Welcome to the Spring 2025 Book Preview with Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books!  

Today, Catherine and Sarah share 12 of their most anticipated books releasing in April and May.  

This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!).

CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog.

Announcement Sarah?s Bookshelves has joined Substack! Please note, we?re not MOVING to Substack, we?re simply adding Substack to the places we already put out content. On our FREE Substack feed, Sarah?s Bookshelves is offering all the content you already find on the blog, my Instagram account, public podcast, On our PAID feed, we?re offering all the content we also offer on Patreon. If you?re interested in becoming a paying subscriber on Substack, visit sarahsbookshelveslive.substack.com for all the details and a full list of benefits. If you?re already on Substack, please consider following the FREE feed and sharing with your reader friends to help support the show. One of the many benefits to joining as a paying member of either our Patreon or Substack Communities is gaining access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and Sarah share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that were not shared in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available to all Superstar patrons here and all Substack paid subscribers here! Highlights Catherine and Sarah share some big releases coming this spring (lightning round style). With a theme this season of ?change,? Catherine focuses on lighter fiction and thrillers. Sarah?s choices are evenly split between debut authors, new to her authors, and repeat authors. Food novels, rom-coms, thrillers (two with a mistaken identity element), and lighter reading are the picks for spring! Sarah has already read one of her picks ? and one of Catherine?s! And, Catherine has already started reading one of hers. Plus, their #1 picks for the spring. Big Spring Releases [5:15]  The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong (May 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:43] The Dark Maestro by Brendan Slocumb (May 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:47] Say You?ll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:56] Run for the Hills by Kevin Wilson (May 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [6:03] Vera Wong?s Guide to Snooping (on a Dead Man) by Jesse Q. Sutanto (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [6:18] The Maid?s Secret by Nita Prose (Apr 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [6:26] Audition by Katy Kitamura (Apr 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [6:29] My Documents by Kevin Ngyuen (Apr 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [6:44]

Backlist Titles Mentioned

The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb (2022) [5:51] Symphony of Secrets by Brendan Slocumb (2023) [5:53] Spring 2025 Book Preview [6:51]

April

Sarah?s Picks

The Family Recipe by Carolyn Huynh (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:40] I See You?ve Called in Dead by John Kenney (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[14:49] The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff (Apr 22) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [23:15] Gold Coast Dilemma by Nana Malone (Apr 29) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[29:28] The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett (Apr 29) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:42]

Catherine?s Picks

Cat?s People by Tanya Guerrero (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:46] Heartwood by Amity Gaige (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:23]

Other Books Mentioned

The Fortunes of Jaded Women by Carolyn Huynh (2022) [9:44]  Talk to Me by John Kenney (2019) [14:53]   About a Boy by Nick Hornby (1998) [16:48] The God of the Woods by Liz Moore (2024) [18:30] The Return of Ellie Black by Emiko Jean (2024) [18:32] Sea Wife by Amity Gaige (2020) [22:47]  The Shred Sisters by Betsy Lerner (2024) [24:45]  The Dearly Beloved by Cara Wall (2019) [26:18]  Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane (2019) [26:20]  We Are the Brennans by Tracey Lange (2021) [26:22]  The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo (2019) [26:25]  Yours, Eventually by Nura Maznavi  (2025) [30:58]  Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett (2022) [33:47]  The Guncle by Steven Rowley (2021) [38:04] 

May

Sarah?s Picks

Aftertaste by Daria Lavelle (May 20) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:16]

Catherine?s Pick

Home of the American Circus by Allison Larkin (May 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:48] The Man Made of Smoke by Alex North (May 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:29]  Abigail and Alexa Save the Wedding by Lian Dolan (May 20) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:56] Storybook Ending by Moira Macdonald (May 27) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[45:36]

Other Books Mentioned

The People We Keep by Allison Larkin (2021) [28:23]  The Angel Maker by Alex North (2023) [31:39] Lost and Found in Paris by Lian Dolan (2022) [41:25]   Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain (2000) [43:42]   The Husbands by Holly Gramazio (2024) [43:54]  Sweetbitter by Stephanie Danler (2016) [44:36]  Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin (2022) [44:40]  Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia (2020) [44:42]  Under the Whispering Door by TJ Klune (2021) [44:45]  The Midnight Library by Matt Haig (2020) [44:53]   Storybook Ending by Poppy Alexander (2024) [47:32] 

In Episode 191, Sarah and Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books catch up on the 16 new releases they shared in the Winter 2025 Book Preview. They share their reading stats, chat about what they liked, and what didn?t work out. 

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 For the first time ever, Sarah?s Preview selections resulted in a 100% success rate! Catherine?s reading was also successful at 75%, with 2 DNFs. A total of three 5-star books from the Winter Preview! Sarah successfully revived her reading from that ?sameness? she felt in December. Catherine?s reading seems to revolve around ?right time? and ?wrong time? books even more than usual. They name the best and worst books from their winter picks. Books Read Before the Preview [1:46] 

January

Sarah?s Picks

The Favorites by Layne Fargo (Jan 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [2:18] Penitence by Kristin Koval (Jan 28) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [4:05]

Other Books Mentioned

Defending Jacob by William Landay [5:12] All That Is Mine I Carry With Me by William Landay [5:13]   Winter 2025 Circle Back [7:42]

January

Sarah?s Pick

Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor (Jan 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[11:44]

Catherine?s Picks

All the Water in the World by Eiren Caffall (Jan 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[7:46] Those Fatal Flowers by Shannon Ives (Jan 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:14] Call Her Freedom by Tara Dorabji (Jan 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [25:59]  Too Soon by Betty Shamieh (Jan 28) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:53]

Other Books Mentioned

Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel [9:46]  

February

Sarah?s Picks

Yours, Eventually by Nura Maznavi (Feb 18) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:29] Crush by Ada Calhoun (Feb 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:40] The Strange Case by Jane O. by Karen Thompson Walker (Feb 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:59] The Grand Scheme of Things by Warona Jay (Feb 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[43:10]

Catherine?s Pick

This Is a Love Story by Jessica Soffer (Feb 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:44]

Other Books Mentioned

Persuasion by Jane Austen [22:35] Why We Can?t Sleep by Ada Calhoun [32:09]   Wedding Toasts I?ll Never Give by Ada Calhoun [32:11]  Yellowface by R. F. Kuang [43:56]  Victim by Andrew Boryga [44:04]  By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult [45:54] 

March

Sarah?s Pick

Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall (Mar 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:33]

Catherine?s Picks

The Dream Hotel by Laila Lalami (Mar 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:21] Kate & Frida by Kim Fay (Mar 11) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:56] Witness 8 by Steve Cavanagh (Mar 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:25]

Other Books Mentioned

Love & Saffron by Kim Fay [49:07]  Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens [50:37]  The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller [50:40] 

In Episode 190, author Georgia Hunter returns to the podcast to chat with Sarah about her sophomore novel, One Good Thing, and go behind-the-scenes of her experience adapting her first novel, We Were the Lucky Ones, for Hulu. Georgia talks about her role as executive producer, the difference in writing a novel that wasn?t based on family history, and how the screenwriting process influenced her own writing. Plus, Georgia shares her 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 Georgia Hunter: We Were the Lucky Ones (2017) and One Good Thing (2025) A spoiler-free overview of One Good Thing. Georgia?s inspiration for the characters, their story, and choosing Italy as the setting. The very different process for writing and editing her second book. How the steps for adapting We Were the Lucky Ones began and how long it took. Georgia?s role in the writer?s room for the screen adaptation and as a resource for the actors and writers.  How the six writers handled their episodes and wove together the different perspectives for a cohesive series. If Georgia would ever consider writing for a tv series. How screenwriting impacted Georgia writing her second novel. What her day on set looked like as executive producer. How Georgia handled filming on location and the timeframe from start to finish. Talk about an adaptation for One Good Thing ? and is it better suited for a feature-length film or another tv miniseries? Georgia?s Book Recommendations [51:05]

Two OLD Books She Loves

Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt (2022) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:39] Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver (2022) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [53:38] Other Books Mentioned The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver (1998) [54:00]   David Copperfield by Charles Dickens (1850) [54:17] 

Two NEW Books She Loves

All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[56:29] The Busy Body by Kemper Donovan (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [58:49] Other Books Mentioned We Begin at the End by Chris Whitaker (2021) [56:41] 

One NEW RELEASE She?s Excited About

The Names by Florence Knapp (May 6, 2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:00:55]

Last 5-Star Book Georgia Read

Horse by Geraldine Brooks (2022) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:03:52] About Georgia Hunter

Website | Instagram | Facebook

When Georgia Hunter was fifteen years old, she discovered that she came from a family of Holocaust survivors. Years later, she embarked on a journey of intensive research, determined to unearth and record her family?s remarkable story. The result is the New York Times best seller, We Were the Lucky Ones, which has been published in over 20 languages and adapted for television by Hulu as a highly acclaimed limited series. One Good Thing is Georgia?s second novel. She lives in Connecticut with her husband and their two sons.

In Episode 189, author Karen Thompson Walker talks with Sarah about her career to date and her newest novel, The Strange Case of Jane O. Karen discusses her writing journey, including each book?s inspiration and research process. She also touches on the challenges of promoting her latest book without giving away too much and her current work in progress. Plus, Karen shares her 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 Karen Thompson Walker: The Age of Miracles (2012), The Dreamers (2019), and The Strange Case of Jane O. (2025) Karen talks about going from working as an editor to a being published author The genre Karen feels her books best fit in The real-life inspiration for The Age of Miracles  A peek into her research process and which book required the most work Karen?s thoughts on writing about an epidemic (in The Dreamers) just before the real-life  COVID-19 pandemic A brief spoiler-free overview of The Strange Case of Jane O. and the inspiration behind it Some of Oliver Sacks? interesting case histories that inspired Karen The difficulty in trying to promote and talk about a book like The Strange Case of Jane O. without giving too much away How Karen sees the relationship between her three published books A bit about Karen?s current work in progress Karen?s Book Recommendations [36:20]

Two OLD Books She Loves

The Virgin Suicides by Jeffrey Eugenides (1993) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[37:22] The Buddha in the Attic by Julie Otsuka (2011) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [39:26] Other Books Mentioned: The Swimmers by Julie Otsuka (2023) [40:51]  

Two NEW Books She Loves

The Antidote by Karen Russell (March 11, 2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[41:20] The Light Eaters by Zoë Schlanger (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:39]

One Book She DIDN?T Love

My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante (2011) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:39]

One NEW RELEASE She?s Excited About

Audition by Katie Kitamura (April 8, 2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:22] Other Books Mentioned:  The Safekeep by Yael van der Wouden (2024) [49:20]  A Separation by Katie Kitamura (2017) [49:35]  Intimacies by Katie Kitamura (2021) [49:39] 

Last 5-Star Book Karen Read

Trust by Hernan Diaz (2022) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:14] Books From the Discussion Brain on Fire by Susannah Cahalan (2012) [22:54] Awakenings by Oliver Sacks (1973) [24:16]  

In Ep. 188, we are kicking off our new ?Best of?? series with Sarah?s Bookshelves Live team member, Chrissie, for the Best of Fantasy. Today, Chrissie brings you her all-time top ten favorite fantasy novels. Also, as a long-time reader and evangelizer of the genre, Chrissie talks about how she started reading fantasy, the wide scope of the genre, and ways those new to fantasy might jump in!

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 Chrissie got started reading fantasy. What draws her to the fantasy genre. From sci-fi fantasy to epic, high fantasy, Chrissie talks about the wide scope of the genre. Her favorite sub-genres and what doesn?t work for her. Chrissie?s All-Time Top Ten Fantasy Books [16:36] The Fifth Season by N. K. Jemisin (2015) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [17:44] A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas (2015) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[22:11] The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater (2012) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [27:24] The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss (2007) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [32:10] A Murder in Time by Julie McElwain (2016) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [35:36] Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke (2004) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [37:35] Griffin & Sabine by Nick Bantock (1991) | Amazon | Bookshop.org   [39:58] The Queen of Blood by Sarah Beth Durst (2016) | Amazon | Bookshop.org   [42:15] Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer (2001) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [44:16] The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern (2011) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [46:40] High-Profile Fantasy Books That Did Not She Didn?t Love [48:39]  A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness (2011) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [48:52] Babel by R. F. Kuang (2022) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [50:55] Other Books Mentioned Fourth Wing (2023) [25:07] Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas (2012) [25:43] Flowers in the Attic by V. C. Andrews (1979) [26:36] Heaven by V. C. Andrews (1985) [26:46] The Listeners by Maggie Stiefvater (June 2025) [31:27] A Game of Thrones (1996) by George R. R. Martin ([33:04]) The Wise Man?s Fear by Patrick Rothfuss (2011) [33:09] The Doors of Stone by Patrick Rothfuss (TBD) [33:15] A is for Alibi by Sue Grafton (1982) [37:16] Piranesi by Susanna Clarke (2020) [39:46] Twilight by Stephanie Meyer (2005) [50:03] The Black Bird Oracle by Deborah Harkness (2024) [50:28] Books from Our Discussion Harry Potter and the Sorcerer?s Stone by J. K. Rowling (1997) [4:23]  Charlotte?s Web by E. B. White (1952) [6:23]  Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O?Brien (1971) [6:26]   The Dream Book by Meg Wolitzer (1987) [6:37]  The God of the Woods by Liz Moore (2024) [11:15]  11/22/63 by Stephen King (2011) [12:10]  The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis (1950) [12:30]  The Fellowship of the Ring by J. R. R. Tolkien (1954) [14:29] The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien (1937) [14:30]   The Neverending Story by Michael Ende (1979) [15:36] 

In Ep. 187, Kathleen Schmidt, author of the popular Substack newsletter, Publishing Confidential, joins Sarah to dissect and discuss the State of the Publishing Industry in 2024. Between a high-level look back, talk about the top sales and book trends, to what Kathleen sees on the horizon for 2025 in the book world, this episode is packed with info. Also, Kathleen shares her favorite books of 2024!

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 2024 bookish news and publishing trends overview. Kathleen grades last year?s crop of books with an overall B+. How the middle-aged woman / menopause stories might shake out to be the next buzzy books. The ways the full book market is oversaturated. The impact TikTok still has on the book world. Kathleen breaks down the side-eye publishing attracts from other industries with its oddball business model.  Taylor Swift remains a hot topic in publishing with The Eras Tour Book. Did Spotify?s entrance into audiobooks make a noticeable impact? The secret struggle of memoirs. Anticipating 2025?s potential bookish trends. State of the Publishing Industry in 2024

High-Level Overview [2:02]

All Fours by Miranda July (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [6:12] Sandwich by Catherine Newman (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [6:27] The New Menopause by Mary Claire Haver (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:58]  

2024 Book Sales and Trends [9:35] 

Leaving by Roxana Robinson (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [30:11]  Splinters by Leslie Jamison (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [30:14]  Liars by Sarah Manguso (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [30:16]  Crush by Ada Calhoun (Feb 25, 2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:17]  Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:39] Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor (Jan 14, 2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[31:41] 

Big Book Stories of 2024 [34:18]

The Official Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour Book (Target Exclusive)(2024) [38:21] 

2025 Publishing Predictions [42:48]

Kathleen?s 3 Favorites Books of 2024 [46:41] Margo?s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:01]  Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan (2021) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:23] Foster by Claire Keegan (2010) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [47:54]  Other Links Publishing Confidential ? Substack | What Book Publishing Needs to Consider in 2025

In Episode 186, Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) and Sarah share the best backlist books they read in 2024. 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 now an annual tradition at Sarah?s Bookshelves Live ? a team and listener favorite! 

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 2024?s Best of the Backlist Guide is available now! 25 of the Sarah?s Bookshelves Live Patrons share the best backlist book they read last year in a beautiful PDF guide. To get the guide, you can sign up to be a Superstars patron here. You?ll also get access to a 3 bonus podcast episodes per month and my Rock Your Reading Tracker and our all-new Lite Reading Tracker. Highlights Sarah and Catherine share their full stats for backlist reading in 2024. Backlist reading quantity was down a bit again last year for Sarah, but backlist reading quality increased. Catherine had a slight decrease in the number of backlist books she read, but backlist reading remained incredibly successful for her. Sarah?s backlist reading included several atypical choices for her, maybe shaping how she approaches 2025. Our Top 5 Backlist Books We Read in 2024 [6:27]

Catherine

Ghosts by Dolly Alderton | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:33] Shrines of Gaiety by Kate Atkinson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:19] Instructions for a Heatwave by Maggie O?Farrell | Amazon | Bookshop.org[17:38] Tomorrow There Will Be Apricots by Jessica Soffer | Amazon | Bookshop.org[24:10] Behind the Scenes at the Museum by Kate Atkinson | Amazon | Bookshop.org[32:11]

Sarah

The Hop by Diana Clarke | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:38] The Last Days of Night by Graham Moore | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:26] Water by John Boyne | Amazon [20:57] Starter Villain by John Scalzi | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:32] Empire Falls by Richard Russo | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:33]

Other Books Mentioned

Good Material by Dolly Alderton [8:54] The Wealth of Shadows by Graham Moore [14:37] The Holdout by Graham Moore [16:58] Earth by John Boyne [21:09] The Heart?s Invisible Furies by John Boyne [22:18] Fire by John Boyne [22:57]  This Is a Love Story by Jessica Soffer (coming Feb 4) [26:57]  Life After Life by Kate Atkinson [32:42] Case Histories by Kate Atkinson [32:54]  Underrated Backlist Gems [38:56]

Catherine

The Reformatory by Tananarive Due | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:00]  The Brilliant Life of Eudora Honeysett by Annie Lyons | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:36]

Sarah

Home Stretch by Graham Norton | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:50]  The Hard Parts by Oksana Masters | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [48:01]

Other Books Mentioned

The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead [41:33] Signal Fires by Dani Shapiro [43:51] Frankie by Graham Norton [45:12]

Welcome to the Winter 2025 Book Preview with Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books!  

