Sneaky Ways Reading Impacts Writing

A best-selling, mega-successful author finished her keynote speech, and though inspired, I scratched my head on one issue. Had she really just claimed she never reads fiction?

I've read enough blogs to know there are many writers who, due to the fear of emulating another author's voice, refuse to read the genre they write unless they are between projects. I also have met writers who never read the genre they write. We all have to find what works best for us.

As for me, I read as many books in my genre as I possibly can.

I read them when I'm working on a manuscript, between projects, at the beach, in the car as I wait for my kids to get out of school, at sports practices, and any other time I can squeeze out. I don't only read my genre; I also read classics, non-fiction, and magazines.

Reading helps my writing. I'm currently two-thirds through Kaye Dacus's Love Remains, and it's helped my current WIP in several areas.

1. The tone and characterization are similar to my book, which reassures me that what I write is marketable.
2. Her use of secondary characters helped me utilize one of my critique partner's suggestions as painlessly as possible.
3. She introduces new, surprise conflicts as the book progresses. I'm not always confident I'm springing a new conflict properly, and by analyzing how she hinted at them, I've gotten ideas on how to ensure mine make sense.
4. Kaye's book features clear religious themes and prayer. Not all Christian contemporary romances show a character praying or worshipping. My book does. Again, reassuring that I'm on the right track.

In the past year, the following authors have taught me better writing techniques and they don't even know it. They taught me by being excellent writers. Their books wormed their way into my heart, and I couldn't help but analyze how they did what they did.

*in no particular order*
Jenny B. Jones
Sarah Sundin
Denise Hunter
Jody Hedlund
Kathryn Springer
Laura Frantz
Susan May Warren
Robin Jones Gunn
Jillian Hart

The list could go on! I can't imagine not reading the genre I write. In fact, two more books are staring at me from the coffee table. :)

What author's books has had an impact on your writing?

Have a great Monday!

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