Renee Allen McCoy Interview Published on: 21, Jul 2023
What were your childhood dreams? Did you always want to be an author?
My childhood dream was to become a pediatrician. I had a desire to care for children. Now, as a homeschooling mom, I'm doing just that. I didn't always want to be an author, but that realization came soon after I graduated from college.
As a child, what did you feel about writing?As a child I felt great about writing, especially creative writing. It came naturally.
Can you tell us about your journey as a writer and how you discovered your passion for writing?I've always enjoyed watching movies and figuring out the end. After graduating from college, writing a book was something I tried. I soon discovered that I had many stories to share with the world that has since become a ministry.
How has your faith in Jesus Christ influenced your writing and your role as an author?My faith in Jesus Christ has greatly influenced my writing and role as an author. My books are actually Scripture-driven. It is my way of sharing the Gospel with the world so that they can experience the freedom of God's love that I have.
What inspired you to combine your roles as a homeschooling mom and a writer? How do you balance these responsibilities?Being a homeschooling mom and writer is a challenge for me, especially to elementary-aged children, but very rewarding. I try my best to work around the duties of the household, balancing my time as best I can between the two.
What challenges have you faced as an author, and how have you overcome them?The challenges I've faced are primarily marketing and promotion, but ALLAuthor has helped in that area. After not publishing anything for nearly six years, marketing is definitely needed in the ever-changing literary industry.
How did you come up with the idea for your book, Through the Storm?I came up with the idea for Through the Storm just like all of my other books. I pray for creative ideas and craft a story around a Scripture from the Holy Bible. God tells us in His word that if we commit our works to Him, our thoughts will be established. This particular book focuses on trusting the Lord through the storms that may arise in our lives, despite what others may say.
What do you hope readers take away from your book, Once Upon a Sunday? Is there a specific message or impact you want to leave on their lives?I hope readers take away that God loves us and no matter what we may have done He is there for us. We can place our trust in Him, accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
Can you provide some insights or advice for aspiring writers who are looking to infuse their faith into their writing?Absolutely. For aspiring writers who are looking to infuse their faith into their writing I would encourage them to pray for direction. Listen to God and write what you know. Ponder the challenges you may have faced in your own life or the lives of people around you, and draw from those unique experiences. It could help someone else.
Are there any particular authors or books that have influenced your writing style or your faith journey?Obviously, the Holy Bible. Other than that, there are a plethora of books and booklets that have influenced my faith journey. Derek Prince (from Derek Prince Ministries), the teachings of Adrian Rogers, and many others. But most importantly, God. I appreciate the work and writings of others as long as it lines up with the Holy Bible.
How do you approach writing as a ministry? What are some of the messages or themes you aim to convey through your writing?There are many different messages and themes that I convey through my writing: domestic violence, dating issues, marital issues, infidelity, infertility, fornication, spiritual warfare, and more.
Can you talk about the importance of connecting with readers and building relationships with them? How do you engage with your readers and foster that connection?I have an email list where I periodically send out messages and alerts. I foster that connection by letting them know that I truly appreciate their support and the time spent reading my work.
Can you share any specific instances where your writing has impacted your readers' lives or helped them in their faith?I have received emails from different readers where they share how much my writing has impacted their lives. Many express their appreciation for the discussion questions I sometimes include with a book as well as the topics discussed within the book itself.
Do you have any upcoming projects or books that you would like to share with your readers?My most recent book, Through the Storm, is now available for sale. The next installment in The True Love Novellas series, Song of Joy (Book 5), is slated to be released in 2024. I encourage readers to check my website www.ReneeAllenMcCoy.com in the near future for updates.
Finally, how has your time with AllAuthor impacted your life and your writing so far? What other measures could be taken on this site to cater better to the needs of the authors?My time with AllAuthor has been a positve experience. I appreciate the weekly emails and professional appearance of the website.
