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Reposted from Dragon ‘Cast, which you can find and subscribe to at: podcastica.com/podcast/dragon-cast — Wendy, Veronica, and Rennie come together to close out Season One with a deep dive into the finale, “The Morrow.” In this episode of Dragon 'Cast, the hosts reflect on how the season's journey comes to a head, where the characters now stand, and what the closing moments suggest about the road ahead. They discuss how the finale pays off the themes and tensions built throughout the season, share their overall impressions of the first season as a whole, and consider what this adaptation has brought to George R. R. Martin's world. The episode concludes with a Book Talk segment comparing the series to the Dunk and Egg novellas. This final segment contains book spoilers, so listeners who wish to remain show-only should stop listening before Book Talk begins. Thank you to everyone who listened along this season and sent in feedback. We truly appreciate your thoughtful comments, questions, and support, and we look forward to continuing the journey with you. Next up: Something with dragons, perhaps. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Matt loses control of his own show as he discusses the difference between reading and listening to a book, a shocking revelation, and more!
Check out Steve Erickson's show, "Radio Not Radio", on Mixcloud!~~~~In ROUND 7 of BackTalk, Steve Erickson & I discuss the book MOOD MACHINE: THE RISE OF SPOTIFY AND THE COSTS OF THE PERFECT PLAYLIST, by Liz Pelly. It dissects Spotify's history and its effect on the music industry, recording artists, fans, and music itself.We use the book as a jumping off point to finally get into exactly why Spotify has been so detrimental to music culture for all but the casual fan, and try to get to some solutions.Are you a Spotify user? Were you aware of how poorly Spotify has treated its artists? Did you know how intently Spotify works to manipulate its users? Do you think there are any viable alternatives, aside from other streaming services? Discuss dammit!BONUS MxTRA: My chapter-by-chapter take on MOOD MACHINE~~~~*intro/outro music credit: REC - "Sing Owwt"*mid roll music credit: The Drop - "Outerloper" Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of Book Talk with Cara, I welcome author Jayna Breigh to discuss her new book, The Appearance of Impropriety. The discussion covers Jayna's writing journey, her experience collaborating on a Christmas novella, and the intricacies of her latest novel. Jayna elaborates on the story's themes of character judgment and the appearance of impropriety in the legal world. The conversation delves into the challenges of writing realistic legal suspense and balancing romance within the storyline. This episode also highlights Jayna's inspiration from real-life incidents, her process of developing characters, and the significance of setting in her narrative.You can learn more about Jayna and her books at her website: https://www.jaynabreigh.com Want to watch this interview? You can see this episode as well as multiple others on YouTube! Enjoy!If you enjoyed this conversation, I would be thrilled if you left a rating and review on your favorite podcast app and leave me a note below letting me know who you would love to see on the show!
In this Thursday episode of Book Talk for BookTok, we bring an academic lens to bookish culture, genre fiction, and the conversations shaping romance and romantasy today. Our podcast blends literary analysis, cultural criticism, and emotional honesty. We treat romance, romantasy, and fanfiction as genres worthy of serious discussion, not just quick takes. This episode is part of our Subtext Society series, inspired by The Subtext Society Journal. The Subtext Society Journal is a collaborative publication dedicated to thoughtful essays on romance, romantasy, fan culture, and publishing ethics. We explore moral questions, genre evolution, power dynamics, and the real-world impact of stories, guided by values of literary rigor without gatekeeping, community over hierarchy, and ethics-first analysis. Today's discussion focuses on the article: “Revision: Hell or Hell" Finishing a book is a major accomplishment, but the real work begins with revision, which often makes up the majority of the writing process and continues through agents, editors, and multiple drafts. There is no single “correct” way to revise; instead, writers must develop systems that help them assess the full manuscript, identify structural issues like plot holes and character arcs before focusing on prose, and organize feedback in ways that prevent overwhelm. The process can be emotionally challenging, requiring humility, patience, and openness to collaboration, especially when incorporating beta reader feedback and professional edits. Ultimately, revision is about making the story coherent and meaningful first, refining craft and style later, and recognizing that writing is not a solitary pursuit but a collaborative journey shaped by continuous refinement. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/ We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Sponsor: Monarch Set yourself up for financial success in 2026 with Monarch. Use code BOOKTALK at monarch.com for half off your first year. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to Season of Aquarius, our book club season on Book Talk for BookTok, a fantasy and romantasy podcast centered on thoughtful discussion and literary analysis. This season is created for readers who want more than quick takes and star ratings, offering space to explore how and why stories work on the page. This is not a traditional book review podcast; it's an analysis and conversation. Each week, we share flash literary analysis that examines themes, authorial intent, character arcs, symbolism, world-building, and key plot devices. Our discussions move beyond initial impressions to unpack narrative choices, emotional resonance, and the craft behind fantasy and romantasy storytelling. We aim to bridge academic literary insight with the modern reading experience shaped by BookTok and online reading communities. This week, we discuss Belladonna by Adalyn Grace. Season of Aquarius Book Club Reading List: Alchemized by SenLinYu Phantasma by Kaylie Smith Silver Elite by Dani Francis An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir Blood & Brujas by Mikayla Hornedo Belladonna by Adalyn Grace As Many Souls as Stars by Natasha Siegel Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli New episodes release twice weekly. Every Tuesday, we publish a book club episode focused on that week's featured novel. Every Thursday, we zoom out for deeper conversations about bookish culture, reading communities, genre trends, and the larger ideas shaping fantasy, romantasy, and BookTok today. If you're searching for a fantasy book podcast, romantasy podcast, or book club podcast that blends thoughtful literary analysis with a genuine love of reading, Season of Aquarius invites you to read, reflect, and discuss alongside us. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/ We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Set yourself up for financial success in 2026 with Monarch. Use code BOOKTALK at monarch.com for half off your first year. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
หนังสือ How Not To Diet: The Groundbreaking Science of Healthy, Permanent Weight Loss ของ Michael Greger - ยุคสมัยใหม่ของการลดน้ำหนักนั้นคืออะไร เรากำลังทำผิดพลาดอย่างมหันต์กันอยู่รึเปล่า - หลักการง่าย ๆ ก็คือน้ำตาลไม่ใช่สิ่งที่ต้องควรลด แต่ต้องรู้ว่าร่างกายของเรากำจัดน้ำตาลได้ดีเยี่ยมไหมมากกว่า - เหมือนว่าการทำ Fasting ก็เป็นสิ่งที่จำเป็นอยู่เหมือนเดิม ไม่ใช่ว่าเรามองว่ามันเป็นเรื่องเก่า แต่ทำยังไงให้มันไฉไลกว่าเดิม - การทานอาหารที่มีประโยชน์ก็ย่อมสำคัญกว่า เช่น น้ำตาลจากอาหารขยะก็ไม่เทียบเท่าน้ำตาลจากอาหารที่มีประโยชน์ เป็นต้น - โจทย์เราก็คือ ใช้ชีวิตให้ยืนยาวด้วย แข็งแรงด้วย และก็สามารถมีความสุขไปพร้อมกันด้วย เป้าหมายหลักคือทำอย่างไรให้รักษาร่างกายที่แข็งแรงไปได้นานที่สุด
