The Romance of Literacy

September 8 is International Literacy Day, a day for raising awareness of literacy issues and celebrating the importance and joy of reading.

While not a day that is traditionally focused on romance, literacy can be quite romantic if you think about it! You can cozy up with your love while you each read books of your choosing. You can read to each other, whether it be poetry or simply a story that holds both of your interests. Or, at the height of romance, you can write love letters for you each to read. 

A couple of my characters have written love letters that I wanted to share in celebration of the occasion. Can you guess what books they’re from?

 

My dearest Emmaline,

Leaving Willow Bay, and you, was truly the hardest thing I have ever done. I don’t regret my actions – revealing my father’s misdeeds was the right thing to do, and it saved your family from a future of loss and regret. But don’t think I don’t miss you every day and wish that you had joined me in starting a future outside Willow Bay.

I don’t expect you to ever read this, but if you do, know this: I love you. I will always love you. And someday, I hope to be deserving of your love once again. I want to heal your broken heart, and I hope that you will allow me in so I can do just that.

Until then, know you are always in my heart.

Your Miles

 

My Duchess,

After the accident that took Brandy, I thought that I would never be able to allow someone into my heart again. My combat scars were nothing compared to the emotional scars that I carried with me. I was a broken man.  Who knew that an angel with scars of her own would be the one who healed me.  That your sweet smile would be part of the cure.

I am grateful for the heart that beats inside you. The heart that brought you to Aspen Cove, and into my life. The heart that made me whole again. The heart that I will love forever.

I love you, Katie Middleton. Know that my heart beats for you.

Love always,

Bowie

 

Do you recognize the books these characters are from? Let me know!

And however you celebrate International Literacy Day, don’t forget to always choose love.

 

Kelly Collins