Podcasts about romantasy

Brooke and Tyler stand shield to shield with Hayden Gray from the Fantasy Fan Fellas podcast to defend fantasy, romantasy, and Wind and Truth. We know the criticisms lobbed against the fantastical works we love and do our best to defend their honor. #NotAllSpoilers There are no major spoilers for Cosmere works until we begin discussing Wind and Truth at 50m15s. Follow Hayden and the Fantasy Fan Fellas Fantasy Fan Fellas Instagram Support this podcast by becoming a Patron on Patreon Original music by David Gruwier. "Radiant" by David Gruwier.

In this Thursday episode of Book Talk for BookTok, we bring an academic lens to bookish culture, genre fiction, and the conversations shaping romance and romantasy today. Our podcast blends literary analysis, cultural criticism, and emotional honesty. We treat romance, romantasy, and fanfiction as genres worthy of serious discussion, not just quick takes. This episode is part of our Subtext Society series, inspired by The Subtext Society Journal. The Subtext Society Journal is a collaborative publication dedicated to thoughtful essays on romance, romantasy, fan culture, and publishing ethics. We explore moral questions, genre evolution, power dynamics, and the real-world impact of stories, guided by values of literary rigor without gatekeeping, community over hierarchy, and ethics-first analysis. Today's discussion focuses on the article: “The Reader's Space" The article examines the evolving idea of the “reader's space,” tracing how traditionally reader-centered environments like review platforms have become more complicated with the rise of social media and BookTok, where authors are expected to market themselves and engage publicly. It explores the tension between readers wanting spaces for honest discussion free from author influence and authors navigating visibility, marketing pressure, and emotional vulnerability in a highly competitive publishing landscape. The piece argues that while authors should avoid inserting themselves into reader reviews, readers also play a role in blurring boundaries by tagging authors or drawing them into discourse. Ultimately, it calls for nuance, empathy, and shared responsibility, suggesting that online book communities function as hybrid spaces where both readers and authors must learn evolving norms and practice mutual respect. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Liquid IV Tear. Pour. Live More. Go to ⁠LiquidIV.com⁠ and get 20% off your first order with code BOOKTALK at checkout. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at ⁠⁠www.vionicshoes.com⁠⁠ when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Emily & Rachel talk about romantasy!What you'll learn from this episode:expectations of the genrenavigating the vibesdiscussing the genre's critiquereading within the genreReady to make readers so in love with your characters they can't stop biting their nails in anticipation?  Grab The Magic of Character Arcs free email course: https://www.goldenmayediting.com/arcsmagicJoin Tenacious Writing! With the perfect combo of craft, mindset, and community resources, you will build a writing life that feels sustainable, fulfilling, and fun—without any prescriptions or rules. Learn more: https://www.tenaciouswriting.com/If you enjoyed Story Magic, please rate, review and follow on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to this podcast!Follow us on social media!Rachel: https://www.instagram.com/bookcoachrachel/Emily: https://www.instagram.com/ebgoldenbooks/

In this second Authors' Alcove Book Club and first Meet the Author session, host Agnes Wolfe welcomes Chelle Cypress for an in-depth discussion of her romantasy novel Unmasking the Curse. Joined by panelists Rebecca Maeve Hartwell, Dawn Marie Manning, and Amber Letters, the group explores the story's emotional depth, character relationships, and the layered tension that drew readers in. The conversation highlights what made this book a standout read, from its reflective elements and immersive atmosphere to the compelling connections between characters that drive the narrative forward.Chelle Cypress shares the inspiration behind the novel, including the research that shaped its historical elements and the personal themes that informed the story's central curse. The panel also examines the complex family dynamics within the book, particularly how Ariana's experiences with an absent father and narcissistic mother influence her choices and growth. Cypress discusses her commitment to crafting characters who feel authentic through flawed decisions, emotional realism, and meaningful consequences.This session contains spoilers and offers readers the opportunity to go beyond the page, hearing directly from the author about the creative process, character motivations, and thematic foundations of Unmasking the Curse. If you enjoy thoughtful book discussions, author insights, and romantasy storytelling conversations, this episode provides a rich and engaging exploration of a memorable novel.To explore more author conversations, book club discussions, and storytelling reflections, visit my Substack at @authorsalcove. Get full access to Agnes Wolfe at dragonheartchronicles.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to Season of Aquarius, our book club season on Book Talk for BookTok, a fantasy and romantasy podcast centered on thoughtful discussion and literary analysis. This season is created for readers who want more than quick takes and star ratings, offering space to explore how and why stories work on the page. This is not a traditional book review podcast; it's an analysis and conversation. Each week, we share flash literary analysis that examines themes, authorial intent, character arcs, symbolism, world-building, and key plot devices. Our discussions move beyond initial impressions to unpack narrative choices, emotional resonance, and the craft behind fantasy and romantasy storytelling. We aim to bridge academic literary insight with the modern reading experience shaped by BookTok and online reading communities. This week, we discuss As Many Souls as Stars by Natasha Siegel. Season of Aquarius Book Club Reading List: Alchemized by SenLinYu Phantasma by Kaylie Smith Silver Elite by Dani Francis An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir Blood & Brujas by Mikayla Hornedo Belladonna by Adalyn Grace As Many Souls as Stars by Natasha Siegel Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli New episodes release twice weekly. Every Tuesday, we publish a book club episode focused on that week's featured novel. Every Thursday, we zoom out for deeper conversations about bookish culture, reading communities, genre trends, and the larger ideas shaping fantasy, romantasy, and BookTok today. If you're searching for a fantasy book podcast, romantasy podcast, or book club podcast that blends thoughtful literary analysis with a genuine love of reading, Season of Aquarius invites you to read, reflect, and discuss alongside us. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Liquid IV Tear. Pour. Live More. Go to LiquidIV.com and get 20% off your first order with code BOOKTALK at checkout. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at ⁠www.vionicshoes.com⁠ when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friend-of-the-Pod Claire is back in the stacks to discuss the grandmommy of the Romantasy genre: "A Court of Thorns and Roses" by Sarah J. Maas.Topics of discussion include the genealogy of Romantasy as a genre, the politics of when and where sex appears on the page, and how many male writers can't write about women.As always, we hope you enjoy the conversation!

