There is nothing like delving into a fantastic book. Here’s how to find a truly memorable treasure.

Typically a search does not begin at the top of a TBR (to be read) pile, but by perusing a list from our favorite genre.

True….However, sometimes a new story from a totally different genre that never interested you before in your life for even one minute– can gnaw at your thoughts until you stop whatever activity you’re doing and open the book. The weird part is admitting you liked the story after reading that last heartfelt word. It’s like a confession.

The best way to find the book treasure that will stay in your mind

long after you finish the book is to have an open mind.

Next: Look for a quality book cover.

A good publisher or indie author will honor the story with a quality book cover. One that shows the genre and gives a hint of the story.

This month, I bought a book because the amazing, well-crafted book cover (not the title) left a strong clue the book would be a suspense story…possibly thriller. Dark colors in the top left tapered to the bottom right. Shadows. A silhouette. I read chapter one with no confirmation the story was from this genre. But by chapter four, I felt like a fish, teased by the fisherman’s lure, and finished one of the best contemporary suspense stories I’d ever read. So satisfied.

If you want a story that will keep you reading, one you could tell your friends about, one that causes you to outwardly respond with a tear, laughter, or dare I say-a shout at the pages, focus on the main character.

The character is the true core of any memorable story.

Read the blurb on the back then the first pages for clues about the character. If he/she is the same ol’ same ol’ main character found in every other book in your genre, you might like the story, but it won’t be memorable. Neither will it be a treasure. You could easily watch a movie or do a hundred other things instead of picking up the book and continue reading. The setting or plot may intrigue you, but seriously, without an exciting character, the story won’t be memorable.

Examples of standout characters:

Ebenezer Scrooge. Why is he a memorable character? Like the grinch, his heart was too small. His loyal worker, Bob didn’t change him. His happy, loving nephew didn’t change him. The three spirits didn’t change him, but they showed him a child so kind, so giving who happened to be plagued with an infirmaty destined to kill unless he received costly medical assistance.

Elizabeth Bennet. A woman who refused to marry without love, even if she ended up a spinster.

You probably know why these characters made their mark…

Junie B. Jones

Zorro

Frankenstein

Joan Wilder

Scarlette Ohara

Maggie Fitzgerald (Million Dollar Baby)

Beast (Beauty and the Beast)

Hunchback

Thor

Anne Shirley

Rhett Butler

Dorian Gray

and so many more. This list includes characters with common and uncommon names. From history to contemporary. Young and old. Across genres.

Generally speaking if you enjoyed a book by an author,

you can recall a noteable character from the story

and will most likely enjoy their other books,

especially if they wrote a series.

Francine Rivers

Terri Blackstock

Joanne Rowling

J.R.R. Tolkien

Steven King

Michael Connelly

John Grisham

Tom Clancy

and etc., Don’t forget all the classics: Dickens, Hugo, Dumas, Shakeaspeare, Austen, Bronte, Wild, Bradbury, Alcott, Poe, …

Great Places to Easily Find Fabulous Books:

Goodreads. This amazing site, set up for the community of readers and writers, categorizes books by the genres readers feel the book best fits. Descriptions and discussions are available -AND there are links to where you can buy the book. You can join one of the many book clubs, participate in the annual reading challenge. (I did that.) There is no cost to set up a profile. No pressure to buy or participate in any aspect. It is a treasure house to find memorable books. Be sure to friend me on Goodreads!

Bookbub  This fantastic site is set up with more of a touch of class. Once you set up your profile, you can receive notices when your favorite author or genre has a new release. What I like about Bookbub is the new book isn’t always by a living author. Sometimes a classic will be repackaged, set up as an audiobook, and more. You can follow your favorite author, indicate the genres you enjoy and get notified when something new you may like is released. Be sure to friend me on Bookbub

What I like about sites such as Goodreads and Bookbub is learning about new releases from my favorite authors and also new books available in the genres I prefer. I also appreciate the links to purchase the book at more vendors than just one. No pressure. Nothing else.

Interested in book clubs, new releases. reviews. classics, and more related topics for readers?