Book Lounge by Libby

ตอน

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  Librarians Spill the Tea: Wild Patron Stories, Book Hot Takes & Library Secrets 24.09.2026 1ชม. 3นาที

  What REALLY happens behind the reference desk? On this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, host Joe Skelley is joined by Becky Cameron and Kate Merlene from Cuyahoga County Public Library and Morgan Schultz from Lutheran West School for a very candid, very fun conversation about life as a librarian.   We're spilling the librarian tea on wild patron questions, unexpected library requests, book recommendations, overhyped authors, underrated reads and the services your library offers that you might not even know about.   Plus, we're getting into librarian superpowers, memorable library moments, favorite programs and the realities of working with readers of all ages.   Whether you're a lifelong library lover, a curious reader or someone who has ever wondered what librarians REALLY think, this is your invitation behind the scenes.   Get ready for library secrets, bookish hot takes, hilarious stories and plenty of reasons to visit your local library. Grab your library card and join the conversation!  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:20 Intro 00:01:03 Getting to know our guests 00:05:12 Assumptions about librarians 00:15:55 The most checked-out authors 00:25:07 Let’s get shady 00:32:40 Strangest patron questions 00:55:06 What’s a favorite program or service? 00:59:27 Outro  Enjoying the show? Follow Book Lounge by Libby, leave a rating or review, and watch every episode on the Libby App YouTube channel. Find us on Libbylife.com/booklounge  Got a book recommendation, dream guest or just want to say hi? We'd love to hear from you at [email protected].  Looking for Book Lounge merch? Visit Plot Threads.   Library friends: Add episodes of Book Lounge by Libby to your digital collection for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. You can also purchase the titles featured in today's episode in OverDrive Marketplace.  Browse our cumulative reading list for the season: https://marketplace.overdrive.com/Marketplace/OneCopyOneUserAndMeteredAccess/SuggestedList/41378    Happy Reading! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  Blind Date with a (Library) Book 21.09.2026 1ชม. 8นาที

  What happens when you let your local library surprise you? For the Season 4 premiere of Book Lounge by Libby, we're celebrating Library Card Sign-Up Month with a little literary mystery, a few unexpected projects and a whole lot of library love.  Joe is joined by Meara (@mearaisreading) for a Blind Date with a (Library) Book! We each head to our local libraries with three missions: get a book recommendation from a librarian, choose a book from a library display and discover a third surprise in the form of a unique activity, craft or project.  Then we come back together to reveal our picks, share what we got up to and compare notes on our library adventures. Expect book recommendations, library discoveries, creative chaos and a lil vlog moment because apparently talking about books wasn't enough.  Whether you're a lifelong library lover or haven't stepped into your local branch in a while, this episode is your invitation to explore, get curious and let your library surprise you.  Grab your library card and come hang out in the Book Lounge!  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Book recommendations:  We – Yevgeny Zamyatin  West with Giraffes – Lynda Rutledge  The Unfortunates – JK Chukwu  Checked Out – Katie Fricas  Who’s in this episode:   Meara - Links  Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:20 Intro 00:02:06 Vlogging to the Library 00:04:40 Diving into our library prompts and experience 01:04:41 What’s next and outro   Enjoying the show? Follow Book Lounge by Libby, leave a rating or review, and watch every episode on the Libby App YouTube channel. Find us on Libbylife.com/booklounge  Got a book recommendation, dream guest or just want to say hi? We'd love to hear from you at [email protected].  Looking for Book Lounge merch? Visit Plot Threads.   Library friends: Add episodes of Book Lounge by Libby to your digital collection for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. You can also purchase the titles featured in today's episode in OverDrive Marketplace.  Browse our cumulative reading list for the season: https://marketplace.overdrive.com/Marketplace/OneCopyOneUserAndMeteredAccess/SuggestedList/41378    Happy Reading!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  Jeneva Rose Is Ready to Scare You 17.09.2026 55นาที

