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Did you know that we make about 35,000 decisions every day? Today on #MotivationalMonday with Tracey Lange and Lucia Dramat, we chat about avoiding decision fatigue, and making more impactful decisions. Here's a simple exercise to help you achieve that: Simplify one area — like your wardrobe, meals, or morning routine — to free up mental energy. Lucia says that every small decision chips away at your willpower. Great leaders simplify the routine so they can excel at the extraordinary.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tracey Lange speaks with Anja van Beek, a Talent & Culture Strategist, Leadership & HR Expert and Executive Coach, about what to do when your friend becomes your manager. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tracey Lange speaks to Michelle van Zyl, Fundraiser at Camphill Farm, a community in Hermanus for intellectually disabled adults to farm, take care of animals and learn skills.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to the Spring 2025 Book Preview with Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books! Today, Catherine and Sarah share 12 of their most anticipated books releasing in April and May. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Announcement Sarah's Bookshelves has joined Substack! Please note, we're not MOVING to Substack, we're simply adding Substack to the places we already put out content. On our FREE Substack feed, Sarah's Bookshelves is offering all the content you already find on the blog, my Instagram account, public podcast, On our PAID feed, we're offering all the content we also offer on Patreon. If you're interested in becoming a paying subscriber on Substack, visit sarahsbookshelveslive.substack.com for all the details and a full list of benefits. If you're already on Substack, please consider following the FREE feed and sharing with your reader friends to help support the show. One of the many benefits to joining as a paying member of either our Patreon or Substack Communities is gaining access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and Sarah share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that were not shared in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available to all Superstar patrons here and all Substack paid subscribers here! Highlights Catherine and Sarah share some big releases coming this spring (lightning round style). With a theme this season of “change,” Catherine focuses on lighter fiction and thrillers. Sarah's choices are evenly split between debut authors, new to her authors, and repeat authors. Food novels, rom-coms, thrillers (two with a mistaken identity element), and lighter reading are the picks for spring! Sarah has already read one of her picks — and one of Catherine's! And, Catherine has already started reading one of hers. Plus, their #1 picks for the spring. Big Spring Releases [5:15] The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong (May 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:43] The Dark Maestro by Brendan Slocumb (May 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:47] Say You'll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:56] Run for the Hills by Kevin Wilson (May 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:03] Vera Wong's Guide to Snooping (on a Dead Man) by Jesse Q. Sutanto (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:18] The Maid's Secret by Nita Prose (Apr 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:26] Audition by Katy Kitamura (Apr 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:29] My Documents by Kevin Ngyuen (Apr 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:44] Backlist Titles Mentioned The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb (2022) [5:51] Symphony of Secrets by Brendan Slocumb (2023) [5:53] Spring 2025 Book Preview [6:51] April Sarah's Picks The Family Recipe by Carolyn Huynh (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:40] I See You've Called in Dead by John Kenney (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[14:49] The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff (Apr 22) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [23:15] Gold Coast Dilemma by Nana Malone (Apr 29) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[29:28] The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett (Apr 29) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:42] Catherine's Picks Cat's People by Tanya Guerrero (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:46] Heartwood by Amity Gaige (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:23] Other Books Mentioned The Fortunes of Jaded Women by Carolyn Huynh (2022) [9:44] Talk to Me by John Kenney (2019) [14:53] About a Boy by Nick Hornby (1998) [16:48] The God of the Woods by Liz Moore (2024) [18:30] The Return of Ellie Black by Emiko Jean (2024) [18:32] Sea Wife by Amity Gaige (2020) [22:47] The Shred Sisters by Betsy Lerner (2024) [24:45] The Dearly Beloved by Cara Wall (2019) [26:18] Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane (2019) [26:20] We Are the Brennans by Tracey Lange (2021) [26:22] The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo (2019) [26:25] Yours, Eventually by Nura Maznavi (2025) [30:58] Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett (2022) [33:47] The Guncle by Steven Rowley (2021) [38:04] May Sarah's Picks Aftertaste by Daria Lavelle (May 20) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:16] Catherine's Pick Home of the American Circus by Allison Larkin (May 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:48] The Man Made of Smoke by Alex North (May 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:29] Abigail and Alexa Save the Wedding by Lian Dolan (May 20) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:56] Storybook Ending by Moira Macdonald (May 27) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[45:36] Other Books Mentioned The People We Keep by Allison Larkin (2021) [28:23] The Angel Maker by Alex North (2023) [31:39] Lost and Found in Paris by Lian Dolan (2022) [41:25] Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain (2000) [43:42] The Husbands by Holly Gramazio (2024) [43:54] Sweetbitter by Stephanie Danler (2016) [44:36] Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin (2022) [44:40] Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia (2020) [44:42] Under the Whispering Door by TJ Klune (2021) [44:45] The Midnight Library by Matt Haig (2020) [44:53] Storybook Ending by Poppy Alexander (2024) [47:32]
Tracey Lange speaks to young author, Willow Classen, about her self-published book, "Monster Plants: The Thornstons' Wild Garden Adventure" which you can get on Amazon: https://zurl.co/2eBC0. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Send us a textWelcome to today's episode of Bookish Flights! This episode is the latest meeting of the BFF Book Club! If you love books, author meet-and-greets, and in-depth conversations, the BFF Book Club is for you. Each month, we dive into a new book, and this month's selection is What Happened to the McCrays? by Tracey Lange. Tracey was born and raised in New York City before heading west to graduate from the University of New Mexico with a degree in psychology. After owning and operating a mental health services company with her husband for fifteen years, she completed the Stanford University novel writing program while working on her first novel, the New York Times bestseller, We Are the Brennans. Tracey currently lives in beautiful Bend, Oregon with her husband, two sons, and beloved German Shepherd.Episode Highlights:
Tracey Lange chats with Fabian Jood from Empower, a non-profit organisation that seeks to empower communities through job creation, community development, education development and emergency relief. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tracey Lange chats to Yamkela Kasana, Marketing & Events Coordinator at Bridges For Music, in this edition of Tracey Lange Cares. Brought to you by Pepsi Zero Sugar, the official beverage partner of Galaxy Kday. Bridges For Music is a non-profit organization that empowers young people from underserved communities through music education, mentorship, and access to the global music industry. They also offer access to world-class music production, performance, and business training, helping aspiring artists develop their skills and build sustainable music careers. This initially aired on Wednesday, 19 March 2025.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tracey Lange chats with Kristy Weterings, a career coach specializing in helping people transition into meaningful and fulfilling careers. If you feel stuck in your job and don’t know what to do next. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tracey Lange chats to Kamini Pather, South African chef, television personality, and author. She rose to prominence as the winner of MasterChef South Africa and has since hosted and produced food-travel shows like Girl Eat World, and is now releasing her first full-length cookbook All Dahl’d Up.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tracey spoke to Kayla Swarts, Leigh Fortuin and Alichia Willemse ahead of the second World Rugby HSBC Sevens Challenger 2025 tournament. It takes place on Friday, 7 and Saturday, 8 March at Athlone Stadium. You can get your tickets via Quicket. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Send us a textWelcome to today's episode of Bookish Flights! This episode is the latest installment in the BFF Book Club! If you love books, author meet-and-greets, and in-depth conversations, the BFF Book Club is for you. Each month, we dive into a new book, and this month's selection is Until Our Time Comes by Nicole M. Miller.Nicole lives in Southwest Washington state with her husband and three sons, along with her two purebred Arabian horses, chickens, ducks, dogs, cats, and guinea pigs. When she is not writing or tending to her animals, she works in human resources. Episode Highlights:Nicole shares what it's like to have both a book baby and a human baby in the same year.A deep dive into the journey to publication for Until Our Time Comes, including the pitching process and the years spent crafting her novel.Fascinating insights on what happened to horses, animals, and the land in countries ravaged by WWII.A sneak peek into what she is currently working on.This was such a fun BFF Book Club discussion, and we loved hearing from Nicole about her writing journey and historical research. If you'd like to join us next month, we are switching gears to a contemporary domestic suspense novel, What Happened to the McCrays? by Tracey Lange. This poignant novel explores family resilience, community, and the unexpected magic of middle school hockey.When Kyle McCray returns to his hometown after his father's debilitating stroke, he must face the consequences of his sudden departure years ago, including fractured relationships and unresolved emotions. Stepping into the role of coaching the struggling local hockey team, Kyle embarks on an unexpected path to redemption. But can he and his estranged wife, Casey, finally confront their past and find peace? Register here to join us on March 23rd at 130 pm PST!Connect with Nicole M. Miller:InstagramFacebookWebsitePurchase Until Our Time ComesBook FlightThe Wings of Poppy Pendleton by Melanie DobsonYesterday's Tides by Roseanna M. WhiteMidnight on the Scottish Shore by Sarah SundinReady for a monthly literary adventure? We now have the BFF Book Club. Join us each month to explore a new book. After reading, connect with fellow book lovers and meet the author in a live interview! Can't make it live? Don't worry—we'll send you the recording. You can find all our upcoming book club selections HERE. Support the showBe sure to join the Bookish Flights community on social media. Happy listening! Instagram Facebook Website
This week on #MotivationalMonday, Tracey Lange and Lucia Dramat are diving into the growth mindset and how it can benefit you. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(Feb 21, 2025) Tracey Lange's new novel "What Happened to the McCrays?" follows a divorced couple navigating unexpected challenges in Potsdam, NY
This week on #MotivationalMonday, Tracey Lange and Lucia Dramat chat about making things happen in your life and chasing your dreams. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today on #TLC as Tracey Lange sits down with Samantha Le Roux to discuss Cornerstone Woman, a powerful not-for-profit organization. Founded in 2016, Cornerstone Woman helps individuals and families trapped in cycles of abuse find a path to a fresh start. This incredible team offers a safe space for women to connect, heal, and break free from abuse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Women Crush Wednesday is all about celebrating incredible women in the Mother City who are doing amazing things. This week, Tracey Lange chats with Aimee Lentz, Chief Operations & Marketing Officer at Jewelvest Click on the audio player to listen to the full conversation. This originally aired on Wednesday, 12 February 2025.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
I'm pulling back the curtain in today's episode and talking about what it's really like to be an author in today's market. With me, are two of my author friends to help with a healthy and honest discussion around the business of being an author. Tracey Lange and Kerry Chaput join me to discuss:Balancing writing time and publishing responsibilitiesWorking on a deadlineThe benefits of writing groupsFeedback and revisionsThe journey of draft to publicationThe ever-changing marketYou can find more on Tracey Lange here.You can find more on Kerry Chaput here.For more on Nicole: Website | Books | Substack
Women Crush Wednesday is all about celebrating incredible women in the Mother City who are doing amazing things. This week, Tracey Lange chats with Christelle Scott, Marketing Manager for Nandos. Click on the audio player to listen to the full conversation. This originally aired on Wednesday, 5 February 2025.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on #MotivationalMonday, Tracey Lange and Lucia Dramat are diving into the key ingredients of true confidence. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Women Crush Wednesday is all about celebrating incredible women in the Mother City who are doing amazing things. This week, Tracey Lange chats with Corne Koch, Head of Convention Bureau at Wesgro. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tracey Lange joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her latest family-themed novel, WHAT HAPPENED TO THE McCRAYS?, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. Tracey introduces readers to Kyle and Casey McCray, a divorced couple who are very much estranged. As Kyle returns home to Potsdam, New York, for a family emergency, their shared past haunts them in a way that gives them a chance to come back to one another. But life gets in the way, again and again. There's middle-school hockey, which I never thought of as a way to bring a couple together, as well as the small town where people are close and are there for one another. The book is about trying to unwind the past in order to move forward. And yes, Tracey discusses Kyle's tattoos and why they were included in the story. Our Latest “Bookreporter Talks To” Interviews: Lisa Genova: https://youtu.be/Bqo8ZBE52PU Fiona Davis: https://youtu.be/mazErQJJznY Sharon Virts: https://youtu.be/uXd5BHo2I1I Paula Hawkins: https://youtu.be/1zF2MEJlito Susan Rieger: https://youtu.be/hl-ypqwZwfw Jean Hanff Korelitz: https://youtu.be/EI-7XRrRWDI Laura Dave: https://youtu.be/1730g7zxRIc Our Latest “Bookaccino Live” Book Group Events: Ariel Lawhon: https://youtu.be/rowGE3T2rfE Amanda Peters: https://youtu.be/sWX2Mxw5fT Shelley Read: https://youtu.be/3KdG1kIfcgc William Kent Krueger: https://youtu.be/IsIQJn3vYNI Ann Napolitano: https://youtu.be/VNYNugzjVbo Kate Morton: https://youtu.be/P8nwLRTAaFg Shelby Van Pelt: https://youtu.be/V2RbvnDn_rs Sign up for newsletters from Bookreporter and Reading Group Guides here: https://tbrnetwork.com/newsletters/ FOLLOW US on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bookreporter Website: https://www.bookreporter.com Art Credit: Tom Fitzgerald Edited by Jordan Redd Productions
Set the date for 15 March when the Cape Town Carnival will be in Green Point. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tracey Lange chats with GrowZA , Social Investment Agency about their mission to connect African development opportunities with global resources, harnessing the dedication of social investors to accelerate social progress aligned with global frameworks for sustainable development.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this interview, I chat with Tracey Lange about What Happened to the McCray's?, her personal inspiration for this story, reader response to her books, the book's release date, how guilt can overtake us, forgiveness, her title and cover, and much more. Tracey's recommended reads are: All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker Penitence by Kirstin Koval Such Kindness by Andre Dubus III Looking for some great winter reads? Check out my printable 17-page 2025 Winter Reading Guide with 45 new titles vetted by me that will provide great entertainment this winter. I also include mystery series recommendations, new releases in a next-in-the-series section and fiction and nonfiction pairings. Want to know which new titles are publishing in January - May of 2025? Check out our third Literary Lookbook which contains a comprehensive but not exhaustive list all in one place so you can plan ahead. What Happened to the McCray's? can be purchased at my Bookshop storefront. Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Threads. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Comedian - and former teacher - Dalin Oliver joins Tracey Lange to chat about the first week of back-to-school and shares some hilarious advice for parents. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week my guest is New York Times bestselling author Tracey Lange, author of What Happened to the McCrays?, a poignant story about the resilience of family, the importance of community, and the magic of middle school hockey. Full of love and hope, What Happened to the McCrays? takes an intimate look at both sides of a failed marriage and two people who must finally confront the awful pain of their past or risk being consumed by it.
Tracey Lange speaks to Jurie Bruwer, Manager of Cape Town Central City Improvement District (CCID) about the City's safety during the festive season. In collaboration with the City of Cape Town’s Law Enforcement agencies and SAPS, the CCID is rolling out an enhanced safety strategy. Hear more by clicking on the audio player. This conversation initially aired on Tuesday, 17 December 2024.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Shop is bursting at the seams here at Christmas-time, but Hannah and Sam haven't stopped reading! With their favorites of the year behind them, they look to the past and future for new things to consume (such as "Minority Report" and "The Dream Hotel"). But you'll have to wait for the full discussion on that. On the full agenda this episode is: - "Age of Innocence," by Edith Wharton - "The Quiet American," by Graham Greene (from 1955, NOT the 1970s, Sam) - "Rental House," by Weike Wang - "The Ladies of Grace Adieu," by Susanna Clarke - "What the Chicken Knows," by Sy Montgomery (much giggling ensues) - "Persepolis," by Marjane Satrapi - "What Happened to the McCrays," by Tracey Lange (with much middle school hockey discussion) - "The Last Dragon on Mars," by Scott Reintgen
Tracey Lange's #WCW this week is MC, singer, actress and brand ambassador, Anlia Etzebeth. In addition to being a powerhouse all on her own, she just so happens to be married to the most-capped Springboks player of 2024 and back-to-back world rugby champ, Eben Etzebeth. Click on the audio player to listen to the conversation. This conversation initially aired on Wednesday, 11 December 2024.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tracey Lange speaks to Hannah Neil, Head of Marketing at Poetry. Poetry has partnered with Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator, a non-profit social enterprise that tackles youth unemployment, on their SmartWorks programme which works to donate pre-loved dresses to disadvantaged job seekers. Click on the audio player below to listen to the conversation. This conversation aired on Wednesday, 11 December 2024.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tracey Lange speaks to Rolene Strauss, former Miss South Africa and the third South African woman crowned Miss World in 2014. Strauss' passion include using her life experiences and background as a woman 'to help you to take control and become the queen God created you to be' while reigning as the queen of her entrepreneurial journey as a sunglasses business owner. Hear more by clicking on the audio player below. This conversation initially aired on Wednesday, 4 December 2024.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tracey Lange speaks to Kool & the Gangs co-founder, Robert 'Kool' Bell who says his upcoming shows with Earth, Wind & Fire Experience by Al Mckay will 'bring the party' while confessing that Cape Town is his favourite City! Click on the audio player to listen to the full conversation. This interview originally aired on Wednesday, 27 November 2024.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Comedian, Dalin Oliver sat down with Tracey Lange to share about his teaching days, his love for SA, and his award-winning international stand-up show, 90 Day Comedian. This conversation originally aired on 26 November 2024.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tracey Lange speaks to Nicole Jennings, spokesperson for Pharma Dynamics – an advocate for healthy living, about World Sugar Awareness Week (18-24 November). Jennings emphasises the unique risks posed by sugar in liquid form, stresses the role of education in reducing sugar consumption and discusses five practical strategies to curb sugar intake. Click on the audio player to listen to all this and more. This conversation initially aired on Monday, 25 November 2024.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tracey Lange speaks to Wyndham Ewerts, Editor of the Knysna-Plett Herald who shares an update on the 25-ton truck which over turned on the N2, landing up in the Knysna Lagoon. Click on the audio player to hear the full story. This conversation aired on Wednesday, 20 November 2024.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tracey Lange speaks to Jasmine Cho, one of the competitors in the inaugural Women's Division at the 2024 edition of Red Bull King of the Air. Originally from Seoul, South Korea, Jasmine Cho moved to the United States at the age of two and grew up with a passion for sports, excelling in track and field as a competitive 400m runner. Click on the audio player to hear how Cho's preparing for the race... This conversation aired on Wednesday, 20 November 2024.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tracey Lange speaks to Co-Founder of Tiny Owls, Wayne Allen. World Adoption Day is commemorated annually on 9 November and Tiny Owls is an organisation that provides shelter, care and safety to abandoned children while helping them find forever homes through adoption. Tiny Owls also advocate for the importance of adoption and how life-changing it can be while highlighting the urgent need for safe, nurturing spaces for South Africa's vulnerable children. Click on the audio player to listen to the full conversation. This conversation originally aired on Monday, 18 November 2024.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tracey Lange speaks to Dr. Kieck about breast cancer and the importance of breast imaging. Dr. Kieck is a distinguished radiologist at Morton & Partners Radiologists and one of only three specialists in South Africa to have completed the prestigious European Diploma in breast imaging. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Fiction Old and New book group is thrilled to welcome author Tracey Lange to our Friday, April 5, 2024 meeting at 8 p.m. She will be discussing her two family novels, “We are the Brennans”, DB 104795 and “The Connellys of County Down”, DB 116746. We hope you can join us for this amazing event. Here are the NLS annotations: 1. The Connellys of County Down DB 116746 Lange, Tracey. Reading time 9 hours, 23 minutes. Read by Barrie Kreinik. A production of National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, Library of Congress. Subjects: Family; Women Description: “When Tara Connelly is released from prison after serving eighteen months on a drug charge, she knows rebuilding her life at thirty years old won't be easy. With no money and no prospects, she returns home to live with her siblings, who are both busy with their own problems. Her brother, a single dad, struggles with the ongoing effects of a brain injury he sustained years ago, and her sister's fragile facade of calm and order is cracking under the burden of big secrets. Life becomes even more complicated when the cop who put her in prison keeps showing up unannounced, leaving Tara to wonder what he wants from her now. While she works to build a new career and hold her family together, Tara finds a chance at love in a most unlikely place. But when the Connellys' secrets start to unravel and threaten her future, they all must face their worst fears and come clean, or risk losing each other forever.” — Provided by publisher. Unrated. Commercial audiobook. 2. We are the Brennans DB 104795 Lange, Tracey. Reading time 9 hours, 41 minutes. Read by Barrie Kreinik. A production of National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, Library of Congress. Subjects: General; Psychological Fiction Description: When twenty-nine-year-old Sunday Brennan wakes up in a Los Angeles hospital after a drunk driving accident she caused, she swallows her pride and goes home to her family in New York. She deserted them all–and her high school sweetheart–five years before with little explanation, and they’ve got questions. Unrated. Commercial audiobook. 2021. Here is the Bookshare link to The Connellys of County Down: https://www.bookshare.org/browse/book/5496953?returnPath=L3NlYXJjaD9tb2R1bGVOYW1lPXB1YmxpYyZrZXl3b3JkPVRoZSUyQkNvbm5lbGx5cyUyQm9mJTJCQ291bnR5JTJCRG93bg Your facilitator for this group is Michelle Bernstein (hamletsweetlady@gmail.com).
Here is the NLS annotation: We are the Brennans DB 104795 Lange, Tracey. Reading time 9 hours, 41 minutes. Read by Barrie Kreinik. A production of National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, Library of Congress. Subjects: General; Psychological Fiction Description: When twenty-nine-year-old Sunday Brennan wakes up in a Los Angeles hospital after a drunk driving accident she caused, she swallows her pride and goes home to her family in New York. She deserted them all--and her high school sweetheart--five years before with little explanation, and they've got questions. Unrated. Commercial audiobook. 2021. Your facilitator is Michelle Bernstein, (hamletsweetlady@gmail.com).
Show notes: It's almost Thanksgiving! Are you ready for yummy food, quality family time, and conversation? We are, and we're especially looking forward to eating some stuffing. But what better way to get into the family holiday fun than reading books about family drama? The sweet, the dysfunctional, the weird, we've got book recs for it all. Click here to join us on Patreon for exclusive bonus bookish goodies! Get our monthly overflow and new books episodes, our private Facebook group, and more. Plus, supporting us in this way just shows that you love what we do! Find the time stamped show notes below with links to all of the fun things we mentioned. Something Bookish: [3:30] M: Episode 155 of the Talking Scared Podcast, interview with Stephen King [4:01] S: Episode 191 of the 10 Things to Tell You Podcast: How BookTok and Gen Z Are Changing the Way We Read + Best Books Lately Family Drama Books That We Love: [7:33] S: People Person by Candice Carty-Williams [8:48] M: Leaving Time by Jodi Picoult [9:51] S: Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano [11:18] M: The Family by Naomi Krupitsky [12:32] S: Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid [14:07] M: The Dutch House by Ann Patchett [15:23] S: We Are the Brennans by Tracey Lange [16:32] M: Inheritance by Dani Shapiro [17:55] S: Nothing to See Here by Kevin Wilson [19:16] M: These Silent Woods by Kimi Cunningham Grant [20:42] S: Honorable mentions: The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah The Push by Ashley Audrain Olympus, Texas by Stacey Swann Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls Want our show notes delivered right to your inbox? Join our RTL Substack so that you'll get a link for every single book we mention with no extra work. It's free! Follow RTL on Instagram: @readingthroughlifepod Follow Sarah on Instagram: @sarahhartleyco Follow Mia on Instagram: @fastlifeinslowlane * The books noted above contain affiliate links. This means that we may get a small kickback if you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
In Episode 153, Susie Boutry (@NovelVisits) and I are back for our 3rd annual Debuts Special! Today, we're sharing our favorite debuts from 2023 (so far), new and backlist! Plus, we discuss our reading stats for debuts this year, and we talk about some standout sophomore novels that made the cut. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Highlights How this year's crop of debuts compares to those from previous years. A full breakdown of our 2023 debut-related stats. Debuts we love, divided into three categories: Favorite Debuts of 2023 (so far) Favorite Backlist Debuts Standout Sophomore Novels Favorite Debuts of 2023 (so far) [7:06] Sarah Talking at Night by Claire Daverley | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:01] The Art of Scandal by Regina Black | Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:43] Good for a Girl by Lauren Fleshman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:02] Shark Heart by Emily Habeck | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:41] Susie Go As a River by Shelley Read | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:47] Wandering Souls by Cecile Pin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [16:49] In Memoriam by Alice Winn | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:43] The Road to Dalton by Shannon Bowring | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:40] Other Books Mentioned The Many Lives of Mama Love by Lara Love Hardin [7:27] The Rachel Incident by Caroline O'Donoghue [8:47] Normal People by Sally Rooney [8:48] The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller [8:50] One Day by David Nicholls [8:51] Tell Me Lies by Carola Lovering [9:20] Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens [13:07] The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger [24:23] The Vaster Wilds by Lauren Groff [24:25] A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara [25:33] No Two Persons by Erica Bauermeister [32:06] The Net Beneath Us by Carol Dunbar [33:07] A Town Called Solace by Mary Lawson [33:10] Favorite Backlist Debuts [33:22] Sarah The Sun Does Shine by Anthony Ray Hinton | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:37] Blood Sugar by Sascha Rothchild | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:47] Susie Severance by Ling Ma | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:18] Our Endless Numbered Days by Claire Fuller | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:53] Other Books Mentioned Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson [34:23] Tom Lake by Ann Patchett [37:21] Pete and Alice in Maine by Caitlin Shetterly [37:23] Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel [37:33] The Dog Stars by Peter Heller [37:40] Swimming Lessons by Claire Fuller [42:56] Standout Sophomore Novels [44:46] Sarah I Could Live Here Forever by Hanna Halperin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:23] The Connollys of County Down by Tracey Lange | Amazon | Bookshop.org[49:51] Susie The Shadow of Perseus by Claire Heywood | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:33] The Whispers by Ashley Audrain | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:59] Other Books Mentioned Happiness Falls by Angie Kim [45:10] Something Wild by Hanna Halperin [47:25] Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes [49:21] We Are the Brennans by Tracey Lange [50:00] The Push by Ashley Audrain [52:35] Additional Books Mentioned Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus [2:15] The Measure by Nikki Erlick [2:17]
In this interview, Tracey and I discuss The Connellys of County Down, her interest in reading and writing about family dynamics, the hardest character to write in this book, reader reactions, the title and cover, the fairy tale woven into the story, Geraldine's character, and much more. Tracey's reading recommendations are: Trespasses by Louise Kennedy Signal Fires by Dani Shapiro Unlikely Animals by Anne Hartnett Mercury by Amy Jo Burns Join my Patreon group to support the podcast (and have access to Tracey's spoiler-filled episode later this month). Other ways to support the podcast can be found here. The Connellys of County Down can be purchased at my Bookshop storefront. Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and Threads. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Carol Fitzgerald talks to Tracey Lange about her second novel, THE CONNELLYS OF COUNTY DOWN, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. Tracey talks about the Connelly siblings, what she thought was special about each of them, and how her background in behavioral health helped her in developing them and their various situations. The themes of loyalty and love are at the core of this book, and she discusses how they came together. And yes, she explains where she got all the jokes that Conor tells and the story behind the fairy tale. She also touches upon her debut novel, WE ARE THE BRENNANS, and what's next! Book discussed in this episode: THE CONNELLYS OF COUNTY DOWN by Tracey Lange: https://www.bookreporter.com/reviews/the-connellys-of-county-down Latest “Bookreporter Talks To” Interviews: Naomi Hirahara: https://youtu.be/pwvkwqt2NTo Liz Nugent: https://youtu.be/pH2HEvvyiAo Alli Frank and Asha Youmans: https://youtu.be/d02mLanJV8g Carolyn Mackler: https://youtu.be/L4M-w9BeaTk Adrienne Brodeur: https://youtu.be/6U7kf2KVtco Lisa See: https://youtu.be/D8XYEYI60Ww Nancy Horan: https://youtu.be/49bdiHbIUmY Linwood Barclay: https://youtu.be/pkDG90y9FN0 Alice Elliott Dark: https://youtu.be/9AAk-lLDRbc Kate Morton: https://youtu.be/LMjdzDRlqrg Susan Patterson and Susan DiLallo: https://youtu.be/ZWDnhSS26KI Lisa Scottoline: https://youtu.be/8F-CDltuc3E Check out our past “Bookaccino Live” Book Group events: Nita Prose: https://youtu.be/f_Ev0KN8z2M Chamaine Wilkerson: https://youtu.be/0DluxmfXGoI Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray: https://youtu.be/rYelwWiTJbE Janet Skeslien Charles: https://youtu.be/47Sx9DtcAkA Miranda Cowley Heller: https://youtu.be/gVlKvApDO8M Sign up for newsletters from Bookreporter and Reading Group Guides here: https://tbrnetwork.com/newsletters/ FOLLOW US on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bookreporter Website: https://www.bookreporter.com Art Credit: Tom Fitzgerald Edited by Jordan Redd Productions
The Writer Files: Writing, Productivity, Creativity, and Neuroscience
New York Times bestselling author, Tracey Lange, spoke to me about finding literary success later in life, her past life working with inner-city gang kids, and exploring messy family dynamics in her latest THE CONNELLYS OF COUNTY DOWN. Tracey Lange is the author of debut novel, We Are the Brennans, an instant New York Times bestseller and Goodreads Choice Finalist, praised by The New York Times, Good Morning America, PEOPLE and more. Her latest novel, The Connellys of County Down (Celadon, August 1), is described as “... a story about fierce family loyalty, good intentions gone awry, and the consequences of improbable love.” Kirkus called it “A compassionate look at family dynamics and a reminder that it's never too late to heal.” Country Living named it a "28 Best Fall Books for 2023" and wrote, "This is a novel about resilience and what it means to be a family, especially when times are really hard." Tracey Lange has a degree in psychology, has worked in mental health, and owned and operated a behavioral healthcare company with her husband for fifteen years. In this file Tracey Lange and I discussed: How writing about mental health helped fuel her fiction Why you're never too old to publish What sets her sophomore novel apart from her debut Writing characters who cross good intentions with bad decision-making Why you need to find your writers group if you haven't already And a lot more! Show Notes: traceylange.com The Connellys of County Down: A Novel By Tracey Lange (Amazon) Tracey Lange Amazon Author Page Tracey Lange on Instagram Tracey Lange on Twitter Kelton Reid on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A fun chat with Tracey Lange all about her book The Connelys of County Down, video gaming, hoarding, and writing in the kitchen. Plus – Dave overreacts and Laura is not surprised. At all. ITUNES – SPOTIFY – STITCHER HOW TO SUPPORT THE SHOW! For all your shopping needs use our IndieBound link It doesn't … Continue reading Writing In The Kitchen With Tracey Lange
We're discussing The Connellys of County Down on this week's episode of Virtual Book Tour! Tune in to hear Tracey Lange discuss how her past experiences helped influence the book, birth order dynamics, and the power of art. Plus, we play a game of Would You Rather. When Tara Connelly is released from prison after serving eighteen months on a drug charge, rebuilding her life is not easy. With no money and no job, she returns home to her siblings who each have their own problems. While Tara works to build a new career and hold her family together, secrets start to unravel and threaten her future. The Connellys of County Down is a tale about forgiveness, loyalty, and one's limits. Get The Connellys of County Down at bookofthemonth.com. New members get their first book for just $9.99 with code VBT at checkout. Learn more about Virtual Book Tour at virtualbooktour.com.
On this week's episode of Currently Reading, Kaytee and Meredith are discussing: Bookish Moments: behind the scenes content and a literary festival Current Reads: all the great, interesting, and/or terrible stuff we've been reading lately Deep Dive: the best “gateway” books to get a new or struggling reader addicted The Fountain: we visit our perfect fountain to make wishes about our reading lives As per usual, time-stamped show notes are below with references to every book and resource we mentioned in this episode. If you'd like to listen first and not spoil the surprise, don't scroll down! We are now including transcripts of the episode (this link only works on the main site). The goal here is to increase accessibility for our fans! *Please note that all book titles linked below are Bookshop affiliate links. Your cost is the same, but a small portion of your purchase will come back to us to help offset the costs of the show. If you'd prefer to shop on Amazon, you can still do so here through our main storefront. Anything you buy there (even your laundry detergent, if you recently got obsessed with switching up your laundry game) kicks a small amount back to us. Thanks for your support!* . . . . 1:37 - Bookish Moment of the Week 1:54 - Sarah's Bookshelves Summer Reading GuideSarah's Patreon if you want access to Summer Shelves 2:17 - What Should I Read Next Episode 381 4:20 - Pango Books 6:42 - Current Reads 7:11 - What Happened to the Bennetts by Lisa Scottoline (Meredith) 7:23 - Fabled Bookshop 11:30 - Everywhere That Mary Went by Lisa Scottoline 11:52 - We Are the Brennans by Tracey Lange 12:50 - The Comfort Book by Matt Haig (Kaytee) 13:02 - The Midnight Library by Matt Haig 13:06 - How to Stop Time by Matt Haig 13:32 - CR Season 5: Episode 30 14:09 - Fable App 17:20 - The Absent One by Jussi Adler-Olsen (Meredith) 17:25 - The Keeper of Lost Causes by Jussi Adler-Olsen 20:24 - The Cruelest Month by Louise Penny 21:24 - A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas 22:13 - The View Was Exhausting by Mikaella Clements (Kaytee) 22:19 - The Novel Neighbor 24:23 - Sarah's Bookshelves 2022 Summer Reading Guide 25:41 - Blue Monday by Nicci French (Meredith) 31:42 - My Government Means to Kill Me by Rasheed Newson (Kaytee) 33:09 - Like a Love Story by Abdi Nazemian 34:44 - Gateway Books 37:04 - What Should I Read Next 37:51 - Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty 38:15 - Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid 38:18 - Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano 38:49 - Hannah Coulter by Wendell Berry 40:05 - Calypso by David Sedaris 40:13 - The Anthroprocene Reviewed by John Green 41:14 - Scythe by Neal Shusterman 42:19 - Dark Matter by Blake Crouch 42:31 - Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir 44:03 - What Alice Forgot by Liane Moriarty 44:05 - All The Lonely People by Mike Gayle 44:37 - I Am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes 45:12 - 11/22/63 by Stephen King 45:42 - Relic by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child 45:45 - A Curse So Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer 46:57 - The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins 47:09 - Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros 48:10 - The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune 48:31 - The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E Harrow 49:08 - Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton 50:25 - Meet Us At The Fountain 51:39 - The Swiss Family Robinson by Johann David Whyss 52:46 - I wish someone would write a story about The Forbidden Island of Niihau (Meredith) 54:08 - I wish for a reading cafe. (Kaytee) Connect With Us: Meredith is @meredith.reads on Instagram Kaytee is @notesonbookmarks on Instagram Mary is @maryreadsandsips on Instagram Roxanna is @roxannatheplanner on Instagram currentlyreadingpodcast.com @currentlyreadingpodcast on Instagram currentlyreadingpodcast@gmail.com Support us at patreon.com/currentlyreadingpodcast and www.zazzle.com/store/currentlyreading