Reading for Craft
Last week we looked at the romance attribute of fellowship.
Here are the next two relevant characteristics for quality inspiration.
Insight. Whether
flying the skies over Europe in the historical World War II series Wings of Glory by Sarah Sundin, or time
traveling in Italy with Lisa T. Bergren’s River
of Time, inspirational romance gives insight, clarity, and discernment by
modeling real lives struggling with real relationships. All without telling or
teaching or trampling.
We may not be the ace pilot with a slightly enlarged ego,
but we might recognize that the words his friend had been quietly speaking are
similar to the ones our trusted friend has been warning us about. And avoid the
fall-out in our own relationship because we listen. Or find the courage to
confess an indiscretion and trust it will lead to reconciliation. Outer
circumstances change along a timeline, but hearts don’t. Struggles over envy or
greed or fear remain. Desire for love, acceptance, and understanding never end.
Good fiction mirrors heart-life and in inspirational romance readers can trust
the foundation.
Hope.
Inspirational romance springs from a faith-based perspective. Often when we
really need personal advice we go to someone who not only has known our ups and
downs but also has stayed by our side through them. They already speak our
heart and soul language. We have confidence to know we are using the same
vocabulary.
Author Gail Gaymer Martin notes that there are three threads
in inspirational romance: personal, romantic, and spiritual growth. As the
characters grow into their relationship with each other, they also develop a
relationship with God in their individual faith walk. Understanding and
developing their spiritual needs sometimes will draw them closer together and
at other times will drive them further away. However, the end result will
always be hope, even if it is only a sliver of light.
Inspirational romance is heart romance inside and
out—changing lives, restoring souls, and creating new beginnings, all grounded
in love.
Share: What authors do you know that share all three aspects
in their romances?
Read deep, marcy
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