From the show
Weekly book reviews paired with premium cigars—honest takes on contemporary fiction, Black authors, and the literature worth talking about over a smoke.
Episodes
Latest Episode
July 26, 2026 · 58m
In this episode, @melanatedreader joins me in the Lit Lounge to discuss her incredible 1 Million Black Books Summer Campaign, a movement encouraging readers to intentionally pick up books by Black authors and celebrate the richness, diversity, and power of Black storytelling. Together, we explore the inspiration behind the campaign, why representation on our bookshelves matters, and how intentional reading can broaden perspectives, build community, and amplify voices that deserve to be heard. We talk about the impact of supporting Black authors beyond a single month, share recommendations for readers looking to diversify their shelves, and reflect on the joy, connection, and cultural significance that books can create. Whether you're already participating in the challenge or looking for your next great read, this conversation is an invitation to read with purpose and discover the transformative power of Black stories. Join us in the Lit Lounge for an inspiring conversation you won't want to miss.
More Episodes
Jul 21, 2026 · 1h 29m
In this episode, Ryesia (@theherblueprint) joins me in the Lit Lounge to discuss The Waterbearers by Sasha Bonét, a powerful memoir that explores generational trauma, motherhood, sisterhood, healing, and the weight of the stories we inherit. Together, we unpack Bonét's deeply personal journey, the truths she bravely shares, and the moments that challenged us, moved us, and stayed with us long after we finished reading.We dive into the memoir's central themes, reflect on the stories that resonated most, and discuss the ways The Waterbearers speaks to identity, resilience, forgiveness, and the courage it takes to heal from the past. If you enjoy heartfelt memoirs and meaningful conversations that have a long lasting impact after the final page, pour your favorite drink, light your favorite cigar, and join us in the Lit Lounge for this unforgettable discussion.
Jul 12, 2026 · 1h 13m
In this episode, Mika (@theplanistobebooked) joins me in the Lit Lounge to discuss Keeper of Lost Children by Sadeqa Johnson, a moving novel about family, resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring power of hope. Together, we explore the journeys of the book's three heroes, the historical events that shape their lives, and the unforgettable moments that left us reflecting long after we turned the final page.We dive into the novel's biggest themes, share our favorite moments and characters, and discuss the emotional impact of a story that reminds us what people are willing to risk for those they love. If you enjoy rich historical fiction and meaningful conversations that go beyond the pages, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Please note: This episode contains full book spoilers.
Jun 28, 2026 · 1h 6m
In this episode, I'm joined by Randi (@randilovesreading) for an honest conversation about balancing motherhood, marriage, and the pursuit of a creative passion. We talk about what it really looks like to build a bookish content creator platform while managing the everyday responsibilities of family life, finding time to read, create, and show up authentically without striving for perfection.From overcoming comparison and creator burnout to embracing community and giving yourself grace, this episode is filled with relatable moments, laughter, and encouragement for anyone trying to make space for the things they love. Whether you're a parent, a content creator, or simply navigating a busy season of life, this conversation is a reminder that your passions still deserve a place in your story.
Jun 21, 2026 · 1h 17m
In this episode, Ebone (@theelovee.library) joins me in the Lit Lounge for an honest conversation about what it means to create while you're still becoming. We're talking about content creation in book spaces, showing up authentically online, building community, and navigating the pressure to grow while staying true to yourself.From finding your voice and battling imposter syndrome to balancing creativity with real life responsibilities, we're unpacking the highs, lows, and unexpected lessons that come with sharing your love of books on the internet. We discuss the joy of connecting with fellow readers, the courage it takes to put yourself out there, and how our platforms have evolved alongside us.Expect candid reflections, plenty of laughs, a few hard truths, and encouragement for anyone who has ever wondered if they were "too small" to start creating. Whether you're a Bookstagrammer, BookToker, aspiring content creator, or simply someone learning to embrace the process of growth, this conversation is a reminder that you don't have to have it all figured out to begin.Because sometimes the most meaningful stories aren't the ones we read… they're the ones we're still writing for ourselves.
Jun 14, 2026 · 1h 0m
In this episode, Alex (@Alex.Da.Bibliophile) is in the Lit Lounge, and we're diving into the Curve Series by Danielle Allen. We're talking Black love, friendship, chemistry, healing, and all the messy, beautiful moments that make these stories impossible to put down.From unforgettable characters and laugh-out-loud moments to the relationships that had us rooting from the very beginning, we're unpacking what makes the Curve Series such a standout in contemporary romance. We discuss the ways Danielle Allen captures the complexity of Black relationships, the importance of seeing Black people experience joy and vulnerability on the page, and the moments that had us texting our friends because we just had to talk about them.Expect honest conversation, personal reflections, plenty of laughs, and a celebration of Black love in all its forms. Whether you're already a fan of the Curve Series or looking for your next romance read, this episode is filled with the kind of bookish conversation that lingers long after the final chapter.
Jun 8, 2026 · 1h 10m
In this episode, Leah is in the Lit Lounge, and we’re celebrating Pride Month with a conversation about sapphic romance and the beloved Peach Blossom series. We’re talking about the characters who stole our hearts, the relationships that kept us turning pages, and why stories centered on queer love deserve a permanent place on our bookshelves.From the tenderness and tension to the representation and emotional depth, we’re unpacking what makes this series so special. We discuss the joy of seeing authentic sapphic relationships on the page, the moments that made us swoon, and the themes that stayed with us long after we finished reading. Expect honest conversation, personal reflections, a few laughs, and plenty of appreciation for stories that remind us love is never one-size-fits-all.Whether you're already a fan of the Peach Blossom series, looking to add more queer romance to your reading list, or simply love a good conversation about books and representation, this episode has a seat waiting for you.
May 17, 2026 · 1h 12m
In this episode, Leslie is in the Lit Lounge, and we’re getting into The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins. We’re talking about the simple idea that’s got everybody rethinking boundaries, expectations, relationships, and the exhausting habit of trying to control everything around us.From letting people do what they’re going to do, to learning how to protect your peace without carrying guilt, we’re unpacking the moments in this book that hit home, challenged our thinking, and probably called us out a little too. Expect honest conversation, personal reflections, a few laughs, and the kind of discussion that lingers long after the last page.If you’ve ever struggled with letting go, overthinking what others think, or holding on tighter than you should… this one’s for you. Grab your drink, light up a cigar, and come hang out in the Lit Lounge because we definitely had some things to say about this one.
Apr 12, 2026 · 1h 17m
In this episode, Danyale is back in the Lit Lounge, and you already know what that means… real talk, a little chaos, and a whole lot of laughter. We’re getting into Demon’s Dream by Elle Kayson, a story that had us deep in our feelings one minute and questioning everything the next. We’re talking character choices, messy moments, the chemistry, and all the drama that kept us turning pages (and maybe rolling our eyes too).If you love a book that pulls you into the madness and doesn’t let go, this conversation is for you. light up a cigar, grab your drink, and get comfortable. We are certainly cutting up on this one!⚠️ This episode contains explicit content and discusses mature/sexual themes. Listener discretion is advised.
Mar 22, 2026 · 34m
In honor of Women’s History Month, this episode is dedicated to the power, truth, and vulnerability found in Black female memoirs. From raw confessions to hard-earned wisdom, we’re diving into the stories that don’t just entertain…but liberate.These women open the door to their lives in a way that feels intimate, unfiltered, and deeply human. Through their words, we explore identity, resilience, love, loss, and the complexities of navigating the world as Black women. This isn’t just storytelling…it’s testimony.So grab your favorite book, light your cigar, and settle in as we celebrate the voices that remind us: our stories matter, our voices deserve space, and our truth is powerful.