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

What happens when your mom spies on the neighbor—and he might be a murderer? Author Sheila Roberts joins me to chat about The Man Next Door, a cozy mystery–meets–women’s fiction read filled with humor, heart, and multigenerational relationships.

In this episode, I sit down with longtime author Sheila Roberts to talk about her writing journey—from regency romances to her modern blend of women’s fiction and mystery. We chat about the joy of writing multi-generational women, the wisdom of aging, and how stories can help us face fears and grow stronger. Sheila also shares three books she’s loving right now, including a mouth-watering Italian escape and a thought-provoking AI thriller.

The Man Next Door by Sheila Roberts — Buy on Amazon | Women’s Fiction / Mystery / Humor

The Secret of Orange Blossom Cake by Rachel Linden — Buy on Amazon | Magical Realism / Women’s Fiction | Audio ✅

The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley by Courtney Walsh — Buy on Amazon | Contemporary Fiction / Women’s Fiction | Audio ✅

Culpability by Bruce Holsinger— Buy on Amazon | Contemporary Fiction / Thriller | Audio ✅

[00:00] – Meet Sheila Roberts and how she became an author

[03:00] – From regency romance to modern women’s fiction

[06:00] – Writing strong heroines and facing fears

[10:00] – How Sheila plots her stories (and keeps control!)

[12:00] – The inspiration behind The Man Next Door

[15:00] – Writing older women and multi-generational stories

[18:00] – The joy and wisdom of aging

[20:00] – Sheila’s current reading life

[21:00] – Book recommendations you’ll want to add to your TBR

Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive recommendations. (wtrnblog.substack.com)

Follow & Subscribe: What to Read Next Blog | YouTube: What to Read Next

Subscribe & leave a review!

Mentioned in this episode:

Advertise with Us

Do you have a book or service that you want to share with our engaged audience? Check out our opportunities to sponsor with us.

Advertise With Us

🎧 Try Audible Today

Audible