What to Read Next Podcast l Book Recommendation Show

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.This episode originally aired 9/3/2024 If you’ve ever burned yourself out trying to make the holidays perfect, this episode will hit home. A Bright Side of Christmas by Morgan Elizabeth reminded me that joy doesn’t come from doing it all — it comes from slowing down and setting boundaries.In this re-air from the What to Read Next vault, I revisit my conversation with author Morgan Elizabeth — queen of small-town, feel-good rom-coms with early-2000s movie vibes. Before our chat, I share my reflections on A Bright Side of Christmas, a story about Wren, a teacher who embodies the Christmas spirit but loses herself to people-pleasing and burnout. This one hit me hard because I’ve been there — learning that saying “no” can be an act of self-care.Then, Morgan joins me to talk about her journey from blogger to bestselling rom-com author, her signature “vibes only” writing style, and why her books feel like pumpkin-spice-scented serotonin. If you’re craving small-town romance, pop-culture nostalgia, and cozy holiday feels, this episode is for you.📚 Books MentionedA Bright Side of Christmas by Morgan Elizabeth — Buy on Amazon | Holiday Rom-Com | Small Town, Teacher/Grumpy Neighbor | KU ✅Tis the Season for Revenge by Morgan Elizabeth — Buy on Amazon | Holiday Rom-Com | Legally Blonde Vibes | KU ✅ / Audio ✅Cruel Summer by Morgan Elizabeth — Buy on Amazon | Rom-Com | Mean Girls Inspired | KU ✅ / Audio ✅Passenger Princess by Morgan Elizabeth — Buy on Amazon | Rom-Com | Grumpy Bodyguard / Road Trip | KU ✅ / Audio ✅If This Was a Movie by Morgan Elizabeth — Buy on Amazon | Holiday Rom-Com | Friends to Lovers, Hallmark Vibes | KU ✅ / Audio ✅Marriage and Masti by Nisha Sharma — Buy on Amazon | Contemporary Romance | Enemies to Lovers | Audio ✅Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood — Buy on Amazon | STEMinist Romance | People-Pleaser Heroine | Audio ✅Only for the Week by Natasha Bishop — Buy on Amazon | Contemporary Romance | Vacation Fling | Audio ✅Out on a Limb by Hannah Bonam-Young — Buy on Amazon | Emotional Contemporary | Grumpy/Sunshine, Single Mom | Audio ✅⏰ Timestamps & Topics[00:00] — Why I’m re-airing this episode & my reflection on A Bright Side of Christmas[02:00] — How Wren’s burnout reminded me of my own people-pleasing years[04:00] — Morgan’s rom-com universe and the comfort of her small-town worlds[06:00] — Morgan’s journey from mom blogger to full-time author[08:00] — How “vibes-only” writing keeps her stories fun and cozy[09:00] — Where new readers should start with Morgan’s books[12:00] — The story behind...

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.What happens when your mom spies on the neighbor—and he might be a murderer? Author Sheila Roberts joins me to chat about The Man Next Door, a cozy mystery–meets–women’s fiction read filled with humor, heart, and multigenerational relationships.In this episode, I sit down with longtime author Sheila Roberts to talk about her writing journey—from regency romances to her modern blend of women’s fiction and mystery. We chat about the joy of writing multi-generational women, the wisdom of aging, and how stories can help us face fears and grow stronger. Sheila also shares three books she’s loving right now, including a mouth-watering Italian escape and a thought-provoking AI thriller.📚Books Mentioned:The Man Next Door by Sheila Roberts — Buy on Amazon | Women’s Fiction / Mystery / HumorThe Secret of Orange Blossom Cake by Rachel Linden — Buy on Amazon | Magical Realism / Women’s Fiction | Audio ✅The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley by Courtney Walsh — Buy on Amazon | Contemporary Fiction / Women’s Fiction | Audio ✅Culpability by Bruce Holsinger— Buy on Amazon | Contemporary Fiction / Thriller | Audio ✅⏰Time Stamps:[00:00] – Meet Sheila Roberts and how she became an author[03:00] – From regency romance to modern women’s fiction[06:00] – Writing strong heroines and facing fears[10:00] – How Sheila plots her stories (and keeps control!)[12:00] – The inspiration behind The Man Next Door[15:00] – Writing older women and multi-generational stories[18:00] – The joy and wisdom of aging[20:00] – Sheila’s current reading life[21:00] – Book recommendations you’ll want to add to your TBRJoin the ConversationSubscribe to our Substack for exclusive recommendations. (wtrnblog.substack.com)Follow & Subscribe: What to Read Next Blog | YouTube: What to Read NextSubscribe & leave a review! Mentioned in this episode:Advertise with UsDo you have a book or service that you want to share with our engaged audience? Check out our opportunities to sponsor with us.Advertise With Us🎧 Try Audible Today I love Audible for their original novellas, binge-worthy Plus Catalog (like Deanna Raybourn’s Veronica Speedwell series), and their amazing audiobook sales. Currently, Audible is offering a special promotion for new members and returning listeners. Audible

