It used to be very difficult for me to say what kind of books I like. “I just read whatever,” I’d say. A friend of mine laughed. “No. You like fantasy, historical fiction, and romance.” At the time I resented being pigeon-holed. I’m an open-minded person! Why would I dismiss entire genres? But after looking at my bookshelves, I realized she was right. My tastes are clear.
I love fantasy because it fills me with a sense of wonder. I love being immersed in a new world or, even better, imagining the magic and mysteries that hide just below the surface of our own.
My Soul to Keep by Tananarive Due blew me away. I was on the edge of my seat as I read and even live-tweeted my reactions. It was a bit scary and could appeal to those who love thriller, and featured a twisted love story that could appeal those who like romance. But the best part was the secret society of immortal African men. Be still my heart! *swoons* My Soul to Keep is the first in the African Immortals series.
My love of historical fiction comes from the same need for escape that draws me to fantasy. The difference here is that the world the book transports me to is real. Island Beneath the Sea is a beautifully crafted drama by Isabel Allende about the intertwining lives of an enslaved woman and a white plantation owner during the Haitian Revolution.
I don’t like to use the phrase “guilty pleasure” but romance and erotic fiction are definitely my indulgences. I don’t usually like books where romance is the central narrative but after a super-stressful day, I often curl up with my Kobo, download the steamiest novellas I can find, and consume them like candy.
Vivid by Beverly Jenkins is one of the few such books that I added to my official reading lists. It was that good. Vivid, the titular character, is a black doctor looking for employment in 19th century America. Nate, the handsome mayor who’s been burned by love, needs to hire a doctor to serve his all-black community. Sparks fly and passions run high when their paths cross. It was quick, easy read and the dialogue kept me laughing. Also they have sex outside a lot. ‘Cause beds are for squares, amiright?
Do you like these genres? What other books should I pick up?
Thanks for pointing that out! I’ll add one soon.
Ack I hate that you’ve made me add 2 (the first 2) books to my reading list – and these are moving close to the beginning. I’ve been meaning to read Due forever – especially the books she write with her husband. I gotta get on it!
(Oh and you don’t have any subscription for RSS on your site).
I really need to read Allende!! thanks for the reminder!
My Soul to Keep looks like one I need to look into!
That’s amazing! I’ve loved her writing style since high school :)
I recently got to see Isabel Allende speak. She was amazing and so funny. I recommend going to see her if you ever get a chance!
I find myself coming back to fantasy all the time. I just love it so much that it’s what I mostly want to read!