Send a textToday we're diving right into book three in The Plated Prisoner Series by Raven Kennedy: Gleam. This book has one of the most satisfying character arcs we've ever read, culminating in an ending we never saw coming. If you enjoy a good feminine rage story, prepare yourself to experience one of the most impactful instances of that trope in any Romantasy we've read to date! We give you our spoiler free star and spice ratings and faves and fails, then dive into the five sentence summary, the tea on the audiobook and all our unfiltered thoughts, and then discuss why and how fantasy books can help us process hard things and inspire us to believe in our inner strength and ability to grow into the powerful beings we're meant to be. Did we find Easter eggs? Do we have unanswered questions? What about plot holes? Are we excited to read the next one? We dive into all this and more, plus a fave and fail about Wuthering Heights, Lord of the Rings, and Molly Moonplume.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 narrator interviews? ⬇️Anthony Palmini gives us the lowdown on what it's like to voice act Rhysand, Kingfisher, AND Slade Ravinger! https://youtu.be/zcCyrlZ5Jcc?si=2k7ULbRPgZl_5pUJCheck out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn 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: The Last Bookstore sweater from @TheLastBookstore in LALiz is wearing :  A Feminine Rage Crewneck by @darkanddisturbedshop | Code: VEGAN10 | https://darkanddisturbedshop.com/products/rage-crewneck?_pos=2&_sid=221487d37&_ss=rAny link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commission to us with no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping support our podcast!Support 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

For the episode this month, an interview with Cayley Wreggit, Director of Full Circle Theatre's 'The Taming Of The Shrew'. Known for their interest in Shakespeare adaptations, Cayley takes us through what went into this Romantasy re-telling of the bards' tale.. https://www.fullcircletheatre.ca/the-taming-of-the-shrew Please check out the Black Film Archive: blackfilmarchive.com

Long time, so see ~ In case you missed it, I was in San Diego for LoveLitCon and moderated a Romantasy panel while I was there. I also discovered the view under the bridge is sometimes the more interesting story. I also drive uHauls now. Pussy Sparkle Ribbon Inquiries can be made through the websiteShare your thoughts on the episode The Morning Refill is open to all listeners and I look forward to hearing from you lovelies!Support the showLove, Lies, and Ley Lines Among 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 Tuscon Festival of Books is March 14th-15th this year! See you there *Wink* https://tucsonfestivalofbooks.org Books ...

Discussion Opening February 26th at the Vertigo Studio Theatre in Calgary, and closing March 5th, Full Circle Theatre presents a gender-flipped Romantasy version of Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew. Kyle sits down with director Cayley Wreggitt and costumer Tawni Marie Evans to discuss how this vision of the production came to be and what they hope audiences take away from the opportunity to bear witness to it. Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/the-taming-of-the-shrew-hazndhyk About the Show: First produced by Full Circle Theatre in 2011, The Taming of the Shrew marked the beginning of our journey with Shakespeare. Fifteen years later, we return to Padua in a whole new way, reimagining Shakespeare's most provocative comedy through a bold, romantasy-inspired lens. This production keeps the original text intact while flipping the genders and placing the story in a lush High Fae Court. It is a world of magic, hierarchy, and unspoken rules where power is always up for negotiation. Here, a brooding fae prince meets their match in a fearless human knight, sparking a battle of wills that blurs the line between performance and desire. Often dismissed as one of Shakespeare's problematic plays, The Taming of the Shrew becomes, in this telling, a story about control, consent, and transformation. Witty, sharp, and charged with tension, this production asks what love looks like when two people refuse to yield - unless it's for each other. Expect Shakespeare's language layered with fae glamour, enemies-to-lovers tension, and a court where every glance, gesture, and word carries consequence. This is a Shrew that leans into spectacle and storytelling while wrestling honestly with the questions at its core.

