Sarah's Book Shelves Live

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 Hype Underrated Gems Favorite Fiction and Nonfiction on Audio The Book You Flew Through Biggest Surprise Best Heartwarming Book A 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 Debuts Upcoming 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.

Double Booked is a monthly series, available to my Superstars patrons, where a co-host and I each share our own book recommendations in the same format as the big show (2 old books we love, 2 new books we love, 1 book we didn't love, and 1 upcoming release we're excited about). In these more candid episodes, I talk more about my own reading, and share tons of books that I don't share on any other public forum. Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books and Susie from Novel Visits alternate months co-hosting with me.   This post contains affiliate links, through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). As a Superstars patron, you'll get access to the Double Booked monthly bonus podcast series Double Booked, Summer Shelves (the annual companion to my Summer Reading Guide) my annual Rock Your Reading Tracker.  Get more details about all the goodies available to all patrons (Stars and Superstars) and sign up here! Highlights Catherine brings some books that are “so far under the radar, they're off the grid.” Sarah has some wide-ranging picks with 4 own-voices stories and genres outside her comfort zone. Plus, both new releases are publishing next week!  So, you won't have to wait long for them. Sarah's & Catherine's Book Recommendations [4:49] Two OLD Books They Love Sarah: Furia by Yamile Saied Mendez | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:50] The Idea of You by Robinne Lee | Amazon | Bookshop.org [16:43] Catherine: Nine Women, One Dress by Jane L. Rosen | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:15] Hotel Du Lac by Anita Brookner | Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:21] Two NEW Books They Love Sarah: Last Summer on State Street by Toya Wolfe | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:23] Bad City by Paul Pringle | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:46] Catherine: Calling for a Blanket Dance by Oscar Hokeah | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:00] The Pink Hotel by Liska Jacobs | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:41] One Book They DIDN'T LOVE Sarah: The Arc by Tory Henwood Hoen | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:28] Catherine: Counterfeit by Kirstin Chen | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:30] One NEW RELEASE They Are Excited About Sarah: People Person by Candice Carty-Williams (September 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:08] Catherine: Dinners with Ruth by Nina Totenberg (September 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:25] Other Books Mentioned Firekeeper's Daughter by Angeline Boulley [11:27] The View Was Exhausting by Mikaella Clements and Onjuli Datta [20:20] How to Fake It in Hollywood by Ava Wilder [20:22] Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston [20:24] American Royals by Katharine McGee [20:25] Saving Ruby King by Catherine Adel West [27:04] Transcendent Kingdom by Yaa Gyasi [27:11] This Is My America by Kim Johnson [27:13] Deacon King Kong by James McBride [28:20] Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan [31:57]  We Keep the Dead Close by Becky Cooper [37:48] Catch and Kill by Ronan Farrow [38:01] Joan by Katherine J. Chen [40:35] The One by John Marrs [45:55]  Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams [50:31] Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett [53:09] 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 Fall 2022 Book Preview with Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books!  In this episode, Catherine and I share 16 of our most anticipated books releasing mid-August through December.   This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Announcements Join our Patreon Community ($5/mo) 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 This episode marks the 3-year anniversary of the seasonal previews!   Catherine brings in some variety with her fall picks, including 3 debuts and 3 return authors. Sarah's picks include 3 sophomore novels and 2 debut novels. Two 5-star books from Sarah's selections. Catherine and Sarah share their #1 picks for fall release. Fall 2022 Book Preview [4:07] August Sarah's Pick: Carrie Soto Is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid (August 30) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [4:55] Catherine's Picks: American Fever by Dur e Aziz Amna (August 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[10:26] The House of Fortune by Jessie Burton (August 30) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[16:05]  September Sarah's Pick: The Two Lives of Sara by Catherine Adel West (September 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:41] Catherine's Picks: The Fortunes of Jaded Women by Carolyn Huynh (September 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:04]  The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O'Farrell (September 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:41] How Not to Drown in a Glass of Water by Angie Cruz (September 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:00]  October Sarah's Picks: Keep It in the Family by John Marrs (October 18) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[18:55] Anywhere You Run by Wanda M. Morris (October 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:00]  Catherine's Pick: The Atlas Paradox by Olivie Blake (October 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[40:51] November Sarah's Picks: Someday, Maybe by Onyi Nwabineli (November 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[28:45]  Now Is Not the Time to Panic by Kevin Wilson (November 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:07] Winterland by Rae Meadows (November 29) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[43:16]  Catherine's Pick: The Cloisters by Katy Hays (November 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:18] December Sarah's Pick: The Ingenue by Rachel Kapelke-Dale (December 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[48:35]  Catherine's Pick: The Book of Everlasting Things by Aanchal Malhotra (December 27) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:10] Other Books Mentioned The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid [5:47]  Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid [6:03]  Saving Ruby King by Catherine Adel West [12:47]  The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton [17:07]  The One by John Marrs [19:34]  The Passengers by John Marrs [19:45]  Flowers in the Attic by V. C. Andrews [20:48]  Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman [22:16]  Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan [23:31]  All Her Little Secrets by Wanda M. Morris [24:10]  Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell [26:45]  Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett [30:52]  Dominicana by Angie Cruz [32:23]  Nothing to See Here by Kevin Wilson [36:05]  The Family Fang by Kevin Wilson [40:25] The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake [40:55]  We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter [45:20]  The Ballerinas by Rachel Kapelke-Dale [48:46]  My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell [49:45]  The Queen's Gambit by Walter Tevis [49:47]  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 120, Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books and I circle back to the books we shared in the Summer 2022 Book Preview — now that we've actually had a chance to read them.  Returning to our 12 summer releases, we take a look at what worked and what didn't.  Also, with both of our personal lives demanding more of our attention lately, our reading lives have definitely been impacted.  This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights Sarah had a 5 star book! Catherine and Sarah share their Summer 2022 reading stats and success rates. The best and worst picks from the Summer 2022 Book Preview. Books We Read Before the Preview [6:38] Sarah's Picks: The Displacements by Bruce Holsinger (July 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[7:20]  Dirt Creek by Hayley Scrivenor (August 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:27]  Summer 2022 Circle Back [6:38] June Sarah's Picks: These Impossible Things by Salma El-Wardany (June 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:59] The Measure by Nikki Erlick (June 28) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:19] Catherine's Picks: Nightcrawling by Leila Mottley (June 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:10] Tracy Flick Can't Win by Tom Perrotta (June 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[17:40]  Girls They Write Songs About by Carlene Bauer (June 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:03]  July Sarah's Picks: Crying in the Bathroom by Erika L. Sánchez (July 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:49]  The Work Wife by Alison B. Hart (July 19) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:30]  Catherine's Picks: Fellowship Point by Alice Elliott Dark (July 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[36:45] Sirens & Muses by Antonia Angress (July 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[42:48]  August Catherine's Pick: Bookish People by Susan Coll (August 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:50] Other Books Mentioned Last Summer on State Street by Toya Wolfe [4:33]  Corrections in Ink by Keri Blakinger [4:35]  The Midcoast by Adam White [4:40]  How to Fake It in Hollywood by Ava Wilder [4:42]  The Gifted School by Bruce Holsinger [8:57]  Election by Tom Perrotta [17:48]  The Leftovers by Tom Perrotta [22:02]  Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus [23:38]  Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett [23:42]  The One by John Marrs [24:08] The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin [26:45]  I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika L. Sánchez [33:15]  Finding Me by Viola Davis [36:05] The Ensemble by Aja Gabel [45:25]  Now Is Not the Time To Panic by Kevin Wilson (November 8, 2022) [46:15] Other Links Sarah's Bookshelves 2022 Summer Reading Guide 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 119, Keri Blakinger joins me to discuss her debut memoir, Corrections in Ink, a mind-blowing personal story, also speaks to the broader issues of addiction and women in the prison system. Keri went from being an elite figure skater in her youth to being arrested for possession of heroin while a student at Cornell, and then serving two years in the New York prison system. In her memoir, Keri is self-reflective, sharing what is ultimately a hopeful and redemptive story, despite the dark places it goes along the way. This post contains affiliate links, through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights When and why Keri decided to share her story in book form. How the pandemic impacted her journalism career and writing her memoir. The connection between her figure skating, her mental health, and her drug addiction. Some of the bigger surprises she experienced in prison. How Keri thinks she managed to overcome the statistics and “make good on a second chance.” An example of the ways inmates work around some of the arbitrary and unwritten rules of jail. All about ‘books in jail': requesting and ordering books, time allotted to reading, access, and prison libraries. Keri's personal reading experience in jail and covering this topic as a journalist. Current issues Keri is investigating within the prison system. Keri's Book Recommendations [32:02] Two OLD Books She Loves Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:17] The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:56] Two NEW Books She Loves Leaving Isn't the Hardest Thing by Lauren Hough | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:30] Breathing Fire by Jaime Lowe | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:33] One Book She DIDN'T LOVE Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:47] One NEW RELEASE She's Excited About A Deal with the Devil by Pamela Colloff (November 2023) | [44:04] Last 5-Star Book Keri Read Mexican Gothic by Sylvia Moreno-Garcia | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:20] Other Books Mentioned On Lynchings by Ida B. Wells-Barnett (new edition on November 15, 2022)  [26:43] Blood in the Water by Heather Ann Thompson [27:13] The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern [29:30] The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger [29:42] Orange Is the New Black by Piper Kerman [30:28] The Keep by Jennifer Egan [30:32] About Keri Blakinger Website | Twitter | Instagram Keri Blakinger is a Texas-based investigative reporter and the author of the Corrections in Ink, a memoir tracing her path from figure skating to heroin addiction to prison and, finally, to life as a journalist covering mass incarceration.  Currently reporting for The Marshall Project, her work covering criminal justice, has previously appeared in VICE, the New York Daily News, the BBC, and The New York Times. She previously worked for the Houston Chronicle and was a member of the Chronicle‘s Pulitzer-finalist team in 2018.  Her 2019 coverage of women's jails for The Washington Post Magazine helped earn a National Magazine Award.

In Episode 118, Caroline Zancan, Senior Editor at Henry Holt, joins me for another episode in the Genre 101 series — this time with a twist.  Caroline answers behind-the-scenes questions about editing literary fiction, as well as a deep dive into the genre itself.   This post contains affiliate links, through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Announcements I'd love your feedback on the podcast!  Please take a moment to complete my 2022 Podcast Survey! Highlights How Caroline got into editing: right place, right time, and Craigslist. The varying college degrees, the wide range of colleagues' previous careers, and whether there's a typical career path to becoming an editor. The je ne sais quoi factor and determining if a book is for Henry Holt. The entire process of book acquisition at Henry Holt — from determining what books to pursue and bidding on manuscripts to the approval process. Caroline's preference for dealing with an author's agent. The execution of a compatible vision for the editor-author relationship. The “right” length for a book and editing big-name authors. What the heck is ‘literary fiction' and why there seems to be a lack of consensus about this question. Current trends in the literary fiction world. Caroline's Book Recommendations [39:19] Two OLD Books She Loves Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:33] Trust Exercise by Susan Choi | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:25] Two NEW Books She Loves Sorrow and Bliss by Meg Mason | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:33] Cult Classic by Sloane Crosley | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:14] The Series of Books She DIDN'T Love Elena Ferrante Titles  [45:46] One NEW RELEASE She's Excited About All This Could Be Different by Sarah Thankam Mathews (August 2, 2022) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:32] Last 5-Star Book Caroline Read Sorrow and Bliss by Meg Mason | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:40] Other Books Mentioned We Wish You Luck by Caroline Zancan [2:00] Happiness by Heather Harpham [2:17] The Parking Lot Attendant by Nafkote Tamirat [2:21] Sleepwalk by Dan Chaon [2:29] Notes on Your Sudden Disappearance by Alison Espach [2:34] On Writing by Stephen King [29:08] Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett [40:48] I Was Told There'd Be Cake by Sloane Crosley [44:58] Look Alive Out There by Sloane Crosley [45:00] About Caroline Zancan On Twitter Caroline Zancan is a Senior Editor at Holt, acquiring literary and upmarket fiction and memoir, and the author of We Wish You Luck and Local Girls. She is a graduate of Kenyon College and holds an MFA from the Bennington Writing Seminars.  Caroline lives in Brooklyn with her husband and their children. 

In Episode 117, Annie Hartnett, author of Unlikely Animals, shares the intriguing backstory behind her new novel. She is wonderfully candid and shares interesting tidbits from the germ of the idea, through some of the editing process, all the way to the finished book and finding a publisher.  This post contains affiliate links, through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights How interesting information transitions to the idea to write a book. The importance of voice in her stories. How she infuses comedy into her writing and embraces the potential for silliness. Annie shares the experience of having her second book under her belt and how that affects her confidence going forward. The difficulty in talking about and promoting a multi-faceted book. Cover design and summary decisions for Unlikely Animals. Why she chose to tell the story in the collective voice. The atmospheric place she lived when she began writing Unlikely Animals. Annie answers lightning round questions about some delightfully weird elements in the book. Annie's Book Recommendations [33:09] Two OLD Books She Loves The Electric Woman by Tessa Fontaine | Amazon | Bookshop.org : [33:18] We Ride Upon Sticks by Quan Barry | Amazon | Bookshop.org : [34:56] Two NEW Books She Loves Walk the Vanished Earth by Erin Swan | Amazon | Bookshop.org : [36:30] More Than You'll Ever Know by Katie Gutierrez | Amazon | Bookshop.org : [40:05] One NEW RELEASE She's Excited About Now Is Not the Time to Panic by Kevin Wilson (November 8, 2022) | Amazon | Bookshop.org : [42:24] Last 5-Star Book Annie Read Sigh, Gone by Phuc Tran | Amazon | Bookshop.org : [46:26] Other Books Mentioned Rabbit Cake by Annie Hartnett : [1:20] The Last Chairlift by John Irving (October 18, 2022) : [20:54] The Mothers by Brit Bennett : [24:42] Our Town by Thornton Wilder : [28:04] Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders : [28:15] Wild by Cheryl Strayed : [34:13] Detransition, Baby by Torrey Peters : [35:27] When I'm Gone, Look for Me in the East by Quan Barry : [35:48] How High We Go in the Dark by Sequoia Nagamatsu : [37:16] Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel : [37:38] Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel : [38:19] Are You Sleeping by Kathleen Barber : [40:45] Nothing to See Here by Kevin Wilson : [42:45] The Family Fang by Kevin Wilson : [45:30] Perfect Little World by Kevin Wilson : [45:35] About Annie Hartnett Website | Twitter | Instagram In addition to her new book, Unlikely Animals, Annie Hartnett is the author of Rabbit Cake, which was listed as one of Kirkus Reviews's Best Books of 2017 and a finalist for the New England Book Award. She has received fellowships from the MacDowell Colony, Sewanee Writers' Conference, and the Associates of the Boston Public Library. She studied philosophy at Hamilton College, has an MA from Middlebury College, and an MFA from the University of Alabama. When she began writing Unlikely Animals, she was living in the groundskeeper's house in a cemetery. She now lives in a small town in Massachusetts with her husband, daughter, and darling border collie, Mr. Willie Nelson.

In Episode 116, Susie Boutry (@NovelVisits) joins me to talk about niching down from traditional genre categories into the micro genres we love.  Over the past year, I have picked up on some key themes and types of books that I can generally count on for successful reading. Today, we're putting them all in one special episode as Susie and I bring you a delightfully overflowing list of the micro genres that work for us, books from each, and why we love them. This post contains affiliate links, through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Micro Genres We Love  [2:41] Books by Former or Current Attorneys [3:20] Sarah The Damage by Caitlin Wahrer | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:08] & [6:11] Miracle Creek by Angie Kim | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:13] A Good Marriage by Kimberly McCreight | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:15]  The Boys' Club by Erica Katz | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:18] All Her Little Secrets by Wanda M. Morris | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:20] The Eddie Flynn Series by Steve Cavanagh [6:24] The Bad Muslim Discount by Syed M. Masood | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:29] Fake by Erica Katz | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:44] What Comes After by JoAnne Tompkins | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:52] Susie Whisper Network by Chandler Baker | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:57] Frenzied but Favorable Family Dynamics [7:19] Sarah Commonwealth by Ann Patchett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:04]  The Dutch House by Ann Patchett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:05] Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:39] Olympus, Texas by Stacey Swann | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:44]  Susie The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:31]  The Children's Crusade by Ann Packer | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:44] Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:07] French Braid by Anne Tyler | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:13]  The Family Tabor by Cherise Wolas | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:16] Suspenseful Books That Are Not Truly Thrillers,But That Publishers Market as Thrillers  [11:09] Sarah The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:47]  My Sunshine Away by M. O. Walsh | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:59] The Ballerinas by Rachel Kapelke-Dale | Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:31] The Cutting Season by Attica Locke | Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:46]  You Should Have Known by Jean Hanff Korelitz (also retitled as The Undoing for the tie-in edition) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:00]  Susie Our American Friend by Anna Pitoniak | Amazon | Bookshop.org [15:09]  The Golden Couple by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen | Amazon | Bookshop.org [15:16] Hell No! Women's Stories  [16:22] Sarah Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:01]  Susie Circe by Madeline Miller | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:27]  The Change by Kirsten Miller | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:33] The Book of Essie by Meghan MacLean Weir | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:46] Songs in Ursa Major by Emma Brodie | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:05]  Hurricane Girl by Marcy Dermansky (June 14, 2022) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:12] City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:17]  The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:40]  Finlay Donovan Is Killing It by Elle Cosimano | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:51]  Historical Fiction About Women Breaking the Stereotypes and Limitations of Their Time  [19:19] Sarah Loving Frank by Nancy Horan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:44]  Circling the Sun by Paula McLain | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:13]  The Secrets We Kept by Lara Prescott | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:24] The Lunar Housewife by Caroline Woods (June 14, 2022) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:31] Susie Great Circle by Maggie Shipstead | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:46]  The Age of Light by Whitney Scharer | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:06] Literary Angst  [22:41] Sarah Seven Days in June by Tia Williams | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:55]  The Roughest Draft by Emily Wibberley and Austin Siegemund-Broka | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:08]  Book Lovers by Emily Henry | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:35]  Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:07]  On Writing by Stephen King | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:11]  What I Talk About When I Talk About Running by Haruki Murakami | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:16]  I Came All This Way to Meet You by Jami Attenberg | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:26] Susie Writers & Lovers by Lily King | Amazon | Bookshop.org [23:51]  Groundskeeping by Lee Cole | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:00] We Wish You Luck by Caroline Zancan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:09] Hell of a Book by Jason Mott | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:27]  Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:29] Oral Histories  [28:13] Sarah Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:21]  The Final Revival of Opal & Nev by Dawnie Walton | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:23]  Live From New York by James Andrew Miller and Tom Shales | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:40]  These Guys Have All the Fun by James Andrew Miller and Tom Shales | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:51]  From Scratch by Allen Salkin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:13]  The Only Plane in the Sky by Garrett M. Graff | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:20]  The Office by Andy Greene | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:29] Bourdain by Laurie Woolever | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:33]  Voice From the Pandemic by Eli Saslow | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:57] Trust No One  [33:45] Sarah Who is Maud Dixon? by Alexandra Andrews | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:35]  Tangerine by Christine Mangan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:43]  Susie I'm Thinking of Ending Things by Ian Reid | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:25]  Foe by Ian Reid | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:33] Based on a True Story by Delphine de Vigan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:00] Cover Story by Susan Rigetti | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:39]  Sunburn by Laura Lippman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:53] Anonymous Girl by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:59] Two Nights in Lisbon by Chris Pavone | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:03] Badass Female Athlete Fiction / Competition Novels  [38:09] Sarah The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:37]   The Ballerinas by Rachel Kapelke-Dale | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:51] The Turnout by Megan Abbott | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:02]  The Unraveling of Mercy Louis by Keija Parssinen | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:23]  Firekeeper's Daughter by Angeline Boulley | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:41]  Home or Away by Kathleen West | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:46]  Carrie Soto Is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid (August 30, 2022) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:07] We Came Here to Forget by Andrea Dunlop | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:36] Faithful Friends / Ensembles [44:05] Sarah The Other's Gold by Elizabeth Ames | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:10]  Shotgun Lovesongs by Nickolas Butler | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:25]  