E191: Anne Bishop

 

Today I welcome the legendary Anne Bishop to the show to discuss her new book, TURNS OF FATE, the first book in her new series, The Isle of Wyrd.  We chat about the genre blending she’s done for years across fantasy, horror and romance, as well as her longevity in an ever-changing publishing marketplace. We also talk about shifting in paranormal fiction since she always finds a new way to include shifters in her work. What an honor to have her on the show!

E193: Favorite Books of 2025 with Brian McAuley and Sarah Wendell

 

SURPRISE! I accidentally posted my end of year episode instead of scheduling it for later, so it's an early gift to all of you. ❤️ Today I have the great pleasure of bringing you our Favorite Books of 2025. Joining me in the fun is Brian McAuley, author of BREATH IN, BLEED OUT, and Sarah Wendell, podcaster extraordinaire behind Smart Bitches, Trashy Books. Both are fan favorites and have great taste in books.

Bookstores Mentioned

• The Twisted Spine - Brooklyn, New York
• The Bookish Shop - Gilbert, Arizona
• The Plot Twist - Denton, Texas
• Vintage Bookstore and Wine Bar - Austin, Texas
• Blackbird Books and Spirits - Belton, Texas 

Sarah’s Book Recs

• Homemaker by Ruthie Knox and Annie Mare
• Everyone is Lying to You by Jo Piazza
• Stone and Sky by Ben Aaronovitch
• Ladies in Hating by Alexandra Vasti
• Sorcery and Small Magics by Maiga Doocy

Brian’s Book Recs

• Angel Down by Daniel Kraus
• Spread Me by Sarah Gailey
• Coffin Moon by Keith Rosson
• The Mean Ones by Tatiana Schlote-Bonne
• Good Boy by Neil McRobert
• When the Wolf Comes Home by Nat Cassidy

Agatha’s Book Recs

• A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandana
• The Favorites by Layne Fargo
• The Ghost Woods by CJ Cooke
• The Hounding by Xenobe Pervis
• Play Nice by Rachel Harrison

E190: Little Women Readalikes with Liz Parker

 

Today I welcome Liz Parker back on the show to discuss Louisa May Alcott’s LITTLE WOMEN, as well as books that retell that story and nonfiction books that connect to this timeless classic. We also chat about THE OTHER MARCH SISTERS, a book that re-examines LITTLE WOMEN through the eyes of Jo March’s sisters. Liz wrote Meg’s chapters in the book, while Ally Malinenko and Linda Epstein wrote the Beth and Amy sections. This, as well as Liz's other new book, WITCHES OF HONEYSUCKLE HOUSE, are linked below. 

In the episode, Liz mentions "Just Little Women: The Musical," which you can find more info on here.

Here are Jessica McHugh's images and poems I refer to in the episode, from her book THE QUIET WAYS I DESTROY YOU. 

I also mention a Youtuber I follow. Her channel is called Under a Tin Roof, and I specifically spoke about her Little Women Breakfast episode. You can enjoy it below, and follow her cozy channel on Youtube and on Instagram. 

I created a featured list in my Bookshop of all the books mentioned in the episode, as well as several others, including nonfiction, retellings, children's books, and various covers of the beloved original. You can find that featured book list here. 

Liz’s recs

• Studying Art Abroad and How to Do It Cheaply – May Alcott
• March by Geraldine Brooks
• Marmee by Sarah Miller
• So Many Beginnings by Bethany Morrow
• Great or Nothing Joy McCullough

Agatha’s recs

• The Quiet Ways I Destroy You by Jessica McHugh
• Little Vampire Women by Lynn Messina
• Beth Is Dead by Katie Bernet (Out Jan 2026)
• March Sisters: On Life, Death, and Little Women by Kate Bolick, Jenny Zhang, Carmen Maria Machado, and Jane Smiley
• The Little Women Cookbook: Tempting Recipes from the March Sisters and Their Friends and Family by Wini Moranville and Louisa May Alcott