Podcasts about Kirkus Reviews

Melisa Febos joins Let's Talk Memoir for a conversation about romantic obsessions, celibacy as a portal to freedom, living her way into a corner and having to fight her way out, leading with scene and story and plot, taking back the sovereignty of her own mind and body, approaching oneself as a protagonist, leaving out what isn't central to the story, remembering memoir is not a transcription of a time lived, radical feminists, exercising agency and self-reclamation, living an examined life, integrating memories that were indigestible to us in the moment, the project of looking at ourselves honestly, and her most recent book, now in paperback The Dry Season: A Memoir of Pleasure in a Year Without Sex. Ronit's upcoming workshop: Writing Dynamic Memoir: From Lived Experience to Gripping Story https://www.lmcmurtrylitcenter.org/workshops/writing-dynamic-memoir-from-lived-experience-to-gripping-story   Also in this episode: -deepending friendships  -memoir-plus digressions -writing about our obsessions   Books mentioned in this episode: Will and Attention by Meghan O'Gieblyn  Canon by Paige Lewis Fat Swim by Emma Copley Eisenberg   Melissa Febos is the national bestselling author of five books, including Abandon Me, Girlhood—which won the National Book Critics Circle Award in Criticism, Body Work: The Radical Power of Personal Narrative, and, most recently, The Dry Season. Her awards and fellowships include those from the Guggenheim Foundation, LAMBDA Literary, the National Endowment for the Arts, The British Library, The Black Mountain Institute, MacDowell, the Bogliasco Foundation, The American Library in Paris, and others. Her work has appeared in The Paris Review, The New Yorker, The Sun, The New York Times Magazine, The Best American Essays, Vogue, The Best American Travel and Food Writing, and New York Review of Books. Febos is a Roy J. Carver Professor at the University of Iowa, where she teaches in the Nonfiction Writing Program. She lives in Iowa City with her wife, the poet Donika Kelly.   Connect with Melissa: Website: https://www.melissafebos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissafebos Purchase book via bookshop: This is for the pre-order paperback for The Dry Season https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-dry-season-a-memoir-of-pleasure-in-a-year-without-sex-melissa-febos/f1c8367d8e351d91?ean=9780593685150&next=t - Ronit Plank bio and links:  Ronit Plank is a writer, teacher, and editor whose work has appeared in The Atlantic, Poets & Writers, River Teeth's Beautiful Things, The Rumpus, Salon, Hippocampus, The New York Times, and elsewhere, earning Best of the Net, Best Microfiction, and multiple Pushcart Prize nominations. Her memoir When She Comes Back was a Book Riot Best True Crime Book and Kirkus Reviews calls it, “An intimate, intuitive, emotionally vivid family account that finds hope in reconciliation". Ronit is also the author of the award-winning short story collection Home is a Made-Up Place, and her work has been anthologized in Selected Memories, Vol. 2: 15 Years of Hippocampus Magazine and Manna Songs: Stories of Jewish Culture and Heritage. Ronit is the Creative Nonfiction Editor at The Citron Review, teaches memoir at a host of venues including the University of Washington's Continuum Program, Antioch University, and 92NY's Roundtable, and is host of the podcast Let's Talk Memoir and the Substack Let's Talk Memoir. Find her on social media @ronitplank   Website: www.ronitplank.com Substack: https://substack.com/@ronitplank Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ronitplank/ When She Comes Back: https://ronitplank.com/when-she-comes-back/

Carmela Dutra is a writer from the Bay Area who loves food trucks, family, and cozy mysteries. Her debut, A Murder Most Fowl, has been praised by Kirkus Reviews for its “serious set of crimes leavened by plenty of amusing moments,” by Criminal Element for the “juicy reasoning behind the sabotage that was almost as shocking as the murder itself,” and described as “the perfect escapist read, brimming with banter and an extra helping of fun” by New York Times bestselling author Ellery Adams. She has also been featured in CrimeReads Magazine.A lover of humor, quirky characters, and all things geeky, Carmela spends her days sketching, sipping far too much coffee, and over-cuddling her allergy-inducing cats and dog. She lives with her husband and two dinosaur-obsessed sons, drawing inspiration from rainy afternoons, bustling farmers' markets, and the unexpected moments that make life memorable. Carmela's Website: CarmelaDutra.comThe blog post about querying we spoke about: https://carmeladutra.com/blog/f/an-authors-guide-to-querying-getting-startedhttps://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/authors/2330108/carmela-dutra/Sign up for her newsletter: https://carmeladutra.com/newsletterhttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarmelahttps://www.facebook.com/AuthorCarmelaDutra/Support the showFollow Moms Who Create:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/momswhocreatepodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/momswhocreatepodcastMonthly Meeting Book Club - https://www.facebook.com/groups/momswhocreatebookclubWebsite - https://www.momswhocreate.com/

In celebration of the launch of season 8, Jill Christman joins Let's Talk Memoir to interview Ronit about growing up with no blueprint for making a relationship work, fending for ourselves in childhood, being driven by curiosity, writing about others with generosity and complexity, conveying to readers that we are not the only one, the use of speculation to move toward a deeper truth, the key to memoir structure, how the now-narrator reaches a hand back to help the character we were, finding a deeper empathy and understanding, opposite world, trying to look perfectly 1980s, trusting that our memories are trying to tell us something, and Ronit's memoir When She Comes Back.   Also in this episode: -Swedish Fish -The Love Boat -being prologue girls   Books mentioned in this episode: The Situation and the Story by Vivian Gornick Notes of a Native Son by James Baldwin Stop-Time by Frank Conroy This Boy's Life by Tobias Wolf To Show and to Tell by Pilllip Lopate Jill Christman bio and links: Jill Christman is the author of The Heart Folds Early: A Memoir (released March 2026 from the University of Nebraska Press). Christman's other books include If This Were Fiction: A Love Story in Essays (2023 Foreword INDIES Silver Winner), Darkroom: A Family Exposure (winner of AWP Prize for CNF), and Borrowed Babies: Apprenticing for Motherhood. Her essays have appeared in many anthologies and in magazines such as Brevity, Creative Nonfiction, Fourth Genre, Iron Horse Literary Review, Longreads, and O, The Oprah Magazine. A 2020 NEA Literature Fellow, she teaches at Ball State University and serves as editor of River Teeth: A Journal of Nonfiction Narrative and Beautiful Things (a weekly online magazine of micro nonfiction). Visit her at jillchristman.com. Connect with Jill: https://www.instagram.com/jillchristmanwriter @jillchristman.bsky.social jillchristman.com Order for yourself and all your memoir-loving friends—directly from the University of Nebraska Press or your local independent or by using any of the handy links on my website. Use code 6AS26 for 40% off on any UNP book! Ronit Plank bio and links:  Ronit Plank is a writer, teacher, and editor whose work has appeared in The Atlantic, Poets & Writers, River Teeth's Beautiful Things, The Rumpus, Salon, Hippocampus, The New York Times, and elsewhere, earning Best of the Net, Best Microfiction, and multiple Pushcart Prize nominations. Her memoir When She Comes Back was a Book Riot Best True Crime Book and Kirkus Reviews calls it, “An intimate, intuitive, emotionally vivid family account that finds hope in reconciliation". Ronit is also the author of the award-winning short story collection Home is a Made-Up Place, and her work has been anthologized in Selected Memories, Vol. 2: 15 Years of Hippocampus Magazine and Manna Songs: Stories of Jewish Culture and Heritage. Ronit is the Creative Nonfiction Editor at The Citron Review, teaches memoir at a host of venues including the University of Washington's Continuum Program, Antioch University, and 92NY's Roundtable, and is host of the podcast Let's Talk Memoir and the Substack Let's Talk Memoir. Find her on social media @ronitplank   Website: www.ronitplank.com Substack: https://substack.com/@ronitplank Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ronitplank/ When She Comes Back: https://ronitplank.com/when-she-comes-back/

“The poor, of whatever color, do not trust the law and certainly have no reason to, and God knows we didn't. ‘If you must call a cop,' we said in those days, ‘for God's sake, make sure it's a white one.' We did not feel that the cops were protecting us, for we knew too much about the reasons for the kinds of crimes committed in the ghetto; but we feared black cops even more than white cops, because the black cop had to work so much harder—on your head—to prove to himself and his colleagues that he was not like all the other n******.” James Baldwin (1967) Professor and journalist Steven Thrasher, author of the critically acclaimed The Viral Underclass (one of Kirkus Reviews best books of 2022), explores in The Overseer Class: A Manifesto (Amistad, 2026) what happens when members of historically minoritized groups are selected for high-visibility positions of power within existing institutions—law enforcement, academia, the military, for profit and not-for-profit corporations, and government—under the conditions of a kind of Faustian bargain. This is a conversation, and a book, not to be missed. You can find author Steven Thrasher on Bluesky and Instagram. Subscribe, like, follow, and rate Additions to the Archive with Sullivan Summer on Instagram, Substack, and wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/african-american-studies

“The poor, of whatever color, do not trust the law and certainly have no reason to, and God knows we didn't. ‘If you must call a cop,' we said in those days, ‘for God's sake, make sure it's a white one.' We did not feel that the cops were protecting us, for we knew too much about the reasons for the kinds of crimes committed in the ghetto; but we feared black cops even more than white cops, because the black cop had to work so much harder—on your head—to prove to himself and his colleagues that he was not like all the other n******.” James Baldwin (1967) Professor and journalist Steven Thrasher, author of the critically acclaimed The Viral Underclass (one of Kirkus Reviews best books of 2022), explores in The Overseer Class: A Manifesto (Amistad, 2026) what happens when members of historically minoritized groups are selected for high-visibility positions of power within existing institutions—law enforcement, academia, the military, for profit and not-for-profit corporations, and government—under the conditions of a kind of Faustian bargain. This is a conversation, and a book, not to be missed. You can find author Steven Thrasher on Bluesky and Instagram. Subscribe, like, follow, and rate Additions to the Archive with Sullivan Summer on Instagram, Substack, and wherever you get your podcasts. 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

J. L. Brown (also writing as Julie L. Brown) writes gripping political thrillers featuring FBI Agent Jade Harrington and powerful historical fiction exploring perseverance, freedom, and legacy.She is the award-winning author of the Jade Harrington series, which include the novels, The Paine Society, The Divide, Rule of Law, and Don't Speak, and the short story, “Few Are Chosen.” She is also the author of the historical fiction, Bend, Don't Break (Wishing Shelf Independent Book Award finalist), the alternative-history novel, No One Will Save Us (Next Generation Indie Book Award finalist, National Indie Excellence Book Award finalist, Independent Press Award winner). Her books have been praised by Kirkus Reviews, the Midwest Book Review, and the Seattle Book Review.Julie earned an MFA in Creative Writing from the Stonecoast program at the University of Southern Maine. She resides with her family in the Pacific Northwest, where she is working on her next novel.Website: https://www.julielbrown.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julielbrownwritesBlue Sky Handle: https://bsky.app/profile/juliebrownwrites.bsky.socialThreads Handle: https://www.threads.com/@julielbrownwritesMentioned in the Podcast:The Snowflake Method: https://www.campfirewriting.com/learn/snowflake-method*****************About SinCSisters in Crime (SinC) was founded in 1986 to promote the ongoing advancement, recognition and professional development of women crime writers. Through advocacy, programming and leadership, SinC empowers and supports all crime writers regardless of genre or place on their career trajectory.www.SistersinCrime.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sincworldwideInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sincworldwide/Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sincworldwideBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/sincworldwide.bsky.socialTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sincworldwideeTikTok:: https://www.tiktok.com/@sincnationalLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sisters-in-crime/The SinC Writers' Podcast is produced by Julian Crocamo https://www.juliancrocamo.com/

