Ep. 161: Amanda Peters (Author of The Berry Pickers)

In Episode 161, author Amanda Peters joins me to discuss her surprise hit novel, The Berry Pickers. This debut novel (which was the 2023 Barnes & Noble Discover Pick) seamlessly blends sadness and heartwarming moments.  In our chat, Amanda shares what (or who) started her on this journey, the road to publication, and what she hopes readers take away from her first novel.  Plus, Amanda shares some great book recommendations! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Highlights A brief, spoiler-free overview of The Berry Pickers. How Amanda’s family history shaped the story. Amanda’s journey from book concept to securing an agent and getting published. Recognition as a Barnes & Noble Discover Pick for both November and 2023 overall. How Amanda’s life has changed in the wake of the book’s runaway success. What it’s like to be an introverted author on tour. Amanda’s decision to focus on character journeys rather than presenting the book as a typical mystery. Examining the topic of missing and murdered indigenous women and girls. The recurring theme of the unconscious mind’s ability to remember trauma. The role of self-forgiveness and how difficult that can be. A glimpse into what’s next for Amanda, including a collection of short stories and a new manuscript. Amanda’s Book Recommendations [25:28] Two OLD Books She Loves A Burning by Megha Majumdar | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:12] The Underpainter by Jane Urquhart  | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [26:55] Two NEW Books She Loves Truth Telling by Michelle Good | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:28] We Rip the World Apart by Charlene Carr (expected US release October 8, 2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:24] Other Books Mentioned: Five Little Indians by Michelle Good [42:08] Hold My Girl by Charlene Carr [30:42] One NEW RELEASE She’s Excited About Fire Exit by Morgan Talty (June 4, 2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:29] Other Books Mentioned: Night of the Living Rez by Morgan Talty [32:40] Last 5-Star Book Amanda Read Brown Girls by Daphne Palasi Andreades | Amazon | Bookshop.org