October 29, 2013
10/30/13 There was no one to tell young Amanda Barber how to start writing and publishing nor anyone to finance her work. She was just a woman with a story in her heart and the desire to tell it.
Growing up in a home infused with faith, music and literature it was only natural that Amanda would learn to play violin & sing, and equally as natural that she express herself through writing stories. As a young adult she began the years long journey trying to understand the publishing industry and to have her historical fiction novel, “The Pursuit of Elizabeth Millhouse” published through Axiom Publishing.
She received numerous rejections from literary agents and publishers. Once a publisher held onto to her book for three months before telling her no. She never quit searching for the agent who would listen and the publisher that would give her book an opportunity to see the light of day. Now her novel, “The Pursuit of Elizabeth Millhouse” has been published by Axiom Press and is receiving an enthusiastic response from a small but growing audience.
At times romantic, poignant, and other places tragic, “The Pursuit of Elizabeth Millhouse”, set at the turn of the century, follows a young woman’s struggle to gain a life for herself, answer questions of personal significance, and to come to terms with trusting in God.
www.thepursuitofelizabethmillhouse.com
While she was waiting for her book to be published, she wrote a script that her brother Justin produced and directed, “The Wednesday Morning Breakfast Club” (www.thewednesdaymorningbreakfastclub.com).
In her “spare” time Amanda is a violinist in the Kalamazoo Philharmonia and has begun to perform solo violin and vocal concerts .
Amanda enjoys talking to readers and encouraging other writers. This articulate, unassuming young lady may be an inspiration to other young writers wondering if maybe they could get their heart’s story in print as well.
The Starke County Library in Knox will host Amanda Barber on Friday, November 22 at 1 p.m. She will also appear 6 pm Barnes & Noble in Valparaiso at 6 p.m. Both events are free and open to all.