Can anyone provide insight on a Master's student struggling with research?
I would say this is your opportunity to explore and find a (hopefully small) gap in the literature that you can fill. Reading literature reviews is the best way to start. I had a similar experience a little earlier in my degree (masters), and I was able to pick a topic that I loved, and it kept me going; I am almost finished, and it has been, IMO, a successful endeavor.

If you are applying to a PhD program after, you will have experience exploring a little on your own. Your advisor will be able to say in their recommendation letter that you took initiative in your research.

The difficult part will be carving out something meaningful that you can do in 7-9 months (1 month to research and decide &amp; 2-4 months for thesis writing and defense at the end). Your advisor should be able to help you to narrow the scope to something manageable.