Podcasts about romantasy

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

Last year brought many challenges for Christian fantasy fans. From flops at the theaters now threatened by streaming slop, to creators making more events for Christian storytelling, to the continued growth of biblical fiction as the top genre of Christian-made entertainment—let's survey the top ten fantasy-related headlines from last year. Episode sponsors Edmund Spenser's The Faerie Queen The Case of the Heart Stone by Tulli Cole Above the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen Burnett Mission update New at Lorehaven: many features over the holidays! We announced our new book quest in the Lorehaven Guild: Taliesin Onscreen: ‘Stranger Things' Season Five Gives Weight to Parents' Fears, A. D. Sheehan Onscreen: ‘David' Creators Answer all Your Questions About the Animated Hit Movie, Josh Shepherd Engage: Alleged ‘Rock and Roll' Soundtrack Incites Suspicion of Netflix's Narnia Movie, newcomer Sierra Simopoulos Sierra Simopoulos also reviewed Sons of Day and Night My own article: Why Christians Need Fantastical Stories Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild Stop by the homepage for many upgrades, especially the Library. Soon: discover the Guild's new wing, the Lorehaven Authorship. 10. Superheroes failed to save ailing cinema Marvel movies, despite their strengths, all flopped at the box office. Personally I did like Fantastic Four: First Steps, but didn't love it. Lorehaven folks were generally positive about some hero movies. ‘Captain America: Brave New World' Labors to Save a Struggling MCU, Marian A. Jacobs The Antiheroes of Thunderbolts* Preach to Marvel Itself, Daniel Whyte IV ‘Superman' (2025) Will Make You Believe a Man Can Be Earnest, Josiah DeGraaf However, audiences were tepid; none of these films broke even. The greatest foe of superheroes? Flippancy. Next: lack of family. MCU reached its apex with creators who at least feigned sincerity. DC's nobledark tone was winning fans, until the studio freaked out. 9. Disney's ‘Snow White' remake bombed Sticking with cinemas, this one might be the year's greatest fail. ‘Snow White' (2025) Isn't the Fairest of Adaptations, Parker J. Cole I didn't see it. Few people did. More people saw YouTube roasts. This whole nonsense was an ugly reflection of three terrible trends ruining films: “woke” checkboxes, cynicism, and corporate gloss. 8. Fans abandoned legacy sci-fi franchises Once a Doctor Who hero, Russell T. Davies has ruined that series. Star Trek is adrift, desperately trying to hail imaginary “new fans.” Of course, Star Wars keeps failing to please its own alienated fans. The greatest culprit here: Godless, sex-obsessed progressivism. One can't correct from this without visibly rejecting “woke” politics. 7. K-Pop Demon Hunters owned the summer We haven't had a genuine pop-culture movie phenomenon in ages. Then along comes this little giant animated movie on Netflix. ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters' Pits Singing Heroines vs. Monster Idols, Marian A. Jacobs Kids sang catchy songs. Adults found deeper themes to explore. YouTube reactions and covers on Instagram/TikTok exploded. For the first time, Netflix had a true four-quadrant hit on its hands. And dear Lord, may they learn only the right lessons from this, and not turn this into another streaming slop like so much other stuff. 6. ‘Woke' stories stepped back, yet persisted 251. Could a Cultural ‘Vibe Shift' Advance Christian-Made Fiction? Due to political events we won't detail, that agenda is on the wane. At least the Sexualityism religion is seen as stale and unstable. Many are still trying to figure out what, if any, ideas will replace it. A. D. Sheehan had to critique Brandon Sanderson, a late arrival to the “woke” content scene: Brandon Sanderson's New Fantasy ‘Wind and Truth' Summons a Postmodern Cringestorm. Oddly enough, we keep seeing Christian parents posting about the random books they find, after which they ask “Is it woke?” Pro tip: yeah, it's probably woke, especially with a cover like that. By now we surely have enough Christian-made novels to help? 5. Corporate slop threatens human stories 274. Why Shouldn't AI-Generated Content Replace Human Stories? This is partly about AI-generated slop, but not always. Skeptical fans now refer to anything bad with “this looks AI.” Why? Because the problem goes deeper than technology amok. Long before AI, corporate studios began relying on algorithms. I believe that's when these stories began feeling less, well, human. 272. Can We Save Cinema from Sloppy Stories? Instead of human hunches, stories get greenlit by metallic minds. Reference: the short-lived run of Robert Zemekis mocap movies. At first people express curiosity, but eventually they get bored. Prediction: this too shall pass. We'll see a lot of forced “firsts,” like “the first fully AI-generated movie.” They may even succeed. But the novelty will quickly wear off as it did before Mars Needs Moms. Still, Christian creators must dig deeper to defend organic human stories with philosophies deeper than “AI destroys the Earth.” 4. Conservative TV is trying more fantasy We greatly anticipate the DailyWire+ show The Pendragon Cycle. Based on Stephen Lawhead's novels, seven episodes drop Jan. 22. Christian showrunner Jeremy Boreing actually stepped down from being Daily Wire co-CEO, it seems, to ensure finishing this series. Political hot takes scarcely outlast the day. Great stories last long. Alas, there's the constantly controversial Magician's Nephew movie Marketing for this is dreadful, with publicly floated nonsense about an actress playing Aslan or the movie featuring “rock and roll.” 257. By Aslan's Mane, is Netflix Really Casting a Lady as the Lion? Meanwhile, platforms like Angel (run by LDS members, yet with freedom for Christians) released The Wingfeather Saga season 2. We also saw a new angel-heroes show, Gabriel and the Guardians. ‘Gabriel and the Guardians' Echoes a Golden Era of Saturday Morning Cartoons, Jenneth Leed Alas, any sci-fi-ish efforts seem restricted to dystopian dramas. We need higher budgets and risks to widen those genre limits. 3. Realm Makers unites Christian creators 265. How Can We Shine the Gospel at the Realm Makers Expo? 266. How Do You Assemble a New Expo for Christian Fandoms? | with Scott Minor Last year's conference in Grand Rapids marked an experiment. Can this organization blend creator training with a public expo? Results were mixed-positive, mainly because of the venue choice. For me, a debut sci-fi novelist, results may have skewed better. Yet our primary audience must be Christian fans and families. A semi-major downtown is difficult for these folks to access. Next year's new venue in St. Louis looks much more promising! And it sounds like the public Expo will be easier for fans to access. For Christian fantasy to grow, we must unite over common interest. Yet this unity must be based on love for the true Jesus, our Author. 2. Biblical fiction is the top Christian genre There's no contest. Amish and historical fiction is dethroned. Christian fantasy (mostly romantasy) remains confined to books. Amazon's ‘House of David' Anoints an Intriguing Biblical Epic, Michael Allen ‘House of David' Is Crowned King of Amazon Prime, Jenneth Leed 1. Fantasy for teen/YA women continues to rule the Christian-made fantastical worlds This might well be the repeat headline from previous years. Facts are facts. Teen girls and women outread everyone else. When they like fantasy, they prefer female heroes/relationships. Romantasy is the queen. And her handmaiden is royal drama. 249. What is ‘Romantasy'? | with Parker J. Cole And the new princess on the block? Time-travel romance, for sure. 263. What is Time-Travel Romance? | Every Hour Until Then with Gabrielle Meyer These books get the most attention on Instagram and elsewhere. Is it true that “men don't read”? Not necessarily. Men do read. But they tend to read nonfiction about culture, theology, history. And for fantastical fiction, these readers have unique expectations. Christians here favor proven legacies, especially Lewis/Tolkien. One can't complain about the reality. Instead, meet the standard. Frankly, that's my hope for Above the Circle of Earth and beyond. Of course I support teen/YA female-focused fantasy stories! Yet that's not my genre; it doesn't help me, personally, grow in joy. Surely there are more readers who favor other kinds of stories, maybe deeper, maybe in underdog genres like sci-fi and horror. Christians must expect a true joyous sci-fi future under King Jesus. And we uniquely understand supernatural realities/horror today. But making new stories isn't enough. We must cultivate readers. That's our mission at Lorehaven with our new mission statement: Escape bad books. Find the best Christian fantasy and sci-fi! Watch this space for more about bad books, reader cultivation, and new resolutions to avoid scroll traps and level up your imagination. Com station Top question for listeners What was your top fantasy story or least-liked story in 2025? Next on Fantastical Truth “In one cataclysmic moment, millions around the world disappear.” Jesus returned thirty years ago. Or rather, He sort of pre-returned, the warm-up act, if you will. Many faithful Christians believe in this kind of “rapture.” And in December 1995, two authors teamed up and used this idea to create the most successful biblical end-times thriller we've yet seen. Last summer, we overviewed the series. Yet now we'll ask how that first Left Behind novel has aged, thirty years after its release.

Send us a textIn episode one of our ACOTAR deep dive, Feyre begins as a Les Mis understudy, pivots into a true crime podcast subject, and moves into a McMansion with two beautiful, masked fae males. Next week: chapters 7-12. Full schedule pinned on IG. Instagram and TikTok @DTFaePodcast. If you are enjoying the show, subscribing, rating, and reviewing helps the podcast grow. Merch available on dtfaepodcast.com.

In this week's Breadcrumbs & Broomsticks, we dig into listener theories and spoiler-heavy observations from Heir of Fire Chapters 50–56, unpacking the breadcrumbs Sarah J. Maas lays through imagery of consumption, fire, memory, and rebirth 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. 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 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

Today is a special episode because not only is it the last episode of 2025, but also the final installment of this series is OUT NOW! If you've started reading it, let me know your thoughts. You've been following along since I begun writing it, and know all about the ups and downs. Here's a little insight on how it all went down when I thought of the idea and potentially what's next. Magic Reborn can be found through this link: https://www.jeffekennedy.com/magic-rebornHere's to 2026!Support the showAmong the Thorns line edits are D-O-N-E DONE! Preorder here In case you missed it, Strange Familiar Audio Book is now available on Youtube ~ Listen for free here You can find the Owl Crate signed edition of Never the Roses here A very beautiful hardcover edition can be found here The audio book can be listened to here And Kindle Unlimited has Never the Roses digital version! Your friendly neighborhood author is doing author-ly things this upcoming month! Hummingbird House is officially OPEN FOR BOOKING Book your next writer retreat at Hummingbird House in Santa Fe here Upcoming Events ~ LoveLitCon is a weekend of romantasy and bookish fun and I will be attending! Buy LoveLitCon tickets here using LOVE8368 for $10 OFF! https://lovelit.com/ Tuscon Festival of Books is March 14th-15th this year! See you there *Wink* ...

ACOTAR, Fourth Wing, Fate & Flame… all of these popular book series belong to the romantasy genre. It combines elements of romance and fantasy, so think mythical creatures and high drama, all ending with a hard-earned happily ever after. It's also big on BookTok, with over a million videos using the hashtag. So why is the genre suddenly having a moment?BBC journalist Maia Davies tells us what readers can expect from romantasy books - and why it's big business for the publishing industry. Sarah Wendell, the founder of Trashybooks.com, tells us about the unique appeal romantasy holds for readers. And we hear from romantasy fans around the world, who tell us why they have fallen in love with the genre. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: William Lee Adams Producers: Emily Horler and Chelsea Coates Editor: Verity Wilde

In this end-of-year Fully Booked wrap-up, Megan and Sherine say goodbye (respectfully… kind of) to 2025 and dig into what really mattered: the books that delivered.We rank our Top 5 reads of 2025—from twisty thrillers and darkly funny satire, to high-stakes fantasy/romantasy, slashers, vampires, and one horror novel that genuinely jump-scared us while reading. Along the way, we talk about what a “good reading year” even means, why stress can wreck reading momentum, and why the whole “how many books did you read?” discourse misses the point.Plus: honorable mentions, the books we wanted to finish (hello, Quicksilver), and the upcoming adaptations and 2026 reads already on our radar. Subscribe on your favorite platform!SpotifyApple PodcastAmazon MusiciHeart RadioPodchaserYoutubeDon't forget to follow us on socials too!InstagramThreadsTikTokBlueSkyFacebook Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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

