Clearly Christian Readathon discussion
Welcome! Introduction Thread
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Mod
I can see the book recs and downloadable graphics only on the Goodreads website and not in the app. Thank you for mentioning it here. I would not have known about them otherwise.
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Hello sisters! My name is Courtney, I'm a homemaker, wife to N of 10 years, mother of O who is 6. I discovered this group/readathon when Jillian of shereadschristianfiction shared it to her IG. The past few months, the Holy Spirit has been convicting me over what I was choosing to read. I have confessed to God and Husband about what I was reading in private (smut, "spicy," not God-honoring fiction at ALL). I am in the process of purging the books in my home that do not honor Christ. Discovering this group and the Christian Fiction genre has been a huge blessing! I love to read and now I get to find books that don't poison my soul, books that honor Christ and the Word of God. My bookshelves at home are looking pretty bare now that I've gotten rid of so much. I'm excited to fill them with recommendations from this group.
Courtney, this is so encouraging to hear what God is doing in you! ❤️ Thank you for sharing.
Hi! My name is Lisa and I'm married with two adult children. My daughter, Mandy, has spina bifida and many health problems related to that. I love to read both Christian fiction and nonfiction. I found the group on Instagram, and I'm excited about the challenge ahead to read only Christian books. I get very disappointed when I'm reading a book that has bad language in it, so I won't have to worry about that this year! I invite the other members to add me as a friend on Goodreads!
I wanted to be a part of this group because I want to get recommendations for clean, well written books that inspire and encourage.I hope to see a place to connect with other readers who love to read and care abut what they read.
I love Christian books because they inspire me in my Christian walk, they are uplifting and the subject matter is handled with integrity and strong morals.
Hi, I'm Ariel. A homemaker who loves reading. I was drawn to this group because there is so much good Christian content out there that I haven't gotten my hands on yet so I'm ready for new discoveries and to be a part of a Godly group of women. I love reading everyone's introductions!
Hey everyone! Thank you so much for putting this group together. :D I'm a reader as well as an author of Christian romantic suspense (and fantasy under the name Stefanie Lozinski). I'm a housewife and homeschool mom to 3 wonderful kiddos aged 8, 2, and 7 weeks. :)
I found this group via instagram, and I really love connecting with other people who enjoy Christian fiction. I didn't really read CF until a couple of years ago and I've fallen in love with it. I love books that are first of all clean and appropriate, but it's even better when they more directly point to Jesus. :)
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I love reading and have enjoyed Christian books since first encountering the Clearwater Crossing series in the late 90s (remember those?!). It made me realize that there were books for Christians and books that talked about Christian themes as being normative. Since then, I've read as many Christian fiction and non-fiction books as I can, and look forward to reading more.
My goal for 2024 is to get to meet like-minded readers, discover the most excellent Christian books and authors out there, and see how God works in my life as a result! Happy reading, all!
Mod
I'm a versatile reader—whether it's the tangible pages of a book, the convenience of an e-reader, or the immersive experience of audiobooks, I enjoy them all.
I'm an avid reader who embraces all formats—whether it's the feel of a physical book, the convenience of an e-reader, or the storytelling charm of audiobooks. Each format offers a unique experience, and I love them all.
I have a habit of getting a bit jittery when recommending my favorite books. The excitement builds, and then the doubt creeps in: "What if they don't enjoy it as much as I did?" or "Did I set the bar too high with my enthusiasm?" It's a journey of sharing my bookish passions and embracing the unpredictability of it all!
In my continuous surrender to Jesus, I find solace, joy, and a refuge in literature—an escape from the hustle and bustle of the world. It's a blessing to discover God's truths and grace woven into the stories that uplift and inspire. Each read transforms into a faith-filled journey, a reminder of His presence, and an opportunity to reflect His love to others. Looking forward to connecting with you and exploring the vast realms of Christian books together.
Praying for you as you pray for me!
Hi!I’m Sarah- I’m recently married, have a super cute dog, and live in CO. I love crocheting, reading, walking, and watching old sitcoms.
I found this group through @ tawnisbookshelf when she posted on her Instagram. I’ve been a Christian my whole life but over the last several years have tried to be more disciplined and connected in every aspect, including my book choices.
My goal with the 2024 readathon is to find new authors and to explore a variety of Christian fiction genres since I mostly read Christian nonfiction.
The last prompt is cut off so I’m assuming it’s asking about Christian books. I love that they’re clean and don’t leave me with icky feelings like a lot of the ones that are popular on insta. I love that they can boldly or quietly glorify Christ through the themes.
Looking forward to getting to know more of y’all! If you have a book Instagram, I do too! I’ve been trying to connect more with Christian readers! I’m @ inthebookaisle.
Hi! It's nice to meet everyone. I'm a reader first and a writer second, so my goal is to support Christian authors. If I don't enjoy a book, for whatever reason, I don't review or rate it.
I love romance, so the books I choose tend to be Christian romances of any type (historical, contemporary). Like many who've already introduced themselves, I made a prayerful decision several years ago about the books I buy. I wish I could find more Christian romantic comedies, however, because sometimes it's nice to have a good laugh. If anybody can recommend, I'm all ears!
Hi :) My name is Amory, and I'm a Christian fiction author who wants to do more reading this next year. I've had some health issues that have slowed my writing down, and as a result I've felt disconnected from the Christian book community. I want to support other authors and grow in my walk with God through the stories I read. I've written one romantic suspense novel, and that tends to be the sort of story I gravitate toward. But I also love Young Adult novels (I've written two and working on a third), and would love to find more that have a Christian message. If anyone has a recs I'd love to hear them.
Hi everyone! I was glad to hear about this group through someone I follow on Insta.I'm an avid reader of Christian romance. I've had the pleasure of reading over 130 Christian romance books in 2023 from many authors who were new to me. I enjoy both indie and traditionally published authors. My favorites are those who are not afraid to include Biblicial principles, messages, or themes in them. (More than just a clean read, but a spiritually inspiring one.)
I've also published 25+ Christian romance books, including contemporary and historical stories. All are set in Arizona.
What I love about Christian fiction is that it helps me consider God's leading in my own life. I don't have to be perfect to be loved by Him, but He does challenge me to grow through--even fiction stories.
I'm looking forward to learning about other new-to-me authors and books in Christian fiction and learning what others in the community enjoy reading.
Karen wrote: "Hi everyone! I was glad to hear about this group through someone I follow on Insta.I'm an avid reader of Christian romance. I've had the pleasure of reading over 130 Christian romance books in 20..."
Hi Karen, I'm an Arizonan, too. I checked out your website and see you have a book that released today. Congrats! It looks like it's a YA, and I'm far from that, but it sounds good and I'm picking it up anyway!
Hi, I'm Michelle, wife, and mother to 4 adult children and 2 grandchildren. I live in Sydney, Australia and found out about this group on Instagram.I'm excited to find book recommendations - it's hard to find books that are clean reads! And I'm especially looking forward to reading Christian themed books!
I'd like my spiritual walk in 2024 to be encouraged through the books I read.
Kimberly, nice to meet another Arizonan. :)Thanks for checking out my book. It's a clean romance, but geared towards an adult audience. I'd love to hear what you think about.
Hi, I’m Grace. I’m a Christian and a reader. Separately. I like reading non-fiction Christian books but I like reading fictional books too without any hint of Christian theme. I saw a Romantic Christian book in Instagram and read it and realized that I have been reading wrong fiction the whole time. I saw this group too in Instagram after following several Christian Fiction authors.
My 2024 reading intention is to read more Christian Fiction, so I joined this group for recommendations and also community, I have always wanted to be a part of a booklovers community :)
Hi, I am Kati (@millscreekplace on IG) I am a believer, a mom, a homeschooler. I live in TX, and English is my second language. I read only clean, wholesome, and faith-building fiction. As I have grown in Christ as a reader, I have become very picky about my reading choices: closed-door only, no language, and any euphemism brings down the rating. Even after weeding and pruning out a multitude of authors, there are still SO MANY good, wholesome Christian writers whose books I enjoy a lot.
My prayer for me and for everyone in this readathon is that every book we read would bring us closer to knowing Him better and trusting Him more. ❤️
Hi everyone! I'm Valerie, a follower of Christ, pastor's wife, and homeschooling "boymom" in Southern Maine who loves stories-- reading, watching, and writing them. I found this group mentioned on Instagram, and I'm excited to discover new clean Christian books and authors this year! I always love to recommend good books I've read to my readers in my monthly author newsletter, so I'm looking forward to finding some to recommend to others as well!
Hello from Daytona Beach, FL! My name is Leah. I have been married for 31 years and have a 20 year old daughter who got engaged this week. I found this group on IG. I am a life long reader but new to Bookstagram. I love reading Christian books. My favorite is Christian Historical Fiction. I am excited for this readathon to discover new authors and reread great books. Looking forward to getting to know everyone.
Is there going to be a Clearly Christian Readathon Goodreads list?
Mod
Good question, Lisa! We're providing some recommended reads from our featured authors on the bookshelf for this group (more to come!), but we also want to leave it open for readers to suggest titles they've come across over the course of the year. We're hoping that the discussions will be a source of inspiration in deciding what 24 books to read in 2024.
Some may also choose to focus on reading the Bible, and others may want to work through their existing TBR pile, so we're keeping it fairly flexible :) We hope this helps answer your question!
Hi everyone,I’m Dawn, a born-again Christian, and married to B of 36 years, and we have two adult children.
I’m originally from Liverpool, UK, but have been living in Victoria, BC, since July of 2015, and we became Canadian Citizens this year.
I’m an avid reader, and I read a mix of Christian and non-Christian, my genres mostly being Historical fiction and Biography/Autobiography/Memoir.
I heard of this group from Carrie Turansky, author. She has been such a blessing and I love her books.
I’d love to see recommendations on here, and look forward to reading the discussions when I can.
Thank you for being here! 💖
Also, how can I edit my comment….? I hate that I’ve made an error! 🤦🏼♀️🤣
Mod
Haha, I’m a bit OCD when it comes to things like that! Thanks for the welcome Melissa 💖
Hello! I'm Mary Rose! I'm a pastor's wife with a love for reading and writing. My first book will be published in 2024, Lord willing! I love finding new Christian authors who write books that glorify and honor Christ! I'm excited! :)
Mary wrote: "Hello! I'm Mary Rose! I'm a pastor's wife with a love for reading and writing. My first book will be published in 2024, Lord willing! I love finding new Christian authors who write books that glori..."Congrats on your first book! Let us know when it's available. I love to support fellow authors. :)
Hi! My name is Katja and I haven’t talked much about this readathon but I am participating. Slightly different than most people, I fancy, because I can’t get new books and don’t live in an English (or Christian) area. I do have a lot of Christian ebooks, though, so my take on the readathon is to read more than usual Christian books (because admittedly I don’t tend to read much, as it’s not a genre I know get my hands on too often). I came to the group because I liked the idea of deliberately choosing to read more Christian books, and I hope it will help me find good books with good themes. My favourite thing about Christian books is when they have deep spiritual themes, practical lessons, and thought-provoking challenges :)
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We are praying and planning for even bigger and better Clearly Christian Reads' related activity, suggestions, interactions, impact and more in the day, weeks, months, and years ahead!
Please feel free to share suggestions and/or recommendations! You are so greatly appreciated and prayed for!
Christian Shelves wrote: "Welcome! We are thankful that you've taken the time to join the Clearly Christian Readathon,If you're interested in getting to know the others in this group (and discovering some new reading frie..."
Hi; I'm Cindy...a Christian, Mother, and RN....this group caught my eye as I enjoy reading of course but preferably ones that are not just wholesome as such but have actual meaningful spiritual and faith elements; ones that can have an impact. I try to support such authors by buying their books as well as "promoting them " here on Goodreads :) Time and life itself are so precious and fleeting; sharing the gospel is of utmost urgency. Two authors that I feel are tremendous with their true Christian elements are Terrie Todd and B.M. Baker.....After finishing "The Silver Suitcase" by Terrie Todd; I felt as if I had an encounter with the Lord even; just in awe of his presence etc...B.M. Baker's book "Until the last note" was powerful with the theme of giving one's life for another as a part..... Anyway, I am so pleased to have come across this site!
Courtney wrote: "Hello sisters! My name is Courtney, I'm a homemaker, wife to N of 10 years, mother of O who is 6. I discovered this group/readathon when Jillian of shereadschristianfiction shared it to her IG. The..."Oh Courtney! What an encouraging post about how you desired to read honorable books after you felt the Lord's convicting spirit...bless you for being so courageous to share and follow the Lord's leading :) Our diet isn't only what we eat that's for sure; it's everything we fill our minds with too.
Lisa wrote: "Hi! My name is Lisa and I'm married with two adult children. My daughter, Mandy, has spina bifida and many health problems related to that. I love to read both Christian fiction and nonfiction. I f..."Amen to that Lisa!
Din wrote: "I wanted to be a part of this group because I want to get recommendations for clean, well written books that inspire and encourage.I hope to see a place to connect with other readers who love to r..."
Absolutely Din....books that actually inspire us; I totally agree! feel free to connect if you want for I have read oodles as well.
Sarah wrote: "Hi!I’m Sarah- I’m recently married, have a super cute dog, and live in CO. I love crocheting, reading, walking, and watching old sitcoms.
I found this group through @ tawnisbookshelf when she po..."
Wonderful! It's heart warming connecting with other fellow like minded readers.
Kimberly wrote: "Hi! It's nice to meet everyone. I'm a reader first and a writer second, so my goal is to support Christian authors. If I don't enjoy a book, for whatever reason, I don't review or rate it.
I lov..."
Hi there....glad to "meet" you here...A couple of funny Christian romances are A Change of Fortune by Jen Turano, the first two of a Regina Jenning's series... "Courting Misfortune" and proposing Mischief....
Karen wrote: "Hi everyone! I was glad to hear about this group through someone I follow on Insta.I'm an avid reader of Christian romance. I've had the pleasure of reading over 130 Christian romance books in 20..."
Hi Karen; an author you may or may not have heard of it Ashton E.Dorow as she writes fabulous retelling based on Bible characters as Esther, The Prodigal Son etc.
ColeandTaffy wrote: "Hi, I'm Michelle, wife, and mother to 4 adult children and 2 grandchildren. I live in Sydney, Australia and found out about this group on Instagram.I'm excited to find book recommendations - it's ..."
Hi there....come "visit" my favourite's section and any others you would like (historical and spiritual group ones etc)
Dawn wrote: "Hi everyone,I’m Dawn, a born-again Christian, and married to B of 36 years, and we have two adult children.
I’m originally from Liverpool, UK, but have been living in Victoria, BC, since July of ..."
Hi Dawn; welcome to Canada :) I am Canadian as well... I have a soft spot for the UK... I dearly love HF and bios (autos too) etc as I am drawn to those types. Come "visit" my lists site if you like for I too have been an avid ++ reader over the years to see if any of the Christian ones there catch your fancy! * I too cringe when I make grammatical errors* lol
Mod
I’m Dawn, a born-again Christian, and married to B of 36 years, and we have two adult children.
I’m originally from Liverpool, UK, but have been living in Victoria, BC, s..."
Hi Cindy, it's nice to meet a fellow Canadian! We are so encouraged to meet Christian readers from all over the world here :)
Christian Shelves wrote: "Cindy wrote: "Dawn wrote: "Hi everyone,I’m Dawn, a born-again Christian, and married to B of 36 years, and we have two adult children.
I’m originally from Liverpool, UK, but have been living in V..."
Hey...we can be from anywhere but knowing the Lord makes all the difference for having the best thing in common!
If you're interested in getting to know the others in this group (and discovering some new reading friends!), you're welcome to introduce yourself and share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with.
To get us started, here are some icebreaker questions; you can answer as many or as few as you'd like!
- What brought you to this group?
- What do you hope to see happen for you in 2024 as a result of the readathon?
- What do you love about Christian books?
Happy connecting!