“The poor, of whatever color, do not trust the law and certainly have no reason to, and God knows we didn't. ‘If you must call a cop,' we said in those days, ‘for God's sake, make sure it's a white one.' We did not feel that the cops were protecting us, for we knew too much about the reasons for the kinds of crimes committed in the ghetto; but we feared black cops even more than white cops, because the black cop had to work so much harder—on your head—to prove to himself and his colleagues that he was not like all the other n******.” James Baldwin (1967) Professor and journalist Steven Thrasher, author of the critically acclaimed The Viral Underclass (one of Kirkus Reviews best books of 2022), explores in The Overseer Class: A Manifesto (Amistad, 2026) what happens when members of historically minoritized groups are selected for high-visibility positions of power within existing institutions—law enforcement, academia, the military, for profit and not-for-profit corporations, and government—under the conditions of a kind of Faustian bargain. This is a conversation, and a book, not to be missed. You can find author Steven Thrasher on Bluesky and Instagram. Subscribe, like, follow, and rate Additions to the Archive with Sullivan Summer on Instagram, Substack, and wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-studies

“The poor, of whatever color, do not trust the law and certainly have no reason to, and God knows we didn't. ‘If you must call a cop,' we said in those days, ‘for God's sake, make sure it's a white one.' We did not feel that the cops were protecting us, for we knew too much about the reasons for the kinds of crimes committed in the ghetto; but we feared black cops even more than white cops, because the black cop had to work so much harder—on your head—to prove to himself and his colleagues that he was not like all the other n******.” James Baldwin (1967) Professor and journalist Steven Thrasher, author of the critically acclaimed The Viral Underclass (one of Kirkus Reviews best books of 2022), explores in The Overseer Class: A Manifesto (Amistad, 2026) what happens when members of historically minoritized groups are selected for high-visibility positions of power within existing institutions—law enforcement, academia, the military, for profit and not-for-profit corporations, and government—under the conditions of a kind of Faustian bargain. This is a conversation, and a book, not to be missed. You can find author Steven Thrasher on Bluesky and Instagram. Subscribe, like, follow, and rate Additions to the Archive with Sullivan Summer on Instagram, Substack, and wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/politics-and-polemics

“The poor, of whatever color, do not trust the law and certainly have no reason to, and God knows we didn't. ‘If you must call a cop,' we said in those days, ‘for God's sake, make sure it's a white one.' We did not feel that the cops were protecting us, for we knew too much about the reasons for the kinds of crimes committed in the ghetto; but we feared black cops even more than white cops, because the black cop had to work so much harder—on your head—to prove to himself and his colleagues that he was not like all the other n******.” James Baldwin (1967) Professor and journalist Steven Thrasher, author of the critically acclaimed The Viral Underclass (one of Kirkus Reviews best books of 2022), explores in The Overseer Class: A Manifesto (Amistad, 2026) what happens when members of historically minoritized groups are selected for high-visibility positions of power within existing institutions—law enforcement, academia, the military, for profit and not-for-profit corporations, and government—under the conditions of a kind of Faustian bargain. This is a conversation, and a book, not to be missed. You can find author Steven Thrasher on Bluesky and Instagram. Subscribe, like, follow, and rate Additions to the Archive with Sullivan Summer on Instagram, Substack, and wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In New Book, Ph.D. Psychologist Asks How Tightly We Should Hold Any Belief—Whether Religious, Spiritual, or Personal—and Finds the Answer Is Less Than You Think What if the issue isn't what we believe, but how tightly we hold our beliefs? At a time when so many people are questioning inherited frameworks, exploring mindfulness or psychedelics, and looking for meaning outside rigid institutions, quantitative psychologist Joshua Pritikin, Ph.D., offers a thought-provoking perspective: that growth and insight may depend less on finding the “right” beliefs than on learning to relate to belief itself with more openness and flexibility. His new book Religion Unburdened by Belief: The Way of Open Inquiry explores how tightly held beliefs can shape identity, emotional reactions, and even our sense of reality — and how loosening that grip can create space for greater clarity, resilience, and personal transformation. Drawing from psychology, spirituality, and Internal Family Systems, he offers a framework for examining beliefs without discarding the search for meaning. Other points he can speak to include: 3 ways to adjust your beliefs for greater clarity, growth, and insight 5 rules for exploring consciousness safely Why we want AI to be conscious (and what it says about us) Tired of asking “what's true?” Stop fact-checking and do this instead. If this is of interest, I'd be glad to connect you with Joshua for an interview tailored to your audience. WHAT IF OUR PROBLEM ISN'T WHAT WE BELIEVE, BUT HOW FIRMLY WE BELIEVE IT? A New Book Asks How Tightly We Should Hold Any Belief—Whether Religious, Spiritual, or Personal—and Finds the Answer Is Less Than You Think Religion Unburdened by Belief: The Way of Open Inquiry, by Joshua Pritikin, Ph.D., Praised by Kirkus Reviews as “counterintuitive yet compelling” Releases June 15, 2026 There's increasing recognition that the beliefs we hold—about ourselves, what we're striving for, and even reality—may be quietly limiting how we think, feel, and grow. But while much has been said about what to believe or disbelieve, far less attention has been paid to a more fundamental question: how tightly should we hold any belief at all? Pritikin argues that a minimal set of beliefs is still needed—but only those that make exploration possible. In his new book Religion Unburdened by Belief: The Way of Open Inquiry, quantitative psychologist Joshua Pritikin, Ph.D., offers a provocative framework for doing exactly that. Drawing from psychology, philosophy, and the study of consciousness, Pritikin challenges a deeply ingrained assumption: that personal growth, insight, and meaning come from finding and holding onto the “right” ideas. Instead, he argues, transformation comes not from adopting the right beliefs, but from loosening our attachment to belief itself—and learning to navigate experience with disciplined, open inquiry. The result is a shift not just in what we think, but in how we relate to our thoughts, emotions, and sense of self. Beliefs held too tightly can narrow perception, reinforce identity, and amplify emotional reactions. But when approached with flexibility, they can be examined, tested, and even strategically adjusted—opening the door to new ways of thinking, feeling, and experiencing the world. The book introduces a structured yet accessible method for exploring this idea in practice. Borrowing from Internal Family Systems (IFS), Pritikin shows how different “parts” of the mind hold different beliefs—often as a way to protect us. By understanding and working with these parts, readers can begin to shift beliefs in a way that feels safe, intentional, and sustainable.

Notes and Links to Donna Minkowitz's Work     Donna Minkowitz is a writer of fantasy, memoir, and journalism lauded by Lilith Magazine for her “fierce imagination and compelling prose.” Science fiction great Terry Bisson called her writing “rich and wild, dark and funny, as fearless as her legendary journalism and as scary as a fairy tale.” And she's proud that Kirkus has praised the “defiant and playful energy” of her work.    Her memoir Growing Up Golem, a finalist for both a Lambda Literary Award and the Judy Grahn Nonfiction Award, is being republished by Indolent Books after 13 years!    Buy Growing Up Golem   Donna Minkowitz's Website   Review of Growing Up Golem from Kirkus Reviews     At about 1:30, Donna and Pete highlight the pending reissue of Growing Up Golem  At about 2:30, Pete asks Donna about how she sees Growing Up Golem 13 years later, and she gives a summary of the book At about 4:10, Donna expands on the idea set forth in the Writer's Note that the book is “88% true” At about 7:15, Donna talks about the general idea of the “golem” and the providence of the book's conceit At about 9:00, Donna reflects on the idea of “memory” and the science behind it, as well as the memoir as a “work of art” At about 10:10, Donna responds to Pete's asking about the book's opening referencing Donna's mom and her creating a “Donna Doll” At about 12:40, Donna expands on ideas of guilt and selfishness and psychosomatic pain that came with her Repetitive Strain Injury At about 14:40, Donna responds to Pete asking about her mother's health struggles and ideas of impending death At about 17:00, The two talk about Donna's mother's artistic prowess and Donna's feelings of “twoness” At about 19:45, Donna examines the idea of her mother that lying could be correct, and what the philosophy said about her mother and her morality At about 22:40, Donna expands on feelings of “twoness” in connection to W.E.B. DuBois At about 24:10, Donna reflects on her early writing with The Village Voice and her motivations and mindset in writing for the publication  At about 27:00, Donna outlines her mother's health problems and connections to her sexuality and sensuality  At about 29:00, Pete asks Donna how she balances the fact that her mother was a victim of sexual violence  At about 32:05, Donna expands on The Village Voice and her reporting around ACT Up and its advocacy and activism, as well as Queer Nation  At about 34:35, Donna tells Julio Rivera's story, as she did for the publication  At about 36:20, Donna talks about her father's death and his “scari[ness]” before his death and the “strange dynamic" of him as a “scapegoat” and her mother's behavior after his death At about 39:20, Pete wonders about a sort of "competition" between Donna and her mother, particularly with regard to a 1991 Thanksgiving interaction  At about 41:45, Donna responds to Pete asking about her mother's often making fun of her mother's body  At about 44:25, Donna speaks about the “competing therapists” At about 48:15, Donna speaks on the idea of the golem as being built and possibly destroyed by the same person, as well as the classic legend of the golem  At about 51:30, Donna talks about a familial way of acting when threatened and confronting that reaction At about 52:25, Pete cites some “beautiful moments” from her therapist and mother, and Donna reflects  At about 53:20, The two reflect on ideas of control and freedom in Donna's personal life and connections to therapy and her mother's influence  At about 55:25, Donna talks about connections between early and later relationships and the ways she was treated  At about 58:20, Pete and Donna discuss the book's juxtapositions and her concerns and struggles with her chronic pain          You can now subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, and leave me a five-star review. You can also ask for the podcast by name using Alexa, and find the pod on Stitcher, Spotify, and on Amazon Music. Follow Pete on IG, where he is @chillsatwillpodcast, or on Twitter, where he is @chillsatwillpo1. You can watch other episodes on YouTube-watch and subscribe to The Chills at Will Podcast Channel. Please subscribe to both the YouTube Channel and the podcast while you're checking out this episode.       Pete is very excited to have one or two podcast episodes per month featured on the website of Chicago Review of Books. The audio will be posted, along with a written interview culled from the audio. His conversation with Jeff Pearlman, a recent guest, is up now at Chicago Review.     Sign up now for The Chills at Will Podcast Patreon: it can be found at patreon.com/chillsatwillpodcastpeterriehl      Check out the page that describes the benefits of a Patreon membership, including cool swag and bonus episodes. Thanks in advance for supporting Pete's one-man show, DIY podcast and extensive reading, research, editing, and promoting to keep this independent podcast pumping out high-quality content!    This month's Patreon bonus episode deals with short, powerful poems and prose that pack a punch-take that, alliteration! The episode features meaningful and resonant work from Robert Hershon, Mosab Abu Toha, Ernest Hemingway, Sara Abou Rashed, Khaled Juma, Andrea Cohen, and Marwan Makhoul.    Pete has added a $1 a month tier for “Well-Wishers” and Cheerleaders of the Show. You can also buy single episodes for $3 each.    The intro song for The Chills at Will Podcast is “Wind Down” (Instrumental Version), and the other song played on this episode was “Hoops” (Instrumental)” by Matt Weidauer, and both songs are used through ArchesAudio.com.     Please tune in for Episode 341 with Kerri Schlottman, whose novel Tell Me One Thing was named a 2025 Storytrade Literary Fiction Finalist, a two-time 2024 PenCraft Fiction Award Winner, and a 2023 American Book Fest Best Literary Fiction Book Finalist. She is a part-time graduate professor at NYU in arts administration.    The episode airs today, Pub Day for her latest gem, Daytime Moon, May 12.    Please go to ceasefiretoday.org, and/or https://act.uscpr.org/a/letaidin to call your congresspeople and demand an end to the forced famine and destruction of Gaza and the Gazan people.    You can also donate at chuffed.org, World Central Kitchen, and so many more, and/or you can contact writer friend Ursula Villarreal-Moura directly or through Pete, as she has direct links with friends in Gaza.  

In this 3rd episode about Tommy the rock opera, author and psychoanalyst Graeme Daniels reads from his book, The Psychology of Tommy, covering passages that describe the pivotal plot point of the opera's opening act, which relates themes of insecure narratives, implicit (or unconscious) memory, and the trauma of silenced witnessingAs a bonus, check out this review of Graeme's book from Kirkus Reviews. 

Send us Fan MailWe're joined by American expat resident Cherie Siebert to trace Vienna from its Habsburg-scale grandeur to its everyday pleasures. Vienna can feel like a living museum and a laid-back neighborhood on the same afternoon. We talk through how easy it is to get around on foot and by public transportation, where palace areas like Hofburg, Schönbrunn, and the Belvedere fit into a real day, and why seasonal markets mix architecture, craft, and local tradition. From St Stephen's Cathedral's tower and crypt to the surprising places where Roman ruins appear under your feet, Vienna keeps handing you history.Then we follow the sound. Cherie shares her favorite place to hear classical music, the Musikverein Golden Hall, plus the pull of the Vienna State Opera. As for art, the city's deep museum bench, including Gustav Klimt's iconic “The Kiss.” We also make room for the city's hard truths, including Holocaust memorial reminders found by simply wandering the center.To round it out, we get into Vienna coffeehouse culture, where to skip long tourist lines, why locals treat cake and coffee as a ritual, and how wine bars and nearby wine inns expand the food story. We also cover parks, Danube swimming spots, the Prater Ferris wheel at night, and easy day trips by train to Salzburg, the Wachau Valley, Bratislava, Budapest, and even Prague. If you enjoyed this, subscribe, and share the episode with a fellow traveler.**Cherie Siebert is an expat who lives in and loves Vienna. She is a teacher, jewelry maker, traveler and life-lover. Find her at artsfish@me.com Podcast host Lea Lane has traveled to over 100 countries, and has written nine books, including the award-winning Places I Remember  (Kirkus Reviews star rating, and  'one of the top 100 Indie books of  the year'). She has contributed to dozens of guidebooks and has written thousands of travel articles. Read her weekly essays on Substack._____Our award-winning travel podcast, Places I Remember with Lea Lane, has produced over 130 travel episodes! New episodes drop on the first Tuesday of the month, on Apple, Spotify, and wherever you listen to podcasts. All episodes are also on her website: placesirememberlealane.com_____Travel vlogs of featured  podcasts-- with video and graphics -- now also drop on YouTube.  

Books and Brews: the place where beer and literature meet! Laura Creedle is the author of The Deep Well and The Love Letters of Abelard and Lily, which Kirkus Reviews described as "entertaining, thought-provoking, and unsettling—in a good way." When she's not writing, Laura can usually be found playing pinball or watching indie horror. She lives in Austin, Texas, with her husband and a feral cat named Hellman who was found with her head stuck in a mayonnaise jar. We talked about how indie publishing has changed the horror genre, writing novels with ADHD, Russia's Kola Superdeep Borehole, the place of AI in writing, and much more. What drinks would you pair to readings about a super deep borehole and a stalking cult member!? 00:00 START 04:49 Drink 1: Mexican Coffee 05:48 Reading 1: 5-Year-Old April at the Deep Hole 13:49 A book with lots of moving parts 14:38 Authors killing our darlings 15:33 Drink 2: B-52 17:59 Reading 2: Wikipedia on the Ojo de Cristo Mining Disaster 19:50 Many questions & stories on the Kola Superdeep 25:19 Stories? Vampires & Werewolves 32:17 Drink 3: Verdant Lady 35:07 Reading 3: Marianne Returns 40:16 Marianne vs the Cult (and more on cults) 51:04 AI and more AI Visit our PATREON for our extended AFTER HOURS with Ashley and Andrea Www.booksandbrews.net www.lauravosika.com www.gabrielshornpress.com www.glenmirrilfarms.wordpress.com Www.lauracredle.com ~ ~ If you enjoy our interviews or have benefited from them, we invite you to help us continue our work. It takes a great deal of time and money to produce Books and Brews. We've been doing interviews since January 2017 as a free service to authors. We continue to promote those authors on our social media for years after their interviews. Subscribing, following, liking, commenting and sharing all help us to keep doing what we do. A $5 tip helps us pay for our many expenses: Libsyn hosting, web hosting, Google meets, providing the drinks for the interview and the many hours of preparation and editing that go into each episode. Patreon: patreon.com/BooksandBrewswithLauraVosika Tip Jar: paypal.me/booksandbrewsMN Books and Brews products: https://www.zazzle.com/store/books_an… (more to come) Sponsor an episode to promote your product or service: contact us booksandbrewslive@gmail.com COMING NEXT: JK Divia — dark fantasy, mythological horror, paranormal Barry Black — former FBI master bomb technician Randy Lerch — former MLB player Charles Graham — sci-fi drawing from military & rescue experiences UPCOMING EVENTS: Gabriel's Horn is accepting submissions for its anthology NEW THEMES: CHILDREN and AMERICA Our theme music is from www.bensound.com. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to get notifications of all our new videos. We have now interviewed more than 115 authors! Would you like to be featured? Leave a comment.

Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day for April 28, 2026 is: evanescent • ev-uh-NESS-unt • adjective Evanescent is a formal and literary word that describes something that only lasts a very short time. // Our acting coach always reminded us that fame is evanescent, and that we should pursue a life in the theater purely for the love of the art. See the entry > Examples: "Franklin once sternly confiscated a customer's espresso and refunded his money because he took too long sipping it and thus allowed the evanescent flavors to dissipate." — Kirkus Reviews, 8 Jan. 2026 Did you know? Evanescent didn't appear in the English language out of thin air; it comes from a form of the Latin verb evanescere, which means "to fade away" or "to disappear." (Evanescere is also the ultimate source of vanish.) Given the similarity in spelling and meaning between the two words, you might expect evaporate to trace back to evanescere as well, but its source is another steamy Latin root, evaporare. While today evanescent is used to describe things that last only a short time, the word could formerly also describe the incalculably small. That use is now archaic, meaning it has almost blown away on the breeze.

William Huhn is a critically acclaimed, award-winning writer of poetry and narrative essays. Huhn, the grandson of Alcoholics Anonymous co-founder Henrietta Seiberling, graduated from Vassar College with a degree in chemistry. He works for a testing and certification company, overseeing its East Coast laboratories. But despite the science side to him, he is really a creative artist at heart.He studied classical violin from age five and then took up old-time fiddle. He played fiddle across Europe after graduating from college, hoping to raise enough funds to live as a poet. He wrote much poetry during that period and others, many examples of which were published in journals and magazines.Now, years later, his debut poetry collection was released. Bachelor Holiday, which has been praised by Midwest Book Reviews, Literary Titan, and by notable award-winning writers. Kirkus Reviews gave it a starred review and the book was a finalist at American Book Fest's 2024 Book Award for Poetry. It also was the winner of the Literary Titan Gold Book Award for Poetry.He's had numerous narrative essays published in American Literary Review, Sport Literate, Pembroke, Rosebud, and other publications. Eight of these essays were listed as “Notable Essay” in The Best American Essays series. His writings received two honorable mentions in the New Millennium Award (for nonfiction) and twice he received Pushcart Prize nominations for nonfiction.His poetry has been published in Verse Daily, The Carolina Quarterly, Talking River Review, 34th Parallel, San Pedro River Review, Grey Sparrow Journal, Blue Moon Literary and Art Review, and elsewhere. BlazeVOX, his book publisher, is among the most prestigious independent literary presses in the nation.Born in Bryn Mawr, and raised in Devon, Pennsylvania, he also lived in Southern California and New York. He resides in a suburb of New York City with his wife and two young children. For more information, please see: www.williamhuhn.com.  Connect on social media:https://www.facebook.com/WilliamBucklerHuhn/https://www.instagram.com/willhuhn/https://x.com/WillHuhnBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/arroe-collins-like-it-s-live--4113802/support.

