Podcasts about contemporary fiction

Matty Dalrymple talks with Kristen Tate about INTERIORITY: THE SECRET SAUCE OF GOOD FICTION, including how to calibrate the depth of interiority across multiple point-of-view characters; the difference between overt and subtle interiority, and why the "she thought" tag is usually unnecessary; how interiority functions as the glue that connects plot events and reveals character motivation; how to use it strategically in action scenes to control pacing; and how it shapes reader experience in unreliable narrator stories and mysteries.   Interview video at https://www.youtube.com/@TheIndyAuthorPodcast/podcasts Show notes, including extensive summary and transcript, at https://www.theindyauthor.com/episodes-all   If you find the information in this video useful, please consider supporting The Indy Author! https://www.patreon.com/theindyauthor https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattydalrymple   Kristen Tate has been a freelance editor for over a decade, helping authors transform their work from rough draft to finished book. She has a PhD in English from Columbia University, with a focus on publishing history. She is the author of Novel Study: Decoding the Secrets and Structures of Contemporary Fiction and writes a regular newsletter full of craft advice and encouragement for authors.   Matty Dalrymple is the author of the Lizzy Ballard Thrillers, beginning with ROCK PAPER SCISSORS; the Ann Kinnear Suspense Novels, beginning with THE SENSE OF DEATH; and the Ann Kinnear Suspense Shorts. She is a member of International Thriller Writers and Sisters in Crime. More at mattydalrymple.com. Matty also writes, speaks, and consults on the writing craft and the publishing voyage, and shares what she's learned on THE INDY AUTHOR PODCAST. She writes nonfiction books for authors; her articles have appeared in Writer's Digest magazine; and she is a Partner Member of the Alliance of Independent Authors. More at theindyauthor.com. She also guides professionals in building their presence through a sideline or second act through her platform From Expertise to Authority. More at theindyauthor.com/authority.

Send us Fan MailGaslit by Megan DavidhiszarElla is facing a huge medical diagnosis. She found out that the migraines she has been having that are just debilitating are not caused by stress, or diet, but by a brain tumor. Being in high school and finding out you might have a brain tumor that could kill you is not something anyone wants to hear.But Ella is trying her best to block it out and so she volunteers on New Year's Eve to babysit for her little cousin, Joey, so her aunt can go check on her sick boyfriend, and Ella has had to cancel her own plans due to a wicked migraine, so she figures why not? When Ella gets to her aunt's house though, she finds everyone passed out and the smell of gas – the kind that can kill you! Ella tries her best to save everyone, but she isn't able to. Now, she is trying to figure out what really happened that night, and are other people telling her the truth, or is her mind playing tricks…on her?Recommended for grades 7 and up. Support the show

This week, I talk with Sara Hamdan about her journey from finance and journalism into fiction, and how writing What Will People Think became a way to explore identity, belonging, family history, and the freedom to define yourself outside of expectations. Through conversations about comedy, Palestinian representation, women's choices, historical memory, and the many forms of love, the episode explores how fiction can create connection and make complex experiences feel deeply human. Listen to hear about: How moving from finance into journalism—and eventually fiction—helped her discover storytelling as both a craft and a way to explore her own family history and identity. Why stand-up comedy became central to the novel, including Sara's real-life experience taking comedy classes to overcome public speaking anxiety and how humor can deliver difficult truths with softness. Code-switching, compartmentalizing identity, and the pressure many women feel to justify life choices—while emphasizing the importance of autonomy and becoming comfortable showing up as your full self. Fiction as a way to preserve cultural memory and show everyday life beyond headlines, using family stories, historical detail, and personal experiences to create empathy. Check Out Author Social Media PackagesCheck out the Bookwild Community on PatreonCheck Out My Stories Are My Religion SubstackGet Bookwild MerchFollow @imbookwild on InstagramOther Co-hosts On Instagram:Gare Billings @gareindeedreadsSteph Lauer @books.in.badgerlandHalley Sutton @halleysutton25Brian Watson @readingwithbrianMacKenzie Green @missusa2mba

Send us Fan MailSlugfest by Gordon Korman Yash is ready to move on from 8th grade to high school. He feels like he is pretty much there already since he has gotten to skip PE at his middle school and go play on all the JV teams at the high school...because...he...is...that...good. Period. But when his middle school principal shows up at one of his JV games, he knows something is off, but he has no idea just how off! And Yash isn't the only one who is going to be having their summer put on hold, all because of a new state law!Recommended for grades 6 and up. Support the show

Anasazi Vision: Profound Wisdom From The Four Corners Desert And One Woman’s Journey To Peace by True North https://www.amazon.com/Anasazi-Vision-Profound-Corners-Journey/dp/B0DPJDJG14 Truenorthauthor.com Visionary fiction for readers drawn to spiritual journeys, ancient wisdom, and personal transformation. Anasazi Vision is more than a novel; it is a transcendent, immersive journey that blends visionary storytelling, historical intrigue, and profound emotional awakening. From the first page, readers are drawn into the inner and outer world of True North—a woman navigating grief, identity, and a quiet yet undeniable call toward meaning. This is not simply a story to be read, but one meant to be experienced, absorbed, and reflected upon. Few books hold this level of intimacy. Anasazi Vision achieves a rare and elegant balance between gripping narrative and spiritually resonant exploration. With great respect and nuance, Indigenous wisdom is woven with metaphysical insight and the mysteries of ancient civilization into a story that feels both grounded and mystical. Set in the Four Corners desert, the land is more than a backdrop; it is alive, responsive, and pulsing with its own intelligence. Nature is experienced as a character, shaping every moment of True's unfolding awakening. If you have ever questioned your path or felt the subtle tug of destiny, you will find yourself deeply reflected in True's journey. Following her emotional evolution—moving from exhaustion and uncertainty into clarity, empowerment, and expanded awareness—is as inspiring as it is relatable. This beautiful book does not force answers; instead, it invites readers to explore their inner landscapes, their truths, and their readiness for transformation. What Readers Love Most A deeply emotional heroine. True North is raw, honest, vulnerable, and achingly real. Her grief is portrayed with rare authenticity, inviting readers to feel every step of her healing. A desert that feels alive. The Four Corners landscape becomes its own character—mystical, intelligent, and breathtakingly vivid—shaping True's journey as much as any guide. A seamless blend of archaeology and spirituality. Ancient cultures and metaphysical insight intertwine, creating a story grounded in research yet rich with mystery, meaning, and soul. Themes that resonate long after reading. Ancestral memory, ecological balance, intuition, personal sovereignty, and the dance of masculine—feminine energies elevate the novel into something unforgettable. A story that transforms. Readers describe feeling changed, awakened, inspired, and profoundly moved by the book's intimate emotional and spiritual revelations. About This Story Grieving the loss of her mother and questioning her path, True retreats to the Four Corners desert in search of stillness and reflection. Instead, she finds herself drawn into the orbit of an archaeologist and the land's hidden stories. Together, they explore the Anasazi civilization and a promise intended for our time. As True embarks on her inner quest, the lines between history and spirituality begin to blur. The past offers solutions for our misguided world, and grief—once unbearable—becomes a sacred guide, leading her toward clarity, empowerment, and a deeper understanding of her place in it. Why This Book Matters Anasazi Vision is more than a novel. It is an invitation. It speaks to seekers, thinkers, lovers of nature, and anyone who has ever felt called toward something deeper. It is visionary fiction at its finest: immersive, intelligent, and heart-opening. Perfect for readers of The Alchemist, The Celestine Prophecy, Life of Pi, and novels that blur the line between the seen and the unseen. Honors & Recognition Literary Titan Gold Book Award, Page Turner Book Award for Contemporary Fiction, Book Bloggers Novel of Year semi-finalist, and Eric Hoffer Book Award nomination. About the author True North writes Visionary Fiction for adult readers. She attributes her uncommon life to curiosity, imagination, and parents who encouraged her to explore, get dirty, figure things out, and take chances. True served as an Army NCO, a fitness professional, and a startup founder. She has thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, survived a crab season in the Bering Sea, and led high-ropes obstacle courses. She is an adventurer, risk-taker, and mother of four. She devotes herself to living an inspired life and thrives by awakening new levels of awareness. Her passion is bringing great ideas to life, leading personal transformation circles, and facilitating mastermind groups. Her philosophy is: say “yes,” lean in, and let soul lead the way. ​ Drawing on a wealth of life experience and a degree in journalism, True writes with an intimate, honest, conversational style. Her debut novel, Anasazi Vision, is said to be changing the face of Visionary Fiction, and is a recipient of the Literary Titan Gold Book Award, the Page Turner Book Award for Contemporary Fiction, Book Bloggers Novel of the Year Award 2025 semi-finalist, and nominated for the prestigious Eric Hoffer Book Award. She lives in Oregon and is a lover of nature, immersive travel, and connection.

