What To Read Next Podcast

Disclosure: 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 today's episode of the What to Read Next Podcast, Laura dives deep into one of her favorite niche romance subgenres — Mafia Romance! Specifically, we’re focusing on the Captive/Captor trope where morally gray, alpha mafia heroes kidnap heroines... and somehow love follows. Laura shares six must-read recommendations that helped her break out of a reading slump, highlighting where you can find them, including through Kindle Unlimited and libraries.If you love dangerous tension, alpha heroes, and high-stakes, forbidden love stories — this episode is for you!Books Mentioned:Dante by Sadie Kincaid https://amzn.to/3yrRggBMafia Mistress by Mila Finelli https://amzn.to/3WIlST4Mafia Madman by Mila Finelli https://amzn.to/46GEojjCarnal Urges by J.T. Geissinger https://amzn.to/3SMoi1IThe Brit by Jodi Ellen Malpas https://amzn.to/3Am7m

Disclosure: 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.Today’s episode is all about big emotions — from tear-jerking reads to delightful monster romances! Laura is joined by frequent guest and BFF Becky, host of Too Stupid to Live. Together, they chat about unexpected tearjerker reads that had them sobbing and the perfect monster romance books that acted as fun, sexy palate cleansers. If you’re looking to feel all the feels — and then laugh and swoon — this episode is for you!Books MentionedTearjerkers:If He Had Been with Me by Laura Nowlin https://amzn.to/42RmIzKA Curse for the Homesick by Laura Brooke Robson https://amzn.to/4lNPrOyMonster Romance Palate Cleansers:No, Knot About It by Elliot Ason (Monster Resort Series #1) https://amzn.to/42z1d88Bass Desires by Elliot Ason (Monster Resort Series #2)https://amzn.to/4cQl9XoTimestamps[00:00] Welcome and Introductions[00:30] Becky’s

Disclosure: 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 today’s episode of What to Read Next, we're diving into four smart beach reads—books with substance, style, and serious escape vibes. Whether you're on a lounge chair or just daydreaming about it, these titles deliver compelling plots, sharp writing, and unforgettable characters. From OnlyFans journeys to literary ice dancers and secret identities, this list blends literary flair with binge-worthy storytelling.

Disclosure: 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 special Women's History Month episode of What to Read Next, Victoria shares three powerful historical fiction novels spotlighting extraordinary women who defied expectations and shaped history. From courtroom drama in colonial America to feminist trailblazers rubbing shoulders with literary legends, these stories celebrate resilience, courage, and ambition. Whether you're a seasoned historical fiction fan or looking to branch out from WWII-era tales, this episode offers compelling reads with heart and substance.

Disclosure: 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 What to Read Next, Laura is joined by guest Amy (from @novelgossip) to chat all things Emily Henry—specifically, what to read if you’ve already devoured her entire backlist and need your next fix of smart, emotional, and heartwarming romance. The duo also spills the tea on ARC drama, library hacks, and why Big Beautiful Life might not live up to the hype. Plus, they share six excellent book recommendations (and one bonus pick!) that offer the same emotional payoff and vibrant settings as your favorite Emily Henry novels.

Disclosure: 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 today’s episode, I’m sharing six unputdownable psychological thrillers available now on Kindle Unlimited. If you’re a fan of Frieda McFadden or Kiersten Modglin—or just in the mood for brain candy thrillers with wild twists—these picks are for you. Perfect for fans of jaw-dropping reveals, toxic relationships, and page-turning suspense.⏱️ Episode Timestamps[00:00] Welcome + Introduction[00:30] Kindle Unlimited Overview & Why It Supports Indie Authors[03:00] Book #1 – Love, Mom by Ilana Xander[04:00] Book #2 – The Cheating Husband by James Caine[05:00] Book #3 – Sweet Little Lies by Leah Cupps[06:00] Book #4 – The Bachelorette Party by Catherine O’Connell[07:00] Book #5 – Innocent Wife by Sally Royer Derr[08:00] Book #6 – Eight Years of Lies by Lisa Hall[09:00] Final Thoughts + Where to Find More Recommendations

Disclosure: 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 topples your TBR! Today’s episode is for all the romantasy readers out there who love grumpy/sunshine dynamics, slow burns, and magical world-building—especially when it’s enemies to lovers.Whether you’re a Dramione fanfic reader or just obsessed with high-stakes romance in fantasy settings, this episode is packed with juicy recommendations.Let’s dive in!⏱️ Episode Timestamps[00:00] Introduction & overview of the enemies to lovers romantasy theme[00:40] First recommendation: contemporary fantasy with witches[01:30] Second recommendation: revenge and prophecy romance[02:20] Third recommendation: court intrigue and seduction[03:10] Fourth recommendation: royal decoy meets disgraced fae[04:10] Fifth recommendation: assassin + healer fanfic-turned-novel[05:00] Bonus mention:

Disclosure: 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 What to Read Next, the podcast for romance and mystery readers who love pop culture and Kindle Unlimited escapes! In this episode, Rachel Baldwin (@fitteacherrachel) joins Laura to dive into the world of hockey romance books — spicy, swoony, and totally bingeable. Whether you're a long-time sports romance reader or new to the genre, this episode will add plenty of titles to your TBR.✨ BOOKS MENTIONEDPuck Me Secretly by Odette Stone https://amzn.to/3XZwTRsIced Out by C.E. Ricci https://amzn.to/42Hq6ORConsider Me by Becca Mack https://amzn.to/4cIhpr6Powerless by Elsie Silver https://amzn.to/4cIy4L1Offside by Avery Keelan https://amzn.to/43PlN56Mile High by Liz Tomforde https://amzn.to/4cIyktt

Disclosure: 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 What to Read Next, Laura is joined by returning guest Francesca from Under the Covers Book Blog to explore urban fantasy series that are fully finished and ready to binge. If you’re looking to escape into magical worlds with action, mystery, and just the right touch of romance, this conversation is for you. We break down what makes urban fantasy different from high fantasy and paranormal romance, and we share our favorite completed series featuring vampires, shifters, grim reapers, and more.Whether you're a longtime fantasy reader or just dipping your toe in, you'll walk away with a reading list that blends fast-paced stories, subtle romantic tension, and immersive worldbuilding.⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Intro: Escaping reality through otherworldly fiction 01:15 – What is urban fantasy and how is it differ

Struggling to read more books this year? You’re not alone! In this episode, I share 10 practical, low-pressure tips to help you rediscover your reading joy—whether you're in a slump, distracted by doomscrolling, or just looking to make more time for books in your busy life.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Intro + My reading slump story02:00 – Tip 1: Set realistic goals03:00 – Tip 2: Create a daily reading routine04:15 – Tip 3: Always carry a book06:30 – Tip 4: Replace screen time with book time08:30 – Tip 5: Embrace audiobooks11:00 – Tip 6: Join the library15:00 – Tip 7: DNF what doesn’t spark joy16:30 – Tip 8: Read short books and novellas18:00 – Tip 9: Join a book club or reading community21:30 – Tip 10: Make reading fun again

Disclosure: 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 honor of World Autism Month, Victoria shares three atmospheric mystery books featuring autistic and neurodivergent characters. These reads span cozy whodunnits to thrilling psychological puzzles—all set in moody British or Scottish locales. If you're craving character-driven mysteries with rich emotional depth and unique amateur sleuths, this episode is for you!⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Welcome & Episode Introduction - Why we’re celebrating World Autism Month with book recs featuring autistic characters.01:15 – Book #1: The Framed Women of Ardour House by Brandy Schillace03:55 – Book #2: Dark Island by Daniel Aubrey06:00 – Book #3: Poisoned Primrose by Dahlia Donovan08:10 – Why Neurodivergent Sleuths Offer a Fresh Perspective- Discussion on the importance of diverse representation in amateur detective fiction.08:45 – Outro &

Disclosure: 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.Still thinking about White Lotus Season 3? SAME. If you're craving more luxurious settings, chaotic friend dynamics, and at least one suspicious death, this episode is for you.In today’s episode of What to Read Next, I’m sharing 5 twisty vacation thrillers that will make you question your next group trip. These books are filled with murder, mystery, and that same unhinged-glamour energy we loved from the show.Grab your piña colada and let’s dive into books that are just as deadly as they are dramatic.

Disclosure: 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 the What to Read Next Podcast! In today’s episode, I’m joined once again by our resident literary fiction expert and middle grade author, Laura Bird. Laura is bringing us six stunning literary fiction reads that will break your heart—but leave you with hope. These are perfect picks for readers who want emotional depth, compelling characters, and a reminder of the beauty in human connection.Whether you're in a book club or simply want a novel to get lost in, this episode has a recommendation for you.⏱️ TIMESTAMPS & BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS00:00 – Welcome back Laura Bird! 01:00 – Why we love literary fiction with hopeful endings 02:45 – Books perfect for book clubs 04:05 –

Disclosure: 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.Ready to escape to a cozy spring setting? In this episode of What to Read Next, we’re diving into cottagecore romance books that feel like a warm hug. Think flower farms, pancake houses, charming libraries, and seaside bakeries—all wrapped in sweet, soft romance. Whether you're dreaming of countryside escapes or you're just craving a low-stakes love story, these books will transport you into charming small towns filled with blooming flowers and heartfelt moments.Timestamps:[00:00] Intro & What Is Cottagecore Romance[00:40] Book 1: The Strawberry Patch Pancake House by Laura Gilmore[02:55] Book 2: The Cozy Croissant Café by Jane Linfoot[04:05] Book 3: The Flower Farm by Rachel Lucas[05:00] Book 4: The Finders Keepers Library by Annie Rains[06:00] Tangent: The Bookish Community in Puerto Rico (and Bookstore Recs!)[08:00] Boo

Disclosure: 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've ever thought about reading more classics but felt overwhelmed or unsure where to start, this episode is for you! Victoria from Bibliolifestyle recommends approachable, seasonally appropriate classic novels perfect for spring reading. Whether you're a longtime classics lover or a curious beginner, you'll walk away with thoughtful picks and helpful tips to get started.⏱️ Episode Timestamps00:00:00 – Welcome + Intro to Victoria from Bibliolifestyle00:00:50 – Why Classics Can Feel Intimidating + Tips for Getting Started00:02:45 – Book Rec #1: The Enchanted April by Elizabeth von Arnim00:04:00 – Book Rec #2: A Room with a View by E.M. Forster00:05:30 – Book Rec #3: Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery00:07:10 – Book Rec #4: The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett00:09:00 – How to Choose the Right Classic for You B

This episode was recorded on March 17, 2025.In this episode of What to Read Next, the hosts discuss the latest book industry gossip, including library funding issues, Kindle Unlimited controversies, major book deals from the London Book Fair, and drama surrounding book signings and conventions. The episode also covers government funding cuts affecting libraries, the impact of Kindle Unlimited boycotts on indie authors, and the rollout issues surrounding the Oathbound release. The discussion wraps up with debates on whether children should be allowed at romance book conventions.---------------------------------------------------------------Programming note: Laura is not part of the discussion due to a work commitment. However, the topics discussed are worth sharing you so you are continued to be informed of what is happening in the book world!---------------------------------------------------------------Emergency Bookish Tea - Tori Woods Deep DiveIt is best to watch this session on YouTube as we provide scree

Disclosure: 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.Just finished Twisted Love by Ana Huang and craving more intense romance, billionaire heroes, and that irresistible grumpy-sunshine dynamic? In today’s episode, we’re diving into five books that will give you the same emotional pull, tension-filled romance, and protective heroes that made Twisted Love a fan favorite. From workplace romances to fake engagements and dark, angsty love stories, there’s something for every romance reader here.Books Mentioned in This Episode:Twisted Lies by Ana Huang https://amzn.to/41pAPeZThe Fine Print by Lauren Asher https://amzn.to/4bmZqprMy Best Friend’s Billionaire Brother by Penelope Ryan https://amzn.to/3F6zMJtUndeniably Enemies by J. Saman https://amzn.to/41nhScWGrumpy Billionaire’s Fake Proposal by Clara Floyd https://amzn.to/3QI0JFPFractured Freedom by Shain Rose https://amzn.to/3DbRzylRe

Disclosure: 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 special St. Patrick's Day-themed episode of What to Read Next, we dive into cozy mysteries perfect for the holiday. If you're in the mood for charming small-town settings, amateur sleuths, and a little bit of Irish charm, this episode is for you! Laura shares three cozy mystery recommendations featuring Irish settings and characters, plus three bonus picks centered around St. Patrick’s Day. Whether you're looking for a fun seasonal read or a new cozy series to binge, these books are perfect for mystery lovers.Books RecommendedIrish-Themed Cozy MysteriesDeath of an Irish Druid by Catie Murphy – https://www.amazon.com/Death-Irish-Druid-Dublin-Driver/dp/1496746481/Murder at the Blarney Bash by Darci Hannah – https://amzn.to/4hcNCaLMurder in an Irish Garden by Carlene O'Connor – https://amzn.to/3F426flBonus St. Patrick’s D

Disclosure: 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, we introduce the Spring Reading Challenge, a fun and seasonal way to refresh your TBR with three easy prompts. Victoria shares recommended books for each prompt, designed to help you embrace new beginnings, personal growth, and diverse reading experiences. We also highlight the 2025 Spring Reading Guide, featuring 27 curated books across eight categories.Find the Spring Reading Guide on Substack at Bibliolifestyle.substack.com for even more recommendations.

Disclosure: 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 today’s episode of What to Read Next, I’m joined by Victoria from Bibliolifestyle to chat about her Spring Reading Guide, which features 27 books across eight categories and a special Minimalist Book List that highlights one standout book from each category. If you're looking for a curated list of spring reads, this episode is for you!Victoria shares four must-read picks from the Minimalist List, and you can find even more in her full Spring Reading Guide on Substack (springreadingguide.com)