15 Best Books to Start a Reading Habit for Adults

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Ever thought about starting a reading habit but weren’t sure how to begin? Same here—I’ve totally been in that boat!

If you’re looking for the best books to start a reading habit for adults, you’ve come to the right place!

I’ve been passionate about reading since high school—it all started in 2010 when I started with just 10 pages a day, and now I can’t imagine life without books.

Over the years, I’ve dived into tons of genres, uncovered some amazing hidden gems, and pulled together a list of clean, engaging reads. Think thrillers, fantasy, romance—you name it! These picks are perfect if you’re looking to kick off your own reading journey.

Whether you’re a total beginner or just need a fresh start, I’m here to guide you with recommendations you can trust.

Let’s dive in and find the best books to start reading daily!

Why Adults Should Start a Reading Habit (And How to Stick With It)

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve heard people in the reading community say they want to read more but just can’t seem to find the time. Sound familiar?

Then there’s the classic saying: “Too many books, too little time.”

We’ve all been there. But guess what? It doesn’t have to stay that way—especially if you build a solid, intentional reading habit.

Now, don’t get me wrong—checking off a box every day is satisfying (who doesn’t love a good to-do list?), but it’s about so much more than just hitting a goal. It starts with asking yourself why you want to read more. What’s motivating you? What’s the story behind your desire to read?

Turns out, there’s science to back this up. A study by Schmidt FTC and Retelsdorf J found that our attitudes and motivations play a huge role in creating lasting reading habits.

And honestly, I couldn’t agree more. But here’s something that often gets overlooked: reading regularly doesn’t just help you finish more books—it actually benefits your life in powerful ways (even though there are some surprising disadvantages too!).

Reading has been shown to reduce stress, improve focus, boost empathy, and even strengthen brain connectivity. It can help you sleep better, expand your vocabulary, and give you a sense of calm and escape—especially when life feels overwhelming.

So, if you’re trying to make reading a regular part of your life, start with the right mindset and remember the benefits that come with it. Once you do, that daily reading box won’t just get checked—it’ll become something you genuinely look forward to.

8 Easy Tips to Build a Reading Habit You’ll Actually Keep

1. Start small (like, really small)

Set a baby-step goal, like reading one page a day. Just one! You’ll be surprised how often one page turns into five… or fifty.

2. Carry a book everywhere

Waiting in line at the coffee shop? Sitting in the carpool lane? Boom, instant reading time.

3. Try different formats

Audiobooks

Audiobooks are perfect for multitaskers or those always on the go. Whether you’re driving, exercising, or just relaxing, you can dive into a great story hands-free.

E-books

E-books are super convenient for readers who love having their library at their fingertips. With a single device, you can carry thousands of books wherever you go. They’re great for travel and late-night reading with adjustable lighting.

Physical

Physical books have a charm all their own. There’s nothing quite like the feel of turning pages, the smell of a new book, or seeing your collection grow on a bookshelf.

Any format works, as long as you’re reading! Each one has its own perks, so choose what suits your lifestyle or do a mix like I do! It’s one of the reasons why I can read more than one book at a time.

4. Create a cozy reading spot

Think blankets, pillows, maybe some mood lighting. A space so dreamy, you’ll WANT to spend time there. Bonus points for a warm drink on the side.

5. Join a book club

Accountability, anyone? Chatting about books with friends adds motivation and makes reading a social thing.

6. Pair it with another habit

Want to read every morning? Leave your book on the breakfast table so it’s waiting for you while you sip your coffee. (Pancakes + page-turning = a happy start to your day.)

7. Read what you love

Forget what you “should” read. Hate classics but adore thrillers? Cool. Can’t resist cheesy romances? I get it, romance is my favorite too. Pick books that excite you and make it hard to put them down.

8. Track your progress

Keep a journal or use a reading app to log what you’ve read. Seeing your tbr list grow is oddly satisfying and keeps you inspired to keep going.

Is it too late to start a reading habit?

Absolutely not! It’s never too late to start a reading habit. Whether you’re in high school, college, or well into your adult life, it’s always a good time to pick up a book and dive into a new world.

Reading can bring so much joy and knowledge to your life no matter what age you are. And with the abundance of books available in different formats (physical, digital, audiobooks), there are endless opportunities to incorporate reading into your daily routine.

So don’t worry about being “late” to the reading game. Just focus on finding books that interest you and incorporating them into your lifestyle at whatever pace suits you best.

The quick heads up: You might think I’ll throw in classic books like The Great Gatsby or Animal Farm, but nope! Personally, I don’t find classic books the best way to kickstart a new reading habit. They can be dense, use complex language, and be a bit tough to dive into. Don’t get me wrong, I adore classic books, but I’d recommend keeping those for later once you’ve built up your reading time stamina.

2. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.47 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Middle Grade to Young Adult Fantasy | ✅ Read it!

Plot

Harry Potter, unaware of Hogwarts, gets mysterious letters on his eleventh birthday. His aunt and uncle confiscate them, but Rubeus Hagrid arrives to reveal Harry is a wizard and has a spot at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, starting an incredible adventure.

Why this book?

Can you even start a reading habit without including Harry Potter? This series is a timeless fantasy classic, perfect for readers of all ages! I’ve read this book five times now—starting as a kid and all the way into my adult years in the 2010s and honestly, it just keeps getting better every single time.

It’s one of my all-time favorites, and you can’t go wrong diving into the magical world of J.K. Rowling!

Buy on Amazon | Listen on Libro.fm

3. The Number of Love by Roseanna M. White

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.29 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Christian Historical Romance | ✅ Read it!

Plot

During the Great War, codebreaker Margot De Wilde deciphers vital messages while grappling with personal loss.

She forms a bond with wounded agent Drake Elton, who helps her open up emotionally. Together, they face threats of biological warfare and a German spy to protect their loved ones.

Why this book?

Okay, let’s talk about Roseanna M. White! She writes some of my absolute favorite historical romances, and this one is definitely a top contender! The characters are super complex, and the storyline is so fast-paced that you just can’t put it down. 

It’s the perfect mix of espionage, secrets, and, of course, a swoon-worthy romance.

Buy on Amazon | Listen on Libro.fm

4. Authentically Izzy by Pepper Basham

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.90 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance | ✅ Read it!

Plot

Izzy Edgewood, a quirky Lord of the Rings fan dreaming of owning a bookstore, struggles to connect with people. Her cousin sets up an online dating profile, leading her to Brodie, a fellow Hobbit enthusiast.

As they navigate a long-distance relationship, Izzy faces her fear of flying and the unexpected interest of a charming local author.

Why this book?

This epistolary novel is such a delight! Packed with laugh-out-loud moments and fun bookish references, it’s perfect for fellow bookworms.

The text-and-email format makes it super easy to read—great for building (or rebuilding) a reading habit. As someone who’s a total introvert and would absolutely thrive in a bookstore, I felt seen.

I listened to this on Libro.fm (and the rest of the series), and the narrator nailed it.

Buy on Amazon | Listen on Libro.fm

5. A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khalid Hosseini

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.44 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Historical Fiction | ✅ Read it!

Plot

In Taliban-ruled Afghanistan, Mariam and Laila, two women brought together by hardship, form a powerful bond.

Their friendship gives them the strength to endure immense adversity, proving that love and resilience can prevail even in the darkest times.

Why this book?

I read this book a while back, and if I remember right, it’s pretty clean but tackles heavy, adult topics.

I read it during a college break, and it completely wrecked me—in the best way. I stayed up until 3 a.m. to finish it because I had to know what happened to Mariam and Laila.

The characters are so complex. They pull you in and create a strong emotional connection.

“Of all the hardships a person had to face, none was more punishing than the simple act of waiting.”

― Khaled Hosseini, A Thousand Splendid Suns

Buy on Amazon | Listen on Libro.fm

6. Marrying the Billionaire by Marion De Ré

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.36 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Contemporary Romance | ✅ Read it!

Plot

Jane marries billionaire Colton in a fake arrangement, moving into his luxurious mansion despite his grumpy, cat-allergic personality. As she discovers his softer side, her feelings grow, blurring the line between their facade and real emotions.

Why this book?

This closed door romance hits all my favorite tropes, and I loved every second! With a marriage of convenience, forced proximity, and a grumpy/sunshine duo, it’ll have you swooning. The banter is top-tier! I couldn’t stop grinning!

I brought this one on a weekend trip and finished it before the vacation was over.

Buy on Amazon

7. The King’s Captive by K.M. Shea

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.29 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Urban Fantasy Romance | ✅ Read it!

Plot

Chloe, a shapeshifter who turns into a housecat, is an outcast in a world dominated by vampires and werewolves. When fleeing from the fae, she encounters Noctus, a powerful elf king who takes her in as his pet.

Living in his dangerous world, Chloe must hide her true identity while unraveling secrets about Noctus and the peril she faces if she’s discovered.

Why this book?

K.M. Shea is hands down one of my favorite fantasy romance authors. I picked this up in the middle of a reading slump and it snapped me right out of it.

Chloe’s sass and the whole shapeshifting cat thing? Totally unexpected and exactly what I didn’t know I needed. It’s impossible not to get hooked!

“No—no high fives! I purposely looked away.”

― K.M. Shea, The King’s Captive

Buy on Amazon

8. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.24 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Fantasy, Middle Grade | ✅ Read it!

Plot

Lucy and her siblings discover a magical wardrobe leading to Narnia, a land under the rule of the evil White Witch. With the help of the noble lion Aslan, they embark on a brave quest to defeat the Witch and restore peace to Narnia.

Why this book?

This is the book that made me feel magic for the very first time—not just read about it. As a kid, I found this book in my school library, and it’s stayed with me ever since.

If you’re looking to kickstart your reading habit, start here. C.S. Lewis’s captivating writing and lovable characters will instantly pull you into their magical adventures.

Buy on Amazon | Listen on Libro.fm

9. How to Kiss Your Best Friend by Jenny Proctor

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.88 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Contemporary Romance | ✅ Read it!

Plot

Brody, a small-town teacher, reunites with Kate, his former best friend and a globe-trotting journalist. After a kiss years ago changed their friendship, Brody struggles with lingering feelings as Kate returns to Silver Creek.

While sparks fly, her dream of leaving town puts their future in question. Will Brody convince her to stay, or risk losing her forever?

Why this book?

I picked this up after an Instagram recommendation and loved it! It’s like watching a rom-com with hot cocoa—predictable in the best way.

The book has all the cozy Hallmark vibes, featuring a sweet friends-to-lovers romance and a charming small-town setting that feels like a warm hug. The characters are well-developed and show great growth throughout the story.

Buy on Amazon | Listen on Libro.fm

10. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.29 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Fantasy | ✅ Read it!

Plot

Bilbo Baggins, a quiet hobbit, is thrust into an adventure with Gandalf and a group of dwarves to reclaim treasure from the dragon Smaug. Along the way, he discovers a magic ring and meets the mysterious Gollum.

Why this book?

The Hobbit is a beloved classic in fantasy and a must-read for everyone! I read this series after binge-watching The Lord of the Rings movies. It’s the perfect gateway to high fantasy, with lovable characters and great pacing—ideal for a cozy fantasy reading list.

Struggling to get into it? Try the audiobook! It’s a great way to tackle world-building heavy stories (plus it will make you feel like you are a quest).

“There is nothing like looking, if you want to find something. You certainly usually find something, if you look, but it is not always quite the something you were after.”

― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit

Buy on Amazon | Listen on Libro.fm

11. He Should Have Told the Bees by Amanda Cox

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.04 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Christian Literary Fiction | ✅ Read it!

Plot

After her father’s death, beekeeper Beckett Walsh faces losing her family apiary when a new co-owner, Callie Peterson, enters the picture.

Both women navigate personal challenges and uncover hidden secrets that could shape their futures in unexpected ways.

Why this book?

Wow, this book is an absolute gem! At its heart, it’s all about family, facing challenges, dealing with anger, and discovering what trust really means.

You’ll totally find yourself rooting for the characters and racing through the pages to see how everything ties together. 

Buy on Amazon | Listen on Libro.fm

12. Sandover Beach Memories by Emma St. Clair

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.03 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Contemporary Romance | ✅ Read it!

Plot

After returning to Sandover Beach after her mother’s death and a divorce, Jenna reconnects with her childhood sweetheart, Steve, and her former flame, Jackson, who is determined to prove he’s changed.

Torn between her past and the promise of something new, Jenna must decide whether to move forward or revisit old ties.

Why this book?

I saved this one for a beach trip, and it made the setting even better. Reading about second chances and small-town life with waves crashing in the background? Perfect.

Set in a charming beach town, this is the ultimate summer read! The characters are so well-written, and the secondary ones really stole the show. Plus, the sweet love story completely melted my heart.

Buy on Amazon

13. The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion, Vol. 1 by Beth Brower

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.31 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Historical Fiction, Novella | ✅ Read it!

Plot

In 1883, Emma M. Lion returns to London’s St. Crispian’s, seeking a peaceful life but finds chaos instead.

With her eccentric cousin, strict aunt, and quirky neighbors, Emma humorously documents her adventures at Lapis Lazuli House in her Unselected Journals.

Why this book?

I picked this up late one night when I couldn’t sleep and ended up laughing so much I woke my husband. Emma’s dry wit and journal-style storytelling felt like a Victorian Bridget Jones.

This whole series is such a blast! It’s full of heart, wild adventures, sweet friendships, and all the bookish vibes.

If you’re into Regency tales and short books (great for habit building), you need to check this out!

Buy on Amazon

14. Always Watching by Lynette Eason

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.17 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Christian Romance Suspense | ✅ Read it!

Plot

When psychiatrist Wade Savage discovers he has a stalker, his father hires Elite Guardians for protection. After Wade’s bodyguard is attacked, agency owner Olivia Edwards must take over. 

As the stalker escalates from leaving gifts to making threats, Olivia faces not only the danger to her life but also her growing feelings for Wade.

Why this book?

This book features the reverse bodyguard trope and is packed with suspense that’ll keep you hooked! I finished it in under 24 hours, completely invested in the twists, and rooting for Olivia the whole way. You’ll be guessing until the very end!

The romance is perfectly paced, and it’s amazing to see the characters grow and evolve.

Buy on Amazon | Listen on Libro.fm

15. Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.08 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Science Fiction | ✅ Read it!

Plot

Eighteen-year-old Edwin St. Andrew hears a strange violin melody in the Canadian wilderness, a moment that echoes two centuries later in a novel by moon-based author Olive Llewellyn.

Detective Gaspery-Jacques Roberts investigates this anomaly, uncovering interconnected lives and events that may reshape the universe’s timeline.

Why this book?

I read this during a period of burnout, and the gentle, lyrical writing was exactly what I needed. It encouraged me to slow down and immerse myself in the story.

The narrative unfolds at its own pace, with captivating characters whose interconnected journeys offer a fresh perspective.

It explores deep themes, like the nature of reality, and the writing is absolutely top-notch.

“I’ve been thinking a great deal about time and motion lately, about being a still point in the ceaseless rush.”

― Emily St. John Mandel, Sea of Tranquility

Buy on Amazon | Listen on Libro.fm

How to build a reading habit without breaking the bank

Love books but not the price tags? I’ve been there when browsing bookstores and eyeing that shiny new hardcover and wincing at the cost. There are plenty of ways to keep your shelves full without emptying your wallet. Let me share some of my favorite ways to save money to help you maintain your new reading habit.

1. Get Cozy With Your Local Library
   Libraries are a bookworm’s best friend. Not only can you borrow books for free, but many libraries also offer e-books and audiobooks through apps like Libby or Hoopla. Plus, there are yearly library sales!
2. Hit Up Used Bookstores
   Secondhand books are a goldmine. Not only are they easy on your wallet, but there’s something special about a pre-loved book. Plus, some stores offer credit for trade-ins, which means you can keep the cycle of reading (and saving) going.
3. Explore Digital Deals
   E-books often cost less than print copies, and platforms like Kindle frequently have sales. Keep an eye out for daily deals where you can snag popular reads for just a couple of bucks.
4. Check Out Little Free Libraries
   You know those cute neighborhood cabinets with books inside? Little Free Libraries are a fun surprise to look through. Take one, leave one.
5. Get Into Free Classics
   Public domain books (think Pride and Prejudice or Dracula) are available for free on sites like Project Gutenberg. That’s a whole world of literature at zero cost.
6. Follow “Bookish” Social Media Accounts
   Some accounts share tips on where to find cheap books, free ARCS, and announce giveaways like on BookFunnel. The best part? You get great book recs while saving some cash.
7. DIY Book Buying Limits
   Set a fun rule for yourself, like “No new purchases until I’ve read three books on my shelf” or “One new book per paycheck.” It keeps your spending in check and makes each purchase feel more intentional.
8. Using Spotify Premium
   I was so excited when I found out that you can listen to audiobooks on Spotify! If you’re already paying for it, why not make the most of it? You get 15 hours every month included—plenty of time to enjoy one book.
9. Subscribe to Kindle Unlimited
   I’ve been a Kindle Unlimited user for years, and let me tell you, it’s worth every penny! I usually read 6+ books a month, which makes the subscription a total no-brainer. If you’re a fellow bookworm, you can try it out with a free trial.

FAQs: How to start (and keep) a reading habit as an adult