 Matty Dalrymple talks with Kristen Tate about WRITING RULES YOU CAN BREAK, including why the longer you edit the fewer hard rules there seem to be, when adverbs earn their place and when they're redundant, why telling is a tool novelists have that screenwriters envy, how passive voice can actually sharpen a mystery, what separates a prologue that hooks from one that delays, and how the convention around point of view is already shifting in commercial fiction.   Interview video at https://www.youtube.com/@TheIndyAuthorPodcast/podcasts Show notes, including extensive summary and transcript, at https://www.theindyauthor.com/episodes-all   If you find the information in this video useful, please consider supporting The Indy Author! https://www.patreon.com/theindyauthor https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattydalrymple   Kristen Tate has been a freelance editor for over a decade, helping authors transform their work from rough draft to finished book. She has a PhD in English from Columbia University, with a focus on publishing history. She is the author of Novel Study: Decoding the Secrets and Structures of Contemporary Fiction and writes a regular newsletter full of craft advice and encouragement for authors.   Matty Dalrymple is the author of the Lizzy Ballard Thrillers, beginning with ROCK PAPER SCISSORS; the Ann Kinnear Suspense Novels, beginning with THE SENSE OF DEATH; and the Ann Kinnear Suspense Shorts. She is a member of International Thriller Writers and Sisters in Crime. More at mattydalrymple.com. Matty also writes, speaks, and consults on the writing craft and the publishing voyage, and shares what she's learned on THE INDY AUTHOR PODCAST. She writes nonfiction books for authors; her articles have appeared in Writer's Digest magazine; and she is a Partner Member of the Alliance of Independent Authors. More at theindyauthor.com. She also guides professionals in building their presence through a sideline or second act through her platform From Expertise to Authority. More at theindyauthor.com/authority.

Send us Fan MailHow to Tell a True Story by Tricia SpringstubbAmber wakes up to an absolute nightmare when her house catches on fire. Her older brother, though, saves the day, by saving her life. Her brother, Gage, that her dad has been berating for the last year, because he isn't doing exactly what their dad thinks he should be doing becomes the local hero. But is what he did really heroic? Amber starts to wonder after she learns more about herself and her brother. Support the show

Send a textMurder Between Friends by Liz LawsonFor years, Grace, Ally and Henry were all the best of friends, but that all changed when Grace thought she saw Henry's older brother in the backyard of one of their teacher's. A teacher who was later found dead. Jake, Henry's brother, went to prison, mostly because of the testimony of Grace. But when he gets out on a technicality, and might have a new trial, Grace is beginning to wonder, did she really see what she thought she saw? Is it too late? Recommended for grades 8 and up. Support the show

 Matty Dalrymple talks with Kristen Tate about BECOMING A BETTER WRITER BY BEING A BETTER READER, including how novel study helps authors analyze story structure, scene design, pacing, and sentences; practical strategies for rereading fiction with purpose; learning craft lessons from the books you love and even the books you don't love; balancing reading for pleasure with analytical reading; and using books, book clubs, and intentional reading habits to become a better, more confident fiction writer.   Full interview at https://tinyurl.com/FETA-YT-Playlist Show notes, including extensive summary, at https://www.theindyauthor.com/episodes-all   If you find the information in this video useful, please consider supporting The Indy Author! https://www.patreon.com/theindyauthor https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattydalrymple   Kristen Tate has been a freelance editor for a decade, helping authors transform their work from rough draft to finished book. She has a PhD in English from Columbia University, with a focus on publishing history. She is the author of Novel Study: Decoding the Secrets and Structures of Contemporary Fiction and writes a regular newsletter full of craft advice and encouragement for authors.   Matty Dalrymple is the author of the Lizzy Ballard Thrillers, beginning with ROCK PAPER SCISSORS; the Ann Kinnear Suspense Novels, beginning with THE SENSE OF DEATH; and the Ann Kinnear Suspense Shorts. She is a member of International Thriller Writers and Sisters in Crime. Matty also writes, speaks, and consults on the writing craft and the publishing voyage, and shares what she's learned on THE INDY AUTHOR PODCAST. She has written books on the business of short fiction and podcasting for authors; her articles have appeared in Writer's Digest magazine. She is a Partner Member of the Alliance of Independent Authors.

