Why I Read Inspirational Fiction - AKA Christian Romance Novels
I have a bit of a confession to make…
I’m a huge fan of Inspirational Fiction!!
Y’all, you heard it here first, and I’m mature enough to admit (only just) that I love reading Christian romance novels. From Becky Wade or Karen Witemeyer to the monthly editions from Harlequin’s Love Inspired collection….
Yes, yes, I know….They’re formulaic, predictable, but they’re also exactly what this mama wants to read in her down time! Don’t worry, I still make sure I make time to read my bible, and some hard hitting non-fiction that causes me to reflect and improve my life, but sometimes my brain just needs a break.
I completely admit that I used to read your traditional romance novels… You know, the heaving bosom, billionaire tycoon type, but my heart has changed on this. I’d like to share more about why I feel so convicted about this but, for now, I shall focus on what I do read rather than what I don’t read.
Life is busy. I’m a wife, mother, homeschooler, homemaker, daughter, sister, friend, and blogger. You know that meme that says: “My mind is like an internet browser. 19 tabs are open, 3 of them are frozen, and I have no idea where the music is coming from!” Well, that’s me, to a T! So when I want to unwind, and do something that I would consider entertainment, I want something that actually allows my brain to take a break. Reading something completely unrelated to my “to do” list or going ons of my day is how I feel I can do that, and it is what I choose most often now, rather than a tv show or movie.
These are the more obvious reasons why I choose to read books in this genre…
I don’t believe it is honouring to my husband and our marriage to be reading about another couples sex life. A courtship that portrays a wide array of challenges and plots twists while sharing biblical truths is something I can get behind, however.
God is in the details. While some stories are definitely lacking in this department (even if they are technically a Christian book), I love that these stories share the Gospel, and point their readers to God. I have very often found a new favourite verse, or been particularly inspired by a life circumstance that a fictional character is walking through.
There is often more focus on character and story development (over their secular counterparts), rather than just another steamy romp in the hay, because, well, the characters themselves are dealing with more than sex.
Please tell me I’m not the only one the feels slightly embarrassed to peruse that section of the books?! Just the other day I found myself standing in the book aisle at Walmart, seeming to look at the more distinguished books while my eyes traveled to see what was new this month in the Love Inspired section. But I’m saying “no more” to that nonsense! There are some truly lovely books that I’ve read in this genre, am currently reading, or am wanting to read, and I plan on sharing my thoughts on them with y’all!
I’d love to know… Is this a genre you’re reading in too?!
Until I blog again,
Alex
