Hello Rebel Readers,

In this episode of the Rebel Reads Podcast, we sit down with USA TODAY bestselling author Samantha Markum to talk about her laugh-out-loud, swoon-worthy new YA rom-com, The Roommate Arrangement—on sale January 27, 2026!

Samantha shares the inspiration behind the story, her love of rom-com tropes like forced proximity and brother’s-best-friend, and how she balances humor, heart, and ambition in her writing. We also chat about her creative process, life as a YA author, and the moments that make writing feel a little magical.

Perfect for fans of smart, charming rom-coms with big feelings, this episode is a must-listen for readers who love secrets, sparks, and summer chaos.

Tune in and add The Roommate Arrangement to your TBR.

Happy Listening!

Hello Rebel Readers,

In this episode of Rebel Reads Podcast, we sit down with debut novelist Joelle Babula, a former journalist turned nurse practitioner who writes boldly about infidelity, desire, emotional chaos, and the beautifully complicated realities of being human.

Joelle’s debut novel, Infidelity Rules, is unapologetic, provocative, deeply honest and so is this conversation. From caring for patients by day to crafting daring fiction by night (often fueled by wine and a carefully curated cheese board), Joelle shares her writing journey, her leap between careers, and why the most uncomfortable topics often make the most truthful stories.

We talk bold fiction, complex characters, creativity without filters, and yes, recipes, cheese, and wine. The best conversations are always better with good food and great stories. Expect humor, heart, rebellious energy, and candid storytelling.

A must-listen for readers who love bold fiction, complex characters, and honest conversations that break the rules.

Happy Listening!

Hello Rebel Readers,

Step into the dark, twisty world of Tanya Grant author of propulsive thrillers full of secrets, murder, and gossipy group dynamics. In this episode, Tanya chats about her latest novel, Made You Look, inspired by the Catskills, just a few hours from the home of Rebel Reads!

We dive into how she balances the chaos of motherhood with the thrill of storytelling, her romance writing, and the sometimes, suspicious research adventures that fuel her novels. Between chasing her kids and navigating life while creating her novels, Tanya shares what it really takes to bring a story to life.

If you love thrillers that keep you guessing and a peek behind the curtain of a writer’s life, this conversation is not to be missed. Happy Listening!

From debut novelist to a People Magazine feature, author Anna Barrington joins the Rebel Reads Podcast for a candid, compelling conversation about her experience in the art world to writing her debut novel. I sit down with my fellow New Yorker to explore the journey behind her debut novel, The Spectacle, and the creative path that brought it to life.

From the heart of New York City’s art scene in her twenties, Anna brings her gallery experiences to life, exploring how those encounters shaped her journey from real life to fiction

Bold, thought-provoking, and deeply engaging, this is a must-listen for readers who love literary fiction, cultural critique, and behind-the-scenes author journeys.

Listen now on Spotify and join the conversation.

Happy Listening!

Hello Rebel Readers,

First Episode of 2026 and we're dropping a GOOD one!

In this exciting and inspiring episode of the Rebel Reads Podcast, I’m joined by author Emily Everett, whose debut novel All That Life Can Afford was selected as the April 2025 Reese’s Book Club Pick

Emily and I chat about her author journey, her work with The Common Magazine, and her experience being chosen for Reese’s Book Club. We also dive into the inspiration behind her debut novel, the writing and publishing process, and the moments that shaped her path to national recognition.

This conversation is fun, insightful, and packed with behind-the-scenes details, making it the perfect way to kick off 2026. If you love author interviews, book podcasts, Reese’s Book Club picks, and debut novel stories, you won’t want to miss this episode. Happy Listening!

Hello, Rebel Readers!

As we head into a big holiday week, we’re bringing you the perfect listening treat. A brand-new episode of the Rebel Reads Podcast has officially dropped, and I am beyond excited to share this conversation with the incredible internationally bestselling author Allison Larkin.

In this episode, it’s two New Yorkers getting to chat, connecting over shared roots and Allison’s deep New York inspiration that continues to influence her storytelling. We dive into her creative process, her unique writing style, and her refreshingly honest experience writing with ADHD, including her journey as a constellation thinker and how her brain weaves stories together.

The laughs, warmth, and authenticity are real chatting with Allison truly felt like an instant friendship over coffee. This conversation is heartfelt, relatable, and the perfect companion for the holiday hustle.

Listen now wherever you get your podcasts and join us for a meaningful, feel-good episode that celebrates stories, creativity, and genuine connection. Happy Listening!

Hello Rebel Readers,

This week we have a holiday special + lunchtime Listens Treat!

Rebel Reads Podcast is bringing you not one, but two reasons to press play! In honor of Hanukkah, we’re dropping a special holiday edition that doubles as the perfect lunchtime listen, and trust us, this episode is pure joy!

This Week’s Guest: New York Times Bestselling Author Caitlin Rozakis!

We’re chatting with the incredible Caitlin, diving into her beloved novels, her creative journey, and, yes, you read that right, how one of her novellas was adapted into a Hallmark movie… A HALLMARK MOVIE!!!

Caitlin and I also chat about our shared home city, NYC, and how New York City plays such a powerful role in some of her most beloved novels, bringing heart, magic, and authenticity to the stories readers can’t get enough of.

This conversation is warm, fun, inspiring, and full of behind-the-scenes moments you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Caitlin’s work, this episode is one you do not want to miss.

Special Shoutout to Our Sponsors

A huge thank-you to our amazing sponsors for always being such an important part of the Rebel Reads community, especially Rock This Way Crystal Shop for their continued support and love.

Grab your lunch, light the candles, and tune in, because Rebel Reads is celebrating stories, joy, NYC love, and a little Hallmark magic. Happy Listening!

Hello Rebel Readers,

In this hilarious, and completely captivating episode, we sit down with USA Today Romance Author B. Celeste, the beloved new adult and contemporary romance author. B is known for giving powerful, emotional voices to raw, realistic characters, especially those navigating chronic illness and finding love through it all.

B. opens up about her inspiring author journey, the importance of spotlighting chronically ill characters, and the emotional depth she pours into every story. We dive into the behind-the-scenes hilarity too, like how her mom and grandma (who loves the spicy… and the spicier, the better!) weigh in on her steamy scenes. She also shares her unforgettable experience with Lucy Score, her iconic advice on taping up boobies, and the ongoing need to finally try Taco Bell.

We also dish on her newest release, Three Pucking Words, the fiery book in her brand-new hockey romance series. Love me some hockey romance. Plus, since book talk is never optional, we gush over Navessa Allen’s Lights Out (definitely one of my all-time favs) AND bond over the fact that we are true KU girlies through and through.

Emotional, empowering, spicy, chaotic, and booklover approved—this is an episode you absolutely do not want to miss. Happy Listening!