  What scares you? For bestselling author Jeneva Rose, the answer might be… literally anything. 👀  Jeneva joins Book Lounge by Libby to talk about her new horror collection, Sometimes I Scare Myself, a trio of twisted stories filled with séances gone wrong, creepy houses, cursed objects and the kind of decisions that make you want to yell at a character through the page.  We’re getting into what makes a horror story actually scary, why familiar settings can make the best nightmares and what happens when you take classic horror tropes and give them a Jeneva Rose twist. Plus, Jeneva reveals what scares her — because apparently even the person writing the nightmares has nightmares.  If you’re looking for your next horror book, spooky-season read or thriller to keep you up way too late, consider this your sign to add Sometimes I Scare Myself to your TBR.  Sometimes I Scare Myself is out September 22, 2026.  Book Lounge by Libby is your place for book conversations, recommendations and the people behind the stories. Grab your favorite drink, get cozy and meet us in the Lounge.  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Who’s in this episode:   Jeneva Rose – links  Books by Jeneva:  Sometimes I Scare Myself (out September 22, 2026)  The Perfect Marriage  The Perfect Divorce  One of Us is Dead  You Shouldn’t Have Come Here  #CrimeTime  Home is Where the Bodies Are  The Girl I Was  Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:01:07 Getting to know Jeneva Rose 00:02:01 Scaring Yourself 00:26:37 A trope you’re determined to reinvent 00:49:52 Horror Lightning Round 00:52:19 Outro   Enjoying the show? Follow Book Lounge by Libby, leave a rating or review, and watch every episode on the Libby App YouTube channel.  Got a book recommendation, dream guest or just want to say hi? We'd love to hear from you at [email protected].  Looking for Book Lounge merch? Visit Plot Threads.   Library friends: Add episodes of Book Lounge by Libby to your digital collection for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. You can also purchase the titles featured in today's episode in OverDrive Marketplace.  Browse our cumulative reading list for the season: https://marketplace.overdrive.com/Marketplace/OneCopyOneUserAndMeteredAccess/SuggestedList/41378    Today's featured books: https://marketplace.overdrive.com/Marketplace/OneCopyOneUserAndMeteredAccess/SuggestedList/41555  Happy Reading!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  Reimagining Virginia Woolf: Adapting Night & Day with Justine Waddell 03.09.2026 53นาที

  Virginia Woolf has inspired generations of readers, but what happens when you take one of her novels and bring it to a modern audience?   This week, Joe is joined by Justine Waddell, writer and producer of Virginia Woolf’s Night & Day, to talk about her love of Woolf, the process of adapting a classic novel and the changes that have to be made when bringing an older story into the present day.  They dig into what makes Woolf’s work so enduring, the challenges of translating a classic for contemporary audiences and the decisions that come with adapting a beloved novel while staying true to its spirit. And yes, there are spoilers! Spoilers begin around 26:10 and run through 32:36.  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Book recommendations:  Night and Day – Virginia Woolf (ebook)  Night and Day – Virginia Woolf (audiobook)  Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Welcome and Intro 00:00:45 Conversation with Justine Waddell 00:50:18 Outro  Enjoying the show? Follow Book Lounge by Libby, leave a rating or review, and watch every episode on the Libby App YouTube channel. Find us on Libbylife.com/booklounge  Got a book recommendation, dream guest or just want to say hi? We'd love to hear from you at [email protected].  Looking for Book Lounge merch? Visit Plot Threads.   Library friends: Add episodes of Book Lounge by Libby to your digital collection for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. You can also purchase the titles featured in today's episode in OverDrive Marketplace.  Browse our cumulative reading list for the season: https://marketplace.overdrive.com/Marketplace/OneCopyOneUserAndMeteredAccess/SuggestedList/41378    Happy Reading!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  September 2026 Book Releases We Can’t Wait to Read 27.08.2026 1ชม. 34นาที

  September is bringing some SERIOUS TBR temptation. This week, Joe is joined by Madison (@simon.says.read) to dive into the September 2026 book releases they’re most excited to read.  From gothic romantasy and fantasy to thrillers, romance, historical fiction and spooky season reads, there are way too many new books fighting for a spot on the TBR. Plus, Joe and Madison reveal the books they’re already counting down the days to read, the titles they almost included and which September releases might become your next obsession.  What September 2026 book are you most excited to read? Add it to your TBR and let us know!  Book Lounge by Libby is your place for book conversations, recommendations and the people behind the stories.  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Follow Madison on Instagram!  Books Recommendations:   Madison's Picks:   The Knave and the Moon – Rachel Gillig  Taipei Story – RF Kuang  The Thoroughbreds – Elin Hilderbrand  Grim Tidings – BK Borison  The Pirate Queen – Ariel Lawhon  Tempest – Victoria Aveyard  Threshing Day – Rebecca Yarros  The Witches of Cambridge – Alice Hoffman  A Time of Witches – Madeline Martin  Fallow – Sarah Anderson    Joe’s Picks: Honorable mentions:   The Most Dangerous Games – MrBeast, James Patterson  Building 903 – Lois Lowry  Hollywood, Ending – John Green  Incarnate – Alma Katsu  Sometimes I Scare Myself – Jeneva Rose    Kiss Slay Replay – Rachel Harrison  The Dating Game – Ally Zetterberg   Your Boyfriend Needs an Exorcist – Justine Pucella Winans  Scion – James Islington  Asmodeus – Rita Indiana (tr. Achy Obejas)  Mischief Girls – Aashna Avachat  Feeling Like an ADHD Alien – Pina Varnel  Pretty Evil – Rebekah McKendry, David Ian McKendry  The House of Gardenias – Isabel Cañas  Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:05:51 Our September 2026 Book Picks 01:30:42 Outro   Enjoying the show? Follow Book Lounge by Libby, leave a rating or review, and watch every episode on the Libby App YouTube channel. Find us on https://pages.libbylife.com/BL-Links   Got a book recommendation, dream guest or just want to say hi? We'd love to hear from you at [email protected].  Looking for Book Lounge merch? Visit Plot Threads.   Library friends: Add episodes of Book Lounge by Libby to your digital collection for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. You can also purchase the titles featured in today's episode in OverDrive Marketplace.  Browse our cumulative reading list for the season: https://marketplace.overdrive.com/Marketplace/OneCopyOneUserAndMeteredAccess/SuggestedList/41378  Today's featured books: https://marketplace.overdrive.com/Marketplace/OneCopyOneUserAndMeteredAccess/SuggestedList/41379   Happy Reading! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  We Read the Wildest Reviews of Books We Love 13.08.2026 1ชม. 34นาที

  What happens when you take the Beach Too Sandy, Water Too Wet approach to books? Absolute chaos.  Joe is joined by Meara to dig through reviews of books they love and discover what happens when readers have opinions. From hilarious hot takes to reviews that make absolutely no sense, this episode is full of laughs, nonsense and some truly unforgettable book commentary.  Want us to do this again? Tell us what books we should hunt for or send us random reviews to react to!  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Who’s in this episode:   Meara – link  Check out Beach Too Sandy, Water Too Wet here: https://www.beachtoosandy.com/  Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:02:22 What’s your relationship with book reviews?  00:06:00 How do you write your reviews?  00:09:50 A conversation about negative reviews 00:13:50 We dive into reading reviews! 01:30:03 Wrapping up and outro  Enjoying the show? Follow Book Lounge by Libby, leave a rating or review, and watch every episode on the Libby App YouTube channel. Find us on Libbylife.com/booklounge  Got a book recommendation, dream guest or just want to say hi? We'd love to hear from you at [email protected].  Looking for Book Lounge merch? Visit Plot Threads.   Library friends: Add episodes of Book Lounge by Libby to your digital collection for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. You can also purchase the titles featured in today's episode in OverDrive Marketplace.  Happy Reading! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  August 2026 Book Releases We're Adding to Our TBRs 30.07.2026 1ชม. 42นาที

  August 2026 books are here, and Joe is joined by Bre (@locd_booktician_) to share the new releases they're most excited to add to their TBRs. Covering everything from horror, thrillers, romance, fantasy, literary fiction, and beyond, they're highlighting some of the month's biggest releases alongside a few books that deserve more attention.  As always, the recommendations are only part of the fun. Expect plenty of laughs, bookish tangents, and chaotic energy as Joe and Bre count down the August titles they can't stop thinking about.  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Book Recommendations  Bre’s Picks:  Clean Slate – Brianna Labuskes  Ghost in the Night – Tiffany D. Jackson  Murder at University Park – Cheryl Miller Dellasega  Death Card – Jasmine Smith   The Secrets We Hide – Karin Slaughter   Stay Buried – Jennifer McMahon  The Butcher Legacy – Alaina Urquhart   Bound by Fury – Noelle Monet  These Walls Remember – Del Sandeen   Joe’s Picks:   Barbie: Dreamscape – Alex Aster  Queens of the Crypt, Vol 1 – Dom & Ink  Devil Inside – Clay McLeod Chapman  Survival Show – Juno Dawson  My Killer Family Reunion – Dinesh Thiru  (Mostly) Human Resources – Grace Viall  Killing Sadie – Rachel Peterson   Summer Coven – Kat Killis, Rosiee Thor  Who’s in this episode:   Bre - Links  Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:01:11 Welcome and catchup with Bre! 00:13:27 August 2026 Book Picks 01:38:28 Thanks and outro  Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!  Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!  We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!   Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  Plot Twists & Playlists: Audiobooks, Romance Reads & 2026 Book Talk with Destinee 16.07.2026 1ชม. 7นาที

  What's better than talking about great books? Talking about all the great books.  This week, Joe is joined by romance novel matchmaker, bookseller, and creator Destinee for a delightfully bookish conversation that bounces around bookish things everyone can't stop talking about.  Grab your headphones, your library card, and maybe a notebook—you'll definitely leave with a longer TBR.  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Who’s in this episode:   Destinee - links  Time stamps:  00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Welcome and Introductions 00:01:52 A chatty episode with Destinee 01:03:55 Wrapping up and outro  Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy.   Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!  We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!   Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  Summerween 2026: The Best Horror Books to Kick Off Spooky Season Early 09.07.2026 1ชม. 33นาที

  Summer is heating up... so naturally it's time for ghosts, monsters, haunted camps, cursed lakes, and things that go bump in the night.  Joe is joined by Bre to celebrate Summerween 2026, the growing tradition of bringing spooky season into the middle of summer. Whether horror readers are looking for gothic classics, unsettling literary horror, creepy middle grade adventures, camp slashers, psychological thrillers, or terrifying short story collections, this episode is packed with recommendations to fill every Summerween TBR.  From vampires and haunted campgrounds to folk horror, cosmic dread, ghost stories, and nostalgic Halloween favorites, this conversation explores horror across every age and subgenre. Along the way, Bre also shares details about her July Noir 2026 reading weekend and Discord community for readers looking to celebrate all month long.  Whether Summerween is already an annual tradition, or this is the first spooky-season celebration in July, this episode is full of horror book recommendations perfect for every kind of reader.  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Links:  Bre’s links  July Noir 2026 Announcement  July Noir Discord  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/locd_booktician_/   Titles mentioned:  Bre’s Picks:  Carmilla – Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu  Dead First – Johnny Compton  On Sundays She Picked Flowers – Yah Yah Scholfield  Gyo – Junji Ito  You're Not Supposed to Die Tonight – Kalynn Bayron  The Jumbies & Rise of the Jumbies – Tracey Baptiste  Why I Love Horror – ed. Becky Siegel Spratford  Joe’s Picks:   How to Survive Camping Series (Book 1: How to Survive Camping) - Bonnie Quinn   The Lady in Chains  The Ancient Things (September 2026)  The Unmothers – Leslie J. Anderson  The Bog Wife – Kay Chronister   Smothermoss – Alisa Alering  Don’t Turn Out the Lights – ed. Jonathan Maberry  Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark – Alvin Schwartz  Our Shadows Have Claws – ed. Yamile Saied Méndez, Amparo Ortiz  The Lake House – Sarah Beth Durst  Tastes Like Candy – Jessica Lacy   Camp Scare – Delilah S. Dawson  Summer’s Never Over – Darby Bozeman   A Murder Most Camp – Nicolas DiDomizio  13 Months Haunted – Jimmy Juliano  Chasing the Boogeyman – Richard Chizmar  80s Ghosts – VS Lawrence  Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro & Seasonal Update 00:01:40 Thoughts on Summerween 00:07:24 Our Summerween 2026 picks! 01:28:46 Thank you to Bre and outro  Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!  Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!  We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!   Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  How President Lincoln Would Celebrate America 250 (and the books he'd read) 02.07.2026 55นาที

  As the United States prepares to commemorate America 250, how can we celebrate the nation's history while also making room for reflection, honesty, and meaningful conversation?  This week on Book Lounge by Libby, Cameron Walpole, Associate Director of Interpretation and Public Programs, and Callie Hawkins, Executive Director of President Lincoln's Cottage in Washington, DC, join the show to explore how their organization is approaching America's 250th anniversary with thoughtfulness, curiosity, and a commitment to telling a fuller story of our shared history.  The conversation dives into Abraham Lincoln's enduring legacy, why President Lincoln's Cottage remains such an important place today, and how books help us better understand both the past and the present. Then, for a fun twist, Cameron and Callie recommend books they think President Lincoln would have loved reading if he were browsing a library today.  Whether you're a history enthusiast, a Lincoln admirer, or simply looking for thought-provoking nonfiction and historical fiction recommendations, this episode offers fresh perspectives on American history, civic engagement, and the power of reading.  For more info, check out: https://www.lincolncottage.org/   Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Book recommendations:  Cameron’s Titles:   Differ We Must – Steve Inskeep   Macbeth – William Shakespeare   Wonder – R.J. Palacio  Callie’s Titles:  Joyful Anyway – Kate Bowler  You Better Be Lightning – Andrea Gibson  James – Percival Everett  Everywhere Still – MH Clark  Joe’s Titles:   Feeding Ghosts – Tessa Hulls   A Manual for Cleaning Women – Lucia Berlin   Separation of Church and Hate – John Fugelsang  Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Welcome and introductions 00:02:23 What is President Lincoln’s Cottage?  00:22:56 Our recommended reads 00:51:08 Final Thoughts and Outro  Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy.  Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!  We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!   Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  July 2026 Book Releases: The New Books We Can't Wait to Read 25.06.2026 1ชม. 25นาที

