Have you written a novel that you’d like to see published? I can help, and I’m not just talking about editing services. This month I started a new job that will let me make writers’ dreams come true!

That’s right—I’m the new managing editor for Guiding Light Women’s Fiction, an imprint of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas.

What does that mean for you?

It means I’m the one reading your manuscripts. I’m looking for characters who capture my interest and plots that intrigue me. If they do—even if the writing’s a bit rough—I can offer a contract to help you edit your story, then see it published! I am beyond thrilled about this opportunity for several reasons:

  1. I love helping new authors. LPC welcomes new authors and provides quite a bit of editing (and some coaching) throughout the process. I’ve been editing with LPC at one of their other imprints, and I love seeing how my comments and suggestions have helped authors turn good story ideas into page-turning novels.
  2. I get to be more involved. As a general editor with LPC, I helped authors with the actual editing, but that was it. As managing editor, I’ll be part of the whole process, from signing the contract to book launch. I can’t wait to experience more of the process with the authors.
  3. The more I know, the more I can help. I’m not shutting down my freelance business while I work at Guiding Light, but I’ll have to scale back quite a bit. I’m okay with that, though, because I’ll be learning more about the industry which will give me more information to share with my clients. The better I understand how all of this works, the more help I’ll be able to offer other authors.

Enough about me, what about the imprint? What does Guiding Light publish, and who can submit?

Guiding Light is the contemporary women’s fiction line (post 1960). We publish stories that entertain, encourage, inspire, and enlighten.

At Guiding Light, we believe that the first requirement of a novel is to entertain the reader. That’s why our stories include strong, emotional plots and engaging, relatable characters. Our books are compelling and thought-provoking with women at the center of the stories.

Because Guiding Light sells to the general market, we publish wholesome stories that reflect God’s commands, laws, and promises without necessarily crediting Him for his moral absolutes. If you think you’ve written a story like this, check out the submission guidelines. If you’re not currently represented by an agent, just mention in your query that you read about this on my blog and I’ll be happy to take a look.

If you don’t write women’s fiction, tell me what you’re writing—I might know someone or someplace who represents or publishes that genre!

(NOTE: For the conclusion of the “How to Write a Novel” series, click here.)

My debut novel—Summer Plans and Other Disasters—is now available on Amazon! Sign up for my monthly newsletter and you’ll receive the unpublished prologue: find out what inspired Calista Stephens to make those summer plans. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for writing tips, updates on Guiding Light, and more!