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.I’m declaring the holiday season officially open—starting November 1. After a tough year and a long reading slump, I decided to chase joy early this year with one thing that never fails to cheer me up: holiday romances.In this kickoff episode of my holiday reading season, I share why I’m leaning hard into cozy Christmas books this November, how I’m rebuilding my relationship with joy (and Christmas itself), and what I’ve been reading on my own mini reading retreat. Then, bestselling author Lauren Blakely joins me to talk about her newest audio-first release Merry Little Kissmas and the fan-favorite My Favorite Holidate. We chat about her writing process, full-cast audiobooks, and why she loves creating spicy, escapist holiday romances that feel like “Hallmark movies with heat.”📚Books Mentioned:Merry Little Kissmas by Lauren Blakely — Buy on Amazon | Holiday Romance | KU ✅ / Audio ✅My Favorite Holidate by Lauren Blakely — Buy on Amazon | Holiday Romance | Audio ✅The Bright Side of Christmas by Morgan Elizabeth — Buy on Amazon | Holiday Romance | KU ✅The Holiday Hookup List by Alexis Daria — Buy on Amazon | Holiday Romance | Audio ✅Battle of the Bookstores by Ali Brady — Buy on Amazon | Contemporary Romance | Audio ✅Boys of Riverside by Thomas Fuller — Buy on Amazon | Nonfiction / Sports | Audio ✅The Art Thief by Michael Finkel — Buy on Amazon | True Crime / Art Heist | Audio ✅⏰ Time Stamps [00:00] – Why I’m starting my holiday season early[01:00] – Rebuilding my relationship with Christmas and joy[03:00] – My holiday reading retreat and first books of the season[04:00] – Interview with Lauren Blakely begins[06:00] – Lauren’s backlist and audio-first process[10:00] – My Favorite Holidate and holiday escapism[12:00] – Merry Little Kissmas preview (grumpy hero, fake dating, hockey!)[15:00] – Lauren’s recent reads & audiobook recs[18:00] – Wrap-up and where to find Lauren onlineJoin the ConversationSubscribe to our Substack for exclusive recommendations. (wtrnblog.substack.com)Follow & Subscribe: What to Read Next Blog | YouTube: What to Read NextSubscribe & leave a review! Mentioned in this episode:Advertise with UsDo you have a book or service that you want to share with our engaged audience? Check out our opportunities to sponsor with us.a...

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.Toxic friendships, secret games, and deadly consequences. Alissa Lee’s debut takes domestic suspense into dark academia territory — and I couldn’t put it down, even at work.In this episode, I sit down with debut author Alissa Lee to chat about her upcoming novel — a twisty, character-driven story about five college friends whose secret game spirals into betrayal and murder. We talk about how her background working for the CIA, Capitol Hill, and Big Tech shaped her storytelling; why long-term friendships inspired her book; and how community and writing groups became her creative lifeline.If you love dark academia, female friendship drama, and slow-burn suspense, this conversation is for you.📚 Books MentionedWith Friends Like These by Alissa Lee — Buy on Amazon | Domestic Suspense / Dark Academia / Female Friendship | Audio ✅ (coming November 4, 2025)Sea Wife by Amity Gaige — Buy on Amazon | Domestic Suspense / Psychological Fiction | Audio ✅Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy — Buy on Amazon | Literary Thriller / Atmospheric Suspense | Audio ✅Broken Country by Claire Leslie Hall — Buy on Amazon | Suspense / Love Story / Gothic Vibes | Audio ✅🕰️ Timestamps[00:00] Meet debut author Alissa Lee[01:00] From CIA summers to Capitol Hill: her fascinating career path[05:00] How maternity leave reignited her passion for writing[07:00] The inspiration behind her debut: toxic friendships and authenticity[10:00] Her writing process and legal-minded plotting style[12:00] Why finding a writing community changed everything[14:00] What Alissa’s reading now — and her mini masterclass in suspenseJoin the ConversationSubscribe to our Substack for exclusive recommendations. (wtrnblog.substack.com)Follow & Subscribe: What to Read Next Blog | YouTube: What to Read NextSubscribe & leave a review! Mentioned in this episode:Advertise with UsDo you have a book or service that you want to share with our engaged audience? Check out our opportunities to sponsor with us.Advertise With Us🎧 Try Audible Today I love Audible for their original novellas, binge-worthy Plus Catalog (like Deanna Raybourn’s Veronica Speedwell series), and their amazing audiobook sales. Currently, Audible is offering a special promotion for new members and returning listeners. Audible

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.This episode was originally published on March 11, 2023If your idea of a cozy night includes a glass of wine and a fictional murder—this episode’s for you.In this Thriller Starter Pack episode, I chat with Chelsea and Olivia from Thrillers by the Bookclub to help new readers dip their toes into the dark, twisty world of thrillers. From cults to cold cases, we share the best gateway thrillers—whether you love fast-paced mysteries, eerie slow burns, or a touch of romantic suspense. If you’ve been living on romance novels and want something that’ll make your heart race for a different reason, this is your essential starter guide.📚 Books Mentioned I’ll Be You by Janelle Brown — Buy on Amazon | Psychological Thriller | Audio ✅This Might Hurt by Stephanie Wrobel — Buy on Amazon | Cult Thriller | Audio ✅The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell — Buy on Amazon | Domestic Suspense | Audio ✅The Last Housewife by Ashley Winstead — Buy on Amazon | Dark Academia / Cult Thriller | Audio ✅Nothing Important Happened Today by Will Carver — Buy on Amazon | Literary Thriller / Cult | Audio ✅ The Overnight Guest by Heather Gudenkauf — Buy on Amazon | Psychological Thriller | Audio ✅Hello, Transcriber by Hannah Morrissey — Buy on Amazon | Romantic Suspense / Police Procedural | Audio ✅Beneath the Stairs by Jennifer Fawcett — Buy on Amazon | Paranormal Suspense | Audio ✅Catch Her When She Falls by Allison Buccola — Buy on Amazon | Mystery / Legal Thriller | Audio ✅Dead End Girl by L.T. Vargus & Tim McBain — Buy on Amazon | FBI Procedural / Crime Thriller | KU ✅ / Audio ✅⏱️Timestamps:[00:00] Meet Chelsea & Olivia[00:08] Why Thrillers by the Bookclub Exists[00:12] Laura’s Confession: New to Thrillers[00:13] Chelsea’s Cult-Themed Thriller Recs[00:21] Olivia’s Starter Thrillers for Every Reader[00:31] Final Thoughts & Where to Find ThemConnect with Thriller by the Book Club Podcast -https://www.instagram.com/thrillersbythebookclubpod/Join the ConversationSubscribe to our Substack for exclusive recommendations. (wtrnblog.substack.com)Follow & Subscribe: What to Read Next Blog | YouTube:a...

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.Pickleball is officially the new hotspot for meet-cutes—and now it’s getting the book-romance treatment it deserves.In this episode, I chat with author Ilana Long about how she brought one of the first traditionally published pickleball romances to life. We talk about her creative background in stand-up and Second City improv, why pickleball is the perfect sport for romance lovers, and what it was like narrating her own audiobook. Plus, Ilana shares the cozy, feel-good books she’s been reading lately—from Irish small-town romcoms to magical realism with a touch of travel escapism.📚 Books MentionedPickle Perfect by Ilana Long — Buy on Amazon | Contemporary Romance, Second-Chance, Vacation Romance | Audio ✅ Pickleballers by Ilana Long — Buy on Amazon | Romantic Comedy, Small Town | Audio ✅ Love at First Book by Jenn McKinlay — Buy on Amazon | Contemporary Romance | Cozy Village, Grumpy/Sunshine  | Audio ✅ The Wedding Dashers by Heather McBreen — Buy on Amazon | Romantic Comedy, Destination Wedding | Forced Proximity, Enemies to Lovers  | Audio ✅ The Secret of Orange Blossom Cake by Rachel Linden — Buy on Amazon | Magical Realism, Women’s Fiction | Travel Romance, Foodie Fiction  | Audio ✅ ⏱️ Timestamps[00:00] – Welcome Ilana Long, to the podcast[01:00] – Her creative journey from stand-up comedy to writing[05:30] – Finding joy in creative identity & persistence as a writer[09:00] – What makes pickleball the perfect social (and romantic!) sport[13:00] – How the pandemic grew the pickleball community[14:30] – Why pickleball meet-cutes are the new dating trend[17:00] – Writing Pickle Perfect and setting it in Costa Rica[18:30] – Narrating her own audiobook & audition process[20:30] – Ilana’s reading life and favorite genres[25:00] – Her book club picks & humorous mysteries[27:00] – Book recommendations for cozy fall escapes[31:00] – Where to find Ilana online🏓 Love this episode? Don’t miss my Pickleball Romance Book List, where I share even more laugh-out-loud, feel-good reads set on the court — from flirty doubles partners to small-town tournaments that turn into love stories. → https://whattoreadnextblog.com/pickleball-romance/Join the ConversationSubscribe to our Substack for exclusive recommendations. (wtrnblog.substack.com)Follow & Subscribe:

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.This episode was originally published on August 29, 2022This episode was initially published in August 2022 — but lately, one book keeps coming up in nearly every author interview I record: A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna. It’s easily the top Fall 2025 book recommendation among authors, and after reading it myself, I completely understand why.So I’m pulling this conversation from the vault. In this interview, I chat with Sangu about how she built the whimsical, witchy world of The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches, what inspired her to write for adults after years in YA and middle grade, and how her stories deliver the kind of cozy comfort we all crave when the world feels heavy.If you’ve already fallen in love with A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping, this episode gives you a deeper look at where it all began — straight from the author herself.📚 Books MentionedA Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna — Buy on Amazon | Cozy Fantasy, Witchy Romance | Audio ✅The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna — Buy on Amazon | Cozy Fantasy, Found Family | Audio ✅Babel by R.F. Kuang — Buy on Amazon | Dark Academia, Historical Fantasy | Audio ✅Love on the Brain by Ali Hazelwood — Buy on Amazon | STEM Romance, Enemies to Lovers | Audio ✅⏱️ Timestamps[00:00] – Welcome + why we’re revisiting this conversation[01:00] – The cozy, witchy vibes of A Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches[03:00] – Writing for adults after years in YA and middle grade[05:00] – Character-driven fantasy and how Sangu builds her worlds[07:00] – How she balances writing across genres and age categories[08:00] – Sangu’s favorite reads and upcoming projects[10:00] – Where to find Sangu onlineJoin the ConversationSubscribe to our Substack for exclusive recommendations. (wtrnblog.substack.com)Follow & Subscribe: What to Read Next Blog | YouTube: What to Read NextSubscribe & leave a review!

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.In this new What to Read Next series, Laura reunites with her OG book besties — Amy from NovelGossip and Sarah from Really Into This — for an unfiltered, cozy group chat straight from their DMs to your ears.They dish on everything they’re really into right now: Dancing with the Stars drama, Real Housewives chaos, and the books they can’t stop reading (and recommending). Expect laughter, gossip, and plenty of book talk — because that’s what friends do best.📚 Books Mentioned Your Favorite Scary Movie by Ashley Cullins — Buy on Amazon | Horror/Thriller | Audio ✅Willing Prey by Allie Oleander — Buy on Amazon | Spicy Romance | Audio ✅Too Blessed to Stressed by Alli Hoff Kosik — Buy on Amazon | Upmarket Women’s Fiction (Upcoming 2026 Release)Half Light Harbor by Samantha Young — Buy on Amazon | Romantic Suspense | Audio ✅Save You by Mona Kasten (Maxton Hall #2) — Buy on Amazon | New Adult Romance  | Audio ✅Merry Christmas, You Filthy Animal by Meghan Quinn — Buy on Amazon | Holiday Rom-Com |KU✅/ Audio ✅Twelve Slays of Christmas by Jacqueline Frost — Buy on Amazon | Cozy Mystery | Audio ✅The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year by Ally Carter — Buy on Amazon | Cozy Mystery | Audio ✅Soulgazer by Maggie Rapier — Buy on Amazon | Fantasy Romance |Phantasma by Kaylie Smith — Buy on Amazon | Fantasy / Thriller Romance | KU ✅/ Audio ✅🕒 Timestamps[00:00] Intro to The Group Chat & Meet Amy & Sarah[04:00] About the Spice & Swoon Book Club[06:00] What We’re Watching: Dancing with the Stars & Housewives Gossip[14:00] What We’re Reading: Samantha Young, Maxwell Hall, and More[18:00] October Book Club Pick: Willing Prey[21:00] Upcoming Reads: Holiday Romances & Cozy Mysteries[26:00] Cozy Mystery Author Talk: Pseudonyms & Publishing[33:00] Fantasy Romance, Paranormal Light & What’s NextJoin the ConversationSubscribe to our Substack for exclusive recommendations. (wtrnblog.substack.com)Follow & Subscribe: What to Read Next Blog | YouTube:

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.If you love Emily Henry, Annabel Monaghan, and Carley Fortune’s brand of emotional, character-driven romance, this episode is for you.This week, I sat down with Rena Rani, the brilliant writer behind the Substack Smart Romance, to talk about what makes a romance “smart” — from up-market rom-coms to Nora Roberts’ lasting influence. We went deep into the craft side of the genre: how authors balance humor with heartbreak, why line-level prose matters, and what defines the new wave of “elevated” romance that still gives you all the feels.Rena also shared her favorite under-the-radar reads and walked me through how she scouts new talent (hint: she loves digging through agent wishlists). If you’re craving thoughtful conversations about love stories that respect both the heart and the art, you’ll love this one.📚 Books Mentioned The Best Worst Thing by Lauren Okie — Buy on Amazon | Contemporary; infertility journey; emotionally realistic You Between the Lines by Katie Naymon— Buy on Amazon | Academia rivals-to-lovers; poetry as structure August Lane by Regina Black — Buy on Amazon | Music industry; mixed-media storytelling The Art of the Scandal by Regina Black — Buy on Amazon | Contemporary; scandal fallout, reinvention Heavy Hitter by Katie Cotugno — Buy on Amazon | Celebrity + athlete; ambition; messy, unflinching 32 Days in May by Betty Corrello — Buy on Amazon | Up-market contemporary; Smart Romance book club pick Backlist to Explore: Nora Roberts (romantic suspense & contemporary), Susan Elizabeth Phillips (sports romance), Julie James (career/office romance)⏱️ Time Stamps [00:00] Intro & Rena’s Substack origin[01:00] Nora Roberts: why the backlist matters[06:00] Craft chat: plots, subplots, interiority[09:00] Defining “up-market romance”[11:00] YA authors crossing into adult romance[13:30] Covers & market shifts since 2018[15:30] Genre history shoutouts (SEP, Julie James, McNaught)[16:45] Rena’s underrated romance picks[22:00] Finding gems via agent wishlists[24:00] Book club pick: 32 Days in May[25:00] What to expect at Smart Romance[26:30] Outro & future Nora Roberts episodeJoin the ConversationSubscribe to our Substack for exclusive recommendations. (wtrnblog.substack.com)Follow & Subscribe:

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.How do you actually use Libby to find hidden gems and save on books? Librarian Jenni Meyers and I break down everything—from advanced searches to borrowing across states—and share our personal Libby routines.As someone who proudly carries way too many library cards, I love helping readers get the most out of their local libraries—and this week’s guest, Jenni Meyers, knows all about that life. Jenni is a full-time librarian and co-host of the Buzzing About Romance podcast, and together we dig into how libraries really work, how to use Libby to its full potential, and why supporting your local branch matters more than ever.We also talk about the library’s hidden perks (from printing to streaming movies), how to request new releases before they hit shelves, and why non-resident cards are the best-kept secret for book lovers. Plus, Jenni shares her love for Penny Reid’s romance universe—and where to start if you’re new to her books.📚Books Mentioned:Truth or Beard by Penny Reid — Buy on Amazon | Small-Town Romance | Audio ✅Knitting in the City Series by Penny Reid — Buy on Amazon | Contemporary Romance |  Audio ✅Beard Science (Cletus Winston) by Penny Reid — Buy on Amazon | Romantic Comedy | Audio ✅Engagement and Espionage by Penny Reid — Buy on Amazon | Cozy Romantic Mystery | Audio ✅Library Tips Covered:How to find digital lending platforms like Libby, Hoopla, and KanopyWhy your library’s Friends of the Library group mattersHow to request books before release dayHow to advocate for funding and stop book bansTricks for getting non-resident library cards in other states🕓 Time Stamps[00:00] — Meet Jenni Meyers & Buzzing About Romance[03:00] — Why libraries are the ultimate community hub[06:00] — How to find free events & resources near you[08:00] — Digital lending: Libby, Hoopla & Kanopy explained[10:00] — How to get multiple library cards & advocate for funding[16:00] — Requesting books from your library[21:00] — Tips for organizing your Libby tags & holds[22:00] — Getting started with Penny Reid books[27:00] — Final thoughts: Why everyone should get a library cardJoin the ConversationSubscribe to our Substack for exclusive recommendations. (wtrnblog.substack.com)Follow & Subscribe: What to Read Next Blog | YouTube: What to Read NextSubscribe & leave a review! Mentioned in this episode:🎧 Try Audible Today I love Audible for

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.Bloodsuckers are back, baby. In this episode, Francesca joins Laura to dish on dark, gothic, funny, and YA vampire reads—with a special shout to Kindle Unlimited for budget-friendly bingeing.You’ll hear why vampires are resurging (thanks, romantasy!), what’s new beyond the Black Dagger era, and exactly where to start if you want broody politics, murder-mystery shenanigans, or campus drama. Plus a quick nonfiction detour for Vampire Diaries superfans.📚 Books MentionedA Bargain So Bloody by Vasilka Drake — Buy on Amazon | Paranormal Romance, Enemies-to-Allies | KU ✅Loving a Vampire’s Total Chaos by Aura Hayes — Buy on Amazon | Paranormal Romcom, Murder Mystery | KU ✅The Serpent’s Bride by Kathryn Ann Kingsley — Buy on Amazon | Gothic PNR, Mafia Politics, Dark Romance | KU ✅Nocture by Karina Halle — Buy on Amazon | Noir PNR, Historical (1947 LA) Blood Moon by Britney S. Lewis — Buy on Amazon | YA Paranormal, Vamps & Wolves, Campus Mystery A Cruel Thirst by Angela Montoya — Buy on Amazon | YA Paranormal, Forbidden Allies The Last Vampire by Romina Garber — Buy on Amazon | YA Paranormal, Boarding School, Pride&Prejudice-ish |I Accidentally Hooked Up with a Vampire by Jessica Cage — Buy on Amazon | PNR Romcom, Found Family | KU ✅Road Trip with a Vampire by Jenna Levine — Buy on Amazon | Light PNR, Amnesia, Road Trip Space Vampire by Ruby Dixon — Buy on Amazon | Sci-Fi PNR Novella, Forced Proximity | KU ✅I Was Feeling Epic (Oral History of The Vampire Diaries) — Buy on Amazon | Nonfiction/Audiobook | Audio ✅Paperback Crush by Gabrielle Moss — Buy on Amazon | Nonfiction, ‘80s/’90s Teen Lit |Your Favorite Scary Movie by Ashley Cullins — Buy on Amazon | Nonfiction/Audiobook, Scream Franchise | Audio ✅Welcome to the O.C. by Josh Schwatz, Stephanie Savage and Alan Sepinwall— Buy on Amazon | Nonfiction/Audiobook, TV Oral History | Audio ✅⏱️ Time Stamps (topics)[00:00] Intro & why Laura is a vampire-over-werewolf girly[02:00] Life updates + Francesca’s 2026 Romanceopoly plans[05:00] Why vampires are resurging (romantasy → PNR pipeline)[06:30] Rec #1: A...

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.Ever wondered what Jane Austen would write if she lived online? Nikki Payne reimagines romance for our era—where identity, love, and culture collide.In this episode, Laura chats with romance author Nikki Payne, a cultural anthropologist and writer of Pride and Protest, Sex, Lies and Sensibility, and The Princess and the PI. They dive into why Nikki reimagines Austen’s classics through a modern, intersectional lens, how online personas shape our identities, and what makes “weird fic” and “out-of-pocket women” so irresistible. Plus, Nikki shares her must-read recommendations across romance, mystery, and literary fiction.📚 Books MentionedPride and Protest by Nikki Payne — Buy on Amazon | Contemporary Romance | Audio ✅Sex, Lies and Sensibility by Nikki Payne — Buy on Amazon | Contemporary Romance | Audio ✅The Princess and the PI by Nikki Payne — Buy on Amazon | Mystery Romance | KU ✅ / Audio ✅August Lane by Regina Black — Buy on Amazon | Contemporary Romance | Audio ✅King of Ashes by S.A. Cosby — Buy on Amazon | Crime Thriller | Audio ✅The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow — Buy on Amazon | Fantasy | Audio ✅Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston — Buy on Amazon | Classic Fiction💌Where to Find Nikki:Instagram: @nikkipaynebooksTikTok: @nikkipayneromanceSubstack: The Painful Truth🕒 Time Stamps[00:00] Meet Nikki Payne: Cultural Anthropologist & Romance Author[00:03] Reimagining Jane Austen with Black & Asian Leads[00:06] The Princess and the PI: Reddit Sleuths & Modern Mysteries[00:10] Online Personas vs Real Life Identity[00:11] Exploring Body, Control, and Patriarchy in Fiction[00:13] Neuroplasticity, Healing, and Finding Love[00:14] What Nikki’s Reading: Weird Fic & Out-of-Pocket Women[00:15] Book Recommendations for After The Princess and the PI[00:16] Where to Find Nikki OnlineMentioned in this episode:🎧 Try Audible Today I love Audible for their original novellas, binge-worthy Plus Catalog (like Deanna Raybourn’s Veronica Speedwell series), and their amazing audiobook sales. Currently, Audible is offering a special promotion for new members and returning listeners. AudibleAdvertise with UsDo you have a book or service that you want to share with our engaged audience? Check out our opportunities to sponsor with us.Advertise With Us

