Writing for the general market as a Christian writer
Book agent Vanessa Grossett provides some tips for Christian writers who want to write for an audience outside the faith community
I recently received an email from a new author who had received a traditional publishing contract. The writer is a Christian, and the book she has been commissioned to write is for the general market. This is her first time writing for the general market and wanted my advice on how she can still write a good story, without compromising her faith.
There are many Christian authors who have written and who still write for the general market. C.S. Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a great example of a Christian author who wrote a book for the general market. I also have authors who write for the wider audience.
If you are a Christian writer and you want to write for the general readership or you’ve received a contract to write for general readers, whether it be fiction or non-fiction here are some tips to consider.
Don’t pre-judge your audience
You might think a non-Christian will not read your books because it doesn’t contain any swearing or sexual scenes, but you will be surprised by the amount of people who are looking for these types of books – especially in the romance fiction genre.
The demand for what is known as‘closed, sweet romance’ has increased. For non-fiction, it will be mostly self-help and motivational books that the general readers will like.
You don’t need to compromise, you can keep the writing clean. The only thing I would suggest if you’re going to mention faith is don’t be too preachy.
If you’re writing fiction, you can have a character in the book who is a Christian. This will help the reader to understand why there is a faith element in the book.
Talk to your editor
If you have a book under contract with a traditional publishing house and are concerned about featuring certain scenes in the story, let your editor know.
Most editors shouldn’t have an issue with this; they have already accepted your manuscript, which means they like and believe in the book.
However, do not forget as a writer, you need to bring the story and the characters to life so the readers can relate to the story. If you are writing romance, it is unrealistic to have a couple in a relationship who don’t show any signs of affection.
There are some Christian-based books I have read where the couple don’t show any signs of affection. They are portrayed more as friends than a couple. A couple will hold hands, and they will share a kiss, you can add these scenes without going overboard.
Let your current audience know
This is more crucial for fiction writers, especially if you have a readership who reads your books solely because it is Christian-based. They may be surprised that you want to write for the general audience, though you will have some who are supportive, others may not be.
It is not for them to influence your writing, you are letting them know because they have been loyal followers of your work. I would suggest to still assure them you will be writing for the Christian market. Nevertheless, you want to expand your market, as writing for the general market will bring in a new audience.
Just write the book
As an author, you just want to write. Don’t overthink the process of what the audience will think, as this will bring you to a stumbling writer’s block.
When you write for the general readers, not only are you expanding your audience, but you are also enhancing your skills and creativity. In return, both non-Christians and Christians will see you as an author they love to read about and enjoy your work.
Happy writing
VANESSA GROSSETT
Literary agent at The Authors Care Agency
