The Reader's Couch

Something changed in the way we read, and most of us didn't even notice it happening! In this episode, I reflect on how reading has shifted from a quiet, private refuge into a performative, measurable activity shaped by online platforms. It started with logging a book on Goodreads. Then a reading challenge. Then a haul. Then a shelf flat lay. And somewhere between the five-star ratings and the TBR...

For decades, cinema has lied to us about Wuthering Heights—and I’m done letting adaptations sell you the wrong half of the story. In this episode, I’m auditing the entire novel (not the TikTok version): the framed narration (Lockwood and Nelly Dean), why unreliable storytelling matters, and the full family tree across Wuthering Heights and Thrushcross Grange. I break down what Hollywood keeps dele...

I did my February 2026 celebrity book club audit: covering Read with Jenna, Reese’s Book Club, Good Morning America (adult + YA), Oprah’s Book Club, Reese’s Gen Z arm Sunnie Reads, and Dua Lipa’s Service95. I broke down each pick’s premise and vibes, shared whether I felt it was worth your time, and offered alternatives I would’ve chosen instead.

Sharing my January reading wrap-up covering 25 contemporary books read as both a coping mechanism during a heavy month and as advance reading for upcoming spring and summer 2026 reading guides. I revisit seven books from a January reading vlog (due to poor video/audio quality) and then discuss 18 additional books not previously shared, grouped by vibe: romance, mysteries/thrillers, and literary/ge...

Let's talk about the January 2026 picks from major celebrity book clubs and whether they are worth your time! We will be talking about 'Read with Jenna', 'Reese's Book Club', 'Sonny Reads', 'Good Morning America Book Club', and 'Oprah’s Book Club'. From compelling memoirs and suspenseful thrillers to exciting new Gen Z picks, I'm sharing my honest take on what’s worth reading, what’s not, and reco...

The Wicked for Good ending changes EVERYTHING from the Broadway musical. So I'm doing a Wicked for Good ending explained, revealing seven essential details you need to know and discussing the significant changes from the Broadway musical to the screen adaptation. I'll also explore character motivations, talk about new songs, highlight Easter eggs you might have missed, themes, and speculate on the...

Join Francesca and I as we get into the 2025 Goodreads Choice Awards, sharing not only our personal votes but also our predictions for the eventual winners. We cover every category, from fiction to romance, and even surprise categories! Plus, discover this week's hot new book releases, our current reads, and what we've been watching. It's jam-packed with exciting bookish content, discussions, and...

I'm sharing nine must-read book recommendations that I can't stop raving about to friends, family, and even strangers. From emotional rollercoasters to perfect romances and mind-bending fantasies, these books have left a lasting impact on me. So get comfy, pull out your TBR app, and find your next favorite read! Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TYka112G6zI

Join me as I break down the ingenious misdirections and subtle clues Agatha Christie plants in Miss Marple's first four cases: 'The Murder at the Vicarage,' 'The Body in the Library,' 'The Moving Finger,' and 'A Murder is Announced.' I'll reveal what I missed initially, what most readers often overlook, and how Christie's techniques evolved. Discussing detailed observations, misidentifications, an...

It's cozy fantasy season, so in this episode, I share eight enchanting books that will make your autumn weekends absolutely perfect. Dive into Emily Wilde's 'Encyclopedia of Fairies,' Sangu Mandanna’s delightful tales, Nadia El Fassi's romantic 'Best Hex Ever,' and many more magical reads. Plus, I recommend the coziest pairings for each book to enhance your reading experience. Grab your favorite d...

I watched The Long Walk on its opening weekend and now I have some strong opinions! This adaptation of Stephen King's brutal dystopian story, originally penned in his college days under the pseudonym Richard Bachman, has ignited internet debates. Join me as I share my hottest takes, break down the wildest book vs. movie differences, and dive deep into what worked and what didn't. Are you team book...

Feeling the spooky vibes of autumn? Join me as I match Edgar Allen Poe’s legendary poems to every fall mood—from the cozy spooks of 'The Bells' to the gothic horror of 'The Tell-Tale Heart.' We’ll not just read them but analyze why Poe's writing still haunts us today. You'll discover his mastery of atmosphere, psychological thrill, and literary craftsmanship. Get ready for an immersive journey thr...

Discover my October reading ritual and the books that bring me comfort every spooky season. I'm sharing my personal favorites, my horror journey, and how I balance my reading list to keep October fun and pressure-free. Plus find out which new titles I'm excited to dive into this year. Let me know your October reading rituals and must-reads in the comments! Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/JnKoTX...

Join me as I talk about Ruth Ware's thriller 'The Woman in Cabin 10,' and its Netflix adaptation starring Keira Knightley. I'll break down the differences between the book and film, share my honest opinions on major plot changes, and discuss what Ruth Ware herself had to say about them. From character arcs to pacing and everything in between, let's figure out if you're Team Book or Team Movie! Wat...

I have a cozy confession! I devoured 34 cozy mysteries in just 30 days, and I’m breaking down these charming reads along with perfect activities to enhance your cozy experience. From homemade biscotti to DIY bookmarks, come along for part one of this three-part cozy series. Explore Italian village mysteries, Agatha Christie's world, ice cream parlor intrigues, and more, all paired with delightful...

Sharing the personal curriculum trend inspired by Elizabeth Jean, and where I'm creating a customized curriculum for the fall semester. My curriculum includes reading, watching classic book adaptations and tv, cooking, and working on creative projects. Join me as I share my plans, plus I discuss accountability and how I plan to track my progress through journaling and updates. Don't forget to shar...

The ultimate fall 2025 reading guide curated especially for your Zodiac sign! Discover personalized book recommendations based on your Sun, Moon, and Rising signs with vivid descriptions that match each sign's unique energy, vibe, and quirks. Whether you're a fiery Aries or a dreamy Pisces, I've got the perfect book picks for you. Plus, grab my exclusive PDF magazine packed with 27 must-read books...

Sharing five fascinating books that explore the worlds of influencers, MLMs, and trad wife culture. From a trad wife with a destructive secret to a mysterious family murder involving an influencer, these books cover it all. Discover tales of sisters lured into a deadly pyramid scheme, a cozy mystery with a mom facing MLM drama, and even a cosmic romance mixing influencer fame and UFOs. Whether you...

I've been on a dark academia and campus novel kick, and today I'm sharing six novels that will cater to different reader preferences. One is an immersive and thought-provoking epic, one is a haunting academic mystery with gothic horror vibes, one features dangerous magic and toxic romance, another has tarot magic, royal intrigue, and a slow-burn romance, one is centered around morally complex frie...

Let's talk about why RF Kuang's latest book, Katabasis, is receiving mixed reviews from fans. I share my theory about how readers' expectations, shaped by her previous works like The Poppy War Trilogy, Babel, and Yellowface, influence their reception of Katabasis. I also provide a detailed critique of the book, discussing its plot, themes, and characters. Additionally, I compare Katabasis to Kuang...

Let's dissect Netflix's adaptation of Richard Osmond's 'The Thursday Murder Club.' Was it a faithful adaptation, or did it miss the mark? I compare the book and the movie, highlighting key differences and giving my thoughts on the performances, tone, and how well the plot translated to the screen. From monumental character shifts to missing subplots, I'll cover it all. So tune in and join me as we...

Jane Austen's books are getting a new controversial modern makeover with the Penguin First Impression Editions, published under their Puffin imprint. These books are targeting a younger audience with modern, neon-colored covers of Jane Austen's major novels. The series features introductions by popular contemporary romance authors like Tessa Bailey, Krystal Marquis, and Ali Hazelwood. I share the...

Today, my friends Francesca and Laura joined me in chatting about a wide range of topics. First, we announce our new weekly and bi-weekly showtimes for their live show and gossip sessions. Then we get into the controversy surrounding an author who left their ChatGPT prompt in their published book and all things AI in literature. We also discuss the TikTok ban and where book content creators and co...

Looking for the perfect books to cozy up with this winter? In this episode, I’m sharing six standout new releases from my 2025 Winter Reading Guide, handpicked from the minimalist reading list. These selections span a range of genres, ensuring there’s something for every reader: Literary Fiction Historical Fiction Dystopian Fiction Family & Friendship Mystery & Thriller Romance Each book b...

It’s not too late to make your winter reading season magical! The 2025 Winter Reading Guide is here, and it’s brimming with bookish inspiration to keep you cozy. This guide features 24 standout new releases across seven categories, a minimalist reading list for those seeking simplicity, and a robust shortlist of 78 books with personalized recommendations to help you find your next favorite read. W...