Fictional Escapes

Fictional Escapes

A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies. The man who never reads lives only one

Like so many bloggers and life-long learners, I am a book lover. The type that has shelves full of books, of different genres, all carefully cataloged by theme, author and sometimes, importance in my life. Many I have read several times. These books have changed my life in some way and when I feel I need to re-root myself or find meaning in simpler times, they are like old friends waiting for me with open arms. Some I have only read once, but cannot bear to part with. Whether I liked the book or not (but usually I do), they have each become a part of me. Every story I read a new journey, with new meaning. I honestly have lived a thousand lives.

I believe books are a gateway to other worlds. Worlds where we can forget our fears, our insecurities, and feelings of inadequacy. We’re given the opportunity to revel in others’ successes, feel another’s love and grieve for the ones lost.  We are transferred to places where we can smell new smells, taste new tastes and hear new sounds. Each sentence creating a picture, a million little pieces forming the story inside our heads. Sometimes we learn meaningful lessons in the books we temporarily live in. And sometimes they change us forever.

I do not have a favorite genre. I believe that all books have a purpose and give us an understanding of our existence. Many times we don’t recognize that we have been given that understanding, but it is there, nonetheless. One by one, the books feed us knowledge and keep us growing, without our awareness.

I don’t read as much as I used to. But I am sure to read every morning for an hour minimum. I think it keeps my mind fresh and full of visions, giving me my best ideas. I usually have three to four books on the go at a time. Always from different genres, as I don’t like to confuse what I’m reading. Over the years, I have probably read close to a hundred thousand books. Sometimes I get through two a week and sometimes I get through ten. It depends on the book, it depends on the week. Currently, my home library contains over 500 books. Thankfully I don’t plan on moving any time soon.

It wasn’t difficult for me to choose my three favorite Fiction books. These are the same three books I suggest to anyone looking for something new to read. I usually read books that are series as I like to follow personal journeys for as long as an author will allow me. All of my picks are series, but you could just read the first of each set. Good luck stopping at just one 😊

Earth Children – Jean M. Auel (Historical Fiction)

The Earth’s Children takes place 30 000 years ago. It is a story of Ayla who is different from the ones she calls family and eventually is banned from her home.  When she starts life anew, she thinks that she is alone in the world and will always be but rescues a young man and they fall in love (why else would they meet?). He takes her to his home, where she is accepted again and feels the joys of community, friendship, and love.

This series instigated my desire to learn botany and medicinal uses of plants but also taught me that the human spirit can triumph in times of adversity. It is a beautiful tale and why they haven’t made a movie (Hollywood style) is beyond me. Yes, this is a hint!

The Sword of Truth Series – Terry Goodkind (Fantasy)

The Sword of Truth series is 21 books! It is an epic tale of Good vs. Evil. Richard and Kahlan must defeat the forces of darkness using the skills they are taught and their wits. Friends become foes and foes become allies. It’s a great storyline with many multifaceted characters. Kahlan and Richard are a couple very much in love, but they recognize that they have a duty to protect the living and magic.

Fourteen of the books have a lesson, known as Wizards rules. While the books are fictional, I think the rules are true and each has brought meaning and clarity to me at various times in my life.

For a list of the rules click here.

The Odd Thomas Series- Dean Koontz (Supernatural Mystery)

Odd is an odd name, but Odd is an Odd guy. He sees the dead, or their spirits rather. Using the silent communication and help from the lingering dead, Odd helps solve crimes, prevents acts of terrorism and helps Elvis find his way home.

This is a story of love, loss, celebration and making the most of what you have. A movie based on the first book was released in 2014. It was good but not as good as the book. The readers know what I mean.

You thought I would forget a book about kinky fuckery. No worries, I’ve got your back 😊

Bries Submission – Red Pheonix (Erotic Romance)

This series is 20 books. Not all the books are from Brie’s point of view which is a nice change in a long series. Brie is a young woman who gets invited to attend a Submissive Academy and learn how to be a good submissive from the pros. Of course, she accepts the invitation.

Brie meets many different people along her way and learns many lessons. This series shows courage, the power of friendship and forgiveness and that love truly conquers all.

If you’re into erotic fiction and D/s themes and haven’t read this book, I don’t know what you’re waiting for. Red Pheonix is an amazing author who really breathes life into her characters. Brie and Thanes D/s dynamic is truly a beautiful thing to watch develop, and almost feels real as the characters and their personalities jump from the pages.

I could go on forever about all the wonderful books I’ve read, and how they’ve changed my life, but for now, I’ll leave you with these.

Happy reading!

To see who else contributed to #BookMatters for ifsexmatters.co.uk, click on the badge.

For more about the books I love, see Book Reviews.

For some of my own writing, see Fiction by MrsK.

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