Top Shelf at the Merrick Library: Recent Episodes
Carol Ann Tack
Three lives, one hundred years, one ghost town: an explosive novel about a mysterious place called Sunrise, where the secrets of the past refuse to stay buried. Sunrise by Téa Obreht is a gorgeous three-dimensional novel and is my favorite of the year, so far.
Had a terrific conversation with Téa Obreht about her stunning new novel, Sunrise. We go deep into the origin story of the book, it’s magnificent construction, how holding onto to narratives helps a writer, two novels she’s loving right now, and more. Téa, this book is a joy, thank you so much for joining me!
Téa Obreht recommends: Villa Coco by Andrew Sean Greer; Some People by Parini Schroff.
Follow Téa on Instagram. Find her books here!
“Irresistible… a marvelous 11th-hour twist and a satisfying denouement lie ahead. It’s hard to think of any reason not to call The Amateur by Chris Bohjalian, a perfect novel: a hole in one.”
—Kirkus (Starred Review)
With praise like that for his 24th novel, how could you not read, The Amateur by Chris Bohjalian? To say I was bowled over to interview the man himself for this episode in an understatement. Chris shares his joy of writing this book in a fun-filled frenzy over a 90-day period and emailing to his editor. The Amateur explores class divides, misogyny, family strife, and more in this 1970s set novel. His character of Mira is one you won’t soon forget, so give this episode a listen. Chris Bohjalian, lover of libraries, thank you so much for joining me!
Chris recommends, All the World Can Hold by Jung Yun; The Simp by Roshan Sethi; The Things We Never Say by Elizabeth Strout; Single Girls by John Searles; The Shampoo Effect by Jenny Jackson.
Check out Chris Bohjalian on every single social media platform out there!
For more of Chris Bohjalian’s 24 books, click here!
Happy 175th Episode!
I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate 175 episodes than conversing with the pretty perfect, Kathleen Rooney. Her brand new book, Man Overboard, is a funny and moving novel in which a former college swimmer falls off a cruise ship…or was he pushed? In the meantime, he has to keep treading water as memories and regrets wash over him. I fell for this book hook, line, and sinker.
I had a blast discussing Man Overboard!, the Gulf of Mexico, cruise ships, Kathleen’s inspiration for the book, her collaboration with her sister for Leaf Town Forever, and most important: music! Kathleen Rooney is the gift that keeps on giving and I’m thrilled she came back on the show for the second time.
Kathleen Rooney suggests: Gerald’s Game by Stephen King, Lives of the Saints, and The Oyster Diaries both by Nancy Lemann. A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again by David Foster Wallace.
Large Hearted Boy playlists!
Borrow any title from the Nassau County Library System
The Top of the World is the brand new novel by Ethan Joella. Heartbreaking and life-affirming, The Top of the World takes us back to the Poconos during the 1970s and features a young woman searching for answers about her brother’s last days. The Top of the World is a timeless story about memory, grief, second chances, and hope.
For this episode, Ethan and I talk about love nostalgia, grief, champagne glass bath-tubs (you’ll just have to listen!), creating his characters, his revisions for this book, what he’s working on next, and so much more!
As always, thank you so much for joining me, Ethan!
Order signed copies of The Top of the World here. Order a copy of any of Ethan’s books here.
Follow Ethan Joella on IG: Joellawriting and on Threads: Joellawriting. Ethan recommends: When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzén.
Place a hold at any Nassau County library here.
Listen to our episode for A Little Hope right here.
Listen to our episode for The Same Bright Stars right here.
It is always a sun-shiny day when Laurie Frankel gifts us all with a new book, and Enormous Wings is that book!
Enormous Wings is a timely novel about Pepper Mills who grudgingly moves into a retirement community. While there, she gets some shocking news, and boy does she! Enormous Wings explores motherhood, family, sex, love, friendship, and how, even late in life, foundations can shift. Laurie handles these topics with empathy, humanity, and care. It’s why she’s so good at what she does.
For this episode, Laurie talks about the inspiration, gets in-depth with her writing process, gives advice to aspiring writers, and shares some terrific book recs. To say it was a joy to host THE Laurie Frankel is an understatement. I had an absolute blast speaking with her again. Thank you, Laurie!
Give a listen to my interview with Laurie for her excellent book, One Two Three, right here.
Laurie Frankel recommends: The Husbands by Holly Gramazio; The Future by Naomi Alderman; The Power by Naomi Alderman; Indian Country by Shobha Rao; The Typing Lady by Ruth Ozeki; the work of Ruth Ozeki; Margo’s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe.
Follow Laurie on Instagram and Facebook and as always, check out her Substack.
This special episode of Top Shelf features veteran journalist and author Dan Robson, co-author of Hammered: The Fight of My Life by hockey legend Dave Schultz.
Dan joins me to discuss his latest collaboration, and from there, we dive right into the nuances of crafting compelling narrative non-fiction, and what it was like working alongside one of hockey’s most iconic figures: Dave “The Hammer” Schultz.
We talk about Dave’s storied career, as well as the powerfully personal, candid, and heartbreaking journey Dave Schultz himself shares in this book. Dan tells us how the project first came together and their collaborative process. We also talk about some of the great tidbits in Dave’s memoir. This is a fascinating conversation, and I cannot thank Dan enough for sharing such incredible behind-the-scenes insight.
Follow along with Dan Robson’s website or follow along with Dan Robson on The Athletic.
Follow along with Dave Schultz.
“Captivating. Eleanor Shearer returns with a memorable tale of two young women yearning for home and love. I was drawn to the historical setting not typically seen in fiction – the lives of eighteenth-century Jamaican Maroons, removed to Canada, free on paper, yet still at risk.”—Charmaine Wilkerson, NYT best-selling author of Good Dirt
In this episode Eleanor and I chat about her brand new book, Fireflies in Winter. We also talk about the Jamaican Maroon colony, queer love, her trips to Novia Scotia, her debut River Sing Me Home, and so much more. I loved this book, these characters, and the luminous prose. Fireflies in Winter is an excellent piece of historical fiction, that is not to be missed.
Follow Eleanor on Instagram:@eleanorbshearer
Place your holds here for Fireflies in Winter and River Sing Me Home, both by Eleanor Shearer.
Eleanor Shearer recommends: Ever Since We Small by Celeste Mohammed.
Matthew Norman on Love, Loss, and Holiday Movie Magic
“Why is it that the holidays always seem to arrive out of nowhere…?”
That question comes from Henry, one half of the unforgettable duo in Matthew Norman’s latest novel, Grace & Henry’s Holiday Movie Marathon. The book follows a sentimental advertising creative and a no-nonsense bar owner who discover an unexpected second chance at love binge-watching iconic holiday films—and it’s every bit as poignant and heartwarming as that setup promises.
For our fourth interview episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Matthew to talk about his absolutely delightful new novel. We covered everything from the magic of holiday movies, to music, grief, the New York Jets, and so much more. It’s a wide-ranging, genuinely fun conversation, and I’m so grateful to Matthew for joining me!
Matthew Norman recommends: The Faculty Lounge by Jennifer Mathieu; the work of Richard Russo; the work of Nick Hornby; the work of Allison Larkin.
Follow Matthew Norman on all social media platforms @thenormannation
Just in time for thrill-season, I sat down with author Jennifer Fawcett to talk about her second thriller, Keep This For Me. For this episode we discuss generational trauma, serial killers, ghost ships, and so much more. Give a listen. Thank you so much Jennifer!
Jennifer recommends, The Ascent by Allison Buccola; A Gorgeous Excitement by Cynthia Weiner; and The Grand Paloma Resort by Cleyvis Natera.
Look for Jennifer on Threads & Instagram: @jenniferfawcett_author; X: @AuthorFawcett.
“A loving ode to an extraordinary mother; a soulful coming-of-age; an unlikely portrait of Dylan in his prime as fresh as they come. Sam Sussman‘s, Boy from the North Country heralds the arrival of a blazing new literary talent.” ~ Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Ayad Akhtar
I had the pleasure of sitting down with author Sam Sussman for his remarkable debut, Boy From the North Country. We talk about so many things in this very special and personal episode, give a listen. Thank you so very much, Sam!
