The Nurturing Librarian

Nicole has some hot takes on the newly released book Just Friends from YouTube book influencer Haley Pham and the blockbuster bestseller The Correspondent by Virginia Evans. She uses her writer's eye to discuss the way these books are perfect for comparing and contrasting writing and book publishing in 2026. What does it take to become a great writer? If your first manuscript is accepted for publication, should you take the deal?Just a Girl and her Tropes FB group for romance readers and writers run by me!Connect with me on Insta, Blue Sky, LinkedIn, Storygraph at The Nurturing Librarian

This is the first of a special series chronicling Nicole's journey to write her first novel. She discusses the pivot to writing after prior careers, the decision to learn the craft on her own rather than through programs like an MFA, and joining writing communities in person and online. She also describes the overwhelming questions of what to do once you have written the first draft of a manuscript and the steep learning curve if you want to be published.

Nicole talks about series she's reading, finished or DNF'd, and how the definition of series has changed from multiple books to duologies, trilogies, novellas, and short stories. There's big news on a beloved series continuing this fall and a sequel to one of Nicole's favorite books being released ten years later.Just a Girl and her Tropes FB group for romance readers and writers run by me!Connect with me on Insta, Blue Sky, LinkedIn, Storygraph at The Nurturing Librarian

Nicole discusses the evolution of the fantasy genre from epic adventures written often by authors in one lane to a breadth of choices that offer new takes on worlds welcoming and featuring those most underrepresented in the canon. From urban to cozy, high to romantasy, Nicole advocates that there is a fantasy for everyone, which is critical, but fantasies not only offer us escape, they offer us hope.****Resources Erin and Elaina BookTubersJust a Girl and her Tropes FB group for romance readers and writers run by me!Connect with me on Insta, Blue Sky, LinkedIn, Storygraph at The Nurturing Librarian

Join Nicole as she recounts a recent author event that she attended with great reviews of the author B. K. Borison, but mixed of the experience itself. What should the expectations of a live author event be? Intimate setting with questions? An interview by another author? A Phot Op? Nicole weighs in.Just a Girl and her Tropes FB group for romance readers and writers run by me!Connect with me on Insta, Blue Sky, LinkedIn, Storygraph at The Nurturing Librarian

Book adaptations are always a gamble. Emerald Fennel's adaptation of Wuthering Heights is definitely causing a stir. Nicole has seen it and gives her take on this adaptation specifically and the idea of them in general.Just a Girl and her Tropes FB group for romance readers and writers run by me!Connect with me on Insta, Blue Sky, LinkedIn, Storygraph at The Nurturing Librarian

Nicole explores the evolving concept of the 'To Be Read' (TBR) list, highlighting its transformation from a manageable list of a few books to an expansive array of reading possibilities. Let's discuss the joy and pressure of navigating these vast TBRs, emphasizing that it's perfectly fine not to finish everything. The focus is on mood-driven reading and selecting books that 'feel right' in the moment, rather than adhering to strict plans. Nicole shares their own February reading aspirations, combining new releases, book club picks, and anticipated titles for a well-rounded literary experience.****Book News and RecsAnd Now Back To YouAgnes Aubert’s Mystical Cat ShelterSociety of LiesThe Bone Season****Resources Erin and Elaina BookTubersJust a Girl and her Tropes FB group for romance readers and writers run by me!Connect with me on Insta, Blue Sky, LinkedIn, Storygraph at The Nurturing Librarian

Nicole discusses how "publish or perish" affects fiction writers these days in both trad and indie worlds. Is pushing out novels quickly good for the reader, the author, or both? And guess who's writing her own romance novel?Just a Girl and her Tropes FB group for romance readers and writers run by Nicole!Anita Faulkner, AuthorKelsey Humphries, AuthorConnect with me on Insta, Blue Sky, LinkedIn, Storygraph at The Nurturing Librarian and FB at Just a Girl and Her Tropes

Nicole talks about the Romance genre explosion of the past few years. It's not your grandmother's romance choices. The genre has come a long way and so has the industry. There is romance out there for everyone.The Rose Romance BookstoreConnect with me on Insta, Blue Sky, LinkedIn, Storygraph at The Nurturing Librarian

Nicole describes what to think about when curating your home library and discusses whether book box subscriptions are worth it. Hear about the subscriptions out there and a hack for getting a beautiful edition of a book without a membership.Decluttering Joshua BeckerOwlCrateIllumicrateFairlylootThe Strand BookstoreParnassus BookstoreConnect with me on Insta, Blue Sky, LinkedIn, Storygraph at The Nurturing Librarian

Nicole is back with the first episode of 2026. Let's catch up. It's been a minute. We're talking reading journals, reading books that serve us and thoughts on the reading landscape of the coming year.

In this episode of the Nurturing Librarian Podcast, Nicole reflects on the podcast's first season and discusses the significance of summer reading. She shares various perspectives on what summer reading represents, from mandatory school assignments to enjoyable public library programs. Importantly, the focus is on personalizing summer reading to individual preferences, whether that means light beach reads or more substantial genres. The episode wraps up with a reminder to listeners to stick to their reading goals and to prepare for a fall check-in, ensuring that reading remains a joyful and goal-oriented activity.****Book News and RecsThe Raven ScholarNot Quite Dead YetThe Summer JobSummer House with Swimming PoolThe Scent Keeper****Resources South Carolina Books Banned because of One ParentConnect with me on Insta, Blue Sky, LinkedIn, Storygraph at The Nurturing Librarian****Looking for more book recs? Check us out on goodreadsMusic: "Almost Bliss" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License

In this episode of the Nurturing Librarian Podcast, the focus is on the practice of 'unhauling' — the process of decluttering books. Nicole discusses how spring cleaning isn't just about reorganizing physical spaces, but also reassessing personal libraries. By allowing books that no longer serve you to find new homes, whether through donation or sale, you create room for new literary experiences. The episode emphasizes thoughtful decision-making, ensuring your book collection brings joy and functionality, while touching on current cultural concerns around book availability and censorship.

The Nurturing Librarian Podcast explores the concept of healing fiction, a genre gaining popularity worldwide, particularly in unsettling times. Originating largely from Japan and Korea, these books offer readers a comforting yet profound experience, often featuring magical realism and whimsical elements like cats. These novels are not just cozy reads—allowing readers to wrap themselves in comfort—but also help navigate personal transformations and healing. Notable examples include 'Before the Coffee Gets Cold' and 'What You Are Looking For Is in the Library', which provide inspiration and catharsis through the relatable journeys of their characters.****Book News and RecsWater MoonWhat You Are Looking For Is In The LibraryThe Rainfall MarketWelcome to the Hyunam-Dong BookshopBefore The Coffee Gets ColdMarigold Mind LaundryThe Healing Season of PotteryThe Full Moon Coffee ShopThe Dallergut Dream Department Store****Resources NY Times Healing Fiction ArticleBook Club Spring Picks ArticleIndie Bookstore DayEarth Day Actionable Tips Connect with me on Insta, Blue Sky, LinkedIn, Storygraph at The Nurturing Librarian****Looking for more book recs? Check us out on goodreadsMusic: "Almost Bliss" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License

The Nurturing Librarian Podcast dedicates this episode to exploring the timeless allure of Jane Austen's literary contributions. With her 250th anniversary approaching, the episode examines how Austen's stories of love and societal norms continue to resonate with today's audiences. The discussion touches upon the evolution of romance novels, from traditional Harlequin stories to modern 'romantasy.' By sharing personal reflections and historical insights, the podcast encourages listeners to appreciate Austen’s work as both entertainment and a valuable historical document, capturing the nuances of feminine life and love in her era.Connect with me on Insta, Blue Sky, LinkedIn, Storygraph at The Nurturing Librarian****Looking for more book recs? Check us out on goodreadsMusic: "Almost Bliss" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License