What to Read Next — Book Recommendations for Romance, Thrillers & Escape Reads

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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 AR...

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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, tox...

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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 o...

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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 lon...

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.  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...

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. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Intro + My reading slump story 02:00 – Tip 1: Set realistic goals 03:00 – Tip 2: Create a daily reading...

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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 ri...

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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...

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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 pic...

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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 count...

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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...

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 bo...

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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...

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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 recommend...

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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...

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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 l...

🔥 Traitors US Season 3 has officially wrapped, and we’re here to break it all down! In this episode, we’re diving into the finale, the reunion, and all the biggest betrayals, shocking eliminations, and unexpected moments from the season. Did the right person win? How did the final players handle the last round table? And was this season as good as the last? We’re getting into all the spoilers —so...

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.  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...

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.  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 spri...

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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. Beca...

In 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 comeba...

Welcome 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: 📖 Topics Covered: 🏆 Oscar Wins & Snubs: The Book-to-Screen Adaptations Emelia Perez led with 13 nominations but only took home two awards. Wicked secured wins for Best Costume and Best Production Design. Conc...

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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...

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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 Men...

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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...