Best Tbr Pile Podcasts (2025)

1
How to Find Your Next Favorite Read 20:32

Play Pause

18h ago20:32

20:32

Are you drowning in a sea of "must-read" books, constantly adding to an overflowing TBR, and struggling to find a book that truly resonates with you? In this episode of We Read Smut, I’m going to help you navigate the vast world of book recommendations and discover your perfect next read. Say goodbye to disappointing, overhyped books and hello to r…

1
Barbarian Beds: The Origin of the Chair in China by C.P. Fitzgerald (and other books on Chinese history) 1:00:38

3d ago1:00:38

1:00:38

This week on Cracked Spines, Cyrus and Sarah dive into Sarah's latest obsession with Chinese history, cracking open several books by...mostly white authors in the 60's-80's. Okay, so it may not be an scholastically accurate or ethical deep dive, but it is fascinating. Listen as Sarah infodumps on Cyrus about the perils of learning the Chinese langu…

1
Dream Count by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: Our Honest Book Review 33:01

3d ago33:01

33:01

After a long wait, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is back with her first novel in over a decade; but did it live up to expectations? In this episode we discuss Dream Count, explore its powerful themes around the struggles of Black women, and share our honest reviews. Have you read it? What did you think? Join the conversation and read with us in our book…

1
Customized Solutions: How to Tailor Your Approach to Getting Your Shit Together 8:22

7d ago8:22

8:22

Do you ever feel like you’re forcing yourself to follow a system that just doesn’t work for your brain? Have you ever blamed yourself for not being able to stick to some planner or productivity method that everyone else swore by? What if the problem isn’t you—but the system? On this episode of Get It Together, Weirdo, host and coach Sarah Bowser sh…

1
New Neighbours, New Nightmares: Claire Douglas on Crafting Compelling Crime 49:01

7d ago49:01

49:01

Welcome back to another episode and today’s we’re lucky enough to get to chat to Claire Douglas about her latest thriller, The New Neighbours. This was my first of read of Claire’s and I loved it so much I went straight back to the beginning and read her debut which was another winner for me. I can’t wait to read more. In this episode we chat about…

1
The Lost Passenger: Frances Quinn on Titanic, a Mother’s Love, and Survival 51:21

7d ago51:21

51:21

Inside The Lost Passenger: Frances Quinn on Titanic, a Mother’s Love, and Survival Hello book friends! In today’s episode, I am absolutely delighted to be chatting with the brilliant Frances Quinn about her fabulous new novel, The Lost Passenger. We had such a wonderful chat about the inspiration behind this compelling story, and Frances also speak…

1
Episode 44: The Reading Goals We Forgot About 39:53

9d ago39:53

39:53

Hello, hi, and welcome to Medium Lady Reads this is episode 44 - can you believe it? Erin and Jillian are so happy you’re here. Jillian and Erin have six new book recommendations to share with you today, plus all the cozy, nerdy, bookish vibes you know and love. So grab a drink, get comfy, and it’s time to dive in! In This Episode: It’s time to sta…

1
Lucy Steeds: Art, Deception & The Power of Secrets 1:06:50

14d ago1:06:50

1:06:50

Get ready for another absolute cracker of an episode this week, because I had the total pleasure of chatting with the incredible Lucy Steeds! Now, if you've been anywhere near me in the last six months, I will have no doubt absolutely insisted that you must read Lucy's stunning novel, The Artist. I’m so in love with this book, its one of my top rea…

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Marriage, A History: How Love Conquered Marriage by Stephanie Coontz 46:46

17d ago46:46

46:46

Say "I do" to checking out this weeks episode on Marriage, A History by Stephanie Coontz! See, I did a wedding pun, this description writing stuff is easy. Cyrus and Sarah tackle nonfiction this episode, and have a rollicking discussion about marriage as a centrally organizing pillar of society, women's work, relationships as a capitalist construct…

1
Our Favorite Five-Star Books 🌟 36:57

17d ago36:57

36:57

In this episode, we’re sharing our favorite five-star books, the must-read titles that left a lasting impact on us. Either because of their fantastic writing, exceptional plot, immersive world-building or just the feels we were left with after. Join us as we reflect on what makes a book truly exceptional and answer the question: What defines a five…

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Finding Balance in Chaos: Unlocking Inner Calm through Effective Organization 9:03

21d ago9:03

9:03

We tend to think of the chaos in our lives as our adversary. It can bring out our deepest fears. It can remind us of all the ways we feel imperfect, not good enough, or like we're failing to make other people happy, let alone ourselves. But what if chaos could be your friend? What if chaos could give you the freedom to be your wonderfully weird, ne…

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The Complexities of Sisterhood: Fran Littlewood on The Favourite 58:55

21d ago58:55

58:55

Oh my goodness, chatting with the wonderful Fran Littlewood in this episode of Best Book Forward was an absolute joy from start to finish! Fran joined me to natter all about her absolutely fabulous new novel, The Favourite – which is just a brilliant, rollercoaster family saga about the Fishers. Their seemingly normal family holiday gets completely…

1
Episode 43: Our Best Recommendations for Your Summer Reading Pile 40:10

23d ago40:10

40:10

Hello, hi, and welcome to Medium Lady Reads. This is episode 43, “Our Best Recommendations for Your Summer Reading Pile.” Summer is just around the corner, and that means it's time to talk about the books that’ll keep you company on park benches, road trips, backyard loungers—or wherever your sunny days might take you. Whether you’re deep in your T…

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Gillian McAllister on Writing Emotional Thrillers and Training as a Hostage Negotiator 55:57

28d ago55:57

55:57

Hello my lovely book friends! Welcome back to a brand spanking new season of Best Book Forward, and we are kicking things off with a bang! In our Season 3 opener, I had the pleasure of chatting to the one and only Gillian McAllister about her gripping new novel, Famous Last Words. Now, is it just me, or does Gillian just keep knocking it out of the…

1
The Traitor Baru Cormorant by Seth Dickinson 50:40

29d ago50:40

50:40

It's finally happening - Cyrus and Sarah have finally read The Traitor Baru Cormorant by Seth Dickinson! Turns out they loved it, but isn't that always the way with books you've been putting off? Baru Cormorant is a twisty turny hard fantasy novel about the devastation of empire, with fabulous worldbuilding, fantastic characters, and also it's kind…

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165. Celebrate Novel Pairings with Chelsey and Sara with a Farewell Q&A 1:06:19

30d ago1:06:19

1:06:19

For our final episode of Novel Pairings, we opened up the mailbag to answer your thoughtful listener questions. From reflections on our favorite classics to behind-the-scenes stories, we’re sharing a lot today! And celebrating the journey we’ve shared with all of you. We’ll also be offering some closing thoughts on what this podcast has meant to us…

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Best Book Forward; Chapter 3 2:33

30d ago2:33

2:33

Best Book Forward Season 3 is Here! Welcome back to Best Book Forward! Get ready because we are launching a brand new season of eight episodes, packed with authors so incredible I honestly had to pinch myself that it was all really happening! I absolutely cannot wait for you to tune in! New to Best Book Forward? Hi, I'm Helen (@bestbookforward), yo…

1
Inside "Passion Project" with London Sperry: Author Interview + ‘This or That’ Game” 38:49

1M ago38:49

38:49

Get ready! 💘 In this episode, we sit down with Passion Project author, London Sperry, to talk all things romance and the inspiration behind her debut novel, from behind-the-scenes stories to how she created those unforgettable characters. Plus, we end the episode with a fun “This or That: Passion Discover” game! If you’ve read Passion Project, this…

1
Ditch the Guilt: Strategies for Getting Your Shit Together 9:27

1M ago9:27

9:27

So often we think that getting our shit together should be simple. You just need to buckle down and get it done. You make a start, make a little progress, but then you start to feel overwhelmed, and that sneaky little voice in the back of your head chimes in: “Everyone else has it together. Why can't I figure this out? What's wrong with me?” Sound …

1
Episode 42: Thaw your Reading List and Get Ready For Summer 39:17

1M ago39:17

39:17

Hello, hi, and welcome to Medium Lady Reads. This is episode 42, “Thaw your Reading List and Get Ready For Summer.” Whether you're building your summer TBR, looking for something to dive into on a sunny afternoon, or just hoping to discover a story that sticks with you, Erin and Jillian got something that might just become your next favorite. So se…

1
164. Brand New Books with Backlist Pairings: Summer 2025 Edition 1:01:33

1M ago1:01:33

1:01:33

Get ready to load your summer totes with compelling reads, both new and old! We’re sharing our anticipated summer releases on today’s episode, carefully curated from a long list of captivating titles to shake up your TBR. As always, we’ve included some perfectly paired backlist favorites to enjoy while you wait for the buzzy new books. Today, we ex…

1
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee 44:47

1M ago44:47

44:47

Did you know it's really hard to write jokes about books with central themes of racism? Cyrus and Sarah find this out while covering Pachinko by Min Jin Lee, an epic historical fiction novel about the the 20th century Korean experience of Japan. Our intrepid readers, who were sooo sleepy this week, cover personal experiences with identity, the Kore…

1
Red Rising by Pierce Brown 📚 Honest Book Review, Different Opinions, and Mixed Feelings 40:35

2M ago40:35

40:35

We read and discussed Red Rising by Pierce Brown in our Book Club (join us!) and this might have been our most polarized review ever 👀 Don’t miss our honest opinions on this bestseller 📖 And let us know what you thought about it! _______________________________________________________ 🔗 Follow us for more bookish content 📸 Instagram: ⁠⁠@BookBestieS…

1
Navigating the Chaos: Discovering Your True North in a World of Overwhelming Expectations 10:01

2M ago10:01

10:01

You know that moment in The Fellowship of the Ring when Gandalf is in the Mines of Moria, standing there with no recollection of the place? He's lost, surrounded by darkness, with no idea where to go. Sometimes life, and your own mind, can feel like that. When you're out of alignment, ignoring or betraying your core values, it can lead to anxiety, …

1
Episode 41: A Real Dud of a Thriller... plus What is a Novella And Do we Like Them 39:40

2M ago39:40

39:40

Hello, hi, and welcome to Medium Lady Reads. This is episode 41, “A Real Dud of a Thriller... plus What is a Novella And Do we Like Them?” Erin and Jillian are so happy to be back with you this week—and of course, they've got more great books to share that they think you'll love! Whether you're looking for your next cozy read, something to make you…

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How to Break Out of a Reading Slump 18:22

2M ago18:22

18:22

Reading slumps can happen to even the most passionate book lovers, leaving you feeling unmotivated and disconnected from your favorite stories. In this season finale episode, podcast host Alesia dives deep into understanding reading slumps and provides practical strategies to reignite your reading passion. Key Takeaways: Recognize Common Causes of …

1
Sunrise on the Reaping/The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes 58:22

2M ago58:22

58:22

Are we in the cultural zeitgeist yet? This week, Cyrus and Sarah cover Sunrise on the Reaping AND The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins, the two latest Hunger Games novels, both of which are prequels to the original trilogy. Did our intrepid readers kind of forget how brutal these books can get? Yeah a little bit. But if we've learn…

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163. Reflections on Emma and 250 years of Jane Austen 56:09

2M ago56:09

56:09

We’re wrapping up our Emma readalong with final reflections on rereading, standout themes, and Austen’s legacy. We also chat about how we’re marking the momentous occasion of Jane Austen’s 250th anniversary and the ways this milestone is resonating with us as readers. This is our final season with Novel Pairings, but we are saving all of our episod…

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My Book Bestie Said It’s Good - But Was It Really? 💯 32:36

2M ago32:36

32:36

In this episode of My Book Bestie Said It’s Good, we’re chatting all about the books we recommended to each other - with no spoilers. From surprising favorites to unexpected misses, we’re sharing honest takes, hot tea, and a few TBR-worthy gems. Cozy up and get ready for the ultimate book bestie review session! List of books mentioned in the episod…

1
Unmasking the Myth of Imperfection: How Embracing Imperfection Can Reduce Anxiety 9:21

2M ago9:21

9:21

Does this sound familiar? Don't stress about being perfect, but also make sure you look great, have everything together, and don't mess up. Society loves to remind us that there's no such thing as perfection, but then turns right around and expects us to be perfect. Perfectionism has been a shadow that's followed Get It Together, Weirdo host Sarah …

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A Beginner's Guide to Historical Romance with Unsuccessful Book Club 1:03:43

2M ago1:03:43

1:03:43

What makes historical romance more than just bodice-ripping stories? Historical romance is a genre far more complex and diverse than many readers realize. Far from being limited to Regency-era England and stereotypical duke narratives, this genre offers rich storytelling that explores complex social dynamics, personal growth, and diverse experience…

1
Healing from Purity Culture with Lauren Elise Rogers 50:49

2M ago50:49

50:49

Are You Healing from Purity Culture? Purity culture can leave deep emotional scars that impact our understanding of sexuality, relationships, and self-worth. In this powerful episode, sexuality educator Lauren Elise Rogers joins us to explore how individuals can reclaim their sexual identity and find healing through the transformative power of erot…

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Episode 40: Wonderful Publishers Behind Wonderful Authors 39:24

2M ago39:24

39:24

Hello, hi, and welcome to Medium Lady Reads. This is episode 40, “Wonderful Publishers Behind Wonderful Authors.” Welcome back to Medium Lady Reads! Erin and Jillian are excited to land in a new “decade” of episodes. The ladies are both in their 40s and they’ve hit their stride with the podcast as they arrive at episode forty. This episode will con…

1
READING DEATH PACT THUNDERDOME ULTIMATE SHOWDOWN 55:46

2M ago55:46

55:46

RESULTS ARE IN, FOLKS. In the past month, Sarah and Cyrus made a bet to see who could read the most books out of their combined TBR piles. Sarah is a super fast reader with one day a week to functionally dedicate to churning through books; Cyrus is an absolute competitive maniac who would rather destroy their body and mind rather than lose. The sta…

1
Author Interview: Lois Miller on Writing, Publishing & YA Romantasy ✨ 42:15

2M ago42:15

42:15

In this episode, we chat with debut YA romantasy author Lois Miller, whose novel Don't Fear the Fire came out March 25th. Lois takes us behind the scenes of her writing journey, from first draft to publishing, and shares how she approached querying agents, building an audience, and crafting a villain who definitely thinks he's the main character (l…

1
Reclaiming Your Sanity: 3 Techniques for Finding Inner Peace amidst Overwhelming Responsibilities 8:42

3M ago8:42

8:42

What do you think you need more right now — your sanity or having all of your shit together? If you're anything like Get It Together, Weirdo host Sarah Bowser, the answer probably depends on the day, maybe even the hour. When you’re struggling with overwhelming responsibilities, you can feel like a failure for not having it all together, for letti…

1
Understanding Urban, Contemporary, and Erotic Black Literature with The Well Read Pharmacist 29:22

3M ago29:22

29:22

In the bookish space, readers tend to incorrectly categorize Black stories. It’s important that we understand the differences between genres and subgenres of Black literature. Join us for an great conversation with Aniya, known as the Well Read Pharmacist, as we break down the nuanced world of urban fiction, urban romance, Black contemporary romanc…

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162. Emma by Jane Austen Recap Six: A Perfect Union 1:22:29

3M ago1:22:29

1:22:29

In this episode, we reach the culmination of Jane Austen's Emma, where secrets are revealed, relationships evolve, and characters face pivotal choices that will shape their futures. We discuss shifting affections, unexpected engagements, and the web of emotions that bind the residents of Highbury together. We will conclude our Emma series with a fi…

1
Reclaiming the Word "Fat" with Leigh Carron 37:41

3M ago37:41

37:41

Why Do We Need to Reclaim the Word "Fat"? In this powerful episode of the podcast, author Leigh Carron opens up about her journey of body positivity, challenging societal norms, and writing romance novels that celebrate bodies of all sizes. Through her personal experiences and literary work, Carron demonstrates how language can be transformed from …

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161. Emma by Jane Austen Recap Five: Badly Done, Emma 1:08:42

3M ago1:08:42

1:08:42

In this episode, we’re unpacking so many juicy moments—from Frank Churchill’s restless return to Highbury and the long-awaited ball at the Crown Inn to Harriet’s shocking misadventure and Mr. Knightley’s heroic turn on the dance floor. We’ll explore Emma’s ever-active imagination, Mrs. Elton’s relentless meddling, and some subtle but oh-so-importan…

1
Animorphs Part 6: The Bright, Clear Line 58:34

3M ago58:34

58:34

Back at it again in the Animorphs mines. This time, we're reading books 28 through 32, a group that contains vitally important plot, thoughtful and moving character moments, and also whatever is happening in book 28. Cyrus professes their undying love for Marco's self-aware ruthlessness. Sarah understands the world better through children's literat…

1
First-Time Caller by B. K. Borison: Review, Honest Opinion, and Book Discussion 📚 37:55

3M ago37:55

37:55

In this episode, we review First-Time Caller by B.K. Borison, a romance novel that’s been all over Booktok and on the top of the TBRs of many romance readers. If you just finished reading B.K. Borison’s newest book and want to hear what other readers think, this review will give you all the insights you need. Tune in for a detailed discussion on Fi…

1
Calm Your Chaos: The Power of Mindfulness in Just a Few Minutes 8:51

3M ago8:51

8:51

Mindfulness. It’s everywhere. It's sold to us like some magical cure-all for everything. But the topic might make you roll your eyes, because a lot of what we hear about mindfulness is a load of shit. So how can you actually use mindfulness in a way that works for your distracted, busy brain? In this episode of Get It Together, Weirdo, coach Sarah …

1
Sapphic Romance 101 with Sarah In Wanderland 43:40

3M ago43:40

43:40

Are you ready to expand your reading horizons and discover the transformative power of sapphic literature? Join host Alesia and special guest Sarah in Wanderland as they unravel the complexities of lesbophobia, celebrate queer representation, and explore the transformative power of diverse love stories. Sarah has dedicated their platform and voice …

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160. Emma by Jane Austen Recap Four: Jane Fairfax & Mrs. Elton 1:04:18

3M ago1:04:18

1:04:18

In this episode, we’re savoring the drama and intrigue of Emma, Volume Two, Chapters 9 through 18. The aftermath of the Cole’s party has Emma rehashing every social triumph and misstep, from her jealousy over Jane Fairfax’s piano skills to her playful gossip with Frank Churchill about the mysterious pianoforte. Meanwhile, Mrs. Elton makes her grand…

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Episode 39: Are Celebrity Memoirs Clogging your TBR 39:58

3M ago39:58

39:58

Hello, hi, and welcome to Medium Lady Reads. This is episode 39, “Are Celebrity Memoirs Clogging your TBR?” Welcome back to Medium Lady Reads! Be sure to get settled in, cue up the latest episode, open your TBR tracker, and get ready to add 6+ more books to your stack. In This Episode: The ladies check in, sharing how their reading and life is goin…

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Creating Thrilling Shifter Romances that Defy Expectations with Dria Andersen 27:35

3M ago27:35

27:35

What makes a romance novel truly captivating? Join host Alesia Galati as she sits down with bestselling author Dria Andersen to explore the vibrant world of Black paranormal romance, where love, loyalty, and supernatural excitement collide. Dria Andersen is a paranormal author and photographer who draws inspiration from stories and legends. Her pas…

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159. Emma by Jane Austen Recap Three: A Mysterious Pianoforte 57:47

3M ago57:47

57:47

In this recap, we’re discussing Volume Two, Chapters 1-8 of Emma by Jane Austen. In this episode, we'll explore the arrival of some intriguing new characters to Highbury that shake up Emma's carefully curated social circle. We'll also explore Emma's complex relationships, including her aversion to a certain reserved newcomer and her budding friends…

1
TBR Pile Death Pact 1:05:48

3M ago1:05:48

1:05:48

Okay, maybe it's not a death pact. More of a "financially ruinous" pact for Cyrus specifically. But with the stakes on the table, they're more than willing to dive in. And with how annoying Cyrus is in this episode, Sarah is happy to crush them beneath capitalism's bootheel. But this is mostly, theoretically, not an episode about engaging in potent…

1
TBR Shame: What’s Been Sitting on Our Shelves Too Long? 35:22

3M ago35:22

35:22

Is your TBR pile growing out of control? Ours certainly is! In this episode, we get honest about the books that have been on our shelves for too long and explore strategies for tackling those piles. Whether you’re struggling with TBR shame or just want to hear some relatable thoughts about reading, this episode is for you. _________________________…