Send us a textVery Bad at Math by Hope LarsonVerity, or Very, as everyone calls her, has everything going for her in 8th grade, except for Math. Even though she is the Student Council President and has tons of great ideas and plans, she can't get out from under the issue of Math and how she can try super hard, and it just doesn't seem to make sense to her! But now, if she can't figure out how to bring up her Math grade, all the things that she has worked so hard for might just be taken away from her! Recommended for grades 6 and up. Support the show

Colleen Hoover is one of the bestselling authors in the world, with multiple New York Times bestselling novels and a devoted global fan base known as CoHorts. In this conversation from June 2023, Jenna sits down with Hoover at her Book Bonanza charity event in Texas to talk about her lifelong love of writing, the film adaptation of It Ends With Us, and the pressure to make each book better than the last. Plus, Hoover reflects on connecting with readers and building a career driven by passion rather than expectation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week, Gare, Steph and I all chose one of our own favorite plot devices and recommended books in that vein! This episode definitely has a book for just about everybody!Kate's Books - Books with Dramatic IronyI, MedusaStalkerDark SistersSky Full of ElephantsHappy LandGare's Books - Thrillers with Sex WorkBoom TownReal EasyThese WomenThings We Do in the DarkThe Girl in 6ESteph's Books - Books with Road TripsThe Road to Tender HeartsNeedle LakePaper GhostsI Thought You Said This Would WorkHe Started It Check Out Author Social Media PackagesCheck out the Bookwild Community on PatreonCheck Out My Stories Are My Religion SubstackGet Bookwild MerchFollow @imbookwild on InstagramOther Co-hosts On Instagram:Gare Billings @gareindeedreadsSteph Lauer @books.in.badgerlandHalley Sutton @halleysutton25Brian Watson @readingwithbrianMacKenzie Green @missusa2mba

Sightings... Abductions... Conspiracy... In a small, mid-western town, everyday people struggle to cope and comprehend the other-worldly forces at work in their midst. RAT0121: Anonymous Aliens 0101 – “The Pilot”. Written by Sandra Andes. Recorded Live at Little Brews Cafe on March 22, 2025.  Find more Radio-Active Theater shows, episodes, live performance dates and more at http://www.radioactivetheater.com Support us on Patreon! Follow on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe on YouTube!

Celebrating the Release of 'The Lucky Sisters' with Rachael Johns. Host Pamela Cook, chats to best-selling author Rachael Johns about her new book 'The Lucky Sisters'. They cover a range of topics from her writing process, twin dynamics, adoption, and life and death themes explored in the book. Highlights include discussions on the symbolism of butterflies, influences of personal experiences in her writing, and Rachael's upcoming book tour. Pamela also updates listeners on upcoming Writes for Women events and offerings, including Substack write-ins and courses available on her website. 01:11 Podcast Updates and Substack Benefits 03:08 Writing Courses and Novella Release 04:56 Exciting News: Upcoming Book Release 05:56 Meet This Week's Guest: Rachel Johns 07:28 Rachel Johns on Her New Book 'The Lucky Sisters' 09:21 Writing Process and Inspirations 18:02 Character Development and Themes 26:46 Exploring Twin Intuition 28:53 Adoption and Personal Stories 32:51 Mother-Daughter Dynamics 34:24 Romantic Relationships and Character Development 36:32 Life, Death, and Writing a Happy Book About Death 42:58 Butterfly Symbolism and Book Cover Design 47:46 Book Tour and Final Thoughts SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast W4W Patreon https://www.writes4women.com/support-us-on-patreon Rachael Johns Website : click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here Instagram: click hereSupport the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sightings... Abductions... Conspiracy... In a small, mid-western town, everyday people struggle to cope and comprehend the other-worldly forces at work in their midst. Be sure to catch up from the beginning of this compelling, scifi dramatic series. RAT0120: Anonymous Aliens – “Series Trailer”. Written by Sandra Andes. Recorded “In the Studio” at Little Brews Cafe on October 15, 2025. Find more Radio-Active Theater shows, episodes, live performance dates and more at http://www.radioactivetheater.com Support us on Patreon! Follow on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe on YouTube!

Paul Tergyst and team investigate a series of hauntings, and suspicious DEATHS, at an historic cereal manufacturing facility! This episode is recommended as part a supernaturally tormented breakfast! Follow the televised adventures of Paul Tergyst and his intrepid crew of paranormal investigators as they explore the wackiest, most bizarre haunts imaginable! RAT0119: A Ghost of a Chance #2 “Flake Factory Frighteners” was written by Larry Williams and recorded LIVE at BaristaGo Coffeehouse on 06/17/23.  Find more Radio-Active Theater shows, episodes, live performance dates and more at http://www.radioactivetheater.com Support us on Patreon! Follow on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe on YouTube!

This week, we have some chaotic dog interruptions, I recorded int he dark because I couldn't even with the light, AND we broke a record and talked about more than 30 books in one episode!! Enjoy the chaos that is Gare, Steph and my 10 Before the End episode.Kate's  10 Before the EndWhat We Leave Behind by Wanda Morrishttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/250326a1-6252-41eb-8fbd-318b3903b56cCamp Damascus by Chuck Tinglehttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/3e324bb5-9f00-4258-817b-00c69ad824f7The Midnight Knock by John Framhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/46ce3210-0707-4b1d-89b7-0c573c72aca8When They Burned the Butterfly by Wen-Yi Leehttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/e294b55a-9bf5-42cd-a8c2-88aa2f65c91bBoom Town by Nic Stonehttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/81091a8c-97c2-4037-aaaf-666230289df8The Blind Assassin by Margaret Atwoodhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/3aaf1dab-83a2-4089-9345-680455651355James by Percival Everetthttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/cd626fd8-11de-458a-a71a-4b1c64c86ff1Social Creature by Tara Isabella Burtonhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/cda69bb3-94a7-4b17-82ef-3036a098d7cdBeautyland by Marie-Helene Bertinohttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/a5d8c362-9ccc-4bfa-869c-44c8847b17efI, Medusa by Ayana Grayhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/e2c48dc1-1ee0-4904-9b6e-d53e3f23712b Gare's 10 Before the EndForget You Saw Her Noelle W Ihlihttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/bbd97b5b-38b0-4982-bb5d-60fcee5a243cHaven't Killed In Years by Amy K. Greenhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/70c6f0b5-c572-4689-b5e5-880199ce497cWe Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewerhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/49154c03-2e3c-4b00-b63f-1d6a7ef61fdbWatch Us Fall by Christina Kovachttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/25a51cf8-34f3-41d5-aefa-f4ff20d1159cWith Friends Like These by Alissa Leehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/224004584-with-friends-like-these?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=9sa6BhhMqr&rank=1The Fix by Mia Sheridanhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/7642f03d-53ab-441d-bfc2-c435fde870a1Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashinohttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/03c6a590-d537-4566-8bb2-0147089b467dIf I Go Missing by Leslie Wolfehttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/4a5751dd-ce3d-4d23-b7e5-21d8c95028b4The Wives of Hawthorne Lane by Stephanie DeCarolishttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/345b587e-4541-496e-91d6-9738a1e5534aThe Haunting by Natasha Prestonhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/2ebce8b2-c94b-489f-87a4-bcff8591d1d8 Steph's  10 Before the EndThe Adults by Alison Espachhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/b9ebc09a-4c52-4a56-a833-b25b38572ac8The Artist of Blackberry Grange by Paulette Jacksonhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/1d352936-217c-4d99-a0a3-8e5167d6c7cfBreakneck Bay by Faith Gardnerhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/886205bb-7647-4a28-b688-71c275927c32Still True by Maggie Ginsburghttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/b2973ace-7b9a-47c8-9bde-faf6b87874e3Heartbroke by Chelsea Biekerhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/9ee3902f-6e65-4e7e-992d-cf742c3938efIs This A Cry For Help by Emily Austinhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/868d3c84-e887-4075-adea-460a26d5eb79Matchmaking for Psychopaths by Tasha Coryellhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/7fe84956-aabb-4e62-9fbb-66813da5b7c5This Girl's a Killer by Emma C. Wellshttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/ad549123-76a8-442c-a809-789048a5902aLove You to Death by Christina Dotsonhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/4ffd068e-b2da-4108-9e79-409aff0c9a9cThe Lighthouse Witches by C.J. Cookehttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/bb8fdd23-aaa5-4103-8972-427720e99382 Get Bookwild MerchCheck Out My Stories Are My Religion SubstackCheck Out Author Social Media PackagesCheck out the Bookwild Community on PatreonCheck out the Imposter Hour Podcast with Liz and GregFollow @imbookwild on InstagramOther Co-hosts On Instagram:Gare Billings @gareindeedreadsSteph Lauer @books.in.badgerlandHalley Sutton @halleysutton25Brian Watson @readingwithbrian