Today, Catherine and Sarah share 16 of their most anticipated books releasing 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 One of the many benefits to joining the Patreon Community is gaining access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and Sarah share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that were not shared in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available to all Superstar patrons and sign up here! Highlights Catherine and Sarah share some big releases coming this winter (lightning round style). Catherine?s theme this season is ?balance,? with 4 debuts and 4 repeat authors. Sarah?s choices seem to fall into some micro genres she loves, featuring 5 debuts. Again, Sarah brings in a few shorter books under 300 pages. Sarah has already read and rated two of her picks! Plus, their #1 picks for the winter. Big Winter Releases [1:51]  Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson (Jan 28) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:28] Show Don?t Tell by Curtis Sittenfeld (Feb 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:37] Dream Count by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (Mar 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [2:44] One Good Thing by Georgia Hunter (Mar 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:51] We Do Not Part by Han Kang (Jan 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:14] Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros (Jan 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:22] We All Live Here by Jojo Moyes (Feb 11) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:32] The Paris Express by Emma Donoghue (Mar 18) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:38] The Heart of Winter by Jonathan Evison (Jan 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [3:42] Three Days in June by Anne Tyler (Feb 11) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [4:00] The Antidote by Karen Russell (Mar 11) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [4:03] The Human Scale by Lawrence Wright (Mar 11) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [4:10] Back After This by Linda Holmes (Feb 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [4:20]

Backlist Titles Mentioned

Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson [2:32] We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter [3:03] Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros [3:27] Room by Emma Donoghue [3:41] Swamplandia by Karen Russell [4:05] Vampires in the Lemon Grove by Karen Russell [4:07] Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes [4:25] Winter 2025 Book Preview [4:32]

January

Sarah?s Picks

The Favorites by Layne Fargo (Jan 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:06] Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor (Jan 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[15:34]

Catherine?s Picks

All the Water in the World by Eiren Caffall (Jan 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[13:20] Those Fatal Flowers by Shannon Ives (Jan 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:22] Call Her Freedom by Tara Dorabji (Jan 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [24:19]  Too Soon by Betty Shamieh (Jan 28) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:19]

Other Books Mentioned

Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë [9:22]  Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel [14:38]   Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin [17:46] Yellowface by R. F. Kuang [17:50] Babel by R. F. Kuang [17:51]

February

Sarah?s Picks

Yours, Eventually by Nura Maznavi (Feb 18) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:16] Penitence by Kristin Koval (Feb 18 ? moved to 1/28 after recording) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[spp-timestamp time="25:56"] Crush by Ada Calhoun (Feb 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:39] The Strange Case by Jane O by Karen Thompson Walker (Feb 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:25] The Grand Scheme of Things by Warona Jay (Feb 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[41:04]

Catherine?s Pick

This Is a Love Story by Jessica Soffer (Feb 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:34]

Other Books Mentioned

Persuasion by Jane Austen [23:21]  Defending Jacob by William Landay [27:49] All That Is Mine I Carry With Me by William Landay [27:51]   Why We Can?t Sleep by Ada Calhoun [32:02]   Wedding Toasts I?ll Never Give by Ada Calhoun [32:05]  Last Couple Standing by Matthew Norman [33:14]  The Age of Miracles by Karen Thompson Walker [36:55]  The Dreamers by Karen Thompson Walker [37:00]  By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult [42:04] 

March

Sarah?s Pick

Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall (Mar 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:35]

Catherine?s Picks

The Dream Hotel by Laila Lalami (Mar 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:35] Kate & Frida by Kim Fay (Mar 11) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:56] Witness 8 by Steve Cavanagh (Mar 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:58]

Other Books Mentioned

The Moor?s Account by Laila Lalami [38:45]  Love & Saffron by Kim Fay [45:08]  The Go-Between by L. P. Hartley [47:42]  The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller [48:15]  Thirteen by Steve Cavanagh [50:49]  Kill For Me, Kill For You by Steve Cavanagh [52:56]  Other Links Instagram | Harper Voyager: Deluxe Limited Edition for Death of an Author by Nnedi Okorafor 

In Episode 184, Susie (@NovelVisits) and I close out the year with our Best Books of 2024 Genre Awards. We reveal our Overall Best Books (Fiction and Nonfiction) and our full breakdown by genre, including: Best Literary Fiction, Best Romance, Best Brain Candy, Best Genre Mash-Up, and more! Plus, we?re sharing the winners for these same genres as chosen by the Sarah?s Bookshelves Live Patreon 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 My 2025 Reading Tracker is out! Plus, this year we?ve added another option ? a LITE Tracker. Once again, the Tracker is ONLY available to Superstars patrons (i.e., no longer available as a separate purchase for $14.99 here on my website). Also, to avoid Apple?s 30% fee, be sure to join directly from Patreon?s site, mobile or desktop. Become a Superstars Patron here! Instructions for how to give an SBL Patreon membership as a gift. Highlights Podcast reflections from 2024 ? including top episodes based on download stats. A brief overview of Susie?s and Sarah?s 2024 year in reading. Our favorite books of the year: overall and by genre, including the SBL Patreon Community?s picks. 2024 Genre Awards [16:45]

Sarah

Leaving by Roxana Robinson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [16:52] Margo?s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [21:21] Anna Bright is Hiding Something by Susie Orman Schnall | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [24:12] The Sequel by Jean Hanff Korelitz | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [28:42] The Wealth of Shadows by Graham Moore | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [32:26] JFK Jr. by RoseMarie Terenzio and Liz McNeil | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:25] Be Ready When the Luck Happens by Ina Garten | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:42] How To End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [46:11] Real Americans by Rachel Khong | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [50:46] Victim by Andrew Boryga | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [57:26] The God of the Woods by Liz Moore | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [59:40] Sipsworth by Simon Van Booy | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:04:24] Nuclear War by Annie Jacobsen | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:07:09] Same As It Ever Was by Claire Lombardo | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:08:47]

Susie

Wolf at the Table by Adam Rapp | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:59] Sandwich by Catherine Newman | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [22:05] Interesting Facts About Space by Emily Austin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:42] What Happened to Nina? by Dervla McTiernan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:43] The Women by Kristin Hannah | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [33:41] The Message by Ta-Nehisi Coates | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [38:16] One Day I?ll Grow Up and Be a Beautiful Woman by Abi Maxwell | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [41:47] Funny Story by Emily Henry | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [47:23] Beautyland by Marie-Helene Bertino | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [51:54] The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [54:02] The Husbands by Holly Gramazio | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [58:18] Wandering Stars by Tommy Orange | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:00:14] Perris, California by Rachel Stark | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:02:44] Liars by Sarah Manguso | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:05:18] Nuclear War by Annie Jacobsen | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:07:09]

Patrons

James by Percival Everett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:55] Margo?s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:43] The God of the Woods by Liz Moore | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:16] The Women by Kristin Hannah | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:35] The Small and the Mighty by Sharon McMahon | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:10] Be Ready When the Luck Happens by Ina Garten | Amazon | Bookshop.org[43:33] Funny Story by Emily Henry | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:59] Annie Bot by Sierra Greer | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [53:28] The Tainted Cup by Robert Jackson Bennett | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [56;10] You Like It Darker by Stephen King | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [56:39] Victim by Andrew Boryga | Amazon | Bookshop.org [58:58] Twenty-Four Seconds From Now by Jason Reynolds | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:01:54] Piglet by Lottie Hazzell | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:03:22] The Husbands by Holly Gramazio | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:06:16] Other Books Mentioned Mercury by Amy Jo Burns [20:10] Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout [20:13] All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker [20:27] The Wedding People by Alison Espach [20:37] We All Want Impossible Things by Catherine Newman [22:17] Bad Blood by John Carreyrou [24:27] She Said by Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey [24:40] Mrs. Quinn?s Rise to Fame by Olivia Ford [28:10] A Happier Life by Kristy Woodson Harvey [28:23] Good Material by Dolly Alderton [28:27] The Plot by Jean Hanff Korelitz [28:57] Nightwatching by Tracy Sierra [31:55] The Return of Ellie Black by Emiko Jean [32:00] Worst Case Scenario by T. J. Newman [32:05] Falling by T. J. Newman [32:20] Drowning by T. J. Newman [32:21] The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali [36:03] Spare by Prince Harry [37:20] The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt [40:00] Challenger by Adam Higginbotham [40:28] The Wives by Simone Gorrindo [44:46] Sociopath by Patric Gagne, Ph.D. [45:09] Consent by Jill Ciment [45:15] The Third Gilmore Girl by Kelly Bishop [45:21] Grief Is for People by Sloane Crosley [45:31] One Way Back by Christine Blasey Ford [45:34] Only Say Good Things by Crystal Hefner [45:43] There?s Always This Year by Hanif Abdurraqib [45:48] People We Meet On Vacation by Emily Henry [47:10] Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez [48:51] The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center [48:59] Love of My Afterlife by Kirsty Greenwood [49:02] Summer Romance by Annabel Monaghan [49:34] Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell [49:44] The Other Valley by Scott Alexander Howard [53:47] The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown [56:12] Bride by Ali Hazelwood [56:27] Diavola by Jennifer Thorne [57:06] We Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewer [57:11] Lula Dean?s Little Library of Banned Books by Kirsten Miller [59:17] Colored Television by Danzy Senna [59:22] I Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie Sue [59:27] We Are Experiencing a Slight Delay by Gary Janneti [59:35] There There by Tommy Orange [1:00:27] Anita de Monte Laughs Last by Xochitl Gonzalez [1:01:40] When the World Tips Over by Jandy Nelson [1:01:59] Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar [1:03:35] Dixon, Descending by Karen Outen [1:03:56] How We Named the Stars by Andrés N. Ordorica [1:04:11] The Safekeep by Yael van der Wouden [1:04:21] Bear by Julia Phillips [1:06:18] The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley [1:06:25] The Fury by Alex Michaelides [1:06:51] The Only Plane in the Sky by Garrett M. Graff [1:08:10] Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver [1:10:27] Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin [1:10:28] Top Podcast Episodes [4:40] Ep. 158: Best Books of 2023 Genre Awards with Susie (@NovelVisits) Ep. 160: The Best Backlist Books We Read in 2023 with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) Ep. 159: Winter 2024 Book Preview with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) Ep. 157: Best Books of 2023 Superlatives with Susie (@NovelVisits) Ep. 164: Winter 2024 Circle Back with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) Ep. 163: Classics & Retellings 101 with Sara Hildreth (@FictionMatters) Ep. 156: 2023 State of the Industry with Sarah Landis (Literary Agent) Ep. 162: BookTok 101 with Leigh Stein (Author & Journalist) Ep. 178: Behind the Scenes of Amazon?s Best Books Lists with Al Woodworth, Senior Editor & Manager of Amazon Books Editorial Ep. 179: From Corporate America to Indie Bookstore Owner with Gayle Weiswasser (Co-Founder of Wonderland Books) Ep. 167: Circling Back to 2018 in Books with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide)

In this Bonus Podcast Episode, Al Woodworth, Senior Editor and Manager at Amazon Books Editorial, returns to the show to take listeners behind the scenes of Amazon?s Best Books of 2024, as chosen by the Amazon Editors!  A fascinating glimpse into how the 2024 list was curated, how the rankings were determined, and what criteria guided the selections. 

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 My 2025 Reading Tracker is out! Plus, this year we?ve added another option ? a LITE Tracker. Once again, the Tracker is ONLY available to Superstars patrons (i.e., no longer available as a separate purchase for $14.99 here on my website). Also, to avoid Apple?s 30% fee, be sure to join directly from Patreon?s site, mobile or desktop. Become a Superstars Patron here! Highlights The impact Amazon?s #1 book of 2024 had on the editorial team The role of capturing ?the present moment? in selecting the best books of the year How Amazon Editorial chose the top 5 books of 2024  Whether the mid-year top book or other outlets? year-end lists influenced Amazon?s decisions Behind the scenes: 2024?s ?reading week? retreat and ?war room? discussions  The importance of selecting books that appeal across genres and to a broad swath of readers The group dynamic of ranking each book on the list Al highlights some lesser-known titles from the list How 2024 stacks up for Al and Amazon?s editorial team Books From Our Discussion The Boys of Riverside by Thomas Fuller | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:03] The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [4:25]  Friday Night Lights by H. G. Bissinger | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [4:27]  Seabiscuit by Laura Hillenbrand | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [4:28] The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride  | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [9:54]  The God of the Woods by Liz Moore | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [11:37] James by Percival Everett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:43] The Women by Kristin Hannah | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [11:51]  The Small and the Mighty by Sharon McMahon | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:54] Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar  | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [11:59]   Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain | Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:18] Educated by Tara Westover | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [17:09]  The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [20:26]  We Solve Murders by Richard Osman | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [20:30]  The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:34]  The Last One at the Wedding by Jason Rekulak | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:06]  Be Ready When the Luck Happens by Ina Garten | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:23] The Wedding People by Alison Espach | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [28:27] All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [28:35] We Begin at the End by Chris Whitaker | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [28:47] Revenge of the Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell  | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:21] When the World Tips Over by Jandy Nelson | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [29:23] The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [31:15] There Are Rivers in the Sky by Elif Shafak | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:51] John Lewis by David Greenberg  | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [35:44] I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [39:00] The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [41:14] The Demon of Unrest by Erik Larson | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [44:06]  Other Links Amazon | Amazon Editors? Personal Favorite Books of 2024 About Al Woodworth

More about Amazon Book Review
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Al Woodworth is a Senior Editor on the Amazon Books Editorial team and has spent more than ten years in the book industry, championing authors and their work. She?s never without a book or four in her bag and is happiest reading memoirs and literary fiction, especially sprawling stories that cross generations and countries. She lives in Brooklyn.

In Ep. 183, we?re starting the wrap-up of 2024 with the first of our two year-end episodes: Best Books of 2024 Superlatives with Susie (@NovelVisits). In this episode, we?re sharing our top books of the year across over 25 Superlative categories, including Most Deserving of the Hype, Best Pairing, an ?Eat My Words? book, Most Memorable Cast of Characters, 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.

Announcements My 2025 Reading Tracker is out! Plus, this year we?ve added another option ? a LITE Tracker. Once again, the Tracker is ONLY available to Superstars patrons (i.e., no longer available as a separate purchase for $14.99 here on my website). Also, to avoid Apple?s 30% fee, be sure to join directly from Patreon?s site, mobile or desktop. Become a Superstars Patron here! Highlights

Our best books of the year from over 25 categories, including:

Most Deserving of the Hype Most Memorable Cast of Characters Best Book Read Because of FOMO Darkest Book of the Year Best Underrated Gem Most Unpopular Opinion Most Surprising DNF Favorite Coming-of-Age Book Best Pairing ?Eat My Words? Book Best and Worst Titles Best and Worst Covers 2024 Superlatives [3:42]

Susie

The God of the Woods by Liz Moore | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:19] The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:11] How We Named the Stars by Andrés N. Ordorica | Amazon | Bookshop.org[11:42] Grown Women by Sarai Johnson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:44] Piglet by Lottie Hazell | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:36] Soldier Sailor by Claire Kilroy | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:08] Blessings by Chukwuebuka Ibeh  | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:52] Intermezzo by Sally Rooney | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:23] Entitlement by Rumaan Alam | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:25] Creation Lake by Rachel Kushner | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:18] The Sequel by Jean Hanff Korelitz | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:56] Hera by Jennifer Saint | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:40] The Wedding People by Alison Espach | Amazon | Bookshop.org [53:23] Real Americans by Rachel Khong | Amazon | Bookshop.org [57:31] Annie Bot by Sierra Greer | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:01:49]

Sarah

Mercury by Amy Jo Burns | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:17] River East, River West by Aube Rey Lescure | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:17] James by Percival Everett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:04] The Women by Kristin Hannah | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:45] Sociopath by Patric Gagne, PhD | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:22] Earth by John Boyne | Amazon [26:23] The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt  | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:13] Intermezzo by Sally Rooney | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:54] A Reason to See You Again by Jami Attenberg | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:26] Same As It Ever Was by Claire Lombardo | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:23] Leaving by Roxana Robinson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:16] The Sequel by Jean Hanff Korelitz | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:51] Dixon, Descending by Karen Outen | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:33] Everest, Inc. by Will Cockrell | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:51] Sandwich by Catherine Newman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:59] The Wedding People by Alison Espach | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:14] All The Worst Humans by Phil Elwood | Amazon | Bookshop.org [55:16] Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout | Amazon | Bookshop.org [59:45] Other Books Mentioned Tom Lake by Ann Patchett [14:22]  Summer Romance by Annabel Monaghan [16:10] Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez [16:17] The Queen of the Tearling by Erika Johansen [16:27] Forgotten on Sunday by Valérie Perrin [18:16] Three by Valérie Perrin [18:18] Fresh Water for Flowers by Valérie Perrin [18:18] The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah [20:23] The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah [20:30] The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah [20:33] (?The Dustbowl one?) The Heart?s Invisible Furies by John Boyne [26:32] Water by John Boyne [26:53] Fire by John Boyne [27:37] Air by John Boyne (2025) [27:37] Perris, California by Rachel Stark [37:34] Normal People by Sally Rooney [38:31] Conversations with Friends by Sally Rooney [38:32] Beautiful World, Where Are You? by Sally Rooney [38:44] Tell Me Everything by Minka Kelly [1:00:32] Tell Me Everything by Erika Krauss [1:00:37] My Name is Lucy Barton by Elizabeth Strout [1:00:54] About Susie Boutry

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Susie has loved reading for as long as she can remember. Some of her fondest childhood memories involve long afternoons at the library and then reading late into the night. More than ten years ago, she began journaling about the books she read and turned that passion into writing about books. Her first forays were as a guest reviewer on a friend?s blog, but she soon realized she wanted to be reviewing and talking about books on a blog of her own. From there, Novel Visits was born. That was in 2016 and, though the learning curve was steep, she loves being a part of the book community. Novel Visits focuses on new novel reviews (print and audio), previews of upcoming releases, and musings on all things bookish.

