The Reader's Couch

Send me a text message

Ready to bake beautiful cakes without all the stress and overwhelm?  I had the pleasure of chatting with Mandy Merriman, the Baking with Blondie blogger and author of I'll Bring the Cake.  An accessible and go-to resource for crowd-pleasing seasonal cake recipes that are accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
Mandy's passion for baking shines as she provides valuable cake-baking tips and tricks, from perfecting buttercream to alternative methods for testing cake doneness and her must-have decorating and baking equipment.  I promise Mandy’s insights will inspire and empower you to say, "I'll bring the cake" to your next event or gathering.
EPIGRAPH LITERARY FESTIVAL REPLAYS:
If you missed the festival or want to relive the highlights visit epigraphlitfest.com and select replays.  Your TBR will explode, you’ll learn a thing or two, and you’ll have lots of laughs, especially at the happy hours.  So go to epigraphlitfest.com and select replays!
BOOK:
I'll Bring The Cake by Mandy Merriman on Amazon or Bookshop.
SHOW NOTES & BOOKLIST:
Find the episode show notes and a list of all the books mentioned here.
MORE RESOURCES:
Visit bibliolifestyle.com for more information and resources to help you in your reading journey.

Send me a text message

Get ready to embrace summer's beauty, uncover the magic of seasonal living, and discover how it can help us connect with nature, simplify our lives, and be more present in every moment. I'll be sharing my personal experiences and answering some common questions about this lifestyle that's perfect no matter where you live.
EPIGRAPH LITERARY FESTIVAL REPLAYS:
If you missed the festival or want to relive the highlights visit epigraphlitfest.com and select replays.  Your TBR will explode, you’ll learn a thing or two, and you’ll have lots of laughs, especially at the happy hours.  So go to epigraphlitfest.com and select replays!
SHOW NOTES & BOOKLIST:
Find the episode show notes and a list of all the books mentioned here.
MORE RESOURCES:
Visit bibliolifestyle.com for more information and resources to help you in your reading journey.

Send me a text message

Join this conversation with Lisa Harding, author of the powerful novel Cloud Girls, which brings awareness to the multi-billion dollar industry of sex trafficking.  Lisa shares her journey from working on the Stop Sex Trafficking campaign to reworking her original book, Harvesting, into the newly released Cloud Girls.  Listen in as she discusses the importance of empathy and the note of hope in this compelling story about two young girls who form a friendship amidst horrifying circumstances.
EPIGRAPH LITERARY FESTIVAL REPLAYS:
If you missed the festival or want to relive the highlights visit epigraphlitfest.com and select replays.  Your TBR will explode, you’ll learn a thing or two, and you’ll have lots of laughs, especially at the happy hours.  So go to epigraphlitfest.com and select replays!
BOOK:
Cloud Girls by Lisa Harding on Amazon or Bookshop.
SHOW NOTES & BOOKLIST:
Find the episode show notes and a list of all the books mentioned here.
MORE RESOURCES:
Visit bibliolifestyle.com for more information and resources to help you in your reading journey.

Send me a text message

What's the driving force behind your deepest desires?  How can we uncover our true selves and lead more joyful lives?  Author and psychotherapist Charlotte Fox Webber shared her insights on this topic and more, which can be found in her new book, Tell Me What You Want, in which she reveals the 12 universal desires we all share.
In her book, Charlotte dives deep into our innate needs, some of which include love, power, understanding, creativity, belonging, victory, connection, and control.  Plus, she shares stories from her private practice and explores the various ways these desires manifest in people's lives.  The book encourages readers to face their true selves head-on and pursue their deepest desires, ultimately leading to more fulfilling and joyful lives.
EPIGRAPH LITERARY FESTIVAL REPLAYS:
If you missed the festival or want to relive the highlights visit epigraphlitfest.com and select replays.  Your TBR will explode, you’ll learn a thing or two, and you’ll have lots of laughs, especially at the happy hours.  So go to epigraphlitfest.com and select replays!
BOOK:
Tell Me What You Want by Charlotte Fox Weber from Amazon or Bookshop.
SHOW NOTES & BOOKLIST:
Find the episode show notes and a list of all the books mentioned here.
MORE RESOURCES:
Visit bibliolifestyle.com for more information and resources to help you in your reading journey.

Send me a text message

Ever found yourself searching for the perfect classic novel to immerse yourself in during the summer months?  Look no further!  I share three summer classics that are even better when read during the long summer days in this episode.  So get ready to spice up your summer reading list with three iconic classics.  Plus, I'll share my recommendations and insight on why these timeless masterpieces are perfect for your next beach day or cozy afternoon at home.
EPIGRAPH LITERARY FESTIVAL REPLAYS:
If you missed the festival or want to relive the highlights visit epigraphlitfest.com and select replays.  Your TBR will explode, you’ll learn a thing or two, and you’ll have lots of laughs, especially at the happy hours.  So go to epigraphlitfest.com and select replays!
SHOW NOTES & BOOKLIST:
Find the episode show notes and a list of all the books mentioned here.
MORE RESOURCES:
Visit bibliolifestyle.com for more information and resources to help you in your reading journey.

Send me a text message

Get ready to embark on a literary adventure in this conversation with NYT's bestselling author and former writer/producer for Law & Order, Lorenzo Carcaterra.  Join us as we explore Lorenzo's enchanting world of Nonna Maria and the island of Ischia, and discover the inspiration behind his latest novel and series.
In Nonna Maria and the Case of the Stolen Necklace, we see 70-year-old widow Nonna Maria dealing with two mysteries.  The first is the murder of an unidentified woman, found by the side of a road, and the second is an accusation of theft made against Nonna Maria’s goddaughter, Loretta.
In this episode, Lorenzo also opens up about his transition from gritty urban crime novels to charming mysteries featuring Nonna Maria.  We also get great Italian travel recommendations, plus a sneak peek into his upcoming book, Nona Maria and the Case of the Lost Treasure.  Stay tuned for book recommendations, future projects, and insights into the art of storytelling.
EPIGRAPH LITERARY FESTIVAL REPLAYS:
If you missed the festival or want to relive the highlights visit epigraphlitfest.com and select replays.  Your TBR will explode, you’ll learn a thing or two, and you’ll have lots of laughs, especially at the happy hours.  So go to epigraphlitfest.com and select replays!
BOOK:
Nonna Maria and the Case of the Stolen Necklace by Lorenzo Carcaterra from Amazon or Bookshop.
SHOW NOTES & BOOKLIST:
Find the episode show notes and a list of all the books mentioned here.
MORE RESOURCES:
Visit bibliolifestyle.com for more information and resources to help you in your reading journey.

Send me a text message

Looking to decorate your home without breaking the bank?  I had the pleasure of chatting with Alexandra Gater, DIY YouTuber and author of Own Your Space.  Listen in as Alexandra shares her journey from working in publishing to becoming a go-to expert in interior design.  Alexandra reveals invaluable tips and tricks to create stylish, personalized spaces for any budget.
Whether you're a renter or homeowner, it's essential to make your space your own, and Alexandra's advice empowers everyone to do just that.  We explore her favorite reversible home decor items for each room, as well as practical steps to elevate rental spaces, such as utilizing peel-and-stick backsplash in the kitchen and linen curtains in the bedroom.  Don't miss out on this conversation with Alexandra Gater; you'll walk away inspired and ready to make your space truly your own!
EPIGRAPH LITERARY FESTIVAL REPLAYS:
If you missed the festival or want to relive the highlights visit epigraphlitfest.com and select replays.  Your TBR will explode, you’ll learn a thing or two, and you’ll have lots of laughs, especially at the happy hours.  So go to epigraphlitfest.com and select replays!
BOOK:
Own Your Space by Alexandra Gater from Amazon or Bookshop.
SHOW NOTES & BOOKLIST:
Find the episode show notes and a list of all the books mentioned here.
MORE RESOURCES:
Visit bibliolifestyle.com for more information and resources to help you in your reading journey.

Send me a text message

Are you ready to break free from burnout, overwhelm and never-ending to-do lists and embrace a simpler, more fulfilling existence?  In this episode, I share my journey towards simple living, the life-changing benefits it has brought me, and how you can apply the same principles to your life.
EPIGRAPH LITERARY FESTIVAL REPLAYS:
If you missed the festival or want to relive the highlights visit epigraphlitfest.com and select replays.  Your TBR will explode, you’ll learn a thing or two, and you’ll have lots of laughs, especially at the happy hours.  So go to epigraphlitfest.com and select replays!
SHOW NOTES & BOOKLIST:
Find the episode show notes and a list of all the books mentioned here.
MORE RESOURCES:
Visit bibliolifestyle.com for more information and resources to help you in your reading journey.

Send me a text message

In Small Joys, we see how an unexpected friendship saves a young man's life.  Our main character Harley suffers from anxiety and depression.  His attempt on his own life is interrupted by his new flatmate, Muddy, who, unlike Harley, has an “enthusiasm for life” and finds joy in the small things around him.
Though this novel starts in a dark place, it’s incredibly hopeful and prioritizes kindness, compassion, and love.  It’s a novel about chosen family, the winding road to happiness, the grace of second chances, and being our authentic selves.
Today on the couch, I'm pleased to welcome author Elvin James Mensah.  First, we talk about his debut novel, Smalls Joys; then, we get into his writing and reading life.  Elvin also shares book and bookstore recommendations, plus lots more.
EPIGRAPH LITERARY FESTIVAL REPLAYS:
If you missed the festival or want to relive the highlights visit epigraphlitfest.com and select replays.  Your TBR will explode, you’ll learn a thing or two, and you’ll have lots of laughs, especially at the happy hours.  So go to epigraphlitfest.com and select replays!
BOOK:
Small Joys by Elvin James Mensah from Amazon or Bookshop.
SHOW NOTES & BOOKLIST:
Find the episode show notes and a list of all the books mentioned here.
MORE RESOURCES:
Visit bibliolifestyle.com for more information and resources to help you in your reading journey.

Send me a text message

In today's episode, I'm thrilled (and a tad nervous) to announce our summer 2023 podcast programming. This year has been experimental for me and the podcast, but I hope you enjoy what I have in store for us this summer.
SHOW NOTES & BOOKLIST:
Find the episode show notes and a list of all the books mentioned here.
MORE RESOURCES:
Visit bibliolifestyle.com for more information and resources to help you in your reading journey.