Our heroes are on the run from Tangar and have encountered a powerful new Martian ruler, known as The Duke. Will he be friend or foe?! Their survival may depend on it! RAT0117: Blast Burton: Radar Rocket Ranger from the 26th Century #4 – “The Telephone Game”. Written by Matt Clemmons and Lori Ann Stuckmeyer. Recorded LIVE at BaristaGo Coffee House on January 18, 2025. Blast Burton, Commander of the Radar Rocket Rangers, and his top-notch team fight a never-ending battle across the solar system against the forces of Tangar the Terrible, tyrannical Emperor of Mars, and Sersi Sinister, the evil Witch Queen of the Crimson Coven! You wont want to miss an episode of this hilarious, adventure Serial! Find more Radio-Active Theater shows, episodes, live performance dates and more at http://www.radioactivetheater.com Support us on Patreon! Follow on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe on YouTube!

This week, Gare, Steph and I talk about some of our favorite books we read in August!Books We Talked AboutMy Husband by Maud VenturaToo Old for This by Samantha DowningDon't Forget to Write by Sarah Goodman-ConfinoHappy Land by Dolen Perkins-ValdezThe Locked Ward by Sarah PekkanenKnife River by Justine ChampineDominion by Addie CitchensEveryone is Lying to You by Jo PiazzaEverything is Tuberculosis by John GreenThe Trad Wife's Secret by Liane Child Get Bookwild MerchCheck Out My Stories Are My Religion SubstackCheck Out Author Social Media PackagesCheck out the Bookwild Community on PatreonCheck out the Imposter Hour Podcast with Liz and GregFollow @imbookwild on InstagramOther Co-hosts On Instagram:Gare Billings @gareindeedreadsSteph Lauer @books.in.badgerlandHalley Sutton @halleysutton25Brian Watson @readingwithbrian

Matthew and Sass leap into the timestream to try to prevent the dastardly time outlaw Tick Tock Tex from derailing the American space program at the apex of its achievement! RAT0114: Matthew Moments: Lawman of the 4th Dimension - 0101 - "Beware the Space Apes". Written by Matt Clemmons. Recorded Live at Little Brews Cafe on August 16, 2025. Matthew Moments patrols the circuits of time in order to bring dastardly Time Outlaws to justice!  Find more Radio-Active Theater shows, episodes, live performance dates and more at http://www.radioactivetheater.com Support us on Patreon! Follow on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe on YouTube!

Matthew Moments patrols the circuits of time in order to bring dastardly Time Outlaws to justice! RAT0113: Matthew Moments: Lawman of the 4th Dimension - Series Trailer. Written by Matt Clemmons. Recorded at Lil Brews Cafe on August 13, 2025. Find more Radio-Active Theater shows, episodes, live performance dates and more at http://www.radioactivetheater.com Support us on Patreon! Follow on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe on YouTube!

Blast has been shot down! Betsy and Smartwell have been captured! And now, from the depths of the Martian Forest, a new, mysterious figure, The Duke, enters the fray! But will he be friend or foe?! RAT0112: Blast Burton: Radar Rocket Ranger from the 26th Century #0103 – “The Duke Dukes It Out”. Written by Matt Clemmons and Lori Ann Stuckmeyer. Recorded live at BaristaGo Coffee House on November 23, 2024. Blast Burton, Commander of the Radar Rocket Rangers, and his top-notch team  fight a never-ending battle across the solar system against the forces of Tangar the Terrible, tyrannical Emperor of Mars, and Sersi Sinister, the evil Witch Queen of the Crimson Coven! You wont want to miss an episode of this hilarious, adventure Serial! Find more Radio-Active Theater shows, episodes, live performance dates and more at http://www.radioactivetheater.com Support us on Patreon! Follow on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe on YouTube!

Silver John uncovers a tragic tale told in song - of love and loss, accusations of witchcraft and a cursed family name - as dark deeds of the past threaten to erupt in a firey bid for vengeance. RAT0111: The Ballads of Hillbilly John #1 – “Becky Til Hoppard”. Adapted by R. Larry Williams from stories by Manly Wade Wellman. Recorded Live at BaristaGo Coffee House on November 23, 2024. Springing from the folk tales of Appalachia and adapted to the Ozark Hills, The Ballads of Hillbilly John follows the adventures of Silver John, the Balladeer, who, equipped only with his silver stringed guitar and a heart full of songs, roams the dark and wild lands in the heart of America. Find more Radio-Active Theater shows, episodes, live performance dates and more at http://www.radioactivetheater.com Support us on Patreon! Follow on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe on YouTube!

Springing from the folk tales of Appalachia and adapted to the Ozark Hills, The Ballads of Hillbilly John follows the adventures of Silver John, the Balladeer, who, equipped only with his silver stringed guitar and a heart full of songs, roams the dark and wild lands in the heart of America. RAT0110_The Ballads of Hillbilly John "Series Trailer". Adapted by R. Larry Williams from stories by Manly Wade Wellman. Recorded live at Little Brews Cafe, March 22, 2025. Find more Radio-Active Theater shows, episodes, live performance dates and more at http://www.radioactivetheater.com Support us on Patreon! Follow on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe on YouTube!

