
Book Lounge by Libby
The Professional Book Nerds podcast is now, Book Lounge by LibbyBook Lounge by Libby is the podcast where authors, book lovers, and industry insiders come together to talk about the stories we love and the impact they have. Hosted by Joe Skelley, each episode invites you into a cozy, candid conversation about books, writing, publishing, and the trends shaping the literary world.PLUS, every episode features book recommendations from some of your favorite online content creators.Book Lounge airs two seasons per year, along with special monthly episodes. Whether you're into sweeping romances, chilling thrillers, epic fantasies, or powerful memoirs, there's something in the Lounge for every reader. So, grab your favorite drink, get cozy, and meet us in the Book Lounge.Find more at: https://pages.libbylife.com/BL-Links Brought to you by Libby, the library app.
Latest episodes

Sep 26, 2024 • 60min
Must-Read October 2024 Book Releases!
Join us as we dive into some of our most anticipated book releases of October 2024! From gripping thrillers to heartwarming romances, we’re sharing our top picks that you won’t want to miss. Get ready to update your TBR with the hottest new titles that are sure to spark your interest. Tune in and discover your next favorite read!Titles mentioned in this episode: Interviews:
House of Elephants by Claribel A. Ortega
Nothing Like the Movies by Lynn Painter (Sequel to Better Than the Movies)
Somewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ Klune and Daniel Henning
Hot Mess by Jeff Kinney
Emma’s Picks:
The Last One at the Wedding by Jason Rekulak (October 8)
Best Hex Ever by Nadia El-Fassi
The Blue Hour by Paula Hawkins
Spectacular by Stephanie Garber
The Great When by Alan Moore
The House at Watch Hill by Karen Marie Moning
Heir by Sabaa Tahir
From Here to the Great Unknown by Lisa Marie Presley, Riley Keough
Libby Lost and Found by Stephanie Booth
Bloodguard by Cecy Robson
If I Stopped Haunting You by Colby Wilkens
The Dagger and the Flame by Catherine Doyle
Joe’s Picks:
The Message by Ta-Nehisi Coates
Model Home by Rivers Solomon
Memorials by Richard Chizmar
The Universe in Verse by Maria Popova
Be Ready When the Luck Happens by Ina Garten
The Crescent Moon Tearoom by Stacy Sivinski
The Restaurant of Lost Recipes by Hisashi Kashiwai
Killer House Party by Lily Anderson
The Bitter End by Alexa Donne
Thief of the Heights by Son M and Robin Yao
The Terrifying Tales of Vivian Vance by Joshua Ulrich
Side Quest by Samuel Sattin and Steenz
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace.Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 23, 2024 • 57min
Spirits and Stories: Exploring A HAUNTED ROAD ATLAS with And That's Why We Drink
In this episode, Joe is an absolute fangirl over two of his favorite podcasters. Joe chats with Christine Schiefer and Em Schulz, hosts of And That's Why We Drink, an award-winning comedy podcast, where the paranormal and true-crime meet.Em and Christine talk about their new book, A Haunted Road Atlas: NEXT STOP (out September 24), an amazing return to form following their first book, A Haunted Road Atlas. They talk about the inspiration behind their writing (and how different Em & Christine are in their processes), uncover some spine-tingling stories from their travels, and learn how they blend the paranormal and true-crime for their comedy gold. Buckle up - your next haunted road trip starts here!Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace.Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 19, 2024 • 57min
Nostalgia and New Beginnings: A Conversation with YA Author, Sarah Dessen!
Emma chats with Sarah Dessen, an acclaimed young adult author, about her inspiring writing career and the magic of libraries. They dive into the emotional journey behind creating relatable characters and the complexities of young adult literature. Sarah shares her thoughts on the impact of adaptations and the evolving landscape of reading for teens. Personal anecdotes reveal the vital role of librarians in fostering a love for reading, making this conversation both nostalgic and insightful.

Sep 16, 2024 • 53min
2024 Read an Ebook Day Recommendations from Team OverDrive!
Read an Ebook Day is coming up on Sept. 18! Emma and Joe talk to some of their coworkers here at OverDrive to find out what book they’ll be reading. Share what you’re reading on social media with the hashtag #ebooklove and join the conversation. Learn more at www.readanebookday.comTeam OverDrive always bring amazing book recommendations and this year is no exception. From romance to fantasy to literary fiction to YA to thrillers and beyond, there's a recommendation here for every kind of reader.Books mentioned in this episode:
Midnight Rooms by Donyae Coles
The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen
A Fate Inked in Blood by Danielle L. Jensen
A Curse Carved in Bone by Danielle L. Jensen
We Could Be So Good by Cat Sebastian
You Should Be So Lucky by Cat Sebastian
Accidental Demons by Clare Edge
The Dead Girls Club by Damien Angelica Walters
The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafron
Rhythm of War by Brandon Sanderson
White Sand by Brandon Sanderson
The Truth According to Ember by Danica Nava
Wellness by Nathan Hill
12 Months to Live by James Patterson & Mike Lupica
Hard to Kill by James Patterson & Mike Lupica
The Babysitters Coven by Kate M. Williams
Fear the Flames by Olivia Rose Darling
The Co-op by Tarah DeWitt
Want to check out our Seasonal Reading episode that Tiffany mentioned? Listen here.Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace.We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 12, 2024 • 57min
Beyond the Grave: Paranormal Picks for Crime Fans!
Inspired by his upcoming interview with the And That's Why We Drink podcast crew, Joe was joined by a few of his coworkers to share paranormal, crime and paranormal crime reads that you can dive into! Whether you like a cozy mystery, a crime novel, or a bit of horror, we have book recommendations for all! If you'd like to see Quinton's review of The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle audiobook, check it out here.Titles mentioned in this episode: Claire’s Titles:
Hidden Pictures by Jason Rekulak
Shutter by Ramona Emerson
Sneaky Recommendation: Home Before Dark by Riley Sager
The Paranormal Ranger by Stanley Milford, Jr.
Kelli’s Titles:
The Changeling by Victor LaValle
The Book of Cold Cases by Simone St. James (check out Joe’s interview: https://www.professionalbooknerds.com/simone-st-james-author-of-the-book-of-cold-cases/)
The Merciless by Danielle Vega
Sneaky recommendation: Full Immersion – Gemma Amor
Quinton’s Titles:
Sneaky Recommendation: The Dresden Files by Jim Butcher; Hellblazer by John Constantine
White Trash Warlock by David R. Slayton
Ink and Sigil by Kevin Hearne
The 7 ½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton
Joe’s Titles:
Sneaky Recommendations: Jackal by Erin E. Adams, Ring Shout by P. Djeli Clark
The Only Good Indians by Stephen Graham Jones
The Whisper Man by Alex North (but any of North’s books really)
The Lingering by SJI Holliday
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace.Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 9, 2024 • 28min
Al Roker on Books, Libraries and His Reading Journey
Join us for an enlightening conversation with the beloved Al Roker as he opens up about his deep connection to books and libraries. In this exclusive interview, Al shares insights into his favorite reads, the inspiration behind his own books, and the pivotal role libraries have played in his life and career. From heartwarming anecdotes to his personal reading journey, this episode offers a unique glimpse into the man behind the screen and his lifelong passion for literature. Whether you’re a fan of Al Roker, a book enthusiast, or a library lover, this episode is a must-listen!Al's 2024 Books:
Murder on Demand - Al Roker & Matt Costello
Al Roker's Recipes to Live By - Al Roker with Courtney Roker Laga
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace.Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 29, 2024 • 58min
September 2024 Book Buzz: Top Releases You Can't Miss!
Get ready to update your reading list! In this episode of 'September 2024 Book Buzz,' we dive into the hottest book releases hitting the shelves this month. From thrilling new novels to must-read non-fiction, we’ll cover the most anticipated titles you won’t want to miss. Tune in for a sneak peek at the books making waves this September and find your next great read!September Author interviews:
Al Roker
When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker
Haunted Road Atlas: NEXT STOP by Christine Schiefer and Em Schulz
Titles mentioned in this episode: Emma’s Titles: Shout out: So Thirsty by Rachel Harrison
Fear the Flames by Olivia Rose Darling
A Dark and Drowning Tide by Allison Saft
An Academy for Liars by Alexis Henderson
The Third Gilmore Girl by Kelly Bishop
Intermezzo by Sally Rooney
Bringer of Dust by J.M. Miro
The Hitchcock Hotel by Stephanie Wrobel
Rewitched by Lucy Jane Wood
Prime Time Romance by Kate Robb
The Book Swap by Tessa Bickers
Joe’s Titles: Shout out: Somewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ Klune
The Midnight Club by Margot Harrison
Casket Case by Lauren Evans
The Empress of Cooke County by Elizabeth Bass Parman
Lola in the Mirror by Trent Dalton
Sleep Tight by JH Markert
Dearest by Jacquie Walters
What We Sacrifice for Magic by Andrea Jo DeWard
Mismatched by Anne Camlin
Welcome to Fear City by Sarah Dvojack
Ruin Road by Lamar Giles
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace.Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 26, 2024 • 58min
A Dreamy Conversation with Hannah Grace
Emma chats with author, Hannah Grace, about her newest release in the Maple Hills series, Daydream. They also discuss drawing inspiration from Taylor Swift, favorite romance tropes, love triangles, the origins of Halle and Henry, and Hannah's current secret project.Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive MarketplaceWe hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 22, 2024 • 1h 2min
Historical Fantasy to Add to Your Bookshelf!
Emma chats with Maria and Laura to recommend some of their favorite historical fantasy books. They talk a lot about Divine Rivals, go on a bit of a Leigh Bardugo tangent, and share why they love escapism in fiction.Maria’s Picks:
The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
Mirrored Heavens by Rebecca Roanhorse
A Fragile Enchantment by Allison Saft
Laura’s Picks:
The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo
Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross
The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon
Emma’s Picks:
A Sweet Sting of Salt by Rose Sutherland
Lady MacBeth by Ava Reid
Heartless Hunter and Rebel Witch by Kristen Ciccarelli
Other titles mentioned:
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo
Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo
The Poppy War series by R. F. Kuang
Between Earth and Sky series by Rebecca Roanhorse
A River Enchanted by Rebecca Ross
A Fire Endless by Rebecca Ross
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace.We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 15, 2024 • 1h 4min
Cover Story: Books We Read Just for the Look
Ever picked up a book solely because its cover was too captivating to resist? Join us in this episode of Cover Story as we dive into the world of eye-catching book covers that made us swipe our library cards without a second thought. From stunning designs to irresistible artwork, we’ll share our favorite cover-driven picks. Tune in for a fun discussion on the books we picked just for the look!Titles mentioned in this episode: Andrea’s Titles:
Something Strange and Deadly by Susan Dennard
Stalking Jack the Ripper by Kerri Maniscalco
In the Shadow of Blackbirds by Cat Winters
Katie’s Titles:
The Bad Beginning by Lemony Snicket
The Return by Rachel Harrison
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin
Marissa’s Titles:
Sorry I’m Late, I Didn’t Want to Come by Jessica Pan
From Crook to Cook by Snoop Dogg
The Suite Spot by Trish Doller
Emma’s Titles:
Haunted by Meg Cabot (original cover)
Wilder Girls by Rory Power
A Dowry of Blood by S.T. Gibson
Joe’s Titles:
Midnight for Charlie Bone by Jenny Nimmo (following Katie’s lead!!)
The Wig in the Window by Kristen Kittscher
Witchlight by Jessi Zabarsky
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace.Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices