Reality and Fiction

For many, reading is an escape from the real world. Cuddling up with a book means a chance to leave from the harsh realities that surround us - crime, threats of terrorism, natural disasters and war. But what about when such topics insinuate themselves into books? Do you read on? Would you be willing to spend time reading about a group of people dealing with the aftermath of 9/11 or a family picking up the pieces after Hurricane Katrina? What about a story about a POW soldier who returns home from Iraq? Of the heroine who feels guilty because a fellow soldier she was serving with died in battle?

Are there any instances where you'd be willing to read these stories? Instances where you'd choose not to read on? Would the type of book (suspense, category romance, mainstream fiction) determine whether you would read the book or not?

And if you've read books with war or terrorism as themes, or even secondary plots, what did you think of these books?

In an upcoming issue of RT, we'll be exploring this topic and I'd like your input. So let me hear from you. What do you think about mixing the realities of war, terrorism and natural disasters with fiction?

Faygie Levy
Executive Editor
RT BOOKreviews Magazine

American Title Writing Competition

As the American Idol tryouts are underway in search of their finalists, the folks at Dorchester Publishing have already selected their ten finalists for this year’s American Title III competition. Not only do we have our first male contestant make the cut this year but the contest was also open to all categories of contemporary fiction. There is strong competition among the talented contenders and the judges are in rare form with their candid opinions the opening lines for each novel which is the first area of competition.

Polls are officially open and will remain open from between October 16 to 29 so be sure to vote.

Let the game begin and your comments, opinions and feedback are welcome here!!

Carol Stacy,
Publisher of Romantic Times BOOKreviews Magazine.