Shows
Well-ReadLet's talk about series2025-05-0457 minWell-ReadDeep Dive into Golden Age Mysteries2025-04-131h 04Well-ReadEpisode 152 - Books that Make us Laugh out LoudDo you need something to help you smile right now? We sure do, so here are some of the books that have made us laugh out loud.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Margo’s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe
Love and Hot Chicken by Mary Liza Hartong
Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. Sutanto
Ann’s picks:
Long Live Evil by Sarah Rees Brennan
– Good Girls Don’t Die by Christina Henry
A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole
The Expectant Detecti...2025-03-3043 minWell-ReadEpisode 151 - Reading from our TBRsIt’s time for our yearly Reading From Our TBRs episode! Listen in as we make a tiny bit of room on our shelves.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ready or Not by Cara Bastone
Ann’s picks:
Final Girls by Riley Sager
– The House Across the Lake by Riley Sager
Harlem Shuffle by Colson Whitehead
– Pulitzer Prize for Fiction
– National Book Awards
The Crane Wife: A Memoir in Essays by CJ Hauser
– “The Crane Wife” by CJ Hauser (essay)
Halle’s picks:
An Academy for L...2025-03-161h 01Well-ReadEpisode 150 - Books about Female FriendshipIt’s our 150th episode (!!!!!!!) and there’s no better way to celebrate that and our friendship than to discuss female friendships in books.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
The Sweet Magnolias series by Sherryl Wood
The Wedding People by Alison Espach
Ann’s picks:
Under a Painted Sky by Stacey Lee
American Ghoul by Michelle McGill-Vargas
– Dracula by Bram Stoker
We All Want Impossible Things by Catherine Newman
– Sandwich by Catherine Newman
Halle’s picks:
The Sweet Spot by Amy Poeppel
The Kitchen Front by Jen...2025-02-1755 minWell-ReadWinter & Spring 2025 Book Preview2025-02-081h 04Well-ReadEpisode 148 - 2024 Superlatives & Reading ResolutionsWe’re making reading resolutions for 2025 and giving out our 2024 book superlatives!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Women’s Prize for Fiction
The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese
Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry
From the Front Porch (podcast)
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
Book of the Month Club
The Bookshop
Parnassus Books
Brandon Sanderson books
Jane Austen books
Libba Bray books
Colin Dexter books
Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear...2025-01-201h 28Well-ReadOur Favorite Books of 20242024-12-301h 15Well-ReadBooks about Found Families2024-11-2252 minWell-ReadEpisode 145 - Psychological Suspense Authors We'd Like to See More FromPsychological suspense continues to be one of the most popular subgenres, but it can sometimes be hard to find the best. This week, we’re covering the authors we’d like to see become household names.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Sarah J. Maas books
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Fates and Furies by Lauren Groff
Ruth Ware books
Mary Kubica books
Ann’s picks:
Good Girls Don’t Die by Christina Henry
– Near the Bone by Christina Hen...2024-10-1349 minWell-ReadEpisode 144 - Fall 2024 Book PreviewIt’s that time again…the books we’re looking forward to reading this fall!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ann’s picks:
Death at the Sign of the Rook by Kate Atkinson (releases September 3)
– Jackson Brodie series by Kate Atkinson
Somewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ Klune (releases September 10)
The Midnight Club by Margot Harrison (releases September 24)
Tiny Threads by Lilliam Rivera (releases September 24)
– The Devil Wears Prada (film)
Be Ready When the Luck Happens by Ina Garten (releases October 1)
– Ina Garten books
– Barefoot Contessa (TV)
– @storeboughtisfine (Instagr...2024-09-2954 minWell-ReadCircling back on our Summer 2024 reading2024-09-1757 minWell-ReadEpisode 142 - Celebrity Book ClubsThere are more celebrity book clubs than ever! We’re discussing our favorites and some celebrity book club picks we love.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Read with Jenna
Oprah’s Book Club
Reece’s Book Club
Colleen Hoover books
Sarah J. Maas books
A Million Little Pieces by James Frey
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Service95 Book Club
Fallon Book Club
Marvel
Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling
Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer
“How Celebrity Book Clubs Actual...2024-08-3059 minWell-ReadEpisode 141 - Auto-Buy AuthorsDo you have a list of authors who are auto-buys when they release a new book? We’re delving into some of ours!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ann Patchett books
Emily Henry books
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
Abby Jimenez books
Ali Hazelwood books
Liz Moore books
Kate Morton books
Tana French books
Leigh Bardugo books
Celeste Ng books
Anthony Horowitz books
Sarah Dessen books
Sarah MacLean books
Ruth Ware books
Ann’s picks:
The Littl...2024-08-1656 minWell-ReadEpisode 140 - NYT Best Books of the 21st Century
The New York Times recently published their list of the 100 best books of the 21st century, and we have THOUGHTS. Let us know your impressions of the list!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
New York Times 100 Best Books of the 21st Century
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
New York Times: Readers Choose Their 100 Best Books of the 21st Century
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
The Martian...2024-08-0255 minWell-ReadEpisode 139 - Wrapping up our Spring 2024 ReadingWe’re trying something new this week, as we review the books we read (or didn’t read…) from our Spring Preview 2024 episode. Let us know what you think!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
New York Times 100 Best Books of the 21st Century
Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez
Ann’s picks:
Funny Story by Emily Henry
The Return of Ellie Black by Emiko Jean
Halle’s picks:
The Great Divide by Christina Henríquez
Anita de Monte Laughs Last by Xóchitl González
Happily Never After ...2024-07-1942 minWell-ReadEpisode 138 - Summer 2024 Book PreviewIt’s that time again…the books we’re looking forward to, publishing June through August!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ann’s picks:
Enlightenment by Sarah Perry (releases June 4)
– The Essex Serpent by Sarah Perry
– The Essex Serpent (show)
Horror Movie by Paul Tremblay (releases June 11)
– A Head Full of Ghosts by Paul Tremblay
– The Blair Witch Project (film)
It’s Elementary by Elise Bryant (releases July 9)
Nicked by M.T. Anderson (releases July 23)
– Feed by M.T. Anderson
Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell (releases July 30)
– Landline by Rainbow Rowel...2024-06-1951 minWell-ReadEpisode 137 - Hot BooksWith summer around the corner, we’re feeling the heat in our reading! Listen in for our selection of hot books.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ann’s picks:
Dry by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman
– Neal Shusterman books
How to Fail at Flirting by Denise Williams
Arsenic and Adobo by Mia P. Manansala
Halle’s picks:
The Pairing by Casey McQuiston
Mary Jane by Jessica Anya Blau
– Taylor Jenkins Reid books
State of Wonder by Ann Patchett
– Commonwealth by Ann Patchett
– Bel Canto by Ann Patchett
– Tom Lake...2024-05-2739 minWell-ReadEpisode 136 - Getting Out of a Reading Slump2024-05-0445 minWell-ReadEpisode 135 - Here Comes the SunSpring is here, so we’re thinking about books that feel like sunshine! As always, we end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ann’s picks:
Village School by Miss Read
– Fairacre series by Miss Read
A Lady for a Duke by Alexis Hall
Mika in Real Life by Emiko Jean
Halle’s picks:
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh
The Garden of Small Beginnings by Abbi Waxman
– The Bookish Life of Nina Hill by Abbi Waxman
Act Your Age, Eve Brown by...2024-04-0636 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 134 - Spring 2024 Book PreviewIt’s that time again…the books we’re looking forward to the most publishing March through May!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
What Should I Read Next? (podcast)
Ann’s picks:
The Silver Bone by Andrey Kurkov (releases March 5)
– Stieg Larsson books
The Mystery Writer by Sulari Gentill (releases March 19)
– The Woman in the Library by Sulari Gentill
Someone You Can Build a Nest In by John Wiswell (releases April 2)
Bless Your Heart by Lindy Ryan
– Rachel Harrison books
Funny Story by Emily Henry (releases April 23)
– Happy Place...2024-03-1657 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 133 - Reading from our TBRs 2024We love reading books but we also love getting books off our shelves, so that means we love our annual Reading From Our TBRs episode!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ann’s picks:
Take It Back by Kia Abdullah
– Kia Abdullah books
Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett
– Audie Awards
– Neil Gaiman books
– Terry Pratchett books
– Good Omens (TV)
– The House of the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune
Old Lovegood Girls by Gail Godwin
– From the Front Porch (podcast)
– Ann Patchett books
Halle’s pi...2024-02-281h 06Well-ReadWell-Read Episode 132 - Deep Dive into RomanceIn honor of Valentine’s Day, learn everything you need to know about the romance genre!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Webinar: Crash Course in Romance
Nicholas Sparks books
Colleen Hoover books
Hello Stranger by Katherine Center
Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James
Sarah Adams books
Mindy Klasky Tropes List
Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling
People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry
The Wedding Party by Jasmine Guillory
The Hating Game by Sally Thorne
The Hating Game (fi...2024-02-081h 17Well-ReadWell-Read Episode 131 - 2023 SuperlativesWe’re back with our superlatives episode – one of our favorites of the year!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Halle’s Instagram
Women’s Prize for Fiction
Hell Bent by Leigh Bardugo
The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese
Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry
From the Front Porch (podcast)
Book of the Month Club
Most Timely
Ann: Spare by Prince Harry
Halle: Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
Most Disappointing
Ann: The Cloisters by Katy Hays and Under Lock & Skeleton Key b...2024-01-221h 20Well-ReadWell-Read Episode 130 - Our Favorite Books of 2023Our favorite episode of the year, full of our favorite books of the year. Happy Holidays from your friends at Well-Read!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese
Ann’s picks:
Thornhedge by T. Kingfisher
– Sleeping Beauty
Last to Leave the Room by Caitlin Starling
– Piranesi by Susanna Clarke
How Can I Help You by Laura Sims
– Patricia Highsmith books
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin
– The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zev...2023-12-181h 25Well-ReadWell-Read Episode 129 - TrendsThis week, we’re talking about book trends! Whether you’re deep in romantasy or cozy everything, we’re covering some of the biggest trends in publishing right now.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
The Maid by Nita Prose
Anne McCaffrey books
Game of Thrones (TV)
A Song of Fire and Ice series by George R.R. Martin
The Inheritance Cycle series by Christopher Paolini
Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling
Lord of the Rings series by J.R.R Tolkein
...2023-11-081h 04Well-ReadWell-Read Episode 128 Halloween BooksDepending on which co-host you ask, it’s the most wonderful time of the year: Halloween! We have plenty of books for all your spooky reading needs this season. As always, we’ll end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Episode 11 – Spooky Books for Halloween
The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young
ALA RUSA CODES Reading List
Hocus Pocus (film)
Bleeding Hart Yard by Elly Griffiths
Harbinder Kaur series by Elly Griffiths
The Postscript Murders by Elly Griffiths
Ann’s picks...2023-10-2152 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 127 - Books About Books...Again!It’s time to revisit books about books! We discuss some recent and evergreen favorites.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams
Yellowface by R.F. Kuang
Ann’s picks:
The Stranger Diaries by Elly Griffiths
– Harbinder Kaur series by Elly Griffiths
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows
– The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society (film)
The Last Word by Taylor Adams
Halle’s picks:
The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer
– Ha...2023-10-1055 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 126 - Dark AcademiaSeptember puts us in the mood for back-to-school books, but why not add a mysterious twist? We’re talking dark academia titles this week!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
The Secret History by Donna Tartt (buy from Bookshop)
Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo (buy from Bookshop)
The Likeness by Tana French (buy from Bookshop)
The Magicians by Lev Grossman (buy from Bookshop)
Dead Poets Society (film)
Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling
Joanna Gaines
Ann’s picks:
The World Cannot Give by Tara Is...2023-09-2349 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 125 - Fall/Winter 2023 PreviewIt’s that time again…the books we’re looking forward to the most publishing September through February!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ann’s picks:
Reykjavík by Ragnar Jónasson and Katrín Jakobsdottír (releases September 5) (buy from Bookshop)
– Arnaldur Indriðason books
– Parnassus Books
– Ann Patchett books
– Independent People by Halldór Laxness (buy from Bookshop)
Black Sheep by Rachel Harrison (releases September 19) (buy from Bookshop)
– Cackle by Rachel Harrison (buy from Bookshop)
– The Return by Rachel Harrison (buy from Bookshop)
Black AF History: The Un-Whitewashed Story...2023-08-2647 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 124 - Books We Wish We Could Read Again for the First TimeYou know the feeling…you finish a book you adored and instantly wish you could read it again for the first time. These are the books we wish we could experience again, and boy was it hard to pare them down!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
The Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern (buy from Bookshop)
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn (buy from Bookshop)
Sorrow and Bliss by Meg Mason (buy from Bookshop)
In the Woods by Tana French (buy from Booksho...2023-08-1456 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 123 - Books About Road Trips
Road trips are the perfect summer getaway! But if you can't hit the road right now, these books are full of long drives, snacks, singalongs, hijinks, and adventure.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Natural Born Charmer by Susan Elizabeth Phillips (buy from Bookshop)
Ann’s picks:
The Summer Seekers by Sarah Morgan (buy from Bookshop)
Me (Moth) by Amber McBride (buy from Bookshop)
- The Michael L. Printz Award for Excellence in Young Adult Literature
The Farewell Tour by...2023-07-2942 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 122 - Books Like Succession
If you're missing your weekly dose of the Roy family like us, here are some books that we think will help fill the void after the finale of Succession. As always, we'll end with what we're reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Succession (TV)
Gossip Girl (TV)
Veep (TV)
Taylor Swift Eras Tour
Ann’s picks:
The Heiresses by Sara Shepard (buy from Bookshop)
- Pretty Little Liars series by Sara Shepard
Appointment wi...2023-07-1548 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 121 - Beach Reads2023-06-0553 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 120 - Books We Couldn’t Put DownIt’s one of the best feelings a reader can have: that feeling of finding a book that you just can’t put down. We’re discussing some of our favorites and we’ll end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn (buy from Bookshop)
Ann’s picks:
Fingersmith by Sarah Waters (buy from Bookshop)
– The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters (buy from Bookshop)
Monster by Walter Dean Myers (buy from Bookshop)
– Michael L. Printz Award for Excellence in Young Adult L...2023-04-2448 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 119 - Spring & Summer 2023 Book Preview2023-04-0950 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 118: Read-alikes for Taylor Swift songs (with a special guest!)Halle thought it wasn’t possible to love a Taylor Swift-themed episode any more, until her sister Heather joined in as a special guest! (Ann was there too, as a casual fan.) Listen in for book pairings for some of our favorite T.Swift songs, along with general Swifty gushing and the books we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Taylor Jenkins Reid books
Red (Taylor Swift album)
Fearless (Taylor Swift album)
1989 (Taylor Swift album)
“Blank Space”
Reputation (Taylor Swift album)
“…Ready For It?”
“The Man”
Ann’...2023-03-2759 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 117 - Reading From Our TBRsIt’s back…..our occasional episode where we pick books for each other from our massive “to be read” shelves! Listen to what we liked – and what we didn’t! – and find out what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ann’s picks:
The Maid by Nita Prose (buy from Bookshop)
– Good Morning America Book Club
– The Maid (film)
– Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman (buy from Bookshop)
– Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus (buy from Bookshop)
– Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin (buy fro...2023-03-061h 02Well-ReadWell-Read Episode 116 - Collecting and Organizing our Books2023-02-1941 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 115 - Romances for People Who Don’t Read RomanceWith Valentine’s Day around the corner, we have some ideas for romance novels, even if you’re not a romance reader. As always, we’ll end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
James Patterson books
Elin Hilderbrand books
Danielle Steel books
Colleen Hoover books
David Mitchell books
Ann’s picks:
People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry (buy from Bookshop)
– Emily Henry books
– Book Lovers by Emily Henry (buy from Bookshop)
– ALA RUSA CODES The Reading List – the...2023-02-0458 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 114 - Resolutions and 2022 Superlatives2023-01-221h 12Well-ReadWell-Read Episode 113 - Our Favorite Books of 2022
Our favorite episode of the year, full of our favorite books of the year. Happy New Year from your friends at Well-Read!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ann’s picks:
The Ballad of Perilous Graves by Alex Jennings (buy from Bookshop)
- N.K. Jemisen books
- Marlon James books
Babel, Or the Necessity of Violence: An Arcane History of the Oxford Translators' Revolution by R.F. Kuang (buy from Bookshop)
Book Lovers by Emily Henry (buy from Bookshop)
The Woman in...2023-01-011h 20Well-ReadWell-Read Episode 112 - Holiday BooksThe holidays are here! We’ve got some books to get you in the festive spirit, and we’ll share what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Halle’s Instagram
Ann’s picks:
The Mistletoe Murder and Other Stories by P.D. James (buy from Bookshop)
– Adam Dalgliesh series by P.D. James
– Agatha Christie books
Holidays on Ice by David Sedaris (buy from Bookshop)
– “The SantaLand Diaries” by David Sedaris on NPR
A Holly Jolly Diwali by Sonya Lalli (buy from Bookshop)
Halle’s picks:2022-12-1748 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 111 - Defining Confusing Genres2022-11-121h 01Well-ReadWell-Read Episode 110 - Halloween!2022-10-2945 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 109 - Books about Chronic IllnessThis week, we’re responding to a listener request to talk about books with characters who live with chronic illnesses. As always, we’ll end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ann’s picks:
Challenger Deep by Neal Shusterman (buy at Bookshop)
– Sorrow and Bliss by Meg Mason (buy at Bookshop)
– National Book Award
– Neal Shusterman books
The Devil in Silver by Victor LaValle (buy at Bookshop)
Let’s Call It a Doomsday by Katie Henry (buy at Bookshop)
Halle’s picks:
Luster by Raven Le...2022-10-0145 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 108 - Fall/Winter 2022 PreviewBooks and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ann’s picks:
The Witch and the Tsar by Olesya Salnikova Gilmore (releases September 20) (buy from Bookshop)
– LibraryReads
Shrines of Gaiety by Kate Atkinson (releases September 27) (buy from Bookshop)
– Kate Atkinson books
Jackal by Erin E. Adams (releases October 4) (buy from Bookshop)
Marmee by Sarah Miller (releases October 4) (buy from Bookshop)
– Little Women by Louisa May Alcott (buy from Bookshop)
– Caroline: Little House, Revisited by Sarah Miller (buy from Bookshop)
– Little House series by Laura Ingalls Wilder
– Little Dorrit by Charles Dickens (buy from Bookshop)
– The Little Pri...2022-09-0450 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 107 - AdaptationsThanks to a listener request (hi Ann!), we’re discussing the difficulty of adapting a well-loved book, and what makes a good transition from page to screen. We’ll end with what we’re reading this week!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Persuasion by Jane Austen (buy from Bookshop)
Persuasion (film)
Dickinson (TV)
Clueless (film)
The Lord of the Rings series by J.R.R. Tolkein
Lord of the Rings (films)
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty (buy from Bookshop)
Big Little Lies (TV)
Outlander...2022-08-1452 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 106 - Summer Hiatus RecapWe’re finally back! After travel, work, and a wedding (!!!!), we have lots of books to fill you in on. As always, we’ll end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Bull Durham (film)
Eurovision Song Contest
RUSA Reading List
New York Times Crossword
Book Lovers by Emily Henry (buy from Bookshop)
Pride & Prejudice (TV)
Hallmark Channel
The It Girl by Ruth Ware (buy from Bookshop)
Halle’s Instagram @halle770
Vacationland by Meg Mitchell Moore (buy from Bookshop...2022-07-3154 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 105 - Weddings2022-05-0637 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 104 - Bridgerton2022-04-2458 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 103 - On Re-reading2022-04-0958 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 102 - Immigrant and Refugee StoriesWe’re exploring fiction that depicts the immigrant and refugee experience, and we’ll end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ann’s picks:
How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents by Julia Alvarez (buy from Bookshop)
Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys (buy from Bookshop)
– Titanic (film)
– Ruta Sepetys books
The Chosen and the Beautiful by Nghi Vo (buy from Bookshop)
– The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald (buy from Bookshop)
– Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng (buy from Bookshop)
Halle’s p...2022-03-2640 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 101- 2022 Spring/Summer Book PreviewBooks and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ann’s picks:
Comedy Comedy Comedy Drama by Bob Odenkirk (releases March 1) (buy from Bookshop)
– Mr. Show with Bob and David (TV)
– David Cross filmography
– Saturday Night Live (TV)
– Breaking Bad (TV)
Atomic Anna by Rachel Barenbaum (releases April 5) (buy from Bookshop)
The Hacienda by Isabel Cañas (releases May 5) (buy from Bookshop)
– Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia (buy from Bookshop)
– Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier (buy from Bookshop)
Renovated to Death by Frank Anthony Polito (releases May 31) (buy from Bookshop)
– The Grinder (TV)
The Woman in the Libra...2022-03-1248 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 100 - Ask Us Anything2022-02-261h 02Well-ReadWell-Read Episode 99 - The 2022 Reading ListAfter a year of hard work, we’re happy to share the results of the 2022 Reading List! We’ll share the winners and the shortlist, along with our thoughts. As always, we end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Adrenaline
Winner
Razorblade Tears by S. A. Cosby (buy from Bookshop)
Short List
Bullet Train by Kōtarō Isaka (buy from Bookshop)
Never Saw Me Coming by Vera Kurian (buy from Bookshop)
The Push by Ashley Audrain (buy from Bookshop)
Re...2022-02-111h 06Well-ReadWell-Read Episode 98 - 2021 SuperlativesWe're back with one of our favorite Well-Read traditions: book superlatives! Listen in for the books that stood out to us this year. We’ll end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Episode 87 – 2021 Resolutions and Year in Review
Beloved by Toni Morrison (buy from Bookshop)
Halle’s Instagram
Episode 86 – 2020 Superlatives
Most Timely
Ann: The Night Swim by Megan Goldin (buy from Bookshop) and The Cost of Knowing by Brittney Morris (buy from Bookshop)
Halle: Ghosts by Dolly Alderton (buy from Bookshop)
Most Disappointin...2022-01-291h 06Well-ReadWell-Read Episode 97 - Our Favorite Books of 2021
Our favorite episode of the year, full of our favorite books of the year. Happy Holidays from your friends at Well-Read!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ann’s picks:
The Chicken Sisters by KJ Dell’Antonia (buy from Bookshop)
The Girl with Stars in Her Eyes by Xio Axelrod (buy from Bookshop)
This Thing Between Us by Gus Moreno (buy from Bookshop)
Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr (buy from Bookshop)
A Thousand Ships by Natalie Haynes (buy from Bookshop)
Horseman by Christina Henr...2021-12-111h 18Well-ReadWell-Read Episode 96 - Books We Can‘t Wait to ReadWe didn’t get a chance to do a publishing preview this season, but we wanted to share some books we’re excited to read soon. Ann picks three forthcoming titles and Halle went with books she didn’t have time for this year. And we end with what we’re reading this week!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ann’s picks:
The Maid by Nita Prose (buy from Bookshop)
– Florence Pugh movies
– Little Women (film)
Yerba Buena by Nina LaCour (buy from Bookshop)
– Nina LaCour books
Body and Soul Food by Abby Co...2021-11-1337 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode 95 -People are the Most Terrifying of AllOur annual Halloween episode is back – and so are we! We have some major life updates and books that show that people are much scarier than the paranormal. As always, we’ll end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Episode 77 – Cookbooks!
Ann’s picks:
There’s Someone Inside Your House by Stephanie Perkins (buy from Bookshop)
– Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins (buy from Bookshop)
– Scream (film)
– There’s Someone Inside Your House (TV)
– The Woods Are Always Watching by Stephanie Perk...2021-10-2954 minWell-ReadAnother update from HalleHi all - Due to a death in Ann's family, we will be taking a brief break for the next month. Thanks and happy reading!
2021-06-2901 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode # 95.5 - An update from Halle2021-06-0307 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #94 -Book PairingsThanks to a fabulous listener suggestion (hi Rikke!), we’re pairing books that inform each other or benefit from reading them back-to-back. What books would you pair up? As always, we’ll end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen (buy from Bookshop)
Bridget Jones’s Diary by Helen Fielding (buy from Bookshop)
My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell (buy from Bookshop)
Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov (buy from Bookshop)
Ann’s picks:
The Seducer’s Diary...2021-05-0852 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #93 - Fresh Starts2021-04-2454 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #92 - Balancing Our Reading LivesThis week, we’re responding to a listener request to delve into our favorite bookish media and how we balance it all with our reading. We have some tips and recommendations to help you get the most out of your reading life. As always, we end with what we’re reading this week!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
For Real (podcast)
Underground: A Human History of the World Beneath Our Feet by Will Hunt (buy from Bookshop)
Audie Awards
Get Booked (podcast)
From the Front Porch (podcast...2021-04-101h 17Well-ReadWell-Read Episode #91 - Memoirs part 2Our memories may be terrible but these memoirs aren’t. We’re revisiting memoirs this week, and end with what we’re currently reading.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ann’s picks:
The Cooking Gene: A Journey Through African American Culinary History in the Old South by Michael W. Twitty (buy from Bookshop)
– Afroculinaria (blog)
– BTS (band)
Between You & Me: Confessions of a Comma Queen by Mary Norris (buy from Bookshop)
– The New Yorker (magazine)
– Greek to Me: Adventures of the Comma Queen by Mary Norris (buy from Bookshop)
– Ann Patch...2021-03-271h 03Well-ReadWell-Read Episode #90 - Sports BooksDo you like sports? No? Do you like stories of drama surrounding sports? Then we have some books for you! As always, we’ll end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ted Lasso (TV)
Friday Night Lights (TV)
Friday Night Lights: A Town, A Team, and a Dream by H.G. Bissinger (buy on Bookshop)
Friday Night Lights (film)
Ann’s picks:
The Crossover by Kwame Alexander (buy on Bookshop)
– Newbery Medal
– YALLfest
– Booked by Kwame Alexander (buy on Bookshop)
Match M...2021-03-1355 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #89 - Spring/Summer 2021 Preview2021-02-271h 11Well-ReadWell-Read Episode #88 - Galentine's DayGalentine’s Day is here! Gather your girlfriends together, or if you can’t thanks to a worldwide pandemic, pick up one of our suggestions for books about female friendships. We’ll end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Parks and Recreation (TV)
My Korea: Traditional Flavors, Modern Recipes by Hooni Kim (buy from Bookshop)
Episode 77 – Cookbooks
Bridgerton (TV)
Bridgertons series by Julia Quinn
My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante (buy from Bookshop)
The Story of a New Name by Elena Ferrante (bu...2021-02-1352 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #87 - 2021 Resolutions and Year in ReviewWe love goals and years in review, especially when they involve books! Find out how we did last year with our reading resolutions and what we’re planning for 2021. As always, we’ll finish with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
RUSA CODES Reading List
Get a Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert (buy from Bookshop)
Julia Quinn books
Bridgerton (TV)
The Bachelor (TV)
War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy (buy from Bookshop)
Tana French books
Isak Dinesen books
Jane Austen...2021-01-3054 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #86 - 2020 SuperlativesWe’ve started (what we hope becomes) a new tradition: book superlatives! Listen in for the books that stood out to us for a range of reasons this year. We’ll end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Episode 68 – Out of Our Comfort Zone Part III
Episode 76 – Tackling Our TBRs Part II
Most Timely
Ann: When No One Is Watching by Alyssa Cole (buy from Bookshop)
Halle: The Pull of the Stars by Emma Donoghue (buy from Bookshop)
Most Disappointing
...2021-01-021h 01Well-ReadWell-Read Episode #85 - Our Favorite Books of 2020It’s our favorite episode of the year featuring our favorite books of the year!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
VH1 (TV)
Ann’s picks:
Life After Life by Kate Atkinson (buy from Bookshop)
Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo (buy from Bookshop)
Circe by Madeline Miller (buy from Bookshop)
– The Odyssey by Homer (buy from Bookshop)
A Deadly Inside Scoop by Abby Colette (buy from Bookshop)
– A Game of Cones by Abby Colette (buy from Bookshop)
Unmarriageable by Soniah Kamal (buy from Bookshop)
– Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen (buy from Boo...2020-12-191h 21Well-ReadWell-Read Episode #84 - Winter Romances2020-12-0655 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #83 - Family Gatherings2020-11-2156 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #82 - Guilty Pleasures
When you're having a rough week (and aren't we all?), there's nothing better than sinking into a guilty pleasure read. Or is there such a thing? We'll discuss, and end with what we're reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Mary Kay Andrews books
Twilight by Stephenie Meyer (buy at Bookshop)
Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling
Fifty Shades of Gray by E.L. James (buy at Bookshop)
America's Next Top Model (TV)
Eurovision Song Contest
Hannah Swensen...2020-11-0646 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #81 - Creepy ReadsHalloween is here! Halloween is here! Get into the spirit with us as we explore some deliciously creepy books. As always, we’ll finish with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
The Silent Companions by Laura Purcell (buy from Bookshop)
Ann’s picks:
Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia (buy from Bookshop)
– Episode 66 – Spring/Summer 2020 Preview
– Wilkie Collins books
– Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier (buy from Bookshop)
Come Closer by Sara Gran (buy from Bookshop)
– A Head Full of Ghosts by Paul Tremblay (buy...2020-10-2452 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #80 - The Great Outdoors
With so many of our travel plans canceled this year (RIP Ukraine trip), many of us are heading outside for our vacations. We're talking about books that get us back to nature and we'll end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Wine Country (movie)
Walden by Henry David Thoreau (buy from Bookshop)
Ann’s picks:
Force of Nature by Jane Harper (buy from Bookshop)
- Aaron Falk series by Jane Harper
- Jane Harper books
Minnow by James E. McTeer II...2020-09-261h 01Well-ReadWell-Read Episode # 79 - Campus Novels
If we can't go back to school in September, we can at least live it through campus novels! We share some of our favorites and what we're reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ann’s picks:
Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo (buy from Bookshop)
- Leigh Bardugo books
- A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab (buy from Bookshop)
Dear Committee Members by Julie Schumacher (buy from Bookshop)
- The Shakespeare Requirement by Julie Schumacher (buy from...2020-09-1254 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #78 - Fall/Winter 2020 PreviewWe love bringing you previews of books we’re so excited about! Listen in for the books we’re looking forward to this fall and winter.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Jennifer Weiner books
Big Summer by Jennifer Weiner (buy from Bookshop)
The Paris Library by Janet Skeslien Charles (buy from Bookshop)
Transcendent Kingdom by Yaa Gyasi (buy from Bookshop)
Ann’s picks:
Eat a Peach by David Chang (releases September 8) (buy from Bookshop)
– Momofuku Noodle Bar
– David Chang filmography
The Searcher by Tana French (releas...2020-08-291h 06Well-ReadWell-Read Episode #77 - Cookbooks!This week….welcome to Well-FED! Haha! Based on a listener suggestion, we’re discussing and cooking from some cookbooks we enjoy, along with our special guest, Halle’s boyfriend Jeremy! Plus what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Episode 74 – Our Favorite Bookish Places
Ann’s picks:
Zahav: A World of Israeli Cooking by Michael Solomonov and Steven Cook (buy from Bookshop)
– Jerusalem by Yottom Ottolenghi and Sami Tamimi (buy from Bookshop)
– Zahav (restaurant)
Chinese Soul Food: A Friendly Guide for Homemade Dumplings, Stir-Fries, Soups, and More by Hsia...2020-08-151h 12Well-ReadWell-Read Episode #76 - Tackling Our TBRs Part IIWe love assigning each other books, so this week we picked books from each other’s massive TBRs (that’s “to be read”) so we could finally check them off our lists. Opinions ensue. We’ll end with what we’re reading this week!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo (buy from Bookshop)
Episode 29 – Tackling Our TBRs
ALA RUSA CODES Reading List
Ann’s picks:
A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab (buy from Bookshop)
– V.E. Schwab books2020-08-011h 17Well-ReadWell-Read Episode #75 - What We Read On Our Summer Vacation2020-07-181h 03Well-ReadWell-Read Episode #74 - Our Favorite Bookish PlacesWhen your eyes need a break from all that reading, why not go to a bookish place? We’re discussing some of our personal favorites this week, and we’ll end with what we’re reading.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
The New York Public Library (New York, NY)
The Morgan Library & Museum (New York, NY)
Jane Austen books
Charles Dickens books
Hamilton (musical)
Beautiful (musical)
Strand Book Store (New York, NY)
Tana French books
The British Library (London, UK)
Angela Carter books
The B...2020-07-0454 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #73 - Books to Read after Binge-watching
If you’re anything like the rest of the quarantined, you’ve been doing a lot of binge-watching over the past few months. We have book suggestions for when you max out on your favorite show but still want more. And, of course, we’ll end by what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Alias (TV)
The Office (TV)
CHiPS (TV)
Diff’rent Strokes (TV)
The Brady Bunch Variety Hour (TV)
Ann’s picks:
Sex and Vanity by Kevin Kwan (buy from Books...2020-06-201h 02Well-ReadWell-Read Episode #72 - Fiction by Black AuthorsWe're not experts on advising which books will make you antiracist (please seek those experts out!), but we can use our platform to promote the works of black authors that we've enjoyed. We're committed to reading and talking about more books by diverse authors, and we hope you'll do the same. As always, we end with what we're reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson (buy from Bookshop)
How We Fight for Our Lives by Saeed Jones (buy from Bookshop)
Ann’s picks:...2020-06-061h 03Well-ReadWell-Read Episode #71 - Beach ReadsWith summer just around the corner, it’s time to revisit one of our favorite topics: the perfect book for a long, lazy day by the water. Check out our beach read picks, and find out what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Episode 1 – Beach Reads
The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov (buy from Bookshop)
Ann’s picks:
The Hurricane Sisters by Dorothea Benton Frank (buy from Bookshop)
– Dorothea Benton Frank books
Six Years by Harlan Coben (buy from Bookshop)
– Myron Bolita...2020-05-231h 04Well-ReadWell-Read Episode #70 - Our Favorite Audiobook NarratorsFrequent listeners of the podcast will know that we’re both big audiobook listeners, and we’re sharing some of our favorite narrators and the books that represent their work. As always, we’ll end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Audie Awards
The Turn of the Screw by Henry James, narrated by Emma Thompson
Authorized: Love and Romance (podcast)
Reese Witherspoon filmography
Jim Dale audiobooks
Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling
Ann’s pick:
Rosalyn Landor
– The Mis...2020-05-0855 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #69 - Little WomenBy listener request, we’re doing a deep dive of Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women and the new film adaptation! And of course, we’ll end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Little Women (2019 film)
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott (buy from Bookshop)
Little Women (1994 film)
Little Women (1933 film)
Little Women (1949 film)
Little Women (1978 TV)
Little Women (2017 TV)
Little Women (2018 film)
Florence Pugh filmography
Laura Dern filmography
Big Little Lies (TV)
Susan Sarandon filmography
Chri...2020-04-251h 06Well-ReadWell-Read Episode #68 - Out of Our Comfort Zones Part IIIOne of our favorite episode series is back! We’re stretching ourselves by reading books out of our comfort zones, for better or for worse. As always, we’ll end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem, and Madness (TV)
Ann’s picks:
Magic Bites by Ilona Andrews
– Kate Daniels series by Ilona Andrews
– Fever series by Karen Marie Moning
Space Opera by Catherynne M. Valente
– Eurovision Song Contest
– “Waterloo” by ABBA (song)
The Duchess Deal by Tessa Dare
– The Govern...2020-04-1159 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #67 - Comfort ReadsWith the world in its current state, who doesn't need a comfort read? We're discussing what we look for when we turn to books in difficult times, and we'll end with what we're reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ann’s picks:
Magpie Murders by Anthony Horowitz
- Hercule Poirot series by Agatha Christie
- Foyle's War (TV)
- Midsomer Murders (TV)
- Moonflower Murders by Anthony Horowitz
- The Sentence is Death by Anthony Horowitz
- The Word is Murder by Anthony Ho...2020-03-2845 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #66 - Spring/Summer 2020 PreviewWe’re so excited to talk about the books we’re looking forward to this spring and summer (there are soooooooooo many!) And we’ll finish with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Public Library Association (PLA) Conference 2020
We Ride Upon Sticks by Quan Barry
Episode 58 – Witches
The Heir Affair by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan
The Royal We by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan
Episode 63 – Royal Reads
Ann’s picks:
My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell
In Five Years by Rebec...2020-02-2956 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #65 - Love StoriesIn honor of Valentine’s Day, we’re talking about books that grapple with love in all its sweet, messy, delicate, difficult, and wonderful forms. As always, we’ll end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Ann’s picks:
Less by Andrew Sean Greer
– Pulitzer Prize
The Only Story by Julian Barnes
– Episode 61 – Favorite Reads of 2019
– The Graduate (film)
The Upside of Unrequited by Becky Albertalli
– Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli
– J.R.R. Tolkein books
– Leah on the Offbeat by Bec...2020-02-1551 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #64 - Book Tourism: France!As part of our Book Tourism series, we’re headed to France! Find out which books we turn to when we want to feel très chic. And of course, we’ll end with what we’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Episode 52 – Book Tourism: Southeast Asia
ALA Midwinter Conference
ALA RUSA CODES Reading List
The Passengers by John Marrs
Ann’s picks:
Paris Letters by Janice MacLeod
– Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
– Daniel Craig filmography
– Janice MacLeod’s Etsy shop
Nana ...2020-02-0155 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #63 - Royal ReadsWith so much royal drama in the news right now, we can't help but share our picks for some royal reads. As always, we'll end with what we're reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
The Royal We by Jessica Morgan and Heather Cocks
The Crown (TV)
Go Fug Yourself (blog)
The Heir Affair by Jessica Morgan and Heather Cocks (releases June 16, 2020)
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuinton
Lauren Graham filmography
Mae Whitman filmography
Ann’s picks:
The Wrath and th...2020-01-1958 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #62 - 2019 Wrap-up and 2020 ResolutionsHappy New Year! Ann and Halle look back at their 2019 reading and make some plans for 2020. They end with what they’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Goodreads
ALA RUSA CODES Reading List
POPSUGAR 2020 Reading Challenge
Book Riot’s 2020 Read Harder Challenge
Litsy
Modern Mrs. Darcy 2020 Reading Challenge
What Should I Read Next? (podcast)
2020 Reading Women Challenge
Helen Oyeyemi books
#bookstagram on Instagram
Dewey’s 24-Hour Readathon
24in48 Readathon
Book Riot 2020 Reading Log
War and Peace by Leo T...2020-01-0455 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #61 - Favorite Books of 20192019-12-211h 22Well-ReadWell-Read Episode #60 - Books for DecemberWe’re getting into the spirit of the season and talking about books to read in December. Afterward, we discuss what we’re reading this week. Happy Holidays from your friends at Well-Read!
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Hallmark Countdown to Christmas
Ann’s picks:
Blue Christmas by Mary Kay Andrews
– Weezie and Bebe series by Mary Kay Andrews
– Savannah Blues by Mary Kay Andrews
– Savannah Breeze by Mary Kay Andrews
– Schitt’s Creek (TV)
– Christmas Bliss by Mary Kay Andrews
We Are Okay by Nina LaCour
– Mic...2019-12-0747 minWell-ReadWell-Read Happy Thanksgiving!Sorry, everyone, but we were unable to record an episode this week. We will be back in two weeks with books about Christmas!
2019-11-2300 minWell-ReadWell-Read Episode #59 - Page to ScreenAnn and Halle once again tackle one of their very favorite bookish topics: books that have been adapted for the screen.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
Big Little Lies (TV)
"Books Boost Movie and Television Adaptation Success" (blog article)
Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (film)
Box Office Mojo
2019-11-091h 01Well-ReadWell-Read Episode #58 - Witchy BooksIn this very special Halloween episode, Ann and Halle discuss why witches are having a moment and suggest some spellbinding books for the season. They end with what they’re reading this week.
Books and other media mentioned in this episode:
The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (TV)
Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer
Ann’s picks:
How to Hang a Witch by Adriana Mather
We Ride Upon Sticks by Quan Barry
– Emilio Estevez movies
– Heathers (film)
– The Craft (film)
– The Breakfast Club (film)
– Stranger Things (TV)
– The Worst Witch by Jill Murphy...2019-10-261h 06