always on the look out for something new. I read a lot it thriller/murder/mystery a lot and you can only take so much chaos… so whatever recommendations you have I will take them.
@Anna Jen Turano is super light and crazy witty! Karen Witemeyer and Julie Klassen have some great light reads. And Tracie Peterson has loads of great books. Julianna Deering has some historical mysteries. Courtney Walsh and Becky Wade have light contemporary romances.
Try Laura Frantz for excellant early American historical. Ted Dekker is great, Lisa Tawn Bergin, Linda Chaikin, I have found that modern Christian fiction is wonderful, my grandmas Grace Livingston Hill it is NOT! I have many more recommendations
Although my favorite author (Robin Hardy) is technically Christian fiction, I have a hard time with the majority of Christian fiction. Most that I have come across is too predictable and formulaic. And, I like my books with a bit of grit and grime. Too much “niceness” bores me.
It’s fiction from a Christian worldview. Some are more “preachy” than others, but most just have an underlying faith aspect. I will agree with some of the previous comments, the plots can get predictable, but I love them so that doesn’t bother me. ?
I remember hearing about that series a while ago! Thanks for putting it back on my radar! It led me to look for it in Kindle and lo and behold, the series 4-in-1 (1602 pages) is a mere $3.99. Affordable for me.
Yes. I do. And might I say it is refreshing. Sometimes I want a book to not be explicit with the sexual parts. Just tell the story. I can figure out the rest.
I do. One of the very best books that I’ve ever read is Redeeming Love, by Francine Rivers. It’s not “preachy” in dialogue, but parallels the biblical story of Hosea and Gomer. Hosea was a godly man, and Gomer was a prostitute. No matter what your favorite style of writing, you will laugh, cry, love,become very angry, and throw the book a few times, vowing to never pick it up again. Lol! When you can’t resist another minute, you pick up where you left off, and can’t believe what you are reading. It’s very, very powerful. A friend of mine, who is definitely NOT a reader, finished it in less than a week. She was so involved, she kept the book open on her seat, and read at every traffic light. She stayed up all night to finish it, and was so glad she did. Her whole countenance was different after she finished, and she still recommends it. The book truly teaches or reminds us what love really is.
Anna Serwadda, you might as well go ahead and buy it, because you are going to want all of your friends to read it! Actually, buy 2. That way you can have one to keep for yourself, and one to loan out. I would simply LOVE to hear your reactions to what you are reading, when you start it. Please don’t let the size of the book intimate you. You will fly through the pages. I am NOT a fan of old West stories, but the picture on the front suggests that that is what the book is about. She has on a red “salon” dress. It might be a good CHRISTmas gift for an unsaved friend. I always pray over the book before loaning it, for that very reason.
For those who are are saying the Bible is “Christian fiction”, you are entitled to your opinion, but it is in fact insulting. Please don’t say things like that here. Keep it to yourself.
Commenting is back to being allowed because I see most of you are being respectful and this is a great thread. NO RELIGIOUS BAITING OR INSULTS OR YOU WILL BE REMOVED!!!
Thank you so much! Aside from seeing those comments it was nice to see recommendations of Christian authors who write really exciting novels. I had only ever heard of some that didn’t grab me that much before this thread, and now I am more open minded to Christian fiction as a result.
I am a Christian and I am enjoying seeing these recommendations! I previously was meh about most of the books I had read before, but looking at the blurbs for some of these books, and seeing Ted Dekker brought back to the radar, has given me a new interest in looking at Christian authors. Thank you all for writing your favorites! (I am not even the OP)
Nope this is not the place for bashing people’s beliefs!!! We do not stand for it! I am one who firmly believes in the Bible and what it stands for. But I’m not going to use the age I created to sit and slam those who do not. It’s no t my place and to be honest people do not need to see it or read it! This is not what this page is for. Whoever uses it as such will be removed!
@Amy I address such complaints without belittling. I was atheist 30 years ago. I keep the discussion to the literary features of the book, rather than the dogma.
