One of the small joys in my life is finding a great new author. That’s why I’m always interested in recommendations. If you’re interested in finding new-to-you authors, I have a few suggestions for you.

1. Read Anthologies.
This is my favorite way to find new authors. A few greats that I’ve been introduced to this way include Sabrina Jeffries and Fern Michaels. With a single title novel it’s hard for me to choose just one author. But I’ve found that anthologies are a great way to try a variety of authors at a great price. Personally, I also tend to like the shorter length novellas. Harlequin Blaze has done a few anthologies in the past that I really enjoyed. Brava is famous for their anthologies.

2. Go to multi-author book signings.
Book signings and romance conventions are a fabulous way to meet new authors and be introduced to their work. Not only do you have a variety to choose from, you get a bit of face time with the author as well. And I don’t know about you but I’m more likely to read an author if I’ve met her face to face. But don’t be intimidated, you don’t have to buy anything if you don’t see anything that suits you. So don’t be pressured. Just smile. Make small talk. Be polite. Pick up a freebie so you’ll have a reminder about the author. You never know when you’ll have a hankering for that author’s work later in life.

3. Read excerpts.
Excerpts are a fabulous way to find new books and new authors. They’re free, and depending on the author/site, you can get a chapter or two to see if you like the book. So don’t be afraid to search out new authors, go to their webpage and have a look at the excerpts. We have a whole section on our site dedicated to excerpts, so have a look at those too(CataRomance, Sensual, Ecataromance, SingleTitles). And don’t forget about publishers’ websites. Many publishers include an excerpt for each book they sell. So stop by and take a look.

4. Used Bookstores
I’ve made it no secret that I owe my love of romance novels to a dear friend in high school who let me borrow a romance novel and later, to the used bookstore that continued that love affair at a very affordable price. I quickly discovered many authors, some I still read today and buy new. So, my suggestion, if you’re looking for a new-to-you author and can’t afford a big investment, try a used bookstore. They’re usually great places, cozy, and will probably make your book loving heart beat a little faster.

5. The Library
Don’t forget the trusty public library. Most of us only remember the library when we have research to do or need some sort of a service. But most public libraries have a good romance section and don’t forget, you can always make book requests/suggestions. So check it out, get to know your librarian and start looking up some new to you authors.

6. Free Reads.
There’s no better way to take a new author for a test drive than by reading a book of theirs for free. Many authors have discovered what a great way this is to find new readers. So don’t by shy, search the web, keep an eye out for authors and readers talking about free reads. And while you’re at it, take advantage of Harlequin’s offer of 16 free ebooks. There’s something for everyone.

7. Reviews.
Obviously we’re a little biased since we write many reviews here. But, reviews are a great way to get get a sample of what authors have to offer, and get an opinion on that author and book. I suggest you find a site and/or reviewer who has similar tastes as you and then keep an eye out for new reviews by new to you authors.

8. Ask for a recommendation.
With so many ways to communicate these days, there’s no excuse not to get in touch with other readers and talk books. Why not talk authors, as well? Use Facebook, Myspace, Yahoogroups, or even Twitter to connect with fellow bookworms and tell them what authors you like and why, and ask for recommendations.

9. Use Goodreads, Librarything, or Shelfari.
Similar to using your social networks, email, and message boards for getting suggestions, sites like Goodreads, LibraryThing and Shelfari are a great place to find new authors and books. You’ll find plenty of reviews, suggestions, and book discussion. In fact, Goodreads will send you an email with recommendations in it based on your previous entries of books read, books on your wishlist and rating and reviews you’ve posted.

10. Find out who your favorite authors’ favorite authors are.
Confused yet? My husband and I use Rhapsody to listen to music. There are so many artists and songs to choose from. One great feature they include is an Inspired By list, Contemporaries/peers, and followers. In other words, you can see at a glance which artists and bands inspired your favorite artists and bands. And since you like your favorite artist/band, you can see who else has similar music by checking out their peers. And then, if you need even more options for your listening pleasure, you can see who your favorite artist/band inspired. Do the same with authors. Many authors have lists on their website, even the social networks where they list some of their favorite authors. You can also look at sites like Amazon.com and Barnesandnoble.com to see what else other readers bought when they purchased a certain book. This is a good way to see who else writes similar books as the ones you currently enjoy.

11. Blogs.
Watch your favorite blogs for recommendations and comparisons. The blogosphere is full of opinionated folks ready to share their book selections. Think of it as a recommendation, review, and social networking all rolled into one.

12. Close your eyes, point and select.
When all else fails, just head down to the bookstore, close your eyes, point and select a book. This may be a fun change of pace. Sometimes it pays to pick randomly (and sometimes it doesn’t) but at least it’ll be an adventure.

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How do you find new authors? Share your ideas in the comments below and be entered to win a signed ADVANCE copy of The Greek’s Convenient Mistress (Harlequin Presents June09) by Annie West ! You’ll also win an autographed copy of Helen Brenna’s Harlequin Superromance, an October, 2009 release, Finding Mr. Right! You have until Friday at 5pm EST. Stay tuned for more contests. Watch the top right sidebar.

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