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Book Reviews Episodes

Get honest and engaging book reviews on various genres, helping listeners discover their next favorite read with thoughtful recommendations.
Sasha Preston on Cozy Heist Mysteries, Female Friendship, and Diverse Leads | Episode 149
April 28, 2026

Sasha Preston on Cozy Heist Mysteries, Female Friendship, and Diverse Leads | Episode 149

In this episode of the Bookaholic Podcast, I’m joined by Sasha Preston author of The Sweetest Escape. We talk about her cozy, female, caper, what inspired this story, and why readers who love cozy mysteries will absolutely want to add this book to their list. 📚 BUY THE BOOK 👉 Grab The Sweetest Escape here: https://amzn.to/3OK6GVx 🎁 BOOKAHOLIC FREEBIE Want more book recommendations and author interviews? 📩 Join the Bookaholic Newsletter: https://www.book-a-holic.com/newsletter/ ✨ WHAT WE TALK ...
Dating A Genius Nearly Killed Me | Episode 147
Jan. 15, 2026

Dating A Genius Nearly Killed Me | Episode 147

Brenda recounts her tumultuous childhood, where she assumed a parental role after her mother's nervous breakdown. She shares her 17-year relationship with Philip Ray, a genius behind the first personal computer who led a life filled with adventure, danger, and eventual addiction. Brenda describes their ventures, from car racing to living on the edge with Philip's secret cocaine lab.
How ADHD Became Her Superpower in Writing! | Episode 145
Dec. 12, 2025

How ADHD Became Her Superpower in Writing! | Episode 145

In this episode of the Bookaholic Podcast, Deidre sits down with EK Wise, author of the fantasy novel 'Keepers of the Rock: The Deis Rising.' They discuss EK's writing process, especially how she navigates her ADHD diagnosis and leverages techniques to maintain focus. EK shares her personal ADHD journey and offers valuable advice on time management and concentration. The conversation then shifts to her book, exploring its unique blend of geology, secret societies, and fantastical elements. EK al...
Vietnam War & Past Lives: Inside Ellen Birkett Morris's Gripping Tale! | Episode 144
Dec. 5, 2025

Vietnam War & Past Lives: Inside Ellen Birkett Morris's Gripping Tale! | Episode 144

In this episode of the Bookaholic Podcast, Ellen Birkett Morris discusses her novel 'Beware The Tall Grass,' a poignant story about a mother and her child who has past life memories of serving in the Vietnam War. Ellen shares her inspiration from an NPR story about young children with past life memories and the challenges of expanding a short story into a novel. She highlights the significance of vivid imagery and metaphors in her writing and reflects on the validation from winning the Donald L....
Why Wonder Matters: Bestselling Author Laura Munson Talks Creativity & Purpose | Episode 142
Nov. 19, 2025

Why Wonder Matters: Bestselling Author Laura Munson Talks Creativity & Purpose | Episode 142

Children naturally ask big, beautiful questions about life—but somewhere along the journey to adulthood, many of us stop. In today’s episode, bestselling author Laura Munson joins us to talk about why that happens and how reclaiming our sense of wonder can transform our lives. Laura’s new book, THE WILD WHY, blends memoir, insight, travel, and creative guidance to help readers reconnect with awe—and with themselves. Through travels from Montana to Morocco, Mexico to Tuscany, and Ireland to an an...
From Open Heart Surgery to Bestselling Author: Megan Michelle's Journey | Episode 141
Nov. 5, 2025

From Open Heart Surgery to Bestselling Author: Megan Michelle's Journey | Episode 141

Get your copy of Skylark here - https://amzn.to/3LpOYEH In this episode of the Bookaholic podcast, host Deirdre welcomes debut novelist Megan Michelle, who shares the inspiring story behind her book 'Skylark'. Megan discusses how a life-changing open-heart surgery served as the catalyst for her writing career and delves into the details of 'Skylark', the first in a multi-book series about the first female Navy SEAL fighting against global subjugation and patriarchy. She also talks about balancin...
Sisterhood, Grief and Magic: A Young Witch Spins a Tale of Generational Trauma | Episode 140
Oct. 31, 2025