Susie The Interestings by Meg Wolitzer | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:45]  A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:08] The Dearly Beloved by Cara Wall | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:25] The Ensemble by Aja Gabel | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:44]  Beyond the Point by Claire Gibson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:44] Other Books Mentioned Smacked by Eilene Zimmerman [4:20]  Dare Me by Megan Abbott [13:39]  Luckiest Girl Alive by Jessica Knoll [13:41]  One Day in September by Simon Reeve [32:23] We Spread by Ian Reid (September 27, 2022) [35:53] 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 Episode 115, Bonnie Garmus, author of Lessons in Chemistry, discusses the inspiration behind her best-selling debut novel, sexism in the workplace, and the story behind Six-Thirty the dog. Plus, Bonnie'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!). Introducing Summer Shelves (a companion to my Summer Reading Guide)… In addition to my annual 2022 Summer Reading Guide, I introduced Summer Shelves, a companion exclusively for Superstars Patrons ($7/mo). Summer Shelves features BACKLIST summer reading recommendations from over 25 former podcast guests and our team members. The Summer Shelves design is clean, crisp, and unique and is available 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. Plus, as a patron you can listen to the monthly Superlatives bonus podcast episodes where I continue the discussion with every guest from the full-length episodes, as they answer 5 bookish “superlative” questions. Get Summer Shelves! Highlights Bonnie talks about her inspiration for Lessons in Chemistry and the main character, Elizabeth Zott, who began her book life in a previously unpublished book. Why Bonnie chose the professions featured in the book: scientist and television host on a cooking show. How Elizabeth's rowing brings balance to the story. How her copywriting career played a role in the novel. The significance of the numerical names for the two dogs' in Bonnie's life: 99 (in her real life) and Six-Thirty (in the book). The real-life dog who inspired the fictional dog, Six-Thirty. The big message Bonnie would like both men and women to take away from the book. How Sarah and Bonnie feel about posthumously published work. Bonnie shares a little bit about her next book and how it compares to Lessons in Chemistry. Bonnie's Book Recommendations [25:20] Two OLD Books She Loves The Secret History by Donna Tartt | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:31] The Cider House Rules by John Irving | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:35] Two NEW Books She Loves Free Love by Tessa Hadley | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:56] Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:48] One Book She DIDN'T LOVE Billy Budd by Herman Melville | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:15] One NEW RELEASE She's Excited About The Second Sight of Zachary Cloudesley by Sean Lusk (June 9) | Book Depository [36:37] Last 5-Star Book Bonnie Read Nightbitch by Rachel Yoder | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:25] Other Books Mentioned The Hearts Invisible Furies by John Boyne [3:20] The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt [26:24] A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving [28:43] The World According to Garp by John Irving [28:47] Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel [31:02] The Glass Hotel by Emily St. John Mandel [31:46] Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee [35:11] The Need by Helen Phillips [40:29] Other Links Six-Thirty the dog on Instagram About Bonnie Garmus Website | Twitter | Instagram Bonnie Garmus is a copywriter and creative director who has worked widely in the fields of technology, medicine, and education. She's an open-water swimmer, a rower, and mother to two pretty amazing daughters. Born in California and most recently from Seattle, she currently lives in London with her husband and her dog, 99. Lessons in Chemistry is her first novel.

Welcome to the Summer 2022 Book Preview with Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books! In this episode, Catherine and I share our most anticipated books coming out June through mid-August.   This post contains affiliate links, through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Introducing Summer Shelves (a companion to my Summer Reading Guide)… In addition to my annual 2022 Summer Reading Guide, I introduced Summer Shelves, a companion exclusively for Superstars Patrons ($7/mo). Summer Shelves features BACKLIST summer reading recommendations from over 25 former podcast guests and our team members. The Summer Shelves design is clean, crisp, and unique and is available 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. Plus, as a patron you can listen to the quarterly bonus podcast episode series called Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and I share at least 4 bonus books that we're excited about that we did not share in the regular Preview episode.  Get Summer Shelves! Highlights The summer theme lands on the spectrum of female relationships — some healthy and some toxic.   Catherine is more optimistic for these summer releases. Debut novels make up 4 of Sarah's 6 picks! Catherine and Sarah fall into an impromptu new game of Guess What Book This Sounds Like? Catherine shares a funny author meeting gaffe from her past. Catherine and Sarah share their #1 summer release picks. Summer 2022 Book Preview [2:33] June Sarah's Picks: These Impossible Things by Salma El-Wardany (June 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:11] The Measure by Nikki Erlick (June 28) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:08] Catherine's Picks: Nightcrawling by Leila Mottley (June 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [7:16] Tracy Flick Can't Win by Tom Perrotta (June 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:46]  Girls They Write Songs About by Carlene Bauer (June 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:41]  July Sarah's Picks: The Displacements by Bruce Holsinger (July 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:12]  Crying in the Bathroom by Erika L. Sánchez (July 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:12]  The Work Wife by Alison B. Hart (July 19) | Amazon [30:24]  Catherine's Picks: Fellowship Point by Alice Elliott Dark (July 5) | Amazon [27:20] Sirens & Muses by Antonia Angress (July 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:15]  August Sarah's Pick: Dirt Creek by Hayley Scrivenor (August 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:03]  Catherine's Pick: Bookish People by Susan Coll (August 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:57] Other Books Mentioned Upgrade by Blake Crouch (July 12) [3:51]  Normal People by Sally Rooney [6:52]  Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney [6:55]  There There by Tommy Orange [9:44] Brown Girls by Daphne Palasi Andreades [10:00] American Predator by Maureen Callahan [11:00] The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin [11:57]  Election by Tom Perrotta [14:51]  The Leftovers by Tom Perrotta [15:11]  The Gifted School by Bruce Holsinger [18:50]  Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel [19:53]  Fantasticland by Mike Bockoven [20:10]  Frances and Bernard by Carlene Bauer [22:54]  The Female Persuasion by Meg Wolitzer [24:42] Love and Saffron by Kim Fay [24:50]  I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika L. Sánchez [25:23]  A Very Punchable Face by Colin Jost [26:29]  Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid [32:05]  The Interestings by Meg Wolitzer [35:22]  The Ensemble by Aja Gabel [35:29]  The Ballerinas by Rachel Kapelke-Dale [35:33]  The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb [36:11]  Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett [39:06]  The Mothers by Brit Bennett [39:09]  The Dry by Jane Harper [39:37]  We Begin at the End by Chris Whitaker [40:23]  Descent by Tim Johnston [41:08]  The Stager by Susan Coll [44:19]  About Catherine Gilmore Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Catherine started The Gilmore Guide to Books over 6 years ago after wrapping up a career as a corporate librarian. She loves books and reading (surprise!) and currently lives in Ann Arbor, MI.

In the Spring 2022 Book Preview, Catherine (Gilmore Guide to Books) and I shared our most anticipated books that released April – May 2022.  In today's episode, we're circling back to update you on the books we've had a chance to read — or at least attempted.  Given my ongoing success rate with spring releases, I'm starting to wonder if that is just the best season for my type of books!  This post contains affiliate links, through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Introducing Summer Shelves (a companion to my Summer Reading Guide)… In addition to my annual 2022 Summer Reading Guide, I'm introducing Summer Shelves, a companion exclusively for Superstars Patrons ($7/mo). Summer Shelves features BACKLIST summer reading recommendations from over 25 former podcast guests and our team members. The Summer Shelves design is clean, crisp, and unique and is available 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. Get Summer Shelves! Highlights Catherine and Sarah continue with fairly high success rates for 2022 so far. Sarah had three 5-star spring releases! Catherine and Sarah share their best and worst picks from the Spring 2022 Book Preview. Spring Books Read Before the Preview [5:08] Sarah's Picks: Bomb Shelter by Mary Laura Philpott (April 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:12] Take My Hand by Dolen Perkins-Valdez (April 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:13]  Catherine's Pick: The Candy House by Jennifer Egan (April 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:55] Spring Circle Back [3:34] April Sarah's Picks: Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus (April 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:52] Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett (April 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:32] When We Fell Apart by Soon Wiley (April 26) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:22] Catherine's Picks: Four Treasures of the Sky by Jenny Tinghui Zhang (April 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [15:55] An Unlasting Home by Mai Al-Nakib (April 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:39]  May Sarah's Pick: The Latecomer by Jean Hanff Korelitz (May 31) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:06]  Catherine's Picks: Dark Circles by Caite Dolan-Leach (May 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:39] Elektra by Jennifer Saint (May 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:01]  Siren Queen by Nghi Vo (May 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:24] Other Books Mentioned The Heart's Invisible Furies by John Boyne [12:27] What Comes After by JoAnne Tompkins [13:58]  Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel [18:46] Nothing to See Here by Kevin Wilson [21:28] Rabbit Cake by Annie Hartnett [22:13] Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders [22:42] The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini [28:13] Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner [30:42] Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson [31:02] Dead Letters by Caite Dolan-Leach [34:14]  The Plot by Jean Hanff Korelitz [36:11]  You Should Have Known by Jean Hanff Korelitz [36:26]  Circe by Madeline Miller [41:14] Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid [45:36] Other Links Smithsonian Magazine | The Transcontinental Railroad Wouldn't Have Been Built Without the Hard Work of Chinese Laborers Smithsonian Magazine | What Archaeologists Are Learning About the Lives of the Chinese Immigrants Who Built the Transcontinental Railroad About Catherine Gilmore Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Catherine started The Gilmore Guide to Books over 6 years ago after wrapping up a career as a corporate librarian. She loves books and reading (surprise!) and currently lives in Ann Arbor, MI.

Susie Boutry (@NovelVisits) and I share our favorite books that missed last year's Summer Reading Guides, some deep backlist books we think are great for summer reading, and our #1 picks for four categories featured in Sarah's 2022 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!). Introducing Summer Shelves (a companion to my Summer Reading Guide)… In addition to my annual 2022 Summer Reading Guide, I'm introducing Summer Shelves, a companion exclusively for Superstars Patrons ($7/mo). Summer Shelves features BACKLIST summer reading recommendations from over 25 former podcast guests and our team members. 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. Our Summer Reading Guides Sarah's 2022 Summer Reading Guide Susie's 2022 Summer Reading Guide Summer Reading [4:23] Books That Missed Last Year's Summer Reading Guides [4:58] Sarah The Ballerinas by Rachel Kapelke-Dale | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:29] The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:12] Bourdain: The Definitive Oral Biography by Laurie Woolever | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:24]  Susie For Your Own Good by Samantha Downing | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:29] Songs in Ursa Major by Emma Brodie | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:06]  Embassy Wife by Katie Crouch | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:32]  Backlist Books That Are Great for Summer Reading [25:30] Sarah Quicksand by Malin Persson Giolito | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:53]  Red Notice by Bill Browder | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:39] The Fever by Megan Abbott | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:52] Susie Close Your Eyes, Hold Hands by Chris Bohjalian | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:12]  The Diver's Clothes Lie Empty by Vendela Vida | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:09] The Bookseller by Cynthia Swanson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:15] Our #1 Summer Picks by Category  [42:08] Something Light / Fun Sarah: Dilettante by Dana Brown | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:46]  Susie: Cover Story by Susan Rigetti | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:03]  Something Fast Paced / Intense Sarah: Upgrade by Blake Crouch (July 12, 2022) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:48]  Susie: Two Nights in Lisbon by Chris Pavone (May 24, 2022) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:52]  Something with a Bit More Substance Sarah: Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus | Amazon | Bookshop.org [56:27]  Susie: Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow | Amazon | Bookshop.org [58:05]  Something Different Sarah: Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:01:45]  Susie: This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:03:23]  Other Books Mentioned The Family by Naomi Krupitsky [6:53]  The Turnout by Megan Abbott [7:01]  Luckiest Girl Alive by Jessica Knoll [7:21]  My Lovely Wife by Samantha Downing [9:35] The Secret History by Donna Tartt [9:48] Black Chalk by Christopher J. Yates [9:48] One to Watch by Kate