Explore every episode of the podcast Book Gang
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Why Allegra Goodman Hid Her Isola Manuscript | 13 Jun 2025 | 00:43:40 | |
Allegra Goodman tells the surprising origin story of Isola—from a children's book discovery to immersive museum research—all written in complete secrecy. In today's Book Gang episode, celebrated author Allegra Goodman joins me to discuss her stunning survival novel Isola, the incredible true story that inspired it, and the highly unusual creative process behind her most critically acclaimed book yet. Allegra kept Isola a secret—entirely—from her agent, her family, and even close friends while she wrote it. She reveals why this story demanded privacy and how keeping it under wraps gave her a rare creative clarity. She also shares what it meant to research this historical setting in museums and archives and how a serendipitous find in a children's book 22 years ago sparked the idea that would grow into Isola. In this inspiring conversation, Allegra and I discuss:
BONUS BOOK LIST: This week, I’m sharing a companion book list with 25 Enthralling Books Set on Islands to read, including new releases and backlist titles. Whether you crave adventure, a love story, a small town, or historical fiction, this list has you covered. Meet Allegra Goodman Allegra Goodman's novels include Isola (a Reese's Book Club selection), Sam (a Read With Jenna Book Club selection), The Chalk Artist (winner of the Massachusetts Book Award), Intuition, The Cookbook Collector, ParadisePark, andKaaterskill Falls(a National Book Award finalist). Her fiction has appeared in The New Yorker and elsewhere and has been anthologized in The O. Henry Awards and Best American Short Stories. She has written two collections of stories, The Family Markowitz and Total Immersionand a novel for younger readers, The Other Side of the Island. Her essays and reviews have appeared in The New York Times Book Review, The Wall Street Journal, The New Republic,The Washington Post,The Boston Globe, and The American Scholar. Raised in Honolulu, Goodman studied English and philosophy at Harvard and received a PhD in English literature from Stanford. She is the recipient of a Whiting Writer's Award, the Salon Award for Fiction, and fellowships from MacDowell and the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced study. She lives with her family in Cambridge, Mass. Mentioned in this episode:Browse the 2025 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide (with ads) or download the 48-page reading guide ($7) to support our show. If you are a show patron, please check your inbox for your copy as part of your member benefits. Thank you for supporting my small business!
Download Today's Show Transcript Join the June Book Club Chat (The Reckless Oath We Made) BONUS BOOK LIST: 25 Enthralling Books Set on Islands Isola by Allegra Goodman The Cookbook Collector by Allegra Goodman Sam by Allegra Goodman Junie by Erin Crosby Eckstine Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores! Connect With Us:Connect with Allegra on Instagram or her Website Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice Get the Daily Kindle Deals Newsletter Buy Me a Coffee (for a one-time donation)
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| Milo Todd is Reclaiming Trans History | 06 Jun 2025 | 01:07:11 | |
Milo Todd discusses the research process for his debut, The Lilac People. This sweeping historical fiction novel shares a devastating chapter in trans history. Debut novelist Milo Todd joins me to discuss his book, The Lilac People, in honor of Pride Month. This heartbreaking historical fiction novel uncovers a devastating chapter in queer and trans history. Milo's novel centers on a group of trans and intersex patients at Berlin's Institute for Sexual Science as Hitler's regime begins its rise to power. Through stunning research and unforgettable characters, readers uncover a nearly erased history to life—while drawing chilling parallels to today's political climate. In our conversation, Milo shares how real historical figures and overlooked archives shaped the characters in his novel—and why it was crucial to honor the lives of those whose stories were almost erased from history. In this moving conversation, Milo and I discuss:
BONUS BOOK LIST: This week, I'm sharing a companion book list of 26 LGBTQ History Books to read, including new releases and backlist titles, that offer illuminating details on the joys and triumphs throughout queer history. Meet Milo ToddMilo Todd is a Massachusetts Cultural Council grantee and a Lambda Literary Fellow. His work has appeared in Slice Magazine and elsewhere. He is the co-editor-in-chief of Foglifter and teaches creative writing to queer and trans adults. The Lilac People is his debut novel. Mentioned in this episode:Browse the 2025 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide (with ads) or download the 48-page reading guide ($7) to support our show. If you are a show patron, check your inbox for your copy as part of your member benefits—thank you for supporting my small business!
Download Today's Show Transcript Join the June Book Club Chat (The Reckless Oath We Made) BONUS BOOK LIST: 26 LGBTQ Books to Read for Pride Month Red Clay Suzie by Jeffrey Dale Lofton Larry Hoffer (@getbookedwithlarry) The Lilac People by Milo Todd The Book of Harlan by Bernice L. McFadden In Memoriam by Alice Winn A sample of Max Meyers's narration We Are Bookish (NetGalley's blog) How to Jazz Up Your Book Club While Reading The Lilac People Connect With Us:Connect with Milo on Instagram or his Website Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice | |||
| How a Cozy Family Drama Made This Writer Fall in Love With His Craft | 14 Mar 2025 | 00:38:06 | |
Jinwoo Chong celebrates food, family, & finding love in his cozy novel, I Leave It Up To You. Learn how this project helped him fall in love with writing again. What if you fell asleep in 2019 and woke up in 2021? That's the reality for Jack Jr., who emerges from a two-year coma to find his life unrecognizable. His job is gone, his apartment is lost, and his partner has moved on. But in his return to his childhood home and his family's struggling restaurant, he begins to rebuild—rekindling relationships, rediscovering love, and redefining what home truly means. Jinwoo Chong shares the beautiful inspiration behind this poignant and tender slice-of-life novel, which seamlessly blends a swoon-worthy love story with a cozy family drama. We discuss how I Leave It Up to You evolved from a short story, the impact of the pandemic on its themes, and the role of food as both a comfort and a metaphor for resilience. BONUS BOOK LIST: Don't miss our Captivating Books About Nurses Book List, featuring 28 incredible new and backlist titles celebrating caregivers. Meet Jinwoo Chong Jinwoo Chong is the author of Flux, a finalist for the PEN/Hemingway and VCU Cabell First Novel awards, and a New York Times Book Review Editors' Choice. His work has appeared in The Southern Review, Guernica, The Rumpus, and more. His latest novel, I Leave It Up to You, is now available from Penguin Random House. Mentioned in this episode:NEW BONUS BOOK LIST: 28 Captivating Books About Nurses Join the March Book Club Chat (Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson) I Leave It Up to You by Jinwoo Chong Flux by Jinwoo Chong Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores! Connect With Us:Connect with Jinwoo on Instagram or his Website Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice Get the Daily Kindle Deals Newsletter Buy Me a Coffee (for a one-time donation)
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| Cozy Up With These Winter Reads | 17 Dec 2021 | 00:42:27 | |
In search of cozy winter reads? Mary from Currently Reading joins the show to share her top 5 recommendations for our best winter book stack. So let's prep for the season with these book suggestions and set the winter mood with our ideas for your coziest, comfiest reading night. Mentioned in this episode: Join the Patreon Community For the Bonus Content Larry's Episode (What It Takes To Be a Top GoodReads Reviewer) 11/22/63 by Stephen King Plum Deluxe Custard Apple Cherimoya Tea Big White Yeti Frankenstein & Myrrh Stars Above at Target The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey To the Bright Edge of the World by Eowyn Ivey The Blue Castle by L.M. Montgomery Hunted by Meagan Spooner The Fair Fight by Anna Freeman The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern Seven Days of Us by Francesca Hornak The Language of Thorns: Midnight Tales and Dangerous Magic by Leigh Bardugo Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo Connect With Me: Amy is @momadvice on Instagram Mary is @maryreadsandsips on Instagram Amy on GoodReads | |||
| Falling For (Holiday) Romance | 10 Dec 2021 | 00:47:36 | |
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Are you ready to fall in love with holiday romance books? Spend the holidays with these feel-good Christmas romance books that celebrate the holiday season by finding love in all of those magical places. Whether you are looking for a home for Christmas theme or embrace a small-town love story, we have you covered. Find your one true love book with my special guest Bree from @falling4romance and co-host of The Categorically Romance Podcast. Mentioned in this episode: MomAdvice 2022 Book Club Selections TheCategoricallyRomancePodcast Todd's Episode (A Friendly GoodReads Competition) Buzzfeed's 24 Black Bookstagrammers Who Should Be On Your Radar Dashing Through the Snow by Debbie Macomber Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier A Wedding One Christmas by Therese Beharrie This Time Next Year by Sophie Cousens Just Haven’t Met You Yet by Sophie Cousens Love at the Icicle Cafe by Denise N. Wheatley Christmas in Full Bloom by Denise N. Wheatley Denise N. Wheatly on Bree’s Podcast One Day in December by Josie Silver The Twelve Dogs of Christmas by Lizzie Shane Coming Home for Christmas by RaeAnne Thayne RaeAnne Thayne on Bree’s Podcast The Clause in Christmas by Rachael Bloome Connect With Me: Amy is @momadvice on Instagram Join the Patreon Community For the Bonus Content
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| 2022 MomAdvice Book Club Selections | 01 Dec 2021 | 01:22:28 | |
Today is the launch day of the MomAdvice 2022 Book Club year. Do you want to have the best reading year ever? I'm going to give you that with these twelve book club selections for our year. This episode will tell you everything you need to know about how to join the online club, what special bonus features we are offering our members, and the inside scoop on this year's books. Landing Page With All the Book Club Info For This Year: https://wp.me/p6sEAo-8ey Connect With Me: Amy is @momadvice on Instagram | |||
| The Best Thriller Books You Might Have Missed with Mary Kubica | 19 Nov 2021 | 00:49:25 | |
Mary Kubica joins the podcast to talk about her writing process and her latest domestic thriller, Local Woman Missing. Her journey from writing in secret to a successful award-winning suspense writer is the story you need to hear if you have been entertaining a writing dream of your own. We have a shared love for true crime and talk about the real-life cases that have influenced her work. I may be one of Mary’s biggest fans, and her newest edge-of-your-seat page-turner is just what you need to get you out of a reading slump. Mary is bringing 3 of her favorite under-the-radar thrillers to today’s episode, and I think they will surprise you as much as me. I’m also sharing a few of my favorite psychological thrillers that deliver on those unreliable narrators and murder mystery plots that kept me up until the wee hours of the night. So, if thriller writing is something you have been entertaining, I hope today’s episode offers the inspiration you need to kick start your writing career. Mentioned in this episode: MomAdvice Free Online Book Club Join the Patreon Community For the Bonus Content Good Girl by Mary Kubica Pretty Baby by Mary Kubica Every Last Lie by Mary Kubica When the Lights Go Out by Mary Kubica The Other Mrs. by Mary Kubica Local Woman Missing by Mary Kubica Mary’s Interview on momadvice.com Where I Lost Her by T Greenwood Rust & Stardust by T Greenwood Bodies of Water by T Greenwood The Night Olivia Fell by Christina McDonald Do No Harm by Christina McDonald This is How I Lied by Heather Gudenkauf Little Secrets by Jennifer Hillier Jar of Hearts by Jennifer Hillier Don’t Believe It by Charlie Donlea The Night Swim by Megan Goldin Connect With Me: Amy is @momadvice on Instagram | |||
| What It Takes To Be A Top Goodreads Reviewer | 12 Nov 2021 | 00:54:32 | |
