How to Have a Successful First Book Date

Whenever I look for a new book, I sometimes feel like I'm starting a new relationship. I'm about to learn about someone or something new, I don't know what quite to expect, and I'm a little nervous it won't work out right. The first time I sit down with the book is a little like a first date, so I've made a list of steps for readers who also look for love between all the right pages.

1. Make sure you're ready for this date. Are you still in a book hangover from the last one, or are you excited to start something new?

2. Know what you want. Contemporary? Fantasy? Historical? Ask yourself if you're open to exploring new genres or want a tried-and-true category.

3. Find a book you want. Does a certain cover catch your eye? Did the premise hook you immediately? Did another author or a review site you love blurb it? Sometimes it can be hard to pick just one book, but remember you aren't getting married. If you wanted, you could read one book, then start the next one the same night or the next morning (assuming you didn't stay up too late finishing)

4. Find the perfect date location. Which chair is the most comfortable? Does the window seat have ideal back support? Maybe you want to venture outside or even sit somewhere where public noise can become your background.

5. Pick an outfit you love. Do you want to snuggle up with a book in pajamas, put your favorite shoes on because you can, or grab whatever isn't dirty? It's sometimes hard to concentrate on reading when your pants are too stiff for your liking or your shirt's tag seems to be made of itch-powder.

6. Make sure you have all necessary supplies. If you're going to be reading for several hours, you might want to keep a snack and beverage of choice nearby.

7. Get your read on! It's good to go in hoping for an enjoyable book, but you never know, you might find your next favorite.

*Bonus step: Once you finish reading, give the book a review. Regardless of if you loved it, every review helps the book get attention, and someone else might love it.