What are the characteristics of award winning christian historical fiction?

Often, award - winning Christian fiction has strong moral and spiritual themes. It usually centers around the Christian faith, such as stories of redemption, forgiveness, and the power of prayer. For example, in many of these works, characters face difficult situations and find solutions through their faith.

Often, they have well - researched historical settings. For example, in 'Gone with the Wind', Margaret Mitchell did extensive research on the American Civil War era. The characters are usually complex and believable, like in 'The Name of the Rose' where Umberto Eco created multi - dimensional characters.

Often, they have vivid historical settings. For example, they can transport you to a specific time like the Middle Ages or the Victorian era. The characters are usually relatable for young adults, facing challenges that are both of their age and related to the historical context. The plots are engaging, like in 'The Book Thief' where the unique narrative voice of Death makes the story really stand out.

Award - winning Christian romance novels usually feature chaste relationships. The love stories are built on mutual respect, shared values, and spiritual connection. They also tend to have positive messages about forgiveness, grace, and the power of love in a Christian context. For instance, in many of these novels, the characters might struggle with past sins or mistakes, but through their faith and the love they find, they are able to overcome and grow closer to God.

One characteristic is the detailed historical setting. For example, in 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco, the third - person view lets the reader fully experience the medieval monastery setting, with all its religious, social, and intellectual aspects. Another is the complex characters. Since it's third - person, the author can fully explore different characters' motives and backgrounds. In 'Gone with the Wind', Scarlett O'Hara's complex personality is shown through third - person narration. Also, these works often have a strong narrative arc that is based on historical events. They can show the cause - and - effect relationships within history in a more comprehensive way.

They usually have engaging characters. In 'All the Light We Cannot See', the two main characters are so well - developed that readers can't help but be drawn into their individual plights and the overarching story of the war. The characters feel real and their emotions are palpable.

Award winning historical fiction children's books typically have rich historical details. This could be the way of life in a certain era, like the daily chores and social hierarchies in 'The Witch of Blackbird Pond'. They also tend to have themes that are relevant to both the historical period and modern times. For instance, 'Johnny Tremain' has themes of patriotism and growing up, which are still important today. Moreover, the language used is often accessible to children while still maintaining a historical flavor, as seen in 'A Single Shard' where the descriptions of Korean pottery and village life are vivid yet easy for kids to understand.

They often have well - developed female characters. For example, in Hilary Mantel's works, the female characters are complex and their motives are deeply explored. Another characteristic is detailed historical research. Writers like Philippa Gregory do extensive research on the time periods they write about, whether it's the clothing, the social hierarchies or the political situations of that era.

One great example is 'The Hiding Place' by Corrie ten Boom. It's a true story about her family's efforts to hide Jews during World War II and their strong Christian faith that sustained them through the hardships of the concentration camps.

Award winning historical mystery novels often have a strong sense of time and place. They transport the reader to a different era, whether it's ancient Rome or Victorian England. The details of daily life, social norms, and political situations are carefully depicted. For instance, in 'Wolf Hall' which has elements of mystery within the historical narrative of Tudor England, the court intrigue and the power struggles are presented in a way that makes the mystery of Cromwell's rise all the more engaging. Another characteristic is the use of historical facts and events to drive the mystery forward. It's not just a backdrop but an integral part of the plot.