One of the best ways to dip your toe into a new genre is to read books that bridge the gap from one to another. For instance, if you read mostly mysteries, try one set on another planet or where the detectives fall in love. You never know if there’s a subgenre out there that will be perfect for you!
Western
“Whiskey When We’re Dry” by John Larison is definitely a western, but with a female protagonist who grows up before our eyes, you could also call it historical fiction set in the Wild West. There are still gunfights and revenge, but by centering the story on people often at the fringes of society (and westerns) the whole tone shifts to make it accessible to everyone.
I’m also going to recommend a book that is a classic of the genre, no crossover here, but it’s one that readers of all kinds have loved. “Lonesome Dove” by Larry McMurtry doesn’t need much of an intro. If you like good books, with characters that feel like friends, then you will never forget Gus and Woodrow.
Fantasy
The bestselling “Rivers of London” series by Ben Aaronovitch follows probationary constable Peter Grant as he gets pulled into a world of mythology, where solving mysteries might include bargaining with a ghost or a water nymph. And with a main character who is biracial and a contemporary setting, there is a lot to explore.
If you would rather go back in time for some historical fiction, why not add dragons? For readers of C. S. Forester or Patrick O’Brian, the alternate history of the Napoleonic Wars by Naomi Novik is delightful. “His Majesty’s Dragon” is the first in the “Temeraire” series, but I heartily recommend anything by Novik.
Horror
“Lone Women” by Victor LaValle is a rare hybrid. It’s a retelling of a Lovecraft story, with a western setting during the homestead rush of 1915, written by a contemporary Black author. It’s also riveting, chilling and satisfying, so don’t sleep on it.
If you like short stories in the literary genre, “Never Have I Ever” by Isabel Yap is spooky and surprising. Blending urban legends and Filipino folklore results in a unique construct that will stay with you for a long time.
Romance
For those who watch ‘80s movies where everything goes wrong in the silliest way possible, try “Dial A for Aunties” by Jesse Q. Sutanto. The romance is central but anything more than kissing happens off the page. And the aforementioned aunties bring big family hijinks galore.
“Book Lovers” by Emily Henry has all the elements of a Hallmark movie but instead we follow a side character, the cutthroat literary agent. This turns all those tropes on their head and results in a happily ever after, even for those who don’t believe in them.
More information
For recommendations tailored to your preferences, visit NOLS.org/bookmatch. Fill out the form and receive a personalized reading list. Or find your next great read by stopping by the Sequim Library Temporary Location at 609 W. Washington St., open Monday–Thursday 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Friday 9 a.m.–6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
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Liz Duval-Saffold is a public services specialist at the Sequim Library.