Why You’re Struggling to Pick Your Next Book—And How to Fix It

3 Smart Ways to Pick Your Next Read

Before I joined the online book world, choosing what to read next was a struggle. My strategy? Find an author I loved and binge their backlist. However, that only worked until I reached the end, especially if the author had only one book out. I hated feeling stuck without a clear next read.

That’s actually one of the reasons I started a book recommendation podcast: to discover new authors, genres, and tropes by connecting with other readers. Over the years, I’ve developed a few simple strategies that help me always have a next book ready to go, and I’m sharing them with you.

1. Stick with Your Tried-and-True Favorites

Think about the authors, tropes, and subgenres you already love. Who are your autobuy authors? What book tropes always hit the mark? Maybe it’s fake dating, small town settings, or hockey players. Those are your comfort reads—and there’s no shame in reaching for them.

Quick Tip: If you’re hunting for a trope-heavy, no-surprise kind of book, check out Harlequin category romances. These are short, trope-forward reads that tell you exactly what you’re getting in the synopsis. Perfect when you just need a reliable escape.

Bonus: Love a specific subgenre? Search for a new-to-you author writing within it. For example, I’m a hockey romance fan, so I’m constantly browsing for authors like Rachel Reid or Sawyer Bennett using keywords like “puck” or “hockey romance.”

2. Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

If you’re feeling a little adventurous, try exploring a new trope or subgenre that’s caught your interest. If you usually read contemporary romance, maybe try a historical, paranormal, or romantic suspense novel. You might surprise yourself by falling in love with something totally different.

One tip: Look for books that blend familiar elements with something new. For example, if you love thrillers but want more emotional payoff, romantic suspense could be your gateway genre.

3. Get Inspired by Fellow Readers

Not sure where to start? The book community has your back. Some of the best recommendations come from other readers who love the same kinds of books you do.

Here are a few great ways to tap into bookish recs:

• Bookstagram and BookTok: Search your favorite trope, genre, and follow fellow influencers who share book recommendations within the genre.
  
• BookTube – Search your favorite trope plus the word “recommendations” (e.g., “grumpy sunshine romance recommendations”).
  
• Book Podcasts – Search by book title or author to find podcast episodes that do a deep dive into your next read.
  

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Need More Book Recs? I’ve Got You.

If you’re still unsure what to read next, I’ve got curated recommendation lists, trope-specific roundups, and podcast episodes featuring all kinds of bookish gems. Whether you’re looking for your next favorite romance or want to branch out into thrillers, cozy mysteries, and literary fiction.