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Interview with Margaret Daley

Margaret Daley’s list of accomplishments is inspiring, to say the least. So many well-deserved accolades for her success as a writer could be poured into this paragraph, but I’ll get back to that. Over and above any literary recognition, I want to first recognize Margaret for her beautiful, Christ-like spirit, and her willingness to help others up the hills she’s already climbed…to lead them around the hidden pitfalls, and through the most treacherous of literary terrain. That she’s become a recognized name in the Christian publishing industry is no surprise, with 75 published books and a long list of awards under her belt. She’s a prolific writer, currently contracted with three different publishers. Margaret lives in Oklahoma, and is the current president of ACFW. I can’t think of anyone more perfect for that position… a beautiful example of what dedication and determination can do.

Let’s find out a little about Margaret Daley’s journey.

Margaret, I feel so honored to have actually met and spoken with you as a fellow member of WIN-ACFW, the Tulsa Branch of the organization. It’s no secret that I think you’re amazing, and I’m looking forward to learning a little more about you now. I’d love to delve more deeply into the personal side of Margaret Daley, the author, but let’s focus on your writing career.

First, tell us a little about your latest release, Saving Hope.

Saving Hope is a story I had to tell—a book of my heart. It highlights a problem the United States—the world—is dealing with, human trafficking (which often leads to child prostitution). My story deals with a heroine who runs a home for teenage girls who have been given a second chance after being rescued from a life of prostitution (most forced into the life by various methods). One of Kate’s charges goes missing and she is sure the girl has been kidnapped. Rose would not have gone back to her old life willingly. Kate finds an ally in Texas Ranger Wyatt Sheridan.

Is this book #76, then? How many novels do you write each year?
Actually Saving Hope is book 72, and I have three more coming out this year. I just recently signed several contracts which will bring my books sold to 82.

Reflecting back, what experience/revelation/bit of advice, etc., do you see as most significant to your publication journey?
Keep writing. Perseverance is important for an author. If you don’t, you will not become published. Writing isn’t an easy job, but it is a hard one to walk away from if you are meant to be an author.

What’s your biggest challenge in balancing writing time with your other responsibilities?
Learning to say no when I need to. I love to help others, but my time is limited. I have to remember that some of the time.

How do your faith and spiritual life play into the picture and affect your storytelling?
First, my inspiration and words come from the Lord. I start the day asking Him for help in telling the story that will honor Him.

What do you consider the greatest moment of your writing/publishing career?
Selling my first book proved to me that I could do it. Although my road to continual publication hasn’t been smooth, I know that I have sold in the past, and with hard work and determination, I hope to sell again.

Who/What spurs you to write? Where do your story and character ideas come from?
They just come. I’m not sure from where other than the Lord.

What do you think makes your style of storytelling unique?
I’m not sure I know how to answer that question. I often have fast paced stories. I like action.

Fill in the blanks: If I could take credit for only one of my published books, I would choose...
Saving Hope because it was such a challenging story to write but one I felt needed to be told.

Any parting words?
Your words blessed me, Delia. Thank you for having me on your blog. I hope people will visit my website to read excerpts of my books and learn some more about my books and me. My website is http://www.margaretdaley.com.

Thanks for sharing with us, Margaret!




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