Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi! I am a counselor, life coach, and retreat leader, besides being an author. I live in the beautiful mountains of New Mexico in a log home where I love getting inspiration for my writing. Sitting on my deck, watching hummingbirds and other wildlife while gazing at towering pines and mountain peaks, God has imparted some of my best ideas. I have written three books. The first, “Living in God’s Rest…At Peace in a Chaotic World,” shares some valuable life lessons about slowing down and resting in God, which brings peace to all areas of life. My other two books are Christian novels which carry underlying themes regarding living the Christian life in a sometimes confusing world.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My newest release is a novel, “Faith’s Illusions.” As a counselor I was hearing a recurring theme about church goers who were dissatisfied and questioning many current church practices. Unfortunately, many have been wounded in church. I felt inspired to share some insights through fiction that can bring readers to take a hard look at their own church practices and beliefs. The young couple in the story is confronted with difficult questions about what is false teaching and how to resolve their own differences in beliefs and values. The theme is woven through their personal love story and challenges with work and family. It has very positive outcomes.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I love to write. I have learned that by changing my ‘writing place’ I can experience fresh energy and more creative ideas. I like to write outdoors, or go to a coffee shop inspired by the scent and activity around me. I enjoy my home office where I pin motivational and creative ideas on my bulletin board. My coffee and my little Maltese are always by my side.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have been strongly influenced in my writing life by Julia Cameron, whose books on creativity stir up the passion in me. Her book, “The Artist’s Way,” to me is a book all writers should experience. I’ve worked through the workbook portion several times. My spiritual life and writing are definitely influenced by Francis Frangipane and also Ann Voskamp’s “One Thousand Gifts.” There are many more, but these are probably the top contenders.
What are you working on now?
At the present time, I am writing a study guide to accompany “Living in God’s Rest…At Peace in a Chaotic World.” In this present culture of unrest and confusion, people struggle with fear, stress and anxiety. I love hearing the testimonies of those who have found peace through this book. The study guide will assist in applying the principles to everyday life.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I am always grateful for social media. I have made countless friends through these sites and have been able to share my books with more people than ever before. My own website is growing in followers as well, and links and book synopses are available there.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I don’t like to give advice per se, but a strong suggestion to new authors is to write no matter what is going on. Never stop because life is busy. It always will be busy. Take any little snippet of time to jot down thoughts. You can piece them together when you do get a solid block of time. And….make sure you schedule that solid block of time and honor it. You won’t regret it!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Writing is therapeutic. It is healing. The best advice I’ve received is to write without stopping to edit. When you’re on a roll, keep going and going and let your thoughts flow to the paper without thoughts of grammar, spelling, etc. The best writing is a result of this continual flow. You’ll have plenty of time to edit later.
Personal advice I treasure: Take time every day to sit quietly and meditate, pray or soak in solitude. It will feed your soul and rejuvenate you even if you only have a few minutes.
What are you reading now?
At the moment I’m reading “The Right to Write” by Julia Cameron. It’s wonderfully filled with ideas that enhance life, whether writing or not. I highly recommend it.
What’s next for you as a writer?
My newest project will be writing a study on spiritual warfare from a different perspective than most books. I’m studying the unseen world around us and gaining a deeper understanding of challenges we face and how we can overcome the most difficult of them.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
I would bring my Bible, My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers, and The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. I would have a very hard time choosing 3 or 4 books!! My home has bookcases in every room!
Author Websites and Profiles
Nancy LaPointe Website
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