by Linda S. Glaz (Linda S. Glaz Literary Agency)
One Woman’s Opinion on the Future of Christian Fiction. That’s right, it’s merely my opinion. Take it or leave it!
So, there are plenty of folks who will no doubt have a better, more informed, clearer thought through opinion than mine, but from my perspective, this is how I see circumstances playing out at this time.
Over the last few years, we’ve seen Christian fiction dropped at a few of the houses who’d been known for publishing a lion’s share of what was known as Christian fiction. Hardcore, extremely restricted in many instances, and oftentimes very preachy material aimed straight at the heart of older conservative Christian women. There was no talk of Halloween, Santa Claus, dancing, drinking, smoking, card playing, magic, movies—well, you get the picture.
Funny story: when one of my historic romantic short novels came out, I had to change a line because my editor said it had magic in it. What?!?!? I had written, she was uncomfortable falling under his spell (or something cheesy like that). Apparently those words conjured images of a wand waving alpha male drawing her in with spells and potions. Don’t laugh, the market was that strict.
Obviously, things have lightened up and folks realize the mere mention of Santa won’t shock a boomer reading a Christmas story. No longer will a deck of cards send someone straight to … well … ‘nuff said. And we’re seeing topics tackled about trauma, alcohol/drugs, prodigal children and much more with grit and reality. With these topics come some blurring of the
Christian/General market lines. I, for one, am happy with that. We aren’t preaching to the choir when we want to see our work influence lives that need Jesus. Okay, as a friend told me, sometimes the choir needs preaching to, but most of us want to see our work truly make a difference for those who don’t know the love of God or what He can mean in lives.
More than one major player in the Christian market has said “clean reads only, please” which generally means no swearing, no graphic sexuality, and no preaching, but no topic is taboo any longer. And many other publishers are taking both clean reads and also those with a strong faith message. A few others still want only a very strong faith message, no holds barred.
Something for everyone. And yet, many ask, how can a publisher who calls itself Christian only want clean reads and expect to change lives? Quite simply put: a good writer will have God on every page when they write from a Christian world view. Truth finds its way into the text because the author is coming from a position of biblical truth. Using lessons about unforgiveness, trust, love, nurturing and so forth that are written with Jesus in mind. Think about that for a minute.
How did Jesus tell stories? He wrote in parables. He got the message across without heavy-handed agendas and so can we. He spoke about realities and imaginary all at the same time. I think the lines will continue to blur even more, and soon we could actually see more faith-based books, when done wisely, crossing over.
The question is: who are we trying to reach and with what message? Only that is going to decide what happens to Christian fiction. My thought to you, dear friends is to write what you are called to write. Don’t try to be something that you aren’t. Truth wins in the end.
Linda Glaz understands authors because she is one. Speaking about books at conferences, she’s always looking for that next great, best-selling novel. She handles nonfiction and fiction in both the Christian and General markets (clean reads only). She loves suspense, historicals, and romance. No spec or children’s (including no YA), please!
Comments 13
Why no spec? Just curious. I will totally respect your answer. I’ll continue to “write what I was called to write.” Thanks for this article. It’s all in Father’s hands.
Julia, in the Christian market there aren’t a lot of places to send spec to, so a lot of us don’t handle it. But write it! If it is meant to go to the Christian market, nothing will hold it back!
I see that, and understand. And I don’t think I could stop the writing if I wanted to. Thank you for responding.
Do not conform to the world. Scripture tells the truth. We must keep writing for God. We must keep sharing His love and glory so others may draw closer to Him. 🙂
Great, informatice article. As a writer of Christian suspense, it’s great to hear about movement within the industry to promote stories that are action-oriented, deal with important issues, and carry His message. Your opinion means a lot.
I, too, believe we will see more faith-based fiction crossing over into the general market … but, like you said, only if written wisely.
Your observations and opinions carry weight because of your experience. Thanks for sharing.
I endorse and cheer for a couple of authors whose Christian fiction is “gritty.” They deeply understand how story can lead readers who with bad choices in their lives to the foot of the cross. They self-publish because Christian publishers won’t work with them, and other publishers would want the faith parts removed. Their powerful stories have already changed lives!
I love this and am plan to learn self-publishing if I have no bites by Christmas.
I always appreciate your updates and insight into the dynamic publishing world. Thanks for continuing to knock on doors.
Thank you, Linda, from someone doing exactly that! I loved this so much!
Thank you!
Thank you so very much for this article! It is very encouraging as I am writing a novel I hope to share with both my Christian and non believer friends. I pray it brings everyone who reads it closer to the love of Christ.