When Girls Talk Books

What happens when your darkest fantasy becomes reality? For trauma nurse Allie, scrolling through her favorite masked man's social media account is the perfect escape after grueling hospital shifts. His mysterious videos are the highlight of her week - until the day she discovers he's broken into her apartment and left his mask on her bed.Most people would call the police. Allie calls it intriguing.Behind the mask is Josh, a skilled hacker carrying the crushing weight of being the infamous Ken Doll Killer's son. When he discovers Allie's explicit comments requesting exactly what he's done, it triggers a dangerous game neither expected. As boundaries blur between stalker and lover, predator and prey, their connection deepens in ways both thrilling and terrifying.The chemistry between them is undeniable - hot enough to make Allie overlook red flags that would send most running. But when their cat-and-mouse game accidentally entangles them in another predator's crimes, they're forced to confront just how far they'll go to protect each other. With unexpected mob connections, a cover-up spiraling out of control, and increasingly complex moral choices, their relationship is tested in ways neither anticipated.Nevessa Allen masterfully blends psychological tension with moments of unexpected humor and scorching intimacy. The narrative shifts between Josh's internal struggles with his dark heritage and Allie's surprising comfort with his dangerous side, creating a dance of power, vulnerability, and acceptance that challenges everything they thought they knew about themselves.With its perfect balance of suspense, steam, and emotional depth, "Lights Out" asks provocative questions about the darkness we hide and the acceptance we crave. This dark romance delivers a reading experience that will leave you breathless, disturbed, and eagerly flipping pages until its satisfying conclusion.Would you let the masked man in?Support the showEditing done by Connor Luther @clfilms.coMusic by @thundercatlouisMerch Here

The haunting stories behind Portland, Oregon's most supernatural locations reveal tragic histories and ongoing paranormal activity that continues to affect visitors and staff today.• The White Eagle bar harbors three ghosts from a tragic love story that ended in three lives lost• Staff at the White Eagle confirm experiencing perfume scents, mysterious objects, and shadowy figures that match historical accounts• The lake at Laurelhurst Park is haunted by the spirit of a woman who drowned in 1936 under mysterious circumstances ruled as suicide• A jogger's encounter with a drowning woman who vanished when he tried to save her suggests a residual haunting at Laurelhurst• Edgefield, once a poor farm and orphanage, contains energy-draining entities and a child-like apparition that has been known to chase visitors• McMenamins maintains a "ghost log" at Edgefield where guests can document their paranormal encountersSupport the showEditing done by Connor Luther @clfilms.coMusic by @thundercatlouisMerch Here

We explore our guiltiest reading pleasures and confess the books we love but hide from others in a judgment-free zone – well, almost judgment-free.• Romance books featuring significant age gaps, including the infamous 104-year-old vampire and 17-year-old human love story• Serial killer romances like "The Mindfuck" where anniversary gifts include people who've done bad things• Controversial step-family romances such as Penelope Douglas's "Credence" • Books featuring stalking behavior reframed as romance, including "Under Your Scars"• Ruby Dixon's "Ice Planet Barbarians" with its unique alien anatomy and bonding rituals• Polyamorous relationships in books like "Flock" by Kate Stewart• Dark romance featuring possessive motorcycle club membersMy TBR just got a lot longer.Support the showEditing done by Connor Luther @clfilms.coMusic by @thundercatlouisMerch Here

If you love a captivating romantic comedy that beautifully illustrates the tangled web of modern-day relationships, you won't want to miss our celebration of one year of podcasting with the entertaining exploration of "You Deserve Each Other" by Sarah Hogle. In this lively episode, we delve into the chaotic romance of Naomi and Nicholas, whose engagement quickly devolves into comical struggles as they grapple with the pressing expectations from family and their own unwavering fears about love. Tune in as we unpack the relatable triumphs and trials they face while navigating the delicate dance of communication and vulnerability. Our discussion highlights the importance of being honest with yourself and your partner, sharing personal anecdotes that mirror the book's themes, and offering insights into how love often feels like a game that requires teamwork to tackle challenges. We delve into the emotional roller coaster that romance can be—packed with laughter, tears, and heartfelt moments of connection. As we explore the characters' journey to self-discovery, we emphasize how essential it is to confront issues head-on and communicate openly to ensure the success of a relationship. From the hilarious moments that make you smile to the touching realizations that may resonate deeply, this episode is a celebration of the messy yet beautiful experience of love. Join us for fun, thoughtful reflections, and be sure to check out our links to new merch as part of our anniversary celebration! Subscribe, share, and engage with us as we continue this journey!Support the showEditing done by Connor Luther @clfilms.coMusic by @thundercatlouisMerch Here

Imagine revisiting the magic of your favorite book as if it were the first time. That's exactly what we explore in this episode of Book Bites! Join us, your hosts Kylee and Susie, as we embark on a nostalgic journey with our friends Allysha and Jordan. We kick off with Susie's tear-jerker favorite, "The Things We Leave Unfinished" by Rebecca Yarros, and Allysha melts our hearts with her fond memories of discovering the "Harry Potter" series. Jordan enchants us with the charm of "Remarkably Bright Creatures" by Shelby Van Pelt, while Kylee reminisces about the messy "Magnolia Parks" series and the unforgettable allure of the "Twilight" saga. Together, we relive those first-time reading experiences that left lasting impressions and shaped our literary paths.But the magic doesn't stop there. We dive into the wild world of unique reads and captivating series that keep us eagerly turning pages. From an unexpected romance with blue aliens to the haunting themes of Stephen Graham Jones's "The Only Good Indians," our discussion is as diverse as it is engaging. We also share our excitement for the next installment in the Empyrean series, which promises rich world-building and important representation. As we swap stories of midnight releases and pre-orders, there's a palpable excitement in the air—a shared anticipation for the next great adventure waiting for us within the pages of a book. So, grab your favorite bookmark and join us for a heartwarming episode celebrating the joy and anticipation of reading.Support the showEditing done by Connor Luther @clfilms.coMusic by @thundercatlouisMerch Here

Ever found yourself tangled in a web of unspoken emotions and complex relationships? That's exactly what we explore as we unravel the chaotic yet fascinating dynamics in "Daisy Haites," the second book within the Magnolia Parks universe. Join us and our friends Jordan & Allysha as we rate the book, ranging from three to five stars, and share our thoughts on how the art-dealing and gang-related themes bring a fresh vibe compared to the original Magnolia Parks narrative. Julian stands out as a memorable character, thanks to his portrayal as London's most dangerous man, and the Audible narration only amplifies his presence. Some of us hit a snag with the book's footnotes, which disrupted our reading flow, especially for those digging into the physical copy.Diving into the world of Daisy and Christian, we get caught up in a cycle of unspoken feelings and emotional immaturity, echoing the dynamics between Magnolia and BJ. We highlight the lack of direct communication and how it spurs toxic cycles, drawing parallels between their intricate relationships and the real world. Julian, though Daisy's brother, emerges as her platonic soulmate, while Daisy's connections with characters like Romeo and Detective Tiller add layers to her story, creating a complex tapestry of love triangles and trauma bonds. These tangled relationships lead to debates about authenticity and depth, making us question who ends up as Daisy's true match.Our fan-casting segment adds a fun twist, as we imagine Hollywood stars bringing these characters to life. From Madison Beer and Priyanka Chopra for Daisy to Chris Evans as Tiller, we let our imaginations run wild. As we consider the actors' past roles and their fit for these personalities, the conversation sparks excitement and agreement among us. With all these elements combined, this episode promises a lively exploration of the Magnolia Parks universe, offering insights and entertainment for both fans of the books and newcomers alike. Join us on this journey through love, chaos, and the captivating world of Daisy Haites.Support the showEditing done by Connor Luther @clfilms.coMusic by @thundercatlouisMerch Here

This episode is packed with fun book recommendations perfect for new readers, offering a mix of genres that will spark a love for reading! Hosts Susie and Kylee share their all-time favorite reads, clever tips for picking the right books, and have a blast chatting about the highs and lows of starting a reading journey.Here’s what you’ll get:• Kickoff to our mid-month mini episode – Short, sweet, and filled with bookish goodness!• Perfect book picks for beginners – Easy-to-love recommendations to jumpstart your reading habit.• Holiday romance vibes with "Wreck the Halls" – A festive, swoon-worthy read for cozying up during the holidays.• Getting hooked again with the "After" series – How this dramatic series can reignite your passion for reading!• Suspense you can’t put down: "The Perfect Marriage" – A thriller that’ll keep you guessing until the very end.• Psychological twists in "The Silent Patient" – A mind-bending read you’ll want to devour in one sitting.• Magical world of YA fantasy with "Powerless" – A fantasy adventure that’s perfect for young and adult readers alike!• Cowboys and romance by Elsie Silver – Hot, steamy, and full of heart—cowboy romance at its best!• Nostalgic feels with "Twilight" – Remembering the book that started the vampire craze.• Thrills galore in "The Chain" – A fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat thriller you won’t want to miss.• The joy of reading for fun – Why it’s all about enjoying what you read, no pressure!Don’t miss the next episode, and let us know what books or topics you’d love to hear about next time!Support the showEditing done by Connor Luther @clfilms.coMusic by @thundercatlouisMerch Here

Christmas joy meets a dash of murder mystery. Kylee and Susie, snuggled up in our matching Christmas pajamas as we unwrap the delightful chaos of "Holly and Homicide" by Alina Jacobs. We found ourselves captivated by the vibrant world of Emmie, who juggles the bustling Santa Claws Cafe amidst holiday madness. Join us as we explore this perfect holiday read, filled with lively characters, small-town antics, and a plot twist worthy of a Lifetime movie. The best part? You can dive into the chaos right away on Kindle Unlimited!Ever found yourself accused of a crime you didn't commit? Meet Emmie, who navigates this nightmare with the help of the town's only professional, Marius. As gossip swirls and accusations fly, we follow the pair through legal challenges and uncover clues that reveal the real culprit. Add in a suspicious bracelet, a meddling neighbor named Charles, and you’ve got all the makings of a small-town drama that keeps us guessing. Could a Costco Smackdown and a town hall debate over cat adoptions lead to budding romances? With humorous moments, surprising revelations, and a touch of romance, this episode is a rollercoaster of emotions. As we wrap up, we engage in a fun fan-casting segment and express our excitement to explore more of Alina Jacobs' festive tales. Whether you're a seasoned book lover or a curious newcomer, this discussion promises a delightful escape into holiday storytelling.Support the showEditing done by Connor Luther @clfilms.coMusic by @thundercatlouisMerch Here

What happens when an unfinished manuscript reveals the tangled web of family betrayal, artistic integrity, and wartime love? Join us as we unravel the emotional depths of Rebecca Yarros' "The Things We Leave Unfinished." We started with skepticism, unsure of the novel's emotional pull, only to be left in tears by its poignant narrative. Through dual timelines, we navigate the gripping tales of Georgia, her great-grandmother Scarlett, and the unforgettable characters they meet. The book's exploration of enduring family legacies and complex relationships has left a significant impression on us, as we debate its impact on our hearts and minds.Our discussion takes a closer look at the intricate dynamics of Georgia's modern-day struggles with her mother, Ava, and the contrasting love stories across time. The early 1940s romance of Scarlett and Jameson captivates with its forbidden charm, while Georgia's present-day relationship with Noah invites a critique of literary trust and betrayal. We explore themes of sacrifice and identity through the parallel journeys of Scarlett and her sister Constance, against the tumultuous backdrop of World War II. The narrative intricately weaves together past and present, leaving us pondering the choices and sacrifices that shape our lives.To conclude our engaging exploration, we indulge in the dream of a book-to-screen adaptation, handpicking our ideal actors for beloved characters. From the dramatic events surrounding Scarlett and Constance to Georgia and Noah's modern-day challenges, we celebrate the emotional journey and timeless themes of love and sacrifice. As we share our reading adventures and recent book recommendations, we invite you to join the conversation by engaging with us through comments and suggestions, enriching our shared literary experiences.Support the showEditing done by Connor Luther @clfilms.coMusic by @thundercatlouisMerch Here

Picture a summer filled with ghostly tales, eccentric relatives, and the kind of nostalgia that brings back all the feels of our own childhood adventures. That's what we're unpacking as Kylee, Susie, and our special guest, Justin—Kylee's husband—gather around the mic to chat about Craig Davidson's "The Saturday Night Ghost Club." We kick things off by comparing the book's youthful vibes to "Stranger Things," while also delving into its more weighty themes. Listen as Justin shares his fresh take after finishing the book, and we chew over the surprising blend of medical insights and storytelling that shapes Jake's character.Our journey leads us to Uncle Calvin's wacky occultorium—a place where ghost stories are as common as the bizarre leads on hauntings he collects via his "bat phone." We share a touching moment featuring Billy Yellow Bird, a young boy longing to connect with his late grandmother, and how Uncle Calvin's kindness shines through these whimsical adventures. We explore the bonds between Jake and his friends, delving into his budding friendship with Billy and his charming crush on Billy's sister, Dove. Together, they navigate the innocent yet complex terrain of growing up amid ghost stories and carefree escapades.The episode takes a chilling turn with tales like the Screaming Tunnel, where we uncover more about Uncle Calvin's emotional layers and his passion for storytelling. As we laugh our way through playful fan casting sessions, imagining the perfect actors to bring these vibrant characters to life, we reflect on the fantastical and heartfelt elements that make this story resonate. Throughout it all, the warmth and wisdom of Uncle Calvin leave an indelible mark on Jake's life, making "The Saturday Night Ghost Club" a tale of nostalgia, mystery, and the irresistible charm of childhood.Support the showEditing done by Connor Luther @clfilms.coMusic by @thundercatlouisMerch Here