Announcement In addition to my annual 2023 Summer Reading Guide, I’m once again offering Superstars Patrons ($7/mo) exclusive access to Summer Shelves, featuring even more recommendations for the season.Summer Shelves features BACKLIST summer reading recommendations from 17 former podcast guests, our team members, and — for the first time — 20+ Superstars patrons!The Summer Shelves design is clean, crisp, and unique and you’ll receive it in a PDF file format via Patreon.If you’d like to get the Summer Shelves companion guide, you can sign up to be a Superstars patron here. You’ll also get access to a monthly bonus podcast series called Double Booked (where Catherine or Susie and I share our own book recommendations in the same format as the big show) and my Rock Your Reading Tracker.Also, one of the many benefits to joining our Patreon Community is that you get access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and I share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that we did not share in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available to all patrons (Stars and Superstars) and sign up here! Get Summer Shelves Highlights Catherine’s picks include 4 repeat authors!Sarah picked some debuts and several repeat authors.With no July picks, August might be the new September and July might be the new December.Sarah continues with a variety of genres and micro genres, but on the lighter side this season.Two books Sarah has already read, loved, and included in her 2023 Summer Reading Guide, including a 5-star book!Plus, their #1 picks for summer! Summer 2023 Book Preview [5:13] June Sarah’s Picks: Same Time Next Summer by Annabel Monaghan (June 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:49]My Murder by Katie Williams (June 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:58]The Rachel Incident by Caroline O’Donoghue (June 27) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:09]Invisible Son by Kim Johnson (June 27) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:39] Catherine’s Picks: Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See (June 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[11:41]All the Sinners Bleed by S. A. Cosby (June 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[17:42] You Can’t Stay Here Forever by Katherine Lin (June 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:46]  Other Books Mentioned: Nora Goes Off Script by Annabel Monaghan [6:19]The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller [9:10]Razorblade Tears by S. A. Cosby [19:54]Sweetbitter by Stephanie Danler [24:06]Pineapple Street by Jenny Jackson [24:28]One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle [26:40]This Is My America by Kim Johnson [27:49]Corrections in Ink by Keri Blakinger [28:59]The Hate You Give by Angie Thomas [29:33] August Sarah’s Picks: The Art of Scandal by Regina Black (August 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[33:35] Tom Lake by Ann Patchett (August 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:27] Catherine’s Picks: The Many Lives of Mama Love by Lara Love Hardin (August 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:52]Mobility by Lydia Kiesling (August 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:40]Western Alliances by Wilton Barnhardt (August 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[43:54]  Other Books Mentioned: Smacked by Eilene Zimmerman [33:06]Nowhere Girl by Cheryl Diamond [33:09]Seven Days in June by Tia Williams [35:24]The Golden State by Lydia Kiesling [38:45]Red Notice by Bill Browder [40:48]Commonwealth by Ann Patchett [42:15]The Dutch House by Ann Patchett [42:18]These Precious Days by Ann Patchett [43:42]Lookaway, Lookaway by Wilton Barnhardt [45:25]All That Is Mine I Carry With Me by William Landay [46:56]The Marriage Act by John Marrs [47:49]

Catherine (Gilmore Guide to Books) and I revisit the 12 books released in April and May featured in the Spring 2023 Book Preview.  We give updates on our reading stats, share our thoughts on the books we’ve read or attempted, and offer recommendations on which ones deserve a spot on your reading list and which ones you might want to skip. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Announcement In addition to my annual 2023 Summer Reading Guide, I’m once again offering Superstars Patrons ($7/mo) exclusive access to Summer Shelves, featuring even more recommendations for the season.Summer Shelves features BACKLIST summer reading recommendations from 17 former podcast guests, our team members, and — for the first time — 20+ Superstars patrons!The Summer Shelves design is clean, crisp, and unique and you’ll receive it in a PDF file format via Patreon.If you’d like to get the Summer Shelves companion guide, you can sign up to be a Superstars patron here. You’ll also get access to a monthly bonus podcast series called Double Booked (where Catherine or Susie and I share our own book recommendations in the same format as the big show) and my Rock Your Reading Tracker. Highlights Catherine and Sarah share their Spring 2023 reading stats and success rates.How these stats compare to springs of previous years.Even more book talk, since Catherine has read several of Sarah’s picks, too!Sarah shares something that’s never happened before on the podcast!Plus, they name their best and worst books from the Spring 2023 Book Preview. Books Read Before the Preview [6:03] Sarah’s Picks: Symphony of Secrets by Brendan Slocumb (April 18) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:31]Late Bloomers by Deepa Varadarajan (May 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[10:16]  Other Books Mentioned: The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb [7:37] Spring 2023 Circle Back [13:27] April Sarah’s Picks: The One by Julia Argy (April 18) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:03]The Fitful Sleep of Immigrants by Orlando Ortega-Medina (April 18) | Amazon| Bookshop.org [25:43]If We’re Being Honest by Cat Shook (April 18) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[32:55] Catherine’s Picks: Saturday Night at the Lakeside Supper Club by J. Ryan Stradal (April 18) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:31]The Skin and Its Girl by Sarah Cypher (April 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[22:57] Searching for Savanna by Mona Gable (April 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[28:14]  Other Books Mentioned: Kitchens of the Great Midwest by J. Ryan Stradal [16:22]The Lager Queen of Minnesota by J. Ryan Stradal [16:28] May Sarah’s Picks: The Marriage Act by John Marrs (May 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:16] Catherine’s Picks: The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese (May 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:39]Dances by Nicole Cuffy (May 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:03]The Celebrants by Steven Rowley (May 30) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:14]  Other Books Mentioned: The One by John Marrs [44:35] The Passengers by John Marrs [46:32]The Guncle by Steven Rowley [53:21]The Editor by Steven Rowley [53:42]

