Talkshow Thursday: Meet Author Mary Ball

Meet Author Mary Ball

I'm pleased to introduce you to author Mary Ball, who took time from her busy schedule to stop by for a visit.

Author Mary L. Ball

Linda:  Welcome, Mary. You have several books out, with another coming soon. When did you know you want to pursue publication?

Mary: After writing many Christian articles a desire rooted in my heart to scribe fiction. It took seven months to complete my manuscript, then a year of editing and polishing. I began submitting to publishers, another year later my debut novel, Escape to Big Fork Lake was accepted by Prism Book Group.    

LM: In your second book “Stones of Destiny” where did you find your inspiration for the story?

Mary:  I was passing by my oldest grandson one day; his nose was deep into one of those YA books about magic. The thought came to me that there all kinds of captivating wonder around and real miracles. So I set out to write a fictional story that starts with a simple object but becomes hope to hang onto through faith and prayer.

LM: Do you have an unusual research story to share?

Mary: No. LOL I wish I did.

LM: The age old question for writers-are you a “pantster” or a plotter?

Mary: I’m a little of both. I will note a short outline of the way I think the novel will go, but it never gets written that way. As my characters evolve they always surprise me by talking different approaches. Sometimes, the Lord will quicken my spirit to changes that need to happen along the way too.

LM: What is your favorite scene in the story?

Mary: There are several but the one that stands out is when Taylor finds the heirloom ring and slips it on her finger and experiences unexplained feelings.     

LM: What is your next project?

Mary: I’m working with my editor for the release of Sparks of Love later in the fall. I would like to share the blurb.

Sparks of Love

Misjudged and accused, Lynette Cunningham walks away from God and everything she loves.

Ten years later, a phone call from father offers hope when he announces he may have a clue to the unsolved crime that forced her to run. She’s scared, but encouraged. Maybe this will clear her name from slander in her small North Carolina hometown.

Before Lynette returns tragedy strikes. A Fire destroys her childhood home and kills her father.

While she sorts through the ruins and hopes to find the clue, Lynette meets the new pastor, Price Fletcher.

 She must face the two things that scare her most. The past and a man of God.

 Can Lynette acknowledge her love for a man who represents the One she believes let her down? Will she stay alive long enough to prove her innocence?  

LM: Sounds very interesting! You’ve got a full plate as an Associate Pastor’s wife, author, and a singing ministry. What advice can you offer for fledgling writers about balancing the areas of their lives?

Mary: Life is busy, not everyone can shut themselves up in their office and write six hours a day. Don’t put yourself into the stereotype where you believe that you can’t accomplish being an author if you don’t set a certain time each day to write for hours. For some it’s fine, but for others (me) we have to go with the flow. Pick out times to write each day that work for you and don’t beat yourself up if your schedule only allows for a little writing time. The most important thing is to write as much as possible, and stay focused on your goal of completing your book.

LM: What are your passions outside of writing?

Mary: Lol. Well like you mentioned, I sing. Praising God in songs is my way of destressing. It may not seem relaxing to stand in front of people and sing but it’s a joy to love the Lord with a song. I also enjoy the being outdoors and fishing.    

LM: Thanks for visiting today! Find Mary Ball on Amazon.