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Crime, Shadows & Cinema: Your Noirvember Guide
5 november 2026 · 1 uur 54 min
It's Noirvember, and we're embracing our mysterious side! Whether you prefer your crime with a side of literary intrigue or your mysteries served up in cinematic black and white, we've got your next obsession. Lees meer
First, Joe is joined by Bre to explore crime fiction, noir-inspired reads and stories packed with secrets, dangerous characters and twists you won't see coming. Then, we're switching from the page to the screen as Matt and Aaron from Kanopy join Joe to share their must-watch film recommendations, spanning classic noir, neo-noir and everything in between.
From shadowy mysteries and complicated antiheroes to unforgettable cinematic thrillers, this episode is your invitation to lean into the darkness. Grab a book, fire up Kanopy and make this Noirvember one to remember.
Happy reading (and watching)!
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Title Recommendations:
Part 1 – Libby:
Bre's picks:
Laws of Depravity – Eriq La Salle
All Her Little Secrets – Wanda M. Morris
The Devil in a Blue Dress – Walter Mosley
King of Ashes – SA Cosby
Joe's picks:
Crone – Keith Rosson
Kill for Me, Kill for You – Steve Cavanagh
My Friend Dahmer – Derf Backderf
Plus you can watch the 2017 film My Friend Dahmer on Kanopy: https://www.kanopy.com/product/my-friend-dahmer-0
Magic For Liars – Sarah Gailey
The Intrigue – Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Part 2 – Kanopy:
Aaron's picks:
The Hitch-Hiker
Night of the Juggler
Bound
The Nile Hilton Incident
Matt's picks:
Night of the Hunter
Breathless
The People’s Joker
The Silence of the Lambs
Who’s in this episode:
Joe – Instagram
Kanopy - Instagram
Bre - Links
Links mentioned:
https://www.crimewritersofcolor.com/
Bre’s Video: The Ultimate Reading Guide of SA Cosby
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:19 Intro 00:00:59 Segment 1: Crime Fiction & Noir Vibes Reading Recs 00:52:20 Segment 2: Film Noir Recommendations 01:50:09 Comment Question 01:50:29 Thank you and outro
Enjoying the…
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True Crime, Crime Fiction and the Fine Line Between
2 november 2026 · 1 uur 1 min
What's the difference between telling a good crime story and telling someone's story? This Noirvember, we're diving into the fascinating, sometimes complicated relationship between true crime and crime fiction. Lees meer
I'm joined by Jennifer Graeser Dornbush and Sebastian Krahl for a conversation about what it means to work with crime as source material, whether you're writing fiction or exploring real-life cases. We talk about the responsibilities that come with telling these stories, navigating the fine line between entertainment and exploitation, respecting the people behind the headlines and finding a balance between the darkness of crime and the reasons we're drawn to these stories in the first place.
Because there's a lot more to a good crime story than just figuring out whodunit. So grab your magnifying glass, settle in and join us for a little Noirvember reading (and listening) room discussion!
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Joe – Instagram
Jennifer Graeser Dornbush – website
Sebastian Krahl – links
Some books by our guests:
Coroner’s Daughter Mystery Series, Book 1: The Coroner - Jennifer Graeser Dornbush
50 True Stories That Will Scare You to Death – Sebastian Krahl
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:20 Welcome and Intro 00:01:30 How do we feel about true crime and crime fic? 00:07:31 Some favorite horror movies 00:14:07 How do you position your content for your audience 00:28:08 Talking about risk factors and lowering risk 00:35:25 Jennifer on interviewing the daughters of The Ice Man 00:43:34 What’s your favorite part of how these stories are told? 00:56:45 Thank you 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 at https://www.instagram.com/bookloungepod/
Got a book recommendation, dream guest or just want to say hi? We'd love to hear from you at bookloungebylibby@overdriv…
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Our November TBR Is Getting Out of Hand
30 oktober 2026 · 59 min
New month, new books, new reasons to let your TBR spiral completely out of control. 📚 Lees meer
Joe is joined by Bre for November 2026 Book Picks, our monthly look at the new book releases we're most excited about. From stories that caught our attention to books we're already counting down the days to read, we're sharing the upcoming releases we think deserve a spot on your radar.
Whether you're hunting for your next five-star read, filling your library holds list or just looking for a little inspiration for your November reading life, we've got recommendations for you. Consider this your friendly reminder that your TBR is a living document and there is always room for one more book.
Powered by libraries. Made for readers. Happy reading!
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Joe – Instagram
Bre’s live conversation with Eriq La Salle - link
Bre’s Blackoween announcement - link
Book recommendations:
Bre's picks:
Peregrine Hill – Nina de Gramont
The Last Prince of Florence – Zoe Sivak
The Monster Hunter’s Librarian – Lauren Connolly
Salt Water Blood – Manuia Henrich
Joe's picks:
Take My Word for It – LeVar Burton
Is It Too Late to Make a Run for It? – Judi Dench
Revenge Plot – Stephanie Wrobel
Luck of the Draw – Christine Suggs
Trove – Danie Stirling
There Used to be People Here – Kennedy Cole
Clear Water – Gabrielle Lucille Fuentes
Mr. Mendlebee’s Pandimensional Literary Repository (and Yarn) – Rebecca McKee
New Year’s Grieve – Elizabeth Foscue
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:19 Intro 00:00:57 Welcome to Bre! 00:09:27 Our November 2026 Book Picks 00:55:19 Thanks 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 at https://www.instagram.com/bookloungepod/
Got a book recommendation, dream guest or just want to say hi? We'd love to hear from you at bookloungebylibby@overdrive.com.
Loo…
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Try to Survive a Haunted House: Our Overnight Ghost Hunt at Franklin Castle
29 oktober 2026 · 1 uur 37 min
What happens when a book podcast host, a paranormal expert and a cameraman walk into one of America's most haunted destinations? Hopefully, they make it out. Lees meer
For the first time in Book Lounge by Libby history, Joe Skelley is leaving the comforts of the lounge behind for an overnight ghost hunt at Franklin Castle, one of the most notoriously haunted places in the United States! Joined by Christine Schiefer, former co-host of And That's Why We Drink, and Joe's partner Matt behind the camera, this spooky sleepover involves a historic castle, paranormal investigations and the question nobody wants to ask in the middle of the night: WHAT WAS THAT?!
We're getting into the history, the hauntings and what it's actually like to spend the night investigating a place with a seriously creepy reputation. Will we encounter something supernatural? Will Joe ever recover emotionally? Will Matt capture anything terrifying on camera?
Grab your flashlight, check the locks and join us for an overnight ghost hunt that takes Book Lounge by Libby somewhere we've never gone before. It's a little paranormal investigation, a little haunted-house horror and a whole lot of spooky-season chaos.
Powered by libraries. Made for readers. Occasionally, apparently, made for ghost hunters, too.