Susie Boutry (@NovelVisits) and I share our favorite books that missed last year’s Summer Reading Guides, some nonfiction books we think are great for summer reading, and our #1 picks for four categories, including what I have featured in my 2023 Summer Reading Guide. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Get Even More Summer Reading Recommendations with Summer Shelves: In addition to my annual 2023 Summer Reading Guide, I’m once again offering Superstars Patrons ($7/mo) exclusive access to Summer Shelves, featuring even more recommendations for the season.Summer Shelves features BACKLIST summer reading recommendations from 17 former podcast guests, our team members, and — for the first time — 20 Superstars patrons!The Summer Shelves design is clean, crisp, and unique and you’ll receive it in a PDF file format via Patreon.If you’d like to get the Summer Shelves companion guide, you can sign up to be a Superstars patron here. You’ll also get access to a monthly bonus podcast series called Double Booked (where Catherine or Susie and I share our own book recommendations in the same format as the big show) and my Rock Your Reading Tracker. Summer Reading [4:33] Books That Missed Last Year’s Summer Reading Guides [5:29] Sarah Wrong Place, Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:53]Red Widow by Alma Katsu | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:30]Like a House on Fire by Lauren McBrayer | Amazon | Bookshop.org [16:24]  Susie The Lies I Tell by Julie Clark | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:25]Dinosaurs by Lydia Millet | Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:30] Now Is Not the Time to Panic by Kevin Wilson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:09]  Nonfiction Books That Are Great for Summer Reading [22:35] Sarah True Story: Murder, Memoir, Mea Culpa by Michael Finkel | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:52] Memorial Drive by Natasha Tretheway | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:31]Still Points North by Leigh Newman | Amazon | [34:44] Susie Provence, 1970: M.F.K. Fisher, Julia Child, James Beard, and the Reinvention of American Taste by Luke Barr | Amazon | [25:02] Stash: My Life in Hiding by Laura Cathcart Robbins | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:27]Daring to Drive: A Saudi Woman’s Awakening by Manal al-Sharif | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:00] Our #1 Summer Picks by Category  [40:16] Something Light / Fun Sarah: A Likely Story by Leigh McMullan Abramson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:12] Susie: Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:28]  Something Fast-Paced / Intense Sarah: Drowning: The Rescue of Flight 1421 by T. J. Newman (May 30, 2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:45] Susie: I Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:05]  Something With Substance Sarah: Late Bloomers by Deepa Varadarajan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [54:24] Susie: Rootless by Krystle Zara Appiah  | Amazon | Bookshop.org [56:53]  Something Different Sarah: Good for a Girl: A Woman Running in a Man’s World by Lauren Fleshman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [59:33] Susie: Big Swiss by Jen Beagin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:02:13]  Other Books Mentioned The Only Plane in the Sky by Garrett M. Graff [3:47] Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett [4:01]Cover Story by Susan Rigetti [9:11]The Hunger by Alma Katsu [10:43]Red London by Alma Katsu [12:47]The Children’s Bible by Lydia Millet [14:45]Untamed by Glennon Doyle [18:15]Nothing to See Here by Kevin Wilson [20:52]The Stranger in the Woods by Michael Finkel [23:13]In Cold Blood by Truman Capote [23:57]The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls [35:57]Wild by Cheryl Strayed [36:13]Falling by T. J. Newman [47:05]Miracle on the Hudson by William Prochnau and Laura Parker [48:04]Raven Rock by Garrett M. Graff [48:38]The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai [51:14]All That Is Mine I Carry With Me by William Landay [52:59]Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano [53:54]Fleishman Is in Trouble by Taffy Brodesser-Akner [56:32] Other Links Vogue | In Finishing Her Book, Lauren McBrayer…

In Episode 139, Brendan Slocumb talks about his sophomore novel, Symphony of Secrets, and the inspiration behind it. He shares a fascinating look into musical history of the 1920’s, his unique approach to writing musical thrillers, and how he balances musical detail with readability. He also delves into the exploitation of musicians in the industry and how many are simply lost to history. Plus, stick around to hear Brendan’s book recommendations. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights The story behind Symphony of Secrets and the composer who partially inspired it.Brendan’s unique approach to writing and his goal to become the “Stephen King of musical thrillers.”The pressure of writing a second book so soon after such a successful debut (The Violin Conspiracy).How Brendan blends musical analysis and character development without overwhelming the reader while staying true to the story.The exploitation and appropriation of musicians and their work in the music industry.Why he chose to make a main character neurodivergent and his experience with teaching neurodivergent music students.His inspiration for the badass character Eboni.The title changes for both of his books, including the original title for Symphony of Secrets.A bit about his upcoming third book and a potential fourth book in the future. Brendan’s Book Recommendations [28:38] Two OLD Books He Loves A Little Devil in America by Hanif Abdurraqib | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:51]Riker’s Calling by Rico Lamoureux | Amazon  [30:08] Two NEW Books He Loves Ozark Dogs by Eli Cranor | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:15]Sea Change by Gina Chung | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:54] One NEW RELEASE He’s Excited About Closer by Sea by Perry Chafe (May 23, 2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:54] Last 5-Star Book Brendan Read Ozark Dogs by Eli Cranor | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:32] Other Books Mentioned Symphony of Secrets by Brendan Slocumb [0:56]The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb [1:03]Don’t Know Tough by Eli Cranor [31:47] Other Links Currently Reading Podcast | Minisode: An Interview with “The Violin Conspiracy” Author Brendan Slocumb About Brendan Slocumb Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok Brendan Slocumb was raised in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and holds a degree in music education (with concentrations in violin and viola) from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. For more than twenty years he has been a public and private school music educator and has performed with orchestras throughout Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.

In Episode 138, author Rebecca Makkai discusses I Have Some Questions for You, her latest novel that explores societal issues such as racism and wrongful incarceration through the lens of a crime story. This was a five-star book for me and looks to be *the book* of 2023 so far! Rebecca shared how she engaged with readers using click-bait style headlines and created a sense of intimacy through the second-person point of view. She also goes behind the scenes of how she pitches her new book ideas to her agent and publisher. Plus, Rebecca gives us her book recommendations! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights A spoiler-free glimpse into her latest book, I Have Some Questions for You.What inspired her to start writing the book, including the initial wave of the #MeToo movement and the public’s fascination with true crime.Insider knowledge about when she shares her work with agents and publishers.How she blended elements of crime within her literary fiction novel.How she uses click-bait style headlines to draw readers in from the opening of the book and throughout the story.Why Rebecca used the second-person point of view and how that created an intimate connection between readers and the protagonist.How she used student testimony and gossip to shape the narrative and delve into issues such as racism, sexism, and abuse.How she reconciled the viewpoints of the ’90s with modern perspectives in her novel.A sneak peek of what Rebecca has planned next, including a hint about her upcoming book, and learn about her 84 Books Project. Rebecca’s Book Recommendations [30:43] Two OLD Books She Loves The Door by Magda Szabó | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:57]We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:32] Two NEW Books She Loves If an Egyptian Cannot Speak English by Noor Naga | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:34]The Guest Lecture by Martin Riker | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:06] A Book With Which She Has a Complicated Relationship London Fields by Martin Amis | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:11] One NEW RELEASE She’s Excited About Maddalena and the Dark by Julia Fine (June 13, 2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:52] Last 5-Star Book Rebecca Read Madonna in a Fur Coat by Sabahattin Ali | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:09] Other Books Mentioned The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai [1:05]The Borrower by Rebecca Makkai [1:58]The Hundred-Year House by Rebecca Makkai [2:01]Music for Wartime by Rebecca Makkai [2:02]The Tiger’s Wife by Téa Obreht [7:01]All That Is Mine I Carry With Me by William Landay [9:43]When the Stars Go Dark by Paula McLain [12:09]The Lottery and Other Stories by Shirley Jackson [34:29]The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson [34:39]The School for Good Mothers by Jessamine Chan [42:02]Time’s Arrow by Martin Amis [42:47]Stella Maris by Cormac McCarthy [45:39]The Upstairs House by Julia Fine [48:02]The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb [48:51]The Ensemble by Aja Gable [48:53] About Rebecca Makkai Website| Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Substack Rebecca Makkai is the author of the novels I Have Some Questions for You, The Great Believers, The Hundred-Year House, and The Borrower, and the story collection Music for Wartime. A finalist for the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award, The Great Believers received an American Library Association Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction and the Los Angeles Times Book Prize, among other honors, and was named one of the Ten Best Books of 2018 by The New York Times. A 202 Guggenheim fellow, Makkai is on the MFA faculties of the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe and Northwestern University, and is the artistic director of StoryStudio Chicago. She lives on the campus of the midwestern boarding school where her husband teaches, and in Vermont.

Welcome to the Spring 2023 Book Preview with Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books!   In this episode, Catherine and I share 12 of our most anticipated books releasing in April and May.   This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Announcement I’ve got BIG NEWS!  If you’ve been interested in joining our Patreon Community, but have yet to sign up — a 30-day free trial starts today!  This is for new patrons only and sign-up continues for the next 7 days.  Hurry and check out my Patreon page for more information!One of the many benefits to joining our Patreon Community is that you get access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and I share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that we did not share in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available to all patrons (Stars and Superstars) and sign up here! Highlights We have some debut authors and a few sophomore novels — one 14 years in the making!Catherine’s picks are still leaning more literary, including getting herself into a 700+ page book!Sarah’s spring has a variety of genres and micro genres.Two books Sarah has already read and loved from spring selections.Plus, their #1 picks for spring. Spring 2023 Book Preview [5:19] April Sarah’s Picks: The One by Julia Argy (April 18) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:01]Symphony of Secrets by Brendan Slocumb (April 18) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:00]The Fitful Sleep of Immigrants by Orlando Ortega-Medina (April 18) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:08]If We’re Being Honest by Cat Shook (April 18) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:00] Catherine’s Picks: Saturday Night at the Lakeside Supper Club by J. Ryan Stradal (April 18) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:43]The Skin and Its Girl by Sarah Cypher (April 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:48] Searching for Savanna by Mona Gable (April 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:08]  May Sarah’s Picks: Late Bloomers by Deepa Varadarajan (May 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:35] The Marriage Act by John Marrs (May 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:22] Catherine’s Picks: The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese (May 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:52]Dances by Nicole Cuffy (May 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:56]The Celebrants by Steven Rowley (May 30) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:16]  Other Books Mentioned The One by John Marrs [8:32] One to Watch by Kate Stayman-London [10:17]The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun [10:27]Kitchens of the Great Midwest by J. Ryan Stradal [10:59]The Lager Queen of Minnesota by J. Ryan Stradal [12:52]The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb [14:32]The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris [21:46]All That Is Mine I Carry With Me by William Landay [22:17]Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann [25:25]Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid [27:14]This Is Where I Leave You by Jonathan Tropper [28:14]Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese [30:59]A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara [31:48]Watergate by Garrett M. Graff [31:58]Fleishman Is in Trouble by Taffy Brodesser-Akner [34:23]The Passengers by John Marrs [41:19]Nineteen Eighty-Four by George Orwell [43:17]The Guncle by Steven Rowley [46:18]The Editor by Steven Rowley [46:32]

In today’s episode, Catherine (Gilmore Guide to Books) and I circle back to the 16 books we featured in the Winter 2023 Book Preview. We’ll be sharing our reading stats and thoughts on the books we’ve read (or attempted), to help you decide which ones to add to your reading list and which ones to skip. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights How Sarah’s favorite books from 2022 are impacting her expectations.Catherine and Sarah share their Winter 2023 reading stats and success rates.Sarah had stellar results with four 5-star books!Plus, their #1 picks from winter!They name their best and worst books from the Preview. Books We Read Before the Preview [5:03] Sarah’s Picks: Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson (January 17) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:25]Maame by Jessica George (January 31) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:31] Winter 2023 Circle Back [10:31] January Sarah’s Pick: The Sense of Wonder by Matthew Salesses (January 17) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:46] Catherine’s Picks: Ghost Season by Fatin Abbas (January 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:38]Margot by Wendell Steavenson (January 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:40]  February Sarah’s Picks: I Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai (February 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:50]Time’s Undoing by Cheryl A. Head (February 28) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:09]  Catherine’s Picks: Victory City by Salman Rushdie (February 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:00] Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes (February 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:39]On the Savage Side by Tiffany McDaniel (February 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:53]All the Beauty in the World by Patrick Bringley (February 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:05]  March Sarah’s Picks: Pineapple Street by Jenny Jackson (March 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:27]All That Is Mine I Carry with Me by William Landay (March 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:00] Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano (March 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:04]  Catherine’s Picks: Dust Child by Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai (March 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:02]The Perfumist of Paris by Alka Joshi (March 28) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [53:08] Other Books Mentioned Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus [2:58]Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett [2:59]Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin [3:01]The Measure by Nikki Erlick [3:06]The One by John Marrs [3:11]The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai [26:34]The Secret History by Donna Tartt [29:36]Circe by Madeline Miller [33:16]Betty by Tiffany McDaniel [37:54]Watergate by Garrett M. Graff [44:26]The Heart’s Invisible Furies by John Boyne [51:05]Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane [51:08]Little Women by Louisa May Alcott [51:28]Dear Edward by Ann Nepolitano [53:01]The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi [53:58]

In episode 135, author William Landay discusses his latest novel, All That Is Mine I Carry With Me, while also sharing his background as a prosecutor and how he incorporates family drama into his crime novels. William shares a couple elements of his book that changed throughout the writing process (including how it was almost meta fiction!). We also chat about how the court of public opinion shapes the idea of doubt in his book and how the different perspectives play a role in creating suspense.  Plus, William gives us his book recommendations! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights William Landay discusses what he’s been up to between the publication of Defending Jacob and his newest book.He gives a spoiler-free overview of his latest novel, All That Is Mine I Carry With Me.How his work differs from typical crime or detective fiction.William’s approach to creating a sense of realism in his writing without spoon-feeding the reader all the details.How the court of public opinion shapes the way doubt evolves in the story.Why readers naturally wonder about the truth hidden in crime fiction.William’s background as a prosecutor and pulling in the family drama side of his legal novels.The idea of the “murder gene” and the science behind it.The family dynamics and different perspectives in the book.The original name of a character in the book and why it was changed, as well as other changes made to the book and ending. William’s Book Recommendations [36:06] Two OLD Books He Loves Mrs. Fletcher by Tom Perrotta | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:49]Brooklyn by Colm Tóibín | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:41] Two NEW Books He Loves The Revolutionary: Samuel Adams by Stacy Schiff | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:08]Liberty Is Sweet by Woody Holton | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:10] William’s Take on UPCOMING RELEASES [46:32] Last 5-Star Book William Read The Mirror & the Light (Wolf Hall Trilogy, 3) by Hilary Mantel | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:35] Other Books Mentioned Defending Jacob by William Landay [1:30]The Strangler by William Landay [1:37]Mission Flats by William Landay [1:44]Atonement by Ian McEwan [26:04]Chasing the Boogeyman by Richard Chizmar [30:11]The Witches: Salem, 1692 by Stacy Schiff [43:59] About William Landay Website| Twitter | Instagram William Landay is the author of All That Is Mine I Carry With Me and three previous novels: Defending Jacob, which won the Strand Critics Award for best mystery novel; The Strangler, listed as a best crime novel of the year by the L.A. Times, Daily Telegraph and others; and Mission Flats, winner of the Dagger Award for best first crime novel.  A former assistant district attorney, he lives in Boston.

