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May 11th: List your top 5 favorite books/series
This is a tough one because my tastes have varied over the years. I have a running list of favorites that I started when I began blogging. You can find that list HERE.
- Kate Daniels series by Ilona Andrews. This is the first series that comes to mind when asked for favorites. The world building, story telling, plot development, characters’ relationships… every aspect of the series… it all works so well, the stories are darn near perfection. Every book, while completely original, builds upon the previous story, creating an utterly sublime experience, making me want to reread the series from the beginning each time. If you aren’t reading the Kate Daniels series, you are missing out.
- Veronica Speedwell Mysteries by Deanna Raybourn. A well-crafted, engaging historical mystery series, the Veronica Speedwell Mysteries are a treat. The mystery is always foremost in the books, and I love getting inside Veronica’s mind as she intelligently works her way through the clues. Equal parts crime-solving and adventure, their escapades are thrilling and dangerous. In addition, there is a wonderful slow-burn romance that melts my heart.
- Dune by Frank Herbert. The story of Paul Muad’Dib, the heir to the Atreides dukedom, is one that transcends the test of time. It is as fresh and relevant today as it was 50 years ago. Each time I read/listen to the story, I find new treasures: bits of wisdom, secret meanings, insightful allegory.
- Iron Seas series by Meljean Brook. To be honest, I haven’t read these books in about seven years, but they are steampunk, fantasy, and romance at its best. Each book is filled with romance, humor, and political intrigue, and the stories build to a powerful crescendo that is the culmination of everything which came before it: every word, every look, every emotion… they all build and explode. The emotions are so powerful that they provoked true tears from my eyes. The suspense so gripping that my heart was pounding in reaction.
- Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. Other than Kate Daniels, I can’t recall another series that I have read and re-read so many times. In addition, I adore the movie adaptations and all of the allure that surrounds the world. Reading the books transports me to a world where magic really does exist. The books aren’t perfect, but as a series, they are gripping, emotional, and adventurous.