As an author, part of my job is to decide where my books fit. In an actual bookstore, this would mean the singular big decision about whether I want my books shelved in Christian Fiction or Romance. Online, this becomes much trickier. Books can be placed in dozens of categories and subcategories in the online bookstore. I can also choose to promote them in (perhaps entirely different) categories in online newsletters like Bookbub or FreeBooksy.
This has put authors in an interesting position. I, like the other InspyRomance authors, write books with an obvious spiritual arc. That is a hard and fast requirement here at InspyRomance. In fact, Liwen Ho wrote a post last month about the Responsibility of Writing CCR.
Clean Romance, on the other hand is generally accepted to be a romance with no premarital sex, swearing, or violence, and generally “wholesome” content. Some IR authors also write books that fit these guidelines and don’t have the faith element of their other books. I think that is great too! Not every story has to include Jesus.
The question becomes… Is it okay to market (categorize) books with Christian messaging in non-Christian romance categories? What about vice-versa–Is it okay to list sweet/clean romances within Christian categories?
To be honest, it’s a tough choice. Some readers who don’t expect faith in their books will be turned off by the Jesus in our books and leave bad reviews. Some readers who expect more faith will be disappointed to find out a romance was only “clean”, not “Christian.”
Which leaves us in a tight spot.
So, I’m curious. When you see a book in a Christian Fiction or Christian Romance category — what do you expect? Does it bother you if it has no “faith content”? Narelle wrote a post about how the expectations in Christian Romance can often require established trust between readers and publishers/authors/bloggers.
Now… since I’ve traveled a bit down the rabbit hole, let’s go just a bit further. Because here is where it gets interesting.
There are LOTS of clean (not-Christian) romances out there in the reading world. And I love a good, clean romance novel as much as anyone. I think it is awesome that readers can now easily find the content they are looking for. HOWEVER, I also know that many of those authors don’t hold to a Christian worldview, even if those particular books don’t cross any lines. In fact, many authors who write Clean Romance also write “steamier” romance. Some… even write very explicit stories (far, far beyond what traditional Christianity would deem acceptable in relationships). In general, it would be very hard to readers to discover the overlap between the pennames of these authors.
I have to admit, when I see an author of clean romance promoting their books in Christian Fiction when I know they also write things that would horrify Christian readers… I get fairly steamed. To me, it feels incredibly disingenuous, as though they feel like Christian readers are easily duped and an easy way to get paid. This is probably compounded by the comments I see from authors about how “I just say my characters go to church on Sundays, and then I call it Christian Romance.” (And yes, I hate to admit that is a real quote!) For those of us who work hard to write characters who struggle and grow in their faith, it’s disheartening to see the genre become “watered down” almost?
I’ve debated whether to write this post. On one hand, it’s been eating at me for awhile. On the other hand, I wonder if I should let sleeping dogs lie.
But here I am, with a pretty serious question for you, dear readers. I’ll give one commenter a copy of an ebook by ANY InspyRomance author of your choice.
First, to repeat questions I asked in the text above: Is it okay to market (categorize) books with Christian messaging in non-Christian romance categories? What about vice-versa? Is it okay to list sweet/clean romances within Christian categories?
When you see a book in a Christian Fiction or Christian Romance category — what do you expect? Does it bother you if it has no “faith content”?
And the big one: If an author you discovered through a Christian Fiction category or promotion site was also writing erotic romance under a penname… Would it bother you? Would it matter even if the book had no “faith element”? What would you do if you found out?
Tara Grace Ericson lives in Missouri with her husband and two sons. She studied engineering and worked as an engineer for many years before embracing her creative side to become a full-time author. She loves cooking, crocheting, and reading books by the dozen. Her writing partner is usually her black lab - Ruby - and a good cup of coffee or tea. She loves a good “happily ever after” with an engaging love story. That’s why Tara focuses on writing clean contemporary romance, with an emphasis on Christian faith and living.
The faith content does not have to be overt. The tone of the story is sometimes enough.
I would be VERY surprised to find that an author writes Christian and erotic stories. It would bother me that they feel the need to use a pen name to hide behind. How shameful do they consider the stories?
Can I start with the last question first Yes it would bother me. I am on some author/reader groups for Christian writers and a few of the authors write steamy romance and the clean books. They don’t see an issue with writing steamy sex scenes and I think they think some readers are what they call prudes. To me I remember the verse about doing something that may make a weaker brother stumble. I also struggle with a christian being able to write exotic novels. So if I know a author of Christian fiction was also writing steamy or exotic I wouldn’t read their books.
To market a clean book as Christian when there is no Christian theme doesn’t seem right. There will be reviewers who will tear them to strips. I believe you can have a Christian book without mentioning Jesus and God. Look at Esther but the whole book still had a Christian feel. I know books can be the same by having a theme of forgiveness or trust or themes that are common for Christians. Where as a clean read can have these themes but don’t always have that faith element that a Christian would recognize (does that make sense).
I feel its the same as putting books in several genres to get more readers (like suspense, contemporary, etc when there is one mention of something suspenseful or a women’s fiction in a romance when there is one scene of romance) Readers see right through it and will slam the author in a review. Treat readers as ignorant at your peril. (I have read in author/reader groups that readers are ignorant if they don’t understand what the author meant, they forgot readers were also in the group).
I think this is an important discussion and am so glad you decided to post after wrestling with it. My first series of books was “clean” romance. When I donated the books to my library, they ended up classifying them as “romance,” not “inspirational.” I was going to question them on it, but then realized they were right. I’m glad they’re in that category. My hope is that some readers who are used to steamier material will enjoy the books and realize that you can have a good story without smut. And if it leads them to my other books that are more faith-based, even better.
