In this episode of Books and Boards, Kayla and Rachel cover The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer. They share what book series shaped their love for reading as children and explain their mixed feelings about Mastermind Jack! They'll be taking a winter break in January, but will be back for more books (and boards) in 2025!

BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS:

1. We appreciated how this book revolved around the characters' love of books from their childhood. What books did this remind you of from your childhood, if any?
2. What fictional world would you like to visit from one of your favorite books or series?
3. How did you feel about Jack putting the contestants through all of those games and challenges before helping them? Did you feel like he should have just helped from the beginning if that was his end goal?
4. Were you surprised by how the contest ended? If so, did it feel cruel to you?
5. Circling back to a question we used to ask often but haven’t in awhile, do you have anyone that you would cast as these characters in a movie?
6. Be brave! What are your wishes for the coming year in 2025?!

FOLLOW THE AUTHOR:
@meg_shaffer

In this episode of Books and Boards, Kayla and Rachel cover A December to Remember by Jenny Bayliss. They explain why this book was the perfect way to kick off the holiday season and Rachel shares what cult classic tv show Rowan Thorp reminded her of! In the next episode, they'll be covering The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer, a whimsical novel to round out the year.

BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS:

1. What were your initial thoughts on Augustus? Did your opinion of him change throughout the book?
2. The "summer sisters" were the main characters in this book, but they all had a lot going on in their personal lives that brought some surprising plot twists to the story! Were you surprised by the big reveal and conflict between Maggie and Joe near the end of the book?
3. Which of the three sisters do you feel like you related to the most? In what ways did you relate to each one?
4. Between the town hall meetings and the way everyone banded together for the winter solstice celebration, Rowan Thorp reminded us a lot of Stars Hollow in Gilmore Girls. Could you see yourself living in and embracing that sort of small town community/environment?
5. How does this quote from Star change your perspective, if at all, on the importance of leaving a "large" mark on the world: “I want to live small and happy, I want to leave only the tiniest footprint on the world. Why isn't that something to aspire to? My life goal is to feel contentment; to me that's the only thing worth striving for."

FOLLOW THE AUTHOR:
@jennibayliss

In this episode of Books and Boards, Kayla and Rachel cover The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston. They talk about the (many) reasons why they loved this story, and Rachel shares a few Easter eggs she picked up on while reading! In the next episode, they'll be covering another cozy Christmas classic by Jenny Bayliss, A December to Remember.

BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS:

1. How do you feel about books that are set in "real life" but have magic woven into them? Are you into those kind of stories, or does it make it harder to believe?
2. Did you have any clue that Iwan was the man in the cab who encouraged Clementine to pursue her career in publishing?
3. Was Clementine being too hard on the grown up version of Iwan and all of the changes that she saw in him?
4. This book made readers think a lot about the concept of “right person, wrong time” and that eventually fate or destiny will bring those people together as soul mates. Do you believe in the concept of soul mates and/or there being one "right" person meant for everyone?
5. Throughout the book, we kept waiting for Iwan to show up at The Met on Clementine's birthday! Do you think you could have waited 7 years to meet your long lost love again?

FOLLOW THE AUTHOR:
@heyashposton

In this episode of Books and Boards, Kayla and Rachel cover And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie. They explore this iconic mystery genre and break down what made this book the world's best-selling mystery novel! In the next episode, they're taking a break from mystery and murder to cover a classic rom com by Ashley Poston, The Seven Year Slip.

BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS:

1. There was a lot to digest in this book, with plenty of twists and turns! Who were your main suspects? Did you suspect anything supernatural at any point?
2. As the book went on, we kept finding ourselves referring back to the nursery rhyme to try and figure out how the next person was going to die. What did you think about how Wargrave used the nursery rhyme to mess with the guests' heads and instill that sense of fear?
3. Did you have any inkling that Wargrave, or one of the other guests, had faked their own death and that’s how they were getting away with things?
4. How did you feel about Wargrave's motive or justification for the game/murders?
5. How do you think you would have responded if you were on that island?! Would you have wanted to stay near everyone like they attempted to do in the book, or would you have isolated yourself and tried to find a way to escape?
6. Agatha Christie is one of the most best-selling novelists of all time! How does this book compare to others that you have read by her?

FOLLOW THE AUTHOR:
@officialagathachristie

In this episode of Books and Boards, Kayla and Rachel cover The Housemaid by Freida McFadden. They jump right into things and (playfully) psychoanalyze all the crazy twists and turns! In the next episode, they'll be covering a true literary classic by the queen of mystery herself, And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie.

BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS:

1. Who did you think the person being questioned at the beginning of the book was? And whose body did you think had been found?
2. What kind of crime did you suspect Millie of committing when you found out she had been in prison for that long?
3. While reading, did you think Millie was a reliable narrator? Why or why not?
4. Knowing that there is a second and third book in the series, how do you think the story is going to evolve and continue?
5. Would you have accepted the job if you realized the door you'd be living in locked from the outside?

FOLLOW THE AUTHOR:
@fmcfaddenauthor

In this episode of Books and Boards, Kayla and Rachel cover The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo. They dive deep into all the complex emotions this book brought with it and discuss the role of fate vs. free will! In the next episode, they'll be covering The Housemaid by Freida McFadden, a bestselling psychological thriller that will get you in the spooky spirit just in time for October!

BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS:

1. How did you feel like the writing style changed or enhanced the emotional impact of the story?
2. How do you think Lucy evolved throughout the novel, and what events do you think were the most pivotal to her growth?
3. One of the main themes of the book involved fate and free will. Do you think the events in Lucy’s life are guided more by fate or her own choices?
4. What do the difference in Lucy’s relationships with Darren and Gabe reveal about her desires and needs?
5. We didn’t necessarily get to see what happened in the aftermath of Gabe’s death, but were you satisfied with what we did get to see in terms of how Lucy’s “journey” concluded in the book?

FOLLOW THE AUTHOR:
@jillsantopolo

In this episode of Books and Boards, Kayla and Rachel cover The Paris Deception by Bryn Turnbull. They reflect on the differences between this book and other historical fiction novels they've read and discover how acrylic paint was invented! In the next episode, they'll be covering another tearjerker, The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo.

BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS:

1. Would you rather have taken on Sophie’s responsibilities that were more “invisible” and relationship-focused, or Fabienne’s responsibilities that were more on the ground and visible?
2. Whose death were you most surprised or saddened by?
3. Why do you think it was so important to the Nazis/the Reich to destroy “degenerate” art when they were trying to take over Europe?
4. Do you think the characters in this book placed too much importance on saving art (and wine for some), knowing how much death and torture others were enduring?
5. Speaking of the wine, were you surprised to know how much champagne was consumed, and that champagne production was part of the war in some capacity?

FOLLOW THE AUTHOR:
@brynturnbullwrites

In this episode of Books and Boards, Kayla and Rachel cover We Are All the Same in the Dark by Julia Heaberlin. They process all the deep dark details of this thriller and Rachel shares what moment from the book helped her figure out who the killer was! In the next episode, they'll be covering their second historical fiction novel, The Paris Deception by Bryn Turnbull.

BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS:

1. Was Odette’s death a surprise to you, or did you see it coming? How did the death of the main character impact the story for you?
2. Who was your main suspect for Trumanell’s disappearance, and then Odette’s disappearance? Did you suspect the same person for both?
3. What do you think Dr. Greco’s motivation was for writing the true crime novel about Trumanell and Odette’s case? Did it feel wrong or unethical to you?
4. Why do you think we as a society seem to be so fascinated with true crime stories?
5. Many characters in the book were haunted by their past, and Wyatt was even haunted by the ghost, or presence, of Trumanell. Do you have any spooky stories or experiences with ghosts?
6. What were your thoughts about Angel’s storyline? Were you surprised at all by her connection and continued involvement in the story following the five year time jump?

FOLLOW THE AUTHOR:
@juliaheaberlin

In this special episode of Books and Boards, Kayla and Rachel talk about their first six months of the podcast! They share the results of the "Best of Books and Boards" Book Bracket with the gold medal winner being no surprise, and look back at their vision board to see how far they've come! Thank you to all of our followers and listeners for coming on this journey with us. At our six month mark, we want to invite you to bring a friend to book club and continue to grow this wonderful community we've created together! Long live Books and Boards Pod...iykyk.

In this week's episode of Books and Boards, Kayla and Rachel cover_ Murder at the Theatre Royale_ by Ada Moncrieff. They make an interesting connection between this book and Taylor Swift's latest album, and hone in on their detective skills! In the next episode, they'll be celebrating six months of Books and Boards Pod! You can expect to hear them chat about their favorite books they've covered so far, and more exciting plans for the future.

BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS:

1. Is the theater world enchanting to you, or scary? Have you ever been in a theater production?
2. Often in books we don't know that a murder has happened for sure until it happens, but this story was full of foreshadowing... almost as if the main character/narrator was telling the story after it happened and reflecting. What did you think of this writing style?
3. Which death were you most surprised by, Chester or Tyrone?
4. What kind of woman do you think you would have been in the 1930s? More content in a homemaker role or driving forward in the workplace like Daphne?
5. Would you hop in the car for a round trip with people you just met IF it meant you might get to solve a murder?!

Kayla and Rachel are back for another Ask the Author mini episode! In this episode, they share about their lovely chat with Jenny Bayliss, author of The Twelve Dates of Christmas. They got to hear the inspiring story of Jenny's writing career, and learn more about the real life events that prompted some of the dates featured in the book!

FOLLOW THE AUTHOR:
@jennibayliss

In this week's episode of Books and Boards, Kayla and Rachel cover The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Jenny Bayliss. They get into the Christmas spirit and share why they couldn't get enough of this cozy book! In the next episode, they'll be continuing their Christmas in July celebrations with Murder at the Theatre Royale by Ada Moncrieff.

BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS:

1. Would you consider Kate’s view of dating at the beginning of the book as cynical or just more practical? Did you connect with that view at all, or are you more of a hopeless romantic?
2. If you were in Kate’s position, do you think you would be bold or brave enough to sign up for the 12 Dates of Christmas?
3. If you could choose any of Kate’s dates to go on, which one would it be?
4. Outside of the date that you would have chosen for yourself, which of the dates was most entertaining for you to read?
5. Were you surprised that Kate considered leaving Blexford? Do you think if Matt had not confessed his feelings for her, that she would have gone through with the move?
6. What were your final thoughts about the ending? Do you think someone said something to Matt about Kate leaving and that influenced his decision, or do you think he finally came to his senses on his own?

FOLLOW THE AUTHOR:
@jennibayliss

In this episode of Books and Boards, Kayla and Rachel cover None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell. They chat about the crazy week they had and the equally crazy plot twists this book gave us! In the next episode, they'll be kicking off Christmas in July with a festive romance, The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Jenny Bayliss.

BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS:

1. What did you think Josie’s story was going to be when she first pitched the podcast to Alix?
2. Now that we know Erin is alive, what do you think the smell coming from her room was?
3. Were you surprised that Alix didn’t pick up on all of the things going missing around her house when Josie was over?
4. In general, why do you think Alix didn't stop the podcast sooner despite all the red flags piling up? What do you think the biggest red flag was?
5. One of Josie’s neighbors said they didn’t hear much from the family until “after the murders” - who all did you initially think was going to be murdered?
6. Who do you think was telling the truth?! Are you Team Josie or Team Roxy?

FOLLOW THE AUTHOR:
@lisajewelluk

In this episode of Books and Boards, Kayla and Rachel cover Daisy Jones + The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Kayla shares her upopular opinion of the book and they discuss what scenes they're excited to see play out on the big screen! In the next episode, they'll be returning to their psychological thriller roots with None of This is True by Lisa Jewell.

BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS:

1. We were big fans of the interview format style of storytelling in this book! How did you feel about the writing style? Have you read any other books written in this same style?
2. A lot of the characters in the book are extremely complex. Did you find it hard to like any of the characters, or did you relate strongly to any of them?
3. There is a lot we can learn from the female leads in the book as they all embodied different forms of female strength, empowerment and creativity. What would you say you took away from them?
4. This book highlighted the differences in people’s recollection of specific memories or events. Were there any moments throughout the book where you found yourself believing one person's account more than another?
5. Were you surprised by the way the band fell apart in the end? And what did you think about where everyone was at in the “Then and Now” chapter?
6. Do you think Billy eventually called Daisy? Where do you think the rest of their story led them?

FOLLOW THE AUTHOR:
@tjenkinsreid

In this week's episode of Books and Boards, Kayla and Rachel cover Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister. They dive straight into this gripping page turner and discuss whether or not they believe in time travel! In the next episode, they'll be covering a listener-recommended book, Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid.

BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS:

1. If you knew you could go back in time to stop something terrible from happening, would you?
2. How did you feel reading this book in reverse? Would you have liked it as much if you read it like a typical book?
3. There was no time context for Ryan’s chapters like there was for Jen’s. As you were reading, when did you think Ryan's chapters were taking place?
4. This book was full of twists and turns! What was the biggest plot twist or reveal for you?
5. What did you think about Kelly/Ryan’s decision to conceal his identity and keep so much from his wife? Do you think it was warranted in the name of love and protecting her, or did you see him as a bad guy?
6. Pauline ends up in her own time loop at the end of the book. Do you believe in these? What do you think is a force strong enough to cause that in your life?

FOLLOW THE AUTHOR:
@gillianmauthor

In this week's episode of Books and Boards, Kayla and Rachel cover The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez. They unpack the complex emotions they experienced while reading, and share what Taylor Swift lyrics they think perfectly describe Kristen in the story! In the next episode, they'll be covering Wrong Place Wrong Time, a time-twisting thriller by best-selling author Gillian McAllister.

BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS:

1. What did you think about the first interaction between Josh and Kristen?
2. Were you surprised that Kristen waited so long to tell Sloan about what was really going on? Why do you think Kristen didn’t tell her earlier?
3. Using Sloan’s words, do you think Kristen would have “settled” if she said yes to Tyler’s proposal and stayed with him over Josh?
4. Why do you think Kristen didn’t tell Josh the truth to begin with, and how do you think Josh would have reacted if he found out earlier?
5. What did you think of the ending of the book, and how Kristen and Josh finally came together in the aftermath of losing Brandon?
6. Despite losing Brandon, Kristen and Josh got their own version of a happy ending with sweet baby Oliver Brandon. Were you surprised by her pregnancy?

FOLLOW THE AUTHOR:
@authorabbyjimenez

Kayla and Rachel are back for another Ask the Author mini episode! They get to dive deeper into the details of _The Resort _after talking with author, Sara Ochs. They find out what real-life events sparked the idea for this book, and are excited to learn some new details about Sara's upcoming thriller currently in the works!

FOLLOW THE AUTHOR:
@saraochsauthor

In this week's episode of Books and Boards, Kayla and Rachel cover The Resort by Sara Ochs. They chat about Kayla's upcoming trip to an all-inclusive resort (which hopefully isn't as dark and dangerous as Koh Sang), and Rachel shares about the interesting alternate storylines she created for this book in her head! In the next episode, they'll be covering The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez, a romantic comedy that just might also bring you to tears.

BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS:

1. This book was all about travel and the various ways that the characters used travel to escape, either to a new world, or from their past. Do you view travel as an escape? If yes, how so?
2. Do you think you could live the influencer lifestyle, sharing everything with the world and subjecting yourself to the whole world's thoughts and opinions?
3. Once introduced to Lucy’s character, did you suspect that she was the girl from the prologue?
4. Which of the permanents were you most suspicious of throughout the book?
5. Did you buy into the group murder plot or did you think there was a mastermind behind it all?
6. Whose backstory or reason for being on the island were you most surprised by?
7. Do you think Brooke is going to be okay?! How do you see their stories playing out?

FOLLOW THE AUTHOR:
@saraochsauthor

Kayla and Rachel are back for their second Ask the Author mini episode! They get to share about their chat with Kate Quinn, author of The Alice Network. They learn more about the real-life inspiration behind the novel, and are surprised to hear the original fate of Eve's character!

FOLLOW THE AUTHOR:
@katequinn5975

In this episode of Books and Boards, Kayla and Rachel cover The Alice Network by Kate Quinn. They walk through the rollercoaster of emotions they experienced while reading the book and discuss whether or not they could have been a spy in the real life Alice Network! In the next episode, they'll be covering a destination thriller that is sure to keep you on your toes, The Resort by Sara Ochs.

BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS:

1. This is another one of those books that alternates between timelines and perspectives. Did you enjoy one time period or perspective over the other, or do you think the two storylines were tied together well?
2. Were you surprised by the harsh realities of working in The Alice Network, and do you think you could have been a spy like Eve???
3. One of the main storylines throughout the book was Charlie’s search for her cousin, Rose. Were you surprised by her fate, or did you anticipate her death?
4. Rene and Eve had a particularly complex relationship throughout the story, if you would call it that. What did you think of their dynamic?
5. Let's talk about the torture scene. Do you think you would have been able to withstand that amount of pain?!
6. How much do you know about the real women this book was inspired by?

FOLLOW THE AUTHOR:
@katequinn5975