Into the Fire

Over the years there have been many posts, comments, and opinion pieces regarding Christian Fiction on this blog. As a Christian author, I have a defined view of what Christian novels constitute, what General Market and/or Secular Fiction imply and/or include. Since I know what to expect from both types of fiction, the content is usually not a surprise to me when I select a novel to read.

Let's give a rough description of the general market/secular novels first. From my reading experience I've learned that these novels rarely contain anything to do with the Christian faith, but they might mention a quick prayer when there's a dire need or critical danger in the plotline. Sometimes the author has the character specifically speak against matters of faith as part of his/her personality. In the more secular novels if there is romance, it will eventually lead to a graphic sex scene and sometimes more than one. I cannot think of one graphic scene that added anything of value to the stories I've read. What those scenes do indicate is that the author finds it necessary – for whatever reason – to expose the intricacies of sexual action(s) possibly revealing a personal preference, repulsion, or to test the boundaries of vulgarity. There will also be some profanity using all manner of cuss words depending on the author. 

Secular/general market novels can be either "clean" fiction or raunchy fiction and all of the variables in between those categories. They can be poorly or wonderfully written with tried and true storylines, good vs. evil plots, or innovative and original styles. 

Christian Fiction displays all levels of Christianity in the genre. Generally speaking, the storylines will contain some mention of faith, prayer, church, and/or scripture either precluding the story or in the story. Mixed into the plotlines will be various characters who are either people of faith or to a specific point in the story are not believers. It's true that some stories can be preachy, but others can be just as vague concerning faith issues. For a purely secular reader even a hint of Christianity can be a bother to them. To some legalistic Christian readers, anything not specific enough regarding their doctrinal issues or conflicting with their interpretations of such, and anything in the romance genre which they decide has gone "too far" (though not graphic) will create an outcry of many 1 star reviews on Amazon and letters to the publisher(s).

Christian Fiction has some exquisite writers in all of their genres and, as is the case with the general market, they too have some very average authors creating a predictable model story to satisfy the crowd who makes the most noise.  

I know when I introduce one of my novels to people I don't know well I tell them two things about my work. First, it's Christian Fiction. Second, it's generally a little more raw than the typical Christian romance/love story.

Please feel free to add anything in the comments that I've forgotten.   

Father, apart from you, I can do nothing. I'm so grateful for the stories you've given me. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.