Unlikeable Female Characters

Episode 100: Bitches on the Internet

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 13:10:00 -0000

On this very special Unlikeable Female Characters, Kristen, Layne, and Wendy say goodbye (for now) with a look back at their favorite episodes and what they’ve learned in four years of being professional bitches on the internet.

Favorite episodes in case you missed them:

Also mentioned in this episode:

Buzzfeed article about women writing men
Netflix movie Do Revenge
Amazon Prime series The Rings of Power
Such Sharp Teeth by Rachel Harrison
Netflix series Wednesday
Meghan Markle’s *Archetypes* podcast

Thanks for listening, and stay unlikeable!

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Episode 99: Treacherous Times with Wanda M. Morris

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Wendy welcomes Wanda M. Morris to discuss her new historical thriller Anywhere You Run, what it takes to make the past come alive on the page, and finding joy and hope in dark books (and darker times).

Anywhere You Run is available now wherever books are sold!

Also mentioned in the episode:

Wanda’s debut novel All Her Little Secrets
The official Spotify playlist for Anywhere You Run

Find out more about Wanda on her website, Instagram, and Twitter.

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Episode 98: No Body, No Crime with Kelly J. Ford

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen is joined by author Kelly J. Ford to discuss her new Southern noir novel Real Bad Things, the maddening minefield of apologizing as a woman, and why we’re in a golden age for writing weird queer shit.

Real Bad Things is available now wherever books are sold!

Also mentioned in the episode:

Kelly’s debut novel Cottonmouths
Crime fiction author Cheryl A. Head (who Kristen interviewed back in 2020)
Powers and Thrones: A New History of the Middle Ages by Dan Jones
Siren Queen by Nghi Vo
The Strange Love of Martha Ivers
Midsommar
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee (and the Apple TV+ adaptation)

Find out more about Kelly on her website, Instagram, and Twitter.

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Episode 97: Reaching the Boiling Point with Courtney Summers

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Layne welcomes Courtney Summers to the show for a chat about her harrowing new novel I'm the Girl, the significance of writing about girls who are super gay for each other, and how to hype yourself (and your work) without apology.

You can buy I’m the Girl now, as well as Courtney’s previous books The Project, Sadie, All the Rage, This is Not a Test, Fall for Anything, Some Girls Are, and Cracked Up to Be.

Find out more about Courtney on her website, Instagram, and Twitter.

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Episode 96: From Sex Cults to Rom Coms with Ashley Winstead

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Layne talks with Ashley Winstead about her absolutely badass new novel The Last Housewife, the problem of female pleasure under the patriarchy, and how she stays sane by toggling between thrillers and romantic comedies.

The Last Housewife is available now!

Also mentioned in the episode:

Ashley’s other books In My Dreams I Hold a Knife and Fool Me Once
The Cut’s exposé on the Sarah Lawrence sex cult
Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood
Justine by the Marquis de Sade and the movie Quills

Find out more about Ashley on her website, Instagram, or Twitter.

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Episode 95: Rage & Rule Breaking with Gwendolyn Kiste

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Layne’s celebrating spooky season early with feminist horror author Gwendolyn Kiste! Tune in for their chat about Gwendolyn’s feminist as hell Dracula meets Jane Eyre mashup Reluctant Immortals, why women are so good at controlling our murderous urges, and what makes horror the ideal genre for rule-breaking, rage-fueled fiction.

Reluctant Immortals is out now, as are Gwendolyn’s previous books Boneset & Feathers, The Rust Maidens, Pretty Marys All in a Row, and And Her Smile Will Untether the Universe.

Also mentioned in the episode:

Dracula by Bram Stoker
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë
Shirley Jackson, author of The Haunting of Hill House
Angela Carter, author of The Bloody Chamber
The Babadook
Something Borrowed, Something Blood-Soaked by Christa Carmen
To Be Devoured by Sara Tantlinger
Yellowjackets

Find out more about Gwendolyn on her website, Instagram, or Twitter.

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Episode 94: Red Flags & Future Selves with Sarah Zachrich Jeng

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Layne interviews Sarah Zachrich Jeng about her speculative feminist thriller The Other Me, why selfishness is necessary to make art, and the men we should all watch out for.

Sarah’s debut The Other Me is available now in both paperback and hardcover.

Also mentioned in this episode:

Black Mirror
Russian Doll
“Once in a Lifetime” by Talking Heads
The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

Find out more about Sarah on her website, Instagram, or Twitter.

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Episode 93: Eat Slay Loathe with Amina Akhtar

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Layne welcomes Amina Akhtar (and her celebrity pup Bean!) back to the show to talk about her new novel Kismet, the Christopher Columbusing of wellness culture, and why we’re all getting weirder.

Kismet is out now! Also mentioned in the episode:

Amina’s first book #FashionVictim
Our previous interview with Amina
Beanie the Coyote Vest Pup’s official Insta
Bean on The Late Late Show with James Corden (eff you James Corden, Beanie looks fabulous)

Find out more about Amina on her website, Instagram, and Twitter.

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Episode 92: Hot Goth Summer with Isabel Cañas

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Layne celebrates Hot Goth Summer with Isabel Cañas, author of The Hacienda (remember that Hot Priest book from our summer reads episode? This is it, bitches!). Plus: how the hell Isabel completed this book while also getting her PhD, why we all love a forbidden romance, and which classic Gothic heroine drove her so batshit crazy she had to rage-write about it.

Isabel’s debut The Hacienda is out now wherever books are sold!

Also mentioned in the episode:

Episode 86: Queen Shit with Hannah Whitten
Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier
Fleabag
Quills
Story Genius by Lisa Cron
Save the Cat! Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody

Find out more about Isabel on her website, Instagram, or Twitter.

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Episode 91: Stubborn as Hell with Margarita Montimore

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Layne chats with author Margarita Montimore about her new novel Acts of Violet, writing stories based on your personal obsessions rather than what’s popular, and success comes to those who stay stubborn as hell.

Pick up your copy of Acts of Violet from Bookshop.org or your favorite local indie bookstore.

Also mentioned in this episode:

Margarita’s first two books Oona Out of Order and Asleep From Day
Macmillan Audio’s EPIC *Acts of Violet* audiobook
The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
The Echo Wife by Sarah Gailey
Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Find out more about Margarita on her website, Instagram, or Twitter.

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Episode 90: Surviving & Thriving with Tess Gerritsen

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Layne talks to legendary thriller author Tess Gerritsen about the unlikeable female character she just couldn’t kill off, the secret to keeping a long-running series feeling fresh, and why older women make the best spies (and serial killers).

Listen to Me, the 13th book in her popular Rizzoli & Isles series is out now (and click here for a complete list of the books in order, if you want to start from the beginning).

Also mentioned in this episode:

Blood Water Paint by Joy McCullough
Tess’s medical thriller Harvest
Choose Me co-written by Tess and Gary Braver

Find out more about Tess on her website, Instagram, or Twitter.

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Episode 89: A Thrill You’ll Never Forget with Sandra SG Wong

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne welcome multi-talented multi-genre author Sandra SG Wong for a chat about her new suspense novel IN THE DARK WE FORGET, the challenges of crafting a main character who has no idea who she is, and what it’s really like to road trip with a thriller writer.

In the Dark We Forget is out now wherever books are sold!

Also mentioned in the episode:

The Lola Starke series and Crescent City short stories by SG Wong
I've Pet That Dog Twitter account

Find out more about Sandra on her website, Instagram, or Twitter.

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Episode 88: Get in Losers, We’re Screaming About Abortion

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne recorded this feminist rant about abortion rights and the Supreme Court decision on Roe v. Wade back in May, but unfortunately it’s even more relevant now. You are cordially invited to scream with us (and then donate to your favorite abortion rights group, see below for a couple of ours).

Mentioned in this episode:

The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood
Midwest Access Coalition
Women Have Options

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Episode 87: Spice Girls and Sisterhood with Juno Dawson

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne chat with author Juno Dawson about her new novel HER MAJESTY’S ROYAL COVEN, how to create a truly inclusive magical world, and the enduring power of the Spice Girls.

Mentioned in this episode:

Her Majesty’s Royal Coven by Juno Dawson
This Book is Gay by Juno Dawson
Clean by Juno Dawson
Detransition, Baby by Torrey Peters
The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman
The Circle on Netflix
And of course, the Spice Girls

Find out more about Juno on her website, Instagram, or Twitter

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Episode 86: Queen Shit with Hannah Whitten

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Layne welcomes Hannah Whitten for a chat about her new sisterhood-centric fantasy novel FOR THE THRONE, the power of being your own biggest fan, and how Adam Driver brings people together.

Shop Hannah’s books in the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop (or here’s the B&N link if you want to get your hands on that sweet sweet special edition).

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Episode 85: Screw the Sun, Let’s Read All Summer

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Covens, creepy houses, weddings gone wrong, gay drama, disappearing acts, and plenty of men who deserve what’s coming to them—Kristen and Layne share their epic list of summer reads that’ll last you all the way until spooky season.

Shop the full list in the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop!

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Episode 84: Unlikeable Until Proven Guilty

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne share a good scream about the disturbing public spectacle of the Depp v Heard case, how Amber Heard’s unlikeability has been used against her, and the bullshit myth of mutual abuse.

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Episode 83: Power and Empowerment with Tori Eldridge

Wed, 25 May 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Badass author (and actual ninja) Tori Eldridge returns to the show to discuss her new globe-trotting, century-spanning dark fantasy novel DANCE AMONG THE FLAMES, writing fiction that doesn’t give a damn about genre, and why power-hungry female characters can be so empowering.

DANCE AMONG THE FLAMES is out now, so pick up your copy (or any of Tori’s previous books) in the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop.

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Episode 82: Wuthering Heights: The Musical! with Hannah Gregory

Wed, 18 May 2022 10:00:00 -0000

This very special episode is an Unlikeable Female Characters first: a sneak peak at soon-to-be-premiered musical! Layne welcomes playwright and composer Hannah Gregory for a chat about her original folk musical based on WUTHERING HEIGHTS, classic unlikeable female character Cathy Earnshaw, and the perils of white feminism past and present.

If you’re in the Cincinnati area, you can buy tickets to WUTHERING: A MUSICAL ON THE MOORS here; the rest of us will have to content ourselves with the amazing demo tracks on Hannah’s Bandcamp.

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Episode 81: Be Gay, Do Crime with Wendy Heard

Wed, 11 May 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Our own Wendy Heard returns to the show for a chat about her latest YA thriller DEAD END GIRLS, how to fake your own death for fun and profit, and what’s on her personal gay agenda. Grab your copy of DEAD END GIRLS (or any of Wendy’s other books) in the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop.

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Episode 80: Queen Bees and Judgmental Nerds with Kathleen Glasgow and Liz Lawson

Wed, 04 May 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne are joined by authors Kathleen Glasgow and Liz Lawson to chat about their new co-written YA mystery THE AGATHAS, why you should never underestimate a teenage girl, and the enduring cultural power of OG Plot Twist Queen Agatha Christie. Grab your copy of THE AGATHAs, or any of Kathleen and Liz’s solo books, in the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop.

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Episode 79: Shoulder Pads and Scandal with the Young Rich Widows

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Layne hosts a rad roundtable with her YOUNG RICH WIDOWS co-authors Kimberly Belle, Cate Holahan, and Vanessa Lillie. Find out how this literary supergroup teamed up to write a totally 80s thriller about an ex-model, a trophy wife, a stripper, and a brassy broad banding together after their spouses are killed in a suspicious plane crash. Plus: favorite unlikeable female characters of the Decade of Excess. Listen to YOUNG RICH WIDOWS, available now only on Audible! (And visit the Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop to pick up any of the authors’ previous solo books.)

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Episode 78: The Virtues of Unlikeability with Tara Isabella Burton

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne are joined by one of their all-time fave authors, Tara Isabella Burton, to discuss her new queer dark academia novel THE WORLD CANNOT GIVE, writing feverishly-intense female friendships, and what it means to claim the label “unlikeable” out loud. Buy THE WORLD CANNOT GIVE or any of the other books mentioned in the episode in the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop.

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Episode 77: Are Movies Bad Now?

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0000

It’s Oscar season, and Kristen and Layne are full of loathing. Join them for a bitch sesh about the nominated movies they hated, loved, or loved to hate this year, and all the female characters who deserved so much better. Plus: Kristen shares a dramatic recitation of a very special missive from a reader.

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Episode 76: Keeping It Real with Kellye Garrett

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne welcome THE Kellye Garrett to discuss her new domestic suspense novel LIKE A SISTER, dish about reality shows they love to judge, and pour one out for the mentoring program that brought them all together. Pick up a copy of LIKE A SISTER or any of the other books mentioned in this episode at the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop, and don’t forget to check out Kellye’s amazing organization Crime Writers of Color too!

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Episode 75: Social Horror Secrets with Bethany C. Morrow

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne chat with Bethany C. Morrow about her chilling new novel CHERISH FARRAH, crafting scary stories that stick with you, and why we’re all unreliable narrators. Buy CHERISH FARRAH or any of Bethany’s other books in the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop.

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Episode 74: Kristen Bell, Casserole Assassin

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne provide their expert analysis of Netflix’s satirical domestic suspense series THE WOMAN IN THE HOUSE ACROSS THE STREET FROM THE GIRL IN THE WINDOW (and by “expert analysis,” we mean gleeful cackling).

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Episode 73: The Joy of Sex Magic with Sara Gran

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne interview absolute legend Sara Gran about her new novel The Book of the Most Precious Substance (a globetrotting adventure about rare books and sex magic; yes, you need it), why she decided to step away from traditional publishing to strike out on her own, and whatever happened to the good old-fashioned erotic thriller. Preorder The Book of the Most Precious Substance (out February 8th) or pick up any of Sara’s other books in the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop.

