Professional Book Nerds

Spring has officially sprung and so have the May 2025 book releases! Joe is joined by colleague and fellow book lover Rachel to share their top picks for this May's freshest reads. From swoony romances and thrilling mysteries to heartfelt queer YA and buzzy debuts, they’ve got a little something for every reader. Plus, stick around for Joe’s rapid-fire lightning round of even more May titles you won’t want to miss! Whether you're loading up your Libby shelf or just need help picking your next favorite read, we've got you covered with big book energy and plenty of laughs along the way. 🌸📚 Want to watch the video version of our show? Watch now on the Libby App YouTube channel! Titles mentioned in this episode: Rachel’s Picks: The Tenant - Freida McFadden The Love Haters - Katherine Center Problematic Summer Romance - Ali Hazelwood One Golden Summer - Carley Fortune Big Dumb Eyes - Nate Bargatze The Missing Half - Ashley Flowers Run for the Hills - Kevin Wilson It's a Love Story - Annabel Monaghan Joe’s Picks: The Art of Exile – Andrea Max Death in the Cards – Mia P. Manansala When Love Gives You Lemons – Steven Salvatore The Thrashers – Julie Soto The Starving Saints – Caitlin Starling Disco Witches of Fire Island – Blair Fell The Dark Maestro – Brendan Slocumb Karen: A Brother Remembers – Kelsey Grammer Marsha – Tourmaline Trans History by Alex L. Combs and Andrew Eakett Shoutouts section: Murder Land – Carlyn Greenwald Everyone Sux But You – K. Wroten And They Were Roommates – Page Powars Shampoo Unicorn – Sawyer Lovett The Rebel’s Guide to Pride – Matthew Hubbard The Busybody Book Club – Freya Sampson The Manor of Dreams – Christina Li Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

April is here, and with it comes a fresh lineup of must-read new books! Join Joe and Madison as they dive into the most exciting releases of the month. From long-awaited sequels to unexpected gems, our TBRs are taking us on quite the journey—just like the changing season! Whether you're in the mood for something light and breezy or deep and thought-provoking, we've got the perfect springtime read for you. Grab a cozy spot in the sunshine and let’s talk books! 🌿📖✨ You can follow Madison's Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/simon.says.read/ Titles mentioned in this episode: Madison’s Picks: Gifted and Talented – Olivie Blake The Amalfi Curse – Sarah Penner Their Monstrous Hearts – Yigit Turhan The Page Turner – Viola Shipman When the Tides Held the Moon - Venessa Vida Kelley House of Blight - Maxym M. Martineau Enigma - RuNyx The Wind Weaver - Julie Johnson The Book Club for Troublesome Women - Marie Bostwick Great Big Beautiful Life – Emily Henry Joe’s Picks: The Cat Who Saved the Library – Sosuke Natsukawa A/S/L - Jeanne Thornton The Staircase in the Woods – Chuck Wendig The Cut – CJ Dotson Make Sure You Die Screaming – Zee Carlstrom The Last Session – Julia Bartz Polybius – Collin Armstrong Deadstream – Mar Romasco-Moore Run Away with Me – Brian Selznick Boys with Sharp Teeth – Jenni Howell Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Joe is joined by Nahomy to recommend books for fans of The Hunger Games, whether you're eagerly awaiting Sunrise on the Reaping or need more dystopian reads after devouring it. From high-stakes competitions and oppressive regimes to survival in broken worlds, these books will keep you on the edge of your seat. Tune in for thrilling recommendations featuring deadly trials, futuristic rebellions, twisted social experiments, and resilient heroes fighting for freedom. Nahomy’s Titles: Scythe - Neal Shusterman The Selection - Kiera Cass The Grace Year - Kim Liggett Cinder - Marissa Meyer Joe’s Titles: Survive the Dome – Kosoko Jackson Together in a Broken World – Paul Michael Winters After the Fall – Ellen Parent The Art Thieves – Andrea L. Rogers Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Spring is in the air, and so are a fresh batch of must-read books! In this episode, Joe is joined by Amy Clark from MomAdvice.com to dive into the most exciting new releases hitting shelves in March 2025. From highly anticipated fiction to captivating nonfiction, they’re sharing the books they can’t wait to read this month. Whether you’re looking for your next page-turner or adding to your never-ending TBR, this episode has something for every book lover. Tune in and get ready to update your reading list! 