Sarah's Bookshelves Live

Sarah’s Bookshelves Live is a weekly show featuring real talk about books and book recommendations from a featured guest. Each week, Sarah of the blog Sarah’s Bookshelves will talk with her guest about: - 2 OLD BOOKS THEY LOVE - 2 NEW BOOKS THEY LOVE - 1 BOOK THEY DON’T LOVE - AND 1 NEW RELEASE THEY’RE EXCITED ABOUT I’m getting real about all things books and serving you up a bit of snark on the side.

Winter 2026 Book Preview with Catherine Gilmore | Ep. 214 01/07/2026

Winter 2026 Book Preview with Catherine Gilmore | Ep. 214 Welcome to the Winter 2026 Book Preview with Catherine of ! Today, Catherine and Sarah share 16 of their most anticipated books releasing from January through March. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Announcement The 2026 Reading Tracker is out! This year brings upgraded features across the board — including NEW average star rating and 5-star book tracking for every stat on the Dashboard — plus an updated Lite Tracker for those who prefer a streamlined version. Both Trackers are ONLY available to paid Patreon or Substack subscribers ($7/month) and is no longer sold separately. To avoid Apple’s 30% fee, be sure to join directly from the Patreon website (mobile or desktop). Join our Patreon Community () OR become a Substack Paid Member ()! One of the many benefits to supporting the podcast through either our or our (both for just $7/mo) is that you get access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and Sarah share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that we did not share in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available and sign up and ! Highlights A lightning round of some big releases coming this winter that we’re not featuring in today’s preview. Catherine chose books by authors she knows and trusts. This year, Sarah dug deep into the publisher’s catalog for potential hidden gems. Sarah’s books cover literary suspense, literary fiction, brain candy, nonfiction, and a thriller from 2 debut authors and 3 repeat authors. Sarah has already read one of her picks — and it was 4.5 stars! Plus, their #1 picks for winter. Big Winter Releases by Laura Dave (January 6) | | by Ashley Winstead (January 20) | | by Alice Feeney (January 20) | | by Rebecca Serle (March 10) | | by Gabriel Tallent (January 20) | | by Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney (March 3) | | by Steve Cavanagh (March 24) | | by Rachel Hochhauser (March 3) | | by Marie Benedict (March 24) | | by Thrity Umrigar (January 27) | | by Allegra Goodman (February 10) | | by Jennette McCurdy (January 20) | | Other Books Mentioned by Jennette McCurdy (2022) Winter 2026 Book Preview January Catherine’s Picks by Paula McLain (January 6) | | by George Saunders (January 27) | | Other Books Mentioned by Paula McLain (2015) by Paula McLain (2021) by George Saunders (2017) February Sarah’s Picks by Patmeena Sabit (February 3) | | by Omid Scobie and Robin Benway (February 10) | | by Tayari Jones (February 24) | | Catherine’s Picks by Charleen Hurtubise (February 24) | | by Anna Quindlen (February 24) | | Other Books Mentioned by Celeste Ng (2014) by Angie Kim (2023) by Rachel Khong (2024) by Khaled Hosseini (2003) by Casey McQuiston (2019) by Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand (2020) by Omid Scobie (2023) by T Kira Madden (2019) by Tayari Jones (2018) by Tayari Jones (2011) by Tayari Jones (2002) by Anna Quindlen (2018) by Anna Quindlen (2024) March Sarah’s Picks by Kevin Hazzard (March 3) | | by T Kira Madden (March 10) | | by Jung Yun (March 10) | | by Lenore Nash (March 10) | | by Karan Mahajan (March 10) | | Catherine’s Picks by Lily Brooks-Dalton (March 31) | | by Natalie Haynes (US Release March 10) | | by Yann Martel (March 31) | | by Jenny Lawson (March 31) | | Other Books Mentioned by Kevin Hazzard (2016) by Lily Brooks-Dalton (2022) by Lily Brooks-Dalton (2016) by Jung Yun (2016) by A. Natasha Joukovsky (March 3, 2026) by Alma Katsu (2021) by Alma Katsu (2023) by Yann Martel (2001) by Yann Martel (2016) by Karan Mahajan (2016) by Jenny Lawson (2012) Other Links /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/39620435

Best Books of 2025 Genre Awards with Chrissie (@ChrissieWhitley) | Ep. 213 12/10/2025

Best Books of 2025 Genre Awards with Chrissie (@ChrissieWhitley) | Ep. 213 In Episode 213, Sarah and Chrissie () wrap up the year with the Best Books of 2025 Genre Awards. They reveal their Overall Best Books (Fiction and Nonfiction) and a full breakdown by genre, including: Best Literary Fiction, Best Romance, Best Brain Candy, Best Genre Mash-Up, and more! Plus, they share the winners for these same genres as chosen by the Sarah’s Bookshelves Live Member Community. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Announcements The 2026 Reading Tracker is out! This year brings upgraded features across the board — including NEW average star rating and 5-star book tracking for every stat on the Dashboard — plus an updated Lite Tracker for those who prefer a streamlined version. Both Trackers are ONLY available to paid Patreon or Substack subscribers ($7/month) and is no longer sold separately. To avoid Apple’s 30% fee, be sure to join directly from the Patreon website (mobile or desktop). Join our Patreon Community () OR become a Substack Paid Member ()! Highlights Podcast reflections from 2025 — including top episodes based on download stats. A brief overview of Sarah’s and Chrissie’s 2025 year in reading. Their favorite books of the year: overall and by genre, including the SBL Member Community’s picks. 2025 Genre Awards Sarah by Wally Lamb (2025) | | by Layne Fargo (2025) | | by Abigail Dean (2025) | | by Georgia Hunter (2025) | | by Aisling Rawle (2025) | | by Regina Black (2025) | | by Annie Hartnett (2025) | | by Christine Kuehn (2025) | | by Zarna Garg (2025) | | by Clare Leslie Hall (2025) | | by Sarah Damoff (2025) | | by Loretta Rothschild (2025) | | by Gabrielle Hamilton (2025) | | by John Boyne (2025) | | Chrissie by Joyce Carol Oates (2025) | | by Kerryn Mayne (2025) | | (Susan Ryeland, 3) by Anthony Horowitz (2025) | | by Jo Harkin (2025) | | by Ian McEwan (2025) | | (Curse Bearer, 2) by Veronica Roth (2025) | | by Katherine Center (2025) | | by Mia McKenzie (2025) | | by Siddarth Kara (2025) | | by Honorée Fanonne Jeffers (2025) | | by Adrienne Young (2025) | | by Susanna Kwan (2025) | | by Amity Gaige (2025) | | by Michael J. Fox (2025) | | by James Goodhand (2025) | | SBL Member Community by Virginia Evans (2025) | | by Annie Hartnett (2025) | | by Amity Gaige (2025) | | by Clare Leslie Hall (2025) | | by Aisling Rawle (2025) | | by Amal El-Mohtar (2025) | | by Carley Fortune (2025) | | by Grady Hendrix (2025) | | by Nate Bargatze (2025) | | by Marcy Dermansky (2025) | | by Colleen Oakley (2025) | | by Annie Hartnett (2025) | | by Kevin Wilson (2025) | | by Jess Walter (2025) | | by Zarna Garg (2025) | | by John Green (2025) | | by Annie Jones (2025) | | by Charlotte McConaghy (2025) | | by Hal Ebbott (2025) | | by Jen Hatmaker (2025) | | Other Books Mentioned by Roxana Robinson (2024) by Lily King (2025) by Charlotte McConaghy (2025) by Katie Kitamura (2025) by Florence Knapp (2025) by Eric Puchner (2025) by Kerryn Mayne (2023) by Emily Henry (2025) by Abby Jimenez (2025) by Elin Hilderbrand and Shelby Cunningham (2025) by Lian Dolan (2025) by Jessica Knoll (2023) by Julie Clark (2025) by Richard Osman (2025) by Jakob Kerr (2025) by Robert Bailey (2025) by Georgia Hunter (2017) by Jo Harkin (2022) by Janelle Brown (2025) by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2025) by Fiona Davis (2025) by Allegra Goodman (2025) by Grace Walker (2025) by Dete Meserve (2025) by Susanna Collins (2025) by Nnedi Okorafor (2025) by Karen Thompson Walker (2025) by Veronica Roth (2024) by R. F. Kuang (2025) by R. F. Kuang (2022) by R. F. Kuang (2023) by Robert Jackson Bennett (2025) by Robert Jackson Bennett (2024) by Rebecca Yarros (2025) by Alix E. Harrow (2025) by V. E. Schwab (2025) by Regina Black (2023) by Layne Fargo (2025) by Stephen Graham Jones (2025) by Kat Dunn (2025) by Mona Awad (2025) by Chuck Wendig (2025) by Kylie Lee Baker (2025) by John Scalzi (2025) by David Grann (2023) by Mary Roach (2025) by John U. Bacon (2025) by Sarah Wynn-Williams (2025) by Elizabeth Gilbert (2025) by Jen Hatmaker (2025) by Virginia Roberts Giuffre (2025) by Omar El Akkad (2025) by Liz Moore (2024) by Clare Leslie Hall (2025) by Ron Rindo (2025) by Emily St. James (2025) by Patrick Ryan (2025) by John Boyne (2025) by Holly Brickley (2025) by Fredrik Backman (2025) by John Boyne (2017) by Percival Everett (2024) Top Podcast Episodes /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/39324015

Best Books of 2025 Superlatives with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) | Ep. 212 12/03/2025

Best Books of 2025 Superlatives with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) | Ep. 212 In Ep. 212, Sarah and Catherine of start wrapping up 2025 with the first of the two year-end episodes: Best Books of 2025 Superlatives. In this episode, they share their picks for over 25 superlative categories, including Weirdest 5-Star Read of 2025, The Book That Made Us Furious, Most Underrated Gem, Too Dark Even for Me, and so much more! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights Our best books of the year from over 25 categories, including: My First 5-Star 2025 Release of the Year Weirdest 5-Star Read of 2025 The Book That Made Us Furious Most Underrated Gem Most Perplexing Book Best Book to Be Made into a Reality Series Too Dark Even for Me Most Crushingly Depressing Book I Loved Best Horror Book in the Victorian-Feminist-Gory Category The Crime Novel That Hit Me Hardest Emotionally 2025 Superlatives Sarah by Kristin Koval (2025) | | by Janelle Brown (2025) | | by Bruce Holsinger (2025)| | by Katie Yee (2025) | | by Lucas Schaefer (2025) | | by Katie Kitamura (2025) | | by Viola Van de Sandt (2025) | | by Joyce Carol Oates (2025) | | by Lisa Ridzén (US release 2025) | | by Addie E. Citchens (2025) | | by Tracey Lange (2025) | | by Eric Puchner (2025) | | by Lily King (2025) | | by Robert Bailey (2025) | | by Jen Hatmaker (2025) | | Catherine by Janelle Brown (2025) | | by Chuck Wendig (2025) | | by Aisling Rawle (2025) | | by Caroline Fraser (2025) | | by Donal Ryan (2025) | | by Florence Knapp (2025) | | by Charlotte McConaghy (2025) | | by Virginia Evans (2025) | | by Sash Bischoff (2025) | | (Strange the Dreamer, 2) by Laini Taylor (2018) | | by Renée Rosen (2025) | | by Virginia Feito (2025) | | by Abigail Dean (2025) | | Other Books Mentioned by William Landay (2012) by William Landay (2023) by Janelle Brown (2020) by Iain Reid (2016) by Donal Ryan (2012) by Patrick Ryan (2025) by Tracey Lange (2023) by F. Scott Fitzgerald (1934) by Miranda Cowley Heller (2021) by Nickolas Butler (2013) by Lily King (2020) /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/39199945

Fall 2025 Circle Back with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) (Ep. 211) 11/19/2025

Fall 2025 Circle Back with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) (Ep. 211) In Episode 211, Sarah and Catherine of catch up on the 14 new releases they shared in the , now that they’ve read them — or at least tried to! They share their reading stats and discuss which books worked and which didn’t…and why. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights Catherine’s success rate bounces back from summer. Sarah’s fall reading felt kind of “meh” despite a higher success rate. They also share their combined 2025 Preview success rates. Their fall pick ratings were all over the place, with only one DNF, but books range from 2 to 4 stars, with Catherine boasting the sole 5-star book! A couple of books suffered from an identity crisis, while others were surprise successes. Catherine’s assignment for next season is to check the page count and look for authors following-up award-winning books. They name their best and worst books picks for fall! Books We Read Before the Preview SEPTEMBER Sarah’s Picks by Angela Flournoy (September 16) | | Fall 2025 Circle Back AUGUST Sarah’s Picks by Addie E. Citchens (August 19) | | by Stephanie Reents (August 26) | | Catherine’s Pick by R. F. Kuang (August 26) | | Other Books Mentioned by Bruce Holsinger (2025) by Dante (c. 1321) by R. F. Kuang (2022) by R. F. Kuang (2023) by Aja Gabel (2018) SEPTEMBER Sarah’s Picks by Patrick Ryan (September 2) | | by Laura Dickerman (September 2) | | by E. Y. Zhao (September 23) | | Catherine’s Picks by Kiran Desai (September 23) | | by Susie Dent (US release: September 30) | | Other Books Mentioned by Beth O’Leary (2019) OCTOBER Catherine’s Picks by Caroline Palmer (October 14) | | by Adam Johnson (October 14) | | Other Books Mentioned by Lauren Weisberger (2003) by Adam Johnson (2012) by Kiran Desai (2006) NOVEMBER Sarah’s Pick by Aja Gabel (November 4) | | Catherine’s Pick by Marisa Kashino (November 25) | | Other Books Mentioned by Aja Gabel (2018) DECEMBER Catherine’s Pick by Ruth Mancini (US release: December 2) | | /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/38983660

State of the Publishing Industry in 2025 with Laura McGrath, Author of the textCrunch Substack (Ep. 210) 11/12/2025

State of the Publishing Industry in 2025 with Laura McGrath, Author of the textCrunch Substack (Ep. 210) In Ep. 210, Laura McGrath, author of the popular Substack newsletter, , joins Sarah to take a sharp look at the State of the Publishing Industry in 2025. This packed episode covers a high-level look at the top sales and book trends, as well as Laura’s insights into the future of the book world for 2026. Also, Laura shares her favorite books of 2025! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights Laura McGrath’s book (publishing April 28, 2026) is available for pre-order here: | Fiction’s performance in the sales charts since 2019. The trend seen in nonfiction over the past few years and where it may be headed. The continued debate about whether 2025 has a “Book of the Year.” Surprising sales trends in religious books and imprints. How self-publishing still brings us successful authors. What Laura sees in her research that she thinks publishers should be paying attention to. A bit about the current outlook for mid-list and debut authors. Laura’s predictions for 2026 book trends. State of the Publishing Industry in 2025 HIGH-LEVEL OVERVIEW (Empyrean, 3) by Rebecca Yarros (2025) | | (series, 1) by Rebecca Yarros | | by Kristin Hannah (2024) | | by Percival Everett (2024) | | by Liz Moore (2024) | | by Susan Choi (2025) | | by Laila Lalami (2025) | | by Ocean Vuong (2025) | | by Leela Tapryal (2025) | | by Florence Knapp (2025) | | by Katie Kitamura (2025) | | by Angela Flournoy (2025) | | 2025 BOOK SALES & TRENDS by Andy Weir (2011) | | by Wally Lamb (2025) | | by Sarah Damoff (2025) | | by Lily King (2025) | | BIG BOOK STORIES OF 2025 by Joseph Heller (1961) | | by Thomas Pynchon (1963) | | by Philip Roth (1969) | | by Colson Whitehead (1999) | | by Brit Bennett (2016) | | 2026 PUBLISHING PREDICTIONS by Katie Kitamura (2025) | | by Souvankham Thammavongsa (2025) | | by Larissa Pham (January 20, 2026) | | by Tara Menon (March 17, 2026) | | Laura’s 3 Favorites Books of 2025 by Bruce Holsinger (2025) | | by Charlotte McConaghey (2025) | | by Angela Flournoy (2025) | | Other Links The New York Times | by Gerald Howard The Walrus | by Tajja Isen Time | by Lucy Feldman Book Riot | (Podcast Episode) Public Books | by Alexander Manshel, Laura B. Mcgrath, & J. D. Porter /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/38928430

Ep. 209: 2025 Debuts Special with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) and Chrissie (@ChrissieWhitley) 10/29/2025

Ep. 209: 2025 Debuts Special with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) and Chrissie (@ChrissieWhitley) In Episode 209, Catherine () and Chrissie () join Sarah for the 5th annual Debuts Special! They’re sharing their reading stats for debuts this year, along with their favorite debuts, new and backlist — so far for 2025. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights How debuts from 2025 compare to those from previous years. A full breakdown of Sarah’s, Catherine’s, and Chrissie’s 2025 debut-related stats. Featured debuts, split into two categories: Favorite Debuts of 2025 (so far) Favorite Backlist Debuts Read in 2025 Favorite Debuts of 2025 (so far) Sarah by Katie Yee (2025) | | by Lucas Schaefer (2025) | | by Rob Franklin (2025) | | Catherine by Virginia Evans (2025) | | by Florence Knapp (2025) | | by Marie Tierney (2024) | | Chrissie by Karissa Chen (2025) | | by Susanna Kwan (2025) | | by Holly Brickley (2025) | | Other Books Mentioned by Sarah Damoff (2025) by Aisling Rowle (2025) by Lidija Hilje (2025) by Hattie Williams (2025) by Addie E. Citchens (2025) by Jenny Offill (2014) by Maggie Smith (2024) by Min Jin Lee (2017) by H. G. Bissinger (1990) by Rufi Thorpe (2020) by Eiren Caffall (2025) by Emily St. John Mandel (2014) by Tom Wolfe (1987) Favorite Backlist Debuts Read in 2025 Sarah by Daniel Aleman (2024) | | by Hazel Hayes (2021) | | Catherine by Vaddey Ratner (2012) | | by Lily Brooks-Dalton (2016) | | Bookshop.org Chrissie by Kathryn Harlan (2022) | | by Audrey Magee (2014) | | Other Books Mentioned by Vaddey Ratner (2017) by Julia Armfield (2022) by Lily Brooks-Dalton (2022) by Audrey Magee (2022) Additional Books Mentioned by Andrew Boryga (2024) by Susanna Clarke (2004) /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/38823015

Ep. 208: Best of Narrative Nonfiction with Elizabeth Barnhill of Fabled Bookshop (@FabledBookshop) 10/15/2025

Ep. 208: Best of Narrative Nonfiction with Elizabeth Barnhill of Fabled Bookshop (@FabledBookshop) Ep. 208 brings the third installment of our “Best of…” series. Elizabeth Barnhill of joined Sarah for the Best of Narrative Nonfiction, sharing her ALL-TIME TOP books in this genre. Plus, she brings a few popular nonfiction reads that didn’t work for her.⁠ This episode is chock-full of fantastic book recommendations to get you ready for Nonfiction November or just your next nonfiction pick. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights How Elizabeth got started with narrative nonfiction. How the pull of “real stories” has her returning to this category again and again. Her favorite sub-genres and what doesn’t work for her. Elizabeth picks a book from her list that would be a good starter book for those new to the genre. All books mentioned in this episode are linked through Fabled Bookshop or Libro.FM. If you decide to purchase, we’d love for you to use our Fabled links in the show notes — if your budget allows. As a bonus, use promo code SARAH at checkout on Fabled’s website for 10% off your order! Prefer audio? You can find the titles on Libro.fm and select Fabled as the store you’d like to support. You can also find a list of Elizabeth’s books from this episode on both . Elizabeth’s Favorite Narrative Nonfiction Sub-Genres NATURAL DISASTER STORIES by Hampton Sides (2014) | | by David Laskin (2004) | | by Scott Carney and Jason Miklian (2022) | | by Daniel James Brown (2009) | | by Kim Cross (2015) | | by Erik Larson (1999) | | LITTLE-KNOWN FACTS by Bill Bryson (2013) | | by Wright Thompson (2020) | | by Lindsey Fitzharris (2022) | | POP SCIENCE by Cal Newport (2019) | | by Zoë Schlanger (2024) | | by Mary Roach (2025) | | HISTORY TOLD IN INTERESTING WAYS by Patrick Radden Keefe (2018) | | by John U. Bacon (2017) | | by Bryan Burrough (2009) | | by Doug Stanton (2001) | by Laura Hillenbrand (2010) | | ORDINARY PEOPLE MEMOIRS by Bill Browder (2015) | | by Laurie Colwin (1988) | | GOTCHA / PEOPLE BEHAVING BADLY by John Carreyrou (2018) | | by Paul Pringle (2022) | | by Jamie Fiore Higgins (2022) | | Elizabeth’s All-Time Top Narrative Nonfiction by Bill Dedman and Paul Clark Newell, Jr. (2013) | | by Timothy Egan (2006) | | by Kate Moore (2016) | | by Candice Millard (2011) | | by Richard Grant (2020) | | by Christopher McDougall (2019) | | by Rick Bragg (1991) | | by R. A. Scotti (2003) | | by Jim DeFede (2002) | | High-Profile Narrative Nonfiction That She Didn’t Love by Truman Capote (1965) | | by Garrett M. Graff (2024) | | by Adam Higginbotham (2024) | | Other Books Mentioned by Elinor Florence (2025) by Stephen E. Ambrose (1996) by Daniel James Brown (2013) by Rachel K. Laurgaard (1956) by Kim Cross (2023) by Jonathan Haidt (2024) by Mary Roach (2016) by Laurie Colwin (1984) by Rachel Hollis (2018) by Michelle McNamara (2018) by Timothy Egan (2023) by Timothy Egan (2016) by John Berendt (1994) (Natchez Burning, 1 and Penn Cage, 4) by Greg Iles (2014) by Christopher McDougall (2009) by Rick Bragg (2015) by Deborah Goodrich Royce (2023) by Beatriz Williams (2013) by Garrett M. Graff (2019) by Garrett M. Graff (2025) by Adam Higginbotham (2019) /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/38569555

Ep. 207: Regina Black (Author of August Lane) 10/01/2025

An Important Podcast Announcement 09/26/2025

Ep. 206: Behind the Scenes of Book Festivals & Author Interviews with Jason Blitman (Host of the Gays Reading Podcast) 09/17/2025

Ep. 206: Behind the Scenes of Book Festivals & Author Interviews with Jason Blitman (Host of the Gays Reading Podcast) For Episode 206, fellow podcaster Jason Blitman, host of the podcast, joins Sarah to go behind the scenes of producing book festivals. They talk about how he came to reading later in his life and how his journey as a reader led him to his current role. Also, they discuss how he approaches author interviews. Plus, Jason shares his book recommendations. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights Jason’s experience with becoming a “later in life reader” How Jason got his start in podcasting and started the podcast The method and madness behind choosing which authors to feature Jason turns the tables on Sarah and asks her an interview question With 2 different book festivals under his belt, Jason shares what producing these events entails How authors and special guests are chosen for book festivals Managing authors’ expectations, difficulties, and comfort levels at these large events Plus, ALL of Jason’s book recommendations are from LGBTQIA+ authors! Jason’s Book Recommendations Two OLD Books He Loves by Byron Lane (2020) | | by Sarah Winman (2021) | | Other Books Mentioned by Sarah Winman (2017) Two NEW Books He Loves by Nicola Dinan (2025) | | by Sam Wachman (2025) | | One Book He DIDN’T Love by Justin Torres (2023) | | Other Books Mentioned by Manuel Puig (1976) One NEW RELEASE He’s Excited About by Lauren John Joseph (February 17, 2026) | | Books From the Discussion and Other Links by Lucas Schaefer (2025) Gays Reading | Season 4, Episode 36: by Chris Whitaker (2021) by Annie Hartnett (2022) by J. R. R. Tolkien (1937) by Harper Lee (1960) by Marc Acito (2004) by Jennifer Egan (2010) by André Aciman (2019) by André Aciman (2007) by Jenny Han (2009) by Rebecca Makkai (2018) by Nathan Hill (2016) by Yaa Gyasi (2016) by Kristin Harmel (2021) by Jessica Anya Blau (2021) by Gabrielle Zevin (2022) by Caroline O’Donoghue (2023) by Rachel Khong (2024) by E. B. White (1952) written by Eric Litwin and illustrated by James Dean (2008) /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/38173030

Ep. 205: Fall 2025 Book Preview with Catherine GIlmore (@GilmoreGuide) 09/03/2025

Ep. 205: Fall 2025 Book Preview with Catherine GIlmore (@GilmoreGuide) Welcome to the Fall 2025 Book Preview with Catherine of ! Today, Catherine and Sarah share 14 of their most anticipated books releasing from mid-August through December. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Announcement One of the many benefits to supporting the podcast through either our or our (both for just $7/mo) is that you get access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and I share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that we did not share in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available and sign up and ! Highlights A lightning round of some big releases coming this fall that we’re not featuring in today’s preview. Odd fall pickings meant they both chose to feature 7 books each. Catherine’s choices are a grab bag mix: academia, mysteries, a love story, and a snarky lighter read. Of Sarah’s seven books, there are 3 debut authors and 1 repeat author — and 2 sports books! Some of Sarah’s picks slide her right from sad girl summer into sad girl fall. Sarah has already read and rated one of her picks — and it was a success! Plus, their #1 picks for fall. Big Fall Releases by Catherine Newman (October 28) | | by Joe Hill (October 21) | | by Akwaeke Emezi (November 4) | | by Ian McEwan (September 23) | | by Bryan Washington (November 4) | | by Mary Roach (September 16) | | by Ken Follett (September 23) | | by Jason Mott (August 5) | | by Louise Penny (October 28) | | by Elizabeth Gilbert (September 9) | | by John Irving (November 4) | | by M. L. Rio (September 9) | | by Oyinkan Braithwaite (November 4) | | by Samantha Shannon (September 16) | | Other Books Mentioned by Catherine Newman (2024) by Ken Follett (1989) by Jason Mott (2021) by M. L. Rio (2017) by Samantha Shannon (2019) Fall 2025 Book Preview August Sarah’s Picks by Addie E. Citchens (August 19) | | by Stephanie Reents (August 26) | | Catherine’s Pick by R. F. Kuang (August 26) | | Other Books Mentioned by Kelsey McKinney (2021) by Michelle Huneven (2022) by Deesha Philyaw (2020) by Xóchitl González (2022) by Dante (c. 1321) by R. F. Kuang (2022) by R. F. Kuang (2023) by Rita Bullwinkel (2024) by Caroline O’Donoghue (2023) by Annie Hartnett (2022) by Brit Bennett (2016) by Lauren Fleshman (2023) by Kara Goucher (2023) September Sarah’s Picks by Patrick Ryan (September 2) | | by Laura Dickerman (September 2) | | by Angela Flournoy (September 16) | | by E. Y. Zhao (September 23) | | Catherine’s Picks by Kiran Desai (September 23) | | by Susie Dent (US release: September 30) | | Other Books Mentioned by Gabrielle Zevin (2022) by Ann Napolitano (2023) by Lidija Hilje (2025) by Beth O’Leary (2019) by Pamela Redmond Satran (2005) (The book upon which the television series is based.) by Lily King (2020) by Angela Flournoy (2015) by Rita Bullwinkel (2024) October Catherine’s Picks by Caroline Palmer (October 14) | | by Adam Johnson (October 14) | | November Sarah’s Pick by Aja Gabel (November 4) | | Catherine’s Pick by Marisa Kashino (November 25) | | Other Books Mentioned by Aja Gabel (2018) December Catherine’s Pick by Ruth Mancini (US release: December 2) | | Other Books Mentioned by Ruth Mancini (2024) /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/37983275

Ep. 204: Summer 2025 Circle Back with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) 08/27/2025

Ep. 204: Summer 2025 Circle Back with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) In Episode 204, Sarah and Catherine of catch up on the 12 new releases they shared in the , now that they’ve read them — or at least tried to! They share their reading stats, chat about what worked — and discuss which books didn’t work and why. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Announcement One of the many benefits to supporting the podcast through either our or our (both for just $7/mo) is that you get access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and I share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that we did not share in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available and sign up and ! Highlights After Catherine’s 100% success rate this spring, she encountered a near-full reversal of fortune this summer. Sarah’s summer reading improved dramatically over her spring selections. Between Sarah and Catherine, there are several DNFs, one 5-star book, one 3-star book, and a scattering of books in the 4-star range. Sarah’s summer circle back theme seems to be “Why aren’t more people reading these books?!” Meanwhile, someone please hand Catherine MORE in her books and with a heavy side of PLOT. They name the best and worst books picks for summer! Books Read Before the Preview June Sarah’s Pick by Aisling Rawle (June 24) | | Other Books Mentioned by William Golding (1954) by Mike Bockoven (2016) July Sarah’s Pick by Hattie Williams (July 8) | | Other Books Mentioned by Caroline O’Donoghue (2023) by Genevieve Wheeler (2023) Summer 2025 Circle Back June Catherine’s Picks by Yrsa Daley-Ward (June 3) | | by S. A. Cosby (June 10) | | by Amy Bloom (June 24) | | Other Books Mentioned by S. A. Cosby (2021) by S. A. Cosby (2023) July Sarah’s Picks by Lidija Hilje (July 8) | | by Christopher J. Yates (July 8) | | by Nicci Cloke (July 15) | | by Regina Black (July 29) | | Catherine’s Picks by Kathy Wang (July 1) | | by Clémence Michallon (July 8) | | Other Books Mentioned by Christopher J. Yates (2013) by Christopher J. Yates (2018) by Helena Dea Bala (2020) by Kathy Wang (2021) by Jessica Knoll (2023) by Clémence Michallon (2023) by Regina Black (2023) by Tia Williams (2021) July Catherine’s Pick by Nick Fuller Googins (August 12) | | /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/37894925

Ep. 203: An Indie Bookstore's First Year with Gayle Weiswasser (Co-Founder of Wonderland Books) 08/20/2025

Ep. 203: An Indie Bookstore's First Year with Gayle Weiswasser (Co-Founder of Wonderland Books) In Episode 203, Gayle Weiswasser, co-founder of , an independent bookstore in Bethesda, Maryland, returns to the podcast with Sarah for a one-year check-in on the shop’s journey. From holiday-season chaos to surprising customer favorites, Gayle shares what worked, what didn’t, and why she still handpicks every title on the shelves — plus the biggest lessons (and mistakes) from year one. Plus, Gayle shares some great book recommendations. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights Gayle shares what it was like to open the bookstore right before the holiday season. How the store’s first year compared to their original projections and expectations. The now-dispelled fears Gayle had before opening. Why she’s glad they curated every book in their inventory themselves, and why they still do all the book buying in-house. The course correction Wonderland had to make in their romance section. The biggest mistake they made before opening their doors. Which genres and titles have become customer favorites and which don’t seem to sell well. How they plan and host book events — and why those events are such a key part of the store’s community success. The books that taught them exactly how (and how not) to decide how many copies to order. The surprising punch poetry has packed with customers. Whether Gayle’s own reading life has bounced back after the pre-opening stress and time crunch. Gayle’s Book Recommendations Two OLD Books She Loves by Ashley Hutson (2022) | | by Allegra Goodman (2023) | | Other Books Mentioned by Rufi Thorpe (2020) by Rufi Thorpe (2014) Two NEW Books She Loves by Virginia Evans (2025) | | by Janelle Brown (2025) | | Other Books Mentioned by Alison Espach (2024) by Janelle Brown (2020) One Book She DIDN’T Love by Linda Holmes (2025) | | Other Books Mentioned by Linda Holmes (2019) by Linda Holmes (2022) One NEW RELEASE She’s Excited About by Catherine Newman (October 28, 2025) | | Other Books Mentioned by Catherine Newman (2024) Last 5-Star Book Gayle Read by Florence Knapp (2025) | | Books from the Discussion by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2025) by Rebecca Yarros (2025) by Virginia Evans (2025) by Alison Espach (2024) by Ariel Lawhon (2023) by Percival Everett (2024) by Amity Gaige (2025) by Ron Chernow (2025) by John Green (2025) by Sarah Wynn-Williams (2025) by Cher (2024) by Amy Odell (2025) by Brooke Shields and Rachel Bertsche (2025) by David Sheff (2025) by Fredrik Backman (2025) /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/37818428

Ep. 202: 2025 Micro Genres We Love with Susie (@NovelVisits) 08/06/2025

Ep. 202: 2025 Micro Genres We Love with Susie (@NovelVisits) In Episode 202, Susie () and Sarah explore some of their new favorite Micro Genres. Since starting the Micro Genres series, they’ve loved taking the opportunity each year to examine and define their tastes in these sub-sub-genres. This year, they have curated a list of 10 all-new Micro Genres, along with notable books for each category. With over 80 books mentioned, this is another year of niching down for some great book recommendations! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Books Told From the Perspective of the Person Left Behind (Sarah) Sarah by Meg Howrey (2017) | | by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2025) | | by Angie Kim (2023) | | by Angie Kim (2019) | | by Betsy Lerner (2024) | | by Kristin Koval (2025) | | by Therese Ann Fowler (2013) | | by Paula McLain (2011) | | by Curtis Sittenfeld (2008) | | by Melanie Benjamin (2016) | | by Simone Gorrindo (2024) | | by Sue Klebold (2016) | | Susie by Emily St. John Mandel (2014) | | by Lily Brooks-Dalton (2016) | | by Lily Brooks-Dalton (2022) | | by Madeline Miller (2018) | | We Begin at the End (Susie) Sarah by Claire Gibson (2019) | | by Kristin Koval (2025) | | by Jordan Chiles (2025) | | Susie by Kate Fagan (2025) | | by Dervla McTiernan (2024) | | by Andrew Boryga (2024) | | by Andrés N. Ordorica (2025) | | by Clare Leslie Hall (2025) | | Other Books Mentioned by Chris Whitaker (2021) by Sophie Elmhirst (2025) Big Business Women (Sarah) Sarah by Susie Orman Schnall (2024) | | by Erica Katz (2020) | | by Andrea Dunlop (2023) | | by Jakob Kerr (2025) | | Susie by Chandler Baker (2019) | | by Meg Wolitzer (2018) | | Other Books Mentioned by John Carreyrou (2018) Books By Irish Authors Telling Distinctly Irish Stories (Susie) Sarah by Patrick Radden Keefe (2018) | | by Flynn Berry (2021) | | by Caroline O’Donoghue (2023) | | by Catherine Ryan Howard (2021) | | Susie by Roisín O’Donnell (2025) | | by Alan Murrin (2024) | | by John Boyne (2017) | | by Karl Geary (2023) | | by Graham Norton (2020) | | by Claire Keegan (2021) | | by Louise Kennedy (2022) | | Other Books Mentioned by Frank McCourt (1996) by Sally Rooney (2018) by Liz Nugent (2023) by Liz Nugent (2013) The Collective “We” Narration (Sarah) Sarah by Jeffrey Eugenides (1993) | | by Caroline Zancan (2020) | | by Britt Bennett (2016)| | by Annie Hartnett (2022) | | Susie by Julie Otsuka (2011) | | by Julie Otsuka (2023) | | Other Books Mentioned by Karen Thompson Walker (2012) by Karen Thompson Walker (2025) by Brit Bennett (2020) Torn Between Two Lovers: The Women’s Edition (Susie) Sarah by Margaret Mitchell (1936) | | by Helen Fielding (1996) | | by Stephenie Meyer (2005) | | Susie by Clare Leslie Hall (2025) | | by Miranda Cowley Heller (2021) | | by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2016) | | by Tayari Jones (2018) | | Fiction Modeled on Real-Life Serial Killers or Crimes (Sarah) Sarah by Abigail Dean (2025) | | by Jessica Knoll (2023) | | by Amity Gaige (2025)| | by Bret Anthony Johnston (2024) | | by Emma Cline (2016) | | by Ed Tarkington (2016) | | by Paula McLain (2021) | | by Elizabeth Crook (2014) | | Susie by Adam Rapp (2024) | | Books with Characters Struggling with Mental Health (Susie) Sarah by Patric Gagne, PhD (2024) | | by Meg Mason (2020) | | by Hattie Williams (2025) | | by Morgan Talty (2024) | | by Ilona Bannister (2021) | | by Mark Haddon (2003) | | Susie by Betsy Lerner (2024) | | by Lisa Genova (2025) | | by Emily Austin (2024) | | by Mark Lukach (2017) | | by Iain Reid (2016) | | Other Books Mentioned by Claire Kilroy (2023) Dude Thrillers (Sarah) Sarah by Jakob Kerr (2025) | | by Robert Bailey (2025) | | by Scott Carson (2025) | | by Graham Moore (2024) | | by Alma Katsu (2021) | | by Alma Katsu (2023) | | Susie by Graham Moore (2020) | | by Peter Heller (2019) | | by Peter Heller (2024) | | by Andy Weir (2011) | | Other Books Mentioned by Andy Weir (2021) by S. A. Cosby (2023) by S. A. Cosby (2020) by S. A. Cosby (2021) Standalone Fantasy Set on Earth (Susie) Susie by V. E. Schwab (2020) | | by V. E. Schwab (2025) | | by Leigh Bardugo (2024) | | by Leigh Bardugo (2019) | | by Emilia Hart (2023) | | by Scott Hawkins (2015) | | by Madeline Miller (2018) | | by Madeline Miller (2011) | | Other Books Mentioned by Sarah J. Maas (2015) by Christopher J. Yates (2013) /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/37580005

Ep. 201: Lidija Hilje (Author of Slanting Towards the Sea) + Book Recommendations 07/23/2025

Ep. 201: Lidija Hilje (Author of Slanting Towards the Sea) + Book Recommendations In Episode 201, author Lidija Hilje talks with Sarah about her debut novel, . Spanning two decades and one transformative summer in Croatia, is a love story that also delves into the profound journey of coming of age in a nation younger than you are. Lidija shares lots of details about how this book came to be and the inspiration for the story and its lush Croatian setting, which becomes a character of its own. They also discuss how the Croatian War of Independence influenced both her own childhood and the novel’s narrative. Plus, Lidija shares some of her top book recommendations! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights A brief, spoiler-free overview of . Hilje’s inspiration for . How Croatia became its own character in the novel. The ways developed and was impacted by Lidija’s never-to-be-published first novel. The impact of the Croatian War of Independence (1991–1995) on Lidija’s childhood and the events of the book. How Lidija shaped the ending of the novel over time. What inspired making “people pleasing” such a strong element of Ivona’s character. The complete, upending change that forever shelved her first attempt at a novel. Lidija’s Book Recommendations Two OLD Books She Loves by James Baldwin (1956) | | by Lily King (2014) | | Other Books Mentioned: by Lily King (2020) Two NEW Books She Loves by Katie Kitamura (2025) | | by Ayşegül Savaş (2024) | | Other Books Mentioned: by Katie Kitamura (2021) by Hernán Díaz (2023) by Rachel Cusk (2021) One Book She DIDN’T Love by Sally Rooney (2021) | | One NEW RELEASE She’s Excited About by Tochi Eze (August 5, 2025) | | Last 5-Star Book Lidija Read by Kimberly King Parsons (2024) | | Books From the Discussion by Maggie Smith (2023) /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/37403245

Ep. 200: 200th Episode Celebration with Susie and Catherine 07/09/2025

Ep. 200: 200th Episode Celebration with Susie and Catherine Welcome to the 200th episode of Sarah’s Bookshelves Live with a very special celebration with both co-hosts: Susie () and Catherine of . Today, they are answering listener-submitted questions all about their reading journeys, their podcast journeys, and some about their pre-podcast blogging days! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights Their early reading lives. The most surprising things about their reading history. Susie’s secret endeavor! How much they talk about books in their day-to-day lives. What their friends outside of the book world think about what they do. Would Susie or Catherine ever want to do an author interview? How their feelings about the podcast have changed over the years. Topic Highlights Key Moments in Their Reading Lives A few of the questions answered: Have you always been a reader, and do you have a distinct memory of when you truly fell in love with reading? Was there a time in your life when you were not reading very much? What parts of your reading tastes have changed dramatically over the course of your reading life and what parts have stayed consistent? Currently, what is your reading “why”? What’s the primary reason you read? Their Professional Reading Journeys A few of the questions answered: Why did you start your blogs? Is there anything you miss from the time when you only blogged? Anything you don’t miss? What is your relationship like off mic? How has social media changed your reading life? Anything you wish you had known about podcasting before you got involved? Books Mentioned (1950) by Carolyn Keene (1930) (The Baby-Sitters Club, 1) by Ann M. Martin (1986) by Margaret Wise Brown (1947) by Meg Wolitzer (2013) (Sweet Valley High, 1) by Francine Pascal (1983) by Charles Dickens (1861) by Carola Lovering (2018) by Sally Rooney (2019) by Hattie Williams (2025) by Gustave Flaubert (1857) by George Eliot (1872) by Isak Dinesen (1937) /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/37312545

Ep. 199: Best Books of 2025 (So Far) with Susie and Catherine 06/25/2025

Ep. 199: Best Books of 2025 (So Far) with Susie and Catherine In Ep. 199, Susie Boutry (), Catherine Gilmore (), and Sarah are all back on the mic, ready to catch up on how their reading is shaping up for 2025 — so far! They talk about the current publishing landscape, what books are topping bestseller lists to date, and their personal reading as it stands halfway through the year. They share reading stats and talk about expectations and hopes for the remainder of the year. Plus, their TOP 5 books and their biggest disappointments so far. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). The Bookish Landscape Books Mentioned by Rebecca Yarros (2025) by Rebecca Yarros (2023) by Rebecca Yarros (2023) by Kristin Hannah (2024) by Suzanne Collins (2025) by Suzanne Collins (2008) y by Mel Robbins (2024) (Dog Man, #13) by Dav Pilkey (2024) by Freida McFadden (2022) by Freida McFadden (2025) by James Clear (2018) by Sarah J. Maas (2015) by James Frey (2025) by Percival Everett (2024) by Kaveh Akbar (2024) by Katie Kitamura (2025) by Florence Knapp (2025) by Hanya Yanagihara (2015) by Alison Espach (2024) by Virginia Evans (2025) by Clare Leslie Hall (2025) by Nnedi Okorafor (2025) by Jonathan Evison (2025) by Nick Newman (2025) by Annie Hartnett (2025) by Anne Tyler (2025) by Charlotte McConaghy (2025) by Emma Pattee (2025) by Aisling Rawle (2025) by Eric Puchner (2025) by Kevin Wilson (2025) by M. L. Rio (September 9, 2025) by Hannah Deitch (2025) Personal Reading for 2025 (So Far) Books Mentioned by Ann Napolitano (2020) by Ariel Lawhon (2023) by Sarah Wynn-Williams (2025) Top Five (So Far) Susie by Holly Brickley (2025) | | by Clare Leslie Hall (2025) | | by Abigail Dean (2025) | | by Roisín O’Donnell (2025) | | by Florence Knapp (2025) | | Catherine by Jonathan Evison (2025) | | by Jessica Soffer (2025) | | by Amity Gaige (2025) | | by Charlotte McConaghy (2025) | | by Lian Dolan (2025) | | Sarah by Clare Leslie Hall (2025) | | by Abigail Dean (2025) | | by Lucas Schaefer (2025) | | by Sarah Damoff (2025) | | by Annie Hartnett (2025) | | Other Books Mentioned by Wally Lamb (2025) by Jessica Knoll (2025) by Rita Bullwinkel (2024) by Rufi Thorpe (2020) by Hanna Halperin (2023) Biggest Disappointments (So Far) Susie by Karen Thompson Walker (2025) | | by Annie Hartnett (2025) | | by Lee Cole (2025) | | Catherine by Layne Fargo (2025) | | by Eric Puchner (2025) | | by Wally Lamb (2025) | | by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2025) | | Sarah by Geraldine Brooks (2025) | | by Tracey Lange (2025) | | by Katie Kitamura (2025) | | by Loretta Rothschild (July 8, 2025) | | /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/37046055

Ep. 198: Best of Thrillers with Anderson McKean of Page & Palette (@PagePalette) 06/11/2025

Ep. 198: Best of Thrillers with Anderson McKean of Page & Palette (@PagePalette) Ep. 198 is the second episode of our brand-new “Best of…” series. Anderson McKean of joined me for the Best of Thrillers, with her all-time TOP TEN favorite thriller novels…and, a couple buzzy thrillers that didn’t work for her.⁠ Also, Anderson talks about how she started reading thrillers, the wide variety available in the genre, and books from her list that would be perfect for those new to the genre! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights What draws her to the thriller genre. From domestic to psychological thrillers, Anderson talks about the variety of the genre. Her favorite sub-genres and what doesn’t work for her. Anderson picks a few books from her list that would be good starter books for those new to the genre. Anderson’s All-Time Top Ten Thrillers by Gillian Flynn (2012) | | by Emma Donoghue (2010) | | by Ruth Ware (2022) | | by Kelley Armstrong (2022) | | by Shari Lapena (2023) | | by Sally Hepworth (2020) | | by Gillian McAllister (2022) | | by Juan Gómez-Jurado (2018) | | by Paula McLain (2021) | | by Kimi Cunningham Grant (2021) | | High-Profile Thrillers That She Didn’t Love by Riley Sager (2022) | | by Lisa Jewell (2023) | | Other Books Mentioned by Jean Hanff Korelitz (2021) by Paula Hawkins (2015) by Paula Hawkins (2024) by Delia Owens (2021) by Ruth Ware (2016) by Rebecca Makkai (2023) by Ruth Ware (2023) by Sara Sligar (2025) by Ruth Ware (2024) by Audrey Niffenegger (2003) by Kelley Armstrong (2025) by Shari Lepena (2024) by Shari Lepena (2016) by Shari Lepena (2019) by Liz Nugent (2023) by Sally Hepworth (2019) by Sally Hepworth (2022) by Sally Hepworth (2023) by Gillian McAllister (2023) by Stieg Larsson (2005) by Robert Ludlum (1980) by Kim Cross (2023) by Abigail Dean (2025) by Claire Fuller (2015) by Kimi Cunningham Grant (2024) by Alex Michaelides (2024) by Alex Michaelides (2019) /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/36925020

Ep. 197: Summer 2025 Book Preview with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) 05/28/2025

Ep. 197: Summer 2025 Book Preview with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) Welcome to the Summer 2025 Book Preview with Catherine of ! Today, Catherine and Sarah share 12 of their most anticipated books releasing from June through mid-August. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Announcement One of the many benefits to supporting the podcast through either our or our (both for just $7/mo) is that you get access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and I share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that we did not share in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available and sign up and ! Highlights Catherine and Sarah share some big releases coming this summer (lightning-round style). Of Catherine’s six book picks, 3 are about sisters and most are from repeat authors. Sarah’s choices feature 3 debut authors, 2 repeat authors, and 1 new author. And, 5 of Sarah’s six books are European novels. From literary picks to thrillers to romances, they’ve got a range of books for summer. Sarah has already read two of her picks — and they’re on the (be sure to check out the full list) Plus, their #1 picks for summer. Big Summer Releases by Taylor Jenkins Reid (June 3) | | by Riley Sager (June 10) | | by V. E. Schwab (June 10) | | by Nikki Erlick (June 17) | | by Sophie Elmhirst (July 8) | | by Silvia Moreno-Garcia (July 15) | | by Adriana Trigiani (July 8) | | by Jesse Q. Sutanto (June 3) | | by Bianca Marais (June 10) | | by Lisa Jewell (June 24) | | by Ruth Ware (July 8) | | by Liv Constantine (June 17) | | by Sarah Pekkanen (August 5) | | Summer 2025 Book Preview June Sarah’s Pick by Aisling Rawle (June 24) | | Catherine’s Picks by Yrsa Daley-Ward (June 3) | | by S. A. Cosby (June 10) | | by Amy Bloom (June 24) | | Other Books Mentioned by William Golding (1954) by Mike Bockoven (2016) by Mario Puzo (1969) by S. A. Cosby (2023) by S. A. Cosby (2021) by S. A. Cosby (2020) by Amy Bloom (2018) by Laurie Frankel (2017) by Claire Lombardo (2019) by Yael van der Wouden (2024) July Sarah’s Picks by Lidija Hilje (July 8) | | by Hattie Williams (July 8) | | by Christopher J. Yates (July 8) | | by Nicci Cloke (July 15*) | | (Updated release date following the recording of this episode.) by Regina Black (July 29) | | Catherine’s Picks by Kathy Wang (July 1) | | by Clémence Michallon (July 8) | | Other Books Mentioned by Emily Habeck (2023) by Lily King (2020) by Caroline O’Donoghue (2023) by Genevieve Wheeler (2023) by Christopher J. Yates (2013) by Meg Wolitzer (2013) by Donna Tartt (1992) by Suzanne Collins (2008) by Lewis Carroll (1865) by M. L. Rio (2017) by Kathy Wang (2021) by Ann Napolitano (2023) by Angie Kim (2023) by Jean Hanff Korelitz (2022) by Abigail Dean (2021) by Abigail Dean (2025) by Danya Kukafka (2022) by Clémence Michallon (2023) by Regina Black (2023) by Jeff Zentner (2024) by Tia Williams (2021) by Dawnie Walton (2021) by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2019) August Catherine’s Pick by Nick Fuller Googins (August 12) | | Other Books Mentioned by Wally Lamb (1992) Other Links Sarah’s Bookshelves | /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/36693145

Ep. 196: Spring 2025 Circle Back with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) 05/21/2025

Ep. 196: Spring 2025 Circle Back with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) In Episode 196, Sarah and Catherine of catch up on the 12 new releases they shared in the , now that they’ve read them. They share their reading stats, chat about what worked — and hash out which books didn’t work and why. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Our Printable Cheatsheet for the is available to anyone who signs up for either a 7-Day FREE TRIAL of our Patreon Community (sign up ) OR a 30-day FREE TRIAL of our paid Substack Community (sign up ). We offer the same bonus content on both platforms for just $7 per month. Sign-ups for our Free Trials (and access to the Summer Reading Guide Cheatsheet) will close on Friday, May 23. Highlights Catherine is rocking a 100% success rate for spring! Sarah had another barbell season with two 5-star books and 3 DNFs with a 50% success rate. Catherine has a mix of darker and lighter books from spring, leaning into what is currently working. Now that Sarah doesn’t have to balance reading for the and the , Sarah hopes her summer reading will fare better. They name the best and worst books picks for spring! Books We Read Before the Preview April Sarah’s Picks by Annie Hartnett (Apr 29) | | Spring 2025 Circle Back April Sarah’s Picks by Carolyn Huynh (Apr 1) | | by John Kenney (Apr 1) | | by Sarah Damoff (Apr 22) | | by Nana Malone (Apr 29) | | Catherine’s Picks by Tanya Guerrero (Apr 1) | | by Amity Gaige (Apr 1) | | Other Books Mentioned by Carolyn Huynh (2022) by John Kenney (2019) by Nick Hornby (1998) by Hanna Halperin (2023) May Sarah’s Picks by Daria Lavelle (May 20) | | Catherine’s Pick by Allison Larkin (May 6) | | by Alex North (May 13) | | by Lian Dolan (May 20) | | by Moira Macdonald (May 27) | | Other Books Mentioned by Alex North (2023) by Stephanie Danler (2016) by Gabrielle Zevin (2022) by Silvia Moreno-Garcia (2020) by TJ Klune (2021) by Matt Haig (2020) /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/36599170

Ep. 195: 2025 Summer Reading Special with Susie (@NovelVisits) 05/14/2025

Ep. 195: 2025 Summer Reading Special with Susie (@NovelVisits) In Ep. 195, Susie () and Sarah are back to share their favorite books that missed last year’s Summer Reading Guide and our #1 picks for each category featured in my . Plus, they begin by sharing how their summer reading habits have evolved over the years. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Once again, we are happy to offer a Printable Cheatsheet for this year’s Guide: Summer Reading The Evolution of Our Summer Reading Journeys Books Mentioned by Susie by Edward Rutherfurd (1997) by Stieg Larsson (2005) by Suzanne Collins (2008) by Stephenie Meyer (2005) by Abraham Verghese (2009) by Daniel James Brown (2013) by Stephen King (2011) Books Mentioned by Sarah by Peter Benchley (1974) by Ayn Rand (1943) by Ayn Rand (1957) by Ken Follett (2010) Books That Missed Last Year’s Summer Reading Guide Sarah by RoseMarie Terenzio and Liz McNeil (2024) | | by Liane Moriarty (2024) | | by Abir Mukherjee (2024) | | Susie by Jessica Anthony (2024) | | by Scott Hawkins (2015) | | by Bruna Dantas Lobato (2024) | | Other Books Mentioned by Nikki Erlick (2022) Our #1 Summer Picks by Category Something Light / Fun Sarah: by Annie Hartnett (2025) | | Susie: by Virginia Evans (2025) | | Other Books Mentioned by Annie Hartnett (2022) Something Fast-Paced / Intense Sarah: by Jakob Kerr (2025) | | Slow-Burn Suspense Susie: by Abigail Dean (2025) | | Something With a Bit More Substance Sarah: by Clare Leslie Hall (2025) | | Susie: by Charlotte McConaghy (2025) | | Other Books Mentioned by Eric Puchner (2025) Something Different Sarah: by Curtis Sittenfeld (2025) | | Susie: by Holly Brickley (2025) | | Other Books Mentioned by Curtis Sittenfeld (2005) by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2019) /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/36461895

Ep. 194: Bookish Time Capsule (2017) with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) 04/30/2025

Ep. 193: Clare Leslie Hall (Author of Broken Country) + Book Recommendations 04/16/2025

Ep. 193: Clare Leslie Hall (Author of Broken Country) + Book Recommendations In Episode 193, author Clare Leslie Hall talks with Sarah about her US debut, — a breakout hit and a . A genre mash-up that is part love story and part murder trial, Clare talks about marketing Broken Country, how this came to be her first U.S. release, and the ways the novel evolved over time. Plus, Clare shares her book recommendations. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights Books by Clare Leslie Hall: , (previously published as Mine), and (previously published as Him). Clare gives a brief, spoiler-free overview of Broken Country. Clare’s inspiration for Broken Country. How the themes of love, guilt, and connection play roles in the novel. The ways Broken Country developed and changed over the course of her writing process. How Clare decided that this was no longer a contemporary novel and needed to be set in the 1950s and 1960s. The aspect of the book of which she’s most proud. How Broken Country came to be her first book released in the U.S. What the marketing looked like for Broken Country compared to her first two novels. Anything Clare would change about Broken Country down the line should she have the opportunity (since she was able to change the ending of her second book for the U.S. release). A bit about what Clare has planned for her next book. Clare’s Book Recommendations Two OLD Books She Loves by Penelope Lively (1987) | | by Cormac McCarthy (1992) | | Other Books Mentioned: by Larry McMurtry (1985) Two NEW Books She Loves by Roisín O’Donnell (February 18, 2025) | | by Rainbow Rowell (July 30, 2024) | | Other Books Mentioned: by Alison Espach (July 30, 2024) by Miranda Cowley Heller (2021) One Book She DIDN’T Love by Leo Tolstoy (1878) | | One NEW RELEASE She’s Excited About by Miranda Cowley Heller (July 1, 2025) | | Last 5-Star Book Clare Read by Roxana Robinson (2024) | | Books From the Discussion by Ian McEwan (2001) by L. P. Hartley (1953) by Harper Lee (1960) by Delia Owens (2018) About Clare Leslie Hall | Clare Leslie Hall is a novelist and journalist who lives in the wilds of Dorset, England, with her family. She’s the author of , , and . /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/36152025

Ep. 192: Spring 2025 Book Preview with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) 04/02/2025

Ep. 192: Spring 2025 Book Preview with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) Welcome to the Spring 2025 Book Preview with Catherine of ! Today, Catherine and Sarah share 12 of their most anticipated books releasing in April and May. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Announcement Sarah’s Bookshelves has joined Substack! Please note, we’re not MOVING to Substack, we’re simply adding Substack to the places we already put out content. On our FREE Substack feed, Sarah’s Bookshelves is offering all the content you already find on the blog, my Instagram account, public podcast, On our PAID feed, we’re offering all the content we also offer on Patreon. If you’re interested in becoming a paying subscriber on Substack, visit for all the details and a full list of benefits. If you’re already on Substack, please consider following the FREE feed and sharing with your reader friends to help support the show. One of the many benefits to joining as a paying member of either our or Communities is gaining access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and Sarah share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that were not shared in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available to all Superstar patrons and all Substack paid subscribers ! Highlights Catherine and Sarah share some big releases coming this spring (lightning round style). With a theme this season of “change,” Catherine focuses on lighter fiction and thrillers. Sarah’s choices are evenly split between debut authors, new to her authors, and repeat authors. Food novels, rom-coms, thrillers (two with a mistaken identity element), and lighter reading are the picks for spring! Sarah has already read one of her picks — and one of Catherine’s! And, Catherine has already started reading one of hers. Plus, their #1 picks for the spring. Big Spring Releases by Ocean Vuong (May 13) | | by Brendan Slocumb (May 13) | | by Abby Jimenez (Apr 1) | | by Kevin Wilson (May 13) | | by Jesse Q. Sutanto (Apr 1) | | by Nita Prose (Apr 8) | | by Katie Kitamura (Apr 8) | | by Kevin Ngyuen (Apr 8) | | Backlist Titles Mentioned by Brendan Slocumb (2022) by Brendan Slocumb (2023) Spring 2025 Book Preview April Sarah’s Picks by Carolyn Huynh (Apr 1) | | by John Kenney (Apr 1) | | by Sarah Damoff (Apr 22) | | by Nana Malone (Apr 29) | | by Annie Hartnett (Apr 29) | | Catherine’s Picks by Tanya Guerrero (Apr 1) | | by Amity Gaige (Apr 1) | | Other Books Mentioned by Carolyn Huynh (2022) by John Kenney (2019) by Nick Hornby (1998) by Liz Moore (2024) by Emiko Jean (2024) by Amity Gaige (2020) by Betsy Lerner (2024) by Cara Wall (2019) by Mary Beth Keane (2019) by Tracey Lange (2021) by Claire Lombardo (2019) by Nura Maznavi (2025) by Annie Hartnett (2022) by Steven Rowley (2021) May Sarah’s Picks by Daria Lavelle (May 20) | | Catherine’s Pick by Allison Larkin (May 6) | | by Alex North (May 13) | | by Lian Dolan (May 20) | | by Moira Macdonald (May 27) | | Other Books Mentioned by Allison Larkin (2021) by Alex North (2023) by Lian Dolan (2022) by Anthony Bourdain (2000) by Holly Gramazio (2024) by Stephanie Danler (2016) by Gabrielle Zevin (2022) by Silvia Moreno-Garcia (2020) by TJ Klune (2021) by Matt Haig (2020) by Poppy Alexander (2024) /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/35877250

Ep. 191: Winter 2025 Circle Back with Catherine (@GIlmoreGuide) 03/26/2025

Ep. 191: Winter 2025 Circle Back with Catherine (@GIlmoreGuide) In Episode 191, Sarah and Catherine of catch up on the 16 new releases they shared in the . They share their reading stats, chat about what they liked, and what didn’t work out. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights For the first time ever, Sarah’s Preview selections resulted in a 100% success rate! Catherine’s reading was also successful at 75%, with 2 DNFs. A total of three 5-star books from the Winter Preview! Sarah successfully revived her reading from that “sameness” she felt in December. Catherine’s reading seems to revolve around “right time” and “wrong time” books even more than usual. They name the best and worst books from their winter picks. Books Read Before the Preview January Sarah’s Picks by Layne Fargo (Jan 14) | | by Kristin Koval (Jan 28) | | Other Books Mentioned by William Landay by William Landay Winter 2025 Circle Back January Sarah’s Pick by Nnedi Okorafor (Jan 14) | | Catherine’s Picks by Eiren Caffall (Jan 7) | | by Shannon Ives (Jan 21) | | by Tara Dorabji (Jan 21) | | by Betty Shamieh (Jan 28) | | Other Books Mentioned by Emily St. John Mandel February Sarah’s Picks by Nura Maznavi (Feb 18) | | by Ada Calhoun (Feb 25) | | by Karen Thompson Walker (Feb 25) | | by Warona Jay (Feb 25) | | Catherine’s Pick by Jessica Soffer (Feb 4) | | Other Books Mentioned by Jane Austen by Ada Calhoun by Ada Calhoun by R. F. Kuang by Andrew Boryga by Jodi Picoult March Sarah’s Pick by Clare Leslie Hall (Mar 4) | | Catherine’s Picks by Laila Lalami (Mar 4) | | by Kim Fay (Mar 11) | | by Steve Cavanagh (Mar 25) | | Other Books Mentioned by Kim Fay by Delia Owens by Miranda Cowley Heller /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/35793385

Ep. 190: Behind the Scenes of a Book-to-Screen Adaptation with Georgia Hunter (Author of One Good Thing) + Book Recommendations 03/19/2025

Ep. 190: Behind the Scenes of a Book-to-Screen Adaptation with Georgia Hunter (Author of One Good Thing) + Book Recommendations In Episode 190, author Georgia Hunter returns to the podcast to chat with Sarah about her sophomore novel, , and go behind-the-scenes of her experience adapting her first novel, , for Hulu. Georgia talks about her role as executive producer, the difference in writing a novel that wasn’t based on family history, and how the screenwriting process influenced her own writing. Plus, Georgia shares her book recommendations. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights Books by Georgia Hunter: (2017) and (2025) A spoiler-free overview of . Georgia’s inspiration for the characters, their story, and choosing Italy as the setting. The very different process for writing and editing her second book. How the steps for adapting began and how long it took. Georgia’s role in the writer’s room for the screen adaptation and as a resource for the actors and writers. How the six writers handled their episodes and wove together the different perspectives for a cohesive series. If Georgia would ever consider writing for a tv series. How screenwriting impacted Georgia writing her second novel. What her day on set looked like as executive producer. How Georgia handled filming on location and the timeframe from start to finish. Talk about an adaptation for — and is it better suited for a feature-length film or another tv miniseries? Georgia’s Book Recommendations Two OLD Books She Loves by Shelby Van Pelt (2022) | | by Barbara Kingsolver (2022) | | Other Books Mentioned by Barbara Kingsolver (1998) by Charles Dickens (1850) Two NEW Books She Loves by Chris Whitaker (2024) | | by Kemper Donovan (2024) | | Other Books Mentioned by Chris Whitaker (2021) One NEW RELEASE She’s Excited About by Florence Knapp (May 6, 2025) | | Last 5-Star Book Georgia Read by Geraldine Brooks (2022) | | About Georgia Hunter | | When Georgia Hunter was fifteen years old, she discovered that she came from a family of Holocaust survivors. Years later, she embarked on a journey of intensive research, determined to unearth and record her family’s remarkable story. The result is the New York Times best seller, , which has been published in over 20 languages and adapted for television by Hulu as a highly acclaimed limited series. is Georgia’s second novel. She lives in Connecticut with her husband and their two sons. /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/35659570

Ep. 189: Karen Thompson Walker (Author of The Strange Case of Jane O.) + Book Recommendations 03/05/2025

Ep. 189: Karen Thompson Walker (Author of The Strange Case of Jane O.) + Book Recommendations In Episode 189, author Karen Thompson Walker talks with Sarah about her career to date and her newest novel, Karen discusses her writing journey, including each book’s inspiration and research process. She also touches on the challenges of promoting her latest book without giving away too much and her current work in progress. Plus, Karen shares her book recommendations. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights Books by Karen Thompson Walker: (2012), (2019), and (2025) Karen talks about going from working as an editor to a being published author The genre Karen feels her books best fit in The real-life inspiration for A peek into her research process and which book required the most work Karen’s thoughts on writing about an epidemic (in ) just before the real-life COVID-19 pandemic A brief spoiler-free overview of and the inspiration behind it Some of Oliver Sacks’ interesting case histories that inspired Karen The difficulty in trying to promote and talk about a book like without giving too much away How Karen sees the relationship between her three published books A bit about Karen’s current work in progress Karen’s Book Recommendations Two OLD Books She Loves by Jeffrey Eugenides (1993) | | by Julie Otsuka (2011) | | Other Books Mentioned: by Julie Otsuka (2023) Two NEW Books She Loves by Karen Russell (March 11, 2025) | | by Zoë Schlanger (2024) | | One Book She DIDN’T Love by Elena Ferrante (2011) | | One NEW RELEASE She’s Excited About by Katie Kitamura (April 8, 2025) | | Other Books Mentioned: by Yael van der Wouden (2024) by Katie Kitamura (2017) by Katie Kitamura (2021) Last 5-Star Book Karen Read by Hernan Diaz (2022) | | Books From the Discussion by Susannah Cahalan (2012) by Oliver Sacks (1973) /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/35477120

Ep. 188: Best of Fantasy with Chrissie (@ChrissieWhitley) 02/19/2025

Ep. 188: Best of Fantasy with Chrissie (@ChrissieWhitley) In Ep. 188, we are kicking off our new “Best of…” series with Sarah’s Bookshelves Live team member, Chrissie, for the Best of Fantasy. Today, Chrissie brings you her all-time top ten favorite fantasy novels. Also, as a long-time reader and evangelizer of the genre, Chrissie talks about how she started reading fantasy, the wide scope of the genre, and ways those new to fantasy might jump in! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights How Chrissie got started reading fantasy. What draws her to the fantasy genre. From sci-fi fantasy to epic, high fantasy, Chrissie talks about the wide scope of the genre. Her favorite sub-genres and what doesn’t work for her. Chrissie’s All-Time Top Ten Fantasy Books by N. K. Jemisin (2015) | | by Sarah J. Maas (2015) | | by Maggie Stiefvater (2012) | | by Patrick Rothfuss (2007) | | by Julie McElwain (2016) | | by Susanna Clarke (2004) | | by Nick Bantock (1991) | | by Sarah Beth Durst (2016) | | by Eoin Colfer (2001) | | by Erin Morgenstern (2011) | | High-Profile Fantasy Books That She Didn’t Love by Deborah Harkness (2011) | | by R. F. Kuang (2022) | | Other Books Mentioned by Rebecca Yarros (2023) by Sarah J. Maas (2012) by V. C. Andrews (1979) by V. C. Andrews (1985) by Maggie Stiefvater (June 2025) by George R. R. Martin (1996) by Patrick Rothfuss (2011) The Doors of Stone by Patrick Rothfuss (TBD) by Sue Grafton (1982) by Susanna Clarke (2020) by Stephenie Meyer (2005) by Deborah Harkness (2024) Books from Our Discussion by J. K. Rowling (1997) by E. B. White (1952) by Robert C. O’Brien (1971) by Meg Wolitzer (1987) by Liz Moore (2024) by Stephen King (2011) by C. S. Lewis (1950) by J. R. R. Tolkien (1954) by J. R. R. Tolkien (1937) by Michael Ende (1979) /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/35289040

Ep. 187: State of the Publishing Industry in 2024 with Kathleen Schmidt of the Publishing Confidential Substack 02/05/2025

Ep. 187: State of the Publishing Industry in 2024 with Kathleen Schmidt of the Publishing Confidential Substack In Ep. 187, Kathleen Schmidt, author of the popular Substack newsletter, Publishing Confidential, joins Sarah to dissect and discuss the State of the Publishing Industry in 2024. Between a high-level look back, talk about the top sales and book trends, to what Kathleen sees on the horizon for 2025 in the book world, this episode is packed with info. Also, Kathleen shares her favorite books of 2024! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights 2024 bookish news and publishing trends overview. Kathleen grades last year’s crop of books with an overall B+. How the middle-aged woman / menopause stories might shake out to be the next buzzy books. The ways the full book market is oversaturated. The impact TikTok still has on the book world. Kathleen breaks down the side-eye publishing attracts from other industries with its oddball business model. Taylor Swift remains a hot topic in publishing with The Eras Tour Book. Did Spotify’s entrance into audiobooks make a noticeable impact? The secret struggle of memoirs. Anticipating 2025’s potential bookish trends. State of the Publishing Industry in 2024 High-Level Overview by Miranda July (2024) | | by Catherine Newman (2024) | | by Mary Claire Haver (2024) | | 2024 Book Sales and Trends by Roxana Robinson (2024) | | by Leslie Jamison (2024) | | by Sarah Manguso (2024) | | by Ada Calhoun (Feb 25, 2025) | | by Rebecca Yarros | | by Nnedi Okorafor (Jan 14, 2025) | | Big Book Stories of 2024 The Official Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour Book (Target Exclusive)(2024) 2025 Publishing Predictions Kathleen’s 3 Favorites Books of 2024 by Rufi Thorpe (2024) | | by Claire Keegan (2021) | | by Claire Keegan (2010) | | Other Links Publishing Confidential • Substack | /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/35090605

Ep. 186: The Best Backlist Books We Read in 2024 with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) 01/22/2025

Ep. 186: The Best Backlist Books We Read in 2024 with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) In Episode 186, Catherine () and Sarah share the best backlist books they read in 2024. They discuss their top 5 backlist books from last year, highlight some underrated backlist gems, and review their backlist reading statistics. Devoting an entire episode to backlist reading is now an annual tradition at Sarah’s Bookshelves Live — a team and listener favorite! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Announcement 2024’s Best of the Backlist Guide is available now! 25 of the Sarah’s Bookshelves Live Patrons share the best backlist book they read last year in a beautiful PDF guide. To get the guide, you can sign up to be a Superstars patron . You’ll also get access to a 3 bonus podcast episodes per month and my and our all-new Lite Reading Tracker. Highlights Sarah and Catherine share their full stats for backlist reading in 2024. Backlist reading quantity was down a bit again last year for Sarah, but backlist reading quality increased. Catherine had a slight decrease in the number of backlist books she read, but backlist reading remained incredibly successful for her. Sarah’s backlist reading included several atypical choices for her, maybe shaping how she approaches 2025. Our Top 5 Backlist Books We Read in 2024 Catherine by Dolly Alderton | | by Kate Atkinson | | by Maggie O’Farrell | | by Jessica Soffer | | by Kate Atkinson | | Sarah by Diana Clarke | | by Graham Moore | | by John Boyne | by John Scalzi | | by Richard Russo | | Other Books Mentioned by Dolly Alderton by Graham Moore by Graham Moore by John Boyne by John Boyne by John Boyne by Jessica Soffer (coming Feb 4) by Kate Atkinson by Kate Atkinson Underrated Backlist Gems Catherine by Tananarive Due | | by Annie Lyons | | Sarah by Graham Norton | | by Oksana Masters | | Other Books Mentioned by Colson Whitehead by Dani Shapiro by Graham Norton /episode/index/show/sarahsbookshelveslive/id/34942495

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