Who doesn’t love a fast-paced absorbing read? Alison Heller‘s debut novel The Love Wars is just that!  Here are five books that have engaged and inspired Alison as a reader and author—they’re guaranteed to command your full attention from grab-you-by-the-collar start through satisfying end:

 Shining Through by Susan Isaacs

“A smart, witty and underappreciated secretary goes on a spy mission in Nazi Berlin and (of course) unexpectedly finds love too. Incredibly fun, clever and dramatic.”

 The Rainmaker by John Grisham

“Twists and turns, perfect pacing, and clearly drawn good guys and bad guys make this story of a first-year law graduate’s fight for justice—and a remunerative career—impossible to put down.”

 The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

“Collins has perfectly imagined the chilling post-apocalyptic universe of Panem, but it’s 16 year-old Katniss Everdeen’s emotional depth and honesty that have sucked in millions of engaged readers.”

 Into The Wild by Jon Krakauer

“Completely absorbing and impressively researched, this is the true story of a college graduate who ditched the trappings of his privileged life and disappeared into the majestic wilderness. It will appeal to anyone who has ever—for even the briefest of seconds—wondered about just walking away from it all.”

The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen

“A beautifully written tale of a pivotal summer in the life of high-school student Macy. The quiet beauty, wisdom and emotional depth don’t slow down the story, which captivates and pulls your heartstrings the entire way through.”

Pinterest PS – Check out our Pinterest board which was inspired by the cover for The Love Wars!