I just received my first 2-Star rating review for my Civil War novel, Beyond These War-Torn Lands. I suppose every author cringes at a low rating on writing they’ve poured their heart and soul into. But after reading the reason for the low rating, I felt almost a sense of satisfaction, as though I had done what the Lord intended me to do.
Rather than finding fault with my writing itself or the historical elements, the reviewer faulted me for including too much Scripture and went on to say, “I hope all her other books are not like this.”
Though I respect this reader’s opinion, I don’t regret including God’s Word in my novels (and yes, the Spiritual element is strong in each of my novels). =)
There’s a reason I classify my novels as Inspirational Historical Romance. Because that order correctly defines their purpose. They are first and foremost meant to inspire, by weaving godly truths into the heart of the story. Secondly, they are carefully grounded in the details of history. And lastly, there is a thread of sweet romance.
A CAUTION TO READERS
I feel I should include a caution to readers: Don’t read my novels, unless …
- You like messy, flawed characters that turn to God in their time of need and hurt.
- You are willing to be challenged and grow in your spiritual walk along with the characters.
- You enjoy an intriguing storyline with some twists and turns and a strong faith element woven within.
- You enjoy a story where the romance is the dessert and not the whole meal (not the central thrust of the novel).
MARKS OF A STORY
If those are the marks of a story you are looking for, then I’m confident you’ll enjoy my novels. It is those types of readers I’ve been called to write to. Readers that have a hunger to grow and learn from the experiences my characters are taken through. Readers who are open to the healing power of godly truths, such as the one who wrote the following review …
I can’t tell you how rewarding such a review is. I realize not every reader will appreciate my style of writing, but writing is my ministry, and it is my heartfelt prayer that the Lord will use what I write to touch the hearts of many. May the godly truths woven into the storyline and the lives of my characters reach into readers’ hearts and make a change for the better.
~ Do you enjoy the use of Scripture and strong faith elements in the novels you read?
INSPIRATIONAL HISTORICAL ROMANCE
Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie & the Civil War Era
Inspirational Historical Romance
~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
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Hi Cynthia, keep doing what you do, there will always be people who dont like it but its good clean stories that are easy to read. Blessings.
Thank you, Ann! I sure will. I appreciate your support and encouragement, dear friend!
I agree. I love it when Scriptures are used, especially when the chapter and verse is given. This is the reason I love inspiration fiction. The first book I read of yours was Under the Same Sky. After I finished, I immediately looked for more. There was any. This was the first in this series. I was disappointed! I am anxious for your new book. Please continue to write your own way. It is wonderful.
Thank you so much! I’m honored you’ve read and enjoyed my novels. God bless you for your kind words of encouragement to me!
Whew! If fit all the qualifcations for reading your books.
I actually read 1 and 2 star reviews to see why the reader didn’t like a book. When it says,”Too much Scripture,” then I think I’ll like it.
LOL! Good for you, Bonnie! I’ve had others tell me they love when Scripture is included. Thanks!
If the reader who left the 2-star review is a Christian, shame on them. When you read inspirational Christian novels, you should expect to read Scripture, and if not Scripture, a scriptural message or combination of both.
My personal belief is this. If you can’t give an author at least a 3-star, don’t give any. And if you do give a three, have a good reason to share, but also share what you liked about the book. We are all different, and have our own likes and dislikes. There’s no sense in pulling down an author’s ratings with a bad review because of one thing you don’t like.
Wave the review aside, Cynthia, and keep on doing what God told you to do. As long as you’re pleasing Him, that’s all that matters.
Thanks, Sharon! I so appreciate your support and encouragement. I fully intend to keep writing what the Lord leads me to write. God bless!
Cynthia, I so enjoy your books with God’s little tidbits woven throughout your stories. And the history is so intriguing as well. I didn’t do very well in History so this makes it more interesting.
Keep up the good work of putting God’s Word in your novels.
Thanks so much, Peggy! I appreciate the kind words of encouragement! =)