On this episode of Shelf Care Society, Brian Larson sits down with #1 New York Times bestselling author Virginia Evans to talk about her breakout novel, The Correspondent.

Together, they explore Sybil Van Antwerp’s unforgettable voice, the ethics of saying exactly what we mean, and the emotional architecture of letters both sent and unsent. Virginia opens up about writing six novels before finding traditional publication, how rejection became data instead of identity, and what it felt like to watch this book climb slowly, then suddenly, to the top of the bestseller list.

They discuss Ireland, distance, chosen vocation, the evolution of the cover art, and why the epistolary form became the perfect vessel for Sybil’s journey.

Plus: Virginia shares her own “Yes! Moment” that changed her trajectory, and what she’s working on next.

Malala Yousafzai joins Shelf Care Society to discuss her new memoir, Finding My Way. In this fun, insight-packed chat, we talk about identity, belonging, ambition, and what it takes to keep evolving when the world has an opinion on who you should be. Come for the warmth, stay for the perspective shift.

Shelf Care Society by @Brian.Reads is a book-rooted podcast for anyone who treats their TBR as self-care. Host Brian Larson invites you into the conversations that have shaped his life, blending thoughtful chats about books with honest discussions on sobriety, creativity, identity, belonging, and what it takes to build a life that feels like yours.