The Inkspot Podcast

We talk about three famous creatives and philosophers who developed their practice through religious retreat. Guy Stagg, author of "The World Within", tells the stories of Wittgenstein, David Jones, and Simone Weil, and how these figures inspired his own pilgrimage from Canterbury to Jerusalem. Books mentioned in this episode:"The World Within": https://amzn.to/4sxtKEw"The Crossway": https://amzn.to/4sxtKEwInkspot Publishing receives a commission for any Amazon sales made through the above affiliate links.The Inkspot Podcast is dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!Inkspot Publishing Website: https://inkspotpublishing.com/Amazon Affiliate Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_FCBRWQP5VFZXGXDTTN2B_1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkspotpub/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkspotpublishing/X: https://www.twitter.com/inkspotpub/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkspotpubLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkspot-publishing/posts/?feedView=allProduced and edited by Taryn de Meillon#BookPodcast #BookTube #ReadingCommunity #AmReading #FictionLover #Storytelling #LiteratureLover #Bookish #WritingCommunity #Novels #Bookstagram #PopCultureBooks #podcast #publishing #literature #freespeech

We're joined by New York Times Bestselling Author, J.D. Barker. We talk about how J.D. honed his craft, the haunted house that inspired his newest book, and co-authoring with other rockstar authors like James Patterson.Books mentioned in this episode:J.D. Barker's "Something I Keep Upstairs": https://amzn.to/4b1noscDacre Stoker & J.D. Barker's "Dracul": https://amzn.to/49oGfMHStephen King's "Needful Things": https://amzn.to/3NKxYdgStephen King's: "On Writing": https://amzn.to/49IxCeRInkspot Publishing receives a commission for any Amazon sales made through the above affiliate links.The Indie Books Club is a podcast dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!Inkspot Publishing Website: https://inkspotpublishing.com/Amazon Affiliate Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_FCBRWQP5VFZXGXDTTN2B_1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkspotpub/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkspotpublishing/X: https://www.twitter.com/inkspotpub/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkspotpubLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkspot-publishing/posts/?feedView=allProduced and edited by Taryn de Meillon#IndieBookClub #BookPodcast #BookTube #ReadingCommunity #AmReading #FictionLover #Storytelling #LiteratureLover #Bookish #WritingCommunity #Novels #Bookstagram #PopCultureBooks #podcast #publishing #literature #freespeech

Featuring Charlie Winstanley, a UK Housing policy expert and author of "Bricking It". We discuss the monopoly on housing development, roadblocks town councils run into with building, the cost of homelessness, and more nitty-gritty details on housing reform.Books mentioned in this episode:Charlie Winstanley's "Bricking It": https://amzn.to/3L7mPSWInkspot Publishing receives a commission for any Amazon sales made through the above affiliate links.The Indie Books Club is a podcast dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!Inkspot Publishing Website: https://inkspotpublishing.com/Amazon Affiliate Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_FCBRWQP5VFZXGXDTTN2B_1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkspotpub/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkspotpublishing/X: https://www.twitter.com/inkspotpub/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkspotpubLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkspot-publishing/posts/?feedView=allProduced and edited by Taryn de Meillon#IndieBookClub #BookPodcast #BookTube #ReadingCommunity #AmReading #FictionLover #Storytelling #LiteratureLover #Bookish #WritingCommunity #Novels #Bookstagram #PopCultureBooks #podcast #publishing #literature #freespeech

Welcoming Sarah Vine, author of "How Not to Be a Political Wife"! Our chat features some hilarious moments, from first meeting Michael Gove (the worst Skier in the world), to her children thinking she was a lizard person. We talk about the humans behind politics, and the mental toll from being in the public eye.Books mentioned in this episode:"How Not to Be a Political Wife" by Sarah Vine: https://amzn.to/3MFcT3pInkspot Publishing receives a commission for any Amazon sales made through the above affiliate links.The Inkspot Podcast is dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!Inkspot Publishing Website: https://inkspotpublishing.com/Amazon Affiliate Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_FCBRWQP5VFZXGXDTTN2B_1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkspotpub/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkspotpublishing/X: https://www.twitter.com/inkspotpub/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkspotpubLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkspot-publishing/posts/?feedView=allProduced and edited by Taryn de Meillon#IndieBookClub #BookPodcast #BookTube #ReadingCommunity #AmReading #FictionLover #Storytelling #LiteratureLover #Bookish #WritingCommunity #Novels #Bookstagram #PopCultureBooks #podcast #publishing #literature #freespeech #inkspotpodcast #inkspot

Don't just remember the tragedy—understand the trap. Author and Academic, Annie Dawid, talks about the true and often-ignored story of the Peoples Temple. We discuss the inner circle of Jim Jones, the racism and strict hierarchy hiding behind the promise of "equality," and the lasting impact on Guyana.A vital look at cult dynamics that serves as a chilling reminder: no one is immune.More about Annie: https://www.anniedawid.com/"Kenny Winking": https://inkspotpublishing.com/writer/kenny-winking-a-short-story-by-annie-dawid/Black Jonestown: https://www.youtube.com/@UCfxmOgWz0-B7RuN4PZhX8gw Books mentioned in this episode:Annie Dawid's "Paradise Undone": https://amzn.to/4o3pEloWilson Harris's "Jonestown": https://amzn.to/4pgGC0KInkspot Publishing receives a commission for any Amazon sales made through the above affiliate links.The Indie Books Club is a podcast dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!Inkspot Publishing Website: https://inkspotpublishing.com/Amazon Affiliate Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_FCBRWQP5VFZXGXDTTN2B_1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkspotpub/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkspotpublishing/X: https://www.twitter.com/inkspotpub/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkspotpubLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkspot-publishing/posts/?feedView=allProduced and edited by Taryn de Meillon#IndieBookClub #BookPodcast #BookTube #ReadingCommunity #AmReading #FictionLover #Storytelling #LiteratureLover #Bookish #WritingCommunity #Novels #Bookstagram #PopCultureBooks #podcast #publishing #literature #freespeech

In this continuation of our discussion with Stewart Home, we talk about the Fascist underbelly of Western Yoga practice, the toxic side of the Wellness Community, and learning how to do a headstand.Books mentioned in this episode:Stewart Home's Fascist Yoga: https://amzn.to/48gyWXcInkspot Publishing receives a commission for any Amazon sales made through the above affiliate links.The Indie Books Club is a podcast dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!Inkspot Publishing Website: https://inkspotpublishing.com/Amazon Affiliate Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_FCBRWQP5VFZXGXDTTN2B_1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkspotpub/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkspotpublishing/X: https://www.twitter.com/inkspotpub/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkspotpubLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkspot-publishing/posts/?feedView=allProduced and edited by Taryn de Meillon#IndieBookClub #BookPodcast #BookTube #ReadingCommunity #AmReading #FictionLover #Storytelling #LiteratureLover #Bookish #WritingCommunity #Novels #Bookstagram #PopCultureBooks #podcast #publishing #literature #freespeech #yoga #taichi

We're joined by Bernie Bulkin, a Chemist, Businessman, and Author of two published books (with a third on the way!). In this episode, Cathy and Bernie cover a though-provoking range of topics..- Is there anything left to discover in Chemistry?- The economic advantage countries have from their natural resources.- Why do Businesses Fail?- Should we store our consciousness in the cloud when we die?Books mentioned in this episode:Bernie Bulkin's "Solving Chemistry": https://amzn.to/49dlO5mBernie Bulkin's "Material Advantage": https://amzn.to/4nlSj51PRE-ORDER Bernie Bulkin's "Why Start-Ups Fail": https://amzn.to/4nwpG4VCharlie Monger's "Poor Charlie's Almanac": https://amzn.to/3JjPLWVInkspot Publishing receives a commission for any Amazon sales made through the above affiliate links.The Indie Books Club is a podcast dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!Inkspot Publishing Website: https://inkspotpublishing.com/Amazon Affiliate Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_FCBRWQP5VFZXGXDTTN2B_1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkspotpub/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkspotpublishing/X: https://www.twitter.com/inkspotpub/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkspotpubLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkspot-publishing/posts/?feedView=allProduced and edited by Taryn de Meillon#IndieBookClub #BookPodcast #BookTube #ReadingCommunity #AmReading #FictionLover #Storytelling #LiteratureLover #Bookish #WritingCommunity #Novels #Bookstagram #PopCultureBooks #podcast #publishing #literature #freespeech

