Marion McNair

"Thus speaketh the Lord God of Israel, saying, Write thee all the words that I have spoken unto thee in a book.” Jeremiah 30: 2

Interview Questions

What is Christian suspense?

This is a very good question. In the New Testament, Jesus often told stories; mysteries, called parables, such as in Matthew 13:3-9, the parable of the sower. He used parables (mysteries) to reveal truths, in such a way to intrigue the interest of the believer and to teach a vital lesson. Mysteries (parables) such as the mustard seed, tares and wheat, the leaven, the hidden treasure, the pearl of great price, and the parable of the kingdom of Heaven hid secrets that later, through study of the Word, the truth was revealed.

Christian suspense is a work of fiction that takes the lives of ordinary people; put them in extraordinary circumstances to reveal real-life human conflict, drama (good vs. evil). Christian suspense should capture the imagination of the reader, and give them a memorable experience of intriguing spine-tingling stories.  Yet, it should always point the reader to a greater understanding of God. It should inspire the reader’s faith in God, give them hope and educate them about the love, grace, forgiveness, and mercy of God 

If a person feels they have been called to write, how should they get started?

Everywhere I go, I meet a lot of people who say they are writing a book. Yet, when I ask them ‘Who are you reading?’ The answers never cease to amaze me. Most, tell me they do not have time to read anything other than their Bible. May I tell you, that if you have been called to write, then you need to start reading. The best way to learn how to write is by reading the genre you are interested in. Not only is this a good way to learn how to write, but you need to support other writers. After all, one day, you will want someone to read your book.

What other advice do you have for aspiring writers?

OK, I talked about reading. Read, read, and then read some more. Learn the craft of writing by reading. If you wanted to be a great singer, you would take vocal lesson. If you wanted to be a tennis player like the Williams sisters, you would take tennis lessons and practice, practice, practice. The same discipline applies to writing. Hone your skills as a writer by taking writing courses at your local college. Read books on the subject of writing and take writing workshops, such as the one I am offering (see my appearances page to learn more). Check my website often for upcoming writing classes. Lastly, do not try to copy someone else’s style of writing. Write the story that God inspired you to write.

Who is your favorite author or do you have a favorite book?

I read a lot. Needless to say, suspense is my thing. I love to read a book that will take me on a roller-coaster ride, make my heart pound, and then slowly bring me back to a place of safety. I enjoy so many authors and read so many different genres that it would be hard to say who my favorite is. By reading other authors and studying well-written books, I have learned how to write scenes, plots, characters and dialogue. Therefore, my favorite author or book is the one that I can learn from.  

When do you write?

I love the night, so my writing day begins around two in the afternoon. I take a break if it’s a church night, and then resume my writing when I return home, up and until around four or five o’ clock in the early morning.

With your writing schedule, when do you find time with God?

God is very important in my life. When I awake, the first thing I do is say ‘God morning Heavenly Father. Thank you for waking me up this morning,’ (although, it is probably afternoon). I have my devotion, which includes singing, reading my Bible, and praying. I want God to be the center of my writing, so when I begin to write, I invoke His presence.

How much of your life experience is in Bitter Roots?

Bitter Roots is a work of fiction. With that said, let me say that people come in and out of our lives and whether good or bad, they will leave an imprint upon us. I have had some rough spots in my life (see “Why I wrote this novel”). In relationships, we affect each others lives in such a way that it can forever change the essence of who we are. It is often the ones you love the most, who can, and will fail you, hurt you, betray you, and probably will not even say “I’m sorry.” What we need to remember is that at one time, or another, we were all sinners, made righteous through the blood of Jesus. In Matt. 5:44 God tells us to (1) love your enemies, (2) bless those who curse you (3) do good to those who hate you (4) pray for those who despitefully use you and persecute you. I believe when you can do this, then you know you have truly been changed.