Read The Damn Book

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with bestselling author Ellen Baker to discuss her captivating novel, Summerland Cove. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Maine coast, the conversation explores family dynamics, long-buried secrets, mental health, healing, and the bonds that connect generations.Ellen shares the inspiration behind Summerland Cove, her approach to crafting complex multi-generational characters, and the research and writing process that brought the story to life. Whether you're a fan of family sagas, women's fiction, or character-driven novels, this episode offers an inside look at the themes and storytelling techniques that make Summerland Cove such a compelling read.Tune in to discover how Ellen Baker weaves together family secrets, emotional resilience, and the beauty of coastal Maine in a novel that explores what it means to truly come home.What We're Talking About...• Exploring family secrets, mental health, and healing in contemporary fiction• How the Maine coast inspired the setting of Summerland Cove• Crafting compelling multi-generational family stories• Addressing mental health and other complex topics with authenticity and sensitivity• Creating realistic characters, relationships, and immersive settingsChapters00:00 Introduction to Ellen Baker and Summerland Cove04:12 Exploring Generational Dynamics and Identity07:17 The Weight of Secrets and Mental Health10:20 The Inspiration Behind Summerland Cove13:43 Ellen Baker's Journey as a Writer16:41 Themes of Family and Relationships19:30 The Role of Setting in Storytelling22:26 Character Development and Complexity25:41 Looking Ahead: Future ProjectsLinks MentionedEllen Baker's website: www.ellenbakernovels.comEllen Baker's Instagram: @ellenbakernovels

Author Kayla Delcoure joins Read the Damn Book to discuss her new poetry collection Nine Lives, a heartfelt exploration of grief, love, and the unexpected ways loss can spark creativity and connection. In this moving episode, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with Kayla to talk about the profound impact of losing her beloved cats and how that experience shaped both her writing and her online presence.Kayla shares how she transformed personal grief into a creative outlet through storytelling and social media, building a space where vulnerability, remembrance, and advocacy intersect. The conversation explores how writing can serve as both catharsis and catalyst, helping individuals process loss while also inspiring broader conversations around empathy and social justice. Together, Michelle and Kayla examine the power of community in times of heartbreak and the ways authentic connection can fuel meaningful change.What We're Talking About...Author and online content creator Kayla Delcoure discusses her new poetry collection Nine Lives, a heartfelt exploration of pet loss, grief, healing, and the powerful bond between humans and their cats.Kayla’s journey began with her beloved cat Gizmo, who passed away from FIP (feline infectious peritonitis), an experience that profoundly shaped her writing and advocacy.Writing poetry became a crucial tool for Kayla in processing grief, demonstrating how creative expression can support emotional healing after the loss of a pet.In Nine Lives, Kayla Delcoure reflects on her personal experiences with grief and resilience, offering readers an honest look at mourning, memory, and moving forward.Kayla emphasizes that community support is essential when navigating grief, highlighting how shared stories and connection can reduce isolation.Through her online presence, Kayla reminds others that they are not alone in their grief, especially when coping with the loss of a beloved animal companion.She is expanding her platform by launching a podcast designed to foster deeper conversations around healing, storytelling, and social justice.Kayla is also part of “The Organized Gang of Wine Moms,” a grassroots-style community focused on social action and collective engagement.Throughout the episode, she discusses how building meaningful communities requires authenticity, vulnerability, and sustained support.Ultimately, Kayla believes that pets—especially cats—can profoundly shape our emotional lives, teaching us about love, loss, and the enduring impact of connection.Chapters00:00 Kayla Delcoure Introduction and Background06:00 The Journey of Grief and Healing11:59 Community Building and Activism20:04 The Power of Connection and SupportLinks MentionedOrder your copy of Nine Lives: https://thepawtistics.com/nine-lives

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with author Rebecca Fallon to discuss her novel Family Drama. Rebecca shares the inspiration behind the book’s complex family relationships, the lasting influence of soap operas on her storytelling, and her personal journey as a writer navigating creativity, identity, and impending motherhood. The conversation explores character dynamics, emotional honesty in fiction, and how deeply personal experiences shape compelling narratives.What We're Talking About...Family Drama explores complex family relationships and emotional bonds within modern familiesSoap operas heavily influence the novel’s structure, pacing, and dramatic tensionAuthor Rebecca Fallon draws from personal experiences to create emotionally authentic storytellingThe character Tilly highlights the often-overlooked strength and complexity of stepmothersMotherhood plays a central role in Rebecca’s life and informs her perspective as a writerThemes of identity, selfhood, and belonging recur throughout the bookRebecca’s background in tech shaped her creative journey and approach to writingThe novel examines multifaceted relationship dynamics between family membersThe book’s ending leaves a lasting emotional impact on readersRebecca is currently working on a second novel focused on college friendships and evolving relationshipsChapters00:00 Introduction and Background04:12 Themes of Family and Loss06:53 The Role of Soap Operas11:03 Rebecca's Journey to Writing14:10 Exploring Identity and Womanhood17:09 Character Relationships and Dynamics21:17 Motherhood and Personal Reflections23:42 Future Projects and Conclusion29:19 The Emotional Journey of Family Drama29:20 Exploring Themes of Love and LossLinks MentionedOrder your copy of Family Drama: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Family-Drama/Rebecca-Fallon/978166808947

