Beyond the Next Chapter with Whitney Clark

Stephanie Vasquez on her new book "All Our Wars" Nov 12, 2024

This episode features an Arizona author and her debut novel! "All Our Wars" by Stephanie Vasquez is out now. It's a fictionalized organized crime thriller featuring the daughter of a high-ranking Mexican cartel leader. After Sofia De Luna's mother was murdered, Sofia has to make some tough choices about her family business. It's a love story with dual timelines for fans of shows like Netflix's "Narcos." Vasquez grew up in Tucson and studied Journalism and Latin American studies at the University of Arizona. She's written for a number of publications, including the Tombstone Epitaph. She talks about why she is drawn to stories about families, which TV shows and movies inspired her book, and how she became a published author through a contest.

Jeffery Deaver and Isabella Maldonado on "Fatal Intrusion" Oct 29, 2024

Just in time for Halloween, we're diving into a new thriller called "Fatal Intrusion." It's the first book in a new series by authors Jeffery Deaver and Isabella Maldonado. After a series of murders in Southern California, a Homeland Security agent needs the help of professor in catching a serial killer. Deaver is an international bestselling author who has written more than 40 books, including "The Bone Collector." Maldonado is also a Wall Street Journal bestselling author. She graduated from the FBI National Academy and was the first Latina to become a captain within the Fairfax County Police Department near Washington, D.C. Deaver and Maldonado talk about what it's like to co-write a book, how they worked together, and much more.

The book and author convention coming to the Phoenix-area in 2025 Oct 15, 2024

Calling all authors and book lovers! On this episode of Beyond the Next Chapter, we're joined by a Valley woman who's planning a convention for book lovers and authors in 2025. It's called Readers of the Valley and will be in Glendale, Arizona on January 18 and 19th. The convention is being organized by Rebecca Lopez. She's a local author who also owns Sunrise Bookworm Co., a business she runs with her husband featuring book-themed goodies. Rebecca talks about what it's like being a small-business owner, why she wanted to bring a convention like this to the Phoenix-area, and of course she gives us some book recommendations!

What it's like traveling to the deepest part of the ocean with Dr. Dawn Wright Oct 08, 2024

This episode of Beyond the Next Chapter is truly living up to its name! We're joined by Dr. Dawn Wright, who's the first Black person to reach the bottom of the ocean. Wright is out with a new book called "Mapping the Deep: Innovation, Exploration, and the Dive of a Lifetime." Back in 2022, she visited the Challenger Deep in the Pacific Ocean. At more than 35,000 feet, it's the deepest and most unexplored place on planet Earth. Her book details her dive, her path in life and how she became a professor. She now works at a company called the Environmental Systems Research Institute, or ESRI. Wright talks about what she saw at the bottom of the ocean and why mapping the deepest parts of the ocean is so important for all of us.

How a Valley boy is raising books for kids in need Oct 01, 2024

While many 8-year-old's love reading, not many start non-profits to comfort others! This week's episode of Beyond the Next Chapter features Anaik Sachdev, the Valley boy who started the organization "The Loving Library." He's also joined by his mom and younger brother who serves as an ambassador. The group donates books to kids who are in the hospital and they now have chapters across the country, even in the UK. Anaik got the idea after his grandma was hospitalized with COVID-19 and she was lonely. Since then, more than 15,000 books have been donated! They talk about how you can give back, their favorite books for kids, how the non-profit has been able to grow and the plans for the future!

Laura Dave on "The Night We Lost Him" Sep 17, 2024

After the death of their father, estranged siblings discover their dad may have been keeping a secret for more than 50 years. While his death was ruled accidental, the siblings are afraid something more sinister is at play. It's a slow-burn mystery and family drama and Laura Dave joins the podcast to talk about "The Night We Lost Him." Dave is a #1 New York Times best-selling author who most recently wrote "The Last Thing He Told Me." That book is also hit series on Apple TV starring Jennfier Garner. Dave talks to our host Whitney Clark about the real event that inspired "The Night We Lost Him," her own fears, what it's like working with Garner, and the plans for her next book (a sequel to "The Last Thing He Told Me.").

How to improve literacy rates in Arizona Sep 03, 2024

Only 41% of third-grade students in Arizona are reading at grade level. That's according to the most recent statistics from the Education Progress meter. Findings were released earlier this year by the non-profit, Center for the Future of Arizona. In this episode, our host Whitney Clark focuses on how we can improve literacy rates among kids, how we got here, why it's a skill that's so important, and what you can do to help. She's joined by Terri Clark, the Arizona Literacy Director for Read On Arizona, and Jennifer Deibel, who's an author and teacher in the Deer Valley Unified School District.

How to solo travel on a budget with Jen on a Jet Plane Aug 20, 2024

In this episode we're taking you around the world, but on a budget! Our host Whitney Clarks to Jen Ruiz, the author of "12 Trips in 12 Months." The year before her 30th birthday, Ruiz decided to take a a challenge: Go on 12 trips in 12 months. Her book unpacks her travel journey around the world, how she was able to go from an attorney to a full-time travel blogger, and Jen shares some of her secrets to getting cheap flights. She even flew from the U.S. to New Zealand for $38! Ruiz also shares the magic of solo travel and her advice for women who may be at a crossroads in life and are looking for a change.

Arizona Native T.J. Newman Talks About Her Third Book "Worst Case Scenario" Aug 06, 2024

From a Changing Hands bookseller, to a flight attendant to a New York Times bestselling author, Valley native T.J. Newman is getting ready for the release of her third book "Worst Case Scenario." Our host Whitney Clark talks to her about the latest thriller. After an airline pilot suffers a heart attack at 35,000 feet, a commercial airliner crashes into a nuclear power plant and the race is on to prevent a total meltdown. Newman talks to Whitney about what it's like to return home as an author, her pet peeves as a former flight attendant, and what it's like to see her other books adapted for the big screen!

Book Recommendations and Read Alikes Jul 23, 2024

In this episode of "Beyond the Next Chapter," Whitney Clark is joined by Marissa Daley, librarian and manager of the Fountain Hills library, and Paige Cordner, librarian at the Queen Creek library. Together, they dive into the world of book recommendations and read alikes, offering listeners a treasure trove of new books to explore based on popular titles they already love.

Marissa and Paige share their insights on what makes a read-alike, discuss some of their favorite genres, and provide personalized recommendations for books like "The Fourth Wing," "I'm Glad My Mom Died," and "Funny Story." They also explore the impact of social media on reading habits and the resurgence of certain genres like fantasy romance.

Whether you're a fan of Emily Henry's charming romances, Colleen Hoover's gripping stories, or Kristin Hannah's historical fiction, this episode is packed with suggestions to keep your reading list full and varied. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a librarian and the joys of fostering a love for reading in the community.

Kate Quinn on her new book "The Briar Club" Jul 09, 2024

Author Kate Quinn is out with her new book "The Briar Club." If you like historical fiction, you will love this book! "The Briar Club" is set in a boardinghouse in Washington D.C. during the McCarthy era. There's an element of murder mystery and it's told from the perspective of multiple women, all facing different challenges of the time. Our host, Whitney Clark, talks to Kate about the research that went into this book, what inspired her to write it, the power of female friendships, and she gives us a sneak peek of what she's working on next.

Ruth Ware on her book "One Perfect Couple" Jul 02, 2024

On this week's episode, our host Whitney Clark chats with Ruth Ware. She's known for her psychological thrillers and is a No. 1 New York Times bestselling author. Her new book "One Perfect Couple" is out now. Whitney talks to Ruth about what inspires her work, what kind of research went into this book and how it compares to reality shows.

Ashley Poston on Her New Book "A Novel Love Story" Jun 25, 2024

In this episode of "Beyond the Next Chapter," our host Whitney Clark chats with author Ashley Poston about her new book. "A Novel Love Story" is out today! Ashley is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of "The Dead Romantics" and "The Seven Year Slip." Ashley talks to Whitney about her favorite romance novels, how friendships grow and change as you get older, and the pros and cons of TikTok as an author.

The most highly anticipated books of the summer Jun 11, 2024

If you're going on a trip this summer and you're looking for a good book, we've got you covered! In this episode of "Beyond the Next Chapter," our host Whitney Clark talks to the folks at the Phoenix Library about the most highly anticipated books of the summer. She's joined by Anna Chenoweth, the library collections manager, and Maria Lopez, the community relations manager. For a list of the recommendations: https://www.azfamily.com/2024/06/11/beyond-next-chapter-podcast-most-highly-anticipated-books-summer/

Combating trauma in the workplace Jun 04, 2024

In this episode of Beyond the Next Chapter, our host Whitney Clark talks to an author and psychologist about overcoming trauma associated with work. Gretchen Schmelzer is a longtime psychologist and author. She's writing a book about the topic now. She also has a book called "Journey Through Trauma" which was released in 2018. After the COVID-19 pandemic, Gretchen noticed that employers were becoming concerned with the mental health with their employees. She travels the country working with doctors, firefighters and even journalists. Gretchen shares tips with Whitney on how to address trauma, how to notice it and how employers can work with their employees.

Steven Rowley on his new book “The Guncle Abroad” May 21, 2024

In a bonus episode of “Beyond the Next Chapter,” our host Whitney Clark talks to author Steven Rowley about his newest book “The Guncle Abroad.” It’s the sequel to his hit novel “The Guncle” which was released in 2021. The sequel follows Patrick and his niece and nephew as their father gets married in Italy. Whitney talks to Stephen about how he mixes humor and heart, his own love story and what it's like to be an uncle in his real-life!

Abby Jimenez on her new book "Just for the Summer" May 14, 2024

Summer is just around the corner, and on this episode of "Beyond the Next Chapter" host Whitney Clark talks to the author of "Just for the Summer." Abby Jimenez is known for her quick dialogue and romance novels that have depth and cover issues like trauma and toxic parents. Her latest book came out in April and was an instant #1 New York Times bestseller. Whitney talks to Abby about her writing process, her bakery business "Nadia Cakes," and Abby gives us a sneak peek of her next book that will be out in 2025!

Why an Arizona mom and author wrote a children's book about camping Apr 30, 2024

For the first time on Beyond the Next Chapter, our host Whitney Clark is chatting with a children's book author—and she's local! Lindsay Gonzales lives in the Valley and is the author of a series of books about a young girl named E.D. Camps. The main character is based off of Lindsay's daughter, Elena. Lindsay loves camping and when she and her husband started taking their young daughters, she couldn't find any books about camping. So she wrote one! Lindsay talks to Whitney about how she became a published author, her favorite books, why she loves camping with her family, and her favorite camping spots in Arizona!

Allison Winn Scotch on her new book, Taylor Swift, and 90's romcoms Apr 16, 2024

Spring is here and summer is just around the corner! If you're looking for a good beach read, Allison Winn Scotch's new book "Take Two, Birdie Maxwell" may be the one! Our host Whitney Clark got to talk to Allison about how Julia Roberts inspired the main character, Birdie. Allison is a fan of 90's romcoms and wanted to create the same types of love stories in her books. She's also a big fan of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce and weighs in on why she thinks so many are rooting for (and sometimes against) the couple. Allison regularly gives shout outs to other female authors and shares why that is so important in the publishing world.

Christina Estes on her new book "Off the Air" Apr 02, 2024

For the first time, the podcast is featuring an Arizona author! Christina Estes is out with her debut novel "Off the Air." It's a murder mystery set in Phoenix (and it features more than 15 local businesses and neighborhoods). It stars Jolene Garcia, a competitive local TV reporter who wants tell important stories in her community. The book was inspired by Estes' own career. She has spent more than 20 years reporting in Phoenix and currently works for NPR. Estes tells Whitney she hopes people are entertained, they have a better understanding of how local news works, and a better appreciation for Phoenix. "Off the Air" also won the Tony Hillerman Prize for Best First Mystery Set in the Southwest.

Rebecca Serle on her new book "Expiration Dates" Mar 19, 2024

What if every time you met a man, you would know how long you would spend with him? That's the premise of Rebecca Serle's new book "Expiration Dates." Our host Whitney Clark got a chance to talk to Serle about her latest project and the story of Daphne Bell. In this podcast episode, Whitney and Rebecca dive into faith versus free will, the significance of female relationships and how they change throughout your 30's, and Rebecca's secrets to a successful book club! Serle is known for incorporating magical realism into her stories and "Expiration Dates" is no different. She's a New York Times best selling author who also wrote "One Italian Summer" and "In Five Years."

Where you can go to book fairs for grown-ups in the Valley Mar 05, 2024

Whitney Clark takes us on a trip down memory lane! Her guest this week is Laura Sharp, the owner of a Gilbert-based pop-up bookstore. Literally, A Bookshop is a children's bookstore that also hosts events for grown-ups! Think the Scholastic Book Fair, but instead of your school gymnasium, events for adults are hosted at wine bars and breweries across the Valley. You can buy a book while drinking a beer or a glass of wine, while also connecting with your fellow readers. Laura shares why she started the events for adults, what it's like owning an independent bookstore, and the magic of introducing kids to books.

What is a Silent Book Club? Feb 20, 2024

In this episode of "Beyond the Next Chapter," our host Whitney Clark introduces us to silent book clubs. What is a silent book club? Think of it as a flash mob, but for readers! You show up with a book and meet other readers. It's less pressure than a traditional book club and is growing in popularity. Whitney talks to the organizers of the Phoenix and East Valley Silent Book Club chapters who say they now have two meetings a month.

Kristin Hannah on her new book "The Women" Feb 06, 2024

In the second episode of "Beyond the Next Chapter," our host Whitney Clark talks to the #1 New York Times Bestselling author Kristin Hannah. If you don't immediately recognize her name, you likely have seen her books!

Hannah has written more than 20 novels including "The Nightingale," "The Four Winds," and "The Great Alone." Hollywood has also taken note. Her book "Firefly Lane" was the #1 series on Netflix around the world the week it came out and Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group has already preemptively acquired the rights to "The Women."

Hannah's newest book, "The Women," is the fictionalized story of the brave nurses who served during the Vietnam War. Hannah grew up during that time period and it cast a big shadow over her life. Fans of Hannah's work will see familiar themes in "The Women," including the power of female friendships.

"I really write about women finding their voices. Women finding their power," Hannah said on the podcast. "And in the best of circumstances finding their power, and then pausing to turn and help other women who are still struggling on that journey."

"The Women" is out now wherever you buy your books.

Whitney's Reading Origin Story & How to Raise a Reader Jan 23, 2024

In the first episode of "Beyond the Next Chapter," we'll introduce you to our host, Whitney Clark, and dive into her reading origin story. Some of her earliest memories include her dad reading to her and taking her to the library or the bookstore. Whitney is joined by her dad and Samantha Mears with the Maricopa County Library District, who is raising a young reader herself! Samantha shares how you can encourage your kids to read through the "1,000 Books Before Kindergarten" program.

Welcome to “Beyond the Next Chapter with Whitney Clark" Jan 16, 2024

Think of this as a book recommendation podcast for all walks of readers, whether you’re an avid reader or you want to fall in love with books! It’s a place to come to find your next great read from romance, to thrillers, to historical fiction, non-fiction and so much more. As the title implies, in each episode host Whitney Clark will take you beyond the next chapter. We’ll talk to our favorite authors, local authors and dive into important topics: how can we improve literacy rates in our community? What’s a silent book club? Why are books banned? Audiobooks vs. books? How can I find more time to read? How can I encourage my kids to read? Starting in mid-January, episodes will be released every other Tuesday wherever you get your podcasts.

Steven Rowley, “The Celebrants” Jun 27, 2023

A group of college friends lose one member of the group to suicide just before graduation in 1995. The loss resonates and shapes their relationships for decades in this funny and moving novel by Steven Rowley. Steven returns to the podcast to talk about his fantastic 2023 release, a story that is personal to the author in many ways, “there’s so much story in these middle years,” he says of the characters who align with his own path. He talks with Olivia about the book’s success, the screen adaptations for his work that are awaiting the end of the writers’ strike, and his own marriage.

The book is available in hardcover from GP Putnam & Sons, and the author narrates the audiobook. For more visit his website

This is the last episode of the Olivia’s Book Club podcast. Keep up with the group on Facebook, and stay connected with Olivia on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube

Riley Sager, “The Only One Left” Jun 20, 2023

Riley Sager is back and this creepy, twisty thriller takes readers on a tense ride to reveal what really happened the night of the Hope family murders, and why then 17-year-old Lenora was THE ONLY ONE LEFT.

Sager returns to the podcast for the third time to talk about his latest work, his book tour, and the plans for upcoming adaptation of THE HOUSE ACROSS THE LAKE for Netflix. For more on the author visit his website.

Riley Sager will be at The Poisoned Pen Bookstore in Scottsdale on June 19th, information is here.

Ashley Audrain, “The Whispers” Jun 13, 2023

Ashley Audrain, the author of the 2021 powerhouse women’s fiction debut, THE PUSH, returns to the podcast to talk with Olivia about her new novel, THE WHISPERS.

THE WHISPERS takes us to an affluent street where we experience life, frustration, marriage concerns, parenting failures, heartbreaks, tragedies, embarrassment, suspicions, all through the eyes (and whispers) of four women: Whitney, Blair, Rebecca and Mara.

Ashley says her experience during the restrictions of the pandemic helped to shape the novel. “Your world became so small, your world was only as big as what you could see outside your front window, which was your neighbor and your neighboring houses. I think we all became a little more intimate and closer with the people we lived in proximity with, that was very much on my mind when I was writing the characters of this book and their settings on the street” she says.

THE WHISPERS is out now from Pamela Dorman/Viking and is also available in audio. For more on the author visit her website.

Click here to revisit Olivia and Ashley’s conversation about THE PUSH.

Gretchen Rubin, “Life In Five Senses: How Exploring the Senses Got Me Out of My Head and Into the World” May 30, 2023

Happiness Project Founder and New York Times bestselling author Gretchen Rubin returns to the podcast to talk with Olivia about her new book, LIFE IN FIVE SENSES, another useful tool for the toolkit of anyone who shares her insatiable desire to understand human nature and find ways to live a happier life.

For this book Gretchen embarks on an experiment to see how a focus on her senses might change her perspective and discovered she found greater calm, joy, and connection to the people and places surrounding her. Gretchen shares surprising discoveries from daily visits the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art and which life experience she’d like a do-over for, after practicing these methods to be more in her body and in the moment.

LIFE IN FIVE SENSES is available in hardcover from Crown Publishing and is also available in audio format, read by the author.

Want to better tap into your five senses? Check out the Happier With Gretchen Rubin podcast.

T.J. Newman, “Drowning” May 23, 2023

“A plane crashes into the ocean, sinks with people trapped inside,” T.J. Newman says in describing the premise of this summer’s new novel, DROWNING. The writer returns to the podcast to talk with Olivia about battling the pressures of following up her debut bestseller, and her gratitude for the opportunity to live her dream as a full-time writer. A former bookseller and flight attendant, Newman’s commercial airline centered thrillers sparked bidding wars in publishing and in Hollywood. This time around, deadline pressures were as intense as the burden of expectation, but Newman said she loved writing this intensely emotional book: “At its core, this story would not work if it were not a story of grief and loss and hope and survival and a family coming together” she says.

DROWNING is published by Avid Reader Press, available for pre-order before its May 30, 2023 release.

Newman will be signing books at Changing Hands Bookstore, where she used to work, on Monday May 29, 2023. She’ll be at The Poisoned Pen Bookstore the following night. For more on TJ Newman, and to follow the latest developments as both her books head to the big screen, visit her website.

Christina Lauren, “The True Love Experiment” May 16, 2023

Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings, the besties and writing duo who make readers’ smiles and hearts grow with every book published under the pen name Christina Lauren, return to the podcast to talk with Olivia about this summer’s release. THE TRUE LOVE EXPERIMENT is a stand alone novel focused on “Fizzy” aka Felicity Chen, who readers first met in their instant bestseller THE SOULMATE EQUATION.

“No two people complete each other, it is who is perfect for our heroine or our hero,” says Christina, and in this book it’s the divorced dad/documentary producer Conner who is clearly meant for Fizzy. The way the relationship unfolds slowly, Lauren explains, is what makes it good. “What more fun can you imagine than taking that person who thinks she knows everything about love and showing her that maybe that’s not actually true… they really became friends,” she says.

THE TRUE LOVE EXPERIMENT is out May 16, 2023 from Gallery Books. For more on the writers and their book tour, visit https://christinalaurenbooks.com/

Neely Tubati Alexander, "Love Buzz" May 02, 2023

A Mardi Gras bachelorette party leads to a chance encounter for bridesmaid Serena Khan that leads her considering blowing up the life she’s carefully built just weeks before her thirtieth birthday. As if that’s not challenging enough, she’ll need to get it back together (or at least look together) before she’s featured in a Life at 30 profile she’s been anticipating since graduation,

Neely Tubati Alexander joins the podcast to talk about her debut novel, LOVE BUZZ. She chats with Olivia about her favorite parts of the writing process, her approach to inclusion and representation in her work, and what it all has to do with Nirvana.

LOVE BUZZ is out in paperback and audio on May 2, 2023 from Harper Perennial. For more on the author, who has a contract for two more novels currently in the works, visit www.neelytubatialexander.com

Neely will celebrate her book’s launch locally at Changing Hands Bookstore in Phoenix on Friday May 12.

Don Winslow, “City of Dreams” Apr 25, 2023

“He’s driving across America, running from the mob, the feds, the cops, a whole bunch of people just to try to find a place to be and exist,” says Don Winslow of where readers find the character of Danny Ryan in his new book, CITY OF DREAMS.

Don returns to the podcast to talk with Olivia about the second novel in the crime trilogy that began with CITY ON FIRE. Winslow shares his advice for aspiring writers, and recollections of his stranger than fiction life prior to becoming a bestselling writer of crime fiction.

CITY OF DREAMS is available in hardcover from William Morrow and in audio from HarperAudio. For more on his work, visit https://www.donwinslow.com/

Rebecca Makkai, “I Have Some Questions For You” Apr 18, 2023

Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award finalist Rebecca Makkai joins the podcast to discuss her novel, I HAVE SOME QUESTIONS FOR YOU. The book follows film professor and podcaster Bodie Kane’s return to her alma mater to teach a two-week course. The environment and her students’ interest in producing a true crime podcast about the murder of her former roommate resurrect strong feelings, questions and concerns for Bodie. Rebecca tells Olivia about making changes to the character of Bodie, her interest in the obsession with true crime, the emotional moments that arise on the book tour when readers discuss her highly acclaimed book, THE GREAT BELIEVERS, and her SubMakk substack. She also shares her tribute to her late father, the 84 Books Project.

I HAVE SOME QUESTIONS FOR YOU is available in hardcover from Viking and audio from Penguin Audio. For more on the author visit https://rebeccamakkai.com/

Larry Loftis, “The Watchmaker’s Daughter: The True Story of World War II Heroine Corrie Ten Boom” Apr 04, 2023

Larry Loftis writers non-fiction thrillers. Not a genre Olivia was familiar with before reading his 2023 book THE WATCHMAKER’S DAUGHTER, Larry joined the podcast to talk about his approach to telling true stories that read like fiction. “I like thrillers, that’s what’s fun for me to read, turning the page, getting your heart rate going, so I just merged the two genres.”

Larry spends at least a year on research before beginning to write his books- and telling Corrie Ten Boom’s story was no different. Once he completes his extensive research, he exercises his creativity in the formatting and pacing of the story. He takes no creative license with the details: “I can’t make anything up. What I can do is decide when chapters end, that’s up to me. When there's a dead body, a gun, a briefcase stolen… then, I can end the chapter there. The reader says, ‘wait, wait, what happened? That's what a thriller is.”

Larry Loftis is the author of: THE PRINCESS SPY, CODE NAME: LISE, INTO THE LION’S MOUTH, and 2023’s THE WATCHMAKER’S DAUGHTER, published by William Morrow and is also available as an audiobook from Harper Audio.

Anastasia Ryan, “You Should Smile More” Mar 21, 2023

Vanessa Blair is most definitely not living her dream life. She’s working as a telemarketer for a judgmental tyrant who wants her out because of her RBF. Her facial expression aside, she’s done everything expected of the employees and then some (hello, office Olympics?)

For fans of movies like Office Space and the classic 9-5, Anastasia Ryan’s debut novel YOU SHOULD SMILE MORE is laugh out loud funny and disturbingly relatable to most anyone who has worked in a company claiming to embrace a meaningful corporate culture. When Vanessa and her peers turn her termination into a challenge, they learn from the tenets of THE ART OF WAR, realize that friendships were the true perk of the job, and find a way to a happier ending that can incorporate gainful employment, kittens, and maybe even love.

Anastasia talks to Olivia about the jobs and interviews that inspired her story, her own history as a foster mom to kittens, and why being an introvert feels like an obstacle to selling books! For more on the author visit https://anastasiaryan.com/

Follow her on IG, TikTok and Twitter: @byanastasiaryan

YOU SHOULD SMILE MORE is available in paperback and for e-readers from Sourcebooks.

William Landay, “All That is Mine I Carry With Me” Mar 14, 2023

For attorney turned novelist William Landay, the justice system is a complex beast, and the stories worth telling don’t often resolve simply.

The intense emotion of uncertainty of what to believe is what propelled the narrative of William Landay’s 2012 bestselling novel DEFENDING JACOB, recently adapted as a limited series for Apple TV+.

More than ten years later, Landay is back with a new family drama that also involves the courtroom. ALL THAT IS MINE I CARRY WITH ME begins with the disappearance of a suburban mother of three, Miranda Larkin, spouse of a prominent criminal defense attorney. The investigation, fears, suspicions, and absence of the matriarch and questions of the father’s involvement fuel the moving story that spans decades, grappling with the uncertainty of never knowing what to truly believe.

“It is human beings in a jury box, human beings who are judges and lawyers, and mistakes are made. So I wanted to capture some of that uncertainty – which is a difficult thing, when working toward a conclusion is the whole heart of the story,” Landay says as he joins Olivia on the podcast. He shares the journey over the years to write his fourth novel, and what advice he has for other writers who sometimes find the craft full of challenges. ALL THAT IS MINE I CARRY WITH ME published in hardcover by Bantam Books, and is available in audio.

For more on the author, visit www.williamlanday.com

Sarah Penner, "The London Séance Society" Mar 07, 2023

Sarah joins the podcast to discuss her second novel, THE LONDON SEANCE SOCIETY. Book number two comes just two years after her instant New York Times #1 bestseller, THE LOST APOTHECARY. That literary tsunami-style splash was made on the heels of leaving a long, successful career working in finance. Yes, finance! Sarah talks with Olivia about her past career and the perk of traveling regularly to London, where she says, “she felt like I’d lived a previous life there. I felt so enchanted by the old brick alleyways... really enamored of it all. I knew I wanted to set my first book there and ended up setting THE LONDON SEANCE SOCIETY there as well.”

Sarah talks about researching her Victorian-era novel, writing strong female characters like Lenna and Vaudeline, and her own adventure gaining perspective of a séance, digging deeper into what grieving people are seeking when they desire connection with those who have passed, and how those emotions can make us vulnerable.

THE LONDON SEANCE SOCIETY is released March 7, 2023 by Park Row Books. For more on the author visit sarahpenner.com Also mentioned in this podcast: HESTER by Laurie Lico Albanese. To hear Olivia’s previous conversation with Laurie about this book, listen to this podcast episode from October 20, 2022.

Wanda Morris, “Anywhere You Run” Feb 28, 2023

“When I tell you I’m living the dream Olivia, I’m living the dream!” Wanda Morris returns to the podcast to talk about her second novel, ANYWHERE YOU RUN, published by William Morrow in October, a follow up to her acclaimed debut, ALL HER LITTLE SECRETS.

Wanda’s novel is what she calls a “coming of age story, with a few dead bodies thrown in,” is set in Jackson, Mississippi in 1964, focusing on sisters Marigold and Violet and how their lives change when they each leave the only home they’ve ever known, to save their own futures.

ANYWHERE YOU RUN is available in hardcover from William Morrow, and in audio from HarperAudio.

For more on the author visit https://wandamorriswrites.com/

Wanda will be part of the Brandeis Books & Author event in Phoenix on March 13. For ticket info: https://www.brandeisphoenix.org/2023ba.html

Rachel Koller Croft, “Stone Cold Fox” Feb 14, 2023

Screenwriter Rachel Koller Croft’s debut novel STONE COLD FOX is a deliciously wicked thriller about a gorgeous woman who has no intention of letting anyone or anything (even her own truth) get in the way of the way of a ring on her finger and millions in the bank. Rachel joins the podcast to talk to Olivia about the story, the journey to get a publisher to say yes, and which character in the book is loosely inspired by someone in her life.

STONE COLD FOX is out February 14, 2023 in hardcover from Berkley, and the audiobook is Penguin Random House audio, read by Carlotta Brentan. Rachel’s book tour includes dates in Chicago, California, New York and Arizona. Visit

https://www.rachelkollercroft.com/ for details, or catch her in person with Olivia for her book event at The Poisoned Pen Bookstore on Thursday March2, 2023 at 7pm. https://calendar.time.ly/9plshfqx/event/75299678/20230302190000

Barbara VanDenburgh, USA TODAY Books Editor Feb 07, 2023

There aren’t many people around who read more than Barbara VanDenburgh, the former Arizona Republic writer turned USA Today Books Editor. When she’s not reading or writing about books, she’s talking about them, as host of the First Draft Book Club at Changing Hands Bookstore in Phoenix.

Barbara joined the podcast to share some of the early 2023 books she’s most excited about, including the current pick for her book club:

NIGHT WHEREVER WE GO, Tracey Rose Peyton LIFE ON DELAY: MAKING PEACE WITH A STUTTER, John Hendrickson

VICTORY CITY, Salman Rushdie

THE CLIMATE BOOK: THE FACTS AND THE SOLUTIONS, Greta Thunberg HOW TO SELL A HAUNTED HOUSE, Grady Hendrix

NEVER NEVER, Colleen Hoover & Tarryn Fisher

OSCAR WARS: A HISTORY OF THE OSCARS IN GOLD, SWEAT AND TEARS, Michael Schulman

IMMORTALITY A LOVE STORY, Dana Schwartz LOVE PAMELA, Pamela Anderson

FINDING ME, Viola Davis

Books also mentioned in this episode:

FAIRY TALE, Stephen King

THE GLASS CASTLE and HANG THE MOON, Jeannette Walls

To follow Barbara’s work, visit: https://www.usatoday.com/staff/2646127001/barbara-vandenburgh/

Join First Draft Book Club: https://firstdraftbookbar.com/book-club

Elle Cosimano, “Finlay Donovan Jumps the Gun” Jan 31, 2023

When a misunderstanding at a Panera results in an offer that’s impossible to refuse, Elle Cosimano’s title character springs to life for readers who can’t help but root for her heroine to find love, money, and kick a lot of butt along the way.

Elle returns to the podcast to talk to Olivia about the third book in her series, FINLAY DONOVAN JUMPS THE GUN. This time we see Finlay and her bestie/nanny/accountant, Vero, head off to a citizen’s police academy that puts her right in the focus of the police, for better or worse. The author says the situation was inspired by a real-life writer’s academy she took part in, which provides a safe space to ask questions that might otherwise make you look like an aspiring serial killer. “My google search probably has me on several very scary watchlists… but the writer’s police academy was great for those questions that would be frowned upon for asking anywhere else!”

FINLAY DONOVAN JUMPS THE GUN is available from Minotaur Books on January 31, 2023, and as an audiobook from Macmillan Audio.

For more on the author, visit www.ellecosimano.com

Dani Shapiro, "Signal Fires" Jan 24, 2023

Dani Shapiro is the author of eleven books, and the host and creator of the hit podcast Family Secrets. She joined the podcast to talk with Olivia about her most recent novel, SIGNAL FIRES, her first work of fiction in thirteen years. SIGNAL FIRES was named a best book of 2022 by numerous publications, including Time Magazine, and The Washington Post.

Dani tells Olivia about how the idea for SIGNAL FIRES first struck her years ago, and that she felt only recently capable of crafting the moving story in part due to her life experience in recent years, specifically the revelations about her own family she shared in her bestselling memoir, INHERITANCE.

SIGNAL FIRES is available in hardcover from Knopf Doubleday, and in audiobook (narrated by the author) from Penguin Random House. For more on Dani Shapiro, visit her website: https://danishapiro.com/

Dani Shapiro will be part of an author event in Phoenix in March. To request ticket information visit: https://www.brandeisphoenix.org/2023ba.html

Valerie Tejeda, "Self Care by the Signs" Jan 17, 2023

2023 is going to be a good year according to astrologer Valerie Tejeda. Tejeda is a bestselling author, an astrologer with a degree in psychology and certificates in astrology and music therapy, and the creator of the digital brand Big Cosmic Energy. She is the writer and narrator of SELF CARE BY THE SIGNS, a #1 Audible bestseller, a #1 Amazon bestseller, an AP bestseller, as well as SELF CARE BY THE MOON, an Audible Top 10 Listen and Editor's Pick for a 2021 favorite in self-development.

She joins the podcast to chat with Olivia (in spite of Mercury being in retrograde messing with reception,) and the powers of the planets and how we can use the stars to better understand ourselves and others. During the chat, Valerie explains why Mercury is messing with us all (and those with Olivia’s signs in particular,) and shares the inspiration for her contemporary romance novel GOOD ON PAPER. If you are astrology curious, this conversation is for you! Do you want to know if dogs are guided by their signs? Of course, we do! But you’ll have to listen as she shares some insight into her own canine cutie, Dulce.

Valerie has contributed to Self Magazine, Vanity Fair, MTV, Teen Vogue, Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan, among other publications, and is working on her next book, COSMIC CARE.

To learn more about Valerie, purchase her books, or schedule an astrological reading, visit valerietejeda.com

Mary Kubica, “Just The Nicest Couple” Jan 03, 2023

Queen of suspense Mary Kubica opens the year with her latest suspenseful mystery, JUST THE NICEST COUPLE, to be released January 10th. The New York Times and USA Today bestselling author joins the podcast to talk about her twisty tale of two seemingly perfect couples, and the secrets that are exposed between them when one of the husbands disappears. Mary joins the podcast to talk with Olivia about her previous career as a teacher, how she constructs her storylines, and how motherhood helped to launch her successful career.

Mary will celebrate her books birthday with an event at The Poisoned Pen Bookstore in Scottsdale on January 10th. For event information or to pre-order a copy of JUST THE NICEST COUPLE, visit https://poisonedpen.com/ To learn more about the author visit https://marykubica.com/

Kiersten Modglin, “A Quiet Retreat” Dec 27, 2022

“You are cordially invited to visit the new Black Hills Manor Writing Retreat,” says the invitation received by five mystery/thriller writers, what could go wrong? That’s the lure that leads protagonist Blakely to a remote southern manor with a dark history in Kiersten Modglin’s novel, A QUIET RETREAT. Kiersten joins the podcast to talk to Olivia about writing strong women who save themselves, how she maintains her intense writing schedule with a goal of a book every other month (!), and why she can only enjoy her own fiction, such as IF YOU’RE READING THIS, once it becomes an audiobook.

An Amazon bestselling author who is a favorite for so many readers, don’t miss the conversation with the talented writer whose books always embody the theme: Love, Lies, Alibis. To download her full book list, visit: https://www.kierstenmodglinauthor.com/

SANTA, BRING US THE BOOKS (and Mary Kay Andrews!) Dec 20, 2022

The countdown to Christmas is ON! Whether you’re looking for the festive audiobook to listen to while shopping or gift wrapping, or a gift idea for the bookworm on your nice list, this episode is here for you. Olivia shares recommendations and future holiday favorites straight from her own TBR. This is followed by a revisiting of a festive 2021 conversation with New York Times bestselling novelist Mary Kay Andrews, author of THE SANTA SUIT.

Also mentioned in this episode:

HOLIDAYS ON ICE, David Sedaris

SKIPPING CHRISTMAS, John Grisham

LOVE ALWAYS, CHRISTMAS, Karen Schaler

ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS CAROL, Karen Schaler

CHRISTMAS SHOPAHOLIC, Sophie Kinsella

Once Upon a Book Club monthly subscription service: https://www.onceuponabookclub.com/

Ben Lytle, “The Potentialist: Your Future in the New Reality of the Next Thirty Years” Dec 06, 2022

Ben Lytle is a potentialist and invites all readers of his book to become one as well. He joins the podcast this week to discuss with Olivia the philosophy of potentialism, including his annual ritual of self-assessment, asking himself “am I doing what's making me happy? Am I contributing to life in the way I want to? Doing that, for me has always kept me vibrant.”

When Lytle began outlining what became his debut book, THE POTENTIALIST: YOUR FUTURE IN THE NEW REALITY OF THE NEXT THIRTY YEARS, his intended audience was exclusively the future generations of his own family. Luckily for the public, the CEO/entrepreneur decided to share his wisdom more broadly, publishing THE POTENTIALIST as the first of a three-book series.

His business resume includes launching and leading five successful companies, including Anthem, currently twentieth on the Fortune 500. Lytle is considered an expert on healthcare policy, a revolutionary thinker and leader devoted to inspiring individual and collective human potential through innovation and creative thinking.

THE POTENTIALIST was released in hardcover by Amplify Publishing Group. To find out more about the author, explore the ten principles of the New World reality over the next thirty

years, and find out if your child is ready for the future, visit https://potentialistfuture.com/

During this podcast, these books were recommended:

ON WRITING: A MEMOIR OF THE CRAFT by Stephen King

BIG MAGIC by Elizabeth Gilbert

Katherine Corcoran, “IN THE MOUTH OF THE WOLF: A Murder, a Coverup, and the True Cost of Silencing the Press” Nov 29, 2022

“We are actually heading into the direction of Mexico, while Mexico is trying to be more like us, a country of free press that supports the free press,” says Katherine Corcoran about the emergence of independent journalism in Mexico that has simultaneously sparked a rise in violence against journalists.

Corcoran joined the podcast to talk with Olivia about her non-fiction book, IN THE MOUTH OF THE WOLF: A Murder, A Cover-Up, And The True Cost of Silencing The Press. Corcoran’s work as a bureau chief for the Associated Press gave her the interest and the access to begin investigating and writing about the murder of Proceso reporter Regina Martinez, who Corcoran had spoken to only months before her death. “What does it mean? Why should people read this story?” she reflects, “When things started to get worse for journalists in the United States, which was something I hadn’t anticipated at all, all of a sudden it was very easy to understand why the book was important.”

On her time in Mexico, Katherine shares her love of Oaxaca, Guanajuato, and Mexico City, and recommends an article written by a fellow journalist as a guideline for a visit to the capital city: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2022/11/17/travel/things-to-do-mexico-city.html

IN THE MOUTH OF THE WOLF: A Murder, a Coverup, and the True Cost of Silencing the Press is published in hardback from Bloomsbury Publishing.

Books We Are Thankful For, with Whitney Clark Nov 22, 2022

Whoa, the holidays are upon us (and the cost of dinner is up 20% on average!) So, let’s talk about what we’re thankful for: BOOKS! In particular the really special ones that stay with us well past the last page.

News anchor Whitney Clark is an avid reader (44 books and counting this year) and shares her top five for 2022 on this week’s podcast. Olivia couldn’t stick to such a tight list, but shares a few others that are worth recommending. So escape the family, close the bedroom door and enjoy this reading list!

Whitney’s Recommendations:

-CARRIE SOTO IS BACK, Taylor Jenkins Reid

-THE PARIS LIBRARIAN, Mark Pryor

-CRYING IN H MART, Michelle Zauner

-ATLAS OF THE HEART, Brene Brown

-ONE ITALIAN SUMMER, Rebecca Serle

Olivia’s Recommendations:

-FAIRY TALE, Stephen King

-WE ARE THE LIGHT , Matthew Quick

-I'M GLAD MY MOM DIED, Jennette McCurdy

-FINDING ME, Viola Davis

-THE GOLDEN COUPLE, Greer Hendricks & Sarah Pekkanen

-BAD VIBES ONLY, Nora McInerny

-VERITY, Colleen Hoover

-LA WEATHER, Maria Amparo Escandon

-LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY, Bonnie Garmus

-LOOK CLOSER, David Ellis

Nora McInerny, “Bad Vibes Only (And Other Things I Bring to the Table)" Nov 08, 2022

When Nora and her husband Aaron collaborated on his obituary her grief was introduced to the world, alongside the creative spirit and humor she and her son’s dad shared. Since then, Nora has become a beloved voice for others trying to see their way out of the darkness- or want to know how to support someone else who is in the thick of the worst. Nora is the host of the podcast “Terrible, Thanks for Asking” and joined the Olivia’s Book Club podcast to talk about her new collection of essays, BAD VIBES ONLY (And Other Things I Bring to the Table.)

Nora now lives in Phoenix with her second husband and kids, and enjoys life dehydrating in the desert sun.

BAD VIBES ONLY is available in hardcover from Atria books, and on audio from Simon & Schuster Audio.

For more on the author, visit https://noraborealis.com/

Lisa Unger, "Secluded Cabin Sleeps Six" Nov 01, 2022

Luxury cabin out in the middle of nowhere, what could go wrong? Readers of the November thriller SECLUDED CABIN SLEEPS SIX.

“I’ve been writing since I was a kid. I never wanted to do anything else but write- ever. The fact that I get to do it… to live in this world of stories and characters and I get to share them with people, not just my mom, not just my grandma,” Lisa Unger says with a laugh about her career she considers to be “a dream come true.”

New York Times bestselling author Lisa Unger joins the podcast to talk about her twenty-year writing career and SECLUDED CABIN SLEEPS SIX. Lisa tells Olivia about her writing routine, the pandemic escapes that inspired this story, and what mystery/crime writers are really like. SECLUDED CABIN SLEEPS SIX is published by Park Row, also available in audio from Harlequin Audio. For more on the author visit https://lisaunger.com/

Lisa will celebrate the book’s release in Scottsdale on November 8, 2022 at The Poisoned Pen Bookstore at 7pm. Signed copies are available for pre-order.

Sulari Gentill, "The Woman in the Library" Oct 25, 2022

“Things like structural edits, what the characters do, that’s really the choice of the writer,” quips Sulari Gentill, while discussing communications with the devoted fan base of her Rowland Sinclair series, and her new stand-alone literary mystery, THE WOMAN IN THE LIBRARY.

All the way from Australia, the author chats with Olivia in the Arizona podcast studio before meeting her readers and leading writing workshops at The Poisoned Pen Bookstore in Scottsdale.

Sulari talks about playing with genre and the blurring of fact and fiction, with her novel about a novel, written by protagonist Hannah, whose early draft THE WOMAN IN THE LIBRARY READER is spending most of our time with.

THE WOMAN IN THE LIBRARY is now available in paperback from Sourcebooks, hardcover from Poisoned Pen Press, and as an audiobook by Dreamscape Media. For more on the author, visit: http://sularigentill.com

A Moment With Margaret Oct 18, 2022

It has been too long since the podcast caught up on what Margaret is reading. Olivia’s favorite reader to turn to for book recommendations, the once weekly A Moment With Margaret conversation is the sole focus of this week’s podcast! Devoted audiobook listener and reality TV watcher, Margaret shares the books she consumed over the last few months and the emoji that best captures her feelings about each one. She talks with Olivia about her reasoning for each, and they discover they disagree about at least one review!

Here’s her list of books to help you determine which are a must for your TBR pile, and what you may she’s reviewing, and telling Olivia why they inspired these emojis.

Keep up with her reading list by following @overbookedandoverdue on Instagram

Hester by Laurie Lico Albanese (historical fiction/spooky vibes) - 👍

The Office BFFs by Jenna Fischer & Angela Kinsey (nonfiction) - 👍

Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney (suspense/thriller) - 👍

More Than You'll Ever Know by Kate Gutierrez (women's fiction, suspense) - 😏

Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus (women's fiction) - 👍👍

The Family Remains by Lisa Jewell (suspense/thriller) - 😏

The House Across the Lake (suspense/thriller) - 😏

The Island by Adrian McKinty (suspense/thriller) - 👎

Love Me as I Am by Garcelle Beavais (non fiction) - 😏

The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley (suspense/thriller) - 👎

The Royals Next Door by Karina Halle (rom/com) - 🤗

The One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot by Marianne Cronin (fiction) - 👍😭

Alex Finlay, "The Night Shift" Oct 11, 2022

When writing the conversations between teenagers targeted in a 1999 New Year’s Eve massacre at a Blockbuster video in THE NIGHT SHIFT, Alex Finlay says he tapped into the years of eavesdropping while shuttling kids to activities, “you become invisible to your kids and their friends.” Finlay, who writes under a pen name, is an appellate lawyer who is following up his hit thriller EVERY LAST FEAR with THE NIGHT SHIFT.

He joins the podcast to talk with Olivia about the book, his writing process, the old manuscript he dug up that he can objectively say now was not good, then teases his 2023 thriller WHAT HAVE WE DONE.

Finlay will join Olivia’s Book Club to discuss his novel with readers of October 18. Register here: Register in advance for this meeting:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwof-mprjsiEtJSy9vIi_EvP5b4AjHj4fQy

For more on the author, visit: https://alexfinlaybooks.com/

Laurie Lico Albanese, "Hester" Oct 04, 2022

Laurie Lico Albanese, author of HESTER, a reimagining of the story behind THE SCARLET LETTER, joins the podcast to talk about her latest work of historical fiction. The story focuses on Isobel Gamble, a seamstress who moves from Scotland to Salem, Massachusetts in the early 1800s. Laurie says her heroine’s “gift is her curse, and her curse is her gift,” who is descended from an accused witch and ends up crossing paths with Nathaniel Hawthorne.

She talks about the research that went into writing the book, shares advice for writers on approaching historical fiction, her own relationship with embroidery, and discusses what her character of Isobel has in common with singer Billie Eilish.

HESTER is available in hardcover and audio from St. Martin’s Press, and Macmillan Audio, respectively.

For more on the author, visit: https://www.laurielicoalbanese.com/

Michelle Wolett of Once Upon a Book Club Sep 13, 2022

Once Upon a Book Club is a bookworm’s dream come true: a monthly delivery service of an oversized book box filled with a surprise book selection and an array of specially curated gifts to bring that book to life. The Arizona based business is the brainchild of Michelle Wolett, who also owns Chick-Lit Designs (recreating favorite books into cell phone and tablet cases). Michelle joined Olivia for the podcast to talk about the business that originated as a gift for her Mom- to motivate her to read Kristin Hannah’s THE NIGHTINGALE. Michelle tells Olivia about how she quickly went from idea to action, navigating the growth of the business, how she approaches book selection, and how she wants the gifts to appeal to all the senses, adding touch or scent to bring the books to life. “The magical experience of it is really the selling point,” she says. Started in 2016, Once Upon a Book Club has garnered national attention, and grew from 220 monthly subscribers to a peak of delivering book magic to as many as 8,000 subscribers per month! Michelle says she is most proud and pleased to hear from people who say the boxes have made them readers again. Boxes can be ordered on an individual basis when supplies allow, or on a 3, 6, or 12 month subscription. One book box is $49.99, longer subscriptions come at a monthly discount. To find out more about Once Upon a Book Club, visit: https://www.onceuponabookclub.com/

Amina Akhtar, “Kismet” Sep 06, 2022

Amina Akhtar is a former fashion writer turned novelist, who uses her current home of Arizona as the setting for her thriller KISMET, where enlightenment and danger go hand in hand.

Amina joins the podcast to talk about the book, her move from NYC to just outside Sedona, and writing a character that reflects her own culture and color.

“I was trying to find out what kind of person would want a guru,” recalls novelist Amina Akhtar when crafting her KISMET protagonist, Ronnie Khan, the character who ultimately follows Marley Dewhurst, “a Gwyneth Paltrow wannabe” to Sedona. Sedona is far from zen in KISMET, once members of the wellness community murdered.

KISMET is published in hardcover by Thomas & Mercer, with the audiobook presented by Brilliance Publishing. For more on the author visit: https://www.aminaakhtar.work/

Karin Slaughter, “Girl Forgotten” Aug 30, 2022

Karin Slaughter is the author of more than twenty instant New York Times bestselling novels, and she joins the podcast to talk to Olivia about her latest work of crime fiction and her passion project, the non-profit Save the Libraries.

“I primarily think she did it to annoy her mother,” says Karin, of protagonist Andrea’s career as a US Marshal in her new novel GIRL, FORGOTTEN.

GIRL, FORGOTTEN revisits the characters her readers and viewers of the Netflix series “Pieces of Her” already know, as Andrea completes her training and begins a specialized protection detail that leads to the investigation of a decades old unsolved murder. For more on Karin Slaughter, visit https://www.karinslaughter.com/ and learn how to support Save the Libraries: http://www.savethelibraries.com/

Jennifer Hillier, “Things We Do In the Dark” Aug 23, 2022

“Jimmy was one of my favorite characters… even though he’s dead. Dead from the first word!” declares Jennifer Hillier, when talking about the character of Jimmy Peralta in her new thriller, THINGS WE DO IN THE DARK. When Jimmy is found dead, his wife Paris is arrested for his murder.

Jennifer joins Olivia on the podcast to talk about her approach to the plot, why this book feels her most authentic yet, how distance learning and her writing collided, all-nighters, chicken adobo, and more.

Jennifer Hillier is an award-winning, bestselling author who lives in Toronto. THINGS WE DO IN THE DARK is published by Minotaur Books. Learn more about the author at https://jenniferhillierbooks.com/

Dolen Perkins-Valdez, “Take My Hand” Aug 16, 2022

Historical fiction at its finest, TAKE MY HAND is a fictional retelling of a truly shocking practice in Alabama in the early 1970s: the forced sterilization of poor, mostly Black, women and girls.

Dolen Perkins-Valdez joins the podcast to talk with Olivia about the moving novel, told from the perspective of Civil Townsend, a nurse at the Montgomery Family Planning Clinic, who must advocate for her patients in ways she never expected. After researching the history of the time and events, she approached the fiction with an emotional question: “What would it have been like to be a nurse at that time, under your watch…and how do you live with yourself?”

Dolen Perkins-Valdez is a New York Times bestselling author, Chair of the Board of the PEN/Faulkner Foundation, and an Associate Professor of Literature at American University.

For more on the author visit: https://dolenperkinsvaldez.com/

Bonnie Garmus, “Lessons In Chemistry” Aug 09, 2022

Widely praised as one of the best books of 2022, LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY is the debut novel about the reluctant host of 1960s cooking show from Bonnie Garmus. Bonnie joins Olivia for the podcast to talk about the sensation of debuting as a bestseller decades after first dreaming of becoming a novelist, and her own frustrating professional moment that sparked the unique character of Elizabeth Zott. LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY is now in production as a limited series for Apple+ starring Brie Larsen, and Bonnie is working on a new novel.

For more on the author visit: https://www.bonniegarmus.com/

A Moment With Margaret, other books that touch on reluctant stars: Audrina Patridge’s TO THE HILLS & BACK, and ONE TO WATCH from Kate Stayman-London.

Julia Whelan, “Thank You For Listening” Aug 02, 2022

Julia Whelan is a multi-hyphenate, multi-talented actor and writer. Her new novel, THANK YOU FOR LISTENING, is published by AVON Books (8/2 release.)

When not writing, you’ll find her narrating for authors like Kristin Hannah, Taylor Jenkins Reid and Gillian Flynn, she’s earned endless accolades: Earphone Awards, Audies, Society of Voice Awards, even honored with Audiofile Magazine’s Lifetime Achievement Golden Voice Award in 2020.

Julia’s also an accomplished actress who debuted on ABC’s Once and Again at the age of 14.

The audiobook industry is the setting for Julia’s second novel, THANK YOU FOR LISTENING: “I wanted to write something that was a love letter to the genre...but that wasn’t 100% a romance novel,” she tells Olivia on the podcast. Funny, heartfelt and (of course) romantic, the story of Sewanee Chester and her Brock McKnight is also gives her readers unique insight into both the world of romance and the audiobook industry.

For more on the author, visit https://jmwhelan.com/

A Moment With Margaret

Margaret looks ahead to the August releases she’s most excited for, including new books from favorite authors Taylor Jenkins Reid, Lisa Jewell, and Karin Slaughter, as well as THE MANY DAUGHTERS OF AFONG MOY by Jaime Ford.

Katherine Center, “The Bodyguard” Jul 26, 2022

“Like, is that too fun?” Katherine Center says she wondered, about THE BODYGUARD plot that places Hannah, an executive protection agent, in the enviable position of posing as the girlfriend of a handsome movie star named Jack Stapleton. Originally considered more grounded careers for her client of Hannah’s protection (scientists, etc.,) Katherine tells Olivia that ultimately “during the pandemic, there was no such thing as too fun, we went maximum fun,” adding that she felt compelled to write the type of book she wanted to read in a moment of life that felt too dark and too serious.

On her second visit to Olivia’s Book Club Podcast, Katherine shares more about the inspiration one of the most anticipated rom-coms of the year, her Texas roots that add life to the story, and the scoop on her HAPPINESS FOR BEGINNERS, that’s headed to Netflix. If you’re digging into her book backlist, you’ll find Katherine and Olivia discussing THINGS YOU SAVE IN A FIRE in Episode 6 of the podcast: https://oliviasbookclub.libsyn.com/ep-6

THE BODYGUARD is available now in paperback from St. Martin’s Press and on audio from MacMillan Audio. For more on the author visit https://katherinecenter.com/

A Moment With Margaret:

Since Katherine Center is all about reading for joy, Margaret keeps it light with her book recommendations for the week, sharing the books that bring her joyful summer vibes (juicy & refreshing!)

First, Margaret shares why she loves Emily Henry’s newest novel, BOOK LOVERS- which she loves even more than BEACH READ and THE PEOPLE WE MEET ON VACATION.

She also shares her love for Mary Kay Andrews’ THE HOMEWRECKERS, which tells an uplifting story of a home flipper that she describes as “light and airy” and a perfect source for summer entertainment.

Margaret’s personal update: we are three weeks until our book club discusses LESSONS IN CHEMISTY, and Margaret is still on her library waitlist!

David Ellis, “Look Closer” Jul 19, 2022

LOOK CLOSER is a wildly entertaining domestic thriller with so many twists and turns - even the savviest readers will fail to figure out who or what to believe until the very last page. The story centers on Simon and Vicky, a Chicago couple approaching ten years of marriage, and what (if any) connection they have to a woman found dead in a neighboring suburb. Author David Ellis joins the podcast to talk to Olivia about writing a tricky plot, his previous work with James Patterson, and discusses his other career: as a Justice of the Illinois Appellate Court. David also tells Olivia about the unique experience of as prosecutor in the impeachment of the former governor of the Illinois, Rod Blagojevich.

LOOK CLOSER is available in hardcover from Putnam and the audiobook is from Penguin Audio. For more on the author visit: https://davidellis.com/

Delia Owens, “Where the Crawdads Sing” Jul 15, 2022

Delia Owens’ marsh girl story is a fiction phenom, on the bestseller lists 166 weeks and counting, and holds the New York Times Bestseller List record for the most weeks at #1. The WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING novelist joins the podcast to talk to Olivia about seeing her story made for the big screen, and “meeting” the characters she imagined, on the set of the Hello Sunshine and 3000 Pictures film. Owens shares who inspired the title of the book and movie, and updates the status of her next novel.

“Where the Crawdads Sing” is in theaters today, Rated PG-13. The book is published by G.P. Putnam’s Sons.

Daniel Seddiqui, “Piecing Together America” Jul 12, 2022

Summertime is road trip season, and this week’s podcast guest is the perfect guide to inspire our sense of adventure. Daniel Seddiqui joins Olivia to talk about his new book, “Piecing Together America: Serving the Best Features and Craftsmanship of Every Major City,” and the original book that put him on the map,”50 Jobs in 50 States.”

Daniel reflects on some of his most rewarding moments, encourages consumers to buy American, and shares some of his strategies for connecting with people anywhere, anytime, to find common ground and make friends of strangers.

For more on his epic adventures, visit https://www.livingthemap.com/

Jenny Mollen, “City of Likes” Jul 05, 2022

When Meg Chernoff moves from LA to NYC and becomes friends with Instagram influencer Daphne, everything changes, including her own priorities.

Jenny Mollen, the New York Times bestselling author of I LIKE YOU JUST THE WAY I AM and LIVE FAST, DIE HOT joins the podcast to talk with Olivia about her first novel. Celebrity status and the feeling of being celebrity adjacent is a concept that Jenny knows well, as daughter to Arizona TV favorite, Dr. Art Mollen, and wife to actor Jason Biggs. In the way only Jenny has, she describes the motivation and drive that she mines from these relationships.

CITY OF LIKES is available now from Nacelle Books.

Moment With Margaret:

Margaret & Olivia discuss two other books that touch on the power or influence of social media that Margaret recently enjoyed. First SMILE AND LOOK PRETTY by Amanda Pellegrino, and Alex Finlay’s THE NIGHT SHIFT.

Taylor Hahn, “The Lifestyle” Jun 28, 2022

A very modern, NYC retelling of the Jane Austen classic, “Emma,” Taylor Hahn’s “The Lifestyle” is a beach read that will make you blush! The lawyer turned novelist joins Olivia in the podcast studio of her Arizona hometown to talk about the research she did- and didn’t do- to learn the swinger lifestyle for her sexy story.

The married attorney turned novelist talked about the eye-opening research that went into writing the story of Georgina Wagman (think Cher from Clueless, but smart and grown up,) and her sex-positive solution to saving her marriage after catching her husband with another woman. From a seemingly perfect life to complicated chaos, Hahn’s protagonist is funny and endearing and the cast of characters go through change that the writer found not just entertaining but meaningful. Taylor talks about her love for Peloton instructor Robin Arzon, and how one of her playlists played a key role in inspiring THE LIFESTYLE.

THE LIFESTYLE, published by Anchor Books, is out now. For more on the author, visit:

https://www.taylorhahn.com/

Moment With Margaret: Considering the Jane Austen inspiration for THE LIFESTYLE, Margaret recommends PRIDE, PREJUDICE AND OTHER FLAVORS BY Sonali Dev, and ROSENCRANTZ AND GUILDENSTERN ARE DEAD by Tom Stoppard.

Riley Sager, "The House Across The Lake" Jun 21, 2022

Relaxing lakeside is not an option while reading Riley Sager’s latest, THE HOUSE ACROSS THE LAKE. His latest twisty, creepy, suspenseful novel takes readers away to a family vacation home in Vermont where actress Casey Fletcher can hide out after the loss of her husband and a very public meltdown. The arrival of a high-profile couple who bought the house across the lake, Katherine and Tom Royce, changes things for Casey in ways she’d never expect.

Riley returns to the podcast to talk about the lake view that inspired the novel, heading out on tour for the first time since the pandemic, and why as the writer of scary stories he prefers his entertainment on the funny side. Olivia and Riley find they have something deep in common: a love for the Peacock series Girls5eva.

THE HOUSE ACROSS THE LAKE is released June 21, 2022 by Dutton Books, and the author will be at Poisoned Pen in Scottsdale at 7pm that night. For more on the event: https://calendar.time.ly/9plshfqx/posterboard

For more on the author: https://www.rileysagerbooks.com/

A Moment With Margaret:

Margaret shares two books that have made a big impression recently, one a nonfiction leadership book, the other a psychological thriller. PERMISSION TO SCREW UP: HOW I LEARNED TO LEAD BY DOING (ALMOST) EVERYTHING WRONG by Kristen Hadeed is worth a read and discussion, according to Margaret. She also recommends JUST LIKE MOTHER from Anne Heltzel, that she describes as creepy and impossible to step away from!

Carola Lovering "Can't Look Away" Jun 14, 2022

CAN’T LOOK AWAY is a romantic suspense novel from Carola Lovering, that follows the 2013 romance between Molly Diamond and Jake Danner, and the love that inspires the hit, “Molly’s Song.”

Carola joins the podcast to chat with Olivia about the story, plot surprises, and the thrill of visiting the set of TELL ME LIES, her 2018 novel that’s headed to Hulu as an original series.

CAN’T LOOK AWAY is published by St. Martin’s Press and is available on audio from Macmillan Audio June 14, 2022 .

A Moment With Margaret:

Margaret recommends audiobooks that are good enough to share this summer on your road trips. First, THE HOUSE ON THE CERULEAN SEA, by TJ Klune, and Eva Jrczyk’s THE DEPARTMENT OF RARE BOOKS AND SPECIAL COLLECTIONS.

Jennifer Weiner, “The Summer Place" Jun 07, 2022

Why would a bestselling novelist put a stick of butter in her bra—and who notices when she does? These questions and more are answered when the Queen of the Beach read Jennifer Weiner returns to the podcast.

Her latest novel, THE SUMMER PLACE takes readers back to Cape Cod and delivers what we always expect in the pages of her novels: complex, intriguing characters who you care about and root for, and a plot that will deliver surprises.

THE SUMMER PLACE is a family drama that plays out through the pandemic- where relationships are shared by the pressure cooker environment of living and working together all the time all the days. Jennifer talks to Olivia about the personal moments which inspired some of the story, reflecting on the following year since the loss of her mother, and the female characters who bear her incredible characteristics.

THE SUMMER PLACE is available in hardcover from Atria Books. The Simon & Schuster audiobook is narrated by Sutton Foster. For more on the author visit http://www.jenniferweiner.com/

Nina LaCour, "Yerba Buena" May 31, 2022

With many YA novels to her credit already, Nina LaCour releases YERBA BUENA, her first adult novel. YERBA BUENA is a moving story of overcoming loss, learning to love, and what it means to find a place to call home. Nina talks with Olivia in this episode about crafting the love story of Sara and Emilie, the necessary research (mixing and drinking cocktails) required for writing mixologist Sara, and her book’s Los Angeles setting. Nina LaCour is also the author of a children’s book, MAMA AND MOMMY AND ME IN THE MIDDLE, a passion project inspired by her own daughter. YERBA BUENA is published by Flatiron Books.

A Moment With Margaret: Books on Grief

Margaret recommends NOTES ON YOUR SUDDEN DISAPPEARANCE by Alison Espach and Kristen Bailey’s HOW MUCH WINE WILL FIX A BROKEN HEART?

A Look Back (in Paperback) May 24, 2022

Olivia’s Book Club Podcast has survived its first year! The podcast launched on May 17, 2021 with three episodes featuring novelists Kristin Hannah, Donna Freitas, and Jennifer Weiner, and book recommendations from Margaret Stewart.

This week, the podcast looks back at a few past conversations with writers whose books are now beach-bag ready in paperback. Don’t pack for your Memorial Day weekend without listening to these book recommendations!

Debut novelists Zakiya Dalila Harris (THE OTHER BLACK GIRL,) Ashley Audrain (THE PUSH,) and T.J. Newman (FALLING) share their journeys to publishing a buzz-worthy book.

Boss of the bestseller list Colleen Hoover (REMINDERS OF HIM, IT ENDS WITH US) talks to Olivia about her previous career in social work and her non-profit The Bookworm Box.

Historical fiction favorites Kristin Harmel (THE FOREST OF VANISHING STARS,) JoJo Moyes (THE GIVER OF STARS) and Kristin Hannah (THE FOUR WINDS) talk about the research that goes into these novels, and the ways plot and characters can transform from draft to draft.

If these authors have piqued your interest, there is much more to each conversation. Just search for the author by name in the Olivia’s Book Club podcast library for more book talk.

Christina Lauren, “Something Wilder" May 12, 2022

Lovingly known as the “reigning romance queens” (PopSugar), the writing duo known as Christina Lauren are as lovable as a pair of friends as they are successful as a writing team. Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings join the podcast to talk with Olivia about their new book, SOMETHING WILDER, a wildly exciting romantic adventure set in Utah involving a treasure hunt and a second chance romance.

Christina and Lauren talk about the way they collaborate (and why they were already prepped for pandemic life), their love for BTS, putting Lauren’s PhD in neuroscience to use in THE SOULMATE EQUATION, and not being remotely outdoorsy.

A Moment With Margaret: Liked This? Read That!

For fans of Lisa Jewell’s THEN SHE WAS GONE, Margaret recommends LOCAL WOMAN MISSING by Mary Kubica. If you enjoyed reading the heartwarming and humorous THE GUNCLE by Steven Rowley, Margaret says you’d enjoy WELCOME TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD by Lisa Roe. Margaret also shares her love for former Pump Rules star Stassi Schroeder’s follow up to NEXT LEVEL BASIC, this memoir titled OFF WITH MY HEAD.

Jeneva Rose, "One of Us is Dead" May 10, 2022

“Sometimes friendship can be deadly.”

In ONE OF US IS DEAD, Jeneva Rose delivers a deliciously dramatic thriller written from the perspectives of four women in the posh Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta, where Southern civility and hospitality is for show only. Jeneva Rose joins the podcast to talk about her approach to writing the novel, and how she uses her previous career in social media marketing to promote THE PERFECT MARRIAGE on #booktok, and the hilariously awkward (and successful) outcome. She talks to Olivia about her unique approach to writing the book blurb before the book, and the creative ways she made the most of an IRL book tour.

A Moment With Margaret: “BookTok Made Me Do It!”

Like Jeneva Rose’s viral videos from her husband, Margaret found Kiersten Modglin on TikTok, and discusses why she loves her books.

Likewise, THE FRIEND ZONE by Abby Jimenez, and THE LOVE HYPOTHESIS by Ali Hazelwood remain a #Booktok sensations, and Margaret shares her thoughts on both (one of them just might not live up to the hype!)

Don Winslow, "City on Fire" May 03, 2022

Don Winslow turns to the Greek tragedies for inspiration in what the author says is not only his last trilogy, but will be his last published books. CITY ON FIRE is the first of the three novels, and the first book Don has set in his hometown of Providence. The internationally bestselling author talks with Olivia on the cusp of his retirement from writing about crafting characters like Danny Ryan, who feels intimately familiar to him, or reworking a literal goddess into a contemporary and complex character.

Don talks with Olivia about connecting with emerging writers like T.J. Newman, and his excitement to tour the country and interact with readers, and why he felt called to dive into politics.

A Moment With Margaret: Paperback Preview

Olivia and Margaret recommend books coming out in paperback that we’ve featured on the podcast (search for these authors in our podcast library.) From thriller favorite Lisa Jewell, THE NIGHT SHE DISAPPEARED is in paperback now. Debut sensation Zakiya Dalila Harris’ THE OTHER BLACK GIRL got everyone (including us) talking, and as of June 7, you can tote the book to the beach. From writing team Christine Pride and Jo Piazza, the moving story of how a friendship tested in the wake of a police shooting of an unarmed Black teen, WE ARE NOT LIKE THEM, is available in paperback August 2nd.

Abby Jimenez, "Part of Your World" Apr 26, 2022

Abby Jimenez just may be the most interesting woman in the world! She’s competed on the Food Network, is the owner of Nadia Cakes, a bakery that ships all across the country, and is a bestselling author (not to mention mom to pets who are very popular on social media.)

She joins the podcast to talk about her new novel “Part of Your World,” which she describes as an “age gap, social gap romance” about Alexis Montgomery and Daniel Grant, a doctor and carpenter who meet-cute when she’s driving through town and her car gets stuck in the mud.

Abby shares specific advice with Olivia for aspiring novelists, talks about her bakery business, and shares which network offer to adapt this book for screen that she’s already turned down.

A Moment With Margaret: Beach reads that are top of the TBR for Margaret include Emily Giffin’s “Meant To Be,” (May 31) and “A Botanist’s Guide to Parties and Poisons” (June 7) by Kate Khavari. Olivia and Margaret discuss enjoying Jennifer Weiner’s new book, “The Summer Place” (May 10).

Gilly Macmillan, "The Long Weekend" Apr 19, 2022

Bestselling author of THE NANNY, Gilly Macmillan, joins the podcast to discuss her newest thriller, THE LONG WEEKEND.

Set in the isolated Dark Fell Barn, where three women are on edge as they receive a threatening note that one of their husbands will be murdered. Gilly talks with Olivia about the characters, the importance of the isolation of the environment for building the tension, and an old movie called “A Letter to Three Wives” that sparked her idea. “It’s a kind of messy process but it’s the only one I know, really,” she says of working her way from first draft to a significantly different final draft.

THE LONG WEEKEND was published by William Morrow on March 29,2022.

A Moment With Margaret: recommendations based on other popular books. If you liked Grady Hendrix’s THE FINAL GIRL SUPPORT GROUP, pick up FINAL GIRLS from Riley Sager. If you enjoyed Rebecca Serle’s ONE ITALIAN SUMMER, then add MEET ME IN PARADISE, by Libby Hubscher, to your TBR. For fans of THE WIFE UPSTAIRS, read Carter Wilson’s THE NEW NEIGHBOR.

Erika Krouse, "Tell Me Everything" Apr 12, 2022

Erika Krouse is a writer of both fiction and nonfiction, who joins the podcast to discuss her book, TELL ME EVERYTHING: THE STORY OF A PRIVATE INVESTIGATION. This is a memoir focused on a tale of true crime which parallels the narrator's personal history. This is a moving, painful story of power, powerlessness, and the way lives are left shattered when the system doesn't protect those who need it.

In her book, Erika describes herself as simultaneously "forgettable" and "familiar," but ultimately she's the kind of person others will share their secrets with. This quality, paired with her own scars and knowledge as an abuse survivor, make her a unique voice to tell the story of efforts to hold a Colorado university legally responsible for creating a toxic environment that leads to sexual assault and abuse.

Erika talks with Olivia about the choices she made in writing this book- including efforts to balance honesty with protecting the victims, the skills she's developed to manipulate others, and the implications of sharing her personal story of abuse.

TELL ME EVERYTHING is published by Flatiron Books, March 15,2022.

For more on the author visit http://www.erikakrousewriter.com/

This week Olivia's joined by Hannah Makela, a Tucson-based book blogger and host of Brunch Babes Reads book club, Hannah recommends Sydney Blondell's book of poetry MONARCH (which her will discuss on April 30th) and Erin A. Craig's SMALL FAVORS. Olivia and Hannah get hungry discussing tasty brunch favorites, and Olivia mentions a recent read: LIGHT FROM UNCOMMON STARS by Ryka Aoki.

Hannah can be found on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok at @thepaperbackbruncher or follow/join the club @brunchbabesreads

Sally Hepworth, “The Younger Wife” Apr 05, 2022

A wedding ceremony is pierced by a scream, that sets the scene for Sally Hepworth’s latest suspenseful thriller, THE YOUNGER WIFE, told by alternating narrators.

Full of the twists and unreliable family memories and histories Hepworth is famous for, her new novel focuses on two sisters, Tully and Rachel, and how their lives change when they meet their seemingly perfect father’s new fiancée, Heather. Sally returns to the podcast to discuss the book, post-pandemic life, and the challenges (and joys) of reading books, in addition to writing them.

In A Moment With Margaret, Margaret and Olivia discusses the Australian narrators of THE YOUNGER WIFE audiobook, true crime stories like Paul Holes’ UNMASKED: MY LIFE SOLVING AMERICA’S COLD CASES, Erika Krouse’s TELL ME EVERYTHING, and themes that are touched on similarly to TALKING TO STRANGERS by Malcolm Gladwell. Recommending two works of fiction for those who like to read true crime: Liz Moore’s LONG BRIGHT RIVER and Paula McLain’s WHEN THE STARS GO DARK.

THE YOUNGER WIFE is released by St. Martin’s Press on April 5, 2022.

THE GOOD SISTER is now available in paperback.

Peng Shepherd, "The Cartographers" Mar 29, 2022

“The process of writing felt very much like a scavenger hunt. I would have one clue, then I as the writer also didn’t know, like the reader, where it led,” says Peng Shepherd of her new novel, THE CARTOGRAPHERS, when in-studio for the podcast.

Peng shares her interest in cartography, her lifelong passion for stories, and how she approached the follow up to her highly successful 2019 debut, THE BOOK OF M.

Olivia and Peng were joined by her mother, Lin Sue Flood, a former longtime Phoenix news anchor and full-time proud parent. Lin Sue talked about how she encouraged her daughter’s success, always said yes to her requests of new books, and encouraged her earliest efforts at storytelling.

An avid reader herself, Lin Sue recommended two books she recently enjoyed: Matt Haig’s THE MIDNIGHT LIBRARY, and Celest Ng’s LITTLE FIRES EVERYWHERE.

Peng Shepherd will meet her readers at The Poisoned Pen in Scottsdale on Wednesday, March 30 at 7pm. Information: https://poisonedpen.com/

THE CARTOGRAPHERS is published by William Morrow. THE BOOK OF M is now available in paperback.

Wanda M. Morris, “All Her Little Secrets” Mar 22, 2022

Ellice Littlejohn has succeeded as corporate attorney in Atlanta -in spite of her many secrets. A secret affair, a secret hidden crime, a childhood full of chaos and poverty she’d like to keep secret from colleagues and even friends. Secrets come to the service when her boss is killed, and Ellice responds in the only way she knows how: with more secrets.

Wanda M. Morris joins the podcast to talk about her debut novel, ALL HER LITTLE SECRETS. Morris is a corporate attorney who aspired to write a book for years, starting and stopping this one multiple times before its November 2021 release from William Morrow.

Wanda shares her reaction to her debut, from accolades and buzz out of Entertainment Weekly, Marie Clair, LA Times, to being the #1 Top Pick for “Library Reads” by librarians across the country.

Wanda shares with Olivia how reading a disappointing book was important to her own new career, how themes of racism, sexism, workplace tension and discrimination are central to the book, and why she needed to represent a middle-aged Black woman as her protagonist in the pages, and on the cover of her book.

In a Moment With Margaret, Olivia and Margaret talk about Margaret's big life changes (new job, new industry, new schedule, new hair!) and how this will shake up her reading habits.

Sharing from the recent reading lists in the spirit of ALL HER LITTLE SECRETS: Margaret recommends a different sort of workplace drama, WIDOW FALLS by Kiersten Modglin, another book full of twists and surprises.

Maggie Smith, "Truth and Other Lies" Mar 15, 2022

Maggie Smith’s debut novel, TRUTH AND OTHER LIES, is the fascinating story of three women and the secrets and lies that connect them, shape them, and threaten them. A journalist, psychologist, podcast host and business owner, Maggie joins the podcast to talk about what inspired the book. Maggie talks about using her own life experience writing the relationship Megan and her mother, the political candidate. The book tackles politics, family dynamics, professional identity, and what happens when you look deeper beyond the facades of those you admire, and those you resent.

Margaret and Olivia discuss sharing a name with another person (Maggie Smith the author is not Maggie Smith the actress) with Margaret occasionally receiving emails for THE Martha Stewart, and the show INDEFENSIBLE.

Margaret recommends other new books released this week: THE BOOK OF COLD CASES by Simone St. James and Harlan Coben’s THE MATCH, NINE LIVES by Peter Swanson. Olivia recommends I’M SO EFFIN’ TIRED by Dr. Amy Shah, a previous podcast guest, now in paperback.

TRUTH AND OTHER LIES is published by Ten16Press, released March 8, 2022.

Greer Hendricks & Sarah Pekkanen, "The Golden Couple" Mar 08, 2022

"The Golden Couple" is the latest thriller from bestselling writing duo Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen. Their latest page-turner focuses on therapist Avery Chambers' unorthodox 10 session treatment program, and her clients, Marissa and Matthew Bishop. Gorgeous and glamorous, the Bishops' marriage is plagued by secrets and lies that are about to be brought to the surface by Avery.

Greer & Sarah talked with Olivia on the podcast about the book, the perks of writing as a team, and share advice for aspiring writers.

A Moment With Margaret: Olivia & Margaret discuss other new releases this week that Margaret is interested in, "The Sweet Spot" by Trish Doller, "The Book of Souls" by Kevin Moore, "Smile and Look Pretty" by Amanda Pellegrino, and why we love the TV show "Ghosts."

Rebecca Serle, “One Italian Summer” Mar 01, 2022

Rebecca Serle is taking readers to Positano, Italy in her latest novel, “One Italian Summer.” The story follows Katy, who, in the depths of grief after her mother’s death, goes alone on a planned mother-daughter trip to the Amalfi Coast. Rebecca joins the podcast this week to talk about writing the emotional novel about a daughter’s love for her mother, the inevitable future of defining yourself after you lose your parents and her fears of losing her own parents. She talks about curiosities surrounding your parent’s life before yours, “memory is fiction,” she says. Rebecca shares an incredible memory of her own of a trip to Rome with her mother, that even involved meeting a man her mom had dated! Olivia and Rebecca discuss her other works, and the magic that is “The Gilmore Girls” and audiobook narrator, Lauren Graham.

“One Italian Summer” is available now from Atria Books.

Eve Rodsky, “Find Your Unicorn Space” Feb 22, 2022

When Eve Rodsky applied her expertise in organizational management to making her own household and partnership become more manageable and equitable, she sparked a movement among readers of her first book “Fair Play.”

Now, Eve is back to chat with Olivia about her new book, “Find Your Unicorn Space: Reclaim Your Creative Life in a Too-Busy World.” Here, Eve uses this podcast as an example of what a unicorn space can be, involving creativity, connection, and a sense of completion. She talks about the pandemic’s impact on personal space, and the challenge most of us face when claiming time for activities that bring joy. Eve shares why we may want to swap a gratitude journal for a “guilt journal” and strategies when seeking support from others when you’re seeking your unicorn space.

“Find Your Unicorn Space: Reclaim Your Creative Life in a Too-Busy World” is available in hardcover now from G.P. Putnam’s Sons. Eve also hosts “Time Out: A Fair Play Podcast” for iHeart.

https://www.everodsky.com/

A ‘Bromance’ With Romance Novels Feb 15, 2022

Valentine’s Day vibes on this week’s podcast, with Tim Xayasomloth, bookseller at Changing Hands Bookstore. Tim has become known as "The Romance Guy" at the store ever since he challenged himself to read genres outside his fantasy and science fiction favorites, and found he loved the contemporary romance! Comparing a romance novel to a tasty margarita that “goes down easy,” Tim explains to Olivia why he believes men can benefit from reading romance to understand how to be a better guy and better partner.

Tim talks about the book that started him off: “The Bromance Book Club” by Lyssa Kay Adams, and why some of the romance tropes like enemies to lovers are so enjoyable. Tim also recommends “The Right Swipe” by Alisha Rai, “The Kiss Quotient” by Helen Hoang, and Rachel Lynn Solomon’s “The Ex Talk.”

This podcast episode is dedicated to Elizabeth Stewart, Margaret’s sister, who shared her love for books not only with her little sister, but through her career as a librarian.

To check out more book recommendations from Tim and his colleagues at Changing Hands, visit: https://www.changinghands.com/page/staffpicks

Lisa Harding, “Bright Burning Things” Feb 08, 2022

Irish writer Lisa Harding makes her American literary debut with the highly acclaimed novel, “Bright Burning Things.” Harding writes an emotionally powerful story of Sonya, an actress and single mother who is spiraling out of control, battling alcoholism and trauma. Her four-year-old son, Tommy, is simultaneously Sonya’s lifeline and her prison as the pressures of motherhood push her to her limits. The child is heartbreakingly saddled with playing the role of adult, adoring his mother, and anxiously navigating his unstable environment. Lisa joined the podcast from Dublin to talk about this emotionally raw story: her desire to tell a story of addiction authentically, her reaction to both the success of the book and reader reaction who found it too difficult. Formerly a professional actress, Lisa also tells Olivia about her experience recording the audiobook and what fueled the most stunning moments of her performance.

After the author interview, Olivia and Margaret discuss “Crying In H Mart” by Michelle Zauner and Rebecca Serle’s “One Italian Summer.”

“Bright Burning Things” is available in hardcover from HarperVia.

Elle Cosimano, “Finlay Donovan Knocks ‘Em Dead” Feb 01, 2022

Grab your favorite soup or sandwich from Panera and settle in for a chat with Elle Cosimano – don’t worry, no spoilers!

The beloved Finlay is back and smack dab in the middle of yet another wonderful mess in Elle Cosimano’s February 1st release, “Finlay Donovan Knocks ‘Em Dead,” the follow up to her hit, “Finlay Donovan Is Killing It.”

In this story Finlay and Vero must sort out who is after her ex-husband Steven, and what they can do to protect him, or if they want to. Throw in plenty of secrets, lies, disguises and love triangles and the book is a non-stop mystery full of laughter, friendship, and an adorably relatable heroine.

Elle joined the podcast to talk to Olivia about the series, crafting the friendship between Finlay and Vero, and how many more stories are already in the works (more than listeners may expect!)

She shares advice on writing, and her delight over the love her book covers have received on Instagram.

“Finlay Donovan Knocks ‘Em Dead” is published by Minotaur Books.

“Finlay Donovan Is Killing It” is now available in paperback.

In A Moment With Margaret, Margaret and Olivia discuss some of the reading challenges and book club selections that are out there for the start of the year, and Margaret discusses her current reads and TBR.

To join Olivia's Book Club (currently reading "Project Hail Mary" by Andy Weir): https://www.facebook.com/groups/1215960705219244/

Connect with Olivia

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Oliviafierro

IG: https://www.instagram.com/olivias.bookclub/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/oliviafierro

Connect with Margaret:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/overbookedandoverdue/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/GMAZMargaret

Katherine Faulkner, "Greenwich Park" Jan 25, 2022

Katherine Faulkner has an impressive new title to add to an already impressive (or posh) resume. The Cambridge grad is the Head of News Projects for The Sunday Times, and now a debut novelist, with the release of “Greenwich Park” from Gallery Books.

The story centers around Helen, a complicated and often socially awkward woman who- after many miscarriages is pregnant again and carrying her baby to term. Helen falls into an unusual friendship with Rachel, a fellow expectant mom who quickly and deliberately inserts herself into Helen’s life for mysterious reasons. The book is a psychological thriller illustrating that we never know what lies beneath the surface of the shiny veneers of affluent suburbanites.

Katherine joins the podcast to talk about the book, the balancing of her news career and what it brings to her creative writing, lends insight into some of settings and backgrounds that prove to be important to the characters in “Greenwich Park” that Americans might not pick up on.

A Moment With Margaret: they discuss this book, looking forward to the upcoming release of “The Golden Couple” and get sidetracked from books with a chat about Wordl and other word games.

Katherine Faulkner’s “Greenwich Park” is released in the US January 25, 2022.

To join Olivia's Book Club (currently reading "Project Hail Mary" by Andy Weir): https://www.facebook.com/groups/1215960705219244/

Connect with Olivia

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Oliviafierro

IG: https://www.instagram.com/olivias.bookclub/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/oliviafierro

Connect with Margaret:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/overbookedandoverdue/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/GMAZMargaret

Colleen Hoover, "Reminders Of Him" Jan 18, 2022

Colleen Hoover is a publishing phenomenon, dominating bestseller lists with her catalog of novels week after week. She is a writer who breaks the rules, gliding between traditional publishing houses to self-publishing with ease, and who refuses to limit herself to genre or expectations. Her ability to create complex, emotionally relatable characters make her readers a devoted fanbase who would never miss a Hoover release and are committed to sharing their favorites with other readers online, effectively creating a volunteer publicity machine for work.

Colleen joins Olivia on the podcast this week to talk about her emotional new novel "Reminders of Him," the magical effect social media has had on her career, what she does to keep writing fun, and how her roots as a social worker influence her writing and her continued commitment to giving back, through her Bookworm Box : https://www.thebookwormbox.com/. "Reminders Of Him" is available now.

In a Moment With Margaret... Margaret checks in from California and talks about Colleen's books, authors who inspire you to check out their back catalogs, and recommends "The Man Who Died Twice" by Richard Osman. For more on Colleen Hoover visit her website: https://www.colleenhoover.com/

To join Olivia's Book Club (currently reading "Project Hail Mary" by Andy Weir) : https://www.facebook.com/groups/1215960705219244/

Connect with Olivia

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Oliviafierro

IG: https://www.instagram.com/olivias.bookclub/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/oliviafierro

Connect with Margaret:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/overbookedandoverdue/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/GMAZMargaret

Rachel Hawkins, “Reckless Girls” Jan 11, 2022

Rachel Hawkins’ 2020 release of “The Wife Upstairs” was a huge hit. The contemporary thriller inspired by “Jane Eyre” was the first release outside of the YA genre and showed she can craft a page-turner for a variety of audiences. Rachel talks with Olivia about “Reckless Girls” (published January 2022) that tracks Lux and her boyfriend Nico as they sail off from Hawaii in search of Meroe Island, a remote location with a dark, menacing history with other twenty-somethings in search of adventure and packed with secrets.

Rachel talks about her recent success under the pseudonym Erin Sterling, choosing a new name, her love of literature, and her next thriller in the works.

In a special Moment with Margaret, Margaret Stewart recommends a 2010 book with a nautical theme, “Bloody Jack” by L.A. Meyer, and explains why she has no interest in slowing down her audio speed.

Gabriela Garcia, “Of Women and Salt” Jan 04, 2022

For the first podcast of 2022, we are joined by an author whose ‘buzzed about’ 2021 debut novel is now available in paperback.

Gabriela Garcia’s “Of Women and Salt” was named a Best Book of the Year (2020) by Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar, and The Boston Globe. The novel is a multi-generational story of women, taking readers from nineteenth-century Cuba, to present-day Mexico, Miami, and the immigrant detention centers in Texas along the southern border. “Of Women and Salt” explores the experiences of women through the lens of class, privilege, citizenship, motherhood, addiction, poverty and trauma, and with subtlety spotlights the generational damage caused by family secrets. Garcia talks about the ways her work as an immigrant rights advocate can be felt in some of the most moving portions of the book, along with her own personal travels and family history as an American of Cuban and Mexican descent.

In A Moment With Margaret, Margaret shares her take on Anthony Doerr’s “Cloud Cuckoo Land” and the challenges with listening to a book on audio that weaves through many time periods, places and people.

What are you reading this year? Let us know by email at oliviasbookclub@azfamily.com

Kristi Nelson, “Wake Up Grateful” Dec 28, 2021

“It’s not happiness that makes us grateful, it’s gratefulness that makes us happy” – Kristi Nelson

Kristi Nelson brings her powerful message of the transformative practice of grateful living to the last podcast episode of the year. The author of “Wake Up Grateful” guides readers through the ways you can change your life and perspective for the better, and the ways this shift is proven to improve your life and even your health. Executive Director of A Network for Grateful Living talks with Olivia about how to begin the practice, and the ways the lens of gratitude create change in times of sadness. Her inspirational message and practice is healing and powerful, cultivated over decades after a cancer diagnosis decades ago, and can help us all as we head into a new year. Find the “Wake Up Grateful” study guide here.

After reading more than 100 books in 2021, it is hard to pick your favorites, but Margaret manages to narrow down the 3 books she’s thought about most this year in A Moment With Margaret. Learn why Vincent Bugliosi’s “Helter Skelter,” S.A. Cosby’s “Razorblade Tears,” and “Greenlights” by Matthew McConaughey stood out in such a tall stack of books, and why Steven Rowley’s “The Guncle” earns an honorable mention by being the book she bought, rather than borrowed.

For Olivia, of the nearly 70 books read in 2021, standouts are Ashley Audrain’s “The Push,” Christina Baker-Kline’s “The Exiles,” both of Brit Bennett’s books, and Fredrik Backman’s “Anxious People.”

Which books you are most looking forward to reading in 2022? We’d love to hear from you, email Olivia and Margaret at oliviasbookclub@azfamily.com

Happy New Year!

Mary Kay Andrews, “The Santa Suit” Dec 21, 2021

Brace yourself for some serious Christmas magic! New York Times bestselling author of 29 novels (and counting), Mary Kay Andrews joins the podcast to talk about “The Santa Suit” the book she calls “a delicious, sweet, peppermint scented goodie.” The novella celebrates the magic of Christmas and second chances with a tale of a new beginning for Ivy Perkins, who is starting over personally and professionally with the purchase of The Four Roses farmhouse.

Mary Kay and Olivia chat about Friends & Fiction, which she co-founded and co-hosts, MKA’s skills at treasure hunting, hosting, and design, her early years as a newspaper reporter, how she became tech savvy in the pandemic, and the ritual of self-doubt she still goes through each time she’s set to write another book.

In A Moment With Margaret the readers discuss the fun in embracing the Christmas book genre, and Margaret recommends “One For the Books” by Jenn McKinlay, a previous guest on the podcast.

Karen Schaler, “A Royal Christmas Fairy Tale” Dec 14, 2021

Grab a cup of cocoa and get cozy by the Christmas tree for this visit with Karen Schaler, author of new holiday romance, “A Royal Christmas Fairy Tale.” Entertainment Weekly calls her a “holiday publishing darling” who is equally successful as a novelist and screenwriter, with holiday films like Christmas Camp and A Christmas Prince among her credits. Before she was known as “Christmas Karen” – she had a successful career as a television news reporter. On the podcast, she talks with Olivia about making the transition from covering tragedies to creating festive magic full time.

In a Moment With Margaret, Margaret talks about the idea of missed romantic connections in real life and fiction, and the mood of the holiday season when you’re not someone who feels quite so merry and bright, and why “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” is her favorite Christmas song. Holiday themed books recommended: “Time Next Year” by Sophie Cousens and David Sedaris’ “Holidays On Ice.”

Jeff Kinney, “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Big Shot” Dec 07, 2021

Jeff Kinney is the creative mind behind one of the most successful book series for kids of all time. He joins the podcast to talk about his latest projects: “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Big Shot,” the sixteenth in the series, and the animated film, “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” currently on Disney+.

He talks with Olivia about why his characters should never grow up, the perks of running a bookstore, and reacts to recent efforts to ban books across the country.

In a Moment With Margaret, the two talk about the early books that paved the way for a lifelong love of reading.

Maria Amparo Escandon, “L.A. Weather” Nov 30, 2021

“L.A. Weather” tells the story of one very tumultuous year in the life of the Alvarado family. Successful Mexican-Americans living and working in Los Angeles, the three adult daughters maintain a commitment of meeting their parents for weekly family dinners to share their passion for food, and commitment to family.

Author Maria Amparo Escandon joins the podcast to talk about the narrative technique she uses in the novel: taking the reader through the dramatic year that changes each character profoundly, month my month, and who in her own life inspired the patriarch’s unsettling preoccupation with the weather. Escandon discusses writing the book in what is not her native tongue, her love for Los Angeles, and what she calls “transcreation.”

“L.A. Weather” is a New York Times Bestseller, a Reese’s Book Club Pick, and named to the Best Books of 2021 by Harper’s Bazaar.

Inspired by the vibrant story showcasing a Latino family that defies common fictional stereotypes, Margaret and Olivia discuss “Mexican Gothic” by Silvia Moreno-Garcia and Ericka Sanchez’s “I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter.”

Christine Pride and Jo Piazza, “We Are Not Like Them” Nov 23, 2021

When an unarmed Black teenager is shot by police while walking home from school, the grief and outrage ripples through the city of Philadelphia in the novel “We Are Not Like Them.” The shooting calls for changes in policing, revealing deep divisions among those who experience systemic racism and those who deny it exists. For lifelong best friends Jen and Riley, the shooting is a deeply personal crisis that threatens to rip them apart for good. Christine Pride and Jo Piazza join the podcast to talk about writing this deeply moving book together, navigating their own obstacles to openly discussing race, and the value of exploring divisive issues through the storytelling lens of friendship, forgiveness, and what it takes for two different people to take their shared history into the future.

In a Moment With Margaret: discussion of other recent books that tackle race, including Zakiya Dalila Harris’ “The Other Black Girl,” Brit Bennett’s “The Vanishing Half” and Emmanuel Acho’s “Uncomfortable Conversations With a Black Boy.”

“We Are Not Like Them” is the first novel Piazza and Pride co-authored today. The book was published in October, 2021 by Atria Books.

Eric Rickstad, “I Am Not Who You Think I Am” Nov 16, 2021

Erick Rickstad is a New York Times and international bestselling author of novels including “What Remains of Her” and “The Silent Girls.” He joined the podcast to talk to Olivia about his latest dark, psychological mystery, “I Am Not Who You Think I Am.” It’s a tale that starts in 1976, with a tragic act of violence witnessed by then 8-year-old Maynard, who is not only shaped by the trauma and loss, but by the mounting pressure of keeping a secret from that day he grows to regret. The core of the story focuses on a teenage Maynard, convinced he has a mystery to solve, while navigating complicated teenage friendships and desires that drive him to hold new, even darker secrets. Rickstad talked about the book’s unique narrative that begins with a letter from the police chief to the community, how his life in Vermont and love of the outdoors influences both what he writes and the way he writes it, and reflects on his early love of books and memories of first joining a book club where he was the only boy.

Margaret and Olivia discuss similar, darkly affecting psychological thrillers involving younger characters. Margaret recommends “The Chalk Man” by C.J. Tudor, and Olivia reflects on Donna Tartt’s “The Secret History.”

Vera Kurian, “Never Saw Me Coming” Nov 09, 2021

Seven psychopaths enjoy a free ride to a prestigious east coast school, in exchange for being participating in a psychopathy study. What could go wrong? For one, students keep getting killed. One study participant, Chloe, isn’t at worried for her safety because she considers herself the dangerous one. Debut novelist Vera Kurian joins the podcast to talk about “Never Saw Me Coming,” and why readers find her protagonist irresistible, in spite of her homicidal plotting and lack of empathy.

Kurian discusses what it was like to achieve the dream of publishing a novel during a global pandemic, and in a Moment with Margaret, Margaret Stewart recommends “56 Days” by Catherine Ryan Howard.

Emily Itami, "Fault Lines" Nov 02, 2021

Emily Itami is a debut novelist who uses her expertise as a travel writer to transport her readers to Tokyo in “Fault Lines.” The book focuses on Mizuki, a wealthy and beautiful Tokyo wife and mother, who is profoundly bored. Her witty internal dialogue reveals there are cracks beneath the shiny surface which, like the fault lines running through the city, threaten to damage or destroy. Emily joined the podcast from London to reflect on her experience living in Tokyo, the expectations women face, and how motherhood changes everything.

Margaret discusses a recent novel she enjoyed, “Heard It In a Love Song” by Tracey Garvis Graves.

Riley Sager, “Survive The Night" Oct 26, 2021

Fans of Riley Sager’s work know that he is a master at delivering twist after twist in suspenseful thrillers like “Home Before Dark,” “Lock Every Door,” and his latest, “Survive The Night.”

Sager joins the podcast to talk to Olivia about the novel, its protagonist Charlie, and why the film student fears she may be the Campus Killer’s next victim. He set the book in 1991, the same time that Sager was a college student, allowing him to reference his own favorite music and movies to bring the story and tension to life. Sager talks about how post-pandemic readers may tap into their own feelings of being trapped as they journey along in the car next to Josh, not knowing when or how the road trip will end, or who will survive the night. See below for links to the companion movie and music playlist for “Survive the Night.”

Olivia admits to the author that this is her first time reading his work—another reliable recommendation from Margaret!

In a Moment with Margaret, they discuss the Spotify playlist (and movie list!) the author crafted as companions to his latest book. Margaret also recommends “Summer of ‘69” by Elin Hilderbrand, a different genre, but a book that also taps heavily into music to set the scenes and the period.

https://www.rileysagerbooks.com/survive-the-night-movie-guide

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3cgIbYbNQSFuj8g8xxhscE?si=febc64122c9c4b5b

Lisa Jewell, “The Night She Disappeared” Oct 19, 2021

Halloween is creeping up and it is time for some suspenseful reads, and no one does it better than Lisa Jewell. This time, Jewell takes us to a posh boarding school in the English countryside where many secrets lurk in the beauty, in her latest thriller, The Night She Disappeared. The author joins the podcast to talk about the book and tells Olivia the surprising way she approached the novel: beginning with the setting and a “Dig Here” sign, rather than a crime or even a character! She talks with Olivia about recent travels to Spain, getting her daughters to read her books, and switching her book tour to virtual. She also lends her opinion on who readers should and should not tell, when they don’t love a book or a moment in her books, hint: it is NOT the author!

After the interview, Olivia and Margaret discuss their obsession with British accents, how charming Lisa is, and why Jewell’s catalogue is so worth a deep dive, Halloween themes, and another fan favorite Taylor Jenkins Reid and her latest novel, “Malibu Rising.”

Paula McLain, "When The Stars Go Dark" Oct 12, 2021

Bestselling author of The Paris Wife, Paula McLain, tackles a new genre in her powerful, emotionally charged thriller, When The Stars Go Dark. Following a personal tragedy, Detective Anna Hart launches herself into a missing persons investigation that takes her down a path right into her own painful past, wrestling with what it means to be a woman, a mother, a victim, survivor, and savior. McLain joins the podcast to talk about crafting the layered mystery, and her painful personal history that shapes this work of fiction, a book she feels she was destined to write. She shares how and why she wove in elements of true crime, the allure of setting the book in the 1990s, and her personal skills as a talented cook and mixologist— skills she puts to good use in her friendship with other writers. She talks about nature and the powerful connection she feels in the outdoors, which is palpable in this novel.

In a Moment With Margaret, Margaret recommends Leave No Trace by Mindy Mejia and Damnation Spring by Ash Davidson, which each have elements to appeal to fans of When The Stars Go Dark.

Jenn McKinlay, "Wait For It" Oct 05, 2021

Jenn McKinlay is a prolific writer who is best known for the Library Lover’s and Cupcake Bakery Mysteries. McKinlay is quickly building a loyal following for her women’s fiction and romantic comedies, and her latest is “Wait for It.” When the protagonist, Annabelle, moves from Boston to Phoenix, McKinlay brings readers a slice of life in the desert, a setting the author calls home.

She talks about writing, the ways the pandemic cramped her style, baking, travel, and who is the boss of her house (hint: not a human.) Her next Library Lover’s book, “Killer Research” is available November 2.

A Moment With Margaret: Margaret and Olivia discuss a few other books with subtle character connections or crossover characters in stand-alone books. Margaret recommends Roni Loren’s “Yes & I Love You” and “What If You & Me,” and Olivia recalls old favorites by Emily Giffin, including “Something Borrowed” and the fun finding easter eggs between books, like Jennifer Weiner’s “Big Summer” and “That Summer.”

Laura Lippman, "Dream Girl" Sep 28, 2021

"Dream Girl" is NYT bestselling author Laura Lippman's latest suspenseful novel. Lippman calls it "a book lover's book." Told from the perspective of an acclaimed novelist, Gerry Anderson, whose literary relevance was cemented with publication of a book called "Dream Girl." The story finds Gerry bed-ridden and isolated, recovering from physical injury and the passing of his mother, when he starts receiving mysterious phone calls from his book's fictional character.

Is he losing his mind? Or is someone out to get Gerry, and if so, why? A fresh look at life post #MeToo from the perspective of a man who may have a very unreliable take on his own past. Lippman talks with Olivia about the novel, a crossover from Tess Monaughan, her early days as a journalist, #MeToo, and her friendships with millenials.

In a A Moment With Margaret, Olivia and Margaret discuss revenge themes and Margaret shares why she recommends both Joshilyn Jackson’s “Mother May I?” and S.A. Cosby’s “Razorblade Tears.

Allison Larkin, "The People We Keep" Sep 21, 2021

Allison Larkin’s novel The People We Keep takes readers back to the early 1990s, with teenage April lives mostly alone in a motorhome in a rundown town in rural New York. The People We Keep is the coming-of-age story of a talented young woman who seems to always go without- without a mom, often without a dad, without opportunity, without understanding, without stability, without much of a safety net. Larkin joined the podcast to talk about about writing the story of a traveling musician who spends life on the road, a character that first came to mind fifteen years ago. She shared the journey of the book, the work she put in to hone her own musical skills, and her passion for encouraging other writers.

In a Moment with Margaret, Margaret and Olivia discuss how Instagram-worthy the gorgeous cover of The People We Keep is, and their affection for all things 90s. Margaret recommends The Perks of Being a Wallflower and Olivia admits to having binged (and loved) Freeform’s Cruel Summer, also set in the 90s and streaming on Hulu.

Chandler Baker, “The Husbands” Sep 14, 2021

In “The Husbands,” Chandler Baker takes readers to a suburban, Stepford-inspired, impossibly idyllic Texas community of Dynasty Ranch, which seems to offer Nora Spangler everything she needs. The New York Times bestselling author of “The Whisper Network” joins the podcast to talk about her new novel, her career as an attorney that inspired the character, the sexism women face in the corporate world, and how she feels about her legal colleagues reading her work.

Margaret and Olivia talk about other novels that revolve around planned communities or notable neighbors, including “The Therapist” by BA Paris and Megan Miranda’s “Such a Quiet Place.”

Kristin Harmel, “The Forest of Vanishing Stars” Sep 07, 2021

As a former journalist, novelist Kristin Harmel fully embraces the research required to craft accurate and immersive historical fiction. Harmel became more deeply immersed in World War II Poland and the Jews who her protagonist, Yona, helps to hide and keep alive in the forest against the odds. Along the way, Harmel discovered that she is directly descended from the Polish Jews. Sharing personal and historical revelations, along with telling Olivia about founding Friends and Fiction, and how she started a professional career as a journalist as a teenager, her passion for writing is contagious.

In a Moment With Margaret, we discuss the Most Read Books so far on the Goodreads 2021 Reading Challenge, including “The Forest of Vanishing Stars” and our other favorites, “The Guest List” by Lucy Foley, and Rachel Hawkins’ “The Wife Upstairs.”

Zakiya Dalila Harris, “The Other Black Girl” Aug 31, 2021

One of the most talked about books of 2021, Zakiya Dalila Harris’ debut novel is a genre-bending, searing look at race, office politics, and the micro-aggressions that people of color endure when working in a predominantly white industry. Harris’ “The Other Black Girl” is the story of Nella, a publishing assistant who is used to being the only black voice in the room. When Hazel arrives, dynamics change dramatically, but not at all in ways Nella would expect or desire.

A thriller that is full of surprises, “The Other Black Girl” gives a dramatic look at how easily a young professional can lose her footing when she’s the target of gaslighting. Harris talks to Olivia about writing a debut novel that earned so much buzz, the Spotify playlist she crafted to accompany the book, and working on the adaptation for Hulu.

Margaret and Olivia discuss other books they’ve recently read and loved, including “We Are the Brennans” by Tracy Lange, and “Fault Lines” by Emily Itami.

Lisa Taddeo, “Animal” Aug 24, 2021

Witnessing a suicide of a married lover, while at dinner with another married lover, is the moment that sends Lisa Taddeo’s “Animal” narrator, Joan, out of New York and headed to California.

A dive into grief, rage, and sexual power, the novel is powerfully written and in moments deeply moving and even disturbing. Taddeo reveals she’s far from the darkly intense author many expect is behind her work, shares how she juggled the novel while parenting her six-year-old, and how the pandemic didn’t change her. Listen for the hilarious comment her daughter had for her at a book-signing, and what Olivia said that Lisa jokingly called “the nicest thing anyone has ever said to me.”

“Animal” is published by Avid Reader Press and has been optioned by MGM and Plan B Entertainment.

In a Moment with Margaret, Margaret recommends two other novels with complicated characters: “Pretty Girl” by Karin Slaughter and Jodi Picoult’s “Spark of Light.”

Jennifer Deibel, “A Dance in Donegal” Aug 17, 2021

Jennifer Deibel spent nearly a decade living in Ireland and Austria, building a family and a deep love for all things Irish.

That passion for the Emerald Isle and the Gaelic tongue is still with the Arizona schoolteacher, and fueled her passion for writing her debut novel, “A Dance in Donegal” from Revell Books.

Jennifer talks to Olivia about making a “perfect cuppa”, life in the desert as compared to a land of green, and how she identifies with her protagonist, Moira. “A Dance in Donegal” follows Moira from Boston to Ireland in 1920, following through on her mother’s dying wish for her daughter to teach in the village where she once lived. There, Moira finds a missing piece of herself, and discovers mysteries surrounding her family’s past.

In a Moment With Margaret, they talk about books where the setting is as important as the characters. Margaret recommends “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens, Olivia recommends Elena Ferrante’s “My Brilliant Friend.”

Sophia Benoit: “Well, This is Exhausting: Essays” Aug 10, 2021

Be honest, it IS all exhausting! Over the years, Sophia Benoit has sharpened her fierce wit as a means for survival: dealing in with life as a woman in a sexist world, finding love in the age of apps, accepting yourself even when society considers you fat, the push and pull of life as a child of divorce… Benoit, a relationship and sex columnist discusses her collection of essays with Olivia, reflecting on the value of telling her unfiltered truth, and her hope that after readers laugh out loud (and maybe shed a tear or two) at Benoit’s expense, they’ll feel a little less alone and exhausted.

In a Moment With Margaret, Margaret makes the most of having the Bustle advice columnist’s expertise available and gets her beneficial dating advice (a can’t miss for anyone currently on the apps!)

Christina Baker Kline, "The Exiles" Aug 03, 2021

Christina Baker Kline talks about the research and writing of her powerful work of historical fiction, THE EXILES. The novel tells the story of Evangeline, Hazel, and Matthina, three women who must tap into incredible resilience in the face of oppression and injustice. The setting is “the land beyond the seas,” Van Diemen’s Island, a penal colony established by the British, where 25,000 British women were exiled, by way of a former slave ship, The Medea. The ORPHAN TRAIN author shares with Olivia the parallels with modern day, and her interest in telling stories that focus on the power of female friendship. She shares which famous authors she’s friends with, and recommends mixing up a Dark & Stormy for THE EXILES book club night.

Margaret recommends two books she loved this year: THE INVISIBLE LIFE OF ADDIE LARUE by V.E. Schwab, and GREENLIGHTS by Matthew McConaughey. In addition to THE EXILES, Olivia recommends both novels by Brit Bennett, THE VANISHING HALF and THE MOTHERS.

Cameron Hamilton & Lauren Speed, “Leap of Faith” Jul 27, 2021

Falling in love and getting engaged without ever looking at each other? That’s the premise of the Netflix hit reality show, Love Is Blind. The unique dating show was a huge hit and launched not only a marriage but new careers for Lauren and Cameron.

Fans follow their video content and now they can read about their relationship. Olivia talked with the duo about their book, “Leap of Faith” which is part memoir, but also a useful guide for couples navigating new dynamics, who will take inspiration from the familiar pair as role models in how to define their paths as a couple.

Olivia & Margaret both LOVE reality TV as much as they love their books, so they chat about other enjoyable reads from Tan France, Andy Cohen, Jonathan Van Ness, Margaret Josephs and Stassi Schroeder.

Lauren Layne, “To Sir, With Love" Jul 27, 2021

Can you fall in love with a stranger? Is anything a mystery anymore? “To Sir, With Love” is a romantic comedy written by Lauren Layne who serves up a satisfying look at modern love in Manhattan. Part “Love Is Blind” meets “You’ve Got Mail,” the novel’s protagonist Gracie Cooper is holding down the fort of her champagne shop/ family business, while falling for anonymous stranger on a dating app she only knows as “sir.” Lauren talks to Olivia about delivering a feel-good story when readers need it the most, and why her own life in Manhattan is so important to her writing.

For a reader who loves “To Sir, With Love” Margaret recommends other easy, breezy romantic comedies: “Yes & I Love You” by Roni Loren, “The Real Deal” by Lauren Blakely, and two books by Katharine McGee, “American Royals” and “Majesty.”

All pair nicely with a chilled glass of Cava.

Ashley Audrain, "The Push" Jul 20, 2021

Even the casual reader who glanced at the lists of the Best Books of 2021, or Most Anticipated Fiction of ’21 knew of THE PUSH.

Ashley Audrain’s debut novel explores a women’s greatest fears about motherhood through the suspenseful, gripping story of Blythe and her daughter, Violet. She talks with Olivia about how her professional experience as a literary publicist both shaped and shook her as a writer, and the moments when she deleted nearly ¾ of her manuscript. She also previews her second novel, THE WHISPERS.

Margaret and Olivia discuss other highly hyped debuts and their follow-up novels from Gillian Flynn, Kevin Kwan, Alex Michaelides.

Steven Rowley, “The Guncle” Jul 13, 2021

If you didn’t already know what a guncle is, the character of Patrick in Steven Rowley’s “The Guncle” is here to help. As the Palm Springs dwelling, mimosa loving, sitcom celebrity gay uncle to Maisie and Grant, Patrick opens his heart and his home to the kids in a time of crisis. Olivia talks with the author of “Lily and the Octopus” and “The Editor” about this heartfelt and humorous novel of grief, growth, and finding the people you need right at the right time.

Margaret shares some favorite novels that uniquely touch on grief: “Sing, Unburied, Sing” by Jesmyn Ward, “The Weekend Wedding Assistant” by Rachel Gladstone, and “Long Bright River” by Liz Moore.

Bookseller turned Best Seller T.J. Newman Jul 06, 2021

T.J. Newman’s life changes dramatically this summer. The author is a former indie bookstore bookseller, turned flight attendant, turned novelist. “Falling” is already a bestseller in the UK and is poised for a huge release at home July 7th. Overcoming dozens of rejections from literary agents to get here, Newman’s suspenseful tale of a kidnapping plot targeting the family of an airline pilot ultimately landed her seven-figure deals for the book, and the movie rights. She talks to Olivia about the failures that paved the way, and why her mother has earned the right to say “I told you so” forever.

In a Moment With Margaret, T.J. joins Margaret and Olivia to talk about their love for local bookstores and libraries, and new options for audiobooks.

Dr. Amy Shah, "I'm So Effing Tired" Jun 29, 2021

In “I’m So Effing Tired” wellness expert Dr. Amy Shah tackles what we’re doing that’s making us feel fatigued, outlining a plan for readers to implement changes that will create an energy surge. From what you eat, to when you eat, to managing stress, Dr. Shah talks to Olivia about the energy trifecta, and the personal moment that led her to make a change. From surviving shift work to evaluating what, and sometimes who, to let go of, this is an eye-opening chat that will make listeners want to dig deeper into her book.

Margaret recommends a work of fiction that focuses on exhausted moms called “Happy & You Know It” by Laura Hankin, and admits to what is making her personally exhausted (late nights with Love Island UK.)

JoJo Moyes, "The Giver of Stars" Jun 22, 2021

For so many fiction readers, JoJo Moyes is a household name. The British novelist and screenwriter talked to Olivia and Margaret about the research that went into her latest novel, “The Giver of Stars.” The book is now in paperback, and to write it, the British novelist made numerous trips to America’s heartland for research. She shares why it was important to ride horses in rural Kentucky (combining two of her passions), and some of the wild news headlines that helped her craft Alice, Marjery and the other Packhorse Librarians. Moyes previews her next book that’s headed to the screen, the trilogy that made her famous, and why readers today are making previous releases best-sellers again.

Inspired by Moyes and the Pack Horse Librarians, Olivia and Margaret discuss other novels featuring librarians. For those into suspense, Margaret recommends “All the Devils are Here” by Louise Penny. A novel with a dark and mysterious network of women, there’s “The Lost Apothecary” by Sarah Penner. Olivia and Margaret also mention popular books “The Time Traveler’s Wife” by Audrey Niffenegger, and a children’s classic: “Matilda” by Roald Dahl. For those who haven’t read Sally Hepworth’s “The Good Sister,” Olivia suggests now is the time, as one of the main characters is as a librarian! Olivia talked to Hepworth about this novel in Episode 5 of the podcast.

Dr. Kevin Leman, "8 Secrets to Raising Successful Kids" Jun 15, 2021

Best-selling author (more times than even he can count with certainty,) Dr. Kevin Leman likely wrote a book on any issue in your family you’d like to address and improve. From parenting, to romantic intimacy, to his theories on birth order that still have people talking decades later, Dr. Leman is a deep well of common sense who delivers hilarious truth bombs in a way only he can.

Leman talks to Olivia about his recent book, “8 Secrets to Raising Successful Kids,” why mom is the most influential figure in her son’s life, and why putting away the toaster is his secret to a happy marriage.

In “A Moment with Margaret”: Olivia & Margaret discuss self-help titles that resonate with them. They discuss “Untamed” by Glennon Doyle, “More Than Enough” by Elaine Welteroth, and “Give Them Lala” by Lala Kent.

Katherine Center: Things You Save in a Fire Jun 08, 2021

Katherine Center is all about the joy, writing characters and stories that pull at your heart. The author of “What You Wish For”, she talks to Olivia about “Things You Save in a Fire,” now in paperback. The effervescent artist shares where she goes to meet writing deadlines, the fun she has with her newsletter, how she researched life as a firefighter, and Olivia discovers she and Katherine have Duran Duran and Frances Hodgson Burnett in common! Visit www.katherinecenter.com to shop her books and swag

In A Moment With Margaret, Olivia and Margaret discuss three other books that highlight trailblazing ladies or an unexpected workplace romance: CJ Tudor’s “The Burning Girls,” “The Ex Talk” by Rachel Lynn Solomon, and “Madame Tussaud” by Michelle Moran.

Sally Hepworth: The Good Sister Jun 01, 2021

When Sally Hepworth’s “The Good Sister” was released in April, it became an instant New York Times bestseller. Available now in paperback, this suspenseful thriller about twin sisters Fern and Rose is summer escape at its finest (be warned, you may chew your nails.) Sally spoke with Olivia about crafting the dual narratives, how organically the character of Fern came to the story, the part of her writing process that is like “a dagger to the heart” for other writers, and self-expression through fashion. “The Good Sister” is published by St. Martin’s Press.

In A Moment with Margaret, Margaret shares which thrillers she’ll be reading this summer from authors she’s enjoyed in the past: “The Maidens” by Alex Michaelides, “Survive the Night” by Riley Sager, and “The Perfect Family” by Robyn Harding. These books are released in June, July, and August, respectively.

Samantha Ettus: The Pie Life: A Guilt-Free Recipe for Success and Satisfaction May 25, 2021

Harvard MBA, CEO, and bestselling author Samantha Ettus shares with Olivia her secrets to building a thriving personal and professional life, as outlined in her book, “The Pie Life.” She tells Olivia about her strategies for making the most of home life, what shouldn’t be talked about at work (from the CEO’s perspective), and the true cost for women who step out of the workforce. Samantha is like the best friend you always wanted, ready with supportive, practical advice you’ll want to share with friends.

Margaret and Olivia talk about other books with life lessons they’d recommend!

Jennifer Weiner: That Summer May 18, 2021

The queen of the beach read returns with That Summer. Novelist Jennifer Weiner talks to Olivia about writing women’s stories through the lens of the #MeToo movement. She shares about life on Cape Cod, why Beatrice is one of her favorite characters yet, and the importance of body image in her writing. When thinking of how she fell in love with reading, she shares how an essay by Nora Ephron may have changed her life.

Margaret shares her beach read recommendations: Sally Thorne’s The Hating Game, and Libby Hubscher’s Meet Me in Paradise.

Donna Freitas: The Nine Lives of Rose Napolitano May 18, 2021

Olivia interviews Donna Freitas about her adult fiction debut about a woman who doesn’t want children, and all the challenges that surround her choice. Donna talks about her relationship with her mother, personal moments that make their way into this book, and why switching genres left some with a funny misunderstanding of her work.

Olivia and Margaret discuss other “what if” stories. Margaret recommends The Midnight Library by Matt Haig, The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton, Two Lives of Lydia Bird by Josie Silver, and Dark Matter by Blake Crouch.

Kristin Hannah: The Four Winds May 18, 2021

Olivia interviews Kristin Hannah, No. 1 New York Times Bestselling Author. Hannah reveals why she makes us “ugly cry” and shares two shocking surprises about changes she made to both The Four Winds and The Nightingale. She also shares the book series that hooked her on reading. Olivia and Margaret each recommend a book and movie guaranteed to make you ugly cry. For Olivia, the book is When Breath Becomes Air, by Paul Kalanithi and the movie Stepmom. Margaret’s makeup will run watching Steel Magnolias and reading Me Before You by JoJo Moyes.

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