📚✨ Make sure you follow Amy on Instagram and check out the Book Gang podcast! Title’s mentioned in this episode: Amy’s Titles: Red Dog Farm - Nathaniel Ian Miller Dream Count - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie The Jackal's Mistress - Chris Bohjalian All the Other Mothers Hate Me - Sarah Harman This Book Will Bury Me - Ashley Winstead Jane and Dan at the End of the World - Colleen Oakley Broken Country - Clare Leslie Hall I Leave It Up to You - Jinwoo Chong Hot Air - Marcy Dermansky Promise Me Sunshine - Cara Bastone Joe’s Titles: Harriet Tubman: Live in Concert – Bob the Drag Queen A Wizard of Earthsea - Ursula K. Le Guin, Fred Fordham How to Survive a Slasher – Justine Pucela Winans The Bane Witch – Ava Morgyn Everything is Tuberculosis – John Green The Unworthy – Agustina Bazterrica The Buffalo Hunter Hunter – Stephen Graham Jones The Keeper of Lonely Spirits – EM Anderson I’ll Love You Forever – Giaae Kwon Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Waiting for Scythe & Sparrow to hit your shelf? We’ve got you covered! In this episode, Joe is joined by his colleague Meghan to share a list of must-read romances that will keep you hooked while you wait. These books capture the same vibes you love but each offers a unique journey of its own. Whether you’re craving heart-pounding twists, thought-provoking themes, or unforgettable characters, we’ve got the perfect recommendations to tide you over. Tune in and find your next great read! If you’d like to watch the video of this episode, check out the Libby App YouTube channel! Titles mentioned in today’s episode: Meghan’s Titles: Desperate Measures by Katee Robert The Awakening by Caroline Peckham and Suzane Valenti Beautiful Villain by Rebecca Kenney Truly, Madly, Deeply by LJ Shen Joe’s Titles: Lights Out – Navessa Allen The Hollow and the Haunted – Camilla Raines The Deer and the Dragon – Piper CJ My Funny Demon Valentine – Aurora Ascher Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The nominees are in! 🎉 Joe is joined by his coworker Gabi to unveil the 2025 Libby Book Awards nominees, including some exciting new categories. From the book club books to the hidden gems readers can’t stop raving about, we’re breaking down the top picks of the year. Who made the list? Tune in to find out! Check out the nominees on our Libby Life Blog: https://www.libbylife.com/2025-01-29-announcing-the-finalists-for-the-2025-libby-book-awards Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the Libby App YouTube Channel, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Love is in the air… and so are killer thrillers, swoon-worthy romances, out-of-this-world sci-fi, and so much more! Joe is joined by his friend and coworker Nahomy to chat about the most exciting books hitting shelves this February. Whether you’re in the mood for a chilling horror, a heart-racing fantasy, a cozy graphic novel, or a memoir that stays with you, we’ve got your next great read covered. Looking for even more bookish fun? Follow Nahomy on Instagram at @nahomyslibrary and subscribe to her YouTube channel Nahomy’s Library for more amazing book recommendations! If you'd like to watch the video of this episode, check out the Libby App YouTube channel! Titles mentioned in today's episode: Nahomy’s Titles: Listen to Your Sister - Neena Viel We All Live Here - Jojo Moyes Three Days in June -Anne Tyler The Bones Beneath My Skin - TJ Klune All Better Now - Neal Shusterman The History of Everything - Victoria Evans But Not Too Bold - Hache Pueyo Joe’s Titles: The Dollhouse Academy – Margarita Montimore The Crime Brûlée Bake Off – Rebecca Connolly Hungerstone – Kat Dunn Something in the Walls – Daisy Pearce Fearless and Free – Josephine Baker Hunger’s Bite - Taylor Robin You Are Fatally Invited – Ande Pliego Greenteeth - Molly O’Neill Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the Professional Book Nerds podcast, Joe is joined by the fabulous Holly Stars! 