Book Riot - The Podcast Episode: Deals Deals Deals for February 2025 [Teaser]
Release Date: February 11, 2025
Hosts: Jeff O'Neal and Rebecca Schinsky

Introduction

In the teaser episode of "Deals Deals Deals for February 2025," hosts Jeff O'Neal and Rebecca Schinsky dive into the exciting world of upcoming book deals. Although this episode serves as a preview of premium content available to Patreon subscribers, it offers a tantalizing glimpse into the latest trends and notable book releases poised to make waves in the literary landscape.

Industry Trends and Observations

Before delving into specific book deals, Jeff and Rebecca discuss overarching trends shaping the publishing industry:

• Diverse Genres on the Rise:
  Jeff: “Tarot decks, queer rom coms, horror all over the place.”
  (00:42)
  The duo highlights the increasing popularity of diverse genres, noting a surge in tarot-inspired content, queer romantic comedies, and a continued fascination with horror narratives.

• Influence of Substack and Content Creators:
  Jeff: “I feel like I'm seeing more Substack-derived book deals...”
  (01:11)
  They observe a trend where established Substack writers are transitioning into book authorship, reflecting a broader shift towards content creators being recognized and adapted into the publishing sphere.

• Evolution of Terminology:
  Jeff: “No longer calling them a YouTuber, Instagram or book talker. That's content creator now.”
  (01:26)
  The hosts discuss the rebranding of digital influencers as "content creators," signaling a more inclusive and professional acknowledgment within the literary market.

Highlighted Book Deals

1. "Myrtle" by GT Carver

• Genre: Puzzle-based Crime

• Description:
  Rebecca: “Is that like Wordle but for murder?”
  (02:13)
  "Myrtle" is a bestselling series that combines the addictive nature of Wordle with intricate murder mystery puzzles. Its success in impulse purchases at major book chains underscores its widespread appeal.

• Future Prospects:
  Jeff: “...we're gonna see not just copycats, but descent with modification from this common ancestor here.”
  (03:05)
  The book's popularity is expected to inspire similar puzzle-based narratives, expanding the genre further.

2. "Bordergrams" by GT Carver

• Genre: Adventure/Strategy Puzzle

• Description:
  Jeff: “Connections meets Settlers of Catan with the Spanish spy themed adventure plot.”
  (03:08)
  "Bordergrams" offers a unique blend of strategic gameplay and intricate storytelling, appealing to fans of both literary connections and strategy games.

• Anticipation:
  Rebecca: “Sign me up.”
  (05:19)
  The promise of a compelling adventure plot has generated significant excitement among listeners.

3. "The Night Side" by Mallory O'Mira

• Genre: Historical Fantasy

• Description:
  Jeff: “Reimagining the life of Catherine Crowe, who falls in love with the Morrigan, a secret society of women harboring a terrible, terrible, terrifying secret.”
  (05:20)
  This novel delves into the struggles of a 19th-century English novelist seeking literary and financial independence, intertwining her journey with a mysterious and powerful female society.

• Unique Appeal:
  Rebecca: “Yeah. Sign me up for that one.”
  (08:43)
  The blend of historical fiction with dark fantasy elements positions "The Night Side" as a standout upcoming release.

4. "Planets in the Sea" by Noah Kiku Lincoln

• Genre: Ecological and Cultural History (Nonfiction)

• Description:
  Jeff: “An ecological and cultural history of Hawaii that intertwines indigenous knowledge and scientific inquiry...”
  (06:00)
  This book explores the intricate relationship between Hawaii's diverse ecosystems and its cultural evolution, offering insights into sustainability and environmental resilience.

• Visual and Intellectual Appeal:
  Rebecca: “I bet it'll have a beautiful cover.”
  (06:02)
  Anticipation is high for both its aesthetic and scholarly contributions.

5. "The Infinite Sadness of Small Appliances" by Glenn Dixon

• Genre: Fiction (Sentient Appliances)

• Description:
  Jeff: “About a household of sentient appliances... confronting the most profound ethical questions facing their humans.”
  (09:07)
  Drawing parallels to classics like "The Brave Little Toaster," this novel anthropomorphizes household items, exploring their consciousness and moral dilemmas.

• Nostalgic Appeal:
  Rebecca: “It's like the Brave Little toaster in the 80s.”
  (09:32)
  The familiar premise combined with modern ethical inquiries makes it a compelling read for fans of both nostalgia and contemporary fiction.

6. "The Immortal Womb" by Kristen B. Brown

• Genre: Investigative Nonfiction

• Description:
  Jeff: “An investigation into the fertility industry and the scientific quest to halt time inside the female body.”
  (09:32)
  This book examines the challenges women face in fertility treatments, questioning whether scientific advancements can alleviate the burdens associated with reproductive health.

• Clarifications and Humor:
  Rebecca: “...first of all, the Vatican has staff writers, and they're doing a book about fertility.”
  (10:23)
  The hosts engage in light-hearted banter regarding the unexpected nature of the author’s background, adding a humorous touch to the discussion.

Additional Mentions

• "Cousin Maine" by Jim Telekis and Sabin Lomax:
  Description: Chronicles the strategies and anecdotes from the founders of Cousin Maine Lobster, focusing on maintaining business relationships within a family-centric workforce.
  (06:33)
  Rebecca: “Running a lobster business sounds super interesting... next level.”
  (06:57)

• "The Pillager's Guide to Arctic Pianos" by Kendra Langford Shaw:
  Genre: Nonfiction
  Description: Explores the discovery of underwater heirloom piano instruments in the Arctic and their cultural significance amid climate change impacts.
  (08:26)
  Rebecca: “Sign me up for that one.”
  (08:43)

• "Google Trends" by Simon Rogers:
  Description: Analyzes extensive data sets to uncover insights about human nature and societal trends through the lens of Google's search data.
  (07:30)
  Jeff: “...narrative supplemented by list charts and graphs about what he's learned...”
  (07:30)

Conclusion

Though brief, this teaser episode of "Deals Deals Deals for February 2025" offers a snapshot of the vibrant and diverse array of book deals on the horizon. From innovative puzzle books and historical fantasies to ecological histories and investigative nonfiction, Jeff and Rebecca provide listeners with a curated preview of what's to come in the literary world. Their enthusiastic discussions and insightful commentary underscore the dynamic nature of publishing, inviting audiences to stay tuned for the full premium content available through their Patreon platform.

Notable Quotes:

• Jeff O'Neal: “Rebecca's Deals, Deals, Deals time.”
  (00:23)

• Rebecca Schinsky: “I love this for the witches.”
  (00:49)

• Jeff O'Neal: “I feel like I'm seeing more Substack-derived book deals...”
  (01:11)

• Rebecca Schinsky: “Is that like Wordle but for murder?”
  (02:13)

• Rebecca Schinsky: “Yeah. Sign me up for that one.”
  (05:19)

• Rebecca Schinsky: “It's like the Brave Little toaster in the 80s.”
  (09:34)

• Rebecca Schinsky: “I know, like one of us is on drugs. I don't know who yet.”
  (10:33)

For the full episode and access to all premium content, listeners are encouraged to join the Book Riot Podcast community on Patreon.