Sam Sussman recommends: Lisa Moore Fine Art; The Northern Sky by Nick Drake’s; The Narrow Road to the Deep North and Other Travel Sketches by Matsuo Basho; Blood on the Tracks by Bob Dylan.
For Episode 167, award-nominated author Delia Pitts joined me to discuss her latest release, Death of an Ex, the gripping follow-up to Trouble in Queenstown. Delia shares the inspiration behind her brilliantly drawn private investigator, Vandy Myrick, offers a glimpse into her writing process, and gives listeners an exclusive sneak peek at book three in the series. With themes of family, race, class, and grief woven throughout, Delia brings depth and authenticity to the mystery genre. Don’t miss this powerful book—and don’t miss this conversation. Thank you so much for joining me, Delia!
Delia Pitts recommends: Glory Daze by Danielle Arceneaux, and Blood in the Water by Tiffany D. Jackson.
For Episode 166, I had the incredible honor of hosting authors Nancy Grace and Benee Knauer to discuss their powerful new book, What Happened to Ellen: A Miscarriage of American Justice.
Our conversation explored the heartbreaking case of Ellen Rae Greenberg, the authors’ remarkable collaboration, and their unwavering fight for justice. The authors share how this case first captured their attention and walk us through their meticulous collaborative process. The depth of research and the genuine care they poured into telling Ellen’s story are evident on every page. Nancy Grace and Benee Knauer’s passion and commitment to truth shine through every word—both in their book and in this interview. All proceeds from the sale of the book go to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Thank you, Nancy and Benee, for sharing this important story with us on the podcast!
Place your hold here for all Nancy Grace titles. Follow Nancy Grace right here! You can also follow Nancy at Crime Online. And don’t forget to follow Nancy Grace on most social media platforms!
Grab your copy of Benee Knauer’s terrific adaptation right here! Follow Benee Knauer on Instagram @beneeknauer2620.
Nancy also mentioned the fabulous author, Josh Sabarra! Check out his books here.
Celebrating my 165th episode with award-winning author Frederic S. Durbin! Fred joined me to talk about his brand new historical fiction novel, The Country Under Heaven. Set in the 1880s, this western follows former Civil War soldier Ovid Vesper as he travels across the country haunted by visions from the Battle of Antietam, encountering both the dangers of the Wild West and mysterious otherworldly forces. This terrific book is being touted as Louis L’Amour meets H.P. Lovecraft and I loved every page. For this conversation, we discuss how The Country Under Heaven evolved from a short story, his research process and inspirations, plus Fred shares great book recommendations and gives us an exciting sneak peek at his next project. Thank you for joining me Fred!
The Country Under Heaven by Frederic S. Durbin is such a special book – it’s one of my favorites of the year.
Place your holds here for all Frederic S. Durbin titles.
Frederic S. Durbin recommends: the work of Ray Bradbury; Something Wicked This Way Comes by Ray Bradbury; Ture Grit by Charles Portis; Enchanted Night by Steven Milhauser; The Knife Thrower and Other Stories by Steven Milhauser; the work of Steven Milhauser.
“James Wade’s newest novel, Hollow Out the Dark, is a masterpiece of atmospheric crime fiction; a worthy successor to the likes of William Gay and Cormac McCarthy. Set in East Texas, it is an epic, and age-old, story of greed and generational betrayal—where vengeance is swift and forgiveness a long time coming.” Kathleen Kent, NYT bestselling author of Black Wolf
I was thrilled to welcome back four-time guest James Wade of the podcast to talk about his gripping new release, Hollow Out the Dark – a Depression-era gothic crime thriller wrapped in a whiskey war. It’s edge-of-your-seat storytelling at its finest.
We dive into the novel’s powerful themes of brotherhood, its echoes of Cain and Abel, James’s thoughtful use of epigraphs, his unique writing process, and his uncanny ability to craft complex, unforgettable villains. We even get a sneak peek at his upcoming summer 2025 release.
We packed a lot into this episode, so don’t miss it.
Thanks for joining me once again, James!
James Wade recommends: Turtle House by Amanda Churchill; Orbital by Samantha Harvey; the work of Lauren Groff; the work of Robert Gwaltney.
Place your hold here for all James Wade titles.
They All Fall the Same by Wes Browne has already made waves, earning a spot as one of Goodreads’ biggest mysteries and thrillers of 2025 and a most anticipated book of the year by Book Riot’s Read or Dead. Author Kelly J. Ford raves, “The hills of Kentucky burn in this thrilling tale of warring crime families that harks back to the furies of the Hatfields and McCoys.”
In this episode, Wes joins me to discuss his gripping character development, the art of crafting suspenseful action scenes, and how his experience as a criminal defense attorney helped shape characters that feel intensely real.
This novel is a fast-paced, runaway train of a story—packed with twists, surprises, and high-stakes action that kept me on the edge of my seat. And the audiobook narrated by Matt Godfrey? Pure dynamite. You won’t want to miss either version of They All Fall the Same.
Wes Browne recommends: Trampoline by Robert Gipe; When We Were Hardcore by Linda Michel-Cassidy; Asides by George Singleton; King of Ashes by S.A. Cosby, the work of David Joy; the work of Leah Hampton.
Place your hold for both Wes Browne titles here.
Belinda Bauer on The Impossible Thing… A Crime Story Like No Other
A taut, brilliantly imagined novel packed with intrigue at every turn, The Impossible Thing cements Belinda Bauer’s place as one of our great crime writers. From the two-time winner of the CWA Crime Novel of the Year and Sunday Times bestselling author of Snap and Exit, this gripping new mystery follows a young girl, an impossible discovery, and a crime that remained unsolved for a century—until now.
Blending crime caper with historical mystery, Bauer crafts a story so compelling it’s impossible to put down. In this episode, she shares the fascinating true story behind the novel—the real-life case of the missing Maitland eggs—along with insights into the book’s intricate structure, the challenges of writing it, and how her screenwriting background shaped the narrative flow. Plus, she reveals why she always knows the last line of her books before she begins.
Belinda, thank you for such an insightful and engaging conversation! It was a true joy to have you on the show. Belinda Bauer recommends: Tommy the Bruce by James Yorkston; High Rollers by Jack Bowman, and Cryptonomicon by Neal Stephenson.
Place your holds here for all Belinda Bauer titles. Follow Belinda Bauer on Facebook.
One of my favorite mystery series just got a brand-new installment! Glory Daze by Danielle Arceneaux has officially launched, and I couldn’t be more excited. In this highly anticipated follow-up to the award-winning Glory Be, Glory Broussard is drawn into the mystery of her ex-husband’s death—this time with an unexpected ally by her side.
Compelling, humorous, and heartfelt, this book delivers everything I love about Glory: her sharp wit, her resilience, and the way she always seems to stumble into trouble. In this episode, we dive into what makes Glory such a complex yet relatable character, whether this book fits into the Cozy Mystery genre, what Danielle is working on next, and, of course, where to find the best muffuletta in Louisiana (tune in to find out). Oh, and I may have gone on a little tangent about my love of Pyrex!
Tune in for a fantastic conversation. Thank you so much, Danielle! Follow Danielle Arceneaux on Instagram @darceneaux.
Danielle recommends, The Most by Jessica Anthony. Place your holds here for the Glory Broussard books.
Laced with atmospheric poetry and literature and set in the heart of Denver’s black community, They Can’t Take Your Name by Robert Justice is a gripping crime novel that pits three characters in a race against time to thwart a gross miscarriage of justice—and a crooked detective who wreaks havoc…with deadly consequences. This is the first in a three-part series of crime novels based upon the greatest injustice in our justice system-—wrongful convictions. The second in the series, A Dream in the Dark is on shelves right now, so don’t miss it!
For this episode, Robert Justice shares the very personal inspiration for his fiction debut, his love letter to Denver, his passion project, what he’s working on next, and more. Click here for more information about the Read a Book, Right a Wrong Project. Thank you so much for joining me, Robert!
Robert Justice recommends: No One Will Save Us by Julie L. Brown; The Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison. Listen to the Crime Writers of Color Podcast here!
“This gripping, gritty noir is Upton Sinclair on hormones, the Coen brothers deep-fried.” ~ –Minneapolis Star Tribune about Broiler by Eli Cranor
Eli Cranor’s third book, Broiler, is another edge-of-your-seat noir thriller that exposes the dark, bloody heart of life on the margins in the American South and the bleak underside of a bygone American Dream. I was thrilled to host him for the third time to talk about his brand new book. In this episode, Eli shares his deep personal connection to Broiler. He opens up about the inspiration he draws from his family, the influence of his students, dives into his unique writing process, and explains how this story stands apart from his previous works. But that’s not all! Eli also gives us a sneak peek into his upcoming book, which promises to be quite a departure from his usual style. And for all you sports fans, we couldn’t resist talking a bit of college football! Tune in for an engaging and inspiring conversation. You won’t want to miss it!
Eli joined us for Episode 87 and for Episode 120, if you want to catch up on either of those! Place your holds here for all Eli Cranor’s books. Thanks so much again, Eli!
Eli Cranor recommends: Holy City by Henry Wise; Great State of West Florida by Kent Wascom; A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers. The work of Elmore Leonard and Carl Hiaasen. Follow Eli Cranor on social media: @elicranor
With Trouble in Queenstown, Delia Pitts introduces private investigator Vandy Myrick in a powerful mystery that blends grief, class, race, and family with thrilling results. I could not put this book down and it started with the very first sentence! We talk about the book, Delia’s short stories, her familial influences, and her terrific Ross Agency Mystery Series. That series will be on my summer reading list and I cannot wait to start it. In the meantime, check out, Trouble in Queenstown. Thank you for joining me Delia!
Delia Pitts recommends: Devil in Profile by Kimberly Giarratano; Hall of Mirrors by John Copenhaver; Blessed Water: A Sister Holiday Mystery by Margaret Douaihy; Missing White Woman by Kellye Garrett; Echo by Tracy Clark
Oh my goodness, how thrilled are we all that Ethan Joella is back with his third book,The Same Bright Stars. This uplifting and emotionally resonant novel set in a Delaware beach town, follows a local restaurant owner at a turning point in their life.The Same Bright Stars comes right at you in technicolor, and I loved every single page. We cover a lot of ground in this episode, so be sure to give it a listen. And if you haven’t already, check out our very first interview together in Episode 78!
Ethan Joella recommends: Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout; Yellowface by R.F. Kuang; Until August by Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Follow Ethan Joella on Instagram: @joellawriting and place your holds for all Ethan’s books right here!
Claire Lombardo, NYT bestselling author of The Most Fun We Ever Had, returns with another brilliantly observed family drama in which the enduring, hard-won affection of a long marriage faces imminent derailment from events both past and present: Same As It Ever Was. Author Bonnie Garmus calls it, “Witty and insightful…a powerful exploration of marriage, motherhood, and self.” For this episode we talk about Claire’s brilliant character development, our shared love of music, and more! This is a perfect summer read, don’t miss it. Thank you so much for joining me, Claire!
Claire Lombardo recommends: The Rich People Have Gone Away by Regina Porter.
Place holds here for both of Claire’s terrific books!
What You Leave Behind is the powerful new book by Wanda M. Morris, and I am thrilled to host her for this episode! What You Leave Behind is a haunting thriller following a lawyer who after the mysterious disappearance of a local landowner, uncovers a conspiracy that dates back to Reconstruction and still persists in half the US today. For this episode we talk about why she writes thrillers, what she’s working on next and more. We share quite a few laughs in this episode, don’t miss it. Wanda is the only author I boost on the Long Island Railroad, so go back and listen to the first episode we did to find out why this is so!
Thank you so much Wanda! Follow Wanda on IG & Threads: @wandamowrites; on Twitter: @WandaMo14; and on Facebook: @WandaMorris. Place your holds for all Wanda’s books right here.
Wanda M. Morris recommends: You Know What You Did by K.T. Nguyen; Not What She Seems by Yasmin Angoe.
For this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing author Henry Wise. He sat down with me to talk about his terrific southern crime debut, Holy City. We talked about his poetry, the craft of writing, his book recommendations, and more. Henry, thank you so much for joining me.
Holy City is a captivating debut about a deputy sheriff who finds himself on the outs from his sheriff’s department over his unwillingness to look the other way when an innocent man is arrested for murder.
Henry Wise recommends: Broiler by Eli Cranor; Don’t Let the Devil Ride by Ace Atkins; Smoke Kings by Jahmal Mayfield; Lilith by Eric Rickstad; The Great State of West Florida by Ken Wascom; Sanctuary by William Faulkner; Lord Jim by Joseph Conrad.
Follow Henry Wise on Instagram: @buzzbuzzbang and on Twitter (X): @henrywise05
I was thrilled to welcome back Edward Ashton for his third visit to talk about his latest release, Mal Goes to War. Mal is a dark comedy wrapped in a techno-thriller that is a a satirical take on war, artificial intelligence, and what it really means to be human. For this episode we talk about the amazing personality of Mal, the ensemble cast, some Mickey17 movie updates (based on Mickey7), and of course, spiders. Thank you so much Ed – this was great!
Edward Ashton recommends The Children of Time series by Adrian Tchaikovsky. Click here to reserve all Ed’s books.
What a thrill to host Garrard Conley for this episode! Conley is the author of the bestselling memoir, Boy Erased, about his time in a church supported conversion therapy facility, which became a major motion picture. For E141, we spoke about his fiction debut, All the World Beside, an electrifying, deeply moving novel about the love story between two men in Puritan New England. We talk about this time period, small town communities, religion & sexuality, writing ensemble characters, big hair (you’ll have to listen to find out), what he’s working on next, and more. Garrard, what a pleasure – thank you so much!
Garrard Conley recommends: Exhibit by R.O. Kwon; All Fours by Miranda July; The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver; My Tender Matador by Pedro Lemebel
Follow Garrard Conley on Facebook @garrardconleyauthor; Instagram & Twitter @gayrodcon
Set against the unyielding backdrop of the Great Depression with an unforgettable cast of ornery characters, The County Line by Steve Weddle is a lyrical, loving celebration of community and opportunity in 1933 America. For this episode, Steve talked about outlaw camps, his deep dive into the history of the 1930s, his character development, and his “downright dazzling” debut novel, Country Hardball. He also shares some excellent book recommendations. I had such a blast, thank you so much Steve!
Steve Weddle recommends: Missing White Woman by Kellye Garrett; Little Underworld by Chris Harding Thornton; Negative Tilt by Bobby Matthews; Something Bad Wrong by Eryk Pruitt.
For this episode I was thrilled to host Anders de la Motte, one of Sweden’s most cherished crime writers, to talk about his latest American release, The Mountain King. This page-turning thriller is the first bestselling installment in his new Leo Asker series and The Mountain King is not to be missed. The son of a librarian, Anders talks all about his love of reading, being in the library during off hours, his love of Agatha Christie, his writing origin story and so much more. Thank you Anders!
Anders recommends: the work of Jo Nesbo; Long Bright River by Liz Moore; the work of Agatha Christie. Place your hold here for books by Anders de la Motte!
Follow Anders on Facebook and Instagram: @andersdelamotte
For this episode I was thrilled to host Guggenheim Fellow author Ellen Feldman to discuss her latest release, The Trouble With You. Ellen shares the inspiration behind this captivating 1940s NYC tale of women’s roles in the aftermath of WWII, the legacy these women left behind, and how it paved the way for the women’s movement of the 1970s. Ellen also provides a sneak peek into her next project and offers some fantastic book recommendations. Author Stacy Schiff says “The Trouble With You is exhilarating.” Thank you for joining me, Ellen!
Ellen Feldman recommends: the work of Lissa Evans; The Cazalet Chronicles by Elizabeth Jane Howard; The Group by Mary McCarthy
“Titles pop into my head as I’m falling asleep.” ~ Heather Levy
What a thrill to host Heather Levy for this episode! I missed Heather for her debut Walking Through Needles and to say I was excited to host her for Hurt For Me, is an understatement! Edgar Award-nominated author Jess Lourey says, “Levy’s latest grips you by the throat from page one and never lets up. It’s a riveting, sexy, twisty mystery full of beautiful writing and characters you can’t help but care about.” And boy is that the truth about this terrific dark romance! For E137, we talk about the fabulous Hurt For Me, her debut Walking Through Needles, wine, cookies, and so much more! Loved every minute, thank you Heather!
Heather Levy recommends: Almost Surely Dead by Amina Akhtar; Safe and Slow by Laura McHugh; The Devil and Mrs. Davenport. Heather’s favorite spot to buy cookies is: Creative Cookie Corner.
“Roofers are the best storytellers…” ~ Amy Jo Burns
We kick off 2024 the right way with author Amy Jo Burns! She sat down with me to talk about her 2024 release, Mercury, a compelling family drama about the Joseph family that takes place in the town of Mercury. The Josephs are a roofing family and their bonds of loyalty are tested when they uncover a long-hidden secret at the heart of their blue-collar town. The characters will stay with you long after you turn the last page. We also chat about her terrific debut Shiner, what she’s working on next, and more. Thank you Amy Jo!
Follow Amy Jo Burns on Instagram: @burnsamyjo
Amy Jo Burns recommends East of Eden by John Steinbeck.
Top Shelf is ending 2023 with the glorious Glory Be, a fantastic mystery by debut author Danielle Arceneaux. Glory Be is “Murder She Wrote” with an African American lead. Instead of Cabot Cove, readers will find themselves in Lafayette, Louisiana and you will want to take that journey! Glory Be is the first in a vivid and charming crime series set in the bayou, introducing readers to the hilariously uncensored amateur sleuth Glory Broussard. Perfect for fans of Richard Osman’s Thursday Murder Club. For this episode Danielle Arceneaux talks about writing her debut, what’s next for Miss Glory herself and so much more. Glory Be is a must read, a perfect gift, and a series we all look forward to. Thank you so much for joining me Danielle!
Danielle Arceneaux recommends: The Last Devil to Die by Richard Osman; The Housekeepers by Alex Hay
May Day! May Day! One of the most likeable authors I know, May Cobb sat down with me for this episode to talk about her latest thriller, A Likeable Woman. Author Eliza Jane Brazier calls it, “An evocative tale filled with sultry glamour and secrets as thick as an East Texas pine forest.” May also shared ALL the info about her second book, The Hunting Wives becoming a limited series over on STARZ, and man I can hardly wait for that. And I also can’t wait for May’s 2024 release, The Hollywood Assistant. Great episode, thank you so much May!
May Cobb recommends: Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers and I’m Not Done With You Yet by Jessie Sutanto; An American Girl by Wendy Walker; Girls And Their Horses by Eliza Jane Brazier, Enemies Closer and Porn Again both by Josh Sabarra. Movies mentioned: Fatal Attraction and Unfaithful.
I am so late to the Suzanne Crain Miller party, and boy am I thrilled to be here! I read Suzanne’s most recent novel, Temperatures, over the summer and to say I was riveted is an understatement. Temperatures is a Southern noir page-turning thriller set in the oppressive summer heat of rural North Carolina. Police officers Mitchum Cobb and Cyrus Hogue partner up to battle what the volatile south dishes out in the wake of 2020.
For this episode we talk about her amazing book Temperatures, how she develops her characters, how improv classes help her writing; what she’s working on next, and more! Thank you so much for joining me Suzanne!
Suzanne Crain Miller recommends: Galveston by Nic Pizzolatto; Invention of Sound and Invisible Monsters by Chuck Palahniuk; Hurt For Me and Walking Through Needles both by Heather Levy; Heartbroke by Chelsea Bieker; My Name is Lucy Barton by Elizabeth Strout; Like a Sister by Kellye Garrett; American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis; Little Children and Mrs. Fletcher by Tom Perotta; Blacktop Wasteland by S.A. Cosby; Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano; Lakeview Terrace: The Movie; True Detective: the HBO Series; Copycat: The Movie.
Get all your Suzanne Crain Miller titles right here!
“I try to make my characters as smart as they can be…” so says Edgar Award winning author Erin Flanagan in this episode. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Erin to talk about her latest thriller, Come With Me. Author Liz Alterman says, “Come With Me is a rollercoaster ride that will have you holding your breath until the final page.” Indeed! We also chat about Erin’s Edgar winning book Deer Season, her short stories, her marvelous writer friends and more. Thank you Erin!
Erin Flanagan recommends: Prom Mom by Laura Lippman; Yellowface by R. F. Kuang; I Have Some Questions For You by Rebecca Makkai; Beware the Woman by Megan Abbott; The Good Girl House by Erin Flanagan (please scroll down on that landing page to find the story). Place your hold here for all Erin Flanagan titles!
Follow Erin on Instagram and Twitter: @erinlflanagan
“All Things Left Wild by James Wade was one of my favorite novels of the last two years, as was River, Sing Out. But neither of those novels could have prepared me for the dark and compelling vision of Beasts of the Earth.” ~David Heska Wanbli Weiden, Spur and Anthony Award-winning author of Winter Counts James … Continue reading E130: Interview with James Wade, author of Beasts of the Earth →
What an episode! I had the pleasure of hosting James McBride, the award-winning author, musician, and screenwriter to talk about his latest book, The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store. His landmark memoir, The Color of Water, has sold millions of copies and is considered an American classic. His debut novel, Miracle at St. Anna, was … Continue reading E129: Interview with James McBride, author of The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store →
“If Daisy Jones and Emily Henry had a baby, it would be Charm City Rocks.” ~ bestselling author Colleen Oakley. For this episode, three-time guest Matthew Norman sat down to talk about his completely charming new novel, Charm City Rocks. Matthew talks about writing a sweet novel instead of a bitter-sweet novel, writing songs into … Continue reading Episode 128: Interview with Matthew Norman author of Charm City Rocks →
“Emotionally riveting and beautifully told,The Last Lifeboat is an unforgettable story of survival, resolve, and the shimmering stubbornness of hope. You can count on Hazel Gaynor’s gorgeous writing to carry you away and safely bring you back. —Susan Meissner, USA Today bestselling author of The Nature of Fragile Things For this episode Hazel Gaynor talks … Continue reading E127: Interview with Hazel Gaynor author of The Last Lifeboat →
Anytime I host Steven Rowley there’s plenty to celebrate and this episode is no different! We celebrate Steven’s magical year: winning the 2022 Thurber Prize for American Humor for The Guncle, being a Read With Jenna Pick, once again making it onto the NYT bestseller list (this time for The Celebrants), and sharing a publication … Continue reading E126: Interview with Steven Rowley author of The Celebrants →
This marvelous debut, Jackal, by author Erin E. Adams is one of those books best read with the lights on! Recommended by Gillian Flynn on the Today Show, Jackal is the story of a young Black girl who goes missing in the woods outside her rust belt town. But she isn’t the first—and she may … Continue reading E125: Interview with Erin E. Adams author of Jackal →
I can’t think of a better place to be than Saturday Night at the Lakeside Supper Club! This latest from NYT bestselling author J. Ryan Stradal, is a story of a couple from two very different restaurant families in rustic Minnesota, and the legacy of love and tragedy, of hardship and hope, that unites and divides them. I loved this book from cover to cover! We talk about character development, the structure of the book, the wonder of supper clubs and so much more. Thank you J. Ryan Stradal, I had a blast!
J. Ryan Stradal recommends They’re Going to Love You by Meg Howrey.
Follow J. Ryan Stradal on Instagram and Twitter: @jryanstradal. Reserve his books right here!
Lessons in Chemistry, the bestselling juggernaut by Bonnie Garmus, has taken the world by storm and to say I was thrilled to host her for this episode is an understatement! For E123, we talk about the inspiration for the book, the movie treatment, why Lessons in Chemistry resonates with so many (including male readers), what’s next for Bonnie Garmus and so much more. Thank you for joining me Bonnie!
Bonnie Garmus recommends: In Memoriam by Alice Winn
Follow Bonnie on Twitter @bonniegarmus and on Instagram @bonnie_garmus_author
I have no words for how amazing it was to host Lisa Scottoline for this episode! We talked about her brand new best-seller, Loyalty, a historical fiction look at the formation of the Mafia in Italy, and what it means to be loyal. We also talk food, lemon cookies, our Italian roots, Lisa’s love for libraries and so much more. Lisa Scottoline, thank you so much for joining me to talk all about Loyalty! Place your hold for Loyalty right here.
Follow Lisa Scottoline on Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter: @LisaScottoline. Reserve all other Lisa Scottoline titles here.
Life and Other Love Songs, the gorgeous second novel from Episode 24 guest, Anissa Gray is “riveting, rhythmic, transcendent…a stellar family saga.” so says Jacqueline Woodson, NYT bestselling author of Red at the Bone.
Synopsis: A father’s sudden disappearance exposes the private fears, dreams, longings, and joys of a Black American family in the late decades of the twentieth century, in this page-turning and intimate new novel from the author of The Care and Feeding of Ravenously Hungry Girls. Life and Other Love Songs is filled with the lyrical prose we’ve come to expect from Anissa Gray and I was thrilled to host her for this episode. I’m such a fan; give a listen. Thank you so much Anissa!
Anissa Gray recommends: The Candy House by Elizabeth Egan
We talk about her debut novel here: E24. Follow Anissa Gray on Instagram @anissagrayauthor
“A feud between Arkansas families escalates with the fury of Greek tragedy. Family loyalty, young love, honoring the dead—they’re all here, and they all go terribly wrong in Ozark Dogs.” –Kirkus
Eli Cranor joined me for Episode 87 to talk about his gripping debut, Don’t Know Tough, and for this episode he joins me to talk about his brand new book, Ozark Dogs. Once again, Eli’s book hits all the must-read lists and it’s easy to see why: in this Southern thriller, two families grapple with the aftermath of a murder in their small Arkansas town. I devoured Ozark Dogs in two days – it’s fantastic. Give a listen to our conversation. Thanks so much to Eli Cranor for joining me once again!
Eli Cranor recommends: Everybody Knows by Jordan Harper; Five Decembers by James Kestrel; The Hunt by Kelly Jo Ford; The Good Ones by Polly Stewart; The Seven or Eight Deaths of Stella Fortuna by Juliet Grames; How Children Succeed by Paul Tough; the works of Alex Taylor; the works of Walter Tevis
Follow Eli Cranor on Twitter: @elicranor. Reserve copies of both of Eli’s books here.
“Full of witty and caustic observations about a privileged class of New Yorkers, Pineapple Street is a sharp and juicy satire.” So says bestselling author Nita Prose about the transporting and lush debut by Jenny Jackson, Pineapple Street.
For this episode best-selling debut author Jenny Jackson shares what it’s like to be on the other side of the editorial desk, a potential screen treatment of the book, what she’s working on next and more. Please don’t miss the audiobook of Pineapple Street performed by the amazing Marin Ireland. Thank you so much Jenny!
Jenny Jackson recommends: Games and Rituals by Katherine Heiny; Big Swiss by Jen Beagin. Follow Jenny Jackson on Instagram @jennyjacksonpineapple; on Twitter @JennyeJackson. Read Jenny’s Literary Hub piece here. Place you hold for Pineapple Street here.
“The whole reason I started to write this series was to showcase women in the intelligence field today; what they’re like and how they do their job.” ~Alma Katsu on writing the Red Widow series.
Red London is a sharp and nuanced race-against-the-clock story ripped from today’s headlines, a testament to author Alma Katsu’s thirty-five-year career in national security. It’s a rare spy novel written by an insider that feels as prescient as it is page-turning and utterly unforgettable. The thrills begin with the very first sentence.
Alma Katsu’s Lyndsey Duncan character appears in both in Red Widow and Red London. The best part is, you don’t have to read these titles in any particular order; start with either and hang on for the ride. Both books offer a fresh look at the high cost of doing business as an agent. Impossible to put down. Thank you so much for joining me Alma Katsu!
Alma Katsu recommends: The Swimmers by Julie Otsuka; Women Talking by Miriam Toews Follow Alma Katsu on Twitter & Instagram: @almakatsu. Reserve all Alma Katsu titles here!
“With hauntingly beautiful prose, Kristen Loesch has delivered an epic, dual timeline tale that deftly transports you to the Russian revolution and the life-altering crucible that came after it. The Last Russian Doll is utterly compelling. You won’t be able to put it down.”
—Susan Meissner, bestselling author of The Nature of Fragile Things
For this episode, debut author Kristen Loesch shares the story of her childhood dream of writing an epic love story which in turn, becomes her epic novel, The Last Russian Doll. We also talk about Kristen’s inspiration for the story, her gorgeous flash fiction, what she’s working next, and so much more. I loved this interview, thank you so much Kristen!
Kristen recommends: Peach Blossom Spring by Melissa Fu; and The Nature of Fragile Things by Susan Meissner
Follow Kristen on Instagram @kristenloeschwriter; and place your hold here for The Last Russian Doll.
“I felt like there was more to be said…that’s the essence of all writing.” ~ Edward Ashton on continuing the Mickey7 series.
For Episode 82, I had the pleasure of hosting Edward Ashton to talk about Mickey7 and for this episode, we talk about the sequel, Antimatter Blues. Antimatter Blues is a thrilling follow-up to Mickey7, soon to be a major motion picture by Academy Award-winning director Bong Joon-Ho. Library Journal gave Antimatter Blues a starred review and says the book is, “a nonstop SF adventure from beginning to end.” Antimatter Blues is a direct sequel and picks up two years after the events in Mickey7 so hold on to your hats! Thanks so much for joining me once again Ed!
Ed Ashton recommends: Children of Time by Adrian Tchaikovsky; The Ghosts of Trappist by K.B. Wagers; place your hold here for all Ed Ashton titles!
Follow Ed Ashton on Twitter @edashtonwriting; on Instagram @bucket_of_spiders
“Times Undoing is a harrowing yet beautiful journey into the heart of darkness that beats in the center of the American Experience. A tour de force.” —S.A. Cosby, NYT bestselling author of Razorblade Tears and Blacktop Wasteland
Totally star-struck to have interviewed Cheryl A. Head for this episode and she was kind enough to let me wax rhapsodic about all her books, especially Time’s Undoing. For E115, Cheryl explained how Time’s Undoing was inspired by her own family history, and what it was like to write in the voice of her grandfather. We also talk about her fantastic Charlie Mack Motown Mystery Series, and what Cheryl is working on next. Cheryl A. Head has some marvelous things to share on that topic, so give a listen to find out what’s next for her. Thank you so much for sharing your story in Time’s Undoing, Cheryl!
Cheryl A. Head recommends: Shutter by Ramona Emerson. Authors noted: Wanda M. Morris; Denny S. Bryce; Sadeqa Johnson.
Follow Cheryl on Twitter: @cheaddc and Instagram: @cheadwrites
Equal parts crime thriller and family saga, transporting readers from the dusty villages of Uttar Pradesh to the urban energy of New Delhi, Age of Vice, a stunner by Deepti Kapoor is an intoxicating novel of gangsters and lovers, false friendships, forbidden romance, and the consequences of corruption. It is binge-worthy entertainment at its literary best. Age of Vice has already been optioned as a series by FX with Deepti Kapoor and her husband sharing screenwriting duties as they work together on the TV pilot. Age of Vice is the first in a trilogy about the Wadia crime family and I am on the edge of my seat waiting for the second installment! What a wonderful interview, thank you so much Deepti!
Follow Deepti Kapoor on Instagram: @deeptikp
Deepti Kapoor recommends: Cremation by Rafael Chirbes; Ice by Anna Kavan; Masahisa Fukase Retrospective – Editions Xavier Barral
“They’re Going to Love You by Meg Howrey is my idea of a perfect book. It is about art, life, death, love, and family and it is beautifully and sharply written. I cried several times while reading it, and was sorry to let it go when I was done. I cannot recommend it enough.” —Jami Attenberg, NYT bestselling author of The Middlesteins and All This Could Be Yours.
I will read anything Jami Attenberg tells me to and what I agree with wholeheartedly is that you’re all going to love They’re Going to Love You by the brilliant Meg Howrey. We talk about family bonds, family secrets, recording the audio book, what she’s working on next and so much more. I cannot thank Meg Howrey enough for joining me – it’s a wonderful interview!
Meg Howrey recommends: How Not to Drown in a Glass of Water by Angie Cruz; The Hero of this Book by Elizabeth McCracken; A Bright Ray of Darkness by Ethan Hawke
Read the wonderful books by Meg Howrey here. Follow Meg Howrey on Twitter and Instagram: @meghowrey
Three words for you all: STONE COLD FOX. STONE COLD FOX is a perfectly wicked debut thriller about an ambitious woman who, after a lifetime of conning alongside her mother, wants to leave her dark past behind and marry the heir to one of the country’s wealthiest families.
Writers Guild of America nominee and debut author Rachel Koller Croft sat down with me for this episode and we had a blast talking about “foxes”, writing the amazing character of Bea, her love for libraries, screenwriting and more! Rachel Koller Croft’s unputdownable debut STONE COLD FOX hits shelves on February 14. Book clubs? Start your engines!
Rachel Koller Croft recommends: The Shards by Brett Easton Ellis; Love Pamela by Pamela Anderson; She’s Come Undone by Wally Lamb; Cheat Day by Liv Stratman. Don’t miss Rachel’s terrific movie: Torn Hearts starring Katey Sagal!
THE SPITE HOUSE by Johnny Compton has all the things and gives us all the things in this stunner by a horror master in the making. Think The Babadook meets A Head Full of Ghosts in Texas Hill Country and you have yourself one terrifying book.
For this episode, we talk about nightmares, frights, all things THE SPITE HOUSE, and so much more. I call Johnny Compton diabolical and that is all I will say about this action packed and joyful-horror filled episode. As for the diabolical Johnny, he can come back to the podcast any time – such a blast! Don’t miss this excellent debut, THE SPITE HOUSE.
Johnny Compton recommends: Rootwork by Tracy Cross; Flowers for the Sea by Zin E. Rocklyn; and the podcast: Rumors: Dark Lore from India. Also recommended: The House Next Door by Anne River Siddons; Burnt Offerings by Robert Marasco; The Elementals by Michael McDowell, The Golden Arm featuring Jackie Torrance; Too Much Horror Fiction by WIll Errickson.
Listen to Johnny Compton’s podcast right here!
Follow Johnny Compton on Twitter and Instagram: @comptonwrites
“Tyson penetrates your imagination with characters and places in The Past is Never, so real they feel like your own suppressed memories. I’ll never look at the Everglades the same way again.” —Carrie La Seur, award-winning author of The Home Place
The Past is Never by Tiffany Quay Tyson is a compelling addition to contemporary Southern Gothic fiction, deftly weaving together local legends, family secrets, the search for a missing child, and I could not put it down.
Tiffany and I talk about the title of the book, the stories that families tell each other, childhood memories, what Tiffany is working on next and so much more. I had a blast, thank you Tiffany!
Tiffany recommends: White Horse by Erika T. Wurth; the works of Michael Farris Smith; Cottonmouths and Real Bad Things both by Kelly J. Ford; The Last List of Miss Judith Kratt by Andrea Bobotis; It Dies With You by Scott Blackburn (E109 guest); and A Violent Gospel and A Mourning Song both by Mark Westmoreland (E108 guest).
“One of the most evocative and tender examinations of youth that I have ever read.” ~ Kevin Wilson, author of Nothing to See Here
Sam, the latest by Allegra Goodman knocked me sideways with how good it is. For this episode, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to sit down with Allegra Goodman herself to talk about her incredible new release. We talk about writing as a performance, establishing Sam’s voice through the years, the coming-of-age genre, and so much more. Sam is book club gold, so please don’t miss it! Thank you Allegra!
Allegra Goodman recommends: T.S. Eliot: An Imperfect Life by Lyndall Gordon; Haven by Emma Donoghue; Women Talking by Miriam Toews; This Boys Life by Tobias Wolfe; Boyhood directed by Richard Linklater; Lady Bird directed by Greta Gerwig
Click here to read Allegra Goodman’s piece in Vogue Magazine. Follow Allegra Goodman on Instagram: @allegragoodmanwriter and on Facebook: @allegragoodman
Place your hold here for all these wonderful Allegra Goodman titles.
“It Dies With You is a satisfying gut-punch of a story. Gritty and surprising, the small-town Southern mystery is populated with big characters that make this novel truly special. I can’t wait to read whatever Scott Blackburn writes next.” —Tiffany Quay Tyson, award-winning author of The Past is Never.
In Scott Blackburn’s debut, It Dies With You, protagonist Hudson takes over his dad’s salvage business after his father is murdered. But Hudson gets more than he bargains for and must join forces with two unlikely accomplices. It Dies with You is a timely story about the long shadows cast by sins of the past.
I also can’t wait to read what Scott Blackburn writes next and he talks about that and more in this episode! Scott also shared a few book recommendations to get you ready for the holiday season, and you can find those below. What a great interview, thank you so much Scott!
Scott recommends: The Past is Never by Tiffany Quay Tyson; After the Lights Go Out by John Vercher; Every Hidden Thing by Ted Flanagan; the work of William Boyle; Kill the Prince by Dan Fogarty; The Devil Himself by Peter Farris; Living the Gimmick by Bobby Matthews; In the Lonely Backwater by Valerie Nieman; Something Bad Wrong by Eryk Pruitt; Hemlock Hollow by Culley Holderfield; and The Nightmare Man by JH Markert. That ought to get y’all started!
These two books by Mark Westmoreland? They are absolutely terrific. Both A Violent Gospel and A Mourning Song feature the Dooley brothers and if you can, start with A Violent Gospel. After the events of A Violent Gospel left Mack Dooley at the bottom of a whiskey bottle, he’s a haunted man and he’s back in … Continue reading Episode 107: Interview with author Mark Westmoreland for A Violent Gospel and A Mourning Song →
“Nate’s morning began like any other. So how could he possibly know that well before the day was over his life would never be the same?” ~The Mother I Never Had by Gary Goldstein. Hook set! I loved talking with former Long Island native Gary Goldstein about his latest book, The Mother I Never Had … Continue reading Episode 106: Interview with Gary Goldstein, author of The Mother I Never Had →
I had the absolute pleasure of hosting author Louise Kennedy for her debut novel, Trespasses. Set in Northern Ireland during the Troubles, Trespasses is a shattering novel about a young woman caught between allegiance to community and a dangerous passion. We talk about the inspiration for Trespasses, a possible movie treatment, her award-winning short stories, … Continue reading Episode 105: Interview with debut author Louise Kennedy →
Fellowship Point by Alice Elliott Dark is the masterful story of a lifelong friendship between two very different women with shared histories and buried secrets, tested in the twilight of their lives, set across the arc of the 20th century, and it is magnificent. “I can’t remember the last time I’ve fallen so hard for … Continue reading Episode 104: Interview with Alice Elliott Dark author of Fellowship Point →
The Old Place by Bobby Finger is a bighearted, moving debut about a wry, retired schoolteacher whose decade-old secret threatens to come to light and send shock waves through her small Texas town and I loved every page. Emma Straub says, “I loved being…in the heads of some wonderfully tangy old Texan ladies.” For this … Continue reading Episode 103: Interview with Bobby Finger debut author of The Old Place →
“Hypnotic.” ~ NYT “Cinematic.” ~ USA Today “A gripping, full-throttle page turner.” ~ Miranda Cowley Heller The Displacements by Bruce Holsinger is an adrenaline-fueled story of lives upended and transformed by an unprecedented catastrophe. Holsinger weaves the story of a well-to-do family around a catastrophic hurricane that strips them of their privilege and exposes their … Continue reading Episode 102: Interview with Bruce Holsinger author of The Displacements →
“I’m very interested in how we define ourselves to other people…” so says author Hayler Scrivenor about her amazing debut Dirt Creek. Dirt Creek is a suspenseful police procedural about a missing girl that takes place in a very small, rural, Australian town and it is riveting stuff! For this episode we talk about the … Continue reading Episode 101: Interview with Hayley Scrivenor author of Dirt Creek →
Welcome to the 100th Episode of the Top Shelf Podcast! I couldn’t think of a better way to spend it than with the brilliant Julia Armfield talking about her debut novel, Our Wives Under the Sea. You may remember that Julia was my guest for Episode 32. Back then we discussed her fantastic book of … Continue reading Episode 100: Interview with Julia Armfield, author of Our Wives Under the Sea →
What a joy to host for the third time author Jess Montgomery for the next book in her Kinship series, The Echoes. Jess and I chatted about her amazing main character Sheriff Lilly Ross, the very personal background behind the title, WWI, keeping the series fresh and more! Remember, you don’t have to read the … Continue reading E 99: Interview with Jess Montgomery, author of The Echoes →
“Madeline Kay Sneed has written a Friday Night Lights for a new generation. The Golden Season is a heartfelt story of finding yourself, coming out, and coming home… A tender, bighearted exploration of family, first love, and faith, with a gorgeously evoked west Texas landscape as backdrop.” —Sarah McCraw Crow, author of The Wrong Kind of … Continue reading Episode 98: Interview with Madeline Kay Sneed →
“Poignant and funny, Crazy To Leave You is chock full of Rothstein’s signature fast-paced, smart dialogue and brimming with wit. A heartfelt, delicious story.” —Fiona Davis, New York Times bestselling author of The Magnolia Palace Marilyn Simon Rothstein‘s latest, Crazy to Leave You, is a funny, bighearted novel about the happy accidents that lead to … Continue reading Episode 97 : Interview with Marilyn Simon Rothstein author of Crazy to Leave You →
“Horse isn’t just an animal story—it’s a moving narrative about race and art.” —TIME A discarded painting in a junk pile, a skeleton in an attic, and the greatest racehorse in American history: from these strands, Pulitzer Prize winner Geraldine Brooks braids a sweeping story of spirit, obsession, and racial injustice across American history. Horse … Continue reading Episode 96 : Interview with Geraldine Brooks author of Horse →
Here’s what’s being said about the debut adult fiction novel, Yerba Buena by Nina LaCour: “A love story for our time.” ―Tara Conklin, bestselling author of The Last Romantics “This book is a precious thing.” ―Casey McQuiston, bestselling author of One Last Stop. I mean these reviews for Yerba Buena are so true, I needed to … Continue reading Episode 95 : Interview with Nina LaCour, author of Yerba Buena →
“My Summer Darlings is spicy enough to make you sweat – until the suspense chills you to your core.” ~ Riley Sager, bestselling author of Survive the Night. Named A Most Anticipated Novel of 2022 by Crime Reads, Goodreads, and more. My Summer Darlings is the story of three life-long friends and a dangerous, sexy … Continue reading Episode 94: Interview with May Cobb author of My Summer Darlings →
“The Devil Himself thunders off the page with beautiful writing and a killer sense of place. It’s urgent, triumphant, and unflinching.” — William Boyle, author of Shoot the Moonlight Out and City of Margins What a pleasure to sit down with the 2021 Le Prix Lire En Poche finalist, author Peter Farris. The Devil Himself is a gritty … Continue reading Episode 93: Interview with Peter Farris author of The Devil Himself →
“Libraries and bookstores are the most important spaces in the world to me.” ~ Emma Straub For this wonderful episode I had the pleasure of hosting author Emma Straub for her latest book, This Time Tomorrow. We talked about the book, NYC and Brooklyn of the 1990s, going back in time, and Emma’s love for … Continue reading Episode 92: Interview with Emma Straub author of This Time Tomorrow →
“This book is layered like a napolean…there’s no chuffa in The Good Left Undone!” ~ Adriana Trigiani There is just something special about the latest from Adriana Trigiani that sets it apart from her other remarkable books. Author Lisa Scottoline says of The Good Left Undone, “Adriana Trigiani has written the triumph of her career … Continue reading Episode 91: Interview with Adriana Trigiani author of The Good Left Undone →
“Unlikely Animals is a wondrous and wonderful story filled with unforgettable characters…an instant classic.” – Jeff Vandermeer, author of The Southern Reach Trilogy An instant classic indeed! Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett is a novel about familial expectations, imperfect friendships, and the possibility of resurrecting that which had been thought irrevocably lost. To say more … Continue reading Episode 90: Interview with Annie Hartnett author of Unlikely Animals →
What a thrill to welcome back Cadwell Turnbull to the podcast! Cadwell was here for E41 and his debut THE LESSON. Now he’s back to talk about the first book in his brand new and very exciting Convergence Trilogy, NO GODS, NO MONSTERS. We talk about alot in this episode including what it’s like to … Continue reading Episode 89: Interview with Cadwell Turnbull – No Gods, No Monsters →
HOME OR AWAY is the latest from Kathleen West and for this episode we talked about ice hockey, the #metoo movement, balancing careers, motherhood and more. HOME OR AWAY is about two friends, one Olympic dream, and the choice that stood in the way. I was so fortunate to once again join forces with Cindy … Continue reading Episode 88: Kathleen West author of Home or Away →
You may not know tough but author Eli Cranor sure does in his debut, DON’T KNOW TOUGH, a book that S.A. Cosby calls, “…a searing and stunningly poignant study in what makes us and what breaks us and ultimately what brings us to a place of peace. Eli Cranor is that rare writer who can … Continue reading Episode 87: Eli Cranor author of Don’t Know Tough →
“While I was writing this book, I had the worst nightmares…” ~ S.A. Barnes about … Continue reading Episode 86: S.A. Barnes author of Dead Silence →
“A glorious debut filled with characters grasping to find a place to belong in a world on the edge of change.” ~ Carol Rifka Brunt, bestselling author of Tell the Wolves I’m Home That quote right there is for THE WRONG KIND OF WOMAN, the debut by Sarah McCraw Crow. Virginia finds herself suddenly widowed one … Continue reading E85: Interview with Sarah McCraw Crow author of The Wrong Kind of Woman →
From Katy Regan, the author of Little Big Love (a huge favorite of mine) comes her latest, How to Find Your Way Home, a warm, life-affirming novel. When a sister discovers that the brother she hasn’t seen in more than a decade is homeless, she learns the true meaning of belonging when she tries to … Continue reading Episode 84 : Interview with Katy Regan author of How To Find Your Way Home →
“OH MY GOD!” That’s what author/director/actress Leslie Zemeckis says about BENEATH THE STAIRS the debut by Jennifer Fawcett. And author Wendy Walker, author of Don’t Look for Me says, “In Beneath the Stairs, Jennifer Fawcett explores the lasting impact of childhood trauma in this metaphysical story about a house with buried secrets. An enthralling debut … Continue reading Episode 83 : Interview with Jennifer Fawcett, author of BENEATH THE STAIRS →
The Martian meets Dark Matter in Edward Ashton’s high concept science fiction thriller, in which Mickey7, an “expendable,” refuses to let his replacement clone Mickey8 take his place. I sat down with Ed Ashton in November of 2021 to talk about his fabulous third novel, Mickey7. We talked about the Ship of Theseus, quantum physics, … Continue reading Episode 82 : Interview with Edward Ashton author of MICKEY7 →
“There is a real person behind this beautiful piece of art…” that’s what Fiona Davis says about Audrey Munsen, the sculptor’s model who is the basis for the character of Lillian in the latest book from author Fiona Davis, THE MAGNOLIA PALACE.
Fiona Davis and I go way back to her very first book, THE DOLLHOUSE, and her very first visit to Merrick Library…give a listen to this episode as we talk about the Frick family, Fiona’s love for libraries, what’s next for her and so much more. You can follow Fiona Davis on her website and on social media. Twitter: @fionadavisbooks; on Instagram @fionadavisauthor; on Facebook @FionaDavisAuthor
Fiona Davis recommends: The Ballerinas by Rachel Kapelke-Dale. Place your hold here for THE MAGNOLIA PALACE and place your hold here for all Fiona Davis titles.
Jonathan Evison’s latest, Small World, really swings for the fences in this sweeping Great American Novel that intricately weaves family sagas spanning centuries, generations and experience. Small World chronicles 170 years of American nation building – it’s a grand entertainment and I loved every page. Evison also took the time to talk about the libraries of his youth and the impact they had on his life. What a great interview, thank you so much Jonathan!
Place your holds here for all Jonathan Evison’s books!
Jonathan Evison recommends Hell of a Book by Jason Mott; Great Expectations by Charles Dickens; The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck; and Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte.
Author Erin Bartels took me to the gorgeous state of Michigan not just in her book, but via her website and her stellar conversation for this interview. The Girl Who Could Breathe Under Water explores the theme of forgiving what seems unforgiveable and also addresses how our memories may not be exactly as we remember.
The Library Journal says of The Girl Who Could Breathe Underwater, “Emotions leap off the page in this deeply personal book…” We explore some of those emotions in this episode as well as AquaNotes, the Bay City Rollers, where she gets her ideas from, and her next TWO books – you’re in for a treat right there! Thank you so much Erin – what a pleasure.
Erin Bartels recommends, Bel Canto by Ann Patchett; All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr; Atonement by Ian McEwan; and The Mirror and the Palette by Jennifer Higgie.
“It’s all here—community, family and friendship, how we love, grieve…a story of ordinary moments that connect and eventually transform us in extraordinary ways.”
—Adriana Trigiani, bestselling author of Lucia, Lucia and The Shoemaker’s Wife
I mean that quote right there says it all about A LITTLE HOPE by Ethan Joella. It was an absolute delight to sit down with him to talk about this remarkable gem of a book. A LITTLE HOPE gives us hope and it’s exactly what I needed as an end of year read. The book is book club gold. Ethan Joella also gives listeners some holiday cheer in this episode – to find out what those gifts are, you’ll have to listen to find out. It may involve actress Jean Smart… Thank you Ethan for joining me!
Ethan Joella recommends Damnation Spring by Ash Davidson.
You can follow Ethan Joella @joellawriting on Instagram and Twitter!
‘Tis the season to haul out your favorites of 2021! I had the pleasure of hosting writer, producer, actress and director, Leslie Zemeckis to talk about her faves of the year and boy did we have a blast talking books. Her titles below as well as the books she’s looking forward to in 2022. Thanks so much Leslie, I had a ball! You can follow @LeslieZemeckis on all social media platforms.
Leslie’s favorites: We Begin at the End by Chris Whitaker; Yellow Wife by Sadeqa Johnson; Where the Truth Lies by Anna Bailey; Sometimes I Trip On How Happy We Could Be by Nichole Perkins; Dark Things I Adore by Kate Lattari; The Woman They Could Not Silence by Kate Moore; In Every Mirror She’s Black by Lolá Ákínmádé Åkerström; Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr; Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto; In My Dreams I Hold A Knife by Ashley Winstead.
Leslie looks forward to: The Paris Bookseller by Kerry Maher; The Good Wife of Bath by Karen Brooks; Beneath the Stairs by Jennifer Fawcett.
Click here to request all things Leslie Zemeckis: books, movies & more!
Jeffery Deaver, the #1 international bestselling and award winning author of over 40 books, yes that Jeffery Deaver, sat down with me and man, what at a thrill! I’ve been a fan for a looong time. We talked about his latest book The Midnight Lock, writing books that make me lose sleep at night and why Jeffery Deaver is better than toothpaste. Not sure what all that means? Give a listen!
The *Midnight Lock* is a roller-coaster read that takes place over just a few days’ time, features surprise after surprise and offers a fascinating look at the esoteric world of lockpicking.
Jeffery Deaver recommends: Elsewhere by Dean Koontz
Place your hold here for The Midnight Lock by Jeffery Deaver
Place your holds here for our entire Jeffery Deaver collection!
What a way to kick off my 75th episode: hosting author Kimmery Martin for her latest book, Doctors and Friends, and co-hosting this special episode with my pal Cindy Burnett at Thoughts from a Page podcast!
People Magazine calls Doctors and Friends a “..prescient, human and hopeful portrait of medical experts on a pandemic’s frontlines.” And I couldn’t agree more. We talked about writing the book pre-pandemic, how it changed post-pandemic, her wonderful website and so much more! Give a listen.
Kimmery Martin recommends: My Year Abroad by Chang-Rae Lee. My interview with Chang-Rae Lee can be found here!
Place your holds for these Kimmery Martin titles right here.
They say you can’t go home again but I sure did, right back to Brooklyn, NY with author Naomi Krupitsky’s debut novel The Family. Set in early 20th century Brooklyn, The Family is a captivating debut novel and coming-of-age story about the tangled fates of two best friends, Sophia and Antonia, who are both daughters of the Italian mafia. My copy of The Family is covered in sticky notes, Krupitsky’s prose is beautiful, and I can’t wait for you to read it. Thank you so much for joining me Naomi!
The Family is a November 2021 Read With Jenna Pick and a NYT Bestseller!
Naomi recommends: Matrix by Lauren Groff; and Beasts of a Little Land by Juhea Kim
This buzzy debut thriller, All Her Little Secrets by Wanda M. Morris has all the things and has made all the lists! NYT best-selling author Karin Slaughter says, “All Her Little Secrets is a brilliantly nuanced but powerhouse exploration of race, the legal system, and the crushing pressure of keeping secrets. Morris brings a vibrant and welcome new voice to the thriller space.” — Karin Slaughter
In this fast-paced debut, Wanda M. Morris crafts a twisty mystery about a black lawyer who gets caught in a dangerous conspiracy after the sudden death of her boss. Perfect for fans of Attica Locke, Alyssa Cole, Harlan Coben, and Celeste Ng, with shades of How to Get Away with Murder and John Grisham’s The Firm.
We talked about her incredible main character, Ellice Littlejohn, Wanda’s love for libraries, and what it was like being a Library Journal cover girl. This episode is action packed and to say I loved speaking with Wanda M. Morris is an understatement. Give a listen!
Wanda M. Morris recommends: Her Name is Knight by Yasmin Angoe
I had such a blast interviewing Josh Sabarra for his debut novel, Enemies Closer.
Author Lauren Fox says, “Enemies Closer is a fizzy cocktail of insider Hollywood gossip, biting, laugh-out-loud humor and a supremely likable, relatable heroine. Enemies Closer is a twisty and delightful page-turner of a novel.” –Lauren Fox, bestselling author of Days of Awe, Friends Like Us and Still Life with Husband
Josh and I talked Skinny Cow ice cream, decorative throw pillows (at least ten), and his fabulous protagonist, Marcee Brookes. #teammarcee
Josh also revealed some of his exciting new projects and all I can say is, give a listen! Thank you so much Josh.
Josh Sabarra recommends: Days of Awe by Lauren Fox; Send For Me by Lauren Fox; Tiny Beautiful Things: Advice on Love and Life from Dear Sugar by Cheryl Strayed; The Hunting Wives by May Cobb; My Summer Darlings by May Cobb (2022); Bath Haus by P. J. Vernon; Small Changes: A Rules Free Guide to Add More Plant-Based Foods, Peace and Power to Your Life by Alicia Witt
Follow Josh on Twitter & Instagram at @joshsabarra and on Facebook at @JoshSabarraAuthor