13 Best Christian Epistolary Novels To Dive Into Today
Modern Christian epistolary novels
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Hey there, fellow bookworms! Ever fell into the deep, inviting rabbit hole of Christian epistolary books? These gems are like getting your hands on a secret stash of letters, filled with intimate conversations about faith, life, and human struggles.
Picture this: you’re sipping your favorite cup of tea, cozied up in your go-to reading nook, and your heart is all aflutter as you turn page after page, feeling like a close friend in these heart-to-heart epistolary exchanges.
Ready for a literary journey that might just leave you looking at your own faith and life in a new light?
Buckle up, because we’re diving into some of the best Christian epistolary novels that you seriously need to add to your reading list!
What is an epistolary novel?
An epistolary novel is a novel that tells its story through letters, diary entries, blogs, or any form of document that gives a first-person account of the events.
Think of it like peering into someone’s personal mail (without the guilt of being a nosy parker!) or having a sneak peek into a character’s diary. The charm of an epistolary novel is how it makes you feel so darn close to the characters – you’re essentially reading their most intimate thoughts, after all.
It’s like you’re part of the story, and who doesn’t love that, right?
What are the three types of epistolary novels?
Okay, so you’re probably wondering: “What are the three types of epistolary novels?” Well, let’s get down to it!
- Monologic: This is like getting VIP access to a character’s personal diary or letters—they’re the only one talking, but trust me, it’s far from boring! You get to uncover their deepest thoughts and feelings, and it’s pretty much an emotional rollercoaster.
- Dialogic: Now, this is where things heat up. You’ve got letters going back and forth between two characters. It’s like watching a tennis match of emotions, thoughts, and sometimes, juicy secrets.
- Polylogic: Buckle up, because we’ve now got a party on our hands! In a polylogic epistolary novel, there are letters from three or more characters. It’s as if you’ve stumbled into a chat room, and you’re privy to all the banters, debates, and revelations.
Each of these types offers its own unique perspective and thrill, kind of like choosing between a rollercoaster, a ferris wheel, or a carousel at a funfair.
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Top 3 picks
If you’re looking to skip all the nitty-gritty details of the books, here are my top 3 favorites. Trust me, you won’t regret adding these to your reading list:
- Authentically Izzy by Pepper Basham: This rom-com is absolutely hilarious and will totally fill your bookish heart!
- Things We Didn’t Say by Amy Lynn Green: Riveting storyline and characters will sweep you into World War II, specifically US POW camps.
- Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay: A modern take on Daddy-Long-Legs mixed with anecdotes from Jane Austen, made this a swoon-worthy novel.
Quick list of epistolary novels
If you’re in a hurry and eager to dive right into the book, here’s a nifty list of all the epistolary books mentioned below!
- Authentically Izzy by Pepper Basham
- Then Came You by Becky Wade
- Things We Didn’t Say by Amy Lynn Green
- Our Yellow Tape Letters by Caitlin Miller
- Yours Truly, Thomas by Rachel Fordham
- Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay
- Love, Mary Elisabeth by Christy Martenson
- Emerald Fields by Pegg Thomas
- Three Little Things by Patti Stockdale
- Daddy-Long-Legs by Jean Webster
- Dear Henry, Love Edith by Becca Kinzer
- Dearest Josephine by Caroline George
- The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer
Best Christian epistolary books
1 | Authentically Izzy by Pepper Basham
Christian Contemporary Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.90 out of 5 stars
Izzy Edgewood, an aspiring bookstore owner and LOTR fan, struggles to find love while immersed in fictional worlds. When her cousin Josephine sets up an online dating profile for her, Izzy starts communicating with Brodie, a Hobbit enthusiast residing in a distant town. But with a local author also showing interest, Izzy wonders if a long-distance relationship is worth the risk.
Why read this epistolary novel?
Confession time – this book had me in its grips from the start. The playful banter left me giggling like a loon, and the characters? Oh, they’re the kind you fall for – quirkiness, book references and all. It’s as if they’re your real-life pals.
The romance? Heart-flutteringly good. Okay, is it weird to swoon over characters? Asking for a friend! What’s truly beautiful though, is their growth throughout the story – like watching a dear friend find their way.
