BLESSING. My editor and I are in the final stages and a release date is soon approaching. This book continues the story of Addy, a pastor's wife struggling to follow what God has for her despite fear and doubt and even suffering.

6. What are you working on currently?

To quote my grandfather: "I have several irons in the fire." I am revising a romance for resubmission to my editor which I am really excited about. I am writing the first draft of another romance which deals with learning that the Bible can guide us. And, I have another romance I hope to revise and polish to submit to an agent.


7. Who inspired you to write?

Truly God has inspired each of my books. This is not to sound pious or hokey. I have said that I feel guilty having my name appear as sole author on my books because God should be listed as the main author. He seems to turn what He is teaching me into a story which I can pass along to hopefully encourage others. I am blessed and yet humbled that He would use a hillbilly pastor's wife like me to proclaim His message. To God be the glory!