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with author Andromeda Romano-Lax to discuss her novel What Boys Learn. The conversation explores the cultural forces shaping boys today, the influence of motherhood, and how societal expectations impact masculinity and identity. Andromeda also shares insights into her writing process, her work as a book coach, and her transition between genres. Together, they examine the power of fiction and storytelling to illuminate contemporary social issues and spark meaningful conversations.What We're Talking About...Andromeda Romano-Lax is the author of seven books spanning multiple genres, including literary fiction, historical fiction, and thrillers.What Boys Learn examines the cultural and social forces shaping boys and young men today.The novel explores the influential role of mothers in their sons’ emotional development and identity formation.Andromeda’s writing process is deeply rooted in reflection on contemporary societal issues.Empathy is central to her approach to storytelling and character development.Her transition from historical fiction to thrillers was influenced by her pandemic-era reading habits.Andromeda works as a book coach, mentoring writers from diverse backgrounds and genres.Fiction can act as a release valve for societal tensions and unspoken anxieties.The impact of social media on young men and masculinity is a major concern discussed in the episode.Andromeda aims to write across multiple genres, using different storytelling forms to explore complex ideas.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Andromeda Romano-Lax01:06 Exploring Themes in What Boys Learn06:00 Cultural Influences and Social Media's Role10:59 Character Dynamics and Story Development16:51 Genre Exploration and Writing Process21:08 Coaching Writers and the Importance of Stories24:53 Reflections on Current Events and Literature's RoleLinks MentionedAndromeda Roman-Lax's Instagram: @‌romanolaxOrder your copy of What Boys Learn: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/what-boys-learn-andromeda-romano-lax/1147241844

In Episode 25 of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with author, speaker, and leadership strategist Tara Jaye Frank to discuss her powerful book You Are Before the World. Tara opens up about her journey through motherhood, career evolution, and personal growth, exploring what it means to reclaim self-worth, set boundaries, and release the emotional labor often carried by helpers and caretakers.The conversation dives into Tara’s writing process, the importance of authentic connection, and how partnership and communication shape both personal relationships and leadership. Tara also shares insights into her upcoming documentary film, 92: The Silent Revolt, which examines the collective experience of Black women in the aftermath of the 2016 election and the ongoing fight for visibility, sovereignty, and systemic change.This episode is a compelling exploration of identity, leadership, and empowerment—encouraging listeners to prioritize themselves, honor their voices, and step fully into their power.What We're Talking About...You Are Before the World reinforces the importance of self-prioritization without guilt.True fulfillment comes not from what we do, but from what we place our trust in.Helpers and caregivers often carry the emotional burden of others’ expectations and perceptions.Cultivating self-worth is essential for mental health, leadership, and overall well-being.Writing and creative expression can be powerful tools for personal growth and transformation.Healthy partnerships are necessary to create balance in relationships, careers, and family life.Open and honest communication is critical for navigating challenges together.Reclaiming personal sovereignty is a vital act of self-care and boundary-setting.The documentary 92: The Silent Revolt explores the collective experience of Black women after the 2016 election.Burnout is harmful and must be acknowledged and addressed at both individual and community levels.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background05:51 Lessons from Maya Angelou09:47 The Journey of Self-Discovery13:53 Navigating Motherhood and Expectations18:41 The Importance of Partnership23:02 The Title and Theme of the Book26:55 The 92 Project Film Discussion31:31 The Power of Trust and Authenticity32:01 Celebrating Black Women's Stories and ExperiencesLinks MentionedTara Jaye Frank's website: http://www.tarajayefrank.com/booksThe 92 Project: https://www.ikoni.org/92-project

