Welsh novelist
POPULARITY
How do I be a lesbian, and a writer, at the same time?Today we meet Kim van Alkemade and we're talking about the queer book that saved her life: Fingersmith by Sarah Waters.Kim is the author of the novels Orphan 8, Bachelor Girl, and Counting Lost Stars. Her forthcoming novel Upstate comes out October 27. Her books have been translated into eleven languages. After a career teaching writing at Shippensburg University in Pennsylvania, she now works at aån independent bookstore in Saratoga Springs, New York, where she lives with her partner, their rescue dog, and two feisty backyard chickens.In Fingersmith, Sue Trinder is an orphan, left as an infant in the care of Mrs. Sucksby, a "baby farmer," who raised her with unusual tenderness, as if Sue were her own. One day, the most beloved thief of all arrives—Gentleman, an elegant con man, who carries with him an enticing proposition for Sue: If she wins a position as the maid to Maud Lilly, a naïve gentlewoman, and aids Gentleman in her seduction, then they will all share in Maud's vast inheritance. But no one and nothing is as it seems in this Dickensian novel of thrills and reversals.Sarah Waters is the author of several novels, including the New York Times–bestselling The Paying Guests. She has been short-listed for the Man Booker Prize three times. Granta named her of their best young British novelists. She lives in London.Connect with Kimwebsite: kimvanalkemade.comthreads: @kimvanalkemadeinstagram: @kimvanalkemadefacebook: @kimvanalkemadeOur BookshopVisit our Bookshop for new releases, current bestsellers, banned books, critically acclaimed LGBTQ books, or peruse the books featured on our podcasts: bookshop.org/shop/thisqueerbookBuy your copy of Fingersmith here: https://bookshop.org/a/82376/9781573229722Buy your copy of Upstate here: https://bookshop.org/a/82376/9780063438033Become an Associate Producer!Become an Associate Producer of our podcast through a $20/month sponsorship on Patreon! A professionally recognized credit, you can gain access to Associate Producer meetings to help guide our podcast into the future! Get started today: patreon.com/thisqueerbookCreditsHost/Founder: John ParkerExecutive Producer: Jim PoundsAssociate Producers: Archie Arnold, K Jason Bryan and David Rephan, Bob Bush, Natalie Cruz, Troy Ford, Jonathan Fried, Joe Perazzo, Bill Shay, Sean Smith, and Karsten VagnerPatreon Subscribers: Stephen D., Stephen Flamm, Ida Göteburg, Thomas Michna, Sofia Nerman, and Gary Nygaard.Creative and Accounting support provided by: Gordy EricksonQuatrefoil LibraryQuatrefoil has created a curated lending library made up of the books featured on our podcast! If you can't buy these books, then borrow them! Link: https://libbyapp.com/library/quatrefoil/curated-1404336/page-1Real quick: yes, you too can be a guest on our podcast! If you have a queer book that had a life-saving impact for you, then please visit thisqueerbook.com and fill out the form on the homepage! Looking forward to hearing back from you!Support the show
Time for a horrid history lesson. Daniell Giles is the author of medieval gothic Mere (2025), and the brand-new Restoration horror-show, Gentle Things. In this episode she talks about the nightmare of research, the similarities between the 1660s and our own sh**ty decade, and how much we both love Sarah Waters. But mostly it's a guided tour of a dirty period in history, of murder, misogyny and… medicinal cannibalism! Yes, it's a thing, and it's nasty. Enjoy Support Talking Scared on Patreon Check out the Talking Scared Merch line – at VoidMerch Come talk books on Threads, Bluesky, and Instagram, or email direct to talkingscaredpod@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Loghan Paylor (MFA'20) didn't set out to win CBC's Canada Reads competition. They were just trying to write the book they needed to write. In this episode, the author of The Cure for Drowning—winner of Canada Reads 2026, Giller Prize longlistee, and Rakuten Kobo Emerging Writer Prize finalist—opens up about non-linear creative processes, writing queer and trans characters with care, the pros and cons of an MFA, and why the best writing advice has nothing to do with aesthetic morning routines.Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:TranscriptContact CarolContact JeevanFrom Here ForwardPodium Podcast CompanyLoghan PaylorCanada ReadsLearn more about the UBC MFA in Creative Writing (00:00) - Introduction (01:42) - Meet Loghan Paylor (02:26) - Canada Reads whirlwind (03:02) - Publicity, introversion, and support (04:22) - The “gap” that wasn't: writing life between milestones (05:29) - Favourite passages and hard-won scenes (06:44) - The Post-it drafting method (08:27) - Finding your process (and ignoring aesthetics) (11:18) - Old drafts, saved folders, and ideas that return (13:18) - Characters, POV, and writing identity (14:52) - Writing Ontario: memory, place, and research accuracy (17:11) - Nature and climate grief (18:17) - Bookworm Games and creative balance (20:14) - Reading influences (21:16) - UBC MFA and becoming a professional writer (24:44) - Advice for emerging writers (27:26) - Reader messages and impact (29:14) - Reviews and boundaries (30:16) - Conclusion
MayGann begins in earnest, with our review of Andrew Davies' 2002 adaptation of Sarah Waters' debut novel Tipping the Velvet, as directed by Geoffrey Sax Presented by J.R. Southall, with Jon Arnold
The Ending Writes Itself by Evelyn Clarke is a clever locked-room mystery from dynamic writing duo, V.E. Schwab and Cat Clarke. The authors joined us live at B&N Union Square to talk about character, storytelling, genre, collaboration, expectation, Scotland and more with cohost Jenna Seery. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Jenna Seery and mixed by Harry Liang. New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): The Ending Writes Itself by Evelyn Clarke The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab Vicious by V.E. Schwab Fingersmith by Sarah Waters
In this episode of Quick Book Reviews, Philippa is joined by bestselling author Will Dean to discuss his haunting psychological thriller Adrift — a novel that explores control, isolation, and the quiet terror of living with someone who manipulates from the shadows.Will talks candidly about his off-grid life in the Swedish woods, why he writes his first drafts in intense six-week bursts, and how emotional stories like Adrift can take years to fully realise.Together, they discuss:Writing while living off grid and why isolation fuels creativityWhy Will avoids the publishing “noise” and trendsHow Adrift took five years to complete, despite a fast first draftWriting claustrophobic tension without exhausting the readerThe psychology of control, gaslighting, and quiet manipulationWriting from a child's point of view and the emotional toll it takesWhy Will leaves much of the violence off the pageThe fear and excitement of starting a new novelHow rereading favourite books shapes his writingThe current reading crisis and why encouraging children to read matters more than everWill also shares what he's currently reading, why he rereads authors like Shirley Jackson and Sarah Waters, and answers the most important question of all: what powered the writing of Adrift (spoiler: frozen dates, not biscuits).A thoughtful, intense, and revealing conversation about storytelling, fear, and the importance of noticing unheard people in unseen places.Follow Quick Book Reviews for book recommendations, author interviews, and weekly podcast episodes.
Við fræddumst um Sóknaráætlun Vestfjarða í þættinum í dag, en Uppbyggingarsjóður Vestfjarða er samkeppnissjóður sem hefur það hlutverk að styrkja verkefni sem falla að Sóknaráætlun Vestfjarða. Sóknaráætlanir hafa skilað töluverðu til landshlutanna og hafa fjölmörg verkefni komið til framkvæmda fyrir þeirra tilstuðlan. Fjöldi verkefna hefur fært sér Uppbyggingarsjóðinn í nyt sem eflt hafa menningar- og atvinnulíf á svæðinu. Við töluðum í dag við Skúla Gautason menningarfulltrúa Vestfjarða. Karna Sigurðardóttir kvikmyndagerðarkonu er ein þeirra sem hlaut styrk úr Uppbyggingasjóðnum fyrir verkefnið Skjaldbökuna, en það er námskeið í heimildamyndagerð fyrir krakka á miðstigi, 10-12 ára, þar sem þau hafa gert stuttar heimildarmyndir um fjölbreytt umfjöllunarefni í þeirra nágrenni. Karna sagði okkur betur frá í þættinum. Lesandi vikunnar í Mannlega þættinu í þetta sinn var Elín Björk Jóhannsdóttir, bókmenntafræðingur en hún starfar sem ritstjóri og verkefnastjóri hjá Háskólaútgáfunni. Hún sagði okkur frá því hvaða bækur hún hefur verið að lesa undanfarið og hvaða bækur og höfundar hafa haft mest áhrif á hana í gegnum tíðina. Elín Björk talaði um eftirfarandi bækur og höfunda: Wifedom: Mrs Orwell's Invisible Life e. Anna Funder Huldukonan eftir Fríðu Ísberg Emily Wilde-serían e. Heather Fawcett Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell e. Susanna Clarke Guðrún Eva Mínervudóttir, Steinunn Sigurðardóttir, Kristín Marja Baldursdóttir, og Sarah Waters og höfundarverk hennar Tónlist í þættinum: Upp í sveit / Hjálmar (Magnús Eiríksson) Blue Valley Songbird / Dolly Parton (Dolly Parton) Ísland / Spilverk þjóðanna (Valgeir Guðjónsson og Sigurður Bjóla Garðarsson) UMSJÓN: GUÐRÚN GUNNARSDÓTTIR OG GUNNAR HANSSON
Just outside Belfast, lie the Mourne Mountains - a land of granite peaks and wide skies, but also a place of witches, fawns and lions. Protected as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, an Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a UNESCO Global Geopark, this remarkable landscape is also a doorway to imagination. Join National Trust ranger Kate Martin as she journeys from the streets of Belfast to the Mourne Mountains, exploring the places that shaped C.S. Lewis's childhood and inspired his creation of Narnia. Discover how city, story and landscape came together to form one of the most beloved worlds in children's literature. (AD) Wild Tales is sponsored by Cotswold Outdoor, your outside retailer and epic guides to adventure.Quick breathers, calming walks or heart-pounding hikes. We feel better when we get out more.Find quality kit and 50 years of outdoor wisdom. Plus, supporters save 15% in-store and online. Feel in your element in the elements, at Cotswold Outdoor. www.cotswoldoutdoor.com Watch a video of this podcast on the National Trust's YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/_Smzdtsh_tMProduction Presenter: Kate Martin Producer: Pippa Tilbury-Harris Sound Designer: Jesus Gomez Contributors: Dr Sarah Waters, Director of the Sterling College C.S. Lewis Center Lolly Spence, Blue Badge Tourist Guide and historian James Fisher, Lead Ranger NI Castle Ward Actor: Ethan Hughes courtesy of Prime Theatre Thank you to The CS Lewis Company Ltd for permissions to use quotes from The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by CS Lewis © copyright CS Lewis Pte Ltd 1950, in this episode. Discover More If you'd like to know more about visiting The Mournes, please visit https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/the-mournes You can listen to more of Kate's Northern Ireland adventures here: Northern Ireland Adventure | Beyond the Bridge - Wild Tales | Nature Podcast | Podcast on Spotify Northern Ireland Adventure | Sea Safari at Rathlin Island - Wild Tales | Nature Podcast | Podcast on Spotify If you'd like to read Dr Sarah Waters' work on C.S. Lewis, you can do so here: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9681-3361 And you can learn more about the Sterling College C.S. Lewis Center here: https://www.sterling.edu/academics/cs-lewis-center If you'd like to get in touch with feedback, or have a story connected with the National Trust, you can contact us at podcasts@nationaltrust.org.uk
When I chose a book to review for Likely Stories, I think back to those that have stuck with me, books that I've recommended to people over and over again. Today I want to tell you about one of my favorite books. My name is Heather White. I teach art history at Baylor and today I'm reviewing the historical crime novel Fingersmith, by Sarah Waters, written in 2002.
On this week's show we identify the top IMDB user rated original movies per streamer. We also read your emails and take a look at the week's news. News: Classic TV props fetch $3.17M Netflix feature lets you decide what happens next, live 'High Potential' Is First 10 p.m. Drama to Hit No. 1 For the Fall Since 'ER' in 1999 Other: Explaining the magic yellow first-down line · The 42 Frndly TV Your Smart TV's HDMI Port Is Spying On You! The Last Frontier Top User Rated Original Movies per Streamer Last week we ran down the top streamer's price histories and at one point I (Ara), said that Amazon really didn't have many movies worth watching but since it came included with Prime shipping who cares. So this week I wanted to see what Amazon Original Movies were available and how they rated on IMDB. This did not include TV series like Reacher, Terminalist, etc. I just wanted to see if there was something I was missing. Then I expanded it to all the streamers we talked about last week and thus we created a list of the highest rated original movies from each streamer as rated by viewers on IMDB. Note the list goes from lowest to highest. Paramount+ Hunger Ward (2020) with a rating of 7.1/10. This short documentary, directed by Skye Fitzgerald, explores the Yemeni Civil War's famine through the work of two female health workers at therapeutic feeding centers for malnourished children. It premiered on Paramount+ in 2021 and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Short Subject. Hulu Good Luck to You, Leo Grande (2022) with a rating of 7.2/10 based on over 34,000 user votes. Directed by Sophie Hyde and starring Emma Thompson as a widowed retiree exploring her sexuality with a young sex worker (Daryl McCormack), it's a witty and intimate comedy-drama praised for its honest take on aging, desire, and vulnerability. Peacock Psych 3: This Is Gus (2021) with a rating of 7.5/10 based on over 5,500 user votes. This comedy-mystery TV movie, directed by Steve Franks, serves as the third installment in the Psych film series and follows fake psychic detective Shawn Spencer (James Roday Rodriguez) and his best friend Burton "Gus" Guster (Dulé Hill) as they investigate Gus's bride-to-be's past amid wedding chaos, all while Lassiter (Timothy Omundson) faces career uncertainty. It's praised for its sharp humor, heartfelt moments, and nostalgic callbacks to the original USA Network series. Netflix Marriage Story (2019) with a rating of 7.9/10 (from over 380,000 votes). Directed by Noah Baumbach, this poignant drama follows a stage director (Adam Driver) and his actress wife (Scarlett Johansson) as they navigate a grueling divorce, exploring the emotional toll on their family and creative lives. It received critical acclaim for its sharp screenplay, authentic performances, and raw depiction of marital breakdown, earning six Oscar nominations including Best Picture. Apple TV+ Wolfwalkers (2020) with a rating of 8.0/10 based on over 43,000 user ratings. This animated fantasy adventure, directed by Tomm Moore and Ross Stewart, follows a young hunter's daughter who befriends a girl from a wolf-shifting tribe in 17th-century Ireland. It stands out for its hand-drawn animation, themes of friendship and freedom, and cultural folklore elements, earning an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature. Amazon Prime The Handmaiden (2016) with a rating of 8.1/10 from nearly 195,000 votes. Directed by Park Chan-wook and adapted from Sarah Waters' novel Fingersmith, this erotic psychological thriller is set in 1930s Japanese-occupied Korea. It follows a con artist, a pickpocket disguised as a handmaiden, and a wealthy heiress in a tale of seduction, betrayal, and revenge told across three perspectives. Amazon Studios acquired U.S. distribution rights after its 2016 Cannes premiere, making it an exclusive Prime Video original. Its high rating comes from praise for its intricate plot, stunning visuals, and strong performances by Kim Min-hee, Kim Tae-ri, and Ha Jung-woo. For comparison, other top Amazon originals include Manchester by the Sea (7.8/10), Sound of Metal (7.7/10), and The Big Sick (7.5/10).
