by Lisa Jordan
@lisajordan
I read a discussion recently where a reader expressed concerned about the content and quality of Love Inspired novels because the parent publisher releases secular romance novels as well.
Every reader needs to choose her books based on her own convictions. However, if you're on the fence about reading Love Inspired novels, here are five reasons why you should:
1. The books are God-ordained. The Love Inspired authors whom I know are firmly entrenched in their faith. They pray over their stories and for their readers. The content is clean, conservative, and usually suitable for teenagers to read. Additionally, the books are shelved next to secular romances, so our reach is even greater than if they were only in Christian bookstores.
2. The books are great quality. Writing for Love Inspired takes a certain skill because you have a limited amount of words to tell your story well. In addition, the editors are sensitive to the conservative readership, and they have high standards for the books they buy.
3. The books offer hope. We write romances, so, of course, our books will end with happily ever afters. However, these novels offer hope of God’s redemptive love and grace. I remember reading Finding Hope by Brenda Coulter years ago, and then standing in the shower sobbing because the message she had woven within her story was exactly what I needed to hear at that time. It's still one of my favorite LI novels.
4. The books are cost effective. You can buy a Love Inspired novel at Walmart for less than the cost of a Venti latte at Starbucks. And with no added calories!
5. Reading Love Inspired novels keeps us writing them. If readers stop buying and reading our novels, then our sales numbers decline. If sales aren't high enough to support the line, then the parent publisher may choose to close the line.
Writing for Love Inspired is more than a paid profession—it's my mission field. I can use my books as a way to reach out and minister to those who may never come to church. Handing them a Love Inspired novel offers a gentle witness to a Godly lifestyle. God doesn't call each one of us to mission fields overseas, but He does command us to go and make disciples of all nations. Writing for Love Inspired allows me to do that in my own community.
If you've been on the fence about reading a Love Inspired novel, I suggest you visit the website, check out the authors. Perhaps borrow from the library or from a friend. You will find stories that capture your heart with a sweet romance and a message of faith that ministers to the soul.
What about you? How often do you read Love Inspired novels? How have those novels changed you?
Posts
Lisa,
ReplyDeleteWhere else are you going to publish this, because our blog shouldn't be the only place. Excellent piece.
I love the fact that you know you're going to get a wonderful story that weaves the faith element throughout the story and you will have a happy ending. These are books you are not afraid to tell your grandkids your write.
ReplyDeleteExcellent points and thoughts. I totally agree. Thanks, Lisa.
ReplyDeleteWell said! Definitely sharing this post.
ReplyDeletePamela, I have to write posts for the ACFW blog, so I can ask Becky if this can be a repost. Plus, I can post it on my own blog. :)
ReplyDeleteMary, I couldn't agree more. :)
Margaret, you're welcome--you've been such an inspiration to me as I was working toward publication. :)
Deb, thanks for sharing the post! I think it's important to get as much exposure for the line as we can. :)
Great points, Lisa! I'm honored to be writing for LIH.
ReplyDeleteI read excerpts by my fav authors n stiries that intrigue me each month. Sometimes it 2 a month othertimes its 6. I love the love inspired books
ReplyDeleteLisa, THANK YOU for stating this so very well.
ReplyDeleteThis captures exactly how I feel.
"God doesn't call each one of us to mission fields overseas, but He does command us to go and make disciples of all nations. Writing for Love Inspired allows me to do that in my own community."
I've always loved to read and write, but when I write for Love Inspired I am strengthening my own faith. Creating the story with the characters requires great contemplation and I often find myself wanting to delve deeper into Scripture so I can better reflect it in my writing.
Here, here!! Wonderful article, Lisa. I've been amazed how the Lord speaks to me at just the right time through the Love Inspired books I'm reading.
ReplyDeleteGreat post, Lisa! Thanks for sharing this.
ReplyDelete