Join us as the New York Times bestselling author Luanne Rice has a conversation with nationally bestselling and award-winning author Deborah Goodrich Royce about her new book, Best Boy. Author Bio: Deborah Goodrich Royce's Reef Road, a national bestseller, was named one of the best books of 2023 by Kirkus Reviews and an Indie Next pick by the ABA. Her Ocean House Author Series—in partnership with Martin House Books and WCRI—brings world-class authors like Sarah Ferguson, Chris Bohjalian, and Katie Couric to Watch Hill. With fellow authors, Luanne Rice and Amy Scheibe, she created the Deer Mountain Writers' Retreat in the Catskills. Deborah writes the quarterly Hey Rhody reading recommendation column. She began as an actress on All My Children and in multiple films, before transitioning to the role of story editor at Miramax Films, developing Emma and early versions of Chicago and A Wrinkle in Time. Deborah holds a bachelor's degree and two honorary doctorates, from both Lake Erie College and the University of Rhode Island. With her husband, Chuck, Deborah restored the Avon Theatre, Ocean House Hotel, Deer Mountain Inn, United Theatre, Martin House Books, and numerous Main Street revitalization projects in Rhode Island and the Catskills. She serves on multiple governing and advisory boards.  Book Summary: A gripping psychological thriller, Best Boy teeters on the knife-edge of memory and identity when the arrival of a shocking letter threatens the carefully constructed life of a woman desperate to outrun her past. Viveca Stevenson has it all: a handsome and successful husband, an adorable ten-year-old son, and a coastal dream house in Greenwich, Connecticut. She has a solid group of girlfriends and is content with the afterglow of the film career she's left behind. But when a threatening letter arrives—from a man she does not remember—it cracks open a part of her past she thought was buried for good. A terrifying chain of events is set in motion, forcing Viveca to confront what happened on a shattering Halloween night in high school when she had a different name, a different face, a different voice. Who is the man contacting her now and was he really the best boy on her most famous film, Misty? Why can't she remember him—or that night? A taut psychological thriller, Best Boy explores identity, memory, and the dangerous power of forgetting.   For more information about Deborah Goodrich Royce and her new release, Best Boy, along with information about the Ocean House Author Series, visit deborahgoodrichroyce.com

Jordan reveals the Kirkus Reviews buzzworthy books right now. Get all the news you need by listening to WBZ - Boston's News Radio! We're here for you, 24/7. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Underground: A Human History of the Worlds Beneath Our FeetA panoramic investigation of the subterranean landscape, from sacred caves and derelict subway stations to nuclear bunkers and ancient underground cities—an exploration of the history, science, architecture, and mythology of the worlds beneath our feetWhen Will Hunt was sixteen years old, he discovered an abandoned tunnel that ran beneath his house in Providence, Rhode Island. His first tunnel trips inspired a lifelong fascination with exploring underground worlds, from the derelict subway stations and sewers of New York City to the sacred caves, catacombs, and tombs, from bunkers to ancient underground cities in more than twenty countries around the world. Underground is both a personal exploration of Hunt's obsession and a panoramic study of how we are all connected to the underground, how caves and other dark hollows have frightened and enchanted, repelled and captivated, us through the ages.In a narrative spanning continents and epochs, Hunt follows a cast of subterranea-philes who have dedicated themselves to investigating underground worlds. He tracks the origins of life with a team of NASA microbiologists a mile beneath the Black Hills, camps out for three days with urban explorers in the catacombs and sewers of Paris, descends with an Aboriginal family into a 35,000-year-old sacred mine in the Australian outback, follows a ghostlike graffiti artist writing stories in the subway tunnels of New York, and glimpses a sacred sculpture molded by Paleolithic artists in the depths of a cave in the Pyrenees.Each adventure is woven with findings in mythology and anthropology, natural history and neuroscience, literature and philosophy. In elegant and graceful prose, Hunt cures us of our “surface chauvinism,” opening our eyes to the planet's hidden dimension. He reveals how the subterranean landscape gave shape to our most basic beliefs, including how we think about ourselves as humans. At bottom, Underground is a meditation on the allure of darkness, the power of mystery, and our eternal desire to connect with what we cannot see.Advance praise for Underground“An unusual and intriguing travel book . . . As [Will] Hunt reveals the scientific, historic, literary, psychological, spiritual, and metaphorical qualities of his exploration, it begins to seem less idiosyncratic than universal, a pull that has persisted throughout civilization and a mystery that has yet to be solved. The underground may represent hell to some, but it has also provided spiritual solace for centuries. . . . A vivid illumination of the dark and an effective evocation of its profound mystery.”—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)https://amzn.to/4cGJzDhBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-opperman-report--1198501/support.

CWCIT's director Bill Cavanaugh sits down with Alejandra Oliva, a Mexican-American author, translator, and immigrant justice advocate, to explore the connections between faith, language, and migration, which she writes about in her 2023 book "Rivermouth" and which she understands on a personal level through her family history, asylum cases she has worked on since 2016, and accompaniment work she did at the U.S.-Mexico border in 2019. Alejandra Oliva holds a master of theological studies (MTS) from Harvard Divinity School and was the Spring 2022 Franke Visiting Fellow at Yale University's Whitney Humanities Center. Her writing has been included in Best American Travel Writing 2020 and was honored with an Aspen Summer Words Emerging Writers Fellowship. Her book "Rivermouth: A Chronicle of Language, Faith, and Migration," was published by Astra House and received a Whiting Nonfiction Grant. Kirkus Reviews named it as among the best nonfiction of 2023, and The Boston Globe called it "one of the most thoughtful meditations on our nation's immigrant policy in recent memory."

Alex Kadis is a writer, music journalist and industry consultant. Half-British, half-Greek, she grew up in Leyton and Walthamstow and studied English Literature at Goldsmiths. She was Features Editor at Smash Hits in its heyday and has written for Sunday Times Style and Q Magazine, before moving into artist management and consultancy.Her debut novel Big Nobody is out now with Penguin Random House. Grace and Alex talk about the book's 1970s East London setting, the push and pull of immigrant identity, what it means to finally feel like a somebody, and what AI can and can't do with art. Xochitl Gonzalez called it a novel that "broke my heart one minute and had me really laughing the next." Kirkus Reviews gave it a starred review, and the Guardian wrote that Kadis has produced "a debut that sparkles like Marc Bolan's eye makeup." Pandora Sykes called it "riotously funny, nostalgic, and immensely touching."Get the book here or at your local seller.

Bestselling and award-winning author Ramona Ausubel spoke with us about the value of low-residency MFA programs, and how to jumpstart your writing process with her latest book UNSTUCK: 101 Doorways Leading from the Blank Page to the Last Page. Ramona Ausubel is the author of five books, most recently The Last Animal which was a national bestseller and received the National Book Foundation Science + Nature Prize and was a Barnes & Noble book of the month.  She was the recipient of the PEN/USA Fiction Award, the VCU Cabell First Novelist Award and has been a finalist for both the California and Colorado Book Awards, the New York Public Library Young Lions Award, and has had multiple selections as a New York Times Book Review Editors' Choice.  Her latest non-fiction, Unstuck: 101 Doorways Leading From the Blank Page to the Last Page is a companion for writers at all stages of the process, and described as a book “… about staying in love with your writing: feeling excited, mischievous, productive, and hopeful—the opposite of being stuck. “ A Most Anticipated Book of 2026 from LitHub, Kirkus Reviews described it as, “An upbeat guide to navigating the writing process . . . Warm-hearted and practical, Ausubel emerges as trustworthy companion for a writer who's stuck anywhere on the challenging road of creativity. Generous, empathetic, and unfailingly encouraging.” Ramona's work has been published in The New Yorker, The New York Times, The Paris Review daily, One Story, Tin House, The Oxford American, Ploughshares and others. She is a professor at Colorado State University and has taught in the Bennington Writing Seminars, Tin House Writing Workshop, Writing by Writers, the Community of Writers, Bread Loaf Environmental, Writing Workshop Paris and elsewhere. [Discover The Writer Files Extra: Get 'The Writer Files' Podcast Delivered Straight to Your Inbox at writerfiles.fm] [If you're a fan of The Writer Files, please click FOLLOW to automatically see new interviews. And drop us a rating or a review wherever you listen] In this file Ramona Ausubel, Milena and I discussed: Why getting stuck is normal and productive rather than something to fear How to fall back in love with your own work Practical exercises to help writers navigate the creative process The magic prompt that never fails Why you need to let "not knowing" to be your companion And a lot more! Show Notes: ramonaausubel.com  UNSTUCK: 101 Doorways Leading from the Blank Page to the Last Page By Ramona Ausubel – April 14, 2026 (Amazon) Ramona Ausubel Amazon Author Page Ramona Ausubel on Instagram⁠⁠ Milena Gonzalez | Writer | Reader | Book Reviewer diary_of_a_book_babe on Instagram Kelton Reid Instagram Kelton Reid on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A dash of mystery, a sparkle of magic, and all things cozy! Elle interviews fellow cozy authors in this bookish podcast from Authors on the Air. Today on the podcast, meet Lois Winston, author of Embroidered Lies and Alibis–and many more books! Elle and Lois talk about the joys of crafting, where inspiration comes from in the real world, and of course, everything an author could wish to know about New Jersey. Enjoy! Lois's Bio: Lois Winston is author of the Anastasia Pollack Crafting Mysteries, which Kirkus Reviews dubbed “North Jersey's more mature answer to Stephanie Plum.” The series now includes fifteen novels and three novellas. Lois also writes the Empty Nest Mysteries and has written several standalone mystery novellas. Other publishing credits include romance, chick lit, and romantic suspense novels, a series of romance short stories, a children's chapter book, and a nonfiction book on writing, inspired by her twelve years working as an associate at a literary agency. Find Lois and Her Books Online: https://www.loiswinston.com/ ~~~ Elle Hartford's Bio: Elle Hartford writes cozy mystery with a fairy tale twist. The award-winning first book in her Alchemical Tales series, Beauty and the Alchemist, finds amateur sleuth Red mixed up with murderous beasts and moody beauties, and a set of missing books besides! Elle has also written two spin-off series, the cozy fantasy-goes-to-the-beach Marine Magic series as well as Pomegranate Cafe Romance. For other writers and authors looking into “wide” indie publishing, Elle offers coaching as well as the Beyond Writing blog (ellehartford.substack.com) with how-tos and resources. Find Elle Online: https://ellehartford.com

A dash of mystery, a sparkle of magic, and all things cozy! Elle interviews fellow cozy authors in this bookish podcast from Authors on the Air. Today on the podcast, meet Lois Winston, author of Embroidered Lies and Alibis–and many more books! Elle and Lois talk about the joys of crafting, where inspiration comes from in the real world, and of course, everything an author could wish to know about New Jersey. Enjoy! Lois's Bio: Lois Winston is author of the Anastasia Pollack Crafting Mysteries, which Kirkus Reviews dubbed “North Jersey's more mature answer to Stephanie Plum.” The series now includes fifteen novels and three novellas. Lois also writes the Empty Nest Mysteries and has written several standalone mystery novellas. Other publishing credits include romance, chick lit, and romantic suspense novels, a series of romance short stories, a children's chapter book, and a nonfiction book on writing, inspired by her twelve years working as an associate at a literary agency. Find Lois and Her Books Online: https://www.loiswinston.com/ ~~~ Elle Hartford's Bio: Elle Hartford writes cozy mystery with a fairy tale twist. The award-winning first book in her Alchemical Tales series, Beauty and the Alchemist, finds amateur sleuth Red mixed up with murderous beasts and moody beauties, and a set of missing books besides! Elle has also written two spin-off series, the cozy fantasy-goes-to-the-beach Marine Magic series as well as Pomegranate Cafe Romance. For other writers and authors looking into “wide” indie publishing, Elle offers coaching as well as the Beyond Writing blog (ellehartford.substack.com) with how-tos and resources. Find Elle Online: https://ellehartford.com

#1 New York Times bestselling author Kelly Yang spoke with us about burning out at Harvard Law, navigating Hollywood's power dynamics, and her adult fiction debut THE TAKE. ​​Kelly Yang is the award-winning and bestselling author of over 15 books for children, teens and adults, including the lauded Front Desk series (Front Desk, Three Keys, Room to Dream, Key Player, Top Story, and Chef's Secret), New From Here, Finally Seen, Finally Heard, young adult novels  Parachutes and Private Label, as well as the picture books Yes We Will: Asian Americans Who Shaped This Country and Little Bird Laila. Based on Kelly's childhood experience living and working in a motel as a first-generation immigrant child from China, her debut novel, Front Desk, was named "one of the best books of the 21st century" by Kirkus Reviews. Her adult debut novel, The Take (April 14, 2026), “blends social commentary with psychological suspense, set in contemporary Hollywood, that dives into biohacking, youth-obsessed culture, and the dangerous bargains women make to stay relevant at work.” Marie Claire called it, “One part The Substance, another part The Devil Wears Prada, The Take is a juicy, twisty take on aging, success, and race. Told in a sharp and hilarious voice, The Take is sure to be one of the hottest books of spring.” New York Times bestselling author Grace D. Li called the book, “Breathlessly plotted and fearlessly told, The Take is a timely, incisive examination of ambition, aging, and who gets to tell whose stories in Hollywood.” Kelly has written screenplays and television pilots for Netflix, CBS Studios, and the CW. She and Kate DiCamillo also co-host the StoryKind podcast. [Discover The Writer Files Extra: Get 'The Writer Files' Podcast Delivered Straight to Your Inbox at writerfiles.fm] [If you're a fan of The Writer Files, please click FOLLOW to automatically see new interviews. And drop us a rating or a review wherever you listen] In this file Kelly Yang, Milena and I discussed: Why she wasn't a great law student Teaching creative writing in Hong Kong How her desire to get her kid to read led to a hit series Her weird experiences navigating Hollywood as a baby writer On horrible first drafts and a love of revision The Shy Girl AI controversy And a lot more!  Show Notes: kellyyang.com  The Take by Kelly Yang – April 14, 2026 (Amazon) Listen to Storykind Podcast Kelly Yang on Instagram⁠⁠ Milena Gonzalez | Writer | Reader | Book Reviewer diary_of_a_book_babe on Instagram Kelton Reid Instagram Kelton Reid on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us Fan MailSicily is an Italian island in the Ionian sea between Italy and the African coast. Greece, Rome, the Arab world, and Norman Europe left remnants there that you can still experience. Chef, blogger, and tour director Ric Orlando tells us why Sicily feels different from the rest of Italy. His “deep dive” trips take the Anthony Bourdain approach seriously: spend time with locals, follow the market stalls, and let conversations set the pace.We get into Palermo's layered history, the Palatine Chapel's mosaics, Monreale, Teatro Massimo, and the city's street markets. Ric also explains how Sicily's volcanic soil around Mount Etna is changing the island today, from a booming Sicily wine scene to new crops driven by climate change, and why infrastructure outside the main tourist cities still shapes daily life.Then east to Catania, to the “Black City” built from dark volcanic stone. We linger at the pescheria fish market where small boats sell the morning's catch. We talk Sicilian flavor, especially the Arab influenced sweet and sour combinations, and we end with cannoli, farm made cheese, and the living traditions of Piana degli Albanesi. Finally, Taormina brings cliffside beauty, a Greek theater, an artistic past, along with the modern 'White Lotus' buzz, before Ric shares a personal memory that ties family photos back to a real village festival.Come wander through the best of Sicily with us. Subscribe, share with friends who love food and history, and leave a review. **Our guest,  Chef Ric Orlando, leads tours to Sicily.Podcast host Lea Lane has traveled to over 100 countries, and has written nine books, including the award-winning Places I Remember  (Kirkus Reviews star rating, and  'one of the top 100 Indie books of  the year'). She has contributed to dozens of guidebooks and has written thousands of travel articles. _____Our award-winning travel podcast, Places I Remember with Lea Lane, has produced over 125 travel episodes! New episodes drop on the first Tuesday of the month, on Apple, Spotify, and wherever you listen to podcasts. All episodes are also on her website: placesirememberlealane.com_____Travel vlogs of featured  podcasts-- with video and graphics -- now also drop on YouTube.  

Medicolegal Death Investigator Paul Parker often brought chaos to once calm, orderly lives. What can happen when death is a constant companion and you don't develop the skillsets and tools to stay ahead of the pain. Paul and I discuss his journey in a world that at best, is misunderstood by most. Paul does a remarkable job of bringing the reader along for a ride that will leave you grateful and reconnect you with the humanity and the love thats required to "choose life in the face of death". You won't want to put it down, but you should, for a moment, to allow yourself to reflect upon the journey and how best to take what's written in the pages of his book to proactively apply it to your life. Sit back, reflect and choose to live a better life. Always, Johnhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/paulrparker/?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3ByIAmGEVDSHG7jONJlmkhgA%3D%3Dwww.paulparker.comMore about Paul :I am the host of "Inside Death Investigation with Paul Parker" on YouTube. My memoir, “In the Shadows of Death: Writing Life's Final Chapter,” was published in April 2025 (Houndstooth Publishing). It is also the recipient of a "Get It" recommendation from the prestigious Kirkus Reviews, with its review featured in the January 1, 2026, issue of Kirkus Reviews Magazine.For almost 30 years, I worked inside the system responsible for investigating deaths that occur outside of routine medical care, such as sudden deaths, unexpected deaths, in-custody deaths, and deaths that raise legal, medical, or public concern. What most families, journalists, lawyers, and even policymakers don't realize is that a death investigation is not a single event. It is a process governed by statute, medical judgment, institutional constraints, and human decision-making. And when that process is misunderstood, mistrust fills the gap. My YouTube channel exists not to sensationalize death, capitalize upon it for profit, or create outrage. I aim to educate, inform, explain, and propose improvement measures.I have participated in several thousand on-scene medicolegal death investigations, conducted at least 13,000 solo telephonic/electronically reported medicolegal death investigations, and reviewed and approved reports and circumstances for more than 20,000 medicolegal additional death investigations.  I have also conducted several hundred in-person death notifications. As the former Executive Officer of the San Diego County Citizens' Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB), I conducted on-scene in-custody death investigations and made numerous recommendations to reduce in-custody deaths, increase transparency of law enforcement operations, and increase communications with family members of persons impacted by in-custody deaths and deaths associated with law enforcement activitiesI was a member of the California Coroner Curriculum Development Committee, an instructor at the California Coroner Academy, an American Academy of Forensic Sciences Standards Board Medicolegal Death Investigation Consensus Body Member, ...Thank you for taking the time to give this podcast a listen. If you would like more information on other Law enforcement Life Coach initiatives, our "Sometimes Heroes Need Help" wellness seminar or our One-On-One life coaching please visit :www.lawenforcementlifecoach.comJohn@lawenforcementlifecoach.comAnd if you would like to watch the interview you can view it in it's entirety on the Law Enforcement Life Coach YouTube Channel :  https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCib6HRqAFO08gAkZQ-B9Ajw/videos/upload?filter=%5B%5D&sort=%7B%22columnType%22%3A%22date%22%2C%22sortOrder%22%3A%22DESCENDING%22%7D

Notes and Links to Jordy Rosenberg's Work   Jordy Rosenberg is the author of the novel Confessions of the Fox, a New York Times Editors Choice selection, shortlisted for the Center for Fiction First Novel Prize, a Lambda Literary Award, a Publishing Triangle Award, the UK Historical Writers Association Debut Crown Award, longlisted for The Dublin Literary Award, and named one of the best books of the year by The New Yorker, Kirkus Reviews and others. Jordy's work has been supported by MacDowell, The Lannan Foundation, The Banff Centre, and The Ahmanson-Getty Foundation. He is a professor in the Department of English and Associated MFA Faculty in the Program for Poets and Writers at UMass-Amherst. His latest work is Night Night Fawn, published in early 2026. Buy Night Night Fawn   Jordy Rosenberg's Website   Review for Night Night Fawn from The New York Times At about 0:45, Jordy responds to Pete's questions about the feedback Jordy has received since Night Night Fawn has come out At about 2:50, Jordy talks about tour events and purchase info At about 4:15, Jordy talks about his background in reading and writing, especially the influence of the Marxist tradition  At about 6:50, Jordy responds to Pete's questions about what draws him to sci-fi, and Jordy expands on his interesting view of genre as “collective” At about 9:00, Jordan cites contemporary writers whom he appreciates in his "omnivorous" writing, including Lara Sheehi At about 12:30, Jordy reflects on seeds for his novel, which started out as memoir  At about 16:10, the two discuss the narrator, Barbara, and the book's exposition, and connections to Marx At about 18:50, Jordy discusses how he wanted to explore Marxism through the voice of someone with a passing knowledge of it At about 20:45, Part II of the book, a letter from Barbara, is discussed At about 22:45, Jordy reflects on how he satirizes those so obsessed with anti-trans vitriol At about 25:00, Jordy expands on Barbara's antiquated and biased world view and victim mentality  At about 26:45, Jordy discusses a pivotal scene at a funeral and the importance of a photo At about 31:00, Jordy responds to Pete's question about meta-writing and  At about 35:00, Barbara's job and it providing “ammunition” for her homophobia is the basis of discussion  At about 36:00, Neil, a family friend, is discussed as a trope and anti-trope At about 38:00, Pete compares Neil's Marxism to “a la carte Catholicism” At about 38:50, The beginnings of discussions of Israel and 1980s viewpoints and a “public relations nightmare” and a broken friendship are highlighted At about 42:40, Jordy talks about the importance of the “carrot scene” and ideas of Jewish masculinity At about 47:15, Pete cites Deni Avdija's story and Jordy expands on ideas of BDS and narratives of “the most moral army in the world” At about 52:00, Jordy and  Pete posit some ideas about the adult daughter in the novel and talk about Jewish leadership in the BDS movement  At about 54:10, The two discuss the scene in which Barbara reunites with her old friend and how Jordy uses satire in the scene At about 57:15, Jordy reflects on real-life connections to Barbara sending her daughter to Israel for “support work” At about 59:15, Jordy cites the book as adding to conversations that come from “bedside rants”        You can now subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, and leave me a five-star review. You can also ask for the podcast by name using Alexa, and find the pod on Stitcher, Spotify, and on Amazon Music. Follow Pete on IG, where he is @chillsatwillpodcast, or on Twitter, where he is @chillsatwillpo1. You can watch other episodes on YouTube-watch and subscribe to The Chills at Will Podcast Channel. Please subscribe to both the YouTube Channel and the podcast while you're checking out this episode.       Pete is very excited to have one or two podcast episodes per month featured on the website of Chicago Review of Books. The audio will be posted, along with a written interview culled from the audio. His conversation with Jeff Pearlman, a recent guest, is up now at Chicago Review.     Sign up now for The Chills at Will Podcast Patreon: it can be found at patreon.com/chillsatwillpodcastpeterriehl      Check out the page that describes the benefits of a Patreon membership, including cool swag and bonus episodes. Thanks in advance for supporting Pete's one-man show, DIY podcast and extensive reading, research, editing, and promoting to keep this independent podcast pumping out high-quality content!    This month's Patreon bonus episode features an exploration of formative and transformative writing for children, as Pete surveys wonderful writers on their own influences.    Pete has added a $1 a month tier for “Well-Wishers” and Cheerleaders of the Show.     This is a passion project, a DIY operation, and Pete would love for your help in promoting what he's convinced is a unique and spirited look at an often-ignored art form.    The intro song for The Chills at Will Podcast is “Wind Down” (Instrumental Version), and the other song played on this episode was “Hoops” (Instrumental)” by Matt Weidauer, and both songs are used through ArchesAudio.com.     Please tune in for Episode 333 with Keith O'Brien. Keith has written five books, won the PEN America award for best biography, and has contributed to multiple publications over the years.    Keith's work has appeared in the New York Times Magazine, the Atlantic, Rolling Stone, the Wall Street Journal, and on National Public Radio. His radio stories have aired on All Things Considered, Morning Edition, and Weekend Edition, as well as Marketplace and This American Life. His latest gem is Heartland: A Forgotten Place, an Impossible Dream, and the Miracle of Larry Bird.    The episode airs on March 29 or thereabouts.    Please go to ceasefiretoday.org, and/or https://act.uscpr.org/a/letaidin to call your congresspeople and demand an end to the forced famine and destruction of Gaza and the Gazan people.    You can also donate at chuffed.org, World Central Kitchen, and so many more, and/or you can contact writer friend Ursula Villarreal-Moura directly or through Pete, as she has direct links with friends in Gaza.  

In The Lady's Handbook for Her Mysterious Illness, Sarah Ramey shares her journey through chronic illness and the medical system's blind spots. This week, we're bringing forward a powerful 2022 conversation with Sarah Ramey, author of The Lady's Handbook for Her Mysterious Illness, whose novel was selected as a MomAdvice Book Club Book the year that this conversation was recorded. This discussion remains as urgent and resonant today as when it first aired, offering an unflinching look at chronic illness, medical bias, and the stories women are too often forced to carry alone. In this episode, we also discuss the complexities of the mind-body connection, the role of privilege in accessing care, and the turning point that led Sarah toward healing through functional medicine. Anne Patchett featured The Lady's Handbook for Her Mysterious Illness in her "If You Haven't Read This Book, It's New to You" series for Parnassus Books. She described it as crackling, electrifying, funny, and fast-paced—a book that will outrage you and one you won't be able to put down.  I co-sign this recommendation and am proud to pull this out from our studio vault as we celebrate this month's book club book, The Mad Wife, and the ways women's health has been so misunderstood.   In this spoiler-filled conversation:

Alie Dumas-Heidt chats with fellow authors about their earliest beginnings and answer everyone's favorite question - What happens next? - on The Writer's Journey. On this episode, Alie talks with author, Alex Kenna, about her favorite childhood reads and what inspired her most recent crime thriller, Burn This Night. Alex Kenna is a mystery writer, attorney, and amateur painter. Her first novel, What Meets the Eye, was a 2023 Shamus Award Finalist for best first P.I. novel. Kirkus Reviews called it a “righteous, painful debut,” and Bookpage called her “a master in the making.” Her second novel, Burn This Night, brings readers back to PI Kate Myles in a twisty plot told in alternating timelines. http://alexkenna.com Alie Dumas-Heidt is the author of The Myth Maker, a detective thriller introducing Det. Cassidy Cantwell, set in Tacoma Washington. She lives on the Kitsap Peninsula with her husband, adult kids, and two spoiled dogs.cmyster http://aliedh.com

On this week's special Debuts Episode—in honor of the 3/15 Debuts Issue of Kirkus Reviews, celebrating standout first books across genres—first-time novelist Rebecca Lehmann joins us to discuss The Beheading Game (Crown, March 24). “The further adventures of Anne Boleyn, post-decapitation,” Kirkus writes in a starred review. “Brilliantly imagined, stylishly written, satisfyingly plotted, full of delicious surprises: all in all, hella fun.” THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS:The Biotech Murders by Ronenn RoubenoffDeepstone by Dean LappiMomentum Lost by Jeffrey E. DenningProse Pizza by Cynthia SchumacherThe Terminal Gene by John H. ThomasSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to the final installment of my interview with Cynthia Weiner, author of “A Gorgeous Excitement,” a coming of age novel set in 1980s New York City that was named a best book of 2025 by The New Yorker, Kirkus Reviews, and Oprah Daily and is freshly out in paperback.Cynthia is also the assistant director of the writer's studio in New York City and her short fiction has been published in “Open City,” “Ploughshares,” and “The Sun,” has earned a Pushcart Prize and been anthologized in Coolest American Stories 2024.In this fun episode, we covered:- The 90s soundtrack that's helping Cynthia get into her next project- The three writers whose examples inspire Cynthia on her own path- Her burning desire to have a house with a yard and, most importantly, a tree- The Max show she's bingeing, her elaborate daily diet soda ritual, the best day of the week, and the fast food meal she's cravingConnect with Cynthia on Instagram at @cynthiaweinerThere are new Finding the Throughline episodes roughly every other week–hit “subscribe” so you know when the next ones drop!For full show notes with links to everything we discuss, plus bonus photos!, visit ⁠katehanley.substack.com⁠.Thank you for listening! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to part two of my interview (a replay) with Cynthia Weiner, author of “A Gorgeous Excitement,” which, since these episodes first aired, has just come out in paperback and was named a best book of the year for 2025 by The New Yorker, Kirkus Reviews, and Oprah Daily.In today's episode, we unpack:- Learning how to tolerate the discomfort of sharing your work- And how to ignore the voice that tells you nobody cares what you have to say- How she came to imagine that inner critical voice as a “shit bird”- Why she could work on one sentence for years- Why she'd rather stay home than travel some place new- How getting older has made her a better writer (and a worse sleeper)- How she's re-wired the idea that it's bad to draw attention to yourselfConnect with Cynthia on Instagram at @cynthiaweinerThere are new Finding the Throughline episodes roughly every other week–hit “subscribe” so you know when the next ones drop!For full show notes with links to everything we discuss, plus bonus photos!, visit ⁠katehanley.substack.com⁠.Thank you for listening! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Beauty by Zadie Smith follows two feuding families—the liberal Belseys and the conservative Kippses—whose lives collide in a New England university town, exploring themes of race, family, politics, and love through sharp satire and witty dialogue.Kirkus Reviews calls Marriage and Other Monuments, Virginia Pye's recently published book, “A fascinating and audacious novel of family, marriage and a society in flux.” It is a #1 Amazon bestseller in New Southern FictionVirginia's essays have appeared in The New York Times, Literary Hub, Publisher's Weekly, Writer's Digest, The Rumpus, and elsewhere. She has taught writing at New York University and the University of Pennsylvania, and, most recently, at GrubStreet in Boston. Virginia is Fiction Editor of the literary journal Pangyrus and serves on the board of the Women's National Book Association, Boston Chapter. Drink this week: The Zadie Smith - obvi! This recipe is from the book: Free the Tipple: Kickass Cocktails Inspired by Iconic Women - Check it out!In this EpisodeMarriage and Other Monuments by Virginia PyeStyle Weekly Best of Richmond 2026Free the Tipple: Kickass Cocktails Inspired by Iconic WomenTickets to Live Show with Meg Medina April 18th

Dr. Jennifer Maritza McCauley is the acclaimed author of When Trying to Return Home (2023), which was a New York Times Editors' Choice, Best Fiction Book of the Year by Kirkus Reviews, and a Must-Read by Elle, Latinx in Publishing, Ms. Magazine, and Southern Review of Books. A former National Endowment for the Arts fellow, she is an assistant professor of English at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Visit her website at https://jennifermaritzamccauley.com/ Spies, Lies and Private Eyes is copyrighted by Authors on the Air Global Radio Network #authorsofinstagram #authorinterview #writingcommunity #authorsontheair#suspensebooks#authorssupportingauthors #thrillerbooks #suspense #wip#writers#writersinspiration #books#bookrecommendations #bookaddict #bookaddicted#bookaddiction #bibliophile #read#amreading #lovetoread #terrencemccauley#terrencemccauleybooks #bookouture #thrillers#theuniversityseries #JenniferMaritzaMcCauley #NeonSteel

What do you do after 197 rejections … for the same book?Well, if you're author Carmela Dutra, you keep going.In this episode, Carmela shares the real story behind her debut cozy mystery, A Murder Most Foul—from querying too soon and rewriting extensively to finding the right agent after nearly 200 nos. We talk about saggy middles, tense slips, brutal feedback, and what it takes to rebuild a manuscript from the ground up.If you're struggling with self-doubt, facing a bunch of rejection, and just feeling like maybe it's time to throw in the towel—this conversation will arm you with what you need to keep going and protect your mindset!Timestamps: 04:20 Personalizing cold queries06:12 What A Murder Most Foul is about11:19 Craft struggles: saggy middles & tense slips15:44 Surviving 197 rejections18:11 Ghosting & rock bottom19:48 Finding the right agent21:42 Learning to plot23:10 Imposter syndrome (“Peggy”)28:37 Querying advice30:20 Finding time to write as a momGuest Bio:Carmela Dutra is a writer from the Bay Area who loves food trucks, family, and cozy mysteries. Her debut, A Murder Most Fowl, has been praised by Kirkus Reviews for its “serious set of crimes leavened by plenty of amusing moments,” by Criminal Element for the “juicy reasoning behind the sabotage that was almost as shocking as the murder itself,” and described as “the perfect escapist read, brimming with banter and an extra helping of fun” by New York Times bestselling author Ellery Adams. She has also been featured in CrimeReads Magazine.To connect with Carmela and purchase her books, visit her website and check her blog series: An Author's Guide to Quering for hot tips!Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

Matty Dalrymple talks with Jennifer Probst about WRITING ENSEMBLE CASTS THAT KEEP READERS HOOKED, including strategies for developing believable character relationships and chemistry, balancing primary and secondary characters in series fiction, keeping relationship arcs consistent across books, and practical craft tips for writing complex casts that keep readers engaged.   Interview video at https://www.youtube.com/@TheIndyAuthorPodcast/podcasts 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   Jennifer Probst wrote her first book at twelve years old. She bound it in a folder, read it to her classmates, and hasn't stopped writing since. She holds a masters in English Literature and lives in the beautiful Hudson Valley in upstate New York. She is the New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of over fifty books in contemporary romance fiction. She was thrilled her book, The Marriage Bargain, spent 26 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Her work has been translated in over a dozen countries, sold over a million copies, and was dubbed a "romance phenom" by Kirkus Reviews.   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.

