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!

I love book podcasts, and I want to add this one to my repertoire because I have very similar tastes in books as they do. I know that podcasts take a lot of work, and editing is a bear. I’ve been told that it takes almost 8 hours to edit 1 hour of a show. But I think I’d prefer a less frequent show with editing than a more frequent show that’s not edited at all. There are a lot of awkward pauses, like they haven’t planned what they are going to be saying. I hate hate hate being judgy. But I think there needs to be more conversation in addition to more editing. Gayle has a good energy for most episodes. Nicole comes across more monotone and very low energy in a lot of episodes and doesn’t really have much to say to Gayle/reactions. I think if they could see each other’s notes in advance and plan for some more questions of each other/discussion, it would seem less like they go back and forth giving book reports….with awkward pauses in between. The pauses get soooo awkward, and I cringe just listening to it. I have listened to about 30 episodes. I keep trying but the assorted things that keep me from liking something I should like finally prompted me to write this review. As a crazy side note, I’ve been listening to the Stuck in the 80’s podcast for years, and I “think” Gayle is the same “Gayle in DC” who very occasionally cohosts on that show. I identified her by voice only. Good job! Take or leave the feedback, but please know that I’ve been debating writing this for several weeks. I love the concept of the show.

I recently discovered The Readerly Report and it’s become my favorite among the dozen or so I listen to. The reason I like it better than all the others is due to two factors - 1) the hosts choose books that aren’t usually the latest hyped books and 2) these are two mature, intelligent women. If their conversation is scripted I would be very surprised, as I feel like I am listening to two good friends having a casual conversation about books. They both have sort of a dry sense of humor but fortunately there isn’t a lot of giggling (which is my pet peeve when listening to podcasts!). Both hosts are very straightforward and I really feel I am getting an honest opinion. Their reading taste don’t always completely mirror mine but they are the closest I have found among all other podcasts of choosing books I most likely wanting to read.

I have only just discovered this podcast in the past year through Sarah’s Bookshelf. I am a retired baby boomer and lifelong reader. I thoroughly enjoy listening to Gayle and Nicole’s weekly conversations for the fact that they are real, not overly edited, as any conversation should be. They are not hyped up, over the top, trying too hard to be cool. In my opinion you are either cool or you’re not, it’s not something you aspire to be. And they are just that-very cool and laid back. That is probably the biggest draw for me. They are easy on my brain. Their recommendations I feel are spot on, not that I always agree with them. They have enough diversity for broad appeal to various audiences. They take pains to not spoil which is hard to do when describing why you either like or dislike a book. I urge you to give these gals a listen as they also have a lifelong love of reading and it really comes through in their labor of love podcast. Hang in their girls, and stay true to your selves and your mission. Much love and gratitude- Cheryl

I might be a book twin with Gayle! Love this relaxed book chat between friends.

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Such a great podcast. I've gotten so many of great recommendation from here; they cover a great variety of books and a nice conversation between two thoughtful readers.