2 | Then Came You by Becky Wade
Christian Contemporary Romance, Novella
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.09 out of 5 stars
Garner Bradford, inheritor of Bradford Shipping, is a clueless single dad to a newborn. His journal entries reveal his struggle – how to keep a baby alive, mend his broken heart, and find self-forgiveness. Kathleen Burke, a driven career woman, has no interest in settling down.
Her dreams are big and don’t involve Garner or his small Washington hometown. Yet, she finds herself inexplicably drawn to her boss, Garner, and his stunning, sorrow-filled green eyes.
Why read this epistolary novel?
I recently got lost in this absolute treasure of a novella, a prequel to the Bradford Sisters series, that stands solidly on its own. The captivating narrative is uniquely spun in a tapestry of phone calls, letters, and journal entries, rather than your usual storytelling.
It’s a love story that’s as authentic as they come, brimming with spiritual truths. If you’re seeking a book that’s a real mood-booster, this one’s for you!
3 | Things We Didn’t Say by Amy Lynn Green
Christian Historical Romance, World War Ⅱ
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.19 out of 5 stars
Johanna Berglund, a linguistics student, is drafted to translate at a local German POW camp, stirring old town animosities. Her friend, Peter Ito, encourages her to stay. As she interacts more with the prisoners, particularly German spokesman Stefan Werner, she starts empathizing with them. This defiance towards societal norms fuels distrust within her town, blurring the line between compassion and treason.
Why read this epistolary novel?
Can we talk about this incredible book? It’s packed with a riveting storyline that’ll have you smitten with our protagonist, Johanna – a fiery spirit who keeps you glued to the pages. Just when you think you’ve figured out the plot, bam! A twist hits you, leaving you hungry for more.
The icing on the cake? It unveils unexplored aspects of World War II, specifically US POW camps. This book is not just a historical fiction, it’s a learning journey into a well-trodden era yet still manages to surprise you.
“Sometimes showing grace breaks us before it heals us. Forgiveness can feel like a betrayal of justice. We want others to deserve grace, or at least ask for it, even knowing full well that the greatest grace was extended to us “while we were still enemies.”
― Amy Lynn Green, Things We Didn’t Say
4 | Our Yellow Tape Letters by Caitlin Miller
Christian Historical Romance, World War Ⅱ
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.71 out of 5 stars
Amidst the closing scenes of World War Ⅱ, Lucy Skyes is shattered by the news of her brother’s demise in service. Her grief is momentarily eased when she gets a letter delving into her brother’s military life and his puzzling death.
Meanwhile, Jeremiah Sparrow wrestles with lost memories, a world in silence, and rising guilt in an army hospital. His letter to Lucy unravels secrets carrying a heavy toll. In this era of war and loss, stories emerge like intertwining threads, often leading to unexpected territories.
Why read this epistolary novel?
This book is an authentic masterpiece, transporting you back to the tumultuous era of World War II with its vivid narrative. More than just a historical journey, it bravely addresses the realities of grief and depression, navigating these emotional terrains with delicacy and depth.
It doesn’t shy away from life’s harshness; instead it instills hope, illustrating the power of faith in overcoming adversity. This emotionally charged novel leaves a lasting imprint on your heart, making it a must-read for all historical fiction enthusiasts.
5 | Yours Truly, Thomas by Rachel Fordham
Christian Historical Romance, Western
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.16 out of 5 stars
Penny Ercanbeck, a Dead Letter Office clerk, yearns for an exciting life beyond opening others’ mail. When a heartfelt letter from a man to his lost love lands in her hands, she takes it upon herself to deliver it. Unexpectedly, she finds herself in Azure Springs, Iowa, meeting Thomas, the author who had fled his past life.
Torn between completing her mission – delivering the letter to its rightful owner, and the growing affection for the man who penned it, Penny’s life becomes a whirlwind of emotions.
Why read this epistolary novel?
This book, I tell you, warmed my heart like a cozy fireplace in winter. Even though it’s not entirely an epistolary novel, the letters scattered throughout struck a chord. The main characters, Penny and Thomas, are just too adorable for words.
