By Susan L. Tuttle, @Susan_Tuttle5

Setting is a key element in our books. Oftentimes, we research places before we write about them, but once in a while we actually get to visit those locations. I’ve had this chance multiple times now, and each time I face a battle between my introverted nature and the excited writer in me. Here’s a few things I’ve learned that I hope will also help my fellow introverted authors…

1. Don’t feel so funny about taking pictures that you rush and then miss important shots. Stop and think about what your readers will want to see, and even take a few videos. In them, chat about what you’re filming, why you chose the spot for your book, and some of the history you discovered during your research of the setting. If people walk by and see you, don’t hastily look away as if you’re doing something criminal. Chat them up too—you might even gain future readers☺
2. Don’t be too scared to talk to people in the town or even ask if they’d be willing to be in your video or photographs. Research is a part of writing, and most people are more than happy to speak with you on subjects they’re knowledgeable about. You’re not bugging them, so ask away. The worst thing they can say is “no,” and then you’re in the same place you were before you asked. But nine times out of ten, you’ll receive a “yes.” (And that one time you hear a “no” won’t kill you. As of yet, I have not met anyone who’s died from embarrassment.)

3. Speaking of embarrassment, don’t be embarrassed to find the best angle for a photograph. No, don’t trespass on someone’s personal property, but also don’t skip taking a picture because you don’t want to call attention to yourself. Care less about what people think and more about the research elements you’re obtaining. And honestly? Most people won’t think anything about what you’re doing at all.
4. Don’t be afraid to ask for access to places. A few years ago, I was in a hotel in Chicago where I’d used one of their rooftop restaurants in a scene. It wasn’t open at the time I visited, so I turned around to leave. My best friend happened to be with me, and she asked if we could go up and see the space anyhow. The attendant immediately agreed! Once up there, I realized some of what I’d written wouldn’t actually work within the space, and I went home and tweaked it.

Bottom line? If you choose to write about a real place, then you need to do your best to be as accurate as possible. Research is a part of the writing life, and sometimes that includes research trips. Don’t shy away from them simply because you have a shy nature. Taking these trips helps strengthen your story and creates additional material that your readers will love. That’s a win/win your introverted nature will simply have to get on board with. And trust me, while it won’t ever feel completely natural, it does get easier with every step you take. 

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Out of the Blue

Falling in love again wasn’t on her checklist, but he’s about to pencil it in.

Nate Reynolds’s ugly history has dogged him long enough. He has spent years reforming himself, but there has to be a purpose for all the pain in his youth. When he discovers the perfect campground for rehabbing juvenile delinquents, he sees his chance for redemption. Even if it means butting heads with the owner’s granddaughter, Gwen Doornbos, a woman who, for all her sharp edges, possesses a heart similar to his. The more time he spends with her, the more he envisions a future he once thought impossible.

Four years ago, Gwen Doornbos lost her husband at the hands of a troubled teen. Her dream of ministering to kids died with him, and she returned home to help her grandfather run their family summer camp until his retirement. That day has finally arrived, except her grandfather has other plans for Camp Hideaway, and they include the irritatingly handsome Nate, a do-gooder with more brawn than sense who insists on bringing the past right to her door.

When an accident requires Gwen to temporarily assist Nate, she discovers that the campers challenge her in ways she’s not ready to face. Yet if she can find the courage to stay, the darkness that has shrouded her for so long may lift to reveal a love arriving out of the blue.

ACFW Carol Award finalist, Susan L. Tuttle lives in the Mitten State where she’s a mom of three and happily married to her best friend. Between still homeschooling her youngest and leading the women’s ministry at church, she finds time to write stories filled with inspiration, hope, and encouragement. Connect with Susan at www.susanltuttle.com.