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During this mini episode we turn the Authors Spotlight onto Keven Albers and his book “Helcyon: The Ashen Knight.” We explore a story that is far more than a traditional fantasy, it’s a profound exploration of grief, memory, and the stories we inherit. Thirteen-year-old Bobby Porter is pulled into the unfinished fantasy novel left behind by his recently deceased father. He lands in Helcyon, an ash-choked world ruled by an immortal tyrant, where he partners with Zenobia, a fierce young warrior on her own quest. As Bobby navigates cursed lands and grief-soaked legends, he uncovers unsettling truths: this world may be a map of his father's own trauma, and the story itself is now demanding something from him. Join us for a deep dive into a novel that masterfully blurs the lines between fantasy and reality, written for readers from pre-teen to their deathbed. Subscribe to our podcast for more author interviews and book discussions. Discussion Points: The compelling storyline of Helcyon: The Ashen Knight. Why this is not a traditional fantasy novel—it’s a layered exploration of psychological and emotional themes. The role of nostalgia for the past and processing legacy. The blurring of fantasy versus reality and how the book uses the portal fantasy trope to examine trauma. Keven’s journey from screenplay to novel and how it shaped the book's cinematic feel. An exciting sneak peek into the second book of the trilogy. Discussing the wide age group appeal—why this book resonates with both young readers and adults. Mentioned on this episode of Book Interrupted: Book Interrupted Website Book Interrupted YouTube Channel Book Interrupted Facebook Book Club Group Helcyon: The Ashen Knight by Keven Albers Keven Albers Website The Neverending Story Book The Neverending Story Movie Legend Movie Dungeons & Dragons

It’s our very last episode of Book Interrupted and we’re sending this chapter off with laughter, nostalgia, and a few surprises. After five years, five seasons, countless books, endless tangents, and more inappropriate jokes than we can count, we’re wrapping up the podcast that brought us together, kept us sane through Covid, and built a beautiful community of book lovers. In this final conversation, we look back on our journey, share behind-the-scenes stories, and reflect on how far we’ve all come since the very first episode. We introduce Jessica, our amazing graphic designer. We talk about our infamous “sex, nudity, and dicks = more downloads” statistic. We revisit our favourite (and least favourite… or downright hated) books, relive scams, fandoms, and obsessions…and of course, we circle back to The Hunger Games and Twilight because obviously. Plus: how Ashley went from superfan to full-time host, the story behind our “Stumble Forward” tank top, a message from Lia, Virginia and Squiggy, and Sarah’s heartfelt thank-you surprise. This episode is messy, honest, funny, and full of love…exactly how Book Interrupted was meant to be. Discussion Points Announcing the final episode of Book Interrupted Introducing Jessica Oddi, our brilliant graphic designer The “Stumble Forward” tank top + our Swag Shop How Ashley went from listener superfan to regular host Returning (again) to The Hunger Games and Twilight Lia’s doppelgänger and the bizarre scammer threat Messages from Lia, Virginia & Squiggy Our podcast stats: book picks, videos, downloads & most-played episodes Why the most popular episodes involved sex, nudity, and dicks The never-ending search for our next book obsession Living through Covid while running a podcast Members share their favourite and least favourite (or most hated!) books Reflecting on how far we’ve come in 5 years Sarah’s special thank-you surprise to the group and listeners Mentioned on this episode of Book Interrupted:  Book Interrupted Book Interrupted YouTube Channel Book Interrupted Facebook Book Club Group Jessica Oddi - Graphic Designer Stumble Forward Tank Top Book Interrupted Swag Shop All Book Interrupted Books Available on our Shop Page Plus: Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins Twilight by Stephanie Meyer Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen Harry Potter by JK Rowling The Forth Wing by Rebecca Yarros Wings of Fire by Tui T Sutherland Shrek Sapiens for Kids (Unstoppable Us) by Yuval Noah Harari Baba Yaga’s Assistant (Children’s Book) Kyle and Jay’s Podcast Jennifer Lawrence Awaken Your Wild Woman: A Guided Journey to Reclaim Your Intuition, Creativ...

During this mini episode we turn the Authors Spotlight ontoSean D’Amico and his book “Asset Recovery: Decoding the Holy Bible to Awaken Christ's Consciousness by Way of Kundalini Yoga”. In this profound Authors Spotlight, we sit down with Sean D'Amico, author of 'Asset Recovery: Decoding the Holy Bible to Awaken Christ's Consciousness by Way of Kundalini Yoga.' We dive deep into the world of Esoteric Christianity, exploring how the practices of Kundalini Yoga can unlock the hidden symbolism of the Bible. This conversation is a journey into spiritual transformation, discussing the Kundalini awakening process and how it connects to sacred geometry, quantum physics, astrology and more. If you're interested in Gnostic teachings, the chakra system, and a metaphysical Bible study, this episode is for you. Discussion Points: From atheism to Kundalini Yoga Literal verses symbolic meaning in the bible Sacred geometry, quantum physics, and light Scriptures and symbolism Spirituality within religion  Morning mediation and yoga Mentioned on this episode of Book Interrupted: Book Interrupted Website Book Interrupted YouTube Channel Book Interrupted Facebook Book Club Group Asset Recovery: Decoding the Holy Bible to Awaken Christ's Consciousness by Way of Kundalini Yoga Living Energies: Viktor Scahuberger's Brilliant Work with Natural Energy Explained Blind Watchmaker by Richard Dawkins The God Delusion by Richard Dawkins Documentary - The Keepers  https://seanchristopherdamico.com/ https://www.instagram.com/figleafyogi/ https://www.youtube.com/@figleafyogi ...

In this episode of Book Interrupted, the club welcomes Kara back with her book pick Nobody Cries at Bingo by Dawn Dumont. The group dives into Dumont’s sharp humor and unique storytelling style, reflecting on how each member connected with the book in their own way. The conversation takes a nostalgic turn as the women share what it was like growing up as Generation X’ers a time before constant connectivity and digital tracking. They explore how media, advertising, and technology have evolved since childhood, and how those changes shape who we are today. Finally, the group reveals who among them might just be the black sheep of their families.   Discussion Points Dawn Dumont’s comedy and storytelling style Dawn’s background as a playwright CBC Radio and the power of audio storytelling The meaning behind the book’s title Growing up as Gen X’ers Being the black sheep in the family Living in an age of constant advertising and surveillance Final thoughts: Do they recommend the book?   Mentioned on this episode of Book Interrupted:  Book Interrupted Book Interrupted YouTube Channel Book Interrupted Facebook Book Club Group Nobody Cries at Bingo by Dawn Dumont APTN  By the Rapids CBC Radio Shows Indie 88 Radio 102.1 The Edge 90210

During this mini episode we turn the Authors Spotlight onto Montie Carol Montgomery and her book Two Squirrels and a Girl. Born to wealth that the Civil War ravaged, held captive by renegade Comanche, and rejected by family and friends, Mary Elizabeth (“Libby”) Haley ran away from home at the age of 14. Libby learned to navigate the dangerous and volatile Old West and made a name for herself as Squirrel Tooth Alice. Given her moniker because of a gap in her front teeth and her passion for raising ground squirrels as pets, Libby made the best of a difficult situation. She created a successful business, ultimately allowing her to build and run her own establishment. A study in grit and grace, this is a story of a woman who chose not only to survive but to thrive in a world that did not recognize women as equals to men. Libby is an inspiration for women who followed. Discussion Points: Two Squirrels and an Girl storyline The Wild West Researching woman in history Narcissistic personality disorder Family history and stories Mentioned on this episode of Book Interrupted: Book Interrupted Website Book Interrupted YouTube Channel Book Interrupted Facebook Book Club Group Two Squirrels and a Girl by Montie Carol Montgomery Montie Carol Montgomery’s website It’s Not You by Romani Durvasula Music for the Book Two Squirrels and a Girl

In this episode of Book Interrupted, the club dives into The Deep by Rivers Solomon, our Fan Book Pick for this season with Rian joining us, a longtime listener since season one. Together we swim into the depths of this powerful novella, a story born from music and transformed into haunting mermaid mythology. Rian shares how the book reached her during a traumatic time in her family’s life, and why its themes spoke to her so deeply. The rest of the group weighs in: Lindsay listens to the audiobook on another road trip but finds it strangely disjointed, Ashley draws comparisons to The Giver while Lindsay connects it to Women Who Run with the Wolves, Meredith reflects on fables without happy endings and the egos of Monkey Kings, and Sarah resists the pull of consumerism…though Lindsay wonders if she may have gone too far with her tea towels. Discussion Points:  The book was born from music Books that come to you at the right time A feminine story told through a masculine audiobook narration The Giver comparison How not having a history can leave a void Consumerism The Monkey King, egos, and Aesop’s fables Wine and food colourings Folklore, myths, and Women Who Run with the Wolves storytelling Do they recommend the book?     Mentioned on this episode of Book Interrupted:  Book Interrupted Book Interrupted YouTube Channel Book Interrupted Facebook Book Club Group The Deep by Rivers Solomon The Giver by Lois Lowry Women Who Run with the Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estés  Clipping The Deep

During this mini episode we turn the Authors Spotlight onto Penelope Holt and her book The Angel Scroll. One ancient prophecy, two heartbroken lovers, and a worldwide scavenger hunt for three miraculous paintings. After her husband’s death, New York artist Claire Lucas has baffling dreams and waking visions as she channels an enigmatic and healing painting of a holy man in India at the deathbed of a young woman. When widowed antiquarian Richard Markson announces that Claire’s canvas is one third of three paintings prophesied by the Angel Scroll, a recently discovered Dead Sea parchment, she is pulled into an international scavenger hunt to find the stolen scroll and the paintings it predicts. As she pursues the paintings with Richard across historic and holy sites in America, Israel, and Europe, Claire encounters a series of remarkable teachers. A Buddhist, a Benedictine monk, and a professor of early goddess worship all provide rich explanations for the artist’s compelling and perplexing psychic experiences. But it is not until the three paintings are finally assembled that Claire deciphers their inspirational message for the modern world. Discussion Points: The Angel Scroll storyline Greif 1999 Angel Scroll discovery Movie script Audio book narration Menopause   Mentioned on this episode of Book Interrupted: Book Interrupted Website Book Interrupted YouTube Channel Book Interrupted Facebook Book Club Group The Angel Scroll by Penelope Holt Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury Polly wants a Lover by Penelope Holt

In this episode of Book Interrupted, the club dives into We Rip the World Apart by Canadian author Charlene Carr—Lindsay’s pick for the season. This powerful novel tackles systemic racism, police brutality, and generational trauma, topics that hit painfully close to home for one member and her family. While everyone agrees it’s a beautifully written book, it’s also an emotionally heavy read. The group explores the symbolism of masks in the story and how they mirror real-life relationships. Sarah and Ashley share personal connections to the narratives, and the club debates the book’s conclusion, was it truly a happy ending? The conversation also expands beyond the novel, touching on North America’s discomfort with discussing death and how consumerism shapes our mourning rituals in unhealthy ways.

In this episode of Off The Shelf, we play the Who Am I? Game.  Ashely and Sarah team up against Meredith and Lindsay. We limit the game to characters in the fourth and fifth seasons books.  Sarah and Ashley seem to be dominating, Meredith doesn’t want to be super competitive and Lindsay takes her guesses to a hilarious place, that remains joke for the entire game.  Plus, who is William exactly? Discussion Points: Who Am I? Game Sunrise on the Reaping Summer reads 2025 Fan Book Pick     Mentioned on this episode of Book Interrupted: Book Interrupted Website Book Interrupted YouTube Channel Book Interrupted Facebook Book Club Group Lucille Ball and Betty White on Game show - Password Plus All books mentioned on Book Interrupted: www.bookinterrupted.com/shop We Rip the World Apart by Charlene Carr The Women by Kristin Hannah The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert Miss Chief Eagle Testickle by Kent Monkman and Gisele Gordon The Deep by Rivers Solomon