Host Sheridan Sharp is joined by bestselling author Jeff Zentner, known for his resonate and lyrical writing. Learn how he writes in small pockets of time, how to trust your creative instincts, and why filling your “creative well” matters just as much as drafting.If you're looking for advice on craft, glean wisdom about Jeff's character-driven process, thoughts on voice and first chapters, and practical advice for navigating publishing without chasing trends. If you're looking to grow with intention and confidence as a writer–because you will grow–this is the episode for you!Resourceswww.jeffzentnerbooks.com@jeffzentner (Instagram and Threads)Jeff Zentner - Author on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/jeffzentnerauthor/Works By Jeff: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B01CIKMRJ6About JeffJeff Zentner is the author of The Serpent King, which Kirkus Reviews named one of the best books of the 21st Century, as well as In the Wild Light, Goodbye Days, Rayne & Delilah's Midnite Matinee, Colton Gentry's Third Act, and Sunrise Nights, coauthored with Brittany Cavallaro. He has two books—Wayfarers and Love, Like Apples—forthcoming in 2026Among other honors, he has won the ALA's William C. Morris Award, the Amelia Elizabeth Walden Award twice, the Muriel Becker Award, the International Literacy Association Award, been longlisted twice for the Carnegie Medal, and is a two-time Southern Book Prize finalist.His books have been translated into fifteen languages and been featured on The Today Show, Good Morning America, and in Vanity Fair and People Magazine. Before becoming a writer, he was a musician who recorded with Iggy Pop, Nick Cave, and Debbie Harry. He lives in Nashville.

Mary Kubica is a New York Times bestselling author of thrillers including The Good Girl, Local Woman Missing and She''s Not Sorry. Her books have been translated into over thirty languages and have sold over five million copies worldwide. She's been described as “a helluva storyteller” (Kirkus Reviews) and “a writer of vice-like control” (Chicago Tribune), and her novels have been praised as “hypnotic” (People) and “thrilling and illuminating” (LA Times). She lives outside Chicago with her husband and children.Killer Women podcast is copyrighted by Authors on the Air Global Radio Network#podcast #author #interview #authors #KillerWomen #KillerWomenPodcast #authorsontheair #podcast #podcaster #killerwomen #killerwomenpodcast #authors #authorsofig #authorsofinstagram #authorinterview #writingcommunity #authorsontheair #suspensebooks #authorssupportingauthors #thrillerbooks #suspense #wip #writers #writersinspiration #books #bookrecommendations #bookaddict #bookaddicted #bookaddiction #bibliophile #read #amreading #lovetoread #daniellegirard #daniellegirardbooks #marykubica #parkrowbooks

Mary Kubica is a New York Times bestselling author of thrillers including The Good Girl, Local Woman Missing and She''s Not Sorry. Her books have been translated into over thirty languages and have sold over five million copies worldwide. She's been described as “a helluva storyteller” (Kirkus Reviews) and “a writer of vice-like control” (Chicago Tribune), and her novels have been praised as “hypnotic” (People) and “thrilling and illuminating” (LA Times). She lives outside Chicago with her husband and children. Killer Women podcast is copyrighted by Authors on the Air Global Radio Network #podcast #author #interview #authors #KillerWomen #KillerWomenPodcast #authorsontheair #podcast #podcaster #killerwomen #killerwomenpodcast #authors #authorsofig #authorsofinstagram #authorinterview #writingcommunity #authorsontheair #suspensebooks #authorssupportingauthors #thrillerbooks #suspense #wip #writers #writersinspiration #books #bookrecommendations #bookaddict #bookaddicted #bookaddiction #bibliophile #read #amreading #lovetoread #daniellegirard #daniellegirardbooks #marykubica #parkrowbooks

On today's show, host Esty Dinur is joined by friend of the program, Norman Solomon, to discuss the status of the Democratic Party. His new book is The Blue Road to Trump Hell: How Corporate Democrats Paved the Way for Autocracy and it is available for free online. Solomon says we need a stronger Democratic Party–a progressive Democratic Party–to stop fascism and prevent a Vance presidency. It's not feasible to stop xenophobia and misogyny with neoliberal centrism, as with Biden and Harris's campaigns, says Solomon. At the top, the Democratic Party is pro-military, pro-corporations. Too often, centrist Democrats work against progressives, as with NAFTA and the Crime Bill that  accelerated mass incarceration. Though Biden did some good work while in office, he ultimately folded when it came to the Build Back Better Act. Instead, we need strong Democratic leadership “that fights like hell for working people, children, the elderly, and the infirm.” They also discuss how corporate paywalls keep information inaccessible to regular people, how RFK is “viciously anti-Palestinian” and anti-democratic, Bernie Sander's success in calling out plutocracy and corporate greed, Mamdani's success in New York City, and the status of the DHS budget. Norman Solomon is a journalist, media critic, author and activist. He's the National Director of RootsAction and the Executive Director of the Institute for Public Accuracy.  His book War Made Invisible: How America Hides the Human Toll of Its Military Machine was published in 2023. In a starred review, Kirkus Reviews called the book “a powerful, necessary indictment of efforts to disguise the human toll of American foreign policy.” Norman's dozen other books include War Made Easy: How Presidents and Pundits Keep Spinning Us to Death. Featured image of the cover of Norman Solomon's most recent book, The Blue Road to Trump Hell: How Corporate Democrats Paved the Way for Autocracy. Did you enjoy this story? Your funding makes great, local journalism like this possible. Donate hereThe post Why We Need to Complain About Democrats appeared first on WORT-FM 89.9.

Baldwin was key figure in the American civil rights movement of the last 1960s, and he is one of our most important American writers. Author of the novels If Beale Street Could Talk, Go Tell It on the Mountain, and Giovanni's Room, he was also an essayist, poet, and playwright. Baldwin's influence continues to grow, but even if you've never read a word James Baldwin has written – first, you should – you will find something to treasure in this conversation. Boggs's biography centers on the artistic and intimate relationships that informed Baldwin's life and work. Douglas Brinkley, author of Rosa Parks: A Life, said “Nicholas Boggs's meticulously researched and passionately written Baldwin is the crown jewel of the ongoing James Baldwin revival. … this epic biography captures Baldwin in full.” Our interviewer is Mitchell S. Jackson, author of The Residue Years, Survival Math, and a Pulitzer Prize winning journalist. Jackson is one of the best interviewers — I genuinely think he should have his own talk show — and he brings so much care and curiosity to the conversation. We start with a passage from the audiobook, which is published by Macmillan Audio and read by Ron Butler. Nicholas Boggs is a writer and independent scholar, born and raised in Washington, DC, now living in Brooklyn, New York. He rediscovered and coedited a new edition of James Baldwin's out-of-print collaboration with the French artist Yoran Cazac, Little Man, Little Man: A Story of Childhood (2018), and his writing has been anthologized in The Cambridge Companion to James Baldwin. He received his BA in English from Yale, his MFA in creative writing from American University, and his PhD in English from Columbia. Baldwin: A Love Story is Nicholas Boggs’ debut novel. Mitchell S. Jackson is the winner of the 2021 Pulitzer Prize in Feature Writing and the 2021 National Magazine Award in Feature Writing. Jackson is the critically acclaimed author of The Residue Years, Survival Math: Notes on an All-American Family, Fly: The Big Book of Basketball Fashion, and John of Watts (to be published soon). His writing has been featured on the cover of the New York Times Book Review, Time, Esquire, and Marie Claire, as well as in The New Yorker, Harpers, The New York Times, and elsewhere. Jackson's nonfiction book Survival Math was published in 2019 and named a best book of the year by fifteen publications, including NPR, Time, The Paris Review, The Root, Kirkus Reviews, and Buzzfeed. Jackson is a contributing writer for the New York Times Magazine, covers race and culture as the first Black columnist in the history of Esquire, and serves as the John O. Whiteman Dean's Distinguished Professor in the English Department of Arizona State University.

Robert Ludlum’s The Bourne Revenge (Jason Bourne) by Brian Freeman https://www.amazon.com/Robert-Ludlums-Bourne-Revenge-Jason/dp/B0F5PLFLJ7 The identity of a deadly Chinese spy lies hidden in Jason Bourne's lost memory in this latest entry in the #1 New York Times bestselling series. Shadow – the head of Treadstone – has found evidence of massive Chinese espionage activity in the U.S. The spy running the operations is a shadowy American known only by the codename Bai Ze. No one knows who he is, but when Shadow consults the Files – the hacked AI database she stole from the Chinese – she discovers that Jason Bourne encountered Bai Ze during an operation eight years earlier. The trouble is, Bourne doesn't remember him. As Bourne hunts for the elusive spy, he meets a reporter named Laney Reese who shares his strange affliction: eight years ago, Laney lost her entire memory, too. For Bourne, that can't be a coincidence. He's convinced that whatever happened to both of them is at the heart of the Chinese espionage operation. With Laney at his side, Bourne follows a zigzagging trail of clues to a quirky billionaire and his ex-wife, both of whom may have ties to Bai Ze. As he gets closer to his shadowy adversary, Bourne begins to suspect that he's walking into a trap. But it's a trap with an almost irresistible bait – the chance to recover his forgotten memories. Now Bourne must decide how far he'll go to get his life back. About the author Brian Freeman is a New York Times and Amazon Charts bestselling author of more than two dozen psychological thrillers, including the Jonathan Stride series and multiple popular stand-alone novels. His books have been sold in 46 countries and 23 languages. He is widely acclaimed for his “you are there” settings and his complex, engaging characters and twist-filled plots. Brian was also selected as the official author to continue Robert Ludlum’s Jason Bourne series. His stand-alone thriller SPILLED BLOOD won the award for Best Hardcover Novel in the annual Thriller Awards given out by the International Thriller Writers organization, and his fifth novel THE BURYING PLACE was a finalist for the same award. His novel THE DEEP, DEEP SNOW was a finalist for the Edgar Award for Best Paperback Original in 2021. Kirkus Reviews named his novels THE BOURNE EVOLUTION and INFINITE among its 12 best mysteries and thrillers in back-to-back years.

