Reading and Romance

While I’ll always hold my friends and family nearest and dearest, when it comes to material possessions, the books on my shelves and on various storage media are quite precious. After a busy workday, one of the best ways to banish stress is by reading a great book. No matter what the genre or sub-genre, simply by slipping into the world created by an author, the hours pass as I turn the print or e-pages. I escape harsh reality and immerse myself in the tale being told.

Romance fiction has some of the finest writers in its ranks. My favorite Romance novel is MORNING GLORY by LaVyrle Spencer. Some of my other favorite literary works from the thousands I’ve read over the years, also solid examples of excellence in storytelling, are TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, THE GRAPES OF WRATH, and THE GREAT GATSBY. Why these? Strength of story, setting and characterization are the elements factored into my decision. These are well-written books I’ve read countless times. They hold my attention from first page to last, and various times I’ve read each of these in a single sitting.


We authors strive to strike certain chords with readers. Chords that resonate long after the book covers are closed or the e-reader is turned off. I’m an avid reader of romance, literary and women’s fiction, and I enjoy the infusion of reality in the romance. And believable conflict. When it comes to romances, I prefer a hero and heroine who can function independently of each other but who thrive when together. Though I embrace a romantic commitment and happily-ever-after, these are not necessary elements in my reading material. You’ll notice my selections are ones rife with conflict. More reality than fantasy. I’m a woman who delights in true romance—in real life and in my reading material. At heart, I’m a romantic and sentimentalist. One who delights in preparing for a date or a fantasy getaway. I also consider flipping through photo albums time well spent for the pleasant memories it stirs. But when I read the Romance, I must be able to put myself in the heroine’s position and accept her goals, motivations and decisions. Her romance must ring true and her heart must not be too easily won. When I read the novel’s final sentence, I want to believe that couple has a solid chance at staying together and not becoming another grim statistic.

What about you, readers? Which books would top your list of must-keeps and ones you never tire of reading??


Wishing you all many happy reading moments,

Shawna Moore
TORMENTED -- Now available at Ellora's Cave
ROUGHRIDER -- Ellora's Cave Exotika
HELLE IN HEELS -- Ellora's Cave Exotika

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4 comments:

Elen Grey said...

You've just named three of my favorite stories. So many books. So little time.

I also love Guy Gavriel Kay's -- The Fionavar Tapestry for its ability to move me and the beauty of the language. Herman Wouk's The Winds of War and War and Remembrance. Piers Anthony's Incarnations of Immortality series; Emilie by Arlette Cousture and translated by Kathe Roth. And, Elizabeth Peters for always making me laugh.

I have to stop now.

ShawnaMoore said...

Hi, Elen!

I agree about needing more time to read more books :) I'm so glad my mother introduced me to books and reading at an early age.

Now you've piqued my interest and I'm adding The Fionavar Tapestry to my must-read list :)

Hope you have a lovely Sunday :)

Smiles across the miles,

Shawna -- who's off to check the chocolate cupcakes in the oven

Nicole North said...

A happily every after ending is a must for me in my reading. Needless to say I'm a big romance fan. Laura Kinsale's books top my list of keepers. I read them (or parts of them) over and over.

ShawnaMoore said...

Hi, Nicole!

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and favorite :) I also really enjoy Laura's novels :)

Happy week wishes,

Shawna