Christians and romance novels

As an avid reader, I think church libraries should contain a variety of Christian books to offer as an alternative to secular books. This would include fiction and non-fiction books, biographies of missionaries, children's stories, as well as reference and devotional materials.

I have been blessed by reading many Christian romance novels. Grace Livingston Hill was a wonderful Christian writer and her books are wholesome and positive. Lori Wick includes the plan of salvation in every one of her Christian romance novels, and her characters demonstrate Christian living. C.S. Lewis wrote non-romantic "fantasy" books that have blessed many. So, I think as long as the book is written by a Christian author with a godly reputation, I have no problem having their books in the church library.

I have never felt the need to compare my dh with a romantic hero, but I have been convicted of reading novels while forgetting to read my Bible. I think the key is to remember to read one's Bible before, or at least as often, as one reads other Christian material, and to be consumed with God and not by things of this world.