Shows
Bookreporter Talks ToKaira Rouda: Jill is Not HappyKaira Rouda talks to Carol Fitzgerald about her latest thriller, JILL IS NOT HAPPY. Note: Kaira IS very happily married to her husband, Harley, which is something you need to know as you read this book. Kaira did get the idea for the novel when she and Harley went to Utah during the pandemic. She saw that the landscape there could lend itself to a number of terrifying moments as her characters, Jill and Jack, head off on a weekend road trip together. Jill wants time with her husband. Jack does not want to go but does...2025-06-2047 minBookreporter Talks ToJeanine Cummins: Speak to Me of HomeJeanine Cummins joins Carol Fitzgerald to discuss her new novel, SPEAK TO ME OF HOME, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. She shares her inspiration for the book and talks about the significance of home. What does it mean to different people and to different generations? Jeanine and Carol point out that we go through life either as passengers or as those who “control the wheel of the bus.” There is a family tree in the front of the book, which is helpful in following the story — and Jeanine shows its beautiful design. Our Latest “Bookreporter Talks To...2025-06-161h 08Bookreporter Talks ToJulie Clark: The GhostwriterJulie Clark joins Carol Fitzgerald to discuss her latest thriller, THE GHOSTWRITER, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. Julie shares how she approached writing this book, including how a ghostwriter tackles a subject and handles the storytelling. She also talks about her process, which includes early mornings of writing, and why she will never be a book-a-year author. Julie’s character had some unexpected challenges that derailed her career, and she explains how these obstacles upped the stakes for her. Our Latest “Bookreporter Talks To” Interviews: Lori Foster: https://youtu.be/GScWl6dBexk Chri...2025-06-1346 minBookreporter Talks ToLori Foster: The Guest CottageLori Foster joins Carol Fitzgerald to discuss her latest novel, THE GUEST COTTAGE, which kicks off her Firefly Summer series. She explains how she developed the book, including the first idea that came to her, and where she sees the series headed. Fittingly, they talk about their mutual fascination with fireflies. Lori also shares information about her very successful “Reader & Author Get Together” event, and how it has grown and changed through the years. Our Latest “Bookreporter Talks To” Interviews: Chris Pavone: https://youtu.be/8icmR8CaYBk Janet Skeslien Charles: https://youtu.be/-X7szSaX-DE2025-06-1357 minBookreporter Talks ToChris Pavone: The DoormanChris Pavone joins Carol Fitzgerald to discuss his latest thriller, THE DOORMAN, a Bookreporter Bets On selection that is being called a modern-day BONFIRE OF THE VANITIES, which is spot-on. Chris talks about the book’s setting, the Bohemia, which drew inspiration from the building where he now lives. He had long conversations with Johnny, one of the building’s doormen, and shares what their friendship brought to the story. The novel takes place over just a day, looking at the doorman and a couple of the building’s personnel, as well as the occupants of two apartm...2025-05-301h 20Bookreporter Talks ToJanet Skeslien Charles: The Parisian ChapterJanet Skeslien Charles joins Carol Fitzgerald to discuss THE PARISIAN CHAPTER, an audio original novel with a multi-cast recording. Pauline Chalamet and 10 other voice actors perform. Janet talks about the structure of the story, which provides listeners with a wonderful audio experience, and how she wrote to have the script work for an audiobook. She also praises the narrators who introduce each character, making this a brilliant gateway audio for those who have never listened in the past. Our Latest “Bookreporter Talks To” Interviews: Nita Prose: https://youtu.be/sq4T8qGV5ko Katy...2025-05-2754 minBookreporter Talks ToVictoria Christopher Murray: Harlem RhapsodyVictoria Christopher Murray joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about HARLEM RHAPSODY, which is her first solo historical novel (she has written New York Times bestsellers with her co-author, Marie Benedict). She explains why she chose to write about the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s and shares her extensive research, which included reading issues of The Crisis, the official magazine of the NAACP, and her wonderful finds of letters and other works that helped to bring this story together. Victoria speaks of admiring Jessie Redmon Fauset and her education and career success, as well as what happened later in...2025-05-1656 minBookreporter Talks ToNita Prose: The Maid's SecretNita Prose joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about THE MAID’S SECRET, her last book featuring Molly the Maid. She shares that she did not set out to write a series, but once the first book was finished, it was clear that there was more to Molly’s story. Nita enjoyed developing a voice for Gran in this novel; in the prior installments, everything about Gran came to readers from Molly. She muses about “the egg,” which was referenced throughout the series as the nest egg, and how that had real implications in this final book. And yes, Nita reveals w...2025-04-2456 minBookreporter Talks ToKaty Hays: SaltwaterKaty Hays joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her latest novel, SALTWATER, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. The book is set on the island of Capri and has the same vibes as “The White Lotus.” Katy explains the origins of the novel, as well as how the story grew and why she told it from the points of view of multiple characters, alternating between “Then” and “Now.” She also discusses her research on Capri and why it was the perfect place to set the novel. The audiobook has three narrators, and Katy shares why she feels they worked to be...2025-04-101h 05Bookreporter Talks ToGeorgia Hunter: One Good ThingGeorgia Hunter, author of the New York Times bestseller WE WERE THE LUCKY ONES, joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her latest novel, ONE GOOD THING. Georgia explains why she chose to set the book in Italy and the research trip that she took there with her mother, which was such a special time for her. She and Carol discuss what it must be like to live in a world where at any moment someone might be a friend or an enemy, and how a journey without a destination that you thought would be safe would be such a d...2025-04-041h 12Bookreporter Talks ToJeff Hobbs: Seeking ShelterJeff Hobbs has been on Carol Fitzgerald’s radar since she first interviewed him 11 years ago at a pre-publication event for THE SHORT AND TRAGIC LIFE OF ROBERT PEACE. So, she was happy to catch up with him about his latest work, SEEKING SHELTER: A Working Mother, Her Children, and a Story of Homelessness in America, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. Jeff explains how he approached the book and why he wrote it through the eyes of three characters: Evelyn, Wendi, and Evelyn’s teenage son, Orlando. He discusses writing it as reconstructive journalism and why...2025-03-201h 21Bookreporter Talks ToClare Leslie Hall: Broken CountryClare Leslie Hall joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her New York Times and Sunday Times bestseller, BROKEN COUNTRY, which is both a Reese’s Book Club selection and a Barnes & Noble Book Club pick, as well as a Bookreporter Bets On title. Clare explains the early inspiration for the novel and shares that she worked on it for four years, coming back to it again and again. She discusses the layers of the story while being careful not to reveal any spoilers. The setting is such a big part of the book, as well as the charac...2025-03-131h 03Bookreporter Talks ToCharmaine Wilkerson: Good DirtCharmaine Wilkerson talks to Carol Fitzgerald about her latest novel, GOOD DIRT, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. She explains how the character of Ebby Freeman came to her, and from there the idea of the clay jar that has been in the family for generations. Charmaine shares the research she conducted about the work of slaves in the South who created pottery with clay, tracing how an item like this could have made its way from the South to Connecticut with slaves who worked on sailing vessels. And she muses that what happened to Ebby would have...2025-03-0459 minBookreporter Talks ToMarie Benedict: The Queens of CrimeMarie Benedict joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her latest book, THE QUEENS OF CRIME, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. Marie read classic women’s mysteries at a young age, as she was introduced to them by her aunt. Her love for the genre influenced this book, as well as her earlier work, THE MYSTERY OF MRS. CHRISTIE. Marie discusses the case that the five crime writers in the novel set out to unravel, explains why a case like this might have taken long to solve, and talks more about the legendary Detection Club. She also shares wh...2025-02-211h 04Bookreporter Talks ToJoseph Finder: The Oligarch's DaughterJoseph Finder joins Carol Fitzgerald to discuss his latest thriller, THE OLIGARCH’S DAUGHTER, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. Joe talks about writing the novel’s two time frames and how the awareness of what oligarchs are has become a lot more timely in the past few years. He did some wilderness training for part of the book, and then vaulted to learn more about superyachts that are owned by the uber-wealthy. Joe explains the process of building his characters and what drives them. And yes, he shares what is next for him. Our Latest “Bookre...2025-02-1351 minBookreporter Talks ToScott Turow: Presumed GuiltyScott Turow joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about his latest legal thriller, PRESUMED GUILTY. This Bookreporter Bets On selection marks the return of Rusty Sabich, following his starring roles in PRESUMED INNOCENT and INNOCENT. Scott explains his decision to write the book and why this may be the last time we see Rusty as a protagonist in one of his novels. He also shares the reason that he chose to make Aaron a young Black man who was adopted by white people. Scott and Carol talk about the mantle of “accused murderer” and what that means to a pe...2025-01-301h 33Bookreporter Talks ToMichelle Horton: Dear Sister: A Memoir of Secrets, Survival, and Unbreakable BondsMichelle Horton joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about DEAR SISTER: A Memoir of Secrets, Survival, and Unbreakable Bonds, which has just released in paperback with bonus content and is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. Michelle shares the harrowing story of how her sister, Nikki, a victim of domestic violence for years, was imprisoned after she killed her long-time partner. Two police officers knocked on Michelle’s door one night and told her that she needed to come to the station to take Nikki’s two- and four-year-old children to her home. She explains what that meant for her --- and...2025-01-2955 minBookreporter Talks ToTracey Lange: What Happened to The McCrays?Tracey Lange joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her latest family-themed novel, WHAT HAPPENED TO THE McCRAYS?, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. Tracey introduces readers to Kyle and Casey McCray, a divorced couple who are very much estranged. As Kyle returns home to Potsdam, New York, for a family emergency, their shared past haunts them in a way that gives them a chance to come back to one another. But life gets in the way, again and again. There’s middle-school hockey, which I never thought of as a way to bring a couple together, as...2025-01-2441 minBookreporter Talks ToLisa Genova: More or Less MaddyLisa Genova joins Carol Fitzgerald to discuss her latest novel, MORE OR LESS MADDY, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. Lisa shares what drew her to write about a young woman with bipolar disorder and her research on the subject, which included conversations with people who have been diagnosed with it. She talks about how both the diagnosis and the treatment of bipolar disorder can be challenging; there is not one way to treat it, and treatment takes time. Maddy longs to be a stand-up comedian, and Lisa explains how she learned more about that topic...2025-01-171h 03Bookreporter Talks ToFiona Davis: The Stolen QueenFiona Davis joins Carol Fitzgerald to discuss her eighth novel, THE STOLEN QUEEN, which is set in Egypt in 1936 and New York City in 1978. The iconic New York building that is featured in this book, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection, is the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Fiona and Carol talk about the King Tut exhibit, as well as the Met Gala and how it has changed through the years. And yes, they share an admiration for Diana Vreeland. Fiona also reveals many details about her research, and she notes a book for further reading. Our...2025-01-0651 minBookreporter Talks To2024 Bookreporter Bets On Selections: Books We're Betting You'll LoveCarol Fitzgerald shares commentary about her 40 Bookreporter Bets On selections from 2024. These are books that she is betting Bookreporter readers will love! (* means a video/podcast interview with that author is available.) The Women by Kristin Hannah * The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali * First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston * Summers at the Saint by Mary Kay Andrews * Husbands & Lovers by Beatriz Williams * The Days I Loved You Most by Amy Neff * The Stolen Child by Ann Hood * Long After We Are...2024-12-161h 10Bookreporter Talks To"Bookaccino Live": Our Reviewers' Top Book Picks of 2024Carol Fitzgerald and Tom Donadio talked to seven Bookreporter reviewers about two of their favorite books of 2024. Our guests were Kate Ayers, Harvey Freedenberg, Pamela Kramer, Bronwyn Miller, Rebecca Munro, Ray Palen and Stuart Shiffman. Four reviewers — Sarah Rachel Egelman, Megan Elliott, Eileen Zimmerman Nicol and Norah Piehl — were not able to join us, so we presented their top picks and their comments about them in a slideshow. Their selections cover a wide variety of genres, and there may be a few books you haven’t heard of that you will want to check out. You can see a l...2024-12-121h 05Bookreporter Talks ToSharon Virts: The Grays of TruthCarol Fitzgerald talks to Sharon Virts about her latest historical mystery, THE GRAYS OF TRUTH. This Bookreporter Bets On selection was inspired by true events involving one of Baltimore’s most powerful families. Sharon discusses why the Reconstruction era is such a poignant time in American history. She also explains the challenges of creating Jane, her protagonist, and the Edgar Allan Poe quotes that lead off sections of the book. In addition to giving us hints about what is next for her, Sharon talks about the work of the Selma Farm Foundation, as well as the large online book cl...2024-11-191h 14
Periodic Table of Death and MysteryIron Ore, the Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, and the Periodic Table of Death and MysteryIn 1975, an obscure Iron ore ship disappeared under the waters of Lake Superior, but the tale of its last voyage became immortalized in 1976 by the singer Gordon Lightfoot as The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. It’s a heartfelt ballad that transports the listener into the gales of November and leaves them aching for the Fitz’s lost crew.2024-11-1007 minBookreporter Talks ToPaula Hawkins: The Blue HourPaula Hawkins joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her latest novel, THE BLUE HOUR, which is November’s “Good Morning America” Book Club pick and a Bookreporter Bets On selection. She discusses her inspiration for the book’s setting, which she had when she was on vacation, as well as her love of art. The characters and the way they move in and out of each other’s lives is key to the storylines, and she explains how their roles changed as the book went on. Paula also shares where the title came from and what she loves about the cover...2024-11-0545 minBookreporter Talks ToSusan Rieger: Like Mother, Like MotherSusan Rieger joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her latest novel, LIKE MOTHER, LIKE MOTHER, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. She shares what drove her to write this book and why it is structured as a mystery, with the feel of literary Russian nesting dolls. Susan also reveals which was her favorite character to write and discusses the use of genealogy, as well as DNA. And she talks about what it was like to start writing fiction late in life. Our Latest “Bookreporter Talks To” Interviews: Jean Hanff Korelitz: https://youtu.be/EI-7XRrR...2024-10-291h 07Bookreporter Talks ToJean Hanff Korelitz: The SequelJean Hanff Korelitz joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her latest book, THE SEQUEL, the appropriately titled follow-up to THE PLOT. In it, Anna, the widow of Jacob Finch Bonner, is enjoying the riches of being a literary widow and has written a debut novel called THE AFTERWORD. But, ah, Anna has a secret to hide. Jean shares the fun she had layering wry humor into the book, as well as how she satirizes the publishing industry in juicy detail. Yes, there is film news talk, as well as what’s next for Jean. Our Latest “Bookreporter Talk...2024-10-071h 03Bookreporter Talks ToLaura Dave: The Night We Lost HimLaura Dave talks to Carol Fitzgerald about her latest novel, THE NIGHT WE LOST HIM, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. At the heart of this story is a secret that has been hidden for years — one that may have caused the death of Liam Noone, a successful hotel magnate. Nora, his daughter from one of his marriages, is convinced by Sam, his son from another marriage, to join together to see if his death was accidental or something more sinister. Laura talks about Liam’s unique hotel properties and what inspired them, and how research finds i...2024-09-2454 minBookreporter Talks ToChris Whitaker: All The Colors of The DarkChris Whitaker joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about his New York Times bestseller, ALL THE COLORS OF THE DARK, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. Chris explains how he developed the book by spending a year writing just dialogue to get a feel for his characters, Patch and Saint. Once he had a good grasp of their voices, he could write around that. Chris went through trauma in his youth that overshadowed his life, and it fueled his writing here. He shares how he researches the locations that he uses in his novels and talks about the joy o...2024-08-231h 01Bookreporter Talks ToT.J. Newman: Worst Case ScenarioT.J. Newman joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about WORST CASE SCENARIO, her third thriller to be a Bookreporter Bets On selection (following FALLING and DROWNING). T.J. shares how she came up with the idea for this book and the research that was required (including a detail that Carol saw to be totally plausible). She discusses her character development and why she feels Joe Morton is the perfect narrator for the audiobook. We also hear about T.J.’s close relationship with her agent and how they work together. Our Latest “Bookreporter Talks To” Interviews: Dawn Tr...2024-08-151h 07Bookreporter Talks ToDawn Tripp: JackieDawn Tripp joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her book, JACKIE, a Bookreporter Bets On pick that novelizes the life of the legendary Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis. A rare photograph, which became the cover of the book, inspired Dawn’s writing as much as the reading that she did. Along with books about Jackie, she read books that had been some of Jackie’s favorites. Carol and Dawn point out that while Jackie had always been looked upon as a style icon, her contributions were so much broader. They commiserate about how Jackie defined her style early --- and...2024-08-091h 02Bookreporter Talks ToAmy Neff: The Days I Loved You MostAmy Neff joins Carol Fitzgerald to discuss THE DAYS I LOVED YOU MOST, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. Amy talks about her 10-year journey to write this beautiful debut novel and the influences that she had for it. She expounds upon why she chose the time frame that she did for the storyline and what she changed along the way. Amy also shares the story behind the artwork on the stunning cover and what it means to her. Book groups will want to consider this book for a discussion! Our Latest “Bookreporter Talks To” In...2024-08-0157 minBookreporter Talks ToBeatriz Williams: Husbands and LoversBeatriz Williams joins Carol Fitzgerald to discuss her new novel, HUSBANDS & LOVERS, which is a Bookreporter Bets On pick. Here, for the first time, she sets one of her story threads in the present day, while the other takes place in 1950s Cairo. Beatriz loves reading about history and actually began developing the older storyline before moving over to the later one. Readers of THE SUMMER WIVES will note at least one character who finds his place in HUSBANDS & LOVERS. Carol asks about Beatriz’s inspiration for Monk, the rock star in the book, as well as the iconic br...2024-07-261h 08Bookreporter Talks ToCaro Carver: Bad TouristsCaro Carver joins Carol Fitzgerald to discuss her debut thriller, BAD TOURISTS, which is a Bookreporter Bets On pick. Her inspiration for the book came from a trip to the Maldives. It seems like an idyllic setting, but one where a lot more nefarious things might happen. Caro talks about her three characters, who are bound together by a past event, and why she chose a “divorce trip” as the reason for all of them to get away. She also explains how another couple on vacation at the resort worked for her storytelling. Caro shares a lot about her writ...2024-07-191h 12Bookreporter Talks ToMarjan Kamali: The Lion Women of TehranMarjan Kamali joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her latest novel, THE LION WOMEN OF TEHRAN, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. We are told the genesis of the story and how Marjan built on it from there. She delves into her personal history coming to the US as a child and what it means to be a “lion woman.” We learn about how class and culture mattered in the relationship between Ellie and Homa, as well as how motherhood would change Homa. Marjan also discusses how she parsed some of the story to add intrigue --- and what...2024-07-101h 02Bookreporter Talks ToLisa Wingate: ShelterwoodLisa Wingate joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her latest work of historical fiction, SHELTERWOOD, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. She explains the origin of the story, a piece she found about a woman named Kate Barnard that sent her down a rabbit hole of learning more about the children known as “elf children” who lived in trees. They typically were Native American children who were sought after for the land rights that they owned after the Dawes Act went into effect as they were landowners. Lisa grew up in Eastern Oklahoma where the book is s...2024-06-131h 12Bookreporter Talks ToRuth Reichl: The Paris NovelRuth Reichl joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about THE PARIS NOVEL, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. The concept for this book was born from a section in SAVE ME THE PLUMS, Ruth’s 2019 memoir, which prompted her longtime editor, Susan Kamil, to ask for a novel with that as a starting-off point. Ruth talks about why she set the book in the 1980s, as travel then was so different from what it is now. Yes, she dined at all the places mentioned in the book and remarks that she is surprised that more has not been written about...2024-06-0636 minBookreporter Talks ToGenevieve Kingston: Did I Ever Tell You?Genevieve “Gwen” Kingston joins Carol Fitzgerald to discuss her memoir, DID I EVER TELL YOU?, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. When Gwen was three years old, her mother, Kristina, was diagnosed with breast cancer; she passed away when Gwen was 11. When Kristina realized that her cancer was terminal, she created a box filled with individual presents for each year through Gwen’s 30th birthday, as well as special occasion notes for events like engagement, marriage and first baby. With just those last three to open, Gwen explored what these treasures had meant to her along the way. 2024-05-271h 09Bookreporter Talks ToTerah Shelton Harris: Long After We are GoneTerah Shelton Harris joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her second novel, LONG AFTER WE ARE GONE, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. Terah explains what heir property is and the research she did about it to inform her story. She talks about developing the plot from four different points of view and her inspiration for that. Terah always knows how a book will end when she begins writing, and she crafts the story towards that conclusion. She reveals who the easiest character was to write --- and who challenged her the most. Terah also shares the meaning...2024-05-211h 09Bookreporter Talks ToAnn Hood: The Stolen ChildAnn Hood joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her latest work of historical fiction, THE STOLEN CHILD, which is a Bookreporter Bets On pick. Ann loves the World War I time period and has researched it through the years. She talks about her travels to World War I battle sites and how her son shares her passion for this history. Her thoughts about the tears she has shed inspired one thread of the storyline. Ann and Carol also touch on some musical references and discuss their shared love of knitting, mistakes and all. Book discussed in this...2024-05-0947 minBookreporter Talks ToMary Kay Andrews: Summers at The SaintMary Kay Andrews returns to “Bookreporter Talks To” to discuss her latest book, SUMMERS AT THE SAINT, with Carol Fitzgerald. She talks about the resort that she modeled The Saint after and how she conducted research there while spending time with a friend. She also touches on the many storylines that are woven so well into this Bookreporter Bets On selection and points out that the novel originally had a different beginning. It is said that “summer begins with MKA,” and Mary Kay explains exactly why this book deserves that moniker and to be read wherever readers are this summer.2024-05-0740 min
Art In FictionElla Fitzgerald & Marilyn Monroe in Can't We Be Friends by Denny S. Bryce & Eliza KnightSend us a textListen in as I chat with Denny S. Bryce and Eliza Knight, co-authors of Can't We Be Friends: A Novel of Ella Fitzgerald and Marilyn Monroe listed in the Music category on Art In Fiction.View the Video on YouTubeHow Denny & Eliza decided to write their novel about Ella Fitzgerald and Marilyn MonroeResearch tidbits that led them into the storyHow both Ella Fitzgerald and Marilyn Monroe changed the face of entertainment, Ella in jazz and Marilyn in filmMarilyn Monroe as one of the first female producersElla Fitzgerald's influence on...2024-04-2846 minBookreporter Talks To"Bookaccino Live" Book Group: Kate MortonKate Morton joined us for April’s “Bookaccino Live” Book Group event to talk about her latest novel, HOMECOMING, a Bookreporter Bets On pick and one of Carol Fitzgerald’s top three books of 2023. At the start of the pandemic, Kate was working on another book in London. When she and her family went to Australia for what was planned as a spring break trip, COVID restrictions led to their living on a small farm south of Melbourne. She set aside that book as she began to be inspired by her surroundings and thus conceived a new plot and story.2024-04-261h 28Bookreporter Talks ToSimone Gorrindo: The WivesSimone Gorrindo, whose debut memoir, THE WIVES, is a Bookreporter Bets On selection, joins Carol Fitzgerald on this episode of “Bookreporter Talks To.” Simone explains how she found her way to writing this book when her husband, an Army Special Ops team member, was assigned to a base in Columbus, Georgia. There she found herself with a group of women who had followed their husbands to this area. Here were wives who had one thing in common: their husbands and their work as soldiers. When the men left town, the women would gather together for support, and any...2024-04-111h 31Bookreporter Talks ToMegan Miranda: Daughter of MineMegan Miranda returns to “Bookreporter Talks To” to talk about her new thriller, DAUGHTER OF MINE, a Bookreporter Bets On selection with Carol Fitzgerald. She shares her inspiration for the book, as well as insight into her creative process. They talk about how she laid out the twists that make the book so special. She loves the narrator for the audio edition Ines del Castillo --- she feels that Ines sets the right tone for the book. Book discussed in this episode: DAUGHTER OF MINE by Megan Miranda: https://www.bookreporter.com/reviews/daug...2024-04-0939 minBookreporter Talks ToAnna Quindlen: After AnnieAnna Quindlen joins Carol Fitzgerald to discuss her latest novel, AFTER ANNIE. The idea for the opening of the book came to Anna in a moment, which she explains. She thought for a while about just writing from the point of view of Ali, Annie’s 13-year-old daughter, but she changed her mind as she realized that she could not see the complete purview of a person that age. Instead, she layered in Annie’s husband, Bill, and her best friend, Annemarie, to give readers a fuller picture of the impact of Annie’s life even after her death. 2024-03-2955 minBookreporter Talks ToTamron Hall: Watch Where They HideTamron Hall, the Emmy Award-winning host and executive producer of the syndicated talk show “Tamron Hall” and the bestselling author of the Jordan Manning series, joins Carol Fitzgerald to discuss her latest thriller, WATCH WHERE THEY HIDE. Tamron shares the genesis of the plot for this second book in the series and why it is set in 2009. She also talks about how she crafts her story, her writing process, and the realism that she brings to the table about how a broadcast journalist works. And yes, she explains how she came up with her character’s name. Author Photo...2024-03-1554 minBookreporter Talks ToBookreporter Talks To... Kristin HannahKristin Hannah was our guest for a very special “Bookreporter Talks To” program. She was in conversation with Bookreporter readers and Carol Fitzgerald about her #1 bestseller, THE WOMEN, which is a Bookreporter Bets On pick. A lot of ground was covered, including Kristin’s inspiration for writing the book, why she felt that now was the right time to tell this story, and how she researched the time period. There was much discussion about the divisiveness of our times now compared to the ’60s. How the Vietnam vets were treated when they returned home was another big focus. A...2024-03-071h 12Bookreporter Talks ToHank Phillippi Ryan: One Wrong Word Hank Phillippi Ryan joins Carol Fitzgerald to discuss her latest thriller, ONE WRONG WORD, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. The idea for this book came from something that happened to Hank when she was 19. She talks about crafting the characters and how she tries to keep readers on top of the action by introducing the characters as chapter titles where they are speaking. Hank always writes organically without an outline; both the characters and the action come to her as she writes. She points to various details in the book and explains why it matters that they are...2024-02-201h 08Bookreporter Talks To“Bookaccino Live” Book Group with Lisa See For our first “Bookaccino Live” Book Group of 2024, Lisa See talks about her most recent book, LADY TAN’S CIRCLE OF WOMEN, with Carol Fitzgerald. She explains how she came to discover Tan Yunxian, a female physician from 15th-century China, and why she decided to write a novel based on her extraordinary life. Two readers, Debbie and Michelle, appeared on camera to ask Lisa about her interest in ancient Chinese medicine and the role of women in it, as well as how a new book idea comes to her. Michelle learned that Lisa’s mother, Carolyn See, wrote a b...2024-01-261h 14Bookreporter Talks ToAshley Elston: First Lie Wins Ashley Elston joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her instant New York Times bestseller, FIRST LIE WINS, which is Reese's Book Club pick for January and a Bookreporter Bets On selection. Ashley shares how she came to write this book and why the time was right for her to work on it. She explains what she learned about storytelling from the decade she spent as a wedding photographer, as well as her time writing YA novels, where readers keep authors on their toes. Ashley wrote the start of the book, and it looks much like what people a...2024-01-1954 minBookreporter Talks ToAmanda Peters: The Berry PickersAmanda Peters joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her breakout hit debut novel, THE BERRY PICKERS, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. Amanda, who is a mixed-race of Mi’kmaq and European ancestry, was born and raised in Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia. She explains how a trip with her father to Maine to see the actual site of the blueberry picking that is depicted in the book spurred the story. As he walked her through the fields and showed her the cabin where he and his family had lived during picking season, the story came to her. ...2024-01-1250 minBookreporter Talks ToKatherine Faulkner: The Other MothersKatherine Faulkner talks to Carol Fitzgerald about her latest domestic thriller, THE OTHER MOTHERS, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection (as was her previous book, GREENWICH PARK). They talk about her protagonist Tash, who, like Katherine, was a full-time journalist; she is on the prowl for a great story to jumpstart her freelance career. Tash learns about the unsolved murder of a nanny, whose charge was the daughter of one of the cool and sophisticated group of mothers who Tash has met at her son Finn's school. Katherine shares how she wrote this book and what w...2024-01-0449 min
Penny for your ShotsCarol Meade on Supporting Mental HealthAs Director of Behavioral Health Services at St. Luke's, Carol Meade is passionate about mental health services. She's served the community for over 30 years, and worked at St. Luke's Hospital for the majority of her career. Her passion for mental health care comes is evident in her work and in the accolades she receives. She was recently honored by Waypoint Services' Women of Achievement in Service to the Community. Three words that describe her are Resilient, Empathic, and Determined. She's also one of my best friends and golfing buddy. We've solved many problems on the...2023-12-2858 min
Room for ImprovementDriving with CarolEPISODE 18 ⚡️🚘️ and it's the December special!! Before Danny and Justin retake their driving tests, they invite Carol of Kings Driving School into their Room for Improvement to chat slow drivers, speeding points & theory tests 🚗 🏁 New episode every Thursday. Extra Patreon episode every Monday. PATREON HERE: https://www.patreon.com/RoomforImprovementPod SOCIALS HERE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rfipod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/rfipod FB: https://www.facebook.com/rfipod/ YouTube: https...2023-12-2854 minBookreporter Talks To2023 Bookreporter Bets On Selections: Books We're Betting You'll LoveCarol Fitzgerald shares commentary about her 44 Bookreporter Bets On selections from 2023. These are books that she is betting Bookreporter readers will love! Podcast interviews are available for the asterisked authors. Carol’s Three Top Titles of 2023 Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See * Homecoming by Kate Morton * The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger * Fiction Go As a River by Shelley Read * Pineapple Street by Jenny Jackson The Leftover Woman by Jean Kwok * Yellowface by R.F. Kuang The Museum of Failures by Thrity Umrigar * The Better Half by Alli Fran...2023-12-151h 33Bookreporter Talks ToNita Prose: The Mystery GuestNita Prose joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about THE MYSTERY GUEST, which is a follow-up to THE MAID. Like her first book, her latest is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. Nita shares the challenges of writing a second novel featuring the same character and how she worked to be sure that the story here was as strong as what she delivered in THE MAID. She explains what this book reveals about her character Molly’s background while still moving the story forward. There also is discussion about including a mystery writer and his fans in the novel. While Nita ha...2023-12-1347 minBookreporter Talks ToFiona Davis: The SpectacularFiona Davis joins Carol Fitzgerald to discuss THE SPECTACULAR, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. Radio City Music Hall is the latest iconic New York City building that Fiona explores. This time, she layers in an additional element as she unearths a story about a habitual bomber who terrorized the city for a more than a decade, targeting well-known locations. A Rockette reached out to Fiona with the idea for the book, and she researched it from there. Adding the bomber pegged the book as a thriller, and Fiona discusses how she approached working to keep the action...2023-12-1248 minBookreporter Talks ToGilly Macmillan: The Manor HouseGilly Macmillan joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her latest thriller, THE MANOR HOUSE. The premise is a fun one as a couple wins the lottery, and they set out to spend their winnings wisely. They first build a beautiful glass house with all the bells and whistles that one might want. It’s just brilliant. But mere pages into the book, one of them is found dead in the swimming pool. What happened? Was it foul play, or was it an accident? This is a book with so many twists and turns, and Gilly had lots of...2023-12-0946 minBookreporter Talks To"Bookaccino Live": Our Reviewers' Top Book Picks of 2023Carol Fitzgerald and Tom Donadio talk to eight Bookreporter reviewers about their top three books of 2023. Narrowing their selections down to just three was a challenge for all of them! You can see the books that they discussed, along with their covers, here: https://www.bookreporter.com/sites/default/files/Bookaccino_Live_Special_Event_Bookreporter_Reviewers_Share_Their_Favorite_Books_of_2023.pdf The order in which they appear: Norah Piehl, Harvey Freedenberg, Rebecca Munro, Pamela Kramer, Ray Palen, Eileen Zimmerman Nicol, Kate Ayers and Stuart Shiffman. A list of all of our reviewers’ Best of 2023 wi...2023-12-071h 28Bookreporter Talks To“Bookaccino Live” Book Group: Dani ShapiroDani Shapiro discusses SIGNAL FIRES for “Bookaccino Live” Book Group moderated by Carol Fitzgerald. Bookreporter readers loved this book and were quick to ask questions about the characters, who drive this story. Dani had put this book away a while ago, and when she came back to it, it was with fresh eyes and a new perspective. She shares why she pivoted in time to tell the story and how the accident that opens the book radiated through the lives of the Wilf family in very different ways. She also explains why Waldo stole a piece of her heart, as w...2023-12-041h 15Bookreporter Talks ToDouglas Brunt: The Mysterious Case of Rudolf Diesel: Genius, Power, and Deception on the Eve of World War IDouglas Brunt joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about THE MYSTERIOUS CASE OF RUDOLF DIESEL: Genius, Power, and Deception on the Eve of World War I, which was an instant New York Times bestseller. Apple Books has selected it as one of the 20 best books of 2023, and it already was named one of the Best History Books of the Year by Audible. Doug talks about the origin of the story, which came about as he bought an older boat, and how his fascination with the character of Rudolf Diesel sprang from there. Many know about Diesel fuel, but few are a...2023-12-0150 minBookreporter Talks ToTess Gerritsen: The Spy CoastTess Gerritsen joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her latest thriller, THE SPY COAST, which kicks off a new series, The Martini Club. Tess shares where she got the idea for this book, which had a very interesting origin. She has visited the international locations where the action takes place, and she discusses how she was able to make those scenes feel so authentic. She did not plot the novel in advance, which is surprising when readers see how well it all came together. Carol thinks this is her best book, and it will be a Bookreporter Bets On s...2023-11-0646 minBookreporter Talks ToJessica Knoll: Bright Young WomenJessica Knoll joins Carol Fitzgerald to discuss her latest novel, BRIGHT YOUNG WOMEN, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. It’s a fictitious look at the victims of a serial killer, based on Ted Bundy, though he is never called by name here. Jessica talks about the structure of the novel, where the crimes that open the book are captured hour by hour and day by day. She explores the three characters in the book, as well as the research that she did to get the right tone and tenor for the story. Jessica realizes that if the vi...2023-10-3052 minBookreporter Talks ToSharon Virts: Veil of DoubtSharon Virts joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her latest novel, VEIL OF DOUBT, a mystery set in 1872. She shares how her love of history helped her to discover this story. She talks about the character of Emily, who is accused of poisoning her daughter, and how she had to learn not only the legalese of the day, but also about chemistry and how poisoning may have happened in that time frame. Sharon needed to stay grounded in what information was available. She researched the trial and learned some interesting things about what went on in court then as o...2023-10-241h 18Bookreporter Talks ToWilliam Kent Krueger: The River We RememberWilliam Kent Krueger joined us for our first-ever LIVE “Bookreporter Talks To” interview to discuss THE RIVER WE REMEMBER. Some of the readers who won the book in a recent Bookreporter contest joined us live with their questions, while Carol Fitzgerald shared questions on behalf of our readers who are camera-shy or were unable to join us live. Please note that there were no spoilers discussed so you can watch or listen even if you have not read the book. We also opened up this program to all readers who wanted to attend live so they could enjoy it. 2023-10-201h 00Bookreporter Talks ToJean Kwok: The Leftover WomanJean Kwok joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about THE LEFTOVER WOMAN. In this book, a young woman named Jasmine had a baby girl. With China's one-child policy in place, her husband tells her the baby died, and instead arranges for an adoption to take place in the US. He wants to have a son as his one child. The baby is adopted by a woman named Rebecca who works at a publishing company. Here Jean shares an "inside baseball" look at that industry, along with the story of the little adopted girl. Jasmine comes to New York undocumented seeking to reu...2023-10-081h 09Bookreporter Talks ToThrity Umrigar: The Museum of FailuresThrity Umrigar joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her latest novel, THE MUSEUM OF FAILURES, which is set in India. It’s a Bookreporter Bets On selection, as was her previous book, HONOR. In it, Remy Wadia has come back to India from his home in Columbus, Ohio, to adopt a child; a young woman who his friends know is pregnant and wants to give up her child. Remy is conflicted about this trip as he has had a long, contentious relationship with his mother, and this is his first time back in India since the death of his fa...2023-10-021h 04Bookreporter Talks To"Bookaccino Live" Book Group with Alice Elliott DarkAlice Elliott Dark discussed her novel, FELLOWSHIP POINT, with Carol Fitzgerald and readers at the September “Bookaccino Live” Book Group event. Members of the audience asked questions both on and off camera about her character development, including Maine as a character. Alice talked about her writing routine and shared insight into the editing process, where 200 pages of the book were winnowed down --- and her focus on Agnes and Polly. The ending of the book came to her quite late; she did not write towards it, and readers felt it was very satisfying. There was continuous talk about the beau...2023-09-291h 05Bookreporter Talks ToAshley Audrain: The WhispersAshley Audrain joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her new domestic thriller, THE WHISPERS, which follows on the heels of her debut, THE PUSH. Both books are Bookreporter Bets On selections. Ashley sets her latest in a neighborhood that is being regentrified. Some homes are remodeled, while others are original to the neighborhood. We follow two moms of young children, Whitney and Blair, as well as Rebecca, an ER nurse who longs to be a mother, and Mara, an older woman who is watching these families grow up. Ashley explains why she created these four characters, as well as...2023-09-251h 10Bookreporter Talks ToJohn Sargent: Turning PagesJohn Sargent joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about his memoir, TURNING PAGES: The Adventures and Misadventures of a Publisher. John spent four decades in the world of publishing and concluded his career in 2020 at Macmillan when he was fired, which completely surprised people in the industry. For years he fought for what he believed was right for authors, readers and the “publishing ecosystem,” the latter of which is a phrase he used again and again. But while this book is about his time in publishing, John touches on so much more. He explains how his boyhood in Wyom...2023-09-191h 30Bookreporter Talks ToSarah Pekkanen: Gone TonightSarah Pekkanen joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her latest thriller, GONE TONIGHT. In this mother/daughter story, a mother will do anything she can to keep her daughter, who is now in her 20s, safe and living near her. She had her daughter as a teen and has been long estranged from her family. The book is told from the points of view of both the mother and the daughter. Sarah talks about ratcheting up the tension while also doing a slow reveal. Parts of the book take place in a memory care unit, and she...2023-09-1451 minBookreporter Talks ToAngie Kim: Happiness FallsAngie Kim joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her new novel, HAPPINESS FALLS, which packs so much between its pages. It’s a family story with a mystery woven through. And much of the book revolves around the young son, Eugene, who has Angelman syndrome --- and what he may know about the disappearance of their father/husband. Angie talks about how long this story was in her head --- more than a decade --- and why she felt that this was the right time to tell it. She notes that she aimed to look at the im...2023-09-121h 25Bookreporter Talks ToMelanie Benjamin: California GoldenMelanie Benjamin joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her latest work of historical fiction, CALIFORNIA GOLDEN. Set in Southern California in the ‘50s and ‘60s, the story is built around Carol --- a prize-winning surfer at a time when women were not big contenders in the sport --- and her two daughters, Mindy and Ginger. Melanie discusses the structure of the book with the daughters’ story coming first, then the mother’s, and finally all of them together. She also delves into how the lives of women have changed over the past decades, as well as her research on surfing...2023-08-281h 03Bookreporter Talks ToShari Lapena: Everyone Here is LyingCarol Fitzgerald talks to Shari Lapena about her latest thriller, EVERYONE HERE IS LYING. Carol has christened Shari “the Queen of the One-Sit Read,” as every time she starts reading one of her books, she does not stop until she finishes. And she is not alone; we are hearing this from other readers. Shari talks about how the book opens and sets the story up, and from there how the neighbors all become part of the plot. The ending will make you stop and say, “That is so perfect.” Shari discusses her writing process, her drafts and early passes on her b...2023-08-1851 minBookreporter Talks ToTracey Lange: The Connellys of County DownCarol Fitzgerald talks to Tracey Lange about her second novel, THE CONNELLYS OF COUNTY DOWN, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. Tracey talks about the Connelly siblings, what she thought was special about each of them, and how her background in behavioral health helped her in developing them and their various situations. The themes of loyalty and love are at the core of this book, and she discusses how they came together. And yes, she explains where she got all the jokes that Conor tells and the story behind the fairy tale. She also touches upon her debut...2023-08-1544 minBookreporter Talks ToNaomi Hirahara: EvergreenNaomi Hirahara joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her latest mystery, EVERGREEN. The story once again features Aki Ito, who readers met in CLARK AND DIVISION. Aki has now moved back to Los Angeles from Chicago where her family was displaced during World War II. Naomi talks about her research for this book, some of which was drawn from relatives, as well as her work over the past decades. She explains how EVERGREEN works well as a stand-alone novel and what brought her and the publisher to call these books Japantown mysteries. Carol shares how they give an insightful lo...2023-08-1457 minBookreporter Talks ToLiz Nugent: Strange Sally DiamondLiz Nugent joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her new thriller, STRANGE SALLY DIAMOND, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. Liz reminds Carol that they spoke in 2017 about her debut, UNRAVELING OLIVER; it was her first interview. She explains how she developed the character of Sally. Carol was astonished to learn that this latest novel was not plotted, but rather written stream-of-consciousness. Liz also talks about letters that were shared with Sally and why they were woven into the story. She notes that while there are a lot of dark things insinuated in the book, they are not...2023-08-041h 06Bookreporter Talks ToAlli Frank and Asha Youmans: The Better HalfAlli Frank and Asha Youmans make a return visit to “Bookreporter Talks To” to share their thoughts on their latest book, THE BETTER HALF — a Bookreporter Bets On selection — with Carol Fitzgerald. They talk about what they brought to their protagonist, Nina Morgan Clarke, who is the first Black female head of the very tony Royal-Hawkins School. Nina quickly learns that, along with being in charge of student life, she must manage a board and lots of parental expectations. Alli shares that she knew this would not be a job for her, though she had thought she did want that rol...2023-07-281h 17Bookreporter Talks ToCarolyn Mackler: The Wife AppCarolyn Mackler joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her first book for adults, THE WIFE APP. Carol was a huge fan of Carolyn’s YA novels, including THE EARTH, MY BUTT, AND OTHER BIG ROUND THINGS; TANGLED; GUYAHOLIC; VEGAN VIRGIN VALENTINE; and LOVE AND OTHER FOUR-LETTER WORDS. Carolyn got the idea for this book talking to her mom friends about the kind of work that typically is handled by women in the family — filling out school forms, arguing with the insurance company, and so much more. In THE WIFE APP, three divorced women join forces to create an app wher...2023-07-2151 minBookreporter Talks ToAdrienne Brodeur: Little MonstersAdrienne Brodeur joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her novel, LITTLE MONSTERS, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. They talk characters — and each shares her favorite — as well as the story’s structure with multiple points of view. Adrienne has spent summers on the Cape for as long as she can remember, and her writing so beautifully about the place gives a clear picture of how much she loves it — and treasures time there. After writing her memoir, WILD GAME, where her mother was a central character, Adrienne noted that the mother is absent in her novel. T...2023-07-1353 min
The Darkened HourAn Interview with Carol Hellermann (The Attempted Hijacking Of American Airlines Flight 1)Carol Hellermann is a former American Airlines flight attendant for Flight 1 in which 3 arab men who argued about not having to fly and only days after 9/11, that those men were planning to crash into the Sears Tower in Chicago on 9/11. Hellermann is speaking out about how there were likely a dozen more planes and targets than the FBI or anyone has ever admitted. Because of employment contract restrictions Hellermann could not speak out about what took place, and since retiring from her 21 years of service she is now speaking out about her experience that day.She also states that...2023-06-2456 minBookreporter Talks ToLisa See: Lady Tan's Circle of WomenLisa See joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her new novel, LADY TAN’S CIRCLE OF WOMEN, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. Lisa explains how she got the idea for this book, inspired by the true story of a woman physician from 15th-century China, which was different from the one she planned to write. She later discovered that Tan Yunxian had written a book, and it had been translated into English. From there, she headed down a rabbit hole of research to ensure that her storytelling was on point. Lisa shares why she writes in the first pers...2023-06-131h 15Bookreporter Talks ToNancy Horan: The House of LincolnNancy Horan joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about her latest work of historical fiction, THE HOUSE OF LINCOLN. Nancy was born in Springfield, Illinois, and always was intrigued by Lincoln and his legacy there. In 2014, she started her research on Lincoln and what the city might have been like during his time. The resulting book is told through the eyes of a fictitious character named Ana Ferreira, who works for the Lincolns. Ana emigrated from Madeira, Portugal, to Springfield by way of Trinidad, which would be a typical journey for a young woman of her time. She b...2023-06-111h 12Bookreporter Talks ToLinwood Barclay: The Lie MakerLinwood Barclay joins Carol Fitzgerald to talk about his latest thriller, THE LIE MAKER. They delve into its theme of witness protection --- and the protagonist Jack’s quest to find his father, who entered the WITSEC program years ago. They talk about witness protection and the interesting role with which Jack is presented. Linwood’s love of cars once again finds its way into this story. He also shares something that he has had in his desk for over 50 years and what it means to him. Carol thinks this is his best book, as does Bookreporter reviewer Ray Pale...2023-05-2434 minBookreporter Talks ToAlice Elliott Dark: Fellowship PointAlice Elliott Dark talks to Carol Fitzgerald about the writing of her book, FELLOWSHIP POINT, which took 20 years to complete. It was one of Carol’s favorite books of 2022, and she read it more slowly than usual, enjoying both the story and the brilliant use of language. Alice shares how the characters evolved and how one had a central role until she saw the story was headed in a different direction. The development of the friendship between Agnes and Polly was one that felt very natural to her, with its ebbs and flows. And the secrets that th...2023-05-181h 33Bookreporter Talks ToKate Morton: HomecomingKate Morton joined Carol Fitzgerald from Australia to talk about her latest New York Times bestseller, HOMECOMING, which is a Bookreporter Bets On selection. During the early days of the pandemic, Kate headed to Australia with her family for what was to be an Easter visit. As they realized that their time there was going to be longer than planned, Kate put aside a manuscript that she was working on. Inspired by the Australian landscape and the idea of her own homecoming, she began this book. In this interview, Kate shares how the story evolved. Beautiful homes, places and la...2023-05-081h 07Bookreporter Talks To"Bookaccino Live" Book Group: Kristin HannahKristin Hannah joined Carol Fitzgerald for a “Bookaccino Live” Book Group discussion of her novel, THE FOUR WINDS. Kristin shared her research process, which consists of a year of reading everything she can get her hands on about her chosen topic --- including memoirs --- to give her insight into the time period. She talked about discovering that Elsa was her protagonist, not her daughter Loreda, and how that meant abandoning hundreds of pages of writing. And she revealed the very interesting way that she came up with the title of the book. Readers chimed in on and off came...2023-04-281h 13Bookreporter Talks ToSusan Patterson and Susan DiLallo: Things I Told My MotherSusan Patterson and Susan DiLallo join Carol Fitzgerald to talk about their novel, THINGS I WISH I TOLD MY MOTHER. Both of them enjoyed life with their mothers, who lived well into their 90s. So they decided to write a fictional title about a mother and daughter duo. In the book, Laurie works in advertising and loves new experiences. Her mom is the famous “Dr. Liz,” an elegant perfectionist who is renowned and receives great praise wherever she goes. They embark on a trip to Paris and Norway (the latter is where Liz grew up). The Susans explained where the...2023-04-101h 05Bookreporter Talks ToRachel Beanland: The House is On FireRachel Beanland, who we interviewed previously about FLORENCE ADLER SWIMS FOREVER, is back to talk to Carol Fitzgerald about THE HOUSE IS ON FIRE, her latest work of historical fiction. This novel reimagines what happened in the Richmond Theater Fire of 1811 through the eyes of four characters. This lively conversation includes Rachel sharing why she selected these people to represent the story and her feelings about each of them. She also explains how this story came to her --- and how she headed down the rabbit hole to research it. The pandemic precluded her writing another book, which would...2023-04-061h 02Bookreporter Talks To"Bookaccino Live" Book Group: Allison PatakiAllison Pataki joined Carol Fitzgerald for a "Bookaccino Live" Book Group discussion about her novel, THE MAGNIFICENT LIVES OF MARJORIE POST. Allison talked about what drew her to write about Marjorie Merriweather Post and how she decided which aspects of Marjorie’s life to share. She also explained how her work as an on-air journalist helped her as she was both researching and discussing the book. The conversation was brisk and fun, with great audience questions, and included what is next for Allison: AMERICAN MUSE, a novel that centers on the life of Margaret Fuller, whose circle included Ralph Wa...2023-03-311h 23Bookreporter Talks ToLisa Scottoline: LoyaltyLisa Scottoline talks to Carol Fitzgerald about her second work of historical fiction, LOYALTY. They cover a lot of ground, talking about the trip to Sicily that inspired the characters and the settings. Before heading there, Lisa had done a lot of research about Italy and the rise of the Mafia, but her travels gave her the opportunity to situate her characters and bring them to the page for readers. They also discuss the book’s structure and why it was done that way. Edoardo Ballerini narrates the audiobook, and Lisa explains why she feels he is so right fo...2023-03-291h 07
Greenbook Podcast54 — The Stepping Stones of Innovation: Navigating Failure and Empathy with Carol FitzgeraldInnovation doesn't come easy – but according to our guest Carol Fitzgerald, CEO of BuzzBack, failure can be the key to successIn this week's episode Carol and Lenny talk about the significance of innovation, team building, and empathy in leadership. Carol shares her experiences of building BuzzBack during the early days of the internet, and encourages taking risks during times of rapid change and technological advancement. She also highlights failure as a crucial component of innovation, and explains how experimentation can benefit both quantitative and qualitative research methods, as well as the broader MRX industry.Yo...2023-03-1333 min
Tendrils of GriefLife After the Death of Your Loved One with Carol FitzgeraldSusan welcomes Carol Fitzgerald to today’s episode. Carol is a vibrant, passionate, fun-loving, young-spirited woman. Through coaching, searching, group settings, and the death of her husband, she learned three very important life lessons late in the game. She has longevity in her family background and since learning these lessons, she wants to live life to its absolute fullest with no regrets and offers ideas in her sixth book Living a Vibrant Life At Any Age: Creating Love, Joy, & Connections in Everyday Moments, including shifting a mindset where everything is neutral and being okay when things don’t work out...2022-07-1836 min
In Lockdown With...Episode 81: Emmy StonelakeEmmy Stonelake is Ciaran's guest on this episode of 'In Lockdown With...' Emmy studied Actor-Musicianship at Rose Bruford college before beginning her career as an actor. In Summer 2021, Emmy directed pieces in the Welsh language by Sgwenwyr Ifanc Fran Wen (Fran Wen Young Writers), and is currently in Gary Owen's adaptation of 'A Christmas Carol' at the Sherman Theatre, where this episode of the podcast was recorded. Here Ciaran finds out more about Emmy and her career. 2021-12-1850 minIn Lockdown With...Episode 75: Hannah McPakeCiaran is joined on this episode of 'In Lockdown With...' by theatre maker Hannah McPake. After studying at the Welsh College of Music & Drama, Hannah founded Gagglebabble with Lucy Rivers, making gig theatre. Hannah has also worked extensively with the Sherman Theatre, performing in many of their Christmas shows, including Wind in the Willows and Alice in Wonderland. Hannah will be playing Scrooge in Gary Owen's adaptation of 'A Christmas Carol' at the Sherman this Christmas. Ciaran chats to Hannah about her career in theatre. 2021-11-0648 min
Friends & FictionS1E5: Patti with Carol Fitzgerald and Robin KallPatti Callahan Henry interviews two longtime publishing industry pros—Carol Fitzgerald of The Book Report Network & Robin Kall of Reading with Robin. Listen in on what it takes to build up an active community of book lovers. https://www.bookreporter.com/. https://www.robinkall.com/reading-with-robin. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
2021-03-1241 min
The Game Changer NetworkCarol Kaemmerer - LinkedIn for the Savvy ExecutiveInterview by Chicke Fitzgerald of the Game Changer Network, showcased on C-Suite Network
Many first impressions are made on LinkedIn, so every business professional must convey his or her personal brand effectively on this platform. LinkedIn for the Savvy Executive, Second Edition, is an award-winning book that combines strategy and action items to ensure that the reader understands and implements the steps that will turn a mediocre profile into a powerful digital ambassador.
Intended for the busy executive reader, the book is beautifully designed and clearly written for easy readability. The behavioral checklist at the end can be used to...2021-01-0243 min
The Game Changer NetworkCarol Sanford-The Responsible EntrepreneurCarol Sanford-The Responsible Entrepreneur: Four Game-Changing Archetypes for Founders, Leaders, and Impact Investors This on demand audio series is a part of the Executive Girlfriends Group Vignette Series. Chicke Fitzgerald interviews Carol Sanford. The original live interview was on 8/14/15. Responsible entrepreneurs are a special breed, seeking to transform industries and even society itself. They challenge and refine cultural assumptions, laws, regulations, and even the processes of governance. This requires them to do and think far beyond what is usually required of business leaders. The Responsible Entrepreneur offers a blueprint for this new kind of business leadership, describing the means by...2019-05-0357 min