IL GRANDE RIALLINEAMENTO — Il Futuro del Turismo nel 2026 Puntata speciale dedicata all'analisi dei principali report di fine anno sul futuro del travel. Dal paradigma "Restless and Resigned" di Skift all'Era dell'IO di Booking.com, passando per la rivoluzione dell'AI Agentica che sta riscrivendo le regole del gioco. In 45 minuti esploriamo: la morte dell'OBT tradizionale nel business travel, il Model Context Protocol che minaccia le OTA, i nuovi archetipi del viaggiatore (dal Romantasy al Sleep Tourism), e perché la favola della sostenibilità non avrà un lieto fine. Un mercato da 1,67 trilioni di dollari si prepara al più grande riallineamento della sua storia. Chi non "agentizza" il proprio business, scompare.--- FONTI E REPORT CITATIPhocuswright — Travel Forward 2026 https://globalloyalty.org/article/26613/phocuswright-report-travel-forward-2026-inside-the-data-trends-and-forces-reshaping-global-travelSkift — Megatrends 2026 https://skift.com/megatrends/Booking.com — The Era of YOU: Travel Predictions 2026 https://news.booking.com/the-era-of-you-bookingcom-predicts-the-top-trends-defining-travel-in-2026-with-individuality-taking-center-stage/Amadeus & Globetrender — Travel Trends 2026 https://amadeus.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/amadeus-travel-trends-2026Expedia Group — Unpack '26 https://www.expedia.com/newsroom/unpack-26-expedia-hotelscom-vrbo/McKinsey — The Agentic Commerce Opportunity https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/quantumblack/our-insights/the-agentic-commerce-opportunity-how-ai-agents-are-ushering-in-a-new-era-for-consumers-and-merchantsMcKinsey — What is the Future of Travel https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/mckinsey-explainers/what-is-the-future-of-travelThe Economist — Job Apocalypse? Humbug! AI is Creating Brand New Occupations https://www.economist.com/business/2025/12/14/job-apocalypse-humbug-ai-is-creating-brand-new-occupationsThe Economist — The Rise of an Agentic AI Web https://forklog.com/en/the-economist-charts-the-rise-of-an-agentic-ai-web/CTM — 2026 Technology Outlook: Corporate Travel https://www.travelctm.com/global/blog/2026-technology-trends-outlook-corporate-travel/Traxo — The Future of Sustainable Business Travel https://blog.traxo.com/the-future-of-sustainable-business-travel-2026HFTP — The Rise of Agentic AI in Hospitality https://www.hftp.org/news/4130233/the-rise-of-agentic-ai-in-hospitality-moving-from-search-to-actionMastercard — Agents of Change: The Rise of AI in 2025 https://www.mastercard.com/us/en/news-and-trends/stories/2025/AI-2025-year-in-review.htmlPhocusWire — AI Developments in Travel https://www.phocuswire.com/ai-developments-travel-b2c-b2bPhocusWire — The Future of Agentic Payments in Travel https://www.phocuswire.com/agentic-payments-openai-stripe-travel-implicationsAmadeus — Pet Travel Trends 2026 https://hotelsmag.com/news/amadeus-travel-trends-2026/Amadeus — Next-Gen Aircraft Shaping Future Travel https://www.aviationbusinessnews.com/industry-news/amadeus-2026-travel-trends-how-next-gen-aircraft-will-shape-future-travel-styles/Skyscanner — Seven Trends for 2026 https://money-tourism.gr/en/skyscanner-seven-trends-that-will-define-travel-in-2026/Softude — AI in Travel Trends https://www.softude.com/blog/ai-in-travel-trends-redefining-tourism/

This Thursday, we open the floodgates on Heir of Fire Ch. 43–49, pulling together listener theories, spicy interpretations, and the narrative breadcrumbs Sarah J. Maas scatters across one of the most technically ambitious sections of the book. 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. 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: 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! 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

Today on AirTalk: Previewing Trump's primetime speech (0:15) Can romantasy save your sex life? (17:37) What can LA learn from the diverging housing policies of the Twin Cities? (50:45) Holiday movies: What to watch (1:06:56) What advice do you ask your kids for? (1:23:19) Visit www.preppi.com/LAist to receive a FREE Preppi Emergency Kit (with any purchase over $100) and be prepared for the next wildfire, earthquake or emergency

Bridget, Caitlin, and Hilda are finally back with part 1 of "Brimstone," book 2 in Callie Hart's Fae & Alchemy series. Although they're still not done reading, so far the consensus is that they like this book more than book 1. Also, Carrion Swift continues to be the best thing about this series. Are they wrong about that? Join our Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content and let's be friends!Instagram > @Booktokmademe_podTikTok > @BooktokMadeMe

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. Two episodes weekly: Tuesday = Analysis • Thursday = Listener Thoughts on Breadcrumbs & Broomsticks. Spoilers: Today covers Heir of Fire Ch. 43–49 with context from earlier Throne of Glass books. Anything beyond these chapters (or other SJM works) is saved for Thursday. Chapters covered: 43–49 This week's question How are the writing techniques used in these chapters different—and what does that achieve? Chapter Summary: Rowan nurses Celaena back from burnout, and their renewed training reveals the true reach of her fire magic. As they investigate a string of murders, Celaena realizes the creatures stalking Wendlyn are tied to the darkness beneath Adarlan's library. Their hunt uncovers Norrak, a mortal army, and three terrifying, tainted beings serving a hidden master. In the Ferian Gap, Manon Blackbeak faces the Blackbeak Matron's fury over Abraxos's failures. Under the scrutiny of all three Ironteeth clans, Manon and Abraxos finally conquer the Crossing. Back in Rifthold, Chaol, Dorian, and Aedion learn of the mass slaughter at Calaculla and Endovier. Each struggles with grief and rage, and Dorian begs Sorscha to flee Adarlan for her safety, only to find he's too attached to let her go. 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! 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 my last book review of 2025, I'm taking a look at one of the newer Romantasy releases of the year, The Wolf King by Lauren Palphreyman. It's an exciting blend of highland romance and dangerous fantasy. Dangerous court politics, rival kingdoms, and a princess caught in the middle of it all. A story full of intrigue, heat, and all the popular fantasy tropes that keep people reading! As always, I am going to share my personal thoughts on the book; the world, the characters, the themes, and what I thought about the story overall. I will, as ever, be keeping it completely spoiler-free because why buy the cow when you get the milk for free? If you enjoy fantasy romance with high stakes, morally complicated characters, and a sense that anything could go wrong at any moment, this episode is for you. My second, shorter review is for A Short Walk Through a Wide World by Douglas Westerbeke, a more reflective read that offered a very different experience and made for an interesting contrast. So pop the kettle on, get comfy, and let's talk books.

Send us a textListen…Brimstone is here. Are we obsessed with the Fae & Alchemy series by Callie Hart? GUILTY. AS. CHARGED. Not to give anything away (including our spoiler free star and spice ratings) but we think it's safe to say that there's nothing better than Kingfisher in our eyes and ears, Onyx the perfect animal sidekick companion, and a one horse scene starring none other than Carrion… our favorite scoundrel. Take a deep dive into book two: Brimstone as we follow up our Quicksilver episode, and our interview with Callie Hart! We discuss how this book performed as a “middle book” in a series, if there are plot holes, unanswered questions, or theories we need to know more about as we anxiously anticipate book three! Was it chaotic like some middle books can be? Or do we feel satisfied with the ending it left us on? We have all of our favorite and least favorite parts, characters, tropes, quotes, and we even dive into the audiobook narration, our faves and fails of the week, and a very important smash or pass (for the official record). Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Shop our Merch line | *  https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.comCheck out these author interviews? ⬇️Need more Halloween reads in your life? Find out if “Halloweentown for adults” with Gilmore Girls vibes might be for you with our Haven Ever After Hazel Mack Interview! https://youtu.be/-kDxchCTysw?si=KpEbcsCHAniU-JTSPenn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbWe interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4Check the official Follow Up Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of the Split or Swallow Universe all about Between Two Kings! https://youtu.be/OW1cxXTVcTc?si=oOxVIzbIheET_bNE____Shop Bookish Merch we are wearing:Ashley is wearing: our Besties and the Books Zip Hoodie | * https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.com/products/zip-hoodie-grey-besties-anti-social-crowLiz is wearing : A “Light It Up” Crescent City T-shirt from @TheBeanWorkShop | * https://www.thebeanworkshop.store/BOOKBESTIES10And use our affiliate code “BOOKBESTIES10” for a discount!+ an exclusive Besties and the Books Beanie DM us to be added to release list Any link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commissionSupport the showYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

This week we are joined by Rachel Van Dyken. Rachel Van Dyken the #1 New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA TODAY bestselling author of regency and contemporary romances. When she's not writing you can find her drinking coffee at Starbucks and plotting her next book while watching guilty-pleasure TV. Her new romantasy FALLEN GODS from Red Tower Books is out now.In this episode, Rachel discusses her diverse writing career, which spans multiple genres including fantasy, romance, and mafia stories, and explains the importance of research in her work. Rachel also opens up about the pressures of being an author, managing her own business, and the impact of stress on her health. Throughout the conversation, she reflects on her Norwegian heritage and how it inspired her latest book, "Fallen Gods," dedicated to her grandfather. Rachel's story is one of resilience, creativity, and the pursuit of passion.Recommendations From This Episode: Girls5evaThe Vikings!: Crash Course World HistoryNathan Hill - The NixFollow Rachel: Instagram: @rachvd  TikTok: @rachvdRachel's Facebook Group: Rachel's New Rockin' ReadersFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: aloneatlunch@gmail.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Author Stacia Stark came by our headquarters to talk about her new Romantasy, We Who Will Die. Naturally, the conversation turned to her Roman Empire, one filled with vampires, gladiators, fighting to the death, and second chance love.  Enter the perilous Thorn district, where vampires and gladiators collide and Arvelle is caught between them. After vowing to assassinate an ancient vampire emperor, she's forced into a deadly gladiator arena and an uneasy alliance with her vampire ex boyfriend.  Get We Who Will Die at bookofthemonth.com.  Learn more about Book of the Month LIVE at bookofthemonth.com/botm-live.

This Thursday, we hand the mic to you as we unpack listener theories, spoilers, and literary breadcrumbs from Heir of Fire Ch. 36–42 — the stretch where neutrality is accused, protection turns violent, and truth finally scorches through lies. 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: Olive and June Visit OliveAndJune.com/BOOKTALK for 20% off your first GEL System! 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 Part II of our Fantasy Subgenre Series, we explore the darker and more modern branches of fantasy: Dark Fantasy, Grimdark, Urban Fantasy, Contemporary/Modern Fantasy, Paranormal Fantasy, Romantasy, Progression Fantasy, LitRPG, and Gamelit.

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. Two episodes weekly: Tuesday = Analysis • Thursday = Listener Thoughts on Breadcrumbs & Broomsticks. Spoilers: Today covers Heir of Fire Ch. 36–42 with context from earlier Throne of Glass books. Anything beyond these chapters (or other SJM works) is saved for Thursday. Chapter Summary When Chaol and Aedion seek information from soldiers who once guarded the mysterious fortresses that activated the night magic vanished, Chaol turns to Dorian for support—only to be confronted with brutal honesty. Dorian calls him out for abandoning his friends when they needed him most, and Aedion delivers a similar blow, accusing Chaol of clinging to neutrality like a child too afraid to choose a side. High in the Ferian Gap, Manon and the Thirteen train relentlessly with their wyverns, but Abraxos's fragile wings cannot withstand the Crossing. Determined to save her mount, Manon seeks spider silk from the deadly Stygian spiders, but even reinforced, Abraxos hesitates at the edge of the chasm, and when Iskra lashes him to spark a fight, Manon's fury reveals just how fiercely she has come to care for her wyvern. In Wendlyn, Celaena and Rowan grow closer as their walls finally begin to crack. But during the Beltane celebrations, when Celaena reaches the edge of magical and emotional burnout, the truth she's held onto erupts. Rowan is confronted with a devastating revelation—Maeve lied to him about Aelin, and his own cruelty toward Celaena has only deepened her wounds. In the ashes of this truth, Rowan must reckon with who he has been…  and who he must become to stand beside the rightful Queen of Terrasen. 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: Olive and June Visit OliveAndJune.com/BOOKTALK for 20% off your first GEL System! 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

This holiday season, I'm taking some time to check in with my mental health and overall wellness. I'm starting therapy on Thursday - gasp! - so I can stay centered, enjoy the holiday cheer, and keep a healthy balance between my writing responsibilities and personal life. Thank you for joining me on this journey and for your continued support.

This Thursday, we're digging into your theories and literary breadcrumbs from Heir of Fire Ch. 32–35 — the chapters where bodies break, wings unfurl, monsters surface, and two warriors finally tell the truth. Listeners weigh in, and we read your thoughts! 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—Storyworth Memoirs! Right now, save $10 or more during their Holiday sale when you go to STORYWORTH.com/BOOKTALK! 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

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, only with more jokes and less homework. Two episodes weekly:Tuesday = Analysis • Thursday = Listener Thoughts on Breadcrumbs & Broomsticks Spoilers: Today covers Heir of Fire Ch. 32–35 with context from earlier Throne of Glass books. Anything beyond these chapters (or other SJM works) is saved for Thursday.Chapters covered: 32–35 Episode Summary Manon and Abraxos plunge toward certain death until the unthinkable happens. With wings unfurled, Abraxos takes flight for the first time, carrying Manon into the skies and sealing their bond. Across the sea in Wendlyn, Celaena's fragile connection with Rowan begins to fracture when Gavriel's arrival rekindles Rowan's old loyalties. Insecure, Celaena's outburst spirals into another wave of despair that leaves her isolated within Mistward. But even Rowan isn't immune to rebuke, when Emrys confronts him for his cruelty, Rowan seeks redemption the only way he knows: through rigorous training. During a training exercise gone wrong, a monstrous creature rises from the depths, forcing Celaena to unleash her fury, not at the beast, but at Rowan himself. In the aftermath, both are stripped bare, sharing their deepest griefs and choosing, at last, to face the pain together. This week's guiding question: In what ways are Celaena and Rowan developing in this series of chapters — and does this moment mark the beginning of true evolution, or just a temporary truce between two broken people? 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—Storyworth Memoirs! Right now, save $10 or more during their Holiday sale when you go to STORYWORTH.com/BOOKTALK! 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

Ho Ho Ho, thats right, you! It's favorites of the year. We share what has made the cut over the past 12 months. Skincare for the Fae enthusiast. Tried and true book lover gifts for both the naughty and nice list. We love trying out new things and sharing with you our listeners.Do you have a favorite? Share with us.Send us a textSupport the showConnect with usInstagram: https://bit.ly/ourIGpageTikTok: https://bit.ly/ourTiktokpageIntro and Outro music, Sexy Fashion Beat from Coma-Media

Moving slightly away from spooky season and weird folklore, the dragons are clocking in with a writing episode. At the moment, Romantasy is the biggest whale splashing around in the sea of fantasy, partially drowning out other subgenres (at least temporarily). While romantasy is a lot of fun, it's caused further changes in the 'strong female character' trope which are less fun. This week, Jules and Madeleine revisit the subject, looking at what really defines 'strength' in character terms and how to best write your own female character, even with Romantasy putting a thumb on the scales. Under the microscope this week - Jane Eyre, Anne of Green Gables, The Hunger Games and many more.   Title music: Ecstasy by Smiling Cynic

This week on Breadcrumbs & Broomsticks, we dive into your theories and spoilery predictions for Heir of Fire Ch. 26–31. You caught everything: the clues in Aelin's Fae memories, Rowan's changing behavior, and the deeper meaning behind the Terrasen stag. Listeners weigh in on Chaol and Aedion's uneasy alliance, Dorian and Sorscha's dangerous chemistry, and why secrets, disguises, and self-deception run through every storyline right now. And of course, the Manon and Abraxos bond that has the whole fandom feral. We explore your answers to our guiding question:Are Aelin, Chaol, and Dorian actually growing or just repeating old patterns with new masks? 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

The holiday season has officially begun. Let's celebrate with some rollicking fun with the J Squad! That's right. We are opening the Members Only Mailbag and spreading some cheer. We talk about a romantasy series that has made one of our members "feral and unwell." Plus, eating salad greens by the handful, Jesse's clothing system, changing the toilet paper roll, and much more!If you want to hear more of the J Squad yapping, we have great news! We do this once a month and it's available for all MaxFun members. Missing out on the fun? We have an easy fix. Just join us at maximumfun.org/join for $5 a month, and you'll have tons of bonus content to catch up on.Looking for gift ideas? Get some JJHo merch at MaxFunStore.com! Or, a ticket to see us in January at SF Sketchfest makes a LOVELY gift! Sunday, January 18 at Marines' Memorial Theatre, on sale now! Or, give the gift of MaxFun membership at maximumfun.org/join!Follow us on:YouTubeTikTokInstagramBlueSky Judge John Hodgman is member-supported! Join at $5 a month at maximumfun.org/join!