AudioFile Magazine is now part of Kirkus Reviews, and Behind the Mic marks the moment with a conversation with the magazine's founder and longtime editor Robin Whitten. Robin reflects on a life spent listening, how audiobooks and audiobook reviewing has evolved, and her excitement that the work begun by AudioFile will continue and flourish at KirkusReviews. It's a thoughtful, forward-looking conversation about continuity, change, and the enduring joy of listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From the author of Not What She Seems, Yasmin Angoe's thriller explores revenge, morality, corruption, and wealth as a woman sets out to uncover the truth behind her friend's disappearance and expose the powerful family behind it. Isla Thorne had a rough start in life. Orphaned young, she spent her formative years in a group home where she met her best friend, Eden Galloway. At sixteen, they decide to run away to LA…but Eden never makes it. It's been ten years since Eden vanished. And Isla's determined to find her. She begins at the last place Eden visited: the Corrigan mansion in Virginia. Eden claimed to have unfinished business there. Posing as an aspiring journalist, Isla insinuates herself into the wealthy family's home and begins searching for the truth. The more she digs, the more Isla discovers Eden isn't who she thought she was. Was she even a victim, or did Eden plan this all along? Desperate for answers and to keep her identity hidden, Isla finds an ally in one of the Corrigan sons. But as she wades deeper into this power-hungry family's secrets and lies, she finds herself in the crosshairs of a bloodline that's more lethal than loyal. Yasmin Angoe is the author of the critically acclaimed Her Name Is Knight, first book in the Nena Knight trilogy. She is a first-generation Ghanaian American and the recipient of the 2020 Eleanor Taylor Bland Award for Emerging Writers of Color. Her Name Is Knight came in #1 on multiple Amazon Bestseller charts and is an Editor's Pick for Best Mystery, Thriller, & Suspense. Yasmin is a nominee for the Anthony Awards for Best First Book and the AAMBC Awards for Debut Author of the Year. Her work has received numerous recognitions, Best Of lists, and a Library Journal Starred Review. Her book has appeared in Woman's World Book Club, POPSUGAR, Nerd Daily, the Washington Independent Review of Books, and other platforms. Yasmin is a former educator and received a Kirkus Review calling Her Name Is Knight, “A parable of reclaiming personal and tribal identity by seizing power at all costs".

In this episode of Passion, Purpose, and Possibilities, Candice Snyder sits down with longtime advocate, author, and civic leader Sam Daley-Harris. After beginning his career in music, Sam followed an unexpected calling that led him to found Results, co-found the Microcredit Summit Campaign, and dedicate decades to empowering everyday citizens to create meaningful change. In this episode, they discuss:How personal experiences can reveal your path to purposeWhy knowing your why is essential for meaningful advocacyThe difference between transactional and transformational advocacyHow ordinary citizens can influence systems and leadersWhy community and training matter when creating changeHow to move beyond cynicism into empowered action This conversation is a powerful reminder that your voice matters, your actions count, and meaningful change begins when you choose to participate. About Sam:After a career in music, Sam Daley-Harris founded the anti-poverty lobby RESULTS in 1980, co-founded the Microcredit Summit Campaign in 1995, and founded Civic Courage in 2012. The paperback edition of his book Reclaiming Our Democracy: Every Citizen's Guide to Transformational Advocacy was named an editor's pick by Publisher's Weekly BookLife and was released in January 2025. Kirkus Reviews wrote: "Overall, [the author's] analysis of effective action is as persuasive as it is accessible, and his call to democratic participation is inspiring. A handbook for aspiring activists that readers will find to be both inspiring and practical." Daley-Harris has been interviewed on NPR's Here and Now and on PBS's Laura Flanders and Friends. Website: https://civiccourage.org | https://results.orgSign-up Sheethttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdCQuqj-4O2eh4Sfy_E-dfVntbPlqg1A4T4oQ8E2J0nuZbD-w/viewformBook Website: https://reclaimingourdemocracy.com/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sam-daley-harris-b8bb796 -----If you're struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor, BetterHelp.Visit https://betterhelp.com/candicesnyder for a 10% discount on your first month of therapy.*This is a paid promotionIf you are in the United States and in crisis, or any other person may be in danger -Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Dial 988-----Connect with Candice Snyder!Website: https://www.podpage.com/passion-purpose-and-possibilities-1/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candicebsnyder?_rdrPassion, Purpose, and Possibilities Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/passionpurposeandpossibilitiescommunity/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/passionpurposepossibilities/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/candicesnyder/Shop For A Cause With Gifts That Give Back to Nonprofits: https://thekindnesscause.com/Fall In Love With Artists And Experience Joy And Calm: https://www.youtube.com/@movenartrelaxationClick this link to receive your FREE TRIAL to The Greenhouse Communityhttps://www.thegreenhousecommunity.com/checkout/the-greenhouse-membership?affiliate_code=11e889

M. M. De Voe is an internationally published fictionista who once danced for the Pope and later ran away with a group of jugglers. Five Pushcart nominations, two Editor's Prizes, a Shirley Jackson Award, a Hugo nomination, two children, and several writing conferences later, De Voe has published in various genres internarionally and evwn co-wrote the book of a sci-fi musical which was produced off-Broadway in 2015. She was a Columbia University Writing Fellow and received her MFA under Michael Cunningham. in 2013, she founded the nonprofit Pen Parentis to help writers maintain their careers after having kids, a process described in her nonfiction guidebook for writers who are parents, Book & Baby. This guide won first prize at the 2021 NextGen Indie Awards in the category of writing guides. Her first book of fiction, A FLASH OF DARKNESS: Collected Stories of M. M. De Voe (Borda Books, 2023), was called “ominous, masterfully crafted psychological fiction” by Kirkus Review. As an inaugural member of the Lithuanian Writers of the Diaspora Forum, Mtravels to Vilnius every three years to keep her finger on the pulse of international fiction. She lives in New York City, where she is excited to release her first novel THE BOY WHO LOVED TREES in October 2025. https://www.amazon.com/Boy-Who-Loved-Trees-ebook/dp/B0FWZ981TF/ref=sr_1_1?crid=W1TAVJ4OC75C&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.vpwPMHP_rnB_txDl5XVpcbDzlPetsDJtIgD9Sp1pwXI.EKRG9XJB_zGnC0QNTF2NAw25GCsW4DNBAnWPcF5cx3o&dib_tag=se&keywords=mm+devoe&qid=1767039708&s=books&sprefix=mm+devoe%2Caps%2C208&sr=1-1 https://penparentis.org/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/inspiring-stories--2917948/support.

This week, hosts Dean and Maxwell Rotbart offer their third annual holiday treat for Monday Morning Radio listeners: a reading of the inspirational adult Yuletide tale, A Christmas Day Miracle, by Dean and Talya Rotbart. Since the book was first published in 2021, it has become a perennial holiday favorite. A Christmas Day Miracle tells the true story of one man, Riyaz Adat, on death's doorstep, his devoted wife, Margaret, and Riyaz's miraculous survival and recovery. It's a poignant reminder for people of all faiths of the wonder and power of life's unexpected blessings.  This is a once-a-year exclusive presentation you don't want to miss. A Christmas Day Miracle is available in a keepsake softcover edition on Amazon for only $9.75.  Photo: Riyaz and Margaret Adat Posted: December 22, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 1 Hour 30 Minutes Episode: 14.29 Other books from TJFR Press: But I Said I'm Sorry — A book for children 5-11 years old. Highly recommended by Dr. Laura Schlessinger The Boy Who Answered the Call of Kilimanjaro: The Adventures of Riyaz — Based on the true story of a Tanzanian boy who sets out on an adventure, walking with two schoolmates more than 600 miles from Dar es Salaam to Mt. Kilimanjaro. (Also available from Amazon in Spanish and French) All You Can Eat Business Wisdom: A Monday Morning Radio Anthology of Actionable Advice — Described by Kirkus Reviews as a well-mounted business self-help book that's actually helpful – and a good read, too. Perfectly Ordinary, Yet Extraordinary: Making a Meaningful Difference in the Lives of Others — An inspirational text designed to facilitate the undertaking of homegrown charitable projects. September Twelfth: An American Comeback Story — A thrilling and inspiring tale of journalistic dedication — Kirkus Reviews

Author Mia Dalia ("Estate Sale," "Alakazam") joins Scotty to talk about her rapid entry into writing during the lockdown years of the pandemic, how infamous (and beloved) "hardcore horror" author Jack Ketchum served as an influence on her own unique brand of quiet horror, the brilliance of writers like Richard Matheson and Michael Marshall Smith, her "write fast" writing process, the terrifying inspiration to be found in suburbia, and more. She and Scotty take a look at her novella "Smile So Red" (recently rereleased in her collection "Smile So Red and Other Tales of Madness" by Brigids Gate Press), and her psychological horror novel "Haven" (2024, CamCat Books). They also talk about Brad Anderson's 2001 cult-classic independent horror film "Session 9," and ask what was REALLY going on with that ending... You can find Mia online at https://daliaverse.wixsite.com/author You can find more of Mia's links at https://linktr.ee/daliaverse Read Mia's story "This Broken World" in the anthology "Choices: An Anthology of Reproductive Horror" at https://www.amazon.com/Choices-Anthology-Reproductive-Dianna-Gunn-ebook/dp/B0FJZNJVCR/ See the Facebook announcement for Mia's upcoming novel "Beautiful, Once" at https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1265732391691280&set=a.566944001570126 Check out the Earthling Publications Modern Classics Halloween Series at https://www.earthlingpub.com/halloween.htm Read an interview with Mia conducted by Michael Marshall Smith at https://michaelmarshallsmith.substack.com/p/in-conversation-mia-dalia Read the Kirkus Reviews post about "Smiles So Red and Other Tales of Madness" at https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/mia-dalia/smile-so-red-and-other-tales-of-madness/ Be sure to tune in to Daniel Braum's YouTube series "Night Time Logic." The series focuses on the strange, weird, and wonderful side of dark fiction through readings and discussions with diverse authors from around the world. You can tune in on Daniel's You Tube Channel, which is his name DanielBraum or @danielbraum7838. https://www.facebook.com/groups/429777132474382 https://www.youtube.com/@danielbraum7838 This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

More Info: https://www.jilldodd.com/ In the 1980s, Jill Dodd determined that her ticket out of an abusive home was to make it as a top model in Paris. Armed with only her desire for freedom and independence, she embarks on an epic journey that takes her to uncharted territory—the Parisian fashion industry with all its beautiful glamour and its ugly underbelly of sex, drugs, and excess. From there, Jill begins an eye-opening roller-coaster adventure that includes trips to Monte Carlo, s'xual exploitation, and falling in love with one of the richest men in the world, soon becoming one of his many wives—until she ultimately finds the courage to walk away from it all and rebuild her dreams. In The Currency of Love, she “writes earnestly and refreshingly about learning many of life's more difficult lessons the hard way” (Kirkus Reviews) with page-turning accounts of her struggles and triumphs as she paved her path through a dangerous and seductive world, before ultimately coming into her own as the founder and creator of global fashion line, ROXY. This “raw and inspiring story” (PopSugar) with a feminist fairy tale twist reveals how one woman chose to live her life without forfeiting her independence, ambition, creative expression, and free spirit, all while learning one invaluable lesson: nothing is worth the sacrifice of her integrity, inner peace, and spirit. Support My Shows Here - https://linktr.ee/projectrooq LIVE STREAM TTS DONATIONS - https://streamlabs.com/projectrooq/tip Project ROOQ Website MORE CONTENT - https://www.projectrooq.com/ My Patreon - patreon.com/projectrooq Instagram - www.instagram.com/projectrooq/ #PODCAST #YOUTUBE #DISCLOSURE #SHAUNATTWOOD #PROJECTROOQ #NEWS *****************************