I (22F) looking for book suggestions like a crazy person 😂 I used to read all the time, then I fell into a bit of a depressive episode and some awful stuff with people I thought were friends and I think I need to step away from the world and back into books.
1. I need something to draw my attention rather quickly.
I have ADHD and getting into the book is a huge hurdle for me. I started The Night Circus before my hiatus but stopped getting into it rather quickly, and same with The Starless Sea (which I am currently revisiting). I just am having a hard time feeling drawn to read it, and may need something a bit more intriguing to get me in the reading rhythm before I finish it.
2. I think a standalone is preferable
I am scared of commitment to a long series, but I would definitely consider it if a good case is made.
3. Genre Ideas
I am an author myself, and I lean more fantasy worlds with magic as an escape. A romance is sweet, I will happily read some smut (provided the cover doesn’t give it away, lol). Since my goal is to escape I’d prefer something immersive and otherworldly or at least not a political hell in our current world. I love a good medieval princess and magic situation. I am not a fan of intergalactic sci-fi, aside from that I’m pretty open to things.
4. Prefer Lesser-Known Books
I understand books are popular because they are enjoyed, I read all of The Hunger Games books in a week when I was younger. I just enjoy new books I haven’t seen anything about before because I feel more freedom to invent the world in my head. I will never be able to read Twilight without seeing that Christmas photo of Robert Pattinson in my head.
5. You can make me Feel
I understand starting this with “I’m getting out of a depressive episode” may deter you from suggesting books with a character death or plot twist, I’m 100% down for those. I want something that makes me feel, happy and/or hard.
I hope that made sense and came across well, I am half asleep and fighting the urge to order randomly online, I really appreciate any suggestions.
Thank you!
by Neither-Bowler-1179
2 Comments
The Blue Sword and The Hero and the Crown by Robin McKinley
My go to book rec for people who want to get (or get back) into reading is Holes by Louis Sachar, because it appeals to all ages, has really short chapters, and is super engaging.
But if you prefer fantasy and are open to a middle grade series, I highly recommend [Nevermoor](https://app.thestorygraph.com/books/6a6d5ca1-b2f5-47be-828c-018144d3bbc7) by Jessica Townsend! It’s a whole lot of fun, has great characters and worldbuilding, and is very immersive. I’m 28 years old myself, and it’s my favorite series. The audiobooks are great too, if that’s something you’re into 🙂