I had a chance to submit a “clean” historical manuscript to a publisher a couple of years ago, but declined when I discovered that they had multiple imprints, one of them being erotica. Even though my work would have been in a completely different category, I didn’t want to be associated with them or support them. Totally my choice.
As a believer first and an author second, I choose to honor Christ through all of my writing. I don’t support authors whose works cross over into steamy, sensual, or erotic, whether or not they call themselves “Christian” or “faith-based.” To me, they’re mutually exclusive–they cannot exist together.
Thank you again for a thought-provoking discussion! I believe it’s important.
If a book is marketed as Inspy, I assume faith elements will be there, but maybe not prominent. If they feel tacked-on, generally I won’t pick up another book by that author. If it’s Christian Romance specifically, I’m expecting there to be a spiritual arc with real growth in faith. If it’s not there, I’d probably steer clear of that author. Clean romance is great! I love that genre, but if it’s supposed to be Christian, it really needs that deeper element. As to the rest, I don’t ever search for an author’s pen names so I can’t imagine I’d come across their work in other genres. It hasn’t happened to me yet anyway. I’m not sure how I’d feel about it.
Thank you for being brave enough to bring this up, Tara Grace. These are questions I’ve revolved in my mind repeatedly. I’m in several author communities with you, so I’ve witnessed some “behind the scenes” chat.
I have seen one author admit she’s an atheist but pretends to be a Christian not just in her books but in her interactions with her readers. That was horrifying to me. There have always been wolves among the sheep, and not just in Christian publishing. An extreme example is predators masquerading as pastors who are there not to bless but exploit and harm.
I think most authors who throw a religious mantle over their books in order to sell them to Christians probably aren’t deliberately setting out to harm anyone, but just want to get some of the market who seek faith content in their books. Ultimately, like all of us, they’ll need to account for their actions before the Lord.
God knows that this sort of stuff happens. As Jesus said in Matthew 7:21-23 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; leave Me, you who practice lawlessness.’”
God will deal with these people in His own time and in His own way. In the meantime, Christian readers need to apply discernment in the books they read, just as with all other content that’s out there. Jesus said we would know them by their fruit. What fruit are they producing in their body of work? And, as Christian authors, we need to be very careful about whom we share a platform with.
Hi Tara! Thanks for tackling a thought provoking question. This avid reader and retired pastor’s wife, teacher, mom and grandmother is looking forward to read the responses. I read a variety of genre and prefer wholesome stories. My first reaction to your questions was Milla Holt – are the fruits of the spirit evident in the characters. Or as Mary stated – faith. How do the characters portray their faith – hope – love. Actions often speak louder than words. So as a reader, I am not offended if scripture is quoted, or one prays at every meal. What “Christian” attributes are evident? – joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control and yes LOVE. As an avid reader, it is often obvious when an author isn’t genuine to the Christian Romance genre. Often portrayed in the characters actions. Best wishes. Happy Writing. Enjoy your week.
I believe clean romances are fine and certainly have a place in the reading world. For.me though, I adore the faith elements…this will always be my preference, but that’s just me🙃
I don’t see a problem with marketing Christian books as clean, if you’re willing to deal with the negative reviews from people who are dead in their sin, but I have a harder time with clean books being marketed as Christian. I am very clear in my marketing that I write Christian fiction- not sweet, not clean, and not even inspirational. The point of my books is not to “Inspire” my readers or some kind of vague “have more faith”- they’re to point to Jesus, period. I enjoy reading clean books, but without a strong faith message, I’m always left feeling like something is missing and “what is the point?” But then I’m the person who profoundly felt the emptiness of the world when I finished watching The Notebook- like that’s all? You just love someone and then die? There’s more to life!
I’m glad you decided to write a post about this. Not easy, but I think necessary. There’s certainly a distinction between clean and Christian romance.
I do NOT want clean to be classified as Christian because I believe it would be misleading. I think if an author wants it classified as solely “romance” and it includes a faith element, they need to be willing to take the backlash that will come because of it.
I’m disappointed to know that clean authors write steamy or erotic stories. What’s even worse is that we as readers would have no idea when they use a different pen name. I wouldn’t even know how to find that out. I don’t want to have to track down all of the books an author has written just to make sure I’m not reading an author who goes against my beliefs.
I don’t see how you can label a book “Christian” if it doesn’t glorify God, specifically in the person of Christ. As a Christian, my very first responsibility is to glorify God!
Saying a book has Christian “themes” or “values” is ambiguous. Forgiveness? Grace? Sacrificial love? Hope? Unless they are the work of the Holy Spirit, those themes and values can be attributed to ordinary nice people. Do we, as Christians, look like the rest of the world? Do our books portray Christians that way? Differentiated only by good moral behavior, church attendance and a few prayers?
I think clean fiction is great. I wish there was more of it out there. But if a book is clearly marketed as “Christian,” I want it to clearly glorify God. I want to see God in the book – almost as a character. I want character arcs and relationships to include Him. I want at least a character or two who are strong, active Christians.
I want to see Christ in my Christian fiction. Not a light hidden under a bushel basket.
Yes, I get frustrated when I see “clean” books labeled as “Christian” – even when they are written by genuine Christians. And as for the others… the ones who claim Christ for financial gain – God will deal with those authors. (As Milla said above.)
It is shocking to think about someone being willing to write two such different types of stories!
Thanks for commenting!
Great points about cross-marketing suspense/women’s fiction when it really doesn’t fit. Readers definitely don’t appreciate it! Yes, I definitely struggle with the rationale of someone who is okay writing both Christian and explicit books as well.
I love that, Erin! I know other authors who have used their “clean” fiction as a way to reach non-believers, and that’s amazing. I admire your integrity with selecting a publisher based on their entire business – not just the one piece of it.
I’ve grabbed books at the library categorized under “Christian” fiction (because the author also writes CF), but the novels definitely weren’t (there was swearing and premarital sex). My library didn’t seem concerned when I let them know the books were miscategorized, though :(
Thanks for your thoughts, Christa! Definitely the pennames are typically hard to find/deduce and most readers will never give it a second thought – which they shouldn’t have to!
I know several authors who would consider their books “light inspy”, with subtle faith elements. I love that we have so many options as readers these days!
Oof, that confession of pretending to be a Christian for her readers… You are definitely right – God will have the final say.
What a great point about “who we share a platform with”. I like to think I’ve developed a relationship with my readers and that they trust me. I would hate to discover I have misled them about an author when sharing a book recommendation. Even sharing an instagram or facebook post is an endorsement. What a huge responsibility!
Thanks Renate! Such a good reminder of how Christian characters (and authors!) should be evident — by their fruit!
Thanks for your comment, Paula. I agree… I will always “miss” the faith element when reading a clean romance, and I treasure the nuggets of spiritual growth and wisdom in a fully Christian story.
Hey Heather! Thanks for stopping by. Great points. I definitely think marketing Christian books to “clean” audiences is a risk, but also a way to reach readers who maybe don’t seek out Christian fiction but are believers — or are not yet believers!
For me, I expect more than “they went to church” in a CF book. You don’t have to hit me upside the head with the biggest Bible you can find; however, it needs to have more to it than “going to church” and “they prayed before the meal.” I like sweet/clean, just don’t call it Christian if this is all that is making it “Christian” for me. I do think you can promote a Christian book in a non-Christian category, and if the buyer didn’t like that it had “a Christian message” (as long as it lets them know Christian content is in the book) then if they buy it, they saw that that was in there. In CF, you don’t have to put sermons, but write the content as “real” as you can, that they are living out their faith by praying, reading their Bible, their language, church attendance, things like that. If I found out a Christian author I liked and had read was also writing erotic stuff, that would be a total turnoff. I honestly would question if the author was truly a Christian or just playing at being one, and I would stop reading all of their books, as I’d wonder if they’d start putting that trash in their other books, and I don’t want to keep reading to find out. Within CF, I read contemporary, western, SciFi, fantasy, and more, and I want Christianity to be in there, whether it’s upside the head or not. I have read some sweet/clean that, when I’ve finished, thought, wow if that had been CF, it would have been a much richer story, but it was just blah without the faith element.
Hi Mimi! So glad you stopped by!
I totally agree with you from the reader perspective. We *should* be able to trust that when someone calls their book “Christian Romance” that they ARE, in fact, a genuine believer. It’s disheartening to know that isn’t the case.
I think this is a great couple of questions, thanks for raising them!
Personally, I think the definition of what is Christian is interesting. Like someone mentioned, the book of Esther of course never mentions God, but it’s in the Bible. Here in the UK where I live, Christians swear and drink alcohol and wouldn’t see either of that as being unchristian at all. However, I know in some parts of America both swearing and drinking alcohol would not be seen as Christian and such behaviour by Christians in a novel might end up causing bad reviews. But under behaviour lies belief, and differences in beliefs/theology can be so vast within what is classed as ‘Christian romance’ that I sometimes wonder if the term Christian is really very useful at all as a descriptor of the genre.
Further, I struggle with the label ‘clean romance’ as it suggests that sex is dirty. Sex is beautiful, so when we suggest otherwise we bring shame and distort that which is meant to be an amazing gift. Having said that, I don’t need to read the details!! So for me, romance without sex etc, needs another name. And ‘Christian romance’ does too because it is unclear at best and misleading at worst.
On your second question I recently listened to a podcast with an author who writes both ‘Christian romance’ and erotica, and I did find the thought off putting. I don’t mind people using pen names to distinguish between the different genres they write in, but for me it seems lacking in integrity to write in both those specific genres. And that would cause me to question what their ‘Christian romance’ really is other than empty words.
“Do our books portray Christians that way? Differentiated only by good moral behavior, church attendance and a few prayers?”
I definitely agree with this sentiment, Cathe! I think in many cases, this is exactly how Christian authors portray Christian characters. Thank you for your thorough, passionate response! I’m glad I’m not the only one with such strong feelings.
As an author and a reader, I expect a faith arc in Christian fiction and am sorely disappointed when there isn’t one. I will also read “clean and wholesome” books, but am often unhappy when I come across people using the Lord’s name in vain. I’ll also come across so-called “mild” curse words or situations that make me uncomfortable. When that happens, I put that author on my do-not-read list.
I think it’s okay for Christian fiction to be categorized in clean and wholesome fiction as well as Christian categories, since they are “clean” and selecting multiple categories is acceptable on most retailers. I don’t think non-Christian books should be categorized as Christian fiction even if they are clean. They often mention things that make Christians cringe (ouija boards, yoga, tara cards, gambling, excessive drinking, etc.).
It also bothers me when Christian authors categorize their books in non-fiction sections like “dating” just so they can earn a best-seller badge on Amazon. It’s dishonest. If your book is fiction post it in any fiction category where it fits, but don’t pretend it is something it isn’t. Compete in the categories where you fit.
We may be under grace, not under the law, but if Christians are writing erotica and/or steamy romance, I wouldn’t question their salvation, but I would wonder if they were in fellowship with the Lord… that kind of thing is bound to grieve the Holy Spirit.
Thanks for commenting, Emma!
I’ve definitely gotten some backlash because my Christian characters partake in alcohol. One even owns a winery (the horror!)
You are definitely right in your comments about theology within Christianity and how it could come up in Christian Fiction. I think most authors tend to stay away from specific theological subjects for that reason.
I’ve heard others (mostly authors) who struggle with the term “clean” romance for the same reason, though I personally don’t believe it gives the impression that sex is dirty… Wholesome is another word used, but does using it suggest sex is “unwholesome”? I don’t know. I agree with you though — Sex is an incredible gift and should be celebrated, but I don’t need to read it in detail!
I suspect I also listened to that same podcast and it was part of the impetus for this specific blog topic!
I agree with you, Tara. It’s a huge responsibility, and one I didn’t take seriously enough at first. Recently, I started reading the books I share before agreeing to do a newsletter swap (or at least I will have read something by that author). Those newsletter swaps are endorsements of the other author’s work, so I want to make sure it’s a work I can in good conscience endorse.
Thank you for an excellent post, Tara!
I think Christian romance is a subset of Clean, so marketing Christian books as Clean makes sense to me, but I would not market a Clean book as Christian.
I wouldn’t knowingly choose to read a “Christian” romance by someone who also published erotic romance, not just because of the lack of authenticity, but also because I think it wouldn’t be that good of a book. I think it would be hard for that author to deliver a moving Christian fiction novel if they were not walking with God.
As for question two, this is the trickiest for me. I think my minimum expectation in Christian fiction, as I was told when I first started attending Christian fiction writing conferences, is “a Christian world view.” I am uncomfortable with requiring more than that because I don’t think all Christian fiction is written with the same goal. Some is written to inspire and encourage believers, but some is and needs to be written for seekers. Those stories may require a lighter spiritual element, but still contain the faith element that means they are properly categorized as Christian. Not everyone witnesses in the same way and not every one you witness to is ready to hear the same things. The book that gets condemned for not having enough faith elements may be the book that helps someone take the first steps toward Christ. I hope for a broad spectrum of Christian fiction–different levels of spiritual elements, different races and nationalities represented, ALL different types of main characters–to appeal to big world.
Great post topic! Clearer genre lines would certainly make things easier, if only we could get sellers such as Amazon to create the appropriate specific categories. I wholeheartedly agree that marketing under one pen as “Christian” while also marketing erotica books under another is completely disingenuous. Believers have a different way of looking at the world, and as such, that thinking infiltrates how we respond to situations.
I don’t necessarily think there needs to be a conversion story or even a deep faith element to be a Christian book, but it should reflect the worldview and our responses (going to the Lord in prayer, offering grace and compassion, upholding our desire for reconciliation and forgiveness, etc.) and not simply going to church. Such books should stick to being “clean” or “sweet,” IMO. They have a place, and I’d be among those readers for sure.
But the Word teaches one cannot serve both God and money, and ultimately, that’s the goal for those marketing to such opposing genres. We absolutely should be wary of those offering what essentially boils down to false gospel, because if they don’t know Jesus, how can they represent Him or the truth? Sadly, I don’t know how we’d go about changing any of it. It’s a messy world we live in and the enemy loves to do what he can to dilute the gospel and its power in our lives however he can.
Great points! I would however like to point out that there is Christian yoga, and if we are taking captive every thought as God intended, then the eastern religion aspect will be pushed out of our minds as we focus on wholeness in Christ who is head of the body, including our physical bodies. (And as believers it is absolutely necessary we distinguish between the forms of yoga just as we do the other aspects of being in the world and not of it.)
If it is a Christian themed book I would expect Christian mores and yes scripture to be included. Clean without Christian references are good as well.
I’m not sure how a “Christian” author could justify writing clean books 3 days a week and dare I say erotica, such a king word for porn, other days. Possibly splitting hairs but I have seen books advertised as “steamy and sweet” which seems to be some intense make out, is that term still used? sessions but no actual sex scenes.
If someone is writing both kinds of literature and needs 2 names it would appear their heart isn’t focused where it should be. I would be strongly inclined to stop reading their faith based books should I find out an author I follow does that.
Here’s my “disclaimer” these are my opinions alone and not necessarily those of everyone else:
Question one: I don’t think it’s okay to categorize Christian fiction in the non-Christian romance because if you have a reader who is not a believer and is opposed to anything Christian, then you will have an upset reader in finding faith or a Christian worldview in the book (and can write up a really bad review or slam the author). Same for vise-versa, you can’t possibly categorize Christian fiction as sweet/clean because there is no faith element & readers of CF will not find that in the book and be incredibly disappointed (I’ve ran into that myself). If I read CF, I expect God in the pages and characters who (like me) struggle to live their lives pleasing to Him. Not just “playing” church, but genuine characters who strive everyday to reflect Christ in their lives.
I’m not opposed to reading sweet/clean reads and have read many, but please label it as so, that way I know what to expect or not expect as far as content. :-)
Question two: When I see a book labeled CF (romance or not), I expect a faith element….whether it’s strong or not. But it MUST be there for me. I like it to be a natural part of the book & characters. Like my answer above, I don’t want to feel like the characters are playing at “church” or that being a Christian feels “forced” for the author to write. I want characters who feel real in their everyday struggle & who overcome problems or issues with the help of God…that they turn to prayer, talk to another trusted Christian, get counsel from either a Pastor or Christian counselor or any number of things to help them. I also like to see character growth or redemption by the end of the book….lessons learned (or re-learned) that take them through life beyond the pages. You have no idea how it helps me as a reader to see how characters overcome things in life & the reminders of God’s working in my own life. Lastly….yes, it bothers me a lot when there is no faith content and the book is labeled as CF.
Question three: Thankfully, I’ve never ran into this problem where I found out one of the authors I love also wrote erotic romance! I hope I never do, honestly. But yes, it would really hurt my heart to find out. I honestly don’t know how an author can be a Christian fiction writer, let alone a Christian, and write the kind of book that contains what God says is sinful (lust, sex outside of marriage, fornication, adultery, etc). How can you possibly have a “faith element” in an erotic book? That just makes no sense to me. Lastly, I would no longer follow that author….but I would definitely, definitely pray for him or her! Because obviously they need to make a choice as to whether they will be a CF author or a secular one….scripture says you can’t serve two masters, your heart would be double minded. I would hope (and pray) that any CF author would not write that kind of book under a pen-name….and would run far away from that kind!
Thank you Tara for tackling a difficult topic! I know we all have our different preferences when it comes to the kind of books we read & what we expect in the pages. In how much or little faith is included and whether or not we stick strictly to CF or also read sweet/clean books. I’d say it comes down to ones own personal convictions. Me, I like a little stronger of a faith element but won’t discount a book that doesn’t contain a strong one, just as long as it does contain faith. I think as long as a book is clearly labeled as CF or as sweet/clean, then I’m okay with it. But please don’t cross-label them or try to make a story something it’s not :-)
I liked reading the post and comments. As a reader I am very careful about what authors and books I choose to read. I really like Christian themed books (I am a Christian) , but I don’t like being hit over the with it like a 2×4., feeling like the whole book is a Bible study course. I like thoughtful presentation of a few scriptures and showing how they are influencing life choices and attitudes. Then living their lives in such a way as to show those scriptures are really their values. Many authors do this by the way they have their characters act in difficult situations. I can see cross marketing to reach larger audiences and it’s not a problem, but in the blurb it can be made clear if something is overtly Christian.
On the other question it really bothers me when I see a book and it mentions it is the same as another book with the naughty parts taken out. I also feel like the author tries to take potential readers unawares when it definitely is steamy and doesn’t even hint at that in their blurb-I have to carefully read reviews to see if it is clean. So no, I think it is disingenuous for authors to write CF for one group and then steamy for another. I don’t think the creative boxes can be quite that separate and solid from each other.
I disagree on the question of yoga, but that’s a discussion for another day. My point was that clean fiction often includes things offensive to Christians.
I forgot to add one thing to question three, what we put into our hearts is what comes out. If you put in God’s word & strive to live for Him…then that’s how you will live, think, act, etc. If we put in garbage…say, “steamier” reads…then that’s where your thoughts will go and ultimately will affect every aspect of your life. Scripture is clear on what we should put into our spirit (paraphrasing here) “what comes out of a person is what defiles a person. For from the heart comes evil thoughts, etc”. Say, if I watch TV shows or movies that are extremely violent or gory, then that’s what will enter my heart & will eventually affect my life (thinking, acting, etc). Same with books, if I read something that’s not edifying to my spirit, it will affect my walk with God. So I always try to watch what I put into my mind so that my spirit is feed correctly. It’s hard because this world invades so many aspects of life, but it’s all worth it to know I am right with God in everything :-)
I love reading Christian Romance books with faith in them, because I know they are clean and I can leave them on the coffee table and not worry about a very young child picking them up. I think Christian books should have some faith in them . That is so very sad and upsetting how some people pretend to be Christian just so that they can get their books out and then they write very steamy books, that would really upset me and for sure I would never buy their books, why pretend to be Christian. This post was very interesting and thank you for getting it out. Have a Great week and stay safe.
I missed the question about whether or not Christian books should be put into “clean” categories for marketing.
There are books about all kinds of people in clean fiction/romance – Christians, Jews, Muslims, vegetarians, homosexuals, billionaires, athletes, White people, Black people, Asian people… It’s an inclusive category. I don’t see any reason to NOT put Christian books in there, as long as they meet the “clean” criteria.
I appreciate your thoughts, Trudy! I agree–I want more than “surface” level Christianity in my CF.
I also agree with what you would do upon finding out… I’ve stopped reading/recommending their books upon finding out. I just know so many readers will never know what I know “behind the scenes” and I hate that.
I have no problem with promoting Christian books in non-Christian catagories, if they fit in that category. I have real issues with someone who isn’t a Christian doing a cheap add of something to be able to add it to the Christian category! Offensive doesn’t begin to cover that. I have no problem with someone who writes clean romance also writing more steamy ones, if they don’t claim to be a Christian. (If they do claim that, then I’d like to know so I can stand across the room to avoid the lightning bolt!)
That’s a good way to look at it.. All Christian romance *should* qualify as “clean”, but not all clean romance will qualify as Christian!
Do you think a lot of Clean Romance also contains “a Christian worldview” though? Hence the blurry lines!
I do think some of this stems from Clean Romance being a somewhat newer genre. If you wrote wholesome romance previously, it didn’t really fit in the larger Romance genre (which was mostly steamy), and publishers found they could market it in their Christian catalogues.
Thanks for commenting Jaycee. I love how you phrased it — “it should reflect the worldview and our responses (going to the Lord in prayer, offering grace and compassion, upholding our desire for reconciliation and forgiveness, etc.) and not simply going to church.”
Messy is a good way to describe it. I don’t know that it will ever change, but I will pray that authors using Christianity as an empty marketing tactic will be convicted of their actions and convinced of the true meaning of the Christian message.
Thanks Vicci — you are absolutely right about the wording.
“Steamy and sweet” is a whole new category… I think authors mostly use it to describe steamy romance novels (meaning premarital sex scenes included in detail) but where the actual storyline is “sweet” and not darker like some steamy romance.
Every author is trying hard to find their specific readers, with only so many descriptors to go around, it would seem!
Thanks for your well-crafted comments, Trixi!
Clearly and accurately labeling the books seems to be the key — it’s when we expect one thing but get another that it leads to a broken trust.
I absolutely agree with you about how much it helps to see characters navigate problems and situations through the lens of their faith, and how it reminds me that God wants to be involved in my own as well!
Discovering clean and Christian romance was a game changer for me, as I struggled with the content of “steamier” romances for years and years. It’s so true that everything we consume effects our thoughts and then, our deeds.
I think I would have to have split-personalities to write genres with such different morals!
Thanks for commenting, Wren! I’m glad you are able to find Christian stories that you enjoy!
Thanks for commenting Alicia!
I agree, why pretend to be something you aren’t, just to sell books? Where is the integrity?
I’ve read a lot of low reviews by people that bought a “clean” romance and were surprised to find it had a Christian element to it. So if you’re going to categorize it as clean, the blurb should clearly state it’s Christian or faith-based. I have no problem with selling a Christian book in the “clean” categories.
On the other side of the coin, I HAVE read many “Christian” romances where the characters go to church or say grace, but a non-Christian lifestyle is seen as normal and good. I’m not so OK with that. There has to be an arc toward living a Godly life for it to be OK to start with a character living away from Christ in a “Christian” story, otherwise it should just be listed as “clean.”
I’m guessing there are Christian authors that aren’t reading the same Bible I read, because they do add elements to their stories that the Bible clearly states to stay away from—not just the levels of steaminess. (Deuteronomy 18:10-12)
I don’t read those books even though I enjoy their other works.
Hah, your last sentence made me smile.
For sure, many authors write steamy and clean romances, which is fine (for them). I think the biggest problem is when those clean romances get marketed/sold as Christian (even though they aren’t written that way). It’s definitely offensive. Even moreso than when someone who is a Christian but only writes clean does the same thing! Which I suppose means it comes down to the heart of it.
Thanks for your thoughts, MaryEllen!
It’s definitely a challenge to read characters who are supposedly Christian, but live non-Christian lifestyles with no guilt/growth. I agree, those should not be called Christian fiction.
I do agree that a lot of Clean Romance contains a Christian worldview, so I guess I should amend my personal minimum requirements to be considered Christian romance. And that definition was definitely from before when Clean Romance became a category. I will amend to “Christian world view and main character achieves some level of spiritual growth.” I still think my bare minimum is far lower than many people’s. I just feel so strongly that there need to be books for seekers in addition to those to encourage believers.
I’m glad you wrote this post as I have issues with this too. For me, if a book is marketed as Christian fiction I get quite disappointed when the faith element only involves going to church foe the characters and has no other depth to their journey.
I have some authors I enjoy who are classified as CF but I don’t personally think they are as the faith elements are low to nil in their books, in my opinion.
As to an author writing books in CF and then having other books that are almost erotic I have a big issues with that. When I find an author I enjoy I tend to go and read other books by them, assuming the books will be similar in tone and quality. If they write such vastly different books in different genres then I have to be very careful what genre or book from them I would read.
I hope that answers your questions. Basically, I think if someone writes CF they should, hopefully, be a Christian and in turn would not want to write things that don’t glorify God, such as super steamy romances.
I don’t prefer when authors market books as Christian books when they aren’t actually Christian, however I don’t mind if it is the other way. When I see something labeled as Christian, I expect it to have Christian aspects.
I think it would bother me a lot if I found out that a Christian author wrote erotica because to me that is against what being a Christian means, you need to guard what you put into your mind and what you do affects others.
I guess because of the sometimes blurry lines between clean and Christian, I am very cautious about reading new to me authors, unless they’re recommended by my trusted and true Christian authors. This blog is very helpful. To me it’s the Christian content that makes reading novels worthwhile. A so called ‘Christian’ book that’s really only a ‘clean’ story leaves me thinking of how they could have made it so much more impactful with God in it!!
I have learned the hard way about spotting a promising book on Kindle and blindly trusting it will be “clean” unless it is by you, Mandi, the rest of The Hero’s of Freedom Ridge authors, Shanna Hatfield and a handful others.
If Kindle would pretty please do something to help, like a disclaimer or alert, that would be great. as it is I have to go through many reviews in hopes of finding out fact over author or publisher hype. I was thrilled one day when I found the review “This had zero sex, why bother reading it”. I knew I had found another author i could enjoy thanks to that unhappy reader.
Thanks for your comments, Megan!
I agree with much of what you said. I definitely enjoy some authors with little faith content, it is just a matter of knowing what I’m getting into.
When I read Christian fiction, I expect to read a clean story. I believe that a book can be a Christian read without specifically using scripture. The story can show Christian ways of living without specifying it.
Thanks Angeline!
So important to guard what we consume :)
In Christian fiction, I expect to read a clean story. I believe that a book can be a Christian read without specifically using scripture. The story can show Christian ways of living without specifying it.
That trust is so important! It’s one reason (especially in Christian circles) that the recommendations of friends or voices we trust are so important.
Thanks for stopping by!
Thanks for your thoughts, Debra. It’s definitely nice that we can open Christian fiction and know we won’t encounter the glorification of sinful behavior, regardless of how “overt” the faith elements are.
Well, Tara, you have certainly set your sail to catch the wind of response! There have been so many good responses in the comments already shared. I’ll try to highlight some different ideas in my contribution.
Jesus taught us that He is “the way, the truth and the life”. I take that to include the following ideas. He is “the way” in that His atoning death is how we come into a right and saving relationship with God. He is our example of perfect life and our only hope to be taken from the deadness of sin to eternal life. He is “the truth” in that He both embodies and demonstrates the ultimate reality of all things. If He says it or shows it, it is the real deal (whether we like it or not :)). He is “the life” in that He both acts out what it means to be intimately connected to God and He enables us to know and do the same.
