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Looking for the best easy reads to jumpstart your reading habit? Look no further, I’ve got you covered!
When it comes to cultivating a reading habit as an adult, finding the right book can make all the difference. As someone who has navigated the path from sporadic reader to book enthusiast, I’ve discovered the importance of choosing engaging and accessible reads that can help ease you into the world of books.
With years of experience, digging through Reddit threads, and a well-curated list of recommendations, I’m here to guide you through your reading journey.
You can trust that the books suggested here have been picked with care, ensuring they are perfect for anyone looking to make reading a delightful and consistent part of their life.
Whether you’re a busy mom or someone rediscovering the joy of reading, these easy-to-read books are sure to motivate and inspire.
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 physical books, but I’d recommend keeping those classics for later once you’ve built up your reading time stamina.
My top picks to start reading habit
When the Day Comes by Gabrielle Meyer
✅ Unique dual timeline with a captivating plot
The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion, Vol. 1 by Beth Brower
✅ Witty dialogue and lovable characters all packed into a novella
The King’s Captive by K.M. Shea
✅ One of my favorite fantasy romances with amazing characters
There are tons of clean & sweet books waiting for you on Kindle Unlimited!
Looking for a reading adventure? With Kindle Unlimited, you can dive into countless books each month with just a click.
Best books to get into reading
Before we dive into the recommendations, I made sure to include different types of books so that even the most reluctant readers could find something to inspire their new reading life!
So, here’s your challenge for today: choose one or two books from this list and kickstart your good reading habits!
1. When the Day Comes by Gabrielle Meyer
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.39 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Christian Historical Romance | ✅ Read it!
Libby has a unique gift that lets her live in two time periods: 1774 Colonial Williamsburg and 1914 Gilded Age New York City. In Williamsburg, she works as a public printer, supporting the Patriot cause while navigating a complex relationship with Henry Montgomery.
In New York, she enjoys wealth and social events but feels pressured by her mother’s marriage plans, despite her passion for women’s suffrage. As her twenty-first birthday approaches, Libby must choose between her two lives, each with its own sacrifices and risks.
Why pick up this easy book?
This book has a storyline that is super imaginative, featuring a dual timeline with a time travel twist—perfect for anyone diving into this genre for the first time.
I absolutely loved the main characters, and the different time settings just made the whole experience even better and easy to read.
“We must take whatever joy can be found from each day and not borrow tomorrow’s sorrow.”
― Gabrielle Meyer, When the Day Comes
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!
Harry Potter, who has never heard of Hogwarts, receives mysterious letters on his eleventh birthday. His aunt and uncle confiscate them, but then Rubeus Hagrid arrives to reveal that Harry is a wizard and has a place at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, marking the start of an incredible adventure.
Why pick up this easy book?
Is it even possible to kick off a reading habit without including Harry Potter on your list? I mean, this series is a timeless classic in the fantasy world and a perfect fit for readers of all ages! I’ve gone through the entire series five times now, and I swear, each read just gets better and better.
It’s definitely one of my all-time favorites, and you absolutely can’t go wrong by diving into the magical worlds created by J.K. Rowling!
3. The Number of Love by Roseanna M. White
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.29 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Christian Historical Romance | ✅ Read it!
Set during the Great War, the story follows Margot De Wilde, an adept codebreaker in England’s intelligence network, who faces personal turmoil after a loss. As she deciphers crucial messages, she connects with wounded field agent Drake Elton, who encourages her to embrace her emotions.
Together, they confront the threats of biological warfare and a relentless German spy, striving to protect themselves and their loved ones from dangerous secrets.
Why pick up this easy 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.
4. Authentically Izzy by Pepper Basham
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.90 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance | ✅ Read it!
Izzy Edgewood, a quirky wannabe bookstore owner and Lord of the Rings enthusiast, struggles to connect with people outside of her fictional world. To help her, her pragmatic cousin Josephine creates an online dating profile, leading Izzy to connect with Brodie, a Hobbit-loving man from afar.
As they bond over their shared interests, Izzy grapples with her fear of flying and the challenges of a long-distance relationship, especially with a charming local author also vying for her attention.
Why pick up this easy book?
This epistolary novel is an absolute gem, packed with laugh-out-loud moments and tons of awesome bookish references! I totally fell in love with the characters, and the romance? Just the sweetest!
I listened to this book (and the whole series) on Libro.fm, and the narrator was fantastic!
5. A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khalid Hosseini
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.44 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Historical Fiction | ✅ Read it!
In turbulent Afghanistan, fifteen-year-old Mariam is forced to marry the much older Rasheed. Years later, during unrest, another young girl, Laila, joins Mariam’s troubled household after fleeing her home.
As they navigate the harsh realities of Taliban rule, the two women form a strong bond, supporting each other through immense hardship. Their friendship and love empower them to face adversity with remarkable courage, showing that love prevails even in the darkest times.
Why pick up this easy book?
