Podcast Summary: Books With Your Besties – Episode on A Killing Cold by Kate Alice Marshall and the Ultra Wealthy

Podcast Information:

• Title: Books With Your Besties
• Hosts: Emily and Ashley
• Episode: A Killing Cold by Kate Alice Marshall and a Discussion on the Ultra Wealthy
• Release Date: March 21, 2025
• Description: Emily and Ashley delve into the gripping thriller A Killing Cold, exploring its intricate characters and suspenseful plot. Additionally, they engage in a profound discussion about the morality and societal impacts of extreme wealth, drawing parallels between the novel and real-world examples.

1. Introduction to A Killing Cold (00:14 - 00:54)

Emily and Ashley kick off the episode by introducing their latest book club pick, A Killing Cold by Kate Alice Marshall. Their enthusiasm is palpable as they rate the book highly—Emily gives it a 4.5 stars and Ashley a 5 stars. They highlight the compelling nature of the book, emphasizing the synchronized reading experience that kept them eagerly turning pages together.

Notable Quote:

• Emily [00:54]: “It was a great book. So full spoilers coming. So if you haven't read it, do read it and then come back.”

2. Setting and Initial Impressions (00:56 - 02:08)

The hosts delve into the book's setting—a snowy retreat where characters are trapped due to severe weather, reminiscent of Jason Rakulik's The Last One at the Wedding. They appreciate the isolation created by the lack of Wi-Fi and cell service, which heightens the suspense and mystery.

Notable Quote:

• Ashley [02:08]: “I personally felt a little claustrophobic. Like being in those situations makes me feel trapped, as they're supposed to, but just not being able to escape his family and all the questions they have for her.”

3. Character Development and Plot Twists (02:36 - 07:36)

Emily praises the unraveling of the main character's past, noting how the gradual revelation adds depth to the narrative. They discuss the psychological aspects of the protagonist’s trauma, including repressed memories and the impact of her abusive upbringing. The twist involving Magnus as the true antagonist shocked both hosts, highlighting the book's ability to defy expectations.

Notable Quotes:

• Emily [04:20]: “I. I disagree with you. I love the setting. I personally felt a little claustrophobic...”
• Ashley [07:36]: “We don’t attend, we don’t go. Because I firmly feel like even if your church is one of the good ones, which probably it's actually not, you're still then supporting a system that right now is doing more harm than good.”

4. Themes: Wealth, Morality, and Religion (07:37 - 17:24)

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the portrayal of the ultra-wealthy in the novel. Emily and Ashley critique how immense wealth can erode moral compasses, leading to unethical behaviors like covering up crimes and perpetuating family secrets. They draw parallels to real-life wealthy families, such as the Murdochs, to illustrate how money can shield individuals from accountability. Additionally, the hosts touch upon the destructive influence of toxic religious environments, as depicted in the book, and share their personal journeys away from organized religion.

Notable Quotes:

• Emily [09:08]: “I thought that was, like, absolutely ridiculous. And I thought, certainly this young woman is going to understand with the amount of money that this family has that she should be like, try 5 million.”
• Ashley [17:24]: “…reading about this guy, reading about this Harris Rosen, that everyone should look up and what he did and how effective it was made me so sad that we as a country are so accepting of the uber wealthy hoarding.”

5. Real-life Examples and Philanthropy (17:25 - 28:44)

The discussion shifts to real-world philanthropists like Harris Rosen, who used his wealth to significantly improve impoverished communities. Emily highlights Rosen's Tangelo Park Program, which transformed a struggling neighborhood in Orlando by providing scholarships, free daycare, and educational resources, leading to a dramatic increase in graduation rates and a decrease in crime.

Notable Quotes:

• Emily [21:44]: “It just is so disgusting when people have that much money. I'm all for people getting plenty of money, but we are not talking about people here who have $5 million or like three vacation homes...”
• Ashley [25:12]: “Their money 100% and that somehow a certain percentage of the population has been, what I would say, brainwashed into believing somehow if they..."

6. Contrasting Wealth Perceptions and Responsibilities (28:45 - 33:46)

Emily and Ashley debate the societal perceptions of wealth, challenging the notion that wealthy individuals inherently contribute positively to society. They argue that excessive wealth can lead to a detachment from communal responsibilities, fostering environments where unethical actions go unchecked. The hosts express frustration with the societal acceptance of wealthy individuals prioritizing their status and legacy over genuine philanthropic efforts.

Notable Quotes:

• Emily [28:44]: “It's just gross how wealthy some people have gotten and then what they choose to do with that money and where it goes...”
• Ashley [33:46]: “They are worried about staying wealthy, just like in the book. They are worried about protecting themselves.”

7. Personal Reflections on Wealth and Ethical Use (33:47 - 34:00)

In a lighter yet still meaningful exchange, Emily and Ashley imagine how they would responsibly handle substantial wealth. They emphasize prioritizing family, paying off debts, and supporting charitable causes rather than indulging in extravagant purchases. This conversation underscores their belief in using resources to effect positive change rather than personal gain.

Notable Quotes:

• Ashley [31:21]: “Yes. I mean, that's what you would do. I know you. And that's what I would do. I would look at how, what's the greatest impact I could...”
• Emily [30:53]: “I would just be like, okay, let's pay off our house. Let's buy a Sun river house. Maybe we buy a little condo at the beach. And then let's, let's get rid of the rest.”

8. Concluding Thoughts and Final Impressions (34:01 - End)

Emily and Ashley wrap up their discussion by reiterating their appreciation for A Killing Cold, lauding its ability to intertwine a thrilling narrative with profound social commentary. They encourage listeners to reflect on the ethical implications of wealth and the importance of using resources to support and uplift communities.

Notable Quote:

• Ashley [33:56]: “Thanks for listening. For more content, find us on Patreon at the Creepy Book Club. Happy reading.”

Key Takeaways:

• A Killing Cold serves as a potent commentary on the corrupting influence of extreme wealth and toxic family dynamics.
• Emily and Ashley emphasize the importance of ethical philanthropy and criticize societal structures that enable the ultra-wealthy to evade accountability.
• The hosts advocate for using personal resources to foster community growth and support marginalized populations, drawing inspiration from real-life philanthropists like Harris Rosen.
• The discussion also touches on the detrimental effects of rigid religious environments and the journey towards personal spirituality detached from institutional doctrines.

Overall, this episode of Books With Your Besties not only provides an in-depth review of A Killing Cold but also engages listeners in a meaningful dialogue about wealth, morality, and societal responsibility.