Stayman-London [12:37]  Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston [12:44]  Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid [15:14]  The Ensemble by Aja Gabel [15:14]  Mary Jane by Jessica Anya Blau [15:14]  The Final Revival of Opal & Nev by Dawnie Walton [15:14]  The Only Plane in the Sky by Garrett M. Graff [20:08]  The Office by Andy Greene [20:57] Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel [30:15]  Take My Hand by Dolen Perkins-Valdez [30:41] Moneyball by Michael Lewis [33:21]  We Run the Tides by Vendela Vida [34:17]  Reconstructing Amelia by Kimberly McCreight [38:18]  My Friend Anna by Rachel DeLoache Williams [45:51]  The Accident by Chris Pavone [55:54]  The Expats by Chris Pavone [56:02]  One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle [1:04:10]  Other Links The New York Times Magazine | What Happened to the Girls in Le Roy 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 Episode 111, Dolen Perkins-Valdez (author of Take My Hand) shares details about the real-life events that inspired the book about a tragic story and historical landmark in the battle for women's rights. Dolen also talks about her research methods and a couple of key themes from the book. Take My Hand was a 5-star book for me and will 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 What compelled Dolen to write this book, based on the true story of the Relf sisters. How Dolen shaped this real-life story into fiction and the liberties she allowed for her novel. Dolen's research process and a bit of the behind the scenes of crafting the book. The theme of governmental coercion and exploitation of poor people. Dolen's favorite genre of fiction as a reader. How Dolen first resisted defining herself as a Historical Fiction writer. The secret genre Dolen would like to explore one day. Dolen's Book Recommendations [24:31] Two OLD Books She Loves We Cast a Shadow by Maurice Carlos Ruffin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:08] The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:06] Two NEW Books She Loves The Love Songs of W. E. B. Du Bois by Honorée Fanonne Jeffers | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:00] Hour of the Witch by Chris Bohjalian | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:58] One Book She DIDN'T LOVE A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:12] One NEW RELEASE She's Excited About The Diamond Eye by Kate Quinn (March 29) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:49] Last 5-Star Book Dolen Read Miss Chloe by A. J. Verdelle (May 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:22] Other Books Mentioned Wench by Dolen Perkins-Valdez [1:02] Balm by Dolen Perkins-Valdez [1:02] Black No More by George S. Schuyler [28:19] Dark Matter: A Century of Speculative Fiction from the African Diaspora by Sheree Renée Thomas (ed.), with short story “Sister Lilith” by Honorée Fanonne Jeffers [32:23] The Age of Phillis by Honorée Fanonne Jeffers [33:31] The Souls of Black Folk by W. E. B. Du Bois [33:39] The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway [41:05] The Alice Network by Kate Quinn [42:40] Other Links Reuters | Henrietta Lacks' Heirs Sue for Cut of Medical Research Profits.  Are They Too Late? NPR | Henrietta Lacks' family sues biotech company for profiting from ‘stolen' cells About Dolen Perkins-Valdez Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook Dolen Perkins-Valdez is the New York Times bestselling author of Wench and Balm. She was a finalist for two NAACP Image Awards and the Hurston/Wright Legacy Award for fiction, and she was awarded the First Novelist Award by the Black Caucus of the American Library Association. Dolen is the current Chair of the Board of the PEN/Faulkner Foundation. On behalf of the foundation, she has visited nearly every public high school in the District of Columbia to talk about the importance of reading and writing.   She is currently Associate Professor in the Literature Department at American University and lives in Washington, DC with her family.

In Episode 110, Mary Laura Philpott (author of Bomb Shelter) joins me for a deep dive into the memoir & essays genre, including the differences between a memoir and an essay collection, the level of involvement from editors and publishers, and how she personally approaches writing a memoir or essays.  This post contains affiliate links, through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights Mary Laura talks about her latest book, Bomb Shelter. Where memoirs and essay collections fall on a spectrum. The fluidity of genre-labeling books. A bit about cover design and subtitles. How Mary Laura feels about the “Literary” label. The planning of an essay collection and their overarching themes. Balancing living life for its own sake and living life for good book content. How Mary Laura handles telling personal stories and the real people they feature. How Mary Laura handles memory and recall in her work. The fact-checking process for memoirs and essays. Mary Laura's Book Recommendations [32:31] Two OLD Books She Loves Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:47] Notes on a Silencing by Lacy Crawford | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:57] Two NEW Books She Loves Let's Not Do That Again by Grant Ginder | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:49] Marrying the Ketchups by Jennifer Close (April 26) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:30] The CURRENT READING TREND She DOESN'T Love [45:35] One NEW RELEASE She's Excited About This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub (May 17) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:15] Last 5-Star Book Mary Laura Read Left on Tenth by Delia Ephron | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:03] Other Books Mentioned I Miss You When I Blink by Mary Laura Philpott [1:02] Raven Rock by Garrett Graff [30:14] The Only Plane in the Sky by Garrett Graff [30:20] A Million Little Pieces by James Frey [32:23] The Hopefuls by Jennifer Close [42:03] Little Women by Louisa May Alcott [47:42] Siracusa by Delia Ephron [51:24] About Mary Laura Philpott Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook Mary Laura Philpott is the author of the brand-new memoir, Bomb Shelter: Love, Time, and Other Explosives, which has been named an Indie Next pick by booksellers nationwide, an Amazon Editor's Choice selection, and a best book of the spring or most anticipated book of the year by publications ranging from the Washington Post to TODAY.com, among others. She is also the author of the national bestseller I Miss You When I Blink — which was named one of NPR's Favorite Books of 2019 and a finalist for the Southern Book Prize. Her writing has been featured by The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Atlantic, and other publications. Additionally, Mary Laura (yes, she goes by both names) is a former bookseller and was an Emmy-winning co-host of A Word on Words, the literary interview program on Nashville Public Television. She lives in Nashville, Tennessee, with her family.

