It's my pleasure to welcome the amazing Paulette Harper to the New Voices In Print literary stage. As a sought after motivational speaker, certified life coach, minister and author, Paulette Harper desires to motivate women to reach their God given potential through conferences, workshops and seminars. Combining enthusiasm with an energetic speaking style, audiences describe Paulette’s presentation as inspiriting, enriching and encouraging. As an author and writing coach, Paulette is the visionary behind “Write Now - Releasing the Word In You - literary workshops designed to coach aspiring writers in the areas of creativity, development and publication of Christian books.
Paulette’s debut book That Was Then, This Is Now: This Broken Vessel Restored, has achieved national recognition, as a finalist in the 2009 Next Generation Indie Book Award. Moreover, it ranked consecutively on the Black Christian Publishers Bestsellers List for Independent Publishers (non-fiction category). Her newest release Completely Whole was published under her own publishing company Thy Word Publishing. It's my pleasure to interview Paulette and give readers the opportunity to learn about this talented woman of God.
How would you describe your book?
More than just another generic self-help offering, Completely Whole features thoughtful meditations, powerful prayers, and timely scriptural passages, all designed to present the reader with a detailed, comprehensive understanding of what it takes to achieve a truly fulfilling life. In so doing, the readers will undergo a fully transformative change – mind, body, and spirit – that will ultimately lead them to the lives of peace and satisfaction they’ve been seeking for so long. Completely Whole is an inspirational guide to living a healthier spiritual life. What was your inspiration for writing your novel/book?
I believe that decision was already made for me by my Heavenly Father. My personal experiences in life actually drew me into this profession. Seeing others empowered through my writings confirms that this is actually what I’m supposed to be doing.
Who have you written your book for and why did you target this audience?
I enjoy writing books that empower and enriches the lives of every believer. My audience is those who are searching for a more fulfilled life with Christ.
What do you want your readers to take away from your /book?
I’d like the reader to come away with knowing that there is a solution to their problem. Completely Whole offers the reader prayers and scriptures that will help them on their journey towards wholeness.
What was the most rewarding part of writing your novel?
The most rewarding part of writing Completely Whole was when I finished the last chapter. Realizing that God allowed me to write another book was absolutely amazing.
Finish this statement: I became a writer because...
I feel this is what I’m called to do. I have a passion to write quality books that will have an eternal affect on the lives of the reader. I write because I have hear the testimonies of those that read my books… those testimonies are encouraging me to continue on this path.
Describe your journey to publication.
My story is different from many writers; I didn’t grow up with the aspiration to become a professional writer. On the contrary, I just wanted to get married, have children, and do the work of God. When God spoke to my heart about writing, I knew He wanted me to write inspirational booksbooks that encouraged, motivated and led readers toward a closer walk with Him. With that being my vision, my writing career began.
On May 24, 2008, my first non-fiction inspirational book That Was Then, This Is Now: This Broken Vessel Restored was released. On Nov 4, 2009, I was honored to be selected to participate in my first anthology, Victorious Living for Women. Victorious Living for Women is filled with the inspiration, wisdom and pathways to victory of 40 incredible women who share intimate stories of their lives, from their hearts to yours.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned since becoming an author?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that there are cliques in certain circles and if you don’t fit in that particular genre they won’t recognize you.
If you could spend an hour talking with any author, living or dead, who would it be and why?
Dr. Maya Angelo. Dr. Maya Angelou is one of the most renowned and influential voices of our time. She is such a remarkable person who has touched the lives of countless thousands. I would love to sit and glean from her years of wisdom and be taught from someone of her caliber.
What novel/book has had the greatest impact on your life?
The bible. It teaches me how to live my best life now.
What is the most encouraging advice you’ve received as an author?
One piece of advice has been to keep enhancing and developing my skills as a writer by attending workshops and conferences.
What is one tip you would give to aspiring authors?
Set a time and place to write daily. Determine when you are the most creative and inspired to write. For many people, the morning is a good time to write. Find a comfortable place to write. Have everything you need within reach.
What new projects can readers expect from you?
I’m currently working on two projects for 2011. Victorious Living for Moms, my second anthology, is slated for release in May 2011, right in time for Mother’s Day and the release of my forth book, For Such a Time as This.
What, When, and Where is your next literary event?
I will be having my book release party for Completely Whole on Friday, Sept 24 in Bradenton, Florida at Word of Faith Worship Center.
What can aspiring writers do to get in touch with you about your Write Now workshops?
Interested writers can email: info@pauletteharper.com
Any final thoughts you’d like to share?
I would encourage those who are seeking to get published… go for it! Even if you desire to have a major publishing house offer you a deal and they do not, don’t loose heart, publish it yourself. What ever you decide to do, understand this that you will have to do most of the marketing.
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