First up, Johnson speaks with San Diego–based Alana Quintana Albertson about her latest novel, Kiss Me, Mi Amor. Albertson discusses how the Golden State’s diverse settings provide endless inspiration for her many romance novels. “I really use setting as a character, and I was contrasting La Jolla and Barrio Logan and different communities,” says Albertson. Albertson also shares a few sneak peaks of her upcoming works and names some of her top San Diego County spots for coffee, tacos, and books.
Next, Johnson is joined by Melissa Broder, author of the mystical desert tale Death Valley. The Los Angeles author and poet recounts how a traumatic personal experience in the California desert inspired her latest novel. “I was just going to Zabriskie Point where nobody—it's a very touristy area—nobody ever gets lost there. I got completely lost and did everything you're not supposed to do,” Broder recalls. She tops off the conversation by sharing her favorite local boutiques, restaurants, and hiking trails.
Lastly, Johnson talks with South Lake Tahoe–based memoirist and poet Suzanne Roberts. The Almost Somewhere author recounts her experience hiking the John Muir Trail: “Those 28 days taught me that there is more than one view of nature, that nature is a place where we should be connecting and not conquering.” The experienced outdoorswoman also builds an itinerary for both a laid-back and action-packed winter weekend in her hometown.
Exploring Tuolumne County
A Local’s Guide to Orange County
Discovering Lake County
Ways to Play in California
Local’s Guide to Marin County
Margaret Cho’s Iconic California
Samin Nosrat’s California Love
Locals Guide to San Jose
Insider’s Guide to Inyo County
Exploring San Luis Obispo County
Humboldt County Travel Guide
Discover Yolo County
Antonia Lofaso’s L.A. Guide
Exploring San Francisco’s Neighborhoods
California Theme Parks Summer 2023
Canadians in California
Exploring Ventura County
Exploring Mendocino County
Tony Hawk’s San Diego
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