[Anthem]

Well, using an LCD for reading purposes means you want to get the highest quality display that you can for your money. My primary focus would be screen resolution and reputation of the manufacturer regarding screen quality. For reading purposes, you probably want 1280x800 as an absolute minimum(in a 7" tablet, higher in a 9" or 10"), sight unseen. If you can look at the display with a book pulled up on it, that would be ideal.

When I went from my excellent Nexus 7 (2012) 1280x800 resolution screen to my Kindle Fire HDX 1920x1200 resolution screen, I was blown away. The Nexus 7 screen was already great for reading, but the HDX screen was obviously far superior. The new(er) Nexus 7 also has a great display.

Also, I would recommend 16GB as a minimum storage capacity. You MIGHT be able to get away with 8GB, and books will be the least of your problems in keeping some space available, but apps will sap away at what you have left. If you will be doing anything other than reading, you'll probably want to get 16GB or more storage space.

Another thing to consider: weight of the device. The heavier the device the more fatiguing it will generally be when you are holding it and reading it. General ergonomics is a concern as well. You just want to make sure that the device is at least somewhat comfortable to hold, which I know is a lot to ask from a device that is essentially a plastic slab with glass on the front. Still, do your best.

Battery life is also useful to think about. The Amazon devices have a special mode that they go in to when you are reading on it, that helps increase the battery life. The reading time you get out of the Nexus 7 is generally excellent. Samsung usually puts a good battery in their devices.

Also to consider: do you want access to many e-book stores? Amazon devices generally only have access to the Kindle store. The Nexus and the Samsung devices will have access to most any bookstore.

You may wish to consider the Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 Nook edition that Barnes & Noble is selling now. It is basically a regular old Tab 4, but has some special BN software on it, but nothing that would lock you out of the Play Store. $179 and free shipping right now.

Anyway, maybe go to Best Buy and have a look at them? That helped me choose the Kindle Fire HDX. The screen and feel of the device was just way too good for me to pass up, and I don't really purchase books from anyone other than Amazon. Other than that, I use my superb local library system which operates through Amazon and Overdrive.

Sorry, I know this really doesn't help all that much.

Also, maybe think about the Kobo ARC 7 HD. It is $199.99, has a decent HD+ screen, and access to the Play Store ecosystem. Not the greatest processor, but definitely OK for reading purposes and general tablet tasks.