From Harlequin to Indie: Narelle Atkins on the Real Business of Christian Romance Writing

In this episode of Created to Write, prolific author and mentor Narelle Atkins pulls back the curtain on what it actually takes to build a sustainable career in Christian writing and she doesn't sugarcoat a thing.

Narelle's journey from traditional publishing with Harlequin to the world of independent publishing is a masterclass in adaptability, creative courage, and creating with God at everystage of the process. She knows both worlds intimately, and her insights are worth their weight in book sales.

For anyone beginning out as an aspiring author or new to writing and navigating the industry for the first time, her warnings about vanity publishing and predatory industry practices are essential listening. Pair that with her practical guidance on market research and cost-effective book production, and this episode becomes one of the mostuseful career conversations we've had on the show.

Narelle also speaks with rare honesty about managing creative blocks during personal hardship - a reminder that writing with purpose doesn't pause for difficult seasons, but it does require grace, community, and realistic expectations.

Whether you're dreaming of a traditional deal or going indie, Narelle's advice is clear: know your market, find your people, and never stop honing the craft.

A fun loving Aussie girl at heart, NARELLE ATKINS was born and raised on the beautiful northern beaches in Sydney, Australia. She has settled in Canberra with her husband and children. A lifelong romance reader, she found the perfect genre to write when she discovered inspirational romance. Narelle's contemporary stories of faith and romance are set in
Australia and international locations. In 2025 she launched her Fan Girling with Narelle podcast and YouTube show where she shares her love for books. Narelle offers mentoring services for writers.

Website: https://narelleatkins.com
YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/@NarelleAtkinsAuthor