The pandemic has taken a toll on my libido. Whether it’s being cooped up with my children all day or the endless cycle of cleaning a house that never seems to stay tidy, I’ve found my energy depleted after nearly a year of remote schooling and working from home. The reality is, intimacy has fallen by the wayside, and sex feels like the last thing on my mind. In response, I’ve turned to romance novels to help reignite my passion during these challenging times.
Let’s face it: pandemic-related stress is real, affecting all aspects of life, including my sex life. It’s tough to feel frisky when you’re overwhelmed. When stress hits, I find myself reaching for snacks like potato chips and salted caramel gelato instead of feeling romantic.
My partner, however, has a markedly different approach to intimacy. He thrives on physical connection, and even the slightest hint of affection can spark his interest. Don’t get me wrong—he’s incredibly attractive, and a glance at his strong physique usually stirs something within me. But these days, I find myself needing a little extra inspiration to get in the mood, which isn’t fair to him, as my current disinterest has little to do with his appeal.
With the chaos of daily life—no date nights, shifting responsibilities, and constant proximity to one another—intimacy often ends up on the back burner. Adding to my woes, I don’t feel particularly sexy. I’ve put on a few pounds, live in sweatpants, and am perpetually exhausted from trying to juggle everything.
While foreplay could help, finding even a moment alone feels impossible. Sure, we share kisses and hugs throughout the day, and we might sneak in some playful touches, but those fleeting moments rarely lead to anything more. By the time night falls, I often crash long before my partner has a chance to engage.
Unfortunately, the romantic spark is dimming in our home. However, I genuinely enjoy being intimate with my husband, and when we do manage to connect, the experience relieves my stress. So, what’s my solution? Romance novels!
As an avid reader, I’ve found solace in the pages of these books. What once seemed like a genre I’d never explore has turned into my escape from the mundanity of pandemic life. A good chapter can keep me awake long enough to enjoy some quality time with my partner. Just one captivating story can give my sex drive the boost it desperately needs.
If you’re skeptical about romance novels, I urge you to reconsider. The romance genre is vast, encompassing a variety of sub-genres, from science fiction and historical tales to murder mysteries, BDSM, and contemporary love stories. Whatever fantasy you might have, there’s likely a book out there that caters to it.
For historical romance lovers, Diana Gabaldon’s “Outlander” series offers the perfect mix of adventure and romance. If you enjoyed the Netflix sensation, the “Bridgerton” series delivers the same steamy vibes. For those intrigued by blue aliens and abduction scenarios, check out Evangeline Anderson’s “Brides of The Kindred.” If you’re looking to push boundaries further than the “Fifty Shades Trilogy,” Ella Ardent’s “The Plume Book” series will certainly take you there. And if a contemporary romance is what you seek, Alisha Rai’s “Modern Love” series explores the complexities of love in today’s digital age.
It’s important to note that getting into a sexual rut doesn’t require a pandemic; every long-term relationship experiences highs and lows. Reading romance novels may just be the spark needed to fan the flames of intimacy and revive your sex drive. But be warned—once you start, you might find it hard to stop!
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