It is simply a patently inaccurate statement to call the Bible “fiction” when it is a library with diverse genres. Anyone who asserts that has been manipulated by someone else.
Not a lot, mostly because many authors are just… terrible lol. but I would suggest Ted Dekker. Mystery/suspense/thriller novels. Delved into the fantasy genre, as well. Excellent, fantastic writer
The Path to Paradise by Tracy Charles Varnell. Now I have not personally read it but I did talk with him about it. I think he has another in the works.
glad for these recommendations because it felt weird to be a Christian who didn’t like Christian fiction. That’d be like a sailor who hated nautical fiction haha.
@Mireille That is true. Much like anything, it’s not necessarily the genre, it’s how it’s written. I can’t remember specific titles, but I remember reading a story written so awkwardly it was almost like the author was afraid she’d write something “unchristian” into the book and it thus be deemed unsuitable. It was awkward and choppy, but it was years ago and I don’t even remember the plot or a character.
Yea I definitely agree!! If you ever get a chance Still Waters by Shirlee McCoy was a great read, its got a little suspense a little romance and a little faith. It had a nice balance and I still remember it from 13 or so years ago!
I have read Christian horror. I really like Frank Peretti and Ted Dekker. They have a book called HOUSE, this is the only book that gave me nightmares!
It’s a pretty prominent opinion. If you’ve ever followed the band Thrice, their frontman is a praise and worship director, lots of their songs have Christian themes and undertones, but he doesn’t push his band as being “Christian music” for exactly that reason. He believes Christians are so caught up in creating generic “art” that is palatable to the majority of Christians they have lost the ability to be raw and real with their observation of the human condition or the spectrum of human emotion. It’s not an opinion, it’s kind of fact. Especially when you hold Christian art to the standard of say, the Psalms. Some of the most beautiful poetry in existence. And arguably, primarily, because David as a Psalmist wasn’t afraid to go to a dark place in his writing.
That’s true. Which is why I said, “generally”. There’s good Christian art out there, just not much of it. But, there’s also a lot of terrible secular literature out there. So it goes without saying.
She didn’t ask for your opnion on the matter, have respect for others which has been expressed numerous times just on this one post. If you dont like the genre then there’s no need to post.
Eh. *shrug* There might be a few good ones out there. I’m not denying that. I just personally haven’t encountered any thus far. If you ever read one that surprises you and you want to throw me a suggestion I’m always open to book recommendations. I’ll read just about anything any one sends my way if they can make it seem interesting. 🙂
Did you ever think that many artists don’t label in the Christian genre (of any medium) because the general public would never give them the time of day JUST because they are Christian, no matter how talented they are?
Hahaha. Victoria, we both know that isn’t true. Christian books are among the best selling in the country on a regular basis. It is the dominant faith in our country after all. There’s nothing wrong with that, really. People like what they like. And a lot of Christian literature, film, music, what-have-you, has a pretty palatable “feel-good” theme behind… well, everything. So it’s no wonder people devour it like candy. It’s easy to digest. Just not… exactly complex. Or in my view, interesting.
@Ryan actually, as a Christian novelist myself, statistically speaking it’s one of the least read and one of the smallest niches out there. Bc of the stigma around Christian fiction. My book isn’t preach at all, but people see it’s Christian and automatically think it is
I’ll be frank, and please don’t take offense to this, because I promise I’m not trying to be antagonistic – simply honest; but it does sound like many of those subjects would carry strong Christian themes and be rooted in some sense in Christian theology. By one variant or another. Which is, again, it’s okay, it’s just not my thing.
I’m always down for a theology debate. I’m generally more well studied on bible than any self-styled Christians I know. I’ve read a lot of Christian mystics as well. I can throw down some heat in a theology debate. lolololol
@Ryan no debates allowed in here. But anybody can feel free to message me. One of my degrees is in theology and I was a youth pastor for a couple years. That’s the reason I wrote my novel for teenagers and young adults
I loved Ben Hur once I got past the first section and the action started. And I’d like to read The Queen of Katwe because I enjoyed the movie which is not at all formulaic but has Christian characters and worldviews.