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Episode 72: Deck the Halls with Shreds of Joy

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne close out 2021 by sharing some of the things that have kept them sane during this long (seriously, how is it still happening??), strange year. Shop for your loved ones or treat yourself with the official (and interactive!) Unlikeable Female Characters Holiday Gift Guide.

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Episode 71: Noir-igin Stories with John Copenhaver

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Kristen welcomes Unlikeable Female Characters' first-ever* male guest, author John Copenhaver, to talk about his new novel THE SAVAGE KIND, his favorite femme fatales, and the future of queer crime fiction. Pick up copies of John's books in the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop.

*Jonathan Mallory Davis notwithstanding, of course.

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Episode 70: Good for Her

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne break down the "Good For Her" genre—is it a meme, a movement, or a moral outrage? Check out the books mentioned in the episode in the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop.

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Episode 69: Rachel Harrison

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Layne chats with Rachel Harrison about her brand-new witchy feminist horror novel CACKLE, smashing patriarchal fairy tale narratives, and embracing your inner power. Pick up Rachel's books, plus the other spooky reads mentioned in the episode, in the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop.

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Episode 68: The Final Girl

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Happy Spooky Season, one and all! Kristen and Layne ring in the most wonderful time of the year with a look at the many faces of the quintessential horror movie heroine, the Final Girl. Check out the books mentioned in this episode at the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop.

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Episode 67: Amanda Jayatissa

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne interview Amanda Jayatissa about her twisty debut thriller MY SWEET GIRL, why rage-writing is the best kind of writing, and our collective debt of gratitude to the great Gillian Flynn. Pick up MY SWEET GIRL or any of the other books mentioned in the episode at the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop.

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Episode 66: Fall Reads 2021

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne bring you 30 new fall books featuring vengeful vampires, sexy witches, apocalyptic strippers, and more to take your mind off the still-raging trashfire of 2021. Shop the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop (or visit an indie bookstore near you!): https://bookshop.org/lists/episode-66-fall-reads-2021/

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Episode 65: Megan Abbott

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne chat with Megan Abbott about her deliciously dark (and New York Times bestselling!) ballet thriller THE TURNOUT, the connection between perfectionism and womanhood, and how to write authentic conflict between female characters while avoiding catfight stereotypes. Grab a copy of THE TURNOUT, or any of Megan's 9(!) other incredible books in the official podcast Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/lists/episode-65-megan-abbott

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Episode 64: Jess Montgomery

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen interviews historical fiction author Jess Montgomery about unruly women, then and now. Check out Jess's 1920s-set mystery series in the podcast Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/lists/episode-64-jess-montgomery

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Episode 63: All She Does Is Win

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne celebrate the Summer Olympics by screaming about sexism in sports (#EqualPay Now!) and fangirling over the baddest bitches of gymnastics, soccer, tennis, and more. Stop by the podcast Bookshop to check out some books we love about female athletes: https://bookshop.org/lists/episode-63-all-she-does-is-win/

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Episode 62: The Woman in the Window

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Wendy's back, for one episode only! The ladies reunite to hate-watch the film adaptation of A.J. Finn's THE WOMAN IN THE WINDOW (now streaming on Netflix, if you like to suffer).

Oh, and if you'd like to get caught up on the stranger-than-fiction real life saga of the author, check out this New Yorker piece.

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Episode 61: Heather Levy

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Layne interviews debut novelist (and her former Pitch Wars mentee!) Heather Levy about sex, drugs, chronic pain, and her gorgeously dark psychological thriller WALKING THROUGH NEEDLES (out now from Polis Books).

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Episode 60: Cruella

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne chat about the movie CRUELLA, female villains, and why we should let women be brilliant, bad, and (more than) a little bit mad. WARNING: Spoilers (and vicious attack Dalmations) ahead.

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Episode 59: Women and Power with Sara Flannery Murphy

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne chat with Sara Flannery Murphy (author of the feminist sci-fi novel GIRL ONE, out now!) about women wielding power, super and otherwise.

This episode is presented in partnership with Layne's favorite indie bookstore Women & Children First. Don't miss their virtual event with Sara and Amy Gentry on Tuesday June 8th: https://www.crowdcast.io/e/girlone/

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Episode 58: Summer Reads 2021

Wed, 26 May 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Fill up your beach bag with Kristen and Layne's summer reading recommendations, featuring shotgun-toting housewives, stabby backpackers, sexy ballerinas, and so much more. All books for sale at the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop (or an indie bookstore near you!): https://bookshop.org/lists/episode-58-summer-reads-2021

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Episode 57: Heartland Bitches with Rachel Mans McKenny

Wed, 12 May 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne are joined by fellow Midwestern lady Rachel Mans McKenny (author of THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT) for a deep dive into the phenomenon of "Midwest nice" from potlucks to passive-aggression.

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Episode 56: I Hate Men

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne discuss Pauline Harmange's controversial book I HATE MEN and the life-changing magic of unapologetic misandry.

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Episode 55: Free Britney, Bitch

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne discuss the documentary FRAMING BRITNEY SPEARS, which made them so mad they're on the verge of shaving their heads and smashing some shit up too (#FreeBritney #FuckJamieSpears). Plus: behind-the-scenes secrets of the podcast's very special April Fool’s Day interview with the illustrious Jonathan Mallory Davis!

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Bonus Episode: Jonathan Mallory Davis

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0000

In this very special bonus episode, Kristen, Layne, and Wendy bring you an exclusive interview with Jonathan Mallory Davis, author of the highly-anticipated debut novel TWIST OF VELVET SMOKE. Check out Jonathan's reading recommendations in the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/lists/bonus-episode-jonathan-mallory-davis/

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Episode 54: She's Too Pretty to Burn

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Wendy’s YA debut SHE’S TOO PRETTY TO BURN drops on March 30th, and we're celebrating with a chat about teenage angst, art crimes, pet wolves, and the mortifying ordeal of being perceived. Get your copy of SHE'S TOO PRETTY TO BURN via the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop (https://bookshop.org/lists/episode-54-she-s-too-pretty-to-burn/) or an indie bookstore near you!

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Episode 53: The Head Bitch in Charge

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Kristen, Layne, and Wendy celebrate the inauguration of ultimate HBIC Kamala Harris with a chat about their favorite boss bitches, the patriarchal bullshit faced by women in positions of power, and why being left in charge of so damn much during the pandemic might be making women even bitchier. Check out the books discussed in this episode at the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/lists/episode-53-the-head-bitch-in-charge/.

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Episode 52: Promising Young Woman

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Kristen, Layne, and Wendy discuss Emerald Fennell’s devastating feminist revenge film PROMISING YOUNG WOMAN. (NOTE: this conversation does include some spoilers, but listeners will be warned first!)

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Episode 51: The Vain Woman

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Kristen, Layne, and Wendy take on the mindf*ck minefield of women’s beauty standards, from fashion models to Disney witches to the Real Housewives of wherever. Check out the books discussed in this episode at the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/lists/episode-51-the-vain-woman.

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Episode 50: 2021 Reading Preview

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Con women, clones, serial killers, snowboarders, time-traveling lesbians - 2021’s slate of new reads has something for everyone! Buy your future self a present by preordering Kristen, Layne, and Wendy’s picks via the official Unlikeable Female Characters Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/lists/episode-50-2021-reading-preview.

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Episode 49: The Petty Bitch

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Kristen, Layne, and Wendy ring in the new year with a celebration of pettiness, including their own pettiest deeds and petty confessions from listeners.

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Episode 48: Holiday Gift Guide 2020

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0000

2020 is almost over (thank f*ck), so it's time for the Unlikeable Female Characters Holiday Gift Guide! Whether you want to scandalize your prudish relatives, send a passive-aggressive message to a not-so-special guy in your life, or treat yourself to something fabulous, Kristen, Layne, and Wendy have you covered.

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Episode 47: Halley Sutton

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Layne welcomes feminist noir author and friend of the show Halley Sutton back to celebrate the release of her debut novel THE LADY UPSTAIRS with a chat about sex scenes, murder buses, and destroying bad men for a living.

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Episode 46: The Femme Fatale

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Kristen, Layne, and Wendy fangirl about one of their all-time favorite unlikeable archetypes: the Femme Fatale. From Lady Macbeth to Megan Thee Stallion, these dangerous ladies break hearts, ruin lives, and shamelessly seize the narrative for their own nefarious purposes. We have no choice but to stan.

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Episode 45: Tori Eldridge

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Tori Eldridge, author of the Lily Wong series and actual badass ninja, sits down with Wendy to share her best self-defense tips, her thoughts on violence and vengeance in crime fiction, and her favorite knives. Pick up Tori’s latest book The Ninja’s Blade wherever books are sold!

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Episode 44: The Vengeful Bitch

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Happy Spooky Season, one and all! This week, Kristen, Layne, and Wendy take on the archetype of the vengeful bitch - just in time for the release of Layne's new revenge-fueled female serial killer thriller THEY NEVER LEARN. Vengeance may be wrong, but who cares when it's this much fun?

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Episode 43: Alison Stine

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen interviews author Alison Stine about her chilling Appalachian "climate chaos" thriller ROAD OUT OF WINTER (out now from MIRA Books!), the stranger-than-fiction dystopian nightmare we're all living in, and why we need more boring bisexual characters.

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Episode 42: The Bad Bisexual

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Happy Bisexual Awareness Week! Your favorite bi bitches Kristen, Layne, and Wendy are here to make you aware of all the different ways bisexuals can be "bad," from duplicity to depravity and beyond. (No wonder so many of us turn evil.)

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Bonus Episode: Get Your Sh*t Together

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000

In this special bonus episode, Kristen, Layne, and Wendy share the things that are keeping them from screaming all day, from inspiring books to productivity tips to the perfect jumpsuit. Whether you want to get your Type A mojo back or give in and embrace the chaos, you'll find something here to help you cope during the neverending dumpster fire that is 2020.

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Episode 41: Jennifer Hillier

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Wendy interviews dark and twisty thriller queen Jennifer Hillier about her latest novel LITTLE SECRETS, her not-so-secret identity as The Murder Mom, and why women always seem to covet what we don’t have.

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Episode 40: The Other Woman

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen, Layne, and Wendy take on the much-maligned character of the mistress, from scheming best friends to psycho bunny boilers. When does the "other woman" get to be the main character, instead of just the villain in someone else’s story? (And more importantly: when will we stop blaming women for men’s mistakes?)

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Episode 39: Kylie Schachte

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Layne interviews YA author Kylie Schachte about her killer debut novel YOU'RE NEXT, writing #ownvoices queer characters, and why badass teenage girls can (but shouldn't have to) save us all.

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Episode 38: The Strong Female Character

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000

What's wrong with "strong female characters?" Let Kristen, Layne, and Wendy explain. This week the unlikeable ladies tackle depictions of feminine strength from superheroes to single moms, and discuss why some men like strong women in fiction but not so much in real life.

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Bonus Episode: Summer Reads 2020

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000

You probably have to stay inside all summer anyway, so why not lock yourself up with a whole stack of good books? Kristen, Layne, and Wendy share what they're most excited to read this summer, plus some exciting news about what's next for the Unlikeable Female Characters podcast.

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Episode 37: Cheryl A. Head

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 11:00:00 -0000

Kristen interviews Cheryl A. Head, author of the Charlie Mack Motown Mystery series, about queer representation in crime fiction, why Black women are natural-born private investigators, and the people who should really shut up in the Year of Our Lord 2020. Pick up Cheryl’s new book FIND ME WHEN I’M LOST starting June 23rd, wherever books are sold!

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Episode 36: The Woman Who'll Steal Your Girl

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen, Layne, and Wendy kick off Pride month by talking about the hot gay ladies you should watch out for, from ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK to KILLING EVE to the heroines of their own novels. (Please note: we recorded this episode prior to the murder of George Floyd and the widespread protests, but we are offering query/pitch critiques to anyone who donates $15 or more to local bail funds supporting the Black Lives Matter protestors. See our social media for further details, and stay safe out there!)

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Episode 35: Mindy Mejia

Wed, 20 May 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Wendy interviews author Mindy Mejia about her latest novel STRIKE ME DOWN, balancing motherhood and creativity, and the joys of being a "solid C+" mom.

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Episode 34: The Bad Mother

Wed, 06 May 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Just in time for Mother's Day, Kristen, Layne, and Wendy discuss the worst moms of page and screen, from SHARP OBJECTS to SCHITT'S CREEK. Plus: cute pandemic pet stories!

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Episode 33: Sara Sligar

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Layne sits down with debut author Sara Sligar for a conversation ranging from Gothic romance to spreadsheets to Tiger King. Pick up Sara's buzzy literary thriller TAKE ME APART wherever books are (virtually) sold starting April 28th!

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Episode 32: The Hysterical Woman

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000

(or, The Vibrator Episode) What a crazy time to talk about hysteria, amirite?!? Listen as Kristen, Layne, and Wendy unpack what it means to be a hysterical woman, from wandering uteri to ugly crying, and why we could all use a good cathartic scream right about now.

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Bonus Episode: Quarantine Reads

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000

The best cure for existential dread is a good book, so on today's special bonus episode, we're recommending 15 great reads to distract you from everything that's going on in the real world. Escape to 1920s Egypt, the haunted Titanic, or even just the house of dysfunctional family that's not your own, all without leaving the safety of your sofa!

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Episode 31: Lori Rader-Day

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen interviews award-winning mystery author Lori Rader-Day about her latest novel THE LUCKY ONE, the fine line between intuition and obsession, and the importance of finding people who are weird just like you.

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Episode 30: The Woman Who Won't Let It Go

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 07:00:00 -0000

This week's episode is for all the women who've been told to calm down, leave well enough alone, let it go - and responded with a resounding HELL NO. From Miss Marple to the Birds of Prey to Senator Elizabeth Warren, these badass bitches persisted, and we love them for it.

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Episode 29: Hannah Capin

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Layne interviews author Hannah Capin about her new Shakespeare-inspired revenge thriller FOUL IS FAIR, her favorite fictional Mean Girls, and why violence is so much fun.

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Episode 28: The Mean Girl

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Kristen, Layne, and Wendy discuss why they love to hate Mean Girls (but LOVE mean women) and share some of their favorite examples, from Regina George to Betty Draper to Taylor Swift.

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Episode 27: What Are These Bitches Up To Now?

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0000

We're back, bitches! Find out what we've been up to so far this year, from adventures in sunny Los Angeles to emails from helpful Internet men, plus get a sneak peek at our exciting podcast plans for 2020.

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Episode 26: Hustlers

Wed, 25 Dec 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Kristen and Layne are joined by special guest Halley Sutton (author of the forthcoming feminist noir novel THE LADY UPSTAIRS) to discuss our favorite heartwarming Christmas movie about scamming strippers, the female gaze, and the foibles of capitalism: HUSTLERS!

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Episode 25: Holiday Gift Guide

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Layne, Kristen, and Wendy recommend the perfect holiday gifts for unlikeable ladies of all ages, including malicious candles, spooky children’s stories, and plenty of books about murder (with a special shout-out to THE KILL CLUB by our own Wendy Heard, available on December 17th - just in time for Christmas!).

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Episode 24: Anniversary Sexpisode

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 08:00:00 -0000

It's our one-year anniversary episode, and we're celebrating in a very Not Safe for Work way: mocking awful sex scenes by male authors! You'll laugh, you'll cringe, you'll wonder why the hell men are still allowed to write books anyway.

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Episode 23: Imogen Church

Wed, 13 Nov 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Wendy interviews audiobook narrator extraordinaire Imogen Church about sex positivity, Scientology, and scaring the shit out of people - plus a sneak preview of our very special one-year anniversary episode, coming just in time for Thanksgiving!

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Episode 22: Amanda Lovelace

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000

We wrap up our Halloween Spooktacular with a very special guest: bestselling poet, actual witch, and all-around badass Amanda Lovelace! Kristen, Layne, and Wendy chat with Amanda about angry feminist poetry, tarot, Twilight, and more. Happy Halloween to all our spooky bitches out there!

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Episode 21: The Witch

Wed, 16 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000

For our second Halloween episode, Kristen and Layne discuss why the witch is an enduring feminist icon and share some favorite witchy literature, as well as tales of their own experiences dabbling in the dark arts.

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Episode 20: Feminist Horror Stories

Wed, 02 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000

It's the first episode of our October Spooktacular! Kristen, Layne, and Wendy celebrate the beginning of the best month with a chat about monstrous women, creepy children, and that problematic motherfucker Edgar Allan Poe.

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Episode 19: Unlikeable IRL

Wed, 18 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0000

This week, your fave ambitious ladies talk about being unlikeable in real life, including their favorite productivity hacks, the search for the perfect handbag, and the life-changing magic of being a selfish bitch.

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Episode 18: Bitches of Summer

Wed, 04 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen, Layne, and Wendy reunite at last to talk about their favorite unlikeable ladies of summer, including the movie BOOKSMART, the musical SIX, and enough amazing books to keep you antisocial well into the fall.

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Episode 17: More of a Comment Than a Question

Wed, 21 Aug 2019 07:00:00 -0000

We're back, bitches! Wendy and Layne take a break from their way-too-busy summer schedules for a quick chat about the men you meet at writing conferences and why we should all be more like feminist icon J.T. Ellison.

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Episode 16: Pride

Wed, 26 Jun 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Our first summer episode is a Pride extravaganza! Your fave bi bitches Kristen, Layne, and Wendy chat about everything from rainbow Listerine to bad bisexual stereotypes to the podcast's super gay origin story, plus recommend some queer books for your TBR.

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Episode 15: Andrea Bartz

Wed, 29 May 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Layne chats with author Andrea Bartz about her twisty thriller THE LOST NIGHT, being an "unlikeable female character" in real life, and why men should be more appreciative that we don't slaughter them all.

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Episode 14: Summer Reads

Wed, 15 May 2019 07:00:00 -0000

What better way to spend your summer than with toxic relationships, creepy islands, and lots of murder? This week on the podcast, Kristen, Wendy, and Layne share what’s at the top of their Summer 2019 TBRs, including new books by Laura Lippman, Kimberly S. Belle, Andrea Dunlop, and more.

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Episode 13: Rheea Mukherjee

Wed, 01 May 2019 07:00:00 -0000

This week we're joined by an author from the other side of the world: Rheea Mukherjee dials in from Bangalore to chat with Kristen and Layne about her debut novel THE BODY MYTH, crafting complicated love stories, and women who don't behave the way they're "supposed" to (our favorite kind!).

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Episode 12: Rachel Howzell Hall

Wed, 17 Apr 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen chats with Rachel Howzell Hall about her new novel THEY ALL FALL DOWN (which features not just one but SEVEN unlikeable characters!), why unlikeability is in the eye of the beholder, and what it's like to write unlikeable female characters as a woman of color.

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Episode 11: Mediocre White Men

Wed, 03 Apr 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Kristen, Layne, and Wendy take a short break from discussing unlikeable female characters to take on some unlikeable real-life men in the publishing industry. Where's the line between having mediocre white man confidence and just being a dick? Unclear, but these dudes have definitely crossed it.

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Episode 10: Amina Akhtar

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Wendy interviews #FASHIONVICTIM author Amina Akhtar (live and in person at the Mayfair Hotel in Los Angeles!) about celebrity sightings, how many calories serial killing burns, and meeting a shaman named Britney. Also: we're giving away copies of Amina's novel to 3 lucky listeners! Visit the podcast Twitter for info about how to enter.

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Episode 9: Mindy McGinnis

Wed, 06 Mar 2019 08:00:00 -0000

This week we chat with prolific and badass YA writer Mindy McGinnis (author of THE FEMALE OF THE SPECIES, THIS DARKNESS MINE, HEROINE, and many more) about being an unlikeable female character in small-town Ohio, writing realistically flawed teenage girls, and why you better watch out for band geeks.

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Episode 8: Oscar Movies

Wed, 20 Feb 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Just in time for the Oscars, Kristen and Layne chat about some of their favorite awards-season movies featuring unlikeable female characters, including THE WIFE, CAN YOU EVER FORGIVE ME?, WIDOWS, MARY QUEEN OF SCOTS, and (of course) THE FAVOURITE.

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Episode 7: Megan Collins

Wed, 06 Feb 2019 08:00:00 -0000

This week on Unlikeable Female Characters, Layne interviews Megan Collins (author of THE WINTER SISTER, out now from Atria Books!) about poetic prose, badass women of mythology, and the Margaret Atwood-related heist they may or may not be plotting together.

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Episode 6: Pitch Wars

Wed, 23 Jan 2019 08:00:00 -0000

It's a Pitch Wars interview extravaganza! This week, we celebrate the amazing mentoring program that brought us all together. We're joined by Pitch Wars Managing Director Kellye Garrett as well as our mentees Halley Sutton, Nigar Alam, and Wanda Morris. Get a sneak preview of their manuscripts (all of which happen to feature unlikeable female characters!) before the Pitch Wars Agent Showcase starts on February 6th.

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Episode 5: Gone Girl

Wed, 09 Jan 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Whether you love her, hate her, or love to hate her, there's no doubt Amy Elliott Dunne is one of the greatest unlikeable female protagonists of all time. This week on the podcast Kristen, Layne, and Wendy do a deep dive into this fascinating and infuriating character. Are you #TeamAmy?

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Episode 4: Amy Gentry

Wed, 26 Dec 2018 08:00:00 -0000

Merry belated Christmas, bitches! Our gift to you: an interview with Amy Gentry, badass feminist author of GOOD AS GONE and the new revenge thriller LAST WOMAN STANDING. We talk about #MeToo, man-hating, and why murder makes everything better.

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Episode 3: Favorite Books of 2018

Wed, 12 Dec 2018 08:00:00 -0000

This week Kristen, Layne, and Wendy share their favorite 2018 books featuring unlikeable female characters – all perfect holiday gifts for the book-loving bitches in your life! Check out the Holiday Gift Guide on our website for the full list + buy links: http://www.unlikeablefemalecharacters.com/holiday-gift-guide-2018/

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Episode 2: Hannah Mary McKinnon

Wed, 28 Nov 2018 08:00:00 -0000

Thrilled to welcome our first guest to the podcast! In this week's episode, we chat with Hannah Mary McKinnon (author of the domestic suspense novel THE NEIGHBORS) about infidelity, Kate Winslet, character webs, and so much more.

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Episode 1: Favorite Unlikeable Female Characters

Wed, 14 Nov 2018 13:00:00 -0000

On the first full-length episode of Unlikeable Female Characters Kristen, Layne, and Wendy reveal the unlikeable female characters they love the most - and the ones they love to hate. Don't forget to Subscribe and also follow us on Twitter @UnlikeableFCPod for updates!

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Sneak Preview

Sun, 28 Oct 2018 18:17:00 -0000

Welcome to our preview episode, where you'll meet the three bitches who started this thing, find out why we love unlikeable female characters so much anyway, and get a sneak peek at the exciting plans brewing for our first batch of full episodes. Hit that Subscribe button, and follow us @UnlikeableFCPod on Twitter for updates, book recommendations, and angry feminist rants.

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