Summer is supposed to be slow, but let’s be real, it’s moving at full speed.
For some folks, finding those precious hours to kick back with a cold drink and a book is a luxury. For others? Not even in the cards.
If your book stack’s been sitting untouched since June and you can’t find time (or brainpower) to choose your next read, we’ve got you covered: Here’s a staff-curated list of book podcasts that’ll help you narrow things down fast, so when you do get a moment, you’re ready.
Fated Mates
[Romance]
The most listened to romance novel podcast, Fated Mates is co-hosted by bestselling author Sarah MacLean and romance critic Jen Prokop. Weekly episodes include romance novel read-alongs and lively discussions of the work of the genre, highlighting the romance novel as a powerful tool in fighting the patriarchy … with absolutely no kink shaming.
We suggest you check out Season 7 episode 42: “Jen & Sarah and These Summer Storms” to listen to Sarah MacLean talk about her latest release!
Books & Looks
[All Genre]
Fascinating conversations with today’s most engaging authors. On each episode, host Blaine Desantis sits down with an acclaimed author for an in-depth chat about their latest work, the creative process, and the stories behind the stories. With its broad range of titles and topics, Books & Looks is your ticket to literary discovery. Join the conversation and find your next great read, with new episodes weekly. Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.
Talking Scared
[Horror]
With a PhD in gothic literature, host Neil McRobert talks with the biggest names in horror fiction. A podcast for horror readers who want to know where their favorite stories came from … and what frightens the people who wrote them.
If you find yourself craving some sexy vampire action before spooky season comes back around, then you should listen to episode 241 – “V.E. Schwab & Women Just Taste Better,” which dives into time travel, queerness, sex and death in Schwab’s latest release, Bury our Bones in the Midnight Soil. Highly recommend.
Bookaholic
[All Genre]
The Bookaholic Podcast is the ultimate audio haven for passionate readers, curious minds, and unapologetic book lovers. Hosted by Deirdre Pippins, each episode dives into the world of storytelling through author interviews, genre spotlights, literary trends, and honest book chats that feed your reading addiction. No matter the genre, there’s something here to spark your next favorite read.
Episode 131: “Breaking the Silence: The Truth About Female Friendships” features a fantastic interview with author and (BookTrib contributor) Susan Shapiro Barash about her latest non-fiction, Estranged.
Let's Talk Memoir
[Nonfiction]
Let’s Talk Memoir is a podcast for anyone curious about the art of personal storytelling. Hosted by author and teacher Ronit Plank, each episode dives into candid conversations with memoirists about their process, struggles, and hard-won insights. Ronit — also known for her short fiction Home is a Made-Up Place and her memoir When She Comes Back — brings warmth, clarity and inspiration to every episode.
Looking for writing tips or a little creative encouragement? Follow along on Substack, Instagram, or at ronitplank.com.
Friends & Fiction
[All Genre]
Friends & Fiction is where bestselling storytelling meets behind-the-scenes insight. Hosted by literary powerhouses Mary Kay Andrews, Patti Callahan Henry, Kristy Woodson Harvey, and Kristin Harmel, this weekly show is a celebration of books, writing, and the connections they inspire.
In a recent episode we loved, “Friends & Fiction with Adriana Trigiani” Mary Kay Andrews & Ron Block interview NYT-bestselling author Adriana Trigiani about her latest release, The View from Lake Como.
Writer's INK
[Thriller]
What does it take to succeed as a writer? Join host J.D. Barker and a panel of industry experts as they pull back the curtain and offer rare insights from the household names found on bookshelves worldwide.
If you’re looking for a standout episode of Writer’s INK, check out their latest featuring bestselling author J.T. Ellison, “From social media to plotting – what it takes to be a modern author with bestseller, JT Ellison.” episode 305.
