The redemptive spiritual arc might be my favorite. It takes so many forms, from dramatic to vapor-thin, that I find myself constantly searching it out. And redemption can mean different things to each person. For me and the sake of this post, I’m speaking about redemption in a character’s life that brings them from a place of sin back to God. Somewhat like the prodigal son returning to his father.
As an author, I’ve written this theme in various forms. From a woman who’s never known God, to characters who have drifted away for one reason or another.
As a reader, I’ve found that my absolute favorite is the ones that dig down deep into character flaws and emotional constraints that have pulled a character into the world. It seems that most must hit rock bottom before they claw their way back into the light. I think it’s that fighting spirit that draws me in and gives me a chance to root for the characters. I want them to succeed.
That’s not to say I don’t enjoy the lighter side of redemption. I do. I love characters who have made a mistake and make reparations before it gets out of hand. They’re honest and genuine and their stories allow light to push back the dark.
No one redemptive arc is better than the other in the end. It’s about the story. The journey from where they are at the beginning of the book to where they end up. Any time I can find myself connecting through the pages of a book, I’m happy. And when it happens as an author, it’s a firm reminder of why I do this whole writing thing.
Do you have a favorite style of redemptive arc? Any book recommendations I can try?
Tabitha Bouldin has a bachelor's degree in creative writing/English from Southern New Hampshire University. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and has been writing since 2015. When she's not homeschooling her kids, you'll find her curled up with a book. Tabitha's genre of choice is Contemporary Christian Romance which she describes as: Adventure with heart.
No favorite style.
No favorite style, either.
I really don’t have a favorite. One of my favorite books with redemption themes are historical westerns by Heather Blanton and Elaine Manders. Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers is another favorite. I know I’ve read CCR that is, but right now I can’t think of the names of the books!
I like love inspired and harlequin heartwarming books
I love reading books that are about redemption. Have a great day and stay safe. I enjoyed reading your post.
Hm, this is an interesting question. Off the top of my head, I can’t think of a contemporary Christian romance I’ve read that has a very strong redemptive arc. I am writing one with a character who’s had a big fall from grace, but it took place in the past, before the book begins.
Those are some great ones!
Any books that come to mind that you love?
That’s how I am most of the time. Any favorites you recommend?
There have been some great love inspired ones. I don’t remember reading the heartwarming books. I’ll check them out.
Thank you. I love that moment when rhe characters finally get it. That’s the part I read for.
That sounds like one I would enjoy.
Thank you for sharing. I have enjoyed Fireproof, Courageous and War Room. God bless you.
I don’t have an answer for you, but I know that I like them!
I discovered Christian romance recently so I haven’t read many books but if we talk about what kind of arc of redemption I would like to read about a hero or heroine who has done very bad things but changes when they find Jesus, for example if the hero Was in jail.
Such examples are important to remind us that the power of God not only reaches those who have sinned “a little” but also those who have been terrible.
I have some books but not sure of a favourite. My most is teen pregnancy & problems in life
I don’t really have any right now
I am so late. I just read Narelle Atkin’s Her Tycoon Hero and its a redemption story in a few ways. first the hero only really went to church as a kid but goes due to the Heroine. Also Cassie has done things in the past that some are not letting her forget but she has changed so she has that redemption story too. We have the will he just go to church and go through the montions for her or is it more story
Baxters by Karen Kingsbury
I am Abul kalam