“The way” calls for obedience. “The truth” calls for acceptance. “The life” calls for expression. As believers, I think we view the world through these epic, eternal lenses. When others treat these issues lightly, it cuts deeply.
Like all learning, when the life of God is in us through regeneration by the Holy Spirit, we become works in progress. There are different levels of maturity and understanding in both authors and readers. So I am not surprised when I encounter fuzzy theology from a Christian author any more than I am when I encounter incorrect verb tenses or misused words. Would that all authors showed the beauty of God in their craft as well as their theology, LOL! I think it is important to keep in mind that some of the problems we are discussing may, in fact, stem from the difference in maturity levels of the authors and readers involved.
Those who are spiritually dead don’t get this distinction of how important the reality of a relationship with the God of the universe is. In that light, let me be so bold as to suggest that the questions you have posed are, in reality, summed up in “How do we present the truth of God and how do we respond to apparent falsehood?”
You have probably come across the illustration of how bank tellers are taught to identify counterfeit bills. They handle lots and lots of the real stuff. That way, when the phony money comes into their hands, it just doesn’t “feel” right. So, as authors, storytellers, parents, friends, neighbors, etc, let us become exceptionally skilled at presenting the way, the truth and the life in the most accurate, obedient, accepting and expressive way that we can. That way, those who hear us will recognize the Spirit’s voice when He speaks and, by His grace, will reject the false voices out there.
The marketing distinctions between “Christian” and “Sweet, Clean” are, indeed, muddy. As believers, we have our eternal lenses in place when we read “Christian” and see “that which is true to Christ” and read “Sweet, Clean” and see “that which is inoffensive to me (and my beliefs)”. The unbelievers are likely to see “Christian” as, at best, “that which is acceptable to people who call themselves Christian – whatever that means” and, at worst, “that which is prudish, ignorant and mean-spirited”. “Sweet, Clean” becomes “no overt sexual content” and the rest of the ideas (like pre-marital sex, behavioral choices like drinking or profanity) are up for grabs.
I believe that our life in Christ includes a spectrum of choices. On one end are the things that we absolutely MUST NOT do. On the other end are the things we absolutely MUST do. In the middle, which I think is quite broad, are those things where God gives us the opportunity to make creative choices led by His Spirit. I also believe that we are responsible to God to make these choices concerning our own obedience, acceptance and expression first. After that, we are called to present the most genuine expression of the eternal life within us to others so that they can see the fruit of the Spirit in all its beauty.
I find it frustrating that fruit of the Spirit does not include “a good right cross to the jaw” of those who lack integrity. I keep looking, but the way, the truth and the life keep pointing in the opposite direction. Oh, well, I’m a work in progress.
I prefer Christian and clean romances be marketed separately. When I read a book with no faith content, I miss the richness that a spiritual thread brings. I always differentiate on my blog what is Christian and what is clean/written for general market. For example, here’s how I ended my review of Mimi Matthews’ latest book: “This is not a Christian fiction book, which I knew ahead of time. There is quite a bit of PG-rated swearing. If you’re familiar with any BBC shows like Poldark or Downton Abbey, it’s very much in line with what you would hear there. Use your own discretion.”
I do respect Christian authors who write clean stories in addition to faith stories, with the hope that readers will discover them in the general market and then try out Christian fiction, where they may hear the message of salvation. For a long time this wasn’t something I understood, but I once had a conversation with an author who explained she was trying to reach unsaved family members who wouldn’t read her faith-based books. She hoped that once they started reading they would decide to give her others a try.
Most of the time, if a read is labeled “clean” and not “Christian,” I will pass it by. I miss the faith aspect too much.
It would definitely bother me if an author I like turned out to be writing erotica under a different name. I don’t believe I would be able to read any of their books any more.
This is a great post, Tara! Thanks for being brave enough to start this discussion.
Hi Erin. I use to donate my Christian fiction books to the local library. They were also in the romance spinners. They thanked me several times for donating and said there were readers who kept thanking them for having clean reads and would ask for more suggestions. Many readers want the clean reads and I also hope it will lead people to want more and to ask questions. Most of the Christian fiction in the library was what I had donated.
I also look after the church library and most who borrow are those who come to outreach programs they also love the books are clean and ironically they have less problem with a preachy book than some Christian readers.
My first reaction was how could an Atheist get away with writing CF but then I thought it happens in churches etc. Often an Atheist can know more about the bible than a Christian I would hope that in responding to readers or in other places the truth would come out. I had a author I respected and like till something came out on Social media that she was supporting and her views were not Christian. I no longer buy her books or follow her etc.
The author must find it to by tiring to keep up the pretense all the time so as not to be found out.
In response to drinking alcohol. In Australia it probably wouldn’t be an issue as many churches don’t have an issue with drinking. (having a wine not getting drunk). Also Dancing isn’t an issue but I know in some churches things like drinking, dancing, playing card would still be taboo.
For me on the issue of sex scenes etc I don’t want an open door. I expect a clean read would be a closed door on sex scenes but you may have characters that are not married.
I happen to love your last paragraph! Except, I’d say an “attitude adjustment upside the head with a cast iron skillet,” but still the same concept!
So want to click a thumbs up here.
Yes! Swing it, sister! :)
Thank you, Jenny!
Hi Tara, Excellent post! This topic is definitely worth revisiting. I also think the lines have become murkier since I wrote my 2019 blog post looking at if you can trust a CCR to be Christian.
From a reader perspective, I appreciate the reviewers who effectively rate the level of faith content in stories. I don’t want to read ‘fake Christian’ stories where characters do Christian things but don’t have a discernible relationship with Jesus that impacts on their thoughts, words and actions. That said, I’ll happily read clean/wholesome with no faith elements if it has interesting characters and a compelling storyline that hooks me from the get-go.
I have an overflowing TBR list and I’m never short of reading material. I only read and buy authors of Christian fiction if they’re recommended by trusted people and sources eg. our Inspy Romance blog. If I come across a pen name and I can’t find a website/blog, author photo, genuine interactions on social media, and articles/blog posts written by them, I won’t buy their books. Even in multi-author boxsets, I’ll skip reading books by authors who haven’t got what I’d call a genuine online presence. Life is too short and my time is too valuable to waste on reading books that I don’t trust to be a good read that will meet my expectations.
As others have said, God will deal with the authors who have a questionable motives for labelling their books as Christian. As an author, I do my best to research first before recommending authors and books at Inspy Romance, at StoryChats, on my author blog or my social media. It has been great to read everyone’s thoughts on this topic. 😊
Christian Romance must have the faith factor.
Clean Romance can be inspirational without being Christian. And, if it has the faith factor, it can be Christian.
Christians writing Clean Romance are in gray area if they’re calling their books CR and the books don’t have the faith factor. It seems like they’re selling a false bill of sale.
I think that a book should be marketed to reflect what is inside so that the reader can make an informed decision when purchasing. I read both clean and Christian romance, so I don’t have issues with either side, but I do think that it needs to be marketed properly in one category or the other. Sometimes I see reviews where a reader will give a low rating and rip a book to shreds bc it had a faith element and was “preachy”. Obviously that wasn’t what they were expecting, but why didn’t they expect it? Perhaps it was marketed as clean when it had an overt faith message? Not sure.
Hi Ashley. I had someone who was a Christian say about some books in the church library being too preachy, (The books she mentioned I didn’t see it) But found it interesting as they are Christian fiction. Chatting with non Christian’s who come to a reach out group and borrow said its Christian Fiction what do they expect we don’t mind them as we know what the books are. I found it interesting that non Christians are less judgmental about CF than what Christians are.
Great topic!
When I see a book in a Christian Fiction or Christian Romance category — it has to include Jesus!
If it has no “faith content”, it should be “Clean” Romance, which is ok – I read these stories to :)
I feel very strongly about this, too. I’m glad you brought it up!
It’s NOT okay to market books with Christian messaging in non-Christian romance categories or vice-versa. I do not like sweet/clean romances within Christian categories. If it’s in a Christian category — and especially if there is the label Christian anywhere in the wording — then I expect a faith thread, the more obvious, the better. It definitely bothers me if it has no “faith content.”
I will sometimes read clean romance, too. I’m glad they have lines that they won’t cross. But I’m beginning to find them fluffier and fluffier. I want at least a little bit of faith to color their choices, as I believe that true believers should let every area of their lives be submitted to God.
If an author I discovered through a Christian Fiction category or promotion site was also writing erotic romance under a penname… it would DEFINITELY bother me!! If I found out, I’m not sure what I would do. I would definitely unsubscribe immediately. I might even write a review that exposes them, but I’m not sure if that would be gracious. My first reaction would be to expose them, but hopefully I would pray about it first.
Thanks for your thoughts, Lincoln! I especially like what you said about how we view the labels vs how others may view the labels of Christian/Clean.
Thanks for stopping by, Erin! When the faith element is missing, I definitely also miss the richness that it brings.
It’s certainly been a topic that has brought a lot of discussion!
I think the lines will probably only become murkier, and it is nice to have resources (like Inspy Romance) that we trust to recommend solid faith-based books!
Thanks for your thoughts, Denise!
It’s definitely so important to make sure a reader knows what they are getting. Even a couple key words in the description can make a world of difference (and help us authors avoid those low ratings!)
Thanks for your comment, Natalya. I enjoy both genres, too — as long as I know what I’m getting!
Thanks, Lila!
Your response about the penname mirrors my own. I’ve been tempted to name and shame, but feel like that would be going too far. But I’m definitely never going to promote or read their books ever again!
Thank you for posting about this, Tara. I saw your stories on IG recently and was horrified to learn of an author marketing work as Christian, while writing erotica under a different pen name. So sad.
I read mostly Christian fiction by authors I trust. I expect Christ to be at the center of the character’s journey if we are calling our story Christian. I don’t understand the fear of “sounding preachy”. The term leaves me scratching my head, honestly. As Christians, Christ is the center of our lives. Heather summed it up well above – what’s the point without Christ? I love story. I love character arcs, falling in love , sorting through the problems of this journey we all walk through, but without Christ, it falls flat. I don’t expect characters to awkwardly recite scripture unless it fits the story. There’s nothing worse then a “faith element” being tacked on, but the journey of the character from place A to place B with either a new faith or a deeper faith is such a rich experience. I love story in different styles and I love everything from literal, in your face faith threads to more Amanda Dyke’s-esque allegorical, but it should clearly point to Christ.
Another thought regarding clean vs non-clean. To be honest, I don’t understand what constitutes what completely, but as a Christian my thoughts are as follows — we are sinful creatures, prone to wander and stumble even after the Holy Spirit moves us to faith a repentance. I have no issue when “hard subjects” are tackled in Christian fiction. I embrace it, actually. What it comes down to me for is – is sin being glorified here or is it being used to point my character (and reader) to Christ? That’s the ticket for me. This life is full of sin and muck and pain. Writing stories without it isn’t genuine, but sin should never be glorified. Just my two cents. Thank you again for posting about this tough topic.
Me, too, Kelly! I love a good sermon! Not a tacked-on element, but a deep solid message.
This is what I would say, so I will just say, “Well done! My view exactly. “