Becoming an author in the “fiction” space can be both challenging and rewarding. The most prolific writers typically focus on a specific genre, although some have been known to branch out and test other waters. If you’re thinking about trying your hand at a Christian romance novel, there are several key features you’ll want to incorporate into your story.
While every Christian romance novel doesn’t have to be exactly alike (How boring would that be?), certain elements are common in such stories. There are also various features you would want to avoid in a love story based on Christian principles, such as gratuitous profanity or overly explicit love scenes. Novels of this sort should uplift, encourage and provide wholesome entertainment for readers.
A Christian romance novel often features these elements
The following list includes seven key elements that readers often encounter while reading a Christian romance novel:
- Positive themes
- Spiritual growth
- Conflict
- Characters who are believers in Jesus Christ
- Good versus evil themes
- Crisis of faith
- Happy endings
Does the last element shown in this list mean that, as an author of a Christian romance novel, you’re obligated to write a happy ending? Not necessarily, although an overall tone of redemption, resolved conflicts and peaceful conclusions is typical in this genre.
Can authors include unbelievers in their stories?
Writing a Christian romance novel doesn’t mean all your characters must possess an integral faith that guides them through life. In fact, your story might not seem authentic to readers if all your characters are believers. A character who is an atheist, for instance, or someone experiencing doubt or a severe crisis of faith can add the depth and relatability that readers seek in a good love story.
Transformation and inspiration
A Christian romance novel wouldn’t be fitting to the genre if there were no elements of transformation or inspiration in the story. As mentioned earlier, there doesn’t always have to be a happy ending. There should, however, be elements that demonstrate things like having a purpose larger than self, as well as examples of how God’s light and love can change lives.
Love stories based on Christian principles are often complex. As an author, strive to embrace “the human condition” is a way that aligns with reality. At the same time, create characters and plots that take readers on a journey where faith, hope and love endure.
