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What defines "Christian Fiction"?
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Christian fiction is a very general term. Most Christian Fiction has some biblical base. I often read Christian fiction and there is almost always several characters quoting bible verses within the story line that also follows the story line. Christian fiction has limited or no vulgarity, sexual connotation, and nothing too graphic in fight scenes. There also several sub-genres within Christian Fiction. For example Amish-Christian Fiction, Vampire-Christian Fiction, Historical Christian Fiction (which is what I primarily read) , Action/Mystery Christian Fiction, etc.Everyone can have a different definition of Christian Fiction. For the most part Christian Fictions book in my opinion is usually a very tame read.
I think Christian fiction is fiction that has the objective of glorifying God, whether directly, or through the choices of its characters. I agree that most Christian fiction is a tame read, and the genre has suffered greatly, and has a lingering reputation for mediocrity, because of that. Many authors are afraid to tackle modern issues in a realistic way for fear of losing readers. But the Bible tells countless stories including sex, nudity, violence, crime and war. It portrays the worst failings of even its most beloved heroes unflinchingly. I think that if more Christian authors did that, they might lose some readers, but they would improve their craft -- and hopefully, gain other readers who appreciate fiction that addresses real world problems.
Mary, I couldn't agree with you more. The Apostle Paul said in I Corinthians 9:19-23, "I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some." I do believe that there must be a moral standard in whatever medium is being used, but I also believe that in order to reach those who aren't looking for Jesus, we must use a common thread approach. I am working on three books that use this approach in order to present Jesus in a real life, thought provoking way. Thanks for confirming what I already knew. By the way, my first book, "Remember the Prisoners: He Came to Set the Captives Free," is under Giveaway right now here on Goodreads. Be blessed.
FictionFinder.com has a list of novels sorted by issue, everything from abandonment and abortion to war and widows/widowers. http://www.fictionfinder.com/book/soc...Readers call Julie Lessman's romances "not your mother's Christian fiction." 21st century writers are tackling tough issues, honing their craft, and producing great stories. Give them a try!
When I was writing exclusively for Christian publishers, the gospel message had to be central to the main character's story arc. In other words, she had to either become a Christian or come to a deeper understanding of what a Christian should be and change in some way that was reflected in her faith. I put my latest release (Walking on Sea Glass) in the contemporary category, not because it veers away from the gospel, but it's mainly a romance with inspirational elements. So I think the CF industry does have certain requirements, but readers who are Christians don't necessarily demand them (at least not always). Some just want a good story with redemptive qualities. Hope that makes sense ... I've chewed on this subject for years :)
CBA publishers vary on how much "message" is necessary. And for indie books, the author and the story decide. Sometimes I'm in the mood for a hard-hitting story with deep issues, or chase scenes with ax murderers. Other times I need a less angst and craziness. Hooray for great choices in reading!
What are the criteria for books to be considered as belonging to the Christian genre? My understanding is that the core of the story has to deal with one or more character's beliefs in some way, much like how a romance novel's plot primarily deals with the romance.
Would you consider a book where one or more characters positively profess their faith as belonging to the Christian genre, even if that aspect is not part of the plot?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Carla