Happy Turkey Day! As the title suggests, I have some book updates for you. You all know this by now, but the work has kept me grounded amidst the craziness of the personal as of late. I'll be talking about both this episode, as well as some very exciting news about when preorders for my NEW book series will be available.Among the Thorns line edits are D-O-N-E DONE! Preorder here https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250360373/amongthethornsIn case you missed it, Strange Familiar Audio Book is now available on Youtube ~ Listen for free here: https://youtu.be/kZagVrmHdfc?si=zGU8wy3Ag_GQ4KBPYou can find the Owl Crate signed edition of Never the Roses here: https://www.owlcrate.com/products/never-the-roses-exclusive-owlcrate-edition?srsltid=AfmBOoovpc9OwJyFlDu1dq8XLBcZ_FDmq1etopWL8XhKmQq9puAuY0fIA very beautiful hardcover edition can be found here: https://www.amazon.com/Never-Roses-Jennifer-K-Lambert/dp/125036034XThe audio book can be listened to here: https://www.audible.com/pd/Never-the-Roses-Audiobook/B0DFRLPZSG?srsltid=AfmBOopGkvRC9UUEKryNef-Xsp05Bi7FZ2UEyi109IEFDZ0SIXpHqQAIAnd Kindle Unlimited has Never the Roses digital version! Your friendly neighborhood author is doing author-ly things this upcoming month!Hummingbird House is officially OPEN FOR BOOKING  Book your next writer retreat at Hummingbird House in Santa Fe here: https://hummingbirdhousesantafe.com Upcoming Events ~ LoveLitCon is a weekend of romantasy and bookish fun and I will be attending! Buy LoveLitCon tickets here using LOVE8368 for $10 OFF! https://lovelit.com/Tuscon Festival of Books is March 14th-15th this year! See you there *Wink* https://tucsonfestivalofbooks.orgBooksPreorder MAGIC REBORN here: https://www.jeffekennedy.com/magic-reborn – OUT Dec. 30thSTRANGE FAMILIAR is live: https://www.jeffekennedy.com/strange-familar – OUT NOW You can always buy print copies of my books from my local indie, Beastly Books! https://www.beastlybooks.comSocialsJoin my Patreon and Discord for mentoring https://www.patreon.com/JeffesClosetSign up for mySupport the showSocials Join my Patreon and Discord for mentoring Sign up for my newsletter! Support the show! Find me on Threads @jeffe_kennedy Visit my website Follow me on Amazon Follow me on BookBub Find me on Instagram and TikTok! @jeffe_kennedy The posture correcting sports bra I love almost more than life itself can be found here Thank you for watching or listening! See you all soon.

hi CHATTTTTTT!!! this week we giggled over more of y'all's funny work stories/coworker drama! in this episode we discuss the genesis of "booger walls" at work ???, the primal nature to feel the need to date your coworkers, and all of our thoughts on Wicked: For Good!!WE'RE DOING 2 LIVE SHOWS IN CALIFORNIA! BREA 01/29/26 and PASADENA 01/30/26!!!GET YOUR TICKETS AT www.drew-afualo.com/tour !!! This is a Headgum podcast. Follow Headgum on Twitter, Instagram, and Tiktok. Advertise on Two Idiot Girls via Gumball.fm.DREW'S BOOK IS OFFICIALLY AVAILABLE EVERYWHERE YOU CAN PURCHASE BOOKS!! GO GET IT!!!!For extra fun silly zoomie-filled content, JOIN OUR MEMBERSHIP!!! Visit patreon.com/twoidiotgirls for more info!!!FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM & TIKTOK :P@_twoidiotgirls | @deisonafualo | @drewafualoTHANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!Our listeners can get free steak in every box for a year PLUS $20 off your first box when you go to butcherbox.com/idiotThe best way to cook just got better. Go to https://HelloFresh.com/twoidiotgirls10fm now to Get 10 Free Meals + a Free breakfast for Life! *One per box with active subscription. Free meals applied as discount on first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan.Listeners can save 30% on their first order at Cornbread Hemp! Just head to https://cornbreadhemp.com and use code TWOIDIOTGIRLS at checkout.Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to https://www.honeylove.com/TWOIDIOTGIRLS ! #honeylovepodDownload the app or order now at Shipt.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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) to your favorite books. Two episodes weekly: Tuesday = Analysis Thursday = Listener Thoughts and breadcrumbs Spoilers: Today covers Heir of Fire with context from earlier Throne of Glass books. Anything beyond these first three books (or other SJM works) is saved for Thursday. Chapters covered: 26–31 Episode summary Across Wendlyn, Aelin Galathynius finally starts mastering her Fae form—sharpened senses, hard-won control, and a flicker of joy she didn't think she deserved. While Rowan Whitethorn pushes her training into something almost playful, their investigation into brutal village killings drags Aelin back into the question she keeps dodging: is she truly becoming herself, or just learning a new disguise to survive? In Rifthold, Chaol Westfall and Aedion Ashryver search Celaena's hidden apartment, a shrine to the girl she was and the queen she tried to bury. The discovery deepens their uneasy alliance with Ren Allsbrook and Murtaugh, but that partnership is tested fast when the King of Adarlan's secret guard hunts them through the slums. As they dodge black-clad predators and face the cost of rebellion, Chaol's “protector” instincts collide with reality, forcing him to decide whether he's growing or just repeating the same patterns in a new key. Meanwhile, Dorian Havilliard and Sorscha work to suppress his volatile magic. One small act of control sparks a kiss that could destroy them both. And high in the Ferian Gap, Manon Blackbeak tries to forge Abraxos into the weapon her world demands: iron spikes, iron teeth, iron will. But Abraxos refuses the script. His gentleness, fear, and stubborn survival force Manon to confront a terrifying possibility: maybe strength isn't dominance. Maybe it's partnership. Her desperate attempt to make him fly ends in a brutal fall that changes both of them, marking the first real crack in the empire that built her. This week's question Are Aelin, Chaol, and Dorian actually growing in Heir of Fire—or are they repeating old patterns under new disguises, and calling it progress? 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, I'm joined by an amazing entrepreneur, Dee Bertino, who is helping romance book lovers find their next favorite book as owner of Romantasy Bookstore, a romance-only bookstore in New Jersey. In this episode, we dive into everything from:Why Dee decided to open a romance-only bookstore!The toughest part about opening the store and its greatest joys,Which romance books are flying off the shelves for readers,What's to come at Romantasy Bookstore, and more!Visit Romantasy Bookstore: https://romantasybookshop.com/FOLLOW ME! Join My Email List: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/joinBlog: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/ Podcast: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shereadsromancebooks Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/shereadsromancebooks Instagram https://www.instagram.com/shereadsromancebooksblog/LEAVE A REVIEW!If you liked this episode or got a book recommendation you can't wait to read, please give a star rating and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast platform. It helps me know what you like and want to hear. Thanks!This post may include affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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This Thursday, we dive into listener theories and full-series foreshadowing for Heir of Fire Ch. 21–25, where Aelin's wildfire erupts, Manon chooses Abraxos in the pit, and Dorian overhears the secret that shatters everything. Jac and Amy read through your thoughts on Aelin's near-death escape from the skinwalkers, Rowan's “you'd be more useful dead” comment, and the messy emotional undercurrent of their first real moment of trust. We dig into theories about what wildfire actually signals in SJM's magic system, the deeper significance of Rowan calling her Aelin, and whether the skinwalkers connect to later Wyrd-soldier lore. We also unpack your takes on Manon and Abraxos, their instant, furious, reluctant bond, and how this moment rewrites Manon's understanding of power, ownership, and partnership. And of course, we get into the catacombs scene: Chaol's confession, Aedion's hunger for the blood oath, and Dorian's icy heartbreak when he realizes everyone has been keeping Aelin's identity from him. Full spoilers through the end of Heir of Fire and light references to later Throne of Glass books. Send your theories for next week's chapters at booktalkforbooktok.com, and you may be featured in the next 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. Sponsor: Olive & June Visit Olive and June.com/BOOKTALK for 20% off your first GEL System! 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

