Synopsis
What to Read Next Podcast is hosted by Laura Yamin. In this show, you will find bite size book reviews, book recommendations in the romance, young adult and literary fiction genre. We have weekly guests come on the show and share their favorite books.
Episodes
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Traitors US Season 3 Finale Recap & Reunion Breakdown | Who Won & Biggest Betrayals! (SPOILERS)
12/03/2025 Duration: 38min -
Spring 2025’s Hottest Rom-Com Books—Add These to Your TBR!
12/03/2025 Duration: 12minDisclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books. Get ready to refresh your TBR with some of the most exciting rom-com releases of Spring 2025! In this episode, I’m sharing six must-read books featuring everything from second-chance romance to rivals-to-lovers, lottery winners, and even a touch of adventure. This episode is for you if you love pastel-colored covers, forced proximity, fake dating, and reality TV drama. Plus, I’ve included three bonus recommendations exclusively for podcast listeners!Books Mentioned:Didn’t You Used to Be Queenie B? by Terry Lynn DeFino https://amzn.to/4kuCfxIAny Trope but You by Victoria Lavine https://amzn.to/3FmLJLf Just Our Luck by Denise Williams https://amzn.to/41FRwUW
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Spring Romance & Road Trip Reads You Won’t Want to Miss!
11/03/2025 Duration: 12minDisclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books. Spring is in the air, so it's time to refresh your TBR with books that capture the season's essence! In this episode, I’m joined by Francesca from Under the Covers to discuss spring-themed reads, from books featuring flower shops and weddings to cozy road trip romances. We’ll dive into spring tropes and share must-read recommendations to welcome the season with stories full of love, new beginnings, and nature-filled charm.Books Mentioned in This Episode:
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Books I’m Obsessed With & The TV Shows I Can’t Stop Watching! - March 9, 2025
10/03/2025 Duration: 27minDisclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.Welcome back to What to Read Next, the podcast that helps topple your TBR! In this episode, I’m returning to my original 2018 format, where I share what I’m reading and watching. You’ll get my honest thoughts—what’s working, what’s not, and whether these picks are worth adding to your list. Because, let’s be honest, my yuck might be your yum and vice versa!Timestamps & Topics Covered:[00:00:00] – IntroductionWhy I’m bringing back these chatty updatesMy recent struggle with reading on my Kindle after 2000+ daysHow audiobooks have been saving my reading life[00:03:00] – My Audiobook RoutineHow I consume audiobooks throughout the day (driving, chores, bedtime)Investing in affordable headphones for audiobook listening
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Bookish News: The Sophie Lark Controversy Explained
07/03/2025 Duration: 23minIn today’s episode, we dive deep into the controversy surrounding author Sophie Lark and her now-pulled book Sparrow and Vine. Initially covered in our March 5th Bookish Gossip episode, this discussion expands on the backlash, the publisher’s response, and the book community’s reaction. We also break down Sophie Lark’s statement, the role of Bloom Books, and whether this series will make a comeback in the future.Plus, breaking news: The New York Times has now covered this issue, adding a new layer to the conversation. We analyze their take and what this means for both the publishing industry and indie authors navigating similar controversies.Key TakeawaysSparrow and Vine was pulled from publication due to problematic language regarding immigrants.Sophie Lark apologized, stating she will rewrite the book and take sensitivity readers more seriously.Bloom Books remains largely silent, which raises questions about publisher accountability.The controversy highlights a broader discussion on writing flawed character
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Bookish Gossip Session: Oscars Snubs, Book Bans, and Controversial Authors
05/03/2025 Duration: 43minWelcome to this episode of Novel Hour Live Gossip Edition, where we break down all the latest happenings in the bookish world, pop culture, and beyond! In this episode, we’re covering:
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The Best Locked Room Mysteries to Read Right Now
04/03/2025 Duration: 27minDisclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.Are you a fan of whodunits, suspenseful plots, and mind-bending mysteries? In this episode, we’re diving into the best locked room mysteries—from Agatha Christie’s timeless classics to modern thrillers and young adult suspense novels. Whether you love isolated island settings, eerie train rides, or high-stakes psychological twists, we have something for you.In This Episode, We Discuss:What defines a locked room mystery and why they’re so addictiveThe classic locked room mystery that started it all: And Then There Were None by Agatha ChristieModern locked room thrillers like They All Fall Down by Rachel Howzell Hall and The 7½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart TurtonLocked room mysteries set on trains, including Riley Sager’s upcoming With a VengeanceYoung adult locked room mysteries, like Truly Devious and One of Us is Lyi
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5 Books Like Twisted Lies by Ana Huang
03/03/2025 Duration: 07minDisclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.If you loved Twisted Lies by Ana Huang and are looking for more books with morally grey billionaires, fake dating, and slow-burn romance, this episode is for you! Today, we’re sharing five must-read books that capture the same intensity, swoon-worthy romance, and irresistible chemistry.Books Mentioned in This Episode:The Last Eligible Billionaire by Pippa Grant https://rstyle.me/+tm_UE6QywqxVCHmkBUFroATrust Me by Tiffany Patterson https://rstyle.me/+rJpBdzGrKqs3-5Rqa5e5lABright Lights and Summer Nights by Kat Singleton https://rstyle.me/+OXbnISwjPuuqbz_wNdG4uwBeautiful Russian Monster by Odette Stone https://amzn.to/4kbL4MBTerms and Conditions by Lauren Asher https://amzn.to/41ghqwPFor more book recommendations like these, visit whattoreadnextblog.com and discover your next great read!
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Thrillers, Romances, and Bromances: The Best Books About Friendship in Every Genre
28/02/2025 Duration: 29minDisclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.In this episode of Novel Hour, we’re diving into the world of friendship in fiction. Whether you love stories about uplifting, lifelong friendships, hilarious and supportive bromances, or dark, toxic friendships filled with suspense, this episode has something for you.We each share three book recommendations that explore different types of friendships:Women’s Fiction: Heartwarming, emotional, and empowering friendshipsBromance: Strong male friendships in contemporary and paranormal romanceThrillery Friendships: Dark, toxic friendships with a suspenseful twistTune in for bookish fun, engaging discussions, and plenty of recommendations to add to your TBR list.For the book list, here is the blog post: https://whattoreadnextblog.com/friendship-novel-hour/Join our What to Read Next Blog Community to get bonus book recommendations,
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Bookish Drama Unfolds: Nora Roberts, ACOTAR Canceled, & Colleen Hoover Returns!
19/02/2025 Duration: 39min -
Best Hollywood Romance Books You Can Borrow From the Library
17/02/2025 Duration: 16minDisclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.In this episode of Novel Hour, we’re diving into Hollywood Romances. Whether you love celebrity normies, PR relationships, or behind-the-scenes Hollywood drama, we’ve got a list of backlist book recommendations that you can easily borrow from the library in eBook, audiobook, or physical formats.This episode originally aired as part of Novel Hour, our weekly Thursday live show where we share book recommendations with Victoria and Francesca. If you want even more Hollywood romance recommendations, join us on Substack, where we’ve got 9 more titles exclusively listed for subscribers.Books Mentioned in This EpisodeStars in Her Eyes by Kacen Callender https://amzn.to/3Q8C2lyFor Her Consideration by Amy Spalding https://amzn.to/4hmyHveScandalized by Ivy Owens https://amzn.to/3Q475iDHow to Fake It in Hollywood by Ava Wilder https://a
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Valentine’s Day Romance Novellas You Can Read in One Sitting
13/02/2025 Duration: 11minDisclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.Welcome to the What to Read Next podcast! Today, we have a special Valentine's Day episode featuring our friend Francesca, who shares her top novella picks for the season. Whether you love contemporary romance or enjoy a touch of paranormal, there’s something here for you. This episode was originally recorded as part of our Novel Hour, our weekly live show every Thursday at noon.Discussion HighlightsIntroduction to the episode and its themeOverview of Valentine's-themed novellas—mix of contemporary and paranormal picksFinal thoughts on the recommendations and upcoming League of Lusty Ladies Book Club discussionBooks Recommended in This EpisodeThe Kiss Lottery by Ilsa Madden-Mills (https://amzn.to/4aPWdOU)– A childhood best friends-to-lovers story with a second-chance romance set around a small-town Valentine’s event.The Fall R
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Classic Romance Novels: The Ultimate Guide to Timeless Love Stories
11/02/2025 Duration: 15minDisclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.In this episode, guest Victoria explores classic epic love stories. From legendary slow burns to second-chance romances, we break down the must-read classics every romance lover should experience. Originally aired as part of Novel Hour Live, this discussion is perfect for anyone looking to dive into timeless love stories.Discussion HighlightsPride and Prejudice – The ultimate slow burn and iconic romanceJane Eyre – Is Mr. Rochester a dream or a red flag?Much Ado About Nothing – The OG rom-com with witty banterPersuasion – The most romantic love letter in literary historyA Room with a View – Choosing love over societal expectationsBooks List PresentedPride and Prejudice by Jane Austen –https://amzn.to/4aYTouTJane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte– https://amzn.to/3WVcL23Much Ado About Nothing by William Shakespeare – https://a
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Are These Really the Top 100 Romances? A Deep Dive into Goodreads' Rankings
07/02/2025 Duration: 35minIn this episode, Laura from What to Read Next and Francesca from Under the Covers Book Blog break down the Goodreads Top 100 Romances list from the past three years. They discuss trends, surprises, snubs, and whether the list accurately represents romance readers today. They also explore how shifting reading habits and platforms like BookTok have influenced the rankings.Topics Discussed:The Impact of BookTok on the Goodreads Top 100Whether Goodreads is still relevant for tracking booksThe dominance of specific authors on the listMissing romance subgenres like historical, paranormal, and romantic suspenseUnderrepresented diverse authors and LGBTQ+ romancesThe marketing and advertising influence on the rankingsTheir personal hits and misses from the listThe List: https://www.goodreads.com/blog/show/2887?ref=toprom25_ebBooks & Authors Mentioned:Things We Never Got Over by Lucy ScoreBook Lovers by Emily HenryThe Confidence of Wildflowers by Micalea SmeltzerThe Love Hypothesis & Love, Theoretically by Ali
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Bookish Gossip: Rebecca Yarros Controversy, Blake Lively vs. Justin Baldoni, & Bookshop.org's eBook Gamble
05/02/2025 Duration: 49minDisclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.Welcome to another episode of Bookish Gossip! Join us as we dive into all the latest bookish news, pop culture drama, and publishing updates. This week, we’re discussing everything from the rise of eBooks on Bookshop.org to the ongoing Rebecca Yarros frenzy and the latest in book-to-screen adaptations.Topics Discussed in This Episode:
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6 Magical Romcoms to Whisk You Away on a Low-Angst Adventure
29/01/2025 Duration: 14minDisclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.Magical realism and romance—a pairing that feels as enchanting as the stories themselves. In this episode of the What to Read Next podcast, we delved into a lively discussion about cozy rom-coms that bring magic to the mundane and love to life. If you're looking for whimsical escapes, these books are perfect for your reading list.1. The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston https://amzn.to/4hmpKlTThis delightful tale introduces us to a magical apartment inherited by an overworked publicist. Featuring time-crossed love and heartfelt moments, this book celebrates exploration, growth, and love in unexpected places.2. A Novel Love Story by Ashley Poston https://amzn.to/40slPMPSet during a snowstorm, this story blends the charm of bookish Easter eggs with a unique twist—characters from a beloved series come to life. With a grumpy bookst
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12 New Books to Preorder Now for 2025
27/01/2025 Duration: 23minDisclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.Welcome back, besties! In this episode, we’re diving into some of the most anticipated book releases in 2025. From swoony romances and heartwarming road trips to captivating mysteries and wacky, cozy reads, there’s something here for everyone. Tune in as I break down 12 must-read books you’ll want to add to your TBR immediately.Books Mentioned in This Episode:First Time Caller by BK Borison https://amzn.to/4iTPs2aA Sleepless in Seattle-inspired love story featuring a single mom, a viral radio call, and a reluctant cynic in Baltimore.Anywhere With You by Ellie Palmer https://amzn.to/4iYuwqEA road trip romance with a divorcee reconnecting with her former best friend on a journey to stop a wedding.Wild and Wrangled by Lyla Sage https://amzn.to/3DyF2VsThe conclusion to a beloved cowboy romance series filled with small-town charm,
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Bookish Gossip: TikTok Drama, AI Controversies, and Our Current Reads
22/01/2025 Duration: 42minDisclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.IntroductionHosts: Francesca, Victoria, LauraEpisode Theme: A special midday live episode featuring bookish gossip, AI in publishing, book recommendations, and TV chat.Usual Schedule: The "Novel Nights" live show airs on Thursdays at 7 p.m. ET.What We’re ReadingLaura's Picks- Billionaire RomancesThe Heir and the Spare by Ava Rani (Kindle Unlimited) - https://amzn.to/40IvEYoTaming Mr. Walker & Resisting Mr. Knights by Rosa Lucas (Kindle Unlimited) - https://amzn.to/3PJUHE9Fran's Picks:A Kiss of Iron by Clare Sager (Fantasy Romance) (Kindle Unlimited) https://amzn.to/3C799mHCold as Hell by Kelley Armstrong (Thriller) https://amzn.to/4hlbQ2PVictoria's Picks:Gates to Kagoshima by Poppy Kuroki (Historical Fantasy Romance) https://amzn.to/4ho5Oi2Bookish GossipTikTok Ban Whiplash:Discussion about TikTok's temporary ban and the sc
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Read MORE Books in 2025 with These PROVEN Tips and Tricks!
20/01/2025 Duration: 33minWelcome to the first episode of 2025!
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The Ultimate Christmas Chat: Traditions, Decorations, and Holiday Spirit
24/12/2024 Duration: 53minWelcome to a VERY SPECIAL Christmas Podcast. This episode originally aired as part of our Novel Nights Live Stream last month! You can watch the replay on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/live/IYSHfgdt-rE?si=YswLN4kPaNEB5ghzAbout this Episode:Join Francesca, Victoria, and Laura in this festive holiday chat as they dive into Christmas traditions from around the world, nostalgic memories, and what the season looks like for them today. From debates about real vs. fake trees, nativity sets, and favorite holiday foods, to discussions on holiday pressure, decorating hacks, and cozy Christmas movies, this episode is your perfect companion for the season.Whether you're into Hallmark movies, traditional family feasts, or just trying to survive the holidays with boundaries intact, this conversation is packed with relatable stories, laughs, and tips to make the season joyful.What We Discussed:When Does Christmas Begin? Advent traditions, post-Halloween decorating, and extended celebrations in Puerto Rico.Childhood