Read The Damn Book

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with bestselling thriller author Lisa Unger to discuss her latest novel, The Kill Clause. Unger explores the central themes of the psychological thriller, her writing process, and how extensive research and character development shape her suspenseful storytelling.The conversation also delves into the influence of motherhood on Unger’s work, the emotional connection between authors and readers, and the realities of building a long-term writing career. Unger shares insights into creating complex characters, balancing creativity with discipline, and navigating the joys and challenges of life as a bestselling author.Listeners also get a preview of Unger’s upcoming book, Served Him Right, and a behind-the-scenes look at what inspires her gripping, character-driven thrillers.What We're Talking About...The Kill Clause is a holiday-set psychological thriller filled with suspense, dark themes, and unexpected twists.Lisa Unger discusses why she’s drawn to exploring darker subject matter in her thriller novels.In-depth research into human psychology plays a critical role in how Unger builds tension and believable characters.Unger shares how motherhood has influenced her writing process, creativity, and perspective as an author.Many of Unger’s characters are shaped by personal experiences, emotions, and real-life observations.The author emphasizes the importance of reader feedback and the meaningful connection between writers and their audience.For Unger, success as a writer means continuous growth, learning, and creative improvement.The relationship between author and reader is deeply personal and central to powerful storytelling.Unger teases her upcoming novel, Served Him Right, scheduled for release in March.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Thriller Genre01:02 Exploring the Writing Process and Themes01:24 Introduction to Lisa Unger04:19 The Art of Writing Thrillers07:31 Researching the Dark Side10:15 Family Life and Writing13:29 Exploring Genres and Themes16:22 The Writing Process and Inspiration18:12 The Creative Process of Writing20:04 Character Development and Voice21:29 Themes of Isolation and Connection24:29 The Journey of a Writer27:17 The Author-Reader Relationship30:33 Impact of Literature on Readers32:28 Upcoming Works and Author EngagementLinks MentionedLisa Unger's website: lisaunger.com

In this solo episode, Michelle Glogovac pulls back the curtain on her unexpected path as an author—from the twists in traditional publishing to the moments that forced her to bet on herself. She talks candidly about what it really takes to navigate this industry, why the relationship with your agent should feel like a partnership (not a guessing game), and how crucial it is to honor the work authors pour into their books. Through her own experience, Michelle reminds writers to trust their instincts, advocate for their careers, and never forget to show gratitude for the people who help bring stories into the world.What We're Talking About...You’re the one steering your writing career—no one else gets to hold the pen.You have full permission to write the stories you want to write.No publisher, no agent, no algorithm will market your book like you will.Feeling alone in the publishing process is normal, and it doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong.You can build the writing life you want; nothing is off-limits.Know what you want in an agent—and don’t settle for less.There’s zero shame in changing agents when the relationship no longer fits.Publishing is a roller coaster; expect the highs and the gut punches.Showing gratitude to authors—and acknowledging their work—is essential.Your future is yours to shape, and you get to decide what happens next.ChaptersChapters00:00 The Journey of an Author03:34 Navigating Challenges in Publishing05:57 Embracing Change and New Opportunities06:16 Taking Charge of Your Writing Career09:12 The Importance of Persistence and Self-Promotion12:09 Gratitude for Authors and Creators

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with children’s book author and filmmaker Leigh Marino to explore the creative journey behind her beloved holiday book To Be a Christmas Tree and its upcoming animated film adaptation. Leigh opens up about the emotional roots of the story, the role Christmas trees play in shaping family traditions, and why storytelling is such a powerful tool for helping children connect with their feelings.Michelle and Leigh also discuss the transition from writing children’s books to directing animation, the collaborative process of bringing a story to the screen, and the challenges of independent filmmaking. Leigh shares how fans can support the project through crowdfunding, offering listeners a chance to help bring this heartfelt Christmas story to life.What We're Talking About...To Be a Christmas Tree highlights the deep emotional connection families have with Christmas trees and holiday traditions.The book serves as a meaningful resource for helping children navigate grief, loss, and big emotions.Leigh Marino’s unexpected journey from filmmaker to children’s book author showcases the fulfillment of following creative passions.The upcoming animated film adaptation blends live-action and animation to bring the story to life in a unique way.Crowdfunding support is crucial for the film’s production, offering special incentives and behind-the-scenes access for contributors.The episode emphasizes the power of storytelling to help children and families connect more deeply with their emotions.Leigh’s background in film school and filmmaking strongly influences her creative process and visual storytelling.The book encourages families to reflect on their own Christmas traditions and the memories tied to their holiday trees.Leigh’s evolution as a creator highlights the challenges and rewards of pursuing artistic work later in life.The conversation underscores how children’s literature can evoke powerful feelings and foster meaningful connections across generations.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Leigh Marino and Her Work04:18 The Inspiration Behind 'To Be a Christmas Tree'07:16 The Emotional Connection to Christmas Trees10:25 Transitioning from Book to Film13:16 Leigh's Journey in Film and Writing22:07 The Power of Storytelling and Emotional Connection25:21 Crowdfunding for the Film Project30:13 The Gift of Storytelling31:08 Celebrating Christmas TraditionsLinks MentionedTo Be A Christmas Tree film website: https://www.tobeachristmastreefilm.com/Instagram: @christmastreefilm

