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During our writing journey, it’s interesting to see people’s reactions when discussing our craft.
Occasionally, the conversation may go something like this:
“What is it you do anyway?”
“Well,” (we may slug back our favorite beverage as we gather steam for what we know is coming) “I’m a writer.”
“A writer, huh? That’s nice. I’m going to write a book one day, too. What do you write?”
“I’m a Christian fiction novelist.”
There might be a beat or two before a pleasant “Ohhh. That’s neat. Do you like it?”
Um… yes. Yes, I do. That’s why I write it.
Sometimes, a look of appreciation along with a few questions will linger. That’s always nice when that happens because most of us are excited to share about our work.
Other times, there might be a deer-in-the-headlights kind of pause. It’s obvious the inquiring party is searching for just the right response. Most folks don’t mean to offend—it’s just that they really don’t understand the process, let alone why we would write Christian fiction.
Because misconceptions abound, I wanted to share some thoughts with you today.
Here are 10 Things You Should Know about Christian Fiction Novelists:
1. We write in many different genres. Yes, even the (*gasp*) inspirational romance genre.
2. We love Jesus, but please don’t put us on a pedestal. We’re fallible. We have faults and shortcomings.
3. When we’re asked “What do you write?” we’re happy to share. If you reply “Whoa! I’d never read that in a million years!” we’d rather you fib. (No, not really.) But please be polite—just bite your tongue instead.
4. We appreciate candor. Rudeness, not so much. Yes, writers develop thick skins, but we still have feelings.
5. We’re not “holy rollers.” We’re real people, living in a real world, and traveling similar destinations. Our stories often reflect this.
6. Christian fiction is evolving, but Christ remains our cornerstone. If you’d like to know more, please ask! Nothing thrills us more than to share about Jesus.
7. We read other books besides Christian fiction. BUT…please don’t label us “intolerant” when we refuse to read profane rants. We want to expand our horizons, not promote ignorance.
8. Writing and crafting are hard work. It takes time, practice, and commitment. All the brotherly love in the world can’t tell you how to write, acquire an agent, or pursue publication unless you’re willing to put forth the effort. It’s un-Christian for us to fuel misguided thinking.
9. We love God, but we’re still business people. Meaning: Please understand that while sharing the Gospel is our first objective, writing is our job. We must write to deliver the Message. We must write to meet deadlines. We must write to finish books. We must write to potentially earn an income. In other words, writing isn’t merely a hobby. It is fun and we do enjoy it, but it’s our career.
10. We’re moved by your kind words and encouraging e-mails. It blesses us to know that something we’ve written has blessed you. On the other hand, please don’t diss our work as “some more of that Christian fiction junk” without ever having read anything we’ve written. It doesn’t make us like you. Of course, we still love you in a Christian kinda way! 🙂
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PLEASE SHARE
Everything you wanted to know about Christian fiction novelists, but were afraid to ask.
We’re not “holy rollers” and 9 additional things you should know.
An Encouraging Nugget to Chew on Today…
Guts and Glory: Pressing on When We’d Rather Not
If you read or write Christian fiction, what are some additional things that you wish folks knew?
Have a great day!
Blessings Always,
Comments 8
Here’s another one – we wish our faith were ironclad, but circumstances can shake it.
Even Jesus felt abandoned as He hung on the Cross – sometimes we feel abandoned, too.
When this is reflected in our work, couched in the knowledge that we are never truly forsaken we tend to deliver our most meaningful message.
Author
Andrew, so true. I recognize this in my own writing.
Fun and oh-so-true list! Here’s another one: We believe stories change lives. Which I’m sure is true of many if not all novelists, not just Christian novelists. But that’s really at the core of why I write.
Author
Melissa, absolutely! Great point!
This is great, Cynthia. Just yesterday, I was told that I should be sticking to “Christian” writing … like fiction wasn’t Christian. I chuckled. Then I was told that this year last year was probably wasted on writing my middle grade book. But I just responded that it has helped me grow my craft … I’ve learned so much. I chuckled again.
Author
Shelli, there will always be Downer Debbies and uninformed folks. Not only were you gracious in your response, but you shared such wisdom, too! Go you!
I love this! Here’s one: Christian novelists do write about murder and mayhem. Yes, we still love the Lord. We can show His amazing glory through frightening circumstances. 🙂
Author
Jess, great example! (…Now I’ve got goosebumps! Ha!)