Baseball, Books, and Banter: A Podcast by Nicole Asselin

I love three things in life. Baseball (the Red Sox), books (mostly mystery), and banter! I love to chat. Come join my foray into the podcasting world.

Special Guest: Adrian Andover 09/01/2025

Special Guest: Adrian Andover Meet the newest cozy myster writer on the block! Adrian Andover's debut cozy, WHISKEY BUSINESS, is out this month. We talk the coziness of it all, family, community, author routines, and even give the people a Pennsylvania geography lesson. Plus, book recommendations, things I'm obsessed with, and some good natured Pirates/Red Sox smack talk (not really). Find Adrian: Find me! Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/38047560

Special Guest: Denise Latham 08/24/2025

Special Guest: Denise Latham Welcome local author and Plymouth resident Denise Latham to the podcast! So many great tips on writing while busy and how she keeps her ideas fresh! Also, my obsession with Diet Coke, the Red Sox, and historical mysteries! Find Denise: Find me! Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/37937785

Special Guest: Michael Carini 08/08/2025

Special Guest: Michael Carini Join me as I chat with local celebrity Michael Carini about his YA adult series featuring historical objects. If you like National Treasure and Indiana Jones this series is for you! Book two is coming, but you can pick up book one now! Also, he shows some super cool baseball cards from his collection and we talk presidential history! Also, things I'm obsessed with including my new hat from BeltaPrint, Tiktok Shop, and book recommendations! Find Michael at Find me! Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/37729355

Special Guest: Elise Hart Kipness 08/02/2025

Special Guest: Elise Hart Kipness Welcome back to favorite Elise Hart Kipness! Her Kate Green series is one of my favorites, and the newest one is set to be released Aug 19, set in the dramatic world of US Open Tennis! We talk about everything from thriller writing, found writing family, book tours, and even labradoodles. Also, her first two books are on KU right now! Also, things I'm obsesssed with including the Tour de France, BBC's Bargain Hunt, and Sour Patch Kid Watermelon candies. Find Elise here (and see her on her book tour!): Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/37646220

Special Guest: Sharon Healy-Yang 07/20/2025

Special Guest: Sharon Healy-Yang Returning guest Sharon Healy-Yang discusses re-releasing her series, editing old stories, the freedom of writing with age, and of course the love of witty, snappy dialogue! Plus, things I'm obsessed with. Mainly my Svaha.com dresses. Always. Come for the book recommendations, stay for the publishing advice! (With special shout outs to Jenny Adams and Kelly Oliver). Find Sharon: Find me: Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/37473215

Special Guest: The Baseball Book Club 07/13/2025

Special Guest: The Baseball Book Club I love talking baseball. I love talking with people who love talking baseball. John and Leroy from "The Baseball Book Club" podcast are two such individuals. A wide-ranging discussion that includes ownership woes, rivalries, nostalgia, history, and baseball cards. Hot takes allowed, but cold takes are also allowed. Find their podcast here: Facebook: Find me! Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/37391180

Special Guest: Mary Seifert 07/07/2025

Special Guest: Mary Seifert Returning guest Mary Seifert joins me to talk about the 10th (!) book in her series. AIRPLANES, ATLANTA, AND AN ASSASSIAN is the next in the Katie and Maverick mystery series. We talk series, publishing, baseball, and research. Plus, book recommendations, upcoming events, and the furture of the series! Find Mary: Find me! Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/37306985

Special Guest: Jule Selbo 06/22/2025

Special Guest: Jule Selbo Today's special guest is the amazing Jule Selbo. Author of the Dee Rommel mysteries, she is a former script writer in Hollywood, current playwright, professor, and novelist! She is also one of my earliest publishing siblings. We talk about her journey, the differences between the skills, and the future of Dee! Also, my Raffy Devers thoughts/feelings, things I'm obsessed with, and book recommendations! Plus, my summer book sale is live! Books 1 & 2 for $25, email me for info! Find Jule: Find me: Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/37103340

Special Guest: Kate Michaelson 06/08/2025

Special Guest: Kate Michaelson Welcome back to the podcast! Starting season 4 off with a great interview with relatively new author Kate Michaelson! Her debut novel, HIDDEN ROOMS, was released in April 2024 with a sequel coming soon (also possible standalone!)! We talk the importance of having supportive family, great beta readers, and why technical writers make the best mystery writers! Find her: Find me! Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/36907790

Special Guest: Zak Ford 05/04/2025

Special Guest: Zak Ford Welcome to the Season 3 season finale! Sometimes Facebook uses it's forces for good. A friend posted about a book event with Zak Ford, who recently published a book on getting called up to the Major Leagues. Fittingly titled, "Called Up" Full of stories about MLB lifers, players who stopped for a cup of coffee in the bigs, and some who may have only been called up a few times without impact. We talk all things divided loyalty in baseball, favorite moments, and harmless pranks. Plus, Malice Domestic roundup, my sadness at the Casas injury, and of course publishing news! Also, vote for me in the Women Podasting Awards in the Authors and Books category here: Find Zak: Find me: Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/36425990

Special Guest: George Cramer 04/07/2025

Special Guest: George Cramer Take a listen to the latest podcast with guest George Cramer! We discuss his journey, the Navy, life as a private investigator, and interviewing/interrogation. Stay tuned for the end of the interview for a special treat! With a guest appearance by FERN! Also, Things I'm obsessed with including the #CrimeWritersforTransRights results, Have I Got News for You on CNN, and the newest bookstore on the South Shore, Find George: Find Me: Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/36042295

Special Guest: Debra H. Goldstein 03/29/2025

Special Guest: Debra H. Goldstein Join me as I chat with "triple threat" Debra Goldstein about writing novels, writing short stories, and the transition from law to writing! Plus, an adorable story about how she met her husband and became a southern lady! Also, things I'm obsessed with including S Beauty Spa in Braintree, a new bookstore in Norwood (Books and Bulldogs), and the Crime Writers for Trans Rights auction I'm taking part in! Bid from now until April 1st at Find Debra: Find me: Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/35919365

Special Guest: Elizabeth "Beth" DeWolfe 03/23/2025

Special Guest: Elizabeth "Beth" DeWolfe Since reading Elizabeth DeWolfe's upcoming book Alias Agnes, I'm obsessed with these women forgotten by history. Join us as we talk how to find these stories, writing while working as a full time professor, the importance of Dairy Queen napkins, and our mutual friend/author Edith Maxwell! Find Elizabeth DeWolfe: Find me: Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/35825490

Special Guest: Elizabeth Crowens 03/10/2025

Special Guest: Elizabeth Crowens This was such a fun discussion! Elizabeth Crowen's newest book is out now! Join us as we talk about panels, conventions, learning new things, and honoring old friends. Also, book recommendations, things I'm obsessed with, and my super hot sports takes! All while I'm hopped up on cold medicine! You don't want to miss it! Find Elizabeth: Find me: Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/35612775

Special Guest: Connie Berry 02/16/2025

Special Guest: Connie Berry Lucky number 13! Join me as I chat with the awesome Connie Berry. Author of the Kate Hamilton mysteries, president of the GUPPIES, and traveller. The links between history and writing, character, and setting all topics that we discuss. Plus, things I'm obsessed with and book recommendations! Find Connie Berry Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/35303590

Special Guest: Christine Knapp 02/09/2025

Special Guest: Christine Knapp Come meet fellow South Shore author Christine Knapp. We talk about a lot of things including, nursing/midwifery, writing groups, publishing, and even a little hit of 2004 Red Sox memories. I did forget to talk about my book recommendations this week, but just know I'm reading a lot! Find Christine at Find me: Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/35212180

Special Guest: Jennifer Chow 01/26/2025

Special Guest: Jennifer Chow Back with a fresh episode featuring the delightful (and Left Coast Crime nominee) Jennifer Chow! We talk about her journey, the differences between indie and traditional publishing, and family. Plus, so much more! And buy her newest release in the Magical Fortune Cookie Mysteries, STAR CROSSED EGG TARTS! Plus, things I'm obsessed with...Modern Millie dress store in Salem, Alex Warren's new song, and the PEM's clarvoiant exhibit (through 2/2) Find Jennifer here: Find me! Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/35017345

Special Guest: Lynn Slaughter 01/19/2025

Special Guest: Lynn Slaughter Join my guest Lynn Slaughter to discuss writing for Young Adults, Sociolgy, and dance! I loved learning about how dance influenced her life and her new career as an author! Also, we dive into short stories, writing for adults vs. teens, and how football is sort of a performing art. Find Lynn on socials and at her website: also, if you have orders for minature book art, shoot me an email or see my Kofi! Find me! (When it comes back!!) Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/34911870

Special Guest: Kevin Hurd 12/16/2024

Special Guest: Kevin Hurd I love talking baseball. I love learning about baseball. And this podcast was so fun where I got to do both! Kevin Hurd is the author of FROM RANDY JOHNSON TO DALLAS BRADEN: NO HITTERS BEYOND THE BOX SCORE VOL I & II. Filled with stories, stats, and interviews, this discussion went all over the place. Also, book recommendations and things I'm obsessed with (hint, it's a department store). Happy Holidays! Find Kevin's books here: Find me! Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/34473620

Special Guest: Marilyn Levinson 12/09/2024

Special Guest: Marilyn Levinson Welcome Marilyn Levinson/Allison Brook to the podcast! She writes under both names, but all her marketing is from one person, Marilyn! This discussion was so fun about ghosts, cats (of course), and a mini-foray into classic baseball talk/stupid boy discussions. Find her: Also, things I'm obsessed with (which includes a certain Disney elf all over TikTok). Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/34349820

Special Guest: Donalee Moulton 12/01/2024

Special Guest: Donalee Moulton From a sunny spot in Nova Scotia, the incredible Donalee Moulton. We barely scratch the surface of her writing/journalism career, her new focus on mysteries, and her time as a yogi. Find her: Find me! Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/34220775

Special Guest: William F. Carter 11/24/2024

Special Guest: William F. Carter Come meet my new friend (and muscian) William "Bill" F. Carter! His debut crime thriller "Fire and Wrath" is out now. We became fast friends at a B&N local author event, and I brought him into the world of the NE Crime Bake. Now, he's on his way! Also, he will be playing Bob Crachit in a production of "A Christmas Carol" this year! Note: I'm no longer on Twitter/X. My Blue Sky profile is linked below! Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/34128031

Special Guest: Jenny Adams 11/04/2024

Special Guest: Jenny Adams I was so excited to chat with Jenny Adams, historical mystery author, that we ran out of time! The first ever actual cut off of the podcast! Jenny was amazing and I loved learning about her process, how her publishing journey came about, and also about Mister the dog. Plus, how does research of monsters in 14th century french literature translate in to research of Jazz Age Philly. Find her at: (and see her live Nov 9 at the grand opening of the new B&N in Georgetown!) Find me: Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/33779877

Special Guest: Bobblehead Georg 10/27/2024

Special Guest: Bobblehead Georg These guys are great! Two out of the three Bobblehead George (David and Eric) creators (plus their amazing videographer Alex) join me to talk about what they do, how they do it, and what to expect at their fundraiser on November 14 (hint, it includes a silent auction prize donated by me!). Get your tickets and check out their videos here: Find me! Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/33631357

Special Guest: Judy Penz Sheluk 10/19/2024

Special Guest: Judy Penz Sheluk I love learning about other writers and their journey to publication! Judy is a wealth of great information and her latest helps to dispel some of the mystery and myths of publishing. Find her at (and enjoy her blog!) Find me: Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/33525617

Special Guest: Sharon Michalove 10/14/2024

Special Guest: Sharon Michalove Now you can watch on YouTube as well! Join Sharon and I in a wide-ranging discussion featuring talk of France, history, and second-chance romance! Plus, appearances by Caroline Bingley. AND! I remembered to do some books at the end. Shout outs to my new obsessions: The Boston Bruins, GBBO, and kindle back inserts inspired by @shireshelf on TikTok and items from Find Sharon at Find Me! Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/33450342

Special Guest: Dr. Millicent Eidson 10/06/2024

Special Guest: Dr. Millicent Eidson Welcome back! This episode is a conversation with Dr. Millicent Eidson, author of the Dr. Maya Maquire mystery series. We talk about animal diseases, the plague in New Mexico, a smattering of baseball. Come for the conversation between GUPPIES, stay for my thoughts on the mid Red Sox season. Find Dr. Eidson at Find Me! Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/33344842

Special Guest: Sharon Healy-Yang 08/04/2024

Special Guest: Sharon Healy-Yang Sharon Healy-Yang, retired professor, full-time old movie savant! Come learn about how she puts her love of classic movies into her books, how she creates her world, and also her upcoming 4th book in the series (featuring a seance!). Also, learn where Bette Davis is originally from! This is also the end of season 2. I hope you enjoyed and hope you come back in the fall for more author fun! Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/32432092

Special Guest: Janet Raye Stevens 07/21/2024

Special Guest: Janet Raye Stevens Time Travel? Yes, please! Janet Raye Stevens and her Beryl Blue Time Cop series are featured on the podcast this week! She's the best, and I love Sully. Plus, find out her best Fenway Park moments! (Spoiler Alert: They rarely have anything to do with the actual game :)) Find Janet here: Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/32230652

Special Guest: Rosie/Rosalie Pease 07/01/2024

Special Guest: Rosie/Rosalie Pease Find Rosie here: A fun discussion about romance writing, baseball teams, the Savannah Bananas (shout out Jackson Olson), and much much more! Things I'm obsessed with (including new book store Sweet Reads & Candy and the Tour de France). Plus, book recommendations! Nicole's Starting Lineup: Support Me! /episode/index/show/3cf3479f-b255-4ba5-936c-ed11ad1e8817/id/31966697

Baseball, Books, and Banter: A Podcast by Nicole Asselin

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