What do we owe our readers?

Discovering what we owe our readers can be as freeing as watching a plant grow or as tricky as crunching numbers.

In the publishing industry, I often hear authors worry about doing more for their readers. They worry they'll upset their readers if they have to skip a blog post to deal with a family emergency, post less frequently due to life events, or have to delay publishing a book. I understand where this worry is coming from. You love your book, and you want other people to love your book.

But you don't love your favourite books because they won awards or because the author wrote a blog post every Monday for a decade. You love it because of the language, the storytelling, the themes, or where you were at the time you read it. Your readers will do the same.

Even for debut authors in small niches, your book is a part of something bigger. These are three things you really owe them.

1. You Owe Them the Story Only You Can Tell

Whether it's a children's book about life with Autism, a memoir about overcoming childhood trauma, or a science fiction story about a changing land, your life is a part of your story. It doesn't matter if you're publishing your first book at 70 years old. It doesn't matter if you barely passed English in high school. Your faith and experience add up to a story that nobody else can tell. Your book is unique and necessary.

2. You Owe Them Commitment (Not Perfection)

You don't owe your readers flawless prose or the most eye-catching marketing images. An old adage in publishing says if an author re-reads their published book, they'll find one thing they will want to change. You owe them your best work, made with the care and love it deserves.

That means editing the book. Typesetting it. Putting it out into the world. Yes, it can make you nervous. It's worth it.

Integrity builds trust. You owe your readers integrity.

3. You Owe Them Connection

Christian fiction readers are some of the most loyal and passionate in the world. They want more than a story—they want to feel seen. They want to feel hope. They want something that reflects their values, struggles, and questions.

They don’t just want a polished plot. They want to know you.

So don’t hide behind “I’m not a real writer.” If you’re writing, you’re a writer. If you’re finishing a book, you’re an author. Full stop.

Write Boldly. Publish Bravely. Your Reader Is Waiting.

Your book may not be for everyone, but it is for someone. That someone is looking for it. Write boldy. Write with confidence. I believe in you.

If you'd like to learn more about publishing, we have 15 minute discovery calls to discuss your story, your needs, and what your reader might need most. Just contact us to get started.