I've written all types of stories in subgenres within romance, both secular and Christian fiction. I enjoy writing and reading both. I'm well aware that not everyone likes to read Christian romantic suspense just like some people prefer science fiction books over mysteries.
Having said that, I'm always curious when people ask me why I write inspirational romantic suspsense. I hadn't really given it much thought until the question came up more than once. For me, writing Christian fiction was a natural progression. I didn't feel that it was a mission to write inspirational books or a calling that pulled at me. I'd been writing traditional contemporary stories and wanted to write romantic suspense. The Steeple Hill editor I'd submitted to at the time said that the style of my stories would fit nicely as inspirational stories and asked if I'd give it a try. So I did and Cradle of Secrets was sold. I found that I truly enjoy writing for Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense and am so happy to call it my writing home.
I'd like to say that I wanted to help readers become more in touch with their own faith, but I must confess that it's just the opposite and a quite selfish reason on my part. I write inspirational romantic suspense as a way for me to be closer to my faith. The fact that I can share my stories with others and that they enjoy them as well is just a bonus.
For instance, a reader emailed me about a passage I'd written in Cradle of Secrets and how this particular passage touched her. I shared the story of how that passage came from what I'd gotten out of a sermon I'd heard years ago when I was a teenager and that it had stuck with me for more years than I care to admit since I am no longer remotely close to my teen years. I was also thrilled when I realized that the sermon I'd heard years ago was now being passed on to someone else and had touched them.
So while my reasons for writing inspirational romances are purely selfish, I'm glad that my selfishness is bringing joy and entertainment to so many others.
Until next time, many blessings to you!
Lisa Mondello
Christian Romance Authors with Fictionalized Tales of Intriguing Edginess
3 comments:
Hi Lisa,
Nice to read your post today. I was targeting a secular market as well when a Steeple Hill editor came to my local Georgia Romance Writers meeting and talked about their expanding LIS line. I pitched my story and she was interested. When I started to add a faith journey for my characters, they seemed to come alive. I think because I hadn't gone deep enough into what made them tick in my prior stories. My relationship with God influences everything I do. By including my characters' view of God, I was finally able to create compelling heroes and heroines that the editors seemed to like. Hopefully, the readers like them too.
I'm excited that I found your blog. I'm a romantic suspense writer and RT inspirational reviewer. I am a fan.
I'm so glad you found us, Dee!
Lisa
Post a Comment