In this episode, I’m joined by international bestselling author Emma Grey to talk about her powerful new novel, Start at the End.We dive into the emotional premise behind this sliding doors–style story and the deeply personal inspiration that brought it to life. After losing her husband ten years ago, Emma found herself imagining the “what ifs”—the many different ways life could have unfolded if circumstances had been reversed. That reflection became the heart of this unforgettable novel.Start at the End is a love story, but not the one you’re expecting. It follows Audrey and Fraser as they fall into a once-in-a-lifetime romance, only to have everything changed in an instant. As they grapple with grief, guilt, and the weight of alternate paths, the story asks a haunting question: where would we be if life had gone differently?This conversation is honest, moving, and full of insight into love, loss, and second chances—and how we begin again when everything changes. Thanks for listening!Website: https://www.emmagrey.com.au/IG: @emmagreyauthor

The month flew by and I am so happy with all the books I read in March! This is the first time I'm saying this but I think I can recommend all the books I read, except one (Wait for Me...meh)! Check the list below and thank you for listening! Favorites🎧 When the Cranes Fly South ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Whidbey ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 We All Want Impossible Things ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Lady Tremaine  ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 Strangers ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Liked🎧 Darling Daffodils Farm ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Star-Crossed Summer ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Walk of Fame ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Brighter Than Before ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️The History Between ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Business Trip ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫Just Okay🎧 The Secret Lives of Murderers Wives ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 How to Write a Love Story ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Saoirse ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Hired Man ⭐️⭐️⭐️Meh🎧 Wait for Me ⭐️⭐️💫

In this episode, I’m joined by New York Times bestselling author Ruth Wariner to talk about her unforgettable memoir, The Sound of Gravel. This powerful story traces Ruth’s childhood growing up in a polygamist Mormon doomsday community—and the courage it took to leave everything she knew behind at just fifteen.What made this conversation especially meaningful was getting to hear where life has taken Ruth since the book’s release in 2016. From a renewed wave of readers discovering her story—especially through the audiobook—to reflecting on everything she’s built for herself since leaving her past behind, Ruth shares with such honesty and grace.She is thoughtful, grounded, and deeply inspiring, and this conversation is a reminder of both the resilience of the human spirit and the power of telling your story. Thanks for listening!

Q2 is here! It is always a pleasure to sit down with my friend Hannah @booksandbitesroc and discuss all the upcoming books for the next few months. Note- there are A LOT. This is a heavy publishing time of year and there are many books that we didn't even chat about! Check them all below and add/preorder for your summer reading TBR! Thanks for listening! AprilLove by the Book by Jessica George, Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke, The Book Witch by Meg Shaffer, My Dear You by Rachel Khong, Dog Person by Camille Pagan, American Fantasy by Emma Straub, The Name Game by Beth O'Leary, The Ending Writes Itself by Evelyn Clarke, Start at the End by Emma Grey, The Paris Match by Kate Clayborn, Handle With Care by Marybeth Mayhew Whalen, The Insomniacs by Allison Winn Scotch, Stranger Things Have Happened by Kasie West, Go Gentle by Maria Semple, The History Between by Ashley Manley, Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth, The Caretaker by Marcus Kliewer, The Island Club by Nicola Harrison, Ms. Mebel Goes Back to the Chopping Block by Jesse Q Sutanto, How to Cheat Your Own Death by Kristen Perrin, Dark Is When the Devil Comes by Daisy PearceMayCaller Unknown by Gillian McAllister, Our Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune, Summer State of Mind by Kristy Woodson Harvey, Enormous Wings by Laurie Frankel, The May House by Jillian Cantor, The Foursome by Christina Baker Kline, The Anniversary by Alex Finlay, First and Forever by Lynn Painter, Dangerously Ours by Krista & Becca Ritchie, The Shippers by Katherine Center, The Players Club by Rachel Mills, The Burning Side by Sarah Damoff, A Sprinkle of Sweet Serendipity by Rachel Linden, Take Me with You by Steven Rowley, The One Day You Were My Husband by Rosie Walsh, Dolly All the Time by Annabel Monaghan, The Summer Share by Jenn McKinlay, Love on the Shelf by Sheila Roberts, The Midnight Train by Matt Haig JuneWhistler by Ann Patchett, Down with the Shipmans by Meg Mitchell Moore, Land by Maggie O'Farrelll, The Chateau on Sunset by Natasha Lester, The Ocean Would Paint Me Blue by Zoulfa Katouh, Road Trip by Mary Kay Andrews, Brighter Than Before by Courtney Walsh, Daughters of the Sun and Moon by Lisa See, Off the Record by Sara Goodman Confino, The Great Outdoors by Kayla Olson, Someone Else's Husband by Kimberly McCreight, Arrivals and Departures by Amanda Eyre Ward, The Missed Connection by Tia Williams, Romantic Hero by Kirsty Greenwood, The Last Time We Saw Her by Jaclyn Goldis, A Pair of Aces by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray, Thrilling Tales of Modern Men by Danny McBride, When You Loved Me by Beatriz Williams, Nine Lives by Catherine Steadman, It Could Have Been Her by Lisa Jewell, The Shampoo Effect by Jenny Jackson, Keep Them Close by David Ellis, The Top of the World by Ethan Joella, The Wash-Ashores by Hannah McKinnon

On this episode, I’m joined by bestselling author Marie Benedict to talk about her sweeping new novel, Daughter of Egypt. Marie shares her deep love of history and her passion for uncovering the hidden stories of remarkable women whose contributions have long been overlooked. We dive into the fascinating research behind the book, including the Egyptology expert she collaborated with while bringing this story to life. We also talk about the novel’s compelling dual timeline, the real historical inspiration behind the story, and how the talented audiobook narrators helped make these women and their journeys feel so vivid and alive. It’s a rich and fascinating conversation about storytelling, history, and the power of giving forgotten women their rightful place in the spotlight. Thanks for listening! *Stay around for the audiobook sample after our chat! For tour info, check out Marie's website below! Website: https://authormariebenedict.com/IG: @authormariebenedict

If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to truly step away and sink into rest, this episode is for you. I’m taking you behind the scenes of my weekend in Middleburg, VA that felt equal parts grounding and magical—a reading retreat designed to help us slow down, reconnect, and simply be. So grateful for Mackenzie and @luxuryreadingretreats and creating this magical weekend for all of us. From the time we spent at Middleburg Books to the wine tasting at Greenhill Winery....every curated moment was unforgettable. If you’ve been craving rest, inspiration, or even just a reminder to carve out time for yourself, I hope this episode feels like a deep exhale—and maybe even the nudge you didn’t know you needed.Retreat Details:https://luxuryreadingretreats.com/My Book Stack from Middleburg Books:The Postcard by Anne BersetThe Book of Alchemy by Suleika JaouadStrangers by Belle BurdenGrape Juice by Eliza DumaisWe All Want Impossible Things by Catherine NewmanThe Ferryman and His Wife by Frode Grytten

In this episode, I’m joined by debut author Linda Wilgus to talk about her beautiful new novel, The Sea Child. We chat about the inspiration behind the story, including her personal connection to the dramatic coastline of Cornwall and how that landscape helped shape the novel’s rich, atmospheric setting. Linda shares how adventure and romance weave through the story, as well as a behind-the-scenes look at her writing process—from carefully planning this first book to developing books two and three that are already in the works.If you enjoy immersive settings, heartfelt storytelling, and hearing how a debut novel comes to life, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Website: https://www.lindawilgus.com/IG: @lindajwilgus

Back with another fun "What I'm Loving" episode to share with you all the things I've been thinking about lately. The biggest thing on my mind is my reading retreat this weekend with @luxuryreadingretreats ! I am the luckiest girl to be included in this group of women to have time to relax, recharge, and connect. The line up of categories for the episode is below. Thanks for listening!1. What I'm Loving2. What I'm Watching3. What I'm Reading4. What I'm Cooking5. What I'm Doing More Of6. What I'm Buying7. What I'm Looking Forward To

I’m so excited for you to hear this conversation with debut author Tiffany Crum! We sat down to talk about her brand-new novel This Story Might Save Your Life and her road to getting published—every high, every setback, and all the perseverance in between. She shares the heart behind the story, what kept her going when things got tough, and what it finally felt like to see her book out in the world.This was one of those chats that felt like talking to an old friend—we laughed, we got real about the writing life, and I walked away feeling so inspired. I have a feeling you will too. And trust me, you’re going to want this book on your TBR!

February went by in a flash and thankfully, I finished some good notable books! In February, I finished 13 books: 11 were audiobooks and 2 were kindle. Out of those 13, 4 books were from Netgalley. Easily my favorite of the month was The Sound of Gravel. How was your month of reading? FavoritesThe Sound of Gravel by Ruth WarinerThe Sea Child by Linda WilgusDaughter of Egypt by Marie BenedictLiked ThemSo, I Met This Guy by Alexandra PotterDestination Funeral by Paige HarbisonA Novel Crime by Deborah LevisonBlade by Wendy WalkerJust OkaysClutch by Emily NemensRomantic Hero by Kirsty GreenwoodDefinitely Maybe Not a Detective by Sarah FoxYou and Me and You and Me and You and Me by Josie Lloyd and Emlyn ReesFlopsSpectacular Things by Beck Dorey-SteinWhen I Kill You by BA Paris

In this episode, I’m joined by Tracy Sierra, author of Nightwatching—one of my favorite books of 2024 and a Jimmy Fallon Book Club pick—to talk about what’s happened since her debut and the inspiration behind her gripping new novel, Warning Signs.We catch up on Tracy’s life post-Nightwatching and dive into the tension-filled world of Warning Signs, a heart-stopping story set during a father-son backcountry ski weekend that goes terrifyingly wrong. We talk about survival, fear, complicated family dynamics, and how nature—and people—can both become incredibly dangerous when warning signs are ignored.This was such a fascinating conversation about suspense, atmosphere, and writing stories that linger long after the last page. If you love dark, unsettling thrillers that get under your skin, this one’s for you.Find Tracy on Tour: IG @tsierrauthorWebsite: https://www.tracysierraauthor.comBook Recommended by Tracy: Dead Weight by Hildur Knutsdottir

This week on the podcast, I’m chatting with Elisha Zepeda, a talented book cover designer whose work you’ve probably admired without even realizing it. We dive into the creative process behind designing a cover—from those first sparks of inspiration to the many behind-the-scenes steps it takes to get a book from concept to print. It was such a fascinating conversation about the art, strategy, and storytelling that go into a single cover, and you’ll never look at your bookshelf the same way again.Go follow Elisha! @ez.bookdesignhttps://www.elishazepeda.com/

In this episode, I’m joined by author Sara Maurer to talk about her debut novel, A Good Animal, and her journey to becoming a published author. We chat about what inspired the book, what it was like writing and publishing her first novel, and the rural farming community that shapes the story.Set outside Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, A Good Animal explores first love, ambition, and the pull between staying and leaving—and how one choice can ripple through a community. Sara shares insight into the people, places, and experiences that influenced the novel, and it was such a joy getting to learn more about her background and creative process.This was a thoughtful, grounded conversation about writing, place, and the quiet power of rural life—and I think you’ll really love it.Website: https://www.saramaurerwrites.com/IG: @saramaurerwrites

Back with another fun "What I'm Loving" episode to share with you all the things I've been thinking about lately. Personal battles, fun finds, real life struggles, and of course what I'm currently reading. The line up of categories is below. Thanks for listening!1. What I'm Loving2. What I'm Watching3. What I'm Reading4. What I'm Cooking5. What I'm Doing More Of6. What I'm Buying7. What I'm Looking Forward To

This week on the podcast, I’m joined by instant New York Times bestselling author Catherine Newman! Her novel Sandwich was a standout sensation and we were all overjoyed to see the continuation of the story in her latest, Wreck. Catherine has been writing for many years, and it was such a joy to finally connect and talk all things craft—her signature authentic tone, the way she creates deeply human characters, and why relationships and their dynamics are always at the heart of her stories. This conversation felt like catching up with an old friend, and I loved hearing her reflections on writing, connection, and what keeps her inspired. I can’t wait to see what she does next—and I think you’re going to love this episode.Website: https://www.catherinenewmanwriter.com/

I had the best time chatting with Danielle (@foreverbookedup) — we’ve been book friends for years, so this conversation felt less like an interview and more like catching up with an old friend. We talked about how our reading lives have changed, the joy (and nerves!) of starting something new, and her journey launching a mobile bookstore last year.One of my favorite parts was hearing about the community she’s built in her area through hosting book events — the kind that bring readers together and make books feel like a shared experience, not just a solitary one. It was such a warm, thoughtful, genuinely fun conversation, and I’m so excited to share it with you.Danielle's IG: @foreverbookedupMobile Bookstore: @rollingchaptersThe book Danielle recommended: The Grace Year by Kim Liggett

In this episode, I’m joined by bestselling author Sadeqa Johnson to talk about her stunning new novel, Keeper of Lost Children. Sadeqa shares her journey from indie publishing to traditional publishing, what it’s been like releasing her sixth book, and the moment she felt called to shift from women’s fiction into historical fiction.We dive into the deep responsibility and beauty of telling stories that have long gone unheard, and why Keeper of Lost Children felt like a story she had to write. This conversation is honest, inspiring, and rooted in purpose—about trusting the call, honoring the past, and writing stories that matter. This is one you won’t want to miss.Find Sadeqa on her book tour: https://www.sadeqa.net/

Surprise episode! I’m joined by my fairly newly established bestie book club—Corine, Kelsi, and Julia—for a full-spoiler discussion of The One by John Marrs. And yes, we mean full spoilers, so if you haven’t read it yet… consider this your sign to stop everything, read the book, and come back immediately.We dive into every character, every questionable decision, and every “oh no they did NOT” moment. We unpack the impact of finding your perfect match, whether the science is a gift or a curse, and how love, loyalty, ambition, and fear collide once the results are revealed. From shocking outcomes to moral gray areas, we ask the big questions: Would you take the test? It’s thoughtful, dramatic, occasionally unhinged, and exactly what happens when four best friends overanalyze a book that refuses to let you look away. Thanks for listening!Next month, we will be reading Heart the Lover by Lily King.

January was a very three-star kind of reading month. I read a lot of books that were fine, enjoyable, and easy to turn the pages on—but not many that fully took my breath away. In this episode, I’m breaking down what worked, what didn’t quite hit, and why a three-star read isn’t a bad thing at all. *I forgot to mention A Good Animal which I really enjoyed! Plus, I’m sharing the few standouts that really rose to the top and are easy recommendations if you’re looking to start your year strong.Loved🎧 The One ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Liked🎧 Warning Signs ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 A Good Animal ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️The One Day You Were My Husband ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Keeper of Lost Children ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Dolly All the Time ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Wreck ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 The List of Suspicious Things ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 The Midnight Taxi ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫Worse Than Strangers ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 This is Not About Us ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫Just Okay🎧 The Future Saints ⭐️⭐️⭐️The One and Only Vivian Stone ⭐️⭐️⭐️Summer State of Mind ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Everyone in This Bank is a Thief ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Fourth Princess ⭐️⭐️⭐️The Women in White ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Anatomy of an Alibi ⭐️⭐️⭐️Meh🎧 The Lost Ticket ⭐️⭐️💫

I am so excited about this episode because I’m joined by bestselling author Maurene Goo to celebrate her debut adult romcom, One and Only, out Today—and truly, this conversation was the best kind of fun. 💕 Maurene first made her mark writing YA, and we talk all about what she loved most about that space: staying true to teen voices, language, and experiences, and honoring how real those moments feel. From there, we dive into her pivot to adult fiction—what sparked the shift, what felt different creatively, and why romcoms felt like the right next step. Maurene is thoughtful, hilarious, and endlessly fascinating, and our chat felt like catching up with a friend. And yes… she also shared some very exciting news early with me—One and Only is the Read with Jenna February pick, and I could not be more thrilled for her. Happy reading and listening!*Maurene also dropped the nugget that her husband's movie might be nominated for the Oscars and very casually told us he co-directed KPop Demon Hunters. You couldn't see my jaw on the floor, but yes- it was dead ass on the floor. Substack: https://maurenegoo.substack.com/For Tour Dates: @maurenegoo

In this episode, I’m talking all about love books — the cute ones, the devastating ones, and the ones where love gets a little… dangerous. From laugh-out-loud romcoms to rip-your-heart-out romances to thrillers fueled by obsession and secrets, I’m breaking down three types of love stories and sharing the books I can’t stop recommending. Whether you want to swoon, sob, or side-eye every character, there’s a love book here for you. Thanks for listening! Thriller Romance:Verity by Colleen HooverThe One by John MarrsThe Last Mrs Parrish by Liv ConstantineCross My Heart by Megan CollinsRebecca by Daphne Du MaurierThe Unraveling by Vi KeelandRip Your Heart Out:Someday, Maybe by Oyni NwabineliThe Heart of Winter by Jonathan EvisonHamnet by Maggie O'FarrellThe Nature of Fragile Things by Susan MeissnerThe Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley HellerWhat the Wind Knows by Amy HarmonRomcoms:The Bodyguard by Katherine CenterThe Flatshare by Beth O'LearyEvery Beautiful Mile by Ashley ManleyThe Burnout by Sophie KinsellaThe Love of my Afterlife by Kirsty GreenwoodThe Good Part by Sophie Cousens

This week on the podcast, I’m joined by the incredible Barrie Kreinik—an award-winning audiobook narrator whose voice you’ve likely heard in some of your favorite listens. Barrie has narrated titles for Penguin Random House, Hachette, Macmillan, Harper, Podium, Blackstone, Brilliance, Audible, Tantor, and more, and her mastery of accents and dialects (especially across the British Isles) is nothing short of remarkable.Our conversation was absolutely fascinating. Barrie walks me through her path into voice training, how she approaches character work, what goes into building authentic dialects, and the artistry behind making an audiobook truly come alive. She’s generous, insightful, and endlessly talented—and I learned so much from her.If you’re curious about the magic behind audiobooks or you simply love hearing from people who are exceptional at what they do, you won’t want to miss this episode.What Barrie Recommends:-Before I Forget by Tory Henwood Hoen-Code Name Helene by Ariel Lawhon-Good Night, Irene by Luis Alberto UrreaAudio Drama written and performed by Barrie!-The Queen of 14th StreetSeries Books Barrie has Narrated:-Because I Could Not Stop for Death- An Emily Dickinson Mystery series by Amanda Flowers-A Rose Gallagher Mystery book series by Erin Lindsey

I’m trying something new this year and making this a monthly segment — a little check-in where I share what I’ve been loving, enjoying, and doing lately. Think books, shows, and the small things that are making this month feel like this month. The line up this month is:What I'm LovingWhat I'm WatchingWhat I'm ReadingWhat I'm CookingWhat I'm Doing More OfWhat I'm BuyingWhat I'm Looking Forward toHappy Listening!

I’m so excited to welcome New York Times bestselling author Alice Feeney to the podcast! With eight books under her belt and a brand-new release, My Husband’s Wife, Alice opens up about her writing process, how she stays grounded when writing dark scenes, and the magic behind the audiobook versions of her novels. We also talk about His and Hers being adapted into a TV series, what that journey has been like, and what she’s working on next. Alice is charming, funny, and incredibly down to earth, making this such a fun and insightful conversation.Her website and tour dates: https://www.alicefeeney.com/IG: @alicewriterland

Book lovers, this one’s for you! I’m back with my recurring book chat segment alongside my Bookstagram friend Hannah (@booksandbitesroc), and we’re breaking down the Q1 books you need on your radar. From titles we’ve already devoured to the releases we’re counting down to, this episode is packed with honest reactions, excitement, and plenty of reader-to-reader recommendations. It’s a long, cozy conversation—perfect for walks, commutes, or curling up with your favorite drink.January:The Storm by Rachel Hawkins, The First Time I Saw Him by Laura Dave, Skylark by Paula McLain, Meet the Newmans by Jennifer Niven, The Briars bySarah Crouch, Dandelion is Dead by Rosie Storey, Scavengers by Kathleen Boland, Anatomy of an Alibi by Ashley Elston, Woman Down by Colleen Hoover, A Box Full of Darkness by Simone St. James, My Husband's Wife by Alice Feeney, The Room in the Attic by T.M. Logan, The Future Saints by Ashley Winstead, Dead in the Water by John Marrs, All the Little Houses by May Cobb, The Fair Weather Friend by Jessie Garcia, Sunk in Love by Heather McBreenFebruary:Blade by Wendy Walker, This Book Made Me Think of You by Libby Page, One and Only by Maurene Goo, It's Not Her by Mary Kubica, What Tomorrow Will Be by Julianne MacLean, This Is Not About Us by Allegra Goodman, Keeper of Lost Children by Sadeqa Johnson, Warning Signs by Tracy Sierra, The Jills by Karen Parkman, When I Kill You by BA Paris, Murder at 30,000 Feet by Susan Walter, Her Last Breath by Taylor Adams, The Astral Library by Kate Quinn, The Girls Before by Kate Alice Marshall, And Now, Back To You by BK BorisonMarchWait For Me by Amy Jo Burns, A Far-Flung Life by M.L. Stedman, No Matter What by Cara Bastone, Toe to Toe by Falon Ballard, This Story Might Save Your Life by Tiffany Crum, Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line by Elle Cosimano, How to Write a Love Story by Catherine Walsh, Once and Again by Rebecca Serle, Everyone in This Bank Is a Thief by Benjamin Stevenson, Two Kinds of Stranger by Steve Cavanagh, Daughter of Egypt by Marie Benedict, The Night We Met by Abby Jimenez

This week I’m joined by longtime content creator Kate Bryan, the force behind Small Things. I’ve been following Kate since her early hair-tutorial days, and it was such a joy to finally sit down with someone who has been educating, inspiring, and entertaining her audience since 2011.We talk about how she’s kept content fun and fresh for over a decade, her journey into reading more since 2020, and the books that have shaped her reading life. Of course, we couldn’t resist swapping recommendations—both in the beauty world and in the book world. Kate also shares her biggest hits and misses of the year.It was such an easy, energizing conversation, and I can’t wait for you to listen. We had the best chat! You can find Kate on Instagram @k8_smallthings and her website: www.thesmallthingsblog.comKate's Recommendations:Conditioner- Pureology Hydrate Brushing hair before showers Wide tooth comb to brush hair after the shower Spend the money on the base layer for your skin ie concealer, foundationBooks RecsWe Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter One True Loves by TJRCarrie Soto is Back by TJRThis Tender Land by William Kent Krueger Book MissesThe Favorites by Layne FargoAll the Colors of the Dark by Chris WhitakerThe Silent Patient by Alex MichaelidesGreat Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry

This episode is basically a cozy, tell-all chat. I asked you for questions and you delivered—life stuff, bookish favorites, church, relationships, all of it. I’m sharing honestly about where I’m at right now, things I hope to focus on as I approach 40, and what’s on my heart as we head into a new year. Thanks for listening!

In this episode, I’m joined by bestselling author Jennifer Niven to talk all about her newest novel, Meet the Newmans, out now. Set in the 1960s, the book is inspired by Jennifer’s lifelong love of the era and her fascination with characters who hide behind carefully crafted masks. And what better lens for that than a picture-perfect TV family? We dive into the inspiration behind the story, the allure of mid-century America, and Jennifer’s incredible author journey across nonfiction, historical fiction, YA, and now adult fiction. She was an absolute delight to chat with, and I loved every minute of this conversation. EXTRA CONTENT: there is a 5 minute audiobook sample at the end of our chat, so make sure to tune in and hear Marin Ireland narrate Meet the Newmans. Find Jennifer: https://www.jenniferniven.com/IG: @jennifernivenUS Tour Dates:1/7- The Strand, NY,NY1/8- Bookmarks, Winston-Salem, NC1/12- St Charles City-County Library, St Charles, MO1/13- Books and Books, Coral Gables, FL1/14- BookPeople, Austin, TX1/16- The Grove Barnes & Noble, Los Angeles, CA

This final episode of the year feels especially meaningful. I’m reflecting on a year of reading that brought comfort, challenge, and so many moments of connection. These books met me in different seasons of the year, and looking back on them now feels like revisiting who I was while reading them. I’ve included the full list in the show notes so you can easily explore each title and reflect on your own year of reading, too.As I wrap up the final episode of the year, I want to take a moment to say thank you for supporting me and this podcast. Every listen, every kind message, every recommendation you’ve shared has meant more than I can put into words. This year of the podcast wouldn’t have been what it was without you.My Top 25 of 2025🎧 The Correspondent by Virginia Evans🎧 Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall🎧 Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell🎧 Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy🎧 The First Witch of Boston by Andrea Catalano 🎧 Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir🎧 Yellow Wife by Sadeqa Johnson🎧 The Women on Platform Two by Laura Anthony🎧 The Bright Years by Sarah DamoffForever and Back by Ashley Manley Every Beautiful Mile by Ashley Manley🎧 The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Harnett🎧 Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea by Jessica Guerrieri🎧 How to Read a Book by Monica Wood🎧 The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin HarmelThe Unselected Journals of Emma M Lion SERIES🎧 These Summer Storms by Sarah MacLeanIt’s a Love Story by Annabel Monaghan🎧 Beach House Rules by Kristy Woodson Harvey🎧 Grace and Henry’s Holiday Movie Marathon by Matthew Norman🎧 The Poppy Fields by Nikki Erlick🎧 Buckeye by Patrick Ryan🎧 Meet the Newmans by Jennifer Niven🎧 Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid🎧 The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern by Lynda Cohen Loigman

Hot takes incoming. This episode is all about my least favorite books of 2025—the overhyped, the underwhelming, and the ones I truly wish I’d DNF’d sooner. If you love honest book talk and a little spice, this one’s for you. Thanks for listening! Here are the Least Favs of 2025:🎧 The Crash ⭐️🎧 Her One Regret ⭐️🎧 PS I Hate You ⭐️⭐️The Love Haters ⭐️⭐️🎧 Count My Lies ⭐️⭐️Promise Me Sunshine ⭐️⭐️🎧 Swept Away ⭐️⭐️Say You’ll Remember Me ⭐️⭐️🎧 Betting On You ⭐️⭐️🎧 My Lovely Wife ⭐️⭐️A Beautiful Family ⭐️⭐️Don’t Open Your Eyes ⭐️⭐️Remain ⭐️⭐️🎧 Not Quite Dead Yet ⭐️⭐️And Then There Was You ⭐️⭐️🎧 Please Don’t Lie ⭐️⭐️Once and Again ⭐️⭐️🎧The Three Lives of Cate Kay ⭐️⭐️🎧 Gone Before Goodbye ⭐️⭐️🎧 What Kind of Paradise ⭐️⭐️💫🎧 Annie Bot ⭐️⭐️💫🎧 The Compound ⭐️⭐️💫The Reservation ⭐️⭐️💫Don’t Let Him In ⭐️⭐️💫🎧 Kill Your Darlings ⭐️⭐️💫

In this final book club episode of the year, we dive into How to Read a Book by Monica Wood—a tender, layered novel about second chances, chosen family, and the stories that shape us. We unpack the themes, characters, and the moments that linger long after the last page.We also take a moment to look back on our entire 2025 reading year and the 10 books we tackled together. From emotional highs to unexpected favorites, it’s a warm recap of everything this community has explored.And because this marks the end of an era, I close with a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has been part of book club over the years. Your insights, messages, and enthusiasm have made this space something truly special. I’m so grateful we got to read together. Make sure to follow along for our new January challenge: A New-to-You Author Start the year with someone you’ve never read before

This week, I’m joined by acclaimed audiobook narrator Karissa Vacker, whose voice has brought to life some of today’s most gripping and emotional stories. We talk about the craft of narration, how she builds character through voice, and what really happens behind the mic. Whether you’re an audiobook lover or just curious about the art of storytelling, this is such a fun and fascinating conversation. Thanks for listening!A few books narrated by Karissa: Good Spirits by BK Borison, Shark Heart by Emily Habeck, When in Rome by Sarah Adams, PS I hate You by Lauren Connolly, Lost Roses by Martha Hall Kelly, The New Year's Party by Jenna Satterthwaite, Fun at Parties by Jamie Harrow

November came and went in a flash! I had two trips back to back and didn’t get the amount of reading I was hoping for, but even with a busy schedule, I was still able to read some books that were on my list. Highs? Being caught up on Emma M Lion. Lows? Reading Reese Witherspoon’s book and hating it every second. How was your November? Any standouts?Loved▪️🎧 Every Beautiful Mile ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (reread to do the new audio!) ▪️🎧 The Unselected Journals of Emma M Lion #8 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫▪️More Than Enough ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫Liked▪️🎧 Love and Saffron ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️▪️ Handle With Care ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫Just okay▪️🎧 An Academic Affair ⭐️⭐️⭐️▪️🎧 A Merry Little Lie ⭐️⭐️⭐️The Flops▪️The Reservation ⭐️⭐️💫▪️🎧 Gone Before Goodbye ⭐️⭐️▪️🎧 Her One Regret ⭐️DNF▪️Some Kind of Famous▪️Overdue▪️The Wilderness▪️The Mating Game▪️The Sunshine Man▪️Charlie Quinn Lets Go

In this episode, I sit down with author Tory Henwood Hoen to talk about her beautifully written new novel, Before I Forget. It’s a heartfelt, funny, and tender coming-of-age story about a woman returning home to care for her father, who’s been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Set against the backdrop of a beloved Adirondack lake house, it explores memory, loss, and rediscovery—with touches of whimsy and humor woven throughout. Tory and I chat about the inspiration behind the story, writing about family and identity, and how memory shapes who we are and who we become.Website: https://toryhenwoodhoen.com/IG: @toryhenwoodhoenBooks Tory Recommends:God of the Woods by Liz Moore, The Friend by Sigrid Nunez, The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy

Bestselling author Matthew Norman joins me to chat all about his charming new novel, Grace and Henry’s Holiday Movie Marathon. We dive into how this festive story came to life, what it was like to write a holiday-focused book for the first time, and his thoughts on male authors writing female characters with authenticity and heart. Matthew also shares his perspective on evolving as a writer through the years and finding new creative challenges along the way.Tune in for a thoughtful, funny, and festive conversation with one of today’s most insightful voices in contemporary fiction. Thanks for listening!Website: https://www.thenormannation.com/IG: @thenormannation

In this special holiday episode, I’m diving into a festive holiday this-or-that—and along the way sharing some of the traditions and memories that shaped my childhood, plus the new ones I’m building with my own little family. It’s warm, nostalgic, a little reflective, and full of the cozy-season energy we all need right now.I wrap things up with 15 holiday book recommendations to carry you through the season—everything from heartwarming reads to wintry escapes. You’ll find the full list waiting in the show notes!Grab a blanket, light a candle, and settle in for some bookish holiday cheer. Holiday TBR1. Grace and Henry's Holiday Movie Marathon by Matthew Norman 2. Snow Kissed by RaeAnne Thayne 3. My Favorite Holidate by Lauren Blakely 4. Good Spirits by BK Borison 5. The Key to my Heart by Lia Louis 6. A Little Christmas Spirit by Sheila Roberts 7. Once Upon a Wardrobe by Patti Callahan Henry 8. Eight Perfect Hours by Lia Louis 9. A Cross-Country Christmas by Courtney Walsh 10. One Last Gift by Emily Stone 11. A Gingerbread Bakery by Laurie Gilmore 12. One Day in December by Emily Stone 13. Dear Santa by Debbie Macomber 14. Merry Ex-Mas by Courtney Walsh 15. A Wedding in December by Sarah Morgan

Author Ashley Manley is back — and she’s my very first second-time guest on the podcast! We had so much to catch up on since her debut, including the exciting news that her beloved book Every Beautiful Mile is being pitched to Netflix (and is now available as an audiobook!). Ashley also shares the inspiration behind her brand-new Christmas novella The Holiday Club, plus her honest thoughts on choosing to stay indie for now. She’s as down-to-earth and genuine as ever, and it’s always such a joy to chat with her.Grab her books here: https://www.ashleymanleywrites.com/

Get ready to build your 2026 TBR! In this episode, I’m sharing fifteen books coming out in the first half of the year that have already caught my eye. From anticipated debuts to big-name releases and a few hidden gems, we’re diving into all the upcoming titles I can’t wait to get my hands on.The Line Up:Meet the Newmans by Jennifer Niven (1/6)The Infamous Gilberts by Angela Tomaski (1/20)Warning Signs by Tracy Sierra (2/10)Keeper of Lost Children by Sadeqa Johnson (2/10)More Than Enough by Anna Quindlen (2/24)Strangers in the Villa by Robyn Harding (3/3)Everyone in this Bank is a Thief by Benjamin Stevenson (3/17)Start at the End by Emma Grey (4/7)My Dear You by Rachel Khong (4/7)The Caretaker by Marcus Kliewer (4/21) The One Day You Were My Husband by Rosie Walsh (5/19)Dolly All the Time by Annabel Monaghan (5/26)A Fortune of Sand by Ruta Sepetys (6/2)Land by Maggie O’Farrell (6/2) Nine Lives by Catherine Steadman (6/23)

This week, I’m joined by Julie Olivia, author of If It Makes You Happy—a cozy, small-town romance set in 1997 Vermont that’s full of flannel, baked goods, and second chances. We talk about her path from self-publishing to traditional publishing and what makes a romance feel like home. Thanks for listening!Website: https://julieoliviaauthor.com/IG: @julieoliviaauthor

This week, I’m joined by the wonderful bestselling author Monica Wood to chat all about her heartfelt new novel, How to Read a Book. It’s a story that beautifully explores forgiveness, second chances, and the quiet ways books can change our lives.We talk about what inspired Violet, Harriet, and Frank’s intersecting stories, the real-life inspiration behind the prison book club at the heart of the novel, and how reading can help us find connection and healing when we least expect it.If you love stories that remind you of the goodness still left in the world, this is one you won’t want to miss. How to Read a Book is tender, hopeful, and so fitting for book clubs — and my conversation with Monica felt like sitting down with an old friend who just really gets why we love stories.Website: https://www.monicawood.com/The Book Monica Recommends: Station Eleven by Emily St John Mandel

October turned out to be one of my best reading months yet! I read 16 books—13 of them on audio—including three from the charming Emma M. Lion series. I also found several standout favorites that weren’t even on my original TBR (sometimes the best reads are the unexpected ones!). Tune in for all the highlights and surprises from a truly great month of reading.Loved🎧 Yellow Wife ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Book of Magic ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Grace and Henry’s Holiday Movie Marathon ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Buckeye ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 The Unselected Journals of Emma M Lion #5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Unselected Journals of Emma M Lion #6 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Liked🎧 The Guncle ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 My Favorite Holidate ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Good Spirits ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️One and Only ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Before I Forget ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Unselected Journals of Emma M Lion #7 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Just okay, maybe skipThis Book Made Me Think of You ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧Date Night in December ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Soul Searching ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Bride ⭐️⭐️⭐️Once and Again ⭐️⭐️

Bestselling author B.K. Borison joins the podcast to talk about why romance deserves a seat at the literary table. *(cue fan girl moment for me!)* We talk about the importance of taking romance novels seriously, the joy of writing love stories that matter, and her enchanting new holiday book Good Spirits — a magical, heart-tugging romance that might just make you believe in the Ghost of Christmas Past. Thanks for listening!Website: https://bkborison.com/IG: @authorbkborison

WARNING: There will be spoilers about the Book! Our October book club discussion is here! This month we dove into Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell — a breathtaking, emotional novel that reimagines the life and loss of Shakespeare’s only son. We chat all about O’Farrell’s exquisite writing, the portrait of Agnes as a wife and mother, and the ways grief and love can shape art. It’s a rich, heartfelt conversation that explores both the history behind the book and the emotional layers within it. Thanks for tuning in and being part of book club.

In this episode, I sit down with Laurie Gilmore, New York Times bestselling author of The Gingerbread Bakery. We dive into her journey from aspiring writer to bestselling author, the craft of writing small-town romance, and the magic of creating characters readers root for. Plus, Laurie gives us a peek at what’s coming next in her cozy, romantic universe. Thanks for listening!Website: https://www.thelauriegilmore.com/IG: @lauriegilmore_author

Curl up with your favorite fall drink and join me as I share 10 things I’m absolutely loving this season — from the coziest candle to the perfect fall playlist. Think of this episode as a warm hug in audio form. Thanks for listening!

This episode is such a treat—I got to sit down with Kirsten Miller! You might know her from her YA books or her adult hits like The Change, and now she’s back with her third adult novel The Women of Wild Hill. This book is full of wit, magic, and yes, some seriously satisfying female rage. We talked about everything from writing across age categories to what makes a strong heroine to why stories of women fighting back resonate so much right now. Thanks for listening!Books Kirsten Recommends:A Land so Wide by Erin A CraigThe Bloody Chamber by Angela CarterWebsite: www.kirstenmillerbooks.comIG: @kirstenmillerbooks

This week I had the absolute joy of chatting with bestselling author RaeAnne Thayne about her brand-new Christmas novel, Snow Kissed. With more than 70 books to her name, RaeAnne is truly an OG in the romance world, and we dive into her incredible publishing journey, how the industry has shifted over the years, and what continues to inspire her beloved heartwarming stories.I also got to fangirl a bit over her Haven Point series (a longtime favorite of mine!) before wrapping things up with a festive rapid-fire Q&A—think Christmas traditions, cozy favorites, and her author must-haves.This was such a fun and festive conversation, and I can’t wait for you to listen! Website: https://www.raeannethayne.com/IG: @raeannethayne

It’s time for our Quarter 4 catch-up! I’m joined by my friend Hannah from @booksandbitesroc, and we spend an hour talking about what we’re currently reading and the new releases we’re excited for in the last stretch of 2025. Spoiler: November and December are a little light on publishing, but we still found plenty of books worth adding to your TBR.Books We Discussed:Dating After the End of the World by Jeneva Rose, Mate by Ali Hazelwood, Yours For the Season by Emily Stone, Told You So by Mayci Neeley, Twice by Mitch Albom, The Second Story Bookshop by Denise Hunter, The Women of Wild Hill by Kirsten Miller, Cover Story by Mhairi McFarlane, Overdue by Stephanie Perkins, My Favorite Holidate by Lauren Blakely, The Second Chance Cinema by Thea Weiss, Gone Before Goodbye by Reese Witherspoon and Harlan Coben, The Dogs of Venice by Steve Rowley, And Then There Was The One by Martha Waters, Grace & Henery's Holiday Movie Marathon by Matthew Norman, The Gallery Assistant by Kate Belli, Date Night in December by Jaqueline Snowe, The Widow by John Grisham, Girl Dinner by Olivie Blake, The Midnight Knock by John Fram, Some Kind of Famous by Ava Wilder, The Bone Thief by Vanessa Lillie, Kooky Spooky Love by Josie Silver, That's a Great Question, I'd Love to Tell You by Elyse Myers, The Black Wolf by Louise Penny, Never Over by Clare Gilmore, Wreck by Catherine Newman, The Everlasting by Alix E Harrow, Pickle Perfect by Ilana Long, Anne of Avenue A by Audrey Bellezza and Emily Harding, With Friends Like These by Alissa Lee, We Fell Apart by E Lockhart, The Bridesmaid by Cate Quinn, Book of Lives by Margaret Atwood, An Academic Affair by Jodi McAlister, And Then There was You by Sophie Cousens, 59 Minutes by Holly Seddon, Death and Dinuguan by Mia P. Manansala, Friends and Liars by Kit Frick, The Bodyguard Affair by Amy Lea, Something Wicked by Fallon Ballard, Seeing Other People by Emily Wibberley & Austin Sigemund-Broka, Everyone In the Group Chat Dies by L.M. ChiltonIn, Your Dreams by Sarah Adams

This week I’m joined by Andrea Catalano to chat all about her debut novel The First Witch of Boston—a gripping story inspired by the true history of Margaret Jones, the first woman found guilty of witchcraft in 17th-century Massachusetts. We dive into Andrea’s background with this fascinating time period, her research process, and what drew her to bring this overlooked piece of history to life. Andrea was such a joy to talk with, and I can’t wait for you to not only discover this book but also get excited for her next one coming out next year!Book mentioned: The Witchfinder's Sister by Beth UnderdownWebsite: https://andreacatalanoauthor.com/IG: @acatnovelist

September! What a month. Lots of favorites which makes me so happy! Hope you had a great reading month and you had some winners. Happy listening!Favorites🎧 Hamnet ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The First Witch of Boston ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 How to Read a Book ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️The Holiday Club ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Project Hail Mary ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Tourist Season ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 If It Makes You Happy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 The Book Club for Troublesome Women ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Women of Wild Hill ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Liked🎧 Snow Kissed ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Man Who Died Twice ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Gingerbread Bakery ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Stranger Things Have Happened ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Other People’s Houses ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫The Briars ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫Just OkayThe Weekend Crashers ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Second Story Bookshop ⭐️⭐️⭐️Mad Mabel ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Secret of Orange Blossom Cake ⭐️⭐️⭐️MehAnd Then There Was You ⭐️⭐️🎧 Please Don’t Lie ⭐️⭐️

In this episode, I sit down with debut author Heather Aimee O’Neill to talk about her stunning new novel The Irish Goodbye. It’s a heartfelt family drama that explores the bonds that shape us, the rifts that challenge us, and the quiet moments that bring us back together. We dive into the complexities of real life family relationships, the threads that hold us close, and why empathy and connection matter more than ever.Website: https://www.heatheraimeeoneill.com/IG: @heatheraimeeoneill

It’s book club time! For September we read The Women on Platform Two, a story that takes us to 1970s Dublin where contraception was completely banned (yes, really 😳). We dive into Maura, Bernie, and Saoirse, the risks these women faced, and how their courage shaped the lives of generations to come.We talk spoilers in this episode, so if you have not read the book yet you may want to finish it first. This one had us thinking, feeling, and asking big questions about choice, resilience, and the power of women supporting women. Grab your tea and join the convo!

In this episode, I chat with New York Times bestselling author Marie Bostwick about her new novel The Book Club for Troublesome Women. Already a USA Today and Southern Indie bestseller, the book takes us to the 1960s where four women form a book club that sparks friendship, self discovery, and quiet revolution.Marie and I talk about the inspiration behind the story, why the themes of resilience and sisterhood still resonate today, and the lasting power of books to change lives. It is a warm and inspiring conversation you will not want to miss.Website: https://mariebostwick.com/IG: @mariebostwick

This week, I’m pulling back the curtain and giving you a peek behind the mic. From how episodes are planned to the surprises that pop up along the way, here’s the messy and fun reality of making this podcast. Thank you for listening and being a huge support for me!

I had the best time chatting with Kasie West, beloved YA contemporary romance author, about her exciting leap into adult romance—with a little spice! We talked about why she wanted to explore this new lane, how readers are responding, and what it means to follow your heart as a writer, even if it surprises people. If you love heartfelt romance and real talk about creativity, you won’t want to miss this conversation.Website: http://www.kasiewest.com/IG: @kasiewest

Pumpkin spice lattes aren’t the only thing worth celebratingthis season! Fall is packed with bookish goodness! In this episode, I’m breaking down the buzziest new releases that will keep you turning pages long after the sun goes down.Books Mentioned in this Episode:Wild Reverance by Rebecca Ross (9/2)A Land So Wide by Erin A Craig (9/9)All This Could be Yours by Hank Phillippi Ryan (9/9)The Wasp Trap by Mark Edwards (9/16)We Met Like This by Kasie West (9/16)Alchemised by SenLinYu (9/23)The Secret of Orange Blossom Cake by Rachel Linden (9/30)Dating After the End of the World by Jeneva Rose (10/1)Mate by Ali Hazelwood (10/7)Gone Before Goodbye by Reese Witherspoon and Harlan Coben (10/14)

Today I’m joined by Michelle and Laura, the delightful duo behind the bookstagram @dontbotheruswerereading. We chat all about their personal reading journeys, the joy (and challenge) of raising kids who love books, and what inspired them to launch their shared account. You’ll also hear about the titles they just can’t stop recommending, the communities they’ve found through books, and plenty of laughs in between.Whether you’re a parent hoping to spark a love of reading at home, a fellow bookstagrammer, or simply on the hunt for your next great read, you’ll love this warm and inspiring conversation.Laura's Recs: The Conditions of Will by Jessa Hastings, Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid, Mary Jane by Jessica Anya BlauMichelle's Recs: One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune, The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig, The Outlaw Noble Salt by Amy Harmon

August! You came and went in a flash and somehow I kept reading even with back to school, sickness, and limited time to focus. My standout favorite is easily The Women on Platform Two by Laura Anthony. I can’t stop talking about it! Runner up favorites were Midnight at the Blackbird Cafe and The Matchmaker’s Gift. Did you have any favorites in August?🎧 The Women on Platform Two ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Wishing Game ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 I’ll Come to You ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️The Bookstore Keepers ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Matchmaker’s Gift ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 A History of Wild Places ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Midnight at the Blackbird Cafe ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️A Deal with the Bossy Devil ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 The Dirty Version ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 The Sirens ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Full Bloom ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Play Nice ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 84, Charing Cross Road ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Not Quite Dead Yet ⭐️⭐️Remain ⭐️⭐️

In this episode, I sit down with Laura Anthony, author of The Women on Platform Two, a moving and powerful novel inspired by a true story of women in 1970s Dublin who risked everything to fight for reproductive rights. We chat about Laura’s many pseudonyms (and why she writes under them!), her favorite things about living in Ireland, and what’s next for her writing.The Women on Platform Two weaves together past and present: in 1969, Maura and Bernie face devastating choices in a country where contraception is forbidden; in 2023, Saoirse begins to uncover just how hard-won today’s freedoms truly are. It’s an unforgettable story of courage, resilience, and the women who dared to change history.IG: @lauraanthonybooksBooks that Laura Recommends: Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall and PS I Love You by Cecelia Ahern (not the movie haha)Books to Try:The Secret Life of Beatrice Alright by Brooke HarrisUnder Lying by Janelle Harris

Our August book club pick brought something extra special—author Virginia Evans herself joined us! We had the gift of listening as she shared the story behind The Correspondent, what it took to bring this novel to life, and even a glimpse at what’s next for her. It was such a beautiful, memorable night of conversation and connection.⚠️ Spoiler Alert: This episode does contain spoilers, so be sure to finish the book before you listen!

This week I’m joined by 5 time author Amy Poeppel, whose brand new novel Far and Away takes us on a laugh-filled adventure of a house swap between families in Texas and Germany. Amy shares the personal connection she has with Germany, the quirky cultural nuances she loved weaving into the story, and the humor that makes her books such a delight. We also chat about what’s next for her writing—and she leaves us with five fantastic book recommendations you won’t want to miss!Website: https://www.amypoeppel.com/IG: @amypoeppelBooks Amy Recommends:The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett, Run for the Hills by Kevin Wilson, The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern by Lynda Cohen Loigman, The Island Club by Nicola Harrison (April 2026), The Weekend Crashers by Jamie Brenner (Nov 2025)

This week my husband joins me on the mic for such a fun conversation! Ryan's sharing the last 10 books he’s read, how he finally found his way into fiction, and what surprised him along the way. We laughed a lot, swapped reading stories, and I think you’ll love hearing his perspective as a newer fiction reader.The Books We Talked About:Dragon Teeth - Michael Crichton, The Terminal List - Jack Carr, Dark Matter - Blake Crouch, Wolf Trap - Connor Sullivan , The River We Remember - William Kent Krueger , The Breach - Patrick Lee, True Believer - Jack Carr, Middle of the Night - Riley Sager, The Butcher - Jennifer Hillier , Upgrade - Blake Crouch

This week, I’m joined by the incredibly talented Lynda Cohen Loigman, author of The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern and three other beautiful novels. Lynda’s last two books have woven in just a touch of magic—something we definitely dive into during our chat. We talk about her writing journey, her decision to add a dash of the mystical to otherwise grounded stories, and what life looks like both on and off the page these days. If you love stories that blend heart, humor, and a little enchantment, this episode’s for you. Her recommended books: Far and Away by Amy Poeppel, The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo, The Stone Witch of Florence by Anna RascheWebsite: https://lyndacohenloigman.com/IG: @lloigman

This week, I’m sharing a mid-month check-in that’s close to my heart...the joy of a surprise birthday trip with my sisters and the reminder of how special it is to reconnect. I also give you a peek into my recent reads, current reads, and the stories that have been keeping me company. It’s a mix of heartwarming moments and bookish chatter — the perfect blend for a cozy listen. Thanks for being here.

Internationally bestselling author Samantha Downing is back with a killer new book—literally. Too Old For This stars an elderly woman who just happens to be a serial killer, and let’s just say… she’s not slowing down anytime soon. We had such a fun chat about twisted characters, dark humor, and why murder might just be the ultimate retirement plan.Website: https://www.samanthadowning.com/IG: @smariedowning

To celebrate my 39th birthday, I’m sharing 39 book recommendations—yes, all 39 made it into this episode! From thrillers and rom-coms to memoirs and comfort reads, I’ve got something for every kind of reader. I also kick things off with a quickfire round of fun “get to know me” questions! Grab a treat, press play, and come celebrate with me!THE LISTEvery Beautiful Mile by Ashley Manley🎧 We Used to Live Here by Marcus KliewerForever and Back by Ashley Manley🎧 Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy🎧 Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea by Jessica Guerierrie🎧 The Poppy Fields by Nikki Erlick🎧 Broken Country by Clare Leslie HallIt’s a Love Story by Annabel Monaghan🎧 The Corespondent by Virginia Evans🎧 The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett🎧 The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel🎧 Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid🎧 These Summer Storms by Sarah MacLean🎧 Night Watcher by Daphne Woolsoncroft🎧 The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff🎧 Beach House Rules by Kristy Woodson Harvey🎧 The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern by Lynda Cohen Loigman🎧 Here One Moment by Lianne Moriarty🎧 The Heart of Winter by Jonathan Evison🎧 Orbital by Samantha Harvey🎧 Is She Really Going Out With Him? by Sophie Cousens🎧 The Third Gilmore Girl by Kelly Bishop🎧 If We Were Villians by ML Rio🎧 The Same Bright Stars by Ethan Joella🎧 The God of the Woods by Liz Moore🎧 The Goddess of Warsaw by Lisa Barr🎧 Real Americans by Rachel Khong🎧 Middletide by Sarah Crouch🎧 Kill for Me, Kill for You by Steve CavanaghThe Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh🎧 Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett🎧 Sylvia’s Second Act by Hilary Yablon🎧 While You Were Out by Meg Kissinger🎧 The Home for Unwanted Girls by Joanna Goodman🎧 Nightwatching by Tracy Sierra🎧 Long Bright River by Liz Moore🎧 The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon🎧 The Measure by Nikki Erlick🎧 The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger

Author Ellie Palmer is back! Her charming debut Four Weekends and a Funeral was a Book of the Month pick, and now she’s just released her second novel Anywhere With You. We chat all about her writing journey, her swoony new romance, and what it’s like to follow up a buzzy debut with another heartfelt hit. Thanks for listening!Website: https://www.elliepalmerwrites.com/IG: @elliepalmerwrites

July's book club discussion gets real, and a little vulnerable, as we dive into The Poppy Fields by Nikki Erlick, a novel that imagines a controversial grief treatment center where patients can choose to sleep through their heartbreak.We talk about how the book made us think differently about grief: Would we ever choose to sleep off our pain? Why might we not? And what are the ways we can actually support others through real, raw loss?It’s a powerful, emotional conversation about grief, healing, and human connection—and a reminder that sometimes, the best thing we can do is simply show up for each other. Thanks for listening!

July was a great month of reading! Shockingly, I only had two ⭐️⭐️ books which felt like a huge accomplishment. As we know, audiobooks are keeping me busy while walking and busy puzzling.  and hanging with my kids at the pool. I can’t believe August is looming! Any favorites from your July reading?Loved🎧 The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫Liked🎧 A Court of Mist and Fury ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Everyone Is Lying To You ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Far and Away ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Anywhere With You ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Lost Book of First Loves ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 A Marriage at Sea ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫So Old. So Young ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 Under the Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫Just Okay🎧 The View from Lake Como ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Wes and Addie Had Their Chance ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Sunburned ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Falling For You Again ⭐️⭐️⭐️A Killer Motive ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Let’s Make a Scene ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Sweet Taste of Muscadines ⭐️⭐️⭐️Meh🎧 The Compound ⭐️⭐️💫🎧 The Hunting Wives ⭐️⭐️

NYT bestselling author Miranda Cowley Heller, known for her debut novel The Paper Palace, joins me to talk about her beautiful new poetry collection What the Deep Water Knows. We dive into why poetry felt like the right next step, the themes that run through both books, and what it means to write from a place of emotional truth. It’s an insightful, tender conversation you won’t want to miss. Get your copy today! Happy Listening!

This week I’m joined by my friend and fellow bookstagrammer Sara Hildreth from @fictionmatters! Sara is a former English teacher and lifelong book lover who brings such thoughtful insight to every bookish conversation. We chat about all kinds of readerly things—from reading by mood to the power of fiction to teach empathy and expand our worldview. If you love deep dives and meaningful convos about why we read, this one's for you!Substack: https://fictionmatters.substack.com/Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/fictionmattersThree Books Sara Recommends:The Last Samuari by Helen DewittAudition by Katie KitamuraFox by Joyce Carol Oates

This week, I’m joined by Daphne Woolsoncroft—co-host of the hit true crime podcast Going West and debut author of the gripping thriller Night Watcher. Inspired by the real-life disappearance of her aunt in the 1980s, Daphne shares how her family’s story shaped both her podcast and her novel. We chat about her shift from true crime to fiction, the writing process, and the emotional journey behind the book. It was such a fun and fascinating conversation—I can’t wait for you to hear it!Website: http://www.goingwestpod.com/IG: @daphne.woolsoncroft and @goingwestpodcast

Books are personal, and while some titles became new favorites for many readers, they just weren’t for me. In this episode, I’m talking about my least favorite books of the year and why they missed the mark—let’s get into the bookish drama! This is the line up! I do talk spoilers on all the books so this is your heads up now if you don't want to know for any of the books listed below. Let's gooooo! 🎧The Three Lives of Cate Kay ⭐️⭐️🎧 Flirting with Disaster ⭐️⭐️💫🎧 PS I Hate You ⭐️⭐️🎧 The Crash ⭐️🎧 Annie Bot ⭐️⭐️💫The Love Haters ⭐️⭐️🎧 Count My Lies ⭐️⭐️Promise Me Sunshine ⭐️⭐️🎧 Swept Away ⭐️⭐️Say You’ll Remember Me ⭐️⭐️🎧 Betting On You ⭐️⭐️🎧 What Kind of Paradise ⭐️⭐️💫🎧 My Lovely Wife ⭐️⭐️A Beautiful Family ⭐️⭐️Don’t Open Your Eyes ⭐️⭐️

Author Jo Piazza joins me to chat about her new juicy-as-hell thriller Everyone Is Lying to You—and we go deep on the influencer world, the dark side of “tradwife” culture, and how social media is messing with women’s heads (and lives). Jo is as sharp and funny as her writing, and this was such a fun, thoughtful conversation. Don’t miss it!Website: https://www.jopiazza.com/IG: @jopiazzaauthor

I had the best time chatting with author Emily Harding about her brand-new book How Freaking Romantic! We talked all about what it was like for her to go from co-writing with her best friend to releasing her very first solo novel—and how fun (and maybe a little scary!) that process was. Emily is such a joy and a total champion of the romance genre. If you love books that celebrate love and authors who aren’t afraid to gush about it, you’re going to love this episode!Website: https://www.simonandschuster.com/authors/Emily-Harding/193899432https://audreyandemily.com/IG: @emilyhardingwrites

In this episode, I’m joined by the fabulous Merrick White, the creative force behind @merricksart. We dive into her inspiring journey from blogging to becoming a top fashion influencer and building a thriving business that empowers women to feel confident in their style. Merrick also shares how growing up in a book-loving home shaped her reading life today—and yes, she’s still a big reader! We wrap things up with a fun fashion-themed “this or that” lightning round and two great book recommendations from Merrick herself. Whether you're here for the fashion or the fiction, there’s something for everyone in this episode!Her recs:One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune and Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave (#5 in the series)Website: www.merricksart.comIG: @merricksart

This week, I had the absolute joy of chatting with bestselling author Sarah MacLean! Known for her wildly popular historical romances, Sarah is taking a bold step into new territory with her latest novel These Summer Storms. We dive into what inspired this emotional family drama, the importance of reading for fun and joy, and why romance still holds such a vital place in the literary world. These Summer Storms explores grief, sibling estrangement, and the unraveling of a wealthy family's legacy—and we unpack it all in this heartfelt conversation.Website: https://www.sarahmaclean.net/IG: @sarahmaclean

What a month! We’ve settled into a great summer routine and I am cruising through the audiobooks + kindle reading while on my daily walks, quiet time on the porch, and pool! Favorites of the month were for sure Atmosphere, Night Watcher, and These Summer Storms. I think you’ll be seeing these books a ton this summer. Did you have any favorites from June?12 audiobooks + 10 kindleFavorites🎧 These Summer Storms ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Atmosphere ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 Night Watcher ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫LikedThe Names ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Tilt ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Rebel Summer ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Sandwich ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 How Freaking Romantic ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️What the Deep Water Knows ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️We Met Like This ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Welcome to Murder Week ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 One Last Resort ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫Just Okay🎧 A Court of Thorn and Roses ⭐️⭐️⭐️Yours For The Season ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Someone Knows ⭐️⭐️⭐️Business Casual ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 What If I Never Get Over You ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Summer We Ran ⭐️⭐️⭐️If All Else Sails ⭐️⭐️⭐️SkipDon’t Let Him In ⭐️⭐️💫A Beautiful Family ⭐️⭐️Don’t Open Your Eyes ⭐️⭐️

In this episode, I sit down with Laura Anthony, author of The Women on Platform Two, a moving and powerful novel inspired by a true story of women in 1970s Dublin who risked everything to fight for reproductive rights. We chat about Laura’s many pseudonyms (and why she writes under them!), her favorite things about living in Ireland, and what’s next for her writing.The Women on Platform Two weaves together past and present: in 1969, Maura and Bernie face devastating choices in a country where contraception is forbidden; in 2023, Saoirse begins to uncover just how hard-won today’s freedoms truly are. It’s an unforgettable story of courage, resilience, and the women who dared to change history.IG: @lauraanthonybooksBooks Laura Recommends:Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall and PS I Love You by Cecelia AhernBooks to Try of Laura's:The Secret Life of Beatrice Alright by Brooke HarrisUnder Lying by Janelle Harris

This week on the podcast, I’m joined by author Karen Dukess for a delightful and inspiring conversation! We chat all about her fascinating path to becoming a writer, the winding journey (and setbacks) that came with working on her second book, and, of course, her brand new novel Welcome to Murder Week. We had so much fun talking about it!Her first book: The Last Book PartyWebsite: www.karendukess.comInstagram: @karendukess

SPOILERS!! In the month of June, we discussed Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea—a raw, powerful novel that dives into the complexities of addiction, identity, and resilience. Even more special? Author Jessica Guerrieri joined us for the conversation. Since the book is rooted in her own lived experience with alcoholism, her insights brought incredible depth, vulnerability, and honesty to our discussion. It was an unforgettable chat full of emotion, reflection, and hope.

Please welcome back my good friend Hannah (@booksandbitesroc) and grab a cozy drink (and maybe a snack and an activity) as we catch up about all the Q3 books that are on the horizon! Spoiler, there are a LOT! I think we had 70 books on the list. This kind of bookish nerding out is some of my favorites to record because we always have things to say and comment on! Thanks for listening and make sure to check the show notes with the books we discuss.JulyThe Satisfaction Cafe by Kathy Wang, Archive of Unknown Universes by Ruben Reyes Jr, The Spirit of Love by Lauren Kate, How Freaking Romantic by Emily Harding, Sun Burned by Katherine Wood, The View From Lake Como by Adriana Trigiani, The Woman in Suite 11 by Ruth Ware, The Homemade God by Rachel Joyce, Night Watcher by Daphne Woolsoncroft, Our Last Resort by Clemence Michellon, The Summer Storms by Sarah MacLean, All the Men I've Loved Again by Christine Pride, Totally and Completely Fine by Elissa Sussman, My Train Leaves at Three by Natalie Guerrero, The Lake Escape by Jamie Day, A Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna, The Unraveling of Julia by Lisa Scottoline, Maid for Each Other by Lynn Painter, Not Quite Dead Yet by Holly Jackson, Ink Ribbon Red by Alex Pavesi, Dead of Summer by Jessa Maxwell, That Last Carolina Summer by Karen White, Under the Stars by Beatriz Williams, Mean Moms by Emma Rosenblum, You Belong Here by Megan MirandaAugustThe Locked Ward by Sarah Pekkanen, Anywhere With You by Ellie Palmer, L.A. Women by Ella Berman, The Devil's Advocate by Steve Cavanagh, If All Else Sails by Emma St. Clair, The Girl Who Came In From the Cold by Ally Carter, For the Record by Emma Lord, The Harvey Girls by Juliette Fay, We Are All Guilty Here by Karin Slaughter, The Society of Unknowable Objects by Gareth Brown, The Incredible Kindness of Paper by Evelyn Skye, Too Old For This by Samantha Downing, All the Tomorrows After by Joanne Yi, One Dark Night by Hannah Richell, The Break-In by Katherine Faulkner, Good Grief by Sara Goodman Conofino, Forget Me Knot by Stacy WillinghamSeptemberWild Reverence by Rebecca Ross, A Killer Motive by Hannah Mary McKinnon, A Land So Wide by Erin A Craig, Wild Card by Elsie Silver, Play Nice by Rachel Harrison, Hot Wax by ML Rio, All This Could be Yours by Hank Phillippi Ryan, Pitcher Perfect by Tessa Bailey, The Elements by John Boyne, The Wasp Trap by Mark Edwards, Boy from the North Country by Sam Sussman, We Met Like This by Kasie West, Other People's Houses by Clare Mackintosh, The Academy by Elin Hilderbrand, Thief of Night by Holly Black, The Killer Question by Janice Hallett, We Love You, Bunny by Mona Awad, The Impossible Fortune by Richard Osman, A Tour to Die For by Michelle Chouinard, Christmas at the Ranch by Julia McKay, Famous by Blake Crouch, You Make It Feel Like Christmas by Sophie Sullivan, What We Can Know by Ian McEwan, Fake Skating by Lynn Painter, The Secret of Orange Blossom Cake by Rachel Linden, The Lost Story of Eva Fuentes by Chanel Cleeton, The Irish Goodbye by Heather Aimee O'Neill

This week, I’m joined by the delightful Annie Hartnett, author of the charming and emotional new novel The Road to Tender Hearts. We dive into her unexpected journey from the art world to the writing life, and chat about how she mixes whimsy and wit with deeper themes like grief, found family, and community. Annie’s books are the kind that make you laugh and cry—and this conversation is no different!Annie recommended Sandwich by Catherine NewmanGet all of Annie's books: Rabbit Cake, Unlikely Animals, The Road to Tender HeartsWebsite: https://www.anniehartnett.com/IG: annie_hartnett

It’s personal Q&A time! You sent in your questions—and I’m answering them! From behind-the-scenes podcast life to what my husband does for work, how to get your kids to read, hobbies outside of reading, and how I really find time to read with four kids… we’re talking all things real life in this episode. Come hang out with me for a casual, cozy chat—you might learn something new, and you’ll definitely leave feeling like we just had coffee together.

In this mini episode, I’m sharing my thoughts on A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas—the book that launched a thousand fae-themed obsessions. Did it live up to the hype? Kinda. Think: Beauty and the Beast meets Twilight with a magical twist. Tune in for my spoiler-light review, what worked for me, what didn’t, and whether I’ll keep going with the series.

In this episode, I’m joined by bestselling author Kristin Harmel to discuss her powerful new novel The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau. We dive into the inspiration behind the story, her desire to spotlight women rebels in WWII, and the moral complexity of those who broke the law in the name of justice during wartime. Kristin also opens up about navigating her breast cancer journey while continuing to write, and shares highlights from her recent book tour. It’s a moving, thoughtful conversation you won’t want to miss.Website: https://kristinharmel.com/IG: @kristinharmel

In this episode of Meagan’s Book Club Podcast, bestselling author Nikki Erlick joins us to discuss her deeply moving new novel, The Poppy Fields. Known for her breakout debut The Measure, Nikki returns with a powerful story that tenderly explores the complexities of grief, loss, and healing. We talk about the inspiration behind the book, how she approaches writing about emotional pain with empathy, and what she hopes readers take away from this poignant journey. Whether you're navigating your own grief or simply love a novel that makes you feel, this conversation is not to be missed.Website: www.nikkierlick.com IG: @nikkierlick

*apologies for the mic echo towards the end of the interview, smh facepalm*This week’s episode is a thrill! I had the absolute best time chatting with my friend Dennis (@scaredstraightreads), a longtime Bookstagram buddy and thriller aficionado. We dove into all things suspenseful—our favorite thrillers, dream author interviews, upcoming book-to-screen adaptations we can’t wait for, and the books Dennis is most excited about later this year. 🎬📚If you love a good twisty read (or just want solid book recs from someone with impeccable taste), this one’s for you!

Today on the podcast, Meagan chats with beloved author Courtney Walsh about her delightful upcoming release, Everything's Coming Up Rosie—a heartwarming, small-town romance filled with lovable characters and feel-good moments. Courtney shares the inspiration behind Rosie’s story, gives us a peek into her writing process, and even plays a fun round of “This or That.” If you're a fan of clean, character-driven love stories with plenty of charm and heart, this episode is for you!Website: www.courtneywalshwrites.comIG: @courtneywalsh

May! We were all crawling to the finish line getting to summer break, but now that you're here, I am ready to binge some books! I cannot believe I finished 17 books this month (maybe I can- dissociated much??), but I was able to cross so many off my TBR. Did you have a favorite book you read in May? Let me know! Loved🎧 The Road to Tender Hearts ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Now to Forever ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Heart the Lover ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️LikedThe Irish Goodbye ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 My Friends ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Notes on an Execution ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 We Don’t Talk About Carol ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Sounds Like Love ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Retirement Plan ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Just OkayFifty Fifty ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Kill Your Darlings ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Death of Us ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 One Golden Summer ⭐️⭐️⭐️Flops🎧 What Kind of Paradise ⭐️⭐️💫🎧 Betting On You ⭐️⭐️🎧 My Lovely Wife ⭐️⭐️

In this episode, Meagan chats with debut author Kristen L. Berry about her novel We Don’t Talk About Carol—a gripping family mystery rooted in long-buried secrets. We talk about her journey to becoming an author, the complex relationships at the heart of the story, and the real-world issue of missing Black girls often being overlooked. It’s an honest, thoughtful conversation you won’t want to miss. Grab your copy today!Website: https://www.kristenlberry.com/IG: @kristenlberry

In this special episode of Meagan's Book Club Podcast, I'm serving up 25 amazing beach reads to keep you turning pages all summer long! Whether you're in the mood for a swoony romance, a gripping thriller, a heartfelt historical, or something totally unexpected, I’ve got something for every kind of reader. From brand-new releases to beloved backlist gems, this episode is packed with recommendations across all genres.So grab your sunscreen, pop in those earbuds, and get ready to load up your TBR with the ultimate beach read list of the season!The List:Heartwarming/Feel GoodThursday Murder Club by Richard OsmanMrs Quinn’s Rise to Fame by Olivia FordThe Same Bright Stars by Ethan JoellaStatistically Speaking by Debbie JohnsonThe Correspondent by Virginia EvansThriller/MysteryHold My Girl by Charlene CarrThe Unraveling by Vi KeelandThe Return of Ellie Black by Emiko JeanCross My Heart by Megan CollinsThe Missing Half by Ashley FlowersRomancePictures of You by Emma GreyIs She Really Going Out With Him Sophie CousensThe Good Part by Sophie CousensThe Love of my Afterlife by Kirsty GreenwoodFirst-Time Caller BK BorisonAny Trope But You by Victoria LavineFictionThe Wedding People by Alison EspachThe Inheritance by Joanna GoodmanSylvia’s Second Act by Hillary YablonAfter Annie by Anna QuindlenThe Bright Years by Sarah DamoffHistorical FictionThe Story She Left Behind by Patti Callahan HenryThe Stolen Life of Colette MarceauNonfictionWhile You Were Out by Meg KissingerThe Third Gilmore Girl by Kelly Bishop

In this episode of Meagan’s Book Club Podcast, I’m joined by bestselling author Kristy Woodson Harvey to chat about her delightful new novel, Beach House Rules. We dive into the inspiration behind the story, how Kristy crafts such vivid, heartwarming Southern settings, and the family dynamics that make her books so beloved. And of course, we wrap it all up with a fun Rapid Fire: Summer Edition—flip flops, rosé, guilty pleasures and more! Whether you're packing your beach bag or just dreaming of coastal escapes, this is an episode you don't want to miss.Website: www.kristywoodsonharvey.comIG: @kristywharvey

Get ready for all the swoons! On today’s episode, I’m joined by bestselling author Annabel Monaghan to chat about her brand-new novel It’s a Love Story, hitting shelves today! Annabel has a gift for writing heart-melting romances with sharp wit and unforgettable characters—and this latest story might just be her best yet. You don’t want to miss this fun, heartfelt conversation!Website: https://annabelmonaghan.com/IG: annabelmonaghan

Summer is here, and you know what that means — beach reads, sunny vibes, and diving into the perfect stories while soaking up the rays.In this episode, I’m unpacking what really makes a great beach read (spoiler: it’s more than just sand and sunshine!). We’ll also explore why so many of us pick up more books during summer— from extra free time to that crave for escapism.Plus, I’m sharing a handpicked list of books that readers are buzzing about this season — from thrilling mysteries to swoony romances and imaginative fantasies.Ready to build your ultimate summer TBR? Grab your favorite cold drink and tune in!

In this episode, Meagan sits down with Brittney Hanks, the founder of the popular Instagram account Home and Kind. Brittney is a businesswoman, influencer, and cookbook author, and she shares her journey of building a brand focused on kindness, wellness, and home. We dive into her experiences balancing her influencer work with running a business, her passion for creating simple, yet impactful recipes, and her unique approach to living a fulfilling, balanced life. Whether you're looking for inspiration for your own business or simply seeking a dose of positivity, this conversation is sure to leave you feeling uplifted.Website: www.homeandkind.comIG: @homeandkindBooks recommended in this episode:Project Hail Mary by Andy WeirOrdinary Grace by William Kent KruegerFrozen River by Ariel LawhonEssentialism  by Greg McKeown

In this episode, I’m joined by my friend Tessa (@thelithomebody), and we’re diving into all things bookish! If you're not already following her, you will want to after you listen! We chat about our favorite genres, our undying love for our Kindles, and what makes the Bookstagram community so special. Tessa also shares the inspiration behind her beautifully curated Instagram aesthetic—think cozy, dreamy, and totally drool-worthy. If you love books, bookish spaces, and good vibes, this one’s for you!

In this episode, we delve into Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea, the compelling debut novel by Jessica Guerrieri. Set in coastal California, the story follows Leah O’Connor, a once-free-spirited artist whose unexpected journey into motherhood and family life leads her to confront addiction and identity loss. Guerrieri's narrative offers a raw and empathetic exploration of the complexities of modern womanhood, making it a must-read for fans of Celeste Ng and Liane Moriarty.Website: https://www.jessicaguerrieri.net/IG: jessicaguerrieriauthor

In this episode, Meagan shares book recommendations perfectfor Mother’s Day—but with a twist. From heartwarming stories about motherhood, sisterhood, and healing to dark, twisty thrillers that explore the shadowy side of maternal love, there’s something here for every kind of reader. Whether you’re in the mood to cry happy tears or clutch your blanket in suspense, you’ll find your next great read right here.Here are the books talked about in today's episode:1.  The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes2.  The Women by Kristin Hannah3.  The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah 4.  The Most Fun We Ever Had by Clare Lombardo5.  Signal Fires by Dani Shapiro6.  Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall7.  The Many Lives of Mama Love by Lara Love Hardin8.  Tom Lake by Ann Patchett9. The Correspondent by Virginia Evans10.  Go as a River by Shelley Read11.  Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus12.  The Switch by Beth O’Leary13.  Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto14.  Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes15.  Blake Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson16.  Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano17.  Nightwatching by Tracy Sierra18.  The Push by Ashley Audrain19.  All The Other Mother’s Hate Me by Sarah Harman20.  The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller21.  The Mother-in-Law by Sally Hepworth

In this episode, I’m joined by Clare Leslie Hall, author of Broken Country—a haunting and beautifully written debut. We dive deep into the book’s themes, characters, and the inspiration behind Clare’s evocative storytelling. Spoiler alert! We do get into key plot points and twists, so if you haven’t read the book yet, you might want to finish it first before listening. Clare also shares her writing process, thoughts on writing complex female protagonists, and what she’s working on next. Thanks for listening!Books Clare recommended:Moon Tiger by Penelope LivelyThe Death of Us by Abigail DeanIG: @clarelesliehall

April! You were so good to me. I spent so many wonderful minutes outside on my walks listening to new stories with incredible characters. My stand out favorite was by far The Correspondent. Please, you must do the audio. The full cast narration was spectacular. I’m so excited for you to read my other 5 star favorites! Thanks for listening!Loved🎧 The Corespondent ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Bright Years ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Beach House Rules ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️LikedToo Old for This ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Any Trope But You ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Missing Half ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Fun for the Whole Family ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Home of the American Circus ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Perfect Divorce ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 Heartwood ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫The Friendship Fling ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫MehForget Me Not ⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Great Big Beautiful Life ⭐️⭐️⭐️Say You’ll Remember Me ⭐️⭐️

SPOILERS!! I think we can all agree as a group here that We Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewer is an extremely unsetting psychological horror story that left us with more questions than answers! Enjoy this hodge podge discussion where I try and navigate the questions, comments, and discussion about all the unreliable aspects of this story. Happy listening! Also: announced our June and July book club picks!

Debut author Virginia Evans joins me today to talk about her stunning first novel, The Correspondent — a story of resilience, grief, and the complicated bonds between mothers and daughters. We dive into her inspiration, her writing process, and the emotional heart of the story. Plus, a rapid-fire "this or that" round you won't want to miss!If you love deep conversations, unforgettable characters, and a behind-the-scenes peek into a debut author's journey, this episode is for you. Tune in now!Website: https://www.virginiaevansauthor.com/IG: @virginia.l.evans

From Daisy Jones to The Idea of You, the book world is full of stories for the screen. In this episode, we dive deeper into some of the best book-to-screen adaptations. My list definitely includes the classics like Little Women (1994-ONLY) and Harry Potter. There are SO MANY books to screens happening in the coming year and it is so fun to talk about it!

Happy Pub Day to debut author Sarah Damoff! Her gorgeous book The Bright Years is available now and I hope you all grab a copy today. I loved this book so much and think there is so much to discuss and unpack. Congrats Sarah!!https://www.sarahdamoff.com/IG: sarahdamoff

I've heard Saskia narrate many books to me so to finally get her on the podcast and learn more about her background was absolutely fascinating! With over 150 audiobook narrations under her belt, Saskia is one of the best in her field. I love her passion with her narrations! She is so talented and this chat was one of my favorites. Thanks for listening!Some of Saskia's work:The God of the Woods by Liz MooreWild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghymost of Kate Quinn's recent booksWhat the Wind Knows by Amy HarmonA Talent for Murder by Peter SwansonThe Missing Half by Ashley Flowers (May 6)

I know you’ve read Blake Cake by now, but have you read Good Dirt? It was a blast chatting with New York Times bestselling author Charmaine Wilkerson and learning more about her and her author journey.  Charmaine is such a gifted storyteller and you could tell by the way she described aspects of the inspiration behind her books. Thanks for listening!Charmaine recommended these three books:Isola by Allegra GoodmanHappy Land by Dolen Perkins-ValdezNight Magic by Leigh Ann HenionYou can find Charmaine:IG: charmspen1https://charmspen.com

Part One:A couple weeks, I asked on my Instagram stories for specific book recommendations that you were wanting. And since you wrote in such specific questions, I decided we're going to make a second part! So these are the categories we covered today with several recommendations under each. Let me know if you read them and report back!-Something like The Last Flight by Julie Clark-Historical Fiction not set during WW2-Something sweet but not a romance-Female Friendships

Have you read All the Other Mothers Hate Me by Sarah Harman yet?? It is such a fun bingable suspense story with a snarky main character who is trying to solve the mystery of a boy going missing at her sons school. It was such a fun ride! I knew I wanted to interview Sarah because I had to know the brain behind Florence, our main character. Sarah is so honest about her author journey which I hope is helpful for aspiring authors! Thanks for listening!You can find Sarah:IG: @sarah_harman_writerWebsite: https://www.sarah-harman.com/

March was a fantastic month of reading, mainly due to the 3-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ book streak I found myself in! That has never happened before! But like all streaks, they come to end and Count My Lies was my bummer of a book to kill the high. I checked a lot of books off my TBR this month and I cannot wait to see what April has in store. Did you have a favorite book in March?Thanks for Listening!Loved🎧 The Poppy Fields ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Broken Country ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️It’s a Love Story ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Liked🎧 The Story She Left Behind ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️The Ghostwriter ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Sky Daddy ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 The Good Samaritan ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 A Map to Paradise ⭐️⭐️⭐️Meh🎧 Close Your Eyes and Count to 10 ⭐️⭐️💫The Love Haters ⭐️⭐️🎧 Count My Lies ⭐️⭐️Promise Me Sunshine ⭐️⭐️🎧 Swept Away ⭐️⭐️

It isn't too often I find an author that not only pulls on all my heartstrings while also simultaneously making me think that we'd actually be friends in real life! Ashley Manley has changed the women's fiction/romance game for me with her...let's call them...more mature female main characters and her relatable stories. I think I've aged out of the 25-something love stories because let's be honest, I've lived a lot of life since then. I hope you love this interview and love all of Ashley's books. She is such a gifted author and I can't wait to see what is in store for her in the coming years!Forever and Back is out now!Also from Ashley, Every Beautiful Mile and When Wildflowers BloomIG: @ashleymanleywriteswww.ashleymanleywrites.comCharlotte-area upcoming events:4/1 Belmont Bookshop, breakfast launch, Belmont, NC4/5 Fred & Junes Bookshop, signing 12-3, Mooresville, NC4/27, Gastonia Ghostpeppers baseball game in partnership with Belmont Bookshop @2:30

SPOILERS! March's book club pick was Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson and we had a great time diving deeper into the Freeman family and the different aspects of the story. We discussed Ebby and her development and wished we saw more from her throughout the story! I think we were divided on the balance of history to present day story but we were unanimous on how much we loved the short chapters which helped the pacing. I think this would be a great book to discuss as a group! Thanks for listening!

You know audiobooks play a huge role in my life and the reason why I get as much reading done as I do. If it wasn't for audiobooks, I'm convinced I'd only read 1-2 books a month. This was a fun episode to record because I give a little history, explain the importance of audiobooks, my opinions on the different platforms to subscribe to, library system apps, and the best steps to get started. I hope you found this helpful!Thanks for listening!

Repost from November 2024 Book Club when we chatted with NYT bestselling author Liane Moriarty and her book Here One Moment. When I look back on all the authors I've interviewed over the years, I don't think I've fangirled as hard as I did while chatting with Liane. The dang video was not working on her end so it truly was like listening to a podcast episode for our book club. Here One Moment was an emotional book for me and it was incredible to hear from Liane and the inspiration behind it. Her backlist of books are all wonderful and I highly recommend you to go back and read everything she's written. Thanks for listening!

Repost from September 2024 Book Club when we chatted with author Ethan Joella and his book The Same Bright Stars. After reading quite a few heavy books in a row, it was time to read something shorter and lighter. The Same Bright Stars was the perfect book for September and chatting with Ethan put a huge smile on all of our faces. His relatability and down to earth nature was so endearing. This was a fun chat!Thanks for listening!

Repost from August 2024 Book Club when we chatted with NYT bestselling author Liz Moore and her new book The God of the Woods. We were able to sneak Liz away from her family vacation to have her on our book club zoom chat and we were thrilled! Listening to the inspiration behind this story and the way she wove every detail together truly was a masterpiece. We also chatted about the upcoming (out now!) tv series of Long Bright River. I cannot wait to see what Liz Moore comes out with next!Fun Fact: The God of the Woods was a Fallon Book Club pick!Thanks for listening!

Repost from June 2024 Book Club when we chatted with NYT bestselling author and menopause expert Dr Mary Claire Haver and her book The New Menopause. It was an absolute honor to be able to host Dr Mary Claire and listen to her answer all our questions about menopause! I loved chatting with Dr Mary Claire and her real applications to what we can do right now to help the transition into perimenopause. Her content is QUALITY and her wisdom is vast. Check out her Tiktok and Instagram for more information regarding her menopause practice and studies. Thanks for listening!

Repost from April 2024 Book Club when we chatted with debut author Tracy Sierra and her book Nightwatching. We took a hard left on our typical book club book and read this heart pounding thriller that made us all lose a few nights sleep. Tracy is so well spoken and I could have listened to her talk about her book for another hour. Nightwatching is twisty and disturbing in all the right ways.Fun to note: Nightwatching was a Fallon Book Club pick!Thanks for listening!

Repost from March 2024 Book Club when we chatted with NYT bestselling author Nikki Erlick and her book The Measure. I couldn't stop listening to Nikki as she told us the inspiration behind her debut book and all the pieces of making this book happen. It is truly one of my favorite aspects about my job is to hear from these authors that write stories that make me think more on my own life and experiences.Thanks for listening!

Repost from February 2024 Book Club when we chatted with bestselling author Emma Grey and her book The Last Love Note. THIS BOOK. Cue all the tears. This interview was so impactful for all of us because the vulnerability of Emma was so beautiful and the way she used her own personal experience in this book was inspiring.Thanks for listening!

Repost from January 2024 Book Club when we chatted with NYT bestselling author Adrienne Young and her book The Unmaking of June Farrow. This was such a fun interview and while I'm still scratching my head about the science behind June's time traveling ways, this book was easily one of my favorites I've ever read. Thanks for listening!

Please welcome my first guest to the podcast! My bookstagram friend Hannah @booksandbitesroc and I always have a lot to talk about in the book world and it was so fun discussing quarter 2 books with her. We break it down per month to keep our discussion relatively organized so hopefully that helps. Even with mentioning the 55 books in this episode, we are leaving out plenty! This is a big season of books. Happy Listening. April BooksSay You'll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez, The Sirens by Emilia Hart, Vera Wong's Guide to Snooping on a Dead Man by Jesse Q. Sutanto, Swept Away by Beth O'Leary, The Maid's Secret by Nita Prose, Forever and Back by Ashley Manley, Any Trope But You by Victoria Lavine, The Last Session by Julia Bartz, The Family Recipe  by Carolyn Huynh, The Float Test by Lynn Steger Strong, The Mademoiselle Alliance by Natasha Lester, The Perfect Divorce by Jeneva Rose, The Guilt Pill by Saumay Dave, One Death at a Time by Abbi Waxman, Wild and Wrangled by Lyla Sage, The Butcher's Masquerade by Matt Dinniman, What if I Never Get Over You by Paige Toon, Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry, The Amalfi Curse by Sarah Penner, How to Seal your own Fate by Kristen PerrinMay BooksMy Friends by Fredrik Backman, Shopgirls by Jessica Anya Blau, One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune, Parents Weekend by Alex Finlay, The Missing Half by Ashley Flowers, Home of the American Circus by Allison Larkin, What Happens in Amsterdam by Rachel Lynn Solomon, I Will Blossom Anyway by DIsha Bose, Can't Get Enough by Kennedy Ryan, Run for the Hills by Kevin Wilson, Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea by Jessica Guerrieri, Dark Maestro by Brendan Slocumb, The Man Made of Smoke by Alex North, The Love Haters by Katherine Center, It's a Love Story by Annabel Monaghan, Beach House Rules by Kristy Woodson Harvey, The Busybody Book Club by Freya Sampson, Mansion Beach by Meg Mitchell Moore, Letters From Strangers by Susan WalterJune BooksThe Ghostwriter by Julie Clark, Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid, Battle of the Bookstores by Ali Brady, Kill Your Darlings by Peter Swanson, Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by VE Schwab, With a Vengeance by RIley Sager, What Kind of Paradise by Janelle Brown, Far and Away by Amy Poeppel, Slow Burn Summer by Josie Silver, Everything's Coming Up Rosie by Courtney Walsh, The Poppy Fields by Nikki Erlick, The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel, Don't Open Your Eyes by Liv Constantine, Someone Knows by Vi Keeland, Don't Let Him In by Lisa Jewell, Finders Keepers by Sarah Adler

It was a pleasure to welcome NYT bestselling author Patti Callahan Henry to the podcast (and as my first author guest!!). Her new book The Story She Left Behind comes out TODAY and I'd encourage you to listen to this episode to learn more about the reason why Patti wrote this story and the inspiration behind it. It was fascinating to listen and to see her passion for this beautiful book. I love Patti's ability to bring these stories to life!We talk about her upcoming book tour and I'm going to direct you to her website www.patticallahanhenry.com and her instagram @pattchenry to get the dates because she is making 30+ stops over the next few months. I hope you're able to go to one of her events.Thanks for listening and happy reading!

You know I'm not short of having opinions and this was such a fun episode for me to record because I just laughed through it. I know as readers, we take things seriously and know what we like when it comes to books. I would love to hear from you what your hot takes are! Do you agree with mine or disagree? Let me know in the comments! Thanks for listening.

February was such a great month of reading! One of my favorite things to do is recapping my month and going book by book with some hot takes. I mentioned my Goodreads on this episode and have linked that below if you'd like to follow my real-time updates. Did you hear any books that you've also read or have been wanting to read?Here are the 14 books I read in February:Everything’s Coming Up Rosie ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧First-Time Caller ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Flirting with Disaster ⭐️⭐️💫When Wildflowers Bloom ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 PS I Hate You ⭐️⭐️🎧 We Used to Live Here ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Forever and Back ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Dead Money ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫Vera Wong’s Guide to Snooping (on a Dead Man) ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫🎧 Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 The Crash ⭐️🎧 What Happened to the McCrays ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧 Annie Bot ⭐️⭐️💫🎧 Wild Dark Shore ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️My Goodreads Page:https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/84049874-meagan-meagansbookclub

SPOILERS! February's book club pick was The Heart of Winter and this is the recording of our zoom chat. Warning! We are discussing the book which means if you haven't read it yet, this discussion will spoil it for you!Thanks for tuning in.

Can you believe I actually made an episode and followed through with the Meagan's Book Club Podcast?? Hooray! If you came over from my Instgram, welcome welcome, or if you are new, I am so happy you are here. We'll be diving deep into all the bookish stuff and I cannot wait.