We appreciate our talented authors and the unique aspects each one brings to their work and to IngramElliott. Susan K. Morgan is no exception. Susan is an eclectic old soul who draws inspiration from many muses. She’s a licensed Spiritual Healer, Reiki Master, Christian minister, and longtime birder. Susan and her husband of 20 plus years own a crystal store and metaphysical resource center in Historic Downtown Paducah. Susan’s novel, Surrender, combines all these aspects in a fun, romantic adventure that will restore readers’ faith in true love.

We chatted with Susan about Surrender and her career as an author.

IE: How did you come to be a writer? What inspired you to write Surrender?
Susan: I’ve been a wordsmith for the corporate world for decades. I’m an avid storyteller and wanted to bring some of these characters and their stories to life.
 
IE: What does your book’s title, Surrender, represent to you?
Susan: "Surrender" was word play on both giving into love and passion, and a nod to how wonderful things can happen in our lives when we surrender to who and what we are at our core. When we stop fighting to live up to other people's demands about who we should be and what we should be doing, life gets much more interesting and fun!
 
IE: What genres, other than romance, have you considered?
Susan: I love a good story and interesting characters. Romance is such fun to write, I’m likely to stay close to that genre. I suspect there will be some fantasy and paranormal in future books!
 
IE: What do you hope readers will gain from your books?
Susan: My books are sexy and fun, quick reads with fascinating places and intriguing characters. They have interesting stories to tell. My primary message is life is short. Live like you mean it!
 
IE: What advice would you give budding writers?
Susan: If you want to be a writer . . . you must write something.
 
Well said! Learn more about Surrender and Susan K. Morgan at www.susankmorgan.com. Surrender will be available for purchase this holiday season. 

Speed writing tips for today, from some of our favorite writers of both fiction, journalism, and business writing. They work for all. Now keep you foot on the pedal and stay above 55 miles per hour:

1. ​Be prepared! This means do your research if you don't know your subject matter by heart.
2. Be patient! Give the writing some space to breathe. Don't try to solve a plot point or character dilemma that isn't evident. Let it lie for a bit and come back later.
3. Keep 'em guessing! No matter the genre, surprises - in action, dialogue, plot, or even tone and point of view - keeps readers wanting to flip the page.
4. Why? Why? Why? - ask the right questions of your characters, of yourself, and of your manuscript. You'll usually get the right answers.
5. Be brief! No one likes a know-it-all or blowhard. Keep your explanations and language simple and to the point.

​Now back on the bus...speed tips are over!

There are lots of writing books, classes, blogs, groups, tips and tricks for turning your writing into a career. Many of them include ideas like setting aside a certain time of day for writing, celebrating milestones along the way, and removing pesky distractions while you work. Find the strategies that resonate with you, but remember - YOU are one making and breaking the rules. We've found that if you find what works for you - DO IT. If one day you fall down on the job and watch an entire season of that reality show you've been dying to watch, it's okay. But pick yourself up and begin again the next day on making...and breaking...your own rules.

IngramElliott is unique. We're a boutique (that rhymes!) publishing company focused on helping authors find their special voice. We strive to be hands on with authors that partner with us...and we're truly about partnership, in spirit and in practice. If you are a writer looking for a home, visit our submission page. We're open to all genres, so if you don't see your genre or category, select Other and submit. It's that easy. Some of the topics we're working on now include middle grade fiction, metaphysical philosophy, historical fiction, and non-fiction how-to's with a twist. We're a company built and managed by writers and readers. If you fit either category, please reach out to us.