The Book Blog

If there’s one thing I’ve learned as both a librarian and a lifelong reader, it’s this: life’s too short to read just one kind of book. Don’t get me wrong- I understand the comfort of a favorite genre. That cozy mystery where the cat solves the crime? Love it. That twisty thriller you can’t put down? Count me in. But if you’ve been reading the same flavor of fiction for a while, consider this your gentle nudge to explore a bit beyond the usual.

Reading across genres is like taking your brain on a series of mini vacations. One book might whisk you off to a medieval battlefield, while the next drops you into the middle of a 21st-century tech startup. The beauty of books is that they’re doorways- and there are so many doors to open. Why stick to just one hallway? 

I read a little bit of everything: fiction, non-fiction, biographies, sci-fi, romance, historical fiction, memoirs, graphic novels, and more. Some days I want to fall in love, some days I want to learn something new, and other days I just want to laugh at an author’s quirky take on the world. Reading multiple genres keeps things fresh, engaging, and exciting. It’s like a literary buffet- and I always go back for more!

As a librarian, I often hear readers say, “I only read thrillers,” or “I’m just a fantasy person.” My follow-up is usually: “Have you tried this yet?” (insert my latest favorite book). Sometimes it just takes the right book to spark an interest in a genre you never thought you’d enjoy. I once recommended a non-fiction book about space exploration to a die-hard romance reader- and guess what? She came back asking for more science reads (and yes, she still reads romance, too).

Visiting bookstores is one of my favorite pastimes, and I treat it like a treasure hunt. I always explore every section, even the ones I think I know nothing about. I might leave with a novel, a memoir, a cookbook, and a graphic novel- and each one feels like a new adventure waiting to happen. And with the variety of reading formats out there- print, ebook, audiobook- there’s no excuse not to sneak in more reading wherever and whenever you can.

Audiobooks have become a game changer for me (Try Libby!). They let me “read” while I walk the dog, clean the house, or commute. Sometimes, a great narrator brings a story to life in a way that gives me a whole new appreciation for the book. Switching between audio and print also helps me work through multiple books at once without ever feeling bored.

Reading outside your comfort zone isn’t just entertaining- it’s good for your brain! Different genres encourage different ways of thinking. Non-fiction boosts your knowledge and critical thinking. Historical fiction gives context to the world around us. Sci-fi stretches your imagination. Memoirs build empathy. Comedy lightens the load. It’s like cross-training for your reading muscles!

So, if you’ve found yourself in a bit of a reading rut, give something new a try. Mix it up. Let your curiosity lead the way. You never know what book might become your next favorite read. And if it’s not your cup of tea? That’s okay. You can always try another. That’s the magic of books- there’s always another one waiting!

What about you? Are you a genre hopper or a loyalist? I’d love to hear what books pulled you into unexpected genres. Leave a comment and share your favorite surprise reads- I’m always looking to add to my ever-growing TBR list! 

Have you ever struggled to get through a reading slump? I feel like I had been in one for at least two months. I just couldn’t find anything that held my attention or that I could say to someone that what I was reading was just so good. In romance, like in any genre, there are a few really great books, a lot of ‘meh’ books, and definitely some books that are just hands down bad. For the last month or so I felt like I was stuck in ‘meh’ limbo. I’ve been reading a variety of books, within the romance genre, and just could NOT find anything that really sparked my interest. That is, until I read a book by Jessica Peterson. 

It is rare, but every now and then, you stumble across an author who just gets you and produces the kinds of books that feel like they were written with your exact reading tastes in mind. The tropes, the humor, the characters, and the storyline were so well done that I found a book, and series, that I just could not put down. The two series that I have read by her so far are the Harbour Village series and the Lucky River Ranch series, which is still being written.

Peterson creates these small-town worlds that feel real, like places where you could move to tomorrow. Whether it’s the charming coastal vibes of Harbour Village or the sun-soaked, rustic warmth of Lucky River Ranch, her settings are more than just backdrops. They’re living, breathing characters in their own right.

The absolute best part of her writing is the characters. If a romance novel has a weak female lead, I really struggle to get through the book. The same is true if the male lead is incredibly unlikeable or just too perfect. But Peterson’s characters are smart, funny, vulnerable, and flawed in ways that make them feel real and relatable. I love that her heroines are strong and self-aware, and her heroes are refreshingly respectful, emotionally intelligent, and deeply swoon-worthy.

One of Peterson’s greatest strengths is how she balances emotional storytelling with just the right amount of heat. I found that her romances are as much about personal growth, healing, and connection as they are about passion. The slow burns, the angst, the banter—all of it is written with care and depth. I found myself laughing out loud one minute and tearing up the next.

One of the main reasons why I love the romance genre so much is that when the world feels chaotic and uncertain, these books can leave you smiling, feeling hopeful, and happy. Discovering Jessica Peterson has been a game-changer for me. If you’re a fan of heartfelt, character-driven romance set in cozy, beautifully detailed small towns—with just enough spice to keep things interesting—you owe it to yourself to check out her books!