About Invisible Amigo
A little less noise.
A lot more curiosity.
Good books. Interesting people. Conversations worth having. That's the idea behind Invisible Amigo, an independent literary and cultural magazine built around the pleasure of discovering something worth sharing.
A note from the editor
Why I started this.
Matthew Scott Pillado · EditorI've always been drawn to stories, especially the ones that make me think differently, recognize something familiar, or want to keep talking long after I've finished reading.
Invisible Amigo began as a place to write about the books I was reading. Over time, I started thinking about what else it could become: a place not just to recommend books, but to meet the people who write them and explore the ideas, experiences, and unexpected connections behind their work.
My background has taken me through law, literature, and teaching. Those experiences have shaped the questions I ask, but I don't want this publication to feel like a classroom or a courtroom. I want it to feel like a great conversation. A converation that takes an interesting turn and makes you glad you showed up.
Our approach to books
Not every book is perfect. But if I write about it here, it's because I found something in it worth sharing.
The Bookshelf
Curiosity over negativity.
I don't publish negative book reviews on Invisible Amigo.
That doesn't mean I believe every book is perfect. Sometimes a story has weaknesses, an ending doesn't quite work for me, or I disagree with an author's choices. I'm happy to acknowledge those things.
But if a book appears on this website, it's because I genuinely enjoyed it more than I didn't. Something about it captured my attention, challenged my thinking, or simply made for a worthwhile reading experience.
There's enough negativity in the world already. I'd rather spend my time introducing people to good books and having interesting conversations with the people who write them.
My reviews are independent and personal. I write about what I connected with, what surprised me, and what made me want to learn more. There are no star ratings and no obligation to pretend that every reader will feel the same way.
The Conversations
Beyond the last page.
One of the things I'm most excited about is sitting down with authors and having conversations that go beyond the usual promotional questions.
I'm interested in the creative process, the lives behind the work, and the ideas that don't always fit neatly into a book jacket. Some interviews will happen face to face. Others will be recorded on video or audio. The format matters less to me than the quality of the conversation.
In person
Conversations at bookstores, literary events, and other places where stories come alive.
On video
Thoughtful interviews you can watch, wherever the author happens to be.
In audio
Conversations made for listening, with room to follow an unexpected idea.
The interview series is in development. Features will be added as conversations are recorded and published.
Independent by design
What you'll find here.
Original book reviews, conversations with writers, and occasional explorations of literature, culture, and the people and places that make both interesting.
I don't want Invisible Amigo to be limited to a single genre or a narrow definition of what counts as literary. If a book, person, or idea sparks genuine curiosity, there's room for it here.
Above all, I hope this is a place you visit because you might discover a book you wouldn't otherwise have picked up—or hear a conversation you didn't know you needed.
Let's talk
Have a story worth sharing?
If you're an author, publisher, publicist, or reader with a recommendation, I'd love to hear from you. Interesting conversations have to start somewhere.
Get in touch →