Jan 4, 2024 | Essays | 0 comments

January 2024: Message from the Editor

by | Jan 4, 2024

I hope you find your place among the Verse and Vine. Whether our relationship is that of writing companions, editorial collaboration, or publishing consultation, my goal is to ensure professional quality service that leaves creative rights with you, the author.  

As we launch this new passion project, a God-given dream planted within my heart as a child two decades ago, I look forward to the possibilities of what we produce together. My prayer and petition to God is that this becomes the beginning of a fruitful community of writers embracing their sacred call to weave together stories like their Creator.  

From annual literary magazines that feature novice Christian voices to educational content and training that helps you cultivate the craft of compelling storytelling, I aim to create a space for writers of The Word to collaborate and partake in a communion of literature. (Spoiler alert: The first series of posts will address various storytelling frameworks like the Hero’s Journey and Save the Cat! and which might be best for your project.)  

And when that project of yours is complete, let me encourage you: It can be difficult for first-time authors to be picked up by traditional publishing houses, but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing! A contract with a traditional publisher often means forfeiting creative rights and control, as well as book royalties. Self-publishing allows you to maintain full control of your book.  

But the publishing process can be daunting for a person with little to no experience in the industry; it requires design and marketing skills as much as editing—and more. If nothing else, even the strongest writers and editors benefit from a second set of eyes poring over their proof. This is where Verse & Vine enters, stage right. 

God, who is very intentional and the perfect author to be emulated, has written my story in such a way that my passion, educational background, and various professional experiences have equipped me with every needed tool (and a network of freelancing friends) to see a successful book launch. I’m here as a guiding voice and partner to encourage you along your way.

I believe we each have a story worth telling, and sharing these stories is how we overcome the enemy of our souls. I believe that God created with His voice, and using His words He created us—His poema, or poetic masterpieces. I also believe Jesus is the Word of God incarnate. We have a high calling to wield the sword of the Spirit as His master wordsmiths. And we can do it better together.  

Join our Facebook groups for fiction and nonfiction writers to connect with Verse & Vine and others like you today and subscribe to receive monthly newsletters where we share insider tips, author interviews, and helpful resources. Don’t be shy. Share your writing goals (and challenges) with believers who get it, and you might be surprised by the encouragement, inspiration, prayer and practical support you find.  

If you’ve got your first book (or even if it’s your second or third or fourth and you just don’t have time to see it through alone), email verseandvinepublishing@gmail.com to learn more about how a partnership might launch your dreams into reality this new year.

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