In today’s episode, Deborah Goodrich Royce joins me to talk about her latest book, Reef Road. We discuss the personal story behind her book and the role of generational trauma in her writing niche, which she calls “Identity Thrillers.”  We also covered the explosion of true crime content and got a sneak peek at some details of her upcoming book. Also, Deborah shares her book recommendations — breaking the format by pairing the old and new books together.   This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights A spoiler-free rundown of Reef Road.Deborah’s “Identity Thrillers” micro-genre and how it fits her writing style.The real-life crime that inspired Reef Road.Why Deborah chose to write a fictional story instead of a non-fiction account.How she explores generational and conferred trauma.The connection between generational trauma and the obsessive researching that motivates amateur sleuths.The role of residual trauma in the lives of authors Dominick Dunne and Michelle McNamara.The explosion of True Crime content and the public’s fascination with it.Deborah shares a story about a recent break-in she experienced and discusses how her thriller author mindset influenced her analysis of the event.Some sneak peek details about an upcoming book she’s working on.The meta elements about crime fiction in Reef Road.The real-life details that helped develop the true crime writer character’s voice in the story.How the setting and the COVID lockdown played a pivotal role in the development of the story. Deborah’s Book Recommendations [33:26] Two Book PAIRINGS She Loves Old Book: The Pursuit of Love; Love in a Cold Climate by Nancy Mitford | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:55]New Book: The Mitford Affair by Marie Benedict | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:53]Old Book: Oh William! by Elizabeth Strout | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:55]New Book: Lucy by the Sea by Elizabeth Strout | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:29] One Book She Didn’t Love The Mill on the Floss by George Eliot | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:27] One NEW RELEASE She’s Excited About The Half Moon by Mary Beth Keane (May 2, 2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:44] Last 5-Star Book Deborah Read Charming Billy by Alice McDermott | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:32] Other Books Mentioned Ruby Falls by Deborah Goodrich Royce [1:22]Finding Mrs. Ford by Deborah Goodrich Royce [1:28]I’ll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara [13:35]Unmasked by Paul Holes [13:51]Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson [22:42]Seven Days in June by Tia Williams [22:59]The French Lieutenant’s Woman by John Fowles [23:43]The Black Swan by Nassim Nicholas Taleb [26:21]56 Days by Catherine Ryan Howard [32:42]All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr [33:04]The American Way of Death by Jessica Mitford [38:13]Kind and Usual Punishment by Jessica Mitford [38:16]The Sun King by Nancy Mitford [38:35]Madame de Pompadour by Nancy Mitford [38:39]Middlemarch by George Eliot [43:53]Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane [45:59]Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing by Matthew Perry [49:18] About Deborah Goodrich Royce Website | Twitter | Instagram Deborah Goodrich Royce’s thrillers examine puzzles of identity. Reef Road hit Publishers Weekly’s Bestseller list, Good Morning America’s Top 15 list, and was an Indie Next pick by the American Booksellers Association for January 2023. Ruby Falls won the Zibby Award for Best Plot Twist in 2021 and Finding Mrs. Ford was hailed by Forbes, Book Riot, and Good Morning America’s “best of” lists in 2019.  She began as an actress on All My Children and in multiple films, before transitioning to the role of story editor at Miramax Films, developing Emma and early versions of Chicago and A Wrinkle in Time.  With her husband, Chuck, Deborah restored the Avon Theatre, Ocean House Hotel, Deer Mountain Inn, United Theatre, Savoy Bookstore, and numerous Main Street revitalization projects in Rhode Island and the Catskills.  She serves on the governing and advisory boards of the American Film Institute, Greenwich International Film Festival, New York Botanical Garden, Greenwich Historical Society, and the PRASAD Project.  Deborah holds a bachelor’s degree in modern foreign languages and an honorary doctorate of humane letters from Lake Erie College.

Literary agent Sarah Landis joins me for a deep dive into the Speculative Fiction / Fantasy genre.  Sarah breaks down these terms, shares popular books in these genres, and discusses the trends she’s seeing in the publishing industry.  Also, Sarah shares both her book recommendations and her go-to books for those looking to dive into these genres! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights Differentiating between genres: Fantasy, Speculative Fiction, Sci-Fi, Dystopian, Post-Apocalyptic, Climate Fiction.The genres that scare publishers and the toughest genre to define!The sub-genres of fantasy: High / Epic, Grounded, and Historical.How the term ‘Speculative’ is actually a broader umbrella term.The trends and performance in publishing for Speculative Fiction and Fantasy. Why many fantasy books are written as a series.How the “Harry Potter” generation seems to be shaping both readers and authors.Sarah’s go-to recommendations for those new to these genres! Sarah’s Book Recommendations [30:31] Two OLD Books She Loves The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:56]The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:18] Two NEW Books She Loves Babel by R. F. Kuang | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:16]Juniper & Thorn by Ava Reid | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:12] One Book She Didn’t Love The Atlas Paradox by Olivie Blake | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:58] One NEW RELEASE She’s Excited About House of Cotton by Monica Brashears (April 4, 2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:33] Last 5-Star Book Sarah Read The Cloisters by Katy Hays | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:08] Other Books Mentioned The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood [5:59]Red Clocks by Leni Zumas [6:11]Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett [6:56]The Measure by Nikki Erlick [7:15]The One by John Marrs [7:33]The Passengers by John Marrs [7:38]The Road by Cormac McCarthy [9:25]Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel [9:51]Leave the World Behind by Rumaan Alam [10:01]After the Flood by Kassandra Montag [10:52]Wanderers by Chuck Wendig [11:45]Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn [12:19]A Game of Thrones by James R. R. Martin [12:52]The Fellowship of the Ring by J. R. R. Tolkien [12:54]The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern [13:13]The Magicians by Lev Grossman [13:15]The Rules of Magic by Alice Hoffman [13:22]Circe by Madeline Miller [16:00]Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead [16:31]One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez [17:00]The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V. E. Schwab [18:58]Hell Bent by Leigh Bardugo [19:04]The Midnight Library by Matt Haig [19:06]Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens [21:12]The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins [21:15]Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus [22:05]Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin [22:10]Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo [26:40]The Change by Kirsten Miller [27:24]The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman [28:52]The Hero and the Crown by Robin McKinley [29:18]Beauty by Robin McKinley [29:21]Spindle’s End by Robin McKinley [29:22]The Peripheral by William Gibson [30:16]In Five Years by Rebecca Serle [30:23]The Poppy War by R. F. Kuang [37:41]Yellowface by R. F. Kuang [37:49]The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake [40:15]Social Creature by Tara Isabella Burton [47:09]Necessary People by Anna Pitoniak [47:19]Cover Story by Susan Rigetti [47:28] About Sarah Landis Website | Twitter | Instagram Sarah Landis represents a wide range of fiction from middle grade to adult. Sarah is particularly drawn to high-concept plots, big hooks, speculative fiction, twisty thrillers, novels with a strong emotional core, and sweeping fantasy. She is always on the lookout for new talent and narrative risk-takers. Her clients’ novels have received a variety of accolades, including Barnes and Noble book club selections and Reese’s Book Club, and have appeared on the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists as well as international bestseller lists around the globe. Before joining Sterling Lord Literistic in 2017, Sarah worked as an editor for fifteen years, holding roles at G.P. Putnam’s Sons, Hyperion Books, HarperCollins Children’s Books, and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Books for Young Readers. Sarah graduated with a B.A. in English from the University of Virginia.

Katie Gutierrez joins me for a spoiler-free discussion of her debut novel, More Than You’ll Ever Know, which is a character study about a complex and fascinating woman behind a highly unusual crime. This is a deeply layered story touching on topics surrounding gender, motherhood, marriage, and the current fascination with true crime. Also, Katie shares her book recommendations — including 3 upcoming new releases! This post contains affiliate links, through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights The incredible true story that was Katie’s original inspiration for this book.The author Anaïs Nin’s role in developing More Than You’ll Ever Know.Katie’s thoughts on writing a strong, but polarizing female character.How Katie incorporated motherhood and perceptions of motherhood into the story.What it was like marketing, and choosing a cover for, this unique genre mash-up of a book.Plus, Katie shares a bit about her next book! Katie’s Book Recommendations [30:40] Two OLD Books She Loves Shadows of Pecan Hollow by Caroline Frost | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:01]Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:19] Two NEW Books She Loves The Girls in Queens by Christine Kandic Torres | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:25]Beasts of the Earth by James Wade | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:03] One Book She Didn’t Love Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:40] Three NEW RELEASES She’s Excited About Maddalena and the Dark by Julia Fine (June 13, 2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:56]Carmen and Grace by Melissa Coss Aquino (April 4, 2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:01]The Night Flowers by Sara Herchenroether (May 2, 2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:11] Last 5-Star Book Katie Read The Revivalists by Christopher M. Hood | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:21] Other Books Mentioned The Diary of Others: The Unexpurgated Diary of Anaïs Nin, 1955-1966 by Anaïs Nin [6:29]Carrie Soto Is Back by Taylor Jenkins-Reid [11:29]Salvage the Bones by Jesmyn Ward [32:29]Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë [37:04]In Cold Blood by Truman Capote [38:36]The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V. E. Schwab [40:34]Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia [40:41]The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb [40:48]Age of Vice by Deepti Kapoor [48:05]The Light Pirate by Lily Brooks-Dalton [49:34] About Katie Gutierrez Website | Twitter | Instagram Katie Gutierrez is the author of the national bestselling debut novel More Than You’ll Ever Know, which is also a Good Morning America Book Club pick for June 2022. She is a National Magazine Award finalist whose writing has appeared in TIME, Harper’s Bazaar, The Washington Post, Longreads, and more. She has an MFA from Texas State University and lives in San Antonio, Texas, with her husband and their two kids.

In Episode 131, Catherine (@gilmoreguide) and I share the best backlist books we read in 2022. We each share our top 5 backlist books from 2022, some underrated backlist gems, and our backlist reading stats. Catherine and I both had a successful year of backlist reading, despite both of us experiencing major life events. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Join our Patreon Community ($7/mo Superstars) to get Double Booked, a monthly podcast series where either Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books or Susie from Novel Visits on alternate months) and I each share 2 backlist books we loved. Get more details about all the goodies available to all patrons (Stars and Superstars) and sign up here! Highlights Catherine’s and Sarah’s 2022 backlist reading stats.Sarah’s backlist reading was more spread out during the year.Sarah and Catherine both had fairly successful backlist reading in 2022!How they incorporate backlist titles for the Double Booked episodes. Our Top 5 Backlist Books We Read in 2022 [6:14] Sarah The One by John Marrs | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:11]We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves by Karen Joy Fowler | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:19]Furia by Yamile Saied Méndez | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:19]Greenwood by Michael Christie | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:20]Anxiety: The Missing Stage of Grief by Claire Bidwell Smith | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:26] Catherine The 25th Hour by David Benioff | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:21]The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox by Maggie O’Farrell | Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:39] The Invisible Kingdom by Meghan O’Rourke | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:53]Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:28] Champagne Supernovas by Maureen Callahan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:11]  Underrated Backlist Gems [46:08] Sarah The Family Fang by Kevin Wilson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:09] My Eyes Are Up Here by Laura Zimmerman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:44] Catherine 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World by Elif Shahak | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:12]Song of a Captive Bird by Jasmin Darznik | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:28] Other Books Mentioned City of Thieves by David Benioff [8:22]The Measure by Nikki Erlick [10:53]The Passengers by John Marrs [12:56]The Minders by John Marrs [12:59]The Marriage Act by John Marrs (May 2, 2023) [13:06]Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell [14:16]I am, I am, I am by Maggie O’Farrell [14:40]This Must Be the Place by Maggie O’Farrell [14:45]Uncanny Valley by Anna Wiener [22:38]Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley [29:55]American Predator by Maureen Callahan [41:55] The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak [46:17] Now is Not the Time to Panic by Kevin Wilson [47:14]The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls [48:07]Nothing to See Here by Kevin Wilson [48:26] Other Links Elisabeth Kübler-Ross | Five Stages of Grief (the Kübler-Ross model) About Catherine Gilmore Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Catherine started The Gilmore Guide to Books over 10 years ago after wrapping up a career as a corporate librarian. She loves books and reading (surprise!) and currently lives in Seattle, WA.

Welcome to the Winter 2023 Book Preview with Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books!   In this episode, Catherine and I share 16 of our most anticipated books releasing January through March.   This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Announcement Join our Patreon Community to get our bonus podcast episode series called Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and I share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that we did not share in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available to all patrons (Stars and Superstars) and sign up here! Highlights Catherine has 6 repeat authors from her 8 books, and Sarah has 4!Catherine’s picks are leaning more literary, while Sarah is focusing on more commercial fiction.One 5-star book already from Sarah’s selections.Plus, their #1 picks for winter release. Winter 2023 Book Preview [4:34] JANUARY Sarah’s Picks: Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson (January 17) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [4:56]Maame by Jessica George (January 31) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:48]The Sense of Wonder by Matthew Salesses (January 17) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:39] Catherine’s Picks: Ghost Season by Fatin Abbas (January 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:05]Margot by Wendell Steavenson (January 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[16:02]  FEBRUARY Sarah’s Picks: I Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai (February 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:08]Time’s Undoing by Cheryl A. Head (February 28) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:10]  Catherine’s Picks: Victory City by Salman Rushdie (February 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[21:38] Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes (February 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:25]On the Savage Side by Tiffany McDaniel (February 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:43]All the Beauty in the World by Patrick Bringley (February 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:56]  MARCH Sarah’s Picks: Pineapple Street by Jenny Jackson (March 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:31]All That Is Mine I Carry with Me by William Landay (March 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:31] Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano (March 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:04]  Catherine’s Picks: Dust Child by Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai (March 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:26]The Perfumist of Paris by Alka Joshi (March 28) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:46] Other Books Mentioned The One by John Marrs [7:24] Someday, Maybe by Onyi Nwabineli [14:29] People Person by Candice Carty-Williams [14:31] Goodbye, Vitamin by Rachel Khong [14:52]Ghosts by Dolly Alderton [15:13]Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus [18:13]Winterland by Rae Meadows [18:49]The Power by Naomi Alderman [23:16]The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai [24:14]The Secret History by Donna Tartt [25:22]When the Stars Go Dark by Paula McLain [25:40]We Keep the Dead Close by Becky Cooper [26:29]Betty by Tiffany McDaniel [33:06]Metropolitan Stories by Christine Coulson [37:12]Defending Jacob by William Landay [39:00]The Mountains Sing by Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai [42:40]Dear Edward by Ann Nepolitano [45:23]The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi [48:05]Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin [49:34] Other Links Golden Age of Detective Fiction | Knox’s 10 Commandments

Our 2022 year-end reading roundup continues today with our Best Books of 2022 Genre Awards with Susie Boutry (@NovelVisits). We reveal our Overall Best Books (Fiction and Nonfiction) and we have a full breakdown by genre, including: Best Literary Fiction, Best Backlist Read in 2022, Best Romance, Best Brain Candy, Best Genre Mash-Up, and more! Plus, this year I’m sharing the winners for these same genres as chosen by the Sarah’s Bookshelves Live Patreon community! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Announcements Check out my 2022 Holiday Gift Guide!My 2023 Reading Tracker is out! This year, the Tracker will ONLY be available to $7/month Superstars patrons (i.e., I will no longer be selling it for $14.99 here on my website). Learn more about the Tracker here and become a Superstars Patron to purchase here! Highlights My thoughts on 2022 for the podcast — including top episodes based on download stats.Overview of Susie’s and Sarah’s 2022 year in reading — including trends and stats.Favorite books of the year: overall and by genre, including the SBL Patreon Community’s picks. 2022 Genre Awards [18:13] Sarah The Measure by Nikki Erlick | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:42]Finding Me by Viola Davis | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:18]The Golden Season by Madeline Kay Sneed | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:39]Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:19]Carrie Soto is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:36]Dilettante by Dana Brown | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:35]Wrong Place, Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:27]Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:53]Bad City by Paul Pringle | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:27]Never Simple by Liz Sheier | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:20]The Roughest Draft by Emily Wibberley and Austin Siegemund-Broka | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:01]Upgrade by Blake Crouch | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:52]More Than You’ll Ever Know by Katie Gutierrez | Amazon | Bookshop.org [56:22]The One by John Marrs | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:02:51] Susie Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:04]Solito by Javier Zamora | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:53]Vladimir by Julia May Jonas | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:15]Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:53]Someday, Maybe by Onyi Nwabineli | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:10]Cover Story by Susan Rigetti | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:21]Beautiful Little Fools by Jillian Cantor | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:16]Trust by Hernan Diaz | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:16]Dilettante by Dana Brown | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:45]Nora Goes Off Script by Annabel Monaghan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:57]The Light Pirate by Lily Brooks-Dalton | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:24]The Measure by Nikki Erlick | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:59]The Change by Kirsten Miller | Amazon | Bookshop.org [53:07]Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [54:57]Now Is Not the Time to Panic by Kevin Wilson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [56:48]All My Rage by Sabaa Tahir | Amazon | Bookshop.org [58:44]We All Want Impossible Things by Catherine Newman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:00:49]The Storyteller by Dave Grohl | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:03:08] Patrons Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [23:06]Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus | Amazon | Bookshop.org [23:14]Finding Me by Viola Davis | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:41]Nora Goes Off Script by Annabel Monaghan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:11]Wrong Place, Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:21]Take My Hand by Dolen Perkins-Valdez | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:17]Bad City by Paul Pringle | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:53]Finding Me by Viola Davis | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:33]Book Lovers by Emily Henry | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:06]Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:36]The Measure by Nikki Erlick | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:31]Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree | Amazon | Bookshop.org [53:46]Hidden Pictures by Jason Rekulak | Amazon | Bookshop.org [54:23]Happy-Go-Lucky by David Sedaris | Amazon | Bookshop.org [55:43]Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [58:00]All My Rage by Sabaa Tahir | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:00:04]Beartown by Fredrik Backman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:03:54] Other Books Mentioned Love & Saffron by Kim Fay [9:41]People Person by Candice Carty-Williams [9:51]Nightcrawling by Leila Mottley [11:09]Flight by Lynn Steger Strong [11:12]Trespasses by Louise Kennedy [11:13]The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V. E. Schwab [20:45]The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller [20:53]Carrie Soto is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid [23:36]The Winners by Fredrik Backman [23:47]Bomb Shelter by Mary Laura Philpott [25:50]I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy [25:57]Honor by Thrity Umrigar [29:40]Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson [29:50]The Swimmers by Julie Otsuka [29:53]Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid [30:44]Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt [35:47]The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb [39:17]The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O’Farrell [42:04]These Precious Days by Ann Patchett [43:38]How to Keep House While Drowning by KC Davis, LPC [44:42]Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid [47:13]Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez [49:19]The Bodyguard by Katherine Center [49:22]Dark Matter by Blake Crouch [50:02]Recursion by Blake Crouch [50:03]The Displacements by Bruce Holsinger [51:50]How High We Go in the Dark by Sequoia Nagamatsu [52:22]Babel by R. F. Huang [52:42]A River Enchanted by Rebecca Ross [53:55]The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna [54:03]Hide by Kiersten White [54:25]Hello, Molly! by Molly Shannon [55:38]Olga Dies Dreaming by Xochitl Gonzalez [57:54]The Cartographers by Peng Shepard [58:14]The Final Gambit by Jennifer Lynn Barnes [1:00:27]The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes [1:00:31]Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow [1:02:24]These Silent Woods by Kimi Cunningham Grant [1:04:20]Thirteen by Steve Cavanagh [1:04:36]Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer [1:04:44]

Our 2022 year-end reading roundup starts today with Best Books of 2022 Superlatives with Susie Boutry (@NovelVisits). This year, we’re splitting our wrap-up into two episodes: Superlatives and Genre Awards (coming in mid-December). We have 17 Superlatives categories for you, including Most and Least Deserving of the Hype, Biggest Surprise, the Book I Hated that Everyone Else Loved, and more! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Announcements Check out my 2022 Holiday Gift Guide!My 2023 Reading Tracker will be coming out in early December! This year, the Tracker will ONLY be available to $7/month Superstars patrons (i.e. I will no longer be selling it for $14.99 here on my website). Become a Superstars Patron here! Highlights Our best books of the year from 17 categories, including: Most and Least Deserving of the HypeUnderrated GemsFavorite Fiction and Nonfiction on AudioThe Book You Flew ThroughBiggest SurpriseBest Heartwarming BookA 2022 Book You Missed, but Plan to Read 2022 Superlatives [5:27] Sarah Carris Soto is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid | Amazon | Bookshop.org [7:13]Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus | Amazon | Bookshop.org [7:16]Any Other Family by Eleanor Brown | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:39]Bad City by Paul Pringle | Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:30]More Than You’ll Ever Know by Katie Gutierrez | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:33]Cover Story by Susan Rigetti | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:08]Finding Me by Viola Davis | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:07]The Winners by Fredrik Backman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:20]Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:09]The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:27]The Local by Joey Hartstone | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:31]Someday, Maybe by Onyi Nwabineli | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:48]People Person by Candice Carty-Williams | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:18]Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:53]Olga Dies Dreaming by Xochitl Gonzalez | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:51]Love and Saffron by Kim Fay | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:47]Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:08] Susie Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:17]The Younger Wife by Sally Hepworth | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:12]When We Were Bright and Beautiful by Jillian Medoff | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:17]Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:21]Trust by Hernan Diaz | Amazon | Bookshop.org [15:31]Every Summer After by Carley Fortune | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:23]Solito by Javier Zamora | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:28]We Spread by Iain Reid | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:48]Can’t Look Away by Carola Lovering | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:37]The Light Pirate by Lily Brooks-Dalton (December 6, 2022) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:52]The Winners by Fredrik Backman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:44]Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:40]Nightcrawling by Leila Mottley | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:54]We All Want Impossible Things by Catherine Newman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:11]Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:14]Someday, Maybe by Onyi Nwabineli | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:17]This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:57]Babel by R. F. Kuang | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:44] Other Books Mentioned Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid [7:24]The Ingenue by Rachel Kapelke-Dale (December 6, 2022) [12:51]Vladimir by Julia May Jonas [19:10]The Measure by Nikki Erlick [23:30]Beartown by Fredrik Backman [28:39]Tell Me Lies by Carola Lovering [32:42]Too Good to Be True by Carola Lovering [32:43]The Latecomer by Jean Hanff Korelitz [33:31]The Plot by Jean Hanff Korelitz [33:33]Good Morning, Midnight by Lily Brooks-Dalton [36:00]Thirteen by Steve Cavanagh [38:30] About Susie Boutry Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Susie has loved reading for as long as she can remember. Some of her fondest childhood memories involve long afternoons at the library and then reading late into the night. More than ten years ago, she began journaling about the books she read and turned that passion into writing about books. Her first forays were as a guest reviewer on a friend’s blog, but she soon realized she wanted to be reviewing and talking about books on a blog of her own. From there, Novel Visits was born. That was in 2016 and, though the learning curve was steep, she loves being a part of the book community. Novel Visits focuses on new novel reviews (print and audio), previews of upcoming releases, and musings on all things bookish.