Charli XCX is on Substack, Lady Gaga is on stage, and the rest of us are in a pit streaming slop after slop! This week we explore the romantasy boom (tw), what streaming means for the creation of art, and will anyone ever go to the movies again?  16 min: Charli XCX on Substack 24 min: Romantasy  38 min: Streaming These Days 57 min: Who Goes to Movies 1 hour 5 min: Lady Gaga 1 hour 15 min: Caps Off Good Noticings Book Club is in New York City on November 21! Get your tickets! ___________________________________ Keep up with all the latest: https://www.goodnoticings.com/ Read our many musings on Substack: https://cmbc.substack.com/?utm_source=global-search Join the Patreon for new, exclusive episodes every Friday! https://www.patreon.com/c/goodnoticings Follow us on: TikTok- @goodnoticingspod Instagram- @goodnoticingspod Theme song by: Bri Connelly  ___________________________________ Charli XCX Substack:  https://itscharlibb.substack.com/ N+1 The Same Stream Twice:  https://www.nplusonemag.com/online-only/online-only/the-same-stream-twice/ Romantasy at the End of the World:  https://www.thedriftmag.com/escape-artists/ The State of Movies: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/14/business/media/box-office-collapse-hollywood.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare Lady Gaga Profile:  https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/lady-gaga-mayhem-tour-grammys-cover-story-interview-1235460150/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bridget, Caitlin, and Hilda discuss "Mate," by Ali Hazelwood, the follow-up to her hit novel "Bride." If you didn't know, they all love Ali's witty and humorous style of writing ... but was it enough to make them love this book? You'll have to listen to find out.  Join our Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content and let's be friends!Instagram > @Booktokmademe_podTikTok > @BooktokMadeMe

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. Two episodes weekly: Tuesday = Analysis • Thursday = Listener Thoughts on Breadcrumbs & Broomsticks. Spoilers: Today covers Heir of Fire Ch. 21–25 with context from earlier Throne of Glass books. Anything beyond these chapters (or other SJM works) is saved for Thursday. Chapters covered: 21–25 Episode summary Celaena finally shifts into her fae form, but Rowan's dominance doesn't sit well with her, and she leaves Mistward when he pushes her too far. Though she initially is grateful to have left, she finds herself hunted by skinwalkers and without proper weapons. Rowan swoops in to save her, but it's when Celaena unleashes her wildfire that they finally gain the upper hand.  It's the day Manon has been waiting for, but before she can claim Titus as her mount, she must face off with him in the pit. When she realizes that Titus only sees her as prey and realizes the bait beast wants to take Titus out with her, Manon joins forces with the bait beast to kill Titus, and she claims Abraxos as her own.  Chaol brings Aedion up to speed about the source of the King of Adarlan's dark power, unaware that Dorian overhears – and feels the sting of betrayal. Meanwhile, Rowan takes Celaena on a field trip to investigate murders in nearby villages, and they burn the body of the latest victim before returning home. This week's question Why are none of the characters honest with themselves or with each other—and what does that selective honesty reveal about power, ownership, and survival in Heir of Fire? 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. Sponsor: Olive & June Visit Olive and June.com/BOOKTALK for 20% off your first GEL System! 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

For the plot. Time to cozy up for the season. Emily takes us on the journey of modern dating. In a time when we have more access to one another dating seems to be at its worst. Book boyfriends are needed now more than ever. We ask the question, what do they have that the 'Gym-Kens' don't have? Turns out, a lot. Gets your cuffs and enjoy this episode.Send us a textSupport the showConnect with usInstagram: https://bit.ly/ourIGpageTikTok: https://bit.ly/ourTiktokpageIntro and Outro music, Sexy Fashion Beat from Coma-Media

Our Thursday episode is where analysis turns to speculation. In this week's Breadcrumbs & Broomsticks, Jac and Amy read listener thoughts and spiral (responsibly) through Heir of Fire theories, foreshadowing, and SJM's long-game craft. We unpack the moment Rowan's bite forces Aelin's shift, asking what it reveals about mating bonds, fae dominance, and the anatomy of power. We track how SJM mirrors predator imagery between Rowan, Aedion, and Manon, and how that mirroring hints at future alliances. Listener theories dive into: Whether the barrows creature connects to Erawan's shadow army The bite as a precursor to the blood oath Aedion's loyalty vs Chaol's betrayal, and what each says about class and honor How Manon's first flight parallels Aelin's awakening Why the Sword of Orynth might carry more than ancestral weight Full spoilers through the end of Heir of Fire, and light talk of later Throne of Glass books. Send us your next-week theories at booktalkforbooktok.com or DM us on Instagram to be featured in future Breadcrumbs & Broomsticks episodes. 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: Factor Eat smart at FactorMeals.com SLASH BOOKTALK50OFF and use code BOOKTALK50OFF to get 50% off your first box, plus Free Breakfast for 1 Year. Sponsor: Olive & June Visit Olive and June.com/BOOKTALK for 20% off your first GEL System! 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 SEO Keywords Heir of Fire theories • Aelin Rowan bite • Aelin first shift • Sarah J. Maas spoilers • Throne of Glass podcast • Rowan Whitethorn bond • Aedion Ashryver rebel theory • Manon Blackbeak wyvern • Heir of Fire foreshadowing • romantasy podcast • Book Talk for BookTok analysis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bridget, Caitlin, and Hilda continue their spooky season coverage and discuss "Bride" by Ali Hazelwood. Okay, so it's not really scary, but it has vampyres, werewolves, and the forced marriage trope will get your pulse racing. Plus, did someone say knotting?  Join our Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content and let's be friends!Instagram > @Booktokmademe_podTikTok > @BooktokMadeMe

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. Season format & spoiler policy: Two episodes weekly: Tuesday = Analysis • Thursday = Listener Thoughts on Breadcrumbs & Broomsticks. Spoilers: Today covers Heir of Fire Ch. 14–20 with context from earlier books. Anything beyond these chapters (or other SJM works) is saved for Thursday. Chapters covered: 14–20 Episode summary: Celaena walks into the barrows thinking she can muscle through Rowan's latest torment—but the darkness waiting inside rips her open and drags her back into her most catastrophic memories. Rowan pushes, taunts, pins…and she finally breaks toward the thing she's fought hardest against: revelation. The bite → the roar → the shift. Aelin Galathynius finally emerges. In Rifthold, Chaol bargains, barters, and falls into rebel jaws, revealing Aelin's truth to survive his father's power and Aedion's blade. Dorian's magic ruptures in front of Sorscha, binding them together in a dangerous secret neither of them can afford. And in the mountains, Manon and the Thirteen take flight on wyverns for the first time, finding the piece of themselves that has been missing since the slaughter ten years ago. This week's guiding question: Have we already crossed the inciting incident line in HOF, or is the inciting incident the moment Aelin stops choosing death and finally chooses power? 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. Sponsor: Factor Eat smart at FactorMeals.com SLASH BOOKTALK50OFF and use code BOOKTALK50OFF to get 50% off your first box, plus Free Breakfast for 1 Year. Sponsor: Olive & June Visit Olive and June.com/BOOKTALK for 20% off your first GEL System! 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

If you hear it will you come? This week we are diving into the psychological question of becoming more. We look at books with characters that answer a call to action, thus becoming more and often something new. As always our conversation goes down many a rabbit hole and leads to places meant to be explored.Send us a textSupport the showConnect with usInstagram: https://bit.ly/ourIGpageTikTok: https://bit.ly/ourTiktokpageIntro and Outro music, Sexy Fashion Beat from Coma-Media

Send us a textOur spoiler-free Throne of Glass deep dive continues with Kingdom of Ash chapters 86-93.Summon us @DTFaePodcast We like our coffee icy and our books spicy! Oh, and we're totally Down To Fae. A podcast for fantasy romance readers and fans of authors like Sarah J. Maas, Jennifer L. Armentrout, Rebecca Yarros and Carissa Broadbent. Follow along as your delulu hosts discuss your favorite romantasy books in a chapter-by-chapter read, re-read or refresher.

Welcome back to Breadcrumbs & Broomsticks, the Thursday companion to our Heir of Fire season. This is where we step out of the strict chapter-bound analysis, and step into the theory pit. In this spoiler-friendly episode, Jac and Amy read listener submissions and talk through the biggest discourse moment of these chapters: Rowan punching Aelin. We expand on reader reactions, unpack whether this moment earns its place in the arc, and dig into the foreshadowing this scene plants for their future dynamic, trust, and eventual reversal of power. We also chase down theories tied to: Maeve's manipulation & long game (who benefits from restraint?) the symbolism of mist / cold / the moon-white imagery Manon's wyvern introduction + what that unlocks later Dorian, Sorscha, Chaol, and the political fuse that's already quietly smoldering This is where your thoughts get center stage — from “Rowan was unforgivable here” to “this is deliberate low point arc engineering,” to “SJM is mirroring Aelin/Rowan with Manon/wyverns on purpose.” Full spoilers are allowed for all future Heir of Fire chapters and the rest of the Throne of Glass series. If Tuesday is about what the text is doing, Thursday is where we ask what it's setting up. Send us your theories for next week's chapters at booktalkforbooktok.com we'll be reading them here every Thursday. 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 Send theories and chapter-bound observations for Thursday's Breadcrumbs & Broomsticks—spoilers welcome there. Use our site form or DM us on Instagram. Content guidance (SPILT): Spoilers: Ch. 8–13 only today (+ prior books). Later-book spoilers saved for Thursday. Perspective & Interpretation: Our readings, not the author's intent—bring yours. Language: Explicit. Headphones recommended. Themes: May include sex, violence, abuse, depression, self-harm, death. 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

Today we're joined by romantasy author Cait Jacobs to talk all things Princess Knight — a “princess goes to war school” fantasy that blends military academy training, slow-burn stakes, political power, systemic misogyny, disability representation, and a heroine who refuses to stay in the role she was assigned. We dig into Clía's journey from chasing a prince to redefining her self-worth on her own terms, how Cait balanced chronic pain, trauma, and internalized ableism inside a fun, adventurous fantasy narrative, and what it means to intentionally subvert the “perfect princess,” especially inside a male-dominated institution like Caisleán Cósta. We also get into worldbuilding the war college itself, what makes an academy “feel” real and lived-in, why diverse representation isn't optional in modern fantasy worlds, and how romantasy can interrogate real-world hierarchies without losing the magic, romance, or momentum of the genre. If you love militarized fantasy, broken systems, sharp heroines, and romance that grows out of character consequence — this interview is for you. 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

Bridget, Caitlin, and Hilda wrap up "Anathema," book 1 in Keri Lake's Eating Woods duology. Listen now for all their thoughts and feelings and whether or not they think you should read this even though Spooky Season has come to an end.  Join our Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content and let's be friends!Instagram > @Booktokmademe_podTikTok > @BooktokMadeMe

Simon and Matt welcome international bestselling author Callie Hart to the pod, to learn more about the genre of Romantasy. Never ones to stay in their lane - Simon and Matt have taken themselves out of their reading comfort zone, and explored this very popular genre! They chat to Callie about her craft, worldbuilding, the Netflix adaptation which she can't talk about - and why this genre is having such a big moment! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices