Great Expectations by Charles Dickens follows Pip, an orphan who rises from humble beginnings after receiving a mysterious fortune, believing it will transform him into a gentleman worthy of love. As he navigates London society, Pip becomes entangled with the eccentric Miss Havisham and her cold ward Estella, while slowly uncovering the true source of his wealth. 

Francine Prose is the author of twenty-two works of fiction, including The Vixen, Mister Monkey, the New York Times bestseller Lovers at the Chameleon Club, Paris 1932, A Changed Man, and Blue Angel, a finalist for the National Book Award. Her nonfiction includes the modern classic Reading Like a Writer and the acclaimed memoir 1974: A Personal History. A former president of PEN America and a member of both the American Academy of Arts and Letters and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, she is widely regarded as one of our most insightful and versatile contemporary writers. Her latest book, Five Weeks in the Country explores a fascinating moment which Francine describes as this: “In 1857, Hans Christian Andersen visited Charles Dickens, his wife and nine children in the British countryside for five comically and heartbreakingly awkward weeks. Telling their story seemed like the perfect way to talk about writing, love, marriage, children and two brilliant authors: a public figure in crisis and a houseguest, more at home in his fairy tales than in life, who overstays his welcome.”

Valentine’s Claret Punch is our drink pairing, and is what Dickens and Anderson were drinking the night they met and led to the misunderstanding that led Anderson to believe he should visit the Dickens family for an extended stay!

In this Episode

Great Expectations - John Mills Film

Great Expectations -  1998 Version

In Sole Survivor  by Derek Hansen, Rosie Trethewey leaves her unhappy city life after inheriting a remote shack on New Zealand’s Great Barrier Island, hoping for a fresh start. There, she meets two isolated and troubled neighbors, Red O’Hara, a traumatized former prisoner of war, and Angus McLeod, a bitter retired policeman, whose lives she gradually changes. As outside forces threaten their island home, the three form an unlikely bond and learn to heal from the pain of their pasts.

My guest this week is author Heather Morris. In 2003, Heather met Lale Sokolov, whose story inspired The Tattooist of Auschwitz, now one of the 21st century’s bestselling books and adapted in 2024 as a widely acclaimed Stan Original Series. It was followed by Cilka’s Journey and Three Sisters, completing the Tattooist trilogy.

Her first contemporary novel, The Wish, was inspired by her years working in a public hospital, alongside families facing the toughest of times with love and courage. The Wish’s US publication date is May 5, 2026. Her upcoming novel, The Piano Teacher of Montparnasse, releases in October 2026, and tells the story of French Resistance fighter Andrée Levallois, who risked her life to protect one of her students during the war. Heather’s books have sold over 19 million copies worldwide.

The drink this week is one Heather enjoys on vacation, and I enjoy most days: Chardonnay! I have to note that since Heather is in Australia and I am in the US, during the actual recording of this she was enjoying her morning coffee while I sipped a cold glass of wine.

In this Episode

Books by Heather Morris

Pākehā population New Zealand

Māori People

Crowded House Band

Neil Finn

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen is a sharp, witty exploration of love, class, and social expectation in Regency-era England, centered on the spirited Elizabeth Bennet and the enigmatic Mr. Darcy. As misunderstandings and first impressions give way to self-awareness, the novel reveals how pride and prejudice can obscure, and ultimately illuminate, the path to happiness.

Alexandra Potter always dreamed of becoming a writer. After graduating from the University of Liverpool with a degree in English Literature, she moved to London, where she worked for various magazines. A brief detour—sparked by redundancy—led her to travel to Sydney, where she secured a position at Vogue. It was during this time that a chance article about novelists under the age of thirty inspired her to finally take the leap and try her hand at writing a novel.

Her latest book, So I Met This Guy, is out now, and she will be embarking on a book tour in both the US and the UK Tickets Here!

Nothing pairs more with English sensibility than a cuppa tea, which Alex and I both enjoyed during our conversation across the pond!

In This Episode

Brontë Parsonage

Lizzy Bennett Diaries - web series

Me and Mr. Darcy by Alexandra Potter

Chawton House

Pride and Prejudice BBC

Pride and Prejudice (2005)

Bridget Jones Diary by Helen Fielding

Hello Libration Nation! This week I am talking with writer, library worker and avid reader Heather Knapp about a book that had a big impact on her as a child and kicked-off her love of reading: The Last Book in the Universe by Rodman Philbrick.

One of the characters in this story LOVES Chocolate, so Heather and I paired it with a Chocolate Martini Mocktail!

Chocolate Martini Mocktail

3/4 cups milk of your choice

1 tbsp. sweetened condensed milk

3 tbsp chocolate syrup

Whipped Cream (optional)

1 teaspoon flaked chocolate for garnish (optional)

In this episode

Brave New World

Famous People with Epilepsy

Ready Player One

Percy Jackson Series

Bluey TV Show

A Clockwork Orange

But I gotta know what’s your Romanta-ta-cy? If you are Hannah “H Bomb” Hauck the answer to this is Fourth Wing and everything else that is coming next from Rebecca Yarros. This is a fun romp with my BFF as we discuss Fourth Wing and everything around the creation of this story, deep diving into both the smut and the publishing industry. Seriously, where else are you going to find this kind of content?! Hannah also made her own cocktail for this episode, “The Wingleader”, a light twist on a Margarita!

The Wingleader

1.5 oz Tequila

1 oz Triple Sec

.5 oz Lime Juice

2 oz Orange Juice

1 oz Club Soda

.5 oz Agave

In this episode

Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros

Elhors Danlos syndrome

Red Tower Books

Rebecca Yarros Romance Novels

Ranganthan’s Five Laws of Library Science

Book Riot Podcast - First Edition

Rebecca Yarros Non-Profit One October

This week I am talking with librarian James Hudson about The Catcher in the Rye by JD Salinger, an American classic and a book that had a huge impact on James as a teenager. We recorded this episode on St. Patrick’s Day, and decided to celebrate with a Guinness Beer, probably the least phony beer out there and hopefully a choice Holden would respect.

In this episode

The Catcher in the Rye by JD Salinger

Various Catcher in the Rye covers

Papyrus SNL skit

Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace

H is for Hawk by Helen Macdonald

David Copperfield by Charles Dickens

Coming thro’ the Rye poem by Robert Burns

Rushmore film by Wes Anderson

The Royal Tenenbaums film by Wes Anderson

Giddy-up folks, we are talking about everyone’s favorite topic: DEATH. I loved talking with Kierston about all things death, funeral practices from around the world, grief, and love. Kierston is a library customer services supervisor and loves to read, especially books that teach her something new. You can follow her beautifully curated Instagram: @oursharedshelves For our discussion Kierston chose From Here to Eternity: Traveling the World to Find the Good Death by Caitlin Doughty, a mortician who is fascinated by death. There are so many different funeral and burial practices around the world and this book explores many of them.

For our drink we went witha beer: the Rogue Dead Guy Ale, which is delicious and a great choice to go along with the title.

In this episode:

Ask a Mortician - Caitlin Doughty’s YouTube

Human Remains Project in Cullowhee NC (Correction: In the pod I misremembered this program being at UNC Pembroke - It’s at Western Carolina University. Apologies to the entire UNC school system!)

Congratulations! The Best is Over by R. Eric Thomas

Celebrating Dia de los Muertos in Mexico

This week I am joined by Dr. Stephanie Lau, she is research faculty in the School of Education at VCU, she has a Masters of Arts in Teaching as well as a PhD in Public Policy and Administration. She is also a wife and mom of two young boys, and on top of all this she has co-run our neighborhood bookclub with me since 2021!

Stephanie picked one of the many books we have read for bookclub, Olga Dies Dreaming Xóchitl González. Olga is a wedding planner in Brooklyn trying to find her way, but will her mother-turned-Puerto-Rico-revolutionary ruin all her plans? This book is LAY-ERED, there is so much about family, parenthood, Puerto Rican history, love, loss, and maybe everything else in-between. We had a great time talking about this book and I loved the thoughtfulness Stephanie came to this conversation with, and how much of the nuance from the novel she was able to cipher out and demonstrate what a tremendous book this is.

For the drink we chose a Caipinhara, which is the national drink of Brazil and absolutely delicious. Why did we choose a Brazilian drink to discuss a book largely about Puerto Rico? You will just have to listen to the episode to find out!

Caipinhara Recipe

½ lime, quartered

1 teaspoon white sugar

2 ½ fluid ounces cachaça (Brazilian rum)

1 cup ice cubes

Squeeze and drop lime wedges into a large rocks glass. Add sugar and muddle until juices release.

Pour in cachaça and ice. Stir well.

Although I was not able to find a Zero-proof cachaça, using a Ritual Rum will work to make a refreshing alcohol free option!

In this episode:

Puerto Rico Oversight, Management, and Economic Stability Act (PROMESA)

Caipinhara

Anita de Monte Laughs Last - Xóchitl González latest book!

Vote for DITL for Best Podcast at Richmond Magazine (voting is going until April 26th!)

Did you read the Anne of Green Gables series as a young girl and then walk through the woods pretending to be Anne and Diana? Yes? So did I and so did my friend Deanna!

Talking with Deanna about this book was so much fun, celebrating Anne and the cultural impact this story has had. A famous Anne quote is: “I'm so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers”. Well, I’m so glad I live in a world where there is an Anne of Green Gables.

Spoiler alert (Not really this is an iconic scene at this point): In the first book Anne accidentally gets her bestie Diana drunk on current wine, which she believes is raspberry cordial. Current wine apparently takes months, so we decided to make Raspberry Cordial Mules, which can be enjoyed with or without alcohol by making it with zero-proof vodka. I got the recipe from this lovely website and made the cordial myself in less than an hour!

Raspberry Cordial Mule

12 oz. Frozen Raspberries

3 cups Water

¾ cup Sugar

2 tsp. Lime Juice plus more for cocktails

Vodka

Ginger Beer

Fresh Raspberries (for garnish)

In this episode:

Deanna’s Instagram

Anne of Green Gables 2 part special (Megan Fellows version is cannon)

LM Montgomery

Hello Libration Nation!

This week I talk with realtor and small business owner Allison Schwalm about the book Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara. This book is about all things hospitality and customer service and Allison expands on how it inspires her own business practices. It’s a great book for anyone who is aiming to grow their business, or is interested in showing caring and respect through service. Also, this is the book Richie is reading during season one of The Bear! I have never felt cooler.

For our drink Allison chose a Paloma, which is a favorite of both of ours and I think feels very “restauranty” and fancy. We recorded while Allison was doing dry January, so we made it non-alcoholic by using Ritual Tequila which I bought at Ceremony, an adorable and very hip shop in the Fan RVA, check it out!

You can find Allison on Instagram: Allison Schwalm and Allison Schwalm Summit Properties

Paloma Recipe (Non-Alcoholic)

3 ounces Ritual tequila (2 oz if using alcoholic tequila)

2 ounces fresh grapefruit juice, plus wedges for garnish

2 ounces club soda

½ ounce lime juice

¼ ounce simple syrup

Lastly a shameless plug for you to vote for Drinks in the Library as the Best Podcast for Richmond Magazine’s Best & Worst list. I also endorse Allison Schwalm as Best Entrepreneur for this list, please include us in your voting activities!

Here is a list of things discussed in this podcast:

Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara

Summit Properties Allison’s Realty Company

Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer

Ceremony Dry Bottle Shop

Ritual Tequila (Non- alcoholic)

Young Mother in Richmond

11 Madison Park NYC

The Big Brunch Cooking Show

The Bear TV Show

Brené Brown Books

Hello Libration Nation! This week I’m joined by Haley Houghton, an educator and book enthusiast. The book we discuss is “Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus. For our drink we chose coffee (this was recorded in the morning and as busy moms we weren’t quite ready to get at it), and Haley added a little chemistry twist by making it in an Aeropress. In this episode we discuss turning 40, our two person only book-club, and the general bad-assery of Bonnie Garmus in writing the strong, quirky, brilliant female character Elizabeth Zott.

Haley mentions this story is a tragicomedy, which is right on and there are some great read-alike out there if you want more like this book:

Where’d You Go Bernadette by Maria Semple

Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

The Elegance of the Hedgehog* by Muriel Barbery

*We did refer to this as The Elegance of the Porcupine which I think is a very cute and relatable mistake

Hello Libration Nation! This week’s episode features librarian Beka Castagna as we discuss her latest fantasy obsession, the Mistborn series by Brandon Sanderson. Beka walks me through the premise of the book, its characters, and the series role as one of the biggest-name fantasy series on the market. We also discuss this Wired article, which was my entree into the insanely complicated world of who Brandon Sanderson is and what it’s like to be a Brandon Sanderson fan (did you know he lives in an underground castle?!) Also, I repeatedly call the subtitle of the book “The Final Kingdom” when it is in fact “The Final Empire” -my apologies - please don’t come at me!

For our drink we chose “The Survivor”, a moniker of one of the story’s main characters. Pineapple and chocolate is a somewhat bizarre choice for a drink, but we’ll let you decide what you think, cheers!

1.5 oz. White rum

0.25 oz. Crème de cacao (dark)

1 oz. Pineapple juice

0.25 oz. Lime juice

Hello Libration Nation! This week horror film enthusiast Matthew Knotts is here to talk about one of his favorite books and films “The Exorcist” by William Peter Blatty. The episode touches equally with the film side of the story as well as the book and was delightful and hilarious to record.

For our drink we went with the Exorcist Cocktail from this website. The ingredients are:

3/4 oz of Lime Juice
1 1/2 oz of Tequila
3/4 oz of blue curacao liqueur

For ours we added a little grapefruit juice just to add a little flavor.

There is also a surprise drink twist about halfway through, you will have to listen to find out! Cheers!

_____

I do want to mention that we discuss JK Rowling towards the end of the conversation and we did not bring up any of her troubling beliefs and actions against the Transgender community. This was not intentional and was an oversight as we focused on her writing, however just a reminder this IS the 3rd episode a podcast I’ve ever produced, so I’m learning and will try to do better next time.

2 Years of Drinks in the Library gets a special episode!

Carrie Pruett, who did the DITL Wuthering Heights Book episode with me, and I discussed the Wuthering Heights Film by director Emerald Fennell, and it was so much fun! There are spoilers so please pause if you are waiting to see it (although the book came out in 1847 so you how mad can you be at spoilers?)

The perfect drink pairing with this book is a very dark and full bodied red wine (we tried Witching Hour Red Blend) and Raspberry Dark Chocolate (we tried Ghiridelli). This is the ONLY food drink pairing for this film, I fully expect this fact to be added to the film’s Wikipedia page!

Thank you so much to Carrie for recording with me, this was a lot of fun, who knows, maybe more film reviews are in DITL’s future!

Here are a few things Carrie mentioned in the episode: 

Wuthering Heights (1939) - stars Laurence Olivier

Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights (1992) - stars Ralph Fiennes and Juliette Binoche 

Wuthering Heights (2011) - directed by Andrea Arnold (Allison Anders misquoted in episode). 

I could not pick a better first guest than my life-partner, Bill! We discuss one of his favorite books Hyperion, land some pretty decent jokes, and consider the potential that we get cancelled on this very first podcast episode. Kidding (I hope!)

The book is Hyperion by Dan Simmons, and Bill choose to pair our household beverage, a Gin & Fresca, or as we call them “A Girlfriend” (GF, get it?!)

Girlfriends:

2 oz Gin

6 oz

That’s it! Stir over ice and let your tastebuds explode!

Follow us on Instagram @Drinksinthelibrary

www.drinksinthelibrary.com

Drinks in the Library is thinly library where drinks aren’t just allowed, they are required! Each episode librarian Gigi Howard interviews a guest about a much loved book and we pair it with a drink!

Instagram: @DrinksintheLibrary

www.drinksinthelibrary.com

This week’s book is The Once and Future Witches by Alix E. Harrow, the story of three sisters in 1893: Juiper, Agnes and Beatrice who are hunted by forces who will not suffer a witch to vote, they must use their magic, their wits and alliances to find a way to survive. This led to such an interesting conversation about feminism, sisterhood, science, and lots of magic with this week’s guest: Angie Hilliker!

Angie Hilliker (Ph.D.) is an Associate Professor of Biology at the University of Richmond where she teaches undergraduates about the amazing molecular machines in our cells. She also has a research lab where she works with these budding scientists to understand how our cells regulate mRNA, the molecular recipes cells use to make proteins. She is always curious about something, whether it’s something in the lab, in a book, exploring a hobby (including playing the flute and making pottery), or exploring something with her husband and son.  When she isn’t reading science papers for work, she likes to read fantasy, historical fiction and romance novels.

In this Episode 

James River Writers

University of Richmond

The Sackler Family

The Poe Museum - Richmond

Ally McBeal

The Wayward Sisters:

Herbal, floral, lightly sweet, and aromatic — like walking through a moonlit herb garden. Contains three major flavor components to represent the three sisters in the novel. 

Ingredients:

2 oz Hendrick’s Midsummer Solstice Gin (Represents the youngest, but the most intense sister, James Juniper)

1 oz Bénédictine (made from 27 herbs, roots, etc.; a collaboration between a wine merchant and a chemist; represents the oldest sister Beatrice Belladonna, a scholar)

1 tsp of chai tea simple syrup (represents the middle sister, Agnes Amaranth, hard worker, steady, sometimes maternal, like a bracing cup of tea)

2 dashes of orange bitters (there is a lot of bitterness between the sisters, balances the sweetness of the simple syrup)

Orange slice (so much better than lime… this is how G&T are often served in Scotland)

Tonic water

Instructions:

To make the simple syrup, heat 1 c. water, 1 c. sugar, and 6 chai tea bags over medium. Stirring occasionally until sugar is dissolved. Bring to a boil and then remove from heat and let cool. Remove tea bags and store syrup in the fridge. 

Add the Gin, Bénédictine, and chai tea simple syrup to a shaker with ice. Shake well until chilled, about 15 seconds.

Strain into a glass with ice.

Add two dashes of orange bitters and squeeze in the juice from a slice of orange and drop the slice in the glass. Swirl or stir to mix. 

• 5. Top with tonic water to your preferred level and enjoy!

Hi Librarian Nation! This week we are discussing Twilight by Stephenie Meyer, the now-ubiquitous tale of Bella Swan and the vampire who just can’t quit her, Edward Cullen. This story has, of course, been widely read and adapted into famous films, and I was so happy to discuss it with this week’s guests, Christina and Lelia from fellow Richmond book podcast Burn Before Reading!

I was on Burn Before Reading last week talking about being a librarian during the Fifty Shades of Grey craze, so please go check it out (heads up that Burn Before Reading is for mature audiences only!).

Burn Before Reading Podcast is where hosts Christina Kann and Lelia Hilton in an exploration of bad writing, cringey memories, and scandalous literary history. The cringe factor of literature is as ancient as writing itself, and Burn Before Reading is here to explore it all. Every week, Christina & Lelia delve into the story of a piece of writing, a writer, a movement, or a memory to unpack the people they used to be and appreciate how far they’ve come!

O-Positive Party Punch (from Slugs on the Refrigerator Blog)

Ingredients (per glass):

3 oz. cranberry juice

2 oz.pomegranate juice

3 oz.sparkling water

Squeeze of fresh orange

Instructions:

Fill a glass with ice.

Add cranberry and pomegranate juices.

Squeeze in orange and stir.

Top with sparkling water and a thin apple slice.

In this Episode

Vote for DITL in Style Weekly’s Best of Richmond 2026

Drinks in the Library Merch!

The Butterfly Effect

Mean Girls Film

This is the Skin of a Killer, Bella!

The Byrd Theater

Books by Stephenie Meyer

Sinners Film

Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by VE Schwab

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl is a whimsical children’s novel about Charlie Bucket, a kind, poor boy who wins a once-in-a-lifetime tour of the mysterious Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. Since so many know this story, Matthew and I were able to have a conversation about the book’s history and Dahl’s legacy, and about how art and our views of it change over time.

Matthew Stern is an award-winning public speaker and writer with over 40 years of professional experience. His works include the novels Amiga and The Remainders, as well as the best-selling public speaking book Mastering Table Topics. A lifelong resident of Southern California, he grew up in Reseda, graduated from California State University, Northridge, and now lives in Lake Forest. When he’s not rooting for the Dodgers and Rams, he enjoys exercising and spending time with his wife, adult children, and granddaughter. You can find him on social media platforms @MASwriter

Our drink this week is a Greek Cheek Beer, a favorite of Matthew’s from his home in California, and a reference to the gum-smacking habits of Violet Beauregaard. If you are in California definite check it out. For those of us outside of the Golden State, Sam Adams Chocolate Bock would have be a great pairing for this book.

In this Episode

Roald Dahl Revision Controversy

Wonka vs Wonka The problem with overly likable characters - Matthew Stern

This week’s book is Libby Lost & Found, by Stephanie Booth, about Libby Weeks, the reclusive author of the hit fantasy series “The Falling Children”, who faces a crisis when she is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's and struggles to complete her overdue manuscript. In desperation, she enlists the help of eleven-year-old superfan Peanut Bixton, who knows the series inside and out but has her own hidden troubles. As Libby grapples with her diagnosis, Peanut and her family work to protect and help her save herself and the series.

My guest this week is Kendall Concini-Moore. Kendall‘s greatest adventure began not on the page, but at home, as a mother. Her book Mom’s Cloud and the Beach Adventure was inspired by her own family and her struggles with depression, or her “cloud.” With empathy and playful hearts, her family encourages her to rest, reminding her that it’s okay to not be okay, because clouds don’t last forever. Complete with discussion questions and resources, this picture book gives children ages 4-8 the language to understand when someone they love is struggling, while celebrating that sometimes, simply being together is the most caring thing. You can find out more about her and her book on her website, https://cloudydaychronicles.org/, through her Substack where she shares resources: cloudydaychronicles.substack.com/ and on social media @cloudydaychronicles.

Kendall curated our drink this week:  A Black Manhattan with a coffee twist, listen to the episode to learn how this was inspired by the book and what author Stephanie Booth thought Libby’s favorite drink would be!

Ingredients

2 oz rye whiskey (or bourbon if you want it softer)

1 oz Amaro

¼ oz coffee liqueur (just a pinch—enough to deepen, not dominate)

2-3 dashes orange bitters (optional but rounds it out)

Luxardo cherry or orange twist for garnish

Directions

Add rye (or bourbon), amaro, coffee liqueur, and bitters to a mixing glass.

Fill with ice and stir vigorously for 20–30 seconds until well chilled and slightly diluted.

Strain into a chilled coupe (for up) or an old-fashioned glass over a large ice cube (for on the rocks).

Garnish with a Luxardo cherry or a long orange twist. 

In this episode

Chuck Palahniuk 

Laurie Notaro

Patrick Roth

Brandon Sanderson

Every Heart a Doorway Episode

Tweetsie Railroad

Drop Dead Generous

A Doubters Almanac Episode 

Her Fearful Symmetry by Audrey Niffenegger revolves around identical twins, Elspeth and Edie, who have a deep but complicated bond that is tested when Elspeth, a reclusive woman living in London, dies and leaves her apartment to her American nieces, Julia and Valentina. As the twins settle into Elspeth's home, they become entangled in the mysteries of her past and the supernatural presence that lingers in the apartment, particularly the ghost of Elspeth herself. 

My guest this week is Valerie Adachi. Valerie is a self-proclaimed bookworm who even enjoyed reading cereal boxes 🥣as a kid, she reminisces over the tactile joy of spreading the New York Times 📰 across her kitchen table.

Adventure always seems to be around the corner for her, often appearing spontaneous but rooted in long-percolating ideas—like the decision to add a new puppy 🐶 to her already bustling pack, turning her quiet life topsy-turvy.

Beyond her love for dogs 🐕 , she thrives on live music, good food and drink shared with family and friends, and the thrill of knowing that adventure is always nearby, maybe we a cozy reading spot 📖

SPOILER ALERT! For the first episode ever, we do discuss the ending, so heads up if you plan to read the book. I do give you a heads up in the episode so you know when to stop, but if you have read it already or want to hear the ending, listen all the way through!

In This Episode

Mirror Twins

Highgate Cemetery

Earl Grey Hot Toddy

Ingredients:

1 cup water

1 Earl Grey tea bag

1-2 tablespoons honey (to taste)

1-2 ounces whiskey (such as bourbon or rye)

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Lemon slice (for garnish)

Cinnamon stick (optional, for garnish

Directions

1. Boil the water in a small saucepan or kettle.

2. Once boiling, remove from heat and add the Earl Grey tea bag. Steep for about 3-5 minutes, depending on your preference for strength.

3. Remove the tea bag and stir in the honey until fully dissolved.

4. Add the whiskey and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the tea mixture, stirring gently to combine.

5. Pour the hot toddy into a mug or heatproof glass.

6. Garnish with a lemon slice and a cinnamon stick, if desired.

7. Serve warm and enjoy your soothing hot toddy!

Our book this week is An Object of Beauty, a novel released in 2010 by Steve Martin, chronicles the journey of the driven and charming Lacey Yeager as she navigates the New York art scene. Starting as an intern at Sotheby's, Lacey ascends to become a prominent gallery owner, revealing her questionable methods and the fluctuating dynamics of the art market from the 1990s to the present. Narrated by her friend Daniel, the story delves into themes of art, collecting, ambition, and social ambition within the art world, all infused with Martin's characteristic wit and dry humor.

My guest this week is Amy Carleton, Ph D. She teaches in the Comparative Media Studies/Writing program at MIT and is the co-founder of Black Notes Project, a Charlotte, NC-based music festival and nonprofit, as well as the creator of Lecture Notes, a public humanities series (and now Substack!). Her research focuses on the behavioral economics of online communities and the intersection of race and digital culture. She is a recipient of the MIT Teaching With Digital Technology award, holds a graduate certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from Cornell University, and was selected by the WikiEducation Foundation as a Wikipedia Black History Scholar. Find out more about Amy through her website TheAmyCarleton.com

Our Drink this week is La Marca Prosecco, which is a popular offering at art galleries and showings. So sip some along with us as we dive into the art world of the 90s and 2000s!

In this Episode

Ways of Seeing by John Berger

Born Standing Up by Steve Martin

Davidson college

Exit Through the Gift Shop Documentary

Isabella Stewart Garden Museum Theft

The Mint Museum 

Boston Museum of Fine Arts

Bechtler Museum of Modern Art 

Harvey B. Gantt Center

Institute of Contemporary Art

Your Brain on Art by Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross

Novant Health Art Initiative

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

The Story of Art Without Men by Katy Hessel

Unfinished: The Role of the Artist in the Age of Artificial Intelligence by Lucas Cantor Santiago

A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara

Random Family: Love, Drugs, Trouble, and Coming of Age in the Bronx by Adrian Nicole LeBlanc 

Brookline Booksmith

RJ Julia Bookstore

Happy New Year Libration Nation! We are kicking off the year with Heartbeat by Terreece M. Clarke, a romance suspense novel in which Mike and Maya find love in the midst of danger and messiness.  This is the first book in Clarke’s Courageous Love Series, and with excellent characters and diverse voices, it is a favorite of this week’s guest, Liz Bullard!

Liz Bullard is a multi-genre author, therapist, and coach known for her captivating storytelling and passion for helping creatives overcome obstacles. Her notable works include The Prophecy Series and the Lira Somers Mysteries—praised for fast-paced plots, vivid characters, and movie-like imagery. Liz’s love of reading and writing is evident in the eReads Podcast, where she celebrates the power of creativity and storytelling. When she’s not writing, coaching, or recording the podcast, she’s cooking, reading, or spending time with Preston the corgi.

Our drink this week is a Hibiscus French 75 Mocktail, using one of my favorite syrups Wild Hibiscus, which includes hibiscus flowers that make the cocktail match Heartbeat’s cover!

Ingredients

1 oz NA gin

.5 oz Wild Hibiscus syrup

.5 oz fresh lemon juice

NA Sparkling wine

Ice

Lemon twist or edible flower (for garnish)

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, wild hibiscus syrup, and fresh lemon juice.

2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well for about 15-20 seconds until the mixture is chilled.

3. Place hibiscus flower from the syrup in a champagne flute.

4. Pour mixture from shaker into flute

5. Top it off: Gently top off the drink with your choice of chilled NA sparkling wine.

In this Episode

Terreece M. Clarke’s Website

James Patterson

Janet Evanovich

Hello Libration Nation! This week I am joined by Nick George, a poet and educator, to discuss This Is The Honey an anthology of poems edited by Kwame Alexander. We talked about Nick’s journey with poetry, the significance of diverse voices in poetic anthologies, and the importance of seeing yourself reflected in stories. We read and analyze poems from the anthology, including works by Mahogany L. Brown and Jabari Asim. This is the last episode of 2025 as I’m taking a little break to relax and spend time with my family. Looking forward to some great episodes coming out in 2026!

Nicholas Steven George (or, Nick George the Poet) is a poet, educator, DJ and facilitator. He has performed at venues such as TedXCharlottesville, American Psychology Association Annual Convention, University of Lynchburg & Opera Roanoke. In performing his original work, he has opened for renowned poets like Jasmine Mans, Levi the Poet, Alysia Harris, Black Ice & Joshua Bennett. His work dwells at the intersection of culture, identity and spirituality. He has been writing, performing, and teaching for more than two decades. Nick’s award-winning work has been featured in a variety of industries and highlighted on platforms on the local and nationwide scale, ranging from private group facilitation and workshops, 1 on 1 coaching, and virtual/in-person performances. Find him on his website or on social media.

Moscow Mule

2 oz vodka

1 oz fresh lime juice

4 oz ginger beer

Fresh mint leaves (about 8-10)

Lime wedge (for garnish)

Ice

Copper mug (traditional)

In the bottom of a copper mug, add the fresh mint leaves. Gently muddle them with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils.

Fill the mug with ice cubes.

Pour the vodka and fresh lime juice over the ice.

Top off with ginger beer, stirring gently to combine all ingredients.

Garnish with a lime wedge and a sprig of fresh mint.

Enjoy your refreshing Moscow Mule!

In this Episode

Drinks in the Library Merch

Sonya Sanchez

Langston Hughes

Still I Rise by Maya Angelou

Amiri Baraka Black Art

Shark Heart by Emily Habeck is a surreal love story about newlyweds Wren and Lewis, whose marriage is upended when Lewis is diagnosed with a rare condition that will slowly transform him into a great white shark. As they confront grief, change, and the limits of love, the novel uses magical realism to explore what it means to stay connected when life becomes unrecognizable.

A nonprofit leader by day, Ashley spends her free time volunteering; chasing down Richmond’s best hikes and restaurants with her friends, family, and pup; and adventuring across the globe. A recovering English major, she’ll take any excuse to turn a good read into a great conversation.

Ashley is the Executive Director of Communities in Schools Chesterfield, and on May 12th they are having their first ever Adult Spelling Bee Fundraiser! You should definitely come to raise some money for a great cause, also - I will be one of their “Celebrity Spellers” so come witness me failing horribly at spelling! 

Spelling bee tickets: https://cisofchesterfield.networkforgood.com/events/96878-cis-c-adult-spelling-bee-extravaganza

Searn more about CIS: www.cisofchesterfield.org 

Our drink this week is the Metamorphosis Cocktail, which I absolutely loved - it literally changes colors! 

Metamorphosis Cocktail

 Ingredients 

2 oz gin

1 oz butterfly pea tea (cooled)

¾ oz fresh lemon juice

½ oz Simple Syrup

Ice

Optional flair:

Edible glitter 

Black sugar or salt rim

Lemon twist or edible flower

Directions:

Brew butterfly pea tea by steeping 1–2 tsp dried flowers in ½ cup hot water for 5–7 minutes; strain and cool.

Fill a glass with ice and add 2 oz gin + 1 oz cooled butterfly pea tea.

Slowly pour in ¾ oz fresh lemon juice and watch the color change from blue to purple.

Stir in ½ oz simple syrup to taste, then garnish if desired.

In This Episode

Shadowlands Film Quote  (I could not remember who to attribute this to while we were recording)

Speculative Fiction

Hello libration nation! This week's book is The Gunslinger by Stephen King a dark twisted fantasy novel and the first book in King’s The Dark Tower series. It follows the journey of Roland Deschain, the last gunslinger, as he traverses a desolate and mysterious landscape in pursuit of the enigmatic Man in Black. The story blends elements of fantasy, horror, and Western, exploring themes of destiny, obsession, and the nature of good and evil, as Roland confronts both external foes and his own inner demons on his quest to reach the Dark Tower, the nexus of all universes.

Guest

Bill Blume was determined to be a writer from a young age, often taking the lead in crafting adventures during childhood games in South Carolina. After graduating from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Broadcast Journalism, he worked as a TV news producer before transitioning to a dispatcher role for Henrico County Police in 2001. In Richmond, he and his wife became active in the local writing community, contributing to James River Writers, where he served on the board and continues to engage with fellow writers and industry professionals.He is the author of several books, and has an upcoming novel, To Hell and Back coming out January 20th, 2026.

Our drink this week was a Dark & Stormy, the perfect dark and spicy drink to pair with an anti-hero like Roland Deschain.

In This Episode

Sh*tty First Draft - Anne Lamott

George Lucas Star Wars changes

Original Gunslinger vs. Revised Edition

Shiver by Maggie Steifvater

James River Writers

Books by Stephen King

Battle of the Planets Series

Malinda Lo Books

NK Jemison Books

Erin Bowman Books

West of Apocalypse by Bill Blume

Richmond SPCA

Richmond Animal League

Sarah Glenn Marsh 

This week’s book is Kindred  by Octavia Butler, a time-traveling story about Dana, who goes back in time to ensure the survival of her ancestors: an enslaved woman named Alice and her enslaver, Rufus. This complicated yet entrancing narrative is multifaceted, and my guest this week, Alethea McCollin, and I had a great conversation about the ways Butler challenges her readers to think about the implications of our actions and how they shape the future.

Alethea McCollin is a multifaceted artist as a playwright, director, producer, actor, and founder of Orange Stilettos Productions, llc, known for her award-winning production of The Stilettos Monologues at the Atlanta Black Theatre Festival. She has produced various works, including her play Renaming Shaim at Theatre Row, New York City, and directed her first short film, The Next Great Writer, showcased at the Virginia Screenwriters Forum. Additionally, Alethea serves as Executive Secretary on the Board of Directors of James River Writers and is an English instructor at Virginia State University.

Our drink this week is one of Alethea’s favorite’s: Blackberry Citrus Tea, which is perfect for sitting by the fire curling up with a good book!

In this Episode

Drinks in the Library Merch

Kindred by Octavia Butler

James River Writers

Virginia State UniversityBooks by Toni Morrison

Books by Gabrielle García Márquez

Books by Isabel Allende

Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglas, an American Slave by Frederick Douglas

The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride

Happy Thanksgiving! I’m taking the week to relax with family. Please enjoy the re-airing of this recording, which originally aired December 17, 2024.

Hello Libration Nation! This week we are discussing the classic series Animorphsby K.A. Applegate. Animorphs is a collection of 54 middle-grade books in which five young adults are gifted the power to morph into animals. It was a bit of a cult phenomenon when it was originally published in the late '90s and has recently seen a resurgence online.

My guest is Fiona Fenn. Fiona is an author of fantasy novels that put complicated “heroes” front and center. A fan of villains, redemption arcs, and intense explorations of healing in all its forms, her debut novel, The Crack at the Heart of Everything, is a love letter to every villain who wanted to do better but never got the chance.

I so enjoyed this conversation with Fiona, talking about the Animorphs series and her love for it, as well as her experience writing and publishing her first novel and everything that goes into this process.

Our drink this week is a Flying Saucer, as the Animorphs series begins with the kids meeting an alien who has flown to Earth

Flying Saucer Recipe (from Bevvy.com)

INGREDIENTS

1 oz Amaretto Di Saronno liqueur

1 oz Kahlua coffee liqueur

3 oz cream

3 oz ice

Combine in blender until smooth and creamy, serve with cinnamon stick for garnish!

In this Episode

Fiona Fenn’s Website

Buy The Crack at the Heart of Everything by Fiona Fenn

Michael Grant Gone series

Tiny Fox Press

Animorphs Aloud

Queer Liberation Library

KA Applegate Website

Free Animorphs PDFs

Fiona Fenn’s Substack

The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary is a charming romantic comedy about two strangers, Tiffy and Leon, who share a London flat but have never met, communicating only through notes. As they navigate their unconventional living arrangement, they gradually develop a deep connection that leads to unexpected romance.

My guest this week is the hilarious Ashley Jones, who dreams of owning a stationery store and recapping reality TV for a living (dream big), all while aiming to finally shoot a T-shirt gun, an ambition she’s pursued for over a decade. Ashley is one of my favorite people I follow on social media, and I hope you follow her there too! You can find Ashley on Instagram @AshleyJonesy, Threads @AshleyJonesy, on TikTok @ohashleyjonesy and NOW on her just launched substack Yap Time: The Newsletter you read before a nap.

I had such a great time chatting with Ashley, we share so many of the same passions (Bravo shows, Taylor Swift, Pop Culture in general) that we frequently got off topic and I had to cut a good portion of the show, which I will be calling “The Lost Episode”, which will not be released and will become part of the lore of the show until fans clamor for me to release it 10 years from now, a la “All Too Well” 10 minute version, which is a Taylor reference and I promise that’s the last one, at least for the podcast intro!

Together we delve into the plot of The Flatshare , focusing on the characters' humanity and the book's feel-good nature. Ashley reflects on how the book changed her perspective on reading for enjoyment. We also talked about the value of empathy, dealing with insecurities, and the joy of following passions, ending the conversation with a nod to Ashley’s love for Sonic's Coke Zero and styrofoam cups.

In This Episode

Kelce Bowl (Super Bowl LVII)

Not Gonna Lie (Kylie Kelce’s Podcast - my #1 rival!)

Orpheus by Sara Bareilles

Styrofoam cups outlawed in Virginia

Sonic Drive In

Beth O’Leary’s Website

Books by Beth O’Leary

Brett Goldstein

The Finlay Donovan series by Elle Cosimano follows a witty, overworked single mom and novelist who accidentally becomes entangled in real-life crime while trying to meet her writing deadlines. Blending humor, suspense, and heart, the series delivers a fast-paced mix of murder, motherhood, and unexpected friendship.

A little bit about this week's (returning) guest, Mair Downing.

Mair transitioned into real estate from a Fortune 200 company because she wanted a career where she could make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether working with buyers, sellers, or investors—helping clients right-size or find that perfect river getaway—she believes in the energy that comes from realizing goals are within reach. And with Mair’s guidance, they are.

FREE TIME

When Mair isn’t showing homes or preparing listings, she’s cheering on her teen daughters in their various activities—soccer, volleyball, and basketball—or snuggling with her Havanese, Odie (and, of course, her husband, too!). She loves to travel, enjoy great food, and soak in all that life has to offer. Check up her "What's Up Wednesday series on Instagram: @obsessedwithhomes 

For quiet moments, she finds peace sitting on a dock, watching the water glimmer with a good book. Favorite right now: Black Phone by Joe Hill

Death by Chocolate Cocktail - we recorded this episode on Día De Los Muertos, also as the book titles and story contents often involve a little murder, we knew we needed a “deadly” cocktail!

Servings: 1

Ingredients

¾ oz vodka 

¾ oz Bailey’s Irish Cream 

¾ oz dark crème de cacao 

¼ cup chocolate ice cream

½ cup ice

Chocolate shavings, for garnish

Instructions

Combine the vodka, Bailey’s, dark crème de cacao, chocolate ice cream, and ice in a blender.

Blend until smooth.

Pour into a chilled wine glass.

Garnish with chocolate shavings and enjoy!

In this Episode

DITL Merch is now out! Please considering one of these adorable items to support the show.

Barbara Streisand films Funny Girl and What’s Up Doc

Drawing Hands by MC Escher

Black Phone by Joe Hill

Brave New World by Aldous Huxley

Pushcart Prize

O. Henry Award

I’m so excited to share the audio from my very first live recording, held on October 28 at M.M.LaFleur Georgetown. I had the pleasure of interviewing Ally Kirkpatrick, owner of Old Town Books, about The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating a story that deeply influenced her decision to open her bookstore.

A huge thank you to M.M.LaFleur and their wonderful Georgetown staff for being so kind, supportive, and making this event possible, and to Ally for being such a generous guest and collaborator.

Since we recorded in an open space, I made a few audio adjustments to smooth out background noise. While it sounds crisp and clear overall, you might notice a few spots that move a bit quickly as I balanced the levels.

Book

The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating by Elisabeth Tova Bailey is a quiet, meditative memoir that finds wonder in the smallest details of life. As the bedridden author observes a snail living beside her, she discovers unexpected lessons about resilience, curiosity, and the beauty of slowing down.

Guest

Ally Kirkpatrick, an Alexandria native, founded Old Town Books in 2018 to create space for her love of reading, writing, and community. She also loves her family, shop dog Scout, and gardening. Ally’s current picks include happy-ending thrillers, journalist-written nonfiction, reimagined history, and beautiful gardening books. Recently her debut essay Gnawing was featured in Roxane Gays’s The Audacity, learn more about her writing at allykirkpatrick.com.

Drink 

For our drink this week we had two options, the first was “The MM Spritz”, a white wine spritzer named in honor of our lovely host, MM LaFleur Georgetown. The second was a NA option, Herb & Orchid dealconized wine alternative, which was so tasty, and the connection to nature paired perfectly with the book.

In this Episode

Community Bookstore Brooklyn NY

Elisabeth Tova Bailey’s website - where you can listen to a snail eating 

Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott - check out the DITL episode on this book!

The Governeses by Anne Serre

Gnawing by Ally Kirkpatrick on Roxane Gay’s The Audacity

Ally Kirkpatrick’s YouTube

The John Burroughs Medal

Fabled Ice Cream 

These Truths by Jill Lepore

Books by Lindsey Chervinsky, presidential historian

You Never Forget Your First by Alexis Coe

Carrie by Stephen King tells the story of a shy, bullied teenager who endures relentless cruelty at school and terrifying abuse at home from her fanatically religious mother. When Carrie discovers her telekinetic powers, years of repression and pain erupt in a devastating act of vengeance on prom night.

Guest

Nathan Lawrie-Buchholz is a special education teacher who loves books that make him afraid to turn off the lights. Nathan has frightened his friends and family with scary stories written in the margins of school notebooks since he was young. Profane Beasts is his debut novel. Nathan’s experience as a teacher inspires him to write about professionals who make a living separating their emotional needs from the people they serve. Nathan writes about the anxiety of walking that line between being professionally empathetic and dangerously involved that all social workers must navigate. Nathan lives in Henrico, Virginia with his wife Haley, their rescue pittie mix Ziti, and their internet famous cat Marston. He can be found searching independent bookstores for old paperbacks or investigating exciting places to eat in the Richmond area. You can find him on Instagram Goodreads or on his website

Our drink this week is a Bloody Mary, of course as a homage to the moment Carrie had enough. I use Zing Zang to make my Bloody Mary’s, to some this is a controversial choice, but I’m sorry, I know what I like!

Bloody Mary Recipe

3 parts Zing Zang® Bloody Mary Mix

1 part your favorite vodka

Directions

Pour over ice and stir

Add a squeeze of lime

Garnish with celery, olives, hot sauce, bacon, anything you like really!

In this Episode

Blair Witch Project Marketing Campaign

On Writing by Stephen King

All 4 Carrie Movies Ranked

Cuckoo by  Gretchen Felker Martin 

Books by Eric LaRocca

Books by T. Kingfisher

Bunny by Mona Awad

Fountain Bookstore in Richmond, Virginia

Whickerman Film

World War Z by Max Brooks

The Great Dismal Swamp

Cajun Queen Tour New Orleans

Abi’s Books and Brews

Hello, Libration Nation! This week, I'm doing something a bit different and sharing 15 books that I loved in 2025! This format is a departure from the regular show, but I wanted to highlight some personal favorites that haven't made it onto the show yet. If you want to give feedback on this or for future episodes, reach out to me at drinkspod@gmail.com.

This week’s drink is a fabulous rosé from none other than the Duchess of Sussex herself, Meghan Markle! I’ll also be sharing a tasting video on Instagram, so stay tuned!

No show notes this week—I really want you to listen to the episode in full, so I won’t be listing the books just yet. But don’t worry, I’ll share that list closer to the holiday season!

And if you haven’t registered yet, don’t miss my live event on Tuesday, October 28 at M.M.LaFleur Georgetown! I’ll be interviewing Ally Kirkpatrick, owner of Old Town Books, and it’s going to be a delightful and fun evening!

Date: Tuesday, October 28

Time: 6-8 PM

Location: M.M.LaFleur, 1344 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC

What to expect:

- Drinks & light bites before & after the recording

- Shop M.M.LaFleur’s cozy fall collection at 15% off

- Browse our in-store library curated by Old Town Books

RSVP & more details: https://luma.com/hbsnu98y

Enjoy the episode!

In Surrender by Bono, the iconic frontman of U2, shares a deeply personal memoir that explores his life’s journey through music, activism, and spirituality. With candid reflections and heartfelt anecdotes, he invites readers into the experiences that shaped both his artistry and his commitment to making a difference in the world.

Heidi K. Brown is a former lawyer, a law professor, a writer, a novice boxer, a passionate U2 fan, a proud introvert, and a feisty solo traveler. She is the author of three books about well-being and healthy performance for law students, lawyers, and other members of the legal profession: The Introverted Lawyer,Untangling Fear in Lawyering, and The Flourishing Lawyer. Heidi is an internationally recognized public speaker on topics of self-empowerment, authenticity, and self-discovery. Heidi launched her debut travel memoir, The Map I Draw: A Memoir of Travel as a Passport to Self, in June 2025. You can find more at https://heidikristinbrown.com and  her substack Heidiography.

Our drink this week is Irish Whiskey, specifically  Writer’s Tears if you can get it! If you are in the United States you can order it through Reserve Bar.

In this Episode

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Joshua_Tree

Is U2 the longest running band on the planet?

Ali Hewson - Chernobyl International

The Creative Act by Rick Rubin

The Creative Habit by Twyla Tharp

Steven Pressfield Books

Heidi’s Keynote at University of Richmond Law School Graduation

Joshua Tree Bar Manhattan (sadly now closed!)

In Solito, a memoir by poet Javier Zamora recounts his harrowing and heartfelt journey as a nine-year-old traveling alone from El Salvador to the United States to reunite with his parents. Through vivid detail and deep emotion, he captures the fear, hope, and resilience of migration through a child’s eyes.

Donna McCarthy is a retired high school special education teacher who’s been happily retired for seven years. She volunteers as a Friend of the Newburgh Free Library and leads a book club for fellow retired teachers. Donna loves spending time with her grandson, she’s a proud bi-coastal grandma often traveling to visit him in California from her home in New York, and she never passes up a chance to travel, whether it’s exploring somewhere new in the U.S. or heading abroad. Also, she is my aunt!

Our drink this week is Horchata, a drink well known in Central America and one that Javier drinks in the book. A classic rice drink, I linked below a recipe from El Salvador, but you can also try it by using this mix or purchasing one at your local Pollo Campero!

Horchata Salvadoreña

4oz morro seed

2oz peanuts

2 oz de sesame seeds

1 tbsp of coaca powder

1 oz pumpkin seed

1 oz cinammon 

1/4 tbsp Vanilla or to taste

2 oz dried corn

2 oz rice

Sugar to taste

1 - 1 1/2 gallons of Water - this can be subbed with any milk you'd like or split.

In this Episode

American Dirt by Jeanne Cummins

Salvadorean Civil War

Coyote (Colloquial for human smuggler)

Javier Zamora’s Website

Second Attempt Crossing Poem

Unaccompanied by Javier Zamora

Culpability by Bruce Holsinger is a techno-thriller and family drama about the moral fallout of a fatal crash involving an autonomous minivan. The novel follows the Cassidy-Shaw family as they confront guilt, secrets, and the ethical questions surrounding AI after their teenage son, Charlie, is involved in the accident while the car is in self-driving mode. It explores themes of technology's impact on human relationships, corporate greed, and the complex dynamics between parents and teenagers. 

My guest this week is Barbara Ferrara. She is a librarian, mother, lifelong learner, passionate reader who loves to travel and is currently learning Spanish.

Our drink this week is an Old Fashioned, since it is the opposite of AI. I also made sure to pick a Virginian bourbon, since the author, Bruce Holsinger, lives here in Virginia! I went with the Tarnished Truth Bourbon, which is brewed in the famous Cavalier Hotel at Virginia Beach!

Old Fashioned Recipe

1 teaspoon sugar

3 dashes Angostura bitters

1 teaspoon water

2 ounces bourbon (or rye whiskey, if preferred)

Garnish: orange twist

In This Episode

Meta AI book heist

Descript 

The Gifted School by Bruce Holsinger

Tickets to Live Show with Meg Medina April 18th

Welcome back to Drinks in the Library! Today, we're exploring the delightful and charming world of Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston. This romantic comedy takes us on a whirlwind journey through love, politics, and the complexities of identity as we follow the unexpected romance between Alex Claremont-Diaz, the First Son of the United States, and Prince Henry of Wales.

My guest this week is Katharine Herndon, who lives in Richmond, Virginia, with her husband, two boys, and a hound dog named Lola. She used to teach (English, of course), but the homework got to her, so she decided to take up nonprofit work instead (insert laughter). Currently the Executive Director of James River Writers, she is an enthusiastic advocate for the RVA literary community and can be found at nearly all JRW events. In her free time she kills plants, burns things more than she cooks, knits very sporadically, and is still looking for some form of tolerable exercise. 

Our drink this week was a nod to our friends across the pond: 

The New G&T (Gin and Earl Grey Tea)

2 ounce Earl Grey Tea

2 ounce Gin

1 ounce Maple Syrup

3/4 ounce Lemon Juice

Fresh Mint or Dried Rose Petals for garnish, optional

In a rocks glass add ice and set aside. In your cocktail shaker, combine all ingredients, except for the garnish. Fill the shaker with ice and put the cap on. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, or until the shaker is extremely cold.

Strain cocktail into your prepared rocks glass and garnish with mint or rose petals, if using. Serve immediately.

In This Episode

The Buffalo Hunter Hunter by Stephen Graham Jones

In A Jam by Kate Canterbury

American Royals by Catherine McGee

Red White and Royal Blue Film

Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden

The Horse Whisperer Film

Are You There God? It’s Me Margaret Film

Jim Dale Actor & Audiobook Narrator

I Kissed Shara Wheelerby Casey McQuiston

The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison

James River Writers Thursday Night Writes

Hello Libration Nation! Our book this week is Catwings a whimsical and heartwarming tale by beloved author Ursula K. Le Guin. The story follows four ordinary kittens born with an extraordinary gift—they have wings. As they set out to find a safe place in the world, the kittens discover both the beauty and challenges of being different. With gentle language and charming illustrations, Catwings is a modern classic that captures the magic of imagination, the courage of leaving home, and the comfort of finding where you belong.

My guest this week is the amazing Dr. Julia Skinner, she is a food writer whose work includes the award-winning book Our Fermented Lives. She is the founder of The Culinary Curiosity School, and also runs Root, a food-focused community and consulting organization offering classes, consulting on creative projects, a weekly newsletter, and more. She's also the founder of Roots and Branches, where she coaches other writers to help them find their voice and share their most important work with the world. 

She is also a nature lover, a teacher, and a traveler who firmly believes in finding, and sharing, the magic of everyday life. She has a PhD in Library & Information Science, and lives between Atlanta, GA and Cork, Ireland. 

As a special treat for Libration Nation: use the code DRINKSPOD to for 30% off anything at both The Culinary Curiosity School and Roots and Branches (Thank you Julia!)

You can follow her work in her newsletter, or find her on social:

@bookishjulia (writing)

@rootkitchens (food)

@yourrootsandbranches (coaching)

@culinary.curiosity.school (culinary courses)

For our drink we have two options:

Simple Cat Lovers' Cocktail

 This is basically a Kentucky mule, with an added herbal garnish and/or herbal syrup (depending on your preference) in place of lime.

 Stir together 1 - 1 1/2 c ginger beer to 1 shot bourbon

Add herbal syrup (below) to taste (optional)

Garnish with fresh lemon balm, basil, or mint: lightly crush or roll before adding to the cocktail for maximum flavor

Herbal syrup (makes about 1 quart): Combine 2 c sugar to 2 c water with a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan. Add 1-2 c packed fresh herbs, depending how strong you'd like it (like basil, mint, lemon balm, or mountain mint). Simmer on M/L for 10-15 minutes or until aromatic and flavorful. Cool and store in the fridge in an airtight container.

Catwings Cocktail (tailor made by Julia!)

 This cocktail has a few steps, but I promise they're worth it: And you can batch out the syrup and tea by doubling or tripling the recipe to make these for a group or to keep the ingredients on hand in the fridge (where they'll last a week). The tea can be nice on its own, and any leftover syrup is perfect for adding to coffee or other beverages or drizzling on desserts.

 For a non-alcoholic version, swap in your favorite NA gin, or try this sea buckthorn-based NA spirit.

  Makes 4 cocktails

 For the herbal tea:

(Note: you may not have all these dried herbs available. If not, just use 1/4-1/2 tsp catnip and 1 tsp chamomile. Or, just a chamomile tea bag). 

·         1/4 tsp dried catnip

·         1/4 tsp dried chamomile flower

·         1/4 tsp Angelica root

·         1/4 tsp elecampene

 Steep the herbs in 3/4 c hot water for 10-12 minutes. Strain and cool completely.

 For the lemon balm syrup: 

(Note: You can play with other herbs you like here too, catnip, mountain mint, and/or basil might be fun choices depending on your tastes and what’s available). 

·         1 packed cup fresh lemon balm leaves

·         1/2 tsp apple cider vinegar

·         2/3 c water

·         pinch salt

·         1 c sugar

 Heat all ingredients together over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until fragrant and flavorful.

 Remove from heat, then cool completely and strain. 

 For the cocktail

 ·         Divide the herbal tea across 4 rocks glasses (add ice, if desired)

·         Add 1 shot gin to each glass

·         Add 1 shot of syrup to each glass and stir

·         Top with sparkling wine or soda water to taste.

·         Garnish with fresh lemon balm, if desired.

In this Episode

Steering the Craft by Ursula Le Guin

Welcome back Libration Nation! Today, I’m excited to share one of my recent favorites: Tress of the Emerald Sea by Brandon Sanderson. This delightful tale is a blend of humor, adventure, and sweetness, following a young woman on a perilous quest to save the man she loves. As we embrace the cozy vibes of autumn, I thought it was the perfect time to dive into this enchanting fantasy.

Joining me today is my husband, Bill, making his fourth appearance on Drinks in the Library. As always, we have a great time riffing and cracking each other up!

Tress loves a salty tea, so I wanted to go with a salty drink and went with a Salted Caramel Coffee Martini, for a non-alcoholic option a Salted Caramel Latte would be perfect!

Salted Caramel Coffee Martini

1 oz Bailey's Salted Caramel Cream

1.5 oz. Vanilla Vodka

1-2 oz. Coffee or Espresso

Ice

Whipped Cream, Salt, or caramel syrup (optional)

Pour Bailey's, vodka, and coffee into a shaker over ice. Shake and pour into chilled martini glass

• 2. Garnish with cream, salt, and chocolate syrup and enjoy!

NA Option - A cold Brew Salted Caramel Latte would be perfect!

In this Episode

Mistborn Episode

Brandon Sanderson - The Economics of Books and Entertainment

The Princess Bride Film

The Princess Bride  by William Goldman

Reese Witherspoon Woman of the Year Speech

Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy Gin & Tonics

Tress of the Emerald Sea Premium Hardcover

The Substance Film

Brandon Sanderson Kickstarter

Books by T. Kingfisher

The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh tells the poignant story of Victoria Jones, a young woman who uses the Victorian tradition of flower symbolism to communicate her emotions and navigate her troubled past. As she learns to reconcile her experiences through the meanings of various flowers, she embarks on a journey of healing and self-discovery that intertwines love, loss, and the power of community and relationships.

My guest this week is Mary Green, a florist, wife, dog-mom, plant lover, and also my next door neighbor. Mary loves live music, spending time with friends and family, and books with dark twists and turns. She is a florist at Strawberry Fields Flowers & Finds, where she is able to share her horticulture knowledge and passion for all things plants!

Hibiscus Paloma Mocktail

1 grapefruit wedge

½ oz fresh lime juice

3 oz NA tequila (I used Ritual Tequila)

¼ cup club soda

1 tsp Hibiscus Simple Syrup (I used Wild Hibiscus, found at Total Wine)

2 oz fresh grapefruit juice

kosher salt for garnish

Directions

Pour kosher salt on a small plate. Rub the rim of a highball glass with a grapefruit and dip the rim of glass in salt.

In a glass, combine grapefruit juice, lime juice, and hibiscus simple syrup. Stir in tequila, add ice, and top with club soda. Garnish.

In This Episode

The Complete Language of FlowersbyS. Theresa Dietz 

.5 Bottle Shop

Hello Libration Nation! This week, we are diving into the captivating world of "The Murderbot Diaries," a remarkable series by Martha Wells. Follow the journey of an anxious, self-aware rogue security android, known as Murderbot, as it navigates a galaxy filled with humans and complex emotions. 

My guest this week is Hayley DeRoche, also known as SadBeige, They are a public librarian, activist and meme creator, known for being the content creator behind the "Werner Herzog's sad beige clothes for sad beige children" series. Her funny memes and sarcastic reels have garnered a following of 450,000 on Instagram, where she goes by the handle @officialsadbeige. You can also follow their substack Weird, But Okay. Their book A Field Guide for Sad Beige Parents will be coming out Spring 2026.

Hayley has a collection of shirts and sweatshirts that are so cute and funny AND support public libraries - check them out! Also, 20% of the proceeds from sales of this collection go to support the Women’s Prison Book Project, which supports incarcerated Women, Trans, and Non-Binary people in the U.S. - because everyone deserves the right to read books they enjoy.

Sanctuary Moon Cocktail

2 oz. Herbal Gin (St George’s Terroir)

0.5 oz Lemon Juice

0.5 oz Simple Syrup

4 oz Soda Water

Lemon for garnish (optional)

Pour gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup into a shaker over ice. Shake and pour into highball glass over ice

Add soda water and mix gently with a spoon. 

Garnish with lemon and enjoy!

In this Episode

The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells

Far From the Tree by Andrew Solomon

Five Laws of Library Science by SR Ranganathan

Murderbot TV Show on Apple

Grizzly Man Documentary by Werner Herzog

Weird, But Okay - Hayley’s Substack

Women’s Prison Book Project

We are going back in time and discussing Amatory Fiction in the 18th century novel Fantomina by Eliza Haywood. This incredible story explores the complexities of identity and desire through the story of a young woman who adopts multiple personas to navigate the intricacies of romantic entanglements in 18th-century society. This provocative tale delves into themes of gender, autonomy, and the hidden depths of passion, highlighting the lengths one will go to in pursuit of love and self-discovery.

Samantha DeShazo was born and raised in Richmond, Virginia. She earned her MA in English at Virginia Commonwealth University in 2022, where she studied literature of the long eighteenth century. She is an educator who currently works with first year college students. When she's not working, she can be found with her nose in a book or pampering her beloved dog, Henry. 

 Our drink this week was courtesy of Samantha, it is a Creme Earl Grey Black Tea fromThe Spice & Tea Exchange of Richmond. It is absolutely delicious, smells like Fruity Pebbles, and would definitely have been all the rage in Fanomina’s time

In this Episode

Fantomina by Eliza Haywood

The Spice & Tea Exchange of Richmond

Toni Morrison

Frankstein by Mary Shelley

The Law of Coverture

Didn’t Read It Podcast Fantomina Episode

Amatory Fiction

Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

Pamela by Samuel Richardson

Love in Excess by Eliza Haywood

Betsy Thoughtless by Eliza Haywood

We are going down the rabbit hole this week folks! Join us as we dive into the whimsical world of Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, a timeless tale that explores the boundaries of imagination and reality. We’ll unravel the quirky characters, enchanting landscapes, and profound themes that have captivated readers for generations.

My guest this week is Elizabeth Wiley, an award-winning audiobook narrator with a decade of experience in genres like Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, and Biography. Originally from Minnesota and now based in Williamsburg, Virginia, she records in her home studio. Elizabeth enjoys discussions on the intersection of arts and sciences with her NASA engineer partner. Her interests include sailing, skiing, yoga, and nature spirituality, along with a fondness for Birkenstocks and Hygge.

The Queen of Hearts Special Cocktail 

2 oz Vanilla Vodka

3 oz TJ’s To the Power of 7 Red juice

Chocolate Covered Cherries

Shake with ice and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with chocolate covered cherries and enjoy!

In this Episode

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll

Too Old for This by Samantha Downing (Liz’s latest narration!)

Red, Wine and Blue Virginia

LM Elliott’s website

My interview with LM Elliott

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland narrated by Christopher Plummer

Go Ask Alice (film)

White Rabbit (Go Ask Alice) - song by Jefferson Airplane

The Phantom Tollbooth by Norman Juster

John Tenniel’s Alice in Wonderland illustrations

Richmond SPCA Critter Camp

It’s Christmas in July! This week we are visiting the world of Narnia, where it is always Winter but never Christmas, at least until the Pevensie children get involved. This week’s guest is Erin Surber, Erin is an avid reader and an enthusiastic library patron. She has four children ages spanning 18 months to 9 years old. Erin has worked in the video production industry for 14 years and now hold the position of Head of Production for a Richmond-based production company. She loves being outside, hiking, running (slowly), and kayaking. Also very into cooking, traveling, and all things dark chocolate!

Our cocktail is staying on the Christmas theme with a Narnia 75, which I found on the FoodNetwork UK’s Christmas recipe page!

Narnia 75 Cocktail

25ml gin

1 tsp white sugar

10ml lime juice

100ml Champagne

In this Episode

Friendship of CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien

Worthdays - Richmond area non-profit to support those impacted by the foster care system

Hello Libration Nation! This week we are discussing The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest  by Aubrey Hartman. This newly released middle-grade book features Clare, an undead fox who ushers wandering animal souls to the afterlife realms of peace, pleasure, progress, and pain in the perpetual autumn setting of Deadwood Forest. Clare lives a solitary life, meticulously tending to his mushroom garden and enjoying his tree sap tea, until a badger named Gingersnipes arrives and disrupts his routine.

My guest this week is Angie Zhao. Born and raised in Richmond, Angie was a VCU English major and has spent the past four years working as an Events and Marketing Manager at a children's bookstore in Richmond. When she's not planning author events and school visits, she loves visible mending, making jewelry for her friends, trail running, and, of course, getting lost in a good story. A lover of books for both children and adults, Angie is drawn to clever, form-bending tales and writing that finds magic in the mundane.

Clare’s favorite drink is his tree sap tea; we created this using black tea, maple syrup, and peaches since we recorded in the summer. Feel free to add bourbon if you like, and enjoy it hot or cold year-round as you imagine yourself cozying up in Deadwood Forest!

Maple Peach Tea Sipper

2 oz. Bourbon (optional)

4 oz. Fresh-Brewed Black Tea

0.75 oz Maple Syrup

1/8th of Fresh Peach (softened works best)

Fresh Mint (optional)

Mudldle fresh peach, add bourbon, maple syrup, and ice. Shake. 

Strain into glass with ice and top with fresh-brewed tea. 

Garnish with with mint and peach slices, enjoy!

In this Episode

Vanishing World by Sayaka Murata

Marcin Minor Illustrator

Marisa Calin Audiobook Narrator

The Lion of Lark Hayes Manor by Aubrey Hartman

The Book of Joy by Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu

TJ Clune Books

Katherine Applegate Books

Reading in the Middle Podcast

If you have listened to the podcast for awhile, you have probably heard me reference the book Here For it: Or, How To Save Your Soul in America by R. Eric Thomas. It is a favorite of mine and had a big impact on me  when I read it the first time in June of 2020, so I was SO excited when my friend and returning guest Izzie Call read it, loved it as well, and wanted to come on and talk about it with me. In the episode I referenced the review I wrote about it at the time, but then I never read the review so here it is: Eric Thomas grew up thinking he was a normal kid until others made him feel that he wasn’t. Black, gay, and Christian, these essays reflect upon his experience of never fitting in, being discriminated against, and his hopeful journey to find his place in a country that he loves. Thomas’ conversational writing style draws the reader in, and his ability to add humor to heartbreaking moments truly make these stories come to life. In a time when we can all use to learn more about other’s experiences, this book was enlightening and truthful, with jokes that landed like Kerri Strug in the ‘96 Olympics.

My guest this week is the always delightful Izzie Call.  Izzie works as a museum educator for the VMFA coordinating projects related to the permanent collections and special exhibition displays including digital components, labels, and web

resources. Izzie is a lifelong, passionate educator and feels most at home speaking about art with those who have an interest in learning.

Also, thank you to Eric Thomas for sharing his favorite drink with me when in a moment of bravado (delusion?) I reached out to him on IG. It is a Cosmopolitan and he said he is bringing it back as a recession indicator!

Cosmo Recipe 

1 oz cranberry juice

0.5 oz fresh-squeezed lime juice 

1 oz triple sec (I use Cointreau)

1.5-2 oz vodka 

Shake hard with ice, pour into martini glass, garnish with orange or lime, and enjoy!

In this Episode

Books by R. Eric Thomas

Website - R.Eric Thomas

Eric’s Newsletter - Check It Out!

Cosmos TV Show

Ali Hazelwood Hunger Games Drama

Frida Kahlo VMFA Exhibit (on view through 9/28/25)

We All Want Impossible Things is a tender, darkly funny novel about friendship, grief, and letting go. It follows Ash as she supports her best friend Edi through the final stages of illness, capturing the small, intimate moments that define a lifelong bond. The story balances humor and heartbreak while exploring love, loss, and what it means to say goodbye.

Lindsey Goldstein is the author of Gap Year Her essays about love and parenting have appeared in The New York Times, The Chicago Story Press, Kveller, and The Sunlight Press. She lives in Irvine, CA with her husband, kids, and rescue mutt. You can find her on her website Lindseygoldsteinauthor.com and on Instagram and Threads @GoldsteinLindsey

We recorded this with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, a favorite of Lindsey’s and one I recommend for Spring! In particular I drank a glass of Leia Vinters Sauvignon Blanc. 

In This Episode

The Dinosaurs on Netflix

Crone Sandwich -Catherine Newman’s Substack

Tickets to Live Show with Meg Medina April 18th

Please enjoy the re-airing of this episode which was originally released July 9, 2024.

There is no getting around this: I was THRILLED when Lisa agreed to come on the podcast. Lisa is the Executive Director of the Virginia Library Association, immediate past chair of the Virginia Beach Public Library Board, and a member of the ALA Policy Corps focusing on Unite Against Book Bans. She also was named the LIBRARIAN OF THE YEAR 2024 by Library Journal, an award she won because of her advocacy in the fight against book bans. Lisa is a hero of mine, and I am also very grateful to call her my friend.

Our book this week is Have a Beautiful, Terrible Day!: Daily Meditations for the Ups, Downs & In-Betweens by Kate Bowler. Lisa lives in Virginia Beach and we recorded at the beautiful OceanFront Marriott in Virginia Beach. I want to thank the staff of the Marriott for letting us record in their executive suite overlooking the ocean. Our drink this week is one Lisa recommends for a beach day, a Ruby Red Grapefruit Crush!

Ruby Red Grapefruit Crush Ingredients

4 oz (½ cup)  grapefruit juice

1 oz (2 tablespoons) vodka

½ oz (1 tablespoon) triple sec (orange liqueur)

2 oz (¼ cup) lemon-lime soda or club soda

In This Episode

Unite Against Book Bans - https://uniteagainstbookbans.org/

Virginia Library Association - https://www.vla.org/

Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin

Virginia Society of Association Executives

Everything Happens - Kate Bowler’s podcast

Gigi’s Episode on Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird

Rob Delaney’s Episode of Everything Happens

Catastrophe TV Show

Terrible, Thanks for Asking Podcast

The Hot Young Widows Club by Nora McInerny

This is such a special episode because, for the first time ever, I’m interviewing an author about their book, because it’s one of my favorite books! Gingko Season by Naomi Xu Elegant is a story about a young woman, Penelope Lin, who is moving through the world after her first big heartbreak and discovering herself while on the cusp between young adulthood and adulthood. The depiction of this time of life is just one of the things I loved about this book, and I was thrilled to be able to discuss it with Naomi!

Naomi Xu Elegant is a freelance journalist and the author of the novel Gingko Season. She lives in New York. Naomi’s writing has appeared in Monocle, Fortune, Atlas Obscura, Nikkei Asia, The Drift, and elsewhere. She is co-editor of Gully, an independent literary magazine, and she writes a monthly Substack called Luanqibazao.

I would love for you to read Gingko Season, check out this review from the New York Times!

Our drink this week is a Lychee Martini, which is featured in the book. As I found out during our discussion, including these martinis was an Easter egg for Naomi’s mom, because they’re her favorite cocktail. I asked if she’d be willing to share the recipe with us as a special addition to the episode, and she did! She said the secret is to blend whole lychees and lychee juice together, then strain the mixture through a sieve to get that lovely, milky color.

Lychee Martini Recipe

2 oz. vodka

2 oz. lychee juice

Shake in a cocktail shaker over ice.

Serve neat in a cocktail glass.

Garnish with a whole lychee (optional)

Naomi’s mom’s tip: Blend whole lychees with lychee juice (both canned), then strain through a sieve to get your juice. The blended fruit gives it that lovely, clouded look.

You can also add a bit of citrus or a dash of dry vermouth—lychee martinis are meant for everyone!

In This Episode

Garden State Film

Friday I’m In Love - Phoebe Bridgers Cover

Napoleon Film

Foot Binding History

Middlemarch by George Eliot

In Search of Lost Time by Marcel Proust

Kazou Ishiguro

Sally Rooney

Elena Ferrante

A Feather on the Breath of God by Sigrid Nunez

The Sympathizer by  Viet Thanh Nguyen

The Candy House by Jennifer Egan

Naomi’s Substack

Note: This episode was originally published April 2, 2024, I’ll be back with new content next week, enjoy!

Did you read the Anne of Green Gables series as a young girl and then walk through the woods pretending to be Anne and Diana? Yes? So did I and so did my friend Deanna! 

Talking with Deanna about this book was so much fun, celebrating Anne and the cultural impact this story has had. A famous Anne quote is: “I'm so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers”. Well, I’m so glad I live in a world where there is an Anne of Green Gables.

Spoiler alert (Not really this is an iconic scene at this point): In the first book Anne accidentally gets her bestie Diana drunk on current wine, which she believes is raspberry cordial. Current wine apparently takes months, so we decided to make Raspberry Cordial Mules, which can be enjoyed with or without alcohol by making it with zero-proof vodka. I got the recipe from this lovely website and made the cordial myself in less than an hour!

Raspberry Cordial Mule

12 oz. Frozen Raspberries

3 cups Water

¾ cup Sugar

2 tsp. Lime Juice plus more for cocktails

Vodka

Ginger Beer

Fresh Raspberries (for garnish)

In this episode:

Deanna’s Instagram

Anne of Green Gables 2 part special (Megan Fellows version is cannon)

LM Montgomery