Happiness Solved with Sandee Sgarlata. In this episode, Sandee interviews Kristine Ochu. In this engaging conversation, Sandee Sgarlata interviews Kristine Ochu, an award-nominated author and empowerment expert, who shares her unique journey from being a world champion log roller to a corporate leader and author. They discuss the physical and mental challenges of log rolling, the life lessons learned from the sport, and how these experiences translate into personal development and resilience. Kristine emphasizes the importance of never giving up, the power of positive thinking, and the tools she has developed to help others overcome adversity. The conversation also touches on her book, 'Campfire Confessions,' which explores themes of friendship and self-discovery.Guest Bio:Kristine Ochu is an award-nominated author, empowerment expert, former World Champion Log-Roller, and seasoned HR executive who inspires writers to embrace resilience, balance, and self-empowerment during the writing journey. Author of “Campfire Confessions,” a finalist in six categories (Friendship, Contemporary Fiction, Chick-Lit, Midwest Fiction, New Fiction, Spirituality) for the 2024 Independent Authors Award. Also, a finalist in friendship for the 2024 NYC Big Book Awards. Kristine brings humor and heart to her storytelling. She was named as one of the TOP 100 Entrepreneurs and Mentors of 2023 by Global Woman magazine and as one of the TOP 100 Entrepreneurs of 2024. Her transformational "Keep on Rolling” toolkit, talks, and guest appearances equip women and men with tools they can use “on the spot” to overcome stress, self-doubt, and overwhelm, helping them navigate life with confidence and clarity. TakeawaysLog rolling requires balance, focus, and self-faith.Never give up; sometimes you just need to take one more step.The mental aspect of sports can translate to life challenges.People are a company's biggest assets; human connection is vital.Tools for personal development can be simple yet effective.Breathwork and mindfulness are essential for stress relief.Overcoming adversity can lead to personal growth and resilience.Sharing experiences with others can provide perspective and inspiration.Writing can be a powerful tool for self-reflection and healing.Embracing joy and laughter is crucial for a fulfilling life.Connect with Kristine:Website:  https://KristineOchu.comX: https://x.com/KristineOchuInstagram: https://instagram.com/kristineochu/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristineochu/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kristineochu1098  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristine.ochuTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kristineochuConnect with Sandee: Website: www.sandeesgarlata.comPodcast: www.happinesssolved.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/coachsandeesgarlataTwitter: www.twitter.com/sandeesgarlataInstagram: www.instagram.com/coachsandeesgarlata

This week, Steph and I talk about some our favorite books outside the thriller genre, since we've both been expanding our genres a little.Books We Talked AboutProject Hail MaryThe Road to Tender HeartsSky Full of ElephantsPS You're the WorstThe Three Lives of Cate KayThe Seven O'Clock ClubAn Academy for LiarsShy GirlThings Don't Break On Their OwnThe Book Club for Troublesome Women Check Out My Stories Are My Religion SubstackCheck Out Author Social Media PackagesCheck out the Bookwild Community on PatreonCheck out the Imposter Hour Podcast with Liz and GregFollow @imbookwild on InstagramOther Co-hosts On Instagram:Gare Billings @gareindeedreadsSteph Lauer @books.in.badgerlandHalley Sutton @halleysutton25Brian Watson @readingwithbrian

Blast has been shot down! Betsy and Smartwell have been captured! And now, from the depths of the Martian Forest, a new, mysterious figure, The Duke, enters the fray! But will he be friend or foe?! RAT0007: Blast Burton #2 – “Into the Pit of Despair”. Written by Matt Clemmons and Lori Ann Stuckmeyer. Recorded live at BaristaGo Coffee House on 9/21/24. Blast Burton, Commander of the Radar Rocket Rangers, and his top-notch team  fight a never-ending battle across the solar system against the forces of Tangar the Terrible, tyrannical Emperor of Mars, and Sersi Sinister, the evil Witch Queen of the Crimson Coven! You wont want to miss an episode of this hilarious, adventure Serial!  Find more Radio-Active Theater shows, episodes, live performance dtes and more at http://www.radioactivetheater.com Support us on Patreon! Follow on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe on YouTube!

RAT0006: The Bush League of Superheroes #0101 - "Mother Hubbard". Adapted by R. Larry Williams from a comic book by Harry A. Chester. Recorded LIve at BaristaGo Coffee House on 2/11/23. The mysterious Mother Hubbard commands the power of ancient witchcraft to battle the evils of America in the early 1940's! The Bush League of Superheroes scours the dollar boxes for the weirdest, wackiest titles from the golden age of comic books! Join RAT as we bring the adventures of these long-forgotten "heroes" roaring back to life!   Find more Radio-Active Theater shows, episodes, live performance dates and more at http://www.radioactivetheater.com Support us on Patreon! Follow on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe on YouTube!

RAT0005: The Bush League of Superheroes -Series Trailer. By R. Larry Williams. Recorded Live at Little Brews Cafe on April 19, 2025. Scouring the dollar boxes for the weirdest, wackiest titles from the golden age of comic books! Join RAT as we bring the adventures of these long-forgotten "heroes" roaring back to life!  Find more Radio-Active Theater shows, episodes, live performance dates and more at http://www.radioactivetheater.com Support us on Patreon! Follow on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe on YouTube!

RAT0004: A Ghost of A Chance #0101 - "Dead Sould Donuts". Recorded LIVE at Scene One Theater in Jefferson City, MO. Sept 14, 2024. Join host, Paul Tergyst, and his (relatively) fearless crew of paranormal investigators as they examine a particularly high-carb haunt at the "Dead Soul Donut Shop" and reveal the sugary spectres lurking in it's demonic dough... Find more Radio-Active Theater shows, episodes, live performance dates and more at http://www.radioactivetheater.com Support us on Patreon! Follow on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe on YouTube!

Send us a textThe Secret Life of Lincoln Jones by Wendelin Van DraanenCould life be any worse? Lincoln doesn't think so. I mean, how many kids have to go to their parents work after school? And how much worse that his mom works in a crazy home, or AKA – old folks home – or AKA a nursing home for dementia patients? Plus, Lincoln is having to deal with moving to a new school and a new apartment and having to deal with the school bus, which all pose their own problems.Even though Lincoln has a lot to deal with, he moves through life with a journal in his backpack and lots of stories in his head. If he can only stay out of the way of Troy (who makes his life a misery on the bus) and Kandy Kain (seriously that is her name – a girl who won't leave him alone at school) and various residents at Brookside Manor (one who periodically likes to take off her clothes!) he might be able to make it through the first months at school.Recommended for 6th grade and up. Support the show

RAT0003: A Ghost of A Chance - Series Trailer. Recorded at Barista Go Coffee House, February 15, 2024 Follow the adventures of this intrepid crew of paranormal investigators as they explore the most bizzarre haunts imaginable! Tune in for the series premier of "A Ghost of A Chance" next week! Find more Radio-Active Theater shows, episodes, live performance dates and more at http://www.radioactivetheater.com Support us on Patreon! Follow on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe on YouTube!

