The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck
"I was pretty sure it would take many, many years to catch the eye of a traditional publishing house, if I ever did! I didn’t have an agent, I was completely unknown, and I’d written a Christian romantic comedy which was heavy in pop culture references and real-life messy faith. I wasn’t sure where I fit. Well, apparently I fit at Writer’s Edge! I was contacted by Revell Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group, thirteen days after my submission was accepted by Writer’s Edge.
The dream I was preparing to spend years chasing began to become reality in less than two weeks, because of Writer’s Edge. The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck will be published by Revell in October 2017 — pop culture references, messy faith, and all."
-Bethany Turner
Love's Reckoning
"After realizing how difficult it was to get an agent, I submitted to the Writer’s Edge. The day after my work was posted, two major publishing houses asked to see a portion of my historical fiction novel. Although this didn’t pan out, two more major publishers contacted me as well as several smaller houses. I realized then how well respected the Writer’s Edge is in the publishing industry.
Within 9 months I had a 3-book contract with Revell/Baker Publishing Group. If not for the professionalism of this wonderful service, I’m sure I would still be spending fruitless hours trying to find an agent and break into the market. The editor who reviewed my work provided the encouragement I needed to keep going, and everything was handled professionally, efficiently, and in a timely manner. I recommend this service to everyone pursuing publication. I’m so thankful for all that the Writer’s Edge has done for me. My first novel, The Frontiersman’s Daughter, was released August 1, 2009. Hats off to a very valuable service!"
-Laura Frantz
Band of Sisters
“After posting my book with Writer’s Edge I was contacted by three Christian publishers. Writer’s Edge has been responsive and professional in every way. Their evaluation was especially helpful in forming some of my later decisions re. promotion and target markets. I learned that entering the publishing world takes time. The process leading to a contract took several months, but posting with Writer’s Edge was my first step.”
-Cathy Gohlke
Cathy Gohlke is the two-time Christy Award-winning author of William Henry is a Fine Name and I Have Seen Him in the Watchfires, which also won the American Christian Fiction Writers’ Book of the Year Award.
A Short Walk To The Edge of Life
"I was grateful to discover the proposal from Scott Hubbartt at Writer’s Edge. I always review carefully the recommended proposals from Writer’s Edge, and it’s rare that I don’t find at least one that grabs my attention. The contribution of Writer’s Edge benefits all of us in publishing."
-Bruce Nygren
Senior Acquisitions Editor
Multnomah/Waterbrook, a division of Random House
A Woman's Guide To Knowing what You Believe
Writer’s Edge Service! That’s what I tell everyone who asks me how I got my book published. I always thought the hard part would be writing the book. But the hard part was finding a publisher. I quickly became discouraged because most publishers no longer accept unsolicited manuscripts. At first I was skeptical, but figured I had nothing to lose. So, I took a chance. Two months later, I received a call from an acquisition’s editor at Bethany House, a subsidiary of Baker Publishing Group. Had it not been for Writer’s Edge, I wouldn’t be an author today. Thank you, Writer’s Edge!
-Patty Houser
Prayers for Your Children
You were the means through which my first book, The Lost Art of Praying Together, was successfully published through Discovery House. I am now on my eighth project with Discovery House.
As a former first-time author, the service that you provide in opening doors is invaluable and unique. God has used you to touch well over a million lives through the writing ministry He has so mercifully allowed me to have, and I’m deeply grateful. The opportunity to encourage others in prayer (especially the parents of prodigals) is Kingdom work. Thank you, Writer’s Edge Service. I send this with a prayer that your work will continue to encourage and inspire many.
-Dr. James Banks
Take Charge of Your Emotions
Thank you to Writer’s Edge for the invaluable service you provide unknown writers like myself in notifying potential publishers of our work! [My] reviewer was so encouraging to me I just wanted to thank that person and let them know what happened with this proposal. The book was published and released in September 2013 by Bethany House Publishers under the title, Take Charge of Your Emotions: Seven Steps to Overcoming Depression, Anxiety, and Anger.
-Dr. Linda J. Solie
Hardwired
The Writer’s Edge was an easy and effective way to get in contact with just the right audience for Hardwired. The structure is user-friendly, the staff are accessible, and it worked exactly the way I hoped! They cut through a jungle of distractions and dead-ends to make publishing a reality.
-James W. Miller
Spiritual Secrets to a Healthy Heart
Writer’s Edge alumni Kara Davis, MD, is a board-certified physician of internal medicine who practices in the Chicago suburbs. Found right here on Writer’s Edge by Charisma Media, Dr. Davis is now releasing Spiritual Secrets to a Healthy Heart in February.
