We all have our favorite genres, which we lean toward, especially when reading time is limited. However, reading something different can highlight other techniques to use in your own writing. If this is too big of a step, then consider reading one that’s a cross-over. These combine more than one classic genre, giving you the opportunity to find one that’s only a slight shift from your first preference.

I suspect that the advent of cross-overs can be credited to indie writers, who pursued their creative instinct with no regard to established “norms” for the conventional book categories. While this was undoubtedly a cause of dismay for publishers, literature professors, and librarians, it has brought a delightful potpourri to readers.

If you do muster the courage to step outside your usual reading fare, just make sure that it’s well-written and edited. Otherwise, it could simply provide you with an excuse to avoid such excursions in the future.