BEAR by Marian Engel, chosen by novelist Sarah Waters THE TRUE BELIEVER by Eric Hoffer, chosen by film editor Walter Murch THE VISITOR by Maeve Brennan, chosen by presenter Harriett GilberSarah Waters, acclaimed author of Fingersmith and The Night Watch, and Walter Murch, legendary film editor of Apocalypse Now and The English Patient choose the books they love.Sarah's choice is a cinematic novel set in Northern Canada. Bear by Marian Engel is the unusual tale of a woman's friendship and subsequent sexual relationship with a bear when she travels to a remote island for the summer.The True Believer is a remarkably prescient examination of mass movements from 1951. Author Eric Hoffer examines political fanaticism throughout the ages. Walter Murch chose it because he says so much of it rings true in today's fractured world.Harriett's choice is the story of different generations of women in an unhappy home in Ireland. Maeve Brennan's novella The Visitor is a haunting tale of a chilly tight-lipped Dublin home.Producer: Maggie Ayre, BBC Audio BristolPhoto: Charlie Hopkinson
Rachel is joined by Youth Services Librarian Audrey to discuss spooky reads for the fall season, and they inadvertently end up DESTROYING the Brothers Grimm. Check out what we talked about: Books mentioned: "Lost Hearts" by M.R. James with listenalike podcast "Shadows at the Door," specifically "The Troughton Stories." "The Haunting of Hill House" by Shirley Jackson with readalike "This House Is Haunted" by John Boyne. "The Old Nurse's Story" by Elizabeth Gaskell with listenalike podcast "Scare You To Sleep." "The Death of Jane Lawrence" by Caitlin Starling with readalike "The Little Stranger" by Sarah Waters. "Behind the Yellow Door" by Christine Campbell Thompson with readalike "And the Dead Spake" by E.F. Benson. "Rumpelstiltskin" by the Brothers Grimm retold and illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky with readalike "Fairy Tales from the Brothers Grimm: A New English Version" by Philip Pullman. Briefly mentioned were "House of Leaves" by Mark Z. Danielewski, "The Girl with the Green Ribbon" by Alvin Schwartz, and "The Red Shoes" by Hans Christian Anderson. To access complete transcripts for all episodes of Not Your Mother's Library, please visit: oakcreeklibrary.org/podcast The following music was used for this media project: "Moonlight Hall" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech – Music and also Graph Paper ) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License Deed - Attribution 4.0 International - Creative Commons Check out books, movies, and other materials through the Milwaukee County Federated Library System: countycat.mcfls.org hoopladigital.com wplc.overdrive.com oakcreeklibrary.org
Join us on The Explaining History Podcast as we welcome Dame Vikki Heywood, former Executive Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Royal Court Theatre, to discuss her dazzling debut novel Miss Veal and Miss Ham. Set against the sleepy veneer of a 1951 Buckinghamshire village post office, this intimate tale reveals the hidden passions and unspoken resilience of two women whose lives span from the suffragette movement to the aftermath of World War II.In this episode, we explore:A Day of Reckoning: How one pivotal day in 1951 cracks open Miss Dora Ham and Miss Beatrix Veal's carefully maintained spinster façade—and what it tells us about post-war Britain.Through Beatrix's Eyes: The wry, poignant narrative voice that illuminates the challenges of love that “cannot be spoken,” and the heart-breaking decisions forced by changing times.Echoes of Literary Greats: Why fans of Barbara Pym and Sarah Waters will be drawn to Heywood's rich tapestry of gay underground clubs, wartime Blitz life, and the shifting landscape of women's work after the war.Hidden Lives, Lasting Love: What inspired Heywood to tell a four-decade story of clandestine romance, and how her own career in the arts informed this deeply human portrait.Whether you're intrigued by post-war social history, the evolution of LGBTQ+ narratives, or the behind-the-scenes world of theatre leadership, this conversation shines a light on love, loss, and the unbreakable dignity of lives lived in the shadows. Tune in for an episode that bridges art, history, and the enduring power of storytelling.*****STOP PRESS*****I only ever talk about history on this podcast but I also have another life, yes, that of aspirant fantasy author and if that's your thing you can get a copy of my debut novel The Blood of Tharta, right here:Help the podcast to continue bringing you history each weekIf you enjoy the Explaining History podcast and its many years of content and would like to help the show continue, please consider supporting it in the following ways:If you want to go ad-free, you can take out a membership hereOrYou can support the podcast via Patreon hereOr you can just say some nice things about it here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On the Shelf for June 2025 The Lesbian Historic Motif Podcast - Episode 316 with Heather Rose Jones Your monthly roundup of history, news, and the field of sapphic historical fiction. In this episode we talk about: Recent and upcoming publications covered on the blog Bronski, Michael. 2012. A Queer History of the United States (ReVisioning American History). Beacon Press. ISBN 978-0807044650 Rouse, Wendy L. 2022. Public Faces, Secret Lives: A Queer History of the Women's Suffrage Movement. New York: NYU Press. ISBN 9781479813940 Boag, Peter. 2011. Re-Dressing America's Frontier Past. University of California Press, Berkeley. ISBN 978-0-520-27062-6 Boag, Peter. 2011. “The Trouble with Cross-Dressers: Researching and Writing the History of Sexual and Gender Transgressiveness in the Nineteenth-Century American West” in Oregon Historical Quarterly, Vol. 112, No. 3: 322-339 Brown, Judith, C. 1986. Immodest Acts: The Life of a Lesbian Nun in Renaissance Italy. Oxford University Press, New York. ISBN 0-19-504225-5 Recent Lesbian/Sapphic Historical Fiction An American in Paris by Margaret Vandenburg Whispers of Love Beneath the Hidden Manor by Aiyo Sa The Ladies by Caitlin Crowe The Eye of the Water: Between Creek and Roots by Stephanie Hager-Lyons A Soft Place to Land by Kelsey Kranz Lady's Knight by Amie Kaufman & Meagan Spooner Six Wild Crowns by Holly Race Daughter of Doom by Jean-Claude van Rijckeghem A Rare Find by Joanna Lowell Murder by Proxy (Meredith and Alex Thatch Mystery #3) by Rachel Ford Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V.E. Schwab Other Titles of Interest Damsels and Dinosaurs by Wren Jones By Her Sword: A Sapphic Fantasy Romance Anthology (Sunset Wave Sapphic Anthologies #2) edited by Erin Branch What I've been consuming Inventing the Renaissance by Ada Palmer This month we interview Joanna Lowell and talk about: Working with historical language and issues around characters who don't fall neatly in the gender binary How her previous books connect together Actor Charlotte Charke as an inspiration for the character of Georgie Theater as a place for queer themes Avoiding being locked into incorrect historical tropes How the novels of Alexis Hall and Sarah Waters work differently with gender The difficulty of getting away from modern identity categories Books Joanna has recently enjoyed: A Gentleman's Gentleman by T.J. Alexander Ladies in Hating by Alexandra Vasti A transcript of this podcast is available here. (Interview transcripts added when available.) Links to the Lesbian Historic Motif Project Online Website: http://alpennia.com/lhmp Blog: http://alpennia.com/blog RSS: http://alpennia.com/blog/feed/ Twitter: @LesbianMotif Discord: Contact Heather for an invitation to the Alpennia/LHMP Discord server The Lesbian Historic Motif Project Patreon Links to Heather Online Website: http://alpennia.com Email: Heather Rose Jones Mastodon: @heatherrosejones@Wandering.Shop Bluesky: @heatherrosejones Facebook: Heather Rose Jones (author page) Links to Joanna Lowell Online Website: https://www.joannalowell.com/ Instagram: @joannalowellauthor
What was the real story behind the BBC series Dope Girls? In this episode of Oh What a Lovely Podcast, we dive into the world of Soho's underground nightlife in the 1920s, as seen in the BBC's new drama Dope Girls. The series takes inspiration from Marek Kohn's book Dope Girls: The Birth of the British Drug Underground and brings to life the turbulent years after the First World War, when jazz clubs, crime, and vice flourished in London. Joining us to separate fact from fiction is Professor Matthew Houlbrook, a leading historian of 20th-century Britain. We explore the real figures and stories behind Dope Girls, the shifting social landscape of post-war Britain, and how the show reflects the era's struggles with gender, crime, and morality. References: Marek Kohn, Dope Girls: The Birth Of The British Drug Underground Kate Atkinson, Shrines of Gaiety Matt Houlbrook, Queer London: Perils and Pleasures in the Sexual Metropolis, 1918-1957 Downton Abbey Robert Graves & Alan Hodge, The Long Weekend: A Social History of Great Britain 1918-1939 Sarah Waters, The Paying Guests
Welcome to Episode 230 where we talk about some books. As this is another tenth episode, we are also hosting a giveaway! One lucky newsletter subscriber will win a paperback copy of our second quarter readalong pick, THE GOOD HOUSE by Tananarive Due. Newsletter subscribers are automatically entered to win our recurring tenth episode giveaways. Chris unexpectedly read the surprise hot book of the season, CARELESS PEOPLE: A Cautionary Tale of Power, Greed, and Lost Idealism by Sarah Wynn-Williams, and is telling everyone to believe the hype. She also read THE EXTENDED MIND: The Power of Thinking Outside the Brain by Annie Murphy Paul, and devoured WOMAN, EATING: A Literary Vampire Novel by Claire Kohda. Emily read two novels that have an unexpected connection, MURDER UNDER HER SKIN: A Pentecost and Parker Mystery by Stephen Spotswood and THE GHOSTWRITER by Julia Clark. She also read two less murdery novels, TELL ME EVERYTHING by Elizabeth Strout and TILDA IS VISIBLE by Jane Tara. One of these she loved and the other was a bit of a departure for a well-loved writer. We discuss the third short ghost story – “The Haunted and the Haunters; Or, The House and the Brain by Edward Bulwer Lytton – in THE PENGUIN BOOK OF GHOST STORIES: From Elizabeth Gaskell to Ambrose Bierce. This one didn't grab us like the last one (pun intended) but we can see how it contributes to the haunted house tradition. In Biblio Adventures, Chris made a guest appearance on Shawn Breathes Books where they discussed FINGERSMITH by Sarah Waters; it is ready for viewing on his BookTube channel. Emily was in Colorado visiting new grandbaby #2, and got to visit two local bookstores: White River Books in Carbondale and Alpenglow Books and Gifts in Glenwood Springs. During a long layover in O'Hare, she also visited several Barbara's Bookstores in the airport. As always, there is more in this episode than we can highlight here, like upcoming reads and jaunts (e.g., THE CAT'S MEOW: How Cats Evolved from the Savanna to Your Sofa by Jonathan Losos, All CT Reads with author Monica Wood, and the Willa Cather Spring Conference). We were so happy to be back together talking about books across the table! We hope you enjoy listening to this episode as much as we enjoyed recording it. Happy Reading! https://www.bookcougars.com/blog-1/2025/episode230
Welcome to Episode 227, featuring an author spotlight with Megan Marshall discussing her new collection of essays, After Lives: On Biography and the Mysteries of the Human Heart. Megan is a Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer who turns her writerly gaze and historical imagination on her own life, her family and friends, and the “after lives” of her biographical subjects. After Lives publishes the day this episode drops–purchase your copy post-haste or request it at your library. We have been enjoying a “real” New England winter this season, which has kept us hunkered down and reading on our respective couches. The books in our Just Read segment are: A New Home, Who Will Follow? by Caroline Kirkland The Grey Wolf by Louise Penny Fortune Favors the Dead by Stephen Spottswood How We Learn to Be Brave: Decisive Moments in Life and Faith by Mariann Edgar Budde My Life in France by Julia Child and Alex Prud'homme Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave by Elle Cosimano (release date 3/4/25) The Vanishing Kind by Alice Henderson (release date 3/4/25) I'll Be Right Here by Amy Bloom (release date 6/24/25) In short stories, we discuss “The Old Nurse's Story” by Elizabeth Gaskell, the first story in The Penguin Book of Ghost Stories: From Elizabeth Gaskell to Ambrose Bierce, which we will be reading throughout 2025 for our year of reading Ghost Stories. Chris also read the ghost story The Inn by Guy De Maupassant. We did get out and about for a Biblio Adventure to the New York Society Library to see a reading of Lord Byron's Manfred by The New Relic Theatre. While there we also watched a virtual event via the Yale Program for the Study of Antisemitism featuring Ruth Franklin in conversation about her new book The Many Lives of Anne Frank. And we had two couch biblio adventures. Emily watched the film The Boy, The Mole, The Fox, and The Horse based on the book by Charlie Mackesy, and Chris participated in the Women's Prize Book Club with Sarah Waters in conversation with Simon Savidge about her novel Fingersmith. Of course, we also talk about what we're currently reading, hope to read, upcoming jaunts, Simon & Schuster's news about book blurbs, and more. There's a whole lot of yuck in the world now, and we are grateful for good books and bookish friends. Thank you, friends, for listening and connecting with us on social media, email, or Zoom. We wish you lots of Happy Reading! https://www.bookcougars.com/blog-1/2025/episode227
We are thrilled to feature Dr. Pamela D. Toler who joined us to talk about her new book, THE DRAGON FROM CHICAGO: THE UNTOLD STORY OF AN AMERICAN REPORTER IN NAZI GERMANY. In a time when women were a rarity in the field, Sigrid Schultz was a print and broadcast journalist and the Chicago Tribune's Berlin office bureau chief. She covered news from Europe and Germany from WWI through WWII and post-war years. Toler's writing is accessible, and her subject's life & work are amazing. Having read every byline that Schultz wrote, Toler was able to offer insights about how totalitarian governments gain power making this history book a must-read for those concerned about our present political climate. Before we get into our regular segments, we recap our 2024 reading intentions and talk about reading intentions for 2025. We like “intention” because it implies a direction or focus rather than a specific goal. We do, however, mention some specific titles and authors, so perhaps those could be considered goals. Anyway, the point is we don't want to tie ourselves up in knots if our reading lives take unexpected but exciting twists and turns. What are your reading intentions for the New Year? Emily read two short stories from her Hingston and Olson Advent Calendar, “In the Stacks” by Robin Sloan and “The Hookup” by Katherine Heiny. She also discusses WE ALL WANT IMPOSSIBLE THINGS by Catherine Newman, CHECK, PLEASE! BOOK 1: #HOCKEY by Ngozi Ukazu, and LITTLE GREAT ISLAND by Kate Woodworth (not out until May). Chris shares her newfound love for an 1848 classic of Victorian Literature, THE TENANT OF WILDFELL HALL by Anne Brontë. She also revisits an old favorite, FINGERSMITH by Sarah Waters, which she listened to on audio. We also share two exciting reading projects hosted by listeners, what we're currently reading, (couch) Biblio Adventures, and more. Thank you so much for listening. We hope you enjoy this episode and wish you lots of Happy Reading!
Bentornati in Bookatini - il podcast per chi è ghiotto di libri. L'episodio 82 è dedicato alle letture autunnali. Nell'episodio di oggi abbiamo chiacchierato di questi libri:"L'Ospite", Sarah Waters, Ponte alle Grazie"Spinascura", Federica Frezza e Martina Peloponesi, Mondadori"Foliage - Vagabondare in Autunno", Duccio Demetrio, Raffaello Cortina Editore"La casa di sabbia e nebbia", Andre Dubus III, Neri Pozza Beat"Equinox", Chiara Strazzulla, Gainsworth Publishing"Da qualche parte al di là del mare", TJ Klune, MondadoriPotete contattarci, scrivere commenti, suggerimenti, domande e condividete con noi le vostre letture su questo tema contattandoci nella pagina Instagram Bookatini_podcast, dove potete trovare anche le nostre live, in onda di mercoledìSe volete sostenerci e godere di contenuti aggiuntivi, potete unirvi a 4 possibili livelli di Patreon che trovate al link: https://www.patreon.com/bookatiniLa sigla di Bookatini è scritta e suonata da Andrea Cerea
PopaHALLics #130 "The Witch, The Killer ... & Emily in Paris"Kate muses on the appeal—and fashion—of the Netflix hit "Emily in Paris," recently named by The New York Times as one to "hatewatch." (You dislike the show so much that you still watch it so you can ridicule it.) First, we look at "American Murder: Laci Peterson" and talk about three novels. Also: "The Lost Kitchen."Streaming:"Emily in Paris," Netflix. As the fourth season begins, marketing executive Emily (Lily Collins) has even more romantic and professional dilemmas! Golly! Part one of this season premiered in August and part two drops Sept. 12."American Murder: Laci Peterson," Netflix. This true-crime docuseries delves into the 2002 disappearance and murder of Peterson, who was eight months pregnant at the time."The Lost Kitchen" and "Getting Lost," Max, Discovery, Magnolia. In these reality shows, self-taught chef Erin French uses local crops to whip up tasty dishes and connections to the family cooks who went before.Books:"The Road from Belhaven," by Margot Livesey. The gift of second sight complicates the life of a young woman in late 19th-century Scotland."Gone," by Chelsea Cain. In this thriller, Kick, a survivor of child pornography, looks for an abducted boy with the help of the enigmatic John Bishop."The Paying Guests," by Sarah Waters. This novel set in 1920s south London weaves together a love story and a crime drama as a family trying to make ends meet takes in lodgers.Click through to watch and read what we're talking about.
You can now text us anonymously to leave feedback, suggest future content or simply hurl abuse at us. We'll read out any texts we receive on the show. Click here to try it out!Welcome back to Bad Dads Film Review! Today, we're diving into the captivating and intricately plotted world of The Handmaiden, a 2016 psychological thriller directed by Park Chan-wook. This South Korean film, inspired by the novel Fingersmith by Sarah Waters, is a masterclass in storytelling, visual aesthetics, and suspense.A Tale of Deceit and Desire Set in 1930s Korea during the Japanese occupation, The Handmaiden tells the story of a young Korean woman, Sook-hee, who is hired as a handmaiden to a wealthy Japanese heiress, Lady Hideko. However, Sook-hee's employment is part of an elaborate scheme concocted by a con man named Count Fujiwara. His plan: for Sook-hee to help him seduce Lady Hideko so he can marry her, commit her to an asylum, and steal her wealth.Layers Upon Layers As the narrative unfolds, it becomes a mesmerizing tale of double-crosses, sexual awakening, and shifting loyalties. The story is presented in three parts, each from a different character's perspective, which gradually reveals the depths of deception and the complexities of the characters' relationships. This structure keeps the viewer guessing and reevaluating everything they know about the characters and their motives.Why It Stands OutVisual Storytelling: Park Chan-wook's direction is visually stunning. Every frame is meticulously crafted, combining exquisite costume and set designs with a vibrant color palette that enhances the sensual and suspenseful atmosphere of the film.Complex Characters: The characters in The Handmaiden are richly developed, with motivations that are both hidden and explicit. This complexity adds layers to the narrative, making the character dynamics engrossing and the plot twists more impactful.Erotic Elements: The film incorporates strong erotic themes that are integral to the plot and character development. These elements are handled with artistry and contribute significantly to the film's exploration of freedom, power, and identity.At its core, The Handmaiden explores themes of manipulation and liberation. It delves into the ways individuals manipulate each other for personal gain, but also how characters can break free from societal and personal oppression. The film challenges traditional notions of power and autonomy, particularly in relation to gender and sexuality.For fans of psychological thrillers, historical dramas, and beautifully crafted cinema, The Handmaiden is a must-watch. Its ability to blend genre elements with a profound exploration of human desires and deceptions makes it a standout film that engages the mind and the senses.Join us as we unravel the intricate web of The Handmaiden, exploring its narrative complexities, stunning aesthetics, and the provocative questions it raises about love, betrayal, and freedom. Whether you're discovering it for the first time or revisiting this modern classic, there's plenty to uncover in this thrilling cinematic journey.
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 281 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included: Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair Knitting in Passing KAL News Events Life in Focus Ask Me Anything On a Happy Note Quote of the Week Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Twin Mountain Handcrafts Irocknits Designs Thelittlewolfknits Stitched by Jessalu Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Declan's 70s Socks Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Seventies Stripes Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Finished August 3rd Total for Stash Dash: 278.2 meters (304.2 yards) Log Cabin Mitts Pattern: Log Cabin Mitts by Karen Templar (free knitting pattern available on Ravelry & on this site) Yarn: Barnyard Knits, Fuse Fiber Studio, One Twisted Tree (shop formerly own Prairie Girl Danie) + other leftover sock yarn Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) 9 sections of garter stitch log cabin. I decided to knit the 2 squares concurrently so I'd remember which yarns I used for each section, not reading ahead enough to know that you were supposed to work them slightly differently to make matching mitts, but that doesn't bother me at all, so I just went with it and mine are opposites. I like that I can see all of the colors on the top or bottoms of my hands. 60g fingering weight yarn (held double) 253.8 meters for Stash Dash Rafa's Hat Yarn: Malabrigo Rios in the Cielo y Tierra colorway Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) Pattern: Rafa's Hat by Joji Locatelli (free knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Ravelry Project Page: Started July 9. Finished August 7th. Total for Stash Dash: 115.2 meters Laura's London Socks Yarn: Qing Fibre Dashing Fingering Base in the Salt colorway (cream with blips of neons & gray) & a 50g Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Micro Skein in a Mystery Colorway (gray) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Ravelry Project Page Bought the Qing Fibres Yarn in London in November 2022 with Laura. She chose this skein from my stash in 2023 not realizing we bought it when we were together. Total for Stash Dash: 272 meters On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Wool Ease Hexagon Blanket Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick. Centers in colorways- Fern, Coney Island, Seaglass, Slate. Borders- Wheat & Oatmeal Hook: 10mm (N/P) 2 rounds of color- 1 round of wheat or oatmeal 30 done in July. 47 done by August 7th. Had to order more yarn (twice) and ended up with 96 hexagons. The blanket is nearly the size of a full sized comforter. Last summer's hexi blanket was fingering held double- 60x84 inches and took about 300 hexis which were 4 rounds each (these have only 3). (Check out the Ravelry Project Page here) Berry Bliss Socks Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock (75% SW Merino/25% Nylon) in the Berry Bliss Colorway (May 2024 Yarnable Box) & Legacy Fiber Artz Glitzy Toes (pink mini from 2023 Advent Calendar) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: I've finished the heel on the second sock. LFA Helical Socks Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Portal Colorway & a Mystery Colorway (both 50g skeins: 75% SW Merino, 25% Nylon). Knit Picks Felici in the Beatnik Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Cast on in June 2023. Finished the first sock and am nearly to the heel on the second sock. I'm helical striping the LFA yarn and used leftover Knit Picks Felici Self Striping Yarn (purple, blue and a pumpkin orange) for the heel and toes. You can't tell its striped at all. Looks like 1 cohesive colorway. Progress: first sock finished, nearly to the heel on the second sock. Brainstorming I'm debating starting my first Woolens and Nosh advent sock early since December is hectic I never get as far as I'd like. I thought I could make a sweater from me with the leftovers of Mom's Rhinebeck Sweater yarn, but it doesn't look like I'll have enough yarn, so that project is on hold. Perhaps I'll look for more yarn to add to it and save it for that. Dan's Litchfield Hat with Welcome to Litchfield Handspun (Ravelry Project Page) I'm planning to knit socks for my friend Sheri. My niece Aila asked for socks for Christmas. She'd like these Daisy Socks- pattern on Ravelry. From the Armchair The Paying Guests by Sarah Waters. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. No One Tells You This by Glynnis Macnicol. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. All Fours by Miranda July. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Bitter Blood: A True Story of Southern Family Pride, Madness and Multiple Murder by Jerry Bledsoe. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases. Knitting in Passing Last Saturday, Oisin came here to Work with Dan. When Megg, Tom and Hattie came to pick him up they stayed for a chat. Hattie got out the ponies and Barbies, then she abandoned that to knit on my Berry Lemonade socks with me. She did fantastic after a quick reminder of the stitches and even took my feedback about putting her left index finger on the second stitch on the needle to prevent that from falling off while slipping the stitch she just worked, off the left needle. Hattie asked to start her own pair of socks (ambitious) and tried on scrappy helical socks I started in November (Ravelry Project Page) She tried on the scrappy helical socks I started in November and they fit. I need about 1.5 inches before toe on the first sock, so I should pick those back up soon. KAL News Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24 Event Dates: Thursday September 5, 2024- Monday February 10, 2025 Find everything you need in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Official Rules Registration Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) Find out what Team you're on (Team Chats will open 9/1/24) Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. Being updated regularly so keep checking back. Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com A special THANK YOU to our team Umpire- Wendy- socalknitgirl Commissioners Emily- (ElsaandEm)- Llama Conference Alicia (almariecraft)- Alpaca Conference Nicole (KnitterNicole)- Sheep Conference Commentator- Mary (Maryklute) Playoff Prediction Contest: Check the Ravelry Group on 9/4 for post. Choose the NFL team you think will win the Super Bowl this year (before the thread closes on 9/19). Correct guesses will get you extra points. Tailgate Talk Challenge- Click here for Ravelry Link Great way to get to know your team. There will be daily prompts from 9/5 through 9/16. Answer them in your Team thread in the Ravelry Group. If you answer them all, no more than 2 per day, you'll get 150 points (as long as you enter them on the Points Tally form by 10/1). This year, we'll have 4 primary challenges during the full months of the event- Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan. Stay tuned for those details. The sponsors are: October: Thelittlewolfknits November: Twin Mountain Handcrafts December: Fangirl Fibers January: Fibernymph Dye Works Other current & upcoming events: Summer Bingo with Monica & Cortney of the Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast Colors of Fall with the Yarniacs Podcast Group. June 20- September 22 Summer Spin In with the Two Ewes Fiber Adventures Podcast Group- May 27 - September 2 Summer Sock Camp with the Crazy Sock Lady The Knit Girllls are hosting their annual Stash Dash Event from May 24-August 31,2024. Here's a chatter thread for stash dash 2024! Stash Dash will run from May 24th-the end of August. Craft all the things and see how your FO pile grows! This is a competition only against yourself. Discord link: knit girllls discord Jasmin (of the Knitmore Girls Podcast) & I are competing again this year. Check out my Stash Dash Spreadsheet here. Here's Jasmin's Spreadsheet. I have 9,273 meters as of August 25. Jasmin is on the board with 5,910 meters Sending much love to Jasmin & Gigi after hearing about Gigi's recent stroke. Events Sierra Nevada Yarn Crawl, (CA and NV) - Sept 12-15, 2024 Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul (MA) September 14-17, 2024 Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival; September 21 & 22, 2024 in Greenwich, NY Vermont Sheep & Wool: October 1 & 2, 2024 in Tunnebridge, VT Lambtown, Dixon, CA - Oct 5-6, 2024 NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site. Know of an event I should spread the word about? Let me know! Life in Focus Mom Update: After Whole Brain Radiation, Mom went right into 5 targeted radiation treatments to help reduce the size of the cancer in a lymph node that was pressing on nerves that then get in the way of her right vocal cord. As of about mid-July, she didn't have any voice, and they hoped to correct that. On her last day of that radiation, she also had a PleureX cathetered installed in her right lung to allow regular at-home drainage to keep that pressure off her lung. The day after that- Dad and I tested positive for Covid and by Monday Mom had too. Thankfully Dad and I had only mild symptoms and Mom had none- which was a blessing because the insertion of that port left her riddled with pain for days. Now she's coming out of that but starting a new chemo. We're hopeful that this will take away some of her pain and its already meant she doesn't need her lung drained as frequently. Hoping September will be a better month for her than the last couple. Ask Me Anything NDoyle asks: What has been your favorite item you've made this year and why? Millie's Squishmallow Sheltie Dog that I crocheted without a pattern- Ravelry Project Page Emotional Support Chicken- Ravelry Project Page Marilynknits- What gauge do you knit your socks at? 8-8.5 sts per inch. 56 sts on US 1.5 needles= 6.5 to 7 inch circumference On a Happy Note I am very relieved that Covid was mild for us, especially for my Mom. Also very grateful that my brother who was on vacation in Virginia just as we came down with Covid, ended up having a bicycle accident that left him with bruises all over and a broken rib- but is going to be OK. I made everyone promise we'd all stay out of the hospital for one full week! Visits with my cousin Jenny and her daughter Vera who often come over to see my Mom. Weekend pool time, especially with our youngest niece and nephew who are absolute fishies! My dear friend Nathan (only a couple years older than me) had a successful heart and kidney transplant only 1 day apart from each other but is recovering well. Our family all bought t-shirts and made donations to help his family and got a great photo to send him poolside one afternoon! My Mom wanted to get eyelash extensions so she, my cousin Jenny and I all went and it was a lovely experience. Dan and I picked up my grandmother and we all went to my cousin Nancy's Surprise 60th birthday. Mom and Gram both had a great day that. Beautiful sunny poolday with all the kiddos swimming, I caught up with many of my cousins who I don't get to see all the time, learned there's another new baby coming in January and enjoyed fresh pizza from a woodfired oven. We also sang to my grandmother. From there, we headed to Terri's Graduation Party. She runs the dancing school where I met Kris & Megg, two of my best friends who have 5 of our niblings. Dan's younger brother Dave played in the band, the kids all played together. We got to see Terri's brother who came up from FL, and Conor, Carly and baby Miles after they were in Nantucket for a couple weeks. Dinner & Les Mis with Kris, Aila and Megg. At Mom's chemo treatment, we got to see my friend Waveney who was my officemate in my first job at the hospital 22 years ago and her son, Tighe, checked us in at the Infusion Clinic. As soon as I said hello, his whole face lit up with a smile and he came around and immediately hugged us all. It was pure joy! He'll be back off to college soon. We hosted a 90th birthday party for my grandmother at The Tavern in her assisted living facility. I put together all sorts of cool photo decorations & used some of her old picture frames for the tables and guests could take them as favors. Dan DJed, and my Dad, our friend Sharon & cousin Susan prepared the food) and the kiddos all acted as bartenders. Hattie even went around and took photos. All of the joy and hope coming out of Democratic party with coverage of the DNC. It feels great to have a candidate I'm truly joyful about supporting. A quieter weekend- getting ready for my friend Marta to arrive from Barcelona (if I'm a bit MIA that's why) Quote of the Week One evening in August, you have an errand outdoors, and all of a sudden, it's pitch-black. It is still summer, but the summer is no longer alive. ~ Tove Jansson ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Fingersmith by Sarah Waters is a Victorian crime novel centered around two young women: Susan Trinder, who grew up in a house of thieves, and Maud Lilly, a lady who is trapped by her uncle in a macabre house called Briar, and compelled to work for him as a secretary. When it was initially published in 2002, Fingersmith made waves for its central lesbian relationship, as well as its shocking twist in the second act. The book was critically lauded: shortlisted for both the Booker Prize and the Orange Prize, launching Sarah Waters into literary stardom. Through popular adaptations like 2005's BBC miniseries directed by Aisling Walsh, and 2016's The Handmaiden, directed by Park Chan Wook, the story of Fingersmith has found a broader audience, and is widely beloved to this day.Support us on our Patreon!Visit our website for transcripts and show notes: reformedrakes.comFollow us on social media:Twitter: @reformedrakesInstagram: @reformedrakesBeth's TikTokChels' TikTokEmma's TikTokChels' SubstackEmma's SubstackThank you for listening!
Annabel reviews Fingersmith by Sarah Waters. Romy relives Middle School trauma. --- Send your answer to this week's listener question to PaperbackPleasuresBooks@gmail.com. Find all books mentioned in this podcast here. Follow us on TikTok, Instagram, and Youtube. Join us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content, including more answers to the listener question and blooper reels! --- Paperback Pleasures is a podcast dedicated to de-stigmatizing romance literature and female sexuality.In each episode, lifelong best friends Romy and Annabel take turns highlighting romance novels, unpacking a genre historically underestimated due mainly to its link with female pleasure. We're here to de-stigmatize one of the most underrated genres in literature.Let's talk romance! ---This podcast discusses themes of adult romantic relationships and sex. Listener discretion is advised.
