If you’ve never tried audiobooks, you’re not alone—but you’re missing one of the easiest ways to read more, learn more, and enjoy stories on the go! Whether you commute, walk your dog, or relax before bed, audiobooks can turn ordinary moments into mini reading escapes.

Getting started is much easier than you might think—and yes, you can enjoy them even if you’re a lifelong “page loyalist.” Here’s everything you need to know to become a confident, committed audiobook listener. 

 Many of our posts contain affiliate links.

Why Audiobooks Are Worth It

Audiobooks have exploded in popularity thanks to their convenience, accessibility, and variety. You can download a new audiobook and start listening in seconds. You can discover new narrators who naturally bring stories to life, and fit books into your day in ways traditional reading can’t.

Top Benefits of Audiobooks:

• 🎧 Listen anywhere: in the car, at the gym, or while folding laundry.
• ⏱️ Save time: multitask while “reading.”
• 💬 Boost comprehension: many listeners absorb and remember more through narration.
• 🧠 Rediscover classics: professional narrators make even dense books feel cinematic. 

Get an Audible Membership – .99/mo for 3 months

How to Choose the Right Audiobook for Your First Listen

Not all books translate equally into great audio experiences. When you’re starting out, look for engaging stories, talented narrators, and strong pacing.

A few tips:

• Pick a book you’ve already read: Familiarity helps you focus on the experience rather than trying to keep up with the plot.
• Start with action, mystery, or romance: These genres tend to have lively narration and keep you hooked.
• Check the narrator: A great voice actor can transform a good book into an unforgettable one. Look up samples before buying.  

The Easiest Ways to Listen

You can listen through almost any device—your phone, tablet, or laptop. Many apps make it seamless to start, bookmark, and sync across devices.

Popular Programs:

• Audible: The largest audiobook marketplace, perfect for most users. Offers include discounted monthly rates + credits.
• Libro.fm: Independent-bookstore-friendly and ethically sourced. Libro.fm Memberships offer credits and discounts--and support local bookstores. You can sign up here.
• Scribd: Subscription-based, great for voracious listeners.
• Spotify & Apple Books: Ideal for quick purchases or trying single titles.

You can create affiliate links for some of these services so that each signup through your blog earns you a commission.

How to Stay Engaged While Listening

If you’ve tried audiobooks before and lost focus, don’t write them off yet. Listening is a skill—one that gets easier with the right strategies.

Try these focus hacks:

• Start small. Go for short audiobooks, around 4–6 hours.
• Listen during routines. Walking, cleaning, or commuting works best.
• Use bookmarks and notes. Apps let you highlight key parts to revisit.
• Adjust narration speed. Many new listeners prefer 1.2x speed—it sounds natural but sharper.

Best Kinds of Books to Begin With

While preferences vary, newcomers usually love:

• Memoirs read by the author: Authentic and heartfelt (try Becoming by Michelle Obama).
• Mystery & thrillers: Great pacing and attention-grabbing.
• Humorous fiction: Laughter keeps you locked in.
• Short story collections: Quick wins to build the habit.

My eBook Recommendation of the Week? I just finished listening to Magic Hour by Kristin Hannah, with narration by Suzanne Toren. Great for fans of attention grabbing psychological fiction!

Make Audiobooks Part of Your Lifestyle

The secret to loving audiobooks is consistency. Instead of carving out extra time to “read,” weave listening into your existing routine. 

Morning coffee? Audiobook. 

Drive to work? Audiobook. 

Evening walk? Audiobook.

The more you listen, the more natural it becomes—and soon, regular reading and listening will feel like interchangeable, enriching habits.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever said, “I don’t have time to read,” audiobooks are your answer. They transform downtime into discovery time and open new worlds right through your headphones.

So don’t wait—grab your first audiobook today:

👉 Try Audible or Start Listening with Libro.fm & Support Local Stores

Whether you’re chasing adventure, memoir, or motivation, there’s a story waiting to fill your next quiet moment. All you have to do is hit play. 

Your love of books does not have to break your budget--even if you love all of the books! Whether you love eBooks, audiobooks, or physical editions, countless websites and apps offer free books, deep discounts, and exclusive deals. In this guide, we’ll explore the best resources for affordable reading — so you can fill your shelves (and your e-reader) without emptying your wallet. 

