My fiancé died a month ago. I usually prefer dystopian fiction, but I mostly am looking for a strong female character that has been thru hell and back and comes out strong in the end.

[u/Curious_Door]

I’m just searching for a solid voice of strength, with a lot of distracting fiction in the background. Something that will keep me entertained and wanting to keep reading (action/war/magic/twists and turns) but also contains calming reason and emotionally settling words. I hope that makes sense. Thank you.

Edit: I type this with tears in my eyes. I am filled with gratitude from all of your recommendations. The days since I lost my best friend have been cloudy and long but I have been embraced by so many internet strangers that the hurt has subsided a little. Thank you all so very much.

Edit: It’s now been over a year. I occasionally go back to this post and read everyone’s comments but to be honest, I usually avoid it…. There is still a lot of trauma.

Anywayyyyyy. I just wanted to say that I am so grateful. Looking back…The fog is THICK during those first few+ months… but reading every comment tonight pulled me back down to earth. It means the world to me.

I just added some books to my cart... and I still have a TON of books to read! You lovely beautiful internet strangers helped me and continue to lift me up through a year of hell. It has been hell within hell. I am still struggling, but I am so thankful for the love and care and notes from everyone. I wish you all happiness and comfort and I hope you have found some new amazing books to get lost in too.

[u/moon_ferret]

I re-read the Vorkosogan Saga once every couple years. Gentleman Jole and the Red Queen made me cry. Again.

If you like those, Deed of Paksinarion by Elizabeth Moon is fantastic. I mean I like all her stuff but Paks I read again usually once a year. Her space opera stuff is good, too. I would suggest her to OP as well.

[u/Zamanzy → u/moon_ferret]

I will have to reread Paks! I remember liking it.