Writer Behind the Words

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Darlene L. Turner is a freelance writer whose love of mystery began as a young girl when she picked up her first Nancy Drew book. She’s turned that passion into her own writing and believes readers will be captured by her plots, inspired by her strong characters, and changed by the Christ-centered message. She’s had numerous articles published and is a Craftsman Alumni of the Christian Writers Guild.

Darlene writes romantic suspense and is currently working on a trilogy. She blogs weekly at darlenelturner.com. She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, and The Word Guild (Canada). She won the 2016 Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense, Inspirational unpublished category, the Golden Leaf Award, and was a finalist in the 2016 ACFW Genesis contest. She also placed second in the 2016 (RWA) Indiana Golden Opportunity Contest (Inspirational category). Darlene and her husband live in the Forest City of London, Ontario, Canada.

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Welcome to the blog, Darlene! I’m so happy you could join us today!

So tell us… When did you first start writing?

I began writing as a young girl when I fell in love with Nancy Drew books. I started my own “Mindy Dobson” series. I sure wish I had kept what I’d written! I began writing more seriously within the past ten years.

What are you working on right now?

I’m working on a romantic suspense about a female Royal Canadian Mounted Police officer.

Hmmmm, now I want to know more! 😉 Can you tell us about one of your favorite characters you’ve written so far?

My first character, Amber, will always be near and dear to my heart. She’s my child so to speak. Ha! I saw her birthed and then slowly developed into the strong character she is today. She’s feisty and stubborn, but also has a loving, playful heart.

What’s something you love about your home state?

I live in London, Ontario, Canada. I love our beautiful foliage. The diversity of the landscape is amazing. Breathtaking! And the people are friendly and always willing to help out.

I’d love to see Canada some day! 🙂

What’s one of your favorite books?

Anything by Ted Dekker.

I MUST add more of his books to my list soon. What I have read of his still stands out to me. Amazing stuff!

What is one of your favorite Scripture verses?

Jeremiah 29:11. I love the VOICE version – For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Eternal, “plans for peace, not evil, to give you a future and hope—never forget that.”

Can you tell us about a special moment from your writing journey so far?

I entered the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellent in Mystery/Suspense contest on a whim this past year never expecting to place, so when I received a phone call that I was a finalist, I did the happy dance! I was so excited. Then when I ended up winning the award in the Inspirational Category, I was ecstatic. Such an honor! I was humbled and thankful.

That is so exciting. Congratulations!

What’s been one of the most challenging aspects of writing?

Writing is not my full time occupation, so my biggest challenge is making the time to write. It’s a constant battle to stay focused with so many things wanting to rob your time. I have to set my own goals and stick with them. Turn the TV off, shut down social media when I’m writing, set certain times of day to only write, etc. These are necessary.

Yep! It’s a challenge for me too. Discipline and balance is hard work. 😉

Name a few authors who inspire you.

DiAnn Mills, Lynette Eason, Steven James

Can you share a word of advice to other writers out there on the road to publication?

Persevere. It’s an up and down battle, but you can do it. If you’re willing to work hard, it will pay off in the long run. You’ve got this! (I’m telling myself this too!!)

Thanks for sharing with us today, Darlene. Have a blessed 2017!

Let’s spread the love, reading friends! You can help encourage and support Darlene’s writing by connecting with her at the sites below.

Website:  https://darlenelturner.com/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/darlene.turner.902

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/darlenelturner

Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/darlenelturner/

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/darlenel.turner/

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