The Best of Women's Fiction: Recent Episodes
Lainey Cameron
Interviews with the best of women’s fiction authors. Where do best-selling authors find their story inspiration? Plus books they recommend, and advice for other writers.Hosted by award-winning author, Lainey Cameron and Ashley Hasty, the book blogger behind HastyBookList.com
For our last episode of this season, award-winning author Kelly Irvin talks about her most recent release, "The Year of Goodbyes and Hellos," a deeply personal novel inspired by her own experience with ovarian cancer.Kelly has authored more than 35 Amish romances, romantic suspense novels, and novellas.
Her latest book, "The Year of Goodbyes and Hellos," recounts the journey of two sisters striving to find a new balance in work, family, and love when one receives a diagnosis that sets the clock ticking.
The Year of Goodbyes and Hellos on Amazon and Bookshop.org
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
Affiliate Links Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon and bookshop.org affiliate programs, which means Lainey or Ashley get a tiny commission if you buy something after clicking through from link on our podcast listing or website.
Bestselling author Emily Bleeker, with six novels under her belt, is a two-time Whitney Award finalist, Wall Street Journal bestseller, and Amazon charts topper.
In her latest historical fiction novel, "When We Were Enemies," Emily unveils a compelling narrative featuring two women from different generations thrust into the spotlight. This powerful novel, inspired by her own family history, explores family secrets, devastating choices, and hope for the future.
When We Were Enemies on Amazon and Bookshop.org
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
Katherine Howe is a New York Times bestselling and award-winning historian and novelist. She delves into the riveting world of piracy and maritime history in her latest novel, A True Account: Hannah Masury's Sojourn Amongst the Pyrates, Written by Herself.
Drawing inspiration from her own genealogy, the book explores how women looked for their own freedom and independence then and now, weaving a narrative around her third great aunt, Hannah Augusta Masury Howe, who famously quelled a mutiny.
A True Account: on Amazon and Bookshop.org
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
A special Fall episode featuring hot new releases from our past guests! In this episode we share a range of newly released and upcoming books, from emotional and romantic women’s fiction, to historical fiction, domestic suspense, and even an apocalyptic holiday tale.
Acid Christmasby Charlotte Dune
Always Orchid by Carol Van Den Hende
As Though You Were Mineby J Marie Rundquist
The Baby Left Behind by Jen Craven
The Last Caretaker by Jessica Strawser
The Weight We Carry by Christina Consolino
The Woman at the Wheel by Penny Haw
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
Affiliate Links Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon and bookshop.org affiliate programs, which means Lainey or Ashley get a tiny commission if you buy something after clicking through from link on our podcast listing or website.
Award-winning author Chrystyna Lucyk-Berger talks about her first two books in The Diplomat's Wife series: "The American Wife" and "An American Wife in Paris". The third book, "The American Wife's Secret," has just been released.
In this gripping World War 2 fiction, we follow the journey of Kitty Larsson, a U.S. senator's daughter whose life takes an unexpected turn when she marries an Austrian diplomat on the cusp of the Anschluss. As secrets unravel and loyalties are tested, Kitty's unwavering moral compass becomes her guiding light through a landscape of espionage and political intrigue.
The Diplomat's Wife series on Amazon and Bookshop.org
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
Step back in time with Jane Healey, the Washington Post and Amazon Charts bestselling author of 'The Secret Stealers.' In her latest historical novel, 'Goodnight From Paris,' we're transported to Nazi-occupied France. Here, an American film star embraces her most dangerous role, weaving a tale of loyalty and resistance, inspired by the true story of real-life Hollywood actress Drue Leyton.
Jane is also the host of Historical Happy Hour, a monthly webinar and podcast featuring premiere historical fiction authors and their latest books.
Goodnight from Paris on Amazon and Bookshop.org
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
In this special episode, we showcase six exciting women's fiction debuts. Each of our chosen authors shares insights about their novel, the inspiration behind it, and their best writing advice.
From historical fiction to multi-cultural romance and a dose of the supernatural, there's something here for everyone!
- Anju Gattani author of Dynasties, Book 1 in the Winds of Fire Series
- Lynne Golodner author of Woman of Valor
- Delise Torres author of One Tough Cookie
- Gabi Coatsworth author of A Beginner's Guide to Starting Over
- Noreen Mughees author of The Mis-Arrangement of Sana Saeed
- Logan Steiner author of After Anne
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
Mary Camarillo is the author of the award-winning novel, "The Lockhart Women." Her poems and short fiction have appeared in publications such as TAB Journal, 166 Palms, Sonora Review, and The Ear.
Her latest novel, Those People Behind Us is set in the summer of 2017 in Wellington Beach, California. This captivating story delves into the lives of five neighbors navigating a town divided by politics, protests, and soaring housing prices.
Those People Behind Us on Amazon and Bookshop.org
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
Vanessa Riley is an award-winning author of historical fiction. Her novels illuminate the hidden histories of Black women and women of color, emphasizing strong sisterhoods and vibrant multicultural communities.
Her novel, Island Queen was a Good Morning America Buzz Pick and she was also named the 2023 Georgia Author of the Year Awards Literary Fiction Winner for Sister Mother Warrior.
Vanessa chats with Ashley about Queen of Exiles, which is based on the life of an extraordinary Black woman from history: Haiti’s Queen Marie-Louise Coidavid, who escaped a coup in Haiti to establish her own royal court in Italy during the Regency era. There, she became a popular figure in European royal society.
Queen of Exiles on Amazon and Bookshop.org
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
Our choice for the first episode of the new season, Ann Marie Jackson's debut novel, The Broken Hummingbird, was announced as a finalist in the 2023 American Fiction and International Book Awards. Set in the Mexican town of San Miguel de Allende, where Lainey Cameron also resides, this novel wrestles with marital dissolution and cultural dissonance, following a woman’s struggle to truly know her new country and her own heart.
The Broken Hummingbird on Amazon and Bookshop.org
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
In our last episode of this season, we feature four exciting new novels, all releases from our past guests. We showcase new historical fiction from Erin Litteken and KD Allbaugh, set in Ukraine and rural Wisconsin. Plus, two upcoming novels - new contemporary fiction in a poignant sister story from author Jamie Beck (coming in July) and a preview of an upcoming thriller from Maggie Giles, releasing in September (both available now to pre-order).
* The Beauty of Rain by Jamie Beck
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The Lost Daughters of Ukraine by Erin Litteken
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Borgia Rose by KD Allbaugh
* Twisted by Maggie Giles
Find the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
NYT and USA TODAY bestselling author Chanel Cleeton is the author of many superb novels including Next Year in Havana, When We Left Cuba, The Last Train to Key West, and more. Her latest release, The Cuban Heiress, follows two women in 1934 with secrets. They set sail aboard the Morro Castle—a luxury cruise liner that sailed between New York and Havana.
Chanel shares her inspiration for a story described by prior guest, Madeline Martin as “a delicious slice of vengeance as two women risk everything for justice.”
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
For Women’s Fiction Day 2023, a discussion that tackles the difficult questions surrounding the term “women’s fiction”. With host Lainey Cameron and guests Charlotte Dune, Maggie Smith, Paulette Stout, and author and book coach Kathryn Dodson.
In a world recognizing a wide gender spectrum, and after Publishers Marketplace dropped the term, does a gender specific genre like women’s fiction still make sense? Plus, don’t miss our giveaway from the podcast for Women’s Fiction Day.
Our panel discusses where they see the women’s fiction label going forward and why an author may (or may not) wish to position their writing within the women’s fiction genre Plus, these award-winning authors, each part of the weekly Writer Support Group hosted by Lainey and Charlotte Dune, have expert advice to share ––how to choose what to write, find your process, and understanding the importance of genre as a promise of value to readers.
Find the books mentioned, the authors' social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
Micki Berthelot Morency shares the inspiration behind her debut novel, The Island Sisters. A story about four women from Haiti, St. Thomas, and Guam whose fates are bound together by culture, history, and most importantly, by a deep and irrevocable friendship.
The novel is told from alternating perspectives of each friend and delves into an important topic of domestic abuse.A novel that Lainey Cameron in her own review called emotional, thought-provoking, poignant, and a tribute to friendship, and women’s strength to overcome.
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
Diane Marie Brown talks about her historical novel, Black Candle Women, recently named as “A Read with Jenna Book Club Pick as Seen on the Today Show.” Jenna Bush Hager says, “If you like Practical Magic… you will love Black Candle Women.”
We dive into what inspired Diane Marie Brown to write this particular story and how her own family history inspired the book. In addition, Diane Marie Brown shares great advice for writers, the best books she’s read lately, and how she went about researching for the book.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
Our second episode featuring Hot New Releases from our past guests. This time we’re highlighting new books that released in the month of May. We'll introduce you to new historical fiction from Linda Rosen, an exciting new book club novel by Laura Hankin, and a thriller from Regina Buttner.
The Emerald Necklace, like Linda Rosen’s prior work, features a unique piece of jewelry, behind which lies a mystery. A generational story about envy and jealousy, friendship, and family, set between 1969-1971 when women were fighting for equality.
The Daydreams by Laura Hankin is new book club fiction. A deliciously entertaining novel about the stars of a popular teen show from the early 2000s—and the reunion special, thirteen years after their scandalous flameout.
With Down a Bad Road, Regina Buttner made a leap into the exciting world of domestic thrillers and suspense. She was raised in Upstate New York and spent many years exploring the small towns and back roads of the Adirondack mountain region in which her new book is set.
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
Joani Eliott's novel, The Audacity of Sara Grayson was last year’s winner of Women’s Fiction Writers Association STAR award in the debut category, in addition to winning the Whitney awards in debut novel of the year and general fiction categories.
Joani shares the inspiration behind a novel writers and creatives have been raving about, and which reviewers call “witty, funny and delightful”.
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
Debut novelist Shaunna J. Edwards & USA Today bestselling Alyson Richman talk about their historical novel, The Thread Collectors, loosely inspired by their own family histories. With Ashley, they discuss their enduring friendship, how they came to be co-writers, and what it was like to transition from friends to colleagues.
In addition, they each share great advice for writers, the best books she’s read lately, and their research process.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
Debra Thomas' first novel, Luz, won several awards including the Sarton Award for contemporary fiction. Her second novel, Josie and Vic just released. A brother and sister story of love, loss, and forgiveness, it's been described as "an unforgettable, heart-filled, heart-filling novel”.
Debra shares her inspiration, more on that outstanding cover design, her best writing advice, and several book recommendations.
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
Brenda Janowitz talks about her latest historical novel, The Audrey Hepburn Estate, about a love triangle and the estate where it took place, inspired by Audrey Hepburn’s tendency to be a homebody. This is the third novel in what Ashley lovingly refers to as Brenda’s novels about starlets and the things they own.
In addition, Brenda shares great advice for writers, the best books she’s read lately, and what inspired this particular story.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
A new type of special episode where we feature the latest releases from our past guests. In this episode we introduce you to new fiction from Leanne Treese, Laura Drake, and K.T. Blakemore.
Laura’s Drake’s newest novel, AMAZING GRACIE is poignant women’s fiction, a story of family in all its incarnations. FUN LESSONS, the new release from Leanne Treese is a romantic comedy with a serious twist. The new Wild-Willed Women of the West series by K.T. Blakemore is women's fiction full of adventure (think historical fiction with a dash of humor). The first novel in the series is called THE GOOD TIME GIRLS.
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
Jennifer Rosner’s first novel, The Yellow Bird Sings was a finalist for the National Jewish Book Award. Her new release, Once We Were Home, is historical fiction based on the true stories of children separated and displaced from their parents, during and after World War II. The novel has been called “moving, subtle, and beautifully told”.
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
Stephanie Landsem introduces us to her fifth novel, Code Name Edelweiss Based on true events, the novel tells the story of how a lone Jewish lawyer and a handful of amateur spies discovered and foiled Adolf Hitler's plan to take over Hollywood.
Stephanie shares her best writing advice, how she came across the true story that inspired this latest book.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
A special episode featuring six exciting women’s fiction debuts from the first half of 2023! Each of our six authors shares with Ashley Hasty and Lainey Cameron about their novel, their inspiration, and their best writing advice.
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Tracey D Buchanan author of Toward the Corner of Mercy and Peace
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Annie Cathryn author of The Friendship Breakup
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D. Liebhart author of House on Fire
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Donna Norman-Carbone author of All That is Sacred
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Neely Tubati-Alexander author of Love Buzz
Books featured in this episode are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
Sarah Penner is the author of the New York Times bestseller and breakout debut success, The Last Apothecary. Her new novel, The London Séance Society, tells the tale of two daring women who hunt for truth and justice in the perilous art of conjuring the dead.
In the episode, Sarah shares Sarah shares how it felt to live the dream of becoming a break-out success with her debut and leaving her day job, her research process and great books she’s read lately.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
USA Today bestselling author, Sonali Dev, introduces us to her new women’s fiction novel, THE VIBRANT YEARS, which chosen as the first novel to be released by Mindy Kaling’s new imprint, Mindy’s Book Studio.
The story of three generations of women, Mindy describes the book as “a joyful and fun read”, “a tale about a group of underestimated women demanding respect and embracing their most authentic selves.”
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
In this episode, Madeline Martin chats about her latest historical novel, THE LIBRARIAN SPY, based on the true story of American librarians spying for the American government with little to no training during World War II. We meet Ava, an American librarian at the Library of Congress who travels to Lisbon to gather intelligence and ends up communicating through coded messages with Elaine, A french girl working for the resistance at a printing press.
In addition, Madeline shares great advice for writers, the best books she’s read lately, and we learn about how she traveled during the pandemic to research for the book.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
Linda Williamson Rosenberg talks with us about her debut novel, Embers on the Wind. Telling a tale centered around Whittaker House, a haunted stop on the Underground Railroad, past and present converge in this novel about women connected by motherhood, slavery’s legacy, and histories that span centuries.
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
In this episode, Jenni L. Walsh talks to Ashley about her latest historical novel, THE CALL OF THE WRENS, a little-known story about a group of women who were assigned to train and deliver carrier pigeons to the front line of World War II. Jenni talks about the difference between writing about real, well-known women in history versus telling true stories through the eyes of fictional characters, why she writes both middle grade and adult novels, and how she first heard about the Women’s Royal Naval Service—the Wrens. You won’t want to miss this episode.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
Lauren Belfer is a New York Times bestselling author and a past winner of winner of the Washington Post Best Novel and NPR Best Mystery of the Year prizes. She introduces us to her latest novel, Ashton Hall, where an American woman and her son unearth the buried secrets and past lives of an English manor house.
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
In this episode, Louisa Treger talks about her latest historical novel, MADWOMAN, inspired by the true story of Nelly Bly, an investigative journalist who faked madness and got herself committed to an insane asylum in the late 1800s. Louisa talks about how her background as an orchestral performer helped her career as a writer, why she made the career transition, and how she first heard about Nelly Bly’s story. You won’t want to miss this episode.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
Noué Kirwan introduces us to the inspiration behind her debut novel, Long Past Summer. The novel looks at the delicate and powerful thread that binds and breaks friends and flames.
USA Today bestselling author bestselling author, Jamie Beck describes Kirwan as “a welcome, smart new voice in romantic women’s fiction.” “Long Past Summer delves into family, friendships, and romantic love, deftly examining how our childhood influences our perceptions, and how discrimination impacts women trying to strike a balance between their own ambitions and their personal relationships.”
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
In this episode, Penny Haw talks about her debut historical novel, THE INVINCIBLE MISS CUST, inspired by the true story of Aleen Isabel Cust, Britain and Ireland's first female veterinary surgeon. Penny talks about her love of animals and how they inspire her writing, how she first heard about Aleen Cust’s story, and what it was in her own past that led her to write about a veterinary surgeon.
In addition, Penny shares great advice for writers and we chat about what her research looked like and her favorite books she’s read lately. You won’t want to miss this episode.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
Jeannée Sacken’s first novel, Behind the Lens won the 2022 American Writing Awards Hawthorne Prize and Book of the Year in fiction, women’s fiction and suspense, in addition to several other awards.
Her new novel, Double Exposure, is also set in Afghanistan featuring Annie Hawkins Greene, a war zone photojournalist.
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
Her new novel, Double Exposure, is also set in Afghanistan featuring Annie Hawkins Greene, a war zone photojournalist.All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
In this episode, Erin Littenken talks about her debut novel, THE MEMORY KEEPER OF KYIV, a dual timeline story that follows Katya’s life beginning in the 1930s during the Holodomor, a man-made famine instigated by Stalin and 70 years later with Katya’s granddaughter facing her own struggles and learning of her grandmother’s past. Erin talks about the journey she took to becoming an author, the familial connection that inspired her to write about Ukraine, and what it was like to publish a book about Ukraine as they experience their current crisis with Russia. You won’t want to miss this episode.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
Soraya Lane, bestselling author of historical and contemporary women’s fiction, introduces us to her new series, The Lost Daughters. The Italian Daughter, first in the new series, is a dual timeline novel which takes the reader to Italy, both in 1946 and to a beautiful vineyard in present day.
Readers describe the novel as emotional, heart-breaking and “full of hope and love”.
Soraya chats about The Italian Daughter. She shares her writing process that has led to writing forty books, and explains how it’s changed over time.
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
In this episode, Lynda Cohen Loigman talks about her latest novel, THE MATCHMAKER’S GIFT, a dual timeline story set between 1910 and the 1960s. She talks about the real-life stories that served as the initial spark of inspiration for the plot, how each of her novels, though under the umbrella of historical fiction, has its own personality, and how her daughter coming home from college in the midst of a pandemic sparked this story. You won’t want to miss this episode.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
Jen Craven writes upmarket women’s fiction where one decision changes everything. Her latest novel, Best Years of Your Life, takes place on a college campus, following the path of three women with big secrets. Early reviews describe the novel as gripping and a fast and exciting read.
Jen explains how her decade as a college instructor inspired her love of campus settings. And she shares how she knew indie-publishing was the right path for her novels.
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
In this episode, Catherine Adel West talks about her sophomore novel, THE TWO LIVES OF SARA, which is set in the midst of the civils right movement in 1960s Memphis. She talks about how it is a companion novel to her debut, SAVING RUBY KING, and how her writing process differed between writing a contemporary book versus a historical book. In addition, she shares great advice for writers and we share lots of laughs. You won’t want to miss this episode.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
Pamela Stockwell joins us to chat about her debut novel, A Boundless Place, which has been described as heartfelt, touching, and a delightful "slice-of-life story".
In celebration of our 100th episode, we are doing a giveaway of this fabulous novel (Plus, for every entry, the Best of Women’s Fiction Podcast will donate to The National Kidney Foundation. Enter here!)
Set in 1969, A Boundless Place follows the story of 24 year old Violet, who only wants one thing: to hide from life after her husband's death. But life has other ideas when a 7 year old neighbor pulls her into life where she's moved on Magnolia Avenue, a forgotten street in a forgotten neighborhood filled with forgotten mobile homes.
Pamela was specially selected for our 100th episode, because she represents the best of what the women's fiction community can achieve when we uplift and support each other. In the episode she shares her experience of meeting another writer over WFWA's (Womens Fiction Writer's Association) online writing dates, and how she decided to donate a kidney to a writer she hopes to one day meet in real life!
Find the recommended books, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
The Beach Trap has been hailed as “an enchanting, heartwarming story” (NYT bestseller Ali Hazelwood), and “the ultimate vacation read” (Colleen Oakley).
Author Ali Brady (aka Alison Hammer and Bradeigh Godfrey) join us to share how they co-wrote such a winning novel. Also, how it wasn’t the first book they worked on together, insights on how they became co-authors, and their best writing advice.
Want to win a copy? Lainey currently has a giveaway for a signed copy of The Beach Trap.
Find the show notes, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
In this episode, Kerry Chaput shares how researching her husband’s family history inspired her to write DAUGHTER OF THE KING, which is about the protestant struggle in Catholic France in the 1600s and based on the real story of girls known as a daughter of the king who were taken from poverty, given money and protection and allowed to select their own husbands through an interview process if they would help populate the region of Canada.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
Just released on paperback, and already in TV development, A Special Place for Women, tells the story of a New York City club where only the most important women receive an invitation. But one undercover reporter is about to infiltrate this female-run secret society and expose their secrets.
Laura shares how she was inspired by the experience of entering an exclusive all women’s club, plus fascinating insights on the process of developing the script for television.
Find the show notes, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
In this episode, Aimie Runyan shares why her latest novel was the perfect book to write during the pandemic lockdown and why she never could have written it in happier times. THE SCHOOL FOR GERMAN BRIDES is about the unlikely friendship between a young German girl sent to a horrific “bride school” and a young Jewish woman who is about to give birth.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
Marilyn Simon Rothstein, an author who is known for her sharp humor, introduces us to Crazy to Leave You, a novel which Booklist called a “fast-paced and entertaining story will appeal to those who like tales of women succeeding on their own terms.”
Find the show notes, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
In this episode, Heather Webb shares the real-life stories of people passing through Ellis Island, as well as the historical backdrop of the time that inspired her latest novel THE NEXT SHIP HOME. We also chat about Heather’s reading world which transitioned into us sharing some of our favorite con-artist television shows. She also shares the best advice she has for aspiring authors.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
Veena Rao shares the inspiration behind her novel, Purple Lotus, the winner in the 2021 American Fiction Awards (multi-cultural category).
A tale of an immigrant who comes to Atlanta through marriage, the novel has been described as a "dazzling tale of an Indian-American woman finding her way through the labyrinth of tradition to self-awareness in the modern world" (Elaine Neil Orr, author of Swimming Between Worlds).
Touching on issues of domestic abuse, shame, and balancing family and cultural obligations with choosing ourselves, Purple Lotus is a page-turning story that takes the reader from India to the US and back. It was selected as one of Travel + Leisure’s "20 Most-anticipated Books for Fall" and Veena was selected as a finalist in the Georgia Author of the Year award and the International Book Awards.
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
In this episode Denny S. Bryce chats about her latest novel, IN THE FACE OF THE SUN, as well as the four books she’s currently in the process of writing. We dive into her research, the inspiration behind the title and the story, as well as the writing advice that I especially needed to hear this week.
Described as “The best kind of historical novel: immersive, mysterious and evocative,” by Ms. Magazine, Denny also tells us about some of the real-life people that inspired her fictional characters.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
Award-winning author, Laura Drake introduces us to her newest novel, The Road to Me, which has been described as “an unforgettable story of self-discovery and survival, reconciliation and redemption.” (bestselling author, Barbara Claypole White).
Laura Drake's first novel, The Sweet Spot, was a double-finalist and then won the 2014 Romance Writers of America® RITA® award. She's since published 11 more novels in both romance and women’s fiction.
In The Road to Me, Jacqueline Oliver gets a call about her hippie grandma, and drops everything to travel to Arizona. They end up on a unique and healing grandmother - granddaughter road trip.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
Kimberly Brock shares the inspiration behind The Lost Book of Eleanor Dare, a novel described as “complex, compelling, and beautifully crafted” by William Kent Kreuger, New York Times bestselling author.
In this episode Kimberly Brock tells us what caused her to cry during her research phase, when I asked her for her best advice for her fellow authors she gave the most accurate description of what it is like to be a writer that I’ve ever heard, and she gives a long list of her must-read, favorite books.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org and amazon.com
Ashley’s author website: www.AshleyHasty.com
Elissa Grosell Dickey shares the inspiration behind The Speed of Light, a novel described as “a gripping page-turner, infused with a compassionate and insightful look at chronic illness.”
She shares her real life experience that led to writing a character recently diagnosed with MS, and a sneak peek of her second novel, Iris in the Dark, which releases in June.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org
Lainey's author website: www.LaineyCameron.com
Kristy Woodson Harvey shares the inspiration for The Wedding Veil, her latest novel about four women and how a family heirloom connects them.
We chat about how Kristy serendipitously found inspiration from her own wedding veil as well as a fateful visit to the Biltmore mansion. She also shares her best writing advice, what it was like researching during the pandemic, and a few of her current favorite reads.
Sign up for our email list so you never miss an episode! (PLUS we do a book giveaway every month for newsletter subscribers - you can choose from any of our featured authors if you win!) https://www.bestofwomensfiction.com/
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My author website: https://www.ashleyhasty.com/
My blog: https://www.hastybooklist.com/
The Best of Women's Fiction podcast started from the desire to connect authors with more readers, and vice versa!
A special episode featuring six exciting women’s fiction debuts from the first half of 2022! Each of our six authors shares a little about their novel, their inspiration, and their best writing advice.
Maggie Giles author of The Things We Lost / Melanie Mitzner author of Slow Reveal / J. Marie Rundquist author of All I'm Asking / Shauna Robinson author of Must Love Books / Lisa Roe author of Welcome to the Neighborhood / Sandra L. Young author of Divine Vintage
Find these novels, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org
Elise Hooper and Ashley Hasty talk about Angels of the Pacific, which New York Times bestselling author Lauren Willig described as "Absolutely riveting. A stay-up-all night read about two very different women who discover just how strong they can be—and just how much they'll dare—during the brutal Japanese occupation of the Philippines in World War II. This story of endurance and sisterhood will have you turning pages late into the night."
Elise talks about her research trip to the Philippines in February of 2020, how this book ended up being perfect for the times, and how her next novel is very much in response to the pandemic. She also shares some of her favorite books and writing advice for her fellow authors.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast can be purchased through the Best of Women's Fiction Amazon list or through Lainey's recommended reads at www.bookshop.org.
Maggie Smith shares the inspiration behind her debut novel, Truth and Other Lies, which has been described as “twisty, timely, and rivetingly thought-provoking.”
The story brings together three women whose lives converge as one fights a devastating accusation, another campaigns for a contested seat in Congress, and one, a young reporter with ties to both, navigates the tricky line between secrets and lies.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org
Adele Myers chats about her debut novel, The Tobacco Wives, which Fiona Davis, New York Times bestselling author described as, "a story of courage, of women willing to take a stand in the face of corporate greed, and most definitely a tale for our times.” She also shares her advice for writers who have not yet been published, the books that Influenced her, and family objects that inspired the novel.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org or on Amazon.com.
Award-winning author, Lisa Barr, shares the inspiration for her latest release. Woman on Fire is the story of a young journalist who gets embroiled in a dangerous international art scandal centered around a Nazi looted masterpiece.
