Read or Dead Podcast: The Worlds of Mystery and Thriller Literature

Last Updated on December 9, 2025

I know that the world is constantly changing, and it can be hard to keep up. I love nothing more than a physical book, but honestly, the convenience of an e-reader has been a game-changer for me.

Likewise for podcasts, which are now my go-to requirement every day when I’m out walking the dog.

I have certain favorites, but as most only drop an episode once a week, I’m always on the hunt for something new.

That brought me to the Read or Dead podcast – gotta love the name – which is a bi-weekly podcast that delves into the thrilling world of mystery and thriller literature.

Hosted by the dynamic duo of Katie McLain Horner and Kendra Winchester, this show has become a must-listen for fans of the genre since its inception in 2017.

With over 150 episodes as I write this, it is an incredible source for book recommendations, insightful discussions, and the latest news in the mystery and thriller literary landscape.

I generally use Netgalley, Amazon Kindle, Goodreads, and various bookstore websites to find out what new books are coming out or if I’ve missed a cozy mystery gem.

And now I count Read or Dead among them as another way to get great ideas for what to read next.

What to Expect From The Podcast

The podcast’s format is really engaging as the two hosts chat back and forth, with each episode typically focusing on a specific theme or topic within the mystery and thriller genres.

Katie and Kendra’s chemistry as hosts is evident in their lively discussions, which often include personal anecdotes and thoughtful analyses of the books they feature.

One of the strengths of the Read or Dead podcast is its commitment to diversity and inclusivity in literature.

The hosts frequently highlight works by authors from various backgrounds, ensuring that their recommendations represent a wide range of voices and perspectives.

I love this because I always try to vary what I read just to keep things fresh. The reality is that I read a book a week, and if, on this website, I reviewed the ones that were all the same, it would get incredibly boring for both you and me.

To give you a general overview, the podcast covers a broad spectrum of mystery and thriller subgenres, from cozy mysteries to hard-boiled detective stories and psychological thrillers.

Not every book or episode theme will be to your liking, but you can definitely jump in and listen to the ones that most appeal to you because there’s something for every type of mystery lover.

Katie and Kendra’s extensive knowledge of the genre allows them to draw connections between different works and authors, which gives is listeners a deeper understanding of the mystery and thriller literary world.

Read or Dead also stays current with the latest trends and releases in the genre. The hosts often discuss upcoming books, share their most anticipated reads, and provide coverage of major literary events and awards in the mystery and thriller categories.

This up-to-date content keeps us all informed about the newest and most exciting developments in the field.

Special Episodes

A unique aspect of the podcast is its focus on themed episodes that align with various observances throughout the year.

For instance, they create special episodes for Women’s History Month, Black History Month, Holiday Gift Guide, and Scary books (Halloween), among others.

These themed episodes not only celebrate all the different holidays but also introduce us to authors and works they might not have discovered otherwise.

Who Are the Hosts?

Kendra Winchester, who holds an M.A. in English literature, brings her academic perspective and editorial experience to the show.

Her passion for rural stories and desire to see a better representation of Appalachia in contemporary literature add a unique flavor to the discussions.

Katie McLain Horner, with her extensive knowledge of the mystery and thriller genres, complements Kendra’s expertise perfectly.

The Read or Dead podcast has garnered a loyal following over the years from listeners who love the hosts’ chemistry, the quality of book recommendations, and the engaging discussions.

The podcast’s success is reflected in its high ratings on various platforms and its regular appearance on top podcast charts.

Its popularity has also led to a growing community of mystery and thriller enthusiasts who eagerly await each new episode, and I count myself among them!

It’s Not All About Books

This podcast isn’t just a list of books, Katie and Kendra often discuss broader topics related to the genre, such as the evolution of mystery writing, the impact of social issues on thriller narratives, and the role of the voices in shaping the future of mystery literature.

These discussions provide valuable context and depth to listeners’ understanding of the genre.

The Read or Dead podcast is definitely a community hub for mystery and thriller lovers, and they actively ask their listeners for questions or to provide their own recommendations.

They are also on social media and have a newsletter,r which adds an extra layer of enjoyment for regular listeners.

So, if you’re looking for a great podcast that focuses on thrillers and mysteries, you could do a lot worse than giving Read or Dead a go.

I listen to it on Spotify, but I know that it requires a subscription. It’s also available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Stitcher if you use any of those.

As the podcast approaches its eighth year, it remains a vital and exciting platform for exploring the ever-evolving world of mystery and thriller literature.

It’s well worth a listen to, so give it a go and check it out here!