Sarah's Bookshelves Live

In Episode 222, Sarah talks with authors Jennifer Marie Thorne and Lee Kelly about their latest co-written novel, The Midnight Show. Set in the world of 1980s late-night comedy, the book is told in a documentary / oral history format that traces the rise of a breakout star — and the mystery surrounding her disappearance. They talk about how they developed a cast of characters shaped by both real-life comedy figures and their own creative instincts, as well as the challenge of writing sketch comedy that actually lands on the page. They also get into the realities of writing as a duo and the novel's exploration of how women in comedy are perceived and defined. Plus, they share what they're working on next and their book recommendations. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Highlights Books by Lee Kelly + Jennifer Thorne:  The Antiquity Affair (2023), The Starlets (2024) and My Fair Frauds (2025) By Lee Kelly: With Regrets (2023), A Criminal Magic (2016), and City Of Savages (2015) By Jennifer Thorne: Diavola (2024), Lute (2022), and Newbourne Park(September 29, 2026) A brief, spoiler-free overview of The Midnight Show The inspiration behind the novel and how they created their characters using a mix of real-life performers and imagination Writing sketch comedy for the page — and how they created it organically for the story The evolution of their collaborative writing process  How society views funny women — and how they're allowed to be defined What this author duo is working on next Lee's + Jennifer's Book Recommendations [38:42] Two OLD Books They Love Jennifer : The Wonder State by Sara Flannery Murphy (2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:07] Lee : A Visit From the Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan (2010) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [41:24]   Other Books Mentioned The Magicians by Lev Grossman (2009) [39:34]  The Candy House by Jennifer Egan (2022) [43:08]  Two NEW Books They Love Jennifer : Cruelty Free by Caroline Glenn (2026) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[44:16] Lee : The Future Saints by Ashley Winstead (2026) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[45:28] Two NEW RELEASES They're Excited About Jennifer : Exit Party by Emily St. John Mandel (September 15, 2026) | Amazon| Bookshop.org [48:02] Lee : Death Was Not on the Guest List by Jenni L. Walsh (June 16, 2026) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:22] Other Books Mentioned The Age of Miracles by Karen Thompson Walker (2012) [49:36]  Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel (2014) [50:04]  The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald (1925) [51:53]  Books From the Discussion Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld (2023) [6:37] Live From New York by Tom Shales and James Andrew Miller (2014) [6:41]  The Chris Farley Show by Tom Farley Jr. and Tanner Colby (2008) [6:45]  Daisy Jones and The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2019) [23:43]  The Favorites by Layne Fargo (2025) [25:47]  Good People by Patmeena Sabit (2026) [38:20] 

Welcome to the Spring 2026 Book Preview with Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books!   Today, Catherine and Sarah share 12 of their most anticipated books releasing in April and May.   This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Announcements A preview of changes to this year's Summer Reading Guide — now a team effort, with more info to come in a separate episode coming in early May. One of the many benefits to supporting the podcast through either our Patreon Community or our Substack Community (both for just $7/mo) is that you get access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and Sarah share 4 bonus books (2 each) we are excited about that we did not share in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available and sign up here for Patreon and here for Substack! Highlights A lightning round of some big releases coming this spring that are not featured in our personal preview picks. Catherine's theme is spring, but Sarah's theme is summer. Looking for balance, Catherine chose books that are lighter and brighter, but not silly. Spring picks carry 4 debuts — 3 from Catherine and 1 from Sarah. Sarah's books cover 2 books about the world of comedy and 3 family dramas. Sarah has already read one of her picks — 4.5 stars! Plus, their #1 picks for spring. Big Spring Releases The Midnight Train (The Midnight World, 2) by Matt Haig (May 26) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:04] The Shippers by Katherine Center (May 19) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:06] London Falling by Patrick Radden Keefe (April 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [3:09] Last Night in Brooklyn by Xochitl Gonzalez (April 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [3:16] With a Vengeance by Riley Sager (June 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:22] Enormous Wings by Laurie Frankel (May 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:26] Seek the Traitor's Son (The Burning Empire, 1) by Veronica Roth (May 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:29] Other Books Mentioned State of Wonder by Ann Patchett (2011) [3:59]  Spring 2026 Book Preview [4:38] April Sarah's Picks The Midnight Show by Lee Kelly and Jennifer Thorne (April 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [7:11]  Into the Blue by Emma Brodie (April 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [15:49]  Leave Your Mess At Home by Tolani Akinola (April 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:50]  Catherine's Picks American Fantasy by Emma Straub (April 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:50] Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke (April 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [19:10]  Like This But Funnier by Hallie Cantor (April 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:19]  Other Books Mentioned Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2019) [8:26]  Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld (2023) [8:55] Diavola by Jennifer Thorne (2024) [11:08]  All the World Can Hold by Jung Yun (2026) [14:39]  Songs in Ursa Major by Emma Brodie (2021) [17:22]  Me Before You by Jojo Moyes (2012) [17:38]  Normal People by Sally Rooney (2018) [18:37]  The Favorites by Layne Fargo (2025) [18:40]  The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2017) [18:46]  The House of My Mother by Shari Franke (2025) [22:03]  August Lane by Regina Black (2025) [22:56]  Seven Days in June by Tia Williams (2021) [23:06]  Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors (2024) [25:07]  Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane (2019) [25:09]  The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo (2019) [25:10]  May Sarah's Picks The Mediator (Max Ringo, 1) by Robert Bailey (May 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:36] The Burning Side by Sarah Damoff (May 19) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:46] Returns and Exchanges by Kayla Rae Whitaker (May 19) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [37:30]  Catherine's Picks The Liar's Playbook by Leslie Bradford-Scott (May 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:31] The Last Mandarin by Louise Penny and Mellissa Fung (May 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [35:11] The Tapestry of Fate (Amina al-Sirafi, 2) by Shannon Chakraborty (May 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [40:10]  Other Books Mentioned The Boomerang by Robert Bailey (2025) [27:52]  Nowhere Girl by Cheryl Diamond (2021) [31:20]  Family of Spies by Christine Kuehn (2025) [31:22]  The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff (2025) [32:57]  State of Terror by Hillary Rodham Clinton and Louise Penny (2021) [36:07]  The Animators by Kayla Rae Whitaker (2016) [38:02]  Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver (2022) [39:01]  The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi (Amina al-Sirafi, 1) by Shannon Chakraborty (2023) [40:38]   

In Episode 220, Sarah and Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books catch up on the 16 new releases they shared in the Winter 2026 Book Preview, now that they've read them — or at least tried to!  They share their reading stats and discuss which books worked and which didn't…and why.   This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Announcement One of the many benefits to supporting the podcast through either our Patreon Community or our Substack Community (both for just $7/mo) is that you get access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and Sarah share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that we did not share in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available and sign up here for Patreon and here for Substack! Highlights Catherine had a high success rate, but a pretty "meh" overall feel  Sarah's reading followed a familiar barbell pattern: some standout hits, several DNFs, and not much in between Catherine's ratings mostly landed as mid-range reads — with two 4.5 star wins. Sarah had one 5-star read (and a new favorite of the year), two 4.5-star reads, and one big disappointment Some of Sarah's risk-taking paid off, while other picks didn't land They share their best and worst picks from winter Books Read Before the Preview [6:08]  Sarah's Pick Whidbey by T Kira Madden (March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:13] Winter 2026 Book Preview [8:20] January Catherine's Picks Skylark by Paula McLain (January 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:49] Vigil by George Saunders (January 27)  | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [18:43]  Other Books Mentioned When the Stars Go Dark by Paula McLain (2021) [14:53]  Love and Ruin by Paula McLain (2018) [15:21]  February Sarah's Picks Good People by Patmeena Sabit (February 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:25] Royal Spin by Omid Scobie and Robin Benway (February 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [15:49] Kin by Tayari Jones (February 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [26:15]  Catherine's Picks More Than Enough by Anna Quindlen (February 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [22:40] Saoirse by Charleen Hurtubise (February 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [29:47] Other Books Mentioned The Force of Such Beauty by Barbara Bourland (2022) [17:32]  A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles (2016) [26:04]  An American Marriage by Tayari Jones (2018) [26:58] Silver Sparrow by Tayari Jones (2011) [26:59]   March Sarah's Picks No One's Coming by Kevin Hazzard (March 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [31:51]  All the World Can Hold by Jung Yun (March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[38:23] She Fell Away by Lenore Nash (March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [43:23]  The Complex by Karan Mahajan (March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [48:07]  Catherine's Picks Ruins by Lily Brooks-Dalton (March 31) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [35:34]  No Friend to This House by Natalie Haynes (US Release March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:07] Son of Nobody by Yann Martel (March 31) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:17]  How to Be Okay When Nothing Is Okay by Jenny Lawson (March 31) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:08]  Other Books Mentioned The Only Plane in the Sky by Garrett M. Graff (2019) [32:10]  Shelter by Jung Yun (2016) [38:26]  Red Widow by Alma Katsu (2021) [44:17]  Red London by Alma Katsu (2023) [44:18]  From the Top of the Episode Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy (2025) [1:10] 

In Episode 219, Sarah talks with author T Kira Madden about her debut novel, Whidbey. A dark, atmospheric story that explores the long reach of violence and the lack of recourse many victims face, Whidbey tackles difficult themes including sexual abuse, stalking, and the ways narratives around these crimes are shaped by media and public perception. Sarah and T Kira discuss the inspiration behind the novel, its complex characters, and the themes at the heart of the story. Plus, she shares a bit about what she's working on next and some terrific book recommendations. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Highlights Books by T Kira Madden: Whidbey and Long Live the Tribe of Fatherless Girls A brief, spoiler-free overview of Whidbey The inspiration behind the novel Revisiting the impact of sexual assault through fiction What the character of Mary-Beth brings to the story The ways the novel explores justice, accountability, and the limited options available to victims How the reality show storyline reflects the power of media to shape public narratives What T Kira is working on next T Kira's Book Recommendations [36:42] Two OLD Books She Loves Reading the Waves by Lidia Yuknavitch (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[36:56] Scorched Earth by Tiana Clark (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [38:43]   Other Books Mentioned The Chronology of Water by Lidia Yuknavitch (2011) [37:15]  Two NEW Books She Loves Extinction Capital of the World by Mariah Rigg (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:38] Bloodfire, Baby by Eirinie Carson (2026) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:28] One Book She DIDN'T Love We Need to Talk About Kevin by Lionel Shriver (2003) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[41:58] One NEW RELEASE She's Excited About Lovers XXX by Allie Rowbottom (June 4, 2026) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[45:22] Other Books Mentioned Margo's Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe (2024) [46:43]  The Hop by Diana Clarke (2022) [47:09]  Books From the Discussion There There by Tommy Orange (2018) [36:32] Other Links Guernica | The Feels of Love by T Kira Madden (December 12, 2016)

In Episode 218, Sarah chats with Enneagram author, speaker, and podcaster Sarajane Case about Reading Through the Enneagram. After a brief introduction to the Enneagram and how it differs from other personality systems, they dive into how Enneagram types show up in our reading lives — from guessing an author's type to rethinking our own habits as readers. Sarajane walks through the nine types, shares a book recommendation for each, and offers her own personal picks. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Highlights Books by Sarajane Case: The Honest Enneagram and The Enneagram Letters A brief introduction to the Enneagram — and how it differs from other personality systems Sarajane's personal approach to working with the Enneagram A quick overview of the nine Enneagram types How each Enneagram type might approach reading Whether (and how) we can discern an author's Enneagram type through their work (and the Enneagram types most and least likely to be authors themselves) Practical tips for using your type to improve your reading life Reading Through the Enneagram [29:51]  Type 1: The Secret Lives of Church Ladies by Deesha Philyaw (2020) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:08] Type 2: The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath (1963) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [30:50]   Type 3: In Five Years by Rebecca Serle (2020) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:27] Type 4: Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro (2021) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:42]  Type 5: Fourth Wing (Empyrean, 1) by Rebecca Yarros (2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [32:56]  Type 6: The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune (2020) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [33:32]  Type 7: People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry (2021) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [33:56]  Type 8: Crook Manifesto (The Harlem Trilogy, 2) by Colson Whitehead (2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [34:20]  Type 9: Severance by Ling Ma (2018) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [36:16]  Other Books Mentioned The Fellowship of the Ring (The Lord of the Rings, 1) by J. R. R. Tolkien (1954) [32:08]  Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë (1847) [33:49]  The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez (2019) [34:57]  Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus (2022) [35:23]  Sarajane's Book Recommendations [36:37]  Two OLD Books She Loves The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath (1963) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [36:50]  Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë (1847) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [38:08]  Two NEW Books She Loves Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:09]  A Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:14]  Other Books Mentioned Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2019) [42:05]  The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2017) [42:16]  Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2021) [42:28]  Carrie Soto Is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2022) [42:37]  The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna (2022) [43:28]  One Book She DIDN'T Love Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami (1987) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:14]  Other Books Mentioned South of the Border, West of the Sun by Haruki Murakami (1992) [44:20]  1Q84 by Haruki Murakami (2009) [44:49]  One NEW RELEASE She's Excited About Theodora's Tea Shop by Christy Anne Jones (July 28, 2026 — no US release date set yet) | Link to Blackwell's for US Orders [45:52]  Other Links Truity | Enneagram Personality Test

In Episode 217, Sarah chats with author Christine Kuehn about her memoir, Family of Spies, and the thirty-year journey that led her to uncover a long-buried family secret. Christine shares how the story first entered her life, the decades-long research process behind reconstructing her father's past, and what it meant to weave her own discovery into the historical narrative surrounding her family's role in the Pearl Harbor attack. She also offers a glimpse of what she's working on next and shares some of her favorite book recommendations. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Highlights How the shape of the book's narrative sets it apart from other WWII stories How this story entered Christine's life — and the moment everything changed Her decision to publicly share this dark chapter of her family's history The decades-long research process behind uncovering her father's past Why integrating her own discovery story was essential to telling her family's role in the Pearl Harbor attack A glimpse at what she's working on next Christine's Book Recommendations [31:29] Two OLD Books She Loves The Women by Kristin Hannah (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:43] Agent Sonya by Ben Macintyre (2020) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [33:45]   Other Books Mentioned The Spy and the Traitor by Ben Macintyre (2018) [34:45]  The Siege by Ben Macintyre (2024) [34:47]  Two NEW Books She Loves Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:57] The Lost Kitchen, Vol 2: Big Heart Little Stove by Erin French (2025) | Amazon| Bookshop.org [37:35] Other Books Mentioned Finding Freedom by Erin French (2021) [38:46]  One Book She DIDN'T Love Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver (2022) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[39:48] One NEW RELEASE She's Excited About Whistler by Ann Patchett (June 2, 2026) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:33] Other Books Mentioned Tom Lake by Ann Patchett (2023) [42:06]  Books From the Discussion At Dawn We Slept by Gordon W. Prange (1981) [5:47] Other Links Instagram | Sarah's Bookshelves, Family of Spies Review

Episode 216 continues the Best of… series with a deep dive into the horror genre. Meredith Monday Schwartz of the Currently Reading podcast joins the show to discuss her all-time Top Ten favorite horror books, along with a few buzzy titles that didn't quite work for her. Meredith also talks about how she came to the genre and the wide range of reading experiences horror has to offer. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Highlights How Meredith defines the horror genre — and where she draws the lines Subgenres of horror that don't get talked about as much Meredith's personal relationship with reading horror What draws her to the genre and how she approaches her horror TBR The role of women in horror, both as authors and within its themes Meredith's All-Time Top Ten Horror: Ranked [18:47] 10) Daphne by Josh Malerman (2022) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [19:33] 9) How to Sell a Haunted House by Grady Hendrix (2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:10] 8) The Ruins by Scott Smith (2006) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [24:42] 7) Near the Bone by Christina Henry (2021) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [27:02] 6) Diavola by Jennifer Thorne (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [29:19] 5) We Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewer (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [31:44] 4) Slewfoot by Brom (2021) | Amazon | Bookshop.org   [34:01] 3) The Sun Down Motel by Simone St. James (2020) | Amazon | Bookshop.org   [37:40] 2) The Stand by Stephen King (1978) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [39:46] 1) I'm Thinking of Ending Things by Iain Reid (2016) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [44:50] High-Profile Horror She Didn't Love [49:39]  The September House by Carissa Orlando (2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [50:03] The Last House on Needless Street by Catriona Ward (2021) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [50:55] Incidents Around the House by Josh Malerman (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [52:34]  Other Books Mentioned The Amityville Horror by Jay Anson (1977) [9:57] 101 Horror Books to Read Before You're Murdered by Sadie Hartmann (2023) [13:25]  Feral and Hysterical by Sadie Hartmann (2025) [13:37]  Sandwich by Catherine Newman (2024) [22:47]  The Autumn Springs Retirement Home Massacre by Philip Fracassi (2025) [28:33]  Psycho by Robert Bloch (1959) [31:01]  The Caretaker by Marcus Kliewer (April 21, 2026) [33:29]  Krampus by Brom (2012) [36:42]  The Haunting of Maddy Clare by Simone St. James (2012) [39:07]  The Book of Cold Cases by Simone St. James (2022) [39:23]  11/22/63 by Stephen King (2011) [43:13]  Foe by Iain Reid (2018) [49:00]  Bird Box by Josh Malerman (2014) [52:39]  Other Links Sadie Hartmann (@Mother.Horror) on Instagram Talking Scared with Neil McRobert Slow Read: The Stand with Sarah Stewart Holland & Laura Tremaine

In Episode 215, Sarah and Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books share the best backlist books they read in 2025. They discuss their top 5 backlist books from last year, highlight some underrated backlist gems, and review their backlist reading statistics. Devoting an entire episode to backlist reading is both a team and listener favorite annual tradition!  This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Announcement The Best of the Backlist Guide: Favorite Backlist Books Read in 2025 is available now! Members of the Sarah's Bookshelves Live community share the best backlist book they read last year in a beautiful PDF guide. To get the guide, you can sign up to join us on Patreon here. or Substack here. You'll also get access to monthly bonus podcast episodes and the new-for-2026 Rock Your Reading Tracker and the Lite Reading Tracker. Highlights Sarah and Catherine share their full stats for backlist reading in 2025. Backlist reading quantity was stable last year for Sarah, but backlist reading quality dipped a bit. Catherine had a slight increase in the number of backlist books she read, AND her backlist reading remained incredibly successful. Sarah's backlist reading may change just a bit looking ahead to 2026. Our Top 5 Backlist Books We Read in 2025 [10:44]  Catherine The No-Show by Beth O'Leary (2022) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:50]  Georgia by Dawn Tripp (2016) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:44]  The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows (2008) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [23:48]  Don't You Forget About Me by Mhairi McFarlane (2019) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:57]  The Death of Bees by Lisa O'Donnell (2013) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:21]  Sarah The Force of Such Beauty by Barbara Bourland (2022) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:37]  The Queen's Gambit by Walter Tevis (1983) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:58]  We Burn Daylight by Bret Anthony Johnston (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:42]  Family Happiness by Laurie Colwin (1982) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:30]  Twenty Years Later by Charlie Donlea (2021) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:37]  Other Books Mentioned The Flatshare by Beth O'Leary (2019) [13:19]  The Many Lives of Mama Love by Lara Love Hardin (2023) [20:28]  Smacked by Eilene Zimmerman (2020) [20:31]  Nowhere Girl by Cheryl Diamond (2021) [20:33]  Heated Rivalry (Game Changers, 2) by Rachel Reid (2023) [33:50]  Happy All the Time by Laurie Colwin (1978) [37:58]  Guess Again by Charlie Donlea (2025) [40:54]  Underrated Backlist Gems [43:34]  Catherine Miss Jane by Brad Watson (2016) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:46]  Your Heart Is a Muscle the Size of a Fist by Sunil Yapa (2016) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:40]  Sarah Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:28]  Euphoria by Lily King (2014) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [51:04]  Other Books Mentioned Talking at Night by Claire Davelery (2023) [48:25]  Slanting Towards the Sea by Lidija Hilje (2025) [51:20]  Heart the Lover by Lily King (2025) [51:38] 

Welcome to the Winter 2026 Book Preview with Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books!   Today, Catherine and Sarah share 16 of their most anticipated books releasing from January through March.   This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Announcement The 2026 Reading Tracker is out! This year brings upgraded features across the board — including NEW average star rating and 5-star book tracking for every stat on the Dashboard — plus an updated Lite Tracker for those who prefer a streamlined version. Both Trackers are ONLY available to paid Patreon or Substack subscribers ($7/month) and is no longer sold separately. To avoid Apple's 30% fee, be sure to join directly from the Patreon website (mobile or desktop). Join our Patreon Community (here) OR become a Substack Paid Member (here)!   One of the many benefits to supporting the podcast through either our Patreon Community or our Substack Community (both for just $7/mo) is that you get access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and Sarah share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that we did not share in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available and sign up here for Patreon and here for Substack! Highlights A lightning round of some big releases coming this winter that we're not featuring in today's preview. Catherine chose books by authors she knows and trusts. This year, Sarah dug deep into the publisher's catalog for potential hidden gems. Sarah's books cover literary suspense, literary fiction, brain candy, nonfiction, and a thriller from 2 debut authors and 3 repeat authors. Sarah has already read one of her picks — and it was 4.5 stars! Plus, their #1 picks for winter. Big Winter Releases The First Time I Saw Him by Laura Dave (January 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [2:39] The Future Saints by Ashley Winstead (January 20) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [2:43] My Husband's Wife by Alice Feeney (January 20) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [2:46] Once and Again by Rebecca Serle (March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:49] Crux by Gabriel Tallent (January 20) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:53] Lake Effect by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney (March 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [2:56] Two Kinds of Stranger by Steve Cavanagh (March 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:00] Lady Tremaine by Rachel Hochhauser (March 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:03] Daughter of Egypt by Marie Benedict (March 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:21]  Missing Sam by Thrity Umrigar (January 27) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:24]  This Is Not About Us by Allegra Goodman (February 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:28]  Half His Age by Jennette McCurdy (January 20) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [3:31]  Other Books Mentioned I'm Glad My Mother Died by Jennette McCurdy (2022) [3:35]  Winter 2026 Book Preview [6:57] January Catherine's Picks Skylark by Paula McLain (January 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:53] Vigil by George Saunders (January 27)  | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [16:48]  Other Books Mentioned Circling the Sun by Paula McLain (2015) [11:04] When the Stars Go Dark by Paula McLain (2021) [13:12]  Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders (2017) [17:39]  February Sarah's Picks Good People by Patmeena Sabit (February 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [7:59] Royal Spin by Omid Scobie and Robin Benway (February 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:14] Kin by Tayari Jones (February 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [24:01]  Catherine's Picks Saoirse by Charleen Hurtubise (February 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [22:19] More Than Enough by Anna Quindlen (February 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [28:05] Other Books Mentioned Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng (2014) [9:37]  Happiness Falls by Angie Kim (2023) [9:40]  Real Americans by Rachel Khong (2024) [9:42]  The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini (2003) [9:50]  Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston (2019) [14:04]  Finding Freedom by Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand (2020) [14:53]  Endgame by Omid Scobie (2023) [14:57]  Long Live the Tribe of Fatherless Girls by T Kira Madden (2019) [19:20]  An American Marriage by Tayari Jones (2018) [24:11] Silver Sparrow by Tayari Jones (2011) [24:13]   Leaving Atlanta by Tayari Jones (2002) [26:48]  Alternate Side by Anna Quindlen (2018) [29:43]  After Annie by Anna Quindlen (2024) [29:51]  March Sarah's Picks No One's Coming by Kevin Hazzard (March 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [30:07]  Whidbey by T Kira Madden (March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:50] All the World Can Hold by Jung Yun (March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[35:31] She Fell Away by Lenore Nash (March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [41:01]  The Complex by Karan Mahajan (March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [46:35]  Catherine's Picks Ruins by Lily Brooks-Dalton (March 31) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [33:02]  No Friend to This House by Natalie Haynes (US Release March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:44] Son of Nobody by Yann Martel (March 31) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [43:11]  How to Be Okay When Nothing Is Okay by Jenny Lawson (March 31) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:15]  Other Books Mentioned A Thousand Naked Strangers by Kevin Hazzard (2016) [30:48]  The Light Pirate by Lily Brooks-Dalton (2022) [33:06]  Good Morning, Midnight by Lily Brooks-Dalton (2016) [33:13]  Shelter by Jung Yun (2016) [35:41]  Medium Rare by A. Natasha Joukovsky (March 3, 2026) [40:39]  Red Widow by Alma Katsu (2021) [41:45]  Red London by Alma Katsu (2023) [41:46]  Life of Pi by Yann Martel (2001) [43:38]  The High Mountains of Portugal by Yann Martel (2016) [46:16]  The Association of Small Bombs by Karan Mahajan (2016) [47:17]  Let's Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson (2012) [50:04]  Other Links The New Yorker | "The True Margaret," by Karan Mahajan 

