A closer look at Christian Romance novel: Mint and Regret

Mint and Regret went through a couple of different iterations. It was initially written with a secular eye, but I returned to it with a faith filled heart. It had a different cover and title.

The initial idea that sparked this novel was the same. I wanted to tell the story of a man determined to move up and out of his community. Something his family supports, but how it can also take a toil on the interpersonal relationships in his life.

It also gave me the chance to tell the story of a single mother, who also buys into the notion that nothing can come before the goal. Now, I was told this was an outdated idea. Of course, a man or woman can work and go to school. However, reddit and facebook prove that’s not the case. There are men still dumping their pregnant girlfriends in college and high school because they fear the change a child brings too their lives in the year of our Lord 2024.

So, I had hoped this book would do two things. Show, Keva acknowledging his hardship and meeting him halfway. While, also forgiving herself and changing the way she does things going forward. She didn’t continue to have unprotective sex and follow her urges into every new pair of silk sheets. See the mistake, repent, and do things differently the next time. Without feeling vindictive or taking out your lived hardship on others. Second, I’d hope that men would learn through Maxwell that nothing can stop you from achieving your dream, but you. You have to make that commitment in your head and follow through. Maybe it’s one less party you can attend or maybe you don’t have time for extracurriculars, but the lesson you’re giving your kid who sees you working hard to achieve your dream is invaluable. And I have no doubt that any kid would thrive having you in their life even half time then being permanently without your positive influence.

So, if it was written for a secular audience then how much was changed? A lot actually. There was initially a sexual assault that was played far too lightly. Spoiler alert incoming: In the published version, I pulled way back on Raymond’s intent to keep the relationship salvageable down the line. Once everyone’s feelings had settled, a friendship could continue. However, Maxwell and Keva set expectations for their friendship and his behavior going forward. In another instance, the sex scene in the prologue was explicit versus fade to black. But the biggest change involves the ending. The backstory to why Maxwell became a doctor came completely after my change of heart. So, why so extreme? Maxwell is from a working class family, but not a perfect community. I wanted men to be able to see themselves in him that he did something wrong, and turned that into a physical good. I’m going to finish college and get my degree.

Click the button to buy: