I’m struggling with what type of book to publish next. My trilogy dabbled in paranormal, filled with themes about holding onto faith, taking chances, listening to your heart, and God’s unfailing love.

One story I dreamed up before landing a contract for my trilogy deals with racial tensions in America. Last summer, I actually sat down to plot it and write the query and synopsis. I didn’t have time to start writing it until a few months ago. Seemed like the perfect time to write such a story given all the stuff going on in our country now, right?

I wanted to show a heartfelt & moving story that demonstrated a person is more important than the color of their skin or any label society gives them & how easily we can be manipulated into joining the politics of polarization, to find ourselves crossing that line in the sand we said we’d never cross to get back at the ‘enemy’ on the other side, pronouncing judgements as if we have all the answers.

And I wanted to show how true love can cut across lines & dispense forgiveness & grace with humility.

But you know what? It’s a hard thing to do. I fear it’ll take me years before I get this story right.

So I started writing something else, and IT’S A PYSCHOLOGICAL THRILLER!

WHAT IS THIS WIZARDRY?!

My friends will tell you that just watching the previews for movies in that genre send me into a full downward spiral! But it’s over-the-top thrills and chills, & while it may not make you think too much, it’ll entertain you.

But when I turn on the news, I feel guilty. Entertaining people serves a necessary function & is a worthy pursuit, but it rarely solves human problems. But over the years, I can think back to many a book I’ve finished & said, “This book has changed me. I’m not the same person I was before reading this story.”

I’m not naïve enough to think I’m some sort of book god & have all the answers but . . .

When you read, do you look for a book that will make you think about the world we live in or escape it?

This has been a post for the Insecure Writer’s Support Group, the brainchild of Head Ninja, Alex J. Cavanaugh. Feel free to join us the first Wednesday of every month!