Happy reading... and maybe leave a light on. 👻
Check out our video with Christine over on the ParaPods Network: https://www.youtube.com/@ATWWDPodcast
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Joe – Instagram
Christine Schiefer – Instagram
And That’s Why We Drink – Instagram
ParaPods Network – Instagram
Book recommendations:
The Haunting of Hill House – Shirley Jackson
We Have Always Lived in the Castle – Shirley Jackson
Hell House – Richard Matheson
The Shining – Stephen King
The Turn of the Screw – Henry James
Burnt Offerings – Robert Marasco
The House Next Door – Anne Rivers Siddons
A Haunting on the Hill – Elizabeth Hand
P…
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Monsters, Ghosts & Trad Wives, OH MY! | Monster Horror Book Recommendations
26 oktober 2026 · 1 uur 7 min
Monsters! Ghosts! Trad wives! Oh my! 🎃👻 Lees meer
It's time to get a little monstrous in the Book Lounge. Joe is joined by Meara and Kenzie Deerin for a Halloween-ready conversation packed with monster horror books, creepy folklore, unsettling creatures and dark reads that crawl under your skin. From terrifying transformations to the things lurking in the shadows, we're serving up horror book recommendations for every kind of reader who likes their stories a little strange.
Whether you're a lifelong horror reader or looking for your next spooky-season obsession, we've got recommendations to add to your TBR. So, grab your favorite blanket, keep an eye on the shadows and join us for a delightfully creepy trip through the reading world.
Powered by libraries. Made for readers. Happy reading! 🖤
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Joe – Instagram
Kenzie Deerin – Instagram
Meara – Links
Book Recommendations:
Kenzie’s Picks:
Ring Shout - P.Djèlí Clark
My Darling Dreadful Thing - Johanna van Veen
The Possession of Alba Dìaz - Isabel cãnas
On Sundays She Picked Flowers – Yah Yah Scholfield
Meara's Picks:
Girl Dinner & Masters of Death – Olivie Blake
Before the Devil Knows You're Here - Autumn Krause
Bad Cree - Jessica Johns
The Changing Man – Tomi Oyemakinde
Lute – Jennifer Thorne
The Gathering Dark: An Anthology of Folk Horror – Tori Bovalino
Woman, Eating - Claire Kohda
Bad Girls Don’t Die - Katie Alender
Joe's Picks:
Mongrels – Stephen Graham Jones
Man Made Monsters – Andrea L. Rogers, Illus. Jeff Edwards
Coffin Moon – Keith Rosson
From Below – Darcy Coates
Never Whistle at Night & Never Whistle at Night II: Back for Blood – ed. Shane Hawk, Theodore C. Van Alst Jr.
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:20 Welcome and Introductions 00:02:55 Some monster horror questions 00:17:07 Book recommendations 01:02:43 Comment question 01:03:00 Thank you and outro
Enjoying the show? Follow Book Lo…
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Build Your Horror Triptych: Horror Books for Beginners
22 oktober 2026 · 1 uur 6 min
Want to read horror but have absolutely no idea where to start? Welcome to your first step into the spooky side of the reading world! 🎃 Lees meer
Joe Skelley is joined by Amy Allen Clark and Kenzie Deerin to build the ultimate horror triptych: a grouping of recommendations designed to help you find your way into horror, whether you're a curious beginner, a certified scaredy-cat or a reader who just hasn't found the right nightmare yet.
From creepy and atmospheric to genuinely terrifying, we're talking about how to find horror books that match your comfort level, discover what scares you (in the best way) and figure out where to go next. Because horror isn't one-size-fits-all, and you absolutely do not have to start with the book that will keep you awake until 3 a.m.
Ready to dip your toes into the dark? Pull up a chair, grab your coziest blanket and let's find your next spooky read.
Book Lounge by Libby is powered by libraries and made for readers. Find your next favorite horror book with your library card and the Libby app.
Happy reading... and maybe leave a light on. 👻
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Joe – Instagram
Amy Allen Clark – links
30 Modern Gothic Novels: https://momadvice.com/post/modern-gothic-novels
12 Classic Gothic Novels: https://momadvice.com/post/classic-gothic-novels
Kenzie Deerin – Instagram
Blackoween – Instagram
Book Recommendations:
Amy's Picks:
The Whitechapel Full Moon Society –Elizabeth DeLozier
Marion – Leah Rowan
On Sundays She Picked Flowers – Yah Yah Scholfield
The Sleeping Sisters – Jennifer Gibbon
Kenzie's Picks:
Hazelthorn – CG Drews
The Spirit Bares its Teeth – Andrew Joseph White
Play Nice – Rachel Harrison
The Winter Folk – Jen Julien
Joe's Picks:
Something in the Walls – Daisy Pearce
The Haunting of Hill House, We Have Always Lived in the Castle – Shirley Jackson
Episode Thirteen – Craig DiLouie
13 Months Haunted – Jimmy Juliano
Mexic…
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Getting Started with Horror: Why We Love to Be Scared
19 oktober 2026 · 1 uur 9 min
What makes us want to be scared? Why do we keep coming back for more? And how do you get started with horror if you're not sure where to begin? Lees meer
This Halloween season, we're opening the door to the wonderfully weird world of horror with authors Tiffany D. Jackson, Jonny Sims and Jonathan Edward Durham! We're talking about what first drew them to horror, what excites them about the genre today and what's next for horror readers. From the stories that get under our skin to the possibilities that keep horror fresh, this is a thoughtful, lively conversation about why we love to be scared.
Whether you're a seasoned horror reader or just testing the waters before spooky season gets into full swing, pull up a chair. Your next favorite kind of scary might be waiting.
Book Lounge by Libby is powered by libraries and made for readers. Find your next read for FREE with your library card and the Libby app.
Happy haunting, horror fans!
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Joe – Instagram
Tiffany D. Jackson – Website, Instagram
Jonny Sims – Website, Instagram
Jonathan Durham – Website, Instagram
Some books by our guests:
The Weight of Blood – Tiffany D. Jackson
Ghost in the Night – Tiffany D. Jackson
Winterset Hollow – Jonathan Edward Durham
The Burn Line – Jonathan Sims
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:20 Intro and Welcome 00:03:01 What was your earliest introduction to horror? 00:18:41 Reading horror vs watching horror 00:27:21 What does horror give us? 00:40:50 Horror recognized in publishing 00:58:00 How future generations will continue horror 01:00:07 Lightning Round 01:04:45 Comment Question 01:05:10 Thank you 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 at https://www.instagram.com/bookloungepod/
Got a book recommendation, dream guest or just want to say hi? We'd love to hear from y…
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Epic Reads Inspired by Myths, Legends and Folklore
15 oktober 2026 · 1 uur 1 min
What happens when ancient myths meet modern storytelling? We get some VERY good books. Lees meer
We're wrapping up Myth and Legends Week on Book Lounge by Libby with Meara and Kenzie Deerin, sharing epic reads inspired by mythology, folklore, fairy tales and urban legends. From reimagined gods and legendary figures to fresh takes on familiar stories, these books prove that there's always another way to tell a legend.
Whether you love seeing ancient tales through a new lens, discovering folklore from different traditions or finding fantasy stories that put an unexpected spin on the classics, we've got recommendations for your next great read.
Join us as we revisit the stories that have shaped generations and celebrate the authors giving them a whole new life.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Joe – Instagram
Kenzie Deerin – Instagram
Meara – Links
Book Recommendations:
Kenzie's Picks:
A Dark and Wild Wood - Sarah Nicole Lemon
I, Medusa - Ayana Gray
Where the Dark Stands Still - A.B. Poranek
This Immortal Heart - Jennifer Saint
A Feather So Black - Lyra Selene
Meara's Picks:
Soul of Shadow – Emma Noyes
Body Count – Cody Crowley
A Spindle Splintered – Alix E. Harrow
A Mirror Mended – Alix E. Harrow
Small Favors – Erin A. Craig
Elatsoe – Darcie Little Badger
Joe's Picks:
The House with Chicken Legs – Sophie Anderson
The Minotaur Takes a Cigarette Break – Steven Sherrill
Kaikeyi – Vaishnavi Patel
The Vine That Ate the South – JD Wilkes
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:20 Welcome and Intro 00:02:00 Catching up with Meara & Kenzie 00:03:14 Getting to know our guests’ mythology background! 00:16:33 Myth & Legend Book Recs 00:56:43 Comment question of the day! 00:57:02 Thank you & 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 at https://www.instagram.com/bookloungepod/
Got a book rec…
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Josh Malerman on Other Mommy, Incidents Around the House & Fear
13 oktober 2026 · 38 min
What happens when the thing keeping you up at night becomes a movie? 👀 Lees meer
Horror author Josh Malerman is in the Book Lounge, and we're getting into the deliciously terrifying world of Incidents Around the House and its film adaptation, Other Mommy.
From the inspiration behind one of modern horror's creepiest stories to the creative process that brings nightmares to life, Josh joins Joe for a conversation about horror writing, storytelling, the things that scare us most and what happens when your imagination gets a little too good at its job.
Whether you discovered Josh through Bird Box, devoured Incidents Around the House or are gearing up to experience Other Mommy, this is your chance to get inside the mind of the author behind the nightmares.
Consider this your warning: you might want to leave a light on.
Welcome to Book Lounge by Libby, your favorite corner of the reading world. Powered by libraries. Made for readers.
Happy reading! (And, you know, maybe sleep with the closet door closed.)
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Joe – Instagram
Josh Malerman - Instagram
Some books by Josh Malerman:
Incidents Around the House
Bird Box
Daphne
Pictures of You
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:19 Welcome and Intro 00:02:10 What were you feeling seeing OTHER MOMMY 00:08:27 You can be shallow or deep within horror 00:16:05 What made you put us in a child’s POV 00:21:50 Writing soundscape 00:24:51 Changing the Title 00:30:29 Did Jessica Chastain’s portrayal change the story for you? 00:34:02 Comment Question 00:34:21 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 at https://www.instagram.com/bookloungepod/
Got a book recommendation, dream guest or just want to say hi? We'd love to hear from you at bookloungebylibby@overdrive.com.
Looking for Book Lounge merch? Visit Plot Threads.
Library f…
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Ancient Stories, Modern Readers: Retelling Mythology with Madeline Miller & Nikita Gill
12 oktober 2026 · 1 uur 53 min
What happens when ancient myths meet modern perspectives? The stories we thought we knew get a whole new life. Lees meer
This week on Book Lounge by Libby, Joe sits down with bestselling author Madeline Miller and poet and author Nikita Gill to explore the art of retelling mythology and ancient stories for modern readers. From reimagining legendary figures to finding new meaning in centuries-old tales, we’re diving into why these stories endure, whose voices deserve to be heard and what happens when we look at the ancient world through a contemporary lens.
Whether you love Greek mythology, mythological fiction, feminist retellings or discovering a fresh perspective on a familiar legend, this episode is for you.
Two incredible authors. Thousands of years of storytelling. So many reasons to revisit the classics.
Welcome to Book Lounge by Libby, your favorite corner of the reading world. Powered by libraries. Made for readers.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Joe – Instagram
Madeline Miller - Links
Nikita Gill - Website
Some of our guests' books:
The Song of Achilles – Madeline Miller
Circe – Madeline Miller
Galatea – Madeline Miller
Mestra – Madeline Miller
Hekate – Nikita Gill
Styx – Nikita Gill
Nyx – Nikita Gill
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:20 Welcome to Segment 1 with Madeline Miller 00:01:30 What is your earliest memory with mythology? 00:19:35 Writing about mythology doesn’t have a responsibility to history 00:47:22 Storytelling and connecting to others 00:55:19 No one has to do homework before reading my books 01:01:11 Who would play Achilles? 01:03:28 Welcome Nikita Gill! 01:04:44 What was your introduction to mythology? 01:24:54 How do you tell your stories? 01:33:04 Americans can be so optimistic 01:41:30 Nikita’s advice to young writers 01:48:50 Comment question of the day 01:49:32 Outro
Enjoying the show? Follow Book Lounge by Libby, leave a rating or review, and watch …
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Adventure Reads That Keep You Up All Night
8 oktober 2026 · 1 uur 18 min
Adventure isn’t dead. It’s just waiting for you on the next page. Lees meer
Host Joe Skelley is joined by Amy Allen Clark (@momadvice) and creator Joe Zawada (@joezawadareads) to keep the adventure conversation going with a stack of adventure stories that bring the danger, drama, twists and absolutely zero respect for your bedtime.
From high stakes journeys to impossible odds and the kind of books that make “I’ll read one chapter” a hilarious lie, we’re sharing adventure book recommendations that will keep you reading all night.
If you’re looking for your next great adventure read, consider this your very official excuse to ignore your sleep schedule.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Joe – Instagram
Amy Allen Clark - Links
Joe Zawada - Links
Book Recommendations:
Amy's Picks:
Runner - Ashton Lattimore
Castle of Water - Dane Huckelbridge
My Sister’s Going to Kill Me - Nina Simon
The Force of Such Beauty - Barbara Bourland
Fishbone Cinderella - Elizabeth Lim
Joe Z's Picks:
Taipei Story – RF Kuang
The Knight and the Moth - Rachel Gillig
Sublimation - Isabel J. Kim
Destiny’s Edge - M.L. Wang
Tempest - Victoria Aveyard
Joe S's Picks:
The Girl from the Sea – Lee Knox Ostertag
Gumshoe – Brenna Thummler
Millie of the Manor - Karina Evans, Andrea Bell
438 Days – Jonathan Franklin
Lost in the Valley of Death – Harley Rustad
Canon – Paige Lewis
Honey in Her Veins – Ruth McKell
Project V – Park Seolyeon
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:20 Welcome and Intro 00:02:44 What our guests think of when they hear Adventure Story 00:11:56 Adventure Recommendations 01:14:43 Comment Question 01:15:03 Thank you 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 bookloungebylibb…
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Witchlings: Celebrating the Series Finale with Claribel A. Ortega
6 oktober 2026 · 1 uur 3 min
The Witchlings series has reached its magical finale, and we’re celebrating with the author herself! Lees meer
In this bonus episode of Book Lounge by Libby, host Joe Skelley sits down with Claribel A. Ortega to look back at the Witchlings series as a whole, from its magical world and unforgettable characters to friendship, identity, growing up and all the twists and turns along the way.
With the final Witchlings book releasing today, this conversation celebrates the journey to the series finale, what Witchlings has meant to Claribel and what it feels like to bring this magical story to an end.
Spoiler note: The first 16 minutes are spoiler-free. Light spoilers begin around 16:09, and we’ll give you a warning before discussing any major spoilers.
If you’ve read the Witchlings series, are finishing the finale or simply love magical middle grade fantasy, come hang out with us!
If YOU want the chance to win the complete Witchlings series, go enter to win on our Instagram @BookLoungePod
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Joe – Instagram
Claribel A. Ortega – Website, Instagram, Join the Witchlings Discord
Books by Claribel:
The Witchlings Series:
Witchlings
The Golden Frog Games
House of Elephants
Scepter of Memories
The Sea Witch Prophecy
Ghost Squad
Frizzy
The Girl and the Robobt – Oz Rodriguez, Claribel A. Ortega
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:20 Intro and welcome to Claribel A. Ortega! 00:04:54 Writing the final book 00:10:09 Why five books felt right for Witchlings 00:11:40 What will Claribel miss most about the world of Witchlings 00:16:09 Spolier-light recap of the series 00:23:59 Monstruos mythology, identity and childhood storytelling 00:41:44 Spoiler discussion begins for book 5 00:55:12 The essence of Witchlings 00:55:43 A message to longtime readers 00:57:22 Comment question of the day! 00:57:32 GIVEAWAY DETAILS! 00:58:21 Thank you and farewell 00:59:39 Outro
Enjoying the s…
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Are Adventure Stories Dead? The Genre That Refuses to Die
5 oktober 2026 · 59 min
Is the classic adventure story dead, or has it simply gotten a serious makeover? Lees meer
From treasure hunts and lost worlds to quests, monsters and impossible missions, adventure has always been one of the biggest reading pleasures around. But what happens when the genre collides with modern sci fi, fantasy and the wildest corners of contemporary storytelling?
Host Joe Skelley is joined by author John Scalzi to dig into why adventure books still have such a grip on readers, how the genre has transformed over time and why stories built around discovery, danger and a good old fashioned “let’s see what happens” continue to thrive.
We’re talking classic adventure, modern adventure books, science fiction, fantasy, quests, escapism and the enduring appeal of getting swept up in a story that refuses to sit still.
So grab your metaphorical map, pack some snacks and join us in the Book Lounge. Adventure isn’t dead. It just got weird.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Titles mentioned in this episode:
Starman Jones – Robert A. Heinlein
Hatchet – Gary Paulsen
Project Hail Mary – Andy Weir
Dungeon Crawler Carl – Matt Dinniman
A Winkle in Time – Madeleine L’Engle
The Dark is Rising – Susan Cooper
The Hunger Games – Suzanne Collins
Uglies – Scott Westerfeld
Old Man’s War – John Scalzi
Monsters of Ohio – John Scalzi
Agent to the Stars – John Scalzi
When the Moon Hits Your Eye – John Scalzi
Redshirts – John Scalzi
All Quiet on the Western Front – Erich Maria Remarque
Who’s in this episode:
Joe – Instagram
John Scalzi – Website, Instagram
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:20 Welcome and intro 00:01:30 The Adventure Stories that shaped us 00:07:42 How adventure evolved 00:19:06 The power of personal recommendations 00:33:55 Why adventure stories offer escape 00: 44:55 Why adventure isn’t dead 00:55:19 Comment question and outro
Enjoying the show? Follow Book Lounge by Libby, leave a rating or review, and watch every…
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Book Club Certified: When Readers Make a Book Blow Up
1 oktober 2026 · 1 uur 1 min
What happens when readers get REALLY into a book? Sometimes… everyone starts reading it. Lees meer
In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, host Joe Skelley is joined by authors whose books found huge audiences through book clubs, BookTok, Bookstagram and online reading communities. We’re talking about the very real power of readers to turn a great book into a full-blown phenomenon and what it’s like for an author to watch that happen.
How does a book become the one everyone is recommending? Why do some stories take off in book clubs? And what makes readers want to pass a book along to everyone they know?
Plus, we’re getting into the joy, chaos and occasionally unhinged energy of being part of a reading community.
Whether you’re a lifelong book club member, a solo reader who lives in the group chat or someone who has ever said “I HAVE to make you read this,” this one is for you.
If you're part of a book club, tell us about it! How big is your group? How often do you meet? What's the best book you've ever read together? And, perhaps most importantly, what's the book that nearly started a civil war?
Listen or watch now, and join the conversation with Book Lounge by Libby.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Joe – Instagram
Heather Morris – Website, Instagram
Morgan Elizabeth – Website, Instagram
Patti C. Henry – Website, Instagram
Guest Books:
Some of Heather Morris' books:
The Tattooist of Auschwitz
Cilka’s Journey
Three Sisters
Sisters Under the Rising Sun
The Piano Teacher of Montparnasse
Morgan Elizabeth's traditionally published book:
Meet Cute Magic
Some of Patti C. Henry's books:
Losing the Moon
The Story She Left Behind
The Secret Book of Flora Lea
Becoming Mrs. Lewis
Once Upon a Wardrobe
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:19 Welcome and Intro 00:01:24 When did you realize your book had become a book club hit? 00:11:56 Did a book club change the trajectory of your book? 00…
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October 2026 Book Picks: Reads to Haunt Your TBR
30 september 2026 · 52 min
October is here, and our TBR is looking positively haunted. 👻 Joe is joined by his coworker Nahomy to talk about the new books coming out in October 2026, from creepy haunted houses and witchy fantasy to vampires, horror graphic novels, dark mysteries and stories that will have you sleeping with the lights on. Lees meer
Whether you're looking for your next spooky horror read, a magical fantasy adventure or a creepy thriller to curl up with this fall, we've got your October new book radar covered. Plus, we're sharing a few honorable mentions and unexpected picks to round out your reading list.
Find your next favorite read with Book Lounge by Libby, powered by libraries and made for readers.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Book recommendations:
Nahomy’s Picks:
The House Built on Alligator Bones – Sophia Huneycutt
Legends & Lattes: The Graphic Novel – Travis Baldree, adapted – Samuel Sattin, Illustrated – Shanti Rittgers and Sarah Webb
Peck & Peck – Bonnie Garmus
Until the Last Light Goes Out – Courtney Gould
A Court of Splintered Harmony – Sarah J. Maas
Look What the Cat Dragged In – Jason Rekulak
When the World Was Happy – Benjamin Alire Sáenz
Joe’s Picks:
Honorable mentions:
Stagtown vol. 1 – Punko
The Sea Witch Prophecy – Claribel A. Ortega
The Tarot Trials – Katee Robert
The Memory of Borrowed Books – Meg Anderson
Episode picks:
Solace House – Will Maclean
Carrying – Samantha Josephs
Bruja’s Nest – Brenda LaTorre
When the Night Comes Knocking – Katherine Daniel
The Chain House – JH Markert
Dive Bar at the End of the Road – Kelley Armstrong
Please Enjoy Your Stay – Tara Goedjen
Night of the Mallrats – Nicolina Torres
Fangs and All – Tas Mukanik
Who’s in this episode:
Joe – Instagram
Nahomy - Instagram
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:20 Intro & Welcome 00:02:53 Joe’s Honorable Mentions list 00:05:41 Our October 2026 Book Picks 00:48:19 We want to hear from you! Comment Question 00:48:43 Tha…
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The Secrets to a Great Book Club (According to People Who Run Them)
28 september 2026 · 1 uur 10 min
What actually makes a book club GOOD? And how do you get people to come back month after month without turning it into homework? Lees meer
This week on Book Lounge by Libby, we're going behind the scenes of the book club. Joe is joined by Amy Allen Clark of Book Gang Podcast and book club, Dave McNally, Adult Services Supervisor at Cuyahoga County Public Library, and Meara of (@mearaisreading) to talk about what makes a great book club, how groups choose what to read, the biggest barriers that keep people from joining and what happens when a book club meeting goes completely off the rails.
We're talking book club tips, discussion drama, choosing books, reading outside your comfort zone, building community and, naturally, some very important book club gossip.
Whether you're already a devoted book club person, thinking about joining one or wondering if you should finally start your own, this conversation has something for you.
And yes, we get into the books that brought people together, the ones that divided them and the stories that have become legendary around the book club table.
If you're watching or listening on Spotify, comment and let us know: If you're part of a book club, tell us about it! How big is your group? How often do you meet? What's the best book you've ever read together? And, perhaps most importantly, what's the book that nearly started a civil war?
OR come comment on today's post over on Instagram at @bookloungepod.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Book recommendations:
Jane Eyre – Charlotte Bronte
Slaughterhouse-Five – Kurt Vonnegut
Heart the Lover – Lily King
Daughters of Shandong – Eve J. Chung
Woodworking – Emily St. James
The Rachel Incident – Caroline O’Donoghue
Sula – Toni Morrison
The Bluest Eye – Toni Morrison
I See You’ve Called in Dead – John Kenney
Into Thin Air – Jon Krakauer
Into the Wild – Jon Krakauer
The Art Thief – Michael Finkel
The Final Revival of Opal & Nev – Dawn…
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Librarians Spill the Tea: Wild Patron Stories, Book Hot Takes & Library Secrets
24 september 2026 · 1 uur 3 min
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. Lees meer
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 bookloungebylibby@overdrive.com.
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://marketplac…
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Blind Date with a (Library) Book
21 september 2026 · 1 uur 8 min
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. Lees meer
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 bookloungebylibby@overdrive.com.
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 featur…
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Jeneva Rose Is Ready to Scare You
17 september 2026 · 56 min
What scares you? For bestselling author Jeneva Rose, the answer might be… literally anything. 👀 Lees meer
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 bookloungebylibby@overdrive.com.
Looking for Book Lounge merch? Visit Plot Threads.
Library friends: Add episodes of Book Lounge by L…
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Reimagining Virginia Woolf: Adapting Night & Day with Justine Waddell
3 september 2026 · 54 min
Virginia Woolf has inspired generations of readers, but what happens when you take one of her novels and bring it to a modern audience? Lees meer
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 bookloungebylibby@overdrive.com.
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!
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September 2026 Book Releases We Can’t Wait to Read
27 augustus 2026 · 1 uur 34 min
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. Lees meer
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 Li…
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We Read the Wildest Reviews of Books We Love
13 augustus 2026 · 1 uur 34 min
What happens when you take the Beach Too Sandy, Water Too Wet approach to books? Absolute chaos. Lees meer
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 bookloungebylibby@overdrive.com.
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!
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August 2026 Book Releases We're Adding to Our TBRs
30 juli 2026 · 1 uur 42 min
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. Lees meer
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…
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Plot Twists & Playlists: Audiobooks, Romance Reads & 2026 Book Talk with Destinee
16 juli 2026 · 1 uur 8 min
What's better than talking about great books? Talking about all the great books. Lees meer
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 bookloungebylibby@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
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Summerween 2026: The Best Horror Books to Kick Off Spooky Season Early
9 juli 2026 · 1 uur 33 min
Summer is heating up... so naturally it's time for ghosts, monsters, haunted camps, cursed lakes, and things that go bump in the night. Lees meer
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 Or…
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How President Lincoln Would Celebrate America 250 (and the books he'd read)
2 juli 2026 · 55 min
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? Lees meer
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 ca…
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July 2026 Book Releases: The New Books We Can't Wait to Read
25 juni 2026 · 1 uur 25 min
A new month means a new stack of books to obsess over. Lees meer
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 Market…
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Too Hot to Handle: Steamy Romance Books for Your Summer TBR
18 juni 2026 · 58 min
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. Lees meer
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: Eg…
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The Art of the Swoon: Ann Liang & BK Borison on Romance, Chemistry & Desire
15 juni 2026 · 58 min
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. Lees meer
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 soci…
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Audiobook Month Special: The Best Audiobooks to Add to Your Listening List
11 juni 2026 · 1 uur 16 min
June is Audiobook Month, and we're celebrating one of our favorite ways to experience stories. Lees meer
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
NOS4…
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The Magic of Audiobooks with Award-Winning Narrators Saskia Maarleveld & Michael Crouch
8 juni 2026 · 1 uur 3 min
June is Audiobook Month, and we're celebrating with two of the most beloved voices in the industry. Lees meer
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 Cr…
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Your Ultimate Pride Month 2026 Reading List
4 juni 2026 · 1 uur 5 min
What should you read this Pride Month? Lees meer
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…
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Finding Hope, Queer Joy & the Courage to Be Seen
1 juni 2026 · 1 uur 31 min
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. Lees meer
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 Ma…
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June 2026 Book Releases You NEED on Your TBR
29 mei 2026 · 1 uur 3 min
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. Lees meer
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 …
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Mystery & Thriller Book Recommendations with @CrimebytheBook
28 mei 2026 · 55 min
If your TBR is looking a little too well-behaved, consider this your official invitation to cause some chaos. Lees meer
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. Che…
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The Anatomy of a Twist
25 mei 2026 · 1 uur 1 min
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? Lees meer
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 …
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Books That Feel Like Falling Into Another World
21 mei 2026 · 58 min
This week on Book Lounge, Joe is joined by Meara for a celebration of all things adventure as they talk about adult books that perfectly capture the feeling of reading The Magic Tree House. Whether it’s characters being pulled into another time and place, epic quests across strange worlds, hidden mysteries, or stories filled with wonder and discovery, these are the books that recreate that unforgettable reading experience for grown-up readers. Lees meer
From fantasy adventures and historical twists to books that feel immersive, magical, and impossible to put down, Joe and Meara share the titles giving them major Magic Tree House energy and explain why these stories still tap into the same excitement that made so many readers fall in love with books in the first place. If you’ve ever wanted stories that make you feel like you’ve stepped through a portal into another world, this episode is for you.
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:
Meara’s Picks:
These Immortal Truths – R. Raeta
How the Word Is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America – Clint Smith
The Keeper of Night - Kylie Lee Baker
The Scarlet Throne - Amy Leow
The Dead Cat Tail Assassins - P. Djèlí Clark
In Universes - Emet North
The Time Traveler’s Passport Collection
Joe’s Picks:
Vampires in the Lemon Grove – Karen Russell
Found Audio – NJ Campbell
Peaces – Helen Oyeyemi
Under the Whispering Door – TJ Klune
The Elsewhere Express – Samantha Sotto Yambao
Sheets – Brenna Thummler
Who’s in this episode:
Meara - Links
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:50 Welcome Meara! 00:01:06 What was your relationship to the Magic Tree House? 00:02:11 Reading Magic Tree House as an adult 00:11:57 Instilling recognition of cultures 00:19:40 Do you see similarities between …
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Inside The Magic Tree House with Mary Pope Osborne
18 mei 2026 · 1 uur 4 min
This week, Joe sits down with legendary children’s author Mary Pope Osborne to celebrate the legacy of the Magic Tree House books and the generations of readers who grew up with Jack and Annie’s adventures. Lees meer
Together, they discuss the original spark that inspired the series, how the personalities of Jack and Annie developed over time and the early days of writing for young readers during the rise of early chapter books. Mary also shares behind-the-scenes stories about adapting the series into graphic novels, audiobooks, musicals, and animation, along with the process of designing some of the most recognizable covers in children’s literature.
The conversation also explores Mary’s writing routine, the books that challenged her most creatively, the incredible memories she’s collected from readers over the years and what it means to see The Magic Tree House continue to connect with new generations of kids today.
Filled with nostalgia, creativity, laughter, and heartfelt reflection, this episode is a celebration of storytelling, imagination, and one of the most beloved children’s series of all time.
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:
Mary Pope Osborne – YouTube, Website, Instagram
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:01:15 What was the spark that lead to the Magic Tree House? 00:03:48 The idea of writing for younger readers and inspiration in the classroom 00:07:35 How did Jack & Annie’s personalities take shape? 00:09:00 How has change happened over the years? 00:13:21 The start of Early Chapter Books 00:22:09 Animating the Magic Tree House 00:25:47 Designing the cover 00:30:25 The Magic Tree House Graphic Novels 00:35:30 What is your process for writing? 00:41:06 Kids informed titles and covers live! 00:42:48 Magic Tree House: History Heroes 0…
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Mental Health Awareness Month Reading Recommendations with Jananie K. Velu
14 mei 2026 · 1 uur 11 min
Continuing our celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month episode, Joe is joined by Jananie K. Velu to share some of their favorite books that center mental health, healing, growth, and emotional honesty. Lees meer
Together, they talk about the stories that stay with us, the comfort books can provide during difficult seasons and the powerful role reading can play in helping people feel understood and less alone. The conversation also explores Jananie’s Anti-Brain Rot reading challenge, the idea of mindful reading, and the challenge of staying intentional with our habits, goals, and attention spans in a world full of distractions.
This episode is packed with recommendations, from emotional contemporary stories to hopeful, comforting reads, and the full episode description includes an even bigger list of titles that didn’t make it into the conversation.
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!
Book recommendations:
(Includes picks not mentioned but picked for this episode)
Jananie’s Picks:
Cleo Dang Would Rather Be Dead - Mai Nguyen
An Academy for Liars - Alexis Henderson
Alone With You in the Ether - Olivie Blake
Haldol and Hyacinths - Melody Moezzi
An Unquiet Mind - Kay Redfield Jamison
How to Keep House While Drowning – KC Davis
Challenger Deep - Neal Shusterman
Darius the Great is Not Okay – Adib Khorram My Year of Rest and Relaxation – Ottessa Moshfegh
Turtles All the Way Down - John Green
What My Bones Know – Stephanie Foo
Evil Eye - Etaf Rum
The Secret World of Briar Rose - Cindy Pham
Between Friends and Lovers - Shirlene Obuobi
Before I Let Go - Kennedy Ryan
Cleopatra and Frankenstein - Coco Mellors
Big Swiss - Jen Beagin
Joe’s Picks:
Puzzled – Pan Cooke
What’s Wrong? - Erin Williams
Anxietyland – Gemma Correll
Past Tense – Sacha Mardou
Dear Scarlet – Teresa Wong
In. - Will McPhail
Everything is OK – Debbie Tun…
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Reading as Healing: Mental Health, Self-Care & the Power of Libraries
11 mei 2026 · 1 uur 36 min
This week, we’re reflecting on Mental Health Awareness Month. Today, Joe sits down with two mental health professionals to explore the powerful connection between reading, emotional well-being, and community. Lees meer
Split into two thoughtful segments, this episode invites listeners to reflect on how books, libraries, and small daily habits can support healing, growth, and a sense of stability in an often-overwhelming world.
In the first segment, Joe is joined by Monica Hobson (aka: @thebookeduptherapist), a therapist and licensed clinical social worker whose work centers on the role of reading in our healing journeys. Together, they explore the idea that distraction isn’t avoidance; it's a meaningful part of processing and recovery. They discuss the importance of self-care, how books can act as connectors between people and experiences, and how to quiet the pressure of “what should I read” in favor of what truly serves you.
In the second segment, Joe speaks with Dr. Suzan Song, MD, PhD, about the broader impact of reading on both individuals and communities. Their conversation touches on personal and collective agency, building stability in uncertain times, and what Dr. Song wishes more people understood about mental health. She also shares why one of her first priorities in any new place is getting a library card and what that represents beyond just access to books.
This episode is an invitation to slow down, reflect, and consider the role stories play in our lives; not just as entertainment, but as tools for connection, understanding, and healing.
We hope this conversation offers a sense of comfort and possibility. You are not alone.
If you are seeking support, please find a list of resources below:
Psychology Today Find a Therapist tool: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org
Maternal Mental Health: call or text 1-833-852-6262
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administr…
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Your AAPI Month TBR Starts Here | Must-Read Books with Jananie K. Velu
7 mei 2026 · 1 uur 7 min
In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by Jananie K. Velu of thisstoryaintover to celebrate AAPI Month with a stack of incredible Asian lit you’ll want to add to your TBR immediately. Lees meer
Together, they dive into a wide range of must-read books highlighting stories that span genres, perspectives, and lived experiences. From deeply personal narratives to sweeping, unforgettable storytelling, this conversation is all about discovering books that stay with you and expanding your reading list to celebrate these voices all year long.
Whether you’re looking to build out your AAPI Month reading list, discover new favorite authors, or simply find your next great read, this episode is packed with recommendations that bring heart, perspective, and unforgettable storytelling.
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!
Book recommendations:
Jananie’s Picks:
We Dance Upon Demons - Vaishnavi Patel
Burn the Sea - Mona Tewari
Capitalists Must Starve - Park Seolyeon
Natural Beauty & Immaculate Conception - Ling Ling Huang
Cleo Dang Would Rather Be Dead - Mai Nguyen
A Kiss of Crimson Ash - Anuja Varghese
Breasts and Eggs – Mieko Kawakami
Tall Water – SJ Sindu
Welcome to the Hyunam-dong Bookshop - Hwang Bo-reum
Joe’s Picks:
Counterattacks at Thirty & Almond – Won-Pyung Sohn
Séance Tea Party – Reimena Yee
What You Are Looking For is in the Library – Michiko Aoyama
The Midnight Taxi – Yosha Gunasekera
Convenience Store Woman & Earthlings - Sayaka Murata
Detective Aunty & Moonlight Murder - Uzma Jalaluddin
Shoutout: Strange Pictures, Strange Houses & Strange Buildings - Uketsu
Who’s in this episode:
Jananie K. Velu - Links
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:01:06 Catching up with Jananie K. Velu! 00:02:20 What are Jananie’s guiding lights when choosing for her imprint 00:03:57 Starting the reading recs 01:03:46 Out…
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Lisa See & Zoulfa Katouh on Heritage, Identity & Storytelling
4 mei 2026 · 55 min
In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe celebrates Asian Heritage Month by spotlighting the global impact of Asian voices in storytelling. Joined by bestselling authors Lisa See and Zoulfa Katouh, the conversation explores how heritage, identity, and lived experience shape the stories we read and why those stories resonate far beyond any one place or perspective. Lees meer
From the influence of cultural traditions to the responsibility of telling stories rooted in personal and collective history, Lisa and Zoulfa share how their backgrounds inform their writing and connect with readers around the world. This episode highlights the power of global storytelling, the importance of representation in literature, and the way deeply personal narratives can feel universal.
If you’re looking to celebrate Asian Heritage Month through books, discover globally resonant stories, or better understand how culture shapes the stories that stay with us, this conversation is a meaningful place to start.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Lisa See - Website Daughters of the Sun and Moon – coming June 9, 2026 Lady Tan’s Circle of Women
Zoulfa Katouh - Website The Ocean Would Paint Me Blue - coming June 2, 2026 As Long as the Lemon Tree Grows
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:57 Welcome to Lisa See and Zoulfa Katouh 00:02:22 A conversation on Asian heritage, culture and the impact on writing 00:23:41 Being Authentic and Intentional 00:29:02 Lisa See reflects on conversations about racism with her father 00:40:47 What does home mean to you in your work? 00:47:07 What do you hope readers take with you from your work? 00:51:51 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!
Looking for mor…
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Borrowed for the Cover: Books That Hooked Us at First Glance
30 april 2026 · 1 uur 22 min
Be honest, how many books have you borrowed purely because the cover looked amazing? Lees meer
This week on Book Lounge, Joe is joined by Bre for a very honest, slightly chaotic, and deeply relatable conversation about judging books by their covers. Before diving into our recommendations, we get into what Bre loves in a cover design.
We also talk about the covers that live rent-free in for Bre, and how special editions have completely changed the way readers collect (and display) books. Plus, a love-filled detour into The Diviners series and why its design continues to stand out.
Then, we get to recommending books we only read BECAUSE of the cover.
We didn’t read the synopsis.
We didn’t check reviews.
We saw the cover… and that was enough.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Book recommendations:
Bre’s Picks:
How to Solve Your Own Murder – Kristen Perrin
The Jumbies - Tracey Baptiste
To Steal a Throne - Gabi Burton
On Sundays She Picked Flowers - Yah Yah Scholfield
Joe’s Picks:
Sky Daddy – Kate Folk
Just Like Mother – Anne Heltzel
Dollface – Lindy Ryan
Butter – Asako Yuzuki
Who’s in this episode:
Bre - Links
Time stamps:
00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:40 Welcome to Bre The Loc’d Booktician 00:01:02 What are some of your favorite cover designs? 00:05:56 Do you have a book cover that comes to mind when you think of a good design? 00:06:57 Thoughts on special editions 00:19:11 Here’s our recommendations! 01:17:35 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, 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! Yo…
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May 2026’s Hottest New Books (And Our Immediate Adds)
29 april 2026 · 1 uur 9 min
Your TBR is about to get longer. Lees meer
In this episode of Book Lounge, Joe is joined by Rachel to break down the most exciting book releases coming in May 2026 by sharing what they’re adding to their to-be-read piles. From buzzy debuts and fan-favorite authors to under-the-radar titles you’ll want to grab early, they’re sorting through the chaos of new releases so you don’t have to.
Expect strong opinions, a few surprises, and plenty of “place hold now” energy as they build their May reading lists.
Whether you’re planning your next great read or just love staying ahead of the book buzz, this episode is your go-to guide for what’s hitting shelves this May.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Book recommendations:
Rachel’s Titles:
Our Perfect Storm - Carley Fortune
A Parade of Horribles – Matt Dinniman
The Final Target – Nora Roberts
Caller Unknown – Gillian McAllister
The Shippers - Katherine Center
Good Joy, Bad Joy – Mikki Brammer
The Last Page – Katie Holt
The Midnight Train – Matt Haig
Joe’s Titles:
Homebound – Portia Elan
Bromantasy – Maire Roche
Opting Out – Maia Kobabe, Lucky Srikumar
Until Death – Mary Berman
Murder Most Delicious - Danielle Postel-Vinay
Landing in Place – Sherine Hamdy, art by Myra El Mir
Gay Mormon Dad – Chad Anderson
Body Count – Codie Crowley
Not Your Final Girl – Mikayla Randolph
Femme Feral – Sam Beckbessinger
Time stamps:
00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:48 A warm welcome to Rachel! 00:01:23 Breaking out of a bit of a slump 00:06:10 Our May 2026 Book Picks! 01:05:06 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 Libb…
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Book Cover Design Secrets (From the People Who Make Them)
27 april 2026 · 1 uur 43 min
In this episode of Book Lounge, Joe goes behind the scenes of one of the most important—and most misunderstood—parts of publishing: book cover design. Lees meer
In the first segment, Erin Fitzsimmons (Sourcebooks) and Karina Granda (Hachette Book Group) join Joe to talk about how they got their start in design, what their creative process looks like today, and how book covers have evolved alongside trends, formats, and reader expectations.
Then, in the second segment, Kathryn G. English (Blackstone Publishing) and Ryan Willwerscheid (Podium Audio) dive into how design shifts across formats, from print to audio, and share some of the biggest surprises that go into creating a cover that connects with readers.
From concept to final product, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the art, strategy, and collaboration behind the covers you can’t stop staring at.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Segment 1:
Erin Fitzsimmons - Instagram
Karina Granda – Instagram
Segment 2:
Kathryn G. English - Instagram
Ryan Willwerscheid – Instagram
Time stamps:
00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro with Karina Granda and Erin Fitzsimmons 00:03:50 How did you get into this space? 00:09:09 What does on the job training look like for a cover designer? 00:27:54 When do you start desiging covers? 00:39:57 What is a trendy cover vs. A timeless cover? 00:47:07 Thank you to Karina and Erin! 00:47:19 Intro with Ryan Willwerscheid and Kathryn G. English 00:51:03 How do you approach cover design? 01:02:39 Where do you find inspiration when creating covers? 01:06:45 How often do you push comps and trends over author wants? 01:18:11 Do you ever have to change covers right before print? 01:37:50 What would you want people to take away from creating book covers? 01:39:46 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 …
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Must-Read Historical Fiction for Your TBR Right Now
23 april 2026 · 1 uur 11 min
Looking for your next great historical fiction read? Joe is joined by Amy Allen Clark, host of the Book Gang Podcast, to share standout historical fiction recommendations to add to your TBR. Lees meer
From immersive, character-driven stories to sweeping narratives that bring the past to life, this episode highlights books that will stick with you long after the final page. Amy brings her expertise in discovering buzzy and noteworthy titles, while Joe adds a few picks of his own—including one unexpected curveball.
Whether you’re a longtime historical fiction reader or just looking for a place to start, this episode is packed with compelling recommendations across time periods and styles.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Book recommendations:
Amy’s Picks:
The Half Life - Rachel Beanland
Scandalous Women - Gill Paul
The Final Revival of Opal and Nev - Dawnie Walton
The Foursome - Christina Baker Kline
Happy Land - Dolen Perkins-Valdez
Joe’s Picks:
Let's Call Her Barbie – Renée Rosen
Disco Witches of Fire Island – Blair Fell
The Hounding – Xenobe Purvis
Dead Eleven – Jimmy Juliano
Silver Nitrate – Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Flung out of Space – Grace Ellis & Hannah Templer
Stage Dreams – Melanie Gillman
The Legend of Auntie Po – Shing Yin Khor
Parallel – Matthias Lehmann
Who’s in this episode:
Amy Allen Clark, Book Gang Podcast – links
Articles referenced:
https://bookriot.com/what-makes-a-book-historical-fiction/
https://celadonbooks.com/what-is-historical-fiction/
https://historicalnovelsociety.org/defining-the-genre-2/
Time stamps:
00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:53 Hello to Amy! 00:01:30 What is Historical Fiction, and what defines it? 00:04:28 Amy’s thoughts on Historical Fiction 00:12:11 Historical Fiction Recommendations 01:07:28 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 Over…
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Inside the World of Historical Fiction with Christina Baker Kline, Heather Webb & Lauren Tarshis
20 april 2026 · 1 uur 3 min
Christina Baker Kline, Heather Webb and Lauren Tarshis join Joe for a wide-ranging conversation on the enduring appeal of historical fiction and why readers keep coming back for stories rooted in the past. Lees meer
From immersive research to emotional storytelling, they explore how historical fiction brings real moments to life while still leaving room for imagination. The conversation also dives into the challenges of writing in difficult time periods, how authors maintain hope when their subject matter gets heavy and what it means to responsibly shape narratives based on real events.
Plus, each author shares insight into their creative process and how they build vivid, unforgettable worlds across genres and age group.
Whether you're a lifelong historical fiction reader or just starting to explore the genre, this episode offers a thoughtful look at the stories that help us better understand where we’ve been and where we’re going.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Christina Baker Kline
Website
The Foursome
Heather Webb
Website
The Hope Keeper
Lauren Tarshis
Website
I Survived the Dust Bowl, 1935
I Survived the California Wildfires, 2018 Graphic Novel
Time stamps:
00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro to Historical Fiction 00:01:08 Hello from Christina Baker Kline, Heather Webb & Lauren Tarshis 00:05:07 Diving into the conversation – why historical fiction? 00:49:26 How do you balance the heaviness of historical with maintaining light in your life?
00:58:44 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!
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,…
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Debut Book Recommendations You’ll Be Obsessed With (2022–2026)
16 april 2026 · 1 uur 24 min
Looking for your next favorite author before they blow up? This episode is for you. Lees meer
Joe is joined by Amy Allen Clark of the Book Gang Podcast, an expert in spotlighting debut authors, for a conversation that starts with a little podcast inside baseball. From prepping interviews to working with first-time authors, they dig into what makes debut conversations so special.
Then, it’s all about the books.
Joe and Amy share standout debut novels from 2022 through 2026 that completely delivered. These are the first books that don’t feel like first books: bold, buzzworthy, and absolutely worth adding to your TBR.
If you loved the Dazzling Debuts conversation, this is your official reading list follow-up.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Book recommendations:
Amy’s Picks:
The Sunflower Boys by Sam Wachman
Harvesting Rosewater by Paria Hassouri
The Sign for Home by Blair Fell
With Friends Like You by Amy Chozick
If I Ruled the World by Amy DuBois Barnett
Joe’s Picks:
Mayra – Nicky Gonzalez
The Dallergut Dream Department Store – Miye Lee
Cactus Country – Zoe Bossiere
The September House – Carissa Orlando
I Want You More – Swan Huntley
The Compound – Aisling Rawle
Julie Chan is Dead – Liann Zhang
How to Survive a Horror Story – Mallory Arnold
Smoke Gets in Your Eyes – Anais Flogny
Fitting Indian – Jyoti Chand
Homebody – Theo Parish
Who’s in this episode:
Amy Allen Clark – Links
Time stamps:
00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro to Dazzling Debuts 00:05:00 Inside baseball – talking to debut authors and the art of the interview 00:25:35 Dazzling Debut Recommendations 01:19:35 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, or this list for today’s episode!
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby…
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Dazzling Debuts: The Real Story Behind First Novels
13 april 2026 · 1 uur 4 min
Welcome to Season 3 of Book Lounge by Libby! We’re kicking things off with a celebration of debut authors; the moment when years of writing, revising, and hoping finally turn into a book on shelves. Lees meer
Joe is joined by Casey Scieszka, Katie Bernet, and Leia Ham to talk about what it really takes to publish a first novel. From early drafts and rejections to finding an agent, navigating edits, and seeing their books in the world for the first time, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the debut experience.
They also dive into the emotional side of publishing: imposter syndrome, creative pressure, and the surreal moment of becoming a “published author.” Whether you’re an aspiring writer or just love discovering new voices, this episode is a behind-the-scenes look at where every author’s journey begins.
Make sure you’re following the show so you don’t miss our next episode where we give you debut recommendations!
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Casey Scieszka - website
The Fountain
Katie Bernet - website
Beth is Dead
Leia Ham - website
The Missing Magic of Sparrow Xia
Time stamps:
00:00:00 Title
00:00:23 Updates for Season 3
00:02:26 Intro
00:10:13 Sharing your book with the world
00:28:15 Getting into book two
00:42:17 What do you want most for your first release?
00:48:35 Does being a published author feel different?
00:52:04 Lightning Round
00:59:43 Farewell to our debut guests
01:00:10 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 v…
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Thrift Gremlin Energy: Books, Libraries & Chaos with Kathleen Illustrated
9 april 2026 · 1 uur 3 min
Kathleen, known online as KathleenIllustrated, joins Joe for a cozy, creativity-filled conversation. As an illustrator, thrifter, and passionate reader, Kathleen shares the early reading moments that shaped her, her deep love of libraries and Libby, and how storytelling influences her creative life. Lees meer
The episode also explores her passion for thrifting and sustainability, and the joy of discovering meaningful, unexpected finds. It’s a warm, relaxed chat about books, creativity, and building a life rooted in what inspires.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Find Kathleen online:
YouTube - link
Instagram – link
Website- link
Time stamps:
00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 A brief interruption from Joe & Season 3 updates 00:04:46 Intro 00:05:20 Getting to know Kathleen 00:07:22 Creativity and Vision 00:36:14 Kathleen’s Reading Hot Takes 00:48:06 Not a Re-Reader 00:58:02 Recent Thrift Finds 00:59:28 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!
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 bookloungebylibby@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
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