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with Brittany Penner, author of the powerful memoir Children Like Us. Brittany shares her personal story as an Indigenous child adopted during the Sixties Scoop, offering an intimate look at how displacement, identity, and intergenerational trauma shaped her life.Their conversation explores the complexities of family dynamics, motherhood, and belonging, as well as how Brittany’s upbringing influenced her journey to becoming a doctor. She also discusses the role of storytelling in healing, reclaiming Indigenous identity, and challenging systems that silence lived experience. This episode is a thoughtful discussion on resilience, self-discovery, and the power of memoir to reclaim one’s narrative.What We're Talking About...Children Like Us chronicles Brittany Penner’s experience as an Indigenous child affected by the Sixties Scoop.The Sixties Scoop resulted in profound loss of culture, identity, and community for Indigenous children across Canada.Brittany reflects on family instability and loss, and how these dynamics shaped her sense of belonging.Intergenerational trauma remains a deeply rooted and ongoing issue within Indigenous families and communities.Regular family gatherings did not always provide emotional stability or safety during Brittany’s childhood.Animals, particularly cats, offered comfort, consistency, and emotional connection during times of upheaval.Reconnecting with her biological family brought moments of joy alongside emotional complexity and healing.A compassionate physician inspired Brittany’s path to becoming a doctor, reshaping her relationship with care and trust.Motherhood prompted deeper reflection on her upbringing, identity, and cycles of trauma and healing.Brittany underscores the power of memoir and storytelling as tools for reclaiming identity and owning one’s narrative.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background02:54 The Impact of the 60s Scoop05:33 Family Dynamics and Loss08:49 Intergenerational Trauma11:33 The Role of Pets in Healing13:53 Reconnecting with Biological Family16:39 Navigating Identity and Caretaking21:06 Becoming a Doctor24:06 Motherhood and New Beginnings27:16 Supportive Relationships30:43 Facing Naysayers33:48 Reflections on Storytelling36:52 The Journey of Self-Discovery37:22 Courage in Sharing Personal StoriesLinks MentionedBrittany Penner's website: https://brittanypenner.com

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with author Julie Doar to discuss her debut cozy mystery novel, The Gallagher Place. Julie shares the inspiration behind the book, exploring themes of family drama, hidden secrets, and small-town intrigue. She opens up about her unconventional path to publication—from working as a Starbucks barista to becoming a published author—and how her experience as a middle school teacher influences her writing and character development. The conversation dives into the cozy mystery genre, Julie’s writing process, and the realities of writing and publishing a first novel. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring writers, cozy mystery fans, and readers curious about the journey from idea to bookshelf.What We're Talking About...Author Julie Doar drew inspiration for The Gallagher Place from her childhood growing up in New York’s Hudson Valley.The Gallagher Place blends family drama with a compelling cozy mystery at its core.Julie discusses how discipline and consistency in writing—shaped by her career as a middle school teacher—are essential to finishing a novel.Characters often evolve organically during the writing process, revealing depth as the story unfolds.The novel explores powerful themes of family secrets, personal trauma, and emotional healing.Julie’s teaching experience directly influences her writing style, structure, and character development.She shares her unexpected yet fulfilling journey from Starbucks barista to published author.Readers connect deeply with the book’s realistic family dynamics and relationships.Julie hopes to inspire her students and aspiring writers to pursue their creative goals.Future projects from Julie Doar will continue to explore mystery, relationships, and complex family dynamics.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Julie Doar and Her Debut Novel02:51 The Setting and Inspiration Behind The Gallagher Place06:05 Exploring Themes of Family Drama and Mystery08:48 Julie Doar's Journey as a Teacher and Writer11:42 The Writing Process: From Idea to Publication14:52 Crafting Plot Twists and Character Development17:51 Life Experiences: From Barista to Author20:48 Character Inspirations and Family Dynamics23:40 Upcoming Projects and Future WorksLinks MentionedJulie Doar's website: http://juliedoarwriter.com

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with bestselling thriller author Lisa Unger to discuss her latest novel, The Kill Clause. Unger explores the central themes of the psychological thriller, her writing process, and how extensive research and character development shape her suspenseful storytelling.The conversation also delves into the influence of motherhood on Unger’s work, the emotional connection between authors and readers, and the realities of building a long-term writing career. Unger shares insights into creating complex characters, balancing creativity with discipline, and navigating the joys and challenges of life as a bestselling author.Listeners also get a preview of Unger’s upcoming book, Served Him Right, and a behind-the-scenes look at what inspires her gripping, character-driven thrillers.What We're Talking About...The Kill Clause is a holiday-set psychological thriller filled with suspense, dark themes, and unexpected twists.Lisa Unger discusses why she’s drawn to exploring darker subject matter in her thriller novels.In-depth research into human psychology plays a critical role in how Unger builds tension and believable characters.Unger shares how motherhood has influenced her writing process, creativity, and perspective as an author.Many of Unger’s characters are shaped by personal experiences, emotions, and real-life observations.The author emphasizes the importance of reader feedback and the meaningful connection between writers and their audience.For Unger, success as a writer means continuous growth, learning, and creative improvement.The relationship between author and reader is deeply personal and central to powerful storytelling.Unger teases her upcoming novel, Served Him Right, scheduled for release in March.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Thriller Genre01:02 Exploring the Writing Process and Themes01:24 Introduction to Lisa Unger04:19 The Art of Writing Thrillers07:31 Researching the Dark Side10:15 Family Life and Writing13:29 Exploring Genres and Themes16:22 The Writing Process and Inspiration18:12 The Creative Process of Writing20:04 Character Development and Voice21:29 Themes of Isolation and Connection24:29 The Journey of a Writer27:17 The Author-Reader Relationship30:33 Impact of Literature on Readers32:28 Upcoming Works and Author EngagementLinks MentionedLisa Unger's website: lisaunger.com