Podcasts about beach reads

Edel Coffey, journalist and author of In Glass Houses runs through the best of the summer reads to get you through August.Her choices are; YesterYear by Caro Claire Burke, The Correspondent by Virginia Evans, Transcription by Ben Lerner, A Beautiful Loan by Mary Costello, A Plot To Die For by Ardal O'Hanlon and The Keeper by Tana French.To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.

Dr. Phil Schroeder | Ecclesiastes 3:1-13

Today, we're joined by historian Bench Ansfield to talk about their breathtaking book, Born in Flames. It's about the arson wave of the 1970s, during which hundreds--yes, hundreds--of landlords in the Bronx set fire to their property to collect insurance. These crimes displaced thousands of Bronxites and killed a few, too. The crisis gae rise to a genre of sensationalist films Bench calls Bronxploitation that foreground poverty and vice in the borough. If you'd like to support the show, please consider becoming a patron at www.patreon.com/artofcrimepodcast. 

We looked at some of the best beach reads and what makes a book a summer success with Kootenay-based author Angie Abdou.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.Every summer, one question comes up again and again: what Elin Hilderbrand book should I read next? This week, Laura teams up with Julianne Buonocore of Friday Night Readers to answer it once and for all.Laura and Julianne each count down their personal Top 5 Elin Hilderbrand novels — from Nantucket scandals to a St. John getaway gone sideways — then hand over a list of read-alike authors for anyone who's already blown through the backlist. Perfect for beach bag planning, TBR building, or anyone debating where to start with the Queen of Beach Reads.

Rev. Calissa Dauterman | Jonah 3:1-5, 10; 4:1-5

What if the biggest obstacle to financial peace isn't how much money you make, but the story you believe about money? Most of us spend our lives chasing “just a little more”, assuming that the next raise, investment, or financial milestone will finally bring contentment. Yet some people with modest incomes build lasting wealth, while others who earn millions end up anxious and always wanting more. Maybe the problem isn't our finances at all. Maybe it's our hearts. In this stirring episode, the conclusion to our Beach Reads for Real Life series, Shay Roush, M.Div., takes a close look at The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel. Despite its title, it's not really a book about budgeting, investing, or financial formulas. It's about human behavior. As Shay explains three important principles from Housel's book, you'll discover that your relationship with money is rarely just about dollars and cents. It's about contentment instead of comparison, freedom instead of appearance, and faithfulness instead of instant results. Ultimately, money is not only a reflection of what you believe about God, but an invitation to trust him to provide. Connect with us:  Instagram: @withyouintheweeds Facebook: @withyouintheweeds            X: withyou_weeds Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: Website: withyouintheweeds.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode our stack of books is tied together with the common theme of being Quintessential Beach Reads...books to throw into your beach bag and pull out when you have those luxurious moments to lose yourself in a story. And you can have a beach bag anywhere…even in your own backyard.  Listen to those waves!Featured Books:Maine Characters by Hannah Orenstein (LH)Our Last Vineyard Summer by Brooke Lea Foster (LH)Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes (LH)The Lost Summers of Newport by Beatriz Williams, Karen White and Lauren Willig (LH) Instructions for a Heatwave by Maggie O'Farrell (LH)Darling Girls by Sally Hepworth (LH)The Summer House by Hannah McKinnon (LH)Husbands & Lovers by Beatriz Williams (LP)The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin (LP)Our Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune (LP)The Shoemaker's Wife by Adriana Trigiani (LP)The Shampoo Effect by Jenny Jackson (LP)On Fire Island by Jane L. Rosen (LP)The Last Train to Key West by Chanel Cleeton (LP)Her Last Breath by Taylor Adams (LP)Books Mentioned in This Episode:The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O'FarrellThe Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox by Maggie O'FarrellThe Hand That First Held Mine by Maggie O'FarrellMystic Summer by Hannah McKinnon Additional Books That Go Along with Our Stack:We Were Never Here by Andrea BartzListen for the Lie by Amy TinteraThe Paradise Problem by Christina LaurenOne Golden Summer by Carley FortuneWays to contact us:Join us on Patreon for extra content: https://www.patreon.com/c/BookBumblePodcastFollow us on Instagram - @thebookbumbleFacebook:  Book BumbleOur website:  https://thebookbumble.buzzsprout.comEmail:  bookbumblepodcast@gmail.comSupport the showIf you like our podcast please help us: Rate and review us, subscribe, follow us on Insta, and join our Team Patreon!  It won't be the same without you!

