Podcast appearances and mentions of Katherine Center

A Hollywood romance, a high diving board, and a weirdly important video from high school: this week we read "The Rom-Commers" by Katherine Center for a very exciting season finale, featuring special guest Emily Fidago, and the triumphant return of Sabrina!Mean Book Club is four ladies (UCB, BuzzFeed, College Humor, Impractical Jokers) who read, discuss and whine about NYT bestselling books that have questionable literary merit. It's fun. It's cathartic. It's perfect for your commute. New podcast (almost) every Tuesday! Here's the Season 18 reading list: 1. Fourth Wing by Yarros 2. Hillbilly Elegy by JD Vance 3. The Housemaid by Freida McFadden 4. Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg 5. A Court of Thrones and Roses by Sarah J. Maas 6. The House in the Pines by Ana Reyes 7. Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden 8. While Justice Sleeps by Stacey AbramsSend any future book suggestions to meanbookclub@gmail.com! Follow us on the socials @meanbookclub! Rate, like, subscribe, and check out our Patreon page at patreon.com/meanbookclub to become a true patron of the mean arts.CREDITS: Hosted by Sarah Burton, Clara Morris, Johnna Scrabis, & Sabrina B. Jordan. This episode was produced and edited by Sarah Burton and Blake Opper. Special thanks to FSM Team for our theme song, "Parkour Introvert."Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mean-book-club--3199521/support.

Send us a text “How does my mess become my message?”  How I love a good story!  After finishing a new release from one of my favorite authors, Katherine Center, I share the importance of stories and learning to revisit our own stories. Inspired by a talk given by the Dean of Education of Brigham Young University, Sarah K. Clark, Jesus the Master Teacher, given May 20,2025.  I tell you about my own story from high school that ended up being a pivotal moment for me and how I have learned to revisit that story now.   Like Sarah K. Clark, I  invite  you to involve Christ into your story and rewrite how you see your old stories and how they frame the way you think about your life.    For show notes go to www.findingthefloor.com/ep222I would love to hear from you! You can reach me at camille@findingthefloor.com or dm @findingthefloor on instagram. Thanks for listening!!Thanks to Seth Johnson for my intro and outro original music. I love it so much!

Firstly, Happy Birthday to Clayton, Sam's son, who is celebrating his second birthday! It's crazy how time flies! We will be discussing our third novel from Katherine Center called The Love Hater!  About The Novel: Katie Vaughn has been burned by love in the past—now she may be lighting her career on fire. She has two choices: wait to get laid off from her job as a video producer or, at her coworker Cole's request, take a career-making gig profiling Tom “Hutch” Hutcheson, a Coast Guard rescue swimmer in Key West. The catch? Katie's not exactly qualified. She can't swim, but fakes it that she can. Plus: Cole is Hutch's brother. And they don't get along. Next stop paradise! But paradise is messier than it seems. As Katie gets entangled with Hutch (the most scientifically good looking man she has ever seen . . . but also a bit of a love hater), along with his colorful Aunt Rue and his rescue Great Dane, she gets trapped in a lie. Or two. Swim lessons, helicopter flights, conga lines, drinking contests, hurricanes, and stolen kisses ensue—along with chances to tell the truth, to face old fears, and to be truly brave at last.   Wanna Check Out Our Other Socials: click here!

Utter joy and delight- those are the books that Katherine Center gives us. Center also radiates this energy too. The book world is a better place because of her writing. I was beyond excited to talk to her for the THIRD time and celebrate her latest romance novel, The Love Haters. Out today! Not only is this a perfect summer romance it is so much more. Katherine tackles body image and the idea of enemies to lovers, with yourself. I adored this trope and appreciate Katherine's voice on the matter- the author's note is award winning. We also discussed the need for romance novels now more than never. Katherine and her books are the antidote we need in this world right now. She is a gem and her books are a dream.

In this week's episode of Pages n' Pages, we're diving into our recent reads—from cozy stories to epic fantasies—and sharing what's been keeping us up past bedtime. Plus, we chat about Fable, the new reading app that's changing how we track our books, connect with other readers, and stay on top of our towering TBR piles. Whether you're a digital book tracker or a notebook loyalist, tune in for our thoughts on whether Fable lives up to the hype!What We've Read and What We Are Reading:A Kiss of Iron (Shadows of the Tenebris Court #1) by Clare SagerA Touch of Poison (Shadows of the Tenebris Court #2) by Clare SagerSomewhere Beyond the Sea (Cerulean Chronicles #2) by TJ Klune and narrated by Daniel HenningThe Ashfire King (The Sandsea Trilogy #2) by Chelsea AbdullahThe Making of Another Major Motion Picture Masterpiece by Tom Hanks and narrated by Tom Hanks, Peter Gerety, Natalie Morales, Ego Nwodim, Nasim Pedrad, Connor Ratliff, Holland Taylor, and Rita Wilson Hello Stranger by Katherine Center and narrated by Patti MurinRavensong (Green Creek Series #2) by TJ Klune and narrated by Kirt GravesAdditional Book Mentions:Mickey 7 (Mickey7 #1) by Edward Ashton

Hello, Protagonists!My guest today on CREATIVE. INSPIRED. HAPPY is Katherine Center, New York Times Bestselling author and one of the reigning queens of hopeful, feel-good fiction. She's also had two books adapted into hit movies on Netflix. Her latest novel, The Love Haters, is out now.Today, we talk about:* finding inspiration which Katherine describes catching butterflies* discovering your place and mission in writing—a.k.a. what kind of author do you want to be?* maintaining a pace of publishing one book a year(Sample production timeline in traditional publishing)* her trick for writing deep characters* balancing "normal life" as a mom with being a professional writer* what does long-term success look like for a novelist* and so much more.

Welcome back to My Sister's TBR! We're here with our mid-month catch-up, chatting about the May releases that have caught our eye, sharing the bookish news we've sleuthed out, and diving into what books we're currently reading.Think of this as our virtual coffee date where we talk about all our favorite things…books, duh!So pour yourself a cup of coffee, get comfy, and let's catch up!Release Radar: What We're Eyeing This Month* The Retirement Plan by Sue Hincenbergs is a Mystery Thriller with a healthy dose of Humor and Life Insurance Policies.Release: May 6, 2025After their husbands' disastrous investment obliterates their retirement dreams, three long-time friends, Pam, Nancy, and Shalisa, find themselves trapped in dreary marriages until the sudden death of their friend Marlene's husband, coupled with a large life insurance payout and a fresh start in Florida, sparks a dangerous idea. Discovering their own husbands have similar hefty policies, the women contemplate hiring a hitman, unaware that their spouses are hatching their own secret retirement plan, leading to a tense and humorous game of cat and mouse with potentially deadly consequences, all while exploring the complexities of marriage, friendship, and navigating middle age.* The Tenant by Freida McFadden is a mystery thriller story of revenge, privilege, and secrets turned sour.Release: May 6, 2025Desperate after losing his job and facing foreclosure on his new brownstone, Blake Porter rents a room to the seemingly perfect Whitney, only to find his life unraveling with strange occurrences, judgmental neighbors, a persistent stench, and unsettling noises. As Blake begins to suspect Whitney, he fears someone knows his deepest secrets, realizing too late that the danger lies within his own home and he's walked straight into a carefully laid trap.* Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry is her debut Romantasy, perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Rebecca Yarros.Release: May 6, 2025In a world where monstrous gods demand mortal subservience, a princess who has always lived under the thumb of divine will and her father's commands finds her carefully prescribed life upended the day a legendary monster hunter arrives and a prince disrupts her fate. Suddenly bound by an ancient treaty to a future she never envisioned and a husband she barely knows, she must traverse perilous lands with a warrior who loathes her. As everyone attempts to mold her into a queen, a spy, or a sacrifice, she begins to question her destined role, wondering if there is strength in being underestimated and daring to consider forging her own path.* The Devils by Joe Abercrombie is the first in a dark fantasy horror series. Release: May 6, 2025Summoned to the Sacred City expecting praise, Brother Diaz is instead tasked with a brutal mission, leading a congregation of murderers, magic users, and monsters who must employ bloody tactics to achieve holy goals against encroaching elves and selfish princes. Facing a perilous journey, Brother Diaz finds a grim advantage in having these unlikely allies, the devils, on his side.* Problematic Summer Romance by Ali Hazelwood is number two in the Not in Love romance series.Release: May 27, 2025Twenty-three-year-old Maya Killgore finds herself intensely drawn to her brother's best friend, the successful thirty-eight-year-old Conor Harkness, despite the glaring age gap and power imbalance he constantly points out, insisting she move on after he made it clear he wants her out of his life. However, when Maya's brother's wedding lands them together in a romantic Sicilian villa, the forced proximity amidst beautiful scenery and delicious food leads Maya to suspect Conor is concealing something, and as the wedding chaos unfolds, she contemplates a problematic summer fling with him.* The Love Haters by Katherine Center is a contemporary romance novel.Release: May 20, 2025Facing imminent job loss, Katie Vaughn, who has a history of romantic disappointment and a secret inability to swim, reluctantly agrees to a career-defining job profiling Coast Guard rescue swimmer Tom "Hutch" Hutcheson in Key West at the urging of his estranged brother and her coworker, Cole. Arriving in paradise, Katie's professional deception intertwines with a complicated attraction to the undeniably handsome but seemingly love-averse Hutch, as she navigates a web of lies involving swim lessons, daring flights, lively locals, unexpected events, and stolen moments, all while confronting her fears and the potential for genuine bravery.The Bookish GrapevineHere's the bookish news we discussed in this episode:* Audible is introducing AI technology for narrating audiobooks. Their aim is to increase the number of audiobooks and languages offered, but at what cost? We speculate that audiobooks will be lower quality and will marginalize human talent.* We discuss Michael B Jordan producing the Fourth Wing adaptation and what he had previously produced.* Murderbot Series Adaptation: Martha Wells' popular science fiction series, “The Murderbot Diaries” is being adapted into an Apple TV+ show, starring Alexander Skarsgard as Muderbot, it is set to premiere on May 16th, 2025* Colleen Hoover's Regretting You has wrapped filming. Starring Allison Williams, McKenna Grace, Dave Franco, and Scott Eastwood. It is scheduled to be released in theaters on October 24, 2025* Alex Aster's Summer in the City is being made into a movie by New Line Cinema! The same studio behind The Notebook, LOTR movies, Sex and the City, etc etc. Alex will also be an executive producer.* Sarah J. Maas leaving hints for what ACOTAR 6 will be. Will May 21st be the special day that we get some actual news?What's On Our NightstandsHere's what we're currently reading:* Dead Med by Freida McFadden (Reb)Medical school wasn't the pink stethoscope dream Heather McKinley envisioned, filled instead with relentless work and the grim nickname "Dead Med" due to a history of student overdoses, something Heather never imagined herself considering until a breakup and failing grades push her to her breaking point. The night before a crucial anatomy final, the tragic reality of Dead Med intensifies when gunshots echo through the halls, claiming the lives of Heather's classmates in quick succession, plunging her into a terrifying and unfolding crisis.* Bloody, Slutty, and Pathetic by WhatMurdah (Stace)As part of a controversial Reconciliation Act, war heroine Hermione Granger is forced to marry the Azkaban-tattooed war criminal Draco Malfoy, resulting in public animosity that masks Draco's secret longing for a genuine marriage with the equally traumatized Hermione, whose cursed scar from Bellatrix's attack flares up due to the Black family magic surrounding her, hindering any possibility of trust or forgiveness. However, when Hermione discovers Draco's blood can soothe her scar, a dangerous proposition arises where Draco is willing to trade his blood for her body amidst a backdrop of post-war blood purity politics, illicit potion dealings, Pansy Parkinson's career guidance, Malfoy family manipulations, Neville Longbottom's Death Eater hunts, a slutty Theo Nott serving as Draco's right-hand man, and Crookshanks loose in Malfoy Manor.* The Spanish Love Deception by Elena Armas (Reb)Desperate to maintain her fabricated story of an American boyfriend for her sister's upcoming wedding in Spain, Catalina Martín faces the daunting task of finding someone willing to travel across the Atlantic and deceive her entire family, including her ex and his fiancée, within a mere four weeks. Her unlikely savior appears in the form of her tall, handsome, yet condescending colleague, Aaron Blackford, whom she initially finds utterly irritating but reluctantly accepts as her best option, slowly discovering that his real-world persona might be far more appealing than his insufferable office demeanor.* Queen of Shadows by Sarah J. Maas (Stace) A book in the Throne of Glass Series* Say You'll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez (Stace)Samantha's initial infatuation with the seemingly perfect veterinarian Xavier Rush, whose god-like looks are only momentarily tarnished by his occasional foot-in-mouth disease, blossoms into an unforgettable date, only to be abruptly curtailed by Samantha's family crisis, forcing her to ask Xavier to let her go and cherish their night as a singular, perfect memory. However, the undeniable connection they forged proves too powerful to forget, suggesting that perhaps building a life and love together could surpass even their perfect, fleeting moment.* The House Across the Lake by Riley Sager (Stace)Seeking refuge from bad press, recently widowed actress Casey Fletcher retreats to her family's Vermont lake house and becomes engrossed in observing the seemingly perfect lives of her wealthy and glamorous neighbors across the lake, Tom and Katherine Royce. After saving Katherine from drowning, Casey befriends her, only to discover cracks beneath the surface of their marriage. When Katherine suddenly disappears, Casey's voyeuristic pastime transforms into an obsessive quest to uncover the truth, revealing unsettling secrets and a shocking reality far removed from the idyllic facade she initially witnessed, in a tale of guilt, obsession, and deceptive appearances.* Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling (Both)Ever since Harry Potter had come home for the summer, the Dursleys had been so mean and hideous that all Harry wanted was to get back to the Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry. But just as he's packing his bags, Harry receives a warning from a strange impish creature who says that if Harry returns to Hogwarts, disaster will strike.And strike it does. For in Harry's second year at Hogwarts, fresh torments and horrors arise, including an outrageously stuck-up new professor and a spirit who haunts the girls' bathroom. But then the real trouble begins – someone is turning Hogwarts students to stone. Could it be Draco Malfoy, a more poisonous rival than ever? Could it possibly be Hagrid, whose mysterious past is finally told? Or could it be the one everyone at Hogwarts most suspects… Harry Potter himself!Our featured read for this month is Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Our end-of-month episode will be split into two. The first episode will be our recap of books read, and we'll release the second episode the same day, which will be our deep dive on Chamber of Secrets. We'll be talking about the characters, the differences between the book and the movies, what we loved, and what we didn't love.Don't forget to rate and subscribe to our podcast on whatever platform you're using, and pop over to our Instagram @mysisterstbr.Thanks for tuning in! Get full access to My Sister's TBR at www.mysisterstbr.com/subscribe

This week on From the Front Porch, it's another New Release Rundown! Annie, Erin, and Olivia are sharing the May releases they're excited about to help you build your TBR. When you purchase or preorder any of the books they talk about, enter the code NEWRELEASEPLEASE at checkout for 10% off your order! To purchase the books mentioned in this episode, stop by The Bookshelf in Thomasville, visit our website (search episode 528) or download and shop on The Bookshelf's official app: Annie's books: Poetry is Not a Luxury by Anonymous (5/6) My Friends by Fredrik Backman (5/6) Sleep by Honor Jones (5/13) Olivia's books: Billions to Burn by Taylor Banks (5/6) The Language of the Birds by K.A. Merson (5/13) The Ascent by Allison Buccola (5/20) Erin's books: The Names by Florence Knapp (5/6) Run for the Hills by Kevin Wilson (5/13) The Love Haters by Katherine Center (5/20) From the Front Porch is a weekly podcast production of The Bookshelf, an independent bookstore in South Georgia. You can follow The Bookshelf's daily happenings on Instagram, Tiktok, and Facebook, and all the books from today's episode can be purchased online through our store website, www.bookshelfthomasville.com.  A full transcript of today's episode can be found here. Special thanks to Dylan and his team at Studio D Podcast Production for sound and editing and for our theme music, which sets the perfect warm and friendly tone for our Thursday conversations.  This week, Annie is reading Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins.  Olivia is reading King of Ashes by S.A. Cosby.  Erin is listening to The Small and the Mighty by Sharon McMahon. If you liked what you heard in today's episode, tell us by leaving a review on Apple Podcasts. You can also support us on Patreon, where you can access bonus content, monthly live Porch Visits with Annie, our monthly live Patreon Book Club with Bookshelf staffers, Conquer a Classic episodes with Hunter, and more. Just go to patreon.com/fromthefrontporch. We're so grateful for you, and we look forward to meeting back here next week. Our Executive Producers are...Beth, Stephanie Dean, Linda Lee Drozt, Ashley Ferrell, Wendi Jenkins, Martha, Nicole Marsee, Gene Queens, Cammy Tidwell, Jammie Treadwell, and Amanda Whigham.

Are you chasing perfection…only to watch everything crumble?Join Matt and bestselling author Katherine Center as they reveal the paradox that our greatest failures and darkest moments often become the catalysts for true happiness. Katherine reveals her personal journey of studying happiness and how it has influenced her writing. From line dancing classes to pickleball adventures, explore how stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to unexpected moments of connection and growth. Join us for practical wisdom about creating a "culture of appreciation" in relationships and why looking for small moments of joy—even on our worst days—can revolutionize our lives. 0:00 Introduction1:27 Helen's journey from perfection to happiness6:50 Finding wisdom through life's challenges11:42 Stories as virtual reality for human experiences15:37 Embracing vulnerability in social connections19:28 How characters change: Plot as catalyst23:24 Keys to living a happier life27:42 Creating a culture of appreciation in relationships31:29 The Bodyguard: Writing joy during dark timesResources Mentioned:

This week we are joined by Katherine Center! Katherine Center is the New York Times bestselling author of twelve novels, including The Bodyguard, Hello Stranger, Things You Save in a Fire, and The Rom-Commers. Katherine writes deep, nuanced, laugh-and-cry rom-coms that brim with hope and healing. The movie adaptation of her novel Happiness for Beginners became a Netflix movie in 2023 and hit the Global Top Ten in 81 countries, and the movie of her novel The Lost Husband hit #1 on Netflix in 2020. Her May 2025 book is The Love Haters. Katherine has two almost-grown kids and lives in her hometown of Houston, Texas, with her husband and their fluffy-but-fierce dog. Join her mailing list at KatherineCenter.com!This week, Katherine Center shares her experiences as an author, her love for public speaking, and the joy of connecting with readers. She discusses her unique blend of introversion and extroversion, her humorous family dynamics, and the importance of uplifting stories in literature. Katherine emphasizes the value of rom-coms and the permission to enjoy predictable narratives, highlighting how her books resonate with readers during challenging times. She reflects on her own experiences with reading and writing, particularly during her middle school years, and how those experiences shaped her as a writer. Katherine shares insights on the anticipation that drives narratives, the challenges and joys of adapting her books into films, and the importance of thorough research in her writing process. Give this episode a listen!Recommendations From this Episode: To All The Boys I've Loved BeforeLoud: Accept Nothing Less Than the Life You DeserveCrash Landing On YouFollow Katherine Center: @katherinecenterFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpodPlease rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: aloneatlunch@gmail.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Get ready for summer with my list of the best, most anticipated new summer romance books of 2025! These are the new summer romance books that will make the perfect beach reads or poolside reads this summer. Fill up your TBR list with these new romance book releases that are dropping this summer.BOOKS MENTIONED:One Golden Summer by Carly Fortune: https://amzn.to/4ejLRXIThe Love Haters by Katherine Center: https://amzn.to/3AFizVvIt's a Love Story by Annabel Monaghan: https://amzn.to/3YEvi2KProblematic Summer Romance by Ali Hazelwood: https://amzn.to/42uYHi2All's Fair in Love and Pickleball by Kate Spencer: https://amzn.to/4i4vBf7Til Summer Do Us Part by Meghan Quinn: https://amzn.to/4i2BVUdSlow Burn Summer by Josie Silver: https://amzn.to/3YoT4AqSounds Like Love by Ashley Poston: https://amzn.to/3GbEjuuThe Seven Year Itch by Amy Daws: https://amzn.to/3DY9R6IThe Ripple Effect by Maggie North: https://amzn.to/4cm6FOKCruel Summer by Maisey Yates: https://amzn.to/4jc6RTeAnywhere With You by Ellie Palmer: https://amzn.to/4lnUJjwWell, Actually by Mazey Eddings: https://amzn.to/3FZpZFAIf All Else Sails by Emma St. Clair: https://amzn.to/4ias5jjThe Blond Who Came in From the Cold by Ally Carter: https://amzn.to/3FYayxjJoin the She Reads Romance Books Book Club: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/bookclubFOLLOW ME! Join My Email List: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/joinFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/shereadsromancebooks Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/shereadsromancebooks Instagram https://www.instagram.com/shereadsromancebooksblog/LEAVE A REVIEW!Don't forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast platform. 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.

In this episode Maya is reminded, and reminds everyone, why she loves a rom-com thanks to The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center!Sierra Madre Golf https://sierramadregolf.com/?ref=mayag or use Code MAYAGSubscribe to the My Take newsletter that comes out every other friday: https://mytake.aweb.page/p/5c793f97-1177-42ff-a0a9-5c9f3b7313b1 My Take also has a Patreon, where every month there will be fun bonus content, including a book club, so it would mean the world if you could support us there! Connect with Maya:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_mytake/?hl=enPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/mytakepodWebsite: https://mytakepodcast.weebly.com/

Wondering which new romance books releasing in May 2025 deserve a spot on your TBR list? Then look no further than this book list where I'm sharing my top 10 new romance books that are hitting shelves this May, and you don't want to miss them. Don't forget to keep track of these new releases in your Romance Book Reading Journal – the only reading journal created exclusively for romance book lovers! Grab your copy today …because life is better with a love story! BOOKS MENTIONED:One Golden Summer by Carly Fortune: https://amzn.to/4ejLRXIShield of Sparrows by Devney Perry: https://amzn.to/3DZgNAxWhat Happens in Amsterdam by Rachel Lynn Soloman: https://amzn.to/4fwE7lXCan't Get Enough by Kennedy Ryan: https://amzn.to/48AtvAeA Curse Carved in Bone by Danielle L. Jensen: https://amzn.to/3YTI0w3The Love Haters by Katherine Center: https://amzn.to/3AFizVvLeft of Forever by Tarah DeWitt: https://amzn.to/48EQiefRewind It Back by Liz Tomforde: https://amzn.to/3XRI921It's a Love Story by Annabel Monaghan: https://amzn.to/3YEvi2KProblematic Summer Romance by Ali Hazelwood: https://amzn.to/42uYHi2LINKS MENTIONED: New Releases: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/upcoming-book-releases/Romance Book Reading Challenge: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/reading-challenge-2025/Book Club: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/bookclub/Romance Book Reading Journal: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B09RV37H3Z FOLLOW ME! Join My List: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/joinFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/shereadsromancebooks Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/shereadsromancebooks Instagram https://www.instagram.com/shereadsromancebooksblog/LEAVE A REVIEW!If you liked this episode, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast platform. 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.

School partnerships between parents, teachers, and administration are so important. Listen in as Christina Hidek tells her story about leading the PTO in her district, and how it turned her passion of helping others into the work she does today. Quotables *All quotes are from the interviewee* "Happy teachers make for happy kids which makes happy parents." "It's a funny little thing when your passion lines up with what you can do to help others." "If it doesn't work one time, that's not an excuse to not try again." About Christina Hidek Christina Hidek is a recovering attorney turned Professional Organizer and certified PTO volunteer nerd. She founded PTO Answers 7 years ago to boost family engagement in schools and empower parents to improve their child's educational experience and school community through PTA/PTO involvement. She's been an active PTO leader for the past 14 years and hosts the vibrant 8000 plus member Super Star PTO Leaders Facebook Group. When she's not volunteering, you can find her in her garden, listening to the latest Katherine Center audiobook or walking the family dogs. Connect with Christina Hidek Website: https://ptoanswers.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ptoanswers PTO Super Star Leaders Facebook Group: https://ptoanswers.com/community Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ptoanswers YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ptoanswers Freebie: PTO Family Engagement Opportunity Assessment: https://ptoanswers.com/principal/ Join the...

What makes the bones of a good romcom? We break it down as we chat about our hot and cold MMC who is getting a first hand lesson in writing an engaging romcom. Plus, Sarah has us laughing as she falls for the biggest breach of contract between a reader and a romcom author.

Type A heroine, flipped gender roles, fake dating. Can you tell it's Katie's pick this week? This was a surprisingly good, clean romance. Katie consumed it via audiobook but believes it can stand alone in either format. Whether you're an avid contemporary romance consumer or you're interested in dabbling in the genre, this is a perfect little cream puff of a book.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58724801-the-bodyguard?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=8I6R9pmgIQ&rank=1Other books mentioned in this episode: The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwoodhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56732449-the-love-hypothesis?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=szAk2MTyyt&rank=1The Graham Effect by Elle Kennedyhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123255391-the-graham-effect?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_17Draco Malfoy and the Mortifying Ordeal of Being in Love by isthisselfcarehttps://archiveofourown.org/works/34500952/chapters/85870804

Looking for a faith-filled romance novel to celebrate St. Valentine's Day? In this episode of Hey Everybody, It's Fr. Edward, Fr. Edward Looney sits down with Rebecca Martin, author of Love in the Eternal City, to discuss her debut novel published by Chrism Press. You'll hear: ❤️ Why Catholic romance fiction exists and why it matters. ❤️ The love story of Elena and Benedict, a Swiss Guard, and how a real Swiss Guard helped shape the novel. ❤️ How the book portrays a healthy Catholic dating relationship. ❤️ How Rebecca balances writing with a busy family life. ❤️ The role of NANOWRIMO in fast-drafting her novel. ❤️ Her advice for aspiring Catholic novelists, including Fr. Edward! ❤️ The influence of other clean romance writers like Roseanna M. White, Emma St. Claire, and Katherine Center. If you love faith-based fiction, Catholic romance, or just a good love story, don't miss this episode!

On this week's episode, the girls read and review The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center. This is their first foray into Katherine's books and it won't be their last. They both thoroughly enjoyed this book and the quirky characters. The banter was great and the romance was adorable.

Finding the resources and funding for learning tools and enriching events is a consistent challenge for many districts. The PTO is often a largely underutilized resource, but most people cringe at the thought of having to attend one more committee meeting, especially in the evenings. Yet a well-run PTO can help take some of the load off of school staff and leverage resources in the community.That's why I was excited to talk to Christina Hidek from PTO Answers about how school staff and PTOs can work together. Christina Hidek is a recovering attorney turned Professional Organizer and certified PTO volunteer nerd. She founded PTO Answers 7 years ago to boost family engagement in schools and empower parents to improve their child's educational experience and school community through PTA/PTO involvement. She's been an active PTO leader for the past 14 years and hosts the vibrant 7900 plus member Super Star PTO Leaders Facebook Group. When she's not volunteering, you can find her in her garden, listening to the latest Katherine Center audiobook or walking the family dogs.In this conversation, we discuss:✅How to get people to show up to the first PTO meeting (hint: It's not by asking, “Hey, want to join the PTO?”)✅Ways people can get involved if they can't come to PTO meetings.✅Examples of low-maintenance, high-profit fundraisers.✅Deciding what events and initiatives are a priority for your district.✅Creative ways to get resources, funding, and donations. Here's where you can go to connect with Christina: On Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/ptoanswers On Pinterest here: https://www.pinterest.com/ptoanswers On YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/c/ptoanswersTake a look at her website here: https://ptoanswers.com/Sign up for the PTO/Teachers Collaboration Guide here: https://ptoanswers.com/teachers/Join the PTO Super Star Leaders Facebook Group: https://ptoanswers.com/community  We're thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL's comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers' timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments

In this episode I'm sharing the best romance books of 2024 that earned my elusive 5-star rating because they were just a cut above the rest from their writing quality, their storyline and pacing, the character development and the feelings that they evoked in me. If you're looking for the best romance novels of 2024 that dazzled last year, this is THE list!Books Mentioned: Bride by Ali Hazelwood: https://amzn.to/48HGLCVFangirl Down by Tessa Bailey: https://amzn.to/4cdVmHrThis Could Be Us by Kennedy Ryan: https://amzn.to/3KZoztVJust for the Summer by Abby Jimenez: https://amzn.to/3DhlswXThe Rule Book by Sarah Adams: https://amzn.to/3BZvtOTHere We Go Again by Alison Cochrun: https://amzn.to/4cdSJpnNine Month Contract by Amy Daws: https://amzn.to/3VEDFdlSavor It by Tarah DeWitt: https://amzn.to/3KXnQt1This Summer Will Be Different by Carley Fortune: https://amzn.to/3xzGJzkSummer Romance by Annabel Monaghan: https://amzn.to/3XAfJKvThe Rom-Commers by Katherine Center: https://amzn.to/3xcUxiyJust Some Stupid Love Story by Katelyn Doyle: https://amzn.to/4aTy0WaPlay Along by Liz Tomforde: https://amzn.to/3GOjrH7Business Casual by B.K. Borrison: https://amzn.to/3W1TxGTThe Games Gods Play by Abigail Owen: https://amzn.to/3ANjxyCFall With Me by Becka Mack: https://amzn.to/3BdQ0PvThe Most Wonderful Crime of the Year by Ally Carter: https://amzn.to/41soc4sLost and Lassoed by Lyla Sage: https://amzn.to/3ZuelbULinks:Best of the Year Hub: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/best-romance-books-of-the-year-lists/2025 Romance Book Reading Challenge: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/reading-challenge-2025/ Leave a Review: If you liked this episode, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast platform. 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.

Sara & Nicole round up their reading stats for 2024.Nicole's Top Ten: 10. The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center and Just For the Summer, by Abby Jimenez9. Ruthless Vows/ Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross8. The Hunter by Tana French7. The Appeal by Janice Hallett6. Colton Gentry's Third Act by Jeff Zentner5. Search by Michel Huneven4. The God of the Woods by Liz Moore3. In An Instant by Suzanne Redfearn2. Chenneville by Paulette Jiles1. Same As It Ever Was by Claire LombardoSara's Top List:Incidents Around the House, Josh MalermanAtalanta, Jennifer SaintNightcrawling, Leila MottleyMargo's Got Money Troubles, Rufi ThorpeSourdough, Robin SloanThe Last Murder at the End of the World, Stuart TurtonThe Miracles of the Namiya General Store, Keigo HigashinoSupport the show

Today's our last episode before our Christmas break. Sad, I know, but we have such a great guest: Sadie Dingfelder. She wrote the most excellent book “Do I Know You? A Faceblind Reporter's Journey into the Science of Sight, Memory, and Imagination.” Our conversation not only delved into face blindness (prosopagnosia) but also covered neurodivergence, aphantasia, and the importance of effective science communication.  We also discussed films and literature centered around Face Blindness: the new NBC series Brillant Minds starring Zachary Quinto, KDramas like Rich Man, Poor Woman, 100 Days My Prince, and The Beauty Inside, and the book Hello Stranger. Not only did Sadie consult on the book, but the author Katherine Center named the lead character after her! Contact us: BraaainsPodcast.com Follow: @BraaainsPodcast Music: @_Deppisch_ Support this show: Patreon.com/BraaainsPodcast

In Episode 184, Susie (@NovelVisits) and I close out the year with our Best Books of 2024 Genre Awards. We reveal our Overall Best Books (Fiction and Nonfiction) and our full breakdown by genre, including: Best Literary Fiction, Best Romance, Best Brain Candy, Best Genre Mash-Up, and more! Plus, we're sharing the winners for these same genres as chosen by the Sarah's Bookshelves Live Patreon community! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Announcements My 2025 Reading Tracker is out! Plus, this year we've added another option — a LITE Tracker. Once again, the Tracker is ONLY available to Superstars patrons (i.e., no longer available as a separate purchase for $14.99 here on my website). Also, to avoid Apple's 30% fee, be sure to join directly from Patreon's site, mobile or desktop. Become a Superstars Patron here! Instructions for how to give an SBL Patreon membership as a gift. Highlights Podcast reflections from 2024 — including top episodes based on download stats. A brief overview of Susie's and Sarah's 2024 year in reading. Our favorite books of the year: overall and by genre, including the SBL Patreon Community's picks. 2024 Genre Awards [16:45] Sarah Leaving by Roxana Robinson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [16:52] Margo's Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [21:21] Anna Bright is Hiding Something by Susie Orman Schnall | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [24:12] The Sequel by Jean Hanff Korelitz | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [28:42] The Wealth of Shadows by Graham Moore | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [32:26] JFK Jr. by RoseMarie Terenzio and Liz McNeil | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:25] Be Ready When the Luck Happens by Ina Garten | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:42] How To End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [46:11] Real Americans by Rachel Khong | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [50:46] Victim by Andrew Boryga | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [57:26] The God of the Woods by Liz Moore | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [59:40] Sipsworth by Simon Van Booy | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:04:24] Nuclear War by Annie Jacobsen | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:07:09] Same As It Ever Was by Claire Lombardo | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:08:47] Susie Wolf at the Table by Adam Rapp | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:59] Sandwich by Catherine Newman | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [22:05] Interesting Facts About Space by Emily Austin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:42] What Happened to Nina? by Dervla McTiernan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:43] The Women by Kristin Hannah | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [33:41] The Message by Ta-Nehisi Coates | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [38:16] One Day I'll Grow Up and Be a Beautiful Woman by Abi Maxwell | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [41:47] Funny Story by Emily Henry | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [47:23] Beautyland by Marie-Helene Bertino | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [51:54] The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [54:02] The Husbands by Holly Gramazio | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [58:18] Wandering Stars by Tommy Orange | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:00:14] Perris, California by Rachel Stark | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:02:44] Liars by Sarah Manguso | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:05:18] Nuclear War by Annie Jacobsen | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:07:09] Patrons James by Percival Everett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:55] Margo's Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:43] The God of the Woods by Liz Moore | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:16] The Women by Kristin Hannah | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:35] The Small and the Mighty by Sharon McMahon | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:10] Be Ready When the Luck Happens by Ina Garten | Amazon | Bookshop.org[43:33] Funny Story by Emily Henry | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:59] Annie Bot by Sierra Greer | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [53:28] The Tainted Cup by Robert Jackson Bennett | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [56;10] You Like It Darker by Stephen King | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [56:39] Victim by Andrew Boryga | Amazon | Bookshop.org [58:58] Twenty-Four Seconds From Now by Jason Reynolds | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:01:54] Piglet by Lottie Hazzell | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:03:22] The Husbands by Holly Gramazio | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:06:16] Other Books Mentioned Mercury by Amy Jo Burns [20:10] Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout [20:13] All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker [20:27] The Wedding People by Alison Espach [20:37] We All Want Impossible Things by Catherine Newman [22:17] Bad Blood by John Carreyrou [24:27] She Said by Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey [24:40] Mrs. Quinn's Rise to Fame by Olivia Ford [28:10] A Happier Life by Kristy Woodson Harvey [28:23] Good Material by Dolly Alderton [28:27] The Plot by Jean Hanff Korelitz [28:57] Nightwatching by Tracy Sierra [31:55] The Return of Ellie Black by Emiko Jean [32:00] Worst Case Scenario by T. J. Newman [32:05] Falling by T. J. Newman [32:20] Drowning by T. J. Newman [32:21] The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali [36:03] Spare by Prince Harry [37:20] The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt [40:00] Challenger by Adam Higginbotham [40:28] The Wives by Simone Gorrindo [44:46] Sociopath by Patric Gagne, Ph.D. [45:09] Consent by Jill Ciment [45:15] The Third Gilmore Girl by Kelly Bishop [45:21] Grief Is for People by Sloane Crosley [45:31] One Way Back by Christine Blasey Ford [45:34] Only Say Good Things by Crystal Hefner [45:43] There's Always This Year by Hanif Abdurraqib [45:48] People We Meet On Vacation by Emily Henry [47:10] Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez [48:51] The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center [48:59] Love of My Afterlife by Kirsty Greenwood [49:02] Summer Romance by Annabel Monaghan [49:34] Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell [49:44] The Other Valley by Scott Alexander Howard [53:47] The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown [56:12] Bride by Ali Hazelwood [56:27] Diavola by Jennifer Thorne [57:06] We Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewer [57:11] Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books by Kirsten Miller [59:17] Colored Television by Danzy Senna [59:22] I Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie Sue [59:27] We Are Experiencing a Slight Delay by Gary Janneti [59:35] There There by Tommy Orange [1:00:27] Anita de Monte Laughs Last by Xochitl Gonzalez [1:01:40] When the World Tips Over by Jandy Nelson [1:01:59] Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar [1:03:35] Dixon, Descending by Karen Outen [1:03:56] How We Named the Stars by Andrés N. Ordorica [1:04:11] The Safekeep by Yael van der Wouden [1:04:21] Bear by Julia Phillips [1:06:18] The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley [1:06:25] The Fury by Alex Michaelides [1:06:51] The Only Plane in the Sky by Garrett M. Graff [1:08:10] Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver [1:10:27] Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin [1:10:28] Top Podcast Episodes [4:40] Ep. 158: Best Books of 2023 Genre Awards with Susie (@NovelVisits) Ep. 160: The Best Backlist Books We Read in 2023 with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) Ep. 159: Winter 2024 Book Preview with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) Ep. 157: Best Books of 2023 Superlatives with Susie (@NovelVisits) Ep. 164: Winter 2024 Circle Back with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) Ep. 163: Classics & Retellings 101 with Sara Hildreth (@FictionMatters) Ep. 156: 2023 State of the Industry with Sarah Landis (Literary Agent) Ep. 162: BookTok 101 with Leigh Stein (Author & Journalist) Ep. 178: Behind the Scenes of Amazon's Best Books Lists with Al Woodworth, Senior Editor & Manager of Amazon Books Editorial Ep. 179: From Corporate America to Indie Bookstore Owner with Gayle Weiswasser (Co-Founder of Wonderland Books) Ep. 167: Circling Back to 2018 in Books with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide)

