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Author Interviews

My dear friend, Mata Elliott, is the author of the new novel, Forgivin' Ain't Forgettin'.

Although writing is her passion, Mata also believes in balancing her roles as a wife, homemaker, and writer. Her writing reflects her deep faith in Jesus Christ.

Recently, I had the opportunity of talking with Mata. While promoting her first novel is a new and exciting experience, she's handling her newfound fame like a seasoned author. Mata also offers a lot of wisdom to both beginning and experienced writers.

1.  How would you describe your writing style?
I write women's fiction, which means my stories are primarily about women with issues that are gritty, raw, and often heartbreaking. It is important for me to show that Christians are not without problems; yet the Word of God has the solution for every problem they face, and that with God in their lives, there is always hope.

2. Can you tell us a little about your current book?
In a nutshell, Forgivin' Ain't Forgettin' is a love story. I say a ‘love story' because it is one woman's discovery of a deeper understanding of the love of God. My main character, Cassidy Beckett, made a decision some years ago that has left her in emotional turmoil. Now at the age of twenty-something, she is unable to move her life forward. In a way, she is trapped by the past, and she must confront the memories she has tried to forget in order to fulfill the purposes God has for her life. My story also has a romantic element but you'll have to read the book to find out if there's a happy ending.

3. Are there any personal events that have shaped the plot in your story? If so, how?
I was an elementary school teacher for about ten years. During that time I met the man I would eventually marry--a widower and the father of a young son. Although Forgivin' Ain't Forgettin' is fiction, I drew upon a few of my personal experiences as a teacher and stepmother to help me form my main character.

One of the themes in my book is forgiveness. God forgives us and He also wants us to forgive ourselves. Sooner or later, we're all confronted with the issue of forgiveness, so I definitely looked back in my own life when writing this dimension of the story. I was forced to take a look at a few past relationships and ask myself if I had forgiven people who had hurt me. I was also able to take some of the emotions that I felt and use them to assist in bringing my characters to life.

4) How long did it take you to complete Forgivin' Ain't Forgettin' ?
I began writing Forgivin' Ain't Forgettin' in 1997. I did not complete it until 2003.

5) Do you attend writers' workshops? If so, how have they helped you to grow as an author?
Writers' workshops are awesome. I've attended quite a few and would recommend that anyone who wants to enhance their writing skills attend at least one. As a Christian writer, I especially like Christian conferences and value the spiritual support I've received from attending them. The workshops at conferences are a definite opportunity for writers to meet authors, agents, and editors. I have come away with greater knowledge about the business side of writing and have learned how to sharpen my writing skills. I do suggest that other writers shop around and find the conference that fits their needs and budget.

And just a note: don't let fear stop you from going. I meet many people who areafraid to step out and go. But if you have prayed and believe God is leading you to go, then just do it and watch God open doors for you. Workshops are an opportunity to expand your horizons.

6) Describe a typical day in the life of Mata Elliott, the author.
Since I am currently writing full-time, I typically begin my mornings by preparing my husband's lunch and seeing him off to work. I like to settle into the day by reading my Bible and praying. Sometimes I watch the news before I begin writing. I try to write every day (I don't always make it). A good writing day for me is four to five hours.

7) What time of the day are you most productive in your writing?
I am most productive in the mornings. By evening, I'm ready to shut down and unwind.

8) Do you write novels only or have you ventured out on other projects?
I have written devotions for A Cup of Comfort for Women and The Quiet Hour . I also write book reviews for Christian fiction on my website, www.mataelliott.com.

9) What do you think is important to showcase on your website as a writer?
As a Christian, it is important for me to send the message to anyone who might visit, that God loves them and He wants to have a personal relationship with them. As for me, I want to share the good news of others' books as well. I think it's important for authors to support each other.

10) What suggestions do you have for new unpublished writers who are waiting to hear from that publisher, editor, or agent?
Continue to write, read, and attend conferences or workshops, join a writers' group, and find a critique partner. Keep yourself informed about the industry, don't compare yourself to others because God has an individual plan for your life, and most of all continue to seek God for direction.

Tiff's Hot Reading Picks

Fiction

Forgivin' Ain't Forgettin' by Mata Elliot
Speak To My Heart by Stacy Hawkins Adams
Nothing But The Right Thing by Stacy Hawkins Adams
More Than Grace by Kendra Norman-Bellamy
He's Fine...But Is He Saved? by Kimberley Brooks

Non-Fiction