🎭 Holly dives into her debut queer crime fiction novel, Murder in the Dressing Room (out January 14 from Berkley), sharing the inspiration behind this thrilling whodunit. We also chat about her incredible work on the West End and her advice on embracing your inner drag queen. 💄 Whether you’re a fan of crime fiction, the theater, or just love a little sparkle in your day, this episode is not to be missed! 🌈✨ Check out Holly online: Holly's Instagram & Holly's website Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! You can follow Libby on Instagram here! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Big changes are coming to the Professional Book Nerds podcast! In this special end-of-year episode, we’re sharing important updates about the future of the show that you won’t want to miss. Plus, Joe reflects on the final Professional Book Nerds Reading Challenge and how he wrapped up the year of reading. Tune in for all the details and to celebrate the end of this chapter with us! We hope you enjoy our last episode of the year this Monday, December 23 with drag queen Holly Stars! Hope you have a wonderful holiday season, and we'll see you in the new year! You can follow Libby on Instagram here! Joe’s Titles: A Genre you don’t normally read - The Mars House – Natasha Pulley A book with MCs a different age than you – Why is This Night Different from All Other Nights – Lemony Snicket A book on your TBR longer than 1 year - Gone Girl – Gillian Flynn An audiobook (full cast or dramatized) - The Golden Spoon – Jessa Maxwell A book in translation – Marigold Mind Laundry – Jungeun Yun Reread a childhood favorite Pure Dead Magic – Debi Gliori Book with a dual POV The Boyfriend – Freida McFadden A book out of season The Christmas Guest – Peter Swanson Read a duology The Dreamblood Duology – The Killing Moon & The Shadowed Sun – NK Jemisin A book with a one-word title Cher - Cher A book from any bestseller list Somewhere Beyond the Sea – TJ Klune A book you heard about first on PBN Diavola – Jennifer Thorne Thank you to every one who participated in the 2024 PBN Reading Challenge and a shout out to the Queer Liberation Library for sending along their completed list! Check out Joe's episode with Kieran from QLL here. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step into a world of pink, glamour, and storytelling in this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast! Joe chats with bestselling author Renée Rosen about her dazzling new novel Let’s Call Her Barbie (out January 21 from Penguin). They dive into Renee’s writing process, the inspiration behind the book, and their shared love of Barbie—from childhood memories to cherished collections. If you’ve ever admired Barbie’s iconic style or dreamed of creating your own timeless stories, this episode is a must-listen! 💕 Check out Renée Rosen online: Follow her on Instagram, visit her website! Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Start the new year with a fresh stack of must-reads! In this episode, Joe is joined by Renee to share their most anticipated book releases for January 2025. From thrilling debuts to long-awaited sequels, they’ve got something for every reader to kick off the year right. Grab your TBR list and settle in for a cozy chat packed with exciting recommendations. Ready to dive into 2025? Let’s turn the page together! Titles mentioned in today's episode: Author Interview Books Releasing this Month: Murder in the Dressing Room – Holly Stars (1/14) Let’s Call Her Barbie – Renée Rosen (1/21) Renee’s Titles: I’ll Come To You – Rebecca Kauffman She Doesn’t Have A Clue - Jenny Elder Moke Ace, Marvel, Spy - Jenni L. Walsh The Good Mother