Why Christian Fiction Isn’t Boring (Plus 5 Books To Pick Up)
Photo by Hilal Bülbül
Many Christians have told me that Christian fiction just isn’t their thing. While there are multiple reasons why, some main ones are that the writing is bland, the storyline is preachy, and the characters are flat. So, instead, they turn to secular alternatives, which have gripping plots and well-rounded characters, but may also contain questionable content.
If you’re one of these readers, you don’t need to get defensive — I understand your plight. You want to read a story that you will think about for days afterwards, and you feel like you can find those kinds of stories only in secular fiction. But the truth is, many Christian authors write meaningful and memorable books, giving us food for thought for days if not weeks!
Reading quality Christian fiction offers us a unique perspective on faith, morality, and the human experience while encouraging us in our walk with God. There are certainly preachy and bland books, but many authors expertly handle hard topics with grace and tact. They focus on deep character development and personal growth, creating the relatable protagonists you’re after.
The hard part is finding these authors. As you read more of the genre, you’ll be able to identify the writers whose books you can connect with, but to start you off, I’d like to offer a few suggestions for gripping novels that will leave you hungry for more!
01 | The Lady and the Lionheart by Joanne Bischof
Lives are forever changed and secrets are revealed in a heartfelt masterpiece where hope, mystery, redemption, and love are woven together when two worlds collide in Victorian-era Virginia against the backdrop of the Big Top.
02 | The Girl from the Papers by Jennifer L. Wright
Set in the Great Depression and inspired by the notorious Bonnie and Clyde, the author writes a gripping redemption story that deals with the hard truth of what happens when you pursue the wrong choices.
03 | Wormwood Abbey by Christina Bhaer
In the vein of beloved classics, Christina Bhaer writes a cozy historical fantasy full of enigmatic creatures, perilous friendships, and a double dose of mystery! Complete with beautiful vocabulary and a unique cast of characters, you’ll be transported to the world of Ormdale, and I doubt you’ll want to leave.
04 | The Promise of Jesse Woods by Chris Fabry
In this dual-timeline novel, we follow Matt Plumley's past and present journey as he returns to his hometown, hoping to prevent an old flame from marrying her formerly abusive fiancé. The author writes rich, faith-based themes that are shown instead of told, and I’m sure you’ll have cried at least once by the end.
05 | Counted with the Stars by Connilyn Cossette
Your Bible will come alive in this account of the Israelites’ journey out of Egypt, told from the viewpoint of an Egyptian woman fleeing from her homeland and surrendering her life to the God of the Hebrews. I promise you will come away with a renewed faith, and an itch to reread Exodus!
In short…
I hope this list initiates your search for deep and quality Christian fiction because those books are out there. Happy reading!