What do Blockbuster cards, Duke basketball, and a lifelong dream of writing a novel have in common? Somehow they all end up in this episode! This week, Penn and I are joined by #1 New York Times bestselling author Emily Giffin, whose books have defined the modern "beach read" for millions of readers. (And I love a beach read, y'all.) Her latest book, Love You More, just came out this month.Emily shares the path that took her from practicing law to becoming a beloved novelist, and how she creates the messy, relatable characters we can't stop rooting for. Along the way, Emily joins Penn in encouraging me to write my own novel and we explore why there are no truly original ideas - only original voices.Of course, this wouldn't be Laugh Lines without a healthy dose of Gen X nostalgia. We reminisce about Encyclopedia Brown, Blockbuster late fees, and play a game called "Plot Twist," where Emily turns the most ordinary situations into bestselling novels on the spot. We also answer your Laugh Line questions about pickleball etiquette, marriage with ADHD, and the mottos that have shaped our lives.If you learned something from our conversation with Emily, share it with an aspiring writer or somebody who just has a dream that they have wanted to chase. We love to hear from you! Leave us a message at 323-364-3929 or write the show at podcast@theholdernessfamily.com. You can also watch our podcast on YouTube.Learn more about Emily's new book, Love You MorePre-order Get It Done & Have FunVisit Our ShopJoin Our NewsletterFind us on SubstackFollow us on InstagramFollow us on TikTokFollow us on FacebookLaugh Lines with Kim & Penn Holderness is an evolution of The Holderness Family Podcast, which began in 2018. Kim and Penn Holderness are award-winning online content creators known for their original music, song parodies, comedy sketches, and weekly podcasts. Their videos have resulted in over three billion views and over nine million followers since 2013. Penn and Kim are also authors of the New York Times Bestselling Books, ADHD Is Awesome: A Guide To (Mostly) Thriving With ADHD and All You Can Be With ADHD. They were also winners on The Amazing Race (Season 33) on CBS. Laugh Lines is hosted and executive produced by Kim Holderness and Penn Holderness, with original music by Penn Holderness. Laugh Lines is also written and produced by Ann Marie Taepke, and edited and produced by Sam Allen. It is hosted by Acast. Thanks for listening! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rev. Nicholle Hansen | Ruth 2:1-14

Whether you’re after a laugh, romance or an alternate world, our literary experts round up the summer’s best reads. Robert Bound chats with author Chris Power and ‘The Sunday Times’ deputy editor of culture, Susannah Butter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jordan shares a list, put out by Barnes and Noble, of great beach reads. Get all the news you need by listening to WBZ - Boston's News Radio! We're here for you, 24/7. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're joined by historian Jonathan Gill to talk about the amazing life of Boris Morros. After the Russian Revolution, Morros immigrated to America from Eastern Europe and became a big-time Hollywood filmmaker.  To an outside observer, his life would have seemed all glitz and glam, but what the public didn't know was that Morros was risking his neck every day as a double agent, spying for both the Soviets and the Americans throughout the 1940s. If you'd like to support the show, please consider becoming a patron at www.patreon.com/artofcrimepodcast. 

Strand, Sonne, leichte Unterhaltung? Von wegen! Statt klassischer "Beach Reads" empfehlen wir Bücher über Sehnsucht, Identität, Geschichte und menschliche Abgründe, denn: Warum sollten wir im Urlaub eigentlich ausgerechnet einfacher lesen? Mensing, Kolja; von Oppen, Stephanie; Sielmann, Lara; Zeh, Miriam www.deutschlandfunkkultur.de, Lesart

Strand, Sonne, leichte Unterhaltung? Von wegen! Statt klassischer "Beach Reads" empfehlen wir Bücher über Sehnsucht, Identität, Geschichte und menschliche Abgründe, denn: Warum sollten wir im Urlaub eigentlich ausgerechnet einfacher lesen? Mensing, Kolja; von Oppen, Stephanie; Sielmann, Lara; Zeh, Miriam www.deutschlandfunkkultur.de, Lesart

Strand, Sonne, leichte Unterhaltung? Von wegen! Statt klassischer "Beach Reads" empfehlen wir Bücher über Sehnsucht, Identität, Geschichte und menschliche Abgründe, denn: Warum sollten wir im Urlaub eigentlich ausgerechnet einfacher lesen? Mensing, Kolja; von Oppen, Stephanie; Sielmann, Lara; Zeh, Miriam www.deutschlandfunkkultur.de, Lesart

Rev. Kathy Brockman | 2 Samuel 11:1-15

Have you ever wondered if your body knows something that your mind hasn't caught up to yet?  Maybe you've always thought of stress as an emotional experience; something that affects your mood, your thoughts, or your relationships. But what if stress has a profound effect on your body? And what if that stress started when you felt like you couldn't say no? In this next episode of our summer series, Beach Reads for Real Life, Lynn Roush, LPC, explores a fascinating and sometimes controversial question posed by the book When the Body Says No: The Cost of Hidden Stress by Gabor Maté: What happens when the need to be loved, accepted, or needed becomes so important that we lose touch with our own limits? You'll be challenged to consider the ways your life experiences, coping strategies, and emotional patterns may have shaped your physical health or recent diagnosis. At the same time, Christians need a framework that goes beyond psychology alone. Scripture reminds us that not all suffering is a problem to solve. Some suffering comes from faithfulness, sacrifice, and obedience to Christ. Listen in as Lynn examines where Maté's insights are helpful, where they may fall short, and how the gospel speaks to our deepest need for love, connection, and healing. You'll discover that when your life is in God's hands, you are free to be honest about your wounds because your worth is already secure in Christ. Recommended Resource: When the Body Says No: The Hidden Cost of Stress by Gabor Maté Connect with us:  Instagram: @withyouintheweeds Facebook: @withyouintheweeds            X: withyou_weeds Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: Website: withyouintheweeds.com

This week, I'm re-releasing my 2024 interview with Margalit Fox, author of The Talented Mrs. Mandelbaum, a biography of the notorious nineteenth-century New York crime boss, Fredericka Mandelbaum. Next week, we're back with a brand-new interview. Until then!   If you'd like to support the show, please consider becoming a patron at www.patreon.com/artofcrimepodcast. 

Join me as I talk through some of my favorite beach reads, books that are on my list, and several new releases! 

What if the problem isn't that God has left you—but that he's leading you somewhere you never expected to go? Few experiences are more unsettling for a Christian than the feeling that God has become distant. You pray, read Scripture, attend church, and try to stay faithful, yet the warmth and certainty you once felt seem to disappear. When that happens, many of us immediately assume we've done something wrong. We begin searching for the mistake, wondering why God feels absent and how we can get back to where we used to be. In the first episode of our short summer series, Beach Reads for Real Life, listen in as John Tinnin talks about the book When God Seems Distant: Surprising Ways God Deepens Our Faith and Draws Us Near by Kyle Strobel & John Coe. The authors challenge the assumption that the Christian life should be a steady climb from one spiritual high to the next. Instead, they show how God often does some of his deepest work in seasons of uncertainty, silence, and longing—times when we can't rely on feelings and are invited to trust him in new ways. What makes this book so refreshing is its honesty. Rather than offering quick fixes or formulas for getting God back, it gives language to feelings many believers experience but rarely discuss. The authors invite us to stop treating the spiritual life like a self-improvement project and begin seeing it as a relationship that often grows through vulnerability, dependence, and surrender. For anyone who has ever wondered why God feels far away, this book offers both comfort and a different way of understanding the journey.  Connect with us:  Instagram: @withyouintheweeds Facebook: @withyouintheweeds            X: withyou_weeds Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: Website: withyouintheweeds.com

According to Henry Ward Beecher, there is a temperate zone in the mind, between luxurious indolence and exacting work; and it is to this region, just between laziness and labor, that summer reading belongs. Teens willing to spend time in this region will benefit from much more than just the sheer pleasure of a good book. Amy and Mike invited test prep professional Marina Yalon to dive into beach reads for better scores. What are five things you will learn in this episode? What's wrong with the "harder is better" reading approach? What's the benefit of contemporary fiction? What kinds of skills can students build from reading contemporary fiction? Do beach reads really have SAT vocabulary words? What are some book recommendations for summer reads? How should parents approach helping teens find the right book? MEET OUR GUEST Marina Yalon is the founder of MYPrep, a virtual tutoring company dedicated to taking the stress out of SAT and ACT prep. With deep expertise in both exams and nearly two decades spent coaching students to achieve their goal scores, she brings a highly individualized approach to test prep—meeting each student where they are and building from there. Through sessions, students build test (and life!) confidence. She's the kind of tutor students want to tell their friends about. Marina loves working with all kinds of learners, and her sessions are as likely to end with a book recommendation as a practice set. An avid reader with a soft spot for plot-twists and unreliable narrators, she's thrilled when a student gives her a new addition to her ever-growing TBR list. Her philosophy: it's all figure-out-able! Marina previously appeared on this podcast in episode 233 for a Test Prep Profile. Marina can be reached at https://www.learnwithmyprep.com. LINKS A Little Reading Every Day RELATED EPISODES VOCABULARY ON THE SAT & ACT IMPROVING READING SKILLS WITH STRUGGLING TEENS (PART 1) IMPROVING READING SKILLS WITH STRUGGLING TEENS (PART 2) ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the show page. ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of Chariot Learning and founder of TestBright, Roots2Words, and College Eagle. Amy Seeley is the president of Seeley Test Pros and LEAP. If you're interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, get in touch through our contact page.  

Send us Fan MailJoin hosts as they move to the dance floor, and get ready for another strange night in Widow's Bay with Episode 4, “Beach Reads,” the horror-comedy mystery series created by Katie Dippold and starring Matthew Rhys, Kate O'Flynn, and Stephen Root. In this episode, the gentlemen break down Patricia's unforgettable night party, the viral dance sequence, and the mysterious book that sends the evening in a supernatural direction. Tune in as the hosts uncover new clues and the growing mysteries of Widow's Bay.Be sure to listen, subscribe, and follow the show on Instagram and YouTube @the.gentlemenpodcast

Bestselling author Carley Fortune joins Jenna to discuss her unexpected path from journalism to writing Every Summer After and some of the most talked-about books of the decade. Carley shares how place, nostalgia and great love stories shape her books. She also opens up about upcoming screen adaptations, romance tropes, BookTok, mental health and why it's never too late to rediscover your passion. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today, I'm joined by award-winning journalist Matthew Campbell to talk about his new book, The Man Who Stole the Gods. For decades, the Bangkok-based Brit, Douglas Latchford, bought priceless Cambodian artworks that had been looted from ancient religious sites. Some of these pieces made their way to the collections of museums as august as the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. In The Man Who Stole the Gods, Matthew shines a light on the looters who stole this art and the international team of sleuths who helped return these works to their native country. If you'd like to support the show, please consider beocming a patron at www.patreon.com/artofcrimepodcast. 

This episode is for book lovers who are interested in a new kind of beach read. If you are looking for a fun read this summer check out Yoga Bind by Meryl Davids Landau. In a category all it's own, Yoga Bind is fun fiction that also touches on spiritual themes. I love to read and this book combines a great story with things I am interested in like yoga, spirituality, and more. Some reviews have called it "spiritual fiction" or "spiritual women's fiction" but I will let you make up your own mind. About the author- Yoga Bind is Meryl Davids Landau's third book of mindfulness/yoga women's fiction. Her prior novels are Warrior Won, which won a prestigious Independent Publisher (IPPY) Book Award, and Downward Dog, Upward Fog, named a fiction-book-of-the-year finalist by Foreword Reviews. All the books feature Lorna and Janelle on their eclectic spiritual journeys, although each book stands on its own. Meryl is also a longtime, award-winning journalist whose work has been published in numerous publications, including the New York Times, Washington Post, National Geographic, Prevention, Good Housekeeping, Self, Yoga Journal, and other media. She is a certified yoga teacher and, in the spirit of full disclosure, an on-again-off-again meditator. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the She Made Me Read It pod, Gracie and Lydia discuss their ideal beach/vacation reads!

Today, we are joined by Kate O'Flynn from the Apple TV show Widow's Bay. We got the chance to discuss her superstitions, which include some rather interesting bird-related ideas. We also spoke about her recent turn taking the lead in Ep. 4 of Widow's Bay, "Beach Reads", which sees O'Flynn's character, Patricia, assistant to Matthew Rhys' Mayor Tom, organising a town party while dealing with some old school "friends". It's safe to say that, thanks to an ominous party-planning book, things take a turn for the supernatural. We also discuss if she walked away with any party tips from this experience.. Thanks to Kate for sitting down with us for this wonderful chat about the show, now streaming on Apple TV. About "Widow's Bay" In "Widow's Bay," something lurks beneath the surface. Mayor Tom Loftis (Rhys) is desperate to revive his struggling community. There's no Wi-Fi, spotty cellular reception and he must contend with superstitious locals who believe their island is cursed. He wants these people to respect him. They don't. They think he is soft and cowardly. And he is. But Loftis is determined to build a better future for his teenage son and turn the island into a tourist destination. Miraculously, he succeeds: tourists are finally coming. Unfortunately, the locals were right. After decades of calm, the old stories that seemed too ludicrous to be true start happening again. Blending genuine horror with character-driven comedy, "Widow's Bay" features an ensemble cast led by Rhys, Kate O'Flynn, Stephen Root, Kingston Rumi Southwick, Kevin Carroll and Dale Dickey. The supporting cast includes K Callan and Emmy Award winner Jeff Hiller. Hailing from Apple Studios, "Widow's Bay" is created, showrun and executive produced by Dippold. Murai executive produces through his banner Chum Films alongside Carver Karaszewski, Claudia Shin and Rhys. Murai directs five episodes this season, in addition to directors Ti West, Sam Donovan and Andrew DeYoung.  

This week, The Watchers take the ferry out to Widow's Bay. We review Episodes 1 - 3. Some fog, a haunted inn, a sea hag, and the Stephen King and Weird NJ vibes baked deep into the DNA of Katie Dippold's outstanding new show. Then we recap Episode 4, “Beach Reads,” where the immediately beloved Patricia and a cursed book throw us a party we'll never forget. Next week, we're back with the Andrew DeYoung-directed episode, "What to Expect on your Trip."If you're reading this, that means you've probably got your podcatcher of choice open right now. It would be SO helpful if you gave our little show a follow. If you like what you hear, you could even leave us a review.Referenced in this episode: The Pitt Season 3: Everything We Know So FarFollow:The Watchers on Instagram (@WatchersPodNJ)Andrea on Instagram (@AQAndreaQ)Jodie on Instagram (@jodie_mim)Thanks to Kitzy (@heykitzy) for the use of our theme song, "No Book Club."