In Episode 213, Sarah and Chrissie (@ChrissieWhitley) wrap up the year with the Best Books of 2025 Genre Awards. They reveal their Overall Best Books (Fiction and Nonfiction) and a full breakdown by genre, including: Best Literary Fiction, Best Romance, Best Brain Candy, Best Genre Mash-Up, and more! Plus, they share the winners for these same genres as chosen by the Sarah's Bookshelves Live Member Community. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Announcements The 2026 Reading Tracker is out! This year brings upgraded features across the board — including NEW average star rating and 5-star book tracking for every stat on the Dashboard — plus an updated Lite Tracker for those who prefer a streamlined version. Both Trackers are ONLY available to paid Patreon or Substack subscribers ($7/month) and is no longer sold separately. To avoid Apple's 30% fee, be sure to join directly from the Patreon website (mobile or desktop). Join our Patreon Community (here) OR become a Substack Paid Member (here)! Highlights Podcast reflections from 2025 — including top episodes based on download stats. A brief overview of Sarah's and Chrissie's 2025 year in reading. Their favorite books of the year: overall and by genre, including the SBL Member Community's picks. 2025 Genre Awards [12:39] Sarah The River Is Waiting by Wally Lamb (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [12:45]  The Favorites by Layne Fargo (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [16:32]  The Death of Us by Abigail Dean (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [20:13]  One Good Thing by Georgia Hunter (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org   [23:48]  The Compound by Aisling Rawle (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [28:47]  August Lane by Regina Black (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [36:03]  The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [41:54]  Family of Spies by Christine Kuehn (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:36] This American Woman by Zarna Garg (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [50:00] Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [52:59] The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [54:44]  Finding Grace by Loretta Rothschild (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [56:29] Next of Kin by Gabrielle Hamilton (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org   [1:00:10]  The Elements by John Boyne (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:03:10] Chrissie Fox by Joyce Carol Oates (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [13:42]  Joy Moody Is Out of Time by Kerryn Mayne (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:36]  Marble Hall Murders (Susan Ryeland, 3) by Anthony Horowitz (2025) | Amazon| Bookshop.org  [21:39]  The Pretender by Jo Harkin (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [25:51]  What We Can Know by Ian McEwan (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [30:28]  To Clutch a Razor (Curse Bearer, 2) by Veronica Roth (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [32:39]  The Love Haters by Katherine Center (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [37:03]  These Heathens by Mia McKenzie (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [43:31]  The Zorg by Siddarth Kara (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [47:11]  Misbehaving at the Crossroads by Honorée Fanonne Jeffers (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [51:09] A Sea of Unspoken Things by Adrienne Young (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [53:38]  Awake in the Floating City by Susanna Kwan (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[55:11] Heartwood by Amity Gaige (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [57:16]  Future Boy by Michael J. Fox (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:01:23]  Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated by James Goodhand (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:06:07]  SBL Member Community The Correspondent by Virginia Evans (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [15:43] The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [19:02] Heartwood by Amity Gaige (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [22:52]  Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:21] The Compound by Aisling Rawle (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:28]  The River Has Roots by Amal El-Mohtar (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:23]  One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:39] Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [40:57] Big Dumb Eyes by Nate Bargatze (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:15] Hot Air by Marcy Dermansky (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:17] Jane and Dan at the End of the World by Colleen Oakley (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:19] The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:22] Run for the Hills by Kevin Wilson (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:24] So Far Gone by Jess Walter (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:27] This American Woman by Zarna Garg (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:28] Everything is Tuberculosis by John Green (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:20] Ordinary Time by Annie Jones (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [52:32] Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [54:31]  Among Friends by Hal Ebbott (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [59:25] Awake by Jen Hatmaker (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:02:33] Other Books Mentioned Leaving by Roxana Robinson (2024) [13:51]  Heart the Lover by Lily King (2025) [15:35]  Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy (2025) [15:58]  Audition by Katie Kitamura (2025) [16:09]  The Names by Florence Knapp (2025) [16:11] Dream State by Eric Puchner (2025) [16:13] Lenny Marks Gets Away with Murder by Kerryn Mayne (2023) [17:45]  Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry (2025) [18:46]  Say You'll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez (2025) [18:56]  The Academy by Elin Hilderbrand and Shelby Cunningham (2025) [19:18] Abigail and Alexa Save the Wedding by Lian Dolan (2025) [19:23] Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll (2023) [21:28]  The Ghostwriter by Julie Clark (2025) [23:03] The Impossible Fortune by Richard Osman (2025) [23:07]   Dead Money by Jakob Kerr (2025) [23:13] The Boomerang by Robert Bailey (2025) [23:15]   We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter (2017) [24:09]  Tell Me an Ending by Jo Harkin (2022) [26:03] What Kind of Paradise by Janelle Brown (2025) [26:55] Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2025) [27:06]   The Stolen Queen by Fiona Davis (2025) [27:12] Isola by Allegra Goodman (2025) [28:13]  Merge by Grace Walker (2025) [31:35] The Memory Collectors by Dete Meserve (2025) [31:43]  Sunrise on the Reaping by Susanna Collins (2025) [31:48] Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor (2025) [31:01] The Strange Case of Jane O. by Karen Thompson Walker (2025) [32:05] When Among Crows by Veronica Roth (2024) [33:05]  Katabasis by R. F. Kuang (2025) [34:23] Babel by R. F. Kuang (2022) [34:36] Yellowface by R. F. Kuang (2023) [34:37] A Drop of Corruption by Robert Jackson Bennett (2025) [34:49] The Tainted Cup by Robert Jackson Bennett (2024) [34:54] Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros (2025) [34:58] The Everlasting by Alix E. Harrow (2025) [35:05] Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V. E. Schwab (2025) [35:31] The Art of Scandal by Regina Black (2023) [36:49] The Favorites by Layne Fargo (2025) [38:54]  The Buffalo Hunter Hunter by Stephen Graham Jones (2025) [40:30] Hungerstone by Kat Dunn (2025) [40:37] We Love You, Bunny by Mona Awad (2025) [40:42] The Staircase in the Woods by Chuck Wendig (2025) [41:19] Bat Eater and Other Names for Cora Zeng by Kylie Lee Baker (2025) [41:30] When the Moon Hits Your Eye by John Scalzi (2025) [44:56] The Wager by David Grann (2023) [47:34]  Replaceable You by Mary Roach (2025) [49:04] The Gales of November by John U. Bacon (2025) [49:11] Careless People by Sarah Wynn-Williams (2025) [51:58] All the Way to the River by Elizabeth Gilbert (2025) [52:08] Awake by Jen Hatmaker (2025) [52:24] Nobody's Girl by Virginia Roberts Giuffre (2025) [52:28] One Day, Everyone Will Always Have Been Against This by Omar El Akkad (2025) [52:49] The God of the Woods by Liz Moore (2024) [53:22] Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall (2025) [54:21] Life, and Death, and Giants by Ron Rindo (2025) [54:27] Woodworking by Emily St. James (2025) [56:16] Buckeye by Patrick Ryan (2025) [58:57] The Elements by John Boyne (2025) [59:15]   Deep Cuts by Holly Brickley (2025) [59:49] My Friends by Fredrik Backman (2025) [59:51] The Heart's Invisible Furies by John Boyne (2017) [1:05:51] James by Percival Everett (2024) [1:08:07]  Top Podcast Episodes Ep. 199: Best Books of 2025 (So Far) with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) and Susie (@NovelVisits) Ep. 184: Best Books of 2024 Genre Awards with Susie (@NovelVisits) Ep. 185: Winter 2025 Book Preview with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) Ep. 205: Fall 2025 Book Preview with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) Ep. 192: Spring 2025 Book Preview with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) Ep. 198: Best of Thrillers with Anderson McKean of Page & Palette (@PagePalette) Ep. 188: Best of Fantasy with Chrissie (@ChrissieWhitley) Ep. 193: Clare Leslie Hall (author of Broken Country) Ep. 187: State of the Industry in 2024 with Kathleen Schmidt (@KathMSchmidt), author of the Publishing Confidential Substack Ep. 208: Best of Narrative Nonfiction with Elizabeth Barnhill of Fabled Bookshop (@FabledBookshop)