Der erste Lesemonat des Jahres kommt nicht nur mit großartigen Büchern, sondern auch mit einigen Änderungen daher. Wir haben unser Format überarbeitet, um mehr Raum für den intensiven Booktalk zu schaffen und die Bücher mehr ins Rampenlicht zu rücken, über die wir unbedingt sprechen möchten. Das bedeutet auch, dass Bücher, die uns nicht komplett überzeugt haben oder bei denen es nicht so viel zu sagen gibt, als übersichtliche Kurz-Review vorgestellt werden. Diesen Monat sprechen wir über 12 gelesene Bücher und stellen euch 6 davon besonders ausführlich vor. Ganz vorne mit dabei ist der Buchmesse-Hype-Titel Alchemised, aber auch Iron Flame und noch eine letzte Prise Weihnachtszauber. Wir wünschen euch viel Spaß beim Zuhören. Über Feedback zum neuen Format würden wir uns freuen!Mandy & Sofia
In this Thursday episode of Book Talk for BookTok, we bring an academic lens to bookish culture, genre fiction, and the conversations shaping romance and romantasy today. Our podcast blends literary analysis, cultural criticism, and emotional honesty. We treat romance, romantasy, and fanfiction as genres worthy of serious discussion, not just quick takes. This episode is part of our Subtext Society series, inspired by The Subtext Society Journal. The Subtext Society Journal is a collaborative publication dedicated to thoughtful essays on romance, romantasy, fan culture, and publishing ethics. We explore moral questions, genre evolution, power dynamics, and the real-world impact of stories, guided by values of literary rigor without gatekeeping, community over hierarchy, and ethics-first analysis. Today's discussion focuses on the article: “The Mother Curse in Fantasy and Romantasy." This episode explores a thought-provoking essay examining the “mother curse” in fantasy and romantasy — the recurring pattern in which maternal figures are absent, idealized, villainized, or narratively sidelined. Drawing on examples across popular genre fiction, the article argues that mothers are frequently reduced to plot devices: either saintly protectors who lack depth, antagonistic figures who embody trauma, or background characters removed from the story through death, illness, or distance. Rather than treating this as a simple trope critique, the piece considers why authors may struggle to portray complex motherhood and asks whether the genre itself avoids fully realized maternal perspectives. Ultimately, it proposes a shift toward richer, more nuanced portrayals (including stories that center mothers as protagonists) and invites readers to reconsider how fantasy narratives shape our understanding of gender, agency, and family dynamics. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/ We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/12/26 Dr Adam Barsouk — Outsmarting Cancer, Risk Reduction and the Power of Prevention, Ellsberg Initiative for Peace and Democracy for a book talk with David Daley, interviewed by EIPAD Director, Chris Appy---Antidemocratic: Inside the Far Right's 50-Year Plot to Control American Elections UMass Professor Epstein—Fed Reserve Investigation, Jobs Report, and Independence Buz and Dan—Incivility in Congress, our AI Future
หนังสือ ทั้งโลกนี้, มีคนแบบเธอ เพียงคนเดียว ของ ปะการัง - นักเขียนในตำนานที่มีคำพูดที่คมคาย แถมลุ่มลึกไม่เหมือนใครอีกด้วย - ชีวิตไม่จำเป็นจะต้องไปเหมือนใครเขา เพียงเพราะเขามีอย่างที่เขาต้องการนั้นหรือ - ความอยากของคนเราไม่เท่ากัน แสดงว่าความสุขของคนเราก็ต่างกันไปด้วย - มนุษย์เป็นสิ่งมีชีวิตที่ไม่เหมือนสิ่งมีชีวิตอื่น ก็เพียงเพราะเรามีปัญญาในการหาทางออกได้ด้วยตัวเราเอง - เราเป็นแบบเรา เป็นต้นฉบับของตัวเอง ไม่ต้องไปลอกใครเขา ไม่ต้องไปอยากเหมือนเขาเป็นตัวของตัวเองก็พอ
Send a textIn this episode, I'm taking you behind the scenes of recording my audio book Embracing Your Different Ability®!I share how the process has been going, what's surprised me, what's been harder than expected, and what I've loved most about bringing my book to life in my own voice. And because real life (and real recording) isn't always perfect, I'm also sharing some bloopers from the studio that will definitely make you laugh.Whether you're an author, a speaker, or someone who just loves a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode is a fun, honest look at what it's really like to record an audio book and why this project means so much to me.Stay in the loop with the new Different Ability® product I'll be launching!Sign Up Here!Shop new products here!Places you can reach me at:Website:https://kateyfortun.com/https://kateyfortun.com/podcastInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/kateyfortun/https://www.instagram.com/differentabilitypodcast/
Welcome to Season of Aquarius, our book club season on Book Talk for BookTok, a fantasy and romantasy podcast centered on thoughtful discussion and literary analysis. This season is created for readers who want more than quick takes and star ratings, offering space to explore how and why stories work on the page. This is not a traditional book review podcast; it's an analysis and conversation. Each week, we share flash literary analysis that examines themes, authorial intent, character arcs, symbolism, world-building, and key plot devices. Our discussions move beyond initial impressions to unpack narrative choices, emotional resonance, and the craft behind fantasy and romantasy storytelling. We aim to bridge academic literary insight with the modern reading experience shaped by BookTok and online reading communities. This week, we discuss Blood & Brujas by Mikayla Hornedo. Season of Aquarius Book Club Reading List: Alchemized by SenLinYu Phantasma by Kaylie Smith Silver Elite by Dani Francis An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir Blood & Brujas by Mikayla Hornedo Belladonna by Adalyn Grace As Many Souls as Stars by Natasha Siegel Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli New episodes release twice weekly. Every Tuesday, we publish a book club episode focused on that week's featured novel. Every Thursday, we zoom out for deeper conversations about bookish culture, reading communities, genre trends, and the larger ideas shaping fantasy, romantasy, and BookTok today. If you're searching for a fantasy book podcast, romantasy podcast, or book club podcast that blends thoughtful literary analysis with a genuine love of reading, Season of Aquarius invites you to read, reflect, and discuss alongside us. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/ We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
หนังสือ How the World Really Works: A Scientist's Guide to Our Past, Present and Future ของ Vaclav Smil - โลกนี้ขับเคลื่อนด้วย สองสิ่งหลัก ๆ นั่นก็คือ การเมืองกับข่าวสาร - สิ่งที่เราดูโทรทัศน์ หรือสื่อโซเชียลต่าง ๆ มักจะเป็นสิ่งที่ชวนเชื่อมากขึ้นเป็นเท่าตัว - สินค้าและบริการก็เป็นสิ่งที่เราจำเป็นจะต้องรับรู้ ว่ามันจำเป็นต่อชีวิตเราจริงไหม - พลังงานและสสารต่าง ๆ ต้องสูญเสียไปมากมายมหาศาล เพียงเพราะความโลภของมนุษย์จริงรึเปล่า - อนาคตกาลจะมีการเปลี่ยนแปลงเข้ามามากมาย ไม่ว่าจะเป็นโครงสร้างของโลก สิ่งมีชีวิต รวมไปถึงประเทศแต่ละประเทศด้วย
In this episode of Book Talk with Cara, I welcome Deborah Clack to discuss her debut novel, Even After This, a book 13 years in the making. Deborah shares her journey of perseverance in the face of countless rejections, the heartfelt and humorous elements within her story, and the challenges she encountered bringing her characters to life. The novel revolves around a widow's unexpected encounter with a Hollywood actor at the Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs, blending romance, comedy, and deep emotional healing. Deborah reflects on her growth as a storyteller, the importance of certain scenes, and offers insights into what readers and book clubs might find engaging. Follow Deborah on her website, Instagram, and join her newsletter community for more behind-the-scenes content.You can learn more about Deborah and her books at her website: https://www.deborahclack.com/Want to watch this interview? You can see this episode as well as multiple others on YouTube! Enjoy!If you enjoyed this conversation, I would be thrilled if you left a rating and review on your favorite podcast app and leave me a note below letting me know who you would love to see on the show!
Ever crushed your own dream before it had a chance? Or shut someone else down thinking you were being helpful? This episode hits all those moments we rarely admit but deeply feel. Phoenix Ash returns, fresh from a sinus battle and ready to get honest about sabotage. Not just the kind people throw at you, but the kind that sounds like perfectionism or “being realistic.” She unpacks how fear disguises itself as logic, how self-doubt poisons motivation, and how even love can come out as limitation. There's talk of indie publishing hustle, writing through chaos, the dangers of rushing your art, hormonal rollercoasters, and why marriage might just be a shortcut to legal security. It's honest, revealing, and filled with the kind of reflection that makes you pause and rethink your own patterns. Ready to stop poisoning your will? Start here.
In this Thursday episode of Book Talk for BookTok, we bring an academic lens to bookish culture, genre fiction, and the conversations shaping romance and romantasy today. Our podcast blends literary analysis, cultural criticism, and emotional honesty. We treat romance, romantasy, and fanfiction as genres worthy of serious discussion, not just quick takes. This episode is part of our Subtext Society series, inspired by The Subtext Society Journal. The Subtext Society Journal is a collaborative publication dedicated to thoughtful essays on romance, romantasy, fan culture, and publishing ethics. We explore moral questions, genre evolution, power dynamics, and the real-world impact of stories, guided by values of literary rigor without gatekeeping, community over hierarchy, and ethics-first analysis. Today's discussion focuses on the article: “The Impact of Romance Novels on Real-Life Expectations." This article interrogates the long-standing claim that romance novels give women “unrealistic expectations” about men, arguing instead that the genre often clarifies (not distorts) what readers actually want. By unpacking the appeal of romance novel MMCs, she reframes the conversation away from abs, wealth, and fantasy physiques, and toward emotional availability, respect, loyalty, and genuine desire. Drawing on pop-culture examples, therapy insights, and personal reflection, the article positions romance novels as a form of emotional exposure therapy: a safe space where readers can examine what triggers them, what heals them, and what healthy connection can look like. Rather than setting women up for disappointment, Sahlin suggests romance fiction can help readers recognize that asking to be cherished, listened to, and liked is not unrealistic at all—it's foundational. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/ We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, we sit down with Liz Shipton, author of Dot Slash Magic, to talk about one of the most emotionally nuanced and quietly subversive fantasy novels we've read. We dive deep into the evolution of Seven as a female main character and how reader perception shifts over the course of the novel, and what it was like for Liz to write a protagonist who masks loneliness with humor, bravado, and sharp edges. A major focus of our conversation is Dot Slash Magic's bold engagement with AI, technology, and creativity. Liz unpacks how the story interrogates the idea that art must look a certain way to be considered “real,” and why the novel deliberately blurs the line between magic, tech, art, and athletic flow states. We also talk about mental health as something hidden in plain sight: how loneliness, addiction, and internal struggle are embedded into each character rather than treated as a single narrative device. This conversation is for readers who love character-driven fantasy, are curious about AI and art in fiction, and want stories that trust the audience to read between the lines. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/ We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Send us a textThis month Vicky and Kristen discuss The Wolf King by Lauren Palphreyman. Tune in for an insufferable FMC, a dull MMC, and the one guy who redeems it all.If you liked this episode, please give us a 5 star rating, like, and subscribe! We post a new episode every month. If you want more, including our monthly book picks and funny memes, follow us on TikTok and Instagram @goodmorningbookclubWe'd also love to hear from you, so if you have any suggestions, including a book you'd like us to read, shoot us an email at gmbookclubllc@gmail.comSee you on the next one!Music and Production by LVL 3 Entertainmentlvl3entertainment@gmail.com
Show Notes: Exploring 'The Broken Weathervane' with Laura DeNooyer In this episode of Book Talk with Cara, host Cara Putman interviews Laura de Noyer about her latest novel, 'The Broken Weathervane.' Laura shares her background as an art and writing teacher from Wisconsin, her experience as a mother of four, and her journey as an author of three published novels. She explains how her latest book was inspired by her family's history and discusses the themes and symbols present in the story, particularly focusing on mental health. The conversation also covers Laura's writing process, her interactions with book clubs, and her favorite lines from the novel. Laura encourages listeners to visit her website and sign up for her newsletter to stay connected. You can learn more about Laura and her books at her website: https://lauradenooyer-author.com/00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:18 Meet Laura de Noyer 01:06 Laura's Road Trip Adventures 02:01 The Inspiration Behind 'The Broken Weathervane' 03:38 Themes and Symbols in the Book 05:35 Leslie's Journey and Challenges 06:49 Laura's Writing Journey 09:18 Finding Inspiration for Stories 11:09 Engaging with Book Clubs 12:26 Lightning Round: Quick Questions 14:30 Favorite Line and Final Thoughts#storybehindthestory #acfwcommunity #booktalkwithcara #booktalk #booktube #booktuber #booktubecommunity #amwriting #ineedahero #romanticfiction #wherebookscomefrom #whereideascomefrom #writerscommunity #readersofyoutube #contemporaryromance #Booktour #writingadvice #writingtips #readersgonnaread #readersofig #readersofyoutube #AmandaWen #dualtimeline
หนังสือ Size: How It Explains the World ของ Vaclav Smil - เมื่อพูดถึงขนาดเราควรจะพูดถึง ขนาดที่เรากำลังใช้กันอยู่ทุกวัน - มาตรวัดที่ต้องมีความสมมาตร เพียงเพราะมันคือค่าเริ่มต้นของธรรมชาตินั่นเอง - การที่เราจะหารูปแบบใดก็ตาม เราก็ต้องมองภาพนั้นเป็นสี่เหลี่ยม และมันก็อาจจะมีความเป็นสมมาตรมากกว่า - ระดับสติปัญญาของผู้คนในความเป็นจริงแล้ว สามารถเช็ครูปแบบได้ว่ามันจะเป็นรูปแบบใด - ประวัติศาสตร์ได้สะท้อนไปยังมุมมองของผู้คนว่า อะไรที่มนุษย์สามารถวัดค่าได้ มันย่อมเป็นรูปแบบของค่านิยมได้
Reposted from Dragon ‘Cast, which you can find and subscribe to at: podcastica.com/podcast/dragon-cast — As A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms reaches its halfway point, Rennie, Veronica, and Wendy return to discuss Episode 3, “The Squire.” This episode of Dragon 'Cast continues the hosts' thoughtful, long-form coverage of the series as the story and characters continue to take shape. The discussion focuses on how the episode fits into the larger arc of the season, character relationships as they stand at this midpoint, and the overall tone and direction of the show so far. The episode concludes with a Book Talk segment comparing the series to George R. R. Martin's Dunk and Egg novellas. This final segment contains book spoilers, so listeners who wish to remain show-only should stop listening before Book Talk begins. Next up: A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms S1E4 “Seven”. It's the series premiere! Once you've seen it, we'd love know your thoughts! You can email or send a voice message to dragons@podcastica.com. Or join our Discord where you can leave comments and chat with hosts and other listeners: https://discord.gg/6WUMt3m3qe Or check out our Podcastica Facebook group, where we put up comment posts for each episode, at