Last book vs next book 🩷

It's always exciting to look back at the books you've devoured and even more thrilling to peek at what's coming next on your TBR (To Be Read) pile! I just shared my thoughts on 'The New Me' by Halle Butler – a book that truly resonated with me, hitting on themes of millennial burnout and reinvention that felt incredibly real. Finding books like this, which offer a biting satire on the complexities of modern life, can be such a journey. If you loved the raw, messy side of womanhood explored in books like 'My Year of Rest and Relaxation' or 'The Bell Jar', then 'The New Me' is definitely one to consider for your next deep dive. But how do we choose those next perfect reads? For me, the transition from a thought-provoking satire to a heartwarming holiday romance like 'Kiss Her Once for Me' by Alison Cochrun is all about mood and season! As the festive Christmas decorations start popping up, my desire for cozy, feel-good stories skyrockets. Holiday-themed books, especially LGBT romance, offer a wonderful escape and a chance to celebrate love in all its forms. I often find myself scouring Goodreads, Lemon8 communities, and even just browsing bookstore shelves for something that sparks joy and fits the current vibe. My 'It's time to say Goodbye & Helloooo!' reading transition often comes with the changing leaves or the first snowfall. If you're wondering how to curate your own 'last vs next book' experience, here are a few tips I've picked up for finding those next beloved stories: Mood Reading is Key: Don't feel pressured to read a specific genre. Let your current mood guide you. Just finished an intense thriller? Maybe switch to a lighthearted rom-com or a fantastical adventure next. Feeling festive? Dive into a holiday read! Utilize Your Community: Platforms like Goodreads are fantastic for tracking your reads and discovering new ones. Pay attention to what your friends are reading, explore recommendation lists, and join groups dedicated to your favorite genres. Lemon8 challenges, like the #readingwrapup or #lemon8christmas, are also excellent ways to find curated suggestions and connect with fellow book lovers. Read Widely, But Know Your Tropes: While it’s great to step outside your comfort zone, it’s also okay to lean into what you love. If you know you adore stories about 'messy women' navigating life, seek out similar themes. If LGBT romance is your jam, explore authors like Alison Cochrun who excel in that space. Knowing your favorite tropes can be a 'study guide' in itself for finding your next beloved book! Embrace the Seasonal Shift: There's something magical about reading a chilling mystery in autumn or a sun-drenched romance in summer. Think about how the seasons influence your reading choices. This often guides my personal 'last vs next book' selections. Don't Be Afraid to DNF (Did Not Finish): Life is too short to read books you're not enjoying! If a book isn't captivating you, it's perfectly fine to put it down and move on to something else. This frees up time for books you'll truly love. So, whether you're wrapping up your 2024 reading list with a thought-provoking satire or eagerly anticipating a new holiday romance, remember that reading should be a joyous and personal journey. What books are making your 'last vs next' list? I'd love to hear your recommendations!