So, I read this book ages ago, and if memory serves me right, it’s pretty clean, but it dives into some heavy topics that are really more for adults. The characters are so complex—they really pull you in and help you form that emotional connection.
Fair warning: it’s definitely a tearjerker, so if you’re looking to end your reading slump with something a bit weighty, this one is perfect for you!
“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
6. Marrying the Billionaire by Marion De Ré
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.36 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Contemporary Romance | ✅ Read it!
Jane unexpectedly lands a high-paying role as a billionaire’s wife and must navigate her new life in a luxurious mansion with a grumpy yet charming man named Colton, who is allergic to cats.
Although she knows their marriage is a facade, Jane starts to develop genuine feelings for Colton as she uncovers his caring nature beneath his cold exterior. As their fake relationship deepens, the lines between reality and deception blur, leaving Jane questioning the authenticity of her emotions.
Why pick up this easy book?
This fade-to-black romance story that totally hits all my favorite tropes! We’ve got a marriage of convenience, forced proximity, and those classic grumpy/sunshine characters that just make the heart swoon!
The plot? It’s so well written, packed with hilarious banter that will keep you chuckling.
7. The King’s Captive by K.M. Shea
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.29 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Urban Fantasy Romance | ✅ Read it!
Chloe can transform into a housecat, making her an outcast in a supernatural world ruled by vampires and werewolves. While being chased by the local fae, she meets Noctus, a powerful elf king who takes her as a pet.
As she navigates her new and dangerous life with him, she uncovers secrets about his past and the risks of being discovered as more than just a cat, facing dire consequences if her true identity is revealed.
Why pick up this easy book?
K.M. Shea is seriously one of my all-time favorite fantasy romance authors, and this book is just a blast!
I mean, how fun is it that Chloe spends most of her time as a cat? The characters are absolutely lovable and super entertaining!
“No—no high fives! I purposely looked away.”
― K.M. Shea, The King’s Captive
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!
Lucy discovers the secret of a wardrobe that leads to the magical land of Narnia. Initially, her siblings don’t believe her, but soon Edmund, Peter, and Susan join her in Narnia, where they confront the evil White Witch.
They meet the noble Lion Aslan and embark on a courageous adventure to free Narnia from the Witch’s dark enchantment.
Why pick up this easy book?
If you are looking to kickstart your reading habit as an adult this book is a fantastic place to dive in! No matter your age, you’ll get totally swept away by C.S. Lewis’s writing style.
The characters are just so lovable, and before you know it, you’ll be fully immersed in their adventures.
9. How to Kiss Your Best Friend by Jenny Proctor
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.88 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Contemporary Romance | ✅ Read it!
Brody, a small-town high school chemistry teacher, reunites with his former best friend, Kate, a globetrotting journalist. Their friendship changed after a single kiss, and now, with Kate back in town, Brody grapples with his lingering feelings for her.
The chemistry between them feels mutual, but Kate has always dreamed of leaving Silver Creek. Determined to give her reasons to stay, Brody risks losing her for good if their feelings aren’t aligned.
Why pick up this easy book?
This book totally gives off all the best Hallmark movie vibes with a sweet friends-to-lovers romance! The characters are well-crafted and had fantastic growth throughout the story.
And can we talk about that charming small-town setting? It’s like a cozy blanket for the heart!
10. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.29 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Fantasy | ✅ Read it!
Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit content with his quiet life, is unexpectedly swept into an adventure when the wizard Gandalf and a group of dwarves arrive at his home.
They aim to reclaim treasure from the fearsome dragon Smaug. Reluctantly, Bilbo joins them, unaware that he will discover a magic ring and encounter the sinister creature Gollum on their journey to the Lonely Mountain.
Why pick up this easy book?
The Hobbit is such a beloved classic, and honestly, it’s a must-read for everyone! It’s like the perfect gateway into high fantasy, featuring some really lovable characters. The pacing is just right, making it a fantastic addition to your cozy fantasy reading list.
And hey, if you’re finding it tough to dive in, why not give the audio version a shot? I’ve found that switching to audio really helps with new genres!
“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!
Beekeeper Beckett Walsh’s life is upended by her father’s sudden death and the arrival of a new co-owner aiming to sell their family apiary. Meanwhile, Callie Peterson unexpectedly inherits a stake in the property just as she faces personal challenges, including her mother’s substance abuse issues.
As they confront their intertwined struggles, Beck and Callie uncover hidden secrets from their pasts and explore the possibility of a better future together.
Why pick up this easy 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!
After returning to Sandover Beach following her mother’s death and recent divorce, Jenna is focused on starting anew, not on love. However, she encounters her childhood sweetheart, Steve, and her troubled past with Jackson, a former bad boy.
As Jackson tries to prove he has changed, Jenna struggles with her feelings and the possibility of falling back into old habits with Steve. Will she embrace a new love or retreat to her past?
Why pick up this easy book?
This great book is set in a charming beach town—basically the perfect summer read! The characters are super well-developed, and I have to say, the secondary characters really stole the show for me! Plus, it features the sweetest love story that totally melted my heart.
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!
In 1883, Emma M. Lion returns to her London neighborhood of St. Crispian’s, hoping for a charmed life. However, her plans are disrupted by her eccentric cousin Archibald, her formidable Aunt Eugenia, and the quirky locals.
Through her Unselected Journals, Emma humorously chronicles the peculiarities of her life at Lapis Lazuli House in a series of novella-length volumes.
Why pick up this easy book?
Oh my goodness, this whole book series is just a blast! It’s packed with heart, wild escapades, and the sweetest friendships and loyalties — plus all the bookish vibes!
Seriously, the characters totally stole my heart, and I loved how it’s written in that charming epistolary style. If you’re a fan of Regency tales and short books, you absolutely need to check this out!
14. Always Watching by Lynette Eason
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.17 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Christian Romance Suspense | ✅ Read it!
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 pick up this easy book?
This book has the reverse bodyguard trope and is packed with suspense that’ll keep you glued to the pages! There are so many twists and turns that you’ll be left guessing until the very end!
Plus, the romance is perfectly paced, and I absolutely loved watching the characters grow and evolve over time.
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!
Eighteen-year-old Edwin St. Andrew finds himself exiled from society and captivated by the Canadian wilderness after an incident at a dinner party. He is struck by a haunting violin melody in an airship terminal.
Two centuries later, renowned author Olive Llewellyn, from a moon colony, includes a peculiar scene in her pandemic novel that echoes Edwin’s experience.
Detective Gaspery-Jacques Roberts is then tasked with investigating an anomaly in North America, uncovering interconnected lives: an earl’s mad son, a stranded writer, and a childhood friend, all linked by their extraordinary journeys that could alter the universe’s timeline.
Why pick up this easy book?
This story takes its time to unfold, featuring captivating characters whose journeys blend together in a way that opens up a whole new perspective.
It dives into some pretty significant themes, like what reality really is. And let me tell you, the writing style is top-notch! It gives a fresh spin on the time travel narrative that you won’t want to miss.
“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
FAQs about building the habit of reading books
Which book should I read first for adults?
If you’re diving into adult fiction, I highly recommend starting with something like A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khalid Hosseini.
It’s a beautifully written book that will resonate with just about everyone. Plus, it’s an easy read, making it perfect for easing into the world of adult literature!
Which is the best book to start reading for beginners?
If you’re looking for a fantastic starting point for beginners, you can’t go wrong with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis. This classic tale is not only enchanting with its rich world of Narnia, but it’s also an engaging read that captivates the imagination of both young and adult readers alike.
Plus, its themes of adventure, courage, and friendship make it a timeless choice to ease into the joy of reading.
How to start reading habits for adults?
Starting a reading habit as an adult can be as simple as setting aside just 10-15 minutes a day. Choose a comfortable spot where you can unwind, grab a book that genuinely interests you, and make it a part of your routine—like with your morning coffee, lunch break, or before bedtime.
If you’re looking for some extra reading inspiration, feel free to hop on over to my Facebook book club group! ⬇️
Come join my new bookish community!
If you’re as passionate about reading as I am, why not take the next step and join my exclusive Facebook group, the Clean & Christian Readers Book Club?
It’s the perfect place to dive deeper into your literary journey, get personalized book recommendations, and share your favorite reads with a supportive community.
How many books should an adult read in a year?
There’s no hard and fast rule, but aiming for about 12 books a year—one for each month—can be a great goal! This averages out to roughly one book a month, and it gives you enough time to really enjoy what you’re reading without feeling rushed.
What is one book everyone should read?
If there’s one book you really shouldn’t miss, it’s definitely Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen! This classic gem is a fun dive into love, social status, and personal growth, plus it’s packed with some of the most unforgettable characters and witty banter you’ll find in literature.
Austen’s sharp insights into human nature still hit home today, making it a must-read that’ll keep you entertained and get those thoughtful gears turning.
How do you choose your first book?
Choosing your first book can be a fun journey! Start by thinking about what genres you enjoy—are you into mysteries, fantasy, or maybe some heartwarming romance? Just remember, it’s all about finding something that genuinely excites you!
Did you discover the best books to start reading habit?
So, whether you’re just dipping your toes into the world of books or looking to get out of a reading slump, there’s no time like the present to get started!
Remember, the key is to find what resonates with you—there’s a treasure trove of stories just waiting to be discovered.
And hey, if you’re ready to kick your reading habit into high gear, why not grab my free A to Z Reading Challenge Pack?
It’s a fun way to motivate yourself and explore a variety of genres.
Let’s embark on this reading adventure together—your next favorite book is just around the corner!
Happy reading!
Want to keep building up your reading habit as an adult?
Check out my other blog posts that cover this topic!