facebook.com/groups/podcastica. Enjoying our podcast? A quick, free, and easy way to show support and help bump us up in the charts is to give us a rating or a review: On Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dragon-cast-a-knight-of-the-seven-kingdoms/id1640535923 On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/31IJ1AFvvn800nlmlLy8Xu?si=4bdd8f2deccd4063 Or just search for “Dragon ‘Cast” wherever you get podcasts. Thank you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to Season of Aquarius, our book club season on Book Talk for BookTok, a fantasy and romantasy podcast centered on thoughtful discussion and literary analysis. This season is created for readers who want more than quick takes and star ratings, offering space to explore how and why stories work on the page. This is not a traditional book review podcast; it's an analysis and conversation. Each week, we share flash literary analysis that examines themes, authorial intent, character arcs, symbolism, world-building, and key plot devices. Our discussions move beyond initial impressions to unpack narrative choices, emotional resonance, and the craft behind fantasy and romantasy storytelling. We aim to bridge academic literary insight with the modern reading experience shaped by BookTok and online reading communities. This week, we discuss Silver Elite by Dani Francis. Season of Aquarius Book Club Reading List: Alchemized by SenLinYu Phantasma by Kaylie Smith Silver Elite by Dani Francis An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir Blood & Brujas by Mikayla Hornedo Belladonna by Adalyn Grace As Many Souls as Stars by Natasha Siegel Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli New episodes release twice weekly. Every Tuesday, we publish a book club episode focused on that week's featured novel. Every Thursday, we zoom out for deeper conversations about bookish culture, reading communities, genre trends, and the larger ideas shaping fantasy, romantasy, and BookTok today. If you're searching for a fantasy book podcast, romantasy podcast, or book club podcast that blends thoughtful literary analysis with a genuine love of reading, Season of Aquarius invites you to read, reflect, and discuss alongside us. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/ We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
หนังสือ The Holy Grail of Investing: The World's Greatest Investors Reveal Their Ultimate Strategies for Financial Freedom ของ Tony Robbins with Christopher Zook - จอกศักดิ์สิทธิ์ในการลงทุนนั้นคือ การลงทุนที่เรามั่นใจว่าสินทรัพย์นั้นจะเติบโตในระยะยาว - ซึ่งส่วนใหญ่จะเป็นการลงทุนแบบ Private Investment ซึ่งนิยมมากขึ้นในยุคความผันผวนของตลาดมหาชน - ยังไงแล้วทุกการลงทุนก็ย่อมต้องพิจารณาในเรื่องของการปรับตัว เปลี่ยนแปลง และการสั่นไหวของพื้นฐานสินทรัพย์นั้นด้วย - คนบางกลุ่มมีสายสัมพันธ์ที่ค่อนข้างพิเศษ จึงได้รับการเทียบเชิญให้ไปซื้อหุ้นที่คนส่วนน้อยนั้นลงทุนได้ แต่ในความเป็นจริงยิ่งน้อยยิ่งดี - ถึงแม้ว่าเราอาจจะเป็นประชาชนคนเดินดินธรรมดาสามัญ ทว่า ในวันหนึ่งเราอาจจะมีโอกาสได้ซื้อหุ้นในบริษัทปิดที่เขาเปิดช่วงวิกฤตของบริษัทก็เป็นได้
In this Thursday episode of Book Talk for BookTok, we bring an academic lens to bookish culture, genre fiction, and the conversations shaping romance and romantasy today. Our podcast blends literary analysis, cultural criticism, and emotional honesty. We treat romance, romantasy, and fanfiction as genres worthy of serious discussion, not just quick takes. This episode is part of our Subtext Society series, inspired by The Subtext Society Journal. The Subtext Society Journal is a collaborative publication dedicated to thoughtful essays on romance, romantasy, fan culture, and publishing ethics. We explore moral questions, genre evolution, power dynamics, and the real-world impact of stories, guided by values of literary rigor without gatekeeping, community over hierarchy, and ethics-first analysis. Today's discussion focuses on the article: “Romantasy: The next frontier of feminism, or where feminism goes to die?" This article explores romantasy as both a powerful feminist space and a revealing site of internalized misogyny, examining why female main characters in women-written fantasy are so often criticized as “too much” in every direction. It connects modern fandom discourse to long-standing cultural conditioning that encourages women to compete rather than support one another, and questions whether those critiques reflect genuine narrative flaws or unresolved discomfort with women claiming power, desire, and complexity. Ultimately, the piece argues that romantasy has the potential to become a training ground for a more thoughtful, generous feminism. One that challenges how we read, write, and talk about women. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/ We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Liquid IV Liquid I.V. Go to LiquidIV.com and get 20% off your first order with code BOOKTALK at checkout. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to Season of Aquarius, our book club season on Book Talk for BookTok, a fantasy and romantasy podcast centered on thoughtful discussion and literary analysis. This season is created for readers who want more than quick takes and star ratings, offering space to explore how and why stories work on the page. This is not a traditional book review podcast; it's an analysis and conversation. Each week, we share flash literary analysis that examines themes, authorial intent, character arcs, symbolism, world-building, and key plot devices. Our discussions move beyond initial impressions to unpack narrative choices, emotional resonance, and the craft behind fantasy and romantasy storytelling. We aim to bridge academic literary insight with the modern reading experience shaped by BookTok and online reading communities. This week, we discuss An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir. Season of Aquarius Book Club Reading List: Alchemized by SenLinYu Phantasma by Kaylie Smith Silver Elite by Dani Francis An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir Blood & Brujas by Mikayla Hornedo Belladonna by Adalyn Grace As Many Souls as Stars by Natasha Siegel Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli New episodes release twice weekly. Every Tuesday, we publish a book club episode focused on that week's featured novel. Every Thursday, we zoom out for deeper conversations about bookish culture, reading communities, genre trends, and the larger ideas shaping fantasy, romantasy, and BookTok today. If you're searching for a fantasy book podcast, romantasy podcast, or book club podcast that blends thoughtful literary analysis with a genuine love of reading, Season of Aquarius invites you to read, reflect, and discuss alongside us. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/ We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Liquid IV Liquid I.V. Go to LiquidIV.com and get 20% off your first order with code BOOKTALK at checkout. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
หนังสือ Made Whole: The Practical Guide to Reaching Your Financial Goals ของ Tiffany the Budgetnista Aliche - เจ้าแม่การเงินที่จะช่วยให้คุณมีสุขภาพการเงินที่สมบูรณ์มากยิ่งขึ้น - เริ่มจากจัดการหนี้สินที่เสียก่อนเลย อะไรที่เราจัดการได้ต้องเริ่มจากดอกเบี้ยสูงก่อนอันดับแรก - ให้ลองทำกระดาษจดรายรับและรายจ่ายเอาไว้ด้วย พร้อมกับใส่สินทรัพย์และหนี้สินด้วยก็ดีเหมือนกัน - สิ่งที่ยากที่สุดในการเริ่มต้นจัดการ การเงินนั่นก็คือเราไม่รู้ว่าการเงินของเราควรจะเป็นแบบไหน อะไรคือการเงินที่ดีจริง - การจัดการงบประมาณเป็นสิ่งที่สำคัญ ถ้าเรามีเงินก้อนนึงเราควรจะเอาไปทำอะไรก่อนแล้วควรทำอะไรหลัง
