Moments with Marianne 2024 Book Club Picks

As we reflect on the incredible journey of 2024, we can’t help but recognize the extraordinary array of books that have graced our shelves. Each of these titles offers a unique opportunity to expand our perspectives, challenge the beliefs that shape us, and inspire meaningful personal growth. These works go beyond captivating narratives and practical insights—they invite us to engage in deep reflection about our lives and the world we inhabit.

Whether you are seeking transformation, looking to strengthen the connections around you, or yearning for renewed hope and purpose, this curated list has something for everyone. From timeless wisdom to innovative ideas, these top picks will fuel your passion for self-discovery and empowerment.


1. Unblock Your Purpose: Breathwork, Intuition, and Flow State by Francesca Sipma

Find it here

Sipma masterfully guides readers to uncover their life’s purpose through practical techniques like breathwork, mindfulness, and self-awareness. By blending ancient wisdom with modern science, she takes readers on a transformative journey that opens the door to deep insights. From breathwork to meditation practices, this book creates a path for those who feel stuck to reconnect with their true purpose and step into a life of ease and fulfillment. This book is a beacon for those yearning to overcome mental blocks and achieve a harmonious state of flow. Packed with actionable exercises and profound wisdom, it is a must-read for anyone seeking clarity and alignment in their life’s journey.

Listen to the interview here.


2. Modern Friendship: How to Nurture Our Most Valued Connections by Anna Goldfarb 

Find it here

Goldfarb dives into the complexities of modern relationships with warmth and humor, offering a roadmap to navigate and nurture meaningful friendships in today’s fast-paced, digital world. Her insights on emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and communication make this book an indispensable guide for fostering connections that truly matter. She explores how to maintain authenticity, set healthy boundaries, and communicate meaningfully in an era defined by superficial interactions. This book provides practical advice for those seeking to cultivate deeper, more enriching relationships that can weather the challenges of modern life.

Listen to the interview here. 


3. Not Too Late: The Power of Pushing Limits at Any Age by Gwendolyn Bounds

Find it here

Bounds’ empowering narrative proves that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing dreams and defying expectations. Through inspiring stories and practical tips, this book encourages readers to embrace new challenges and redefine their potential. Bounds redefines what it means to age gracefully by sharing stories of individuals who refuse to accept limitations imposed by society. Her exploration of the psychology of age offers both inspiration and practical advice for anyone determined to pursue their passions, learn new skills, or take risks, no matter when they begin.

Listen to the interview here. 


4. Resisting Recession: How to Build and Preserve Your Real Estate Investments Regardless of Market Conditions by Eduardo Sigal

Find it here

Sigal’s book is a masterclass in financial resilience and personal development, providing readers with the tools needed to protect and grow real estate portfolios in uncertain times. Drawing on years of industry experience, Sigal offers insights on risk management, market analysis, and how to capitalize on opportunities, no matter the economic climate. Sigal’s timely and insightful book offers a comprehensive roadmap for navigating the volatile world of real estate investments. With strategies tailored to both novice and experienced investors, this guide equips readers with tools to protect and grow their portfolios, even during economic downturns. This guide is a must-read for both seasoned investors and beginners looking to thrive in the face of adversity.

Listen to the interview here. 


5. Time Expansion Experiences: The Psychology of Time Perception and the Illusion of Linear Time by Steve Taylor, PhD

Find it here

Time, as we know it, is an illusion, and Taylor’s book explores this idea with both scientific rigor and spiritual insight. He dives into how our perception of time influences our emotions, decisions, and experiences. Taylor delves into the science and psychology of time perception, offering fascinating insights into how we experience time. By exploring the illusion of linear time, he challenges readers to rethink their relationship with the past, present, and future. This book is a fascinating invitation to challenge conventional thinking and embrace a more expansive, liberated view of how we live and move through the world.

Listen to the interview here. 


6. By Your Side: How to Find Soulful Allies and Become One to Others by David Rich, PhD 

Find it here

In this thought-provoking guide, Richo explores the art of building soulful alliances in a world that often feels disconnected. Combining psychology, spirituality, and practical advice, this book teaches readers how to become compassionate and reliable allies to others while also attracting kindred spirits into their lives. Richo presents a unique blend of psychological insight and spiritual wisdom that challenges the notion of traditional relationships. His book acts as a guide to building lasting and supportive connections, urging readers to embrace compassion, vulnerability, and empathy in their interactions. It’s a heartfelt call to reconnect with those around us, creating communities that nurture the soul.

Listen to the interview here.


7. Proof of Life after Life: 7 Reasons to Believe There Is an Afterlife by Raymond Moody, PhD, MD

Find it here

Drawing from decades of research, Dr. Moody explores the intriguing evidence for life beyond death. With compassion and scientific curiosity, he presents compelling evidence, case studies, and philosophical reflections on near-death experiences. Proof of Life after Life invites readers to consider what happens after we die, offering a comforting perspective on the mysteries of existence. Dr. Moody presents deeply moving stories that inspire reflection on life’s greatest mystery. This book is an invitation to explore the possibility of an afterlife with an open mind and heart.

Listen to the interview here.


8. Caretaker (The Goodpasture Chronicles) by R. J. Halbert

Find it here

Halbert’s novel weaves a tale of family, mystery, and the intricacies of human relationships. Caretaker presents a gripping narrative filled with secrets, suspense, and emotional depth, as characters navigate the complexities of loyalty, love, and survival. This is a perfect read for anyone who enjoys layered, character-driven stories that keep you on the edge of your seat. Halbert’s storytelling creates an immersive experience that readers won’t forget.

Listen to the interview here.


9. Soulful Alchemy: Transformative Poems for the Soul by Jenny Garufi

Find it here

Garufi’s poetry is a tapestry of emotional depth, weaving together reflections on transformation, healing, and self-discovery. Each poem serves as a gentle guide, inviting readers to explore the complexities of the human experience with tenderness and insight. Through her evocative words, Garufi offers a profound journey toward inner peace and clarity, encouraging readers to embrace their vulnerabilities and uncover the wisdom within. Soulful Alchemy is a collection that resonates deeply, providing inspiration for those seeking to connect with their own soul and find solace in art and language. Whether you are in search of healing or a deeper understanding of yourself, Garufi’s transformative verses will inspire and uplift you, offering a path to emotional and spiritual renewal.

Listen to the interview here.


10. How to Talk with Anyone About Anything: The Practice of Safe Conversations by Harville Hendrix, PhD & Helen LaKelly Hunt, PhD

Find it here

Hendrix and Hunt teach readers how to engage in meaningful dialogue that not only resolves conflicts but also fosters deeper understanding and connection. Their book provides a framework for practicing vulnerability, active listening, and empathy in conversations, making it easier to create spaces for honest exchange and emotional growth. This essential guide to communication equips readers with tools to foster understanding, resolve conflicts, and build stronger relationships. Through practical exercises and profound insights, Hendrix and Hunt show how to create conversations that heal and connect.

Listen to the interview here.


11. Befriending Your Body: A Self-Compassionate Approach to Freeing Yourself from Disordered Eating by Ann Saffi Biasetti

Find it here

Biasetti offers a compassionate and holistic approach to overcoming disordered eating. In a culture that often prioritizes appearance over health, Biasetti’s compassionate approach to healing body image issues and overcoming disordered eating stands as a beacon of hope. Combining self-compassion techniques with actionable strategies, Biasetti empowers readers to develop a positive and nurturing relationship with their bodies. This book is a guide to self-love, offering a powerful roadmap to rebuild a positive, nourishing relationship with your body through mindfulness, compassion, and practical tools.

Listen to the interview here.


12. Rewire: Break the Cycle, Alter Your Thoughts and Create Lasting Change by Nicole Vignola

Find it here

Vignola offers an insightful exploration into how the brain works and how we can use neuroplasticity to rewire our negative thinking patterns for lasting change. Her step-by-step guide provides the tools needed to create lasting, positive change in every aspect of life. The book offers practical exercises, real-life examples, and actionable steps for transforming mental and emotional habits, helping readers break free from destructive cycles and create healthier, more fulfilling habits.

Listen to the interview here.


13. The Undercurrent: A Novel by Sarah Sawyer

Find it here

A masterful blend of mystery, suspense, and emotional depth, The Undercurrent is a gripping exploration of motherhood, obsession, and the haunting power of buried secrets. Bee, a struggling new mother battling postpartum depression, has distanced herself from the shadows of her small Texas hometown. But when Leo, her childhood crush and estranged twin brother Gus’s best friend, reappears in her life, the unsolved disappearance of Deecie Jeffries in 2011 pulls her back to a past she thought she’d left behind.

14. The Promise We Made: Three Universal Soul Promises We Made to Our Children by Efrat Shokef, PhD

Find it here

Shokef’s book offers a unique blend of spiritual insight and deep psychological reflection on the parent-child relationship. She examines the promises we make to our children at a soul level and how these promises shape our lives and their futures. This powerful exploration of her near-death experience, touches on universal truths that transcend cultural boundaries, creating a deep sense of connection between generations. Learn to parent based on the spiritual insights and universal truths about the sacred bond between parents and children. Shokef’s work is both heartwarming and thought-provoking.

Listen to the interview here.


15. Transform Yourself: A Pump Club Story by James Rice

Find it here

Rice’s compelling narrative blends fitness advice with personal transformation. He reveals how mental discipline, physical strength, and emotional resilience work in tandem to create not just a transformed body, but a transformed life.  Rice shares transformative fitness insights from Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Pump Club, motivational stories, and practical approaches for achieving peak health and vitality. This book is not just about physical transformation but also a guide to cultivating a resilient mindset for a balanced healthy lifestyle and long-term success.

Listen to the interview here.


16. Restored: Reconnecting Life’s Broken Pieces by Cindy Brinker Simmons

Find it here

Simmons shares inspiring stories and practical wisdom for finding hope and restoration amid life’s challenges. Her compassionate guidance offers a path to healing and wholeness. Through poignant stories of people overcoming adversity, offering hope and healing to those who may be feeling lost or broken, Simmons shares how to live a more fulfilled life. With wisdom and compassion, she guides readers on a path to personal restoration, teaching them how to reconcile with their past and create a future filled with purpose, peace, and joy.

Listen to the interview here.


17. Flight of the Wild Swan by Melissa Pritchard

Find it here

Pritchard’s evocative storytelling beautifully captures the transformative power of self-discovery. Through a richly layered narrative, she invites readers to embark on their own journeys of growth and personal evolution. Flight of the Wild Swan unveils the remarkable story of Florence Nightingale, a visionary trailblazer whose profound humanity has often been overshadowed by her legendary status. Pritchard’s lyrical prose takes readers on an emotional and spiritual odyssey, delving into the intricacies of personal growth and our deep-seated need for connection. This book is both a celebration of transformation and a contemplative exploration of what it means to embrace change and evolve.

Listen to the interview here.


18. I am Mister Rogers by Brad Meltzer

Find it here

Meltzer’s heartfelt tribute to Fred Rogers offers an intimate exploration of the man behind the iconic cardigan, revealing the depth of his kindness, empathy, and unwavering dedication to nurturing the hearts of children. Through his storytelling, Meltzer brings to light the profound impact of Rogers’ legacy, reminding us of the enduring power of love, compassion, and humanity. I Am Mister Rogers is a powerful testament to the transformative influence of goodness, making it an inspiring read for anyone seeking a reminder of the kindness we all can bring to the world.

Listen to the interview here. 


19. The Genius of Empathy: Practical Skills to Heal Your Sensitive Self, Your Relationships, and the World by Judith Orloff, MD, Foreword by His Holiness the Dalai Lama

Find it here

Dr. Judith Orloff shares transformative techniques for sensitive individuals seeking to navigate the emotional complexities of their lives. By combining psychological expertise with intuitive wisdom, Dr. Orloff offers practical strategies for healing emotional wounds, strengthening relationships, and harnessing empathy as a force for global change. Featuring a foreword by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, this book invites readers to embrace their sensitivities as strengths and transform them into tools for personal and collective healing.

Listen to the interview here. 


20. Hudson Bay Bound: Two Women, One Dog, Two Thousand Miles to the Arctic by Natalie Warren

Find it here

This riveting true story chronicles the awe-inspiring journey of two women and a loyal dog they rescue along the way, as they embark on a daring 2,000-mile paddle to the Arctic. Filled with breathtaking descriptions, moments of resilience, and the beauty of human connection with nature, Warren’s account is a tribute to courage and perseverance. Warren’s riveting memoir is not just about adventure; it’s a story of strength, friendship, and the fierce will to face the unknown. With vivid storytelling, she captures the emotional highs and lows of her epic journey to the Arctic, while also reflecting on the broader human experience of pushing past fear and finding your true self in nature’s embrace.  More than just an adventure, Hudson Bay Bound is a testament to strength, friendship, and the unwavering will to face the unknown.

Listen to the interview here.


21. The 15-Minute Method: The Surprisingly Simple Art of Getting It Done by Sam Bennett

Find it here

Bennett offers a refreshing and practical approach to overcoming procrastination, providing readers with a simple yet profound solution to one of the most common obstacles to productivity. By breaking tasks down into manageable 15-minute increments, she demonstrates how even the most overwhelming projects can be tackled without feeling paralyzed or burned out. This method is grounded in the idea that small, consistent steps lead to big results, making it ideal for anyone struggling with procrastination or perfectionism. Bennett’s approach is not only gentle but also incredibly effective, offering a pathway to progress that encourages sustained effort without the pressure of perfection.


22. Sound Healing: How to Use Sound to Beat Stress and Anxiety by Farzana Ali

Find it here

Ali delves into the profound therapeutic power of sound, revealing how it can be used to alleviate stress and anxiety in transformative ways. Drawing from a wide range of sound healing practices, Ali offers practical, easy-to-follow techniques that empower readers to use sound as a tool for mental wellness. Whether it’s through vibrational frequencies, music, or simple sound-based exercises, this book provides accessible strategies to help individuals manage their emotions, calm their minds, and regain balance in their lives. Ali’s approach combines ancient wisdom with modern science, making Sound Healing a comprehensive guide for anyone seeking alternative and natural methods to foster emotional well-being. Perfect for those looking to move beyond conventional therapies, this book invites readers to explore the healing potential of sound and experience its calming effects on both mind and body.


23. Juris Ex Machina by John W. Maly, JD

Maly delivers a gripping page-turner that will keep you hooked and on the edge of your seat until the very last page. In the 22nd-century domed city of Arcadia, justice is infallible—or so it seems. When young kleptomaniac Rainville is wrongfully convicted of mass murder, he’s exiled to Wychwood Prison, a decaying necropolis where survival is a daily battle. Hunted for a crime he didn’t commit, Rainville must attempt the impossible: escape. But his quest is more than personal—uncovering the truth behind his conviction could expose a sinister flaw in Arcadia’s perfect system. Juris Ex Machina is an captivating tale of survival, justice, and the dark side of technological perfection.


Why These Books Matter

Whether you’re looking to redefine your purpose, deepen your relationships, or embark on exciting new adventures, these books offer invaluable insights and powerful inspiration to elevate your New Year. Each title serves as a beacon of hope, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and the boundless potential for growth, healing, and connection that exists within us all. These works not only challenge us to think more deeply but also encourage us to take meaningful action in our lives. By diving into these extraordinary books, you’ll be guided toward a more fulfilled, empowered, and purpose-driven life.

Which book will you pick up first to kickstart your journey? We’d love to hear your thoughts, reflections, and any favorites you may have! Share your comments with us, and let’s celebrate the transformative power of reading together as we embrace the possibilities of this New Year!

To see the full 2024 Book Club Listing click here.

The Paradise Table

In the Moments with Marianne book club The Paradise Table: a Kate Grace Mystery by Maryann Ridini Spencer 

Maryann Ridini Spencer follows up with her award-winning novel Lady in the Window with another enticing and empowering page-turner. The Paradise Table, with its touches of divine inspiration, demonstrates how out of heartbreak and loss, and with the love of ohana (friends and family), we can find hope, healing, and understanding.

Click here to listen to the interview!

Click here to order your copy!

The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi

Moments with Marianne book club pick for June is The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi!  This remarkable novel that will transport you to another place and time. A beautifully crafted and intoxicating read, The Henna Artist is filled with color, tradition, and bravery, as 30-year old henna artist Lakshmi Shastri sets out on her own to redefine her life and pursue her dreams.  At the pinnacle of her career, Lakshmi’s past soon comes to haunt her, but is everything really what it seems?

You can listen to the segment here, Enjoy!

Order you copy here!

 

48 Hours with William R. Forstchen
Sunday, February 10th at 8pm ET/5pm PT

William R. Forstchen is the New York Times bestselling author and holds a Ph.D. in history from Purdue University, with specializations in military history and the history of technology. He has made numerous appearances on Fox News, ABC, CBS and NBC as a recognized expert on Electro-Magnetic Pulse (EMP) and CPE events, with specializations in military history and the history of technology. He is an in-demand speaker for audiences such as NASA and STRATCOM. He is currently a faculty fellow and professor of history at Montreat College, near Asheville, North Carolina. 

The Lost Vintage with Ann Mah
Thursday, January 31st at 8pm ET/5pm PT

Ann Mah is a food and travel writer based in Paris and Washington, D.C. She is the author of two novels, The Lost Vintage and Kitchen Chinese; a food memoir, Mastering the Art of French Eating; and a cookbook, Instantly French. She contributes regularly to the New York Times Travel section and her articles have also appeared in Condé Nast Traveler, The Best American Travel Writing 2017, The New York Times Footsteps, Washingtonian magazine, Vogue.com, BonAppetit.com, Food52.com, TheKitchn.com, and other publications.  http://www.annmah.net/about/ 

Wildcard with Marie Lu
Thursday, December 13th at 8pm ET/5pm PT

Marie Lu is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Young Elites series, as well as the blockbuster bestselling Legend series. She graduated from the University of Southern California and jumped into the video game industry as an artist. Now a full-time writer, she spends her spare time reading, drawing, playing games, and getting stuck in traffic. www.Marielubooks.com 

Under My Skin with Lisa Unger
Friday, November 30th at 8pm ET/5pm PT

Lisa Unger is the New York Times and internationally bestselling, award-winning author of sixteen novels. Her new release Under My Skin is named one of the most anticipated and top thrillers of fall 2018 by BookBub, Bookish, Library Journal, Booklist, PopSugar and CrimeReads! https://lisaunger.com

VOX with Christina Dalcher
Monday, November 19th at 8pm ET/5pm PT

Christina Dalcher is a linguist, novelist, and flash fiction writer from Somewhere in the American South. She has over 100 publishing credits in the UK, US, and Australia. Recognitions include second prize in the 2016 Bartleby Snopes Dialogue-Only Contest, the Bath Flash Award’s Short List (February 2017 and June 2017), and nominations for The Pushcart Prize, Best of the Net, and Best Small Fictions. https://christinadalcher.com 

A River of Stars with Vanessa Hua
Thursday, November 15th at 8pm ET/5pm PT

Vanessa Hua is a columnist for the San Francisco Chronicle and author of a short story collection, Deceit and Other Possibilities. She received a Rona Jaffe Foundation Writers’ Award, the Asian/Pacific Award for Literature, the San Francisco Foundation’s James D. Phelan Award, a Steinbeck Fellowship in Creative Writing, as well as honors from the Society of Professional Journalists and the Asian American Journalists’ Association. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, FRONTLINE/World, The Washington Post, ZYZZYVA, and elsewhere. http://www.vanessahua.com

The Dutch Wife with Ellen Keith
Thursday, November 8th at 8pm ET/5pm PT

Winner of the HarperCollins/UBC Prize for Best New Fiction, Ellen Keith is a Canadian writer and a recent graduate of the University of British Columbia’s MFA program in creative writing. Her work has appeared in publications such as the New Quarterly, Globe and Mail. She currently lives in Amsterdam.  https://www.ellenkeith.ca

A Shadow Away with Joan K. Lacy
Monday, August 20th at 8:30pm ET/5:30pm PT

Joan K. Lacy is a weaver of words, ancient cultures, mysteries and adventures. Raised in the country outside San Diego, an adventurous spirit encouraged her to take every opportunity to explore all this fascinating world has to offer. Joan now combines her love for archaeology, history, and fantasy fiction with her active imagination to create a world filled with all sorts of magic and adventure. You won’t want to miss Alex Cort and his friends on their many adventures.  http://joanklacy.com

Mother of Invention with Caeli Wolfson Widger
Thursday, July 19th at 8pm ET/5pm PT

Caeli Wolfson Widger is the author of the novel Real Happy Family. Her other work has appeared in numerous literary journals, the New York Times Magazine, and Amazon’s Day One and on NPR. Caeli lives with her husband and three children in Santa Monica, California, where she runs a recruiting firm focused on tech start-ups. www.caeliwidger.com 

A Dress the Color of the Sky with Jennifer Irwin
Thursday, June 14th at 8pm ET/5pm PT

A native New Yorker and captivating storyteller with a flair for embellishment, Jennifer Irwin currently resides in Los Angeles with two cats, a dog, and her boyfriend. After earning her BA in Cinema from Denison University, she worked in advertising and marketing raised three boys, and ultimately became a certified Pilates instructor. While she has written screenplays and short stories since her college days. http://jenniferirwinauthor.com 

Namkung’s These Violent Delights Depicts True to Life Ends

By Victoria Davis, staff writer & journalist

Just in the last couple months, the world of sports, Hollywood and popular news networks have exploded with sexual assault and harassment accusations. 83 women, according to USA Today, have come forward claiming sexual harassment from producer Harvey Weinstein. CBS fired veteran journalist Charlie Rose due to allegations of sexual misconduct and Olympic Gymnastics physician Larry Nassar has been sentenced to 40 to 175 years in prison after 156 female athletes spoke out about decades of enduring the doctor’s sexual abuse.

Some might say that the world has changed, that sexual predators are lurking on our doorsteps more than ever before. Victoria Namkung, author of These Violent Delights, believes the world has not become more dangerous, but that people are just more aware.

“Because of social media and all these new websites that weren’t around when I was growing up in the 80s, we have access to see more than we used to,” said Namkung. “We can see what children are missing, where sex offenders live in our area. If someone makes an accusation, it’s put on the internet almost right away.”

This newfound awareness, knowing that they are not alone, has helped to support women, and men, coming forward and sharing their stories. This, in turn, has given journalists and authors like Namkung the opportunity to share those stories with the world.

These Violent Delights was just published at the start of this month and has already received raving reviews on Goodreads, with over 60% being four or five stars. The book tells the story of three women who, while attending an all-girls private high school in Los Angeles, experience sexual advances from their married English teacher, Dr. Gregory Copeland. Caryn, Eva and Sasha are all from different graduating classes at Windemere and all had different encounters with Dr. Copeland. But when Caryn publishes an essay titled, “My Tenth-Grade Teacher Claims He Fell In Love With Me,” during her college internship at the Los Angeles Daily, the three women realize they have more in common than they thought. Caryn’s essay kick-starts an investigation and, with the help of esteemed reporter Jane March, the women begin the process of healing, finding justice and making peace with their everyday lives.

Namkung takes an interesting approach to this story, with each chapter narrating the first-person perspective of one of the four women. The first few chapters alternate between narrations from Caryn and Jane, but as Eva and Sasha enter the picture, the chapters become more diverse. This was an extraordinary choice of storytelling because it brings the reader into the heart and soul of each women. They are not just mothers, writers or victims. They are people with deeps hurts and pains. The varying first-person perspectives also helped distinguish what make each woman different and how each of their experiences with Copeland impacted them individually.

Having used her journalism skills to interview real victims and private school students and teachers for her book, Namkung creates an emotional journey that is real and raw. The accounts of Sasha and Eva specifically are very detailed, recalling instances of groping, intercourse and emotional abuse post-relationship from Copeland. However, this makes up only a portion of the story. These Violent Delights also covers Caryn’s feelings of estrangement from her family, Sasha’s Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Jane’s compensation for past mistakes and corruption within private schools and their board members.

Perhaps one of the most overpowering topics addressed in this book is the effects of severe mental disorders. The sociopathic and pedophilia state of mind is expressed, not through a man in a black hoodie hiding in the bushes and waiting to attack, but in a seemingly typical family man and beloved teacher.

“Most of these predators are found to be people that look normal,” said Namkung. “We see them everyday and they can even be people we’ve known for a long time and trust.”

As the women in the book sort through their experiences one step at a time, the reader will go through the same process. Things that didn’t raise red-flags in the earlier chapters will set off alarms toward the book’s conclusion.  One of these examples being when Caryn says in the book, “I remember he [Copeland] told me his students were his friends during the interview I did with him so many years ago. At the time, I didn’t realize how sad and strange that sounded.”

Despite the heartbreaking stories and emotional toll this story takes on one’s soul, Namkung leaves readers with hope rather than hopelessness, that a happy life after trauma is possible and that when one of us speaks out, the rest will raise their voices. Justice is not perfect, and the world is filled with uncertainty. While we don’t always get the answers we ask for, These Violent Delights speaks truth that when someone takes a chance and reaches out their hand, someone will be there to help pull them up.

“I want women and men to feel empowered to speak out against the things that are wrong in this world,” said Namkung. “They are not alone, all it takes is one person.”

You can visit Victoria Namkung’s website at http://victorianamkung.com

Posted in Blog, Inspiration and tagged , ,
Say My Name with Allegra Huston
Sunday, March 18th at 8pm ET/5pm PT

Allegra Huston has written screenplays, journalism, and one previous book, Love Child: A Memoir of Family Lost and Found. After an early career in UK publishing, including four years as Editorial Director of Weidenfeld & Nicolson, she joined the film company Pathé as development consultant. She wrote and produced the award-winning short film Good Luck, Mr. Gorski, and is on the editorial staff of the international art and culture magazine Garage. www.allegrahuston.com

Waiting For The Electricity with Christina Nichol
Sunday, March 11th at 8pm ET/5pm PT

Christina Nichol grew up in Northern California and received her MFA from the University of Florida. She has traveled widely, worked for nonprofit film companies, and taught English in India, South Korea, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Russia, and the republic of Georgia, where her debut novel, Waiting for the Electricity, was set. Christina won a 2012 Rona Jaffe Writer’s Award and a gold medal in the 2015 California Book Awards for First Fiction. She has been published in Lucky PeachGuernicaThe Paris ReviewHarper’sSubtropics, Lonely Planet, and The Wall Street Journal.