What Should I Read Next?

Breaking into a new genre can feel intimidating. Today Anne is talking with a reader who is keen to explore cozy mysteries, but isn't sure where to begin. Amber Richcreek lives in Bellingham, Washington with her family, where she’s a pre-k teacher and enjoys baking and photography in her spare time. She’s also a lifelong reader and a fan of emotional, character-driven contemporary fiction.  Lately Amber’s been intrigued by the cozy mystery genre, but when she turns to the internet for tips on where to start, she’s quickly overwhelmed. Amber would love to get acquainted with this genre and better understand how to navigate it as a new reader in this space, and Anne is here to help. We also know that many readers are drawn to cozy titles this time of year, so it feels like a great time to explore the various subgenres of cozy mystery. Find the titles mentioned today and leave your recommendations for Amber on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/503. Our shop is full of both new and returning favorites right now. Our much-loved tote bag makes a great gift—or gift-wrapping—for your favorite reader. Plus we have our new collection of Leuchtturm 1917 embossed journals in custom colors selected by our team along with t-shirts and stickers, signed copies of Anne's books, buttons and pencils, and more. Check it all out at modernmrsdarcy.com/shop and if you’re ordering for holiday delivery, please place your order as early as you can. There's still time to call and share your stories for our upcoming episode. To tell us about a favorite title you discovered thanks to What Should I Read Next, please call us by November 23 at 502-627-0663 and leave us a short voicemail. Please call from a quiet place so we can hear everything you have to say and our listeners can hear you well on the show. We can't wait to listen to your messages. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this lively discussion, wedding photographer and book club leader Meredith Amadee shares her journey of starting a book club during the pandemic. She delves into what sparks engaging conversations, highlighting the importance of thought-provoking reads. Meredith passionately discusses her book exchange traditions and seeks the perfect literary gifts for her club members. Alongside insightful recommendations tailored for different tastes, this conversation brims with inspiration for anyone looking to gift a book this season.

Amy St. Amand, a primary care clinical pharmacist from Rhode Island, dives into her journey of crafting a personal curriculum to explore her eclectic interests like music, food science, and Greek mythology. She shares her love for narrative nonfiction and audiobooks, including her recent modules on vocabulary and psychology. The discussion reveals her excitement for Fleetwood Mac, cultural food histories, and even learning American Sign Language. Tune in to discover how Amy blends reading with creative projects to foster lifelong learning!

Michelle Acierno Loftus, a veterinary radiologist and avid reader, returns to reflect on her evolving reading life since her last visit. She discusses her love for YA books and how her recent shift toward nonfiction and character-driven fiction has enriched her experiences. Michelle shares insights from attending author events and the emotional weight of motherhood-themed books. With Anne's tailored recommendations, they explore how diverse reading can deepen appreciation and understanding of life's seasons.

In this engaging discussion, acclaimed author Kevin Wilson dives into his unique writing process and the family-centered themes in his fiction. He shares the inspiration behind his latest novel, Run for the Hills, touching on topics like found family and personal history. Wilson reveals how he blends humor and weirdness to create emotional depth, discusses his quirky setting choices—including a PT Cruiser—and reflects on his background as a reader. He also hints at his next project involving a teenage boy and a literature teacher. A delightful conversation for book lovers!

Join Kayla King, a lifelong reader and dairy farmer from Pennsylvania, as she seeks book recommendations that evoke the comfort of her favorite TV shows like Friends and The Office. She shares her love for quirky, heartwarming stories and her recent reading challenges. Kayla discusses what makes a book feel like a TV comfort, and Anne suggests a variety of novels, from Becky Chambers' character-driven sci-fi to zany adventures by Carl Hiaasen and cozy romances by Sarah Adams, providing the perfect reading alternatives to binge-watching.

Join Sarah Moriarty, Executive Director of the Charleston Literary Festival, as she shares insights on curating an engaging literary festival. Discover how Charleston's rich storytelling culture enhances the experience and why the single-stage format fosters intimacy. Sarah reveals her three-point tips for maximizing your festival attendance, highlights the return of in-person events, and encourages attendees to embrace unexpected literary discoveries. Plus, learn how her role has broadened her reading habits, sparking a love for diverse genres.

Jemima Welsh, an avid reader from Brisbane, shares her love for warm, domestic fiction and memoirs. She explores charming themes like rambling houses and found families, revealing how these stories provide comfort in tough times. Jemima discusses favorites such as 'Darling' by India Knight and the witty 'Excellent Women' by Barbara Pym. She also reflects on her current reading preferences, seeking immersive tales that evoke cozy domesticity. Listeners will find a delightful mix of recommendations to enrich their book collections.

Get ready for fall reading with a sneak peek into this year's hand-selected literary gems. Discover standout titles like 'To the Moon and Back,' 'Mercy,' and 'The Academy,' each offering unique themes that will resonate with readers. Anne shares insights on her book selection process and the importance of transparency in the literary world. Plus, learn how this event connects book lovers through engaging discussions, making it a delightful way to elevate your reading list this season!

Join Sarah Kellogg, a talented cover designer at a Big Five publisher, as she dives into the fascinating world of book cover design. Discover the emotional connections designers forge with stories and the creative dance between designers, authors, and publishers. Sarah shares her personal reading journey, discussing classics like C.S. Lewis's 'Till We Have Faces' and the importance of rereading. They explore timeless themes of grace, creativity, and philosophy in literature, while also examining the powerful intersection between culinary writing and deep life insights.