Everyone has a few books that mean a lot to them. For whatever reason, books that represent you, books that got you into reading–most regular readers has at least one book that you can say is your “favorite book”.

I can’t say that. I can’t choose a single “favorite” book, but here’s a list of a few of the books that mean the world to me.

Long Macchiatos and Monsters – Alison Evans

I read Alison’s Ida before reading this one, but it wasn’t until I picked up this novella that Alison (who is also enby) perfectly described my feelings of being a nonbinary person. It was a very shocking jolt to experience, but at the same time, I finally felt accepted, and it was such a comforting revelation.

Mask of Shadows – Linsey Miller

Leave now if this is a surprise to you. While MoS isn’t #OwnVoices, it was so refreshing to read about someone like me in one of those stereotypical fantasy novels (that is actually one of the few that is well written.) I am utter trash for this series, and if you ever see me, I can guarentee that it will be with MoS (or the sequel!) in my hands.

Ranger’s Apprentice (the full series) – John Flanagan

This is the series that got me into reading. This is the series that got me into writing. I wrote (and still do sometimes) fanfiction for this series, and I actually had a pretty sizable following for my fanfics. It has so many problems, but its also a fairly maleable series that I just couldn’t get enough of it. Oh, I also met my best friend through it!

Fortitude Smashed – Taylor Brooke

I often have difficulties finding novels that represent my relationship with my mental illnesses. I really enjoyed the romance and banter in this book, but what really hooked me to this series was the honesty and brutal mental health rep that really opened my eyes to myself.

Tenderness – Xan West

I consider Xan (Corey <3) a close friend of mine, so when I heard they had a short story coming out soon, I jumped at the chance to support them. Little did I know that I would be knocked down with the story. The queer found family, the autism–I just. This story means so much to me, because of who wrote it and what it tells me what is possible for me in the future.

What novels are important to you? Why?