It's their book party, and they'll cry if they want to. And Magda and Lindsay do shed tears…of joy! Listen as they recap all the amazing wisdom and knowledge from this year's Texas Book Festival.    Also, check out the authors and creators they talk about on the show:  Wale Okerayi, Mateo Askaripour, Cebo Campbell, Ashley Elston, Amy Tintera, Katherine Center, Vanessa Chan, Rachel Khong, Jade Adia, Jas Hammonds, LaDarrion Williams, Karla Cornejo Villavicencio, Thao Votang   Email us!  Literally Books Website Literally Books Instagram Magda's Instagram Lindsay's Instagram Literally Books YouTube Literally Books TikTok

Christina Hidek - PTO: Getting Parent Participation, Growing Parent Leaders, and Working with School Administration. This is episode 718 of Teaching Learning Leading K12, an audio podcast. Christina Hidek is a recovering attorney turned Professional Organizer and certified PTO volunteer nerd. She founded PTO Answers 7 years ago to boost family engagement in schools and empower parents to improve their child's educational experience and school community through PTA/PTO involvement.  She's been an active PTO leader for the past 14 years and hosts the vibrant 7900 plus member Super Star PTO Leaders Facebook Group. When she's not volunteering, you can find her in her garden, listening to the latest Katherine Center audiobook or walking the family dogs. Our focus will be getting more parent participation, growing parent leaders, and working with the school administration. Awesome talk! So much to learn and think about. Before you go... You could help support this podcast by Buying Me A Coffee. Not really buying me something to drink but clicking on the link on my home page at https://stevenmiletto.com for Buy Me a Coffee or by going to this link Buy Me a Coffee. This would allow you to donate to help the show address the costs associated with producing the podcast from upgrading gear to the fees associated with producing the show. That would be cool. Thanks for thinking about it.  Hey, I've got another favor...could you share the podcast with one of your friends, colleagues, and family members? Hmmm? What do you think? Thank you! You are AWESOME! Connect & Learn More: https://ptoanswers.com https://www.facebook.com/ptoanswers https://www.youtube.com/c/ptoanswers https://www.pinterest.com/ptoanswers christina@ptoanswers.com Length - 57:33

In this week's episode, we revisit our most favorite genre, ROMANCE

Hi, so we're in love with this woman. Katherine Center's the Rom Commers has the magical ability to make us laugh and cry.... SIMULTANEOUSLY? So we dragged her into this podcast to discuss HOW SHE DID THAT. And bless her, she spilled her secrets. This woman is so down to earth, kind, and so funny. You're in for a treat! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/novelboundpodcast/support

Catherine gets unceremoniously dismissed and takes the long journey home to Fullerton.  Akina and I reminisce about silk gloves and our mass wedding. We also talk about Gaza a bit in the end and the atrocities that are happening there, so if that's triggering for you keep that in mind. Feel free to skip to the end where we tell you how to donate and help a Palestinian family. You can also check the link down below. What we're reading/watching/listening to: The Bodyguard by Katherine Center, Hardcore History Podcast HELP THE RASHID FAMILY ESCAPE GAZA: https://gofund.me/d31deff8 We have a twitter!  We have a TikTok!  Email us: Janeaustenculturenight@gmail.com Hosted by Laurel Nakai and Akina Cox Music and Production by Laurel NakaiAd Music “Misty Wind Troubadour” by Noru from Pixabay

It all Started on the ‘BookSarina, here! This episode began in a Facebook thread. In a writers' group, author Dena Moes R.N. expressed some concern about trying to bring a book to market during a very noisy news cycle. I pushed back a little, given the nature of her book: It's Your Body: The Young Woman's Guide to Empowered Sexual Health. This lovely book is no stranger to politics. In 2024 it's political to even suggest that a young woman has the right to decide the fate of her own body.What could be more timely?Dena and I brought our friendly debate to your door, where we cover:* What does the election cycle really mean for books and book buyers?* What are some elements of Dena's story that play well with readers who are staring down the barrel at a very important election? * Who should Dena talk to about this book, and why?You can see some of the content Dena is working on at Instagram and TiktokYou can find the book at Amazon and Bookshop. Books we're reading this week: Dena is reading I'm Mostly Here to Enjoy Myself by Glynnis MacNicol and The Inner Practice of Medicine by Dr. Wendy Lau. Sarina is reading: Happiness for Beginners by Katherine Center and One Jump at a Time by Nathan Chen. Are you a “sticker”?Regular listeners know that whenever we meet our writing goals around here, we text each other one word: STICKER. (and then we add a cute sticker to our calendar, because we're fun like that).We call supporters of the #AmWriting podcast “stickers” too—and while our regular podcasts and shownotes go out to all of our listeners, we have created a few things just for stickers. First, there's the Summer Blueprint for a Book Sprint—10 weeks dedicated to working with coaches and a community to figure out how to turn your next idea—or your struggling draft—into the book you want to write. You can join it anytime (the how-to is below).Stickers can also submit the first page of their WIP to the Booklab First Pages podcast, where we might choose it to discuss, review and offer ideas for persuading agents, editors and readers that they want to turn that page and see what happens next. (Find the link to submit a first page HERE.)I'm a sticker! Give it all to me now.SubscribeTo join the Blueprint for a Book Summer Sprint, you must be a paid subscriber. Then, opt-in and set up your podcast feed. Don't worry, it's simple! Click here to go to your #AmWriting account, and when you see this screen, do two things:* Toggle “Blueprint for a Book” from “off” (grey) to “on” (green).* Click “set up podcast” next to Blueprint for a Book and follow the easy instructions.Once you set those things up, you'll get all the future Blueprint emails and podcasts (and if you're joining the party a bit late, just head to our website and click on Blueprint for a Book in the top menu). This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amwriting.substack.com/subscribe