In the Fall 2022 Book Preview, Catherine (Gilmore Guide to Books) and I shared our 16 most-anticipated books that released mid-August – December 2022.  In today’s episode, we’re going to circle back to update you on the books we’ve had a chance to read — or at least attempt.   This post contains affiliate links, through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights We discuss how the types of books released in the fall seem to have changed.Sarah comes back with two 5-star books!Catherine and Sarah share their Fall 2022 reading stats and success rates.The reading experience was a roller coaster ride from stellar picks, to middling reads, and 3 DNFs between the two of us.The best and worst picks from the Fall 2022 Book Preview. Books We Read Before the Preview [5:14] Sarah’s Picks: Carrie Soto Is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid (August 30) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:56]Now Is Not the Time to Panic by Kevin Wilson (November 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [7:14] Fall 2022 Circle Back [9:43] August Catherine’s Picks: American Fever by Dur e Aziz Amna (August 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:49]The House of Fortune by Jessie Burton (August 30) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [15:42] September Sarah’s Pick: The Two Lives of Sara by Catherine Adel West (September 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:27] Catherine’s Picks: The Fortunes of Jaded Women by Carolyn Huynh (September 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:04]The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O’Farrell (September 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:06]How Not to Drown in a Glass of Water by Angie Cruz (September 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:24] October Sarah’s Picks: Keep It in the Family by John Marrs (October 18) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:05]Anywhere You Run by Wanda M. Morris (October 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:47] Catherine’s Pick: The Atlas Paradox by Olivie Blake (October 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:26] November Sarah’s Picks: Someday, Maybe by Onyi Nwabineli (November 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:04]Winterland by Rae Meadows (November 29) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:08] Catherine’s Pick: The Cloisters by Katy Hays (November 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:57] December Sarah’s Pick: The Ingenue by Rachel Kapelke-Dale (December 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:55] Catherine’s Pick: The Book of Everlasting Things by Aanchal Malhotra (December 27) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:52] Other Books Mentioned Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid [6:14] Signal Fires by Dani Shapiro [8:45]Saving Ruby King by Catherine Adel West [12:43] The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton [16:01] When the Stars Go Dark by Paula McLain [20:34]Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan [23:35] All Her Little Secrets by Wanda M. Morris [25:10] Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell [27:17] Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett [33:01] The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake [41:36] The Ballerinas by Rachel Kapelke-Dale [45:02] My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell [46:05] The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger [49:30]Social Creature by Tara Isabella Burton [49:52]Necessary People by Anna Pitoniak [49:55] About Catherine Gilmore Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Catherine started The Gilmore Guide to Books over 10 years ago after wrapping up a career as a corporate librarian. She loves books and reading (surprise!) and currently lives in Seattle, WA.

In Episode 126, audiobook producer Karen Dziekonski from Penguin Random House Audio joins me for today’s deep-dive discussion. Karen takes us behind the scenes from the growth of audiobooks in the industry to the ins and outs of how audiobooks are produced. Plus, Karen shares her audiobook recommendations! This post contains affiliate links, through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights What it means to be an audiobook producer and Karen’s career progression.How the landscape has changed for audiobooks over the past 20 years.The days of abridged audiobooks and the process of editing down a print book.The types of books today that make it to the audiobook format.The process of auditioning an audiobook narrator, including deciding on celebrities or full-cast recordings.How much the author’s relationship has grown to incorporate production input — especially for books in translation or featuring foreign language text.The decisions behind when the author narrates their own audiobook — fiction vs nonfiction.How producers court celebrities to narrate audiobooks.A bit about post-production editing of audiobook performances and checking for errors.How much the audiobook segment has grown over the past decade and the anticipated continued trajectory. Karen’s Audiobook Recommendations [38:12] Two OLD Audiobooks She Loves Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter, narrated by Edoardo Ballerini | Amazon | Bookshop.org | Libro.fm [38:31]The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley, narrated by Jayne Entwistle | Amazon | Bookshop.org | Libro.fm [40:25] Two NEW Audiobooks She Loves Bittersweet by Susan Cain, narrated by the author | Amazon | Bookshop.org | Libro.fm [42:42]Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown, narrated by the author | Amazon | Bookshop.org | Libro.fm [44:57] How She Feels About Talking About Books She DOESN’T Love [48:40] One NEW RELEASE She’s Excited About Age of Vice by Deepti Kapoor (January 3, 2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org | Libro.fm [50:25] Last 5-Star Book Karen Read The Maid by Nita Prose | Amazon | Bookshop.org | Libro.fm [52:57] Other Books Mentioned Our Missing Hearts by Celeste Ng, narrated by Lucy Liu [1:37]41-Love: A Memoir by Scarlett Thomas [8:57]Our Share of Night by Mariana Enriquez, narrated by Megan McDowell [17:18]The Nanny Diaries by Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus, narrated by Julia Roberts [28:52]Sparring Partners: Novellas by John Grisham, narrated by Ethan Hawke, Jeff Daniels, and others [32:58]Angels in America by Tony Kushner, narrated by Nathan Lane (and the full Broadway cast) [34:22]What Happened to You? by Oprah Winfrey and Bruce D. Perry, M.D. Ph.D. [36:33]The War I Finally Won by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley [41:59]Quiet by Susan Cain [43:31]The Making of Another Major Motion Picture Masterpiece: A Novel by Tom Hanks (May 9, 2023) [48:55]She Said by Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey [49:55] Other Links Ep. 81: Behind the Scenes of Narrating Audiobooks with Julia Whelan About Karen Dziekonski Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook Karen Dziekonski, VP, Audio Production for the Penguin Random House Audio Publishing Group, has been an influential member of the audiobook industry for over twenty years. Starting at Random House in 2000, Karen has produced thousands of audiobooks and forged strong collaborations with bestselling and debut authors, celebrities, and professional narrators. An excellent problem-solver and active collaborator, Karen leads a team of elite, award-winning producers in the day-to-day operation of one of the most successful audio publishers in the United States. She lives on Long Island, New York, with her chef husband and two daughters.

In Episode 125, Susie Boutry (@NovelVisits) and I are back for our 2nd annual Debuts Special. Today we’re sharing our favorite debut novels from 2022 (so far)! Plus, we discuss our reading stats for debuts this year and we talk about some upcoming sophomore novels (and their debuts) that are on our radar. This post contains affiliate links, through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights We discuss why debut books often feel more polished.A full breakdown of our 2022 debut-related stats.Debuts we love, divided into three categories: Favorite Debuts of 2022 (so far)Favorite Backlist DebutsUpcoming Sophomore Novels Favorite Debuts of 2022 (so far) [8:47] Sarah Never Simple by Liz Scheier | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:57]More Than You’ll Ever Know by Katie Gutierrez | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:43]Olga Dies Dreaming by Xochitl Gonzalez | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:14]The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:52] Susie Groundskeeping by Lee Cole | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:05]Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:37]Nightcrawling by Leila Mottley | Amazon | Bookshop.org [23:57]We All Want Impossible Things by Catherine Newman (November 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:31] Favorite Backlist Debuts [33:18] Sarah Finding Freedom by Erin French | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:21]The Age of Miracles by Karen Thompson Walker | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:41] Susie A Place for Us by Fatima Farheen Mirza | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:14]Good Morning, Midnight by Lily Brooks-Dalton | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:57] Upcoming Sophomore Novels [44:30] Sarah Debut: Don’t Know Tough by Eli Cranor | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:44]Upcoming: Ozark Dogs by Eli Cranor (April 4, 2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:59]Debut: His Only Wife by Peace Adzo Medie | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:46]Upcoming: Nightbloom by Peace Adzo Medie (June 13, 2023) | Amazon [49:05] Susie Debut: Tuesday Nights in 1980 by Molly Prentiss | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:32]Upcoming: Old Flame by Molly Prentiss (April 11, 2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:54]Debut: The Push by Ashley Audrain | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:40]Upcoming: The Whispers by Ashley Audrain (July 2023) [50:54] Other Books Mentioned Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus [9:24]The Measure by Nikki Erlick [9:35]Corrections in Ink by Keri Blakinger [9:39]Cover Story by Susan Rigetti [9:50]Nowhere Girl by Cheryl Diamond [10:39]The Glass Castle by Jeannette Wells [10:43]Inheritance by Dani Shapiro [10:45]Writers & Lovers by Lily King [13:12]Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett [15:11]Fates and Furies by Lauren Groff [37:32]The One by John Marrs [39:56]The Dreamers by Karen Thompson Walker [40:32]Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel [43:29]The Light Pirate by Lily Brooks-Dalton (December 6) [43:58]Bull Mountain by Brian Panowich [45:56]When I Ran Away by Ilona Bannister [48:22] About Susie Boutry Blog | Instagram Susie has loved reading for as long as she can remember. Some of her fondest childhood memories involve long afternoons at the library and then reading late into the night. More than ten years ago, she began journaling about the books she read and turned that passion into writing about books. Her first forays were as a guest reviewer on a friend’s blog, but she soon realized she wanted to be reviewing and talking about books on a blog of her own. From there, Novel Visits was born. That was in 2016 and, though the learning curve was steep, she loves being a part of the book community. Novel Visits focuses on new novel reviews (print and audio), previews of upcoming releases, and musings on all things bookish.

Candice Carty-Williams joins me for a spoiler-free discussion of her sophomore novel, People Person. In People Person, Candice writes about serious issues in a light-hearted way that’s full of dry humor. She explores questions of obligation to family — especially family to whom you were not previously close. Plus, Candice shares her book recommendations! This post contains affiliate links, through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights Candice’s inspiration behind this story and what it was like writing during a lockdown.The big differences between Candice’s first version of People Person and the final book.How Candice’s own experiences impacted writing the character of Cyril and his 5 children.Her decision to portray Cyril as a likable guy, despite him being an absent parent.Candice talks about whether she’d consider a follow-up book to People Person.What being a ‘people person’ means to Candice, and how she decided on the title.How Candice and her publisher decided on the marketing synopsis for People Person.Why she said in the Acknowledgments section of People Person that this was a novel she didn’t think she’d be able to finish. Candice’s Book Recommendations [21:26] Two OLD Books She Loves The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, M.D. | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:47]Flowers in the Attic by V.C. Andrews | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:43] Two NEW Books She Loves Big Girl by Mecca Jamilah Sullivan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:24]Hope and Glory by Jendella Benson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:01] One NEW RELEASE She’s Excited About The Neighbor Favor by Kristina Forest (February 28, 2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:32] Last 5-Star Book Candice Read Open Water by Caleb Azumah Nelson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:05] Other Books Mentioned Jaws by Peter Benchley [30:00]White Teeth by Zadie Smith [34:52] About Candice Carty-Williams Website | Twitter | Instagram Candice Carty-Williams is a writer and the author of the Sunday Times (London) bestselling Queenie, which was been shortlisted by Goodreads for book of the year in 2019. In 2016, Candice created and launched the Guardian and 4th Estate BAME Short Story Prize, the first inclusive ini­tiative of its kind in book publishing. Candice has written for The Guardian, i-D, Vogue, every itera­tion of The Sunday Times (London), Beat magazine, Black Ballad, and more. She will probably always live in South London.

In Episode 123, Nikki Erlick joins me to discuss (spoiler-free!) her debut novel, The Measure, and share her book recommendations. A both otherworldly and of our time story, in a symbolic way rather than a literal way. The Measure will absolutely be one of my favorite books of 2022! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights Nikki’s inspiration for The Measure.How she incorporated Ancient Greek mythology about fate in her writing.The ways COVID-19 pandemic influenced and impacted her novel.How she decided to take her story to a place of healing, peace, and hope.Nikki’s path to publication as a debut author.The comparable books and authors Nikki names for read-alikes.Nikki’s process for weaving together the wide variety of societal implications into her story.Whether Nikki thinks she’d open the box featured in The Measure…and how she’d live her life if she were a short stringer. Nikki’s Book Recommendations [29:18] Two OLD Books She Loves Anxious People by Fredrik Backman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:35]Stories of Your Life and Others by Ted Chiang | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:40] Two NEW Books She Loves The Cartographers by Peng Shepherd | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:06]End of the World House by Adrienne Celt | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:30] One Genre of Books She DOESN’T LOVE  [36:33] One NEW RELEASE She’s Excited About Shrines of Gaiety by Kate Atkinson (September 27) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:12] Last 5-Star Book Nikki Read The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:51] Other Books Mentioned The Power by Naomi Alderman [14:48]The One by John Marrs [15:00]Nothing to See Here by Kevin Wilson [15:12]Beartown by Fredrik Backman [30:20]Exhalation by Ted Chiang [30:59]The Book of M by Peng Shepherd [34:11]Severance by Ling Ma [35:37]Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister [36:00]The Hacienda by Isabel Cañas [37:10]Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier [37:26]I’ll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara [37:51]The Eyes of the Dragon by Stephen King [38:23]The Shining by Stephen King [38:43]Life After Life by Kate Atkinson [39:28]Rules of Civility by Amor Towles [42:15] About Nikki Erlick Website | Twitter | Instagram Nikki Erlick is a writer and editor whose work has appeared on the websites of New York magazine, Harper’s Bazaar, Newsweek, Cosmopolitan, the Huffington Post, Indagare Travel, BookTrib, and the Verge. As a travel writer, she explored nearly a dozen countries on assignment—from rural villages in France to the arctic fjords of Norway. As a ghostwriter, she has lent her voice to CEOs, academics, and entrepreneurs. She graduated Harvard University summa cum laude and is a former editor of the Harvard Crimson. She earned a master’s degree in global thought from Columbia University. The Measure is her first novel.