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Why so many? I'd guess it's because definitions differ among sources that claim the designation. Do you mean books sold by so-called "Christian" publishers? Or do you mean books that specifically preach a "Christian" message or theme? As pointed out, not all books from "Christian" publishers (or at least those that choose to so designate themselves in title or description) are 'preachy.' So are we talking about just 'clean' literature' that adheres to a self-imposed, Biblically-based level of morality or are we talking about the "Christian" message and/or theology, specifically?
Some publishers may see that label as a 'standard of excellence' according to their own guidelines. Others may just wish to appeal to buyers to support their claim of being a 'believer' or to advertise themselves as a member of the Christian community. It's not such a problem in the world of publishing because book titles are usually self-descriptive when combined with a decent summary. In the real world, claiming to be a 'Christian' business often seeks trusting customers and/or seeks to establish credibility by using the 'Christian' label as a self-designated, unvetted claim to legitimacy. Since the designation is free to any claims, it is often used 'on the street' as an entry for scam artists, especially to the elderly ... probably not a problem in publishing.
Personally, I tend to avoid such publishers because they tend to publish either theological works, the best of which can be found at any large publishing house by 'name' writers, or they tend to be outlets for religiously-inspired amateurs who need an outlet for their enthusiasm and want to help convert others to their insights and beliefs, turning out reams of worn-out text for free as a personal exercise in good intentions. I would think, in the publishing world, that self-labeling would diminish more interest that it would inspire. But read what you like and like what you read ... and where you obtain it.
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