Meagan's Book Club Podcast

Hi friends! Today is a little mid-month check-in where we’re chatting about all the things — the books that are working for me this month, the ones that unfortunately were not, what I’m currently reading, and yes… my very random run-in with an A-list celebrity last year that still feels slightly surreal. Also, can we talk about Remarkably Bright Creatures hitting Netflix?!

In today’s episode, I’m joined by bestselling author Mikki Brammer to talk all about her highly anticipated new novel, Good Joy, Bad Joy. After the incredible success of her debut, The Collected Regrets of Clover, Mikki shares what it really looked like behind the scenes to bring her second book to life—from pivoting mid-process to embracing the slower, messier reality of writing.
We dive into her approach to storytelling, the pressures (and expectations) of the publishing world, and how she’s learned to stay grounded and “go with the flow” through it all. Mikki also opens up about the role grief plays in both of her novels, offering thoughtful insight and meaningful advice on how we can better support others navigating loss.
And be sure to stick around—there’s a special audio clip from our conversation waiting for you at the end of the episode.

Website: https://www.mikkibrammer.com/
IG: @mikkibrammer

Step inside the charm of Middleburg Books with shop owner Mary Beth Morell as we talk about the heart behind her beloved bookstore. From the “why” that inspired her to open its doors three years ago to the intentional, cozy atmosphere she dreamed of creating, Mary Beth shares what makes both her shop—and Middleburg, Virginia—so special.
We also reminisce about our unforgettable “book tasting” during the Luxury Reading Retreat (truly a highlight of the trip!) and chat about her hopes for the future of the store. This conversation felt every bit as magical as the shop itself.
Website: https://www.middleburgbooks.com/
IG: @middleburgbooks

In this episode, I’m joined by audiobook narrator Sean Patrick Hopkins for such a fun and insightful conversation about his journey into the world of narration. From his background in theater and television to narrating over 600 audiobooks, Sean shares how he found his voice—literally—in this unique space.
We talk about his deep love of reading (especially horror ), what it’s like to narrate alongside his wife and fellow narrator Patricia Santomasso, and the thoughtful process he goes through when approaching a new book. Sean also opens up about the responsibility he feels to honor an author’s voice and bring their story to life for listeners.
This was such a great conversation, and I think you’re really going to enjoy it.

The Things Sean Mentioned:
The Other by Annie Neugebauer
The Boatman by Alex Grecian
Tender is the Flesh by Agustina Bazterrica
Narrator to seek out: Frank Muller
www.narratorsroadmap.com as a resource for new audiobook narrators
LISTEN! to audiobooks!
Try sitting with a book for 1-2 hours and read aloud. How does that feel? Can you then yourself sustaining for 6-8 hours?

April brought a mix of standout reads, unexpected favorites, and a few that missed the mark. In this episode, I’m sharing my full monthly wrap-up—diving into what worked, what didn’t, and the stories that stayed with me long after the final page. Whether you’re building your next reading list or just love hearing about books, this is a full recap of my April reading life.

Favorites
🎧 Start at the End ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Burning Side ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎧 Good Joy, Bad Joy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Likes
🎧 Ms Mebel Goes Back to the Chopping Block ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎧 Mercy Hill ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎧 Dark is When the Devil Comes ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

Just Okays
🎧 The Name Game ⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎧 Go Gentle ⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Mother-in-Law Book Club ⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎧 Yesteryear ⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎧 You Can Tell Me ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Someone Else’s Husband ⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎧 Our Perfect Storm ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Meh
Nine Lives ⭐️⭐️💫