FC: After years of fruitless searching, I stopped looking for Biblical speculative fiction in Christian bookstores or on religious shelves. I’ve been writing since very young and eventually started to write in the genre I enjoyed reading — but with the twist of writing in a manner that is respectful of Christian values. I’ve since found that there are many fans of spec-fiction who have a difficult time finding enough novels to feed their reading habit — connecting with them is the challenge I face.
Why not simply write stories that deal with what we have in common instead of what separates us?
CW: If you honestly tell your own story, can rip apart those barriers and dig out the raw expression, the common concerns and fears all humans have will be exposed. A good story is a good story. I like reading about other cultures, why can't others read about me?
FC: I think that history has proven the melting-pot to be a false idea. Our culture is a woven tapestry — what we have in common is our hearts. I didn’t deliberately set out to include characters of other cultures — I develop the characters as I see them in my mind.
Do you write for only those who are like you? And why?
CW: I write for whoever will read it because I want to be read and make money writing and publishing.
FC: My intended audience is anyone who was raised in church, and likes a page turner — no matter where they are in life now. I have been told by non-Christians, for instance, that the characters in, and story of Flashpoint have inspired them — perhaps not enough to convert to Christianity, but at least to search for something more in their lives.
Do you think that people who are not like you, not black or not Christian, would enjoy or understand your work?
CW: Yes.
FC: Yes, I have had reviewers indicate just that. The problem I face is that my work is labeled “Christian fiction” and that label alone may prevent someone from picking up the book and so there is a whole community of readers out there who will never get the opportunity to read my work. Part of the reason is that Christian fiction has had a reputation for slightly inferior quality. People remember the books they checked out from the church library or that they received as gifts when they were young.
Article comments
1 - Constance
Good article. I may have to put aside my own stigma over Christian spec fiction and check out Frank's new book.
2 - Frank Creed
Carole--
Thanks for a great interview. Looking forward to working with both you and Cecil in the future.
Constance--
I do hope you read and enjoy.
Faith,
f