A post about love

Oh look - it's Valentine's Day.  For weeks now, stores have been festooned in far too much pink and red, while advertisers bombard email accounts, physical mailboxes, t.v. spots, and anywhere else available with reminders that you must buy something for that special someone in your life.

When it comes to Valentine's Day - I have mixed feelings.  Is it a celebration of the martyrdom of some guy called St. Valentine?  Is it actually about little chubby cupids?  Unlikely.  Should the focus be a celebration of materialism and commercialism?  Not unless you work for an ad agency.  Should everyone who doesn't have a significant other to cozy up to feel a rush of depression and angst?  Surely not.

For me, the real celebration of Valentine's Day is something that tends to get lost in the frenzy of  "get a gift on time - and you'd better not forget or you'll be in trouble!"  or "single's awareness day, let's celebrate being left out".  I think that Valentine's Day should simply be a reminder for us to appreciate the people in our lives who we love and who love us.  Whether they be a best friend, a family member, or - sure - the love of your life.

And speaking of love - why not also celebrate the things and experiences in life that we love!

In that spirit (and in acknowledgement that I do indeed have a certain special someone in my life) here is my book post with a twist.  Authors and books that are loved by both myself, and my Valentine!

1. The Belgariad and The Mallorean - by David Eddings
   Epic fantasy at its subtle snarkiest.
   
   
2. Series and Stand-alones by Brandon Sanderson

   

   Cover art from Warbreaker

   

   Cover art from Way of Kings

3. Harry Potter - by J.K. Rowling
   
4. Steven Brust's Vlad Taltos books
   
5. The Codex Alera - Jim Butcher
   

I hope that this Valentine's Day - you are reminded of the loves in your life, and that you find a way to show your appreciation for them! Happy Valentine's Day!