Book Lounge by Libby - podcast cover

Book Lounge by Libby

Book Lounge by Libby
The Professional Book Nerds podcast is now, Book Lounge by Libby Book Lounge by Libby is the podcast where authors, book lovers, and industry insiders come together to talk about the stories we love and the impact they have. Hosted by Joe Skelley, each episode invites you into a cozy, candid conversation about books, writing, publishing, and the trends shaping the literary world. PLUS, every episode features book recommendations from some of your favorite online content creators. Book Lounge airs two seasons per year, along with special monthly episodes. Whether you're into sweeping romances, chilling thrillers, epic fantasies, or powerful memoirs, there's something in the Lounge for every reader. So, grab your favorite drink, get cozy, and meet us in the Book Lounge. Find more at: https://pages.libbylife.com/BL-Links  Brought to you by Libby, the library app.
Last refreshed:
Follow this podcast in the Metacast mobile app to refresh it and see new episodes.
Download Metacast podcast app
Podcasts are better in Metacast mobile app
Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more

Episodes

Emma Says Goodbye to Pro Book Nerds

Emma says goodbye to the podcast and shares her favorite memories, plus some final book recs! Books mentioned in this episode: Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez Bluebird Day by Megan Tady Lost and Lassoed by Lyla Sage None of This is True by Lisa Jewell The Queen of Fives by Alex Hay Spark of the Everflame by Penn Cole Cross My Heart by Megan Collins Rose in Chains by Julie Soto Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library frien...

Oct 03, 202429 min

Assassins, Dragon Riding Kings, and Immersive Worlds with Sarah A. Parker

Emma speaks to author Sarah A. Parker about her incredible first book in the Moonfall series, When the Moon Hatched. They also discuss Sarah's writing process, what motivates her main characters, worldbuilding, the power of the reader community, and so much more. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be...

Sep 30, 202449 min

Must-Read October 2024 Book Releases!

Join us as we dive into some of our most anticipated book releases of October 2024! From gripping thrillers to heartwarming romances, we’re sharing our top picks that you won’t want to miss. Get ready to update your TBR with the hottest new titles that are sure to spark your interest. Tune in and discover your next favorite read! Titles mentioned in this episode: Interviews: House of Elephants by Claribel A. Ortega Nothing Like the Movies by Lynn Painter (Sequel to Better Than the Movies) Somewh...

Sep 26, 20241 hr

Spirits and Stories: Exploring A HAUNTED ROAD ATLAS with And That's Why We Drink

In this episode, Joe is an absolute fangirl over two of his favorite podcasters. Joe chats with Christine Schiefer and Em Schulz, hosts of And That's Why We Drink, an award-winning comedy podcast, where the paranormal and true-crime meet. Em and Christine talk about their new book, A Haunted Road Atlas: NEXT STOP (out September 24), an amazing return to form following their first book, A Haunted Road Atlas. They talk about the inspiration behind their writing (and how different Em & Christin...

Sep 23, 202457 min

Nostalgia and New Beginnings: A Conversation with YA Author, Sarah Dessen!

Emma chats with one of her favorite authors of all time, Sarah Dessen. They discuss Sarah's writing career, the magic of libraries, the teenage years, book recommendations, and so much more. If you want to hear Emma live out some of her teenage dreams by asking her favorite author questions, listen to this delightful conversation. Books mentioned in this episode: Along for the Ride by Sarah Dessen The Rest of the Story by Sarah Dessen Just Listen by Sarah Dessen This Lullaby by Sarah Dessen Lock...

Sep 19, 202457 min

2024 Read an Ebook Day Recommendations from Team OverDrive!

Read an Ebook Day is coming up on Sept. 18! Emma and Joe talk to some of their coworkers here at OverDrive to find out what book they’ll be reading. Share what you’re reading on social media with the hashtag #ebooklove and join the conversation. Learn more at www.readanebookday.com Team OverDrive always bring amazing book recommendations and this year is no exception. From romance to fantasy to literary fiction to YA to thrillers and beyond, there's a recommendation here for every kind of reader...

Sep 16, 202453 min

Beyond the Grave: Paranormal Picks for Crime Fans!

Inspired by his upcoming interview with the And That's Why We Drink podcast crew, Joe was joined by a few of his coworkers to share paranormal, crime and paranormal crime reads that you can dive into! Whether you like a cozy mystery, a crime novel, or a bit of horror, we have book recommendations for all! If you'd like to see Quinton's review of The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle audiobook, check it out here. Titles mentioned in this episode: Claire’s Titles: Hidden Pictures by Jason Rekulak ...

Sep 12, 202457 min

Al Roker on Books, Libraries and His Reading Journey

Join us for an enlightening conversation with the beloved Al Roker as he opens up about his deep connection to books and libraries. In this exclusive interview, Al shares insights into his favorite reads, the inspiration behind his own books, and the pivotal role libraries have played in his life and career. From heartwarming anecdotes to his personal reading journey, this episode offers a unique glimpse into the man behind the screen and his lifelong passion for literature. Whether you’re a fan...

Sep 09, 202428 min

September 2024 Book Buzz: Top Releases You Can't Miss!

Get ready to update your reading list! In this episode of 'September 2024 Book Buzz,' we dive into the hottest book releases hitting the shelves this month. From thrilling new novels to must-read non-fiction, we’ll cover the most anticipated titles you won’t want to miss. Tune in for a sneak peek at the books making waves this September and find your next great read! September Author interviews: Al Roker When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker Haunted Road Atlas: NEXT STOP by Christine Schiefer...

Aug 29, 202458 min

A Dreamy Conversation with Hannah Grace

Emma chats with author, Hannah Grace, about her newest release in the Maple Hills series, Daydream. They also discuss drawing inspiration from Taylor Swift, favorite romance tropes, love triangles, the origins of Halle and Henry, and Hannah's current secret project. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast....

Aug 26, 202458 min

Historical Fantasy to Add to Your Bookshelf!

Emma chats with Maria and Laura to recommend some of their favorite historical fantasy books. They talk a lot about Divine Rivals, go on a bit of a Leigh Bardugo tangent, and share why they love escapism in fiction. Maria’s Picks: The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang Mirrored Heavens by Rebecca Roanhorse A Fragile Enchantment by Allison Saft Laura’s Picks: The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon Emma’s Picks: A Sweet Sting of Salt by Rose Sutherland...

Aug 22, 20241 hr 2 min

Cover Story: Books We Read Just for the Look

Ever picked up a book solely because its cover was too captivating to resist? Join us in this episode of Cover Story as we dive into the world of eye-catching book covers that made us swipe our library cards without a second thought. From stunning designs to irresistible artwork, we’ll share our favorite cover-driven picks. Tune in for a fun discussion on the books we picked just for the look! Titles mentioned in this episode: Andrea’s Titles: Something Strange and Deadly by Susan Dennard Stalki...

Aug 15, 20241 hr 4 min

Provoking Strong Emotions with Ava Reid

Emma interviews Ava Reid about her newest book, Lady Macbeth. Emma and Ava also chat about the writing process, A Series of Unfortunate Events, capricious lords, avoiding reviews, and so much more. You can keep up with Ava Reid on Instagram. Lady Macbeth audiobook. You can listen to Pro Book Nerds Most Anticipated Books of 2024 episode here and find more gothic reads in The House That Gothic Reads Built episode here. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDr...

Aug 12, 202455 min

Hot Off the Press: August 2024 Must-Read Book Releases!

Staying cool this summer? Whether you're looking for a book to end the summer by the beach with, or you want to steam things up in the AC, we've got some recommendations for you! Come and join Joe and Emma as they go through the books they're looking forward to this August. August author interviews: Lady Macbeth by Ava Reid Daydream by Hannah Grace Nerds' catch-up mentions: It Had to Be You by Eliza Jane Brazier Birding with Benefits by Sarah T. Dubb Wolfsong by TJ Klune Titles mentioned in this...

Aug 01, 20241 hr 3 min

Getting LOUD with Drew Afualo

On this episode, Joe is joined by Content Creator, Women's Rights Advocate, Podcast Host, Author and Virgo Drew Afualo! They talk about Drew's new book LOUD, what got Drew online, what motivates her throughout her career, how writing worked in her intense schedule and just have an all-out great time yapping! Drew’s new book LOUD: Accept Nothing Less Than the Life You Deserve publishes July 30th and is available for pre-order now at https://drew-afualo.com You can find Drew at: https://drew-afual...

Jul 29, 202457 min

Introducing The Film Library

Emma and Joe recommend The Film Library podcast! Follow the show: The Film Library: a Kanopy Podcast. Watch season 1 here. Dive into the rich world of cinema with The Film Library, a brand-new podcast presented by Kanopy, the free streaming service available through participating public and academic libraries. Join hosts Alonso Duralde and Daniel Thompson as they explore the diverse universe of filmmaking. With over 30,000 films and TV shows available at your fingertips, Kanopy offers a haven fo...

Jul 18, 20245 min

Escape to Middletide with Sarah Crouch

Emma welcomes debut author Sarah Crouch to the podcast to discuss her book, Middletide! They chat about the book, the writing process, how Sarah found her agent, 90s nostalgia, inspiration from Harlan Coben and Frieda McFadden, the value of libraries, and escapism in reading. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Ner...

Jul 15, 202446 min

Buckaroo Banter: Chuck Tingle Talks BURY YOUR GAYS

Joe is joined by the mysterious, masked Chuck Tingle to talk about his new, traditionally published book BURY YOUR GAYS (out July 9 from Tor Nightfire). Chuck and Joe talk about absurdist art balanced with sincerity, the impact and meaning of AI on art, how Chuck's faceless persona effects his work, and Chuck's thoughts around separating the art from the artist. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Mark...

Jul 08, 20241 hr 2 min

The Hottest Summer Book Releases - July 2024 Book Picks

Get ready to dive into a treasure trove of captivating stories as we unveil the most anticipated book releases of July 2024! Join Emma and Joe on a thrilling journey through the pages of upcoming novels, where every plot twist and character arc awaits discovery. Titles mentioned in this episode: July Author Interviews: Bury Your Gays by Chuck Tingle Loud by Drew Afualo Emma’s Titles: The Grandest Game by Jennifer Lynn Barnes Supernatural: An Official Spooky Picture Book by Micol Ostow, illustrat...

Jun 27, 20241 hr 5 min

Your Guide to Completing the Pro Book Nerds 2024 Reading Challenge

On today's episode, Emma and Joe share some tips and tricks to completing your 2024 Pro Book Nerds Reading Challenge. They also discuss the prompts they've completed and what books they read. Finally, they offer some suggestions for, perhaps, some harder to complete prompts. Let us know, have you done your 2024 reading challenge yet? What's your progress? 2024 PBN Reading Challenge: A genre you don’t normally read The Secret Lives of Country Gentlemen by KJ Charles The Bearable Slant of Light by...

Jun 20, 202454 min

Behind the Scares: A Conversation with Paul Tremblay on Horror Movie

Join Joe for a dive into the world of horror with acclaimed author Paul Tremblay as he unveils details of his new book Horror Movie (out June 11 from HarperCollins). Paul shares his inspirations, challenges, and thrills of crafting a story that carries you through time and just wondering how impacted you'll be by that cursed film. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby and our library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more...

Jun 17, 202433 min

Drawn In: Graphic Memoirs (and Biographies) You Can't Put Down

Marissa joins Joe today to talk about graphic memoirs, biographies and novels inspired by life events. They talk about the importance of sharing your story, how we can find community and a sense of self, and learn so much by listening to the stories of others. Come for the recommendations, stay for a full aside on The Salem Witch Trials. Article mentioned in our Salem Witch Trials aside: From New England Law Boston - The True Legal Horror Story of the Salem Witch Trials Titles mentioned in this ...

Jun 13, 202455 min

Reading From the Heart With Katherine Center

On today's episode, Emma is joined by NYT bestselling author, Katherine Center, to chat about her newest book, The Rom-Commers. They also discuss the craft of writing a romance novel, reading from your heart, the impact of libraries, line dancing and so much more. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. ...

Jun 10, 202454 min

Books with Bite: A New Era of Vampire Reads

Emma and Joe are joined by Andrea and Meghan to discuss a new era of vampire reads! We've seen a huge increase in books featuring vampires in the last few years and wanted to share some recent books and upcoming releases we're most excited about to usher in a new era. Emma’s Picks: So Thirsty by Rachel Harrison We Love the Nightlife by Rachel Koller Croft To You Shall All Flesh Come by Lumen Reese Immortal Pleasures by V. Castro Lucy Undying by Kiersten White Joe’s Picks: This Ravenous Fate by H...

Jun 06, 20241 hr 1 min

Live Interview with Daniel Handler, aka Lemony Snicket

In this episode, Joe sits down for a live conversation with Daniel Handler AKA Lemony Snicket, for the release of his memoir And Then? And Then? What Else?, hosted at Cuyahoga County Public Library! Joe and Daniel talk about Tim Curry, sharing your personal life publicly, and what it's like being Lemony Snicket. Special thanks to Cuyahoga County Public Library for hosting this incredible event. The live event was hosted and recorded on Thursday, May 23, 2024 at the Parma-Snow Library Branch to a...

Jun 03, 20241 hr 6 min

June 2024 Book Picks

Emma and Joe's monthly round-up of books is back with June picks! Grab a beverage and get ready for a long-list of summer-y picks! For Emma and Joe that usually means mystery and romance, but there's also a dash of cooking, graphic novels, YA, and family sagas. Author Interviews: The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center Horror Movie by Paul Tremblay Joe’s Picks: Middle of the Night by Riley Sager Willie, Waylon, and the Boys by Brian Fairbanks Birds Aren’t Real by Peter McIndoe, Connor Gaydos Lula De...

May 30, 202456 min

Live Interview with Harlan Coben, author of Think Twice

On today's episode, Emma sits down for a live conversation with the #1 New York Times bestselling author, Harlan Coben, for the release of Think Twice. Hosted at Cuyahoga County Public Library, Emma and Harlan chat about the writing process, his plans for Myron, being the "twist guy," his Netflix adaptations, Stephen King, and Queen Camilla. Special thanks to Cuyahoga County Public Library for hosting this amazing event. The live event was recorded on Monday, May 20, 2024 at the Parma-Snow Libra...

May 27, 202455 min

Cults: A Dive into Fiction and Nonfiction Reads

Join us as we dive into the captivating world of cults! We're recommending both fiction and nonfiction titles that explore that mysterious and chilling allure... From gripping thrillers to eye-opening accounts, we've got recommendations that will keep you on the edge of your seat. We'll wax poetic on cult dynamics and discuss the enduring fascination with these enigmatic communities. Titles mentioned in this episode: Jill’s Titles: The Road to Jonestown by Jeff Guinn The Last Housewife by Ashley...

May 23, 202454 min

The House That Gothic Reads Built

Emma and Joe welcome back Claire and Kristin to chat about modern gothic reads. They discuss the characteristics they enjoy in a modern gothic and share a wide variety of books to get your creepy, vibey, gothic fix! Emma’s Picks: The Clinic by Cate Quinn A Place for Vanishing by Ann Fraistat The Heiress by Rachel Hawkins One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig (Sheperd King series) Claire’s Picks: Diavola by Jennifer Thorne The Haunting of Velkwood by Gwendolyn Kiste A Botanical Daughter by Noah Medloc...

May 16, 20241 hr 8 min

Talking Crushed Red Cups and Murders at Parties with Cindy R.X. He

The mean girl gets murdered in this one (not a spoiler)! Dive into the mind of Cindy RX He as she delves deep into her debut title, Perfect Little Monsters. Find out why it's hard to trick thriller readers with your twists, what makes the queen bee so compelling, and where Cindy's inspiration came from for this story. 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? Ch...

May 13, 202437 min
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android