Stewart Home, author of "Fascist Yoga", has been an artist and writer since the early 1980s. He is the author of 17 novels, 8 books of cultural commentary, as well as collections of short stories & poetry. In today's episode, Cathy and Stewart talk about 69 Things to do with a Dead Princess, infiltrating the art world, his early career as a musician, and becoming a novelist. Books mentioned in this episode:Fascist Yoga: https://amzn.to/48gyWXc69 Things to do with a Dead Princess: https://amzn.to/3IjKLRVStewart's Website: stewarthome.co.ukInkspot Publishing receives a commission for any Amazon sales made through the above affiliate links.The Indie Books Club is a podcast dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!Inkspot Publishing Website: https://inkspotpublishing.com/Amazon Affiliate Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_FCBRWQP5VFZXGXDTTN2B_1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkspotpub/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkspotpublishing/X: https://www.twitter.com/inkspotpub/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkspotpubLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkspot-publishing/posts/?feedView=allProduced and edited by Taryn de Meillon#IndieBookClub #BookPodcast #BookTube #ReadingCommunity #AmReading #FictionLover #Storytelling #LiteratureLover #Bookish #WritingCommunity #Novels #Bookstagram #PopCultureBooks #podcast #publishing #literature #freespeech #artist #yoga #stewarthome #fascistyoga #art #amreading

In this solo episode of the Indie Book Club podcast, sponsored by Inkspot Publishing, Cathy shares a warm and personal journey through the books she never tires of rereading. From the Roman intrigues of Robert Graves’s I, Claudius to the class tensions of L. P. Hartley’s The Go-Between, she explores how unforgettable characters, dazzling prose, and sharp dialogue keep certain novels endlessly fresh. Along the way, Cathy reflects on childhood memories in Malawi and rainy Wales, VHS marathons of the BBC adaptation of I, Claudius, and how these books continue to shape her reading life.Her list spans continents and genres: Nabokov’s unsettling yet dazzling Lolita, McMurtry’s epic Lonesome Dove, Geraldine Brooks’s People of the Book, Lionel Davidson’s high-stakes Kolymsky Heights, Jerome K. Jerome’s comic Three Men in a Boat, Paton’s humane Cry, the Beloved Country, Cronin’s tragic The Judas Tree, Achebe’s Things Fall Apart, and Eliot’s sweeping Middlemarch. She also celebrates the joy of returning to P. G. Wodehouse, Anthony Trollope, and Jane Austen, whose characters and wit never fade with time. Warm, funny, and deeply bookish, this episode is a celebration of rereading as comfort, discovery, and delight.Books mentioned in this episode:I, Claudius: https://amzn.to/45Fy9gKThe Go Between: https://amzn.to/4lTjh35Lolita: https://amzn.to/3Vo9eZ0Lonesome Dove: https://amzn.to/4n7YGZOPeople of the Book: https://amzn.to/3HWlVagKolymsky Heights: https://amzn.to/4g7BBo4Three Men in a Boat: https://amzn.to/45YMyDoCry, the Beloved Country: https://amzn.to/4lU5hGeThe Judas Tree: https://amzn.to/3JLzQk5Things FallApart: https://amzn.to/4oWyVxzMiddlemarch: https://amzn.to/4oWAc7LPG Wodehouse: https://amzn.to/45KGMXuInkspot Publishing receives a commission for any Amazon sales made through the above affiliate links.The Indie Books Club is a podcast dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!Inkspot Publishing Website: https://inkspotpublishing.com/Amazon Affiliate Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_FCBRWQP5VFZXGXDTTN2B_1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkspotpub/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkspotpublishing/X: https://www.twitter.com/inkspotpub/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkspotpubLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkspot-publishing/posts/?feedView=allProduced and edited by Taryn de Meillon#IndieBookClub #BookPodcast #BookTube #ReadingCommunity #AmReading #FictionLover #Storytelling #LiteratureLover #Bookish #WritingCommunity #Novels #Bookstagram #PopCultureBooks #podcast #publishing #literature #freespeech

In this episode of the Indie Book Club Podcast, Cathy speaks with Will Rayfet Hunter, author of Sunstruck, a sharp, beautifully written debut exploring love, betrayal, race, class, and identity. Will shares how they transitioned from working as a doctor to becoming a full-time writer, winning the Merky Books New Writers Prize along the way. They discuss why Will chose to keep their narrator unnamed, how morally flawed characters make for richer stories, and how Sunstruck has been compared to Saltburn.The conversation also covers Will's upcoming contribution to a P.G. Wodehouse anthology, what inspired the complex characters in Sunstruck, and the challenges of writing about uncomfortable themes like privilege, sexual assault, and complicity. With reflections on craft, culture, and creativity, this episode is an insightful look at what it takes to write a powerful debut novel that resonates in today’s world.Books mentioned in this episode:https://amzn.to/44Ht2L4Inkspot Publishing receives a commission for any Amazon sales made through the above affiliate links.The Indie Books Club is a podcast dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!Inkspot Publishing Website: https://inkspotpublishing.com/Amazon Affiliate Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_FCBRWQP5VFZXGXDTTN2B_1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkspotpub/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkspotpublishing/X: https://www.twitter.com/inkspotpub/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkspotpubLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkspot-publishing/posts/?feedView=allProduced and edited by Taryn de Meillon#IndieBookClub #BookPodcast #BookTube #ReadingCommunity #AmReading #FictionLover #Storytelling #LiteratureLover #Bookish #WritingCommunity #Novels #Bookstagram #PopCultureBooks #podcast #publishing #literature #freespeech #SunstruckNovel #DebutAuthor #FictionWriter #MerkyBooks #ClassAndRace #IdentityInFiction #WritingCommunity #BookPodcast #AuthorInterview #SaltburnComparison #MorallyComplexCharacters #DiverseVoices #BritishFiction #Bookstagram #ReadersOfInstagram #PrideInFiction #willrayfethunter #williamrayfethunter #williamhunter #stormzy #pgwoodhouse #pgwodehouse #jeeves #blandings

In this heartfelt conversation, author and mental health advocate Rachel Kelly explores the emotional landscape of raising and understanding teenagers. Drawing from personal experience and extensive research, she shares insights into adolescent brain development, anxiety, depression, and the importance of letting teens take healthy risks. Rachel highlights the need for self-care among parents, the dangers of perfectionism, and the power of connection over control. This episode offers practical, compassionate advice on building resilience and trust between parents and teenagers in an age of digital overwhelm and societal pressure.Buy "The Gift of Teenagers": https://bookshop.org/lists/monthly-book-club-indie-book-clubInkspot Publishing receives a commission for any Amazon sales made through the above affiliate links.The Indie Books Club is a podcast dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!Inkspot Publishing Website: https://inkspotpublishing.com/Amazon Affiliate Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_FCBRWQP5VFZXGXDTTN2B_1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkspotpub/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkspotpublishing/X: https://www.twitter.com/inkspotpub/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkspotpubLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkspot-publishing/posts/?feedView=allProduced and edited by Taryn de Meillon#IndieBookClub #BookPodcast #BookTube #ReadingCommunity #AmReading #FictionLover #Storytelling #LiteratureLover #Bookish #WritingCommunity #Novels #Bookstagram #PopCultureBooks #podcast #publishing #literature #freespeech

In this episode of the Indie Book Club Podcast, Cathy speaks with Mark Field – British businessman, commentator, and former Conservative MP – about the turbulent state of British politics. Drawing on insights from his new book "The End of an Era: The Decline and Fall of the Tory Party", Mark offers a candid and thought-provoking reflection on the economic, social and political challenges facing the UK. From the corrosive effects of inflation to the housing crisis, pension inequality, and the changing role of universities, the conversation explores why so many young people are disillusioned with the political system – and whether reform is truly possible.This is a wide-ranging, deeply insightful episode that connects the dots between past policy failures and today’s mounting crises – essential listening for anyone trying to understand modern Britain and where it’s headed next.Books mentioned in this episode:https://amzn.to/3FPGLqXInkspot Publishing receives a commission for any Amazon sales made through the above affiliate links.The Indie Books Club is a podcast dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!Inkspot Publishing Website: https://inkspotpublishing.com/Amazon Affiliate Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_FCBRWQP5VFZXGXDTTN2B_1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkspotpub/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkspotpublishing/X: https://www.twitter.com/inkspotpub/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkspotpubLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkspot-publishing/posts/?feedView=allProduced and edited by Taryn de Meillon#IndieBookClub #BookPodcast #BookTube #ReadingCommunity #AmReading #FictionLover #Storytelling #LiteratureLover #Bookish #WritingCommunity #Novels #Bookstagram #PopCultureBooks #podcast #publishing #literature #freespeech

In this engaging conversation, Helen Lederer discusses her memoir 'Not That I'm Bitter', reflecting on her journey in comedy, the significance of authenticity, and the challenges faced by women in comedy. She shares insights on the evolution of comedy, the impact of the woke movement, and her initiatives to support women writers through Comedy Women in Print. The discussion also touches on personal growth, future aspirations, and the joy of connecting through humor.Books mentioned in this episode:Not That I'm Bitter: https://amzn.to/45h55MwInkspot Publishing receives a commission for any Amazon sales made through the above affiliate links.Connect with Helen: https://www.helenlederer.co.uk/https://www.facebook.com/helenlederer/https://www.instagram.com/helenlederer/?hl=enhttps://x.com/helenlederer/Comedy Women in Print (CWIP):https://www.comedywomeninprint.co.uk/https://www.instagram.com/cwipprize/https://www.facebook.com/CWIPprizehttps://x.com/CWIPprizehttps://www.youtube.com/c/CWIPprizeThe Indie Books Club is a podcast dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!Inkspot Publishing Website: https://inkspotpublishing.com/Amazon Affiliate Page:https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_FCBRWQP5VFZXGXDTTN2B_1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkspotpub/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkspotpublishing/X: https://www.twitter.com/inkspotpub/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkspotpubLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkspot-publishing/posts/?feedView=allProduced and edited by Taryn de Meillon#IndieBookClub #BookPodcast #BookTube #ReadingCommunity #AmReading #FictionLover #Storytelling #LiteratureLover #Bookish #WritingCommunity #Novels #Bookstagram #PopCultureBooks #podcast #publishing #literature #freespeech

British journalist Andrew Pierce documented the search for his birth mother in his book, Finding Margaret. In this episode, Pierce opens up about the deeply personal and emotional journey behind the book — from his early years in a Cheltenham orphanage, through a loving adoption, to the complex and often painful process of reconnecting with his birth mother, Margaret. With humor, honesty, and vulnerability, Pierce describes the psychological impact of adoption, the challenges of unearthing long-buried family secrets, and the catharsis of writing his first book, which has since become a Sunday Times bestseller.Books mentioned in this episode:Finding Margaret: https://amzn.to/42EWJggInkspot Publishing receives a commission for any Amazon sales made through the above affiliate links.The Indie Books Club is a podcast dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!Inkspot Publishing Website: https://inkspotpublishing.com/Amazon Affiliate Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_FCBRWQP5VFZXGXDTTN2B_1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkspotpub/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkspotpublishing/X: https://www.twitter.com/inkspotpub/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkspotpubLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkspot-publishing/posts/?feedView=allProduced and edited by Taryn de Meillon#IndieBookClub #BookPodcast #BookTube #ReadingCommunity #AmReading #FictionLover #Storytelling #LiteratureLover #Bookish #WritingCommunity #Novels #Bookstagram #PopCultureBooks #podcast #publishing #literature #freespeech

In this episode of the Indie Book Club, we dive into the most beloved — and most polarizing — genre of all: romance. From adolescent obsessions with Byronic heroes to the slow realization that kindness might just be the ultimate aphrodisiac, our host takes listeners on a sharp, witty, and deeply personal journey through love, literature, and disillusionment. Through the lens of iconic stories like Wuthering Heights, we explore the damage done by impossible ideals and the complicated biology that tricks us into thinking bad boys are a good idea.We also get into the gloriously absurd world of Mills & Boon and Barbara Cartland, with their outdated tropes, formulaic plots, and heroine-villain dynamics dressed up as love. But beyond the sarcasm and satire, this episode also makes space for the comfort and escapism that romance provides—especially in lonely or stressful times. Whether you're a long-time lover of love stories or a jaded realist with a cup of tea, there’s something here to make you laugh, cringe, and maybe rethink your teenage crush on Heathcliff.Books mentioned in this episode:https://amzn.to/4lmeCHZInkspot Publishing receives a commission for any Amazon sales made through the above affiliate links.The Indie Books Club is a podcast dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!Inkspot Publishing Website: https://inkspotpublishing.com/Amazon Affiliate Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_FCBRWQP5VFZXGXDTTN2B_1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkspotpub/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkspotpublishing/X: https://www.twitter.com/inkspotpub/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkspotpubLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkspot-publishing/posts/?feedView=allProduced and edited by Taryn de Meillon#IndieBookClub #BookPodcast #BookTube #ReadingCommunity #AmReading #FictionLover #Storytelling #LiteratureLover #Bookish #WritingCommunity #Novels #Bookstagram #PopCultureBooks #podcast #publishing #literature #freespeech

What separates great crime fiction from the forgettable? In this episode, we dive into the key ingredients that make crime novels truly gripping. From complex characters and clever plotting to immersive atmospheres and unexpected twists, we highlight the authors who do it best. We also explore how crime fiction can be both a thrilling escape and a reflection of deeper social issues, touching on books from Agatha Christie to Mick Herron.Whether you're a crime fiction fan or an aspiring writer, this discussion will give you insight into what makes the genre so enduringly popular. Plus, we debate the fine line between dark and gratuitous, why shock value isn't enough, and how the best crime novels keep readers hooked until the very last page.Books mentioned in this episode: https://amzn.to/4iNRIXWInkspot Publishing receives a commission for any Amazon sales made through the above affiliate links.The Indie Books Club is a podcast dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!Inkspot Publishing Website: https://inkspotpublishing.com/Amazon Affiliate Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_FCBRWQP5VFZXGXDTTN2B_1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkspotpub/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkspotpublishing/X: https://www.twitter.com/inkspotpub/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkspotpubLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkspot-publishing/posts/?feedView=allProduced and edited by Taryn de Meillon#IndieBookClub #BookPodcast #BookTube #ReadingCommunity #AmReading #FictionLover #Storytelling #LiteratureLover #Bookish #WritingCommunity #Novels #Bookstagram #PopCultureBooks #podcast #publishing #literature #freespeech

Books mentioned in this episode: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub/list/306DZ7VO5JVH2?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_54VJFF4BHP4260S3CHYYInkspot Publishing receives a commission for any Amazon sales made through the above affiliate links.Why do some crime novels grip us while others leave us rolling our eyes? In this episode, we dive into the common pitfalls that make bad crime fiction so frustrating. From predictable twists and lazy plotting to cartoonish villains and gratuitous violence, we break down the storytelling sins that take the thrill out of the thriller. Why do so many detectives act like rogue vigilantes? Why do the police always seem incompetent? And why do some crime authors think endless shock value is a substitute for good storytelling?We also explore what makes crime fiction so enduringly popular and why the best mysteries keep readers guessing while staying grounded in logic. Whether you're a writer looking to avoid these mistakes or a reader who loves dissecting crime fiction, this episode is for you. Plus, we’ll discuss some of our favorite crime novels that get it right—and those that absolutely don’t.The Indie Books Club is a podcast dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!Inkspot Publishing Website: https://inkspotpublishing.com/Amazon Affiliate Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_FCBRWQP5VFZXGXDTTN2B_1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkspotpub/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkspotpublishing/X: https://www.twitter.com/inkspotpub/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkspotpubLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkspot-publishing/posts/?feedView=allProduced and edited by Taryn de Meillon#IndieBookClub #BookPodcast #BookTube #ReadingCommunity #AmReading #FictionLover #Storytelling #LiteratureLover #Bookish #WritingCommunity #Novels #Bookstagram #PopCultureBooks #podcast #publishing #literature #freespeech

Books Mentioned in this episode: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub/list/1C7ITS7AW6U64?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_9PTSE6WPNCJQ15JVD2KJInkspot Publishing receives a commission for any sales made through the above affiliate link.In the first episode of the Indie Book Club Podcast, Cathy explores the power of historical fiction—how it reimagines the past while staying rooted in truth. From Catherine de Medici’s chilling reputation to the Tudor court’s political intrigue, we discuss how authors like Jean Plaidy, Hilary Mantel, and Philippa Gregory craft compelling narratives that blur the line between fact and fiction. We also dive into the ethics of rewriting history, how characters with outdated worldviews are portrayed, and why alternative history novels like Fatherland challenge our perception of the past.Along the way, we reflect on the role of historical fiction in shaping our understanding of real events, its ability to humanize controversial figures, and how storytelling can offer deeper insights than traditional history books. Whether you're a history buff or a fiction lover, this episode will make you rethink how stories influence our perception of truth.The Indie Books Club is a podcast dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!Inkspot Publishing Website: https://inkspotpublishing.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkspotpub/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkspotpublishing/X: https://www.twitter.com/inkspotpub/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkspotpubLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkspot-publishing/posts/?feedView=allProduced and edited by Taryn de Meillon#IndieBookClub #BookPodcast #BookTube #ReadingCommunity #AmReading #FictionLover #Storytelling #LiteratureLover #Bookish #WritingCommunity #Novels #Bookstagram #PopCultureBooks #podcast #publishing #literature #freespeech