Last week, I wrote about how books can provide solace during these difficult times of isolation. Now is the time to be a reader! But be selective about the novels you read – choose those that will lift your mood and inspire happy dreams. In short, I say, read romances.

Here are my top ten reasons to pick up a romance novel today:

1. Blissful escapism

Romance is pure, heavenly escapism. Whatever’s happening in your life, you can step away from it with just the turn of a page – you can put aside all stresses and strains and be transported into another time and place. It’s the ultimate little break, a form of meditation, and when you put down the book you’re calmer and better equipped to live reality once more.

2. A chance to ‘meet’ Mr Right

It may be fantasy, but fantasy is a lot of fun. When you read a romance novel and click with the hero, you enjoy the reading so much. Love is a beautiful thing, and falling in love a little with a character can only make you feel happy.

3. Simple therapy

At its core each romance novel is a story of two people struggling with emotions, just as we all do. ‘Gives me the feels’ has become a common description in romance book reviews: we read not simply to observe, but to engage – to feel. Reading romance novels is cathartic, and the very best novels can restore wavering faith in love and life.

4. A guarantee of happy closure

When life hands you lemons, put them down and pick up a romance book. In happy-ever-after romance novels, you can truly escape and unwind, knowing that the ending will not leave you dangling, uncertain and frustrated, and will reinforce the message that life is good.

5. A long and distinguished history

Look at the great works of literature. Almost every story that has stood the test of time in some way relates to love. People have been engaging with romance stories for centuries. When you read romance, you’re part of a strong tradition.

6. A plentiful supply

Romance is the biggest genre in publishing, in terms of volume of books published and sales. That means your ‘to read’ pile never need be anything less than teetering. Whenever you’re in the mood to read, you can get hold of a romance book.

7. So much choice

Whatever your particular brand of romance, someone somewhere is writing it. Whether you like sassy, steamy rollercoaster rides or beautiful, evocative love stories (like mine), you can find plenty of books to read. And if you feel like dipping your toe into the water of a different style of romance, there are so many to choose from.

8. A chance to learn and grow

The best romances offer an opportunity for readers to learn about something new, such as an interesting occupation or a place. In my own romances, I take readers to fascinating locations around the world, like Lake Como and Venice and Cadiz, so that my books are like a passport to travel from the comfort of your own home.

And speaking of my books… if you are in the mood for romance, why not try one of my novels? Today, you can take advantage of a half-price deal on all of my novels in my ebook shop.