So like many writers, I am an avid reader too. I would never have become a writer, if I hadn’t read books, I’d like to have written and these are a few of them.
The Donovan Legacy – Nora Roberts
I loved these romantic paranormal stories about a supernatural family. If you enjoyed the 1990’s witchy TV series Charmed you’ll love these stories too. The romance is easy, the characters believable and the magic is the perfect escapism.
I wanted to write stories with the same mix of paranormal romance and fantasy . I decided to write a paranormal romance after reading this series but it was over ten years later, when I wrote my first paranormal romance; The Dragon Legacy series.
Ashes to Ashes – Tami Hoag
I also love reading mysteries and thrillers, especially those that get inside the mind of the antagonist. Tami Hoag, does this perfectly, especially in my favourite story of hers.
The female lead in this story is perfectly flawed but so easy to empathise with. The villain is pure evil and the suspense to die for. I read this in the late nineties but its still one of my favourite suspense thrillers.
In my current release, The Dangerous Gift, I tried to create the same suspenseful ethos with elements of romance and mystery intertwined.
The Cat Who… Lilian Jackson Braun
My mum loved, what is now termed cosy mysteries and she introduced me to Lilian Jackson Braun and ‘The Cat Who….’ mysteries. These feature a quirky private detective and his two Siamese cats, who are really the stars of the book; Koko and Yum Yum. The stories are simple but full of interesting characters and they remind me of happy times with my mum.
Tangled Reins and Four in Hand – Stephanie Laurens
I have always loved reading Regency Romance and Stephanie Laurens’, ‘Four in Hand’ and ‘Tangled Reins’ are two of my all time favourites Arrogant, sexy heroes. Feisty , intelligent yet vulnerable heroines and a glamorous settings make them great to read.
My love of Regency romance,mystery, suspense and the paranormal, inspired me to write my latest story ‘Past Shadows’ . which I hope to release later this year. Excerpts are on Wattpad under my user name JaneHunt5.
Summer at the Comfort Food Cafe Debbie Johnson
As a book reviewer, I am lucky enough to read stories from many different authors. One of my favourites because her stories never fail to make me laugh out loud is Debbie Johnson. Her latest book ‘ Summer at the Comfort Food Cafe’ is her most memorable tale to date, full of fun, poignancy and some many delightfully, real characters. Definitely a must read this summer.
So that’s my top five books, what are yours and why? Comment below or on Twitter using the hashtag #LifeBooksWriting.