RAT0101: Radio-Active Theater is BACK on the airwaves! Find more Radio-Active Theater shows, episodes, live performance dates and more at http://www.radioactivetheater.com Support us on Patreon! Follow on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe on YouTube!

RAT0102: Blast Burton #0101 - "Gloom and Moon". Recorded LIVE at Scene One Theater in Jefferson City, MO. Sept 14, 2024. When Blast Burton and Betsy Booster intercept a suspicious ship loitering in Earth Space, they discover that Tangar the Terrible, tyranical Emperor of Mars, and his cohorts, Sersi Sinister, Evil Witch Queen of the Crimson Coven, and Thunk, the Chief of the Hawk-Lion Men, have enacted a scheme that threatens to destroy the planet Earth! Seeking out a powerful ally - Dr. Smartwell, Earth's most brilliant scientist - Blast and Betsy race to foil the evil plot! But will they be in time...?!?! Find more Radio-Active Theater shows, episodes, live performance dates and more at http://www.radioactivetheater.com Support us on Patreon! Follow on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe on YouTube!

“I tell kids that books are not there to torment you. The author has to get you in the first ten pages. If they do not, they fail, because a book is like a lawnmower—you pull it, and either it starts or it doesn't start.” –Soman ChainaiSoman Chainani wants reading to feel irresistible. The bestselling author of "The School for Good and Evil," series and the recently released graphic novel, "Coven," shares how his own reading life began—powered by Anne Rice, Michael Crichton, and a complete lack of adult supervision—and how those early obsessions shaped his belief that stories should be bold, boundary-pushing, and personal.In this episode, Soman explains why middle grade books can (and should) feel dangerous, how his grandmother's glamorous storytelling shaped his imagination, and what a book needs to do in its first ten pages to hook a reader. He also unpacks the “moral grayness” that defines his favorite novels and his own writing, and makes a compelling case for why kids need more honesty, not less, in the stories we give them.Tune in for a fast-paced episode that includes Madonna, hot takes, and tips for breaking (all) the rules. ***Soman's reading challenge, Immersive, is all about getting lost in a story. The books he curated blur the line between fiction and reality, pulling the reader in so completely you forget the world around you. Learn more and download Soman's recommended reading list at threadingculturepod.com/soman-chainani***This week's featured librarian is Jasmine Haverly from Aldine Independent School District in Texas. Jasmine shares how competitions and “book tastings” are growing the reading culture in her library.Show ChaptersChapter 1 - Florida Man Chapter 2 - Well, That Escalated Quickly Chapter 3 - The Picture of Dorian GrayChapter 4 - The Rules Are Made UpChapter 5 - Main Character Energy Chapter 6 - Use Your ImaginationChapter 7 - Express YourselfChapter 8 - Reading ChallengeChapter 9 - Beanstack Featured LibrarianLinksThe Reading CultureThe Reading Culture Newsletter SignupSoman ChainaiSoman Chainani SubstackSoman Chainani Instagram“The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar WildeFollow The Reading Culture on Instagram (for giveaways and bonus content)Beanstack resources to build your community's reading cultureJordan Lloyd BookeyHost and Production CreditsHost: Jordan Lloyd BookeyProducers: Mel Webb and Lower Street MediaScript Editors: Josia Lamberto-Egan, Mel Webb, Jordan Lloyd Bookey

In this episode of the Self-Publishing with ALLi Podcast, Matty Dalrymple talks with Kristen Tate of the Blue Garret editing service, a seasoned freelance editor, about the intricacies of editorial services and how authors can effectively engage with editors. The conversation provides insights into the editing process, the role of trust in the author-editor relationship, and how to navigate the often complex landscape of editorial pricing and contracts. Sponsors This podcast is proudly sponsored by Bookvault. Sell high-quality, print-on-demand books directly to readers worldwide and earn maximum royalties selling directly. Automate fulfillment and create stunning special editions with BookvaultBespoke. Visit Bookvault.app today for an instant quote. This podcast is also sponsored by Gatekeeper Press, the all-inclusive Gold Standard in Publishing, offering authors 100% rights, royalties, satisfaction and worldwide distribution. Gatekeeper Press, Where Authors are Family. About the Host Matty Dalrymple podcasts, writes, speaks, and consults on the writing craft and the publishing voyage as The Indy Author. She has written books on the business of short fiction and podcasting for authors, and her articles have appeared in Writer's Digest magazine. She serves as the campaigns manager for the Alliance of Independent Authors. Matty is also the author of the Lizzy Ballard Thrillers, beginning with Rock Paper Scissors; the Ann Kinnear Suspense Novels, beginning with The Sense of Death; and the Ann Kinnear Suspense Shorts, including Close These Eyes. She is a member of International Thriller Writers and Sisters in Crime. About the Guest Kristen Tate has been a freelance editor for more than a decade, guiding authors from rough drafts to polished books. She holds a PhD in English from Columbia University, where she focused on publishing history, and is the author of Novel Study: Decoding the Secrets and Structures of Contemporary Fiction. Kristen also publishes a regular newsletter offering craft advice and encouragement for writers. Her editing business, Blue Garret, is an ALLi Partner member. You can find Kristen at thebluegarret.com, on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Bluesky.

Amor Towles' novels take readers to Moscow, New York and the Lincoln Highway. On today's show, we hear about his latest book, which is a collection of short stories. Also, we learn more about recently passed legislation and how it may affect maternal health outcomes in Arkansas. Plus, Backroom Social Club is back, but it's in Springdale this time.

Send us a textRunaway by Wendelin Van DraanenHolly is a runaway - from her latest foster placement. The guy gave her the creeps and they locked her in the laundry room at night, giving her very little food, so what was the point in staying? She's been homeless before with her mom, but she's never been on her own homeless. Still, she knows what it takes and she thinks she can handle it. But thinking about something and living it are two different things entirely, and as the days turn into weeks, Holly is forced to ask her self, what does the end look like? Recommended for grades 7 and up. 

David Hewson's novels have been translated worldwide, from Italian to Japanese, with his debut, Semana Santa, filmed with Mira Sorvino. His work spans Italy, Spain, Denmark, and Amsterdam, including the Nic Costa series in Rome, the Pieter Vos books in Amsterdam, and his adaptations of The Killing in Copenhagen. A former journalist for The Times and The Sunday Times, he turned to fiction full-time in 2005. His latest book, When the Germans Come, is out now.We had a great chat with David, hearing how he began his career in journalism before moving into the world of fiction. We talk about all the different types of novels he has written, from historical to contemporary crime, as well his adaptations of series such as The Killing. We also chat about how he approaches writing his historical fiction, and why enjoys writing for audio as well.Links:Buy David's books nowFollow David on BlueskyVisit David's websitePre-Order The Midnight King by Tariq! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a textBye Forever, I Guess by Jodi MeadowsIngrid is in a bit of a crisis. She doesn't think she actually wants to be best friends with her best friend anymore. Or even just plain friends. Especially after Ingrid feels she has gone too far. But even though Ingrid likes to be invisible, she doesn't want to be lonely. Thankfully she has a good friend online, but when a new person enters her life in an unexpected way, she has to figure out just how to navigate being seen!Recommended for grades 6 and up. 

Mystics and prophets have reported receiving visions from the Divine for centuries—”Thus saith the Lord…”—Hildegard of Bingen, Teresa of Avila, Ignatius of Loyola, Catherine of Siena, or Julian of Norwich. The list goes on.But what would you think if you met a seer of visions in the present day? Maybe you have.What about a prophet whose visions came like a movie screen unfurled before him, the images grotesque and vivid, all in the unsuspecting backwoods setting of Lookout Mountain, deep in the south of Tennessee.Would you believe it? Would you believe him? The beauty of fiction allows the reader to join the author in asking: What if?That's exactly what Jamie Quatro has allowed us to do in her newest work of literary fiction, Two-Step Devil.What if an earnest and wildly misunderstood Christian is left alone on Lookout Mountain? What if the receiver of visions makes art that reaches a girl who's stuck in the darkest grip of a fraught world? What if the Devil really did sit in the corner of the kitchen, wearing a cowboy hat, and what if he got to tell his own side of the Biblical story?On today's episode novelist Jamie Quatro joins Macie Bridge to share about her relationship to the theological exploration within her latest novel, Two-Step Devil; her experience of being a Christian and a writer, but not a “Christian Writer”; and how the trinity of main characters in the novel speak to and open up her own deepest concerns about the state of our country and the world we inhabit.Jamie Quatro is the New York Times Notable author of I Want to Show You More, and Fire Sermon. *Two-Step Devil* is her latest work and is the winner of the 2024 Willie Morris Award for Southern Writing, and it's also been named a New York Times Editor's Choice, among other accolades. Jamie teaches in the Sewanee School of Letters MFA program.SPOILER ALERT! This episode contains substantial spoilers to the novel's plot, so if you'd like to read it for yourself, first grab a copy from your local bookstore, then two-step on back over here to listen to this conversation!About Jamie QuatroJamie Quatro is the New York Times Notable author of I Want to Show You More, a finalist for the Los Angeles Times Art Seidenbaum Award and the National Book Critics Circle's John Leonard Prize, and Fire Sermon, a Book of the Year for the Economist, San Francisco Chronicle, LitHub, Bloomberg, and the Times Literary Supplement. Her most recent novel, Two-Step Devil, is the winner of the 2024 Willie Morris Award for Southern Writing. It has also been named a New York Times Editor's Choice, a 2025 ALA Notable Book, and a Best Book of 2024 by the Paris Review and the Atlanta Journal Constitution. A new story collection is forthcoming from Grove Press.Quatro's fiction has appeared or is forthcoming in The New Yorker, The Paris Review, Harper's, the New York Review of Books, Ploughshares, and elsewhere. She is the recipient of fellowships from MacDowell, Yaddo, Bread Loaf, and La Maison Dora Maar in Ménerbes, France, where she will be in residence in 2025. Quatro holds an MA in English from the College of William and Mary and an MFA in fiction from the Bennington College Writing Seminars. She teaches in the Sewanee School of Letters MFA program, and lives with her family in Chattanooga, Tennessee.Show NotesGet your copy of Two-Step Devil by Jamie QuatroClick here to view the art that inspired Jamie Quatro's Two-Step DevilProduction NotesThis podcast featured Jamie Quatro with Macie BridgeEdited and Produced by Evan RosaHosted by Evan RosaProduction Assistance by Macie Bridge, Alexa Rollow, Zoë Halaban, Kacie Barrett & Emily BrookfieldA Production of the Yale Center for Faith & Culture at Yale Divinity School https://faith.yale.edu/aboutSupport For the Life of the World podcast by giving to the Yale Center for Faith & Culture: https://faith.yale.edu/give

This week, Halley Sutton, Steph Lauer and I talk with Layne Fargo about her new book The Favorites! We dive into her inspiration for the book, trips Halley and Layne took to research the book, how she used character names from Wuthering Heights in The Favorites, and her lifelong love for figure skating!The Favorites SynopsisShe might not have a famous name, funding, or her family's support, but Katarina Shaw has always known that she was destined to become an Olympic skater. When she meets Heath Rocha, a lonely kid stuck in the foster care system, their instant connection makes them a formidable duo on the ice. Clinging to skating—and each other—to escape their turbulent lives, Kat and Heath go from childhood sweethearts to champion ice dancers, captivating the world with their scorching chemistry, rebellious style, and rollercoaster relationship. Until a shocking incident at the Olympic Games brings their partnership to a sudden end.As the ten-year anniversary of their final skate approaches, an unauthorized documentary reignites the public obsession with Shaw and Rocha, claiming to uncover the "real story" through interviews with their closest friends and fiercest rivals. Kat wants nothing to do with the documentary. But she can't stand the thought of someone else defining her legacy either. So, after a decade of silence, she's telling her story: from the childhood tragedies that created her all-consuming bond with Heath to the clash of desires that tore them apart. Sensational rumors have haunted their every step for years, but the truth may be even more shocking than the headlines.Inspired by the powerful love and hate that fuel Emily Bronte's classic, Wuthering Heights, The Favorites is an exhilarating dance between passion, ambition, and what it truly means to win. Check out the Bookwild Community on PatreonCheck out the Imposter Hour Podcast with Liz and GregFollow @imbookwild on Instagram

“Life is a wheel and humanity has been through countless cycles of ups and downs. The things that seem so dire now won't be this dire forever. Eventually, there is an upswing. I always needed that reminder, and it made me think that my young readers need that reminder as well.” - Yamile Saied MendezWith a storytelling style that radiates warmth and resilience, Yamile Saed Méndez's work reflects the cycles of life's challenges and triumphs. Born in Rosario, Argentina, in the midst and then long shadow of the Dictatorship years, she learned early on the power of hope and the enduring strength of the human spirit. From mastering a second language to embracing life in a new country, Yamile's journey is one of transformation and connection to her roots. Yamile is a bestselling author whose work spans children's, young adult, and adult fiction. Her novel “Furia”–a 2021 Pura Belpré winner and a Reese's YA Book Club selection–earned her widespread recognition for its powerful storytelling and cultural resonance. Her other books include “Shaking Up the House,” “On These Magic Shores,” “The Beautiful Game,” “Where Are You From?” and “What the Moon Saw.” With accolades such as the Cybils Award and the Américas Award, Yamile has established herself as a beloved voice in contemporary literature.In this episode, Yamile reflects on the pivotal transitions that have shaped her life and work. She reflects on her experience as the eldest sister in a family facing constant scarcity of resources and on how her school life impacted her perspective on a young woman's potential. Yamile shares how storytelling has grounded her through moments of turbulence and highlights how resilience has inspired the protagonists in her books. ***Yamile's reading challenge, Indomitable Characters, celebrates protagonists who embody resilience and remind us all of the inevitable upswing in life's wheel.Learn more and download Yamile's recommended reading list at thereadingculturepod.com/yamile-saied-mendez***This episode's Beanstack Featured Librarian is, once again, Billy Allen, the Branch Manager of Whitney Library in Las Vegas's Clarke County Library District, aka 3KingVisions, on YouTube. And most recently, he is featured on season 9 of Queer Eye. Billy tells us about a unique incentive that motivated the kids at his library to crush their summer reading goals.***Connect with Jordan and The Reading Culture @thereadingculturepod and subscribe to our newsletter at thereadingculturepod.com/newsletter. Show ChaptersChapter 1 - Women of ArgentinaChapter 2 - GibberishChapter 3 - The Angel's GameChapter 4 - Full StopsChapter 5 - Indomitable CharactersChapter 6 - Beanstack Featured LibrarianLinksThe Reading CultureThe Reading Culture Newsletter SignupYamile MendezYamile Mendez Instagram“The Angel's Game” by Carlos Ruiz Zafón Monteiro LobatoHeidiMaría Elena WalshFollow The Reading Culture on Instagram (for giveaways and bonus content)Beanstack resources to build your community's reading cultureJordan Lloyd BookeyHost: Jordan Lloyd BookeyProducers: Mel Webb Wilkinson, Jackie Lamport, and Lower Street MediaScript Editors: Josia Lamberto-Egan, Mel Webb Wilkinson, Jackie Lamport, Jordan Lloyd Bookey

Check out my latest episode where I am joined by romance author and romance publisher, Jenny Hale, to talk about her new romance book release, The Noel Bridge, as well as all of the most anticipated new holiday romance books releasing from Harpeth Road Press. We also chat about: Writing holiday and summer romance books,Seeing Jenny's books made into Hallmark holiday movies,Diving into the publishing world with Harpeth Road Press, and more!To hear even more about Jenny, join the She Reads Romance Books Book Club to gain instant access to the exclusive, extended video interview and all my exclusive author interviews!Get The Noel Bridge: https://amzn.to/4hfGnzTHarpeth Road Press Books: https://amzn.to/3NEOE2CAbout Jenny: Jenny Hale is a USA Today, Amazon, and international bestselling author of romantic contemporary fiction. With over a million copies sold, her books have sold worldwide, have been translated into multiple languages, and adapted for television. The Beach House, released in 2021 sailed to number three on the Amazon Kindle Chart and it hit number one in the categories Contemporary Romance, Women's Literary Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, and Romance. Her novels Coming Home for Christmas and Movie Guide Epiphany Award winner Christmas Wishes and Mistletoe Kisses are Hallmark Channel original movies. She was included in Oprah Magazine's “19 Dreamy Summer Romances to Whisk You Away” and both Southern Living's “30 Christmas Novels to Start Reading Now” as well as “Beach Reads Perfect for Summer 2020.” Her stories are chock-full of feel-good romance and overflowing with warm settings, great friends, and family. Jenny is at work on her next novel, delighted to bring even more heartwarming stories to her readers. When she isn't writing or heading up her romantic fiction imprint Harpeth Road, she can be found running around her hometown of Nashville with her husband, two boys, and their labradoodle, taking pictures—her favorite pastime.Follow Jenny on X, IG, and TikTok: @jhaleauthor; Facebook: JennyHaleAuthorFOLLOW ME! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shereadsromancebooks Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/shereadsromancebooks Instagram https://www.instagram.com/shereadsromancebooksblog/Join My Email List: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/joinLEAVE A REVIEW!If you liked this episode or got a book recommendation you can't wait to read, please give a star rating and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast platform. It helps me know what you like and want to hear. Thanks!This post may include affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Spectrality disrupts and fissures our conceptions of time, unmaking and complicating binaries such as life and death, presence and absence, the visible and the invisible, and literality and metaphor. A contribution to current conversations in memory studies and spectrality studies, Mind the Ghost: Thinking Memory and the Untimely Through Contemporary Fiction in French (Liverpool UP, 2023) is an experiment in reading ghosts otherwise. It explores, through contemporary fiction in French, sites of textual haunting that take the form of names, lists, objects, photographs, and stains.  The book turns to Jacques Derrida and Hélène Cixous to rethink what constitutes and functions as a ghost, proposing that this figure solicits readers' investment in mnemonic practices. Considering the memories and legacies of violence that have marked the greater part of the twentieth-century – in Algeria, Bosnia, Croatia, France, and Rwanda – this book traces absences, disappearances and reappearances, textual omissions and untimely irruptions to posit literature's power to both remember and communicate beyond the bounds of chronological time. Through close readings of recent fiction by Kaouther Adimi, Jakuta Alikavazovic, Gaël Faye, Jérôme Ferrari, Patrick Modiano, Lydie Salvayre, Leïla Sebbar, and Cécile Wajsbrot, Mind the Ghost articulates the mechanisms through which readers themselves become haunted. Maureen G. Shanahan, J.D., PhD is Professor of Art History, School of Art, Design & Art History, James Madison University Machine Modernisms, Masculinity, and the Trauma of War: The Art of Fernand Léger (Penn State University Press, May 2024). Colonial Wounds / Postcolonial Repair, exhibition catalog (University of Virginia 2019) Simón Bolívar: Travels and Transformations of a Cultural Icon (University Press of Florida 2016) LINKED IN. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

A new 'Craftwork' episode—all about the practice of fasting and its many implications. My guest is John Oakes, author of The Fast: The History, Science, Philosophy, and Promise of Doing Without, available from Avid Reader Press. Oakes is publisher of The Evergreen Review. He is editor-at-large for OR Books, which he cofounded in 2009. Oakes has written for a variety of publications, among them The Oxford Handbook of Publishing, Publishers Weekly, the Review of Contemporary Fiction, Associated Press, and The Journal of Electronic Publishing. Oakes is a cum laude graduate of Princeton University, where he earned the English Department undergraduate thesis prize for an essay on Samuel Beckett. He was born and raised in New York City, where he lives, and is the father of three adult children. While working on The Fast, he was awarded residencies at Yaddo (New York) and Jentel (Wyoming). The Fast is his first book. *** Otherppl with Brad Listi is a weekly literary podcast featuring in-depth interviews with today's leading writers. Available where podcasts are available: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, etc. Subscribe to Brad Listi's email newsletter. Support the show on Patreon Merch Twitter Instagram  TikTok Bluesky Email the show: letters [at] otherppl [dot] com The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices