Podcast Summary: From the Front Porch – Episode 537 || Summer Readings: It's a Love Story
Podcast Information:
- Title: From the Front Porch
- Host/Author: The Bookshelf Thomasville
- Description: A weekly conversational podcast on books, small business, and life in the South, produced by The Bookshelf, an independent bookstore in Thomasville, Georgia.
- Episode: Episode 537 || Summer Readings: It's a Love Story
- Release Date: July 10, 2025
1. Launching the Summer Readings Series
In Episode 537, Annie Jones, the owner of The Bookshelf, introduces the podcast's new Summer Readings series. This initiative aims to blend book narration with the podcast, offering listeners excerpts from selected summer reads. Annie emphasizes the importance of keeping grownups engaged in being read to, stating:
“I want grownups to be read to too. It's honestly why we start each episode with a book quote...”
(00:32)
The Summer Readings series ensures continuity of content during summers, especially as Annie anticipates her own maternity leave.
2. Engaging the Community and Upcoming Events
Annie provides updates on The Bookshelf's events, highlighting that although summers are typically quieter due to the hot and humid weather in Thomasville, Georgia, there's still a vibrant schedule planned. She invites both local and long-distance listeners to participate in various events such as:
- Fall Reader Retreats
- Literary First Look Programs
- Holiday Shopping Nights
To stay informed, listeners can follow The Bookshelf on Instagram, subscribe to the weekly newsletter, or visit the bookstore’s website. Annie shares:
“We plan specific events for our long distance customers and friends too. We don't want you to be left out.”
(02:15)
3. Managing the Podcast During Pregnancy
Annie candidly discusses the challenges of maintaining the podcast’s regular schedule amidst her pregnancy. She mentions the introduction of two new podcast series to accommodate this period:
- From the Archives: Featuring new introductions for three backlist episodes, making them suitable for both new and returning listeners.
- Summer Readings: Brief episodes featuring excerpts from favorite summer books.
“We rarely if ever run reruns on this show... So for the rest of July and August, we are launching two new podcast series.”
(03:10)
Annie draws a parallel to her co-host Olivia, who is also expecting, emphasizing the need for flexibility during this significant life event.
4. Spotlight on Annabelle Monahan’s "It's a Love Story"
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to highlighting Annabelle Monahan’s latest novel, "It's a Love Story." Annie delves into her admiration for Monahan’s work, recounting how she discovered the author’s debut novel and became an ardent fan.
“I have no publishing experience, I just am reflecting on episodes of younger that I've seen, but it seems like the same high you would get from finding something in the slush pile.”
(05:45)
Annie praises Monahan's ability to blend romance with substance, featuring mature characters and relatable plotlines. She shares her personal journey with Monahan’s books, including multiple re-reads and emotional connections, notably:
“In 2024 came Summer Romance, which I could not wait to read... I cried while reading it, which again, not something I typically do, particularly with a rom com.”
(09:30)
5. Personal Connection and Collaboration with Annabelle Monahan
Annie recounts the collaborative relationship between The Bookshelf and Annabelle Monahan. Despite The Bookshelf's location being off the beaten path, Monahan has been a supportive and recurring guest, lending her support to both the store and Annie personally.
“Annabelle came for one of our reader retreats... She's still one of my favorite author guests we've ever hosted, and has been supportive of the store over and over and over again.”
(11:00)
Monahan's generosity extended to agreeing to blurb Annie’s own book, "Ordinary Time," showcasing the mutual respect and support within their literary community.
6. Excerpt from "It's a Love Story"
The highlight of the episode is an excerpt from "It's a Love Story," where Annie reads a passage that encapsulates the protagonist Jane’s struggles and aspirations in Hollywood. The excerpt provides a glimpse into Jane’s internal conflict and her longing for recognition:
“...My office door is closed and I just need a minute in this small space to regroup. The hard plastic mat that my chair rolls around on feels cool under me... I can't bear the thought of being part of the next round of layoffs...”
(12:05)
This reading not only showcases Monahan’s engaging storytelling but also sets the tone for the Summer Readings series, inviting listeners to delve deeper into contemporary romance novels.
7. Promotional Details and Special Offers
Towards the end of the episode, Annie promotes the availability of "It's a Love Story" and other Annabelle Monahan titles on The Bookshelf’s website, offering a 10% discount using the code Summer Readings.
“It's a Love Story, released on May 27 as a paperback original. You can purchase it and any of Annabelle's backlist titles from the bookshelf website... Receive 10% off this week by using code Summer Readings.”
(13:10)
Additionally, Annie mentions her current read, "One Last Summer" by Kate Spencer, signaling her engagement with seasonal literature.
Conclusion: Episode 537 of From the Front Porch seamlessly blends community engagement with literary exploration. Annie Jones not only updates listeners on The Bookshelf’s activities but also fosters a deeper connection through the introduction of the Summer Readings series and her heartfelt discussion of Annabelle Monahan’s works. The inclusion of a live reading enriches the listener experience, making the episode both informative and emotionally resonant for book enthusiasts.