Why Book Deals Matter

Book spending can really add up--especially if you read several books a month. Between new releases, special editions, and audiobooks, the costs add up fast. The good news? You can still support authors, discover new favorites, and explore every genre imaginable — at a fraction of the price — just by knowing where to look.

Below is my go-to list of trusted sites and services that every reader should bookmark.

1. BookBub: Your Personalized Book Deal Finder

BookBub is one of the most popular and reliable sources for daily book deals. Once you create a free account, you’ll receive customized email updates featuring eBook discounts based on your favorite genres and authors. Many titles are free or under $3.

Why It’s Great:

• Personalized recommendations based on your reading habits.
• Frequent deals from major publishers and top indie authors.
• Seamless links to buy directly from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or Apple Books. 

2. Libby & Hoopla: Free Books Courtesy of Your Library

Your local library is one of the best and most underrated tools for frugal readers. Apps like Libby (by OverDrive) and Hoopla let you borrow eBooks, audiobooks, and even graphic novels from the comfort of your phone — completely free.

Why It’s Great:

• 100% free to use with your library card.
• Huge catalog covering bestsellers, classics, and new releases.
• Instant digital checkouts — no late fees!

If you haven’t downloaded Libby yet, it takes less than five minutes to connect with your local library and start reading.

3. ThriftBooks: Affordable Used Books with Rewards

If you prefer the feel (and smell!) of a physical book, ThriftBooks is an excellent site for low-cost used copies. Prices often start under $5, and you can earn points toward free books through their ReadingRewards program.

Why It’s Great:

• Massive inventory of gently-used books, including out-of-print editions.
• Free shipping on orders over $15.
• Rewards points for every purchase.

4. Audible & Libro.fm Free Trials for Audiobook Lovers

If you’re always on the go or love multitasking while “reading,” audiobooks are a game-changer. Both Audible (by Amazon) and Libro.fm offer special trial memberships that include drastically reduced monthly rates during the trial or audiobook credits.

Why It’s Great:

• Get a free audiobook during your trial (that you keep forever).
• Libro.fm supports independent bookstores with every purchase.
• Frequent members-only sales and curated recommendations.

After the trial, you can often switch to their lower-cost plans or take advantage of seasonal sale bundles.

Here is the current Audible Trial plan! 

5. Project Gutenberg & Open Library: Free Classics Forever

Love the classics? Project Gutenberg and Open Library are two of the oldest and most ethical sources for legally free books. These digital libraries feature thousands of public domain titles — from Pride and Prejudice to Dracula.

Why It’s Great:

• Completely free and safe to use.
• Download in multiple formats (ePub, Kindle, plain text).
• Great for students, researchers, and vintage literature fans. 

You can even integrate the catalogs with e-reader apps to access offline.

6. Book Outlet: Deep Discounts on New Books

Book Outlet is a goldmine for bargain hunters who still want new copies. It sells publisher overstock and returns at 50–90% off retail prices, often including recent bestsellers.

Why It’s Great:

• Brand-new books for a fraction of the price.
• Great for bulk buyers and gift shopping.
• Frequent clearance events and seasonal sales.

If you have a book blog, Book Outlet also offers affiliate opportunities to help you earn commissions from shared links.

How Can you Maximize Your Book Savings

• Stack Deals: Combine publisher sales with sitewide discounts or coupon codes.
• Join Loyalty Programs: Places like ThriftBooks and Book Outlet reward repeat customers.
• Set Alerts: Use Google Alerts or BookBub’s wish list to be notified when your favorite titles go on sale. 
• Use Browser Extensions: Tools like Honey or Rakuten can apply coupons or give you cashback for purchasing your books online.    www.rakuten.com/r/MAMASW22?eeid=28187

Final Thoughts

Finding affordable or free books doesn’t mean sacrificing quality — it simply means being a smart reader. With tools like BookBub, ThriftBooks, Libby, and more, your next great read is always within reach.

Whether you’re building a personal library or exploring new genres, these resources make reading more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Remember to share or bookmark this guide — and check back often, as new book deal sites pop up all the time!

I love almost everything about fall! The moment the air shifts and that first crisp breeze rolls in, the world just seems to slow down. Leaves crunch underfoot as the trees trade their green for shades of amber, crimson, and gold. Even the sunlight feels different—softer, richer, and more fleeting as evenings arrive a little earlier.  

In this guide, I’ll share unique and practical ways to transform any corner of your home into a fall-inspired retreat. Along the way, I’ll recommend some cozy finds (blankets, candles, lights, mugs) that can help make your space as snug as possible.

1. Choose Your Spot with Intention

The great thing about a reading nook is that it doesn’t have to be a full room—you just need a dedicated space.

• By a Window: If possible, pick a spot with natural light. There’s something magical about watching leaves drift down while sipping tea with a book in hand.
• Tucked Away: If you crave privacy, consider a corner of your bedroom or beside your bookshelf. 

If you aren't lucky enough to have a built-in window seat, you can create a cozy feel with an accent chair, like this Christopher Knight Home Armchair on Amazon or the woven accent chair from Target.

I have a "reading chair"--named by my daughters when they were very little. It was the spot to pile in every day for storytime--and, while my little ones are not so little anymore--it's still the spot for everyone to curl up with a good book! 

2. Layer with Cozy Textures

Fall decorating is all about texture. Toss a cozy plaid throw like this one from Amazon across your chair and add an extra fleece or faux-fur blanket for depth. The chunky hand knit throw feels like wrapping yourself in pure fall comfort.

Don’t forget pillows! Simple corduroy pillow covers or a plaid throw pillow from Target make your nook look seasonal and inviting without trying too hard. I have a stack of pillow covers that I use to change up the look of my room without needing to store big, bulky pillows!

 

3. Lighting: The Warm Glow of Autumn

Lighting completely sets the mood. Overhead bulbs are too harsh—opt for ambient lighting instead.

I like to weave warm-toned fairy lights into a bookshelf for a twinkly storybook vibe. Add a soft lamp and a few candles to warm up the space.

For a soft candle glow and scent, a pumpkin candle with spicy chai & vanilla or this warm cider & cinnamon candle from Target bring fall scents into your reading corner. 

If open flames and candle scents aren’t your thing, I swear by the LED flameless candle set from Target—I find these much safer in my cat-loving home! 

4. Bring in Nature: Seasonal Accents

A few small touches of nature go a long way: pumpkins on the windowsill, acorns and pine cones in a bowl, or a framed display of pressed leaves. Personally, I decorate with natural elements year around, but I still love bringing in fall-specific touches as the season changes.

For function and style, rustic wooden crates can double as a side table or storage. Or, if you need more blanket/book storage, this large cotton rope basket is perfect—and looks gorgeous next to a chair.

5. Curate Your Book Stack 

Autumn reading calls for a seasonal book stack—whether that means cozy mysteries, gothic thrillers, or romantic fall novels. Keep them close by on your side table or tucked into a woven basket. You can always check out my latest book stack on Instagram or Pinterest!

To make your little library stylish, these tree design bookends bring a subtle nature vibe. Or, you could keep your pile stored in the cotton rope basket mentioned above—perfect for quick swaps of your TBR pile.

6. Don’t Forget the Snacks & Drinks 

A cozy nook isn’t complete without refreshments--so put that decorative side table to use in your reading space and add some fun fall-themed accessories!

• Mugs: A pumpkin-themed mug from Target or a classic  fall coffee mug from Amazon makes reading feel like an event.
• Coasters: I love these autumn leaf coasters for protecting tables while keeping the seasonal aesthetic.
• Snacks: Picture warm apple muffins, popcorn dusted with cinnamon, or small indulgences like honeycrisp apple slices by your side.   

7. Personal Touches

Finally, style your nook with you. Frame favorite book quotes, put down a plush rug under your chair, or keep a refillable leather journal notebook like this one nearby for notes and reading reflections.

One of my favorite little luxuries is adding literary-inspired candle sets so even the scent feels bookish.

Share Your Nook

That’s how I like to make a cozy fall reading nook, but I’d love to see yours! Do you go all out with fairy lights and plaid pillows, or keep it minimalist and natural?

Tag me on Instagram @BookCornerNewsReviews or leave a photo/description in the comments below. You may inspire another book lover!

Remember...

Creating a cozy fall reading nook isn’t about spending a lot—it’s about choosing details that make you feel comfortable and inspired: a chunky throw, flickering lights, a mug of cider, and your favorite stack of books.

With a few thoughtful touches, you’ll have a space that feels like pure autumn magic. 

Happy fall reading!