Gray Rainbow Journey
My first novel, Gray Rainbow Journey, which was announced through Writers Edge and published by OakTara, was winner of a National Best Books 2009 Award for Multicultural Fiction, and a Finalist in the categories of Religion and Mystery/Suspense, sponsored by USA Book News. Writer’s Edge helped to make it all possible. Thank you again for this service!”
–KiKi BelMonte-Schaller
Grace Filled Divorce
Divorce is one of those experiences that everyone believes will happen to someone else. So what do you do when it happens to you? Melody Bacon, Ph.D. tells how you as a Christian believer, can walk through the valley of divorce and emerge better and not bitter.
Melody holds a Ph.D. in clinical psychology, with an emphasis in depth psychology, from Pacifica Graduate Institute and an M.A. in U.S. history from Cal State Northridge. In their private practice, Melody and her husband Ron (a marriage and family therapist), work with couples and individuals facing relationship challenges. They also conduct workshops for pre-engaged couples: Before You Pop the Question, and married couples: Happily Married After.
Googling God
I am extremely grateful to Writer’s Edge for the service they offer and the integrity and manner in which they conduct the reviews. They actually deliver on what they promise, which is encouraging and refreshing! I completed the draft of a book targeted at ‘pre-Christians’ encouraging people (many who have been bruised by church and Christians) to revisit who God is and what He is like.
I was turned down by one publisher I approached in England and then found that most publishers won’t look at unsolicited manuscripts. However, some did mention submitting work to Writer’s Edge for an initial review. I did that in December and in early February received an acceptance letter and my synopsis was [reported to the publishers]. . . .Two weeks later I received an expression of interest from Harvest House Publishers, and I have been working with them over the past 8 months to produce a final draft. . . . Harvest House is interested in my writing, and I am currently halfway through another book that will be reviewed by them within the next six months.
-John Cox, British Columbia
William Henry is a Fine Name
After posting my book with Writer’s Edge I was contacted by three Christian publishers. I signed with Moody Publishers and could not be happier.
Writer’s Edge has been responsive and professional in every way. Their evaluation was especially helpful in forming some of my later decisions re. promotion and target markets.
I learned that entering the publishing world takes time. The process leading to a contract took several months, but posting with Writer’s Edge was my first step.
-Cathy Gohlke
Corner of Blue
Writing a novel is a breeze compared to getting it published. The cycle of agents who aren’t taking new clients, to publishers who won’t accept manuscripts (or even query letters) unless the author has an agent, is frustrating and discouraging. My story, however, has a happy ending because a small publishing company read my old excerpt postings on Writer’s Edge Service. They liked what they read and asked for more. Without the unique process of Writer’s Edge, I would still be sending off query letters. Thank you so much for keeping postings on your site for an extended period.
-Sharon McAnear
Author of the Jemma series, (including Corner of Blue, Never a Starless Sky)
Spiritual Secrets to Weight Loss
I entered the world of publishing very “wet behind the ears.” It was not long before I realized that having a desire to write and getting a manuscript published were distinct entities with no promise of ever coming together. The Writer’s Edge helped bridge the gap. I signed my first contract last week. Thank you, Writer’s Edge!
–Kara Davis, M.D.
Overcoming Runaway Blood Sugar
Writer’s Edge made the difference for me. I sent out dozens of query letters to publishers, with no nibbles. Finally I decided to try Writer’s Edge. After a summary of my book was included in their service, I received a note from a representative of Harvest House Publishers, wanting to see the manuscript. She liked the book and sent it up to the next level. It took a while, but the book is now published and in its third printing.
-Dennis Pollock
Who Has Your Heart? The Single Woman’s Pursuit of Godliness
I never thought getting published would be such a pleasant experience, but because of the Writer’s Edge, it was! I received wonderful, prompt feedback from my reviewer and was very pleased with the summary listed in the monthly book report to the publishers. Two publishers requested my proposal, and in just a few short months, I had my first contract in my hand!
The process led to a wonderful relationship with my editors at Discovery House Publishing and a remarkable experience as a first-time author. I would recommend to all writers that they use the Writer’s Edge in the beginning of their journey toward publication, not as a last resort. My first book, Who Has Your Heart? The Single Woman’s Pursuit of Godliness, is out this month.
–Emily E. Ryan
From Blushing Bride to Wedded Wife
I can’t recommend Writer’s Edge highly enough. I had been working on a book about marriage for over five years and finally had the guts to do something about it. I decided to try Writer’s Edge first, and if nothing came of it I would start looking for publishers to send my proposal to. My book synopsis appeared in the Writer’s Edge report for publishers in December.
On January 6th, less than one week later, I received e-mails from two publishing companies. One was Harvest House Publishers. After sending them a proposal, then my entire manuscript, they offered me a contract. I am waiting to hear what they think of a proposal for my next book. Thanks, Writer’s Edge! I’m telling every aspiring writer I know about Writer’s Edge!
-Marla Taviano
Angry Like Jesus
Ever since I found the Writer’s Edge, I’ve been recommending it to other writers. It’s a very effective way of “getting found.”
Soon after I posted my latest proposal to them, two different major publishers [WaterBrook & Bethany House] contacted me directly. Although I ended up landing a contract with yet a third publisher [Fortress Press] whom I submitted a proposal to independently, I still think it’s worthwhile, even for seasoned authors, to post on the Writer’s Edge. For me it was a positive experience and well worth the money because I got personally acquainted with editors from two different publishing companies that I wasn’t connected to before.
So much of getting published is finding the right fit—the right publisher for your book. The Writer’s Edge can help you with that.
–Dr. Sarah Sumner
The Fingerprint of God
I am grateful to Writer’s Edge for the thoughtful service and guidance it provided to this novice writer. Not only did Writer’s Edge place my book proposal in front of a wide array of publishers, but the person who reviewed my book was very encouraging and offered much in the way of helpful advice.
After heeding most of the advice and making some necessary changes in my manuscript, my proposal was accepted by Wipf & Stock Publishers.
The book was then published and released in July 2021 under the title, The Fingerprint of God: Reflections on Love and Its Practice.
-Will Dickerson
Foundations of Christian Thought
My encounter with the Writer’s Edge was excellent. From my first inquiry until a follow-up letter congratulating me about my success in finding a publisher, my experience with the the Writer’s Edge was personal and helpful. The materials were clear and easy to fill out. The resulting description of my book proposal did justice to my ideas and was read by at least 80 publishers. Three publishers asked to see chapters of my manuscript, and one published my book. Publishing a book today, even in Christian circles, seems such a maze of difficulties in getting your good ideas and writing considered by a publisher. The Writer’s Edge provides a needed connection between author and publisher that is valued by both.
–Dr. Mark Cosgrove, Taylor University
The Fingerprint of God
The Writer’s Edge Service minimizes rejection! Instead of leaving you to send out dozens of queries and proposals and receive dozens of rejections from publishers who were not interested, the Writer’s Edge Service allows publishers to pre-screen ideas. You don’t have to waste your effort just to receive rejections. Only interested publishers will contact you, bringing you that much closer to acceptance. In my case, three publishers contacted me, so I only mailed out three proposals (not dozens). One sent me a rejection, one did not respond, and one sent me a contract. The Writer’s Edge streamlines and expedites the process of presenting a writer’s ideas to the publishing world. I plan to use the Writer’s Edge again and again.
-Christy Bower
Generous Faith
At the end of last year, I submitted my manuscript, Well Lived: Stories of Wisdom and Wonder, to Writer’s Edge. I was so pleased with the whole experience and the careful attention to details.
How lovely it was to have one of the reviewer’s ( #7, I think) wish me luck and indicate that my ms. was well done and meaningful. This personal response spoke volumes about your dedication. Please know that almost immediately I received an interest inquiry from Paraclete Press.
Writer’s Edge works! Thank you for this opportunity. I would not have had it without this vehicle. May God continue to gently and graciously bless your work. Peace and everything good, —Sr. Bridget Haase, Generous Faith
–Sr. Bridget Haase
Help for the Laid Off
In January Bridge-Logos contacted me, and four months later my “baby” is being delivered to (hopefully) thousands of people who are laid off and hurting, to help them during one of the worst times of their lives.
The Writer’s Edge is a truly legitimate service. By this, I mean years ago, my proposal and work was rejected twice (along with kind, constructive criticism). On the third try I was successful, and it’s just a miracle I thought to update my info shortly before my 5-yr term was to expire. The publisher contacted me ONE WEEK LATER; four months later the book is being shipped to the masses. Unbelievable! Anyway, my experience with your service taught me that it wasn’t just a bunch of people taking my money and sticking my info onto a web site. I made adjustments to my work according to the feedback I received and eventually was successful.
-Mary Aucoin Kaarto
Mothering Heights: A Novel Approach for Christian Mothers
Susan Brereton and I wrote a book called Mothering Heights: A Novel Approach for Christian Mothers and wanted to find a publisher. However, the fact that we are from a small country (New Zealand) meant we needed to look overseas for publication, which has challenges of its own. The Writer’s Edge service was perfect for us as it gave exposure to a variety of Christian publishers in the U.S that we otherwise might not have known about. We were blessed to be approached by three publishers and in the end signed with Judson Press last July. Our book is due out next week, which we are enormously excited about! Thanks to The Writer’s Edge
-Keitha Smith
The Eternal Truths of Narnia
Last November I sent a manuscript to you for The Eternal Truths of Narnia. Through your service, I heard from Bridge-Logos publishers in February. They accepted the study, and it was released in May in time for the Prince Caspian movie. Thank you for your wonderful service. Your partnership has assisted in drawing people to the Word of God through this culturally relevant topic.
-Julie Kloster
The Jesus Priorities: 8 Essential Habits
You screened my manuscript for me (twice actually). The first review gave me the tough love I needed to get serious and focused. It worked.
Jesus’ Keys was included in your report to publishers. I am happy to report that Upper Room Books offered me a contract and The Jesus Priorities: 8 Essential Habits is now available.
Your service was very helpful — and drove me to produce a far better book than I originally conceived. A great service!
-Christopher Maricle
Journey to Judah
My first novel, Journey to Judah, poured out of me between two family weddings. My daughter’s love story inspired the book. I was passionate about encouraging young women to follow the Lord wherever He leads and trust Him to be a faithful Lover, Provider, and Protector. I submitted the manuscript to Writers Edge in the fall and committed the work to the Lord, knowing that if He wanted to land it in the hands of a publisher, He would. Eventually He did! Jeff Nesbit of OakTara Fiction saw the listing and wanted to read the manuscript. I was visiting my daughter in India at the time. Long story short, he loved it and asked if I would publish with OakTara. The marriage between writer and publisher took place. I am currently working on two other books in the Born for India series.
-Eileen Rife
God in MySpace: Answering Questions of Loneliness and Identity
The process was simple, the comments returned by my reader were encouraging, and the results were favorable. I submitted my book to Writer’s Edge in early November and was contacted by two publishers within a couple of months.
I signed a contract in April and God in MySpace: Answering Questions of Loneliness and Identity was available later that year. Thank you, Writer’s Edge, for your service. It was a blessing.
-Derek Knoke
Among His Personal Effect
I am delighted to recommend Writer’s Edge. I found out about the program quite by accident when learning that some leading Christian publishers do not accept unsolicited mss, but recommend consulting Writer’s Edge instead. Last spring, I submitted chapters of my novel Among His Personal Effects for review. I received a thoughtful, frank appraisal, which, while complimentary, suggested that my work might be something of a hard sell to some Christian publishers. I was grateful for both the encouragement and the honesty. Nearly eight months later, however, I received two offers to publish the novel and am pleased to say that I have signed a contract with OakTara Fiction. I am grateful to Writer’s Edge—and to OakTara Fiction for taking a risk.
-John McDonald
My Mom Has Alzheimers
I listed my book with the Writer’s Edge and within six weeks time received two inquiries from Christian publishing companies. My book will be published by Bridge-Logos early next year. I am so grateful to the Writer’s Edge.
-Linda Born
Unto the least of these
I had a surprising experience with Writer’s Edge. My summary appeared in a report. The only responses I got immediately were from subsidy publishers. After several months went by, I assumed I had wasted $95 and forgot all about it. Much to my surprise (nearly one year later), I got an email from OakTara Fiction saying they were intrigued by my book summary on Writer’s Edge. I signed a contract with OakTara Fiction on January 16! Boy, did I get my money’s worth!
-Alison Pickrell
Walk Me To Midnight
I sent out query letters about my novel to Christian publishers, only to discover that most do not read query letters. One publisher suggested that I go through Writer’s Edge.
Within a few months of posting on the Writer’s Edge website, OakTara Fiction asked me to send my manuscript. A few weeks later, I had a contract for publication of Walk Me To Midnight. Thank you, Writers Edge!
-Jane St. Clair
Light Dancer
I finished my book, Light Dancer, in late spring. After being advised by an editor to get a literary agent, I contacted every single agent listed in the Christian Writer’s Market. A few returned my letter. One of them suggested I list my book with The Writer’s Edge. I took that advice a year later. In December, I was contacted by a publisher that had seen my listing on the Writer’s Edge. I signed a contract with them in January, (nearly four years after it had been listed). Thanks, Writer’s Edge, for keeping my listing posted for so long. My book might never have come to the attention of a publisher if not for you.
-J.B. Blunk