In Episode 182, author Chelsea Bieker discusss her new novel, Madwoman, with Sarah. Chelsea shares how her own childhood inspired the fictional characters in her book and what parts of the book differ from her own experience. They talk about the trajectory of this intense and personal novel that began as a ?funny little book about motherhood? and morphed into a story about trauma and abuse.  Plus, Chelsea shares her 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 Chelsea Bieker: Madwoman (2024), Heartbroke (2022), and Godshot (2020) A spoiler-free overview of Madwoman. How this story transformed from a ?funny little book about motherhood? to an intense story about trauma and abuse. The ways Chelsea?s childhood experiences and memories shaped her story of Clove. The parts of Madwoman that were pulled directly from her own life and those that weren?t. Exploring the publisher?s statement that Madwoman would be Chelsea?s breakout. Conversations with her mom and dad about the book?s story. The relationship between Madwoman, Godshot, and Chelsea?s current work in progress. Chelsea?s Book Recommendations [46:01]

Two OLD Books She Loves

Animal by Lisa Taddeo (2021) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:23] Hot Springs Drive by Lindsay Hunter (2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [49:04]

Two NEW Books She Loves

We Were the Universe by Kimberly King Parsons (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:09] Solider Sailor by Claire Kilroy (2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [53:09]

One Book She DIDN?T Love

It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover | Amazon | Bookshop.org [55:48]

One NEW RELEASE She?s Excited About

The Motherload by Sarah Hoover (Jan 14, 2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[01:01:49]

Last 5-Star Book Chelsea Read

How to Love Your Daughter by Hila Blum (2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[01:03:42] Other Books Mentioned: I Could Live Here Forever by Hanna Halperin (2023) [01:04:04] About Chelsea Bieker Website | Instagram | X | Facebook | Substack

Chelsea Bieker is the author of three books, most recently the nationally bestselling novel, Madwoman, a Book of the Month club pick the New York Times calls ?brilliant in its depiction of the long shadows cast by domestic violence.? Her first novel, Godshot, was long-listed for The Center For Fiction?s First Novel Prize and named a Barnes & Noble Pick of the Month. Her story collection, Heartbroke, won the California Book Award and was a New York Times ?Best California Book of 2022.? Her writing has appeared in The Paris Review, Marie Claire UK, People, The Cut, Wall Street Journal, No Tokens, and others. She is the recipient of a Rona Jaffe Writers? Award, as well as residencies from MacDowell and Tin House. Raised in Hawai?i and California, she now lives in Portland, Oregon with her husband and two children.

In Episode 181, Sarah and Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books catch up on the 16 new releases they shared in the Fall 2024 Book Preview, now that they?ve read them. They share their reading stats, chat about what worked ? and hash out which books didn?t work and why. Check out the episode for their full reviews on all their fall picks and get recommendations for your next book!

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 describes her fall reading ?trick or treat? ? mostly treats (her first 5-star preview book since February), but a few tricks (two DNFs). Sarah had a higher DNF count than usual, but still had a high(ish) success rate for this season. Since this is the last Circle Back of 2024, they look at their stats for the entire year of Previews. They name the best and worst books picks for fall! Books We Read Before the Preview [3:30]

Sarah?s Picks

Madwoman by Chelsea Bieker (Sep 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [3:58] The Sequel by Jean Hanff Korelitz (Oct 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:32]

Other Books Mentioned

The Plot by Jean Hanff Korelitz [5:35] Fall 2024 Circle Back [7:28]

Mid-August

Catherine?s Picks

There Are Rivers in the Sky by Elif Shafak (Aug 20) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[7:36]

September

Sarah?s Picks

Guide Me Home by Attica Locke (Sep 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:23] The Siege by Ben Macintyre (Sep 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [15:41]  Entitlement by Rumaan Alam (Sep 17) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [23:36]  A Reason to See You Again by Jami Attenberg (Sep 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [29:51] Adam and Evie?s Matchmaking Tour by Nora Nguyen (Sep 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:35]

Catherine?s Picks

Dear Dickhead by Virginie Despentes (Sep 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:54] Bringer of Dust by J. M. Miro (Sep 17) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [20:07] 

Other Books Mentioned

Bluebird, Bluebird by Attica Locke [10:44]  Heaven, My Home by Attica Locke [10:48] The Spy and the Traitor by Ben Macintyre [15:46]  Ordinary Monsters by J. M. Miro [20:12]  Leave the World Behind by Rumaan Alam [24:29]  Sandwich by Catherine Newman [25:03] All This Could Be Yours by Jami Attenberg [30:09] Banyan Moon by Thao Tai [37:01] The Sicilian Inheritance by Jo Piazza [37:32] The Paris Novel by Ruth Reichl [37:48] 

October

Sarah?s Picks

Shred Sisters by Betsy Lerner (Oct 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:36] 

Catherine?s Picks

A Song to Drown Rivers by Ann Liang (Oct 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [27:00]  The Puzzle Box by Danielle Trussoni (Oct 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:24] Libby Lost and Found by Stephanie Booth (Oct 15) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[39:47] Like Mother, Like Mother by Susan Rieger (Oct 29) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:21] 

Other Books Mentioned

The Puzzle Master by Danielle Trussoni [33:07] The Forest for the Trees by Betsy Lerner [46:14] 

November

Catherine?s Pick

The Courting of Bristol Keats by Mary E. Pearson (Nov 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:23]  About Catherine Gilmore

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Catherine started The Gilmore Guide to Booksover 10 years ago after wrapping up a career as a corporate librarian. She loves books and reading (surprise!) and currently lives in Seattle, WA.

Next Episode

In two weeks (November 13), Sarah will be back with Chelsea Bieker, author of Madwoman.

In Episode 180, Susie Boutry (@NovelVisits) and Sarah return with the 4th annual Debuts Special! They?re sharing their favorite debuts, new and backlist ? so far for 2024. Plus, their reading stats for debuts this year and the best sophomore novels of 2024.

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 2024 compare to those from previous years. A full breakdown of Sarah?s and Susie?s 2024 debut-related stats. Featured debuts, divided into three categories: Favorite Debuts of 2024 (so far) Favorite Backlist Debuts Read in 2024 Best Sophomore Novels of 2024 Favorite Debuts of 2024 (so far) [7:13]

Sarah

Only Say Good Things by Crystal Hefner | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [8:33] Nightwatching by Tracy Sierra | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:50] Everest, Inc. by Will Cockrell | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:50] How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:30]

Susie

Grown Women by Sarai Johnson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:18] How We Named the Stars by Andrés N. Ordorica | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:32] Perris, California by Rachel Stark | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:58] Women and Children First by Alina Grabowski | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:29]

Other Books Mentioned

Victim by Andrew Boryga [7:54] Dixon, Descending by Karen Outen [8:04] River East, River West by Aub Rey Lescure [8:15] The Wives by Simone Gorrindo [8:23] The Many Lives of Mama Love by Lara Love Hardin [8:43] Nuclear War by Annie Jacobsen [14:59] Talking at Night by Claire Daverley [21:25] Groundskeeping by Lee Cole [21:29] People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry [29:38]  Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld [31:26]  No Two Persons by Erica Bauermeister [34:55]  The Road to Dalton by Shannon Bowring [34:58]  Favorite Backlist Debuts Read in 2024 [36:02]

Sarah

The Flat Share by Beth O?Leary | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:09] Welcome to the O.C. by Alan Sepinwall, Josh Schwartz, and Stephanie Savage | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:20]

Susie

There There by Tommy Orange | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:33] Black Butterflies by Priscilla Morris | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:13]

Other Books Mentioned

Wandering Stars by Tommy Orange [39:06]  Girl at War by Sara Novi? [45:18] The Cellist of Sarajevo by Steven Galloway [45:20]   Best Sophomore Novels of 2024 [45:33]

Sarah

Same As It Ever Was by Claire Lombardo | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:39] A Quiet Life by Ethan Joella | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:43]

Susie

Bear by Julia Phillips | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:07] Where the Forest Meets the River by Shannon Bowring | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:40]

Other Books Mentioned

Sandwich by Catherine Newman [47:52]  The Road to Dalton by Shannon Bowring [52:54]  Additional Books Mentioned I?m Thinking of Ending Things by Iain Reid [6:08]  About Susie Boutry

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Susie has loved reading for as long as she can remember. Some of her fondest childhood memories involve long afternoons at the library and then reading late into the night. More than ten years ago, she began journaling about the books she read and turned that passion into writing about books. Her first forays were as a guest reviewer on a friend?s blog, but she soon realized she wanted to be reviewing and talking about books on a blog of her own. From there, Novel Visits was born. That was in 2016 and, though the learning curve was steep, she loves being a part of the book community. Novel Visits focuses on new novel reviews (print and audio), previews of upcoming releases, and musings on all things bookish.

Next Episode

In two weeks (October 30), Catherine and I will be back with our Fall 2024 Circle Back episode.

In Episode 179, Sarah is joined by Gayle Weiswasser, co-founder of Wonderland Books, an independent bookstore in Bethesda, MD opening in November 2024. Gayle candidly shares her journey from her initial idea to being on the verge of opening the store. This behind-the-scenes episode offers a deep dive into everything from training and book buying to raising capital (including crowdsourcing) and much more! Plus, Gayle wraps up the episode with some great book recommendations (and how many copies of each she?s ordering for the store).

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 Gayle?s nearly 20-year journey in the book world. How the first spark for this idea came from listening to a podcast. Some of the fears and challenges Gayle is currently facing. Bookstore bootcamp and the other ways Gayle prepared to become a bookstore owner. All about raising capital: fundraising, crowdsourcing, small business loans, and the perks of working with a partner. How Gayle balances her personal reading tastes with the community?s expectations. The process of buying books and building the store?s collection. Breaking down book margins and why publishers tend to stay quiet about them. How Wonderland Books plans to stand out from other local bookstores. How this whole process has affected Gayle?s reading this year. Did Sarah just discover a new micro-genre? Plus, an impromptu request adds a fun twist to the book recommendations segment! Gayle?s Book Recommendations [53:04]

Two OLD Books She Loves

The Art Thief by Michael Finkel | Amazon | Bookshop.org [53:15] Talking at Night by Claire Daverley | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [55:55] Other Books Mentioned Normal People by Sally Rooney [57:55] 

Two NEW Books She Loves

The Caretaker by Ron Rash | Amazon | Bookshop.org [58:39] Green Dot by Madeleine Gray | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:01:15] Other Books Mentioned The Risen by Ron Rash [59:03]  Serena by Ron Rash [59:07]

One Book She DIDN?T Love

Margo?s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:04:09] Other Books Mentioned The Girls from Corona del Mar by Rufi Thorpe [1:04:33]  The Knockout Queen by Rufi Thorpe [1:04:35] 

One NEW RELEASE She?s Excited About

A Forty Year Kiss by Nickolas Butler (February 4, 2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:08:29] Other Books Mentioned: Shotgun Lovesongs by Nickolas Butler [1:08:40] Beneath the Bonfire by Nickolas Butler [1:09:12]  Show Don?t Tell by Curtis Sittenfeld (February 25, 2025) [1:09:25]  You Think It, I?ll Say It by Curtis Sittenfeld [1:09:36]  Leaving by Roxana Robinson [1:10:12]  Our Souls at Night by Kent Haruf [1:10:49] 

Last 5-Star Book Gayle Read

The Husbands by Holly Gramazio | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:11:42] Other Links The Bookshop Podcast with Mandy Jackson-Beverly The Bookstore Training Group About Gayle Weiswasser

Blog | Instagram | X | Facebook 

Gayle Weiswasser is the co-founder of Wonderland Books, a soon-to-open independent bookstore opening soon in Bethesda, MD. Gayle is also the founder of the blog, Everyday I Write the Book and the co-host of the podcast The Readerly Report. Prior to opening Wonderland Books, Gayle was a lawyer and communications executive.  She?s a DC native and now lives in Chevy Chase, MD with her family.

Learn More about Wonderland Books:
Website | Instagram | Facebook

In Episode 178, Al Woodworth, Senior Editor and Manager at Amazon Books Editorial, goes behind the scenes of Amazon?s editorial division, including the start-to-finish process of building the ?Best Books? lists, what ?best? might mean, and what helps a book make the list. Plus, Al shares some of her 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 Al fits reading into her busy weekly schedule The start to finish process of building the Amazon ?Best of? lists How Amazon balances genre diversity in their ?Best of? lists What ?best? means to Amazon?s editorial team Publication date criteria for the Best Books of the Month and Year lists How the team discusses, votes, and makes decisions for the lists Whether sales numbers influence the year-end list How Amazon?s editorial team handles publisher influence What 2024 looks like so far for Al and the editorial team Al?s Book Recommendations [38:26]

Two OLD Books She Loves

Horse by Geraldine Brooks | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:39] Empire of Pain by Patrick Radden Keefe | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [40:20] Other Books Mentioned Say Nothing by Patrick Radden Keefe [41:32] 

Two NEW Books She Loves

James by Percival Everett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:05] There Are Rivers in the Sky by Elif Shafak | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:18]

One Book She DIDN?T Love

Fates and Furies by Lauren Groff | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:21]

One NEW RELEASE She?s Excited About

The City and Its Uncertain Walls by Haruki Murakami (Nov 19) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:54] Other Books Mentioned: 1Q84 by Haruki Murakami [51:09]

Last 5-Star Book Al Read

There Are Rivers in the Sky by Elif Shafak | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:05] Other Books Mentioned: John Lewis: A Life by David Greenberg (Oct 8) [52:26] Books From Our Discussion All the Worst Humans by Phil Elwood [9:25] The Wedding People by Alison Espach [14:54] Fifty Words for Rain by Asha Lemmie [18:05] All the Broken Places by John Boyne [18:11] All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker [19:38] James by Percival Everett [21:40] Educated by Tara Westover [22:07] Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver [24:09] Spare by Prince Harry [25:25] The Testaments by Margaret Atwood [31:13]  The Handmaid?s Tale by Margaret Atwood [31:25] The 9/11 Commission Report by National Commission on Terrorist Attacks [31:34] About Al Woodworth

More about Amazon Book Review
Website | Instagram | X | Facebook

Al Woodworth is a Senior Editor on the Amazon Books Editorial team and has spent more than ten years in the book industry, championing authors and their work. She?s never without a book or four in her bag and is happiest reading memoirs and literary fiction, especially sprawling stories that cross generations and countries. She lives in Brooklyn.

Welcome to the Fall 2024 Book Preview with Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books!  