  A new month means a new stack of books to obsess over.  In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by the wonderful Emma to chat about the July 2026 book releases they're most excited to add to their TBRs. From buzzy fiction and page-turning mysteries to heartfelt romances and unforgettable literary reads, they're sharing the upcoming titles that have already captured their attention.  Whether you're planning your summer reading list, looking for the next great library hold or simply love keeping up with the latest book releases, this episode is packed with recommendations to help fill your TBR.  Tune in for a fun conversation celebrating the most anticipated books hitting shelves in July 2026 and discover which titles deserve a spot at the top of your reading list.  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life!  Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026) and June – October 2026!  Book recommendations:  Emma’s Picks:   Prince of Swords – Elise Kova   A Forsaken Prophecy – Stacey McEwan   In the Wake of the Ruined – Kalie Cassidy  Hot Girl Murder Club – Ashley Winstead  Foxx – Paisley Hope   The MASH Up – Laura Marie Meyers   If Books Could Kill – Kate Eberle   Daggermouth – HM Wofle  Joe’s Picks:  Helpless – Jessica Knoll  My Tokyo Summer – Abby Denson   Coming Out Perfect – Richard Mercado   Case Closed, Vol. 99 – Gosho Aoyama  Witch’s Inheritance – Paige Hender  The Inn at the Foot of Mount Vengeance  – Chiara Bullen  The Masala Chai Mystery Club – MJ Soni  Ghost Girl – Eva Benefield  Alex, by Proxy – Karen Myna Cantor  Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:01:20 Catching up with Emma 00:06:50 July 2026 Book Picks 01:20:23 Final thoughts and outro  Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!  Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!  We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!   Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  Too Hot to Handle: Steamy Romance Books for Your Summer TBR 18.06.2026 57นาที

  The temperature is rising, and so is the romance stack. In the Season 3 finale of Book Lounge by Libby, romance novel matchmaker, experienced bookseller, and bookish creator Destinee (@yourromancedestinee) joins the lounge to share the steamy romance books that deserve a spot on your summer TBR.  From slow burns that leave readers desperate for more, to romances packed with chemistry, banter, longing, and unforgettable love stories, Joe & Destinee share recommendations for every kind of romance reader. The conversation dives into what makes a great romance novel, why the genre continues to captivate millions of readers, and how finding the perfect romance book is all about matching the right story to the right reader.  Season 3 may be coming to a close, but Book Lounge by Libby isn’t going anywhere! After this episode, the podcast will move to a monthly rhythm of three episodes per month through the end of September when Season 4 launches with even more author conversations, reading recommendations and behind-the-scenes book world discussions.  Whether searching for spicy romance books, summer romance reads, or a brand-new favorite love story, this episode is the perfect way to heat up a reading list.  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life!  Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026) and June – October 2026!  Book recommendations:  Destinee’s picks:  Never Seduce a Scot – Maya Banks  High Seas Heat – Sarah Blue  Die for Me – Shirlene Obuobi  By the Bootstraps – Alexa Martin  Rebel Heiress – Amalie Howard  Just a Highland Fling – Naina Kumar  Psy-Changeling Series (Book 1: Slave to Sensation) - Nalini Singh  Joe’s picks:  Extracurricular – Rachel Lynn Solomon  Goliaths of Wrestling Series (Book 4: False Comeback) - Lily Mayne   Jacksonville Rays Series (Book 4: Pucking Strong) - Emily Rath  Shoutout: Puckboys Series (Book 1:  Egotistical Puckboy) – Eden Finley & Saxon James  Night at the Vampire Castle – Hari Conner  The Hades Calculus – Maria Ying  Time and Time Again – Chatham Greenfield  Lost Boys series (Book 1: The Skeptic) – Kelly Fox  Who’s in this episode:   Destinee (yourromancedestinee) - Links  Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:01:16 Welcome to Destinee 00:02:15 Get to know Destinee and what got her into romance! 00:04:30 The change of the romance reader landscape 00:07:33 What are your favorite/least favorite tropes?  00:11:24 What are your favorite questions to be asked as a bookseller?  00:15:30 Romance Recommendations! 00:54:05 Thank you and outro   Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!  Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!  We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!   Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  The Art of the Swoon: Ann Liang & BK Borison on Romance, Chemistry & Desire 15.06.2026 58นาที

  Summer reading is getting steamy! Today, Joe is joined by bestselling romance authors Ann Liang and BK Borison for a conversation about creating unforgettable love stories, building electric chemistry, writing yearning and intimacy, and why romance continues to captivate readers around the world.  The conversation also briefly features romance author Sara Cate, who joined at the start of the episode before technical difficulties cut her time short.  From the balance of tension and tenderness to the art of crafting a perfect happily ever after, Ann and BK share a behind-the-scenes look at their writing process, the emotional core of romance novels, and what makes a love story linger long after the final page. Whether you’re searching for your next spicy summer romance, a fan of contemporary love stories, or curious about how romance authors bring fictional relationships to life, this episode is a must-listen.  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life!  Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026) and June – October 2026!  Who’s in the episode:  Ann Liang: https://www.annliang.com/  BK Borison: https://bkborison.com/  Sara Cate: https://saracatebooks.com/  Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:03:21 Diving into romance 00:50:58 Romance Lightning Round 00:54:52 Thanks and outro   Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season  Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!  We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!   Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  Audiobook Month Special: The Best Audiobooks to Add to Your Listening List 11.06.2026 1ชม. 16นาที

  June is Audiobook Month, and we're celebrating one of our favorite ways to experience stories.  This week Joe is joined by Amy Allen Clark, host of the BOOK GANG podcast, to talk about the audiobooks they've been loving lately. From unforgettable narrations to stories that are impossible to pause, they're sharing recent audiobook recommendations that deserve a spot on your listening list.  This conversation is packed with recommendations, listening inspiration, and plenty of appreciation for the magic of audiobooks.  Tune in to discover new audiobook recommendations, celebrate Audiobook Month, and find your next favorite listen.  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life!  Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026) and June – October 2026!  Titles for Episode:   Amy’s Picks:   Enormous Wings - Laurie Frankel  Good People - Patmeena Sabit  Lady Tremaine - Rachel Hochhauser  My Lady Jane - Cynthia Hand  Skin Contact - Elisa Faison  Invasive Species - Ellery Adams  Joe’s Picks:   Swift and Saddled – Lyla Sage  The Daisy Chain Flower Shop – Laurie Gilmore  Headlights – CJ Leede  Witches of Dubious Origin - Jenn McKinlay  God of the Woods - Liz Moore   Our Last Resort - Clémence Michallon  A Fortune of Sand – Ruta Sepetys  The Taking of Jake Livingston – Ryan Douglass  Bath Haus – PJ Vernon  The Perfect Home – Daniel Kenitz   Don’t Let the Forest In – CG Drews   The Good Vampire’s Guide to Blood & Boyfriends – Jamie D’Amato  Legends & Lattes Series - Travis Baldree  Operation Bounce House – Matt Dinniman  The Diviners – Libba Bray  Believing – Anita Hill  The Autumn Sprints Retirement Home Massacre - Philip Fracassi  Home is Where the Bodies Are – Jeneva Rose  MindWorks – Neal Shusterman  Out There – Kate Folk  Bubblegum – Adam Levin   The Dresden Files  – Jim Butcher  A Series of Unforunate Events – Lemony Snicket  Vagabond – Tim Curry  NOS4ATU – Joe Hill  Rosemary’s Baby – Ira Levin  Charlotte’s Web – EB White   The Curseworkers Series - Holly Black   How to Train Your Dragon series – Cressida Cowell  Leaving Isn’t the Hardest Thing – Lauren Hough  Who’s in this episode:   Amy Allen Clark – Links  Discover your next favorite read with the NEW 2026 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide! Dive into 70 handpicked titles—featuring upcoming releases, fresh new reads, and beloved backlist gems. Flip through 57 pages packed with bookish inspiration to create your ultimate summer reading stack.  LINK: https://buymeacoffee.com/bookgangpodcast/e/535779  Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:43 Welcome and catching up with Amy Allen Clark 00:06:06 A reminder of our seasonal schedule 00:07:11 We talk about our love of audiobooks 00:19:06 Our audiobook recommendations 01:12:50 Outro   Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!  Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!  We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!   Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  The Magic of Audiobooks with Award-Winning Narrators Saskia Maarleveld & Michael Crouch 08.06.2026 1ชม. 3นาที

  June is Audiobook Month, and we're celebrating with two of the most beloved voices in the industry.  This week on Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by acclaimed audiobook narrators Saskia Maarleveld and Michael Crouch for a behind-the-scenes conversation about the art of bringing stories to life through audio.  From developing character voices to recording emotional scenes, Saskia and Michael share what really goes into creating an unforgettable listening experience. Together, they explore the unique magic of audiobooks, the relationship between narrator and listener, and why hearing a story can feel so different from reading one on the page.  Saskia Maarleveld has narrated more than 700 audiobooks and is known for her remarkable ability to perform a wide range of accents and characters across genres including historical fiction, fantasy, mystery, and young adult literature. Listeners may recognize her work on bestselling titles like The Alice Network, The Rose Code, and The God of the Woods.   Michael Crouch has recorded more than 500 audiobooks and is an AudioFile Golden Voice narrator whose work has earned Audie Awards, Earphones Awards, and widespread acclaim from listeners and critics alike. He's particularly celebrated for his performances in young adult fiction, LGBTQ+ stories, and contemporary literary fiction.   Whether you're a lifelong audiobook fan, a devoted Book Lounge listener, or someone who's been curious about trying audiobooks for the first time, this conversation offers a fascinating look inside one of publishing's most beloved formats.  Celebrate Audiobook Month with us and discover why a great narrator can transform a great book into an unforgettable experience.  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life!  Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026) and June – October 2026!  Who’s in this episode:   Michael Crouch - Website  Saskia Maarleveld– Instagram Check out Saskia’s Medium article – The Voice in Your Ears  Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:39 Welcome to Saskia Maarleveld and Michael Crouch 00:03:05 What does it feel like to work on IP books vs. Original Content?  00:06:30 What does creative freedom look like to you in narration?  00:15:05 What brought you into audiobook work?  00:25:03 What genre feels like home?  00:30:08 How are people getting into narration today?  00:40:41 Is there a standard for what you’re paid for your work?  00:50:03 Working on pronunciations 00:53:32 Lightning Round 00:59:55 Thanks and Outro  Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season!  Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!  We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!   Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Your Ultimate Pride Month 2026 Reading List 04.06.2026 1ชม. 4นาที

  What should you read this Pride Month?  In this Pride Month episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by Jananie K. Velu to share book recommendations that celebrate queer stories, queer joy, and the many ways LGBTQIA+ people find connection, community, and hope.  As they discuss the books they're recommending this June, the conversation expands beyond reading lists to explore what it means to live Pride every day of the year. Together, Joe and Jananie reflect on the importance of making space for joy, remembrance, rest, and reflection, and how books can help us better understand ourselves and each other.  Whether you're looking to discover new LGBTQIA+ authors, add more queer stories to your TBR, or simply find your next great read, this episode offers thoughtful recommendations and meaningful conversation about the power of reading during Pride Month and beyond.  From stories that celebrate queer futures to books that honor the past, this is a conversation about reading, identity, community, and the many ways Pride can live on long after June ends.  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life!  Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026) and June – October 2026!  Book recommendations:  Jananie’s Picks:  Comedic Timing – Upasna Barath  Tall Water – SJ Sindu  Meeting Millie – Clare Ashton  Honey Girl – Morgan Roges  Perfume and Pain – Anna Dorn  Fundamentally – Nussaibah Younis  Big Swiss – Jen Beagin  Local Heavens – K. M. Fajardo  Devil of the Deep – Falencia Jean Francois  House of Hunger - Alexis Henderson  Joe’s Picks:  Stag Dance & Detransition Baby – Torrey Peters  Tell Me I’m Worthless – Alison Rumfitt  Northranger – Rey Terciero  Jackson Alone – Jose Ando  Field Guide for the Formerly Villainous – Autumn K. England  We Burned So Bright – TJ Klune  Patricia Wants to Cuddle – Samantha Allen  You Weren’t Meant to Be Human – Andrew Joseph White  Who’s in this episode:   Jananie K. Velu – Links   Glad Day Lit, Toronto - website  Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:54 Welcome to Jananie K. Velu 00:01:26 What are your pride practices?  00:07:50 Our Pride Reading Recommendations 01:00:10 Thanks to Jananie and Outro!  Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!  Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!  We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!   Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Finding Hope, Queer Joy & the Courage to Be Seen 01.06.2026 1ชม. 31นาที

  Pride Month is a celebration, but it's also a reminder of the journeys so many LGBTQ+ people take to find acceptance, belonging, and hope.  In this special Pride Month episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by authors Kody Keplinger, Ryan Collett, and TJ Alexander for honest, heartfelt conversations about identity, community and the power of seeing yourself reflected in stories.  In the first half of the episode, Kody Keplinger and Ryan Collett discuss the isolation and shame that many queer people experience, the importance of finding your people and how books can help readers feel less alone. Together, they explore the transformative power of connection, representation, and hope.  In the second half, TJ Alexander joins Joe for a conversation about queer joy, love stories, and the importance of imagining futures where LGBTQIA+ people aren't simply surviving, they're thriving. From romance and community to the possibilities of a more inclusive world, this discussion celebrates the beauty and power of queer storytelling.  This episode is a reminder that none of us are meant to navigate life alone.  Book Lounge by Libby is a podcast for readers, book lovers, and anyone searching for their next great read.  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life!  Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026) and June – October 2026!  Who’s in this episode:   Segment 1:  Kody Keplinger – Website, WHERE LOST GIRLS GO  Ryan Collett – Website, GEORGE FALLS THROUGH TIME  Segment 2:   TJ Alexander – Website, A LADY FOR ALL SEASONS  Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:41 Segment 1 with Kody Keplinger and Ryan Collett 00:45:06 Segment 2 with TJ Alexander 01:28:04 Outro  Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season!  Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!  We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!   Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  June 2026 Book Releases You NEED on Your TBR 29.05.2026 1ชม. 2นาที

  June is STACKED with incredible new releases, and this month’s Book Picks episode is here to help you build your summer TBR. Joe is joined by Kieran, founder of the Queer Liberation Library, to talk about the most exciting June 2026 book releases across genres — from buzzy literary fiction and swoony romances to twisty thrillers, queer stories, fantasy adventures, and everything in between.  Along the way, Kieran also shares more about the mission behind the Queer Liberation Library, a digital library working to increase access to LGBTQIA+ books for readers across the United States. If you’re looking for more queer stories to add to your reading life, it’s an incredible resource worth exploring.  Whether you’re planning beach reads, book club picks, or simply trying to stay ahead of the biggest releases of the month, this episode is packed with recommendations to keep your TBR thriving all summer long.  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Who’s in this episode:   Check out the Queer Liberation Library (website)! You can show your support with a donation here (donation link) or just by supporting them on social media (Instagram).  Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life!  Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026)!  Book recommendations:  Kieran’s Picks:   Honorable Mention: The Fake Divination Offense – Sara Raasch  Puck – Samantha Allen  25 Days in Athens – Jack Strange  Supergay! - Frankie Grande  Double Dutch Fuss – Phill Branch  Red X – David Demchuk   Tillinghast – Clare Cavenagh  Grief Eater – Emma Osborne    Joe’s Picks:   Slasher Summer – E.L. Chen  Mister Magic: The Graphic Novel – Kiersten White, Illustrated by Veronica & Andy Fish  The Disaster Gay Detective Agency – Lev AC Rosen  The Disco at the End of the World – Nathan Tavares  We Hexed the Moon – Mollyhall Seeley  Girl’s Girl – Sonia Feldman  Valley of the Moms – Hannah Selinger  Marion – Leah Rowan  I am not a Vampire (Anymore) - Darcy Miller  Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:01:03 Welcome Kieran and the Queer Liberation Library 00:01:27 What is the Queer Liberation Library (QLL)?  00:03:24 Supporting QLL and the Pride month donation drive 00:04:44 June 2026 Book Picks 00:58:48 Thanks to Kieran and Outro   Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!  Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!  We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!   Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  Mystery & Thriller Book Recommendations with @CrimebytheBook 28.05.2026 55นาที

  If your TBR is looking a little too well-behaved, consider this your official invitation to cause some chaos.  Joe is joined by Abby from @crimebythebook to dive headfirst into a stack of mystery and thriller recommendations that are twisty, chilling, and completely unputdownable. From locked-room tension and atmospheric horror-leaning suspense to darkly clever whodunits and cult-favorite thrillers, this episode is packed with reads guaranteed to keep you guessing long after “just one more chapter.”  If you’re searching for the best mystery books, psychological thrillers, dark academia vibes, or hidden gem crime fiction to add to your reading list, this episode is your next obsession.   Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life!  Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026)!  Book recommendations:  Abby’s Picks:   Nightwatching – Tracy Sierra  You Are Fatally Invited  & The Library After Dark  – Ande Pliego  The Treasure Hunters Club – Tom Ryan   The Anniversary – Alex Finlay   Hide & Seek - Søren Sveistrup   The Possession of Alba Díaz - Isabel Cañas    Joe’s Picks:   The Mill House Murders – Yukito Ayatsuji  Dead & Breakfast & Summer Coven  - Kat Hillis & Rosiee Thor (Aug. 25)  Murder in the Dressing Room & Missing in Soho – Holly Stars (Jun. 2)  With My Little Eye – Joshilyn Jackson  The Sister Holiday Series (Book 1: Scorched Grace, Book 3: Divine Ruin) - Margot Douaihy  Who’s in this episode:   Abby (Crime by the Book) - Links  Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:44 Welcome to Abby from CrimebytheBook! 00:01:06 Getting to know Abby and Crime by the Book 00:11:11 Our Mystery & Mayhem Recommendations 00:51:54 Thanks to Abby and Outro!  Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!  Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!  We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!   Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  The Anatomy of a Twist 25.05.2026 1ชม. 1นาที

  What makes readers gasp out loud at the end of a thriller? How do authors plant clues without giving everything away? And why do some plot twists stay with us forever?  This week on Book Lounge, Joe is joined by three powerhouse thriller writers — Clare Mackintosh, Jo Piazza, and Lisa Gardner — for an exciting conversation all about The Anatomy of a Twist. Together, they unpack the art of suspense, the challenge of surprising modern readers, and the careful balance between foreshadowing and deception.  From unreliable narrators and shocking endings to pacing, character secrets, and the emotional impact of a perfectly executed reveal, this episode is a must-listen for thriller readers, mystery lovers, and aspiring writers alike. The group also discusses some of their favorite twists in fiction, the pressure of “outsmarting” readers in the age of online theories, and what they believe makes psychological thrillers so addictive.  If you love mystery books, crime fiction, suspense novels, plot twists, and behind-the-scenes conversations with bestselling authors, this episode delivers plenty of intrigue, insight, and mayhem.  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life!  Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026)!  Who’s in this episode:   Clare Mackintosh - website Jo Piazza - website Lisa Gardner - website  Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:01:11 Get to know today’s guests 00:02:51 Writing by the seat of your pants 00:03:31 Figuring as you go vs. Planning 00:06:53 The Architect vs. The Builder 00:08:48 Working backwards 00:15:48 Do you want the reader to have the chance to figure out the mystery?  00:22:17 Twists at the top of the book 00:39:14 Do they track body bags?  00:42:33 Do readers want to be surprised?  00:50:10 How do you balance plot + pacing with your twist?  00:57:35 Outro   Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season!  Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!  We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!   Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices