If you happen to love books as much as I do, you’ll understand the incredible feeling of finding a piece of literary magic. A story that bounces off a nerve somewhere deep within your soul and remains with you for years to come. As weird as it sounds, I’ve thought about particular characters long after I’ve read the final page. Even wondered what would have happened later on in the hypothetical, yet unwritten, future chapters.
There have been several books throughout my life that left a mark. I’ve returned to these books for comfort, when I’ve needed something familiar to read or just for the certainty of a good storyline.
I thought I’d share a selection from my list with you in case you are looking for new additions to your own book compilation.
Lord of the Flies by William Golding
I had to analyse this for my GCSE English exams and as a consequence, the storyline and everyone living within the pages are now firmly ingrained in my mind. The complexity and depth of each character and a desire to rule in two extreme ways is one of the main themes of the story; peaceful and democratic or cruel and dictatorial. Which way do you go? It’s captivating and kind of gut wrenching in parts. Iconic in its narrative, I would recommend to anyone who hasn’t yet met the schoolboys – Jack, Ralph et al.
No and Me by Delphine de Vigan
A favourite of mine for many years now and a gift book I regularly offer to friends. I think this book was one of the first that really made me realise how important and powerful a style of writing can be. Involving the unexpected friendship between Lou and a homeless girl called No, the story shows a family in need of, and then finding, the opportunity of self-reflection.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Ok, I admit I’m obsessed with Jane Austen. She can do no wrong in my eyes and it would be a crime for me not to involve at least one of her tales in this list. My favourite of the lot and one I can read time and time again is Pride and Prejudice. The quotes, the family life, it’s all so melodic and sweeping in tone. The debate about whether the self-determined and somewhat rebellious Elizabeth Benet is truly a feminist goes on. However it must be recognised that her intriguing strength of character is the true beating heart of this nineteenth century classic.
Spoils of Time trilogy by Penny Vincenzi
My favourite author of all time, I think I’ve read everything Ms. Vincenzi has ever written. But this trilogy is an absolute masterpiece with characters such as the Lytton twins burning their mark in my life forever. Each of the three books (1. No Angel, 2. Something Dangerous, 3. Into Temptation) is vast in content but gripping from the start. If you like a pre (and during)-war drama with characters holding deep complexity, a touch of romance and the utmost glamour then it’s certainly an ideal recommendation.
The man who didn’t call by Rosie Walsh
An absolutely gripping story of love, hope and the heartbreaking agony of the unknown. It’s that well recognised situation where your friends tell you to just forget about him but you know something isn’t quite right. A fantastic book that I finished in super quick time because I simply couldn’t stop thinking about it during the brief moments where I actually put it down. Would happily read it again.
*Photos used were found on a free photography site.