Contrary to what most people might think, I have had more freedom to write in the Christian publishing world than I did in the general market. In the general market, if a book succeeds, most publishers want a repeat performance. They gave out “tip sheets” for what they wanted in a story. I had one (general market) editor tell me I was getting in the way of two characters having sex and should put my morality aside. Say what? Another frequent comment when A Voice in the Wind was offered to general market publishers was “take out the Jesus stuff”. Nope. And I am not sorry.
My writing style has changed over the years and so has the content of my work. I want to saturate my stories with faith or lack of faith, depending on the character. I’m not a Christian who writes. I’m a Christian writer. There is a difference.
Frankly, entering the Christian market place at the time I did was a great and grand adventure. I’ve been allowed – actually, encouraged – to focus on whatever God has put before me. It has also stretched me as a writer. It’s easier to be explicit, but a great challenge to be evocative.
Each WIP (work-in-progress) has been an opportunity to grow as a writer and as a woman of faith in Jesus Christ. My prayer is that others come along for the journey and find themselves not only entertained, but encouraged and challenged.