GSMC Book Review Podcast

Sarah sits down with author Wendy Gee to discuss her crime fiction mystery Fleet Landing, a tense and emotionally charged novel set against the backdrop of Charleston, South Carolina.

The conversation explores the inspiration behind Fleet Landing, a story where a string of suspicious fires exposes long-buried secrets, systemic corruption, and the human cost of injustice. Wendy Gee shares insight into crafting a layered mystery that balances fast-moving danger with deeply personal stakes. Listeners learn how ATF Special Agent Cooper “Coop” Bellamy’s rigid moral code collides with his fractured relationship with his daughter, and how determined television reporter Sydney Quinn risks everything to uncover the truth behind a wrongful conviction tied to decades-old arson cases.

Sarah and Wendy also discuss the novel’s powerful themes, including abuse of power, moral responsibility, and the devastating ripple effects of corruption in marginalized communities. The interview highlights Gee’s approach to character development, her use of Charleston as more than just a setting, and how real-world issues influenced the story’s tension and authenticity.

Whether you’re a fan of crime fiction, mystery novels, or thrillers with emotional depth, this episode offers thoughtful conversation, behind-the-scenes perspective, and a deeper understanding of what fuels Fleet Landing. It’s a must-listen for readers who appreciate complex characters, high stakes, and stories that linger long after the final page.

Tune in to the GSMC Book Review Podcast for engaging author interviews, insightful discussions, and your next great read.

If you enjoyed this episode, follow and subscribe to the show: you can find us on iTunes or on any app that carries podcasts as well as on YouTube. Please remember to subscribe and give us a nice review. This way you will always be among the first to get the latest GSMC Book Review Podcasts.

We would like to thank our Sponsor: GSMC Podcast Network
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gsmc-book-review-podcast/id1123769087
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Disclaimer: The views expressed on the GSMC Book Review Podcast are for entertainment purposes only. Reproduction, copying, or redistribution of The GSMC Book Review Podcast without the express written consent of Golden State Media Concepts LLC is prohibited.

Sarah welcomes bestselling author Kait Ballenger to discuss her dark romantasy novel Original Sinner, a bold reimagining of the seven deadly sins set in modern-day New York City.

In Ballenger’s world, the sins are ultrarich power brokers—Lust runs brothels, Sloth dominates streaming media, and Pride, known as Lucifer, rules with beauty, control, and danger. When a private rant about Lucifer goes public, his assistant is thrust into a high-stakes fake engagement that blurs the line between performance and desire. What begins as a media distraction quickly becomes something far more seductive, dangerous, and transformative.

Sarah and Kait Ballenger talk about crafting morally gray characters, especially Lucifer as both romantic lead and embodiment of Pride, and how power, shame, and self-discovery shape the story’s emotional core. The conversation also explores blending fantasy, mythology, and contemporary romance, writing intense chemistry with purpose, and building a sin-driven hierarchy that feels both modern and mythic.

Listeners will hear behind-the-scenes insights into Ballenger’s creative process, the inspiration behind turning the seven deadly sins into a ruling elite, and what defines dark romantasy as a genre that continues to captivate readers. Whether you love fantasy romance, complex antiheroes, or stories that challenge traditional ideas of desire and control, this episode offers a compelling look at one of the genre’s most provocative new series.

Tune in to the GSMC Book Review Podcast, where Sarah brings you thoughtful conversations with today’s most exciting authors and keeps you up to date on the books readers can’t stop talking about.

If you enjoyed this episode, follow and subscribe to the show: you can find us on iTunes or on any app that carries podcasts as well as on YouTube. Please remember to subscribe and give us a nice review. This way you will always be among the first to get the latest GSMC Book Review Podcasts.

We would like to thank our Sponsor: GSMC Podcast Network
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gsmc-book-review-podcast/id1123769087
GSMC YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-EKO3toL1A
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GSMC_BookReview
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GSMCBookReview/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gsmcbookreview
Tiktok: @gsmcbookreview
Bluesky: @gsmcbookreview.bsky.social
GSMC Podcast Network YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@gsmcpodcastnetwork GSMC Sports Network YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GSMCSportsNetwork. GSMC Entertainment Network YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GSMCEntertainmentNetwork GSMC News Network YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GSMCNEWSNETWORK
 
Disclaimer: The views expressed on the GSMC Book Review Podcast are for entertainment purposes only. Reproduction, copying, or redistribution of The GSMC Book Review Podcast without the express written consent of Golden State Media Concepts LLC is prohibited.

Sarah welcomes bestselling author Victoria Helen Stone for a gripping conversation about her latest psychological suspense novel, Bald-Faced Liar. Known for unforgettable thrillers like Jane Doe and The Hook, Stone once again delivers a tense, character-driven story that keeps readers questioning everything. And everyone.

The novel follows Elizabeth May, a traveling nurse who has mastered the art of reinvention. With a new home in Santa Cruz and yet another carefully constructed identity, Elizabeth believes invisibility is her greatest protection. But when someone from her past recognizes her, that fragile sense of safety begins to unravel. As threats escalate, Elizabeth finds herself hunted by a stalker who knows her secrets—and may know her better than she knows herself.

In this interview, Victoria Helen Stone discusses the inspiration behind Elizabeth’s character, the psychological toll of living under constant reinvention, and the challenge of writing suspense where trust is a liability. Sarah and Victoria also explore themes of trauma, identity, survival, and the idea that healing can be both terrifying and transformative.

Fans of psychological thrillers, domestic suspense, and character-focused mysteries will find plenty to appreciate in this thoughtful and tension-filled conversation. Whether you’re a longtime reader of Victoria Helen Stone or discovering her work for the first time, this episode offers insight into the craft of suspense writing and the emotional truths that fuel it.

Listen now to the GSMC Book Review Podcast for engaging author interviews, in-depth discussions, and your next great read.

If you enjoyed this episode, follow and subscribe to the show: you can find us on iTunes or on any app that carries podcasts as well as on YouTube. Please remember to subscribe and give us a nice review. This way you will always be among the first to get the latest GSMC Book Review Podcasts.

We would like to thank our Sponsor: GSMC Podcast Network
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gsmc-book-review-podcast/id1123769087
GSMC YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-EKO3toL1A
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GSMC_BookReview
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GSMCBookReview/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gsmcbookreview
Tiktok: @gsmcbookreview
Bluesky: @gsmcbookreview.bsky.social
GSMC Podcast Network YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@gsmcpodcastnetwork GSMC Sports Network YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GSMCSportsNetwork. GSMC Entertainment Network YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GSMCEntertainmentNetwork GSMC News Network YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GSMCNEWSNETWORK
 
Disclaimer: The views expressed on the GSMC Book Review Podcast are for entertainment purposes only. Reproduction, copying, or redistribution of The GSMC Book Review Podcast without the express written consent of Golden State Media Concepts LLC is prohibited.

Sarah welcomes award-winning children’s author Diann Floyd Boehm to discuss her charming and heartfelt book, Boomer Sees the Town, the first adventure in the Curious Bunny series. Perfect for families, educators, and lovers of children’s literature, this conversation highlights the creativity, warmth, and purpose behind stories written for young readers.

Boomer Sees the Town follows Boomer, a curious bunny who leaves the comfort of the forest to experience the sights, sounds, and surprises of the big city. Through Boomer’s journey, the story encourages imagination, kindness, and confidence while helping children navigate new environments and emotions in a gentle, reassuring way. Diann shares the inspiration behind Boomer’s character, the importance of curiosity in early learning, and how meaningful messages can be woven into stories that remain fun and accessible.

Sarah and Diann also discuss the collaborative process with illustrator Surya Ali Zaidan, whose vibrant artwork brings Boomer’s world to life, enhancing the storytelling experience for both children and parents. Listeners will gain insight into writing for early readers, balancing simplicity with emotional depth, and what’s next for the Curious Bunny series.

Whether you’re a parent building a bedtime bookshelf, a teacher seeking engaging read-alouds, or a fan of thoughtful children’s books, this episode offers a warm and informative look at storytelling that sparks wonder and compassion. Tune in to the GSMC Book Review Podcast for author interviews, behind-the-scenes conversations, and stories that connect readers of all ages.

Click here to listen to the first interview with Diann about Charlie's Tire Swing: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gsmc-book-review-podcast-episode-446-interview-with/id1123769087?i=1000641069017

If you enjoyed this episode, follow and subscribe to the show: you can find us on iTunes or on any app that carries podcasts as well as on YouTube. Please remember to subscribe and give us a nice review. This way you will always be among the first to get the latest GSMC Book Review Podcasts.

We would like to thank our Sponsor: GSMC Podcast Network
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gsmc-book-review-podcast/id1123769087
GSMC YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-EKO3toL1A
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GSMC_BookReview
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GSMCBookReview/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gsmcbookreview
Tiktok: @gsmcbookreview
Bluesky: @gsmcbookreview.bsky.social
GSMC Podcast Network YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@gsmcpodcastnetwork GSMC Sports Network YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GSMCSportsNetwork. GSMC Entertainment Network YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GSMCEntertainmentNetwork GSMC News Network YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GSMCNEWSNETWORK
 
Disclaimer: The views expressed on the GSMC Book Review Podcast are for entertainment purposes only. Reproduction, copying, or redistribution of The GSMC Book Review Podcast without the express written consent of Golden State Media Concepts LLC is prohibited.

Sarah welcomes acclaimed writer Marshall Fine to discuss Hemlock Lane, his powerful new novel that blends emotional depth with the atmospheric tension of urban and high fantasy elements. Set during the turbulent summer of 1967, Hemlock Lane follows Nora Levitsky as she returns to her family home, a place filled with long-held secrets, generational pressures, and the haunting pull of unresolved relationships.

Sarah and Marshall explore the novel’s rich themes: family dynamics under strain, the weight of unspoken expectations, and the courage it takes to choose one’s own path. Marshall shares insight into crafting complex characters like Nora, Lillian, and Clara, whose intertwined lives anchor the story’s emotional resonance. They discuss how a compressed, four-day timeline heightens tension, how the suburban setting shapes each character’s sense of identity, and why the 1960s provide the perfect backdrop for a story about change, personal truth, and breaking cycles.

Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for the novel’s layered storytelling, its thoughtful approach to autonomy and belonging, and the craft choices that make Hemlock Lane stand out in contemporary fiction. Whether you're drawn to character-driven narratives, family dramas, or fiction with subtle fantastical notes that enhance emotional stakes, this conversation offers meaningful insight into Marshall Fine’s creative process.

Tune in for a thoughtful, engaging discussion full of craft, character, and the transformative power of facing long-buried truths. The GSMC Book Review Podcast continues to bring you conversations with today’s most compelling authors, perfect for readers seeking fresh voices, original stories, and unforgettable literary journeys.

If you enjoyed this episode, follow and subscribe to the show: you can find us on iTunes or on any app that carries podcasts as well as on YouTube. Please remember to subscribe and give us a nice review. This way you will always be among the first to get the latest GSMC Book Review Podcasts.

We would like to thank our Sponsor: GSMC Podcast Network
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gsmc-book-review-podcast/id1123769087
GSMC YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-EKO3toL1A
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GSMC_BookReview
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GSMCBookReview/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gsmcbookreview
Tiktok: @gsmcbookreview
Bluesky: @gsmcbookreview.bsky.social
GSMC Podcast Network YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@gsmcpodcastnetwork GSMC Sports Network YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GSMCSportsNetwork. GSMC Entertainment Network YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GSMCEntertainmentNetwork GSMC News Network YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GSMCNEWSNETWORK
 
Disclaimer: The views expressed on the GSMC Book Review Podcast are for entertainment purposes only. Reproduction, copying, or redistribution of The GSMC Book Review Podcast without the express written consent of Golden State Media Concepts LLC is prohibited.