Books Worth Reading
We're spending a lot more time at home, perhaps getting caught up on projects, more quality time with family, or if you're like many, enjoying all the books you've been meaning to read. Since I never stop reading, this pretty much describes my life all the time.
Do you have favorite books? I certainly do. Those favorites change from time to time, but the top 5-10 books are usually the same, or at least by the same authors.
Here are a few books I recommend trying, if you haven't already.
The Princes of Ireland and The Rebels of Ireland by Edward Rutherford
It has been a few years since I've read these, but the adventure, drama, romance, and magnificent storytelling have remained with me. These are not light or quick reads, but they are worth reading every word.
The Shadowy Horses and Mariana by Susanna Kearsley
This author made my favorites list a couple of years ago when I read The Shadowy Horses. After that book, I bought and read the rest of her collection. They are all fantastic, and it's tough to even consider playing favorites, but these two really struck chords in me. Which ones, I cannot quite say.
The Irish Country Books by Patrick Taylor
This series is now up to 15 books, and no, I haven't read them all yet. I remember when I first picked up book one, I was going through my phase where I wanted to live and breathe all things Irish. This author's books provided what I needed at the time. They offer quiet adventures about interesting people, all delivered by a talented and humorous writer.
Mrs. Drew Plays Her Hand and Miss Grimsley's Oxford Career by Carla Kelly
For those who like their adventures in the form of inspirational Regency romances, you can't go wrong with two of my favorites from Carla Kelly. "Delightful" is usually the word I use to describe this author's writing. The history, dialogue, and humor are combined to create charming characters, tender romance, and memorable stories.
The Last Renegade and True to the Law by Jo Goodman
On the other end of the spectrum, we have the romping good times, dry humor, and impressive vocabulary of Goodman's characters. I skip over the steamier scenes, but doing so takes away none of the pleasure derived from the books in this historical western romance series. Actually, I like all of her historical westerns, and if you enjoy the genre, I recommend giving them a try.
The Little Shop of Found Things and Secrets of the Chocolate House by Paula Brackston
Now, this author isn't on my current favorite list, but not because she hasn't earned a spot. I just haven't updated the listed in a while. I've enjoyed many hours of reading pleasure within the pages of this author's books, most especially with The Silver Witch. However, there is something about the Found Things series that pulls me back for more. Book three releases in November, and I'm eager for its release.
Want more? Check out these other great series by talented authors:
Whispers on the Moors series by Sarah E. Ladd
Malory Family series by Johanna Lindsey (now called the Malory-Anderson series)
The Claybornes' Brides series by Julie Garwood
The Highland Lairds series by Julie Garwood
The Sawtooth Range series by Samantha St. Claire
I could go on and on and on. So many books . . . plenty of time. What are you reading?