"Writing is hard work. A clear sentence is no accident. Very few sentences come out right the first time, or even the third time. Remember this in moments of despair. If you find that writing is hard, it's because it is hard."

-William Zinsser On Writing Well 30th Anniversary Edition, p.9

Zinsser is spot on. The effort to capture the right words creates moments of both delight and despair. Inspired one moment. Hopeless the next. And when discouraged, a writer will do anything to avoid the act of writing.

The nine women of Living Write Texas know from experience the ups and downs of life at the keyboards. Collectively we have written for a total of 128 years. Among our endeavors: 21 books, hundreds of blog posts, newsletters, magazine and newspaper articles, stage plays, and even a songwriter of 30 years. Our fair share of grins and grief were included in the process.

Our goal for this book is simple: to support Christian writers at all levels to actively pursue the mission they believe God calls them to fulfill. To encourage, educate, and engage aspiring authors in the process of transferring the words they carry in their heart to the written page.

Consider us your "come alongside friends" who share our insights, wins, and misses. We've learned to talk one another off the ledge and discovered helpful tools and tips. We trust God's purpose in our lives and honor the gift of the written word. We believe you do, too - even when a dumpster fire for all those pages seems tempting.

Why? Because like you-we are commissioned to pursue that for which the Lord has called us-we're in for the long haul. And we'd love some more travel buddies.