Today, Catherine and I share 16 of our most anticipated books releasing 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 joining our Patreon Community 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 to all patrons (Stars and Superstars) and sign up here! Highlights Catherine and Sarah share some big releases coming this fall (lightning round style). Catherine?s theme is ?unpredictability? ? half her picks are repeat authors and the other half simply caught her eye. Sarah?s choices feature 6 returning authors and overall are leaning more literary. A few shorter books from Sarah?s picks: under 300 pages. Sarah has already read and rated two of her picks! Plus, their #1 picks for the fall. Big Fall Releases [1:29] 

Books Mentioned

By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult (Aug 20) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:56] Death at the Sign of the Rook by Kate Atkinson (Sep 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:00] The Life Impossible by Matt Haig (Sep 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:05] Here One Moment by Liane Moriarty (Sep 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:11] The Mighty Red by Louise Erdrich (Oct 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:30] Framed by John Grisham and Jim McCloskey (Oct 15) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [2:36] The Grey Wolf by Louise Penny (Oct 29) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:39] The Blue Hour by Paula Hawkins (Oct 29) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:45] The City and Its Uncertain Walls by Haruki Murakami (Nov 19) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:51] It Starts with One: The Legend and Legacy of Linkin Park by Jason Lipshutz(Oct 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:54] MC5: An Oral Biography of Rock?s Most Revolutionary Band by Brad Tolinski, Jaan Uhelszki, and Ben Edmonds (Oct 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:55] Never Understood: The Jesus and Mary Chain by William Reid and Jim Reid(Sep 17) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:56] Scattershot: Life, Music, Elton & Me by Bernie Taupin (2023 release ? in paperback Sep 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:58] The Name of This Band Is R.E.M.: A Biography by Peter Ames Carlin (Nov 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:59]

Backlist Titles Mentioned

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig [2:08] The Measure by Nikki Erlick [2:27] The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins [2:45] 1Q84 by Haruki Murakami [3:02] What I Talk About When I Talk About Running by Haruki Murakami [3:25] Fall 2024 Book Preview [6:34]

Mid-August

Catherine?s Pick

There Are Rivers in the Sky by Elif Shafak (Aug 20) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[9:22]

Other Books Mentioned

The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak [11:03]  10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World by Elif Shafak [11:12] 

September

Sarah?s Picks

Guide Me Home by Attica Locke (Sep 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [7:11] Madwoman by Chelsea Bieker (Sep 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:41] The Siege by Ben Macintyre (Sep 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [18:03]  Entitlement by Rumaan Alam (Sep 17) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [22:37]  A Reason to See You Again by Jami Attenberg (Sep 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [28:00] Adam and Evie?s Matchmaking Tour by Nora Nguyen (Sep 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:45]

Catherine?s Picks

Dear Dickhead by Virginie Despentes (Sep 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [15:37] Bringer of Dust by J. M. Miro (Sep 17) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [20:28] 

Other Books Mentioned

Bluebird, Bluebird by Attica Locke [7:21]  Heaven, My Home by Attica Locke [7:24] The Cutting Season by Attica Locke [7:55] Godshot by Chelsea Bieker [15:08]  The Spy and the Traitor by Ben Macintyre [18:12]  Ordinary Monsters by J. M. Miro [20:41]  Leave the World Behind by Rumaan Alam [22:57]  Trust by Hernan Diaz [23:45]  Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid [23:48]  All This Could Be Yours by Jami Attenberg [28:06] Saint Mazie by Jami Attenberg [28:09] The Middlesteins by Jami Attenberg [28:10] Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow [29:39] Banyan Moon by Thao Tai [29:44] The Sicilian Inheritance by Jo Piazza [34:37] The Women by Kristin Hannah [35:44]

October

Sarah?s Picks

The Sequel by Jean Hanff Korelitz (Oct 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:18] (To skip ahead, jump to [44:55] in your podcast player.) Shred Sisters by Betsy Lerner (Oct 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:44] 

Catherine?s Picks

A Song to Drown Rivers by Ann Liang (Oct 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [26:11]  The Puzzle Box by Danielle Trussoni (Oct 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:59] Libby Lost and Found by Stephanie Booth (Oct 15) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[36:48] Like Mother, Like Mother by Susan Rieger (Oct 29) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:56] 

Other Books Mentioned

The Puzzle Master by Danielle Trussoni [31:07] A Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin [38:43] The Plot by Jean Hanff Korelitz [39:23] The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin [42:23]  Capote?s Women by Laurence Leamer [42:27]  It Starts with Us by Colleen Hoover [43:39]  The Heirs by Susan Rieger [45:04]  The Forest for the Trees by Betsy Lerner [46:56]  Happiness Falls by Angie Kim [47:53] 

November

Catherine?s Pick

The Courting of Bristol Keats by Mary E. Pearson (Nov 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:53] 

In Episode 176, Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books and I catch up on the 12 new releases from the Summer 2024 Book Preview. We share our reading stats, chat about what we liked, and what didn?t work out. Listen in as we share our reviews on these books and get some recommendations for your next read! 

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 says she had a ?hummingbird? summer of flitting from book to book to book. Sarah?s prediction of THE BOOK of summer definitely panned out! Despite some DNFs, Sarah and Catherine both ended up with a fairly successful summer. Catherine calls out one author as serving up wonderful ?Jimmy Stewart fiction.? Sarah had a weird reading experience with one book. Plus, two of Sarah?s picks were 5 stars! They name the best and worst books from their summer picks! Books We Read Before the Preview [4:27]

Sarah?s Picks

The God of the Woods by Liz Moore  (July 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [4:47]  Margo?s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe (June 11) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[5:14]

Other Books Mentioned

The Knockout Queen by Rufi Thorpe [6:09] Summer 2024 Circle Back [7:36]

June

Sarah?s Picks

Fire Exit by Morgan Talty (June 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:10] What You Leave Behind by Wanda M. Morris (June 18) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:39]

Catherine?s Picks

Swift River by Essie Chambers (June 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [7:44] Same As It Ever Was by Claire Lombardo (June 18) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[14:59] All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker (June 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [23:10] How the Light Gets In by Joyce Maynard (June 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[29:04] 

Other Books Mentioned

Night of the Living Rez by Morgan Talty [11:35] The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo [15:09] All Her Little Secrets by Wanda M. Morris [20:55] Anywhere You Run by Wanda M. Morris [20:58] We Begin at the End by Chris Whitaker [27:01]

July

Sarah?s Picks

The World After Alice by Lauren Aliza Green (July 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [30:39] Long Island Compromise by Taffy Brodesser-Akner  (July 9) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [37:42]

Catherine?s Picks

The Same Bright Stars by Ethan Joella (July 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[33:43] The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali (July 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [42:28] 

Other Books Mentioned

Seating Arrangements by Maggie Shipstead [33:01] The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo [33:04] Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane [33:09] A Quiet Life by Ethan Joella [36:53] Fleishman Is in Trouble by Taffy Brodesser-Akner [37:48] The Stationary Shop by Marjan Kamali [42:35]

In Episode 175, Susie Boutry (@NovelVisits) and I explore our favorite Micro Genres for 2024. Over the past year, we?ve continued to refine our reading tastes and identify specific themes and types of books that resonate deeply with us. This year, Susie and I have a curated list of 10 all-new Micro Genres, along with standout books from each category. It?s another big episode with tons of great 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.

Cold War Espionage (Sarah) [3:19]

Sarah

Red Widow by Alma Katsu | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [4:49] Red London by Alma Katsu | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [4:50] Our American Friend by Anna Pitoniak | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [5:10]  The Charm School by Nelson DeMille | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [5:20]   Red Notice by Bill Browder | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [5:47] The Spy and the Traitor by Ben Macintyre | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [6:01]

Susie

The Sisterhood by Liz Mundy | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [6:26]  Angsty Motherhood (Susie) [7:21]

Sarah

Perfect Tunes by Emily Gould | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:00]

Susie

Soldier Sailor by Claire Kilroy | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:38] Same As It Ever Was by Claire Lombardo | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:04] Amazing Grace Adams by Fran Littlewood | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [10:37] When I Ran Away by Ilona Bannister | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [10:53]  Little Prisons by Ilona Bannister (currently unavailable in the US)  [10:54]  Landslide by Susan Conley | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:57] The Push by Ashley Audrain | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [11:00]  Memoirs About the Demise of a Marriage (Sarah) [12:18]

Sarah

How to Stay Married by Harrison Scott Key | Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:26] You Could Make This Place Beautiful by Maggie Smith | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [13:52]  A Beautiful, Terrible Thing by Jen Waite | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [14:11]  Bankruptcy by Janet Lombardi | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [14:14] 

Susie

Untamed by Glennon Doyle | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:49] Pandemic Stories (Susie) [15:26]

NOT Based on the COVID-19 Pandemic & More Dystopian [15:49] 

Sarah

Wanderers by Chunk Wendig | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [17:43] 

Susie

Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [16:06] The Dog Stars by Peter Heller | Amazon | Bookshop.org [16:20] The Memory of Animals by Claire Fuller | Amazon | Bookshop.org [16:41]  Severance by Ling Ma | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [17:07] The Dreamers by Karen Thompson Walker | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [18:20] 

With the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Background [18:28] 

Sarah

56 Days by Catherine Ryan Howard | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [20:37]  Reef Road by Deborah Goodrich Royce | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [20:40] 

Susie

Blue Ruin by Hari Kunzru | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [18:37]  Day by Michael Cunningham | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [19:17]  Tom Lake by Ann Patchett | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [19:47]  Pete and Alice in Maine by Caitlin Shetterly | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [19:49] 

Other Books Mentioned

Wish You Were Here by Jodi Picoult [21:09]  Invisible Son by Kim Johnson [21:14]  This Is My America by Kim Johnson [21:19]  The Measure by Nikki Erlick [22:03]  Did She Actually Say That?! (Sarah) [23:03]

Sarah

Miracle Creek by Angie Kim | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:18]  Happiness Falls by Angie Kim | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:19]  The Push by Ashley Audrain | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [24:55]  All This Could Be Yours by Jami Attenberg | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [25:14]  Sociopath by Patric Gagne, PhD | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [25:42] 

Susie

The Change by Kirsten Miller | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [26:15] On the Savage Side by Tiffany McDaniel | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [26:32]   Books Revolving Around Generational Trauma (Susie) [27:34]

Sarah

Strange Sally Diamond by Liz Nugent | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:24]  Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [31:28]  What My Bones Know by Stephanie Foo | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [31:52]  The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, MD | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [31:54] What Happened to You? by Oprah Winfrey and Bruce D. Perry, MD PhD | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [31:57]  

Susie

Grown Women by Sarai Johnson | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [29:08]  Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [29:58]  The Postcard by Anne Berest | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [30:27]  Saving Ruby King by Catherine Adel West | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [30:50]  All My Rage by Sabaa Tahir | Amazon | Bookshop.org   [30:53]  Swift River by Essie Chambers | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [30:56]  Brotherless Night by V. V. Ganeshanathan | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [30:59]  Co-Ed Friend Groups (Sarah) [32:18]

Sarah

The Interestings by Meg Wolitzer | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:17]  Shotgun Lovesongs by Nickolas Butler | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [33:29]  The Ensemble by Aja Gabel | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [33:39]   All Together Now by Matthew Norman | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [33:47]  Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [34:01] The Christmas Orphans Club by Becca Freeman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:14]

Susie

The Celebrants by Steven Rowley | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [34:36]  Who We Are Now by Lauryn Chamberlain | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [35:16]  Peace, Love, and Rock n? Roll / Books Set in the ?60s & ?70s (Susie) [36:58]

Susie

The Women by Kristin Hannah | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:09]  Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:31]  Mary Jane by Jessica Anya Blau | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [38:57]  The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead | Amazon | Bookshop.org [spp-timestamp time=?[39:11]?]  All You Have to Do Is Call by Kerri Maher | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [39:39] Last House by Jessica Shattuck | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [39:53]  Surprisingly High-Quality Celebrity Memoirs (Sarah) [40:33]

Sarah

Open by Andre Agassi | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [41:05]  Spare by Prince Harry | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [41:07]  Open Book by Jessica Simpson | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [42:16]  Finding Me by Viola Davis | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [43:11]  Becoming by Michelle Obama | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [43:15] Only Say Good Things by Crystal Hefner | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [43:21]  

Susie

Born a Crime by Trevor Noah | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [44:19] 

Other Books Mentioned

The Woman in Me by Britney Spears [41:45]  The Many Lives of Mama Love by Laura Love Hardin [43:33]  Look Backs (Susie) [44:38]

Sarah

City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:11] Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk by Kathleen Rooney | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [48:33]  Victim by Andrew Boryga | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:06] 

Susie

The Rachel Incident by Caroline O?Donoghue | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:30] The Age of Miracles by Karen Thompson Walker | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:03] Now Is Not the Time to Panic by Kevin Wilson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:08] Absolution by Alice McDermott | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:30]

Other Books Mentioned

Happiness Falls by Angie Kim [47:47] 

For Ep. 174, due to an unexpected change in our episode schedule, we?re bringing you an episode from our newest Patreon bonus series, Unscripted. This series is our sandbox for any bookish topic, whether it?s publishing news, behind-the-scenes insights from the podcast and our reading lives, or patron-submitted discussions. Most Unscripted episodes feature both co-hosts, Susie Boutry (@NovelVisits) and Catherine Gilmore (@GilmoreGuide), along with me ? and this April episode was no exception. We dive into the topic of Auto-Buy Authors, submitted by patrons! Tune in for a candid chat about the authors we always buy, former favorites, and those we?ve learned to avoid.

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 (Podcast Survey) Hey Listeners! We value your feedback and want to ensure Sarah?s Bookshelves Live continues to meet your needs. Please take a couple of minutes to complete our podcast survey. Your insights are crucial for us to keep improving the podcast. The results are completely anonymous, so feel free to be honest. You can access the survey here. Thank you for your support! Introduction [4:19]

Books Mentioned

The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo [5:12] Auto-Buy Authors [11:12]

Catherine

Elizabeth George The Great Deliverance (Inspector Lynley Mysteries, #1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:43] Anna Quindlen Paula McLain When the Stars Go Dark | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:49] Circling the Sun | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:56] Love and Ruin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:03] A Ticket to Ride | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:23] The Paris Wife | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:27] Alice Hoffman Practical Magic | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:02] The Rules of Magic | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:43] Thrity Umrigar Honor | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:30] Barbara Kingsolver Demon Copperhead | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:51] The Bean Trees | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:03] The Poisonwood Bible | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:25] Unsheltered | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:46] Prodigal Summer | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:10] Pigs in Heaven | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [31:25] Natalie Haynes S. A. Cosby All the Sinners Bleed | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:01] Maggie O?Farrell I Am, I Am, I Am | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:03] The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:22] John Boyne Water | Amazon [43:48] The Heart?s Invisible Furies | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:16] The Boy in the Striped Pajamas | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:23] All the Broken Places | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:25] A Traveler at the Gates of Wisdom | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:04] A Ladder to the Sky | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:18] Abbi Waxman Other People?s Houses | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:12] The Bookish Life of Nina Hill | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:21] Percival Everett James | Amazon | Bookshop.org [53:12] The Trees | Amazon | Bookshop.org [53:13] Erasure | Amazon | Bookshop.org [53:16] Jennifer Saint Elektra | Amazon | Bookshop.org [55:59] Ariadne | Amazon | Bookshop.org [56:00] Atalanta | Amazon | Bookshop.org [56:02] Laini Taylor Strange the Dreamer | Amazon | Bookshop.org [59:39]

Susie

Claire Fuller Unsettled Ground | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:41] The Memory of Animals | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:42] Bitter Orange | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:48] Our Endless Numbered Days | Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:31] Taylor Jenkins Reid Daisy Jones & The Six | Amazon | Bookshop.org [16:13] The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo | Amazon | Bookshop.org [16:16] Malibu Rising | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:18] Sally Rooney Beautiful World, Where Are You | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:31] Intermezzo (September 24, 2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:06] Normal People | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:22] Madeline Miller The Song of Achilles | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:20] Circe | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:21] David Joy The Line That Held Us | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:58] Those We Thought We Knew | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:32] Rebecca Makkai The Great Believers | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:43] The Hundred-Year House | Amazon [31:47] I Have Some Questions For You | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:27] Peter Heller The River | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:50] The Guide | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:56] The Last Ranger | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:59] Burn | Amazon | Bookshop.org (August 13, 2024)[35:29] The Dog Stars | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:43] Celeste Ng Our Missing Hearts | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:41] Everything I Never Told You | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:59] Little Fires Everywhere | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:00] William Kent Krueger The River We Remember | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:26] Annie Hartnett Rabbit Cake | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:33] Unlikely Animals | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:34] Fredrik Backman Beartown | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:59] A Man Called Ove | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:02] Us Against You | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:16] The Winners | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:19] Anxious People | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:26] Lily Brooks-Dalton Good Morning, Midnight | Amazon | Bookshop.org [53:32] The Light Pirate | Amazon | Bookshop.org [53:34] Anna Pitoniak Necessary People | Amazon | Bookshop.org [57:45] The Futures | Amazon | Bookshop.org [57:58] The Helsinki Affair | Amazon | Bookshop.org [58:10] Emma Straub This Time Tomorrow | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:00:44] All Adults Here | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:01:36]

Sarah

Ann Patchett Tom Lake | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:11] Bel Canto | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:14] These Precious Days | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:20] Run | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:33] Commonwealth | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:45] Rufi Thorpe The Girls from Corona del Mar | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:12] Dear Fang, With Love | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:21] The Knockout Queen | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:39] Margo?s Got Money Troubles | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:43] Garrett M. Graff The Only Plane in the Sky | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:57] Kevin Wilson Now Is Not the Time to Panic | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:10] Nothing to See Here | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:48] The Family Fang | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:54] Amy Jo Burns Shiner | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:13] Mercury | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:14] Liz Nugent Unraveling Oliver | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:06] Strange Sally Diamond | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:14] Meg Wolitzer The Interestings | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:34] The Wife | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:39] The Female Persuasion | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:32] Tayari Jones An American Marriage | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:01] Silver Sparrow | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:07] Brit Bennett The Mothers | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:52] The Vanishing Half | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:00] Angie Kim Miracle Creek | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:13] Happiness Falls | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:14] Mary Laura Philpott I Miss You When I Blink | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:13] Bomb Shelter | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:14] Rachel Khong Goodbye, Vitamin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [54:44] Real Americans | Amazon | Bookshop.org [54:46] Hanna Halperin I Could Live Here Forever | Amazon | Bookshop.org [58:50] Something Wild | Amazon | Bookshop.org [58:56] Gabrielle Zevin The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:02:04] Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:02:06] Young Jane Young | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:02:08] Former Auto-Buy Authors [1:03:23]

Catherine

Mark Halperin Paul Auster John Irving Nelson DeMille Plum Island (A John Corey Novel, #1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:08:50] Colson Whitehead The Underground Railroad | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:14:03]  The Nickel Boys | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:14:05] 

Susie

Chris Bohjalian Skeletons at the Feast | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:05:37] The Sleepwalker | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:05:55] The Flight Attendant | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:05:57] The Princess of Las Vegas | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:06:26] The Double Bind | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:06:57] Close Your Eyes, Hold Hands | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:07:06] The Sandcastle Girls | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:07:17] Midwives | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:07:21] Sally Hepworth The Younger Wife | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:10:43]  Stephen King The Stand | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:12:14]  11/22/63 | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:12:17]  Holly | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:12:37]  Mr. Mercedes | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:12:45] 

Sarah

Anna Quindlen Alternate Side | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:03:52] After Annie | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:03:59] Beatriz Williams A Hundred Summers | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:07:53] Along the Infinite Sea | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:08:16] Michael Lewis Liar?s Poker | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:11:22]  Moneyball | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:11:22] The Big Short | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:11:23]   The Blind Side | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:11:24]  The Undoing Project | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:11:25]  Auto-Avoid Authors  [1:14:50]

Catherine

Paula Hawkins The Girl on the Train | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:17:11]  Colleen Hoover Verity | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:18:30]  Fredrik Backman Alix E. Harrow

Susie

Rachel Kapelke-Dale The Ballerinas | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:15:07]  The Ingenue | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:15:16]  The Fortune Seller | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:15:20]  Elle Cosimano Finlay Donovan Is Killing It | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:16:11]  Annabel Monaghan  Benjamin Stevenson Everyone In My Family Has Killed Someone | Amazon | Bookshop.org[1:17:46]  T. J. Newman Falling | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:19:11]  Drowning: The Rescue of Flight 1421 | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:19:23]  Emma Cline The Girls | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:20:45]  The Guest | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:21:02] 

Sarah

Riley Sager Final Girls | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:17:04]  Emily Henry Liane Moriarty The Husband?s Secret | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:19:40] Big Little Lies | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:19:40]   What Alice Forgot | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:19:41]  Kristin Hannah The Nightingale | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:21:59]  The Great Alone | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:22:03]  The Women | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:22:06]  Emma Straub

Other Books Mentioned

Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano [1:23:44] Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano [1:23:47]  56 Days by Catherine Ryan Howard [1:25:04] The Trap by Catherine Ryan Howard [1:25:16]  Writers & Lovers by Lily King [1:25:41]  Euphoria by Lily King [1:25:44] 

For Ep. 173, Susie Boutry (@NovelVisits) joins me as we circle back to one of our favorite topics ? niching down our reading into micro genres! In this special Circle Back, we revisit some previously shared micro genres from our two past Micro Genres We Love episodes and introduce two additional micro genres from a Patreon bonus episode not yet heard on the big show! We give examples that define each micro genre for us and share new books we?ve read that fit into these niches. Plus, we share books for that DIDN?T work for us. This episode is full of over 100 books for you to add to your TBR!

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.

Romances That Deal With Fame [4:04]

Sarah?s Additions

Nora Goes Off Script by Annabel Monaghan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [4:53] Colton Gentry?s Third Act by Jeff Zentner | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:14]

Other Books Mentioned

Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld [4:31] Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston [4:34] You Made a Fool of Death With Your Beauty by Akwaeke Emezi [6:01] Let the Games Begin by Rufaro Faith Mazarura (July 9) [6:37] Frenzied but Favorable Family Dynamics [7:43]

Sarah?s Additions

Mercury by Amy Jo Burns | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:21] Banyan Moon by Thao Thai | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:37] The Connellys of County Down by Tracey Lange | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:44] Something Wild by Hanna Halperin | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [11:59]

Susie?s Additions

Same As It Ever Was by Claire Lombardo | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:19] Sandwich by Catherine Newman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:46] Ordinary Human Failings by Megan Nolan | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [9:31] Signal Fires by Dani Shapiro | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:40] The Things We Didn?t Know by Elba Iris Pérez | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:42] Wolf at the Table by Adam Rapp | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:50]

Other Books Mentioned

The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo [8:12] Happiness Falls by Angie Kim [10:35] The Bee Sting by Paul Murray [12:17] You Only Call When You?re in Trouble by Stephen McCauley [12:35] Novels about the Dynamics of the Creative Process [12:53]

Sarah?s Addition

Margo?s Got Money Trouble by Rufi Thorpe | Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:49]

Susie?s Addition

The Art Thief by Michael Finkel | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:24]

Other Books Mentioned

Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin [13:16] The Ensemble by Aja Gabel [13:23] Hell No! Women?s Stories [15:16]

Susie?s Additions

The Vaster Wilds by Lauren Groff | Amazon | Bookshop.org [16:05] Small Mercies by Dennis Lehane | Amazon | Bookshop.org [16:49] Margo?s Got Money Trouble by Rufi Thorpe | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:10] Go As a River by Shelley Read | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:34] The God of the Woods by Liz Moore | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:37] Killers of a Certain Age by Deanna Raybourn | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:51]

Other Books Mentioned

Circe by Madeline Miller [15:51] The Book of Essie by Meghan MacLean Weir [15:55] Intense, (Sometimes) F-ed Up Love Stories, that Most Definitely Are Not Romances [18:10]

Sarah?s Additions

Talking at Night by Claire Daverley | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:04] Adelaide by Genevieve Wheeler | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [19:17] Leaving by Roxana Robinson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:29]

Susie?s Addition

How We Named the Stars by Andrés N. Ordorica | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:09]

Other Books Mentioned

Tell Me Lies by Carola Lovering [18:52] Normal People by Sally Rooney [18:55] I Could Live Here Forever by Hanna Halperin [18:58] Time Travel Done Right [20:31]

Susie?s Additions

The Other Valley by Scott Alexander Howard | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:09] The Husbands by Holly Gramazio | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:33] The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:03]

Other Books Mentioned

11/22/63 by Stephen King [20:58] Life After Life by Kate Atkinson [21:02] Books by Former or Current Attorneys [22:37]

Sarah?s Additions

Gone But Not Forgotten by Phillip Margolin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [23:30] Happiness Falls by Angie Kim | Amazon | Bookshop.org [23:47] All That Is Mine I Carry With Me by William Landay | Amazon | Bookshop.org [23:52] Wrong Place, Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:03]

Susie?s Addition

What Happened to Nina? by Dervla McTiernan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:32]

Other Books Mentioned

The Damage by Caitlin Wahrer [22:54] Miracle Creek by Angie Kim [23:23] The Eddie Flynn Series by Steve Cavanagh [23:26] Faithful Friends / Ensembles [25:07]

Sarah?s Addition

The Christmas Orphans Club by Becca Freeman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:39]

Susie?s Additions

We Are the Light by Matthew Quick | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:53] Piglet by Lottie Hazell | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:16] Good Material by Dolly Alderton | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:36] The Rachel Incident by Caroline O?Donoghue | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:10]

Other Books Mentioned

The Interestings by Meg Wolitzer [25:37] The Dearly Beloved by Cara Wall [25:41] The Ensemble by Aja Gabel [25:45] Come and Get It by Kiley Reid [27:28] Suspenseful Books That Are Not Truly Thrillers,
But That Publishers Market as Thrillers [28:20]

Sarah?s Additions

The God of the Woods by Liz Moore | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:26] All the Sinners Bleed by S. A. Cosby | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:50]

Susie?s Addition

Perfectly Nice Neighbors by Kia Abdullah | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:21]

Other Books Mentioned

The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb [29:08] My Sunshine Away by M. O. Walsh [29:11] The Cutting Season by Attica Locke [29:20] Literary Angst [30:52]

Sarah?s Addition

Grief Is for People by Sloane Crosley | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:01]

Susie?s Additions

Yellowface by R. F. Kuang | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:06] Victim by Andrew Boryga | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:30] I Could Live Here Forever by Hanna Halperin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:16]

Other Books Mentioned

Writers & Lovers by Lily King [31:26] Groundskeeping by Lee Cole [31:30] We Wish You Luck by Caroline Zancan [31:33] The Writing Retreat by Julia Bartz [33:44] A Million Little Pieces by James Frey [34:22] Fifty Shades of Grey by E L James [34:24] Oral Histories [34:35]

Sarah?s Additions

The Hop by Diana Clarke | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:18] Kill Show by Daniel Sweren-Becker | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:38] Welcome to the O.C. by Josh Schwartz, Stephanie Savage, and Alan Sepinwall | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:52]

Other Books Mentioned

The Only Plane in the Sky by Garrett M. Graff [34:58] Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid [35:05] Retellings of Classics or Beloved Books [36:43]

Sarah?s Addition

Eligible by Curtis Sittenfeld | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:53]

Susie?s Additions

Tom Lake by Ann Patchett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:27] Bear by Julia Phillips | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:46]

Other Books Mentioned

Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver [37:03] Beautiful Little Fools by Jillian Cantor [37:08] Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes [37:13] The Shadow of Perseus by Claire Heywood [37:17] Birnham Wood by Eleanor Catton [38:38] James by Percival Everett [39:05] Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen [39:55] Badass Female Athlete Fiction / Competition Novels [40:14]

Sarah?s Addition

Headshot by Rita Bullwinkel | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:42]

Other Books Mentioned

Carrie Soto Is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid [40:35] Firekeeper?s Daughter by Angeline Boulley [40:38] The Knockout Queen by Rufi Thorpe [41:02] Trust No One [41:33]

Susie?s Additions

First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:46] Interesting Facts About Space by Emily Austin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:07]

Other Books Mentioned

I?m Thinking of Ending Things by Iain Reid [42:03] Foe by Iain Reid [42:04] Cover Story by Susan Rigetti [42:17] Sunburn by Laura Lippman [42:21] Everyone On This Train Is a Suspect by Benjamin Stevenson [43:45] The Fury by Alex Michaelides [44:19] Workplace Dramas or Thrillers [44:58]

Sarah?s Additions

Exit Interview by Kristi Coulter | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:38] Private Equity by Carrie Sun | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:50] Bully Market by Jamie Fiore Higgins | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:05]

Susie?s Additions

The Sisterhood by Liza Mundy | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:48] Correspondents by Tim Murphy | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:11]

Other Books Mentioned

The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger [45:13] The Boys? Club by Erica Katz [45:17] All Her Little Secrets by Wanda M. Morris [45:19] Code Girls by Liza Mundy [47:04] Novels With a Focus on Found Family [47:28]

Sarah?s Additions

Vera Wong?s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. Sutanto | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:47] The Christmas Orphans Club by Becca Freeman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:17]

Susie?s Additions

Who We Are Now by Lauryn Chamberlain | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:25] The Memory of Animals by Claire Fuller | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:48] All You Have to Do Is Call by Kerri Maher | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:23]

Other Books Mentioned

A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara [48:04] We Are the Light by Matthew Quick [48:09] Hunting and Gathering by Anna Gavalda [48:15] Nuclear War: A Scenario by Annie Jacobsen [49:14] Family Family by Laurie Frankel [49:48]

In Ep. 172, Susie Boutry (@NovelVisits), Catherine Gilmore (@GilmoreGuide), and I are together for the first time on the big show to catch up on our 2024 reading ? so far!  We talk about the current publishing landscape, what books are topping bestseller lists to date, and our personal reading as it stands halfway through the year. We share our stats and talk about expectations and hopes for the remainder of the year. Plus, we each share our TOP 5 books and our biggest disappointments so far.

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.

The Bookish Landscape [1:51]

Books Mentioned

James by Percival Everett [4:00] The Women by Kristin Hannah [4:14] Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder by Dav Pilkey [4:22] A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas [5:00] House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas [5:01] A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas [5:02] Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros [5:15] Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros [5:16] Atomic Habits by James Clear [5:17] Icebreaker by Hannah Grace [5:26] Our Personal Reading for 2024 (So Far) [6:59]

Books Mentioned

Medea by Eilish Quin [8:12] Sociopath by Patric Gagne, PhD [8:12] The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley [8:13] River East, River West by Aube Rey Lescure [8:15] Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin [11:53] In Memoriam by Alice Winn [13:33] The Measure by Nikki Erlick [16:03] Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett [16:04] Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver [16:05] Our Top Five (So Far)  [16:49]

Sarah

Leaving by Roxana Robinson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:18] Victim by Andrew Boryga | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:50] Real Americans by Rachel Khong | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:05] Margo?s Got Money Trouble by Rufi Thorpe | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:16] The God of the Woods by Liz Moore (July 2, 2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[48:32]

Susie

How We Named the Stars by Andrés N. Ordorica | Amazon | Bookshop.org[20:44] Wolf at the Table by Adam Rapp | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:50] Nuclear War: A Scenario by Annie Jacobsen | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:46] Same As It Ever Was by Claire Lombardo | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:28] Women and Children First by Alina Grabowski | Amazon | Bookshop.org[50:52]

Catherine

James by Percival Everett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:43] Mercury by Amy Jo Burns | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:39] The Women by Kristin Hannah | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:12] The Return of Ellie Black by Emiko Jean | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:31] I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:46]

Other Books Mentioned

Shiner by Amy Jo Burns  [30:13] Cinderland by Amy Jo Burns [31:23] Goodbye, Vitamin by Rachel Khong [33:14] The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo [44:16] Long Bright River by Liz Moore [48:59] The Hunter?s Daughter by Nicola Solvinic [49:28] No Two Persons by Erica Bauermeister [51:37] The Road to Dalton by Shannon Bowring [51:40] Virgil Wander by Leif Enger [54:59] The Light Pirate by Lily Brooks-Dalton [55:15] The Iliad by Homer [55:36] Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel [55:37] The Road by Cormac McCarthy [55:39] Our Biggest Disappointments (So Far)  [56:27]

Sarah

Everyone On This Train Is a Suspect by Benjamin Stevenson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [56:35] Sandwich by Catherine Newman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [59:45]

Susie

After Annie by Anna Quindlen | Amazon | Bookshop.org [58:01] The Great Divide by Cristina Henríquez | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:01:17]

Catherine

Family Family by Laurie Frankel | Amazon | Bookshop.org [59:01] Lies and Weddings by Kevin Kwan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:02:00]

Other Books Mentioned

Everyone In My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson  [56:46] Everyone This Christmas Has a Secret by Benjamin Stevenson (October 22, 2024) [57:17] We All Want Impossible Things by Catherine Newman [59:51]

In Episode 171, Rufi Thorpe she joins me to discuss her latest novel, Margo?s Got Money Troubles, and her career arc in general. Rufi talks about her inspiration for Margo and the quirky elements she uses to explore deeper topics like loneliness, motherhood, untraditional family dynamics, money, and art ? all with a great sense of humor. We also go behind-the-scenes of marketing the book, including cover design, titles, and comparison titles.  Plus, Rufi shares her 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 A spoiler-free overview of Margo?s Got Money Troubles. Rufi talks about the inspiration for bringing together pro wrestling, OnlyFans, motherhood, a father-daughter story, and the challenges of making ends meet. How Wonder Woman (2017) played a role in creating Margo. Her thoughts on Margo?s Got Money Troubles possibly being her breakout book. The challenges of marketing such a complex book, including designing the cover. Rufi?s got title troubles: the working titles for a couple of her books! The big questions Rufi addresses in all her work. Some scenes that were cut from earlier versions book. A theme she?s exploring in her next book is gossip (which also contains time-travel and thriller elements). The way Rufi and her publisher handles comps for her hard-to-pin-down books. What she learned from an unpublished book she wrote between Dear Fang, With Love and The Knockout Queen. Rufi?s Book Recommendations [39:30]

Two OLD Books She Loves

Shadow Tag by Louise Erdrich | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:45] Ordinary Love and Good Will by Jane Smiley | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [41:45]

Two NEW Books She Loves

Oye by Melissa Mogollon | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:35] Devil Makes Three by Ben Fountain | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:25] Other Books Mentioned: Billy Lynn?s Long Halftime Walk by Ben Fountain [50:36]

One Book She DIDN?T Love

The Bee Sting by Paul Murray | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:56]

One NEW RELEASE She?s Excited About

Madwoman by Chelsea Bieker (Sept 3, 2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:09] Other Books Mentioned: Godshot by Chelsea Bieker [52:23]

Last 5-Star Book Rufi Read

Come and Get It by Kiley Reid | Amazon | Bookshop.org [54:07] Other Books Mentioned: Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid [54:24] Other Books Mentioned Dear Fang, With Love by Rufi Thorpe [1:57] The Girls from Corona del Mar by Rufi Thorpe [2:12] The Knockout Queen by Rufi Thorpe [13:49] The Cider House Rules by John Irving [19:53] A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara [30:32] Goodbye, Vitamin by Rachel Khong [30:48] The Pisces by Melissa Broder [31:36] Milk Fed by Melissa Broder [31:38] Victim by Andrew Boryga [38:36] About Rufi Thorpe

Website | Instagram | X | Facebook

Rufi Thorpe received her MFA from the University of Virginia in 2009. Rufi is the author of The Knockout Queen, a finalist for the PEN/Faulkner Award, Dear Fang, With Love, and her first novel, The Girls from Corona del Mar, which was long-listed for the 2014 International Dylan Thomas Prize and for the 2014 Flaherty-Dunnan First Novel Prize. A California native, she currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband and sons.

Announcement One of the many benefits to joining our Patreon Community 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 to all patrons (Stars and Superstars) and sign up here!

CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog.

Highlights Now that the 2024 Summer Reading Guide is set, Sarah welcomes heavier and more literary books. Catherine is leaning into several themes with books covering 4 decades. With a clean split of 3 new or debut authors and 3 repeat authors, Catherine is trying for more wins this season. Kick back with several summer picks that are 450+ pages. Sarah?s choices feature a wide variety of topics with 2 debuts and 4 returning authors. Sarah has already read and rated two of her picks 5 stars! Plus, listen in to hear their #1 picks for the summer season. Summer 2024 Book Preview [2:49]

June

Sarah?s Picks

Fire Exit by Morgan Talty (June 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [3:28] Margo?s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe (June 11) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[9:05] What You Leave Behind by Wanda M. Morris (June 18) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:59]

Catherine?s Picks

Swift River by Essie Chambers (June 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:44] Same As It Ever Was by Claire Lombardo (June 18) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[14:34] All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker (June 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:17] How the Light Gets In by Joyce Maynard (June 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[29:31] 

Other Books Mentioned

The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters [3:33] Night of the Living Rez by Morgan Talty [3:52] Real Americans by Rachel Khong [9:31] The Knockout Queen by Rufi Thorpe [9:41] Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett [12:10] Rabbit Cake by Annie Hartnett [12:11] The Hop by Diana Clarke [13:26] The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo [14:42] All Her Little Secrets by Wanda M. Morris [18:16] Anywhere You Run by Wanda M. Morris [18:21] We Begin at the End by Chris Whitaker [22:38] Nightwatching by Tracy Sierra [23:10] At Home in the World by Joyce Maynard (memoir published in 1998) [32:29]

July

Sarah?s Picks

The God of the Woods by Liz Moore (July 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:12]  The World After Alice by Lauren Aliza Green (July 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [33:17] Long Island Compromise by Taffy Brodesser-Akner (July 9) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [38:00]

Catherine?s Picks

The Same Bright Stars by Ethan Joella (July 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[35:28] The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali (July 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [42:11] 

Other Books Mentioned

Long Bright River by Liz Moore [25:22] I Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai [28:56] Seating Arrangements by Maggie Shipstead [34:09] Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane [34:23] Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid [34:46] A Quiet Life by Ethan Joella [35:37] Marrying the Ketchups by Jennifer Close [36:26] Saturday Night at the Lakeside Supper Club by J. Ryan Stradal [36:29] The Half Moon by Mary Beth Keane [36:45] Fleishman Is in Trouble by Taffy Brodesser-Akner [38:53] The Stationary Shop by Marjan Kamali [42:31]

In Episode 169, Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books and I catch up on the 12 new releases from the Spring 2024 Book Preview. We share our reading stats, chat about what we liked, and what didn?t quite hit the mark. Tune in to hear our thoughts on these books and get some recommendations for your next read! 

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.

Access the 2024 Summer Reading Guide Cheatsheet and Free Trial on Patreon here.

Highlights Catherine describes spring as ?disappointing and confusing? ? Is 2024 a slow year for standout reads? Catherine?s spring reading trend dips over the past three years. On the flip side, spring seems to be Sarah?s reading season! This spring brought Sarah two 4.5-star books. One of Catherine?s auto-buy authors no longer makes the cut. Sarah?s wildcard selection missed the mark this season as well. Both Catherine and Sarah?s top picks from the Preview didn?t quite deliver. They name the best and worst books from their spring picks.? Books We Read Before the Preview [6:20] Sarah?s Picks The Sicilian Inheritance by Jo Piazza (April 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:27] Colton Gentry?s Third Act by Jeff Zenter (April 30) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[9:19] Spring 2024 Book Preview [10:22]

April

Sarah?s Pick

The Wives by Simone Gorrindo (April 9) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [15:09]

Catherine?s Picks

Christa Comes Out of Her Shell by Abbi Waxman (April 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:22] Honey by Victor Lodato (April 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:56] Real Americans by Rachel Khong (April 30) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:23]

Other Books Mentioned

Other People?s Houses by Abbi Waxman [13:51] The Bookish Life of Nina Hill by Abbi Waxman [14:32] You Could Make This Place Beautiful by Maggie Smith [19:17] Maid by Stephanie Land [19:19] Between Two Kingdoms by Suleika Jaouad [19:21] Know My Name by Chanel Miller [19:23] Hillbilly Elegy by J. D. Vance [19:25] Educated by Tara Westover [19:26] Greenwood by Michael Christie [26:02]

May

Sarah?s Picks

The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley  (May 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[27:36]  The Wealth of Shadows by Graham Moore (May 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [34:49] Allow Me to Introduce Myself by Onyi Nwabineli  (May 28) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [42:11]

Catherine?s Picks

The Return of Ellie Black by Emiko Jean (May 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[30:58]  The Guncle Abroad by Steven Rowley (May 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[39:28] Lies and Weddings by Kevin Kwan (May 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:00] 

Other Books Mentioned

The Hunter?s Daughter by Nicola Solvinic [33:17] The Last Days of Night by Graham Moore [39:26] The Guncle by Steven Rowley [39:37] Someday, Maybe by Onyi Nwabineli [42:25] Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan [47:05]

Susie Boutry (@NovelVisits) and I share our favorite books that missed last year?s Summer Reading Guide, some shorter books we think are great for summer reading, and our #1 picks for each category featured in my 2024 Summer Reading Guide.

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.

Access the 2024 Summer Reading Guide Cheatsheet and Free Trial on Patreon here.

Summer Reading [9:19] Books That Missed Last Year?s Summer Reading Guide [10:14]

Sarah

All the Sinners Bleed by S. A. Cosby | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:21] Vera Wong?s Unsolicited Guide for Murderers by Jesse Q. Sutanto | Amazon | Bookshop.org [15:22] The Hop by Diana Clarke | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:22] 

Susie

Shark Heart by Emily Habeck | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:58] Perfectly Nice Neighbors by Kia Abdullah | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:04]  The Last Ranger by Peter Heller | Amazon | Bookshop.org [23:24] 

Other Books Mentioned

Blacktop Wasteland by S. A. Cosby [11:08] Razorblade Tears by S. A. Cosby [11:10]  Dial ?A? for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto [16:26] Take It Back by Kia Abdullah [20:07] Shorter Books Great for Summer Reading [26:00]

Sarah

All Together Now by Matthew Norman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:13]  Eight Perfect Murders by Peter Swanson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:48] Be spoiler ready: The murders and endings of The A.B.C. Murders by Agatha Christie, Strangers on a Train by Patricia Highsmith, The Red House Mystery by A.A. Milne, Malice Aforethought by Francis Iles, Double Indemnity by James M. Cain, The Drowner by John D. MacDonald, The Secret History by Donna Tartt, and Deathtrap by Ira Levin are discussed in detail as noted in the book.  But many readers have lamented that the endings and main plots were also spoiled for The Murder of Roger Ackroyd and And Then There Were None, both by Agatha Christie. FantasticLand by Mike Bockoven | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:29]

Susie

Expiration Dates by Rebecca Serle | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:09]  I?m Thinking of Ending Things by Iain Reid | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:52] One Woman Show by Christine Coulson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:06]

Other Books Mentioned

In Five Years by Rebecca Serle [28:49] One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle [28:51]  The Measure by Nikki Erlick [31:00] The Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson [31:54] Our #1 Summer Picks by Category  [42:43]

Something Light / Fun

Sarah: The Husbands by Holly Gramazio | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:20]  Susie: Annie Bot by Sierra Greer | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:13]  Other Books Mentioned: The Measure by Nikki Erlick [45:19] The One by John Marrs [45:23]

Slow-Burn Suspense

Sarah: The God of the Woods by Liz Moore (July 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[49:37] 

Something Fast-Paced / Intense

Susie: What Happened to Nina? by Dervla McTiernan | Amazon | Bookshop.org[51:49] 

Something With a Bit More Substance

Sarah: Real Americans by Rachel Khong | Amazon | Bookshop.org [55:50]  Susie: Beautyland by Marie-Helene Bertino | Amazon | Bookshop.org [58:11]  Other Books Mentioned: Goodbye, Vitamin by Rachel Khong [57:42]

Something Different

Sarah: The Wealth of Shadows by Graham Moore (May 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:02:08]  Susie: Interesting Facts About Space by Emily Austin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:05:00]  Other Books Mentioned: We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter [1:03:55] Everyone in This Room Will Someday Be Dead by Emily Austin [1:05:50]

In Ep. 167, Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) and I are circling back to 2018 in the book world with a special retrospective episode!  We share big bookish highlights for that year, including book news, award winners, and what was going on in the world outside of reading. We also talk about our own 2018 reading and our favorite 2018 releases.  Plus, you?ll hear listener-submitted favorites!  This episode is overflowing with great backlist titles to add to your TBR!  

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 The big news going on outside the book world. Book stories and trends that dominated 2018. Looking back at 2018, we couldn?t help but say, ?If only we knew what was coming!? The books that have had staying power.? Titles that now are comps for SO MANY books!? We explore the early days of this new wave of celebrity book clubs. Our personal 2018 reading stats.? Listener-submitted favorites from 2018.? Circling Back to 2018 in Books [2:05] The World Beyond Books Spare by Prince Harry | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:12] A Game of Thrones (A Song of Ice and Fire, #1) by George R. R. Martin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:45] The Walking Dead (Compendium One) by writer Robert Kirkman and artist Tony Moore | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:54] The Book Industry Becoming by Michelle Obama | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:55] Magnolia Table by Joanna Gaines | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:46] The Meltdown (Diary of a Wimpy Kid Book 13) by Jeff Kinney | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:50] Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:54] Fire and Fury by Michael Wolff | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:56] Wonder by R. J. Palacio | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:12] Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:16] The President Is Missing by James Patterson and Bill Clinton | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:42] Book Trends Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:30] Something in the Water by Catherine Steadman | Amazon | Bookshop.org[14:34] Next Year in Havana by Chanel Cleeton | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:36] Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:38] Magnolia Table by Joanna Gaines | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:27] Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:34] You Are a Badass® by Jen Sincero | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:59] 12 Rules for Life by Jordan B. Peterson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:08] The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson | Amazon | Bookshop.org[18:14] Big Books of 2018 Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:46] The Reckoning by John Grisham | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:58] The President Is Missing by James Patterson and Bill Clinton | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [21:05] Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:56] There There by Tommy Orange | Amazon | Bookshop.org [23:25] The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen | Amazon | Bookshop.org [23:27] Tell Me Lies by Carola Lovering | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:16] Normal People by Sally Rooney | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:20] Friday Night Lights by H. G. Bissinger | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:21] Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:33] Verity by Colleen Hoover | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:30] Circe by Madeline Miller | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:08] The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:32] The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:36] The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:07] I Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai | Amazon | Bookshop.org[28:19] Becoming by Michelle Obama | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:36] Spare by Prince Harry | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:11] Educated by Tara Westover | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:31] Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:18] Atomic Habits by James Clear | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:11] I?ll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara | Amazon | Bookshop.org[31:51] Wandering Stars Tommy Orange | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:53] The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:12] The Poppy War by R. F. Kuang | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:37] Katabasis by R. F. Kuang (expected publication: August 15, 2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:50] Less by Andrew Sean Greer | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:54] The Friend by Sigrid Nunez | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:02] Milkman by Anna Burns | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:09] Bluebird, Bluebird by Attica Locke | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:22] The Stone Sky (The Broken Earth Book 3) by N. K. Jemisin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:04] Our Top Books of 2018 Circe by Madeline Miller | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:46] An American Marriage by Tayari Jones | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:55] The Line that Held Us by David Joy | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:30] The Pasha of Cuisine by Saygin Ersin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:55] Only Child by Rhiannon Navin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:32] Anatomy of a Miracle by Jonathan Miles | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:54] Song of a Captive Bird by Jasmin Darznik | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:00] There There by Tommy Orange | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:04] She Would Be King by Wayétu Moore | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:06] Tin Man by Sarah Winman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:09] Waiting for Eden by Elliot Ackerman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:42] A Ladder to the Sky by John Boyne | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:33] I Am, I Am, I Am by Maggie O?Farrell | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:46] Tell Me More by Kelly Corrigan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:23] The Ensemble by Aja Gabel | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:36] The Female Persuasion by Meg Wolitzer | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:46] The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:55] Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:00] You Think It, I?ll Say It by Curtis Sittenfeld | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:31] Listeners? Top Books of 2018 The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:09] A Place for Us by Fatima Farheen Mirza | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:29] Educated by Tara Westover | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:46] The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:54] An American Marriage by Tayari Jones | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:58] Circe by Madeline Miller | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:01] The Sun Does Shine by Anthony Ray Hinton | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:04] Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:26] Other Links Time Magazine | What to Know About the Controversy Surrounding Where the Crawdads Sing by Annabel Gutterman, July 2022

In episode 166, author Andrew Boryga joins me to discuss his debut novel, Victim, a funny and gripping satire about success and identity. Through the adventures of Javier, Victim explores what ?diversity? means, why society loves a victim narrative, and the pitfalls of chasing fame online. Boryga combines humor with biting social commentary without sacrificing heart. This is a juicy and highly discussable story! In our chat, Andrew shares his inspiration behind the book, his decade long road to publication, and what he finds most effective in a satirical novel.  Plus, Andrew shares some fantastic 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 A spoiler-free overview of Victim. Andrew shares the inspiration and decade-long development of the story. How his journalism background is reflected in his book. Why Andrew decided to craft Javier?s story as a memoir. Andrew?s journey to finding an agent and getting published. Why Andrew followed his dream of writing fiction, rather than publishing an essay collection like many publishing insiders were advising him. The way his story drafts and characters evolved over time. How his MFA workshop helped shaped the story. Riding that fine line for a balanced satire: focusing on the social commentary without going over the top. The themes Andrew is exploring in his next book! Andrew?s Book Recommendations [34:19]

Two OLD Books He Loves

Bodega Dreams by Ernesto Quiñonez | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:30] Loving Day by Mat Johnson  | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [36:11] Other Book Mentioned: Pym by Mat Johnson [37:56]

Two NEW Books He Loves

The Birthparents by Frank Santo | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:09] Blackouts by Justin Torres | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:38] Other Book Mentioned: We the Animals by Justin Torres [40:57]

One Book He DIDN?T Love

Chain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah | Amazon | Bookshop.org[42:13] Other Book Mentioned: The Brief Wonderous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Díaz [43:21]

One NEW RELEASE He?s Excited About

Oye by Melissa Mogollon (May 14, 2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:14]

Last 5-Star Book Andrew Read

Nightbitch by Rachel Yoder | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:37] Other Books Mentioned Yellowface by R. F. Kuang [27:31] The Sellout by Paul Beatty [31:14] About Andrew Boryga

Website | Instagram | X (formerly Twitter)

Andrew Boryga is a writer, editor, and author from the Bronx, New York, currently residing in Miami, Florida with his wife and two children. Victim is his debut novel.

Boryga began his career writing for a local newspaper in the Bronx at age 16, eventually securing an internship with The New York Timesby age 18. His nonfiction writing has since been featured in prominent publications such as The New Yorker, The Atlantic, The Paris Review, and The Daily Beast, among others.  Boryga?s contributions to writing education extend beyond his own work, encompassing teaching roles for elementary school students, college students, and incarcerated individuals in Florida. He has also shared his insights on writing and the writing life through lectures at various academic institutions.  Throughout his career, Boryga has been awarded prizes by Cornell University, The University of Miami, The Susquehanna Review, and The Michener Foundation. 

Welcome to the Spring 2024 Book Preview with Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books!  

In this episode, Catherine and I share 12 of our most anticipated books releasing in April and May.  

This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!).

CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog.

Announcement One of the many benefits to joining our Patreon Community 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 to all patrons (Stars and Superstars) and sign up here! Highlights Catherine is fully embracing spring with some lighter, fun reading. Sarah is joining the fun with lighter reads as she preps for the Summer Reading Guide. Among weddings, homecomings, and books set in Washington State, Catherine is bringing 5 out of 6 familiar authors. With some atypical stories, Sarah has some with historical fiction elements and a nonfiction book. Sarah?s choices feature 2 debuts and 3 returning authors. Hopefully going for a tamer wildcard pick will work out for Sarah this season. Sarah has read and liked 2 of her chosen books, and has also started one of Catherine?s picks! And don?t forget to catch their top #1 picks for the spring season! Spring 2024 Book Preview [3:52]

April

Sarah?s Picks

The Wives by Simone Gorrindo (April 9) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [4:54] The Sicilian Inheritance by Jo Piazza (April 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:10] Colton Gentry?s Third Act by Jeff Zenter (April 30) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[19:51]

Catherine?s Picks

Christa Comes Out of Her Shell by Abbi Waxman (April 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:54] Honey by Victor Lodato (April 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:08] Real Americans by Rachel Khong (April 30) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:45]

Other Books Mentioned

The Wanderers by Meg Howrey [7:16] You Could Make This Place Beautiful by Maggie Smith [8:10] Maid by Stephanie Land [8:13] Between Two Kingdoms by Suleika Jaouad [8:17] Know My Name by Chanel Miller [8:20] Hillbilly Elegy by J. D. Vance [8:22] Educated by Tara Westover [8:24] Other People?s Houses by Abbi Waxman [10:37] We Are Not Like Them by Christine Pride and Jo Piazza [13:53] Charlotte Walsh Likes to Win by Jo Piazza [14:01] Edgar and Lucy by Victor Lodato [17:17] All This Could Be Yours by Jami Attenberg [19:14] The Serpent King by Jeff Zentner [20:16] Normal People by Sally Rooney [22:36] Goodbye, Vitamin by Rachel Khong [24:55]

May

Sarah?s Picks

The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley  (May 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[29:20]  The Wealth of Shadows by Graham Moore (May 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [36:13] Allow Me to Introduce Myself by Onyi Nwabineli  (May 28) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [42:05]

Catherine?s Picks

The Return of Ellie Black by Emiko Jean (May 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[33:00]  The Guncle Abroad by Steven Rowley (May 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[39:12] Lies and Weddings by Kevin Kwan (May 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:31] 

Other Books Mentioned

Outlander by Diana Gabaldon [32:03] The Holdout by Graham Moore [36:22] The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin [36:59] The Last Days of Night by Graham Moore [37:39] The Guncle by Steven Rowley [39:36] The Editor by Steven Rowley [41:45] Someday, Maybe by Onyi Nwabineli [42:12] The Buccaneers by Edith Wharton [46:28] Other Books Mentioned Say Hello to My Little Friend by Jennine Capó Crucet [3:39] About Catherine Gilmore

Blog | Facebook | Instagram | X  (formerly Twitter)

Catherine started The Gilmore Guide to Booksover 10 years ago after wrapping up a career as a corporate librarian. She loves books and reading (surprise!) and currently lives in Seattle, WA.

In today?s episode, Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) and I circle back to the 16 books we featured in the Winter 2024 Book Preview. We?ll be sharing our reading stats and thoughts on the books we?ve read (or attempted), to help you decide which ones to add to your reading list and which ones to skip.

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 and Sarah share their Winter 2024 reading stats and success rates. Despite some trouble in her reading early on, Catherine ended up with a successful winter. Sarah?s reading had a mix of fiction and nonfiction with several debuts. We?ve got a total of 3 five-star books! Does a mythology retelling always work for Catherine? Was Sarah?s wildcard pick a little too out there for her? Plus, don?t miss their #1 picks for winter. Books We Read Before the Preview [3:44]

Sarah?s Picks

Mercury by Amy Jo Burns (January 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [3:49] The Fortune Seller by Rachel Kapelke-Dale (February 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [6:30]

Other Books Mentioned

Shiner by Amy Jo Burns [3:54] Cinderland by Amy Jo Burns [5:30] The Ballerinas by Rachel Kapelke-Dale [8:34] The Ingenue by Rachel Kapelke-Dale [8:35] Winter 2024 Circle Back [9:14]

January

Sarah?s Picks

River East, River West by Aube Rey Lescure (January 9) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:00] Everyone on This Train Is a Suspect by Benjamin Stevenson (January 30) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:52]

Catherine?s Picks

The Fury by Alex Michaelides (January 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:23] Family Family by Laurie Frankel (January 23) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:35]

Other Books Mentioned

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides [11:32] This Is How It Always Is by Laurie Frankel [22:42] One Two Three by Laurie Frankel [22:43] Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson [22:57] Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie [23:14]

February

Sarah?s Picks

Dixon, Descending by Karen Outen (February 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[30:04]  Leaving by Roxana Robinson  (February 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [36:06]

Catherine?s Picks

The Things We Didn?t Know by Elba Iris Pérez (February 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:06]  Medea by Eilish Quin (February 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:17] Whiskey Tender by Deborah Jackson Taffa (February 27) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [39:29]  Wandering Stars by Tommy Orange (February 27) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [40:49] After Annie by Anna Quindlen (February 27) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:20]

Other Books Mentioned

Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer [33:13] There There by Tommy Orange [41:02]

March

Sarah?s Picks

Say Hello to My Little Friend by Jennine Capó Crucet  (March 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [43:23] Headshot by Rita Bullwinkel (March 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [47:55]

Catherine?s Pick

James by Percival Everett (March 19) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [50:13]

Other Books Mentioned

My Time Among the Whites by Jennine Capó Crucet [45:10] The Knockout Queen by Rufi Thorpe [48:26] Good for a Girl by Lauren Fleshman [49:52] Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain [50:29] Other Links Sara Hildreth (FictionMatters) on Substack | Reading in Public No. 32: Six things to know about Huck Finn before you read James About Catherine Gilmore

Blog | Facebook | Instagram | X  (formerly Twitter)

Catherine started The Gilmore Guide to Books over 10 years ago after wrapping up a career as a corporate librarian. She loves books and reading (surprise!) and currently lives in Seattle, WA.

In Episode 163, Sara Hildreth, from @FictionMatters and co-host of the podcast Novel Pairings, returns for her third appearance on our show as our expert for Classics & Retellings 101. Sara guides us through the sometimes intimidating world of timeless reads in an accessible way. She busted some myths about classics and changed my mind about some elements of the classics. And, she has a great approach to find the perfect retelling of your favorite classics for your next read. 

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 Sara explores the definitions of a classic and a modern classic book. We talk about separating the American literature canon from the idea of a classic. Sara talks about being free to define classics on personal terms. The idea of a book being labeled a ?future classic.? Now-famous books that went unnoticed initially when they were released. Sara?s personal reading motivations. Common issues people have when trying to tackle classic books. Notable quirks of many classics that were first published as serials. Tips and advice for approaching older books. Addressing the pressure surrounding reading or revisiting classics. Examples of nonfiction classics. Legal considerations for all those retellings. The rise of retellings as a trend with today?s audience. The difference between retellings and fan fiction. Sara?s recommendations for accessible classic literature. A different approach to finding the right retelling for your reading.

Please note: Sara mistakenly mentions during the discussion that The Great Gatsbydid not come into popularity until its distribution to soldiers during World War I, when this actually occurred during World War II.

Sara?s Book Recommendations [49:02]

Two OLD Books She Loves ? Classics

The Custom of the Country by Edith Wharton | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:43] Passing by Nella Larson | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [53:12] Other Books Mentioned The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton [50:58] The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton [50:59] Roman Fever and Other Stories by Edith Wharton [51:03] The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett [55:44]

Two NEW Books She Loves ? Retellings

Anna K by Jenny Lee | Amazon | Bookshop.org [57:35] The Chosen and the Beautiful by Nghi Vho | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:00:28] Other Books Mentioned Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy [59:01] Gossip Girl by Cecily von Ziegesar [59:53] Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan [59:58]

One Book She DIDN?T Love ? Classic

Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain | Amazon | Bookshop.org[1:03:25]

One NEW RELEASE She?s Excited About ? Retelling and Classic Pairing

The Garden by Claire Beams (April 9, 2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:05:12] Other Books Mentioned The Illness Lesson by Claire Beams [1:05:37] Little Women by Louisa May Alcott [1:05:41] The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett [1:06:21]

Last 5-Star Book Sara Read

James by Percival Everett (March 19, 2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:07:47] Books Mentioned During the Classics Discussion The Bonfire of the Vanities by Tom Wolfe [3:44] Beloved by Toni Morrison [10:46] Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver [12:05] David Copperfield by Charles Dickens [12:19] James by Percival Everett (March 19, 2024) [13:29] Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain [13:34] Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys [13:51] Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë [14:02] The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald [14:45] Frankenstein by Mary Shelley [15:09] Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn [15:20] Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë [24:27] A Model of Christian Charity: A City on a Hill by John Winthrop [26:35] A Vindication of the Rights of Woman by Mary Wollstonecraft [26:47] Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass by Frederick Douglass [26:54] The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank [26:59] A Room of One?s Own by Virginia Woolf [27:02] In Cold Blood by Truman Capote [27:14] The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith [29:13] The Time Machine by H. G. Wells [29:20] The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson [29:23] Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier [29:30] The Handmaid?s Tale by Margaret Atwood [29:36] The Women of Brewster Place by Gloria Naylor [29:45] The Most Dangerous Game by Richard Connell [30:17] The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman [30:20] The Lottery and Other Stories by Shirley Jackson [30:23] The Minority Report and Other Classic Stories by Philip K. Dick [30:26] Going to Meet the Man: Stories (with Sonny?s Blues) by James Baldwin [30:37] Hitting a Straight Lick with a Crooked Stick: Stories from the Harlem Renaissance (with The Gilded Six-Bits) by Zora Neale Hurston [30:42] Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston [30:54] Kindred by Octavia E. Butler [31:00] Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler [31:08] Books Mentioned During the Retellings Discussion Julia by Sandra Newman [33:38] 1984 by George Orwell [33:40] Hamlet by William Shakespeare [34:10] Emma by Jane Austen [34:24] The Taming of the Shrew by William Shakespeare [34:28] The Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson [34:45] Strangers on a Train by Patricia Highsmith [34:51] Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson [35:04] And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie [35:08] The Winters by Lisa Gabriele [35:35] The Odyssey by Homer [36:38] The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller [37:00] Circe by Madeline Miller [37:01] Hogarth Shakespeare series by various authors [37:53] Canongate Myth Series by various authors [37:57] The Austen Project series by various authors [38:00] Eligible by Curtis Sittenfeld [38:03] Naamah by Sarah Blake [38:56] Anna K by Jenny Li [40:10] Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy [40:20] Tom Lake by Ann Patchett [40:41] Beautiful Little Fools by Jillian Cantor [42:36] Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes [44:14] Marmee by Sarah Miller [44:17] Little Women by Louisa May Alcott [44:22] Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell [44:38] Ruth?s Journey: A Novel of Mammy from Margaret Mitchell?s Gone with the Wind by Donald McCaig [44:40] Pride by Ibi Zoboi [45:19] Other Links The Atlantic | Italo Calvino?s 14 Definitions of What Makes a Classic by Maria Popova (July 7, 2012) Novel Pairings | The Custom of the Country by Edith Wharton (February 27, 2024) About Sara Hildreth

Website | Instagram | Facebook 

Sara Hildreth is the creator behind FictionMatters, a literary Instagram account, newsletter, and book club focused on putting thought-provoking books into the hands of adventurous readers. She also co-hosts Novel Pairings, a podcast dedicated to making the classics readable, relevant, and fun.

In Episode 162, Leigh Stein (author and journalist) joins me to jump into the world of BookTok, the bookish corner of TikTok. We talk about what early elements started this sensation, how creators and their content are different on this platform, and the main audience engaging with the app?s evolving algorithm. We also discuss the continuing gap in marketing and authentic social media content, and how we think publishers could address this issue. (Did we solve it?!) Plus, Leigh shares some great 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 Leigh kicks off our discussion by defining BookTok and tracing its rapid rise to phenomenon status. We talk about BookTok?s current and future trajectory. Leigh brings in some sales stats for the top BookTok authors. We talk about the way younger and younger readers are being drawn to the bookshelves. The appeal of BookTok versus Bookstagram as recommendation media versus social media. The percentage of Gen Z and Millennials that find their next book on BookTok. Addressing the bigger criticisms of TikTok. How the type of content on BookTok differs from the type of content on Bookstagram. The genres that perform the best on BookTok. We talk about the profound impact of BookTok on the publishing industry and how it?s reshaping traditional media coverage. The marketing risk of trying to find the balance between authenticity and effective promotion on BookTok. Leigh shares some awesome tips for authors trying to engage with the BookTok community. Leigh?s Book Recommendations [39:59]

Two OLD Books She Loves

Verity by Colleen Hoover | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:19] Vladimir by Julia May Jonas | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [41:51] Other Books Mentioned It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover [40:36] Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov [42:33]

Two NEW Books She Loves

Y / N by Esther Yi | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:59] Big Swiss by Jen Beagin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:10]

One Book She DIDN?T Love

Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:41]

One NEW RELEASE She?s Excited About

Victim by Andrew Boryga (March 12, 2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:54] Other Books Mentioned Yellowface by R. F. Kuang [50:09] Self Care by Leigh Stein [50:45]

Last 5-Star Book Leigh Read

Birnam Wood by Eleanor Catton | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:10] Other Books Mentioned The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller [4:49] The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book 1) by Rick Riordan [5:02] Lapvona by Ottessa Moshfegh [21:54] Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin [23:26] Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner [23:36] Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry [23:54] A Certain Hunger by Chelsea G. Summers [24:50] City on Fire by Don Winslow [29:14] Diary of a Void by Emi Yagi [30:55] Emotional Labor by Rose Hackman [37:57] My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh [38:39] Other Links LitHub | BookTok is Good, Actually: On the Undersung Joys of a Vast and Multifarious Platform by Leigh Stein YouTube | Simon & Schuster: How 2022?s Hottest Cover Was Created About Leigh Stein

Website | Instagram | Substack | TikTok 

Leigh Stein is a writer interested in what the internet is doing to our identities, relationships, and politics. She is the author of five books, including the critically acclaimed satirical novel Self Care and the poetry collection What to Miss When. Her nonfiction writing has appeared in the New York Times, the Washington Post, the New Yorker online, and more. She was co-founder and executive director of Out of the Binders/BinderCon, a feminist literary nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the careers of women and gender variant writers.

In Episode 161, author Amanda Peters joins me to discuss her surprise hit novel, The Berry Pickers. This debut novel (which was the 2023 Barnes & Noble Discover Pick) seamlessly blends sadness and heartwarming moments.  In our chat, Amanda shares what (or who) started her on this journey, the road to publication, and what she hopes readers take away from her first novel.  Plus, Amanda shares some great 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 A brief, spoiler-free overview of The Berry Pickers. How Amanda?s family history shaped the story. Amanda?s journey from book concept to securing an agent and getting published. Recognition as a Barnes & Noble Discover Pick for both November and 2023 overall. How Amanda?s life has changed in the wake of the book?s runaway success. What it?s like to be an introverted author on tour. Amanda?s decision to focus on character journeys rather than presenting the book as a typical mystery. Examining the topic of missing and murdered indigenous women and girls. The recurring theme of the unconscious mind?s ability to remember trauma. The role of self-forgiveness and how difficult that can be. A glimpse into what?s next for Amanda, including a collection of short stories and a new manuscript. Amanda?s Book Recommendations [25:28]

Two OLD Books She Loves

A Burning by Megha Majumdar | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:12] The Underpainter by Jane Urquhart  | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [26:55]

Two NEW Books She Loves

Truth Telling by Michelle Good | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:28] We Rip the World Apart by Charlene Carr (expected US release October 8, 2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:24] Other Books Mentioned: Five Little Indians by Michelle Good [42:08] Hold My Girl by Charlene Carr [30:42]

One NEW RELEASE She?s Excited About

Fire Exit by Morgan Talty (June 4, 2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:29] Other Books Mentioned: Night of the Living Rez by Morgan Talty [32:40]

Last 5-Star Book Amanda Read

Brown Girls by Daphne Palasi Andreades | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:32] Other Books Mentioned A Burning by Megha Majumdar [5:16] Chain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah [10:06] The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk M.D. [21:19] Waiting for the Long Night Moon: Stories by Amanda Peters (expected publication August 13, 2024) [24:11] About Amanda Peters

Website | Instagram 

Amanda Peters is a writer of Mi?kmaq and settler ancestry. Her debut novel, The Berry Pickers is the Winner of the Andrew Carnegie Medal of Excellence in Fiction, the 2023 Barnes & Noble Discovery Prize Winner, and was shortlisted for the Barnes & Noble Book of the Year and the Atwood Gibson Fiction Award from the Writers Trust of Canada. Her work has also appeared in the Antigonish Review, Grain Magazine, the Alaska Quarterly Review, the Dalhousie Review and Filling Station Magazine. She is the winner of the 2021 Indigenous Voices Award for Unpublished Prose and a participant in the 2021 Writers? Trust Rising Stars program. Amanda is a graduate of the Master of Fine Arts Program at the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA) in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and has a Certificate in Creative Writing from the University of Toronto.

In Episode 160, Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) and I share the best backlist books we read in 2023. We each discuss our top 5 backlist books from last year, highlight some underrated backlist gems, and review our backlist reading statistics. Devoting an entire episode to backlist reading is something we love doing and we've heard from you that you love it too!

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 Available Now! To get the backlist reading guide, The Best of the Backlist, you can sign up to be a Superstars patron here. You?ll also get access to a monthly bonus podcast series called Double Booked (where Catherine or Susie and I share our own book recommendations in the same format as the big show) and my Rock Your Reading Tracker. Highlights Catherine had a small uptick in her backlist reading ? her most successful segment of books in 2023! Sarah's backlist reading was slightly less successful than last year ? maybe marking an unfortunate trend. How Sarah's decreased DNFs for last year impacted her Backlist stats. While Catherine has already read many of Sarah's picks, Sarah has already purchased (but not yet read) many of Catherine's choices! Our Top 5 Backlist Books We Read in 2023 [7:37]

Catherine

Black and Blue by Anna Quindlen | Amazon | Bookshop.org [7:44] True Biz by Sara Novi? | Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:12] All My Rage by Sabaa Tahir | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:52] The Flatshare by Beth O?Leary | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:58] Leaving Atlanta by Tayari Jones | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:31]

Sarah

Lying in Wait by Liz Nugent | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:24] What My Bones Know by Stephanie Foo | Amazon | Bookshop.org [15:36] Search by Michelle Huneven | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:41] Like a House on Fire by Lauren McBrayer | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:04] The Swimmers by Julie Otsuka | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:55]

Other Books Mentioned

Strange Sally Diamond by Liz Nugent [10:38] Unraveling Oliver by Liz Nugent [11:10] The Ensemble by Aja Gabel [23:19] Untamed by Glennon Doyle [31:14] An American Marriage by Tayari Jones [33:22] Silver Sparrow by Tayari Jones [36:31] Underrated Backlist Gems [39:54]

Catherine

Too Bright to Hear Too Loud to See by Juliann Garey | Amazon | Bookshop.org[40:07]  A Quiet Life by Ethan Joella | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:06]

Sarah

Something Wild by Hanna Halperin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:12]  The Spy and the Traitor by Ben Macintyre | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [51:01]

Other Books Mentioned

I Could Live Here Forever by Hanna Halperin [45:21] Red Widow by Alma Katsu [54:02] Red London by Alma Katsu [54:03] Other Links Vogue | In Finishing My Book? by Lauren McBrayer

Welcome to the Winter 2024 Book Preview with Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books!  

In this episode, Catherine and I share 16 of our most anticipated books releasing 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 One of the many benefits to joining our Patreon Community 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 to all patrons (Stars and Superstars) and sign up here! Highlights While Sarah and Catherine had some trouble with fall, winter is overflowing with potential winners. Sarah brings 2 sports fiction titles. Both Catherine and Sarah explore a mix of familiar authors and exciting debuts. It?s time for another mythology retelling for Catherine! Sarah shares a 5-star book she?s already read and loved. Sarah?s wildcard pick might be a little out there ? and hopefully, it pays off. Plus, don?t miss their #1 picks for winter. Winter 2024 Book Preview [3:32]

January

Sarah?s Picks

Mercury by Amy Jo Burns (January 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [3:47] River East, River West by Aube Rey Lescure (January 9) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:24] Everyone on This Train Is a Suspect by Benjamin Stevenson (January 30) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [16:38]

Catherine?s Picks

The Fury by Alex Michaelides (January 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [7:39] Family Family by Laurie Frankel (January 23) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:15]

Other Books Mentioned

Shiner by Amy Jo Burns [3:57] The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides [7:59] The Maidens by Alex Michaelides [8:05] The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald [9:30] This Is How It Always Is by Laurie Frankel [14:21] Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson [16:53] And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie [17:21] Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie [17:27]

February

Sarah?s Picks

Dixon, Descending by Karen Outen (February 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[23:08]  Leaving by Roxana Robinson  (February 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [28:35] The Fortune Seller by Rachel Kapelke-Dale (February 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [33:56]

Catherine?s Picks

The Things We Didn?t Know by Elba Iris Pérez (February 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:40]  Medea by Eilish Quin (February 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:57] Whiskey Tender by Deborah Jackson Taffa (February 27) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [31:04]  Wandering Stars by Tommy Orange (February 27) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [39:37] After Annie by Anna Quindlen (February 27*) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [46:45]

Other Books Mentioned

Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer [24:05] Breathless by Amy McCulloch [24:13] Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes [26:30] The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller [30:21] Fleishman Is in Trouble by Taffy Brodesser-Akner [30:45] The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo [30:49] The Many Lives of Mama Love by Lara Love Hardin [31:25] The Ballerinas by Rachel Kapelke-Dale [34:17] The Ingenue by Rachel Kapelke-Dale [34:20] Girls and Their Horses by Eliza Jane Brazier [39:08] There There by Tommy Orange [39:44] Alternate Side by Anna Quindlen [48:37]

March

Sarah?s Picks

Say Hello to My Little Friend by Jennine Capó Crucet  (March 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [42:21] Headshot by Rita Bullwinkel (March 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [49:03]

Catherine?s Pick

James by Percival Everett (March 19) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [51:15]

Other Books Mentioned

Moby-Dick; or, The Whale by Herman Melville [44:37] My Time Among the Whites by Jennine Capó Crucet [45:03] Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain [51:35] The Trees by Percival Everett [52:40] Other Links Golden Age of Detective Fiction | Knox?s 10 Commandments

*The book?s publication date has been changed.

In Episode 158, we wrap up the year with our Best Books of 2023 Genre Awards with Susie (@NovelVisits). We reveal our Overall Best Books (Fiction and Nonfiction), and we have a full breakdown by genre, including: Best Literary Fiction, Best Romance, Best Brain Candy, Best Genre Mash-Up, and more! Plus, we?re sharing the winners for these same genres as chosen by the Sarah?s Bookshelves Live Patreon 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 My 2024 Reading Tracker is out! Once again, the Tracker is ONLY available to $7/month Superstars patrons (i.e., no longer available as a separate purchase for $14.99 here on my website). Become a Superstars Patron here! Highlights Podcast reflections from 2023 ? including top episodes based on download stats. Overview of Susie?s and Sarah?s 2023 year in reading ? including trends and stats. Favorite books of the year: overall and by genre, including the SBL Patreon Community?s picks. 2023 Genre Awards [19:14]

Susie

The Vaster Wilds by Lauren Groff | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:19] Tom Lake by Ann Patchett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:41] No Two Persons by Erica Bauermeister | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:00] The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:22] In Memoriam by Alice Winn | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:16] The Art Thief by Michael Finkel | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:24] You Could Make This Place Beautiful by Maggie Smith | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:32] The Half Moon by Mary Beth Keane | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:02] The Memory of Animals by Claire Fuller | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:39] Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes | Amazon | Bookshop.org [54:59] Go As a River by Shelley Read | Amazon | Bookshop.org [57:30] Shark Heart by Emily Habeck | Amazon | Bookshop.org [59:58]  

Sarah

Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:51] Adelaide by Genevieve Wheeler | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:27] Spare by Prince Harry | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:00] All That Is Mine I Carry With Me by William Landay | Amazon | Bookshop.org[34:08] Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:06] Generations by Jean M. Twenge PhD | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:04] The Many Lives of Mama Love by Lara Love Hardin | Amazon | Bookshop.org[45:43] Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:21] My Murder by Katie Williams | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:53] Yellowface by R. F. Kuang | Amazon | Bookshop.org [56:05] Happiness Falls by Angie Kim | Amazon | Bookshop.org [58:30] Talking at Night by Claire Daverley | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:00:38]

Patrons

Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:45] Tom Lake by Ann Patchett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:00] Pineapple Street by Jenny Jackson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:14] All That Is Mine I Carry With Me by William Landay | Amazon | Bookshop.org[35:58] All the Sinners Bleed by S. A. Cosby | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:29] In Memoriam by Alice Winn | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:41] We Were Once a Family by Roxanna Asgarian | Amazon | Bookshop.org[44:09] The Many Lives of Mama Love by Lara Love Hardin | Amazon | Bookshop.org[46:13] Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:50] Chain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah | Amazon | Bookshop.org[52:49] Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros | Amazon | Bookshop.org [53:45] Starling House by Alix E. Harrow | Amazon | Bookshop.org [54:30] Congratulations, the Best Is Over! by R. Eric Thomas | Amazon | Bookshop.org[57:18] I Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai | Amazon | Bookshop.org[58:59] Shark Heart by Emily Habeck | Amazon | Bookshop.org [59:02] Warrior Girl Unearthed by Angeline Boulley | Amazon | Bookshop.org [59:31] Other Books Mentioned Reef Road by Deborah Goodrich Royce [4:19] Atomic Family by Ciera Horton McElroy [13:57] The Caretaker by Ron Rash [14:02] All You Have to Do Is Call by Kerri Maher [14:03] One Woman Show by Christine Coulson [14:18] Big Swiss by Jen Beagin [14:19]  Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano [21:00] The Heart?s Invisible Furies by John Boyne [21:26] The Rachel Incident by Caroline O?Donoghue [22:16] Wellness by Nathan Hill [22:19] The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese [22:22] Ghost by Dolly Alderton [26:27] Tell Me Lies by Carola Lovering [26:29] Vera Wong?s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. Sutano [31:00] Bad Summer People by Emma Rosenblum [31:30] The Five-Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand [31:33] The Sweet Spot by Amy Poeppel [31:39] Small Mercies by Dennis Lehane [36:44] Drowning by T. J. Newman [36:48] Strange Sally Diamond by Liz Nugent [37:00] Beyond That, the Sea by Laura Spence-Ash [39:54] The House Is on Fire by Rachel Beanland [40:05] The Postcard by Anne Berest [40:09] The Stranger in the Woods by Michael Finkel [41:38] In Light of All Darkness by Kim Cross [42:18] A Fever in the Heartland by Timothy Egan [43:49] Poverty, by America by Matthew Desmond [44:00] The Woman in Me by Britney Spears [46:22] All My Knotted Up Life by Beth Moore [46:29] How to Stay Married by Harrison Scott Key [46:38] Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane [47:28] Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin [49:06] Happy Place by Emily Henry [49:45] Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez [50:00] The Great Transition by Nick Fuller Googins [52:43] Camp Zero by Michelle Min Sterling [52:45] The Light Pirate by Lily Brooks-Dalton [53:06] Starter Villain by John Scalzi [53:21] Holly by Stephen King [54:20] Lone Women by Victor LaValle [54:48] How to Sell a Haunted House by Grady Hendrix [54:52] Firekeeper?s Daughter by Angeline Boulley [59:34] Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross [59:44] Normal People by Sally Rooney [1:00:56] Maame by Jessica George [1:01:39] Top Podcast Episodes for 2023 [8:42] Ep. 129: Best Books of 2022 Genre Awards with Susie (@NovelVisits) Ep. 150: Fall 2023 Book Preview with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) Ep. 140: 2023 Summer Reading Special with Susie (@NovelVisits) Ep. 131: The Best Backlist Books We Read in 2022 with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) Ep. 128: Best Books of 2022 Superlatives with Susie (@NovelVisits) Ep. 151: Angie Kim (Author of Happiness Falls) Ep. 133: Speculative Fiction / Fantasy 101 with Sarah Landis (Literary Agent) Ep. 143: Behind the Scenes of Book Coaching with Abigail K. Perry (of Lit Match Podcast) Ep. 138: Rebecca Makkai (Author of I Have Some Questions for You) Ep. 132: Katie Gutierrez (Author of More Than You?ll Ever Know) Ep. 156: 2023 State of the Industry with Sarah Landis (Literary Agent) Ep. 147: Lara Love Hardin (Author of The Many Lives of Mama Love) Ep. 144: John Marrs (Author of The One, The Passengers, and The Marriage Act) Ep. 152: Liz Nugent (Author of Strange Sally Diamond)

We?re gearing up to close out our year of reading with today?s podcast episode, featuring the Best Books of 2023 Superlatives with Susie (@NovelVisits). Our wrap-up is split into two episodes: today?s Superlatives and next week?s Genre Awards. Today, we?re diving into more than 25 Superlative categories, including Most Deserving of the Hype, Biggest Surprise, the Darkest Book of the Year, and many others!

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 My 2024 Reading Tracker is out! Once again, the Tracker will ONLY be available to $7/month Superstars patrons (i.e., no longer available as a separate purchase for $14.99 here on my website). Become a Superstars Patron here! Highlights Our best books of the year from over 25 categories, including: Most Deserving of the Hype FOMO-Worthy Book Third Time?s the Charm Darkest Book of the Year Top Underrated Gem Biggest Surprise The Book You Flew Through Most Polarizing Favorite Most Heartbreaking 2023 Superlatives [6:52]

Susie

Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano | Amazon | Bookshop.org [7:03] & [24:25] I Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai | Amazon | Bookshop.org[11:37] Age of Vice by Deepti Kapoor | Amazon | Bookshop.org [16:07] Juno Loves Legs by Karl Geary | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:17] Western Lane by Chetna Maroo | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:14] The Future by Naomi Alderman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:44] Pete and Alice in Maine by Caitlin Shetterly | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:46] The Road to Dalton by Shannon Bowring | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:31] Chain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah | Amazon | Bookshop.org[40:22] One Woman Show by Christine Coulson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:40] Small Mercies by Dennis Lehane | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:41] Rootless by Krystle Zara Appiah | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:20] The Postcard by Anne Berest | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:19] Happiness Falls by Angie Kim | Amazon | Bookshop.org [58:01] Wandering Souls by Cecile Pin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:03:40]

Sarah

The Rachel Incident by Caroline O?Donoghue | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:42] The Quiet Tenant by Clémence Michallon | Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:10] Pineapple Street by Jenny Jackson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [15:03] All the Sinners Bleed by S. A. Cosby | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:43] Strange Sally Diamond by Liz Nugent | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:56] All That Is Mine I Carry With Me by William Landay | Amazon | Bookshop.org[26:55] Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:21] I Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai | Amazon | Bookshop.org[32:26] I Could Live Here Forever by Hannah Halperin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:53] How to Stay Married by Harrison Scott Key | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:44] Drowning by T. J. Newman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:11] Shark Heart by Emily Habeck | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:09] Late Bloomers by Deepa Varadarajan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:01] Good for a Girl by Lauren Fleshman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:40] The Longest Race by Kara Goucher | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:56] Tom Lake by Ann Patchett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [54:53] Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:01:01] We Were Once a Family by Roxanna Asgarian | Amazon | Bookshop.org[1:05:08] Other Books Mentioned Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano [7:23] Blacktop Wasteland by S. A. Cosby [19:27] Razorblade Tears by S. A. Cosby [19:30] Unraveling Oliver by Liz Nugent [23:28] Talking at Night by Claire Daverley [24:30] Maame by Jessica George [24:32] The Power by Naomi Alderman [30:11] Wellness by Nathan Hill [31:30] Day by Michael Cunningham [31:32] Yellowface by R. F. Kuang [31:35] The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai [32:47] The Whispers by Ashley Audrain [37:03] The Push by Ashley Audrain [37:20] Our Town by Thornton Wilder [56:12]

For our first annual 2023 State of the Industry episode, we?re welcoming back literary agent Sarah Landis for an overview and exploration of some hot topics in the book world this year.  Taking stock of how this year panned out for the publishing industry, Sarah discusses top news stories, dives deep into how specific titles performed this year, and shares current trends she?s seeing in publishing.  Also, Sarah shares her favorite books of 2023!

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.

Coming Soon The updated 2024 Rock Your Reading Tracker will release on December 6! This year?s updated edition will be exclusively available to our $7/month Superstars Patrons and will not be offered for separate purchase as in previous years. Don?t miss out on this and other bookish goodies ? become a Superstars Patron here! Highlights 2023 bookish news and publishing numbers overview. Sarah talks current popular genres, BookTok trends, and Simon & Schuster sale. A quick dive into IP books, their meaning, and a notable downside. The Elizabeth Gilbert book review bombing situation. BTS vs. Taylor Swift pre-order controversy. Playing Over/Under with this year?s top book performers. Do celebrity book clubs really boost sales? A look at the numbers. Publisher expectations and the influence of page count. Bookish trends of the year: BookTok?s impact on publishing. Examining shifts in publishing calendars. Anticipating 2024?s potential bookish trends. 2023 State of the Industry

High-Level Overview [3:08]

Spare by Prince Harry | Amazon | Bookshop.org [4:30] The Woman in Me by Britney Spears | Amazon | Bookshop.org [4:31] Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus | Amazon | Bookshop.org [4:58] Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros | Amazon | Bookshop.org [7:31] Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:08] Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:21] Fire & Blood by George R. R. Martin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:22] The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:48]

Big Book Stories of 2023 [13:10]

Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:21] Beyond the Story by BTS and Myeongseok Kang | Amazon | Bookshop.org[21:22]

The Over / Under Game [25:17]

Chain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah | Amazon | Bookshop.org[26:05] Yellowface by R. F. Kuang | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:41] Pineapple Street by Jenny Jackson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:17] In Memoriam by Alice Winn | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:26] I Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai | Amazon | Bookshop.org[32:11] The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:29] The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:39] Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:15] The Vaster Wilds by Lauren Groff | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:28] Let Us Descend by Jesmyn Ward | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:37] Tom Lake by Ann Patchett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:11] The Dutch House by Ann Patchett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:20] Wellness by Nathan Hill | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:30] Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:52] Happiness Falls by Angie Kim | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:14] Miracle Creek by Angie Kim | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:35] Shark Heart by Emily Habeck | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:50] Spare by Prince Harry | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:00] The Woman in Me by Britney Spears | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:01] Becoming by Michelle Obama | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:39] A Promised Land by Barack Obama | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:42]

Bookish Trends of 2023 [44:26]

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:08] Educated by Tara Westover | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:23] The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:25] The Dry by Jane Harper | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:04] All That Is Mine I Carry with Me by William Landay | Amazon | Bookshop.org[48:24] Defending Jacob by William Landay | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:38] In Light of All Darkness by Kim Cross | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:16] You Could Make This Place Beautiful by Maggie Smith | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:36]

Examining the Shift in Publishers? Calendars [51:43]

Potential Trends for 2024 [54:25]

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig | Amazon | Bookshop.org [55:20] The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V. E. Schwab | Amazon | Bookshop.org[55:24] Sarah?s Top 3 Books of the Year [56:02] Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [56:38] Vera Wong?s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. Sutanto | Amazon | Bookshop.org [57:20] Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto | Amazon | Bookshop.org [57:38] Emily Wilde?s Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [58:33] Weyward by Emilia Hart | Amazon | Bookshop.org [59:34]