Victor hosts Need Some Introduction, previewing upcoming coverage and Patreon updates, then recaps Widow's Bay Episode 4, “Beach Reads,” a Patricia-focused story in which a donated self-help book is revealed as a grimoire that compels her to stage a “perfect” party while townspeople are actually entranced, surrounded by ritual objects, and driven toward drowning themselves; Patricia burns the book to break the spell, is still blamed, then joins Tom and Wyck as storylines converge at the reverend's apparent suicide and warning voicemail, with ongoing questions about the island's many supernatural threads and Evan's underused subplot. Victor and Alan then discuss The Boys' penultimate episode (“The Frenchman, The Female and the Man Called Mother's Milk”), praising Frenchie/Kimiko's emotional arc, noting Gen V character context, debating plot logic and tone, and speculating about the 65-minute finale and possible endgames. Join our Patreon for even more content https://www.patreon.com/cw/NeedsSomeIntroduction Mailto:needssomeintroduction@gmail.com 00:00 Show Intro and Agenda 01:06 Patreon and Feed Updates 02:49 Widows Bay Setup 05:37 Beach Reads Plot Recap 09:43 Patricia Trauma and Bullying 15:02 Supernatural Threads and Lore 20:59 Party Spell and Mirror Reveal 27:29 Wicker Man Chaos and Aftermath 30:15 Loose Ends and Season Theories 33:21 Transition to The Boys Talk 36:26 Penultimate Episode Impressions 38:40 Frenchie and Kimiko Spotlight 43:54 Homelander Standoff Breakdown 46:01 Soldier Boy and Endgame Speculation 48:03 French Accent and Gen V Context 48:56 Power Copying Supe 50:22 Marie Versus Homelander 52:58 Gen V Crossover Odds 56:02 Ratings And Budget Talk 58:51 Sage Miscalculates Love 59:59 Deep And Pop Pop 01:02:12 Homelander Cult Video 01:05:38 Mothers Milk Hope 01:07:03 Disguise Logic Nitpicks 01:11:20 Psychic Fight Plot Hole 01:15:38 Homelander Lets Them Go 01:20:08 Vought Movie Satire 01:22:12 Nicotine pouch detour 01:23:05 Taylor Sheridan AI joke 01:25:35 Sheridan shows hit or miss 01:27:18 Butcher pep talk vibes 01:29:50 Finale predictions begin 01:38:04 Ashley takes the Oval 01:41:36 Homelander paranoia theory 01:46:30 Ratings and finale stakes 01:48:27 Sports talk cooldown 01:49:42 Wrap up and Patreon plug 01:51:55 Spoilers and surprise endings 01:53:20 Final goodbye Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The 2026 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide is here! Discover 70 must-read titles and 57 pages of fresh picks for your best summer yet. It's time for one of my favorite episodes: the official reveal of the 2026 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide! This year's edition showcases 70 carefully curated titles spanning every genre, so you can find the perfect read for every summer mood. In this special Book Gang episode, I'm sharing this year's reading challenges with the buzziest books that didn't deliver but ultimately changed my sails towards the unexpected, from magical days at the library for backlist fun to under-the-radar gems like the ones I'm debuting today. Out of the 114 books I read to prepare for this one, I'm spotlighting five unforgettable novels that deserve a spot on your TBR. These new voices captured my heart, and I hope you'll fall in love with them, too. Grab your notebook (or open your Libby app!)—let's dive into the WHY behind this year's selections and get ready to build your summer reading stack. GET THE GUIDE: Browse the 2026 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide (with ads) or receive the 57-page reading guide download ($7) to support our show. If you are a show patron, check your inbox for your copy as part of your member benefits- thank you for supporting my small business!   Meet Amy Allen Clark Amy Allen Clark is the founder of MomAdvice.com, a vibrant online community she has nurtured since 2004. Through this platform, Amy shares practical advice on recipes, DIY projects, and book recommendations for her readers. In 2013, Amy authored The Good Life for Less, published by Penguin, and offered families tips for running their households on a shoestring budget. Amy launched the Book Gang Podcast in 2021. The book podcast celebrates debut authors, explores backlist titles, and highlights under-the-radar book selections. Through engaging conversations with writers and fellow book enthusiasts, Amy aims to connect you with your new favorite book. Mentioned in this episode: NEW: Buy the 2026 Summer Reading Guide (help our show stay on air) 2026 MomAdvice Book Club Books (All 12 Selections) Join the May Book Club 4/30 at 8 PM ET (What Kind of Paradise) Ellery Adams talks Invasive Species: Horror in the Neighborhood Substack on Yesteryear (the religious perspective) Stormy Daniels Isn't Backing Down 17 Years After The Help, Kathryn Stockett Returns to Mississippi   Connect With Me: Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice Support the Show With a Tip on Buy Me a Coffee

Emily Henry is a New York Times and Sunday Times bestselling author with five consecutive number one novels and a reputation as the “Queen of the Beach Read.” In this conversation from May 2025, Jenna sits down with Henry to discuss writing fan fiction in middle school, the teachers who encouraged her creativity, and how she found her voice within the romance genre. Plus, Henry shares why she now prioritizes writing stories that bring her genuine joy as both a reader and a writer. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bestselling author and award-winning podcaster Barbara DeMarco-Barrett spoke with me about producing 20+ years of Writers on Writing, why writers don't retire, and her debut noir short story collection POOL FISHING. Barbara DeMarco-Barrett's first book Pen on Fire: A Busy Woman's Guide to Igniting the Writer Within, was an Los Angeles Times bestseller and honored with an American Society of Journalists and Authors Outstanding Book Award. Her latest book of short stories, Pool Fishing, is “... centered around deviant women …. in a world with characters who live on the fringes of society-physically, psychologically, or financially”.  Barbara DeMarco-Barrett is creator, executive producer, and host of the award-winning podcast, Writers on Writing, where she interviews authors, agents, and poets. She taught at the UC-Irvine Extension, where she received a Distinguished Instructors award, and is professor of creative writing at Saddleback College's Emeritus Institute and lecturer at Chapman University. Her fiction and poetry have been published in Coolest American Stories 2022, CrimeReads, Dark City Crime & Magazine, Serial Magazine, Beach Reads, among others. She was nominated for a Pushcart Prize for her short story, “Rowboat,” in Kelp Journal (Dec. 2023). Her essays and articles have also been published in The Los Angeles Review of Books, Orange Coast Magazine, Westways, The Los Angeles Times, Writer's Digest, and Poets & Writers and many others. [Discover The Writer Files Extra: Get 'The Writer Files' Podcast Delivered Straight to Your Inbox at writerfiles.fm] [If you're a fan of The Writer Files, please click FOLLOW to automatically see new interviews. And drop us a rating or a review wherever you listen] In this file Barbara DeMarco-Barrett and I discussed: Writing Pen on Fire early in her career Why she feeds off of the energy of the writing community How to write a noir short story Hanging out with Raymond Chandler in Beverly Hills Why you need to quit the negative self talk and be a good literary citizen And a lot more! Show Notes: barbarademarcobarrett.com  Writers on Writing podcast Pool Fishing: Stories by Barbara DeMarco-Barrett (Amazon)  Barbara DeMarco-Barrett on Facebook Barbara DeMarco-Barrett on Instagram Barbara DeMarco-Barrett on Twitter Kelton Reid Instagram Kelton Reid on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Summer may be over, but Beach Reads are always relevant. We all have a favorite Beach Read: a story that is fun and immersive, but not necessarily deep or literary. But how do we feel about Beach Reads as a concept? After all, Believe to See's goal is to help connect the Great Story, the great stories, and our own stories. How do Beach Reads fit into these great stories? Do they fit at all? Is it possible to be the sort of person who cares deeply about the great stories, and who also enjoys a fun beach read?

Today Rachel is joined once again by author Savannah Carlisle to talk about her career and new book If I'd Have Known To pick up If I'd Have Known by Savannah Carlisle go to https://amzn.to/4lQBJcP (ad) For more on Savannah go to https://savannahcarlisle.com/ All of our book author interviews https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bj20DGG6Z70&list=PLXv4sBF3mPUDQ54OYA58SSnTBpoc6slo7 Join us over on Patreon! http://www.patreon.com/hallmarkies Check out our merch: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/hallmarkies Send us your feedback at feedback@hallmarkiespodcast.com Or call +1 (801) 855-6407 Follow Rachel on twitter twitter.com/rachel_reviews Follow Rachel's blog at http://rachelsreviews.net Follow Rachel's Reviews on youtube https://www.youtube.com/c/rachelsreviews Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's one thing you need this summer. A good book.Will Lloyd is joined by culture editor Tanjil Rashid, and staff writer Finn McRedmond to discuss the New Statesman's ultimate beach reads for 2025 and beyond.Download the app Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What makes a perfect beach read? Is it the same for everyone or is there room for interpretation? Merriam Webster defines a beach read as, a usually light work of escapist fiction (such as a thriller or romance). While this may be true for many, on Top Shelf we've decided to dive a little deeper into the subject. In today's episode, Briana, Shannon, and Cate share their perspectives on what criteria must be met for the ultimate beach read experience. Our librarians will also explore the wide world of library museum passes here at Russell Library. Enrich your summer with one of our passes today!Book RecommendationsAtmosphere by Taylor Jenkins ReidThe Wedding People by Alison EspachThe Secrets of a Scottish Isle by Erica Ruth NeubauerIntro Music by nikitsan

We continue our week of beach reads with a debut novel from Katie Yee, called Maggie: Or, a Man and a Woman Walk Into a Bar. The story follows a woman who finds out her husband has been having an affair with a woman named Maggie... and that she has also been diagnosed with cancer. Yee discusses the novel, which is out on July 22, and will be speaking on 'pub day' at Yu and Me Bookstore at the NYPL Chatham Square Branch, and on July 24 with Books Are Magic at the Melissa Joy Manning Jewelry Store.  

Bestselling author Jennifer Weiner's latest novel The Griffin Sisters' Greatest Hits follows sisters Zoe and Cassie as they skyrocket to early‑2000s pop stardom, only for a tragedy to end their meteoric rise and shatter their bond. Years later, after going their separate ways, Zoe's teenage daughter tries to engineer a reunion. Weiner talks about her new book.

In this heartfelt episode of My Simplified Life, hosts Michelle Glogovac and Stephanie Hockersmith explore how books shape our dreams, healing, and personal growth. From their fantasy of summering in beautiful places to their deep love for fiction and memoirs, Michelle and Steph dive into how literature provides both escape and emotional insight. They highlight the works of bestselling author Carley Fortune as perfect summer reads—offering reflection, romance, and relatable life struggles. The conversation also touches on grief, family dynamics, and the power of reading to help process complex emotions, especially when navigating topics like alcoholism and loss. Whether you're looking for meaningful book recommendations or simply need a reminder of how reading can transform your life, this episode is a warm, engaging, and honest discussion about the stories that stay with us long after the last page. What We're Talking About... Summering somewhere sounds delightful and aspirational. Carley Fortune's novels are perfect for summer reading. Books can evoke powerful memories and feelings. Memoirs provide insight into personal experiences. Reading can inspire a desire to work with authors. Fiction can offer an escape while reflecting real-life issues. The Baby-Sitters Club influenced childhood aspirations. Entrepreneurship can take many forms, including podcasting. Literature can shape personal growth and understanding. Summer reads can create a longing for lake life and romance. Manifesting dreams can be a powerful motivator. Reading a variety of genres enriches the literary experience. Mysteries often intertwine with themes of grief and loss. Grief can reshape our understanding of love and life. Books can provide comfort and insight into personal struggles. The portrayal of alcoholism in literature can be multifaceted and compassionate. Emotional journeys in books can inspire resilience in readers. Audiobook narrators play a crucial role in the reading experience. It's important to read at your own pace and enjoy the journey. Updating your reading list can lead to new discoveries and insights. Chapters 00:00 Summer Dreams and Aspirations 03:01 The Power of Books and Reading 06:01 Exploring Fiction and Memoirs 08:58 Carly Fortune's Novels and Escapism 11:48 Summer Reads and Personal Reflections 14:33 Manifesting Dreams and Literary Passions 15:39 Exploring Diverse Literary Genres 17:30 Mysteries and Grief in Literature 21:32 The Impact of Grief on Life 27:10 Navigating Alcoholism and Family Dynamics 31:52 The Emotional Journey of Reading

