Please welcome Jen Cudmore to the site as a guest blogger participating in the Mega-Dark Book Blog Tour. The Mega Dark Book Blog Tour will feature a total of six authors, including myself, throughout the month of August. Every few days a new author will be featured on each blog. The posts will vary in content and structure, providing insight into the mind of a writer.
3 Reasons Why Readers Shy Away from “Christian” Novels
I know a few people who are leery to read a novel labeled “Christian.” Why? Is there a difference between stories from a mainstream publisher as opposed to those of a Christian publisher?
There should be. Of course, readers expect the characters to have higher values and to follow the moral code established by the Bible. But I believe there are other elements that turn readers away.
The main reasons I’ve heard:
- Too B-Grade – the writing just isn’t up to par
- Too fluffy & sweet – the story is so touchy-feeling that it makes the reader sick
- Too many sermons & scripture – the preaching detracts from the story
But the mold is changing! In the last few years there are more and more books that don’t fit the stereotypical Christian novel, and I believe the Left Behind series was a leader in this change. Now authors are focusing less on saving souls and more on creating wholesome, adventurous content. The Biblical themes are more subtle. The goal is to create characters who are more realistic – because life isn’t always pleasant – and yet good still triumphs over evil.
I was so impressed when I recently discovered stories about half-angels and Bible-believing vampires, two protagonists that I wouldn’t have expected in a Christian novel. It gives me hope that the Viking series I’m working on will be well-received!
As a new author, I’ve struggled with how virtuous to make my characters. Athena Creek, my first story in the Lawmen of Clayton County, features a scene where a character converts to Christianity. I struggled with this part, not wanting to turn readers away with the religiousness of the character’s salvation, and yet determined to stick to the truths in the Bible. After consulting my mentors and much time in prayer, I believe a accomplished both those goals.
Let’s give the readers what they’re looking for! Let’s write stories with realistic characters who deal with tough issues. Let’s cut back on the fluffy stuff and get into some of the nitty-gritty aspects of life. Let’s limit the amount of preaching and yet stay true to the Bible. And most of all, let’s become great writers who can tell our stories with excellence.
©2013 Jen Cudmore
Jen lives in Alaska with her husband, two children, two boxers, and a fluffy black cat. Her goal is to write novels that encourage women to look for positive qualities in a life partner, and to foster an environment of real romance, rather than fantasy, as they grow old together. www.jencudmore.com