In this episode of Book Interrupted, the book club dives into Solutions and Other Problems by Allie Brosh—Meredith’s pick and the group’s second graphic novel read. From laugh-out-loud moments to head-scratching confusion, the members share their mixed reactions to Brosh’s unique blend of awkward comedy and heartfelt storytelling. Did it hit the mark, or just feel... weird? One member couldn’t even finish the book—can you guess who? The conversation also explores personal stories that mirror the book’s themes, as the group reflects on how they connected (or didn’t) with the tales within its pages. Ashley gushes over the expressive artwork, especially the characters’ faces and emotions, while several members are newly inspired to explore more graphic novels—an unexpected twist, especially after their lukewarm response to their first graphic novel pick. Discussion Points:  How heavy and big the book is Librarians pick from Meredith local branch The mystery poop story Sarah’s dog on a diet The neighbour Richard story The amazing artwork in this graphic novel Hammering guy and grocery store guy stories Sharing the stories with family Laughing out loud Drugs, loneliness, death and tragedy The stories were weird Awkward comedy throughout, is that a good thing or bad Speed reading and graphic novels Ashely wasn’t stuck in a bucket, but close Embracing the relatable weirdness Do they recommend the book Mentioned on this episode of Book Interrupted:  Book Interrupted Book Interrupted YouTube Channel Book Interrupted Facebook Book Club Group The Office show Fun Home by Alison Bechdel We Rip the World Apart by Charlene Carr

During this mini episode we turn the Authors Spotlight onto Lucian Lazar and his book “The Framework: Motivationless Exercise”. The Framework I: Motivationless Exercise is a transformative guide that embarks on demystifying the elusive nature of motivation in the pursuit of fitness and personal growth. Through a compelling blend of personal anecdotes, insightful strategies, and a refreshing sprinkle of humor, this book offers readers a novel approach to cultivating a consistent exercise habit without the reliance on motivation. Drawing from the author's eclectic experiences and a deep dive into various domains—from AI and game development to health and nutrition—The Framework I serves as both a mirror reflecting the author's curious journey through life and a beacon for those seeking to instill a sense of discipline in their fitness routines and beyond. Rooted in the philosophy that consistency trumps intensity, the book challenges conventional wisdom, encouraging readers to adopt a daily habit of movement, no matter how small. It explores the psychological underpinnings of habit formation, the importance of a tailored approach to exercise, and the power of perseverance through demotivational insights. With chapters that range from "Life Happens" to candid explorations of failure and success, The Framework I is not just a fitness manual but a life manual for navigating the unpredictability of motivation with grace, wit, and determination. Whether you're a seasoned gym-goer or someone struggling to make exercise a regular part of your life, The Framework I promises to be a companion in your journey towards achieving not just your fitness goals, but a balanced and fulfilling life. So, ditch the waiting game on motivation and step into a world where every small step counts towards a grander vision of health, wellness, and personal achievement. Discussion Points: The Framework Creating Habits Why this method works long-term The story behind the framework and book   Mentioned on this episode of Book Interrupted: Book Interrupted Website Book Interrupted YouTube Channel Book Interrupted Facebook Book Club Group The Framework: Motivationless Exercise   Atomic Habits by James Clear

Hold on to your bookmarks — Book Interrupted is going Off The Shelf! In this episode of Off The Shelf, we play Ashley’s suggested game: Fantasy Draft Pick, with a twist! The catch? You can only choose characters or authors from books we've read on Book Interrupted. Can you guess which author Lindsay never wants on her team? Or which character Ashley always wants (and probably always will)? During the final round, things get real — you'll discover who the members secretly love, hate, and even lust after. Who would you pick for your Fantasy Draft? Discussion Points: Fantasy Draft Pick Game Draft Picks for being stranded on a desert island Draft Picks for a zombie apocalypse Draft Pick for the “Amazing Race” Picks for marry-fuck-kill Library reading challenge Mentioned on this episode of Book Interrupted: Book Interrupted Website Book Interrupted YouTube Channel Book Interrupted Facebook Book Club Group All books mentioned on Book Interrupted: www.bookinterrupted.com/shop World War Z Freaky Friday

In this episode of Book Interrupted, the club dives into The Women by Kristin Hannah—Virginia’s long-awaited book pick and her exciting return to the podcast. What happens when a group of women with almost no knowledge of the Vietnam War is handed a novel that brings it vividly to life? The result is a powerful, emotional journey none of them expected. Kristin Hannah’s gripping portrayal not only left them more informed but deeply moved. The discussion delves into Frankie’s complex love life, her heartbreaks, and the relentless trauma she faces both during and after the war. Ultimately, the group agrees: the heart of this novel lies in the powerful female friendships that carry the story and its characters through even the darkest moments. It’s an emotional ride—so much so that more than one member was brought to tears by the end. Yes, Sarah cried... but so did someone you'd never expect! Who was it? You’ll have to listen to find out. Discussion Points:  Main Character Syndrome Frankie's love life Books about war The amount of hardship the author put Frankie through The lack of acknowledgment for the nurses of the Vietnam war Mothers little helpers Expressing your emotions and PTSD Vietnamese representation Military archives of Canada Gravitating towards lighthearted books during challenging times globally The importance of women friendships Could the ending have been happier? Do they recommend the book Mentioned on this episode of Book Interrupted:  Book Interrupted Book Interrupted YouTube Channel Book Interrupted Facebook Book Club Group The Change by Kirsten Miller The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingslover We Rip the World Apart by Charlene Carr The Vampire Diaries Military Archives Canada Shonda Rhimes Screenwriting course G...

During this mini episode we turn the Authors Spotlight onto Kathleen J. Shields and her book “How to Write, Market and Sell Children's Books: A Comprehensive Guide” by Kathleen J. Shields. Are you an aspiring children's book author eager to see your stories in print? Discover the ultimate guide that takes you from idea to successful publication. "How to Write, Market and Sell Children's Books" is your comprehensive companion through every stage of the publishing journey. Packed with 460 pages of invaluable insights accumulated over 24 years in the industry, this book leaves no stone unturned. Inside, you'll uncover expert editing techniques, strategies for choosing the right publisher or navigating the indie path, and tips for finding talented illustrators to bring your stories to life. Learn the art of effective marketing, securing reviews, and gaining visibility in a competitive market. Plus, delve into the realities of publishing that few books dare to explore. Unlike basic guides that merely scratch the surface, this book is designed to empower you with everything you need in one comprehensive volume. No need to juggle multiple resources or waste time searching for scattered advice. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your approach, "How to Write, Market and Sell Children's Books" is your definitive roadmap to becoming a successful children's book author. When I first tiptoed into the book publishing industry I was as green as a four-leaf clover. I discovered writers’ workshops charge hopeful authors hundreds of dollars with the promise of turning their book into a bestseller but the information was often unhelpful. The information was too broad and didn’t address the unique needs of children’s literature, which prompted me to write my own book. This is what prompted me to write my own book. What began as a simple guide on grammar and market trends grew into a comprehensive 460-page resource covering every aspect of becoming a successful children’s author. In fact, it was said in the end that this is the “perfect roadmap” offering “critical information” and “powerful insight” into the industry. Discussion Points: The business of writing children books Kathleen’s upcoming books Kathleen’s current books The benefits of a niche market Turtles and Dogs Encouraging writers to write Mentioned on this episode of Book Interrupted: Book Interrupted Website Book Interrupted YouTube Channel Book Interrupted Facebook Book Club Group “How to Write, Market and Sell Children's Books: A Comprehensive Guide” by Kathleen J. Shields. Positive Vibes by Preston Mitchum Jr. Kathleen J Shields Many Books

Hold on to your bookmarks — Book Interrupted is Off The Shelf! Inspired by Sarah’s latest book pick, The Change by Kirsten Miller, the members dive into the magical world of witchy archetypes by taking a quiz to discover which character they most align with. Astrological signs are revealed, existential questions are raised — do we relate because it's written in the stars, or because someone told us we should? One member isn’t having it when it comes to labels, and Ashley throws a curveball by suggesting a more serious twist for the next Off The Shelf. Will the group go for it? ✨ Take the quiz along with us [here]! Discussion Points: Which Witch Are You? Quiz Astrological Signs Stress and what Virginia just discovered really worked for her Fighting for injustice in different ways Filling your battery in different ways Betrayals How roles change depending on connection Revealing your wished for super power shines a light on each members desires Quiz results Mentioned on this episode of Book Interrupted: Book Interrupted Website Book Interrupted YouTube Channel Book Interrupted Facebook Book Club Group The Change by Kirsten Miller Which Witch Are You? Quiz