Tag: Christian fantasy

Pursuing True Diversity in Fantasy Books

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Guest post by Izaic Yorks

Fantasy as a genre has long captured the imaginations of readers with its thrilling adventures and heroic narratives. But if you’ve spent any time in the trenches of Reddit, BookTok, or even Threads, you’ve likely come across a question echoing throughout the zeitgeist:

Does fantasy suffer from a lack of diversity?

That, however, is the wrong question.

At the heart of this conversation lies a more critical distinction. The real question we should be asking is:

What do we even mean by “diversity”?

Is it simply about including characters of various races and socioeconomic backgrounds? 

Or does true diversity dig deeper? 

This article explores that very question while offering insights into how diversity can (and should) transform the realm of fantasy. Along the way, you might come to love me, or you might come to hate me. But one thing you won’t accuse me of is being a vapid wanderer with nothing but clouds for thoughts.

What Does Diversity Mean in Fantasy?

When we think about diversity in fantasy, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? For many, in a culture increasingly unmoored from classical philosophical foundations, “diversity” is often reduced to outward traits: ethnicity, gender, or socioeconomic status.

And yes, those factors matter.

But they shouldn’t overshadow what truly makes stories vibrant and enduring: diversity of thought. Because a book, at its core, is a well assembled stream of consciousness. A meditation and confrontation with ideas.

Diversity in My Own Career

This subject is actually quite dear in my own author journey and not for the reasons you might suspect. Whenever diversity comes up, it’s often along the lines of: “Hey, Izaic, why don’t you mention you’re Black? That could really help spotlight you or bring money in the door.” Every time I hear that, it feels like an arrow to the heart.

Why? 

Because it screams the bigotry of low expectations. Ideas that stand the test of time are based on merit. To have mine judged by skin tone or assumed hardships might grant me a short‑term dopamine hit but, in the end, would leave me wondering: did I earn X or Y, or was that just the result of someone’s assumption about me?

So, over and over again, I have declined grants or invitations that hinge solely on my skin tone. At times it’s been hard and a challenge to the life of virtue. Undoubtedly I am leaving money on the table, but I have faith that I am more than the base materials of my physical body. What remains, and what is important, is the diversity of my mind and soul, which God made perfectly to His design.

Beyond Biometric Metrics

Reducing diversity to metrics like race, gender, or class oversimplifies a much richer and more vital conversation. Biometric diversity does not automatically guarantee depth or quality in storytelling.

True diversity emerges from exploring nuanced ideas, conflicting beliefs, and different cultural frameworks for understanding universal human experiences.

Imagine a world where fantasy novels challenge readers to see the world differently—to entertain new possibilities and reflect deeply on their own beliefs.

That is authentic diversity.

More Than Skin Deep

Reducing diversity to physical characteristics is a form of tokenism, where characters are included as symbolic gestures rather than meaningful contributors to the narrative.

Instead, let’s consider stories where ideas and beliefs are the defining elements of uniqueness.

For example, a Black author can skillfully craft a European medieval fantasy steeped in knights, castles, and folklore. Likewise, a White author can authentically write a story centered around urban Black youths navigating the challenges of Chicago through the lens of portal fantasy.

The richness of a story stems not from the biometric traits of its characters or creators, but from the depth and clarity of its ideas.

Biological factors ≠ Diversity.

They are merely a potential starting point from which diversity might emerge.

This is not to deny the importance of representation but to elevate the conversation.

Our ultimate goal as lovers of literature should be compelling storytelling that speaks to the human condition. As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. famously said, what matters most is “the content of their character.”

For fantasy, this means content that challenges, inspires, and transports readers into the vast frontiers of imagination.

The Reader’s Role in Seeking True Diversity

Writers aren’t the only ones responsible for cultivating meaningful diversity. Readers play an equally crucial role in shaping demand for more thoughtful and expansive narratives.

When audiences seek out stories that offer fresh perspectives and complex characters, they help pave the way for a broader, richer literary landscape.

Supporting Authentic Storytelling

Here’s how readers can contribute:

  • Explore New Authors: Seek out voices from various cultural and social backgrounds. But celebrate them not for their skin or heritage—celebrate them for the merit of their thoughts and craft.
  • Foster Conversations: Discuss books with others. Unearth the deeper themes and perspectives within a story.
  • Prioritize Depth: Choose books that offer intricate world-building, moral complexity, and provocative ideas over ones that simply check superficial boxes.

By demanding authenticity and intellectual richness, readers uplift authors and help shape a publishing culture centered on excellence.

Raising the Next Generation of Readers

Creating a culture where diversity of thought thrives doesn’t happen overnight. It begins with nurturing a love for reading in young minds. Exposing children of all backgrounds to a range of high-quality, diverse literature helps expand their worldview and strengthens critical thinking.

How to Foster a Love for Diverse Literature:

  • Start Early: Introduce imaginative fantasy stories that stretch the mind and expose kids to different ideas.
  • Align with Values: Share stories that reflect your core values but don’t avoid those that challenge or stretch them.
  • Create a Rich Literary Environment: Fill homes or classrooms with books spanning genres, cultures, and philosophies.
  • Celebrate Curiosity: Encourage kids to ask hard questions about characters, themes, and conflicts.
  • Train for Excellence: Stop paying lip service to mediocrity. If you’re invested in the future of Black youth—or any youth—invest in their craft. Train them rigorously. Push them to be extraordinary.

A sustained effort to introduce children to rich, diverse storytelling shapes a generation that values both creativity and authenticity. Excellence is the only foundation that ensures diversity lasts beyond trends.

Building a Future of Excellence in Fantasy Literature

Fantasy offers endless room for exploration, creativity, and connection. But for the genre to thrive, it requires intentional effort from writers, readers, and publishers alike.

Christian authors, especially, have a unique opportunity to contribute by anchoring their work in faith and reflecting the boundless creativity of God’s design.

The future of fantasy doesn’t rest on superficial representation. It depends on cultivating excellence and allowing the diversity of ideas to compete in all aspects of storytelling.

And that journey begins now.

With you.

About Izaic Yorks

Yorks spent six years as a professional Track athlete, earning silver in the United States championships, among several other distinguishing awards. Now, he seeks his true passion for authoring fantasy works with a heart for virtues that chase the Good, True, and Beautiful.

​Hailing from the Pacific Northwest, Yorks is now happily lost in Hillsborough, living the small-town life and raising a growing family with his wife Courtney.

Check out his book!

Hi, I’m Caylah Coffeen, a freelance editor and marketer of sci-fi and fantasy books. I love reading and writing and am a follower of Jesus Christ.

I’ve worked for Monster Ivy Publishing and Eschler Editing, and am currently a weekly editor with Havok Publishing. Reach out to chat about books and publishing!

Thanks for stopping by my website! I hope you’ve found some helpful resources about reading, writing, and publishing. If you liked this article, here’s some more free content…

13 Diverse Authors Adding Their Unique Voices to Christian Fantasy and Sci-Fi

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God’s world is beautifully and wonderfully made! And his kingdom is made up of people from all 4 corners of the earth – I love hearing the stories of all my brothers and sisters in Christ.

Sci-fi and fantasy is special because it opens new worlds to me and examines ideas I may never have encountered otherwise. So when these genres are written by unique voices who come from different walks of life than me, I often find even greater delight in the imaginations they have spun into being!

Christian SFF has grown dramatically as a genre in the past 2 decades alone, and we’re seeing a wider range of authors than ever before! So I’ve compiled this list of diverse Christian authors of sci-fi and fantasy to help readers find and enjoy their compelling stories!

This article contains affiliate links – I may earn a small commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

1. Anna Tan

About

Anna Tan grew up in Malaysia, the country that is not Singapore. She writes fantasy stories and fairy tales, puts together anthologies, and wrangles writers for the Malaysian Writers Society (MYWriters).

Anna has an MA in Creative Writing and is interested in Malay/Nusantara and Chinese legends and folklore in exploring the intersections of language, culture, and faith.

Standout Book: Amok (Absolution #1)

All Putera Mikal wants is to gain the Amok Strength, the supernatural power granted by Kudus to the Mahan royal family. No matter how religiously Mikal keeps his vows, Kudus still denies him the Strength—whilst his father, Sultan Simson, flaunts the Strength despite his blatant defiance of the Temple and the priests’ visions of coming doom.

Then the prophecies come true. Taken captive, Mikal must find a way to liberate his people and restore his throne in Maha—and the key to this is the Amok Strength. But what does it take to gain Kudus’ favour?

2. Tosca Lee

About

Tosca Lee is the award-winning, New York Times bestselling author of twelve novels, including a series with Ted Dekker. Her work has won multiple awards and has been translated into 17 languages and optioned for TV and film.

She serves on the Board of Directors of International Thriller Writers and as adjunct faculty for Drexel University’s MFA program. Tosca lives in Nebraska with her family, a drooling cat named Misty, and giant 160-lb. German Shepherd, Timber.

Standout Book: The Progeny

Emily Jacobs is the descendant of a serial killer. Now, she’s become the hunted.

Her quest takes her to the secret underground of Europe and the inner circles of three ancient orders—one determined to kill her, one devoted to keeping her alive, and one she must ultimately save.

Filled with adrenaline, romance, and reversals, The Progeny is the present-day saga of a 400-year-old war between the uncanny descendants of “Blood Countess” Elizabeth Bathory, the most prolific female serial killer of all time, and a secret society dedicated to erasing every one of her descendants.

3. Jon Del Arroz

About

Jon Del Arroz is a #1 Amazon Bestselling author and “the leading Hispanic voice in science fiction.” He is a popular YouTuber with hilarious livestreams.

He says on his X (Twitter), “I became a #1 bestselling author by standing for Christian values.” In his free time he likes roleplaying, reading comics, and playing tennis.

Standout Book: Justified (The Saga of the Nano Templar)

To save a world… he must rely on God.

After years of fighting for justice with his deadly nanotech, Templar Drin abandons his post, crash landing on a desert world controlled by a tyrannical alien empire. Its inhabitants are forced into slavery, broken where a once-proud race cultivated its lands.

For the first time in Drin’s life, he has no backup, no support, none of his brothers. Yet he still seeks to liberate millions of slaves from their captors and bring faith to a downtrodden world. But in his way stands the most dangerous weapon in the galaxy.

4. Valicity Elaine

About

Valicity Elaine is the author of several Christian YA dark fantasy novels and a former Booktuber. In 2015, after her experience with indie publishing, she founded The Rebel Christian Publishing.

Their goal is to produce and publish good quality Christian books with a strong focus on the inclusion and representation of minority cultures. They aim to keep Christ at the center of their business and to positively reflect the Christian faith in the books they produce.

Standout Book: I am Man

Code-X5 is a Guardian, fresh from the factory after a memory wipe. But there is a flaw in X5’s programming. He can’t pinpoint it, but something is wrong. Despite this, X5 just wants a fresh start, but that’s hard when your client is an exiled princess who wants you to bust her out of prison.

He thinks it will be a simple mission until they discover a scheme that could unravel the very fabric of the Valetian Empire.

Is it possible that X5’s programming is more than flawed… and that he wasn’t always a Guardian – what if he isn’t the only one?

5. Dylan West

About

Dylan West writes faith-based, young adult science fiction and fantasy novels. He is a Jesus lover, web and video game developer, former Navy nuclear operator, foreign language nut, and a nut in general.

While other people are busy thinking normal thoughts, he’s crafting corny jokes. Dylan lives in Chesapeake, VA, with his wife and daughter.

Standout Book: Scribe’s Descent

People worship technology on Planet Daishon. With inventions that prolong life and eradicate disease, it’s little wonder. Death seems obsolete until an earthquake kills thousands, including Mallory’s parents. Suspecting the top research center triggered it, she begins to investigate.

She unlocks an underground world and the remnants of a universal war. To survive, Mallory must trust the voice of one she can’t see, to find the very bottom. Something out of folklore is trapped there, and it is trying to escape.

6. Willamette Sutta

About

Willamette’s earliest memories of books coincided with those of America, when she first came here from Hong Kong at the age of seven. Awed by the abundance of free books, she determined to learn English so that she could partake of this bounty.

At first she wanted to be a detective, but after studying physics and library sciences, she became an academic librarian. Now she combines her love of information and speculation to create fantastic stories that nevertheless give an air of a world truer than the one we see.

Standout Book: Adamant in Dust

Pergi can only retain her father’s throne if she marries the neighboring prince, combining their kingdoms. Yet the same prophecy that calls for the reunification also warns that they must join by love. So she is supplanted by her younger sister, Sadira, who unexpectedly runs on her wedding day, only to be snared by the dark lord Malchor.

What starts as an impromptu rescue of the wayward bride leads to a desperate struggle against a deadly foe. For if Malchor completes his true goal, and gains the Far Stones of power, he will subjugate all the peoples of Miran. Can Pergi’s adamant sense of duty rise above the forces crushing her?

7. Lee James

About

Lee James writes stories of hope and redemption. Whether it’s fantasy, mystery or historical fiction, her beautifully awkward characters traverse a dark labyrinth on their journey to a hopeful end.

She is vehement about the importance of creating and preserving the sanctity of the written word. In that vein, she supports literacy programs and her local libraries. Most importantly, she supports her fellow writers. She also enjoys photography, watching The Simpsons, and of course, reading.

Standout Book: Azriel

Bree, a feisty protegee fighter, is sent to infiltrate the city of Azriel. Unexpectedly, the Watchmen of the Keep welcome her as one of their own.

But the city’s water source has dried up, they face constant attacks from the vengeful spirits of former Watchmen who sold their souls for power, and an immortal creature lurks.

Then, a Watchman is murdered. But only a Watchman can kill another Watchman, so all eyes shift to Bree. Should she betray the dying city, or find the killer before it’s too late?

8. Daniel Tuituku

About

Daniel Tuituku is from Hawaii, but grew up in North Carolina, which is still his home. He’s a Christian and homeschooled alum, and his favorite works include Pilgrim’s Progress and the writings of C.S. Lewis.

When he got laid off from a job back in 2021, he jumped on the opportunity to write and publish his first book, Strange City. Daniel writes about real world themes and problems, but ensures the message of salvation and hope shines through the darkness of this fallen world.

Standout Book: Outlaw City

Noe Ryker grew up in the Gray Zone as an orphan whose parents were killed for their beliefs. Whether he’s being harassed by The Law, being ordered around by robots, or forced to bow down to the tyrannical King, Noe has been giving in for too long.

All of that changes when he meets Faith, a strangely powerful woman – or spirit – he thought he once knew. Driven by a sense of purpose for the first time, Noe sets out to take down the King and liberate the city. But can he speak boldly, act courageously, and hold on to what he knows is true, even as the shadows of doubt and fear grow all around him?

9. Izaic Yorks

About

Yorks spent six years as a professional Track athlete, earning silver in the United States championships, among several other distinguishing awards. Now, he seeks his true passion for authoring fantasy works with a heart for virtues that chase the Good, True, and Beautiful.

​Hailing from the Pacific Northwest, Yorks is now happily lost in Hillsborough, living the small-town life and raising a growing family with his wife Courtney.

Standout Book: Aithos

Magnate Rivia watches his land crumble, and the High King refuses to answer his pleas. He sends a skyship on a desperate mission—commanded by an invalid whose body is shattered but whose will remains unbroken.

The invalid’s destination? The lost promised land that drove Magnate Rivia’s father to madness. Their path? The storm-ridden skies of Aithos, where dragons once soared, secrets lie buried, and death waits in the clouds.

Failure means rebellion. Success could mean salvation, but at what price?

10. R.J. Amezcua

About

R. J. Amezcua is the creative director of Quentorex Studios and the author of a science fiction book trilogy and an illustrated children’s book.

Mr. Amezcua’s favorite TV shows – Lost in Space, Outer Limits, and Star Trek – sparked his imagination. He also enjoys watching the Food Network, walking in the morning, and gathering with friends and family.

Standout Book: retribution (Mantis Force: Marium Kahnet #1)

Decades after global infanticide wiped out millions on the planet Ramah, Jazrene Vallo tries to piece her Holy Order back together.

But those responsible – the merciless, sorcerer-led Necrogog legions – still threaten multitudes of star systems, following their objective: to kill the promised Mantis messiah, whose birth mother is a member of the Holy Order, Marium Kahnet.

A group of rogue sisters is out for revenge. And her past isn’t clean either, with her own government seeking to prosecute her for war crimes. Even with a group of elite mercenaries and the instructions of a divine messenger, Jazrene may not be able to stop another wave of destruction.

11. A. Bean

About

A. Bean is a Christian author who writes fictional stories that reflect the body of Christ and the Bible. She writes in multiple genres, including end times fiction, historical fantasy, and more.

Her treasured dog, Sesame, is a small tricolor beagle that loves peas! On their days off, they like to travel, visit new restaurants, and find exciting dog treat recipes.

Standout Book: The Scribe

In a world where reading is a rare ability you must be born with, it’s been decades since a new Scribe has surfaced…

Amana Hart believes she was born with the Gift; the ability to innately understand and speak multiple languages – but she must keep this a secret. Only men of great wealth and stature are supposed to have this ability, so to pursue her dream of becoming a Scribe, she must take on a new identity.

Only God can keep Amana safe. The Scribal Institution will stop at nothing to silence liars and fakes. If she isn’t careful, she could end up burned at the stake.

12. S.E.M. Ishida

About

S. E. M. Ishida is a children’s book author who writes science fiction and fantasy. She is also a technical communicator. The two roles allow her to write for both small publishers as well as a large technology company.

Her hobbies include reading, drawing, and collecting toys. She likes robots and tea!

Standout Book: Nick Newton is Not a Genius

Nick Newton is not a Genius. He’s just a merely average boy from the country of Thauma. He may not be brilliant like his mom and dad or a child prodigy like his sister, but he won’t let that stop him from uncovering the mysteries of a clockwork factory or revealing a war hero’s greatest secret.

With help from two new friends and his butler named Jude, Nick embarks on an adventure that will change his life forever.

13. Jaymi Mozeak

About

Jaymi Mozeak was born in 1982 in Nuernberg, Germany. Soon after, her family moved back to the states where she grew up on the central coast of California.

Besides being an author, artist, and speaker, Jaymi Mozeak is also a Christian Seer. She became a Christian at age 7 and has walked with the Lord ever since. Now she draws inspiration for her stories and artwork from the dreams and visions she receives.

Standout Book: Demon Warrior

“I drank the blood of an angel… How can You want me?”

Follow Silver Fox, a brave young wolf-dog, in her quest to find a place for herself among the glories of heaven. She looks like a demon and is hampered, abused, and mistrusted because of it. She feels like no one will ever trust her or want her around.

No one will love her except Shepherd, the white lion. He alone invites her to join his army. What does he see in her that no one else has?

Help Me Expand This List!

Do you know of any other authors whose works would fit this list? Comment below or shoot me an email, and I’ll feature them here!

Hi, I’m Caylah Coffeen, a freelance editor and marketer of sci-fi and fantasy books. I love reading and writing and am a follower of Jesus Christ.

I’ve worked for Monster Ivy Publishing and Eschler Editing, and am currently a weekly editor with Havok Publishing. Reach out to chat about books and publishing!

Thanks for stopping by my website! I hope you’ve found some helpful resources about reading, writing, and publishing. If you liked this article, here’s some more free content…

“Toxic Femininity” – Where “Strong Female Characters” Went Wrong

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By Caylah Coffeen

I recently picked up an epic fantasy book I had greatly anticipated reading – it promised unusual worldbuilding, an intricate plot, and a unique authorial voice. I didn’t make it through the first chapter.

In the opening, the main female character gets drunk, breaks into someone’s home to commit adultery, assaults the homeowner when he tries to stop her, and gets thrown in jail. When she wakes up, she bangs on the bars and yells at the guards to let her out, as though she’d done nothing wrong. A stranger, who greatly outranks her, bails her out and gets her acquitted because he wants to hire her. She struts out like she owns the place, doesn’t offer this man a single thank you, and instead mouths off at him, becoming offended that he expects her to work off her debt to him!

That’s when I stopped reading. I was astounded we were supposed to find this character likeable. Or even admire her defiant attitude and the gargantuan chip on her shoulder.

Unfortunately, this is the exact type of character readers can expect to see over and over again, advertised as a “strong female lead.”

I would use another word: cocksure. I’m sorry if you find that crass, but that’s the point – that’s exactly what these characters are.

The Double Standard

How is it that the word I’ve found to best describe these “strong female characters” has largely been used in the past to describe men being jerks? It’s pretty much the old word for “toxic masculinity!” If a male character acted the way these female characters do, that’s exactly what they’d be called! No, if they acted half so horribly, they would never have made it past a publisher’s slush pile. Instead, we would have seen acquisitions editors tweeting about how triggered they felt.

I’m glad that publishing has enacted a higher standard for male characters! So many male “heroes” in books do treat everyone around them terribly, break their word, kill and torture without remorse, look out only for themselves, emotionally abuse their friends, abandon their families, and drink, swear, and fight with impunity. It continues to horrify me that stories like Prince of Thorns were ever published, and I’m relieved that publishers would reject such books today.

But I don’t want to read about hubristic, “antihero” women any more than I want to read about sociopathic, egotistical men. So why is this behavior seen as not just acceptable, but “cool” when enacted by women?

It shouldn’t be, for two reasons. But before I get into why, let’s define our terms.

“Toxic” or “Sinful?”

I’m a Christian, and I’m fine with using the phrase “toxic masculinity” because men are sinners, and like all sinners, glorify their sin as right. The world’s version of a “strong man” is extremely different from God’s version, and yes, it’s often toxic. Greed, rape (jokes), idolatry, and violence are all sins that God condemns. In the Bible, the “men after his own heart,” are faithful, humble, selfless, obedient to his law, self-controlled, and gracious. This is “righteous masculinity,” nothing like the “locker room boasters” which our culture has seen as cool (in the past). And praise God for the men who seek to be made anew in such a way!

When women call out “toxic masculinity,” I feel a lot of compassion for people who are often coming from non-Christian households. They’ve never met a godly man in their life, and they don’t have the words to explain why their relationships feel so wrong. So they use terms given to them by mental health professionals.

However, I know that many modern* feminists also use the phrase “toxic masculinity” to assert that the idea of gender differences and the existence of masculinity are in themselves toxic. I reject that claim and do not use the phrase in such a way.

*Early feminists were wonderfully brave women who championed equal rights under the law and were almost all Christians, so please be careful if you’re tempted to make blanket denigrating statements about feminists. I encourage you to read about the different “waves” of feminism to understand how/when things went wrong.

Our culture also praises the sins of women, glorifying selfish, petty, greedy, cruel speech and actions as “subversive, bold, driven, audacious, or strong.” We could refer to this as “toxic femininity,” and indeed if we are going to call out sinful masculinity, then we should be willing to do the same for sinful versions of femininity.

Though perhaps it’d be much better if we dropped this phrase entirely, in favor of biblical language. The Bible uses different words than “toxic”:

Righteous or wicked
Godly or ungodly
Integrity or crookedness
Alive in Christ or dead in sin
The wise or the fools

What does Proverbs tell us about what it looks like to live a righteous life?

The righteous hate what is false, but the wicked make themselves a stench and bring shame on themselves.
The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.
The righteous detest the dishonest; the wicked detest the upright.

Proverbs 13:5, 15:28, 29:27

I yearn to read about main characters who are considered heroes because they are righteous, not because they are wicked!

How dare publishers act as though they’ve made a stand for morality, only to turn around and espouse those same evils when committed by people like themselves! And these new heroes aren’t even well written.

Most “Strong Female Characters” Are Badly Written

It wasn’t just a shift in culture that led to a decline in the “toxically masculine” character. Publishers just started pointing out that such characters are often badly written and make for flat stories. Which is true.

Contemporary female leads, like many stereotypical male leads in older books (prophesied farm boy), are often 2-dimensional, cut-and-pasted copies of each other. Handing a girl a sword doesn’t give her a personality, though apparently it gives the author an excuse not to develop one. The most noticeable things about them, aside from their superior talent and skills, are their entitlement, aggression, arrogance, and air of martyrdom. When the story starts, they are the universe’s gift to humanity, and when the story ends, they are the universe’s greater gift to humanity.

Readers see very little character development, with the exception of “healing” from whatever injustice the world has perpetrated against the main character. There are no personal flaws they need to face and overcome. Everything is someone else’s fault. This makes for extremely boring storytelling. It breaks the cardinal rule of character development.

Everyone who’s taken an intro to creative writing course knows the joke about “the frat boy who signed up to get an easy humanities credit”: The guy writes a story about a perfectly handsome, intelligent, desirable young man who breezes through all his problems and gets the girl who wrongly rejected him before. The professor has to explain that a good (and realistic) story needs flawed protagonists (not the same as morally grey) and problems that they can’t immediately overcome. This creates tension in the plot and spurs development in the character. Usually, the new writer resists, because their character is actually a self-insert and they feel personally attacked at the implication that they have flaws.

These points are no less true for female writers and female characters. In fact, these days male writers are much more likely to accept feedback when you tell them their character needs work – I know, I’ve worked with quite a few developing male writers. But female writers are likely to get up in arms if anyone criticizes how unrealistic or entitled their female characters are. Because these authors are often living out their dreams of being able to get away with literal crime, say whatever they want to the men in their life, and be respected and taken seriously for it.

And, predictably, the characters and plot of these stories suffer for it. Yet publishers will ignore these obvious problems when they’re seen in female characters, because they too are fantasizing about walking around like god and being worshiped for it – as all sinful humans do.

Which brings me to the second reason why we should reject “toxic femininity” – the glorification of unrighteous women – in books.

Bad Ideology, Bad Examples

The version of femininity which is portrayed in so many of these stories is not something I want to embody. I don’t find these women strong. They are not good role models. Most of them are angry, bitter, self-absorbed individuals who hate authority, are isolated from healthy community and family, and listen to no one but themselves. They are unrighteous and thoroughly broken.

These characters embody everything that women have called out as wrong in male behavior. At least modern feminists have gotten more honest. Their actual message is, “men shouldn’t play god, but women are god.” I suppose these books sell because fallen people do relate to this desire. I don’t know why anyone is shocked – this is the oldest sin there is.

“You will be like God, knowing good and evil.”

Yours truthlessly,
Satan

That’s the message publishers are selling to girls: “you can be like god.” Girls down these books like cheap shots, craving temporary gratification in place of the answer that will truly quench their thirst. Such stories can never satisfy, because they run in direct opposition to the Great Story, which tells of a plain, humble, kind man doing what is right and vanquishing evil at great cost to himself, for the sake of others.

This doesn’t mean I only want to read stories about knights saving damsels in distress from dragons, though the trope is justifiably iconic (pun intended)! This is one major reason why I personally prefer reading about male mc’s.

But I do want Queens who save their kingdom from evil. Yes, give me heroines running around in capes and busting out martial arts moves. I need to read stories about female strategists, inventors, explorers, and more. AND I want to read stories about mothers, sisters, shy girls, bookworms, wives, and any other profession out there.

SO LONG as all these women first and foremost embody integrity, kindness, faithfulness, humility, goodness, and other signs of godly character. So long as her flaws and mistakes are actually portrayed as problematic and she actively wrestles to overcome them!

We have beautiful examples to guide us!

Noah’s wife cared for her family through the ending of the world, Abigail defied her wicked husband, Ruth braved the wilderness and poverty for love, Esther faced the emperor of the known world head on, Mary encountered an eldritch creature with who knows how many eyeballs and sang for joy. Jael and the woman of Thebez smashed open the heads of villains with household implements!

The woman of Thebez wields her deadly millstone

These are strong women, brave women, faithful women – women after God’s own heart.

Don’t believe the world’s picture of femininity. It is toxic. It is the way that leads to death. I urge you not to write self-absorbed, 2D, arrogant female OR male characters, but to look at the truth of God’s word and write stories that would please him and better teach us how to hear his story.

P.S. If anyone wants to make a biblical argument in favor of the descriptor “toxic,” I’m all ears (Matt 16:6). After all, a little Axe body spray goes a long way. 😉

Hi, I’m Caylah Coffeen, a freelance editor and marketer of sci-fi and fantasy books. I love reading and writing and am a follower of Jesus Christ.

I’ve worked for Monster Ivy Publishing and Eschler Editing, and am currently a weekly editor with Havok Publishing. Reach out to chat about books and publishing!

Thanks for stopping by my website! I hope you’ve found some helpful resources about reading, writing, and publishing. If you liked this article, here’s some more free content…

Why Christians Should Read Fantasy: Can You Imagine Things Unseen?

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Guest Post By Willamette Sutta

Let’s face it. When we write our debut novel, we expect the world to be as excited about it as ourselves. At least our family and friends. Mine did make a big deal of my achievement. But when I told them it was a fantasy novel, their smiles became polite, baffled, or embarrassed. Not everyone, but enough to dampen my enthusiasm. True, peoples’ reading tastes vary, so it could just be the genre. But after conversations and consideration, I came to a disturbing conclusion. Few people in my circle of acquaintances read fiction. A common denominator among those acquaintances is that they are Christians. Could there be a correlation?

Christian fiction has gained more acceptance in the ecclesiastical fold in recent decades. Works from such authors as C. S. Lewis and Tolkien are even held in theological esteem. But most seem to be valued as clean entertainment, comfortable encouragement, or harmless escapes to restore mental health. All fine for the young, leisurely, and convalescent. But “serious” Christian growth happens from didactic doses of information, right?

Do we only glean the deepest insights from within the careful lines of logic, or can we also learn through the mysteries of the imagination? Is reason the only tutor of innovation, or must it co-create with abstraction? Consider science. It observes facts and imagines possibilities (hypotheses) which are tested to become theories (new facts). In the Christian life, we seek to grow in faith, which is “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). Yet, belief in the unseen requires believers to step into the realm of the imagination. So, if imagination is critical to expand all types of  knowledge and faith, how can we cultivate it?

When we delve into a story and put ourselves in the shoes of fictional people, our minds summon images out of thin air. We experience events and desire outcomes that don’t exist. We are exercising our imagination. And we are learning another important life skill—empathy. Given these benefits, reading fiction should be an essential practice, especially for Christians. Yet the opposite seems to be true. Why would that be?

Why don’t More Christians read fiction?

Whether consciously or not, Christians may hold the mindset that theological textbooks or other expository writings alone can teach real spiritual insights. Perhaps there is some justification for such thinking, as many Christian novels contain little more than a sanctified dollop of sugar or shot of adrenaline. They may provide moments of distraction, but surely, we can offer more than euphoria that quickly evaporates. Following our Master Storyteller, who convicted scholars and laymen alike with life-changing parables, we too could weave profound truths into tales that lead to lasting hope.

Such stories are harder to write and to read. We must deal with murky concepts organically and often indirectly, all while negotiating a riveting plot. But like all things that are uncertain, we seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit. And as with all things difficult, we keep practicing. Indeed, Christians ought to “look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:18). It may take time to build up a body of excellent Christian fiction, and to cultivate a reputation of edifying content. But we can do it if we push on in that good work.

There may be another reason that Christians shun the imagination. We fear it. Beyond being an intangible quality that we cannot define and confine, we have much evidence of its potential for evil in our world. Too often it is twisted by our sin nature and the Enemy to create vivid products of destruction. But these are not reasons to retreat. 

Can You Imagine?

I believe that the imagination is a potent aspect of being created in God’s image. It is a touch of the divine to glimpse into the edges of eternity. Of course the Enemy wants to usurp it, corrupting it to focus us on hedonistic desires and to extol ourselves as gods. We, as God’s people, should not concede this mighty gift. We need to claim the imagination for the glory of God. In 2 Corinthians 10:5, Paul tells us to be in the business of “casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.”

We are not to abandon imagination, but to bring it into obedience to Christ. So, Christian should be at the forefront of penning magnificent speculations that sing His praises, ignite others to wonder at His goodness, and showcase His beauty and majesty. Stories of power and skill that draw people to His truth. And we should read those stories too, to enlarge our own faith and engage with others.

The imagination is a potent aspect of being created in God’s image.

When I was a 7-year-old immigrant in New York City, I learned to read in a public library. Stories opened the way to a new language and country for me. They normalized a strange culture and transported me to worlds of friendship and adventure. Yes, I relished the escape at first, but my mind was also training to see invisible things. So, when I heard the Greatest Story Ever Told, I could imagine Jesus and His salvation. I knew it was true. He had prepared me to believe.

Since then, faith is a constant journey of trusting God’s promises by seeing that which is not yet. Now, I want every story I write to convey an air of His transcendence, so that readers will long for it and recognize it when they encounter it in this world. Fantasy, more than any other genre, allows the supernatural to be a normal force in the narrative. Therefore, I see it as a perfect conveyance to reveal the most exalted One who surpasses all powers.

For readers, let me leave you with a challenge. Read a fantasy story today and let it take you on a quest. See yourself as the hero you never thought you could be. Find the evil in your world and surmount every danger to vanquish it in Jesus’ name. Do you dare?

About Willamette Sutta

Willamette Sutta is the pen name of a former academic librarian who has always been more fascinated with the worlds of imagination than the STEM books that she curated. Now she combines her love of information and speculation to create fantastic stories that nevertheless give an air of a world truer than the one we see. Find the story beneath the story.

Check out Her Debut Novel!

Hi, I’m Caylah Coffeen, a freelance editor and marketer of sci-fi and fantasy books. I love reading and writing and am a follower of Jesus Christ.

I’ve worked for Monster Ivy Publishing and Eschler Editing, and am currently a weekly editor with Havok Publishing. Reach out to chat about books and publishing!

Thanks for stopping by my website! I hope you’ve found some helpful resources about reading, writing, and publishing. If you liked this article, here’s some more free content…

23 Author Moms Share Tips For How to Write a Book While Parenting

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Being an author is a super difficult journey, and so is being a mom! So how can we do both (and well)? I’m not a mother myself (yet!), but I just spent a precious 2 weeks with my newborn nephew, and have been pondering what my future will look like.

So I reached out to over 20 writer moms to hear how they parent and write at the same time! They offered some specific wisdom, compassion, and anecdotes which I wanted to share with you too. Be sure to check out their books or social pages to support author moms!

Dedicated to my dear friend Stephy (who is an adorable mom!): I know you’ll publish your stories one day! I’m rooting for you!

  1. Be gracious to yourself
  2. Dedicate yourself fully to each season in your life
  3. Write while the kids are in bed
  4. Stick to a schedule
  5. Multitask (“drive-by writing”)
  6. Surround yourself with supportive people
  7. Try dictation
  8. Have a backup plan
  9. Include your kids
  10. Take a break from the kids
  11. Take care of yourself
  12. Your stories still matter!

Be Gracious to Yourself (God Sure is)!

“Just rethink what counts as writing, honestly. Absorbing fiction books to store away ideas for later is writing. Reading craft books is writing. Having a newborn is exhausting and time consuming, and a huge learning curve. Be kind to yourself, and remember this is only a season, it will be over way too soon. Also remember that your fellow writers understand. Nobody is expecting a new mom to publish anything right away.”

H. Halverstadt

“This is a verse that came to me back in fall 2023, while I was writing one of my novels. Rev 21:5: “He who was seated on the throne said, ‘I am making everything new!’ Then he said, ‘Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.'” God renews us. He makes everything new. That meant even on my weariest and most stressful of days, he could still do things with me and my writing. So that’s a verse that has given me incredible hope.”

Christina Kuhn

Dedicate Yourself Fully to Each Season in Your Life

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to be silent and a time to speak.”

Ecclesiastes 3

“I wrapped my identity a little around being a writer as a young woman, but marrying a Marine, having a kid, moving around out of my “safety net” of being close to family so I often had to do things alone… I took a very long break. But when it was time to get started again, when the season was right, and I was just like, “Okay, now,” it rose to meet me. Sometimes we’re not in the season we want or we want it all at once. It’s good to embrace the pauses as well as the progress.”

H.L. Burke

“Invest in your family and marriage. Writing will always be there, but your kids will not. You don’t want to miss out on your little ones growing up, or even worse, your kids believing that writing took you away from them. Find balance. Write during naps, early mornings, or after bed. Limit your words to 500 a day so you can be present with your family. Put off publishing until they are older (I did this).

And don’t forget your spouse. If you want a thriving marriage, don’t put your spouse on the back burner. The worst thing is to achieve all you desired as a writer, only to look around and realize you’re alone. Yes, some sacrifices must be made to become a writer. Don’t let your family be one of them.”

Morgan L. Busse

“I keep telling myself this is a season, and someday I will have more time to write again. Right now, my babies need me more than I need to write, so for now, I am content with that. But I keep writing down ideas and brainstorming and daydreaming and hope that in those moments of writing, no matter how few and far between or close together, that all the mental plotting will pay off as I get words on the page.”

Julie Harbinson

“I have three kids aged 3 and under and I’m still figuring this out. It’s helped me to become okay with being in a season where I don’t write much if at all sometimes. Right now, I write for joy when I can. Lately it’s worked really well to get up early, have my coffee and read the Bible, and then write until the kids wake up.”

Rosemary Johnson

Write When the Kids are in Bed!

“For me, I usually post social media posts before my girls wake up in the morning (I usually don’t get up that much earlier, but it helps me feel productive as a writer first thing). I have a 5.5 and a 2 year old, so my oldest does go to school for half days. When she is at school and my youngest naps, I use that time to write or edit (if im lucky that’s 2 hours every afternoon). Then my girls go to bed at 7pm, so I usually try my best to write or read every evening (usually another 2ish hours).

On the weekends, my husband and I take turns being productive/watching the girls so the other can have a longer period to be productive. I usually try not to work on writing or author stuff while my girls are awake. That’s a personal decision tho haha and it changes and depends on the age of your babies. I get a ton of writing done with a newborn, but I know that’s not the same for others haha.”

Taylor Pence

Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.

Ecc 9:10

“I’m going to come back and edit this comment once I’m done cooking dinner, lol!
EDIT: I am finally back (made/cleaned up dinner, chasing kids, getting ice cream with my bro who is in town for work, and feeding a baby…phew!).

I have two kiddos, one is 2.5, the other is almost 4 months. It’s hard to get anything done. My toddler likes to follow me everywhere, and while my baby is amazing, she is still a baby. I don’t know that I have any of this figured out yet, but right now, I typically write at night once they’re in bed, so my writing time can range from 10 min – 2 hours depending on how tired I am. It’s very slow going right now, but I’m trying to get back into typing on my phone while putting the baby to sleep.”

Julie Harbison

“Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank.”

Proverbs 22:29

Stick to a Schedule!

“I’m a homeschooling mom of three kids, ages 12, 8, and 3. I’ll be fully honest. It was pretty overwhelming to be pregnant or dealing with a younger baby and write at the same time, so I took a lot of breaks during those seasons. Otherwise, my older kids would buddy up to play outside, and I wrote while my youngest napped. I keep my kids on a routine/schedule so that they sleep roughly about the same time every night. This allows me to do at least 1-1.5 hours of writing/editing every morning before anyone else is up.

I used to live near my parents, who could provide childcare, and that allowed me to get even more writing done. But now that I’ve moved across the country, my writing time is pretty scarce. All the more critical that I stay on my schedule.”

Christina Kuhn

“For me, early mornings are non-negotiable if I want to get anything done. I go to bed early and get up around 4:30 or so. I struggle with brief sprints, so I really treasure having a solid 1.5 hours or so to sit and focus on writing. I can get a decent amount done, and it makes me feel so “free” throughout the rest of my crazy mom/homeschooling day.

Proverbs 31 is a great chapter to look at for moms who are also writers! We can be industrious while still taking care of our homes and families. It can be tough to balance, but I’m thankful Scripture makes it clear that it’s possible to do both well.”

Kendra Warden

“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”

Proverbs 31:25

Multitask or “Drive-By Writing”

“Our dining room was in the exact center of the house. I put my laptop on the table and made a rule for myself that I had to write 1 sentence every time I passed it. That got me to my 1000 words a day goal and I never stopped to work for more than a minute or two.”

E. A. Comiskey

“I first started writing seriously again when I had a nine month old and a 4 year old. Now they’re 17 and 14 and … usually are ignoring me. I basically just wrote whenever I could. As they got a little older, were sleeping through the night, and had a said bedtime, I’d usually put them to bed at 8 and then write for an hour every night. I also wrote waiting for their gymnastics class to end, in doctor’s waiting rooms, on park benches… You just have to grab the time you’re given and go for it.”

Heidi Lyn Burke

“lol I do drive-by writing. I usually have google docs open on my phone and will work on a scene through the day. Most of my writing time is with kids on me or near me. I usually keep my goals low at around 500-1000 words a day. It all adds up.”

Cara Ruegg

“I do drive-by writing! My kids are older (8+), but my laptop and charger live on the counter. If I can squeeze in 15 minutes a few times a day while they’re awake, I call it a success. After food and conversation works best! That goes for all ages.”

Stacey Yaroszeufski

“I did a lot of world building and brainstorming while doing dishes. Especially when listening to inspiring music. 🥰 And while nursing I’d read, critique, chat with other writers, or check social media on my phone. And once the kids were in bed I’d sit with my laptop and type, next to my husband while he played video games or watched a show.”

Elle Wither

“Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

Phil 4:8

“I always keep notes on my phone whenever the muse strikes so that when I do get to my writing time, I’ve got a list of ideas ready to go. I find I get more done in short focused bursts than when I have a whole day to write. I’m more creative when I’m forced to do it quickly. Driving time is also great to think through scenes or identify plot holes.”

A.E. Dinsmoor

Surround Yourself with Supportive People

“I have a 14, 11, and 9 year old at home, and most of my writing these days is done on my weekly writing nights with RJ Conte—basically we do word sprints for an hour or two and check in with each other to share word counts and snippets of what we’ve written. At the end of the evening we call and read each other what we wrote (if we feel ready to share it). It’s the best!! Doing it once a week is very low pressure but I still get some consistent (slow) progress on projects, and sometimes it gets my momentum going so that I want to keep working on it for days afterward!

I’m by no means a full-time writer. I consider myself more of an artist-hobbyist. But I’m glad to keep creating anyway—I couldn’t create as much as I do without supportive friends! 🥰 So my advice is to pick a consistent day/time and have an accountability partner or two to team up with. It’s satisfying to at least have some progress each week even in the middle of busy parenting and work!”

Bethany A. Jennings

“My husband is very supportive of me and helps so much! Find a couple good friends to cheer you on and champion you. It makes a world of difference.”

A.E. Dinsmoor

“I rely on my husband or outside help like occasionally my mom or one of my brothers to take the kids so I can get more time. I’m lucky that my husband works from home 7-3 and gets the full government parental leave offered here in Canada. Things are a bit hectic right now with a newborn and three other little kids but I fully anticipate lots of writing time later on over the course of his leave.”

Selina de Luca

Try Dictation (Voice to Text)

“Out of desperation I tried something totally different. Voice to text has been a big help. Then I take 10 to 15 minutes at night to organize it into sections, but I’m still in the planning stage. I have the story outlined, specific dialogue for important scenes, extensive world building, and character sketches. I should be ready to start compiling and do the actual writing next week.
It’s far different than the ways I’ve written before, but I’m in a much better place than I’ve ever been. I’m feeling confident that I can actually finish a WIP for the first time. This is working for me, but you do what works for you.”

Naomi Talitha

“I know a lot of moms who use dictation and get a lot of writing done while they’re doing chores around the house! I’ve done that a little bit, I’m dictating this comment right now while pumping breast milk, haha. It will take practice for me to use it more for my actual drafting! But I know others who have had success doing that. I have definitely done it here and there though, a few times dictating for example while making supper in the kitchen or something. Multitasking!”

Selina de Luca

Have a Backup Plan

“Try to have a backup plan to help get around especially chaotic days. For example, I identify my writing time for the day, as well as two potential backup options. This way, if my plans go sideways, I know I have another opportunity waiting for me (even if that’s after they’ve gone to bed). Then I just aim to write for at least 10 minutes, which usually goes a bit longer.”

Erin P.T. Canning

Include Your Kids in the Journey

“I’m a mom of three under 7 and all have varying special/medical needs as well. It is very overwhelming, but also an enormous joy. I try to incorporate the kids in whatever I am doing, from acting out scenes, to listening to a passage, to working on artwork. They are so excited and proud to “help mommy write.” I actually just gave each of them a copy of my latest and signed a message to them thanking them for being my helpers.

They have taken that honor so seriously. And coffee. Coffee is amazing. 😅“

A.E. Dinsmoor

“I homeschool my 10 yr old son and (since he’s full of stories too) we have a section of his school day that is writing a story. I squeeze some words into a notebook then along with him. We also attend a local writer’s group together. “

Jaymi Mozeak

“Oh, that my words were written! Oh, that they were inscribed in a book! That they were engraved on a rock with an iron pen and lead, forever! For I know that my Redeemer lives, And He shall stand at last on the earth.”

Job 19:23-25

“It’s been really great writing with kids. They are my inspiration. I warned them anything snarky they say can be used in a book. My teen daughter writes too now. She’s working on her third novel.
The theme of my book is Psalm 42:11–“Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God…” And it’s an especially important truth to remember when raising children.

There’ll be times when you’re overwhelmed and need wisdom. So even though the book is fantasy, there are elements of truths I’ve learned along the way in my own life.”

Leanna Rapier

Take a Break From the Kids

“For the first time ever, I am spending the night in a hotel room to get some writing done. I checked in at 3 PM, wrote for about three hours. Drove to band practice because it’s not far from the hotel I’m staying at, and then when I got back, I wrote for another three hours. The time went by so fast it’s already after midnight. I wrote over 6,000 words in two sittings. I have no one to worry about but myself.
I really needed this break because my kids have special needs (they have autism and genetic deletions). I think maybe I need to do this every year for NaNoWriMo. I am astonished at how much I wrote and how the lack of distractions worked on me. Now I must admit, most of the writing is painfully bad but at least I’m writing!”

Alexandra Owen

“My daughter is nearly four. What I have learnt to do is if we do something fun (like lunch out), the deal when we get back is we both get “calm time.” This means she can watch cartoons or play in her room for an hour. I’ve phrased it as part of the deal of getting a treat out.
I’ve found if I say I’m doing work, she’ll want my attention for everything. If we are both having calm time, then she seems quite happy to amuse herself.”

Rachael Marie

“I focus on teaching independence to my kids to give myself extra breaks.”

Christina Kuhn

Take Care of Yourself

“Personal nutrition is key for having the brain/energy capacity to write. I absolutely have to make sure I eat enough protein if I’m going to have the brain power to write and be creative, which surprisingly at this stage, I often do. I have to take care of my body to take care of my mind…”

Ellyn Franklin

Your Stories Still Matter (Hugely)!

“One bible verse I like to reflect on is Matthew 13:34: ‘All these things Jesus spoke in parables to the multitudes: and without parables he did not speak to them.’ Jesus was the ultimate storyteller and this verse proves the value of storytelling!”

Cara Ruegg

“My kids are 2 and almost 4 and writing makes me feel sane, and healthy, and more myself which makes me a better wife and mother and more balanced person. I love that!”

E.A. Winters

“Truly loving what I do keeps me going. It is a calling for me that I really see the Lord blessing, so writing brings me joy — even when I’m dead tired. My goal is that when someone is reading or hearing something I write, ‘many will see it and fear, and will call upon the name of the LORD.’ This is the desire and motivation that keeps me going, even through the little years of parenting. Whether I’m penning fiction, gospel encouragement, or anything else, I want it to be for His praise, and so that others see Him reflected in whatever I write.”

A.E. Dinsmoor

What are your writing/momming tips?

Comment below with your own advice to support fellow writer moms! Or message our team if you’d like your suggestions and book to be featured!

Hi, I’m Caylah Coffeen, a freelance editor and marketer of sci-fi and fantasy books. I love reading and writing and am a follower of Jesus Christ.

I’ve worked for Monster Ivy Publishing and Eschler Editing, and am currently a weekly editor with Havok Publishing. Reach out to chat about books and publishing!

Thanks for stopping by my website! I hope you’ve found some helpful resources about writing and publishing. If you liked this article, here’s some more free content…

10 Editors of Christian Fantasy, Sci-Fi, and More!

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Christian speculative fiction (sci-fi, fantasy, supernatural, horror, etc.) has grown in popularity in recent years! But as an author, you might still encounter difficulty finding professionals who specialize in both niche markets. So we’ve researched 10 Christian editors, with ranged experience and specialties, who work with sci-fi and fantasy!

This is a list of independent/freelance editors who could be a great fit if you’re looking to self-publish or refine your manuscript before submitting it to publishing houses. If you’re ready to start querying publishers, check out our list of the best publishers of Christian SFF. You can find information about their in-house editors on their websites.

NOTE: Editing rates are not fixed, but change to reflect experience, inflation, and the needs of each manuscript.

1. Caylah Coffeen – Creative Cornerstones

I’ll introduce myself first! I’m Caylah, the founder of Creative Cornerstones, a Christian, and an editor of sci-fi and fantasy. I don’t have as much experience as some of the other amazing editors on this list, so my rates are quite affordable.

The authors I’ve worked with have left wonderful testimonials for me, which I invite you to check out. I’d be delighted to partner with you on your project, but if I’m not the right fit for you, I hope you find another editor here who will bring out the best in your story!

Years of experience: 4
Has worked with: Havok Magazine, Monster Ivy Publishing, Eschler Editing, indie authors
Editing specialty: developmental editing ($0.02/word) and manuscript assessments ($0.005/word)
Primary audience: adult
Favorite sub-genres: epic and lyrical fantasy, myths, diverse worlds, space opera
Additional services: digital marketing, discount & support program for authors with disabilities
Fun facts: I’m a pastor’s kid and missionary kid (Japan!) and have 6 siblings and a brand new nephew! I love sushi, puzzles, cosplaying at conventions, and reading SFF books about bromance and rivalries.
Portfolio: https://creativecornerstones.com/about/team/about-2/

2. Gina Kammer – The Inky Bookwyrm

Years of experience: 16
Has worked with: Capstone Publishers, Amicus, Black Rabbit Books, Meredith Corp. (now Dotdash Meredith), Reedsy
Editing specialty: developmental editing ($0.033/word)
Primary audience: adult
Favorite sub-genres: epic, medieval fantasy, romantasy, paranormal, mythical/fairy tale retellings, space opera, dystopian, steampunk, cyberpunk, bureaucratic witches, and snarky robots!
Additional services: group coaching, story planning, and writing, querying, and self-editing courses
Fun facts: I met Sirs Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart while studying in London. My more mundane proclivities include tea, traveling, oil painting, archery, and snuggling with my grumpy bunnies. I live among piles of books and antiques in Minnesota with my husband and daughter.
Website: https://www.inkybookwyrm.com/editing

3. Katie Philips – Katie Philips Creative

Years of experience: 10
Has worked with: Uncommon Universes Press, Realm Makers Award winning authors, The Author Conservatory
Editing specialty: developmental editing ($0.04/word)
Primary audience: YA
Favorite sub-genres: space opera, fantasy, diverse cultures and characters
Additional services: intermediate-advanced authors, coaching
Fun facts: I’m an INFJ and devoted plant mom. My husband and I are big foodies and live in Kansas with our daughter and son. I’ve visited over 25 countries!
Website: https://www.katiephillipscreative.com/fiction-editing

4. Sara Lawson – Sara’s Books

Years of experience: 15
Has worked with: Inheritance Magazine, indie authors
Editing specialty: line and copy combo edits ($0.02/word) – includes 2 rounds of edits
Primary audience: YA
Favorite sub-genres: fairy tale retellings
Additional services: indie publishing coaching and networking support
Fun facts: I grew up in rural California (yes, that is a thing). I also spent a year and half doing a graduate program in Jerusalem, studying and walking the land of the Bible.
Website: https://www.sarasbooks.com/rates-and-services

5. Kimberly Huther – Wordsmith Editing

Years of experience: 17
Has worked with: York Publishing and Zondervan
Editing specialty: proofreading ($7/page in Word)
Primary audience: adult
Favorite sub-genres: fantasy, paranormal, sci-fi, YA
Additional services: copy and line editing (same rates)
Fun facts: I’ve been an avid reader since the age of FOUR, and I’m a huge supporter of the Oxford Comma!
Website: https://www.wordsmith-editing.com/

6. Pam Halter

Years of experience: 20
Has worked with: Fruitbearer Kids, Halo Publishing International
Editing specialty: developmental editing for children’s books – $200 per book for under 1,000 words, including a second look after rewriting within 2 months.
Primary audience: picture books
Favorite sub-genres: picture books don’t have sub-genres the same way
Additional services: workshops with illustrator Kim Sponaugle for picture books
Fun facts: I’m a mom and grandmother! Cooking, sewing, baking, and playing the piano all boost my creative side. I love to create my own recipes and am in three Gooseberry cookbooks and got runner-up in a Taste of Home magazine for my tomato fritters.
Website: https://pamhalter.com/editor

7. Lyndsey Smith – The Editing Forge (Horrorsmith Editing)

Years of experience: 4
Has worked with: Eerie River Publishing, Turner Publishing
Editing specialty: developmental editing ($0.038/word)
Primary audience: adult
Favorite sub-genres: horror, thriller, epic fantasy, urban fantasy, reimagined fairy tales, and romantasy
Additional services: book coaching and ghostwriting
Fun facts: My assistant is a midnight-black 23-pound Norwegian Forest Cat named Poof. I’m a military spouse of thirteen years, and we’ve lived in multiple states and countries (including three years in South Korea).
Website: https://www.theeditingforge.com/

8. Kristen Stieffel

Years of experience: 24
Has worked with: Havok Magazine, indie authors
Editing specialty: line editing ($0.035/word)
Primary audience: adult
Favorite sub-genres: light fantasy, steampunk, and science fantasy
Additional services: coaching, page design
Fun facts: I was raised by parents who were Trekkies before anyone coined the word Trekkie. I’m an avid knitter, despite living in Florida, where most sweaters are worn indoors.
Website: https://kristenstieffel.com/services/

9. Andi L. Gregory – Author Services

Years of experience: 6
Has worked with: End Game Press, indie authors
Editing specialty: copyediting ($0.02/word)
Primary audience: YA
Favorite sub-genres: fairy tales and the complex worlds of high fantasy
Additional services: Proofreading services ($0.01/word), proofreading and copyediting combo packages
Fun facts: I love being in the great outdoors, where I never fail to find an adventure. I write for the downhearted, the friendless, and the self-critic, and I’m always up for making new friends, even if I’m the introvert in the corner (with a book, of course).
Website: https://www.andilgregory.com/author-services

10. Jessica Boudreax – Refined Pen Edits

Years of experience: 2
Has worked with: So far, I have been purely freelance!
Editing specialty: Developmental Editing ($0.02/word)
Primary audience: Adult
Favorite sub-genre: epic fantasy
Additional services: line and copy editing
Fun facts: In elementary school, my teacher told my mom I had a talent for creative writing, and it kind of stuck. I’ve been writing in some way ever since. I can get very geeky over many things. Fiction is one of those things, and I am quite happy to be called a geek.
Website: https://refinedpenedits.com/services/

Authors Who Edit on the Side

A number of successful Christian sci-fi and fantasy authors also work as editors on the side, including Steve Rzasa, Janeen Ippolito, and Angela R. Watts. If there is an author you particularly admire, you can look up their website to see if they also offer coaching or editing services.

But good authors do not necessarily make good editors (and vice versa), so in this list I tried to emphasize those who work primarily as editors (though some of the above do write and publish). But every author needs something slightly different on their publication journey – trust your instincts!

And best of luck!

Hi, I’m Caylah Coffeen, a freelance editor and marketer of sci-fi and fantasy books. I love reading and writing and am a follower of Jesus Christ.

I’ve worked for Monster Ivy Publishing and Eschler Editing, and am currently a weekly editor with Havok Publishing. Reach out to chat about books and publishing!

Thanks for stopping by my website! I hope you’ve found some helpful resources about reading, writing, and publishing. If you liked this article, here’s some more free content…

4 Mini Reviews of Enchanting Christian Fantasy Books (YA & Middle Grade)

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Guest post by David Justiss

I’m a fantasy writer and hope to soon publish my first middle grade fantasy story! My brand of fantasy is not high fantasy, nor urban fantasy – I take more influence from fairy tales and mythology. Here are 4 mini reviews of enchanting fantasy tales (by Christian authors) which have inspired me.

  1. Book Review: An Echo of the Fae by Jenelle Leanne Schmidt
  2. Book Review: The Story Peddler by Lindsay A. Franklin
  3. Book Review: Heart of the Curiosity by H.L. Burke
  4. Book Review: Eternal, Everywhere, With You by Sherry Rossman

Book Review: An Echo of the Fae by Jenelle Leanne Schmidt

Rating: 5 stars!

I love the style and voice of this story. It reminds me of fairy tales or fantasy stories I read and loved as a kid. It feels like it was written a long time ago, which is perfect for a fairy tale. The other book I could compare it to is The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonald, as both have the feeling of a fairy story.

One time, I did a survey meant for authors asking what was the most important parts of the story, with the multiple choices of (a) plot, (b) characters, or (c) other. I answered with (c) – that the most important part of a story is the tone and feelings it conveys to the reader. I’m bringing this up now because this story conveys so well the kind of adventurous wonder that a fairy tale is supposed to give a reader.

The only little criticism I think of is that Echo really seemed younger that thirteen years old, but that’s hardly a problem when the story is otherwise so good.

Book Review: The Story Peddler by Lindsay A. Franklin

Rating: 5 stars!

I loved it, and can’t wait to read book two!

Looking forward to finding out why Gareth was the way he was. I loved Braith. She was in such a precarious situation, and I was struck by her boldness in every scene she’s in. The other characters are pretty cool too.

I love the theme too. It’s kind of a similar theme as Fahrenheit 451, but I like this kind of story way better than futuristic dystopian stuff. The feel of the story is very different. I’ll go for a hopeful story over a depressing or disturbing one any day.

Book Review: Heart of the Curiosity by H.L. Burke

Rating: 5 stars!

I beta-read this and loved it, so I had to get the finished version.

There comes a point in a lot of good books, usually somewhere around half or 2/3 of the way through, where the book becomes very hard to put down. Unfortunately, this point came after 1am both times I read this book, so I was up late…

I like the theater. Pretty much any setting with a maze-like system of hallways and secret passages can make for a fun story setting. And of course, I love the snail circus (I recently read and watched Coraline which I suspect is where the inspiration for the snail circus came from. loved that story too.)

Yes, I cried (both times) going through those tough parts to read. Leo is easy to relate to with her feeling unlovable and wondering what she’s good for.

Book Review: Eternal, Everywhere, With You by Sherry Rossman

Rating: 5 stars!

Something good about independently published books is that you get stylistic elements which don’t pass with a major publisher. (It’s a bit of a shame that you very rarely find books with this kind of unique style from major publishers.) Sherry Rossman has a poetic writing style which has a habit of leaving out details which are (usually) easily filled in by the reader’s brain. Sometimes it takes a minute to figure out what’s going on. This isn’t always a bad thing, and in this story, I don’t think it’s a bad thing at all. You do have to trust the next page to tell you just enough to get the story and the feelings, but it works well here.

There’s some weird timey wimey stuff that reminded me both of N. D. Wilson’s Outlaws of Time trilogy, and of Madeline L’Engle’s stories. I loved it.

About David Justiss

Find more reviews of books by Realm Makers authors on David Justiss’ Goodreads page.

Or find old posts on his blog: https://lightingliramor.wordpress.com/

Hi, I’m Caylah Coffeen, a freelance editor and marketer of sci-fi and fantasy books. I love reading and writing and am a follower of Jesus Christ.

I’ve worked for Monster Ivy Publishing and Eschler Editing, and am currently a weekly editor with Havok Publishing. Reach out to chat about books and publishing!

Thanks for stopping by my website! I hope you’ve found some helpful resources about reading, writing, and publishing. If you liked this article, here’s some more free content…

3 Mini Reviews of Christian Sci-Fi and Urban Fantasy Books

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Guest Post by Ted Atchley

Hi, I’m Ted Atchely, a geek who loves Jesus, and a professional computer programmer. Whether it’s crafting code or weaving tales, I’m always writing. I’ve been influenced by science fiction and fantasy written by fellow Christian authors, and am excited to share 3 mini reviews of my favorites!

  1. Book Review: Mercury on Guard by Steve Rzasa
  2. Book Review: Rogue Pursuit by B.L. Dean
  3. Book Review: Steal Fire From the Gods by Clint Hall
  4. Ted Atchley’s Debut Sci-Fi Novel: The Key to Reality

Book Review: Mercury on Guard by Steve Rzasa

Rating: 5/5 stars!

If you enjoy urban fantasy stories with snarky heroes slaying otherworldly beasts, then I give you my strongest recommendation to check out Mercury On Guard. This story has a lighter feel than The Dresden Files with less death and destruction, but similar stark and a bunch of monster fighting.

I’m normally a slow reader, but the pages simply melted away. The description pulls you into the action and the setting. Sometimes it feels like Mercury’s narration even breaks the fourth wall.

The characters are each distinct and feel like real people. They have their issues, but you are rooting for them the whole way. The twists catch you off guard in all the best ways, always cranking up the stakes. The story has a satisfying ending, but also leaves room for further adventures.

If this were a movie, it would probably be PG-13. There’s no adult language that I remember. No adult “situations.” There is plenty of violence, but it was never gratuitous, gory or stomach turning. A minor character consumes alcohol.

I look forward to delving into the rest of the Mercury series and Mr. Rzasa’s other works.

Book Review: Rogue Pursuit by B.L. Dean

Rating: 5/5 stars!

If you like Space Opera, you should definitely check this one out. It has great characters, creative worldbuilding, and plenty of conflict and tension on every page.

I loved how the author used color theory in the dynamics of how the wormholes work in this world. Each planet we visit is unique, with a fresh spin on familiar themes. It feels new, yet familiar.

Tai and Perrin are both well written with varying and conflicting goals and objectives. Their dynamic plus a great balance of micro and macro stakes makes for a rich and enjoyable story. I’m looking forward to seeing more of them in future books by Dean. Even the side characters are memorable and I would love to see them starring in their own spinoffs in the future.

This was a fast read, and one of my favorite reads of the year so far. I’ve already purchased the next book in the series.

Book Review: Steal Fire From the Gods by Clint Hall

Rating: 4/5 Stars

I enjoyed the story and it kept me engaged to the end. It was a fun and creative adventure. The characters are fully dimensional and relatable. This is a great science fantasy book–a blending of science fiction and fantasy that goes together like chocolate and peanut butter.

This book kept me on my toes. The story never went in the direction I thought it was going to go. The “curse your sudden, yet inevitable betrayal” moment, I never saw coming.

The book did leave me with some questions, both about the magic system, but also about the main character. There seems to be a conflict introduced in the opening chapter that I felt could have had a clearer resolution. But these questions never detracted from the enjoyment of the story.

I’m a little bummed this was a standalone. While I look forward to future works from Mr. Hall, I do hope at some point, he will decide to revisit this world and these characters.

Ted Atchley’s Debut Sci-Fi Novel: The Key to Reality

If these books sound interesting, I invite you to try my debut sci-fi novel, The Key to Reality. It tells the story of a “white hat” hacker who attempts to strike a work / life balance and fails so cataclysmically it breaks the fabric of space-time.

Or get the short story prequel, “Finding the Key,” for free when you subscribe to my newsletter. Fourteen-year-old Brandon has bounced from foster home to foster home since losing his mother. All he wants to do is reclaim a part of his old life and return to the apartment he shared with her. But the old neighborhood has changed much since Brandon last lived there, and a nasty gang runs the streets. His search won’t just be for a place to call home, but for his very survival.

About Ted Atchley

Ted lives in beautiful Charleston, SC with his wife, children, and two cats.

When he’s not writing or reading, he enjoys schooling his kids at Smash Bros, and Mario Kart, as every geeky dad should.

Check out his work at https://tedatchley.com/.

Hi, I’m Caylah Coffeen, a freelance editor and marketer of sci-fi and fantasy books. I love reading and writing and am a follower of Jesus Christ.

I’ve worked for Monster Ivy Publishing and Eschler Editing, and am currently a weekly editor with Havok Publishing. Reach out to chat about books and publishing!

Thanks for stopping by my website! I hope you’ve found some helpful resources about reading, writing, and publishing. If you liked this article, here’s some more free content…

12 Best Publishers of Christian Speculative Fiction (Sci-Fi, Fantasy, & MORE)

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J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis are hardly the only two Christian authors who loved and crafted fantastical tales. However, for decades, there has been a hard split between the secular or general fiction market, which reaches fans of sci-fi, fantasy, and other popular genres, and the Christian fiction market, which mainly features modern-day romance.

Finally, supply is catching up to demand as small publishers begin to seek speculative fiction by Christian authors or with Christian themes. There’s no easy definition for this genre, but it can include some or all of the following features:

  • Books by Christian authors whose worldview informs their writing
  • Books that emphasize Christian themes such as faith, redemption, forgiveness, self-sacrifice, and more
  • Books that feature Christianity and Christian characters
  • “Clean” books that exclude profanity, sexual content, and gratuitous violence (PG-13 rating or less)
  • The press is owned or run by Christians, so they are inviting to others of their worldview, but do not necessarily require any of the above elements.

More and more readers are seeking this type of content, but these publishing houses also serve as a beacon for authors who may hesitate to publish with a secular company that disagrees with their beliefs, but have difficulty finding interest for their manuscript within traditional Christian publishing circles.

If you’re a nerdy Christian writer, there’s hope! Check out some of the great publishers below!

Best Overall

Enclave Publishing

Publishes: sci-fi, fantasy, dystopian, military sci-fi, space opera, steampunk, supernatural, and YA

Audience: YA and adult

Do you need an agent? NO

Submission Guidelines

Standout Works:

Best Large Publisher

TNZ Fiction

(Imprint of Thomas Nelson and Zondervan, now under the umbrella Harper Collins Christian Publishing)

Publishes: mainly romance and contemporary fiction, but they have published most of Steven Lawhead’s work, plus a growing collection of clean YA fantasy.

Audience: YA and adult

They do NOT accept unsolicited manuscripts.

Submission Guidelines

Standout Works:

Best Mid-Size Publisher

Bethany House (Imprint of Baker Publishing Group)

Publishes: both fiction and nonfiction, mostly Amish and romance fiction. But they have also published about 45 fantasy, supernatural, and sci-fi titles – more than some smaller presses on this list.

Audience: YA and adult

They do NOT accept unsolicited manuscripts.

Submission Guidelines

Standout Works:

NOTE: according to this recent article, Baker Publishing Group is seeking less SFF due to low sales, but their head of acquisitions hopes that will change in the future.

Best Small Presses

Expanse Books (Imprint of Scrivenings Press)

Publishes: fantasy, sci-fi, fairy tales, dystopian, magical realism, urban fantasy

Audience: young adult, adult
(for middle grade, check out their imprint ScrivKids)

Do you need an agent? NO

Submission Guidelines

Standout Works:

Brimstone Fiction

Publishes: fantasy, sci-fi, video game, magical realism

Audience: young adult, adult

Submission Guidelines: website currently under maintenance as they restructure their company to include Brimstone Books and Media and Brimstone Fire.

Standout Works:

Quill & Flame Publishers – Obsidian Imprint

Publishes: spine-tingling science fiction, horror, and fantasy that redeems the dark – they have recently expanded with Obsidian, an imprint that does not require romance!

Audience: young adult, adult

Do you need an agent? NO – next open submissions window July 2025

Submission Guidelines

Standout Works:

Best Middle Grade and Young Adult

Monster Ivy Publishing

Publishes: fantasy, dystopian, thriller, horror, sci-fi, romance, paranormal

Audience: middle grade, YA

Do you need an agent? NO

Open for submissions ONLY during the month of June each year

Submission Guidelines

Standout Works:

Mountain Brook Fire (Imprint of Mountain Brook Ink)

Publishes: fantasy, fairy tales, futuristic, superhero, supernatural

Audience: middle grade, YA, adult

Do you need an agent? NO

Submission Guidelines

Standout Works:

Best Short Fiction

Mysterion Magazine (Enigmatic Mirror Press)

Publishes: sci-fi, fantasy, and horror short stories under 9000 words (preferably under 5K words)

Biannual submissions windows: July and January

Submission Guidelines

Go Havok (Havok Publishing)

Publishes: mystery, science fiction, comedy, thriller, and fantasy between 300 – 1,000 words

Submit ONLY if your story fits their daily genres and seasonal themes. Check their site for seasonal deadlines.

Submission Guidelines

Honorable Mentions

These presses are smaller and have only published a few authors each, but they look promising and are absolutely worth keeping an eye on in the future!

Descendant Publishing

Story-weaver Publishing

Bear Publications

Sky Turtle Press

Blade of Truth Publishing

The Rebel Christian Publishing

All logos and cover art are the exclusive intellectual property of their respective publishing houses.

*DISCLAIMER* Some other Christian publishing houses do publish speculative fiction under their “general fiction” category. This article highlights publishers whose MAIN focus is speculative fiction, who have an imprint dedicated to SFF, or whose fiction category includes a large collection of successful SFF.

Also, everyone has a different definition of what constitutes Christianity. We make no effort to define any individual’s faith or any company’s stance. Carefully research any company statements and look up the owners and managing editors if their faith is important to you.

Hi, I’m Caylah Coffeen, a freelance editor and marketer of sci-fi and fantasy books. I love reading and writing and am a follower of Jesus Christ.

I’ve worked for Monster Ivy Publishing and Eschler Editing, and am currently a weekly editor with Havok Publishing. Reach out to chat about books and publishing!

Thanks for stopping by my website! I hope you’ve found some helpful resources about reading, writing, and publishing. If you liked this article, here’s some more free content…