How to Discover New Authors This Fall
How to Discover New Authors This Fall
Fall is synonymous with cozy moments—crisp weather, comfy sweaters, and warm drinks. But it’s also the perfect time to curl up with a great book. As the days grow shorter, it’s a wonderful opportunity to shift your reading habits, explore new authors, and uncover fresh voices that might become your next literary obsession.
There’s something about the fall season that encourages reflection, nostalgia, and a hunger for stories. With so many books being released around this time, it’s the ideal moment to search for lesser-known gems and broaden your literary horizons.
Discovering a new author in the fall can give you a fresh perspective and set the tone for the upcoming months. Whether you're on the hunt for thrillers, cozy mysteries, or romantic adventures, there are endless ways to find exciting voices this season.
1. Explore Literary Festivals and Author Events
Fall is prime literary event season! Across the country, various literary festivals and author events take place, celebrating both well-established authors and debuting voices. Events like the Brooklyn Book Festival and National Book Festival in Washington, D.C., are perfect places to discover new talent. If you can’t attend in person, many of these festivals now offer virtual sessions, making it easy for anyone to participate from home.
While attending events, you can directly engage with authors during Q&As, workshops, and book signings. Listening to authors talk about their work provides insight into their writing journey, inspirations, and unique storytelling styles.
Another benefit of attending author events is the networking opportunities. Whether through virtual meetups or in-person book signings, you can connect with fellow readers, book bloggers, and even indie publishers who are passionate about promoting new authors. Social media often blows up with new author recommendations around these events too, which makes it even easier to stumble upon your next favorite writer.
2. Join Online Book Communities and Book Clubs
Digital communities have exploded in recent years, offering readers a wealth of resources to discover new authors. Platforms like Goodreads, Instagram, and Reddit are home to thriving book communities where readers share their latest finds, write reviews, and discuss authors of all kinds. Following specific hashtags like #NewAuthor or #IndieAuthors on Instagram can lead you to exciting debut books you may never have heard of otherwise.
Book clubs on Facebook, Discord, or even local virtual meetups can be a great way to get recommendations for new authors. Many of these groups focus on a mix of mainstream bestsellers and hidden gems, so there’s always something fresh and exciting. Some groups even have monthly "book challenges" where readers focus on lesser-known authors or explore specific themes and genres.
For those who want a more structured approach to finding new books, online platforms like Book Riot and Reedsy offer curated book lists that highlight debut authors, books in niche genres, and stories that haven’t yet hit the mainstream. These can serve as a fantastic starting point to fill your fall reading list with overlooked voices.
3. Follow Author Blogs, Social Media, and Newsletters
Many authors have active blogs or websites where they regularly share their thoughts on the writing process, upcoming projects, and recommendations for other writers. By following an author’s blog, you gain access to insider information and may even discover new authors through their posts. Authors often recommend books by fellow writers they admire, which can be a goldmine for finding new talent.
Social media is another great avenue to explore. Many authors use their platforms on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok to engage with their readers and share their favorite books. Authors who have a strong online presence tend to highlight new works—either from debut authors or from authors in their genre—creating a ripple effect of book recommendations that can lead to hidden gems.
Don’t overlook author newsletters! Many writers have email subscriptions where they send out updates, book recommendations, and behind-the-scenes stories. By subscribing to a few, you open yourself up to a curated list of books you might not encounter otherwise. Some authors even feature guest posts from other writers, which can be an excellent way to discover fresh voices.
4. Read Independent and Self-Published Authors
While mainstream publishing tends to dominate the conversation, the independent and self-published world is bursting with talent. Indie authors often experiment with innovative ideas, untraditional plots, and niche genres, offering readers a wealth of unique reading material that’s often missed in larger bookstores.
Platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, Smashwords, and Wattpad are full of independent authors who offer their books at affordable prices. These platforms have become the starting point for many authors to gain visibility and connect with readers. You’ll find genres ranging from contemporary romance to dark fantasy and everything in between.
If you're new to indie books, look for online communities like IndieAuthorChat or BookSirens that are dedicated to promoting self-published authors. These spaces often feature author interviews, book giveaways, and reviews to help readers navigate the indie book world. Many indie authors also host virtual launch events or free book days to attract new readers.
5. Take Advantage of Library and Bookstore Recommendations
Local libraries and independent bookstores have their finger on the pulse when it comes to discovering new authors. Many libraries and bookstores highlight debut novels or new releases through their displays, often focusing on authors who are just starting to gain attention.
In libraries, check out sections like New Releases, Local Authors, or Staff Picks, which often feature books from up-and-coming authors. Librarians are great at recommending fresh voices, so don’t hesitate to ask them for suggestions based on your interests.
Independent bookstores often curate their own collections of new releases, which can be a fantastic way to discover books that aren't on the typical bestseller lists. Many local bookstores also host author readings, signings, and discussions, which can provide opportunities to meet authors in person and learn about their work firsthand. For those who prefer digital, apps like Libby or OverDrive offer a digital borrowing experience where libraries curate new and lesser-known titles for readers to explore.
6. Explore Book Awards and Nominations
Literary awards are a goldmine for discovering fresh voices in the literary world. Prestigious awards like the Booker Prize, National Book Award, and Goodreads Choice Awards regularly highlight authors who are not only critically acclaimed but also gaining recognition among readers.
Aside from these major awards, smaller and more niche awards often highlight debut or indie authors who are still making their way into the literary conversation. For instance, the Indie Book Awards or the Self-Published Book Awards shine a spotlight on works that readers may have overlooked.
Following upcoming award nominations can lead to discovering authors whose books are worth exploring. As these awards often highlight a diverse range of genres, it’s easy to stumble upon authors you wouldn’t otherwise have encountered, especially those who are new to the scene or gaining momentum in their genre.
7. Read Diverse Genres and Cross-Genre Books
One of the most exciting ways to discover new authors is by stepping out of your usual genre. Fall is the perfect time to experiment with new genres and authors you wouldn’t typically pick up.
Look for cross-genre books, where authors combine elements from multiple genres. For example, a historical fantasy or romantic thriller might surprise you with its creativity and storytelling flair. These types of books are often written by authors who are just beginning to carve out a space for themselves in the literary world.
Be open to genres you don’t often read, such as literary fiction, horror, speculative fiction, or contemporary literary fiction. These genres often feature debut authors who bring fresh and bold storytelling to the table. By expanding your literary palate, you can unearth voices that might quickly become your new favorites.
Conclusion:
Fall is a time of change, and discovering new authors is a great way to embrace that transformation. Whether you’re looking for a gripping mystery to curl up with, a heartwarming romance to enjoy on a crisp afternoon, or a thought-provoking literary novel, there are countless ways to uncover voices you haven’t yet discovered. Embrace the season by expanding your reading list and supporting authors who are making their mark. You never know—the next author you discover this fall might just become your new obsession.
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What new authors have you discovered this fall? Share your recommendations in the comments or tag us on social media to spread the love!
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