My 2024 in terms of reading wasn’t that great 🥴. My original goal was to READ at least 10 books. Y’all I know that’s not a lot, but I’m trying to get back into full swing okay. I only READ 7 out of the 10. However, I did LISTEN to numerous AUDIOBOOKS (26 to be exact 😜).
Do you all count your Audiobooks in your goal count? Let me know in the comments.
Also what’s your book goal for this year? & What’s your first book for the new year?
I’m starting out with: Kane: The Perfect Family x King Coopa J via Kindle
... Read moreOkay, so like Kae Jaye mentioned, 2024 reading goals can be tricky! I totally get it – I aimed for X books and ended up with Y, but my audiobook count soared! If you're anything like me and want to smash your reading goals, especially diving into those amazing romantasy worlds like ACOTAR without emptying your wallet, then listen up because I've got some serious audiobook hacks for you.
First off, let's talk about the best audiobook apps for us book girlies. My absolute go-to for budget-friendly reading is Libby (or OverDrive). Seriously, if you have a library card, you have access to a treasure trove of audiobooks for FREE! You can often find popular romantasy series, new releases, and even diverse reads like 'Asim: A Hood Love Story' or 'Everybody Ain't Your Friend' for absolutely nothing. The catch? Sometimes there's a waitlist, but trust me, it's worth it. I keep a few books on hold at all times, so there's always something new to listen to. It’s perfect for that 'multiple books per month' goal.
Next up, for when I need something specific *right now*, I toggle between Audible and Scribd (now Everand). Audible is fantastic for its sheer selection, and yes, you can definitely find all your favorite romantasy reads there. My tip for Audible is to utilize their sales! They have daily deals, and sometimes you can snag a credit bundle. For those who want to devour books, Scribd/Everand is a game-changer. It's a subscription service that gives you access to an enormous library of audiobooks for one monthly fee. It's brilliant for experimenting with genres or binge-listening to an entire series. I've found so many hidden gems there, and it's definitely a 'bibliophile's dream' if you're looking to read broadly, perhaps even picking up 'The Book of Proverbs' or other non-fiction between your fantasy epics.
For even more savings, keep an eye on Chirp Books. They offer incredible discounts on individual audiobooks, often for a limited time. I've found so many fantastic titles, sometimes even popular ones, for just a few dollars. It's a great way to expand your digital library without committing to a subscription for every single book.
Now, how do I manage to listen to multiple books per month like the 26+ audiobooks I devoured? It's all about integrating listening into your daily life. I listen while I'm doing chores (folding laundry, washing dishes), during my commute, or even while I'm exercising. Adjusting the listening speed can also make a huge difference – I usually listen at 1.5x or 1.75x speed without losing comprehension. It helps me fly through books faster and feel like a true 'resolution keeper' for my reading goals.
Finally, finding those perfect romantasy reads, especially if you're looking for ACOTAR vibes, is easier than ever. Besides searching directly within these apps, I get great recommendations from BookTok, Goodreads lists, and even my local book club. Don't forget to check out book covers and descriptions, sometimes you'll find a 'KANE' or other exciting story you never expected! Happy listening, fellow bookworms!