Historical fiction author, Jacquie Bloese draws her inspiration from atmospheric locations with intriguing histories, and people – both real and imaginary – whose stories are calling out to be told. Her latest release, The Golden Hour, set in Victorian Brighton is a compelling and deeply atmospheric read. In this fascinating episode, Jacquie discuses the inspiration for her second novel, the challenges of researching the Victorian age and growing up in Guernsey, the island which inspired her debut novel, The French House,_________________________________________________________________________________________In the genteel squares of late-Victorian Brighton, Ellen and Reynold Harper - twins, companions, colleagues - ply their trade as portrait photographers.But at the golden hour, the models arrive to pose for the lucrative - and illicit - photographs that really keep the Harpers' business afloat. This is the other, shadowy world of the city: a world of erotic tableaux, boundary-crossing music hall performers, and the sinister figure of the local gangster, the Croc.When Ellen is drawn into the orbit of unhappy newly-wed Clementine, she finds herself torn between loyalty to her brother, her dangerous attraction to new model, Lily, and her burgeoning friendship with Clem. And as the two worlds of Brighton collide, the three women discover that there is only a knife edge between the promise of freedom, and the threat of ruin . . .Atmospheric, sensual and powerfully moving, The Golden Hour is a spellbinding portrait of three women determined to find their freedom - perfect for fans of Sarah Waters, The Doll Factory and The Essex Serpent.
Links:Lesbian cruises: https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2023/may/22/olivia-travel-lesbian-cruise"Lesbian nan": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87aQnS5zimUhttps://twitter.com/godblesstoto/status/1716524574039306252The Handmaiden: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=whldChqCsYk5 Lesbians Eating A Quiche: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNwh9PdZ7WM This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thelesbianprojectpod.com/subscribe
Organ Meats by K-Ming Chang connects lyrical, dreamy prose and visceral reality in the story of two girls who navigate their complicated friendship in a world they build with feral dogs and otherworldly connection. Chang joins us to talk about writing in a nonlinear way, creating personal and cultural mythologies and finding connection through literature. Anbara Salam's Hazardous Spirits explores the mystical, opulent and sometimes dangerous world of Spiritualism in 1920s Scotland. Salam joins us to talk about writing the time period after a crisis and its connection to today, the specificity of her research and creating stories that may not wrap up neatly. Listen in as these authors speak separately with guest host, Jenna Seery. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Jenna Seery and mixed by Harry Liang. Follow us here for new episodes Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays). Featured Books (Episode): Organ Meats by K-Ming Chang Hazardous Spirits by Anbara Salam Bestiary by K-Ming Chang Gods of Want by K-Ming Chang Belladonna by Anbara Salam Affinity by Sarah Waters Blithe Spirit by Noël Coward The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters
“My specialty is digging up obscure stories where there are just enough facts to really stimulate the imagination.” Emma Donoghue's newest novel, Learned by Heart, tells the story of young, enigmatic Anne Lister and her first love, an orphaned heiress born in India. Donoghue joins us to talk about the role Anne Lister has played in her life, crowdsourcing research, the importance of historical fiction and more with guest host, Jenna Seery. We end this episode with TBR Topoff book recommendations from Marc and Mary. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Jenna Seery and mixed by Harry Liang. Follow us here for new episodes Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays). Featured Books (Episode): Learned by Heart by Emma Donoghue Room by Emma Donoghue The Wonder by Emma Donoghue Pull of the Stars by Emma Donoghue Haven by Emma Donoghue Slammerkin by Emma Donoghue Tom Lake by Ann Patchett Featured Books (TBR Topoff): Matrix by Lauren Groff Fingersmith by Sarah Waters
Originally posted as Episode 11 on July 19, 2018. It's all about spiritualism on this week's episode as Amanda and Sarah discuss two women associated with the movement. Sarah channels an unusual story about famed spiritualist medium Florence Cook and her "spirit control," Katie King, who was said to be the deceased daughter of a Welsh pirate. Amanda gives a creepy history lesson on the tragic life of First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln and her shifty spirit minister Charles J. Colchester. Other subjects covered include big ol' Instagram daddies, donkey facts, and the joy of pretending to be drunk. Sources: "Spirited Sexuality: Sex, Marriage, and Victorian Spiritualism" by Marlene Tromp for Victorian Literature and Culture "Victorian Women and the Theatre of Trance: Mediums, Spiritualists, and Mesmerists in Performance" by Amy Lehman MysteriousPeople.com (lol): Katie King Smithsonian Magazine ("The Spiritualist Who Warned Lincoln Was Also Booth's Drinking Buddy") Wikipedia: Mary Todd Lincoln Recommendations: Sarah recommends you read "Affinity" by Sarah Waters. Amanda recommends you read "Assassination Vacation" by Sarah Vowell and "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter" by Seth Grahame-Smith (the latter only kinda). For updates on future episodes and other fun stuff, follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
We couldn't be more excited to talk about the film we consider to be Park's masterpiece - the gorgeous, twisty, and ultimately moving THE HANDMAIDEN. “Mother of the Blankies” Emily Yoshida joins us to unpack this puzzlebox of an erotic thriller, a brilliant adaptation of Sarah Waters' Fingersmith. Come for the coining of a new Blank Check phrase (thanks, researcher JJ!), stay for a very crucial “touch of the Tucc” tangent. By the way - what does that octopus actually do?? This episode is sponsored by: Babbel (babbel.com/check) Bombas (bombas.com/check CODE: CHECK) Factor (factormeals.com/check50 CODE: CHECK50) Join our Patreon at patreon.com/blankcheck Follow us @blankcheckpod on Twitter and Instagram! Buy some real nerdy merch at shopblankcheckpod.myshopify.com or at teepublic.com/stores/blank-check
Adrienne Chinn's Three Sisters, Great War series offers readers an epic sweeping historical saga, perfect for fans of Lucinda Riley, and we've got The Paris Sister, Book #2, of this evocative saga, featured on the show today. Hi there. I'm your host Jenny Wheeler. And on this week's show Adrienne follows the Fry sisters as they enter the Roaring Twenties, forever changed by their experiences during the devastating years of war. Bound by love, but separated by distance, their lives unfold in different corners of the globe, as they come to realize that the most important bond of all is family. This week's Book Giveaway Our Giveaway this week is Historic Fiction Freebies in August offering some lovely books. They're free to download, including Sadie's Vow Book #1 in my own Home At Last series. HISTORIC FREEBIES - AUGUST Get your selection of historic novels free to download. historic freebies download https://books.bookfunnel.com/historicalfictionfreebiesaugust2023/dm9y0sujx9 ENJOY BOOKS EVERYWHERE AUDIO SALE We have an Audio Book Sale, Enjoy Books Everywhere, with a fantastic range of entertaining fiction, including Poisoned Legacy, Book #1 in my Of Gold & Blood series available at special sale prices, or a limited time. AUDIO BOOK SALE Sales Special on Audio books for a limited time! https://books.bookfunnel.com/audioeverywhereaug2023/kgr0xzcoio I mentioned too, that my latest mystery romance Rosie's Rebellion Book #3in the Home At Last series is on pre-order at a special launch price of 99 cents for two weeks from August 16. Order online at your favorite e-book store this week. And remember, if you enjoy the show, leave us a review so others will find us too. Word of mouth is still the best way for others to discover the show and great books they will love to read. Links to items mentioned in this episode Syrie Maugham: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Syrie_Maugham The background to The Lost Letter, Adrienne's first novel: Amazighs Culture: https://minorityrights.org/minorities/berbers/#:~:text=Amazighs% What Adrienne is reading now: Sarah Waters: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarah_Waters Lawrence Osborne: https://www.lawrenceosborne.net/ Isabella Allende: https://www.isabelallende.com/en Aala Al Aswany: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alaa_Al_Aswany Elif Safak: https://www.elifsafak.com.tr/home Stacey Halls. www.staceyhalls.com Where to find Adrienne Chinn online Website: https://www.adrienne-chinn.co.uk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adriennechinnauthor Introducing Adrienne Chinn best selling author Adrienne Chinn, interior decorator and best selling novelist Jenny Wheeler: But now here's Adrienne. Welcome to the show, Adrienne. It's great to have you with us. Adrienne Chinn: Thank you so much, Jenny. I'm delighted to be here. Jenny Wheeler: You've made a name for yourself as the author of beautifully crafted historical fiction. Not to say that it doesn't have a lot of action as well, but you're very much known for the beauty of your locations, the sensory detail. And that's often more associated with standalone books and you have done some standalones, but you're now engaged in this series, with Book #2 recently published. Tell us, how did you translate from doing standalones to your Fry Sisters project? Adrienne Chinn: It has been a learning curve for me, I have to say, but I've always been really fascinated about women's development and women's lives from the first 20th century. I felt that required more than one book to do it properly. I was very much inspired by some of the stories of my great aunts, and my grandmother. I decided to develop a series of four books starting in 1913 and covering the First World War in the first book, Love in a Time of War. And then the second book, as you said, which has just come out, The Paris Sister, set in the 1920s.
Legend, icon and literal Barbie Doll Trixie Mattel schools Fran & Rose on Barbie herstory and talks about being a prolific doll collector Plus, Rose's birthday recap, Taylor's Version fatigue, The Other Two and LAV summer beach vacation reads. And a clip from this week's Patreon, a special edition of Rose's Book Corner wherein the girls go deep on Sarah Waters' Fingersmith and the films adapted from it, including The Handmaiden. Subscribe if you're literate. Shop our summer merch line. How porographic did your Barbie play get? Tag our finsta @likeavirgin42069See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As we continue to browse through Jack's bookshelf, David interviews Dr. Sarah Waters about William Shakespeare.
Mega spoiler alerts and content warnings ahead, do not listen if you have not seen and ever plan on watching the 2016 South Korean film The Handmaiden, and major content warnings, this film contains very sexually explicit and potentially upsetting material (suicide, sexual assault, attempted rape). WITH THAT BEING SAID, we love this movie, and love that it's based on a book written by queer author Sarah Waters. HAPPY PRIDE!!!!Our stuff:TikTok: @theswamppodcastInstagram: @theswamppodTwitter: @theswamppodOur Letterboxd Accounts: @okaydara and @ekievraYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCv794Q8FKCMaBThxuWIZwIQOur website: https://www.the-swamp-podcast.com/Email: theswamppod@gmail.comMerch: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheSWAMPpodcast
Two authors take on historical fiction with these novels featuring queer love, heartbreak, coming of age and agency with rich settings and vibrant casts, from 17th century France to the wild, wild American West. Celia Bell's The Disenchantment finds Paris amidst political and social upheaval, while one noblewoman balances her unhappy marriage and her female lover in the tenuous world of high society intrigue. Bell joins us to talk about this particularly interesting time period, how a fairy tale inspired the novel, incorporating real people from history and more. Lucky Red by Claudia Cravens is a nonstop Western following a scrappy and resilient young woman who faces hardship head-on by taking a job at a brothel where she finds strength, friendship and maybe even love with an alluring gunfighter. Cravens talks with us about creating a tactile world, telling queer stories, writing hot mess characters and more. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Jenna Seery and mixed by Harry Liang. New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): The Disenchantment by Celia Bell Lucky Red by Claudia Cravens Kissing the Witch by Emma Donoghue Regeneration by Pat Barker The Paying Guests by Sarah Waters Lone Women by Victor LaValle Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin Boy, Snow, Bird by Helen Oyeyemi
If 18-year-old Sam was here now, today's episode would be a real pinch-me moment. Back in the mid-80s, I was a student in Birmingham when I first stumbled upon the dark green spine that was the hallmark of a newish publisher called Virago. It started with one book in particular – The Edible Woman by Margaret Atwood. Reading that book changed my life, as I don't doubt many Virago books have done for many people over the years.Virago launched 50 years ago this month and, for much of that time, my guest, Lennie Goodings, was at the heart of things. Lennie joined virago in 1978 as part-time office slave. Rose to Publisher and is now Chair. Lennie has published a host of influential writers including Atwood, Angela Carter, Sarah Waters, Maya Angelou, Audre Lorde and many more. She has also, latterly, become a much needed advocate for the rights of older women in the workplace.I met Lennie at home in North London to talk about 50 years of feminism and publishing books by and for women, the moment she realised her life didn't have to be defined by who she married and where she got her drive to make a difference. We also discussed the older women who've shaped her, the importance of bringing your A-game and why ageism is the next frontline.* You can buy all the books mentioned in this podcast at The Shift bookshop on Bookshop.org, including A Bite of the Apple by Lennie Goodings and the book that inspired this podcast, The Shift: how I lost and found myself after 40 - and you can too, by me.* And if you'd like to support the work that goes into making this podcast and get a weekly newsletter plus loads more content including transcripts of the podcast, please consider joining The Shift community. Find out more at www.theshiftwithsambaker.substack.com• The Shift (on life after 40) with Sam Baker is created and hosted by Sam Baker and edited by Emily Sandford. If you enjoyed this podcast, please rate/review/follow as it really does help other people find us. And let me know what you think on twitter @sambaker or instagram @theothersambaker Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
English lecturer Dr Sarah Waters answers questions about Out of the Silent Planet, following her presentation at CS Lewis symposium Now We Have Faces. She was joined for the Q&A by drama and theatre studies lecturer, Dr David Clare, who speaks into Lewis' Irishness. For more on the CS Lewis group at Ulster, including details about their May conference: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/cs-lewis For more talks from Now We Have Faces: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjaoVaQAdjdVFIFenlZVg-g + Subscribe to The CS Lewis podcast: https://pod.link/1560959545 + For more shows, free ebook and newsletter visit our new website + For online learning https://www.premierunbelievable.com/training + For our Premier Unbelievable? Live events + Support the podcast from the USA + Support the podcast from UK and rest of the world
English lecturer Dr Sarah Waters shares her insights into one of CS Lewis' science fiction books, particularly in regards to how we relate to one another post-Covid. This talk was originally given at a CS Lewis symposium called Now We Have Faces, which was hosted by The CS Lewis Group at Ulster University in coordination with English at Ulster. The title of Sarah's presentation was 'Facial (mis)recognition: Out of the Silent Planet and the boundaries of face-to face'. For more on the CS Lewis group at Ulster, including details about their May conference: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/cs-lewis For more talks from Now We Have Faces: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjaoVaQAdjdVFIFenlZVg-g + Subscribe to The CS Lewis podcast: https://pod.link/1560959545 + For more shows, free ebook and newsletter visit our new website + For online learning https://www.premierunbelievable.com/training + For our Premier Unbelievable? Live events + Support the podcast from the USA + Support the podcast from UK and rest of the world
It's one of the best feelings a reader can have: that feeling of finding a book that you just can't put down. We're discussing some of our favorites and we'll end with what we're reading this week. Books and other media mentioned in this episode: Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn (buy from Bookshop) Ann's picks: Fingersmith by Sarah Waters (buy from Bookshop) – The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters (buy from Bookshop) Monster by Walter Dean Myers (buy from Bookshop) – Michael L. Printz Award for Excellence in Young Adult Literature – Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds (buy from Bookshop) And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie (buy from Bookshop) – Clue (film) – And Then There Were None (TV) – And Then There Were None (film) Halle's picks: Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney (buy from Bookshop) Until You by Judith McNaught (buy from Bookshop) – A Knight in Shining Armor by Jude Deveraux (buy from Bookshop) – Whitney, My Love by Judith McNaught (buy from Bookshop) River Sing Me Home by Eleanor Shearer (buy from Bookshop) What We're Reading This Week: Ann: Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett (buy from Bookshop) – @maryreadsandsips (Instagram) Halle: Saturday Night at the Lakeside Supper Club by J. Ryan Stradal (buy from Bookshop) – Kitchens of the Great Midwest by J. Ryan Stradal (buy from Bookshop) – The Lager Queen of Minnesota by J. Ryan Stradal (buy from Bookshop) Well-Read on Facebook Well-Read on Bookshop Well-Read on Instagram
To this day, the global governing elites have never apologized for what they've done to a generation of children. Today, I'm joined by Sarah Waters of the HART Group (health advisory and recovery team) in the U.K. to survey the emotional, mental, and physical damage to children across the globe. Waters, a psychotherapist who specializes in the effects of abuse, neglect, and childhood trauma, explains how the culture of fear and trauma has affected children in ways we will be dealing with for years to come. Masks are even more damaging than you think. I also delve into the fact that the economic issues are downstream from the transhumanism created by the very same cause – COVID authoritarianism. Finally, I share a survey that reveals a shocking level of vaccine injury, particularly among youngsters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices