Podcast Summary: "Book Talk, etc." – July Books on the Radar (2025)
Release Date: June 24, 2025
Hosts: Tina (@tbretc) and Hannah (@hanpickedbooks)
Description: A book recommendation podcast that's bound to grow your TBR!
Introduction & Hosts' Banter [00:00 - 04:00]
Tina and Hannah kick off the episode with light-hearted conversations about their affiliations with Michigan sports and some personal anecdotes. This segment sets a friendly tone for the episode, highlighting their camaraderie before diving into the main content.
Spotlight on Creators: Christine Rootson's Trend [03:02 - 08:45]
Tina introduces a viral trend initiated by creator Christine Rootson called "How Long Does It Actually Take?"
"She will be standing in front of like... I set myself a timer and I was like, I bet I can do it in under 15 minutes." [03:30]
Hannah appreciates the method, especially its potential benefits for those with ADHD, emphasizing how it transforms procrastination into actionable tasks.
"People who do have it... what gets you to do a task is either interest or entertainment or urgency." [08:12]
They also discuss a brush cleaner apparatus promoted by Rootson, praising its functionality and expressing disappointment that it's sold out on Amazon.
Hosts' Current Favorites
Tina's Pick: "Atmosphere" by Taylor Jenkins Reid [08:45 - 17:30]
Tina passionately reviews "Atmosphere," highlighting its captivating narrative set in the 1980s NASA space shuttle program. She praises Reid's return to form, reminiscent of her earlier works like "Evelyn Hugo" and "Daisy Jones."
"The writing in this one, was so solid. This book's very feminist." [16:15]
Key Themes:
- Feminism and the challenges women faced in NASA
- Motherly relationships and personal growth
- Love and self-discovery amidst professional ambitions
Hannah's Pick: "BookPage" Magazine [08:45 - 12:05]
Hannah extols the virtues of "BookPage," a monthly literary magazine she uses as a traditional resource alongside her social media-based recommendations. She appreciates its role in journaling and tracking literary trends.
"It's a quiet, moving portrait of grief, work, and the small enduring acts that carry us through." [11:34]
July Books on the Radar [21:59 - 40:56]
1. "Night Watchers" by Daphne Wolsencraft
Release Date: July 8th
Tina and Hannah express excitement about this thriller praised by Dennis at Scared Straight Reads. The story follows Nola Strait, a late-night radio host revisiting traumatic memories as she encounters eerie happenings.
"He called this his best book of the year so far. And I said great, say less." [22:38]
2. "My Train Leaves at Three" by Natalie Guerrero
Release Date: July 15th
A coming-of-age debut about Xiomara, an Afro Latina actress navigating grief and ambition in the Broadway scene. Hannah appreciates its concise 256-page length and emotional depth.
"It's 250 to 300 pages. Chef's kiss." [26:11]
3. "The Other Wife" by Jackie Thomas Kennedy
Release Date: July 15th
A heartfelt debut exploring Susan Zuzu Braeburn's introspection on life choices and marital regrets. Tina highlights its exploration of love and personal sacrifice.
"I want to know what happens. I want to know what happens." [27:47]
4. "Mendel Station" by JB Huang
Release Date: July 22nd
A quiet, moving narrative about Miriam's transition from academia to the Postal Service amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Hannah likens its feel to Claire Keegan's work.
"Softer fiction... we both need more of in our lives." [29:20]
5. "Confessions" by Paul Bradley Carr
Release Date: July 22nd
A high-concept thriller where millions of confessional letters unleash chaos. Tina draws parallels to Blake Crouch's style, noting its speculative edge.
"This could be really well done. It could be a little too far out there." [30:03]
6. "Rose and Chains" by Julie Soto
Release Date: July 8th
A romantic fantasy about Briony Rosewood navigating political turmoil and personal affections in a war-torn kingdom. Hannah anticipates enjoying Soto's fantasy debut despite mixed early reviews.
"Early reviews are a little mixed, but I have heard some people already raving about this one." [32:00]
7. "Everyone is Lying to You" by Joe Piazza
Release Date: July 15th
A mystery thriller delving into the dark side of social media and personal secrets. Tina is intrigued by its blend of influencer culture and suspense.
"I must do it as soon as I can because you know, I love a creepy story." [35:05]
8. "Soulgazer" by Maggie Rapier
Release Date: July 8th
A fantasy tale about Saoirse, who seeks to control her dangerous magic by embarking on a quest with a pirate. Tina appreciates the marriage of convenience trope for building tension.
"A marriage of convenience when it comes to these types of books... can be a good avenue to do so." [37:00]
9. "Angel Down" by Daniel Krause
Release Date: July 29th
Set in World War I, this novel intertwines survival and supernatural elements as soldiers encounter a fallen angel. Tina praises Krause's ability to blend historical fiction with moral conflict.
"Angel Down plunges you into the heart of World War I and weaves a polyphonic tale of survival, supernatural wonder and moral conflict." [39:00]
10. "The Entirely True Story of the Fantastical Mesmerist Nora Gray" by Kathleen Kaufman
Release Date: July 29th
An atmospheric exploration of spiritualism and feminine agency in the early 20th century. Hannah is drawn to its magical realism and historical depth.
"It just sounds really vibey and good and, like, magical." [40:56]
Current Reads
Tina's Read: "Jill Is Not Happy" by Kyra Roda [42:28 - 43:38]
A humorous take on a tumultuous road trip where marital tensions escalate. Tina relates the book to her upcoming family road trip, finding timely humor in its narrative.
"It's making me laugh because... we're about to embark on our own road trip." [42:28]
Hannah's Read: "Victorian Psycho" by Virginia Fato [43:38 - 45:35]
A horror novel featuring a governess in a grim Victorian setting, renowned for its graphic content and fourth-wall-breaking narration. Hannah enjoys the satirical and interactive elements of the story.
"She addresses the reader a lot, which I actually like so far." [44:09]
Conclusion & Connect with the Hosts [45:29 - End]
Tina and Hannah wrap up the episode by encouraging listeners to follow them on various platforms, leave reviews, and join their Patreon for exclusive content. They emphasize their passion for books and community-building among fellow readers.
"Remember, everything's better with books." [46:29]
Notable Quotes:
- "How long does it actually take?" – Christine Rootson [03:30]
- "It's a quiet, moving portrait of grief, work, and the small enduring acts that carry us through." – Hannah on "Mendel Station" [11:34]
- "Angel Down plunges you into the heart of World War I and weaves a polyphonic tale of survival, supernatural wonder and moral conflict." – Tina on "Angel Down" [39:00]
Resources & Links:
All books mentioned are linked in the show notes. Listeners are encouraged to follow Tina at TBR Etc and Hannah at Hand Picked Books on Instagram, as well as subscribe on YouTube and other podcast platforms.
Join the Community:
For exclusive content and deeper discussions, consider supporting the hosts on Patreon for just $5 a month.
Remember, everything's better with books!