Summary: Holly would like to welcome you to her state! On this stop of their Summer Road Trip Series, Holly and Devin discuss books set in the sunny, lovely California. Whether you're basking in the glitz and glam of Hollywood in LA, sipping wine in Napa Valley or dancing in the queer energy of San Francisco, this state truly has it all. That applies to books as well - from serial killers to rich people behaving badly to epic romances, Holly and Devin feel like they'd never run out of Cali stories to enjoy.  Topics Discussed: The Dagger (4:52): Holly discussed Good Rich People by Eliza Jane Brazier, a psychological thriller following Lyla, her husband Graham and his mother Margo as they play “The Game” i.e. inviting people to live in their guesthouse under the pretense of helping them, only to secretly manipulate and destroy their lives. Enter Demi, an unhoused woman who has jumped at the chance to better her own lot in life and will absolutely not go down without a fight. Holly's key takeaways were: The sense of place wasn't a huge part of the book but the story utilized specific aspects of Los Angeles specifically in a way that felt real-to-life and effective. No other city is as well positioned to tell a story like this, contrasting great wealth against great poverty.  This book highlights a huge issue that a lot of the country is facing, and which cities like Los Angeles in particular face: the wealth gap and housing crisis. The contrast of Demi's life compared to Lyla and Graham's highlights the callousness and cruelty that can arise from extreme privilege. It questions the morality of the wealthy and the lengths they will go to maintain their status. Brazier takes on a satirical tone and creates unlikeable characters in Good Rich People; the sharp way Brazier writes in Lyla's voice, for example, expressing her disdain for the less-than-wealthy, had Holly laughing out loud because it was so gross and so spot-on. The depiction of rich people is extreme and requires some suspension of disbelief; the reader can easily question if very wealthy people are quite this overtly awful and criminal.  The Heart (19:26): Devin discussed The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center, a novel following Emma Wheeler as she gets the chance of a lifetime to collaborate on a romantic comedy film script with the world-famous and award winning Charlie Yeates. Having lived in Houston, TX her entire life caring for her disabled father after a rock climbing accent when she was young, Emma's leap to LA is in crisis right away when she realizes Charlie didn't know she was coming and does not want a collaborator. Stuck in his mansion together, can these enemies find common, rom-com ground? Devin's key takeaways were: This book had big Hollywood energy; Meryl Streep is featured as well as several fictitious stars and as Charlie takes Emma around the city we as the reader get to experience the glitz, glam, and privilege of the area. There's heavy industry talk and focus for film and screenwriting which is enjoyable to delve into.  While yes, this is a romance, our protagonists' journeys center more than anything on their careers. What does aspiration look like when you've dealt with so much trauma? How does one advocate for themselves in their career authentically? Emma and Charlie must face each other's divergent paths as well as their trajectories in order to heal and grow together.  If you're into trauma porn, this book is for you. Devin struggled a bit with just how many different threads of trauma exist for Emma and Charlie and how the book piles even more on as it goes. It was a bit of a miss here; a little less volume of trauma would have made the core trauma more emotionally gratifying.  Hot On the Shelf (38:12): Devin: Not in Love by Ali Hazelwood Holly: The Hacienda by Isabel Cañas What's Making Our Hearts Race (41:09): Devin: The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris Holly: House of the Dragon Season 2   Instagram: @heartsanddaggerspod Website: www.heartsanddaggerspod.com   If you like what you hear, please tell your friends and rate and review us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so that we can find our perfect audience.

In this episode, I'm sharing my July 2024 reading list and telling it to you straight about whether I think these books are ones you should read or if they are ones you should just skip. This month has a lot of variety so tune in to see which are worth adding to your TBR list.Sponsor: Star Maker by Jessa Nevins: https://amzn.to/4fhcSwCCraving a slow burn, friends-to-lovers rockstar romance for your next beach read? Set in Los Angeles in the 1980s, follow Kit McKenna, an ambitious artist manager, and Sully Fox, the swoon-worthy singer of a hot new band. Opposites attract and their chemistry is undeniable. But the trials of fame and passion bring a new set of challenges they never expected. Can their love survive the spotlight? Grab your copy of 'Star Maker' by Jessa Nevins today and let the music and romance sweep you away! Available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited.BOOKS MENTIONED:The Love of My Afterlife by Kirsty Greenwood: https://amzn.to/3WLblHMThe Rule Book by Sarah Adams: https://amzn.to/46yso3cSeven Summers by Paige Toon: https://amzn.to/3WpLhkaPen Pal by J.T. Geissinger: https://amzn.to/3ymAIXcMistakes We Never Made by Hannah Brown: https://amzn.to/3yrmVhXSummer Romance by Annabel Monaghan: https://amzn.to/3yrng4dUnwanted by Mia Sheridan: https://amzn.to/3YtWDpNNot Another Love Song by Julie Soto: https://amzn.to/4da9rGwBusiness Casual by B.K. Borison: https://amzn.to/3AkKFVqThe Selection by Kiera Cass: https://amzn.to/4drrMPcThe Rom-Commers by Katherine Center: https://amzn.to/4du5tboThe Takeover by T.L. Swan: https://amzn.to/4dp76HtThe Casanova by T.L. Swan: https://amzn.to/4fvGaHRLINKS MENTIONED: Best Romance Books of 2024: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/best-romance-novels-2024/Join the She Reads Romance Books Book Club: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/bookclubLEAVE A REVIEW!If you liked this episode, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast platform. 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.

Are we dreaming or did we really sit down with Katherine Center for the bookish chat of a lifetime?! Tune in for this week's interview with the New York Times bestselling author + all-time favorite of ours (and so many of you)! We leave no page unturned in this fun-filled, inspiring, comprehensive conversation with one of the best in the biz. What makes a good love story? What does a year-in-the-life look like for Katherine Center? How did she get her start?  We're serving it all + more today, besties! Thank you so much for listening! Leave a review, send us your questions, drop us a hi anytime! Find Katherine on Instagram (@katherinecenter) and her website! Find us on Instagram (@bookedsolidpod,@hannahbooksit, @stephanienmack)! TODAY'S SOLID SPONSOR: Today's episode of the Booked Solid podcast is brought to you by Kelly Greer, luxury + family travel advisor. Get Booked Solid—on your perfect getaway! “Traveling leaves you speechless and then turns you into a storyteller.” — Kelly Greer Find Kelly on her website, Instagram, and/or email her directly with inquiries: kelly.greer@holidayroadadventures.com. TODAY'S SOLID READS: The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center How to Walk Away by Katherine Center The Bodyguard by Katherine Center Thinks You Save in a Fire by Katherine Center  Hello Stranger by Katherine Center  The Science of Storytelling by Will Storr The Summer Pact by Emily Giffin  Save the Cat! by Blake Snyder

Break out your TBR list because today I'm sharing my top 10 most anticipated new romance book releases for August 2024. These are the new romance book releases dropping next month that I cannot wait to read and suggest you read as well. With so many new romance book titles to choose from every month, I'm here to help you pick the ones that you absolutely should preorder or mark to read so you don't miss what could be your next favorite romance.BOOKS MENTIONED:The Pairing by Casey McQuiston: https://amzn.to/4a03NUZNorthern Twilight by Samantha Young: https://amzn.to/4br6ijVHaunted Ever After by Jen DeLuca: https://amzn.to/4eKLbfkBorn of Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout: https://amzn.to/3xJ7amkWerewolf's Guide to Seducing a Vampire by Sarah Hawley: https://amzn.to/4dolnoOWicked Serve by Grace Reilly: https://amzn.to/45NZVG5Miranda in Retrograde by Lauren Layne: https://amzn.to/45QOwWjThe Bonus by T.L. Swan: https://amzn.to/3XOHeAqBridesmaid Undercover by Meghan Quinn: https://amzn.to/3W7GTrdMagical Meet Cute by Jean Meltzer: https://amzn.to/3VMKOIyThe Rom-Commers by Katherine Center (our July 2024 Book Club pick!): https://amzn.to/462cDkYLINKS: Join the She Reads Romance Books Book Club: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/bookclub Upcoming New Romance Book Releases: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/upcoming-book-releases/FOLLOW ME! Blog: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/ Podcast: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shereadsromancebooks Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/shereadsromancebooks Instagram https://www.instagram.com/shereadsromancebooksblog/LEAVE 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.

In this episode of the First Fifty Pages, Katherine Center joins Kelsey and Jenn to talk about how stories are uniquely able to change our lives, the aggressively misunderstood happy ending, and why love stories matter. Let the banter begin!

Joy! Katherine Center is the human form of joy and we are all the better for her books and presence in the book world. I was so thrilled to chat with her AGAIN about the most delightful, latest romance, The Rom-Commers. We had an epic chat and talked romance, books, the need for more JOY and so much more. I left feeling elated and HAPPY! Like I say in the episode, we all need MORE Katherine Center in our lives!

I've known Katherine Center for nearly 15 years and have watched her rise from an unknown author who played to empty bookstores to a New York Times bestselling rockstar who has had two of her 11 novels made into movies. She returns to the program to discuss her latest, THE ROM-COMMERS, her writing process and how the journey to success is as important, if not more so, as the success itself. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New York Times bestselling author Katherine Center was able to spend a bit more time on the program for a bonus segment and we were all the better for it. Movies, influencers, podcasts... does Katherine have one? All that and still a bit more! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Settle in listeners, because this week's episode is like a warm blanket. Magda and Lindsay catch up and talk about the lovely shenanigans at two author events for Julia London and Katherine Center. And, of course, they discuss all the exciting news to come out in the book world these last few weeks.    Literally Books, The Podcast Instagram Magda's Instagram Lindsay's Instagram   Intro Song: "Would it Kill You," courtesy of The Solder Thread

On Tuesday's show: The Texas Medical Board has adopted new guidance for doctors regarding what qualifies as a "life-threatening" circumstance when it comes to abortions in the state, which are only legal in order to preserve a pregnant person's life or a major bodily function. We learn what the guidance says and discuss the legal implications of it.Also this hour: We learn what it's like to experience a hurricane from the air as we meet NOAA's Hurricane Hunters.Then, Houston writer Katherine Center talks about what makes a good romantic comedy, something she knows very well -- and is the subject of her latest novel, The Rom-Commers.And we continue our summer series visiting area museums and attractions with a visit to the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft.

Happy Sunday!! This week we are reviewing Katherine Center's most recent book The Rom-Commers a fun and funny rom-com itself that asks the question, can you make a cynic fall in love? We had a lot of fun reading and reviewing this book and we hope you enjoy our review!!  What to know what's coming up or behind the scenes then make sure you are following us on all our socials here! Next Up: Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister   The Rom-Commers Summary:  She's rewriting his love story. But can she rewrite her own? Emma Wheeler desperately longs to be a screenwriter. She's spent her life studying, obsessing over, and writing romantic comedies―good ones! That win contests! But she's also been the sole caretaker for her kind-hearted dad, who needs full-time care. Now, when she gets a chance to re-write a script for famous screenwriter Charlie Yates―The Charlie Yates! Her personal writing god!―it's a break too big to pass up. Emma's younger sister steps in for caretaking duties, and Emma moves to L.A. for six weeks for the writing gig of a lifetime. But what is it they say? Don't meet your heroes? Charlie Yates doesn't want to write with anyone―much less “a failed, nobody screenwriter.” Worse, the romantic comedy he's written is so terrible it might actually bring on the apocalypse. Plus! He doesn't even care about the script―it's just a means to get a different one green-lit. Oh, and he thinks love is an emotional Ponzi scheme. But Emma's not going down without a fight. She will stand up for herself, and for rom-coms, and for love itself. She will convince him that love stories matter―even if she has to kiss him senseless to do it. But . . . what if that kiss is accidentally amazing? What if real life turns out to be so much . . . more real than fiction? What if the love story they're writing breaks all Emma's rules―and comes true?

New York Times bestselling author Katherine Center returns to the podcast, this time to discuss her charming new book, THE ROM-COMMERS. The novel follows two screenwriters who co-write a romantic comedy… and fall madly in love with each other. Katherine delves into her writing process, touching on how she builds romantic tension and characters with depth. She also talks about how her happy marriage influences her writing and then reveals what she is working on next!Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3KvpZflShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode, Emma is joined by NYT bestselling author, Katherine Center, to chat about her newest book, The Rom-Commers. They also discuss the craft of writing a romance novel, reading from your heart, the impact of libraries, line dancing and so much more. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listener Lauren S. told us about The Bodyguard, and as soon as we saw the cover and learned that it was HOT on booktok... we knew what we had to do.Mean Book Club is four ladies (UCB, BuzzFeed, College Humor, Impractical Jokers) who read, discuss and whine about NYT bestselling books that have questionable literary merit. It's fun. It's cathartic. It's perfect for your commute. New podcast every other Tuesday!  Here's the Season 17 reading list: Happy Place by Emily HenryDivine Rivals by Rebecca RossJust the Nicest Couple by Mary KubicaThe Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley HellerA Man Called Ove by Fredrik BackmanThe Bodyguard by Katherine CenterEleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail HoneymanDichotomy of Leadership by Jocko Willink and Leif BabinSend any future book suggestions to meanbookclub@gmail.com! Follow us on the socials @meanbookclub! Rate, like, subscribe, and check out our Patreon page at patreon.com/meanbookclub to become a true patron of the mean arts.  CREDITS: Hosted by Sarah Burton, Clara Morris, Johnna Scrabis, & Sabrina B. Jordan. This episode was produced and edited by Johnna Scrabis. Special thanks to FSM Team for our theme song, "Parkour Introvert," and thanks to LiQWYD for the song that played during the summary, "Sweet."  You can get the both here: https://www.free-stock-music.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mean-book-club--3199521/support.

In this episode, I am joined by New York Times bestselling author Katherine Center to talk about her new romance book release, The Rom-Commers, a romcom about writing a romcom! We also chat about:Writing about writers and why you'll fall for Emma and Charlie,Defending the romance genre,Why we love romcom movies,Writing closed-door romances,Line dancing fun,Book to movie adaptations, and more! Plus, learn about how you can join Katherine this July for an Author Q&A chat with the She Reads Romance Books Book Club. The Book Club is reading The Rom-Commers for our July 2024 book selection and Katherine will be joining in the fun! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Grab The Rom-Commers: https://amzn.to/3wTw8ihJoin the She Reads Romance Books Book Club: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/bookclubEpisode on the Blog: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/katherine-center-interview-the-rom-commers/FOLLOW KATHERINE:Web: https://katherinecenter.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katherinecenter/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katherinecenterfans/FOLLOW ME! Blog: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/ Podcast: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shereadsromancebooks Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/shereadsromancebooks Instagram https://www.instagram.com/shereadsromancebooksblog/LEAVE 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.

Get ready to jump into summer reading with this list of must-read summer romance books of 2024. If you're looking for new summer romance books that will sweep you away to someplace new or that are just full of summer lovin' then these are the books to add to your TBR list. Plus, find out how you can participate in my Passport to Romance fun this summer with an awesome giveaway.BOOKS MENTIONED:Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez: https://amzn.to/417CHIKThis Summer Will Be Different by Carley Fortune: https://amzn.to/3Gr6J0GSeven Summers by Paige Toon: https://amzn.to/49MNI4VLies and Weddings by Kevin Kwan: https://amzn.to/3t9ctZKSummer Romance by Annabel Monaghan: https://amzn.to/3WcSrdgThe Summer Escape by Jill Shalvis: https://amzn.to/49KfFugThe Rom-Commers by Katherine Center: https://amzn.to/3xcUxiyOne Last Summer by Kate Spencer: https://amzn.to/3xWsWCxThe Art of Catching Feelings by Alicia Thompson: https://amzn.to/3xLi2Q9The Pairing by Casey McQuiston: https://amzn.to/4a4oalcLINKS MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Join the She Reads Romance Books Book Club: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/bookclubFOLLOW ME! Blog: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/ Podcast: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shereadsromancebooks Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/shereadsromancebooks Instagram https://www.instagram.com/shereadsromancebooksblog/LEAVE 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.

Tune in to today's episode to hear which romance books I read this past month and what I really thought of them. I'll tell you which I highly recommend you read and which I think you should probably skip. I have a lot to recommend this month as I cranked through quite a few books so tune in to see what made my listBOOKS MENTIONEDThe Trail of Lost Hearts by Tracey Garvis Graves: https://amzn.to/4bzVwbNThe Rom-Commers by Katherine Center: https://amzn.to/49Ye8kmOnce Persuaded, Twice Shy by Melodie Edwards: https://amzn.to/3UdtPygMoon Touched by Elizabeth Briggs: https://amzn.to/49XB8QAThe Anti-Hero by Sara Cate: https://amzn.to/4dlKCIkGood Girl Fail by Roni Loren: https://amzn.to/44kyX8sTempting Promises by Corinne Michaels: https://amzn.to/3QoB2KTA Fate Inked in Blood by Danielle Jensen: https://amzn.to/44q02HsBreakaway by Grace Reilly: https://amzn.to/3y0f2Q9Learn Your Lesson by Kandi Steiner: https://amzn.to/3y8YFAwOne Last Summer by Kate Spencer: https://amzn.to/4aWtMhgThe Idea of You by Robinne Lee: https://amzn.to/4dlPpsWNot Made to Last by Jay Maclean: https://amzn.to/4a3L4bgSavor It by Tarah DeWitt: https://amzn.to/3uIqAFTLINKS MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST Join the She Reads Romance Books Book Club: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/bookclubFOLLOW ME! Blog: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/ Podcast: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shereadsromancebooks Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/shereadsromancebooks Instagram https://www.instagram.com/shereadsromancebooksblog/LEAVE 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.

Summary: Grab your brushes and palettes, friends - we're talking Visual Artists today! Join Holly and Devin as they discuss the role of art in their own lives and books in their wheelhouses. Whether you grew up drawing horses and chickens like Holly or unable to even master stick figures like Devin, a splash of color from artists (or blood) will be just what you need to get your hearts racing.  Topics Discussed: The Dagger (5:28): Holly discussed The Mill House Murders by Yukito Ayatsuji, a puzzle game mystery novel set in 1985. On a long, stormy night a woman fell from the house's tower, a painting disappeared, and a man vanished under what seemed to be impossible circumstances. Soon after, the group of six left in (alive) in the home discover a body burning in the basement incinerator. After that chill opener, the novel unfolds in two threads: this disastrous night and the same night one year later when the group gathers with more questions than ever. Holly's key takeaways were: Fujinuma Kiichi, wheelchair-bound after a horrific car accident, is the son of renowned artist Fujinuma Issei and lives in Mill House with all of his father's paintings and his 20-years-younger wife who is kept isolated in the tower. The group we meet gathers annually for a viewing of the portraits, but this year goes sideways - fast.  The role of art is woven through the novel in an impactful way: the absent but looming artist father, the desire and greed the visitors feel for his work, art as a motivation for crimes and even a secret, final painting that Fujinuma Kiichi won't let anyone see. The overall structure and puzzle element to the mystery really resonated with Holly; you have to pay close attention as a reader and the plot can get a little convoluted but it all comes together in the end very effectively.  The Heart (24:14): Devin discussed Hello, Stranger by Katherine Center, a novel following Sadie Montgomery as she almost simultaneously discovers she is a finalist in a national portrait competition that would revolutionize her career prospects as an artist and that she was rendered face-blind after a surgery to remove a blood clot from her brain. Sadie must rediscover herself and the people in her life as she navigates her face-blindness and works to uncover how someone who can't see faces could paint an award-winning portrait. Devin's key takeaways were: Center loves to weave new and old trauma through her romances and this book is no exception. Sadie has to deal not only with her mother's death, her father's apathy, her step mother and sister's horrible treatment, but also the trials and struggles of navigating friendships with other priorities while she fights against her face blindness.  Post-surgery, Sadie must confront and work her way through the fact that her portraiture might be ruined. She fights hard to overcome her handicap and still render photo-realistic portraits for the competition, but is ultimately unable to do so and has to question her artistic identity and her personal identity through the process. Never has Devin ever dealt with a love triangle this fun or unusual. To only have the male protagonists described in the most vague, weird ways (their vibe, their torsos, the blob of their face and hair) was an absolute blast and the potential lover character arcs were phenomenal to follow.  Hot On the Shelf (44:17): Holly: Those Beyond the Wall by Micaiah Johnson Devin: A Fate Inked in Blood by Danielle L. Jensen What's Making Our Hearts Race (48:06): Holly: The Legend of Korra on Netflix Devin: A wheel throwing pottery class   Instagram: @heartsanddaggerspod Website: www.heartsanddaggerspod.com   If you like what you hear, please tell your friends and rate and review us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so that we can find our perfect audience.

This week on From the Front Porch, Annie recaps the books she read and loved in March. You get 10% off your books when you order your March Reading Recap bundle! Each month, we offer a Reading Recap bundle, which features Annie's three favorite books she read that month. To purchase the books mentioned in this episode, stop by The Bookshelf in Thomasville, visit our website (type “Episode 470” into the search bar and tap enter to find the books mentioned in this episode), or download and shop on The Bookshelf's official app: Annie's March Reading Recap Bundle - $68 James by Percival Everett Headshot by Rita Bullwinkel Ladies' Lunch by Lore Segal Run Towards the Danger by Sarah Polley Granite Harbor by Peter Nichols (releases April 30) Headshot by Rita Bullwinkel James by Percival Everett Happily Never After by Lynn Painter Mostly What God Does by Savannah Guthrie They Can't Kill Us Until They Kill Us by Hanif Abdurraquib The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center (releases June 11) Ladies' Lunch by Lore Segal Thank you to this week's sponsor, the 103rd Annual Rose Show and Festival here in Thomasville, Georgia. Held in historic Downtown Thomasville, the Rose Show & Festival is sponsored by the City of Thomasville and has been a southwest Georgia tradition since 1922. Enjoy rose and flower shows, live music, an artisan market, an antique car show, a parade and fantastic shopping and dining in Downtown Thomasville. This year's 103rd annual event is April 26-27. Plan your visit at thomasvillega.com. From the Front Porch is a weekly podcast production of The Bookshelf, an independent bookstore in South Georgia. You can follow The Bookshelf's daily happenings on Instagram, Tiktok, and Facebook, and all the books from today's episode can be purchased online through our store website, www.bookshelfthomasville.com.  A full transcript of today's episode can be found here. Special thanks to Dylan and his team at Studio D Podcast Production for sound and editing and for our theme music, which sets the perfect warm and friendly tone for our Thursday conversations.  This week, Annie is listening to Worry by Alexandra Tanner. If you liked what you heard in today's episode, tell us by leaving a review on Apple Podcasts. You can also support us on Patreon, where you can access bonus content, monthly live Porch Visits with Annie, our monthly live Patreon Book Club with Bookshelf staffers, Conquer a Classic episodes with Hunter, and more. Just go to patreon.com/fromthefrontporch. We're so grateful for you, and we look forward to meeting back here next week. Our Executive Producers are...Ashley Ferrell, Cammy Tidwell, Chanta Combs, Chantalle C, Kate O'Connell, Kristin May, Laurie Johnson, Linda Lee Drozt, Martha, Nicole Marsee, Stacy Laue, Stephanie Dean, Susan Hulings, and Wendi Jenkins.

On this episode of Currently Reading, Roxanna and Mary are discussing: Bookish Moments: teaching littles to read and a book press Current Reads: all the great, interesting, and/or terrible stuff we've been reading lately Deep Dive: tropes Roxanna and Mary want to see MORE of in their reading The Fountain: we visit our perfect fountain to make wishes about our reading lives Show notes are time-stamped below for your convenience. Read the transcript of the episode (this link only works on the main site) .  .  .  .  .  2:09 - Our Bookish Moments of the Week 2:25 - Teach Your Child To Read In 100 Easy Lessons by Siegfried Engelmann 4:02 - The Unspeakable Acts of Zina Pavlou by Eleni Kyriacou (Blackwell's hardcover link, releases in paperback in the US October 8, 2024. If you want to wait for the paperback you can pre-order HERE) 5:51 - Our Current Reads 5:56 - Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell (Mary) 6:08 - Waterstone's 10:14 - The Undertaking of Heart and Mercy by Megan Bannen (Roxanna) 11:02 - Under The Whispering Door by T.J. Klune 14:12 - A Woman in the Polar Night by Christiane Ritter (Mary) 17:46 - Hello Stranger by Katherine Center (Roxanna) 17:54 - Happiness for Beginners by Katherine Center 21:20 - Things You Save in a Fire by Katherine Center 21:30 - How To Walk Away by Katherine Center 23:16 - The Bodyguard by Katherine Center 24:30 - @katherinecenter on Instagram 24:36 - The Six Deaths of the Saint by Alix E. Harrow (Mary, Amazon link) 27:46 - It's Easier Than You Think by Sylvia Boorstein (Roxanna) 27:57 - Mary and Roxanna's Top Ten Reads of 2023 episode 33:52 - Deep Dive: Bookish Tropes We Want More Of 36:30 - Small Change by Roan Parrish 36:41 - Again, Rachel by Marian Keyes 38:03 - Holiday Romance by Catherine Walsh 38:16 - Mary's Instagram (Holiday Romance is under her “Books Vol. 6” highlight) 39:54 - The Bromance Book Club by Lyssa Kay Adams 40:25 - Nora Goes Off Script by Annabel Monaghan 42:58 - Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett 43:05 - Hench by Natalize Zina Walschots 43:13 - Things You Save in a Fire by Katherine Center 44:17 - The Change by Kirsten Miller 46:01 - The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi by Shannon Chakraborty 47:01 - The Wretched Waterpark by Kiersten White (Sinister Summer #1) 47:07 - The Night Gardener by Jonathan Auxier 49:31 - Happily Ever Ninja by Penny Reid 50:54 - Sisters of the Vast Black by Lina Rather 51:35 - Search by Michelle Huneven 51:43 - In This House of Brede by Rumer Godden 52:36 - Everyone In My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson 52:38 - Everyone On This Train Is A Suspect by Benjamin Stevenson 54:54 - The Woman Next Door by Yewande Omotoso 55:30 - Fellowship Point by Alice Elliott Dark 57:07 - Meet Us At The Fountain 57:12 - I wish to motivate listeners to spend time with their physical TBR and plan reads or cull books. (Mary) 59:35 - I wish to press Burnout by Emily and Amelia Nagoski. (Roxanna) 59:46 - Burnout by Emily and Amelia Nagoski 1:02:18 - Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski Support Us: Become a Bookish Friend | Grab Some Merch Shop Bookshop dot org | Shop Amazon Bookish Friends Receive: The Indie Press List with a curated list of five books hand sold by the indie of the month. March's IPL comes to us from our Anchor store An Unlikely Story! Trope Thursday with Kaytee and Bunmi - a behind the scenes peek into the publishing industry All Things Murderful with Meredith and Elizabeth - special content for the scary-lovers, brought to you with the special insights of an independent bookseller The Bookish Friends Facebook Group - where you can build community with bookish friends from around the globe as well as our hosts Connect With Us: The Show: Instagram | Website | Email | Threads The Hosts and Regulars: Meredith | Kaytee | Mary | Roxanna Affiliate Disclosure: All affiliate links go to Bookshop unless otherwise noted. Shopping here helps keep the lights on and benefits indie bookstores. Thanks for your support!

In this special episode (a live event at Zibby's Bookshop in Santa Monica!), writer and podcaster Laura Tremaine chats with Australian author Emma Grey about THE LAST LOVE NOTE, a “gorgeous, charming, funny, heart-rending, longing-filled triumph of a read” (Katherine Center). Emma describes her journey into writing (she fell in love with Anne of Green Gables, of course) and then delves into the intricacies of grief, candidly discussing the loss of her husband and mother and the power of writing as a form of catharsis. The two also touch on themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery.Purchase on Bookshop:The Last Love Note: bit.ly/3sYiAzZThe Life Council: https://bit.ly/3SLmOUDShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.