Watching their romance unfold was like getting a front-row seat to a beautiful ballet of affection. The subtle spiritual threads woven throughout were the cherry on top.
6 | Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay
Christian Contemporary Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.94 out of 5 stars
Surviving a tough foster care journey, Samantha Moore found solace in her favorite literary characters, adopting their personas as a protective shield. Following college, an anonymous benefactor, “Mr. Knightley,” funds her graduate journalism degree at the prestigious Medill School, requiring only regular update letters in return.
Samantha’s letters unmask her true self, revealing new bonds with a troubled teen at Grace House, her Medill peers, and notably, novelist Alex Powell. As trust blossoms, Samantha learns of Alex’s own secrets, forcing her to confront her real identity, no longer hiding behind her letters or characters.
Why read this epistolary novel?
The characters were as real as they come, evolving in a way that felt like I was right there on their journey. The plot had a reminiscent whiff of Daddy-Long-Legs, but with a fresh, modern twist—always a sucker for a good plot twist.
Topping it off were countless, delightful nods to Jane Austen which had this classics fanatic doing a happy dance.
“And, Mr. Knightley, forget my theory about Icarus. If you don’t sail high, with the risk of crashing and burning, do you really live? Can you love? I doubt it. I’m ready to fly. Love, Sam”
― Katherine Reay, Dear Mr. Knightley
7 | Love, Mary Elisabeth by Christy Martenson
Christian Historical Middle-grade
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.65 out of 5 stars
Mary Elisabeth, an 11-year-old in the year 1924, faces a life-altering challenge. Her mother contracts tuberculosis, a deadly disease, and her only hope is a distant sanatorium. To pay for the treatment, her father works tirelessly at the shipyards.
Meanwhile, Mary Elisabeth must relocate 350 miles away to her uncle’s farm, where her only link to her parents is through letters. Can this brave girl conquer the trials that await her?
Why read this epistolary novel?
This books got heartwarming moments that will pull at your emotions, but it’s also laced with those little bits that’ll have you grinning ear-to-ear. The storyline? The characters, they feel as real as your buddies. And the finale, it’s the kind that leaves you with a satisfied, goofy smile.
8 | Emerald Fields by Pegg Thomas
Christian Historical Romance, Civil War
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.58 out of 5 stars
Russ Fields paid a heavy price in the Civil War, losing much more than battles. Returning home, he faced another blow – his sister’s death. And when he penned a letter to his sister’s friend, Emmie Mason, he didn’t expect a reply. Emmie, too, had her share of losses – her fiancé to the war, her job post-war, and her best friend to illness.
These letters of sorrow sparked something unique between them. But can words truly heal the scars of reality?
Why read this epistolary novel?
Trust me, this book Christian epistolary novel, is a real page-turner! Complex characters that feel so real, you’d think they’re your buddies.
Our main character, Russ?
From Michigan—just like me. And the romance! Imagine the slowest burn, sweetest love story. But wait, there’s more! The plot, the historical setting—you’ll feel like a time traveler!
9 | Three Little Things by Patti Stockdale
Christian Historical Romance, World War Ⅰ
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.40 out of 5 stars
In 1917, Hattie Waltz waved goodbye to her neighbor, Arno Kreger, off to boot camp. Despite their families’ feuds, Hattie dared to give him a farewell gift, leading to an unexpected spark. Arno, eager to escape Iowa and his past, had secretly loved Hattie forever.
Their innocent goodbye stirred a correspondence filled with shared secrets, bringing them closer despite the war and family pressures. Now, their newborn love must weather the challenges of war and family rivalry.
Why read this epistolary novel?
I’ve just devoured one of the best Christian epistolary novels out there! Seriously, it’s a literary cocktail of romance, mystery, and faith that’s stirred me to the core. It’s not just about the late-night reading marathons it induces, it also carries a profound message of faith, reminding you that the impossible becomes possible with God.
So, if you’re into a blend of heart-throbbing romance, nail-biting mystery, and compelling spiritual themes, this is one you can’t afford to skip!
“Words are flimsy but actions strong.”
― Patti Stockdale, Three Little Things
10 | Daddy-Long-Legs by Jean Webster
YA Classic, Coming of Age
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.15 out of 5 stars
When 18-year-old orphan Jerusha Abbott heard that an anonymous millionaire was funding her education, it was a dream come true. It was like having a family for the first time, albeit a secret one. But who was this generous stranger? Would Jerusha ever get to meet him?
Why read this epistolary novel?
Daddy Long Legs a timeless gem, occupies a special corner in my book-loving heart. Even decades later, this epistolary novel’s blend of timeless wit, warmth, and a dash of silliness remains fresh and engaging.
The crux? It’s all told through letters that trace our heroine, Jerusha’s growth. The narrative isn’t just funny, it’s heartwarming, reminding us that no matter our beginnings, we possess the potential to aspire and reach fantastic heights. A genuinely inspiring read that transcends age barriers.
11 | Dear Henry, Love Edith by Becca Kinzer
Christian Contemporary Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.70 out of 5 stars
Widow Edith Sherman has plans for an exciting South African adventure, leaving love and marriage behind. For now, she’s nursing in a small Midwestern town, where she catches the eye of local heartthrob, Henry Hobbes.
Henry, mistaking her for an elderly widow, offers her a summer home. Their interaction? A series of notes revealing their blossoming feelings. But with Edith’s planned departure and Henry’s intent to stay, Edith faces a dilemma – pursue her dream adventure, or discover it might be right under her nose?
Why read this epistolary novel?
This book is a gem among the best Christian epistolary novels out there. It’s a swoon-worthy rom-com that hooks you from page one. The small-town setting is refreshing, and the plot twists like a roller-coaster.
The clever use of the epistolary format adds authenticity and intimacy, making this a binge-read that promises to lift your spirits.
12 | Dearest Josephine by Caroline George
Christian Contemporary Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.78 out of 5 stars
In 2020, Josie De Clare’s life went off the rails with loss and confusion, derailing her university plans. Then, a family property in Northern England sends her on a journey of self-discovery at an isolated manor. Here, she stumbles upon centuries-old love letters and a novel where she’s the protagonist!
Fast rewind to 1820: Elias Roch, a novelist and society’s outcast, finds refuge in the world of his quirky heroine. He writes her letters, pouring his heart and life’s struggles, convinced she’s his soulmate.
As reality and fiction blur, Josie and Elias face a unique question: How can they love when time separates them by two centuries? This is the story of her, him, and a novel written by a man for his timeless love.
Why read this epistolary novel?
This book, oh boy, where do I even start? The plot snatches you up and sweeps you along like a wild river; you simply can’t put it down. And the characters? They’re as complex as a 3D puzzle, each one more intriguing than the last.
I particularly savored the dual timeline, it’s like getting two epic stories for the price of one. The words dance off the page, filled to the brim with humor and the kind of joy that makes your heart flutter.
13 | The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer
Clean Historical Romance, World War Ⅱ
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.19 out of 5 stars
In the aftermath of WWII, London-based author Juliet Ashton stumbles upon a letter from a stranger in Guernsey. The letter serves as a gateway into the charming world of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society—a peculiar group formed as a facade during the German occupation.
Juliet’s curiosity is piqued, and she sets off for Guernsey, kick-starting a journey that reshapes her life. This novel, told through a series of warm, amusing letters, celebrates the enchanting power of words and the joy of unexpected friendships.
Why read this epistolary novel?
I’ve got to tell you, this book seriously made it to my favorite epistolary novel list, even if it’s not a Christian read. There were a few swear words (less than 5), but apart from that, it was totally clean.
The plot line is so gripping, you’ll find it hard to put down. It’s like being on a rollercoaster – one moment you’re laughing out loud at the characters’ antics, and the next you’re reaching for tissues as their stories unfold.
Did you discover the best Christian epistolary novels?
So there you have it, folks! Diving into the world of best Christian epistolary novels can be a real treat. These books have a unique way of making you feel like you’re part of the story, receiving the letters yourself and experiencing the same emotions as the characters.
They’re not just stories, but intimate journeys of faith, love, and overcoming trials.
So why not give them a shot? Who knows, you might just stumble upon a new favorite.
Happy reading, my friends!