Goodreads is the world's largest site for readers and many of us rely on it every day to make our own book choices. Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a top GoodReads reviewer on a platform with millions of members? Larry ranks 28th in the world on this platform and is giving us a peek into his daily reading life and how he shares books. Learn his preferred format to read a book, the process to rate and review books, how the GoodReads reviewer ranking works, his experience with review copies, and how he gained his loyal following. He offers 5 great books we should add to our stack immediately and I couldn't check them out fast enough. These fiction book recommendations include a couple that hit all the right notes for both of us. Mentioned in this episode: Join the Patreon Community For the Bonus Content Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey A Friendly Goodreads Competition The English Patient by Michael Ondaatje All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr Tin Man Sarah Winman The Dearly Beloved Cara Wall We Begin at the End by Chris Whitaker To Kill a MockingBird by Harper Lee The Charm Offensive by Allison Cochrun One to Watch by Kate Stayman-London Razorblade Tears by S.A. Cosby Blacktop Wasteland by S.A. Cosby It’s Either Sadness or Bookphoria… Connect With Us: Amy is @momadvice on Instagram Contact Information: amy@momadvice.com Support My Work: https://www.patreon.com/momadvice This post contains affiliate links. | |||
| A Reader's Backlist Book Challenge | 05 Nov 2021 | 00:42:53 | |
New releases are fun, but what if you dedicated a reading year to backlist books? From Our Bookshelf blogger, Lynn, shares her favorite backlist challenge discoveries. Today's episode defines what it means to be backlist, how our pandemic shopping changed the backlist marketing budget, and some surprising publishing house acquisitions because of single backlist books. Mentioned in this episode: Join the Patreon Community For the Bonus Content Under-the-Radar Books & Pivoting Back to Passion Interview Book Clubs for Homeschooling Moms Interview The Mother of Reinvention Podcast Why Backlists Matter to Bookstores We Need to Talk About the Backlist lynnskitchenadventures on Instagram fromourbookshelf on Instagram The Book of Lost Names by Kristin Harmel The Forest of Vanishing Stars by Kristin Harmel The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom Glory Over Everything by Kathleen Grissom No Ordinary Time by Doris Kearns Goodwin The Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford Farewell to Manzanar by Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston Syria’s Secret Library by Mike Thomson Fire in Beulah by Rilla Askew Connect With Me: Amy is @momadvice on Instagram Contact Information: amy(at)momadvice.com Support My Work: https://www.patreon.com/momadvice This post contains affiliate links. | |||
| The Book Shortage Dilemma | 29 Oct 2021 | 00:26:22 | |
Supply chain disruption has impacted many industries, including our beloved booksellers. So who better to guide us through what this book shortage looks like than an independent bookstore owner. Kristin from Fables Books shares how these shortages impact booksellers and what we need to know for this holiday season. Mentioned in this episode: Join the Patreon Community For the Bonus Content Why Authors and Booksellers Want You To Order Your Holiday Gifts Now Call Us What We Carry by Amanda Gorman The Ex Hex by Erin Sterling Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley A Cosmology of Monsters by Shaun Hamill A Good Girls Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera Fables Books on mymustreads.com Tuesday Mooney Talks to Ghosts by Kate Racculia The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin Must Love Books by Shauna Robinson The Indie Next List by Indie Bound
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| The Great Book Escape | 22 Oct 2021 | 00:48:58 | |
Are you looking for an escape from reality? We have you covered! In today's episode, Kristina Reid, shares a few of her favorite books that allowed her to escape real life and travel somewhere else through her book stack. You won't want to miss this fun break from IRL. Mentioned in this episode: Join the Patreon Community For the Bonus Content @reidingwithk on Instagram Empire of Storms by Sarah J Maas How to Save a Life by Eva Carter Get a Life Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert Crocodile on the Sandbake by Elizabeth Peters Beauty: A Retelling of Beauty and the Beast by Robin McKinley You Deserve Each Other by Sarah Hogle The Lost Vintage by Ann Mah Fable: A Novel by Adrienne Young Namesake by Adrienne Young Three Mages and a Margarita by Annette Marie The One and Only Crystal Druid by Annette Marie Moon Called by Patricia Briggs
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| An Unforgettable Meet-the-Author Road Trip | 15 Oct 2021 | 00:32:05 | |
When a reader entered a local library contest to meet Emily St. John Mandel, she sent me a message to ask if I would come to Ohio and share the experience with her. This correspondence led to an unforgettable road trip and an experience that I won't ever forget. Carie's also sharing the joy she has found in running a middle-grade book club for her daughter. So be sure to tune in for all of her excellent book recommendations. Mentioned in this episode: Join the Patreon Community For the Bonus Content Station 11 by Emily St. John Mandel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory Movie Matilda by Roald Dahl The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate My Life As A Potato by Arianne Costner Middle School, The Worst Years of My Life by James Patterson Middle School, The Worst Years of My Life The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser The Blackbird Girls by Anne Blankman The Prettiest Star by Carter Sickels All the Young Men by Ruth Coker Burks Born a Crime by Trevor Noah Midnight Library by Matt Haig Find Carrie on Goodreads Get today's bonus episodes (and listener perks) by joining our Patreon community- https://www.patreon.com/momadvice This post contains affiliate links. | |||
| A Friendly Goodreads Challenge | 08 Oct 2021 | 00:55:31 | |
My secret weapon to reading more books is a friendly annual Goodreads competition with my childhood friend Todd Greer. Todd is joining the podcast today to share about motivating each other to read more books. We have discovered how we read is very different from one another, but we usually end up almost at the same amount of books every year. We will dive into that more and learn about a few books I haven't gotten to read yet this year. Books Mentioned in Today’s Episode Join the Patreon Community For the Bonus Content Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir Price of Time by Tim Tigner Billy Summers by Stephen King Effortless by Greg McKeown The Other Wes Moore by Wes Moore We Hope for Better Things by Erin Bartels Also Mentioned in Today’s Episode Strengthsfinder 2.0 by Tom Rath The Martian by Andy Weir Andy Wier Interview on MomAdvice 11/22/63 by Stephen King It by Stephen King Essentialism by Greg McKeown Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey Power of Ritual by Casper her Kuile The One by John Marrs Lucky Boy by Shanthi Sekaran | |||
| Eowyn Ivey Returns to Magical Realism | 07 Mar 2025 | 00:37:58 | |
Eowyn Ivey joins us from Alaska to discuss her latest magical realism novel, Black Woods Blue Sky. Prepare to be transported by one of my favorite storytellers! The queen of magical realism, Eowyn Ivey, joins us to share intriguing insights into her third novel, Black Woods Blue Sky, and how her deep connection to Alaska continues to shape her storytelling. She also discusses the challenges of writing through a difficult personal season, the impact of reuniting with her longtime editorial team, and the immersive research that took her to a remote hunting camp on Kodiak Island. Discover her ties to the character Emmaleen, how Birdie's contradictions capture the realities of relatable motherhood, and what stereotypes about rural Alaska she wanted to challenge through her character's bookish adventures. Don't miss this week's Fairy Tale Retellings Book List featuring 27 magical books to escape with this weekend. I hope you love it! Patrons can join us for a bonus spoiler-filled conversation! Eowyn will share her thoughts on Blackwood's Blue Sky ending and the fine line she teetered between reality and imagination in her moving story. Get your tissues- it's a beautiful bonus chat. Meet Eowyn Ivey Eowyn Ivey is the bestselling author of The Snow Child, a Pulitzer Prize finalist, and To the Bright Edge of the World. Born and raised in Alaska, she draws inspiration from its rugged landscapes and folklore. Black Woods Blue Sky is her highly anticipated third novel, which is now available on store shelves from Random House. Mentioned in this episode:NEW BONUS BOOK LIST: 27 Fairy Tale Retellings to Enchant Your Reading Life Join the March Book Club Chat (Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson) Black Woods Blue Sky by Eowyn Ivey The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey To the Bright Edge of the World by Eowyn Ivey Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores! Connect With Us:Connect with Eowyn on Instagram or her Website Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice | |||
| The Best of 2021 TV Meets Its Book Match | 01 Oct 2021 | 00:56:26 | |
Television shows that are as plot-filled as your favorite books? Sign me up! From The Couch podcast, Mary Carver joins my show to share what television series made her list for must-see tv in 2021. Then, I will play her book matchmaker and give her a stack that's just as satisfying as the shows she loved this year. Books and Shows Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Join the Patreon Community For the Bonus Content Also Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Join the Patreon Community For the Bonus Content 5 Ways to Date Your Husband This Fall 17 Movies from the '90s You Must Share With Your Kids 11 Shows to Watch With Your Tween Connect With Me: Amy is @momadvice on Instagram Contact Information: amy@momadvice.com Support My Work: https://www.patreon.com/momadvice | |||
| What Makes a Great Book Club Book? | 17 Sep 2021 | 00:18:05 | |
Today's episode is a peek behind the scenes at how I select our book club books each year. Whether you are running a book club of your own and looking for suggestions or if you join in monthly to read with me, I want to share with you what I've learned over the years about book selection and building meaningful conversations around books. Books Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Join the Patreon Community For the Bonus Content 2021 MomAdvice Book Club Selections A Constellation of Vital Phenomena Also Mentioned In Today’s Episode:Join the Patreon Community For the Bonus Content Full Interview with Charles Belfoure (The Paris Architect) Full Interview with Anthony Marr (A Constellation of Vital Phenomena) Full Interview with Patry Francis (The Orphans of Race Point)
Amy is @momadvice on Instagram Contact Information: amy@momadvice.com Support My Work: https://www.patreon.com/momadvice This post contains affiliate links. | |||
| Bring on the Romance Books | 10 Sep 2021 | 00:33:55 | |
My guest today, Angela Pingel, has been a romance book reader for many years. She has discovered her love for series reading through the Kindle Unlimited format and shares her picks for the best books to pick up. Her most-loved romance genre was new to me and incredibly intriguing for a newbie to the romance world. MomAdvice Book Gang Patreon (join to get today's bonus episode with 5 under-the-radar romance novels that I could not put down) Books Mentioned In Today’s Episode:
Also Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Angela Pingel (website) Angela Pingel (instagram) Angela's Book (A Quilter's Mixology) Curious Dream Fabric (inspired by Alice in Wonderland) Try a 30-Day Kindle Unlimited Membership For Free A Beginner's Guide to Reverse Harem Books Connect With Us: Amy is @momadvice on Instagram Angela is @angelapingel on Instagram Contact Information: amy@momadvice.com Support My Work: https://www.patreon.com/momadvice This post contains affiliate links. | |||
| Reading Rituals and Comforting Reads | 03 Sep 2021 | 00:16:49 | |
Today, I am inviting you to peek into my reading rituals and how I set the reading mood at the beginning and end of my day. With a commitment to read 100 books each year, these practices help me prioritize my reading time and have taught me to treat this as a sacred ritual for keeping my reading goals. Discover this and four enjoyable reads to add to your stack this month. Books Mentioned In Today’s Episode:Join the Patreon Community For the Bonus Content Shop the above (Amazon) links or shop through my new MomAdvice Book Gang Bookshop Page!! They pay a 10% commission on every sale, and give a matching 10% to independent bookstores. Also Mentioned In Today’s Episode:Bonus Patreon Episode: 9 Books I Read in August Full Interview with Jeff Zentner (The Serpent King) The Words Are Only in My Books Playlist Bulk Epsom Salts (this is how we purchase them) Please support my work by becoming a patron on Patreon- http://patreon.com/momadvice This post contains affiliate links
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| Spooky Season Books | 01 Sep 2021 | 00:15:49 | |
Today I'm talking about one of my favorite seasons...SPOOKY BOOK SEASON! For some, that might look like October, but for me, spooky book season lasts all Fall. Of course, my favorite movies are horror films, and many of my most beloved books are also filled with creepy themes, especially as I head into the Halloween season. I want to arm you with three books that make my all-time list of riveting, scary reads. You can also hear interview excerpts from some of today's blockbuster spooky book writers about what inspired their themes and stories. Books Mentioned In Today's Episode:Join the Patreon Community For the Bonus Content Also Mentioned In Today's Episode:Bonus Patreon Episode: 9 Books I Read in August Full Interview with Josh Mallerman (Bird Box) Full Interview with M.R. Carey (The Girl With All the Gifts) Full Interview with Ruth Ware (In a Dark, Dark Wood) 19 Thrillers to Keep You Up All Night Please support my show financially by joining our Patreon community- http://patreon.com/momadvice
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| How Family History and Legacy Shaped Junie | 14 Feb 2025 | 00:56:10 | |
Erin Crosby Eckstine discusses her debut novel, Junie, and how her family history transformed her life from English teacher to chosen GMA Book Club novelist. In this episode, Erin Crosby Eckstine shares the moving inspiration behind her debut novel Junie, a profoundly personal story rooted in her own family's history. Erin reveals how Junie's character is inspired by her great-great-great-grandmother, Jane Cotton, who escaped slavery and became one of the Black founders of Coosada, Alabama. We discuss the importance of balancing joy and trauma in narratives like these and why it is essential to bring both to readers and those represented in these stories. You can also discover Erin's unconventional publishing methods, which led to her becoming a GMA Book Club pick, and how her family legacy catalyzed her going from Google Docs to a finished novel. BONUS BLACK HISTORY MONTH BOOK LIST: Don't miss this week's Black History Month book list, featuring 36 phenomenal books by Black authors to celebrate this historic month. All books purchased from today's list will be fulfilled through Brain Lair Books, a Black-owned bookshop that has been financially struggling and needs your support to keep its doors open. Patrons can join us for a bonus spoiler-filled conversation with Erin Crosby Eckstine, where we discuss the surprising plot twists in Junie and the details of this story that she has always wanted to share with her readers. Meet Erin Crosby Eckstine Erin Crosby Eckstine is an author of speculative historical fiction, personal essays, and anything else she's in the mood for. Born in Montgomery, Alabama, she grew up between the South and Los Angeles before moving to New York City to attend Barnard College. She earned a master's in secondary English education from Stanford University and taught high school English for six years. Erin lives in Brooklyn with her partner and their cats. JUNIE is her debut novel. Mentioned in this episode:NEW BONUS BOOK LIST: Black History Month Books You Need to Read Now Join the February Book Club Chat (The Queen of Sugar Hill by ReShonda Tate) Junie by Erin Crosby Eckstine The Queen of Sugar Hill by ReShonda Tate Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte Erin as Lady Catherine de Bourgh The Favorites by Layne Fargo Kindred by Octavia Butler Notes on an Execution by Danya Kukafka Good Morning America Book Pick The Celebrity Book Club Deep Diver Episode You Need Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende The Neapolitan Novels by Elena Ferrante Pachinko by Min Jin Lee Our Share of Night by Mariana Enriquez Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores! Connect With Us:Connect with Erin on Instagram or her Website Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice Get the Daily Kindle Deals Newsletter Buy Me a Coffee (for a one-time donation)
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| Libby’s Best Horror Books of 2024 and Exciting App Updates | 24 Jan 2025 | 01:02:25 | |
Paging library lovers- Joe from the Libby team is back to share the exciting app updates and his top five horror book recommendations from 2024 to read now. In this All-Star Book Influencer series installment, we’re thrilled to spotlight Joe Skelley, cohost of The Professional Book Nerds podcast and a member of the Libby team. Joe shares his favorite features of the Libby app, lesser-known tips for maximizing your library experience, and exciting updates on the horizon for readers. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
In the second half of the episode, Amy and Joe dive into the world of horror literature. Joe shares:
Discover five of Joe’s must-read horror recommendations that range from chilling novellas to groundbreaking works by authors redefining the genre. Whether you’re here for the horror or want to optimize your library experience, this episode has something for every reader. Meet Joe Joe Skelley is one of the co-hosts of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. He is also a Marketing and Events Specialist at OverDrive, where he leads the coordination of the Library Vehicle as it tours around the US and Canada, contributes to the Check Out Your Library movement, and works on special events for OverDrive’s Digipalooza conference. When he isn’t working, Joe loves to listen to audiobooks and podcasts, get too involved in a craft or DIY project, and (most importantly) spend time with his Boston Terrier, Roscoe! Mentioned in this episode:NEW BONUS BOOK LIST: 5 New Horror Books to Read Now Join the January Book Club Chat (How to Read a Book by Monica Wood) Professional Book Nerds Podcast Get the Most Out of the Libby App (Podcast Episode) How The StoryGraph Can Enhance Your Reading Life (Podcast Episode) Jackal by Erin E Adams The House in the Pines by Ana Reyes Horror Movie by Paul Tremblay Bury Your Gays by Chuck Tingle Pounded In The Butt By My Own Butt by Chuck Tingle Camp Damascus by Chuck Tingle The Honeys by Ryan La Sala Beholder by Ryan La Sala Cackle by Rachel Harrison The Return by Rachel Harrison A Cosmology of Monsters by Shaun Hamill One’s Company by Ashley Hutson Diavola by Jennifer Thorne So Thirsty by Rachel Harrison Black Sheep by Rachel Harrison We Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewer Coup de Grace by Sofia Ajram A Mask of Flies by Matthew Lyons Monstrillo by Gerardo Samano Cordova Tomie by Junji Ito Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores! Connect With Us:Connect with Joe on the Professional Book Nerds Podcast and Instagram Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice | |||
| The Best Books of 2024 | 08 Jan 2025 | 01:57:40 | |
We read a total of 482 books and are excited to share fifteen of our favorite titles from our 2024 reading list. Explore these new releases alongside our favorite backlist books for your best reading year yet. We invite you to browse our book lists featuring 25 of our favorites. Patrons will receive a printable checklist with today's book titles and some of our honorable mentions. SUPPORT MY WORK through Patreon! Best Books of the Year Full Lists:Larry's Top 25 Books of 2024 (Including Honorable Mentions) Other Books Mentioned in This Episode:The God of the Woods by Liz Moore Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors Family Family by Laurie Frankel Real Americans by Rachel Khong Here One Moment by Liane Moriarty Beautiful Ugly by Alec Feeney PS I Hate You by Lauren Connolly The Women by Kristin Hannah The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah Honey by Isabel Bonta Cinema Love by Jiaming Tang The Wedding People by Alison Espach Wish You Weren't Here by Christy Schillig Friends with Secrets by Christine Gunderson Things Don’t Break on Their Own by Sarah Easter Collins James by Percival Everett The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain Wicked by Gregory Maguire Dear Fang, with Love by Rufi Thorpe Don’t Forget to Write by Sara Goodman Confino She’s Up to No Good by Sara Goodman Confino Crafting a Killer Redemption Story With Heart (Rob Hart Interview) The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer How Braving a Literary Seminar Shaped The Lost Story (With Meg Shaffer) The Best Escapist Island Books Podcast with Meg Shaffer The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin The Chronicles of Narnia by CS Lewis Camp Damascus by Chuck Tingle Everything Beautiful Began After by Simon Van Booy We Could Be So Good by Cat Sebastian The Nix by Nathan Hill The Matchmaker’s Gift by Lynda Cohen Loigman Redefining the Missing Girl Narrative With Emiko Jean The Kennedy Ryan Phenomenon: Inclusive Narratives With Heart (Kennedy Ryan Interview) Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores! Connect With Us:Browse Our 2025 Book Club Books Connect with Larry on Instagram Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice Buy Me a Coffee (for a one-time donation)
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| The Best Agatha Christie Books Deep Dive Podcast | 20 Dec 2024 | 00:31:33 | |
Uncover the Agatha Christie beginner's guide with Victoria from The Reader's Couch! Explore her best-underrated gems and find new modern authors like Christie. Deep dive into Agatha Christie's legacy with Victoria Wood from The Reader's Couch podcast! In this episode of the All-Star Book Influencer Series, we uncover what makes Christie's mysteries so enduring, why her storytelling resonates across generations, and how contemporary authors like Sophie Hannah and Louise Penny have taken cues from her genius. Takeaways include:
We also discuss how personal connections to literature enhance our reading experiences from other well-known authors and the evolution of Christie's legacy through modern adaptations. BONUS CONTENT: Be sure to check out Victoria's article, "Beginner's Guide to Agatha Christie Books," which helps new readers explore Poirot, Miss Marple, and her standalone novels. Meet Victoria Wood (The Reader’s Couch Podcast)Victoria Wood hosts The Reader’s Couch Podcast. She is a reading enthusiast who has successfully guided self-proclaimed “non-readers” into cultivating and sustaining reading habits and assisted readers in fostering more intentional and fulfilling reading lives. She hosts conversations with authors to learn more about their writing and reading lives. Mentioned in this episode:Bibliolifestyle's Booktube Channel Salem's Lot by Stephen King The Perfect Couple by Elin Hildebrand Lady in the Lake by Laura Lippman Disclaimer by Renee Knight Wicked by Gregory Maguire Dead in Long Beach, Californiaby Venita Blackburn The Body in the Library by Agatha Christie The Secret History by Donna Tartt Hercule Poirot's Christmas by Agatha Christie & Sophie Hannah And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie The ABC Murders by Agatha Christie A Pocketful of Rye by Agatha Christie Crooked House by Agatha Christie The Pale Horse by Agatha Christie Connect With Us:Connect with Victoria on The Reader's Couch Podcast, Instagram, and YouTube Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice | |||
| Meet the 2025 MomAdvice Book Club Books | 06 Dec 2024 | 00:31:22 | |
Join the NEW 2025 MomAdvice Book Club and discover 12 incredible novels together along with many interactive author discussions for this year’s festivities. It's my favorite day of the year (CUE THE CONFETTI) and I'm so excited to invite you to the 2025 MomAdvice Book Club! This year, we're mixing things up to make your book club experience even more immersive and engaging. As I've done in years past, I've curated twelve fantastic reads spanning genres like historical fiction, romance, contemporary fiction, and even a touch of horror—there's something for everyone this year! To discover this year's selections, you can head to today's post, which includes all the details, including the recommended format, the reading mood of the novel, and pacing information. Each description also offers the accompanying reader experience, which is PRETTY EPIC this year. After discussing what changes you want to see this year, I hope you'll be excited to experience this with me. I've also uploaded a podcast going through each of these books for those of you that prefer an audio experience with some behind-the-scenes details. I hope you'll join me on this reading adventure! Connect With Me: JOIN THE 2025 MomAdvice Book Club | |||
| Your Gateway to Literary Fiction Books | 15 Nov 2024 | 00:41:17 | |
Dive into the world of literary fiction books with Tina from Book Talk, etc. Discover her top 5 book recommendations for readers and why she loves the genre. I'm so excited to launch our new All-Star Book Influencer series with our first guest, Tina from Book Talk, etc., who joins the show to offer our listeners her top recommendations for the best literary fiction novels. What Can You Expect From the All-Star Book Influencer Series?The All-Star Book Influencers Series will spotlight conversations with influential figures in the book world, from bookstagrammers and booktubers to podcast hosts and reading community leaders. Each of our upcoming guests has chosen their dream topic to discuss on our show. Here's what you can come to expect in the months ahead:
Today, we define what we think makes a great literary fiction book, whether novels need satisfying endings to be favorites, and share Tina's top five recommendations for beginning a literary fiction reading journey. We also discover more of her behind-the-scenes content creation process, including her experiences in the podcasting world, her transition to BookTube, and what she has learned about the importance of authenticity in content creation. BONUS BOOK LIST: Don't miss this week's bonus book list featuring 15 literary fiction titles perfect for escaping this reading season. This curated list includes both Tina's favorites and mine to kickstart your new reading journey. Meet TinaTina Books is a bookish content creator and book podcaster. She is a self-proclaimed book pusher with a passion for new releases who focuses on mystery/thriller, literary fiction, horror, contemporary fiction, and memoir. Tina cohosts Book Talk, etc., a weekly book recommendation podcast. She can be found on Instagram and TikTok at TBR, etc. She is also finding her way on Booktube, also at TBR, etc. Mentioned in this episode:NEW BONUS BOOK LIST: 15 Literary Fiction Books For Character-Driven Adventures Join the November Book Club Chat (This is How it Always Is by Laurie Frankel) The Nonfiction November Challenge You Need A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver The Safekeep by Yael Van Der Wouden In Memoriam by Alice Winn The Facemaker by Lindsey Fitzharris The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro Notes on an Execution by Danya Kukafka 30 Fictional Serial Killer Books to Read Now The Enchanted by Rene Denfeld The Child Finder by Rene Denfeld Amy's Interview with Rene Denfeld Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores! Connect With Us:Connect with Tina on the Book Talk, etc. Podcast, Instagram, Tiktok, and YouTube Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice | |||
| Redefining the Missing Girl Narrative With Emiko Jean | 01 Nov 2024 | 00:43:59 | |
In this episode, Emiko Jean discusses flipping the script on the traditional missing girl narrative in her new police procedural, The Return of Ellie Black. This week, we’re joined by New York Times bestselling author Emiko Jean to discuss her latest police procedural novel, The Return of Ellie Black. In today’s episode, Emiko offers a behind-the-scenes look at her writing process for The Return of Ellie Black, including the extensive research involved in portraying true crime elements and what missing girl narratives have been missing from their portrayals. She also opens up about the emotional challenges of writing certain scenes through the darker aspects of this thriller. Don’t miss this week’s bonus book list, where we offer 23 atmospheric books perfect for your fall book stack. This list includes cozy fantasy, moody thrillers, and magical realism. Patrons can join us for a bonus spoiler-filled conversation with Emiko Jean, where we discuss the surprising plot twists in The Return of Ellie Black ending, and her plans for the upcoming Detective Chelsea Calhoun series. Meet Emiko Jean Emiko Jean is a New York Times bestselling author of adult and young adult fiction. Her books have been published in over 30 languages and have been featured by Good Morning America as a GMA Book Club pick and by Reese Witherspoon as a YA Book Club pick. Her work has appeared in Marie Claire, Entertainment Weekly, Time, Cosmopolitan, Shondaland, and Bustle. She lives in Washington with her husband and two kids. Mentioned in this episode: NEW BONUS BOOK LIST: 24 Atmospheric Books to Get Lost In Join the November Book Club Chat (This is How it Always Is by Laurie Frankel) The Return of Ellie Black by Emiko Jean Under the Bridge Limited Series Under the Bridge by Rebecca Godfrey What Happened to Nina by Dervla McTiernan Mika in Real Life by Emiko Jean
Other books by Emiko Jean: Tokyo Dreaming by Emiko Jean Tokyo Ever After by Emiko Jean Empress of all Seasons by Emiko Jean We’ll Never Be Apart by Emiko Jean Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores! Connect With Us:Connect with Emiko Jean on Instagram or her Website Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice Get the Daily Kindle Deals Newsletter Buy Me a Coffee (for a one-time donation)
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| How Braving a Literary Seminar Shaped The Lost Story (With Meg Shaffer) | 18 Oct 2024 | 00:46:18 | |
Meg Shaffer takes us behind the scenes to the literary seminar with legendary writer Richard Russo, who helped her craft her cozy fantasy book, The Lost Story. Imposter syndrome is real and even our favorite authors experience it as they contemplate their next project. In this week's episode, we welcome back bestselling author Meg Shaffer to join us to discuss her latest cozy fantasy novel, The Lost Story, and the literary seminar with Richard Russo that guided this story and gave Meg the writing encouragement she always needed. Today, we discuss Meg's unique research methods, including how she used Fiverr to fact-check archery scenes and gain insights into the pressures of writing a second novel after the commercial success of The Wishing Game. Don’t miss this week’s bonus book list with 23 cozy fantasy books to read this autumn. This new book list includes upcoming titles, new releases, and, of course, those backlist book gems you have come to expect! Patrons can join us for a bonus spoiler-filled conversation with Meg Shaffer, where we discuss The Lost Story ending, her favorite moments in the book, and her top book recommendations from her spicy romance writing career for Harlequin! Meet Meg Shaffer Meg Shaffer is the USA Today bestselling author of The Wishing Game, which was a Goodreads Choice Awards finalist, a Book of the Month finalist for Book of the Year, a #1 Barnes & Noble bestseller, and a Reader's Digest Best Book of the Year. Her second novel, The Lost Story, is an instant national bestseller and is available now from Ballantine. With an MFA in TV and Screenwriting from Stephens College, Shaffer lives in Kentucky with her husband and two cats—though the cats, unfortunately, aren't writers. Grab a digital copy of my 2024 Summer Reading Guide, featuring incredible novels like The Lost Story. All purchases support this year's programming. Mentioned in this episode:BONUS BOOK LIST: 23 Cozy Fantasy Books To Lower Your Stress Levels Join the October Book Club Chat (Severance by Ling Ma) The Lost Story by Meg Shaffer The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer The Wishing Game Interview (Meg Shaffer's First Show) The House on the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune Lord of the Flies by William Golding Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo The Magic of Old Hollywood Books with Molly Fader Episode The Neverending Story by Michael Ende It by Stephen King Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores! Connect With Us:Connect with Meg Shaffer on Instagram or her Website Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice | |||
| Hit the Road with Annie Hartnett | 30 May 2025 | 00:59:48 | |
Annie Hartnett discusses the inspiration behind her quirky road trip novel The Road to Tender Hearts and why she breaks all the rules in writing her stories. Annie Hartnett joins me to discuss her latest bestselling novel, The Road to Tender Hearts, and the inspiration behind this road trip story. We explore the heartfelt and humorous moments that showcase a wonderfully quirky found family, which even includes a psychic cat. She also shares the surprising real-life inspirations for her unforgettable characters and explains how literary mischief is woven into their worlds. In this quirky conversation, Annie and I discuss:
BONUS BOOK LIST: This week, I'm sharing an accompanying book list of 29 books about road trips, including new releases and backlist titles, that speak to the ripple effects of substance use across families and generations. Meet Annie HartnettAnnie Hartnett is the author of Unlikely Animals, which won the Julia Ward Howe Prize for fiction and was longlisted for the Joyce Carol Oates Prize.She is also theauthor of Rabbit Cake, a finalist for the New England Book Award and a Kirkus Reviews best book of the year. Hartnett has been awarded fellowships and residencies from the MacDowell Colony, the Sewanee Writers' Conference, and the Associates of the Boston Public Library. Along with writer Tessa Fontaine, she co-runs the Accountability Workshops for writers, helping them commit to routines and embrace the long, slow, joyful, terrible process of doing the work. She lives in Massachusetts with her husband, daughter, and dog. Mentioned in this episode:Browse the 2025 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide (with ads) or download the 48-page reading guide ($7) to support our show. If you are a show patron, check your inbox for your copy as part of your member benefits—thank you for supporting my small business! Join the May Book Club Chat (Beautyland) BONUS BOOK LIST: 29 Books About Road Trips to Read Now The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett Rabbit Cake by Annie Hartnett Red Dog Farm by Nathaniel Ian Miller Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores! Connect With Us:Connect with Annie on Instagram or her Website Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice Get the Daily Kindle Deals Newsletter Buy Me a Coffee (for a one-time donation)
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| Crafting a Killer Redemption Story With Heart (Rob Hart Interview) | 04 Oct 2024 | 00:34:23 | |
Rob Hart discusses his gripping novel, Assassins Anonymous, and the heartfelt storytelling approach that defines his work. When Steven Spielberg's production company, Amblin Entertainment, snaps up the rights to a book within 24 hours of acquisition, you know the book must be incredible. Today, Rob Hart joins us to discuss his new novel Assassins Anonymous and the unique background he brings to crafting a great fight sequence. This thriller offers readers humor, heart, and loads of cinematic action, making it an absolute favorite from my reading year. We discuss his plans for continuing this book series for readers and how he continually pivots genres and projects in his writing career. Readers should prepare for deliciously clever plot twists, which we discuss in our patron spoiler-filled episode about the shocking Assassins Anonymous ending Hart crafted! BONUS BOOK LIST Whether you're in the mood for twisty thrillers, laugh-out-loud moments, or heartwarming escapes, I've rounded up 17 of my favorite binge-worthy books that are perfect for breaking out of a reading slump. Meet Rob HartRob Hart is the author of Assassins Anonymous, The Paradox Hotel, The Warehouse, the Ash McKenna crime series, and the co-author of Scott Free with James Patterson. He's worked as a book publisher, a reporter, a political communications director, and a commissioner for the city of New York. Hart lives on Staten Island. Grab a digital copy of my 2024 Summer Reading Guide, featuring incredible novels like Assasins Anonymous. All purchases support this year's programming. Download Today's Show Transcript BONUS BOOK LIST: Books to Get Out of a Reading Slump Book List (17 Book Ideas) Join the October Book Club Chat (Severance by Ling Ma) Assassins Anonymous by Rob Hart The Warehouse by Rob Hart The Paradox Hotel by Rob Hart Blood in the Cut by Alejandro Nodarse Missing White Woman by Kellye Garrett Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores! Connect With Us:Connect with Rob Hart on Instagram or his Website Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice | |||
| Peek Inside This Disability-Inclusive Bookshop and Why it Matters | 19 Sep 2024 | 00:50:19 | |
Discover the best Disability Pride Books curated by Cindy Otis from The Stacks Bookstore, who offers readers a virtual tour of her disability-inclusive space. Cindy Otis's journey to opening The Stacks offers a vital and well-thought conversation about her own limitations in accessing bookshops and what was top of mind for her customers when designing an accessible and welcoming space for all, especially those with disabilities in Savannah, Georgia. From ramps to fonts to her bookshop's tagline, Cindy's thoughtful design choices ensure every reader can enjoy the magic of books. Her small business journey will mesmerize you. Get her top five book recommendations to celebrate Disability Pride Month all year long! But the best part is that you can support her shop through your purchases today in today's special Disability Pride Month book list. Let's shower Cindy's shop with some love this month. Meet Cindy OtisCindy Otis is a writer and the author of the novel At the Speed of Lies, which is now out with Scholastic, and the critically acclaimed nonfiction book True or False, published by Macmillan. Her other written work has appeared in publications such as USA Today, the New York Times, CNN, and Teen Vogue. She previously served as an intelligence analyst and manager at the CIA. She is not just a bookseller but a champion for inclusivity and accessibility in the literary world. Mentioned in this episode:PLEASE NOTE: ALL PURCHASES FROM TODAY'S SHOW SUPPORT THE STACKS BOOKSTORE SHOP THE DISABILTY PRIDE BOOK LIST At the Speed of Lies by Cindy L. Otis True or False by Cindy L. Otis The Stacks: How a Small Bookstore Plans to Make Big Waves on Waters Avenue The Lumbering Giants of Windy Pines by Mo Netz Being Heumann: An Unrepentant Memoir of a Disability Rights Activist by Judith Heumann Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang True Biz by Sara Novic The Bone Houses by Emily Lloyd-Jones The Kennedy Ryan Phenomenon: Inclusive Narratives with Heart DOWNLOAD TODAY'S SHOW TRANSCRIPT Connect With Us:Follow The Stacks Bookstore on Instagram or Tiktok Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice Get the Daily Kindle Deals Newsletter Buy Me a Coffee (for a one-time donation)
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| Spinning a Bad Review Into Romantic Gold With Laura Hankin | 21 Jun 2024 | 00:35:53 | |
Laura shares the painfully hilarious real-life inspiration behind her novel, discussing how personal experiences with negative feedback trickled into One-Star Romance. The dark horse in my romance stack was Laura Hankin's debut novel, which pulled ahead as my summer favorite. After reading the author for years across genres, I'm honored to have Laura Hankin on the Book Gang podcast to discuss her writing pivot in One-Star Romance. In a world of instant feedback, I was fascinated by Laura's hacks for processing reviewer feedback that still protects her creative process. These candid reflections offer valuable lessons for aspiring authors and a gentle reminder of the power of a one-liner scathing review that can haunt writers long after we've hit "post." Patrons can dive into the One-Star Romance ending through today’s spoiler chat, where we discuss Hankin's surprising plot twists that take us to that swoon-worthy happily ever after. Meet Laura HankinLaura Hankin is an accomplished author, screenwriter, and performer known for her captivating novels, perfect for beach reads and book club discussions. Her previous works include The Daydreams, Happy & You Know It, and A Special Place for Women. One-Star Romance is her debut romance. Mentioned in this episode:TODAY'S GIANT BONUS SUMMER CONTENT: Summer reading season is in full swing. Grab a digital copy of my 2024 Summer Reading Guide, featuring incredible novels like One-Star Romance. All purchases support this year's programming. Download Today's Show Transcript NEW: 26 Books About Books List NEW: 32 Books About Authors and Publishing Book List NEW: 23 Stunning Books About Bookstores Book List NEW: 18 Books About Book Clubs Book List NEW: 25 Books About Libraries Book List Join the 2024 MomAdvice Book Club One Star Romance by Laura Hankin American Fever by Dur E Aziz Amna Laura Hankin's Tiktok Viral Moment The Daydreams by Laura Hankin Happy and You Know It by Laura Hankin A Special Place for Women by Laura Hankin Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter The Last Word by Taylor Adams Akwaeke Emezi Shares Strategy for Processing Reviews I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores! Connect With Us:Connect with Laura Hankin on Instagram, Tiktok, or her Website Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice | |||
| Nicola Yoon Discusses Her Provocative Debut (One of Our Kind) | 07 Jun 2024 | 00:33:22 | |
Nicola Yoon discusses her provocative adult debut, One of Our Kind, and the surprising inspiration from The Stepford Wives that sparked her daring new story. Writing inspiration can sometimes strike in the most unlikely places. Podcast listening in the shower electrified a story Nicola Yoon had never expected to write. Join us for an enlightening conversation with the bestselling young adult novelist as she discusses her provocative debut adult novel, One of Our Kind. Today, she shares how The Stepford Wives inspired her thought-provoking thriller, and how she hopes to ignite book club conversation through her story’s pages. Yoon also shares the mission behind her imprint, Joy Revolution Books, which she co-founded with her husband, David Yoon, to celebrate love stories by and about people of color. It’s a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes and a tribute to the couple’s dedication to these storytellers. BONUS BOOK LIST: Take advantage of these 23 must-read social horror books for a summer immersion. You’ll love these thought-provoking book selections, from eerie dystopias to unsettling societal critiques. Patrons can dive into the One of Our Kind ending through today’s spoiler chat, where we discuss Yoon’s motivations behind her characters, the book’s ending, and the connections she hopes the reader will make as they finish that last page. Meet Nicola YoonNicola Yoon is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Instructions for Dancing, Everything, Everything, The Sun Is Also a Star, and a co-author of Blackout and Whiteout. She is a National Book Award finalist, a Michael L. Printz Honor Book recipient, a Coretta Scott King New Talent Award winner and the first Black woman to hit #1 on the New York Times Young Adult bestseller list. Two of her novels have been made into major motion pictures. She’s also the co-publisher of Joy Revolution, a Random House young adult imprint dedicated to love stories starring people of color. She grew up in Jamaica and Brooklyn, and lives in Los Angeles with her husband, the novelist David Yoon, and their daughter. One of our Kind is her adult debut. Mentioned in this episode:BONUS SUMMER CONTENT: Summer reading season is in full swing. Grab a digital copy of my 2024 Summer Reading Guide, featuring incredible novels like One of Our Kind. All purchases support this year’s programming. NEW: The Best Social Horror Books To Read Now (23 Book Ideas) Download Today's Podcast Transcript Join the 2024 MomAdvice Book Club BONUS LIST: These Social Horror Books Will Make You Think Join the 2024 MomAdvice Book Club One of Our Kind by Nicola Yoon When No One is Watching by Alyssa Cole The Warehouse by Rob Hart Instructions for Dancing by Nicola Yoon Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon The Sun is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon Blackout by Nicola Yoon, Angie Thomas & more Whiteout by Nicola Yoon, Dhonielle Clayton & more The Stepford Wives by Ira Levin Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores! Connect With Us:Connect with Nicola Yoon on Instagram or her Website Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice | |||
| Digital Dating Turns Deadly in This Debut Murder Mystery | 24 May 2024 | 00:31:44 | |
L.M. Chilton reveals his surprising dating history that inspired his debut thriller, Swiped. After nearly a decade and 212 failed dates, L.M. Chilton channeled his dating frustrations into Swiped, a fresh debut murder mystery exploring the darker side of online dating cleverly crafted for the millennial reader. Today, we discuss his personal story and journalism efforts to uncover the truth behind the algorithms. But his book isn't the only thing with plot twists. His decision to go on one last date revealed a real-life plot twist you'll love discovering. Patrons can dive into a bonus spoiler episode with the Swiped ending, where Chilton discusses his favorite red herrings and killer reveal. BONUS BOOK LIST: I've partnered with Larry on this week's book list, which offers 30 Fictional Serial Killer Books to Read Now! Whether you crave compelling psychological thrillers or enjoy a touch of the campy and macabre, there's a perfect book for you. Meet L.M. ChiltonL.M. Chilton has been a journalist for 15 years, working for TV shows like This Morning, The One Show, and Loose Women, as well as magazines and newspapers such as The Times, The Mirror, Metro, New!, Cosmopolitan, and Glamour. He started his journalism career writing for 'real life' magazines, interviewing people worldwide about the terrifying, hilarious, and heart-breaking things that had happened to them. And also funny things their pets had done. He works from home in London, thinking of twists for murder mysteries and practicing the banjo instead of writing (much to the annoyance of his neighbors). Mentioned in this episode:BONUS SUMMER CONTENT: Summer reading season is in full swing. Grab a digital copy of my 2024 Summer Reading Guide, featuring incredible novels like Swiped. All purchases support this year's programming. Swiped by L.M. Chilton Join the 2024 MomAdvice Book Club The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris Swiped by L.M. Chilton Mother Daughter Murder Night by Nina Simon Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores! Connect With Us:Connect with L.M. Chilton on his Website Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice | |||
| 2024 Summer Reading Guide | 17 May 2024 | 00:33:52 | |
The 2024 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide includes 35 titles, offering upcoming releases, new releases, and backlist gems. Grab your favorite summer beverage and settle in for this year's summer reading guide, which includes 35 beautiful book selections for your summer. After carefully reviewing eighty books for this season, I've tried to offer some expected and unexpected picks, from the campy to the compelling. Today, I'm sharing more about this year's summer author series and a few of my favorite novels I've included. Browse the 2024 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide (with ads) or receive the 27-page printable guide ($7) to support our show. If you are a show patron, check your inbox for your copy as part of your member benefits- thank you for supporting my small business! Editor's Note: We have switched from Bookshop.org to direct sales with each bookshop featured today to ensure they keep every penny of the profit. Connect With Me: Buy the 2024 MomAdvice Reading Guide | |||
| The Best Backlist Books for Summer | 10 May 2024 | 01:01:55 | |
This special crossover episode with The Reader's Couch offers five backlist books for your summer and what it takes to nail a great summer reading guide. Today's episode features Victoria Wood from The Reader's Couch podcast. I asked Victoria to bring her best backlist book treasures from her past summer reading guides that deserve far more attention. From historical mysteries to a heartwarming culinary memoir to stories of found family- this stack should elevate your summer reading experience and, likely, be available on your library shelves now. As we plan to release our 2024 summer reading guides next week, we discuss insights into crafting the ultimate summer reading guide year after year, how a book qualifies to be featured, and the most significant challenges and rewards of executing seasonal guides for readers. Meet Victoria Wood (The Reader's Couch Podcast)Victoria Wood hosts The Reader's Couch Podcast. She is a reading enthusiast who has successfully guided self-proclaimed "non-readers" into cultivating and sustaining reading habits and assisted readers in fostering more intentional and fulfilling reading lives. She hosts conversations with authors to learn more about their writing and reading lives. Mentioned in this episode:Joining the Patreon helps this show remain independent and on air for $5 a month. You will gain access to our 2024 MomAdvice Book Club, the FULLY BOOKED buzzy new release show, exclusive author interviews, music playlists, and more! Download Today's Show Transcript Join the 2024 MomAdvice Book Club Book Your House Will Pay by Steph Cha Sign-Up for Victoria's Summer Reading Guide Browse the 2023 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide Browse the 2022 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide Get Victoria's 2024 Summer Reading Guide Get Amy's 2024 Summer Reading Guide (be sure you are signed up for my email list to get this sent to your inbox!) James by Percival Everett One of Our Kind by Nicola Yoon The Great Mistake by Jonathan Lee The Layers of Adult Friendships Podcast (Victoria & Amy in Conversation) All the Lonely People by Mike Gayle The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle by Matt Cain Matt Cain's Publishing Journey The Lost Boys of Montauk by Amanda M. Fairbanks Morningside Heights by Joshua Henkin Home Made by Liz Hauck Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores!
Connect With Us: Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice Connect with Victoria Wood on The Reader's Couch Podcast, Instagram, or Bibliolifestyle | |||
| What Jeff Zentner Brings to the Romance World | 26 Apr 2024 | 00:51:35 | |
Jeff Zentner discusses the inspiration for his emotional adult debut romance novel Colton Gentry's Third Act, which celebrates food, music, and second chances. Celebrated young adult novelist Jeff Zentner returns to our space to discuss his transition from writing young adult books to his surprising new release—a romance debut for adults called Colton Gentry's Third Act. We discuss the critical differences between writing for adults and young adults, the romantic book that inspired Jeff's plot, and the feedback Emily Henry provided to shape his romance scenes. Jeff also talks about the emotional impact of his writing on Gen-Z readers and the connection he has found through his school tours across the country. Be sure to stick around to the end to get Jeff's second chance love story recommendations! To accompany today’s show, I have a Second Chance Romance Novels book list to celebrate 19 beautiful new beginnings and second chances. Meet Jeff Zentner Jeff Zentner is the author of New York Times Notable Books The Serpent King and In the Wild Light, as well as Goodbye Days, Rayne & Delilah’s Midnite Matinee, and his forthcoming debut for the adult market, Colton Gentry's Third Act and a YA novel in verse, Sunrise Nights, coauthored with Brittany Cavallaro. Among other honors, he has won the ALA’s William C. Morris Award, the Amelia Elizabeth Walden Award twice, the Muriel Becker Award, the International Literacy Association Award, and been longlisted twice for the Carnegie Medal. He’s a two-time Southern Book Prize finalist; and was a finalist for the Indies Choice Award. He was selected as a Publishers Weekly Flying Start and an Indies Introduce pick. His books have been translated into fifteen languages. Before becoming a writer, he was a musician who recorded with Iggy Pop, Nick Cave, and Debbie Harry. He lives in Nashville. Colton Gentry's Third Act is his adult debut romance. Mentioned in this episode:Joining the Patreon helps this show remain independent and on air for $5 a month. You will gain access to our 2024 MomAdvice Book Club, the FULLY BOOKED buzzy new release show, exclusive author interviews, music playlists, and more! Join the 2024 MomAdvice Book Club Book 19 Second Chance Romance Books for Summer (NEW BOOK LIST) Colton Gentry’s Third Act by Jeff Zentner In the Wild Light by Jeff Zentner The Serpent King by Jeff Zentner The Kennedy Ryan Phenomenon: Inclusive Narratives with Heart Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain Blood, Bones & Butter by Gabrielle Hamilton Sweetbitter by Stephanie Danler Normal People by Sally Rooney Happy Place by Emily Henry One Day by David Nicholls The Idea of You by Robinne Lee Sunrise Nights by Jeff Zentner and Brittany Cavallaro Hello Girls by Emily Henry and Brittany Cavallaro Connect With Us:Connect with Jeff Zentner on his Website or Instagram Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice | |||
| Surprising Truths About Grief With Amy Lin (Here After) | 19 Apr 2024 | 00:57:13 | |
Amy Lin discusses her emotional debut memoir Here After. We discuss her surprising revelations about the grief process and better steps to show up for grievers. In our fear of saying the wrong thing, we often don't get to engage in essential conversations like the one we share today. Amy Lin, author of Here After, joins the Book Gang podcast to discuss her powerful memoir on grief and loss and what she wants you to understand about young widowhood. Here After Book Summary Lin never expected to find a love like the one she shared with her husband, Kurtis, a gifted young architect who pulls her toward joy, adventure, and greater self-acceptance. But thirty-two-year-old Kurtis unexpectedly passed away, leaving behind Amy, who struggled to navigate the loss while simultaneously confronting a life-threatening medical crisis. This sparse memoir was handcrafted for grievers as Amy shares the painstaking process down to margin, white space, and book size to give readers both space and understanding of her grief experience. More importantly, she offers life-altering advice on our falsehoods about grief, from the misconceptions around grief timelines to what we shouldn't say to those experiencing loss. After hearing Amy's sage advice today,I promise you will be a better friend, sister, daughter, or mother after listening to this conversation. To accompany today's show, I have a Books On Grief and Loss book list with fiction and nonfiction selections for adult and young readers. I've also gathered a curated collection of grief quotes from these books that speak to this universal experience in comforting ways to give words to this experience. I hope you feel both seen and loved today's series. Meet Amy LinAmy Lin is a writer and educator who lives in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Her work has been published in Ploughshares, and she has been awarded residencies from Yaddo and Casa Comala.Here After is her debut novel. Mentioned in this episode:Joining the Patreon helps this show remain independent and on air for $5 a month. You will gain access to our 2024 MomAdvice Book Club, the FULLY BOOKED buzzy new release show, exclusive author interviews, music playlists, and more! Join the 2024 MomAdvice Book Club Book Books on Grief and Loss Book List A Heart That Works by Rob Delaney Here After by Amy Lin Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores! Connect With Us: Connect with Amy Lin on Instagram, Substack, or her Website Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice | |||
| New Historical Fiction To Read in 2024 | 12 Apr 2024 | 00:31:29 | |
This special crossover episode with Thoughts from a Page offers five new historical fiction books in 2024 to read now of compelling women throughout history. Cindy Burnett, the host of the Thoughts from a Page podcast, joins our show in this special crossover episode to discuss her favorite new historical fiction books for 2024 that readers will love. We discuss the most memorable books we read when we first began exploring this genre, the upcoming publishing trends for this year in historical fiction, and common misconceptions (and gripes) on what we feel is essential in a fantastic historical fiction book selection. Cindy brings five incredible novels featuring powerful narratives exploring accounts of remarkable women throughout history. We know you will love reading these this Spring! Meet Cindy Burnett (Thoughts from a Page Podcast)Cindy Burnett hosts the Thoughts from a Page Podcast where she engages in compelling author interviews and discussions with industry professionals. Beyond her podcast, she actively promotes books through social media, writes columns for The Buzz Magazines, contributes monthly reviews to Bookreporter.com, and co-creates Conversations from a Page—an author event series in Houston. Mentioned in this episode:Joining the Patreon community is an affordable way to support the show and gain access to a wealth of resources, including access to our 2024 MomAdvice Book Club, the FULLY BOOKED buzzy new release show, exclusive author interviews, music playlists, and more! The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett Becoming Madam Secretary by Stephanie Dray The Book Thief by Markus Zusak Miss Del Rio by Barbara Mujica The Editor by Stephen Rowley In Memoriam by Alice Winn The Women by Kristin Hannah The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah The Queen of Sugar Hill by Reshonda Tate The Sunshine Girls by Molly Fader The Magic of Old Hollywood Podcast Episode with Amy and Molly Fader The Best Books About Old Hollywood to Get Swept Away The Best New Historical Fiction of 2023 (In Case You Missed It) Reel by Kennedy Ryan Cindy’s episode with Reshonda Tate This Book Cover Designer Reveals His Surprising Process Podcast The Turtle House by Amanda Churchill The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah The Stationary Shop by Marjan Kamali The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores!
Connect With Us: Connect with Cindy Burnett on Thoughts from a Page Podcast, Instagram, or the Thoughts from a Page website. Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice | |||
| This Raw Debut Shows Addiction's True Cost | 23 May 2025 | 00:55:50 | |
In this Jessica Guerrieri interview, we discuss her debut, Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea, and how 12 years of sobriety shaped this unforgettable tale. Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea is a raw and emotionally resonant debut that examines the insidious nature of alcohol addiction and how it distorts relationships, parenting, and one woman's self-perception. In this conversation, Jessica shares how her twelve-year sobriety journey shaped the story and why telling the truth about addiction matters. In this heartfelt and powerful conversation, Jessica and I discuss:
BONUS BOOK LIST: This week, I'm sharing a companion book list of 19 addiction fiction reads, including new releases and backlist titles, that speak to the ripple effects of substance use across families and generations. Meet Jessica GuerrieriOriginally from the Bay Area, Jessica Guerrieri lives in Davis, California, with her husband and three young daughters. Jessica has a background teaching special education but left the field to pursue a career in writing. Her debut novel, Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea, won the Maurice Prize for Fiction from her alma mater, UC Davis. With over a decade of sobriety, Jessica is a fierce advocate for addiction recovery. Mentioned in this episode:Browse the 2025 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide (with ads) or download the 39-page reading guide ($7) to support our show. If you are a show patron, check your inbox for your copy as part of your member benefits—thank you for supporting my small business! Join the May Book Club Chat (Beautyland) 19 Addiction Fiction Books to Read Now Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea by Jessica Guerrieri The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff The Shit No One Tells You About Writing Both Can Be True by Jessica Guerrieri Connect With Us:Connect with Jessica on Instagram or her Website Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice | |||
| The Kennedy Ryan Phenomenon: Inclusive Narratives With Heart | 29 Mar 2024 | 01:06:49 | |
Kennedy Ryan discusses her rise to the NYT bestseller list as a Black romance writer with moving advocacy for autism representation in This Could Be Us. There is a reason everyone wants to be a part of Kennedy Ryan’s story—her joy is infectious. Today, we offer listeners a front-row seat to her romance Booktok fandom, sold-out book tours, and moving victory as a Black romance writer on the New York Times bestseller list. Ryan openly discusses her connection to the autism community and the beauty and challenge of capturing that on a page for the reader in her latest novel. Representing autism authentically meant the writer took surprising steps to ensure an accurate and respectful portrayal of family life in This Could Be Us. Readers will get a 2-for-1 conversation as we also discuss the rerelease of Reel and details on the upcoming books in the Hollywood Renaissance series. Learn what it means to be a hybrid author and her commitment to immersive research, ensuring her stories resonate authentically with readers no matter where you find her stories. Bonus Book List: Today’s BONUS book celebrates Autism Acceptance Month! I've featured 13 books with autistic characters filled with heartwarming love stories, mystery, and family drama. The list features many #ownvoices books, including the authors' diagnosis stories and the characters they developed to offer readers insights into their journeys. As a parent in the community, I hope I've crafted a list that will allow you to immerse yourself in these stories. Meet Kennedy RyanUSA Today's bestselling author and Audie Award-winner, Kennedy Ryan, writes for women from all walks of life, empowering them and placing them firmly at the center of each story and in charge of their own destinies. The co-founder of Lift 4 Autism, an annual charitable book auction, she has a passion for raising Autism awareness. Kennedy is a wife to her "lifetime lover" and mother to an extraordinary son. Mentioned in this episode:Joining the Patreon helps this show remain independent and on air for $5 a month. You will gain access to our 2024 MomAdvice Book Club, the FULLY BOOKED buzzy new release show, exclusive author interviews, music playlists, and more! Meet the 2024 MomAdvice Book Club Books Browse This Week's Book List Featuring #OwnVoices for Autism Acceptance Month Vicious by V.E. Schwab The Unseen World by Liz Moore The Autism Books by Autistic Authors Database This Could Be Us by Kennedy Ryan Seven Days in June by Tia Williams Before I Let Go by Kennedy Ryan Reel by Kennedy Ryan
Connect With Us: Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice Connect with Kennedy Ryan on Instagram, Tiktok, or her Website | |||
| Trapped in a Time Loop | 15 Mar 2024 | 00:50:36 | |
In today's podcast, escape in a time loop novel. We discuss Groundhog Day books and the comforting ways repeating time travel can charm us in our book stack. When we say "time loop," readers immediately react to this statement. Whether it is a no or a yes, Jessica and I have you covered in today's podcast. We discuss why repeating cycles of events work for us or don't and how some of the storytellers featured today nailed moving the time loop plot forward in new ways. Plus, I'm revealing a treasure trove of new time travel resources, including new time travel books, TV, and movies you can stream this weekend to explore a new world that won't break the bank. Our incredible super-expansion pack of time travel adventures is linked to today's show notes. These include a massive refresh on new time travel books, alternate realities, parallel lives, and explorations of parallel worlds and the multiverse. I hope it brings unlimited joy to your weekend, as was the intention of this creator who lovingly created these spaces for you. Meet Jessica BearakJessica is a lifelong book lover who embarked on her literary journey at three, immersing herself in childhood classics like “The Velveteen Rabbit” and “The Phantom Tollbooth." Jessica actively participates in two in-person book clubs and many online discussions regularly. She has been an invaluable member of the MomAdvice Book Club and joins us as a regular contributing voice. Mentioned in this episode:Joining the Patreon community is an affordable way to support the show and gain access to a wealth of resources, including access to our 2024 MomAdvice Book Club, the FULLY BOOKED buzzy new release show, exclusive author interviews, music playlists, and more! NEW Reading Resources: (AS PROMISED!): The Best Prime Reading Guide (10 FREE Books for March) Time Loop Books Giant Book List (14 Book Ideas) Books About Parallel Universes and Multiverse Book List (13 Book Ideas) Books About Alternate Realities or Parallel Lives You Will Love (12 Book Ideas) New Time Travel Books to Escape Real Life (20 Book Ideas) Better Than the Movies Movie List (FREE PRINTABLE) The Best Time Travel TV & Movies Streaming List (NEW) Best Lynn Painter Books (The Ultimate Guide)
Other Show Mentions: Meet the NEW 2024 MomAdvice Book Club Books The Unseen World by Liz Moore The Mindful Librarian Substack The Couch With Mary Carver Podcast Totally Killer on Prime Quantum Leap (1989-1993) Quantum Leap reboot 11/22/63 by Stephen King All Our Wrong Todays by Elan Mastai The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton A Quantum Love Story by Mike Chen Here and Now and Then by Mike Chen If I See You Again Tomorrow by Robbie Couch See You Yesterday by Rachel Lynn Solomon The Do Over by Lynn Painter The Sky Blues by Robbie Couch Blaine for the Win by Robbie Couch Better Than The Movies by Lynn Painter The Deja Glitch by Holly James Through the Snow Globe by Annie Rains In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren The Nine Lives of Rose Napolitano by Donna Freitas The Possibilities by Yael Goldstein-Love Maybe Next Time by Cesca Major The Best Lessons From Time Travel Books Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores!
Connect With Us: Get the Daily Kindle Deals Newsletter Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice Connect With Jessica on Instagram Buy Me a Coffee (for a one-time donation)
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| This Book Cover Designer Reveals His Surprising Process | 01 Mar 2024 | 00:43:36 | |
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Faceout Studio book designer Elisha Zepeda as he takes us on a journey from working in a bookstore to navigating his first year in book cover design. Elisha navigates the challenges of cover rejection through a unique avenue- his TikTok account, where readers can discuss the rejected and accepted designs with him. Today he shares what he sees as emerging trend in cover design and the struggles he’s faced with everything from font selection to breaking out of the “girl turning away” cover that we can’t seem to escape from as readers. If you are entertaining a self-publishing journey, Elisha shares valuable tips on communication, budgeting, and bringing your visions to life in your book covers. We couldn’t have him on the show and not discuss his recommendations for some standout covers that have captured his imagination and hear more about his process of honoring an author’s work through unique details that created reverence for the person who spent months or even years on their books. Meet Elisha ZepedaElisha is a book designer for Faceout Studio in Oregon. He documents his publishing journey on his Tiktok account, where readers can see how his book designs evolve from concept to final product. When not designing books, he is writing/recording music, toying with a film camera, or defending the merits of decaf over regular coffee. You can view his portfolio on his website, where he curates his work. Mentioned in this episode:Join the Book Gang Patreon-This provides valuable financial support to my show. You will also receive our FULLY BOOKED buzzy new release show, a 30-page monthly newsletter, and access to our monthly Zoom book club. Meet the NEW 2024 MomAdvice Book Club Books The Unseen World by Liz Moore The Mindful Librarian Substack Browse Elisha's Entire Portfolio The Best Libby App Tips and Tricks Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead by Olga Tokarczuk The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow Yellowface by R. F. Kuang Cities of Women by Kathleen B. Jones The Woman with a Purple Heart by Diane Hanks Bluff by Michael Kardos Shake It Up, Baby! by Ken McNab Bliss Montage by Ling Ma Ghost Wall by Sarah Moss Disorientation by Elaine Hsieh Chou Bad Thoughts by Nada Alic Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores! Connect With Us:Subscribe to my FREE Happy List Newsletter Connect With Elisha on His Website or Tiktok | |||
| How Shark Heart Transformed Emily Habeck and Her Readers | 16 Feb 2024 | 00:42:02 | |
Emily Habeck discusses her widely imaginative debut novel, Shark Heart, and how this writing project transformed her life and the lives of her readers. It's no secret that Shark Heart was my favorite debut of the year, and today's meaningful author conversation only solidified this moving reading experience. We discuss the unusual overlap to our love stories and the other surprising emotional connections readers have made to this imagined world. Emily's success in literary fiction was a surprise, but the reason for her jump from screenplay writing to a novel may surprise you with how she ended up here. Drawing from her theatrical background, Habeck shares more about her unique story structure and how magical realism can still offer the reader a grounded experience. Discover today's BONUS BOOK LIST with 29 of the best magical realism books for your book stack this month. Emily joins our patron space to discuss the Shark Heart ending with surprising candidness on some of this story's more unusual paths she chose, but even more so, the ways she DIDN’T decide to go to get to this book’s ending. You will receive this episode AND today's book list as a thank you for supporting my show. Mentioned in this episode:Meet the NEW 2024 MomAdvice Book Club Books Banyan Moon by Thao Thai Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt Shark Heart by Emily Habeck A Visit from the Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan The Candy House by Jennifer Egan The Vegetarian by Han Kang Nightbitch by Rachel Yoder Connect With Us:Subscribe to my FREE Happy List Newsletter Connect With Emily on Instagram or her Website Connect with Amy on Instagram, on TikTok, or MomAdvice Buy Me a Coffee (for a one-time donation) Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores! | |||
| The Most Unique Only One Bed Moments in Romance | 02 Feb 2024 | 01:01:10 | |
SUPPORT MY WORK through Patreon! Sarah Adler discusses writing her quirky debut novel Mrs. Nash's Ashes and her favorite memorable "only one bed" moments in romance. Sarah Adler didn’t know she was writing a romance book when she started her novel. She wasn’t even a romance reader. All of that changed, though, when she wrote Mrs. Nash’s Ashes, her debut romance novel. Today, Sarah Adler provides a behind-the-scenes look into her publishing journey, recounting the rollercoaster ride of rejections, what it is like to have a novel go to auction, and what this book taught her about identity that she was surprised to uncover through her characters. Sarah’s “only one bed” scene I now count among my favorite romance moments, and we discuss her favorite books that uniquely capture this dilemma and why this has become such a beloved romance trope for readers. Don’t miss today's BONUS BOOK LIST, which includes The Best One Bed Trope Books for Romance Lovers. Patrons of our show will receive a printable version of today’s book list as a thank you for your support! Sarah Adler writes romantic comedies about lovable weirdos finding their happily ever afters. She lives in Maryland with her husband and daughter and spends an inordinate amount of her time yelling at her mischievous cat to stop opening the kitchen cabinets. Mentioned in this episode:Joining the Patreon community is an affordable way to support the show and gain access to a wealth of resources, including access to our 2024 MomAdvice Book Club, the FULLY BOOKED buzzy new release show, exclusive author interviews, music playlists, and more! Meet the NEW 2024 MomAdvice Book Club Books Saints for All Occasions by J. Courtney Sullivan The Girls We Sent Away by Meagan Church Mrs. Nash’s Ashes by Sarah Adler You by Caroline Kepnes Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter One’s Company by Ashley Hutson The WAVES Program in World War II New Orleans Rush by Kelly Siskind A Week to be Wicked by Tessa Dare A Night to Surrender by Tessa Dare Comic Absurdity and Deep Emotion: PW Talks with Tessa Dare A Lady for a Duke by Alexis Hall The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary Beth O'Leary | 'I wrote almost all the book on the train...' The Bodyguard by Katherine Center Happy Medium by Sarah Adler Shop the above (Amazon) links or through my Book Gang Bookshop Page!! They pay a 10% commission on every sale and match 10% to independent bookstores. Connect With Us:Connect with Sarah on Instagram, on Substack, or on Her Website Subscribe to my FREE Happy List Newsletter | |||
| Let's Head to Art School With These Amazing Books | 19 Jan 2024 | 00:49:23 | |
SUPPORT MY WORK through Patreon! Head to art school with debut novelist Antonia Angress today. We discuss the inspiration for her debut novel, Sirens & Muses, which one of our best debuts of 2023. If you have ever dreamed of attending art school, you will want to tune in to today's discussion and fictional art book stack. Today, we are joined by debut novelist Antonia Angress as she shares her inspiration for Sirens & Muses and how pursuing an MFA program allowed her the time and resources to finally pivot from a career in teaching to her dream of writing. Angress shares the surprising discovery that her novel, set during the financial crisis of the 2010s, has been deeply meaningful for Gen Z readers as they also face their own uncertainty and disillusionment. We also discuss how success in the art world is often influenced by class, making it inaccessible to marginalized groups, and what we can learn from adding characters from different wealth spectrums to her dialogue to showcase the scarcity of artistic resources for many students. Check out this BONUS LIST of 27 book titles that include the best books about art and artists for your month. Patrons receive a printable version of today's checklist as a thank you! Mentioned in this episode:Joining the Patreon community is an affordable way to support the show and gain access to a wealth of resources, including our monthly FULLY BOOKED buzzy new release show, exclusive author interviews, music playlists, and more! The Best Books About Art & Artists to Read Now Meet the NEW 2024 MomAdvice Book Club Books Bluff by Michael Kardos The Best Fiction Books of 2023 The Best Debut Novels of 2023 to Not Miss Sirens & Muses by Antonia Angress Sirens & Muses Book Club Guide & Cocktail Recipe Life Drawing by Robin Black Self-Portrait with Boy by Rachel Lyon Zoe Kravitz & Thomas McKenzie to Lead Mona Fastvold’s Psychological Horror “Self-Portrait” The Masterpiece by Fiona Davis “The Masterpiece:” NYC's Grand Central as One of the Stars The Fiona Davis Interview You Need to Hear My Name is Asher Lev by Chaim Potok Fake Like Me by Barbara Bourland Shop the above (Amazon) links or through my Book Gang Bookshop Page!! They pay a 10% commission on every sale and match 10% to independent bookstores. Connect With Us:Connect With Antonia Angress on Instagram or Website | |||
| The Best Books of 2023 | 06 Jan 2024 | 01:51:06 | |
SUPPORT MY WORK through Patreon! Cue the confetti! This week's episode shares the top fifteen books we have read this year after screening HUNDREDS of books. This discussion includes the best fiction books of 2023 and some of our favorite backlist books we were thrilled to discover this year. There is TRULY something for everyone. We invite you to browse today's bonus book list featuring our favorites. Larry also offers an incredible expanded list for your reading life. Patrons will receive a printable checklist with today's book titles and some of our honorable mentions. Connect With Us:Meet the NEW 2024 MomAdvice Book Club Books Connect with Larry on Instagram | |||
| Meet Our New Book Gang | 04 Jan 2024 | 00:54:03 | |
SUPPORT MY WORK through Patreon! Meet MY new book gang collaboration with Victoria from The Reader's Couch Podcast and Cindy from Thoughts from a Page Podcast, as we embark on a new reading journey together. I'm thrilled to bring you a special pop-up episode announcing a fabulous new collaboration for the upcoming year. I couldn't be more excited to team up with my bookish friends, Victoria from The Reader's Couch Podcast and Cindy from Thoughts from a Page Podcast, as we embark on our own little book gang adventure. These incredible hosts share my love for reading and authors. Today we dive into how this love for reading began and take a behind-the-scenes look at how our communities started. You'll also get a sneak peek at our favorite reads of the year and the upcoming releases we can't wait to get our hands on. Through this partnership, you can expect to hear us regularly on each other's podcasts, discussing our favorite books and delving into all the reading-related fun that fuels our shows and passions. It is SO beautiful when women lift each other up, and I hope you feel that excitement today through this new collaboration effort. Meet Victoria Wood (The Reader's Couch Podcast)Victoria Wood hosts The Reader's Couch Podcast. She is a reading enthusiast who has successfully guided self-proclaimed "non-readers" into cultivating and sustaining reading habits and assisted readers in fostering more intentional and fulfilling reading lives. She hosts conversations with authors to learn more about their writing and reading lives. Meet Cindy Burnett (Thoughts from a Page Podcast)Cindy Burnett hosts the Thoughts from a Page Podcast where she engages in compelling author interviews and discussions with industry professionals. Beyond her podcast, she actively promotes books through social media, writes columns for The Buzz Magazines, contributes monthly reviews to Bookreporter.com, and co-creates Conversations from a Page—an author event series in Houston. Mentioned in this episode:Joining the Patreon community is an affordable way to support the show and gain access to a wealth of resources, including access to our 2024 MomAdvice Book Club, the FULLY BOOKED buzzy new release show, exclusive author interviews, music playlists, and more! Meet the NEW 2024 MomAdvice Book Club Books Bluff by Michael Kardos Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder Nancy Drew by Carolyn Keene Trixie Belden The Secret of the Mansion by Julie Campbell The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett Six Months to Live by Lurlene McDaniel Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen Turn of the Screw by Henry James The Paris Architect by Charles Belfoure Shark Heart by Emily Habeck The Girls We Sent Away by Meagan Church The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters The Bitter Past by Bruce Borgos Homecoming by Kate Morton I Could Live Here Forever by Hannah Halperin The Last Word by Taylor Adams The Three of Us by Ore Agbaje-Williams Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf The Dissonance by Shaun Hamill A Cosmology of Monsters by Shaun Hamill A Letter to the Luminous Deep by Sylvie Cathrall The Great Divide by Cristina Henriquez The Book of Unknown Americans by Cristina Henriquez Real Americans by Rachel Khong Goodbye Vitamin by Rachel Khong Wandering Stars by Tommy Orange There There by Tommy Orange The Angel of Indian Lake by Stephen Graham Jones My Heart is a Chainsaw by Stephen Graham Jones Don’t Fear the Reaper by Stephen Graham Jones The Husbands by Holly Gramazio Northwoods by Amy Pease The Turtle House by Amanda Churchill Shop the above (Amazon) links or through my Book Gang Bookshop Page!! They pay a 10% commission on every sale and match 10% to independent bookstores. Connect With Us: Connect with Victoria Wood on The Reader's Couch Podcast, Instagram, or Bibliolifestyle Connect with Cindy Burnett on Thoughts from a Page Podcast, Instagram, or the Thoughts from a Page website. | |||
| The Magic of Belonging in Found Family Books | 15 Dec 2023 | 00:52:30 | |
SUPPORT MY WORK through Patreon! I’m thrilled to introduce you to our new contributor voice to the Book Gang podcast. Jessica Bearak is likely a familiar voice to you because she is such a loyal participant in so many book club spaces around the web. It was such a treat to meet her IN PERSON earlier this year, and after having the best time discussing our books together, I asked if she could picture herself sharing the microphone with me. Learn more about Jessica’s reading life and the surprising destination I took her to when she visited that kickstarted our year together. We brainstormed many fun ideas for the days ahead but knew we needed to start things off with a magical hook. What could be better to celebrate this occasion than a book stack filled with found family? Today, we will dive into the concept of the found family trope and its significance in literature and our lives, especially around the holidays. From insights from past guests to the trivia we discovered about some of our favorite beloved stories, there is something for everyone in today’s introductory episode. I hope you feel compelled to share this episode and support our new voice today. Check out our BONUS “found family” book list that includes our favorite historical fiction, middle-grade novels, and even a dark psychological thriller with this theme. EDITOR'S NOTE- Thank you to Lynda Cohen Loigman for the gorgeous chat on The Matchmaker's Gift (accidentally missing from this morning's intro!!) Meet Jessica BearakJessica is a lifelong book lover who embarked on her literary journey at three, immersing herself in childhood classics like "The Velveteen Rabbit" and "The Phantom Tollbooth." Jessica actively participates in two in-person book clubs and many online discussions regularly. She has been an invaluable member of the MomAdvice Book Club and joins us as a regular contributing voice. Mentioned in this episode:Joining the Patreon community is an affordable way to support the show and gain access to a wealth of resources, including access to our 2024 MomAdvice Book Club, the FULLY BOOKED buzzy new release show, exclusive author interviews, music playlists, and more! The 2023 MomAdvice Book Club Books (thank you to EVERY AUTHOR who participated!) The Memoirs of Stockholm Sven by Nathaniel Ian Miller The 2024 MomAdvice Book Club Books Announced Found Family Trope Books to Read Now (BONUS BOOK LIST) The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams From The Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E Frankweiler by E.L Konigsburg The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster Encyclopedia Brown and the Case of the Mysterious Handprints by Donald J Sobol (includes the story Encyclopedia Brown and the Case of the Fighter Kite) Public Library of Saint Joseph County What Chosen Family Means and How to Build Your Own Matt Cain’s Publishing Journey: The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle by Matt Cain The Magic of Old Hollywood Books The Sunshine Girls by Molly Fader The Second Life of Mirielle West by Amanda Skenandore Best Books About Hollywood to Get Swept Away Moloka’i by Alan Brennert Daughter of Moloka’i by Alan Brennert Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q Sutanto Strange Sally Diamond by Liz Nugent How to Use the Storygraph App For a Better Reading Life The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart Coyote Lost and Found by Dan Gemeinhart The Mostly True Story of Tanner and Louise by Colleen Oakley The Spectacular Life Lessons from Books About Road Trips Mosquitoland by David Arnold The Best Prime Reading Guide (FREE books, including The Second Life of Mirielle West) Amy’s Interview with Nathaniel Ian Miller The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley by Courtney Walsh Shop the above (Amazon) links or through my Book Gang Bookshop Page!! They pay a 10% commission on every sale and match 10% to independent bookstores. Connect With Us: Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdvice Connect With Jessica on Instagram Shop Our Bookish Shirts to support the show | |||
| The 2024 MomAdvice Book Club Books Announced (Part 2) | 01 Dec 2023 | 00:28:28 | |
Join us in Part 2 of the 2024 MomAdvice Book Club as we unveil the second half of our carefully curated book selections and how to join! Cue the confetti! I'm hosting my first backlist book club year in honor of my 20th year as an online creator, and I would be HONORED to have you join me on this journey. This year's offerings include backlist books from 1979 up to 2022! Some of these are new favorites, while others are books I have wanted to discuss for years. Won't it be so fun to revisit some of our favorite books over the years? Please visit the 2024 MomAdvice Book Club Guide to access today's selections with full descriptions of each book and how to join. Connect With Me: JOIN THE 2024 MomAdvice Book Club | |||
| 2025 Summer Reading Guide | 16 May 2025 | 00:31:10 | |
The NEW 2025 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide includes 56 titles, including upcoming releases, new releases, and backlist gems. Browse 39 pages of bookish fun to prepare for your best summer stack. Welcome to one of my favorite episodes of the year- the official reveal of the 2025 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide! This year's guide features 56 handpicked titles across every genre to help you find the perfect book for your summer reading mood. In this special episode of Book Gang, I'm revealing the inspiration behind this year's Summer Reading Guide. A recent health challenge shifted how and why I read, making this season's selections more intentional, joy-filled, and personal than ever before. From the ninety-eight books I read for this season, I'm spotlighting four unforgettable debut novels that stole my heart and should be at the top of your TBR. These fresh new voices are ones I'll be championing all season long, and I hope they become new favorites for you, too. Don't miss my special announcements on three upcoming projects I have in the works for online AND local friends to create even MORE bookish fun for your reading year. Grab a notebook (or open your Libby app!) to reserve all these gorgeous books for this year's fun, and let's deep dive into the WHY behind this year's selections. Browse the 2025 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide (with ads) or receive the 39-page reading guide download ($7) to support our show. If you are a show patron, check your inbox for your copy as part of your member benefits- thank you for supporting my small business! Editor's Note: We have switched from Bookshop.org to direct sales with three featured bookshops to ensure they keep every penny of the profit. Meet Amy Allen ClarkAmy Allen Clark is the founder of MomAdvice.com, a vibrant online community she has nurtured since 2004. Through this platform, Amy shares practical advice on recipes, DIY projects, and book recommendations for her readers. In 2013, Amy authored The Good Life for Less, published by Penguin, and provided families tips for running their household on a shoestring budget. Amy launched the Book Gang Podcast in 2021. The book podcast celebrates debut authors, explores backlist titles, and highlights under-the-radar book selections. Through engaging conversations with writers and fellow book enthusiasts, Amy's goal is to connect you with your new favorite book. Residing in Indiana, Amy is a mother of two who has shared her journey living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome to raise awareness and support others facing similar health challenges. Connect With Me: Buy the 2025 Summer Reading Guide | |||