In Ep. 212, Sarah and Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books start wrapping up 2025 with the first of the two year-end episodes: Best Books of 2025 Superlatives. In this episode, they share their picks for over 25 superlative categories, including Weirdest 5-Star Read of 2025, The Book That Made Us Furious, Most Underrated Gem, Too Dark Even for Me, and so much more! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Highlights Our best books of the year from over 25 categories, including: My First 5-Star 2025 Release of the Year Weirdest 5-Star Read of 2025 The Book That Made Us Furious Most Underrated Gem Most Perplexing Book Best Book to Be Made into a Reality Series Too Dark Even for Me Most Crushingly Depressing Book I Loved Best Horror Book in the Victorian-Feminist-Gory Category The Crime Novel That Hit Me Hardest Emotionally 2025 Superlatives [7:32] Sarah Penitence by Kristin Koval (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [7:58] What Kind of Paradise by Janelle Brown (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[12:38] Culpability by Bruce Holsinger (2025)| Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:22]  Maggie; a Man and a Woman Walk Into a Bar by Katie Yee (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:43]  The Slip by Lucas Schaefer (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:25]  Audition by Katie Kitamura (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [24:22]  The Dinner Party by Viola Van de Sandt (2025)  | Amazon | Bookshop.org[29:25]  Fox by Joyce Carol Oates (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:35] When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzén (US release 2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:37]  Dominion by Addie E. Citchens (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:30] What Happened to the McCrays? by Tracey Lange (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:53] Dream State by Eric Puchner (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:52] Heart the Lover by Lily King (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:06] The Boomerang by Robert Bailey (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [54:38] Awake by Jen Hatmaker (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [57:07] Catherine What Kind of Paradise by Janelle Brown (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[9:58] The Staircase in the Woods by Chuck Wendig (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[14:37] The Compound by Aisling Rawle (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:31] Murderland by Caroline Fraser (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:53] Heart, Be At Peace by Donal Ryan (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:07] The Names by Florence Knapp (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:13] Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[38:31] The Correspondent by Virginia Evans (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:12] Sweet Fury by Sash Bischoff (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:45] Muse of Nightmares (Strange the Dreamer, 2) by Laini Taylor (2018) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:40] Let's Call Her Barbie by Renée Rosen (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:39] Victorian Psycho by Virginia Feito (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [55:31] The Death of Us by Abigail Dean (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:00:18] Other Books Mentioned Defending Jacob by William Landay (2012) [8:59]  All That Is Mine I Carry With Me by William Landay (2023) [9:00] Pretty Things by Janelle Brown (2020) [10:40]  I'm Thinking of Ending Things by Iain Reid (2016) [30:25]  The Spinning Heart by Donal Ryan (2012) [33:08] Buckeye by Patrick Ryan (2025) [45:20]  The Connellys of County Down by Tracey Lange (2023) [45:39]  Tender Is the Night by F. Scott Fitzgerald (1934) [46:13] The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller (2021) [48:34] Shotgun Lovesongs by Nickolas Butler (2013) [48:35]   Writers and Lovers by Lily King (2020) [51:32]

In Episode 211, Sarah and Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books catch up on the 14 new releases they shared in the Fall 2025 Book Preview, now that they've read them — or at least tried to!  They share their reading stats and discuss which books worked and which didn't…and why.   This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Highlights Catherine's success rate bounces back from summer. Sarah's fall reading felt kind of "meh" despite a higher success rate. They also share their combined 2025 Preview success rates. Their fall pick ratings were all over the place, with only one DNF, but books range from 2 to 4 stars, with Catherine boasting the sole 5-star book! A couple of books suffered from an identity crisis, while others were surprise successes.  Catherine's assignment for next season is to check the page count and look for authors following-up award-winning books. They name their best and worst books picks for fall! Books We Read Before the Preview [5:57]  SEPTEMBER Sarah's Picks The Wilderness by Angela Flournoy (September 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[6:01] Fall 2025 Circle Back [7:23] AUGUST Sarah's Picks Dominion by Addie E. Citchens (August 19) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [7:29] We Loved to Run by Stephanie Reents (August 26) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[13:38] Catherine's Pick Katabasis by R. F. Kuang (August 26) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:59] Other Books Mentioned Culpability by Bruce Holsinger (2025) [9:28]  Inferno by Dante (c. 1321) [11:29]   Babel by R. F. Kuang (2022) [13:16]  Yellowface by R. F. Kuang (2023) [13:25] The Ensemble by Aja Gabel (2018) [16:12] SEPTEMBER Sarah's Picks Buckeye by Patrick Ryan (September 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:51] Hot Desk by Laura Dickerman (September 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [27:30] Underspin by E. Y. Zhao (September 23) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:06] Catherine's Picks The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny by Kiran Desai (September 23) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [17:12]  Guilty by Definition by Susie Dent (US release: September 30) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:01] Other Books Mentioned The Flatshare by Beth O'Leary (2019) [28:07]  OCTOBER Catherine's Picks Workhorse by Caroline Palmer (October 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:24] The Wayfinder by Adam Johnson (October 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[34:49] Other Books Mentioned The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger (2003) [32:43]  The Orphan Master's Son by Adam Johnson (2012) [38:35]  The Inheritance of Loss by Kiran Desai (2006) [39:03]  NOVEMBER Sarah's Pick Lightbreakers by Aja Gabel (November 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:37] Catherine's Pick Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino (November 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[42:48] Other Books Mentioned The Ensemble by Aja Gabel (2018) [44:43]  DECEMBER Catherine's Pick The Day I Lost You by Ruth Mancini (US release: December 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:49]

In Ep. 210, Laura McGrath, author of the popular Substack newsletter, textCrunch, joins Sarah to take a sharp look at the State of the Publishing Industry in 2025. This packed episode covers a high-level look at the top sales and book trends, as well as Laura's insights into the future of the book world for 2026. Also, Laura shares her favorite books of 2025! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Highlights Laura McGrath's book Middlemen (publishing April 28, 2026) is available for pre-order here: Amazon | Bookshop.org  Fiction's performance in the sales charts since 2019. The trend seen in nonfiction over the past few years and where it may be headed. The continued debate about whether 2025 has a "Book of the Year." Surprising sales trends in religious books and imprints. How self-publishing still brings us successful authors. What Laura sees in her research that she thinks publishers should be paying attention to. A bit about the current outlook for mid-list and debut authors. Laura's predictions for 2026 book trends. State of the Publishing Industry in 2025 HIGH-LEVEL OVERVIEW [2:45]  Onyx Storm (Empyrean, 3) by Rebecca Yarros (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [7:49] Fourth Wing (series, 1) by Rebecca Yarros | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:58]  The Women by Kristin Hannah (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [9:21] James by Percival Everett (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [9:59] The God of the Woods by Liz Moore (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [10:02] Flashlight by Susan Choi (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [10:25] The Dream Hotel by Laila Lalami (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [11:58] The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [12:04] A Guardian and a Thief by Leela Tapryal (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [12:31] The Names by Florence Knapp (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [13:19] Audition by Katie Kitamura (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [13:57] The Wilderness by Angela Flournoy (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [13:59] 2025 BOOK SALES & TRENDS [14:41]   The Martian by Andy Weir (2011) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:03]  The River Is Waiting by Wally Lamb (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [21:38]   The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [21:40]   Heart the Lover by Lily King (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:42]  BIG BOOK STORIES OF 2025 [30:18]  Catch-22 by Joseph Heller (1961) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [33:30]  V by Thomas Pynchon (1963) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [33:32]  Portnoy's Complaint by Philip Roth (1969) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [33:41]  The Intuitionist by Colson Whitehead (1999) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [33:47]  The Mothers by Brit Bennett (2016) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [33:54]  2026 PUBLISHING PREDICTIONS [42:29]  Audition by Katie Kitamura (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [4:41] Pick a Color by Souvankham Thammavongsa (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:55]  Discipline by Larissa Pham (January 20, 2026) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:01]  Under Water by Tara Menon (March 17, 2026) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:07]  Laura's 3 Favorites Books of 2025 [45:31]  Culpability by Bruce Holsinger (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:17]  Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghey (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[47:59]  The Wilderness by Angela Flournoy (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [49:38] Other Links The New York Times | The Dogged, Irrational Persistence of Literary Fictionby Gerald Howard The Walrus | Publishing Has a Gambling Problem by Tajja Isen Time | How Taylor Jenkins Reid Became a Publishing Powerhouse by Lucy Feldman Book Riot | How Much Does Genre Matter to Readers? (Podcast Episode) Public Books | Who Cares About Literary Prizes? by Alexander Manshel, Laura B. Mcgrath, & J. D. Porter

In Episode 209, Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) and Chrissie (@ChrissieWhitley) join Sarah for the 5th annual Debuts Special! They're sharing their reading stats for debuts this year, along with their favorite debuts, new and backlist — so far for 2025. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Highlights How debuts from 2025 compare to those from previous years. A full breakdown of Sarah's, Catherine's, and Chrissie's 2025 debut-related stats. Featured debuts, split into two categories: Favorite Debuts of 2025 (so far) Favorite Backlist Debuts Read in 2025 Favorite Debuts of 2025 (so far) [9:20] Sarah Maggie; or, A Man and a Woman Walk Into a Bar by Katie Yee (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [10:27] The Slip by Lucas Schaefer (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:54] Great Black Hope by Rob Franklin (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:12] Catherine The Correspondent by Virginia Evans (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:04] The Names by Florence Knapp (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:50] Deadly Animals by Marie Tierney (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:30] Chrissie Homeseeking by Karissa Chen (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [16:39] Awake in the Floating City by Susanna Kwan (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[26:34] Deep Cuts by Holly Brickley (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:53] Other Books Mentioned The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff (2025) [10:09] The Compound by Aisling Rowle (2025) [10:11] Slanting Towards the Sea by Lidija Hilje (2025) [10:14] Bitter Sweet by Hattie Williams (2025) [10:17] Dominion by Addie E. Citchens (2025) [10:19] Dept. of Speculation by Jenny Offill (2014) [12:48]  You Could Make This Place Beautiful by Maggie Smith (2024) [12:56]  Pachinko by Min Jin Lee (2017) [18:47]  Friday Night Lights by H. G. Bissinger (1990) [20:49]  The Knockout Queen by Rufi Thorpe (2020) [22:08]  All the Water in the World by Eiren Caffall (2025) [28:58]  Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel (2014) [30:36]  The Bonfire of the Vanities by Tom Wolfe (1987) [34:15]  Favorite Backlist Debuts Read in 2025 [39:09] Sarah I Might Be In Trouble by Daniel Aleman (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:15] Out of Love by Hazel Hayes (2021) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:26] Catherine In the Shadow of the Banyan by Vaddey Ratner (2012) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[42:45] Good Morning, Midnight by Lily Brooks-Dalton (2016) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:47] Chrissie Fruiting Bodies by Kathryn Harlan (2022) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:04] The Undertaking by Audrey Magee (2014) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:31] Other Books Mentioned Music of the Ghosts by Vaddey Ratner (2017) [44:58]  Our Wives Under the Sea by Julia Armfield (2022) [46:14]  The Light Pirate by Lily Brooks-Dalton (2022) [49:08]  The Colony by Audrey Magee (2022) [53:26]  Additional Books Mentioned Victim by Andrew Boryga (2024) [3:39]  Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke (2004) [6:54] 

Ep. 208 brings the third installment of our "Best of…" series. Elizabeth Barnhill of Fabled Bookshop joined Sarah for the Best of Narrative Nonfiction, sharing her ALL-TIME TOP books in this genre. Plus, she brings a few popular nonfiction reads that didn't work for her.⁠ This episode is chock-full of fantastic book recommendations to get you ready for Nonfiction November or just your next nonfiction pick. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Highlights How Elizabeth got started with narrative nonfiction. How the pull of "real stories" has her returning to this category again and again. Her favorite sub-genres and what doesn't work for her. Elizabeth picks a book from her list that would be a good starter book for those new to the genre. All books mentioned in this episode are linked through Fabled Bookshop or Libro.FM. If you decide to purchase, we'd love for you to use our Fabled links in the show notes — if your budget allows.  As a bonus, use promo code SARAH at checkout on Fabled's website for 10% off your order! Prefer audio? You can find the titles on Libro.fm and select Fabled as the store you'd like to support. You can also find a list of Elizabeth's books from this episode on both Fabled's website. Elizabeth's Favorite Narrative Nonfiction Sub-Genres [9:53] NATURAL DISASTER STORIES In the Kingdom of Ice by Hampton Sides (2014) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [10:42] The Children's Blizzard by David Laskin (2004) | Fabled | Libro.FM [11:13] The Vortex by Scott Carney and Jason Miklian (2022) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [11:29] The Indifferent Stars Above by Daniel James Brown (2009) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [12:18] What Stands in a Storm by Kim Cross (2015) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [13:11] Isaac's Storm by Erik Larson (1999) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [13:33] LITTLE-KNOWN FACTS One Summer by Bill Bryson (2013) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [14:24] Pappyland by Wright Thompson (2020) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [15:05] The Facemaker by Lindsey Fitzharris (2022) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [15:43] POP SCIENCE Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport (2019) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [16:54] The Light Eaters by Zoë Schlanger (2024) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [17:50] Replaceable You by Mary Roach (2025) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [18:35] HISTORY TOLD IN INTERESTING WAYS Say Nothing by Patrick Radden Keefe (2018) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [19:03] The Great Halifax Explosion by John U. Bacon (2017) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [20:21] The Big Rich by Bryan Burrough (2009) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [21:17] In Harm's Way by Doug Stanton (2001) | Fabled  [21:43] Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand (2010) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [22:11] ORDINARY PEOPLE MEMOIRS Red Notice by Bill Browder (2015) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [22:32] Home Cooking by Laurie Colwin (1988) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [23:06] GOTCHA / PEOPLE BEHAVING BADLY Bad Blood by John Carreyrou (2018) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [24:22] Bad City by Paul Pringle (2022) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [24:24] Bully Market by Jamie Fiore Higgins (2022) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [24:31] Elizabeth's All-Time Top Narrative Nonfiction [26:07] Empty Mansions by Bill Dedman and Paul Clark Newell, Jr. (2013) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [26:56] The Worst Hard Time by Timothy Egan (2006) | Fabled | Libro.FM [28:07] The Radium Girls by Kate Moore (2016) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [29:13] Destiny of the Republic by Candice Millard (2011) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [30:57] The Deepest South of All by Richard Grant (2020) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [33:03] Running with Sherman by Christopher McDougall (2019) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [35:01] All Over but the Shoutin' by Rick Bragg (1991) | Fabled | Libro.FM   [37:41] Sudden Sea by R. A. Scotti (2003) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [39:52] The Day the World Came to Town by Jim DeFede (2002) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [43:09] High-Profile Narrative Nonfiction That She Didn't Love [47:37]  In Cold Blood by Truman Capote (1965) | Fabled | Libro.FM  [47:52] When the Sea Came Alive by Garrett M. Graff (2024) | Fabled | Libro.FM [49:19] Challenger by Adam Higginbotham (2024) | Fabled | Libro.FM [50:48] Other Books Mentioned Finding Flora by Elinor Florence (2025) [4:51] Undaunted Courage by Stephen E. Ambrose (1996) [5:21] The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown (2013) [12:22] Patty Reed's Doll by Rachel K. Laurgaard (1956) [12:59]   In Light of All Darkness by Kim Cross (2023) [13:15] The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt (2024) [17:45] Grunt by Mary Roach (2016) [18:27] Family Happiness by Laurie Colwin (1984) [23:48] Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis (2018) [25:10] I'll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara (2018) [25:39] A Fever in the Heartland by Timothy Egan (2023) [28:57] The Immortal Irishman by Timothy Egan (2016) [29:02] Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt (1994) [33:48] Natchez Burning (Natchez Burning, 1 and Penn Cage, 4) by Greg Iles (2014) [34:49] Born to Run by Christopher McDougall (2009) [35:21] My Southern Journey by Rick Bragg (2015) [39:03] Reef Road by Deborah Goodrich Royce (2023) [41:45] A Hundred Summers by Beatriz Williams (2013) [42:33] The Only Place in the Sky by Garrett M. Graff (2019) [45:44] The Devil Reached Toward the Sky by Garrett M. Graff (2025) [50:41] Midnight in Chernobyl by Adam Higginbotham (2019) [42:33]

In Episode 207, Sarah chats with author Regina Black about her newest novel, August Lane. A second-chance romance about two people healing from trauma, August Lane is set in Arcadia, Arkansas, with themes of family, generational scars, and a unique thread of Black country music. Regina also talks about how she got into writing Romance on top of her job as a law school administrator, how long she's been writing, and what spurred her on to seeking publication. Plus, Regina shares some of her top book recommendations! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Highlights Books by Regina Black: The Art of Scandal and August Lane A brief, spoiler-free overview of August Lane.  How long Regina has been writing and what moved her to seeking publication. Her unique journey to finding an agent What exactly does it mean to have a likable character? The way Regina uses and leans into typical romance tropes. Her decision to step away from social media to write like "no one's watching." A bit about the novel she's working on. Regina talks about how a lot of writers become lawyers rather than the reverse. Regina's Book Recommendations [34:41] Two OLD Books She Loves The Space Between Worlds (The Space Between Worlds, 1) by Micaiah Johnson (2020) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:57] Indigo by Beverly Jenkins (1996) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [36:54]   Two NEW Books She Loves The Princess and the P.I. by Nikki Payne (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[38:59] Black in Blues:How a Color Tells the Story of My People by Imani Perry (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:03] Other Books Mentioned South to America by Imani Perry (2022) [41:14]  One Book She DIDN'T Love Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen (1813) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:41] Other Books Mentioned Persuasion by Jane Austen (1817) [44:54]  One NEW RELEASE She's Excited About Where the Wild Flowers Grow by Terah Shelton Harris (February 17, 2026) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:36] Books From the Discussion Seven Days in June by Tia Williams (2021) [7:34]

Please listen to the accompanying (less than 4 minute) episode for an important update about the Sarah's Bookshelves Live podcast. Thank you, Sarah

For Episode 206, fellow podcaster Jason Blitman, host of the Gays Reading podcast, joins Sarah to go behind the scenes of producing book festivals. They talk about how he came to reading later in his life and how his journey as a reader led him to his current role. Also, they discuss how he approaches author interviews. Plus, Jason shares his book recommendations.  This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Highlights Jason's experience with becoming a "later in life reader" How Jason got his start in podcasting and started the Gays Reading podcast The method and madness behind choosing which authors to feature Jason turns the tables on Sarah and asks her an interview question With 2 different book festivals under his belt, Jason shares what producing these events entails How authors and special guests are chosen for book festivals Managing authors' expectations, difficulties, and comfort levels at these large events Plus, ALL of Jason's book recommendations are from LGBTQIA+ authors! Jason's Book Recommendations [39:38] Two OLD Books He Loves A Star is Bored by Byron Lane (2020) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:00] Still Life by Sarah Winman (2021) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [42:01] Other Books Mentioned Tin Man by Sarah Winman (2017) [43:32]   Two NEW Books He Loves Disappoint Me by Nicola Dinan (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:02] The Sunflower Boys by Sam Wachman (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:26] One Book He DIDN'T Love Blackouts by Justin Torres (2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:48] Other Books Mentioned Kiss of the Spider Woman by Manuel Puig (1976) [50:14]  One NEW RELEASE He's Excited About Lean Cat, Savage Cat by Lauren John Joseph (February 17, 2026) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:40] Books From the Discussion and Other Links The Slip by Lucas Schaefer (2025) [1:01] Gays Reading | Season 4, Episode 36: Lucas Schaefer (The Slip) feat. Mike Curato, Guest Gay Reader [1:04]  We Begin at the End by Chris Whitaker (2021) [1:39]  Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett (2022) [1:48]  The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien (1937) [3:29]  To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee (1960) [4:03]  How I Paid for College by Marc Acito (2004) [5:10]  A Visit from the Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan (2010) [6:11]  Find Me by André Aciman (2019) [7:31]  Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman (2007) [7:34]  The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han (2009) [8:09] The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai (2018) [8:37]  The Nix by Nathan Hill (2016) [8:54]  Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi (2016) [8:57]  The Forest of Vanishing Stars by Kristin Harmel (2021) [11:24]  Mary Jane by Jessica Anya Blau (2021) [11:50] Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin (2022) [12:55] The Rachel Incident by Caroline O'Donoghue (2023) [14:48] Real Americans by Rachel Khong (2024) [37:20] Charlotte's Web by E. B. White (1952) [38:41] Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes written by Eric Litwin and illustrated by James Dean (2008) [38:43]

Welcome to the Fall 2025 Book Preview with Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books!   Today, Catherine and Sarah share 14 of their most anticipated books releasing from mid-August through December.   This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Announcement One of the many benefits to supporting the podcast through either our Patreon Community or our Substack Community (both for just $7/mo) is that you get access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and I share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that we did not share in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available and sign up here for Patreon and here for Substack! Highlights A lightning round of some big releases coming this fall that we're not featuring in today's preview. Odd fall pickings meant they both chose to feature 7 books each. Catherine's choices are a grab bag mix: academia, mysteries, a love story, and a snarky lighter read. Of Sarah's seven books, there are 3 debut authors and 1 repeat author — and 2 sports books! Some of Sarah's picks slide her right from sad girl summer into sad girl fall.  Sarah has already read and rated one of her picks — and it was a success! Plus, their #1 picks for fall. Big Fall Releases Wreck by Catherine Newman (October 28) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:15] King Sorrow by Joe Hill (October 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:22] Son of the Morning by Akwaeke Emezi (November 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:25] What We Can Know by Ian McEwan (September 23) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:29] Palaver by Bryan Washington (November 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:32] Replaceable You by Mary Roach (September 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:35] Circle of Days by Ken Follett (September 23) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:51] People Like Us by Jason Mott (August 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:14] The Black Wolf by Louise Penny (October 28) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:33]  All the Way to the River by Elizabeth Gilbert (September 9) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:38]  Queen Esther by John Irving (November 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:46]  Hot Wax by M. L. Rio (September 9) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:02]  Cursed Daughters by Oyinkan Braithwaite (November 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:51]  Among the Burning Flowers by Samantha Shannon (September 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:55]  Other Books Mentioned Sandwich by Catherine Newman (2024) [1:18]  The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett (1989) [2:06]  Hell of a Book by Jason Mott (2021) [2:20]  If We Were Villains by M. L. Rio (2017) [3:06]  The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon (2019) [4:04]  Fall 2025 Book Preview [7:26] August Sarah's Picks Dominion by Addie E. Citchens (August 19) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:09] We Loved to Run by Stephanie Reents (August 26) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[14:09] Catherine's Pick Katabasis by R. F. Kuang (August 26) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:19] Other Books Mentioned God Spare the Girls by Kelsey McKinney (2021) [9:49] Search by Michelle Huneven (2022) [9:58]   The Secret Lives of Church Ladies by Deesha Philyaw (2020) [10:08] Olga Dies Dreaming by Xóchitl González (2022) [10:12]   Inferno by Dante (c. 1321) [11:36]   Babel by R. F. Kuang (2022) [13:30]  Yellowface by R. F. Kuang (2023) [13:32] Headshot by Rita Bullwinkel (2024) [14:57]  The Rachel Incident by Caroline O'Donoghue (2023) [14:59]  Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett (2022) [15:53]  The Mothers by Brit Bennett (2016) [15:54]  Good For a Girl by Lauren Fleshman (2023) [16:20]  The Longest Race by Kara Goucher (2023) [16:22]  September Sarah's Picks Buckeye by Patrick Ryan (September 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:17] Hot Desk by Laura Dickerman (September 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [24:31] The Wilderness by Angela Flournoy (September 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[29:23] Underspin by E. Y. Zhao (September 23) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:14] Catherine's Picks The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny by Kiran Desai (September 23) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [17:08]  Guilty by Definition by Susie Dent (US release: September 30) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:07] Other Books Mentioned Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin (2022) [18:15]  Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano (2023) [20:05]  Slanting Towards the Sea by Lidija Hilje (2025) [20:38]  The Flatshare by Beth O'Leary (2019) [24:46]  Younger by Pamela Redmond Satran (2005) [26:10] (The book upon which the television series is based.) Writers & Lovers by Lily King (2020) [26:12]  The Turner House by Angela Flournoy (2015) [29:49]  Headshot by Rita Bullwinkel (2024) [38:49]  October Catherine's Picks Workhorse by Caroline Palmer (October 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:25] The Wayfinder by Adam Johnson (October 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:14] November Sarah's Pick Lightbreakers by Aja Gabel (November 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:31] Catherine's Pick Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino (November 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[40:02] Other Books Mentioned The Ensemble by Aja Gabel (2018) [43:57]  December Catherine's Pick The Day I Lost You by Ruth Mancini (US release: December 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:19] Other Books Mentioned The Woman on the Ledge by Ruth Mancini (2024) [47:22] 

In Episode 204, Sarah and Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books catch up on the 12 new releases they shared in the Summer 2025 Book Preview, now that they've read them — or at least tried to!  They share their reading stats, chat about what worked — and discuss which books didn't work and why.    This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Announcement One of the many benefits to supporting the podcast through either our Patreon Community or our Substack Community (both for just $7/mo) is that you get access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and I share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that we did not share in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available and sign up here for Patreon and here for Substack! Highlights After Catherine's 100% success rate this spring, she encountered a near-full reversal of fortune this summer. Sarah's summer reading improved dramatically over her spring selections. Between Sarah and Catherine, there are several DNFs, one 5-star book, one 3-star book, and a scattering of books in the 4-star range. Sarah's summer circle back theme seems to be "Why aren't more people reading these books?!" Meanwhile, someone please hand Catherine MORE in her books and with a heavy side of PLOT. They name the best and worst books picks for summer! Books Read Before the Preview [5:09]  June Sarah's Pick The Compound by Aisling Rawle (June 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:14] Other Books Mentioned Lord of the Flies by William Golding (1954) [7:03]  FantasticLand by Mike Bockoven (2016) [7:06]  July Sarah's Pick Bitter Sweet by Hattie Williams (July 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [8:24] Other Books Mentioned The Rachel Incident by Caroline O'Donoghue (2023) [9:31]  Adelaide by Genevieve Wheeler (2023) [9:34]  Summer 2025 Circle Back [10:59] June Catherine's Picks The Catch by Yrsa Daley-Ward (June 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:08] King of Ashes by S. A. Cosby (June 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:43] I'll Be Right Here by Amy Bloom (June 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:15] Other Books Mentioned Razorblade Tears by S. A. Cosby (2021) [20:06]  All the Sinners Bleed by S. A. Cosby  (2023) [20:08]  July Sarah's Picks Slanting Towards the Sea by Lidija Hilje (July 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[13:54] The Rabbit Club by Christopher J. Yates (July 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[25:07] Her Many Faces by Nicci Cloke (July 15) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:56] August Lane by Regina Black (July 29) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:14] Catherine's Picks The Satisfaction Café by Kathy Wang (July 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:27]  Our Last Resort by Clémence Michallon (July 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[39:50] Other Books Mentioned Black Chalk by Christopher J. Yates (2013) [25:12]  Grist Mill Road by Christopher J. Yates (2018) [25:18] Craigslist Confessional by Helena Dea Bala (2020) [33:52]  Imposter Syndrome by Kathy Wang (2021) [34:39]  Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll (2023) [37:39] The Quiet Tenant by Clémence Michallon (2023) [40:02]  The Art of Scandal by Regina Black (2023) [44:01]  Seven Days in June by Tia Williams (2021) [46:47]  July Catherine's Pick The Frequency of Living Things by Nick Fuller Googins (August 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:10]