Paperback or Hardback?

As bookworms, we all have our own reading quirks and preferences. Maybe you swear by the smell of old books, or maybe you’re loyal to your Kindle. Do you gravitate toward page-turning thrillers or melt into slow-burn romances?

I recently came across a fun “This or That” challenge while scrolling through social media, and naturally, I had to jump in. While it’s focused on book choices, some of these could easily apply to film and movie fans as well.

Reflecting on my own habits and favorites was more fun than I expected. Here’s how I answered — and I’d love to hear your thoughts, too!

☕ Coffee or tea? 🍵

Honestly, I enjoy both. There’s something comforting and grounding about a cup of hot tea, especially lately — my most recent discovery is London Fog, and I’ve been hooked since my first sip!

That said, coffee is my daily go-to. It kickstarts my morning and fuels my writing sessions. I have it with a coffee-flavored creamer to soften the edge but still keep the essence of that bold coffee. My favorites? French vanilla and Irish cream.

Whether it’s icy in the summer or warm in the fall, there’s usually a mug nearby when I’m reading or working on a project.

📚 Paperback or hardback?

Tough call. I used to lean more toward hardbacks — there’s just something about their beautiful look and durability that feels “premium.” And I still love a beautiful dust jacket!

But over time, I’ve come to appreciate paperbacks just as much. They’re light, easy to carry, and great for on-the-go reading. At this point, I’d say I enjoy both equally.

🦹 Hero or villain? 🦸

This may surprise some, but I’m the team villain all the way! There’s something undeniably intriguing about complex, layered antagonists. I love reading — and writing — villains who are compelling, clever, and maybe even a little charming.

The best ones are the ones you find yourself secretly rooting for… or don’t even realize are the villains until the end. I hope to create such a character one day — someone unforgettable, whose motivations leave you questioning everything.

💞 Romance or fantasy? 🤺

Fantasy, no question. I love being swept away in fictional worlds and meeting creatures beyond imagination. It’s a form of escape that keeps me exploring time, chapter after chapter.

Romance, on the other hand, doesn’t usually grab me—especially if it’s predictable. That said, I can certainly enjoy a well-written slow burn or a romantic subplot woven into a larger narrative.

📖 Dog ear or bookmark? 🔖

Bookmarks all the way! I’ve never been able to bring myself to turn a page. And if I find one with dog ears, I’ll quietly open it like a book rescue mission.

I have a few favorite bookmarks that I cycle through. If one doesn’t work, I’ll try to remember the page number (with mixed success), or I’ll leave the guilty book open upside down. I know… not ideal!

💻 E-book or audiobook? 🔉

Audiobooks for me! While I rarely read e-books, audiobooks completely capture my attention—especially when the narrator brings the characters and world to life. A great voice actor can elevate a story in amazing ways.

There’s something so immersive about listening to a story. I love how I can take it with me — on walks, while cooking, or even while I’m sleeping.

📗 New books or used books? 📘

Another tough one! There’s something so satisfying about opening a brand new book — the smell of fresh pages, the pristine cover.

But I also love used books. They come with a sense of mystery and history, like stories hidden between the lines. If the plot intrigues me and the cover catches my eye, I’m sold, new or old.

🧍 Single POV or multiple POV? 🧍‍♂️🧍‍♀️

I don’t have a strong preference, but I favor one point of view — it’s often easier to follow and more intimate. Still, a well-executed multiple POV story can be incredibly engaging and can deepen the narrative by showing different sides of the same event.

It all depends on how the author handles it. When done right, changing points of view adds richness and momentum to the story.

Final Thoughts

"This or That" challenges like these are an interesting way to reflect on what we like about stories and why. They show that even small reading habits can reveal a lot about our personality and tastes.

Now it's your turn. How would you answer them? Share your thoughts in the comments or create your own post and tag me. I'd love to see your choices!