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac explores the joys and benefits of joining or starting a book club. Michelle shares her personal experiences as a reader and book-club participant, offering practical tips on how to create a fun, engaging, and meaningful space for discussion. She highlights the power of community, the simplicity of organizing a book club, and creative theme ideas that make each gathering unique. Michelle encourages listeners to dive into the world of book clubs and discover how reading together can spark connection, conversation, and lasting friendships.What We're Talking About...Book clubs are easy to start and offer a simple, enjoyable way to connect with others.A fun, welcoming atmosphere increases engagement and keeps members coming back.Creative themes can elevate the book club experience and make meetings more memorable.Book clubs help build community and foster meaningful conversations.Reading together offers both an escape and a way to form deeper connections.Authors gain increased visibility and discoverability when their books are chosen by book clubs.Book clubs can explore a wide range of themes—from holidays to classic literature and more.It’s okay if members don’t finish the book; the focus is on community and conversation.Fun activities, prompts, or discussion games can make meetings more interactive.Book clubs are a powerful way to introduce children to reading, community, and shared values.Chapters00:00 The Joy of Book Clubs03:42 Creating a Fun and Engaging Book Club06:31 Themed Book Club Ideas09:39 Building Community Through Reading12:30 Encouragement to Start Your Own Book Club

This special crossover episode of Beyond the Campaign and Read the Damn Book brings together host Michelle Glogovac and guest Dakarai Larriett for a powerful conversation about advocacy, leadership, and storytelling. Larriett shares his journey from being a lifelong advocate for community issues to running for the United States Senate, drawing from the experiences detailed in his memoir, Don’t Flush. He discusses confronting police misconduct, the importance of education, and his vision for Alabama’s future. Throughout the conversation, Larriett highlights how education, healthcare, and criminal justice reform are deeply interconnected—and why true change begins with community engagement.What We're Talking About...Dakarai Larriett has dedicated his life to advocating for community issues and creating meaningful change in Alabama.With a strong background in public service and education advocacy, Larriett brings firsthand experience to his political vision.His personal encounter with police misconduct became the catalyst for his decision to run for public office.Education remains a cornerstone of Larriett’s campaign, as he pushes for better access, funding, and opportunities for all students.He believes that true political progress starts with active community engagement and listening to local voices.Larriett calls for comprehensive criminal justice reform to create a fairer, more accountable system.He is deeply committed to dismantling the school-to-prison pipeline and investing in youth success.His entrepreneurial drive extends beyond politics, shown through his innovative pet aromatherapy business.Larriett advocates for universal healthcare access, especially for children and underserved families.He’s focused on building bipartisan coalitions to bring people together and move Alabama forward.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background02:55 The Journey to Advocacy and Writing07:20 Experiences with Law Enforcement and Justice11:58 Political Aspirations and Community Engagement16:24 Education and Its Impact on Society21:11 Campaign Strategies and Community ConnectionLinks MentionedLinks MentionedDon’t Flush promo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9_9BjWs4QT0Purchase Don’t Flush: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FKGSB8FY?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_XW3K5MBYRRA4TZCREFGH_1&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_XW3K5MBYRRA4TZCREFGH_1&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_XW3K5MBYRRA4TZCREFGH_1&bestFormat=trueDakarai Larriett’s website: https://dakarailarriett.com/Dakarai Larriett’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574763727908Dakarai Larriett’s Instagram: @dakarailarriettforsenateDakarai Larriett’s TokTok: @dakarai.larriettGuest Bio:Dakarai Larriett, an Alabama native and the son of a U.S. Army veteran and a public school teacher, is a thriving entrepreneur and committed community volunteer. His candidacy for the U.S. Senate is driven by the injustice he faced from a false arrest in 2024. Growing up influenced by his father's military service, Dakarai moved between several states and even spent time in Germany. He excelled academically, earning a full scholarship to the University of Alabama, where his dedication to public service deepened during his junior year as an exchange student at Howard University.Dakarai has built a successful career as a corporate leader while also managing a pet-care business he launched from his garage. Over the past 20 years, he has served in leadership roles on multiple nonprofit boards, gaining a reputation for his servant leadership upon returning to Birmingham in 2021. Actively involved in various volunteer initiatives, he leads an HOA board in downtown Birmingham that represents local families and businesses, showcasing his passion for Alabama's culture and community. In his leisure time, Dakarai enjoys visiting the shooting range and regularly attends First United Methodist Church.