Sisterhood, Grief and Magic: A Young Witch Spins a Tale of Generational Trauma | Episode 140

In this episode of The Bookaholic Podcast, host Deirdre Pippins chats with author Liz Parker about her enchanting new novel The Witches of Honeysuckle House - https://go.magik.ly/ml/3a86p/. This cozy yet powerful story blends sisterhood, curses, witchcraft, and generational trauma into a hauntingly beautiful Southern Gothic fantasy. Liz shares how her own journey as a practicing witch and herbalist shaped her storytelling — and how her experiences with complex PTSD, identity, and healing bring e...
Writer of The Dark with Chris Kazularich | Episode 139 #supernatural #horror #thriller
Oct. 30, 2025

Writer of The Dark with Chris Kazularich | Episode 139 #supernatural #horror #thriller

Join Deirdre Pippins as she talks to Chris Kazularich. Chris is the author of the short story collection, Menagerie in the Dark, and the suspense horror novella, LAZARUS. He is also a member of The Authors Guild, AWP, and the Chicago Writers Association. In addition to writing and reading extensively, he enjoys hiking, playing video games, binge-watching a good show with his husband and daughter, and simply being a dad. He graduated from Purdue University and lives between Chicago, IL, and Napl...
CHARISMA UNLOCKED: The Science Behind Influence
Oct. 3, 2025

CHARISMA UNLOCKED: The Science Behind Influence

In this episode of the Bookaholic Podcast, Deirdre Pippins interviews Richard Reed, author of "Charisma Unlocked: The Science and Strategy to Captivate, Influence, and Succeed in Business." Richard shares insights from his years of coaching CEOs, entrepreneurs, and professionals on how to harness authentic charisma. They discuss myths around charisma, the importance of emotional intelligence, the power of storytelling in business, and methods for both introverts and extroverts to enhance their c...
What I'm Reading for June! | Book News & Book Review
June 10, 2025

What I'm Reading for June! | Book News & Book Review

I am reading a variety of books in June from women's fiction, mystery/thrillers and fantasy. There's a genre for everyone. Check out the collection here - https://obsw.it/s/5brx 00:00 Introduction and June 2025 Reading List Overview 00:09 Book Review: Skin and Bones by Renee Watson - https://go.magik.ly/ml/2d2ad/ 02:33 Book Review: Legend Born - https://go.magik.ly/ml/2d2a4/ 03:56 Book Review: She Didn't See It Coming by Shari Lapena - https://go.magik.ly/ml/2d2an/ 04:49 Book Review: Unicorn W...
Crafting Lies and Creating A Thriller | Author Interview | Episode 128
May 8, 2025

Crafting Lies and Creating A Thriller | Author Interview | Episode 128

A Concoction of Lies - Buy it here: https://amzn.to/436Rsgm In this episode of the Bookaholic Podcast, host Deirdre Pippins interviews thriller novelist Patsy Robertson. They discuss Patsy's debut novel 'A Concoction of Lies', her transition from a career in technology to writing during the COVID-19 pandemic, and her unique focus on more mature, multicultural characters. Patsy shares insights into her creative process, the importance of marketing, and her upcoming projects. The conversation high...
Why You Should Read James Baldwin | Book News
April 16, 2025

Why You Should Read James Baldwin | Book News

James Baldwin remains a powerful voice in literature and social justice. Delve into his early life, career highlights, personal struggles, and significant contributions through his novels like 'Giovanni’s Room' and 'Go Tell It on the Mountain,' as well as his essays in 'Notes of a Native Son.' Learn about Baldwin's influence and legacy, including his famed debate against William F. Buckley Jr. and his recognition through prestigious awards. Join us as we explore Baldwin's timeless impact and why...
Cycling Across America: Lessons in Love and Perseverance | Author Interview | Episode 125
April 9, 2025

Cycling Across America: Lessons in Love and Perseverance | Author Interview | Episode 125

In this heartfelt episode of the Bookaholic Podcast, we welcome back Teri Brown for her fourth appearance. Teri discusses her latest nonfiction book, '10 Little Rules for a Double Butted Adventure,' detailing an epic 3,102-mile tandem bicycle journey across the United States with her husband. They embark on this challenging adventure, driven by personal dreams and a mission to raise funds for Toys for Tots. Teri shares their meticulous planning, overcoming physical and emotional barriers, and en...
A Tale of Turmoil and Triumph: Julie Strong's Tudor Prophecy | Author Interview | Episode 124
April 7, 2025

A Tale of Turmoil and Triumph: Julie Strong's Tudor Prophecy | Author Interview | Episode 124

In this episode of the Bookaholic Podcast, Deirdre interviews debut author Julie Strong about her new historical fiction novel, 'The Tudor Prophecy'. Julie shares her motivations for writing, the inspiration behind her choice of the tumultuous Reformation period under Henry VIII, and the creation of her characters. They discuss the novel’s plot, focusing on the struggles and resilience of the protagonists, and hints are given about the upcoming sequel titled 'The Lady Elizabeth's Secret'. The ep...
Magical Realism Meets Self-Discovery | Author Interview | Episode 120
Jan. 16, 2025

Magical Realism Meets Self-Discovery | Author Interview | Episode 120

Purchase Captains Wanted - https://amzn.to/4h0UCIq Dive into the world of Captains Wanted by Andres Schabelman, a captivating blend of magical realism and literary fiction inspired by personal experiences and indigenous ceremonial practices. This unique journey explores what happens when we embrace unexpected paths and redefine success and growth on our own terms. Follow along as the protagonist discovers a mystical book that unlocks untold possibilities, guiding readers through a surreal advent...
You Can't Stop Parenting Young Adults; They Need Your Guidance | Episode 117 | Author Interview
Nov. 10, 2024

You Can't Stop Parenting Young Adults; They Need Your Guidance | Episode 117 | Author Interview

You Can't Stop Parenting Young Adults; They Need Your Guidance | Episode 117 | Author Interview *Purchase You're Not Done Yet: Parenting Young Adults in An Age of Uncertaintly here - https://amzn.to/4fqCAP2 *Check out my Empty Nester Journal - https://stan.store/Bookaholic/bookaholic_funnel_432029 *Bookaholic bookstore. https://bookshop.org/shop/truebookaholic Times were already tough for young adults looking for ways to start living independent lives after high school and college: rents were up...
Do You Choose Your Career Or Your Family and Health?  | Episode 116 | Author Interview
Oct. 25, 2024

Do You Choose Your Career Or Your Family and Health? | Episode 116 | Author Interview

Do You Choose Your Career Or Your Family and Health? | Episode 116 | Author Interview Uncontrollable is an emotional rollercoaster that examines both what happens when the life we may be forced to live is not the life we planned to live, and the compromises we make to survive in the face of adversity. CONNECT WITH BOOKAHOLIC // INSTAGRAM: @truebookaholic // FACEBOOK: @truebookaholic // PINTEREST: @truebookaholic https://www.pinterest.ph/TrueBookaholic/ // TIKTOK: @truebookaholic // X: @truebook...
Gen X and Baby Boomer Talk About Fulfilling Your Dreams | Episode 114 | Author Interview
Oct. 18, 2024

Gen X and Baby Boomer Talk About Fulfilling Your Dreams | Episode 114 | Author Interview

Gen X and Baby Boomer Talk About Fulfilling Your Dreams | Episode 114 | Author Interview Karen Osborne is the author of four suspense novels: Reckonings (award-winning family saga/suspense), Tangled Lies (award-winning murder mystery), Getting It Right (recognized by Essence Magazine as a Best Read and featured in Poets & Writers), and True Grace (award-winning, historical fiction set in 1924 during the Harlem Renaissance). Her novels and many short stories address a wide range of societal and e...
Spicy Coming Of Age YA Romance | Episode 113 | Author Interview
Oct. 13, 2024

Spicy Coming Of Age YA Romance | Episode 113 | Author Interview

Spicy Coming Of Age YA Romance | Episode 113 | Author Interview These Perfectly Careless Things is Tash Doherty’s spicy, coming-of-age debut novel. Set in London in 2010, 15-year-old Abbie Chesterton is stuck in the antics of private school gossip and struggling to find herself. Until she meets Jonah Wood on the way to a house party. Also 15, Jonah is American and a bit strange. But his intellect charms her. As Jonah takes her on inspiring adventures around the city, Abbie finds the courage to p...
Summer Reading Wrap-Up 2024 |  Book Reviews
Sept. 20, 2024

Summer Reading Wrap-Up 2024 | Book Reviews

Summer Reading Wrap-Up 2024 | Book Reviews Wooo! Here is my wrap-up for my Summer Reading for 2024. It was a great season. Check out my list of books here - https://amzn.to/47Ht1Io CONNECT WITH BOOKAHOLIC // INSTAGRAM: @truebookaholic // FACEBOOK: @truebookaholic // PINTEREST: @truebookaholic https://www.pinterest.ph/TrueBookaholic/ // TIKTOK: @truebookaholic // X: @truebookaholic1 // LINKEDIN: Deirdre Pippins / deirdre-pippins-38338a214 // EMAIL: readingjunkie @book -a-holic.com Bookaholic b...
Influencer Teen Lies About Age, Dates Married Man | Episode 107
Sept. 5, 2024

Influencer Teen Lies About Age, Dates Married Man | Episode 107

Influencer Teen Lies About Age, Dates Married Man | Episode 107 Neveah is 15 years old. A schoolkid. With a secret life. She's a digital freelancer, and is having an affair with her biggest client. Giles is married. He thinks Neveah is twenty-two. She'll do just about anything to stop him from finding out her true age. But secrets have a way of spilling out. ... Catherine Evans was born and brought up in Africa, living in tiny communities in the heart of the African bush. She worked in Durban, S...
Memoir Chronicles Journey From Cornfields to a Microsoft Corner Office | Episode 106
Sept. 4, 2024

Memoir Chronicles Journey From Cornfields to a Microsoft Corner Office | Episode 106

Memoir Chronicles Journey From Cornfields to a Microsoft Corner Office | Episode 106 Jane’s stories reflect her unconventional path from poverty to success, from intervention by a gnarly nun, to financing college by selling used carpeting, to establishing herself as a leading Microsoft executive and achieving millionaire status by 40, Jane's narrative is both moving and motivational. But Worthy is more than just a tale of personal triumph. Seamlessly blending humor, introspection, and a fiery sp...
Middle Grade Book Explores Art as a Transformative Form of Protest | Episode 105
Aug. 31, 2024

Middle Grade Book Explores Art as a Transformative Form of Protest | Episode 105

LOUDER THAN WORDS is an amazing collaboration that brings together two inspirational Black artists, New York Times bestselling author Ashley Woodfolk and actress Lexi Underwood, for a story about the transformative power of art as protest and its capacity to change the world. Check the book out here - https://amzn.to/3XI5Rho or here - https://bookshop.org/a/22223/9781338875577 CONNECT WITH BOOKAHOLIC // INSTAGRAM: @truebookaholic // FACEBOOK: @truebookaholic // PINTEREST: @truebookaholic https:/...
Coast to Coast Romance | Episode 96
April 13, 2024

Coast to Coast Romance | Episode 96

Coast to Coast Romance | Episode 96 | Bookaholic - Deirdre Pippins Leah Koch and her sister, Bea Hodges-Koch, are the owners of The Ripped Bodice Bookstore. It is a 100% romance bookstore with locations in Los Angeles and Brooklyn. Listen to how and why they niched down their brick and mortar bookstore and why did they add a store in Brooklyn. 00:00:00 An intro to Leach Koch 00:03:33 Books store: Romance Only! 00:05:37 Different Romance stories 00:07:02 Romance is BORING!? 00:12:01 Harlquin Ro...