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.Originally Published October 30, 2023Looking for fast-paced thrillers to binge this fall? In this replay episode from 2023, Amy from Novel Gossip joins me to share six twisty, addictive reads that are perfect for cozy nights in.If you love popcorn thrillers, domestic drama, or a touch of supernatural suspense, these backlist titles are easy to find at your local library or on audio.📚 Books MentionedThe September House by Carissa Orlando — Haunted Victorian home, dark humor, supernatural twist. | Audio ✅The Book of Cold Cases by Simone St. James — True crime blogger interviews a murder suspect from the 1970s. | Audio ✅Where the Blame Lies by Mia Sheridan — Romantic suspense duology with dark psychological tension. | KU ✅ / Audio ✅We’re All Lying by Marie Still — Popcorn domestic thriller full of secrets, lies, and messy marriages.  | Audio ✅The Wife Before by Shanora Williams — Fast, juicy thriller with soap-opera energy and short, bingeable chapters. | KU ✅ / Audio ✅Bonus mentions: Freida McFadden, Kiersten Modglin, A.R. Torre — for fans of quick, twisty thrillers available to borrow on Kindle Unlimited.🎧 Want to explore even more thrillers you can borrow without breaking your budget?Check out the post: Libraries that still offer non-resident cards in 2025⏱️ Timestamps[00:00] – Welcome and fall reading chat[02:00] – Why thrillers are hard to write[04:00] – The September House by Carissa Orlando[06:00] – The Book of Cold Cases by Simone St. James[08:00] – Where the Blame Lies by Mia Sheridan[11:00] – We’re All Lying by Marie Still[14:00] – The Wife Before by Shanora Williams[17:00] – Final thoughts & where to find AmyJoin the ConversationSubscribe to our Substack for exclusive recommendations. (wtrnblog.substack.com)Follow & Subscribe: What to Read Next Blog | YouTube: What to Read NextSubscribe & leave a review! Mentioned in this episode:Advertise With UsWant to promote your book or service to our engaged audience? Check out our opportunities to sponsor. Advertise With

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.A high-heat, spooky-season romance with a heartbeat. Author Allie Oleander joins us to talk about Willing Prey—a primal-play, midlife-awakening romance where a 40-year-old lawyer proposes a “hunt” for 30 days… and catches real feelings.This episode is for readers who love darker vibes without trauma plots: think obsession, contracts, chase-in-the-woods tension, and the guaranteed safety of a romance HEA. We dig into Allie’s indie-to-trad journey, writing an “obsessed but tender” hero, and why horror and romance are emotional cousins.Books MentionedWilling Prey by Allie Oleander — Buy on Amazon | Dark Contemporary Romance, Primal Play, Age 35+ LeadsLittle Deaths by Nenia Campbell — Buy on Amazon | Erotic Romance/Horror-adjacent, Dub-Con/Non-Con Content, Ex-Horror Actress FMCWhere to find AllieWebsite: allieoleander.meInstagram/Threads: @allie.oleanderJoin the ConversationSubscribe to our Substack for exclusive recommendations. (wtrnblog.substack.com)Follow & Subscribe: What to Read Next Blog | YouTube: What to Read NextSubscribe & leave a review! Mentioned in this episode:🎧 Try Audible Today I love Audible for their original novellas, binge-worthy Plus Catalog (like Deanna Raybourn’s Veronica Speedwell series), and their amazing audiobook sales. Currently, Audible is offering a special promotion for new members and returning listeners. AudibleAdvertise with UsDo you have a book or service that you want to share with our engaged audience? Check out our opportunities to sponsor with us.Advertise With Us

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.A career journalist turned thriller powerhouse, Hank Phillippi Ryan joins Laura to talk about the high-stakes cat-and-mouse ride of her latest novel, how book tour can turn terrifying, and why she writes smart women who fight for justice.In this episode, you’ll hear the real author-on-tour grind (airports, hotels, libraries, bookstores—only!), the secret that could upend everything for protagonist Tessa Calloway in All This Could Be Yours, and Hank’s philosophy on propulsive storytelling and triumphant endings. We also squeeze in a stellar “what to read next” pick.📚Books MentionedAll This Could Be Yours by Hank Phillippi Ryan — Buy on Amazon | Thriller, Cat-and-Mouse | Audio ✅ (narrated by Sarah Mollo-Christensen)Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister — Buy on Amazon | Time-twist Thriller | Book Club-worthy | Audio ✅ 💌Connect with Hank Phillipi RyanWebsite: https://hankphillippiryan.com/Join the ConversationSubscribe to our Substack for exclusive recommendations. (wtrnblog.substack.com)Follow & Subscribe: What to Read Next Blog | YouTube: What to Read NextSubscribe & leave a review! Mentioned in this episode:🎧 Try Audible Today I love Audible for their original novellas, binge-worthy Plus Catalog (like Deanna Raybourn’s Veronica Speedwell series), and their amazing audiobook sales. Currently, Audible is offering a special promotion for new members and returning listeners. AudibleAdvertise with UsDo you have a book or service that you want to share with our engaged audience? Check out our opportunities to sponsor with us.Advertise With Us

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.In this week’s preview episode, we’re going full Stars Hollow life—think Gilmore Girls banter, cozy small-town charm, and just the right amount of romance. If you love the feeling of a Hallmark fall movie in book form, this one’s for you. We kick things off with Fall I Want by Lyra Parish, a grumpy/sunshine small-town romance set against crisp autumn days, pumpkin spice lattes, and fake-dating swoons—all available on Kindle Unlimited.This is just a taste of what you’ll find inside our new community podcast on Substack. Along with bonus episodes, you’ll also get quarterly meetups, virtual author panels, and a weekly mood-reading curated daylist to help you build the perfect TBR.Right now, you can lock in a 20% off forever annual subscription—just $48 for the year. Join us for cozy recs, community vibes, and your next favorite read.Sign up here!Mentioned in this episode:Advertise with UsDo you have a book or service that you want to share with our engaged audience? Check out our opportunities to sponsor with us.Advertise With Us🎧 Try Audible Today I love Audible for their original novellas, binge-worthy Plus Catalog (like Deanna Raybourn’s Veronica Speedwell series), and their amazing audiobook sales. Currently, Audible is offering a special promotion for new members and returning listeners. Audible

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.Dreaming of your next Disney trip but not sure where to start? In this episode, I’m joined by Disney content creator and author Becky Gandillon, who blends her love of the parks with her background in data analytics to help travelers plan smarter, save money, and skip the overwhelm.Becky is the co-author of The Unofficial Guide to Disney World and shares insider tips on:Budget-friendly strategies for resorts and ticketsWhy the Disney Dining Plan isn’t worth it (and what to do instead)What’s new at the parks in 2025, from refreshed rides to new landsHow to enjoy Disney as a family, with friends, or even soloMust-read Disney books for fans of all ages📚 Books Mentioned (Disney Edition) The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World 2026 by Becky Gandillon with Bob Sehlinger and Len TestaThe Ride of a Lifetime by Bob Iger — Leadership lessons & behind-the-scenes at DisneyWomen of Walt Disney Imagineering by the Imagineers — Stories of 12 groundbreaking womenDream It! Do It! and Travels with Figment by Marty Sklar — Insights from a Disney legend⏰ Timestamps[00:00] Welcome & introduction to Becky Gandillon[02:00] How Becky got started with Disney + data[05:00] Disney trip planning made simple (budget + strategies)[08:30] Saving on resorts: Priceline, Airbnb, and DVC rentals[13:00] Dining at Disney: Why the Dining Plan doesn’t add up[16:00] Food & Wine Festival + new restaurant & parade updates[20:00] Beacon Barrel lounge opening at Magic Kingdom[21:00] Becky’s Disney book recommendations[24:00] Why Disney content creators make the parks more fun[25:00] Where to follow Becky online✨ Follow Becky: Instagram → @raisingminniemes  Blog → Touring Plans: Disney Data DumpJoin the ConversationSubscribe to our Substack for exclusive recommendations. (wtrnblog.substack.com)Follow & Subscribe: What to Read Next Blog | YouTube: What to Read NextSubscribe & leave a review! Mentioned in this episode:Advertise with UsDo you have a book or service that you want to share with our engaged audience? Check out our opportunities to sponsor with us.Advertise With Us🎧 Try Audible Today I love Audible for their original novellas, binge-worthy Plus Catalog (like Deanna...

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.Nonfiction doesn’t have to be intimidating—or boring. In this episode, I’m joined by Traci Thomas, host of The Stacks Podcast, to talk about the changing book landscape, how she built her long-running show, and why nonfiction can be just as binge-worthy as your favorite romcom.We dive into trends in publishing, the rise of BookTok, and why Traci believes there’s a nonfiction book for everyone. She shares practical tips for finding the right style of nonfiction for your taste, her favorite starter recommendations, and how to embrace memoirs, microhistories, and narrative nonfiction.📚 Books Mentioned A Marriage at Sea by Sophie Elmhurst — Genre: Survival Nonfiction | Reads like a novelAllow Me to Retort by Elie Mystal — Genre: Law, Politics | Audio ✅Bad Company by Megan Greenwell — Genre: Business, Private Equity | Audio ✅There Is No Place for Us by Brian Goldstone— Genre: Social Issues | Audio ✅Evicted by Matthew Desmond — Genre: Sociology, Housing | Audio ✅Open Book by Jessica Simpson — Genre: Memoir | Audio ✅The Woman in Me by Britney Spears (narrated by Michelle Williams) — Genre: Memoir | Audio ✅Heavy by Kiese Laymon — Genre: Memoir | Audio ✅Paved Paradise by Henry Grabar — Genre: Microhistory (Parking) | Audio ✅Shade by Michelle Nijhuis — Genre: Microhistory (Public Spaces) | Audio ✅Selling Sexy by Lauren Sherman and Chantal Fernandez — Genre: Business, Fashion History | Audio ✅The Kingdom of Prep by Maggie Bullock — Genre: Business, Fashion History | Audio ✅🕑 Time Stamps00:00 — Traci’s podcasting origin story and The Stacks03:00 — Shifts in publishing and BookTok trends06:00 — Diversity, representation, and trans authors09:00 — What to expect from The Stacks Podcast12:00 — How Traci picks book club selections14:00 — Publishers vs. audience-first book content18:00 — The role of influencers in book discovery22:00 — Why Traci champions nonfiction24:00 — How to pick a nonfiction book you’ll love27:00 — Keywords that reveal nonfiction styles28:00 — Starter nonfiction recommendations31:00 — Business, microhistories, and niche nonfiction33:00 — Gossip, culture, and memoirs35:00 — Where to find Traci online✨ Follow Traci Thomas:

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.This interview was initially published February 14, 2022A moody island, missing girls, and a grumpy bard? Today, we revisit my 2022 chat with Rebecca Ross about her adult fantasy debut, River Enchanted, her writing journey, and the twisty books she loves.Recorded in February 2022 (before the release of Divine Rivals), this conversation is perfect if you’re curious about Rebecca’s path from YA to adult fantasy, immersive worldbuilding, multi-POV storytelling, and backlist recs you can snag from your library.📚 Books MentionedRiver Enchanted by Rebecca Ross — Buy on Amazon | Adult Fantasy | Audio ✅The Fifth Season (Broken Earth #1) by N.K. Jemisin — Buy on Amazon | Sci-Fi/Fantasy | Audio ✅Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta — Buy on Amazon | Contemporary YA | Audio ✅Lumatere Chronicles (trilogy) by Melina Marchetta — Buy on Amazon | Fantasy | Audio ✅The Cruel Prince (The Folk of the Air #1) by Holly Black — Buy on Amazon | YA Fantasy | Audio ✅(Note: Episode recorded before Divine Rivals; not discussed in this interview.)⏳Time Stamps 00:00 – Why this replay + context01:00 – Rebecca’s origin story & love of fantasy02:00 – Life updates, routines, and creativity03:00 – The seamless shift: YA → Adult fantasy05:00 – Pitching River Enchanted in one line06:00 – Musical magic, rivals-to-partners, missing girls07:00 – The island as character: setting that drives plot08:00 – Multi-POV strategy & adding Adaira’s voice10:00 – Reading while drafting on deadlines11:00 – Theme: books with jaw-drop reveals12:00 – The Fifth Season: structure & scope13:00 – Jellicoe Road: dual narratives that click14:00 – The Cruel Prince: political intrigue masterclass15:00 – Where to follow Rebecca + playlists16:00 – Outro & next readsJoin the ConversationSubscribe to our Substack for exclusive recommendations. (wtrnblog.substack.com)Follow & Subscribe: What to Read Next Blog | YouTube: What to Read NextSubscribe & leave a review! Mentioned in this episode:Advertise with UsDo you have a book or service that you want to share with our engaged audience? Check out our opportunities to sponsor with us.Advertise With Us🎧 Try Audible Today I love Audible for their original...

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.Star-crossed lovers, time loops, and letters that change everything. In this episode, Anastasia drops four recs where love defies lifetimes—perfect for readers craving angst, magic, and lyrical feels.We chat Bookstagram, Tampa’s Sip & Book Club, why libraries are a reader’s best friend, and a mini-tour through soulmate-through-time stories: from war-torn timelines to typewriter love letters and a cliffhanger-filled fairytale. Cozy-fantasy curious? YA at heart? Romance-first? There’s a book here for you.📚 Books Mentioned Our Infinite Fate by Laura Steven — Buy on Amazon | YA Fantasy, Reincarnation, Star-Crossed | Audio ✅ / KU ✅This Is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar & Max Gladstone — Buy on Amazon | Sci-Fi Novella, Enemies-to-Lovers, Epistolary | Audio ✅Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross — Buy on Amazon | Historical-tinged Fantasy Romance, Rivals-to-Lovers, Epistolary | Audio ✅/ KU ✅Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber — Buy on Amazon | YA Fantasy, Dark Fairytale, Morally-Gray MMC | Audio ✅Timestamps00:00 — Meet Anastasia + Tampa Sip & Book Club (social + bookish vibes)02:00 — Reading tastes: seasonal cozies, thrillers, and mood-reading04:30 — Library love: audiobooks, holds, and hidden gems07:00 — Theme: “Soulmates Through Time” + Rec #1 Our Infinite Fate09:00 — Rec #2 This Is How You Lose the Time War (why audio shines)12:00 — Rec #3 Divine Rivals (rivals, typewriters, and gods at war)15:00 — Rec #4 Once Upon a Broken Heart (fast-paced, bingeable)17:00 — Adjacent vibes: lyrical, whimsical, a dash of darkness19:00 — Reading today vs. the dystopia era; picking palate cleansers20:30 — Where to find Anastasia + wrap-upJoin the ConversationSubscribe to our Substack for exclusive recommendations. (wtrnblog.substack.com)Follow & Subscribe: What to Read Next Blog | YouTube: What to Read NextSubscribe & leave a review! Mentioned in this episode:🎧 Try Audible Today I love Audible for their original novellas, binge-worthy Plus Catalog (like Deanna Raybourn’s Veronica Speedwell series), and their amazing audiobook sales. Currently, Audible is offering a special promotion for new members and returning listeners. AudibleAdvertise with UsDo you have a book or service that you want to share with our engaged audience? Check out our opportunities to sponsor with us.Advertise With Us