Welcome to the Spring 2022 Book Preview with Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books! In this episode, Catherine and I share our most anticipated books coming out in April – May 2022. This post contains affiliate links, through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Announcements In conjunction with my upcoming 9th annual Summer Reading Guide, I will be releasing a companion for Superstars Patrons ($7/mo)! The companion is called Summer Shelves and will feature backlist reading recommendations from former podcast guests.  Plus, both Catherine and Susie will be contributing book recommendations! Both the 2022 Summer Reading Guide and Summer Shelves will launch on Tuesday, May 17.  Sign up here, and select the Superstars tier to get this guide and more bonus content. Join our Patreon Community ($5/mo) 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 and Sarah share the key to their recent high success rate and try to go in cold to new books. Sarah's second 5 star book of 2022! Catherine and Sarah share their #1 spring release picks. Spring 2022 Book Preview [3:34] April Sarah's Picks: Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus (April 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [7:06] Bomb Shelter by Mary Laura Philpott (April 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [15:03] Take My Hand by Dolen Perkins-Valdez (April 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:54]  Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett (April 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:48] When We Fell Apart by Soon Wiley (April 26) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:24] Catherine's Picks: The Candy House by Jennifer Egan (April 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:54] Four Treasures of the Sky by Jenny Tinghui Zhang (April 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:24]  An Unlasting Home by Mai Al-Nakib (April 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:09]  Dark Circles by Caite Dolan-Leach (May 10*) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:15] May Sarah's Pick: The Latecomer by Jean Hanff Korelitz (May 31) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:37]  Catherine's Picks: Elektra by Jennifer Saint (May 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:34]  Siren Queen by Nghi Vo (May 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:47] Other Books Mentioned A Visit from the Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan [10:23]  I Miss You When I Blink by Mary Laura Philpott [15:34]  The Bohemians by Jasmin Darznik [19:35]  A Woman is No Man by Etaf Rum [28:09] Honor by Thrity Umrigar [28:18] Rabbit Cake by Annie Hartnett [29:37] Dead Letters by Caite Dolan-Leach [33:02]  The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin [33:35]  We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter [34:05]  If I Had Your Face by Frances Cha [38:14]  Ariadne by Jennifer Saint [38:55]  The Plot by Jean Hanff Korelitz [40:57]  You Should Have Known by Jean Hanff Korelitz [41:03]  Fleishman Is in Trouble by Taffy Brodesser-Akner [43:19] The Chosen and the Beautiful by Nghi Vo [44:00]  *Book's release date changed since the time of recording. About Catherine Gilmore Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Catherine started The Gilmore Guide to Books over 6 years ago after wrapping up a career as a corporate librarian. She loves books and reading (surprise!) and currently lives in Ann Arbor, MI.

In the Winter 2022 Book Preview (Ep. 102), Catherine (Gilmore Guide to Books) and I shared our most anticipated books set to release January – March 2022 (with one early April release). Today, we're giving an update on the books we shared in the Winter Preview — now that we've had the chance to read them. This post contains affiliate links, through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights Sarah's and Catherine's Winter 2022 reading stats and success rates. How their success rates compare to Fall 2021 and Winter 2021. Sarah talks about the key to her tremendous reading success lately. Their Best and Worst picks from the Winter 2022 Book Preview episode. Winter 2022 Books Read Before the Preview [2:54] Sarah's Picks: Beautiful Little Fools by Jillian Cantor (February 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [3:24] I Came All This Way to Meet You by Jami Attenberg (January 11) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:11]  Catherine's Picks: Honor by Thrity Umrigar (January 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [4:34] No Land to Light On by Yara Zgheib (January 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [7:01]  Winter 2022 Circle Back [8:08] January Sarah's Pick: Fiona and Jane by Jean Chen Ho (January 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:08] Catherine's Picks: To Paradise by Hanya Yanagihara (January 11) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:35]  The Department of Rare Books and Special Collections by Eva Jurczyk (January 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:49] Notes on an Execution by Danya Kukafka (January 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:34] February Sarah's Picks: What the Fireflies Knew by Kai Harris (February 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [15:11] Our American Friend by Anna Pitoniak (February 15) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:03] Fake by Erica Katz (February 22) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:52]  Catherine's Pick: Love and Saffron by Kim Fay (February 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:32] March Sarah's Pick: Don't Know Tough by Eli Cranor (March 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:57] Catherine's Picks: One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle (March 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:13] Dilettante by Dana Brown (March 22) | Buy from Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:38] April Sarah's Pick: Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow (April 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:58] Other Books Mentioned The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald [3:33]  The Secrets We Kept by Lara Prescott [24:19] American Wife by Curtis Sittenfeld [24:25] Girl in Snow by Danya Kukafka [24:49] The Boys' Club by Erica Katz [28:05] Friday Night Lights by H. G. Bissinger [37:32] The Bright Lands by John Fram [38:30] Never Simple by Liz Scheier [40:45] About Catherine Gilmore Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Catherine started The Gilmore Guide to Books over 6 years ago after wrapping up a career as a corporate librarian. She loves books and reading (surprise!) and currently lives in Ann Arbor, MI.