Karen Kingsbury is my favorite
Jeannette Oke is one of my favorites
I have read all of her she is the best!
@Jenni Love Comes Softly is my favorite!
Not really. But I used to love Andrew Greeley’s novels. They may qualify. Mysteries with a religious overtone.
Yes.
Yes
Yes I do. Karen Kingsley and Debbie Macomber.
All of Debbie Macombers are incredible!!!
I read and write Christian fiction
Occasionally. It prefer good fiction by Christians consistent with Christian values rather than fiction that tries to be Christian.
I do but sometimes I get tired of how formulaic it can be.
I have read a couple of Christian cozy mysteries which were ok, but I don’t go out my way to read them.
If it includes the da Vinci code I guess so??
I never know what to read in this genre. Any suggestions? I have read some Andrew Greeley.
I have loads of suggestions. ? Though I will say I’m more of a “romance” person, so all my suggestions are along those lines. ??
Erin Mangum is pretty enjoyable
always on the look out for something new. I read a lot it thriller/murder/mystery a lot and you can only take so much chaos… so whatever recommendations you have I will take them.
@Anna Jen Turano is super light and crazy witty! Karen Witemeyer and Julie Klassen have some great light reads. And Tracie Peterson has loads of great books. Julianna Deering has some historical mysteries. Courtney Walsh and Becky Wade have light contemporary romances.
There are more I’m sure…??
My debut novel!!!
An inspiring novel of hope, Love,and the power of forgiveness! Great Reviews!
Only $.99 and FREE with KU
http://amazon.com/dp/B074YHDGF2/…
Perfect thanks guys. I’m definitely going to check some of these out!
The Shack is great as well as Eve by WM Paul Young
@Katie I have read that. I know they made the movie but didn’t see it. I guess I read a lot more of this genre than I thought.
The Shack is what inspired me to write my novel. I’ve read it 4x and saw the movie
@Joseph is the movie any good? I think I do have kindle unlimited so I will try to check you book out soon!
@Anna the movie is unbelievable!
Thanks!
I think you will really enjoy it!
@Joseph have you read Eve? Personally I think it’s good, not as good as the Shack, but really close.
@Katie it was okay
Not my fave by him though
I’ve only read the two so far, how many does he have @Joseph?
@Katie I believe 4
I better get looking for his other ones
Try Laura Frantz for excellant early American historical. Ted Dekker is great, Lisa Tawn Bergin, Linda Chaikin, I have found that modern Christian fiction is wonderful, my grandmas Grace Livingston Hill it is NOT!
I have many more recommendations
No…. they typically start out with a great plot, but in the middle of it, the author drops everything to start street preaching
Just a suggestion, but here is a link to my debut Christian novel
A story of hope, faith, and the power of forgiveness!
$.99
Free on KU
http://amazon.com/dp/B074YHDGF2/…
I have found very few Christian authors who I like. However Gilbert Morris is very good.
Although my favorite author (Robin Hardy) is technically Christian fiction, I have a hard time with the majority of Christian fiction. Most that I have come across is too predictable and formulaic. And, I like my books with a bit of grit and grime. Too much “niceness” bores me.
Love Robin Hardy!
Sorry for the ignorance,, but someone please explain the genre Christian fiction..
It’s fiction from a Christian worldview. Some are more “preachy” than others, but most just have an underlying faith aspect.
I will agree with some of the previous comments, the plots can get predictable, but I love them so that doesn’t bother me. ?
I believe the trilogy “Black” “Red” and “White” is a Christian series. Best ever!!! I read them so long ago, but they were amazing
Ted Dekker is the author
They are!! Ted Dekker is a great author.
I remember hearing about that series a while ago! Thanks for putting it back on my radar! It led me to look for it in Kindle and lo and behold, the series 4-in-1 (1602 pages) is a mere $3.99. Affordable for me.
@Ariannah that’s awesome!!!! I’m going to have to go re-read for that price!
@Ariannah, I’m sorry. I tried looking for it and found the series for 16.99. Do you mind sharing a link of what you found?
I am in Canada and it looks like you are in the USA? I will post both links. (Kindle books)
Here is the USA one: https://www.amazon.com/Circle-4-1-Ted-Dekker-ebook/dp/B0052FTNJ2/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1511379744&sr=1-1&keywords=circle+series+ted+dekker
Here is the Canadian one: (where I bought mine)
https://www.amazon.ca/Circle-4-1-Ted-Dekker-ebook/dp/B0052FTNJ2/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1511379913&sr=1-1&keywords=Circle+Series+4-in-1+%28The+Circle+Series%29
Thank you so much!
Forgot to mention a genius author, C. S. Lewis. Love his fiction and non-fiction.
Love him
I do! I actually review books in this genre on my blog. ???
So do I!
Yes. I do. And might I say it is refreshing. Sometimes I want a book to not be explicit with the sexual parts. Just tell the story. I can figure out the rest.
Yes, Ted Dekker is by far my favorite
I do. One of the very best books that I’ve ever read is Redeeming Love, by Francine Rivers. It’s not “preachy” in dialogue, but parallels the biblical story of Hosea and Gomer. Hosea was a godly man, and Gomer was a prostitute. No matter what your favorite style of writing, you will laugh, cry, love,become very angry, and throw the book a few times, vowing to never pick it up again. Lol! When you can’t resist another minute, you pick up where you left off, and can’t believe what you are reading. It’s very, very powerful. A friend of mine, who is definitely NOT a reader, finished it in less than a week. She was so involved, she kept the book open on her seat, and read at every traffic light. She stayed up all night to finish it, and was so glad she did. Her whole countenance was different after she finished, and she still recommends it. The book truly teaches or reminds us what love really is.
@April
I heave hear of the author is good too. I’m definitely interested let in that series.
One of the best books I’ve ever read!
I reserved it at my library. Must be pretty popular because all the copies are on loan already. Can’t wait to dive into it.
Francine Rivers is very good.
Anna Serwadda, you might as well go ahead and buy it, because you are going to want all of your friends to read it! Actually, buy 2. That way you can have one to keep for yourself, and one to loan out. I would simply LOVE to hear your reactions to what you are reading, when you start it. Please don’t let the size of the book intimate you. You will fly through the pages. I am NOT a fan of old West stories, but the picture on the front suggests that that is what the book is about. She has on a red “salon” dress. It might be a good CHRISTmas gift for an unsaved friend. I always pray over the book before loaning it, for that very reason.
@Joy I will for sure have to keep you let you know how it goes for me when I start it!
I believe I have two copies of this book, if anyone is wanting a copy.
Really? Where are you located?
@Joy I’m in Indiana, but I can ship anywhere.
I’m in Georgia, and I’m not sure where @Anna lives. Maybe she will see this and respond. Thank you so much for your kindness.
@Alysha would love a copy!
My fave Christian fiction writer is Christi Barrett
I do°
For those who are are saying the Bible is “Christian fiction”, you are entitled to your opinion, but it is in fact insulting. Please don’t say things like that here. Keep it to yourself.
I do sometimes, The Shack is great as well as Eve by WM Paul Young
@Victoria Anyone who calls the Bible fiction does not know what it is, and has not really looked at it. A library includes diverse genres.
Terri Blackstock is great
#AmyEngan
Commenting is back to being allowed because I see most of you are being respectful and this is a great thread. NO RELIGIOUS BAITING OR INSULTS OR YOU WILL BE REMOVED!!!
Thank you so much! Aside from seeing those comments it was nice to see recommendations of Christian authors who write really exciting novels. I had only ever heard of some that didn’t grab me that much before this thread, and now I am more open minded to Christian fiction as a result.
Still Waters by Shirley McCoy was a good read! I read it back in highschool
Yes.. I am a Christian. I once read the book on Florence Nightingale… The lady with the lamp….
I do.
My favorite is still Ben Hur
Well said and thank you!
I am a Christian and I am enjoying seeing these recommendations! I previously was meh about most of the books I had read before, but looking at the blurbs for some of these books, and seeing Ted Dekker brought back to the radar, has given me a new interest in looking at Christian authors. Thank you all for writing your favorites! (I am not even the OP)
Nope this is not the place for bashing people’s beliefs!!! We do not stand for it! I am one who firmly believes in the Bible and what it stands for. But I’m not going to use the age I created to sit and slam those who do not. It’s no t my place and to be honest people do not need to see it or read it! This is not what this page is for. Whoever uses it as such will be removed!
I was recommended the Left Behind series, by Tim LaHaye.. sounds super interesting
Read the whole series 2x
Incredible!!
I have, it was more Christian thriller.
Do you remember the title? I’m curious!
Check out most everything by Frank Peretti
And Ted Dekker
Awesome thank you!
You’re welcome
Not for nothing but a lot of Nicholas Sparks’ books have Christian undertones and I have always enjoyed his writing.
I have been told my Christian novel is very much like how Nicholas Sparks writes
Greatest compliment I have ever received!
I’d love to read your book!
@Mireille
An inspiring novel of hope, faith, and the power of forgiveness! Great Reviews!
Only $.99 and FREE with KU
http://amazon.com/dp/B074YHDGF2/…
@Amy I address such complaints without belittling. I was atheist 30 years ago. I keep the discussion to the literary features of the book, rather than the dogma.
It is simply a patently inaccurate statement to call the Bible “fiction” when it is a library with diverse genres. Anyone who asserts that has been manipulated by someone else.
Not here! I understand what you are saying and fully agree but not here!
I do…esp. Francine Rivers, Jill Eileen Smith, and Orson Scott Card
Following ?
Thank you, @Amy
Not a lot, mostly because many authors are just… terrible lol. but I would suggest Ted Dekker. Mystery/suspense/thriller novels. Delved into the fantasy genre, as well. Excellent, fantastic writer
The Path to Paradise by Tracy Charles Varnell. Now I have not personally read it but I did talk with him about it. I think he has another in the works.
@Amy, thank you for the support.
Yes 🙂
For those interested either or both fiction and non-fiction I recommend Jonathon Cahn
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5202174.Jonathan_Cahn
I’m not Christian but I do enjoy Kim Vogel Sawyer’s Books
glad for these recommendations because it felt weird to be a Christian who didn’t like Christian fiction. That’d be like a sailor who hated nautical fiction haha.
Not entirely lol I do think it’s just fine to dislike something you’re “supposed” to like especially if it’s not well written. Delivery is everything!
@Mireille That is true. Much like anything, it’s not necessarily the genre, it’s how it’s written. I can’t remember specific titles, but I remember reading a story written so awkwardly it was almost like the author was afraid she’d write something “unchristian” into the book and it thus be deemed unsuitable. It was awkward and choppy, but it was years ago and I don’t even remember the plot or a character.
Yea I definitely agree!! If you ever get a chance Still Waters by Shirlee McCoy was a great read, its got a little suspense a little romance and a little faith. It had a nice balance and I still remember it from 13 or so years ago!
I read a lot of Christian fiction.
Sounds interesting, i should take a look
Sure do!
I have read Christian horror. I really like Frank Peretti and Ted Dekker. They have a book called HOUSE, this is the only book that gave me nightmares!
That book FREAKED me out. ?
When it’s not preachy.
Yes always and Christian non fiction too.
I try not to. It’s too preachy and it bores me to tears. Christians in general just don’t know how to make good art.
That’s just your opinion. Art is subjective anyway.
It’s a pretty prominent opinion. If you’ve ever followed the band Thrice, their frontman is a praise and worship director, lots of their songs have Christian themes and undertones, but he doesn’t push his band as being “Christian music” for exactly that reason. He believes Christians are so caught up in creating generic “art” that is palatable to the majority of Christians they have lost the ability to be raw and real with their observation of the human condition or the spectrum of human emotion. It’s not an opinion, it’s kind of fact. Especially when you hold Christian art to the standard of say, the Psalms. Some of the most beautiful poetry in existence. And arguably, primarily, because David as a Psalmist wasn’t afraid to go to a dark place in his writing.
That’s true. Which is why I said, “generally”. There’s good Christian art out there, just not much of it. But, there’s also a lot of terrible secular literature out there. So it goes without saying.
She didn’t ask for your opnion on the matter, have respect for others which has been expressed numerous times just on this one post. If you dont like the genre then there’s no need to post.
Eh. *shrug* There might be a few good ones out there. I’m not denying that. I just personally haven’t encountered any thus far. If you ever read one that surprises you and you want to throw me a suggestion I’m always open to book recommendations. I’ll read just about anything any one sends my way if they can make it seem interesting. 🙂
To what work are you referencing?
Hahaha. Fair enough.
Did you ever think that many artists don’t label in the Christian genre (of any medium) because the general public would never give them the time of day JUST because they are Christian, no matter how talented they are?
Hahaha. Victoria, we both know that isn’t true. Christian books are among the best selling in the country on a regular basis. It is the dominant faith in our country after all. There’s nothing wrong with that, really. People like what they like. And a lot of Christian literature, film, music, what-have-you, has a pretty palatable “feel-good” theme behind… well, everything. So it’s no wonder people devour it like candy. It’s easy to digest. Just not… exactly complex. Or in my view, interesting.
@Ryan actually, as a Christian novelist myself, statistically speaking it’s one of the least read and one of the smallest niches out there.
Bc of the stigma around Christian fiction. My book isn’t preach at all, but people see it’s Christian and automatically think it is
What do you write, Joseph?
@Ryan I write Christian novels with morals and things that teenagers go through on a daily basis. Bullying, loss of faith, heartbreak, and love
I’ll be frank, and please don’t take offense to this, because I promise I’m not trying to be antagonistic – simply honest; but it does sound like many of those subjects would carry strong Christian themes and be rooted in some sense in Christian theology. By one variant or another. Which is, again, it’s okay, it’s just not my thing.
@Victoria absolutely agree!
It’s the watered down, feel good stuff that tickles the ears of people that gets the most attention
That’s PRECISELY what I’ve been getting at this entire post.
I think Amish romances are the biggest Christian sellers.
@Ryan and you have the right to that opinion. My novels aren’t marketing to that or your demographic
With all due respect
@Yvonne exactly
Haha. Of course. And again, that’s okay.
I’m always down for a theology debate. I’m generally more well studied on bible than any self-styled Christians I know. I’ve read a lot of Christian mystics as well. I can throw down some heat in a theology debate. lolololol
@Ryan no debates allowed in here. But anybody can feel free to message me. One of my degrees is in theology and I was a youth pastor for a couple years. That’s the reason I wrote my novel for teenagers and young adults
No debates? Oh man. The philosopher in me just died a little inside.
^^ And that might be appropriate in another venue, but not this one.
Adrian Plass is good for a laugh especially The Sacred Diary of Adrian Plass Aged 37 3/4 and The Horizonal Epistles of Andromea Veal
Yes!!
Not only read it, I write it. Please have a look at my latest. I am John Paul. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072JSBKW7
I loved Ben Hur once I got past the first section and the action started. And I’d like to read The Queen of Katwe because I enjoyed the movie which is not at all formulaic but has Christian characters and worldviews.
I don’t even know what Christian fiction is.
It’s a novel with christian themes and values
Here is mine
Read the blurb and you will see what I mean
Blind Faith https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074YHDGF2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_e.HfAbSZ91W90
Yes ,
someone once recommended it to me, it’s nice
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/219919.The_Robe
Here is my debut novel
A story of hope, faith, and overcoming disabilities, and the power of forgiveness!
Only $.99 and FREE on KU
Blind Faith https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074YHDGF2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_e.HfAbSZ91W90
I’m stopping all comment from this point forward. Apparently some members do not care to follow the rules!