In this Thursday episode of Book Talk for BookTok, we bring an academic lens to bookish culture, genre fiction, and the conversations shaping romance and romantasy today. Our podcast blends literary analysis, cultural criticism, and emotional honesty. We treat romance, romantasy, and fanfiction as genres worthy of serious discussion, not just quick takes. Today's discussion focuses on Heated Rivalry: In this episode, we dive into Heated Rivalry and explore how its recent adaptation from beloved romance novel to television series highlights the growing cultural appetite for queer love stories on screen. We unpack what makes this particular story resonate so deeply, especially with women readers and viewers, from emotionally rich character development to the safe exploration of intimacy, vulnerability, and desire outside of traditional heterosexual power dynamics. By looking at the broader popularity of gay romance among women, we examine how these narratives offer space for emotional authenticity, mutual longing, and romance untethered from the gendered expectations often placed on female characters, ultimately asking what these stories reveal about what audiences are craving from modern love stories. Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of sexual assault, sexual harassment, and non-consensual behavior. Listener discretion is advised. Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of sexual assault, sexual harassment, and non-consensual behavior. Listener discretion is advised. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/ We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Monarch Use code BOOKTALK at Monarch.com for 50% your first year. Sponsor: Liquid IV Liquid I.V. Go to LiquidIV.com and get 20% off your first order with code BOOKTALK at checkout. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
หนังสือ Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things ของ Adam M. Grant - การสร้างบางสิ่งย่อมต้องใช้เวลา แล้วนั่นแหละเป็นอัญมณีที่ล้ำค่าที่สุดในตัวของเรา - กว่าจะมีวันนี้ ก็ต้องผ่านพ้นวันนั้นมาให้ได้ คนที่ไม่รู้ว่าชีวิตที่เป็นอยู่ที่ดี สร้างมาอย่างไร เขาจะหวาดกลัวทุกวัน - ไม่มีทางง่ายในการจะเจอศักยภาพที่แท้จริงของตนเอง จงหมั่นถามไถ่ตัวเองอยู่เสมอว่าตัวเราสามารถทำอะไรแบบว้าว ๆ ได้บ้างไหม - หนทางที่ยากคือคำตอบของคนที่จะเจอศักยภาพอันหาได้ยากยิ่งในตนเอง อย่าไปมัวแต่กลัวปัญหา เพราะปัญหาทำให้เรามีปัญญา - คิดในมุมโอลิมปิก ไม่ใช่คิดแต่ในมุมของการเอาชนะคนอื่น เนื่องจากระดับโลกคือระดับที่เราต้องหมุดหมายไป จะถึงไหมอีกเรื่อง
In this episode of Book Talk for BookTok, we sit down with T.C. Kraven, author of Of Prophecies and Pomegranates, a dark mythological retelling that grapples honestly with one of the most contested stories in Greek mythology: Hades and Persephone. Together, we explore how Kraven approached retelling a myth that has been romanticized, sanitized, and rewritten countless times. We discuss what it means to engage with the original mythos, including the complicated history behind the so-called “Rape of Persephone,” and how linguistic nuance, power, and consent shaped her interpretation of Persephone's story. This conversation also dives into one of the novel's central thematic threads: self-deception. From Demeter's possessive motherhood, to Helios's obsession, to Hades's self-punishment, we unpack how characters lie to themselves in the name of love, protection, and control. We pay special attention to Kraven's striking portrayal of Demeter as an abusive parent and why that interpretation felt both mythologically grounded and narratively necessary. We also talk about Narcissus, whose arc moves beyond vanity into something far more human and tragic, and why his emotional depth matters to the story as a whole. Finally, for aspiring writers, Kraven shares candid insight into her journey through self-publishing and her transition into traditional publishing, offering thoughtful advice for authors navigating both paths. This episode is a must-listen for readers interested in mythological retellings, feminist reinterpretations of Greek myths, and stories that refuse to look away from uncomfortable truths. Find T.C Kraven Her Website: https://tc-kraven.square.site/ Instagram: t.c.kravenauthor TikTok: oracleoforleans Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of sexual assault, sexual harassment, and non-consensual behavior. Listener discretion is advised. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/ We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Monarch Use code BOOKTALK at Monarch.com for 50% your first year. Sponsor: Liquid IV Liquid I.V. Go to LiquidIV.com and get 20% off your first order with code BOOKTALK at checkout. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to Season of Aquarius, our book club season on Book Talk for BookTok, a fantasy and romantasy podcast centered on thoughtful discussion and literary analysis. This season is created for readers who want more than quick takes and star ratings, offering space to explore how and why stories work on the page. This is not a traditional book review podcast; it's an analysis and conversation. Each week, we share flash literary analysis that examines themes, authorial intent, character arcs, symbolism, world-building, and key plot devices. Our discussions move beyond initial impressions to unpack narrative choices, emotional resonance, and the craft behind fantasy and romantasy storytelling. We aim to bridge academic literary insight with the modern reading experience shaped by BookTok and online reading communities. This week, we discuss Phantasma by Kaylie Smith. Season of Aquarius Book Club Reading List: Alchemized by SenLinYu Phantasma by Kaylie Smith Silver Elite by Dani Francis An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir Blood & Brujas by Mikayla Hornedo Belladonna by Adalyn Grace As Many Souls as Stars by Natasha Siegel Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli New episodes release twice weekly. Every Tuesday, we publish a book club episode focused on that week's featured novel. Every Thursday, we zoom out for deeper conversations about bookish culture, reading communities, genre trends, and the larger ideas shaping fantasy, romantasy, and BookTok today. If you're searching for a fantasy book podcast, romantasy podcast, or book club podcast that blends thoughtful literary analysis with a genuine love of reading, Season of Aquarius invites you to read, reflect, and discuss alongside us. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/ We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Monarch Use code BOOKTALK at Monarch.com for 50% your first year. Sponsor: Liquid IV Liquid I.V. Go to LiquidIV.com and get 20% off your first order with code BOOKTALK at checkout. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
หนังสือ The Wisdom of Morrie: Living and Aging Creatively and Joyfully ของ Morrie Schwartz - กลุ่มคนที่สนทนากันเรื่องความยั่งยืนของชีวิต จะสำคัญเท่ากับความสมบูรณ์ของชีวิตหรือ - ปรึกษาหารือกันในเรื่องของชีวิต เป็นเรื่องยากลำบาก เพราะว่ามันอาจจะไปกระทบใจคนบางคนได้ - ทุกการสนทนาล้วนมีคุณค่า โดยเฉพาะคนที่มีความคิดเปี่ยมไปด้วยความเข้าใจ - วันใดที่เป็นวันที่สำคัญที่สุด ก็คือวันที่เราได้ตระหนักถึงคุณค่าของตัวเราเอง - ความสุขของชีวิตคือการได้พูดได้คุย อย่าลืมหาคนที่เราพอที่จะพูดคุยได้บ้างเพื่อความสุขมวลรวม
In this episode of Book Talk with Cara, Cara interviews debut author Kristine Delano as she launches her novel, The Lies We Trade. Kristine shares her journey from a 20-year career on Wall Street to becoming an author. They discuss the inspiration behind her book, including the complexities of female mentorship, the intriguing dynamic of high-stakes finance, and how personal experiences shaped her characters. Kristine delves into her writing process, the importance of accurate research, and balancing plot development with authentic character engagement. They also touch on Kristine's influences, her favorite childhood book, and insights into the publishing journey.Order The Lies We Trade everywhere books are sold! Learn more about Kristine and her books at her website: https://kristinedelano.com/Want to watch this interview? You can see this episode as well as multiple others on YouTube! Enjoy!If you enjoyed this conversation, I would be thrilled if you left a rating and review on your favorite podcast app and leave me a note below letting me know who you would love to see on the show!
In this Thursday episode of Book Talk for BookTok, we bring an academic lens to bookish culture, genre fiction, and the conversations shaping romance and romantasy today. Our podcast blends literary analysis, cultural criticism, and emotional honesty. We treat romance, romantasy, and fanfiction as genres worthy of serious discussion, not just quick takes. This episode is part of our Subtext Society series, inspired by The Subtext Society Journal. The Subtext Society Journal is a collaborative publication dedicated to thoughtful essays on romance, romantasy, fan culture, and publishing ethics. We explore moral questions, genre evolution, power dynamics, and the real-world impact of stories, guided by values of literary rigor without gatekeeping, community over hierarchy, and ethics-first analysis. Today's discussion focuses on the article: “Is Dark Romance Allowing a Dark Space?” Using the Sinners and Stardust controversy as a case study, we examine accountability in fandom spaces, consent versus cosplay, and whether increased freedom within romance and dark romance has been misunderstood or misused. This conversation challenges us to hold women to the same ethical standards as men, interrogate harmful behavior without demonizing the genre itself, and ask how communities can protect spaces meant to feel safe. Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of sexual assault, sexual harassment, and non-consensual behavior. Listener discretion is advised. These Subtext Society episodes are designed to be reflective, critical, and grounded— creating space for nuance, responsibility, and care within the bookish community. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/ We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
恩田 陸『なんとかしなくちゃ。 青雲編』恩田 陸『夜のピクニック』逢坂 冬馬『同志少女よ、敵を撃て』川﨑あゆみ『英語が日本語みたいに出てくる頭のつくり方 第二言語習得論の専門家が教える「英語の正しい学習法」』王谷 晶『『ババヤガの夜』マンガ:児島青『本なら売るほど』小泉八雲『怪談』湊かなえ『Nのために』(エヌのために)湊かなえ『告白』パウロコエーリョ『アルケミスト』Yuko's SubstackNoriko's SubstackOur Community : Japanese Together https://japanese-together.mn.co
Send us a textIn Episode 234 of Book Talk Etc., Tina & Hannah chat about the Book Talk Etc., reading challenge for 2026 and bring books that meet the challenge prompts.If you enjoy our commercial-free podcast, please consider supporting us on Patreon! Your membership will give you access to our exclusive bonus episodes, including Niche Novels, Books We DNFed, and What's in the Mailbag! Plus, you'll receive invites to monthly events like Mood Reader Happy Hour, Live Creativity Sprints and Bookstore Browse, and a private Facebook group and Discord server where you can interact with other fans of the show... all for just $5 a month!Loving LatelyOGX Coconut Oil (T)Antiquitarian Sticker Book (H)Latest ReadEndling | Maria Reva (T)Half His Age | Jenette McCurdy (H)BTE Reading Challenge ReadsStiff | Mary Roach (T)Lady Killers | Tori Telfer (H)October Sky | Homer Hickam (T)Emergency Contact | Lauren Layne, Anthony Ledonne (H)Other LinksBTE Storygraph ChallengeBooks and Lala Buzzword ChallengeRead Harder Book RiotShelf Addition:The Hostess | Courtney Psak (T)This Is Not About Us | Allegra Goodman (H)If you prefer other shopping options, you can find today's books on Bookshop.org or Blackwell's. Purchasing through these links supports us with a small commission, at no extra cost to you.Support the showLet's Connect... Email us at booktalketc@gmailBTE on YoutubeTina's TikTok , IG @tbretc YT @tbretcHannah's TikTok , IG @hanpickedbooksJonathan IG @infiltrate_jayPodcast IG @booktalketcRenee's Substack Newsletter , IG@Itsbooktalk
Welcome to Season of Aquarius, our book club season on Book Talk for BookTok, a fantasy and romantasy podcast centered on thoughtful discussion and literary analysis. This season is created for readers who want more than quick takes and star ratings, offering space to explore how and why stories work on the page. This is not a traditional book review podcast—it's a book club conversation. Each week, we share flash literary analysis that examines themes, authorial intent, character arcs, symbolism, world-building, and key plot devices. Our discussions move beyond initial impressions to unpack narrative choices, emotional resonance, and the craft behind fantasy and romantasy storytelling. We aim to bridge academic literary insight with the modern reading experience shaped by BookTok and online reading communities. This week, we discuss Alchemized by SenLinYu Season of Aquarius Book Club Reading List: Alchemized by SenLinYu Phantasma by Kaylie Smith Silver Elite by Dani Francis An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir Blood & Brujas by Mikayla Hornedo Belladonna by Adalyn Grace As Many Souls as Stars by Natasha Siegel Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli New episodes release twice weekly. Every Tuesday, we publish a book club episode focused on that week's featured novel. Every Thursday, we zoom out for deeper conversations about bookish culture, reading communities, genre trends, and the larger ideas shaping fantasy, romantasy, and BookTok today. If you're searching for a fantasy book podcast, romantasy podcast, or book club podcast that blends thoughtful literary analysis with a genuine love of reading, Season of Aquarius invites you to read, reflect, and discuss alongside us. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/ We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We started this episode talking about books. That did not last long.Somewhere between fantasy reads and pop culture, we ended up reading real comments men leave on our podcast clips… and things got weird fast. What starts as criticism turns into entitlement, insults, and comments that say way more about the people typing them than the women on the screen.We talk about why men feel so comfortable commenting on women's bodies, why it almost never goes the other direction, and how online culture rewards being loud instead of being decent.Along the way, we also get into Stranger Things emotions, millennial nostalgia, mom life chaos, small-town internet drama, and what's coming up next at the bookstore.If you've ever read a comment section and thought, what is wrong with people, this one's for you.
What is “America” not only as a political entity but in our imagination? How can we properly envision America, without repeating clichés that frame America as either reactionary or revolutionary, repressive or liberatory? I spoke with Eyal Peretz about his book American Medium, which looks at Hollywood to re-imagine the concept of "America" through the medium of film. By considering six fundamental American movies: John Ford's Young Mr. Lincoln and The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Francis Ford Coppola's The Godfather, Steven Spielberg's West Side Story, and Sofia Coppola's Lost in Translation and Marie Antoinette, Peretz explains how these films do more than represent America and envision a new way to ground human life in our secular age. Eyal Peretz is Professor of Comparative Literature at Indiana University and the author of seminal books on Melville, de Palma, Diderot, da Vinci, as well as film, art, and philosophy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-studies
Book Talk for BookTok with Jac & Amy treats your favorite BookTok novels, romance and romantasy, like literature. We bring real tools of analysis (themes, imagery, symbolism, character arcs) through two lenses: Feminist (gender roles, power, agency, archetypes) and Marxist (class, labor, capital, institutions). Same rigor as a lit class, more jokes, less homework. In the final Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks episode of our Heir of Fire season, we read your emails, comments, and theories. Two episodes weekly: Tuesday = Analysis • Thursday = Listener Thoughts on Breadcrumbs & Broomsticks. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes for Thursday's Breadcrumbs & Broomsticks—spoilers welcome there. Use our site form or DM us on Instagram. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/ We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Heir of Fire analysis, Heir of Fire Ch. 8–13, Sarah J. Maas podcast, Throne of Glass podcast, Aelin Galathynius analysis, Rowan Whitethorn training, Queen Maeve analysis, Manon Blackbeak wyvern, Aedion Ashryver, Dorian and Sorscha, Feminist literary analysis, Marxist literary analysis, romantasy podcast, imagery and symbolism, Mistward, Doranelle, wyverns. Aelin/Celaena • Rowan Whitethorn • Queen Maeve • Chaol Westfall • Dorian Havilliard • Sorscha • Aedion Ashryver • Manon Blackbeak • The Thirteen • Wyverns • Mistward • Doranelle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, we're joined by Stacia Stark, Amazon #1 bestselling romantasy author, to discuss her latest novel, We Who Will Die - the first novel in her new Empire of Blood series. We dive into the bold worldbuilding behind the novel (where Roman history, vampires, and magic collide) and explore how those influences shaped a setting that feels both brutal and intimate. Stacia walks us through the emotional architecture of the story, including how Arvelle's trauma and self-protective instincts informed the novel's distinctive narrative style. We also unpack the careful balance required to write a deeply flawed yet fiercely empathetic heroine, the slow reveal of Tiernon through memory and relationship rather than exposition, and the polarizing presence of Rorrick—what readers are meant to question about him, and what may still be waiting beneath the surface. Finally, Stacia reflects on the craft and discipline behind managing multiple ongoing series at once, how she keeps character arcs and worlds distinct, and what the transition to traditional publishing has been like as her readership continues to grow. If you love romantasy with morally complex characters, emotional depth, and expansive myth-building, this conversation is one you won't want to miss. Find Stacia: Website: staciastark.com Instagram: @taciastarkauthor The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/ We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Book Talk for BookTok with Jac & Amy treats your favorite BookTok novels, romance and romantasy, like literature. We bring real tools of analysis (themes, imagery, symbolism, character arcs) through two lenses: Feminist (gender roles, power, agency, archetypes) and Marxist (class, labor, capital, institutions). Same rigor as a lit class, more jokes, less homework. In the final episode of our Heir of Fire season, we ask the question the whole book has been quietly building toward: do we actually believe Celaena's arc as she un-masks into Aelin Galathynius? Chapters summary: Celaena recovers from the battle for Mistward and leaves Wendlyn behind, journeying to Doranelle to face Queen Maeve. When Maeve punishes Rowan to force Celaena to reveal the location of the third Wyrdkey, Celaena answers with wildfire—and outmaneuvers the immortal queen, winning Rowan's freedom from his blood oath. But Rowan's loyalty is already decided: before Maeve and the Cadre, he swears a new blood oath—not to Celaena, but to Aelin Galathynius. In Rifthold, news of Aelin's wildfire and fight against Norrak throws the kingdom into chaos. Plans for escape unravel when the King of Adarlan intercepts them. Aedion is tricked into giving up his identity, and he is restrained while the King kills the true traitor in their midst. Dorian's magic is revealed in his attempt to save Chaol, who flees to Anielle while his prince is shackled. High in the Ferian Gap, Manon and the Thirteen win the war games, but at what cost? Two episodes weekly: Tuesday = Analysis • Thursday = Listener Thoughts on Breadcrumbs & Broomsticks. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes for Thursday's Breadcrumbs & Broomsticks—spoilers welcome there. Use our site form or DM us on Instagram. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/ We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Heir of Fire analysis, Heir of Fire Ch. 8–13, Sarah J. Maas podcast, Throne of Glass podcast, Aelin Galathynius analysis, Rowan Whitethorn training, Queen Maeve analysis, Manon Blackbeak wyvern, Aedion Ashryver, Dorian and Sorscha, Feminist literary analysis, Marxist literary analysis, romantasy podcast, imagery and symbolism, Mistward, Doranelle, wyverns. Aelin/Celaena • Rowan Whitethorn • Queen Maeve • Chaol Westfall • Dorian Havilliard • Sorscha • Aedion Ashryver • Manon Blackbeak • The Thirteen • Wyverns • Mistward • Doranelle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What is “America” not only as a political entity but in our imagination? How can we properly envision America, without repeating clichés that frame America as either reactionary or revolutionary, repressive or liberatory? I spoke with Eyal Peretz about his book American Medium, which looks at Hollywood to re-imagine the concept of "America" through the medium of film. By considering six fundamental American movies: John Ford's Young Mr. Lincoln and The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Francis Ford Coppola's The Godfather, Steven Spielberg's West Side Story, and Sofia Coppola's Lost in Translation and Marie Antoinette, Peretz explains how these films do more than represent America and envision a new way to ground human life in our secular age. Eyal Peretz is Professor of Comparative Literature at Indiana University and the author of seminal books on Melville, de Palma, Diderot, da Vinci, as well as film, art, and philosophy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/film
What is “America” not only as a political entity but in our imagination? How can we properly envision America, without repeating clichés that frame America as either reactionary or revolutionary, repressive or liberatory? I spoke with Eyal Peretz about his book American Medium, which looks at Hollywood to re-imagine the concept of "America" through the medium of film. By considering six fundamental American movies: John Ford's Young Mr. Lincoln and The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Francis Ford Coppola's The Godfather, Steven Spielberg's West Side Story, and Sofia Coppola's Lost in Translation and Marie Antoinette, Peretz explains how these films do more than represent America and envision a new way to ground human life in our secular age. Eyal Peretz is Professor of Comparative Literature at Indiana University and the author of seminal books on Melville, de Palma, Diderot, da Vinci, as well as film, art, and philosophy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network
Send us a textThis week Vicky and Kristen go on a Bookish Ramble about our year of books; what we loved, what we hated, and what we have to look forward to in the next year! If you liked this episode, please give us a 5 star rating, like, and subscribe! We post new episodes every Wednesday. If you want more, including our monthly book picks and funny memes, follow us on TikTok and Instagram @goodmorningbookclubWe'd also love to hear from you, so if you have any suggestions, including a book you'd like us to read, shoot us an email at gmbookclubllc@gmail.comSee you on the next one!Music and Production by LVL 3 EntertainmentInstagramTikTok
Send us a textIn Episode 232 of Book Talk Etc., Tina & Hannah share our favorite books of 2025!Loving LatelyMe Snarky (T)Cult of Megs (T)TINA AND HANNAH'S TOP FAVORITE BOOKS OF 2025!Red Clay | Charles B. Fancher (T)Great Black Hope | Rob Franklin (H)The Favorites | Layne Fargo (T)Nothing to See Here | Kevin Wilson (H)Sunrise on the Reaping | Suzanne Collins (T)Sandwich | Catherine Newman (H)One Yellow Eye | Leigh Radford (T)Rainbow Black | Maggie Thrash (H)Bat Eater and Other Names for Cora Zeng | Kylie Lee Baker (T)The War That Saved My Life | Kimberly Brubaker Bradley (H)What Kind of Paradise | Janelle Brown (T)The Staircase in the Woods | Chuck Wendig (H)Broken Country | Claire Leslie Hall (T)The Names | Florence Knapp (H)Dominion | Addie Citchens (T)The Knight and the Moth | Rachel Gillig (H)Wild Dark Shore | Charlotte McConaghy (T)Hamnet | Maggie O'Farrell (H)Lonesome Dove | Larry McMurtry (T)Current ReadsThe Death of Us | Abigail Dean (T)The Reformatory | Tananarive Due (H)If you enjoy our commercial-free podcast, please consider supporting us on Patreon! Your membership will give you access to our exclusive bonus episodes, plus, you'll receive invites to monthly events like Mood Reader Happy Hour, Live Creativity Sprints and personalized book recommendations from booksellers. On top of it all, you also get access to our private Facebook group and Discord server where you can interact with other fans of the show... all for just $5 a month.Support the showLet's Connect... Email us at booktalketc@gmailBTE on YoutubeTina's TikTok , IG @tbretc YT @tbretcHannah's TikTok , IG @hanpickedbooksJonathan IG @infiltrate_jayPodcast IG @booktalketcRenee's Substack Newsletter , IG@Itsbooktalk
In this episode, we tackle Heir of Fire Chapters 50–56, the emotional and narrative crucible of the novel. Where power is consumed, identity is stripped bare, and Aelin Galathynius finally rises from the ashes of who she was forced to become. Mistward stands alone when Wendlyn is unable to send reinforcements, leaving Celaena and Rowan scrambling to fortify the fortress. But their plans crumble when traitors open the way for Norrak's army. Under the cover of darkness, the Valg princes strike from the front while mortal soldiers access the tunnel beneath the walls, plunging Mistward into chaos. Celaena faces the Valg princes alone as Rowan and the Cadre battle inside the fortress. Overpowered and dragged into her own memories, Celaena is forced to relive the two horrific days she's buried for years. But by finally confronting her past, she unleashes the full fire of her heritage, claiming her name, Aelin Galathynius, and obliterating the Valg in a blaze that changes the war forever. At the heart of the episode is the book's most powerful revelation: Aelin does not need to be saved. By confronting her past self — the unscarred girl she left behind — she claims her name, her power, and her worth. What rises from the fire is not Celaena Sardothien atoning through destruction, but Aelin Galathynius wielding light instead of self-loathing. We also break down Rowan and Aelin's carranam bond, the symbolism of blood shared over old wounds, and why this claiming is about friendship, not romance — a turning point that reframes strength as something shared, not endured alone. Finally, we close in Rifthold, where Dorian's growing magic and quiet resolve force Chaol (and the reader) to reconsider what a king truly looks like. Central Question: What changes when a character stops believing they deserve punishment and chooses instead to live? How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes for Thursday's Breadcrumbs & Broomsticks—spoilers welcome there. Use our site form or DM us on Instagram. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/ We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Storyworth Give your loved ones a unique keepsake you'll all cherish for years with Storyworth. Right now, save $10 or more during their Holiday sale when you go to STORYWORTH.com/BOOKTALK! Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Heir of Fire analysis, Heir of Fire Ch. 8–13, Sarah J. Maas podcast, Throne of Glass podcast, Aelin Galathynius analysis, Rowan Whitethorn training, Queen Maeve analysis, Manon Blackbeak wyvern, Aedion Ashryver, Dorian and Sorscha, Feminist literary analysis, Marxist literary analysis, romantasy podcast, imagery and symbolism, Mistward, Doranelle, wyverns. Aelin/Celaena • Rowan Whitethorn • Queen Maeve • Chaol Westfall • Dorian Havilliard • Sorscha • Aedion Ashryver • Manon Blackbeak • The Thirteen • Wyverns • Mistward • Doranelle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this special flash-analysis episode, we turn our attention to Brimstone, breaking the story down through focused literary discussion rather than a full chapter-by-chapter deep dive. We examine the novel's central character arcs, with particular attention to Kingfisher, Saeris, and Carrion— how power, control, and vulnerability shape their choices and relationships. We unpack what each character believes they're doing versus what the narrative is actually revealing beneath the surface, and how those internal contradictions fuel tension throughout the book. From there, we analyze the key plot devices at work: narrative withholding, moral ambiguity, and the deliberate use of uncertainty to keep readers off-balance. Finally, we step into theory territory, exploring unresolved questions, foreshadowing, and what Brimstone may be setting up for future installments. This episode is designed for readers who want to move past vibes and into structure—understanding not just what happens in Brimstone, but why it works. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What if movement could help you embody the confidence, presence, and power of your favorite fantasy heroine? In this episode of Book Talk for BookTok, we're joined by WeaponUp, a movement practice that blends sword work, martial arts, and mindful discipline into a truly bookish, main-character experience. Founded by Sabina after years of training with Shaolin monks in China and studying yoga in India, WeaponUp is rooted in resilience, embodiment, and the kind of quiet strength we love in fantasy FMCs. We explore how WeaponUp taps into Romantasy and Romantay energy, why so many booktok readers and book girlies are craving ways to physically channel the confidence they feel while reading fantasy, and how movement can shift mindset just as powerfully as a great story. Sabina shares how the practice stays safe and accessible for beginners while still feeling bold, expressive, and badass. We also talk fantasy-inspired flows, favorite tropes to embody, swords as tools for focus rather than aggression, and which fictional heroines would absolutely thrive in WeaponUp training. Whether you're deeply bookish, fantasy-obsessed, or just looking for a new way to feel connected to your body, this episode bridges the gap between the page and real life. Perfect for fans of fantasy, romantasy, BookTok, and anyone chasing that main character energy. Find WeaponUp on Socials: TikTok: @theweaponup Instagram: @theweaponup Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theweaponup/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeaponUp Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Some books feel like a warm light in a room you didn't realize you'd been sitting in the dark. The Cost of Quiet: How to Have the Hard Conversations That Create Secure, Lasting Love is one of those books—because it names the thing so many of us do to keep the peace: we swallow the truth, we smooth the edges, we “handle it,” we don't rock the boat… and then we wake up one day with a body full of resentment and a life that doesn't feel like ours. In this Book Talk episode of A Fresh Story, Olivia sits down with Colette Jane Fehr—licensed psychotherapist, couples therapist, relationship expert, and first-time author—to talk about the heartbreak behind silence, and the brave, almost holy work of finding your voice again.Colette doesn't write from a pedestal. She writes from the trenches. She takes us back to the origin story: a childhood shaped by destructive conflict, a first marriage shaped by conflict avoidance, and a painful realization that “keeping things calm” can sometimes mean abandoning yourself one quiet moment at a time. In the episode, Colette opens up about the way women—especially the oldest daughters, the people-pleasers, the ones trained to be “good”—learn to disappear inside relationships. And she connects that lived truth to her years in the therapy room: the pattern is everywhere. Avoiding the problem becomes the problem. The book's message lands like a permission slip: you can be kind and still be clear. You can be regulated and still be honest. You can love someone and still refuse to lose yourself.What makes this conversation hit so deeply is that it's not just about romantic relationships—it's about every relationship where silence has been mistaken for safety: parenting, friendships, family systems, even caring for aging parents. Colette's concept of self-connected communication isn't about winning fights; it's about returning to yourself so you can speak from your real feelings and needs, without blame or performance. If you're starting over after divorce, scared to trust your own voice again, or simply tired of living in “fine,” this episode offers a path back to emotional intimacy—first with yourself, and then with the people who are meant to meet you there.