I am seeking representation for a book of devotions that I began writing as a spiritual memoir in the summer of 2021. After sending the fifth draft to a round of beta readers this spring, the feedback has led me to understand that the writing is best suited to be packaged as a book of Christian devotions. I am envisioning a beautifully bound, hardcover book, perhaps a muted mauve shade or a creamy ivory color with an inviting, soft cover image.

It’s funny how this long-form work, which took place primarily in left over spaces, had a way of evolving. I set out with an intention to tell my story of a faith journey through the rotating seasons of doubter, believer, seeker, and testifier. Organized thematically, it reaches a rational conclusion of the value that practicing a Christian faith has had in my life.

Turns out, this story is not so much about me, but about something much larger and unseeable. Through some personal stories, reflections on scripture, and prayer, the work leads readers to deepen their own faith and forge a spiritual practice rooted in divine love. I received a gift of time to craft these stories that I wish to share with an audience looking for a contemporary Christian message.

I’ve had some productive conversations with agents who represent Christian authors. This has led me to rethink my platform. This blog has been a hodge podge of personal essays touching on themes that are important to me, but not necessarily limited to a Christian audience. It has always been a fun way for me to express myself and share my writing journey. As I love the topic of writing and documenting the process and sharing insights on the craft that I pick up along the way, I plan to continue with this blog.

However, to better reach a Christian audience, I am now on Substack. My stack, “Divine Time with Tara,” features a devotion published on Tuesday mornings beginning July 2. If you would like to follow my Christian work there, I’d love to have you along: Substack.

I am reading two books at the moment to help me grow as a writer in pursuit of gaining a larger audience for my work. The Business of Being a Writer by Jane Friedman and Platform Get Noticed in a Noisy World: A Step-by-step Guide for Anyone with Something to Say or Sell by Michael Hyatt. I’ve had success as an indie author and coach, and find the time is right to also pursue traditional publishing. I am reading these books to gain some insight on creating a richer following.

Meanwhile, I am finding much to love about a novel that I dug out of a dusty desk drawer. Its working title is Poetic License. It is a character-driven piece of contemporary fiction featuring four fabulous women who are becoming my best friends.

My writing practice is always a bit of juggling. The publishing process is lengthy with so much room for doubt and distraction in the space between an idea and a final product. There are the artist steps and the business steps, which are all part of my creative life.

I struggle to manage the left brain/right brain conundrum. At a recent yoga class, our instructor had this question for us to consider through the movements and breath, “Are you making it happen or are you letting it happen?” I was left with the idea that we should work to let the energy of the universe work through us rather than working to control the results.

As a recovering work acholic, I am letting go of making this book of devotions happen and hoping to let it happen in its time. It is my hope that I find readers on Substack who are looking for this type of inspiration in their lives. Blessings on the journey regardless of the outcome.