I went through a period where I didn’t want anything to do with contemporary AA fiction. I’ll say early to mid 1990’s. Because it was all the same stuff rehashed. I’ve since circled back to read select AA authors regularly and debut AA authors.

My reading runs more along the Christian fiction line. If I may add some AA Christian fiction authors to the list, try the books of Marilynn Griffith, Angela Benson, Claudia Mair Burney, Sharon Foster Ewell for stories that not only entertain but really make you think. Now if you want a really good Christian fic read, maybe a bit lighter but no less entertaining and maybe a few laughs, throw in some Victoria Christopher Murray, ReShonda Tate Billingsley, Michele Andrea Bowen, Michelle Stimpson, and Tia McCollors. There’s a host of other authors in Christian fiction that are well-written, not preachy, and very enjoyable. And I’m excited that there’s a whole new group of AA authors beginning to make names for themselves in this genre.

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Have you started reading more meaty books? Or, have you gone to more fluff books? I’m a versatile reader so I’ve always enjoyed “meaty” books as well as “fluff.” Depends on what I’m in the mood for. Both serve their purpose.

I love my AA authors, but when I want something different, some of my favorites are Jackie Collins, Iris Johansen, JD Robb, Tami Hoag and Barbara Parker. I’d recommend any of these authors to those wanting to branch out.

I’ve heard from many readers (of all races) that my book is universal and now, from this post, I see what they mean. That’s what I like to read–books that speak to the human condition (by the same authors you mentioned plus Tayari Jones, Martha Southgate, ZZ Packer, Pearl Cleage, Kim McLarin, and Elyse Singleton to name a few).

I have hopes that those of us writing universal stories will continue to attract and grow an audience (of all races), rising above and beyond the limitations that publishers and booksellers place on us. But in the meantime, thank you for giving a little extra attention to Af Am writers!!!

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