We chat about how Lisa found inspiration for a fabulous character like journalist Jules Roth. Plus why Lisa's focus on stolen art, and how some of the story draws from real life headlines. Also why she has been able to successfully cross genres, what she’s learned from that, and great writing advice.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org
Diana Giovinazzo and Ashley Hasty talk about Antoinette's Sister, which USA Bestselling author Heather Webb calls "A sweeping tale of power, love, and the bonds of family...”
We chat about how Diana first learned about her protagonist, Maria Carolina Charlotte, and how her family history led her to write in the first place. She also shares her journey to publication, her best writing advice, and what books she recommends right now.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast can be purchased through the Best of Women's Fiction Amazon list or through Lainey's recommended reads at www.bookshop.org.
Nikki May joins us from the UK to chat about her debut novel, Wahala, which was named a most anticipated book of 2022 by Vogue, Marie Claire, Glamour, Essence, and more.
Wahala, which means trouble, follows three Anglo-Nigerian best friends and the lethally glamorous fourth woman who infiltrates their group.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org
Fiona Davis is a New York Times bestselling author whose works of historical fiction featuring iconic buildings in New York City have been selected as a Good Morning America book club pick and chosen as “One Book, One Community” reads. She talks about her latest novel, The Magnolia Palace, which is set at the Frick Mansion.
The novel is written as a dual timeline, alternating between 1919 and the late 1960s. Fiona shares how this book differs from her previous novels, as well as book recommendations and her best writing advice.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast can be purchased through the Best of Women's Fiction Amazon list or through Lainey's recommended reads at www.bookshop.org.
Mansi Shah and Lainey talk about The Taste of Ginger, which Booklist calls “a poignant debut novel, that touches on the immigrant experience in America”.
We chat about how Mansi weaved important themes into a novel which many readers have called “thought-provoking” and makes for great book club conversation. Also, how growing up with no stories that represented her cultural heritage provided Mansi’s inspiration, and how her perspective on telling an authentic story has changed from when she first started writing ten years ago.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in The Best of Women's Fiction List at www.bookshop.org
Kimmery Martin is an emergency medicine doctor-turned novelist whose works of medical fiction have been praised by The Harvard Crimson, Southern Living, The New York Times, and others. She talks about her latest novel, Doctors and Friends, which is set during a pandemic.
Written before Covid 19, the novel is prescient in how it follows a group of doctor friends as a contagious virus spreads around the world. Kimmery shares how the storyline changed as a result during editing, as well as book recommendations and her best writing advice.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in Lainey's recommended reads at www.bookshop.org
Colleen van Niekerk, author of A Conspiracy of Mothers, talks about the inspiration for a novel set in South Africa, which tells the story of three mothers whose lives intersect during a generation-defining period in history.
A Conspiracy of Mothers tells a story of love and betrayal from multiple perspectives while deftly balancing the painful legacy of apartheid with the trials of motherhood.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in Lainey's recommended reads at www.bookshop.org
Starting in the 2022 season, Ashley Hasty, founder of The Hasty Booklist, will be joining Lainey Cameron as co-host on The Best of Women’s Fiction Podcast.
Learn more about Ashley, what she likes to read, and her progress as a future published author. Also learn how, together, she and Lainey will be choosing the guests to invite for the early 2022 season of The Best of Women’s Fiction Podcast.
Visit The Hasty Booklist
How to be considered for an invitation to be on the podcast in 2022.
Find all the links and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
Phoebe Fox, author of six novels, joins to talk about her latest release The Way We Weren’t. She shares the inspiration behind a novel that Booklist called "a study in contrasts: tragic yet heart-warming, suspenseful yet comforting." Plus, why she decided to come clean on her alter-ego as Tiffany Yates Martin, one of the publishing industry’s most successful developmental editors.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in Lainey's recommended reads at www.bookshop.org
Alice Early talks about The Moon Always Rising, a story that takes the reader on a journey from the Caribbean island of Nevis to the Highlands of Scotland. The novel is already a multiple-award winner, including overall winner in the 2020 National Indie Excellence and American Fiction Awards. It’s also unusual in that one of the main characters is a ghost.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in Lainey's recommended reads at www.bookshop.org
Two-time Pushcart prize nominee and winner of the Women’s National Book Association’s Effie Lee Morris Prize, Joan Gelfand introduces us to her novel, Extreme. Set in the pressure cooker environment of Silicon Valley startups, Extreme takes the reader inside the gamification of extreme sports.
Find the books recommended, the author's social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in Lainey's recommended reads at www.bookshop.org
Jenn Bouchard, talks about her debut novel, First Course, a finalist in the 2021 American Fiction Awards. She shares her inspiration for a book about second acts, why she decided to set the book in coastal Maine, and how she approached writing about a real location. Plus, her path to publication, and why Jenn told to go with a small publisher.
Find the books she recommends, her social media links, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in Lainey's recommended reads at www.bookshop.org
Joy Jordan-Lake is the bestselling author of eight books, several historical fiction. She shares the inspiration and background behind her latest novel, Under A Gilded Moon. A must-not-miss episode for lovers and writers of historical fiction.
Inspired by the story of the building of the Biltmore estate, the novel is told from the point of view of Kerry MacGregor, from a poor family, who is torn between two worlds after returning the Appalachian mountains.
We chat about what goes into researching a historical fiction novel, and how to be brave and humble at the same time.
Find Joy's social media links, the books she recommends, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in Lainey's recommended reads at www.bookshop.org
Kalyn Fogarty shares the inspiration behind What We Carry, a novel that deals with miscarriage, a topic often underrepresented in women’s fiction.
She talks about her personal experience that led to writing a novel of hope around such an important and heart-breaking experience, her own writing journey, her approach to self-care, and her hope that the novel will be healing for others.
Find Kalyn's social media links, the books she recommends and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in Lainey's recommended reads at www.bookshop.org
Leslie Hooton, author of The Secret of Rainy Days talks about how friendships save our lives, how it felt to be nominated for a Zibby award, and how she writes and edits all of her books using dictation.
Find Leslie's social media links, the books she recommends and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in Lainey's recommended reads at www.bookshop.org
Washington Post and Amazon charts bestselling author Kerry Anne King chats about her latest novel, Other People’s Things. Kerry shares secrets on the inspiration behind the story, her writing and editing process, and awesome wisdom for other writers.
Find Kerry's social media links, the books she recommends and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in Lainey's recommended reads at www.bookshop.org
This week, the winners of the 2021 STAR award for women's fiction will be announced by Women’s Fiction Writers Association.
All six finalists (there's two categories - debut and general) have been on this podcast! In this special episode, you'll learn about the six finalists’ winning books and hear their best writer insights and advice.
Find links to the authors' books, websites, and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in Lainey's recommended reads at www.bookshop.org
KD Allbaugh shares the inspiration behind her novel, Face Down in Rising Sun, which was chosen as one of only three finalists in the debut category of the 2021 STAR awards by Women’s Fiction Writers Association
Find KD's social media links, the books she recommends and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in Lainey's recommended reads at www.bookshop.org
Cara Sue Achterberg, author of Blind Turn, chosen as the Maxy Awards 2021 Book of the Year. Cara shares her inspiration for the story described as a “deeply felt” page-turner, which explores a mother’s worst nightmare – when her daughter is responsible for a fatal texting and driving accident.
Find Cara's social media links, the books she recommends and the video version of this episode at www.BestofWomensFiction.com
All books featured on the podcast are listed in Lainey's recommended reads at www.bookshop.org
Pushcart Prize nominee, Sheryl J. Bize-Boutte chats about her novel, Betrayal on the Bayou. Sheryl is a multidisciplinary writer whose work, while great storytelling, also gets across deeper meaning about the politics and economics of race.
Connect with Sheryl and learn more about her books at www.sheryljbize-boutte.com or on Twitter @bizebos
Snag your copy of Betrayal on the Bayou on bookshop.org
Find all of books featured on the podcast at Lainey’s Recommended Reads.
Full video episodes atwww.bestofwomensfiction.com
Maddie Dawson chats about her latest release, The Magic of Found Objects, which is already an Amazon # 1 bestseller in women’s friendship and humorous fiction, and has 1700+ great reviews, plus she has great advice for writers.
Connect with Maddie and learn more about her books atwww.maddiedawson.com or on Instagram @maddiedaws
Find your copy of The Magic of Found Objects on bookshop.org or on Amazon.
All episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
C. D’Angelo shares her debut novel, The Difference, about protagonist Rachel Granza who delves into her Italian American heritage as a way to find her confidence in the future. We chat about the source of C D'Angelo's inspiration which actually started with the centennial of the Titanic sinking. Also, the seemingly never-ending task of editing and revising a novel, and what changed in this one as it evolved.
Connect with C D'Angelo and learn more about her books at www.cdangeloauthor.com or on Instagram @c.dangelo.author
Find your copy of The Difference.
All episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Anisha Bhatia shares the inspiration behind her witty and fabulous debut novel called The Rules of Arrangement in the US, and What Are We Doing About Zoya? in the UK , Australia and around the world.
This is a perfect book if you’re a fan of Bridget Jones or books that take you inside a character's head or to a potentially new culture and location. A laugh out loud comedy of manners set in Mumbai, India, with a satirical take on India’s obsession with marriage and body image.
Connect with Anisha and learn more about her books at www.anishabhatia.com or on Instagram @anisha.bhatia.author
Find The Rules of Arrangement on bookshop.org
All episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Kristin Contino chat about her new release, A House Full of Windsor, which reviewers are calling nostalgic, charming, and full of family drama.
Find A House of Windsoron bookshop.org and the two novels Kristin recommends When We're Thirty by Casey Dembowski and Once Upon A Royal Summer by Teri Wilson.
Connect with Kristin and learn more about her books at www.kristincontino.com or on Instagram @royallykristinc.
And find Lainey's award-winning book, The Exit Strategy on sale here.
Also mentioned; Royally Good Reads Book Club on Facebook and Women's Fiction Writers Association.
All episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Lyn Liao Butler shares the inspiration behind her debut novel, The Tiger Mom's Tale, a book which takes us to Taiwan. It already achieved a coveted starred review from Publishers Weekly, who call the novel “riveting” and say it “breathes new zesty life into women’s fiction”.
We chat about the concept of “own voices” and cultural representation, and Lyn's writing advice.
Find The Tiger Mom's Taleon bookshop.org.
Connect with Lyn and learn more about her books at www.lynliaobutler.com or on Instagram @lynliaobutler
And find Lainey's award-winning book, The Exit Strategy on sale here.
All episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Joyce Yarrow joins Lainey on the release of her fifth novel, Sandstorm, to chat about how the novel was inspired by her childhood in the Bronx, the shaky line between law-abiding and not, and her best writing advice.
Find Sandstorm and Joyce's other novels on bookshop.org as well as the new read she recommends (releasing late July), The Wilderness Between Us by Penny Haw.
Connect with Joyce and learn more about her books at www.joyceyarrow.com or on Instagram @joyceyarrrowauthor
And find Lainey's award-winning book, The Exit Strategy on sale here.
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Lea Geller dishes on the inspiration behind her latest romp of a novel, The Truth and Other Hidden Things, about Bells Walker, an “older” pregnant woman in her forties who inadvertently becomes a gossip columnist in her new town in the Hudson Valley.
Find The Truth and Other Hidden Things on bookshop.org as well as the books Lea recommends; Sunshine Girl by Julianna Margulies, Brat by Andrew McCarthy and she’s excited to start A Special Place for Women by Laura Hankin.
Connect with Lea and learn more about her books at www.leageller.com or on Instagram @leagellerauthor
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Joanne Kukanza Easley chats about the inspiration behind her debut novel, Sweet Jane, which swept up awards, winning 12 in total! The episode starts with an interview I recorded with Joanne last year, and then I invite her back to update us on her latest release, Just One Look.
Find both of Joanne's novels Sweet Jane, and Just One Look on bookshop.org.
Connect with Joanne and learn more about her books at www.joanneeasleyauthor.com or on Instagram @joanneeasleywriter.
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Grace Sammon chats about her debut novel, The Eves, a study on the power of women’s friendship and how the stories we carry affect those around us. Grace shares her inspiration, book recommendations, and a sneak peek at her fun upcoming project!
Find The Eves on bookshop.org as well as the novels Grace Sammon recommends; The Exit Strategy by Lainey Cameron and The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson.
Connect with Grace and learn more about her books at www.gracesammon.net or on Instagram @gracesammonwrites
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Margaret Ann Spence talks about her latest release, JOYOUS LIES, a women’s fiction novel with a good dose of mystery. Secrets from the past abound, set to the backdrop of what happened decades ago in a Northern California commune.
Find Joyous Lies on bookshop.org as well as the novels Margaret Ann recommends; Queen of the Owls by Barbara Linn Probst and The Ones We Choose by Julie Clark.
Connect with Margaret Ann and learn more about her books at www.margaretannspence.com or on Instagram @margaret_ann_spence
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Jessica Strawser talks about her latest release, A Million Reasons Why, which was named a most anticipated book by Goodreads, SheReads. E! News. and Frolic as well as being chosen for Booktrib's 10 Books by Women to Read this Spring.
Find A Million Reasons Why on bookshop.org as well as the top novel she recommends; The Invisible Husband of Frick Island by Colleen Oakley.
Connect with Jessica and learn more about her books at www.jessicastrawser.com or on Instagram @jessicastrawserauthor.
All the deets on Lainey's special offers for Women's Fiction Day, coming on June 8th.
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Bette Lee Crosby writes Southern fiction that touches the heart. Lainey and Bette chat about how you can be guaranteed a happy ending in her books, writing advice and the real-life family inspiration for Bette's latest novel, When I Last Saw You.
Find When I Last Saw You on bookshop.org as well as the novels she recommends; The Truth and Other Hidden Things by Lea Geller and The Words Between Us by Erin Bartels.
Connect with Bette and learn more about her books at www.betteleecrosby.com or on Instagram @betteleecrosby
And we'd love if you joined us on Facebook where we are both hosts of the Blue Sky Book Chat Group.
All the deets on Women's Fiction Day, coming on June 8th at www.womensfictionwriters.org
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Carol chats with us about Goodbye Orchid, her novel which was inspired by combat wounded veterans. The book has been racking up awards. including being named a 2021 Book Excellence winner, and a finalist in the CHATELAINE Book Awards that recognizes outstanding work and new talent in Romantic Fiction and Women’s Fiction.
Carol is donating a portion of the book's profits to the Heather Abbott Foundation and USA Cares.
Find Goodbye Orchid on bookshop.org as well as the novel Carol recommends; The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by VE Schwab.
Connect with Carol and learn more about her books at www.carolvandenhende.com, her Linktree: linktr.ee/cvdh or on Instagram @carolvandenhende
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Kathleen Basi shares her inspiration her debut novel, A Song for The Road, which began as a dream that contained both grief and beauty. And she chats about the special relationship between music and writing, which led to Kathleen writing such a novel with such breathtakingly lyrical language.
Find A Song for the Road on bookshop.org as well as the books Kathleen recommends; The Rules of Arrangement by Anisha Bhatia, Sanditon by Jane Austen, and Transcendent Kingdom by Yaa Gyasi.
Connect with Kathleen and learn more about her books at www.kathleenbasi.com or on Instagram @kathleenbasi
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Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai, chats about The Mountains Sing. This novel is already a New York Times Editors’ choice, and winner of several awards including the 2020 Lannan Literary Award Fellowship. Plus it’s been named a best book in 2020 by the Washington Post , *O, The Oprah Magazine, USA Today, NPR’s Book Concierge and tens more publications. Plus, it also happens to be her first novel, written in the English language.
Quế Mai shares her inspiration for the novel, and you can tell from her passion for storytelling and the Vietnamese language & culture why she was selected by Forbes Magazine as one of Twenty Inspiring Vietnamese women of 2021!
Find The Mountains Sing on bookshop.org as well as the books Quế Mai references by Wayne Karlin.
Connect with Quế Mai and learn more about her books at www.nguyenphanquemai.com or on Instagram @nguyenphanquemai_
All episodes in video form at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Ann Garvin chast about her latest novel, I Thought You Said This Would Work, which shot up the Amazon charts and has held #1 positions in multiple categories over the last month including humorous women's fiction. Ann shares her inspiration for the novel, and great writing and life advice.
I Thought You Said This Would Work and Ann's other novels can be found onbookshop.org, along with the two novels she recommends; Send for Me by Lauren Fox, and Finlay Donovan Is Killing It by Elle Cosimano.
Also, check out Ann's new podcast Come Sit With Me which can be found here on Apple podcasts and Spotify!
Connect with Ann and learn more about her books at www.anngarvin.net or on Instagram @anngarvin_
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Rochelle chats about her latest release, This is Not How It Ends, how writing every book is different, and she has great advice for writers, and on kindness and life in general. Find This is Not How it Ends on bookshop.org, along with the novels Rochelle mentions; Becoming Duchess Goldblatt, The Push by Ashley Audrain, Eliza Starts a Rumor by Jane L Rosen, and The Midnight Library by Matt Haig. As well as those on her To Be Read list: The Art of Happy Moving by Ali Wenzke, The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi, Band of Sisters by Lauren Willig, The Kindest Lie by Nancy Johnson, Mom's Don't Have Time To by Zibby Owens, and Everything After by Jill Santopolo. Connect with Rochelle and learn more about her books at www.rochelleweinstein.com or on Instagram @rochellebweinstein Find all episodes and more notes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Alison Hammer has been called "a great new voice in women’s fiction" by the esteemed Kristin Harmel. This interview celebrates the release of Alison's sophomore novel, Little Pieces of Me, which was named one of the top April books by E! News, and received a Library Journal starred review.
We chat about Alison's unique writing process, her craft advice, and she has three recommended reads.
Find Little Pieces of Me and You and Me and Us on bookshop.org, along with the three novels Alison recommends; A Million Reasons Why by Jessica Strawser, Are We There Yet? by Kathleen West, and The Exit Strategy by Lainey Cameron.
Connect with Alison and learn more about her books at www.alisonhammer.com or on Instagram @thishammer.
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Kris Clink chats about her heart-warming debut novel, Goodbye, Lark Lovejoy.She shares her inspiration for a book that reviews are deeply hopeful and heartwarming, and why Kris believes in the concept of spectacular happiness.
Find Goodbye, Lark Lovejoy on bookshop.org, along with the two books Kris recommends; The Jake Ryan Complex by Bethany Crandell and The Chicken Sisters by KJ Dell'Antonia.
Connect with Kris and learn more about her books at www,krisclink.com or on Instagram @krisclinkbooks
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Have you ever wondered what goes into performing an audiobook? Or how the skills required compare to writing?
In this interview with Susan Marlowe, who has recorded over 150 successful audiobooks, answers those questions and more. Plus, the episode includes previously unreleased samples from the audio version of Lainey Cameron's debut novel, The Exit Strategy.
Purchase The Exit Strategy in audiobook, ebook, or paperback.
Learn more about Susan and her work at www.susanmarlowenarrator.com, plus if you're looking to produce an audiobook you can find lots of good resources on ACX and Findaway Voices.
All episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Barbara Linn Probst shares the inspiration behind her newest novel, The Sound Between the Notes, plus chats with Lainey about music and inspiration, how the book changed during editing, surviving a pandemic debut launch, and the challenges of sophomore novels.
Find The Sound Between the Notes and Queen of the Owls on bookshop.org, plus the two other sophomore novels Barbara mentions Little Pieces of Me by Alison Hammer and Sisters of the Vine by Linda Rosen.
Connect with Barbara and learn more about her books at www.barbaralinnprobst.com or on Instagram @barbara_linn_probst
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Christina Consolino shares her inspiration for her debut, Rewrite the Stars, a novel that’s been called “bittersweet” and “touching”. She also has several recommended reads, great writing advice on not giving up, and we chat about the difficulty of writing in multiple points of view.
Find Rewrite the Stars on bookshop.org.
Connect with Christina and learn more about her books at www.christinaconsolino.com or on Instagram @cmconsolino
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Linda chats about the story behind The Disharmony of Silence, her debut novel which released in 2020. We talk about the inspiration behind a book that moves back and forth between the 1920s and today, how the book changed from initial versions and her reading recommendations. Plus I share more on Linda's second novel, Sisters of the Vine, which releases this week!
Find both of Linda's novels, The Disharmony of Silence and Sisters of the Vine on bookshop.org . Plus the books she recommends in this interview- You and Me and Us by Alison Hammer and No Bad Deed by Heather Chavez.
Connect with Linda and learn more about her books at www.linda-rosen.com or on Instagram @lindarosenauthor
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Kathleen’s debut, Minor Dramas and Other Catastrophes, was received with great acclaim in 2020 and was chosen as a best books pick by Real Simple, Newsweek, People Magazine, Entertainment Weekly, and the New York Post. This week her second novel Are We There Yet? hits the stores, and Kathleen shares her inspiration, book recommendations and has some great writing advice!
Find Kathleen's novels, Are We There Yet and Minor Dramas and Other Catastrophes on bookshop.org as well as her recommended reads The Chicken Sisters by KJ Dell'Antonia and Ahmed Aziz's Epic Year by Nina Hamza.
Connect with Kathleen and learn more about her books at www.kathleenwestbooks.com or on Instagram @kathleenwestwrites
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Kim shares how she prides herself on writing historical fiction “for non historical fiction lovers”, her inspiration for her big bestseller,After Alice Fell, her best writing advice, and a book recommendation.
Find Kim's novel, After Alice Fell, on bookshop.org as well as her recommended read Churchill's Secret Messenger by Alan Hlad.
Connect with Kim and learn more about her fierce women characters at www.kimtaylorblakemore.com or on Instagram @kimtaylorblakemorebooks
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Barbara is one of the best supporters of other authors. We chat about the great reception and inspiration for her debut novel, Nowhere Near Goodbye, and her pride in being such a well-received debut author over 70 (it’s never too late!).
Find Barbara's novel, Nowhere Near Goodbye on bookshop.org as well as her recommendations by Robert Dugoni and Chris Bohjalian.
Connect with Barbara at www.barbaraconreyauthor.com or on Instagram at @barbaraconrey
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Sarahlyn Bruck shares the inspiration behind her latest release, Daytime Drama, which follows her award-winning debut, Designer You.
She shares why she chose multiple points of view to tell this latest story, great writing advice, and recommended Philly authors.
Connect with Sarahlyn at www.sarahlynbruck.com on Instagram @sarahlynbruck
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
The best advice from 40+ episodes of The Best of Women's Fiction interview series. Tips from best-selling and debut authors on getting started, finding your voice, the power of community, writing craft, dealing with fear, and more.
Find interviews with all the featured authors at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Mel chats about her inspiration for Running With Our Eyes Closed, a novel set in mid-life, which reviews describe as a tale of rediscovery and reconnection between a husband and a wife, beautifully written, sensual and spicy. We discuss why she decided to make the novel so sexy, how Samantha, her protagonist found her own voice during the editing process, and Mel's writing advice.
Connect with Mel at www.melmediallc.com or on Instagram @melgberg
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Barbara O'Neal, whose books have sold in the millions of copies, chats about the inspiration for her latest novel which released last year, The Lost Girls of Devon. She shares how she keeps finding inspiration after so many big best-sellers including When We Believed in Mermaids, and has advice for early career authors on the importance of finding your voice.
Connect with Barbara at www.barbaraoneal.com or on Facebook.
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Patricia chats about the new ten-year anniversary edition of her debut novel and award-winner, The Bridge Club, and shares her inspiration for this tale of eight friends. Plus, how she started as an Indie author, then got a surprise call with that coveted publishing offer from Amazon's Lake Union. And she has great writing advice and lots of book recommendations!
Connect with Patricia at www.patriciasandsauthor.com or on Instagram at @patricialsands
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Leanne shares her inspiration to write Their Last Chance, a unique novel about a struggling marriage– which is told from four points of view (the divorcing couple and the two divorce lawyers). She shares her inspiration, some writing advice and how the book changed in editing
Connect with Leanne at www.leannetreese.com or on Instagram @leannetreese
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Ava shares the inspiration behind her novel, Daughters of Smoke and Fire, which was selected as a Best Book of 2020 in The Wall Street Journal, Writer's Bone, Buzz Magazine, and Reader's Digest. In oneof the show's most inspirational interviews to date, she shares how how books can light the fire to fight injustice.
Connect with Ava at www.avahoma.com or on Instagram @ava.homa
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Leah talks about the inspiration for Forks, Knives and Spoons, her women's fiction novel with a good dose of romance. We chat about why readers are especially appreciating the 1980s college setting in today's pandemic world, and Leah also shares some great writing advice and the books she's excited about!
Connect with Leah at www.leahdecesare.com or on Instagram @leah.decesare
Find all episodes at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Camille chats about her fiction, which focuses on love, loss, and making the most of this wonderfully messy life, and includes many best-sellers such as Life and Other Near-Death Experiences, and I'm Fine and Neither are You. We discuss how travel often serves as her best inspiration, the worst moment of her author career, and she has some great advice for writers.
More at www.camillepagan.com and connect with her on Instagram @camille_pagan
See more interviews at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Julie chats about the inspiration behind her debut novel, Waiting for the Night Song and how the novel was in part inspired by “bad parenting” and blueberries. She shares what changed during editing, explains the new category of climate fiction and has great writing advice.
Connect with Julie at www.juliecarrickdalton.com or on Instagram @juliecdalton
See more interviews at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
KJ Dell'Antonia's debut The Chicken Sisters was selected as the December 2020 Reese Witherspoon book club pick and became an instant NYT best-seller. She chats about her inspiration for this heartwarming, funny, uplifting sister story. And as the host of the #amwriting podcast, she also has awesome writing advice.
Connect with KJ at ww.kjdellantonia.com or on Instagram @kjda or subscribe to the #amwriting podcast.
See more interviews at www.bestofwomensfiction.com
Nancy talks about her debut novel, The Kindest Lie. We chat about how it feels to go from “typing away in Starbucks” to making all the "most anticipated" lists. Plus, her writing advice, recommended reads, and the story of how her novel got that amazing blurb from Jodi Picoult!
Connect with Nancy at www.nancyjohnson.net or on Instagram at @nancyjauthor