Into the Fire

I cannot claim to know or understand the objective of other authors regarding their reasons for including or excluding certain realism in their fiction. That is unless I speak directly to them or read something from them on the subject that is unedited other than for copy errors. Some writers claim they have no agenda(s) when they author a story. While I believe they believe they do not, I find it hard to bypass any statement about a novel that doesn't include a message of some kind, no matter how frivolous, and to me a "message" is basically an agenda without legs. 

Christian authors often must clarify their visions for publishers as well as their intentions in writing the story. Some publishing houses blanch at the use of the word "hell" including it in their profanity category which makes it taboo for any book that sports their label/name/brand. I have no problem with any publisher who sets the rules for that particular house because it makes the boundaries for pursuing authors clear. Comply or seek a different publisher.

You could say I push the boundaries of Christian fiction. I would not agree, but you could say it. In my books you will see the occasional use or implication of profanity, the sexual scene(s)and elements in dialogue without graphics, and characters who carry around or boast a worldly behavior. I can tell you the only reason I do this is because I want those particular characters to not just sound or act worldly but to seem real. Although some words in my novels will offend those who prefer what has been labeled "clean", the truth is those readers who focus on the "clean" stories are not my target audience. As much as I might hope they would enjoy my love stories and my upcoming mystery, I would rather they not read them than be offended by them. It's best for all of us if they choose not to. 

Here's the thing: every single one of my books delivers a redemptive message. Every. Single. One. For me, I'm well aware of how ugly the world can be even in the "nicest" people. I believe it's essential to portray the world as it real-ly is. It has nothing to do with today's "culture" and everything to do with the heart of mankind. It isn't because I choose to push the envelope or stretch the boundaries of Christian fiction. It's because every sinner needs a Savior, yet so many have no idea who or what that real-ly is or means. The journey must be real.  

Granted, it's often a reality some Christians choose not to see or address. I get that. They desire something light and engaging without the drama or coarse behaviors of characters in the world. No one can fault a reader for wanting that. 

Each author ultimately answers to God. Christian readers need to trust that those who proclaim Jesus Christ as their Savior understand this critical factor and don't slough the huge responsibility attached to it. 

So my tag line, moniker, label for my novels? Raw Romantic Redemptive Should I add, "Read at your own risk"? 

Father, help me to be the one you designed me to be, to be obedient to you alone, to walk in the Spirit, and to spread the Love of Jesus Christ to all who will open their hearts to hear the message. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.