You may know Laura Lippman for her Tess Monaghan series of mysteries. In her latest novel, Murder Takes a Vacation, we meet Muriel Blossom, who once worked with Tess. Now retired and widowed, she takes her first trip to Europe, which promptly goes awry. Lippman discusses her new work, which The New York Times calls "a rollicking adventure of the highest order."

Summer is upon us, and savvy authors know this season presents unique marketing opportunities—but what exactly makes a book beach-worthy? Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell dive into the evolving definition of "summer reads" and reveal practical strategies for positioning any book to capture readers' attention during these warmer months.The podcast challenges traditional notions of what constitutes summer reading material. While escapist genre fiction remains popular, today's readers are equally drawn to true crime, activity-based children's books, and "maker" titles that inspire summer projects. With rising travel costs leading many to embrace "staycations," books offering at-home experiences or local exploration guides are experiencing unexpected popularity surges. The hosts emphasize that even serious books needn't be shelved until fall—they simply require different positioning to connect with summer readers.What makes this episode particularly valuable is its focus on low-cost, high-impact marketing pivots. Rather than suggesting expensive cover redesigns or content overhauls, Penny and Amy recommend simple tweaks and easy changes to grab more summer readers! Ready to transform your book into this summer's must-read? Update your marketing approach with these practical strategies, engage your fans with seasonal promotions, and watch your conversions grow. Remember—these techniques work for books of all genres and publication dates, and once developed, can be adapted for any season throughout the year.Send us your feedback!Buy Penny's book The Amazon Author FormulaPlease leave a review! Locate Ratings & Reviews: Scroll down on our podcast page until you find the "Ratings & Reviews" section. Rate the Podcast: Click on the stars to give the podcast a rating. Write Your Review: Under the star rating there will be the most recent review and just below that click "Write a Review" and compose your review in the text box that appears. Save: Once you've written your review, click "Save" to submit it. Be sure you're following or subscribed to the show first. Can't leave one on your preferred podcast platform? Email us your review and we'll put it on our website: info@amarketingexpert.com. Check out our full-service publishing consulting here: https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/

Summer is here… and for lots of locals, that means digging into their reading list. Whether it’s time on the plane or relaxing on a staycation, the warmer months can be a good time to explore some new books. We take a trip to Elliott Bay Books on Capitol Hill to check out what’s new and exciting on the shelves. Elliott Bay Books Book List: Jess Walter, So Far Gone Peter Benchley, Jaws Hampton Sides, The Wide Wide Sea Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson, Abundance Timothy Snyder, On Tyranny The Constitution Om El Akkad, One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This G.T. Karber, Murdle Mystery Puzzles Kaveh Akbar, Martyr! Holly Wilson, Kittentits Daniel Mason, Northwoods Catherine Newman, Sandwich Yangsze Choo, The Fox Wife Carys Davies, Clear Robert Jackson Bennett, The Tainted Cup Miranda July, All Fours Margaret Killjoy, The Sapling Cage V.E. Schwab, Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil V.E. Schwab, Invisible Life of Addie LaRue Naomi Novik, Uprooted Allison Saft, A Dark and Drowning Tide Heather Fawcett, Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries Travis Baldree, Legends and Lattes Ali Hazelwood, Bride Kimberly Lemming, That Time I Got Drunk and Saved a Demon We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed. Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Live from the first-ever Read with Jenna Book Festival in Nashville, Jenna Bush Hager sits down with New York Times bestselling author Elin Hilderbrand for a heartfelt conversation about the end of her iconic Nantucket series, the joys and challenges of co-writing The Academy with her daughter, and the excitement of book-to-screen adaptations — including the Netflix hit The Perfect Couple. Elin shares how her beloved beach reads have brought readers comfort and connection through the years, and what it means to turn the page and start a brand-new chapter. Plus, she answers questions from the live festival audience in this special episode of Open Book with Jenna.(Event sponsored by Nashville Music City, Venue sponsored by W Nashville, and furniture provided by Mayker Events)

It's time for our annual "Summer Beach Reads" episode on Dying to Ask. The 2025 summer titles will not disappoint. Tina Ferguson, owner of Face in a Book bookstore, is back as our guide to all things literary. Tina and I have been doing a beach reads segment or podcast episode for 10 years now. And her pics this summer are a delightful blend of non-fiction and fiction. But our episode starts with a reality check on what the publishing industry looks like these days. Are people reading as much as they were during COVID-19 after they finished Netflix? Are romance sales as steamy as they were last year? Is Mark Twain about to follow in Hamilton's steps and be the next great musical thanks to a hot new offering from Ron Chernow? Don't miss this episode and please be sure to share it with your bookish friends and book clubs! Titles mentioned: "Headshot" "Glorious Exploits" "River of Lies" "We Solve Murders" "Mark Twain" "Tartufo"     Other places to listen CLICK HERE to listen on iTunes CLICK HERE to listen on Stitcher CLICK HERE to listen on Spotify        

We're on hiatus this week. We planned this long ago, but forgot to tell you about it. Honest! Please visit the original season four episode page for more info.

The NEW 2025 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide includes 56 titles, including upcoming releases, new releases, and backlist gems. Browse 39 pages of bookish fun to prepare for your best summer stack.Welcome to one of my favorite episodes of the year- the official reveal of the 2025 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide! This year's guide features 56 handpicked titles across every genre to help you find the perfect book for your summer reading mood.In this special episode of Book Gang, I'm revealing the inspiration behind this year's Summer Reading Guide. A recent health challenge shifted how and why I read, making this season's selections more intentional, joy-filled, and personal than ever before.From the ninety-eight books I read for this season, I'm spotlighting four unforgettable debut novels that stole my heart and should be at the top of your TBR. These fresh new voices are ones I'll be championing all season long, and I hope they become new favorites for you, too.Don't miss my special announcements on three upcoming projects I have in the works for online AND local friends to create even MORE bookish fun for your reading year. Grab a notebook (or open your Libby app!) to reserve all these gorgeous books for this year's fun, and let's deep dive into the WHY behind this year's selections.Browse the 2025 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide (with ads) or receive the 39-page reading guide download ($7) to support our show. If you are a show patron, check your inbox for your copy as part of your member benefits- thank you for supporting my small business!  Editor's Note: We have switched from Bookshop.org to direct sales with three featured bookshops to ensure they keep every penny of the profit. Meet Amy Allen ClarkAmy Allen Clark is the founder of MomAdvice.com, a vibrant online community she has nurtured since 2004. Through this platform, Amy shares practical advice on recipes, DIY projects, and book recommendations for her readers.In 2013, Amy authored The Good Life for Less, published by Penguin, and provided families tips for running their household on a shoestring budget.Amy launched the Book Gang Podcast in 2021. The book podcast celebrates debut authors, explores backlist titles, and highlights under-the-radar book selections. Through engaging conversations with writers and fellow book enthusiasts, Amy's goal is to connect you with your new favorite book.Residing in Indiana, Amy is a mother of two who has shared her journey living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome to raise awareness and support others facing similar health challenges. Connect With Me:Buy the 2025 Summer Reading GuideConnect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdviceSupport the Show With a Tip on Buy Me a Coffee

This week, we're diving into a debut thriller that's frothy, funny, and unhinged in the best way. Liann Zhang joins me for a laugh-out-loud conversation about her new novel, Julie Chan Is Dead—a genre-blending con-artist thriller about identical twin sisters whose lives split in dramatically different directions… until one of them winds up dead.When the authorities mistake Julie for her famous sister, she makes a bold choice: to step into Chloe's perfectly curated shoes and steal her life. What follows is a fast-paced, satirical exploration of influencer culture, viral content, and the dark side of social media fame.In the spirit of the influencer theme, we share the most bizarre influencer swag we've ever received before digging into how a pandemic-fueled fascination with influencer culture allowed Liann to take a break from her dreams of writing about the Ming Dynasty.We also talk about what it's like to write a morally murky protagonist, the grotesque cult subplot that takes things to the next level, and why this book just might be Bunny meets Yellowface with a touch of The Bling Ring.In this fun conversation, Liann and I discuss:How Liann pivoted from writing about the Ming Dynasty to a con-artist thrillerWhy influencer culture during the pandemic was the perfect satirical settingCreating the character of Julie: an intriguing anti-heroine who fully leans into her morally gray side.The ongoing need for critical consumption of influencer content

Emily Henry is a New York Times & Sunday Times Bestselling author who has written five consecutive number one Bestsellers.  She has been dubbed the ‘Queen of the Beach Read' and has helped redefine the romance genre. Jenna Bush Hager sits down with Emily to discuss how she began writing fan fiction in middle school, and the teachers that encouraged her along the way. She opens up about how she first discovered the romance genre, and how she has embraced writing and reading books that bring her joy!

It's that time of year when we want to lie on a beach and lose ourselves in a good book. Today on the show, three summer reading recs that got our hosts thinking about economics. Remember, anything read on the beach is, in fact, a "beach read." Books recommended in this episode: • Exit West by Mohsin Hamid (B&N, Bookshop) • Everything Is Predictable: How Bayesian Statistics Explain Our World by Tom Chivers (B&N, Bookshop) • Range: Why Generalist Triumph in a Specialized World by David Epstein (B&N, Bookshop) Related episodes: How Asimov's 'Foundation' has inspired economists (Apple / Spotify) The carbon coin: A novel idea Beach reads for econ nerdsFor sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy