E125: The Cuban-Floridian Gothic of Chanel Cleeton

Today, Chanel Cleeton joins me to talk about HOUSE ON BISCAYNE BAY, her new book that explores gothic through a Cuban-Floridian lens. We discuss the difference of writing this novel after her previous and popular historical fiction books that also center Cuban characters and history, and we have fun discussing how she created gothic atmosphere with opulence and peacocks. 

Also mentioned in the episode is:

E124: Selkies and Midwives with Rose Sutherland

Today, Rose Sutherland joins me to talk about A SWEET STING OF SALT, her new book that’s a historical fiction retelling of The Selkie Wife fairy tale. We discuss the origin story for this novel, her nuanced use of language, and creating queer stories with happy endings. I have ⁠A SWEET STING OF SALT⁠, as well as other books mentioned in the episode, in my Bookshop if you want to support both the podcast as well as independent bookstores nationwide.

- Movies mentioned in the episode are "Les Miserable" and "The Secret of Roan Inish."

E123: BLESS YOUR HEART with Lindy Ryan

Today, Lindy Ryan joins me to talk about BLESS YOUR HEART, her new bloody book full of Texas charm. We discuss whether or not this book is a slasher, the wonderful matriarchy at the heart of this book, and her nuanced character work that humanizes Texas caricatures into fully realized people. I have BLESS YOUR HEART in my Bookshop if you want to support both the podcast as well as independent bookstores nationwide. 

E122: Flowers, France and Pride and Prejudice with Hester Fox

Today, I welcome back Hester Fox to discuss her gorgeous and riveting new book, THE BOOK OF THORNS. We discuss the transgressive language of flowers, France during the Napoleonic Wars, and even a few Pride and Prejudice moments for fans of Jane Austen. I have THE BOOK OF THORNS in my Bookshop if you want to support both the podcast as well as independent bookstores nationwide. Links below.

Hester is also my Patreon Book Club guest for April if you want to join us to chat about her book, THE WIDOW OF PALE HARBOR. Members get to ask all the questions and lead the discussion with amazing authors each month! You can join us here. 

E121: Autism, Cemeteries, and Cozy Mysteries with Dr. Brandy Schillace

 

Today, I have Dr. Brandy Schillace on to chat about their fascinating life as a macabre researcher, Autism, and their charming new mystery novel, THE FRAMED WOMEN OF ARDEMORE HOUSE. We discuss the gruesome nonfiction novels they are known for, authentic representation of the autistic experience, and their appearances on History Channel shows as an expert on strange history. I have Dr. Schillace’s books in my Bookshop if you want to support both the podcast as well as independent bookstores nationwide. Link below. 

Brandy also has a YouTube channel that centers nonfiction books on strange topics. It's loads of fun, and you can find it here. 

E120: Paulette Kennedy and THE DEVIL AND MRS. DAVENPORT

Today, I welcome Paulette Kennedy back to the show to chat about her amazing new midcentury gothic novel, THE DEVIL AND MRS. DAVENPORT. We chat about everything from Shirley Jackson to telekinesis metaphors, pyrex dishes and our love of aprons and Dolly Parton. We also get a peek at what she’s working on next. I have all of Paulette’s books in my Bookshop if you want to support both the podcast as well as independent bookstores nationwide. Links below:

E119: Simone St. James and MURDER ROAD

NEW EPISODE! Today, I welcome Simone St. James back to the show to chat about MURDER ROAD. We chat about everything from GenX to the newlywed couple who love and support each other throughout the story. We also get a peek at what she’s working on next. If you want to support the show, I have all of Simone's books available in my Bookshop, and I've included a few direct links of my favorites below.