Nicole Bonia

For those that are reading some of the lower reviews, I want to highlight that many of those issues are no longer a problem. Nicole and Gayle have higher energy and seem more positive generally about the books they read. I think COVID may have been a big factor to the hosts seeming negative or low energy. Both hosts seem much more prepared with fewer pauses, which may be due to editing or due to a better rapport. I enjoy that both hosts openly admit which books they did not enjoy and are okay with disagreeing with each other about books they liked. Nicole is great at coming up specific reasons why books do not work for her. However, I notice Gayle struggles with this more and provides reasons that don’t necessarily make sense. For example, on the most recent episode Gayle said that the childhood experience of the characters in Seven Days in June wasn’t very realistic. Yet somehow believes their adult experience was more realistic, despite both characters being famous authors that are the top on their respective genres. This comes across as dismissive of the experience of people who had childhoods like the characters. I think many times when Gayle doesn’t like a book it’s because it includes themes or experiences Gayle cannot relate to the characters (which is totally okay!), I just wish she would focus more on how it’s due to her reading taste rather than invalidating the experiences of others.

I respect the cohosts a lot since they seem very articulate and intelligent. They have good opinions about books and I LOVE that they bring books from BIPOC authors. My only feedback is the awkward pauses when someone doesn’t know how to respond to the other co-host and also the monotone, dry unenthused tone at times. I think the transitions can use a bit of work, just some editing feedback to keep the listener engaged in the discussion 30 minutes into the podcast.

These two will put you right to sleep. Zero enthusiasm in their tone. Reminds me of that SNL skit from years ago about schweaty balls. NPR type monotone.

So glad I found this podcast a couple of years ago. Love both women’s reviews as well as their personalities!