I’ve often wondered what might happen if I could commit to a daily routine with a fixed number of hours set aside for writing. By nature I appreciate the consistency of a regular schedule, but I’ve had trouble implementing structure into my writing life.

After interviewing Diann Mills, I am more determined than ever to master my day planner. In the last four years, she has published 16 novels and novellas. Her success gives me inspiration and testifies to what God can do if we submit our time and talent to Him.

Hope you enjoy this peek “Behind The Scenes” into Diann’s writing life.

Q: How many years have you been writing?
A: My first book was published in 1998. Officially, I started in 1996. At that time I published a few articles, short stories, and devotions before the book was sold.

Q: How much time do you spend writing daily?
A: I am definitely a full time writer, spending approximately 50 hours per week. My day begins at 5:00 a.m. with a quiet time, and then I read e-mail until 6:15. At that time I work out for an hour, have breakfast, shower, and dive into my current WIP. I am, without a doubt, a morning person. I always cook dinner for my husband, which also gives me time to reflect on what I’ve written.

Q: Do you set daily goals for your writing?
A: Yes! I use chapters as my guideline. My goal is one chapter a day from Monday through Thursday. On Friday, I do a combination of editing, short stories, etc., and more writing on Friday. Saturday writing is bonus!

Q: Where do you write?
A: My husband and I share an office in our home. We’ve done this for four years and we are still madly in love. J
I have to have things organized. Less than that drives me crazy. Right now, because I’m working on a deadline---I shut my eyes tight and type away. My mind is best generated in the morning. I do like music, but it is not necessary. I don’t answer the phone. That’s what answering machines are for.

Q: Do you plot or not?
A: Plotting---by all means! First, I complete a brief synopsis of my novel idea.

Second, I do a thorough characterization of all my characters, including minor ones.

Third, I do intense research regarding every aspect of my story.

Fourth, I take my characterization sheets and complete a “what-if” scenario for all of my characters. In other words, my goal is to create the best possible characters and have the worst possible things happen to them. That is a direct quote from John Gardener.

Now, I have a good handle on my story and do a chapter by chapter synopsis.

Q: Is your first draft rough or do you aim for a polished manuscript the
first time through? How much time do you spend on rewrites?
A: My first draft is about mid-road. I go back through each chapter and do a few revisions, but the biggies come at the end. Rewrites? How about a zillion! Seriously, until I feel it is clear and concise. I have a great critique group (there are four of us). We meet once a week. Fortunately, each one of us has a different personality type, which is a tremendous help in editing.

Q: How does your Christian walk influence your writing?
A: If you don’t begin each writing session with prayer, how can you expect God to bless your writing? I am of the mind that writing for Him is a ministry, and to Him belongs all the glory. This also means every part of my walk with Him – not just writing – is a continuous journey in closing any barriers that hinder my relationship with Him. The closer I draw to God, the better my writing. A Christian writer must be available to help other writers.

Q: Do you have any advice for a new writer?
A: Thank God for the talent He has given you! To Him be the glory! Write, write, write. Read those books by authors you admire and study their style. Underline the parts you appreciate and respect – even mark the areas where you have a problem. Also read books by those authors who write about writing. We never stop learning! I recommend joining a critique group and attend conferences. Of course, ACRW is the best!