It has become more common for booksellers and libraries to consider inspirational fiction to be a separate genre, classifying and shelving books accordingly.
Possible criteria that have been suggested as categorizing a book as inspirational fiction include novels whose main purpose is depict an example of change in the life of a major characters in order to inspire readers to make such changes in their own life.
Due to the absence of strict rules for categorizing books as inspirational fiction, libraries often include explanations or disclaimers when using this category, such as this example: "Please note: The books listed here cover a wide variety of genres and types, from traditional inspirational fiction authors such as June Masters Bacher and Janette Oke, to thrillers such as those written by Paul Meier and fantasy and science fiction titles by J.R.R.
Her books often focus on individuals, very often pioneers in the early West, who must draw upon a sense and awareness of faith to overcome adversity.
"[15] Books like Gurian's own The Miracle: A Visionary Novel and Michael Murphy's Golf in the Kingdom have been suggested for this category.
[16] Novels that explore with charm and humor the everyday joys, frustrations, and sorrows of lives quietly led are often categorized as "gentle reads".
[17] Authors associated with gentle fiction include Maeve Binchy, Ann Bates Ross, Patrick Taylor, Lisa Wingate, and Jan Karon.