By Anneka R. Walker, author of The Gentleman’s Confession

In 2021, I received an email from an editor with a request for more books that would uplift and encourage our readership. She specifically requested additional books that showcase healthy family relationships. Literature often portrays wicked step-mothers and abusive fathers, but there is a need for more families worth emulating. 

One of my motivations for writing was to have more options for clean content on my shelves. After reading this email, I immediately sat down and created my world of Society Rebels: best friends looking for ways to better their communities, even when it was unpopular or ‘improper.’ These friends were raised by intentional parents who were as imperfect as the rest of us. Parents who tended to overstep on occasion or interfere when prompted . . . but only when motivated by love (of course!). From this idea, my Matchmaking Mamas was born. 

This enjoyable series combines humor and depth, proving that uplifting content doesn’t have to be boring. When well written, it can be just as entertaining (and more so) as competing alternatives. Tension and conflict come in all forms, just as swoony doesn’t have to include spice. Think the Mr. Darcy hand flex, the Flynn Rider smolder, or the heartfelt sincerity of Gilbert Blythe. Themes and description can make all the difference in a story. 

So why was I eager to adjust my plans and create this new series? Writing is as much about business as creativity. With every project, an author must decide how the market will respond to their books. Is there a need for books like this in our communities? 

It was this last question that swayed me. The answer was and is a resounding yes! What we read affects our brain. From stress reduction to an increase of focus and concentration, books can be just what the doctor ordered. Conversely, words have power to influence negatively too. “Do you remember how good you felt until you read that book about a cheating spouse? Before that, you didn’t worry about the faithfulness of yours,” says Karen Dahli, from NoveList. When we input material into our brains, it creates a psychological reaction. Readers can experience increased irritability, guilt, and overidentification with fictional characters. 

So how do you know if your novel is good for you? YOU are the best judge for yourself. But might I offer some tried-and-true tips that work for me?:

1. Read reviews and search for content warnings. Reviewers often include comments like “just kisses” or “trigger warnings.” 

2. Find reviewers you trust. I have several accounts on Facebook and Instagram who recommend books I know I will love without chapters I have to skip. 

3. Pay attention to how you feel when you set your book down. 

While researching for this article, I decided to search Amazon reviews on my own books. This can be a dangerous endeavor for a writer (reviews can mess with our heads), but my curiosity got the better of me. Ignoring my favorite lines about laugh-out-loud awkward moments and the payoffs of a good slow burn, I specifically searched for mentions of themes. I already knew my books have no language or questionable scenes, but how do my readers feel when they finish my books? Here is some feedback: 

(Bargaining for the Barrister: book 1) “A playful and fun Historical Romance with energetic and witty characters. Louisa is always smiling and finding happiness, despite the great losses she’s experienced.” –Micah, Amazon Reviewer 

(An Unwitting Alliance: book 2) “Anneka R. Walker has delivered another deliciously delightful story for the Matchmaking Mamas! This is such a fun and fast read that takes you on a journey that makes you laugh, gauge what’s important, and root for love!” –Work_kids_n_books

(The Gentleman’s Confession: book 3) “There were all sorts of schemes and twists and ups and downs while the slow burn between Jemma and Miles built. Such a great cast of characters and I enjoyed that there weren’t really any villains in the story (okay, except maybe for the old ladies who wouldn’t leave poor Miles alone, lol!) and that everyone got their happily ever after.” –Amazon Reviewer

Growing up as the daughter of a head librarian and an English teacher-turned judge, I was raised to love reading. To ensure the best selection for her library, my mom would evaluate books in advance and research the market. She had a fantastic collection of stories without language, excessive violence, or explicit material. While that was thirty years ago, there is still a strong market for clean literature. I love writing uplifting content and bringing joy to my readers. Along with my Matchmaking Mama series, I have written Rom Coms, Historical Romance, Fairy tales, and Christmas stories, all of which are clean enough to pass to your daughters. 

If you take the time to search for books that fit your comfort level, you’ll find it. Make this next read of yours a healthy choice for your mind and mood! 

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NEW! The Gentleman’s Confession: Inexperienced in courtship and love, Jemma turns to her best friend, Miles, for guidance on how to win a man’s heart—not knowing that Miles has secretly loved her for years.