Pop Fiction Women

Yosha Gunasekera & 'The Midnight Taxi': Debut Discussions

Wendy Walker & 'Blade': Complicated Conversations

Virginia Kantra Complicated Conversations

Jessica Cozzi & 'We've Hit Turbulence': Debut Discussions

In today’s Complicated Conversations, Kate chats with internationally bestselling author Amy Meyerson about her first work of psychological suspense, The Water Lies, a gripping journey where two mothers―one of a woman who drowned and the other of a toddler who might know what happened to her―are the only ones searching for the truth.The conversation delves into the dual perspectives of the two mothers, Tessa and Barb, exploring themes of motherhood, anxiety, intuition, and the psychological suspense genre. Amy shares insights into her character development, the significance of setting in Venice Beach, and her personal experiences that shaped the narrative. The discussion also touches on the importance of trusting one's instincts, both in writing and in motherhood, and ends, as always, with a touch of astrology and Amy’s current favorites in books and media.The Water Lies is out now! Buy it, read it, share it, and listen to our spoiler-free chat.

In today’s Complicated Conversations we chat with Vanessa Lillie about her new novel, The Bone Thief, which is book two in her Syd Walker series. We discuss her journey as an author, the significance of Indigenous narratives, and the development of Syd and where we find her in this novel. Our conversation, like the book, explores themes of spirituality, community, and the impact of past traumas on the present. Vanessa also shares insights on her writing process and the importance of support within the literary community. The Bone Thief is out now - buy it, read it, and share it!

In this episode of Complicated Conversations, we welcome back Rebecca Baum to discuss her latest novel, The Brood, a feminist body horror story that explores themes of agency, internalized misogyny, and the complexities of womanhood. We chat with Rebecca about the protagonist, a cutthroat attorney, and her journey of control and surrender; the symbolism of cicadas; the role of bodies in the narrative; and Rebecca’s personal reflections on writing and her future projects.The Brood is out now! Buy it, read it and share it!

“Made for you might not be meant for you.” With a tagline like that, and a nuanced, realistic script about the brutal nature of love, connection and personal growth, it’s no wonder that we both loved the new film All of You on AppleTV. Here’s the summary: “Laura and Simon have been best friends since college. Over the years they've realized their bond is more than platonic. Can they - and should they – risk everything to explore a love that has existed all along?”We chat about the sci-fi element of the soulmate test, analyze pivotal scenes, and the characters' struggles, their choices, and the consequences that follow. We also wrestle with bigger questions about the way love and relationships force you to confront yourself and your own damage and how True Love requires consistently choosing that person. Brett Goldstein (aka Roy Kent) and Imogen Poots bring the love and pain of these friends/lovers to life with so much empathy.

In today’s Complicated Conversation, we chat with Laura Goode about her book, Pitch Craft: The Writer’s Guide to Getting Agented, Published, and Paid. This book is a must-read for both aspiring writers and seasoned authors. Listen now and discover practical advice on navigating the publishing world, understanding the psychology of overachievement, and redefining our understanding of success and competition. The vibe of this conversation was so fun – we found a kindred spirit in Laura, who loves playing armchair psychologist and using astrology as a tool for self-awareness as much as we do!

Sidebar on L.O.V.E second chances and reversing the prophesy from Taylor Swift and TSITP

On this episode, we sidebar on the identity crisis of the rom-com, how mutual admiration is the foundation for love, sexing up Taylor Swift and covering up Pam Anderson - why we're here for both. And since we're talking about bodies, we discuss anxiety disorders vs eating disorders by way of reality TV lessons.

On today’s Complicated Conversation we welcome back Karin Slaughter, the author of twenty-five instant New York Times bestselling novels, to delve into the gripping world of "We Are All Guilty Here," the first book in a thrilling new series. The story kicks off with the kidnapping of two young girls, drawing us into the life of Emmy Clifton, a determined sheriff's deputy. As Emmy navigates the complexities of her personal and professional life, we explore her deep connections to the case and her community. Alongside Emmy, we meet Jude, a retired FBI agent whose past intertwines with the present mystery. Together, they unravel a web of secrets in the fictional town of North Falls, Georgia. Listen as we reflect on Karin’s remarkable career, her writing process and the themes in her novel of family, community, accountability, the silent struggles of women, and society’s obsession with true crime. This episode promises a deep dive into character development and the intricate storytelling that makes Karin’s work so compelling.We Are All Guilty Here is out now!

In this episode of Debut Discussions, we dive into the captivating world of Our Secrets Were Safe with author Virginia Trench. Discover the inspiration behind this thrilling novel, where two friends grapple with the aftermath of a crime they thought was long ago buried. Virginia shares her journey from a lifelong dream to be a published author, exploring themes of past secrets, privilege, the role of female rage in contemporary literature, and the complex relationships that shape her characters. Join us as we unravel the layers of this gripping story and the intentionality behind giving a voice to the victim, Sophia, in a narrative filled with suspense and intrigue.Listen now to Virginia’s story! Our Secrets Were Safe is out now - buy it, read it, share it (in other words, make a debut author’s dreams come true!).