Myth - Nancy Reddy Reset: How to Change What’s Not Working - Dan Heath Beautiful Ugly - Alice Feeney The Favorites - Layne Fargo Let’s Call Her Barbie – Renée Rosen The Socialialites - Caroline Lamond Simply Jamie – Jamie Oliver Joe’s Titles: Witchcraft for Wayward Girls – Grady Hendrix Wake Up and Open Your Eyes – Clay McLeod Chapman Lies on the Serpent’s Tongue – Kate Pearsall Water Moon – Samantha Sotto Yambao Brewed with Love – Shelly Page The Romantic Tragedies of a Drama King – Harry Trevaldwyn Shattering Dawn – Jayne Ann Krentz A Serial Killer’s Guide to Marriage – Asia Mackay The Harder I Fight the More I Love You – Neko chase The Last Room on the Left – Leah Konen Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get ready to sleigh the holiday season with audiobooks! In this special episode, Joe is joined by Hugo from Penguin Random House to share cozy, captivating, and downright delightful audiobooks from Penguin Random House Audio that are perfect to Load Your Libby app. Whether you’re traveling over the river and through the woods, taking a moment of peace from the holiday hustle, or simply looking to escape into a great story, we’ve got you covered. Tune in for recommendations to keep your holiday spirits bright and your shelves stacked with audio treasures! Thank you to Penguin Random House Audio for sponsoring the 2024 Check Our Your Library Fiction & Film tour. Titles mentioned in this episode: Hugo’s Titles: James - Percival Everett We Solve Murders - Richard Osman From Here to the Great Unknown - Lisa Marie Presley Wandering Stars - Tommy Orange Martyr! - Kaveh Akbar Be Ready When Luck Happens - Ina Garten Impossible Creatures - Katherine Rundell All the Colors of the Dark - Chris Whitaker Nexus - Yuval Noah Harari The Anxious Generation - Jonathan Haidt Joe’s Titles: Come and Get It - Kiley Reid Lies and Weddings - Kevin Kwan First Lie Wins - Ashley Elston Funny Story - Emily Henry Here One Moment - Liane Moriarty Sonny Boy - Al Pacino By Any other Name - Jodi Picoult Heir - Sabaa Tahir Blood at the Root - LaDarrion Williams The God of the Woods - Liz Moore Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the year comes to a close, we’re reflecting on the incredible Juvenile, Middle Grade, and Young Adult books that shaped our reading journeys in 2024! 🎉📚 In this episode, Joe is joined by Andrea and Sarah to share their top picks—stories that made them laugh, cry, and think in new ways. From heartwarming middle grade adventures to gripping YA novels, join the conversation as they dive into all the books they couldn’t put down, offering their personal insights and reflections on the books that made 2024 such a great year for kidlit. Tune in for the ultimate Best of 2024 list and find your next favorite read! Titles mentioned in this episode: Andrea’s Titles: Wisteria by Adalyn Grace Fangirl, Vol. 4: The Manga by Rainbow Rowell and Gabi Nam Snow Place Like Home by Christina Soontornvat Eva's Treetop Festival by Rebecca Elliott Bo's New Magical Friends by Rebecca Elliott Sarah’s Titles: The Bletchley Riddle by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin Plain Jane and the Mermaid by Vera Brosgol Black Girl You are Atlas by Renee Watson Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell Whale Fall by Melissa Stewart Home in a Lunchbox by Cherry Mo Joe’s Titles: House of Elephants by Claribel A. Ortega Youth Group by Jordan Morris (shouts out to Homebody by Theo Parish and Ghost Roast by Shawneé and Shawnelle Gibbs) The Blonde Dies First by Joelle Wellington Ruin Road by Lamar Giles The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge by Matthew Hubbard The Millicent Quibb School of Etiquette for Young Ladies of Mad Science by Kate McKinnon Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🎄📚 It’s the most wonderful time of the year—for new books! Joe is joined by his friend and colleague Marissa to unwrap December 2024’s hottest new releases. From cozy holiday reads to thrilling page-turners, they’re sharing the books they’re most excited for as the year winds down. Whether you’re shopping for gifts or treating yourself, there’s something for everyone on this list. Tune in for a bookish sleigh ride! 🎁✨ Author Interviews for November & December: Skyshade by Alex Aster Shock Induction by Chuck Palaniuk Let’s Call Her Barbie by Renée Rosen (Out in January, I’m sorry) Murder in the Dressing Room by Holly Stars (also out in January, I’m so sorry) Titles mentioned in this episode: Marissa’s Titles: P.S. I Hate You by Lauren Connolly Love in Translation by Joss Wood Ex Marks the Spot by Gloria Chao Cabin: Off the Grid Adventures with a Clueless Craftsman by Patrick Hutchison The Mindful Mocktail by Natalie Battaglia Rental House by Weike Wang Private Rites by Julia Armfield Knife Skills For Beginners by Orlando Murrin Joe’s Titles: Roland Rogers Isn’t Dead Yet by Samantha Allen What the Woods Took by Courtney Gould The Party by Natasha Preston Alter Ego by Alex Segura Havoc by Christopher Bollen Watch Your Back by Terri Parlato A Series of Rooms by AJ Barlowe The Peculiar Garden of Harriet Hunt by Chelsea Iversen Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast, Joe sits down with legendary author Chuck Palahniuk to discuss his latest novel, SHOCK INDUCTION (out now from Simon & Schuster) . They dive into Chuck’s signature minimalist writing style and explore how it unites his body of work, creating stories that pack an unforgettable punch. Plus, in a heartwarming twist, Chuck and Joe’s Boston terriers make a special appearance over Zoom, bringing a dose of canine charm to the conversation. Don't miss this deep dive into storytelling with one of literature's most provocative voices! Other titles by Chuck Palahniuk mentioned in this episode: Not Forever but for Now Invisible Monsters Choke Haunted Rant Fight Club The Invention of Sound Make Something Up You can find and borrow these books and more of Chuck's books in Libby. Our librarian friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's fall, y'all 🍂 In this episode, Joe teams up with Claire and Kristin to share the ultimate list of cozy book recommendations. From charming cottage core tales to delightful cozy mysteries to graphic novels, these picks are perfect for your next warm and comforting reading escape. Your next cozy read awaits! Titles mentioned in this episode: Claire’s Titles: The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna (new book next spring – A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping) The Pumpkin Spice Cafe by Laurie Gilmore (followed by The Cinnamon Bun Book Store, The Christmas Tree Farm and The Strawberry Patch Pancake House) Chaos at the Lazy Bones Bookshop by Emmeline Duncan The Teller of Small Fortunes by Julie Leong Murder Takes the Stage by Colleen Cambridge The Twilight Garden by Sara Nisha Adams (shout out to The Reading List) Kristin’s Titles: The Full Moon Coffee Shop by Mai Mochizuke Rewitched by Lucy Jane Wood The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst Meet your Baker by Ellie Alexander The Whispering Dead by Darcy Coates The Bookshop on the Corner by Jenny Colgan Joe’s Titles: How to Solve Your Own Murder by Kristen Perrin (How to Seal Your Own Fate coming in April 2025!) Mrs. Quinn’s Rise to Fame by Olivia Ford Snapdragon by Kat Leyh The Witch Boy Series by Molly Knox Ostertag (The Witch Boy, The Hidden Witch, The Midwinter Witch) Tokyo These Days vol. 3 by Taiyo Matsumoto (Volume 1 and Volume 2) Peking Duck and Cover by Vivien Chien Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Professional Book Nerds, Joe sits down with bestselling author Alex Aster to dive into the magic of SKYSHADE (out November 12 from Amulet Books), the thrilling third installment in the Lightlark Saga. Alex shares her extraordinary journey, from querying her first book at just 12 years old to becoming a relentless force in the writing world. Discover the secrets behind Skyshade, the challenges Alex faced along the way, and how her unwavering determination has shaped her career. Whether you’re a die-hard Lightlark fan or an aspiring writer, this conversation will leave you inspired and eager for more! Other Alex Aster titles: The Lightlark Saga Lightlark Nightbane Skyshade Summer in the City (publishing March 2025) Emblem Island Series Curse of the Night Witch Curse of the Forgotten City Check out Alex Aster online! Visit her website: https://www.asterverse.com/ or follow her on Instagram and TikTok Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For those of you who love a thriller, a mystery or a bit of horror year-round, this one is for you. Today Joe is joined by Kara (@thebookkaravan) to talk about twisty, claustrophobic thrillers that will take you from fall into winter. They'll take you from Halloween through the dark nights of the new year! Titles mentioned in this episode: Kara’s Titles: The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides The Only One Left by Riley Sager Cover Story by Susan Rigetti The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks & Sarah Pekkanen Luckiest Girl Alive by Jessica Knoll The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena Joe’s Titles: Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson Liar, Dreamer, Thief by Maria Dong Extended Stay by Juan Martinez Bridge by Lauren Beukes I Will Find You by Harlan Coben Mister Magic by Kiersten White Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy Halloween 🎃 Today, Joe is joined by fellow Scorpio Jill to talk through November 2024's biggest books! The nerds share what they're most looking forward to this fall. Titles mentioned in this episode: Jill’s Titles: The Lake of Lost Girls by Katherine Greene Box Office Poison by Tim Robey Growing Up Urkel by Jaleel White Toto by A.J. Hackwith Believe by Jeremy Egner Others Like Me by Nicole Louie Thorns, Lust, and Glory by Estelle Paranque Sandwiches of History by Barry W. Enderwick Joe’s Titles: The City and Its Uncertain Walls by Haruki Murakami Kill Yours, Kill Mine by Katherine Kovacic Master of Me by Keke Palmer I’m Laughing Because I’m Crying by Youngmi Mayer Is She Really Going Out With Him? By Sophie Cousens I am the Dark that Answers When You Call by Jamison Shea If You Can Hear This by Faith Gardner When Mimi Went Missing by Suja Sukumar Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode, we've got spooky stories for your nerves! Get ready for Halloween with these horror thrills! From classic slashers to supernatural creeps, Joe, Claire and Kristin have a recommendation for you! Titles mentioned in this episode: Claire’s Titles: We Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewer The White Guy Dies First edited by Terry J. Benton-Walker Guillotine by Delilah S. Dawson Midnight on Beacon Street by Emily Ruth Verona The Bog Wife by Kay Chronister Sacrificial Animals by Kailee Pedersen Shout out to Graphic Novels: Loving, Ohio by Matthew Erman, The Low Low Woods by Carmen Maria Machado, Wait Till Helen Comes by Mary Downing Hahn, Over My Dead Body by Sweeney Boo Kristin’s Titles: Pay the Piper by George A. Romero & Daniel Kraus Incidents Around the House by Josh Malerman So Thirsty by Rachel Harrison Never Whistle at Night Edited by Shane Hawk The Pale House Devil by Richard Kadrey This Cursed House by Del Sandeen Just a quick shout out: The Fisherman by John Langan; The Haunted Forest Tour by Jeff Strand and James A. Moore Joe’s Titles: Universal Harvester by John Darnielle The Black Girl Survives in This One edited by Desiree S. Evans & Saraciea J. Fennell Coup de Grâce by Sofia Ajram Influencer by Adam Cesare Small Town Horror by Ronald Malfi The Final Girl Support Group by Grady Hendrix Just a quick shout out: Horror Movie by Paul Tremblay and Bury Your Gays by Chuck Tingle Listen to: Joe's interview with Paul Tremblay and Joe’s interview with Chuck Tingle And on Kanopy, just have to mention that Rosemary’s Baby is streaming (along with so many others in the Kanopy Fright Fest) Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices