Jeanne and Ciara chat with author Leila Siddiqui—a Senior Manager of Digital Strategy at DK, a division of Penguin Random House—about her new gothic horror novel, The Glowing Hours.

"A mind-bending, revisionist gothic horror story about the fabled summer Mary Shelley began work on Frankenstein, as told by her Indian housemaid." 

• A Publishers Weekly Top 10 Pick: Spring 2026 SF, Fantasy & Horror Preview
•  Ms. Magazine Most Anticipated Feminist Reads of 2026
•  CrimeReads 27 Horror Novels to Look Forward to in 2026 

We dive into her inspiration, the challenges of historical research, and the joys of weaving in fiction. Plus, writing routines, being an evil twin ... and so much more!

Resources:

• Leila's Books 
• "Come Play with Us" Podcast 
• NY Public Library Event on March 3, 2026 
• Leila's Symposium Sessions 

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