Meagan's Book Club Podcast

If you grew up in the ’90s, this episode is going to feel like a trip down memory lane! I had the BEST time chatting with the author Laura Marie Meyers of The MASH Up, a delightfully Millennial-coded rom-com that had us reminiscing about everything from ’90s pop culture to the things that shaped us growing up.

We talk about the inspiration behind The MASH Up, creating characters who feel incredibly relatable, and all the little nostalgic details that make this book so much fun. Plus, we play a little “This or That” and get to know the author beyond the book!

Website: https://www.lauramariemeyers.com/
IG: @lauramariemeyers

August’s What I’m Loving is here! This month I’m sharing what I’m watching, reading, cooking, doing more of, buying, and—of course—what I'm reading.
I’m talking about my excitement for Practical Magic 2 and the new season of Ted Lasso, what I’m currently reading (The Pirate Queen and The Witch of Cambridge), making more homemade meals, embracing a little fall shopping, and the other little things making life feel extra good right now.
You won't want to miss the announcement at the end of the episode! Eeeeek! Can't wait!

Sheet Pan Recipe: https://www.themediterraneandish.com/greek-sheet-pan-chicken/

This week, I’m joined by bestselling author Ilona Bannister, author of the psychological thriller Five, which became a sensation after its release in May. Ilona and I talk about the winding, often difficult journey to becoming a traditionally published author—including navigating the challenges of publishing during COVID and the unwavering support from her husband that helped her keep going.
We also dive into Five and what makes its characters so compelling. At the heart of the story is the way we judge people without ever really knowing what’s happening beneath the surface, and Ilona shares how she built characters who are complicated, flawed, challenging, and not always easy to like. And honestly, those are often the characters that make for the best stories.
It was such a joy getting to know Ilona and hear the story behind her success. She’s already working on her next book, and after this conversation, I absolutely cannot wait to see what she comes up with next!

Website: www.ilonabannisterwrites.com
IG: @ilona.bannister

Books Recommended by Ilona:
Honey by Imani Thompson
What Boys Learn by Andromeda Romano-Lax

How is it already mid-August?! Honestly, this month has felt so long, but I’m checking in with a look at what I’ve been reading, what’s currently on my nightstand, and a couple of books I’m already excited about for 2027.
My reading has been pretty solid this month, but two books have definitely stood out from the rest—and I’m sharing why I think they’re worth adding to your TBR. I’m also chatting about the two books I’m currently reading and giving you a little sneak peek at two 2027 releases that I already have my eye on.
Basically, a little mid-month reading catch-up, some bookish favorites, and a peek at what’s ahead!

This week, I'm joined by author Paige Harbison to celebrate the release of her latest novel, Destination Funeral. Paige and I had an absolute blast chatting about her journey from writing YA novels to adult fiction, her creative process, and what it's been like narrating her own audiobooks—and now lending her voice to books by other authors as well.
Beyond the books, we connected over podcasting, social media, creativity, and the many unexpected paths a writing career can take. Paige is every bit as funny, thoughtful, and personable as you'd hope, making this one of those conversations that feels like sitting down with a friend. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering her work for the first time, I think you're going to love this conversation.

Website: https://www.paigeharbison.com/
IG: @pharbeaux