First and foremost, I made the decision about two years ago to only read fiction books that were Christian fiction. This includes fiction of all types i.e. romance, historical, mystery, sci-fi, etc. The logic behind this choice was because I previously only read secular fiction and the majority of what is written had no value outside of sheer entertainment. Reading is enjoyable to me, sometimes knowledgeable, but for the most part I read because I really love it. I wanted to spend my time reading fiction books that had moral beliefs and values that I could relate too and believe in, seeing how an author creates an atmosphere of enjoyable characters, possibly high tense plots and settings that you feel like you're right there experiencing the sunset - it's a lot that goes on in writing... I wanted to read life-giving books, because I've read the books that only made my thought life toxic and I am done with that.
Secondly, I had a friend who was wanting to read more Christian fiction and asked me for some books that she thought would be good for reading and ones that I liked. Seeing as that I have read - at LEAST 100 books over the last two years - I felt that I had well-rounded knowledge of providing some recommendations.
Below are authors that I have personally read and admire. One thing I was taught was that you don’t EVER recommend a book to someone unless you have read it. Why would I recommend a restaurant to someone if I’ve never experienced the food, encountered the service, or been in their restrooms? Reading is similar…my eyes capture the words and I think about what the author is portraying. What you’re reading impacts who you are, plain and simple. So here is my stamp of approval - Happy Reading!
PS: I've linked the author's page into my review of the author, so if you're interested you can do some researching as well!
My Author's Choice
Irene Hannon
Francine Rivers
Elizabeth Camden
Wendy Alec
Denise Hunter
I've read at least the majority of her mystery/thriller books and they are ALL so good. Ms. Hannon has such a skill in writing, that I hope one day, I can achieve as an author. Her books are not only captivating, but she implements subjects that you think in your mind, "That wouldn't happen" and then you finish the book, "Oh, I can totally see that happening now". I enjoy her contemporary writings as well, such as That Certain Summer, definitely a tear jerker, but I'm a fan. I recommend books such as, Buried Secrets, Vanished & Fatal Judgement.
Francine Rivers was the first author I read when reading Christian Fiction. I, myself had asked for a book recommendation and was told that this was one of the best fiction books I would find. However, I didn't realize HOW GOOD it was going to be. Ms. Rivers pulls together both Biblical truths and stories and creates something us modern day people can relate too. I was blown away by her books and was encouraged to write my own because of her. I recommend books such as Redeeming Love and The Lineage of Grace.
I was researching books to read in my local library and stumbled across the gem that Elizabeth Camden is. I highly recommend The Hope & Glory Series, because I finished the first book, The Spice King in ONE DAY...I was hooked. I love how she ties in historical- happened in real life events into her story lines. I'm not just captivated, I want to learn more about the history behind the plot. I recommend books such as Beyond All Dreams, The Spice King, The Gilded Lady & The Prince of Spies.
My husband introduced me to this the Chronicles of Brothers Series and at first I was taken aback, but then it was not being able to put the book down that made life difficult, ummm chores can wait?! But seriously, without giving so much away, Wendy Alec is a genius. She writes like you're actually there - isn't that how books are supposed to be read? They take you on this journey where you feel like you're standing side by side with the characters. I've ONLY read this series, but it is a HIGH recommendation. I recommend books such as The Fall of Lucifer and The First Judgement. As I am writing this out, I discover that there are more books in the series - 3 more to be exact. How exciting!!
There is just something about a book that gets you caught up in a slow burn kind of romance. Yes there is passion and fervency for true love to be found, but it's the little moments that the characters steal away with each other that makes it, oh so special! Denise Hunter is my go-to. I picked up one of her books in a LifeWay store - when they existed in-person, honestly I really liked the cover, it reminded me a little bit of home. However once I started reading I needed to find out if the characters actually ended up together. The waiting was worth it! I recommend books such as On Magnolia Lane and Riverbend Gap.
There is definitely more to come, so stayed tuned & if you have Christian fiction authors that you enjoy - add a comment. I'm always open to new reading adventures!
I just love this and can’t wait to start reading again. 🥰-Mom