In this Thursday episode of Book Talk for BookTok, we bring an academic lens to bookish culture, genre fiction, and the conversations shaping romance and romantasy today. Our podcast blends literary analysis, cultural criticism, and emotional honesty. We treat romance, romantasy, and fanfiction as genres worthy of serious discussion, not just quick takes. This episode is part of our Subtext Society series, inspired by The Subtext Society Journal. The Subtext Society Journal is a collaborative publication dedicated to thoughtful essays on romance, romantasy, fan culture, and publishing ethics. We explore moral questions, genre evolution, power dynamics, and the real-world impact of stories, guided by values of literary rigor without gatekeeping, community over hierarchy, and ethics-first analysis. Today's discussion focuses on the article: “Revision: Hell or Hell" Finishing a book is a major accomplishment, but the real work begins with revision, which often makes up the majority of the writing process and continues through agents, editors, and multiple drafts. There is no single “correct” way to revise; instead, writers must develop systems that help them assess the full manuscript, identify structural issues like plot holes and character arcs before focusing on prose, and organize feedback in ways that prevent overwhelm. The process can be emotionally challenging, requiring humility, patience, and openness to collaboration, especially when incorporating beta reader feedback and professional edits. Ultimately, revision is about making the story coherent and meaningful first, refining craft and style later, and recognizing that writing is not a solitary pursuit but a collaborative journey shaped by continuous refinement. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Sponsor: Monarch Set yourself up for financial success in 2026 with Monarch. Use code BOOKTALK at ⁠monarch.com⁠ for half off your first year. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bridget, Caitlin, and Hilda wrap up their coverage of "Between Two Kings," book 2 in Lindsay Straube's Split or Swallow series. Now, they've always said this story was outrageous and unexpected -- and nothing is more unexpected than that ending. And apparently, the third book is a prequel and NOT a follow up to book 2! So ... how did you all feel about that ending, because you know our fave book besties are going to give you their thoughts.  Join our Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content and let's be friends!Instagram > @Booktokmademe_podTikTok > @BooktokMadeMe

Welcome to Season of Aquarius, our book club season on Book Talk for BookTok, a fantasy and romantasy podcast centered on thoughtful discussion and literary analysis. This season is created for readers who want more than quick takes and star ratings, offering space to explore how and why stories work on the page. This is not a traditional book review podcast; it's an analysis and conversation. Each week, we share flash literary analysis that examines themes, authorial intent, character arcs, symbolism, world-building, and key plot devices. Our discussions move beyond initial impressions to unpack narrative choices, emotional resonance, and the craft behind fantasy and romantasy storytelling. We aim to bridge academic literary insight with the modern reading experience shaped by BookTok and online reading communities. This week, we discuss Belladonna by Adalyn Grace. Season of Aquarius Book Club Reading List: Alchemized by SenLinYu Phantasma by Kaylie Smith Silver Elite by Dani Francis An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir Blood & Brujas by Mikayla Hornedo Belladonna by Adalyn Grace As Many Souls as Stars by Natasha Siegel Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli New episodes release twice weekly. Every Tuesday, we publish a book club episode focused on that week's featured novel. Every Thursday, we zoom out for deeper conversations about bookish culture, reading communities, genre trends, and the larger ideas shaping fantasy, romantasy, and BookTok today. If you're searching for a fantasy book podcast, romantasy podcast, or book club podcast that blends thoughtful literary analysis with a genuine love of reading, Season of Aquarius invites you to read, reflect, and discuss alongside us. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Set yourself up for financial success in 2026 with Monarch. Use code BOOKTALK at monarch.com for half off your first year. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Be glad of your human heart....Pity those who don't feel anything at all.” What if the meteoric rise of the romantasy genre isn't about fae courts and dragon riders—but about our deepest and most human longings? Romantasy has taken the publishing world by storm. While some dismiss these stories as escapist fantasy, we believe their deeper power lies in how they illuminate the human heart. In this series on the alchemy of romantasy, we explore the mythic and psychological currents running through books like A Court of Thorns and Roses and Fourth Wing. Through the lenses of Jung and the Hero's (and Heroine's) Journey, we examine the desire to individuate, to be truly seen, to claim inner sovereignty, to find belonging, security, and freedom—and to join with a soulmate who honors the self we are becoming. Join us as we ask why these stories resonate so profoundly right now, and what they reveal about who we are. References: Books & Series A Court of Thorns and Roses and A Court of Mist and Fury – Sarah J. Maas Fourth Wing – Rebecca Yarros Psychology & Myth Enneagram 4 type Jung & the collective unconscious The Hero's Journey – Joseph Campbell Pop Culture Moana Frozen Monica Lewinsky's podcast  Related Gathering Gold Episodes Escape Hatch Fantasies What Could Have Been You Do Not Have to Be Good Bonus: Books that Changed Us Join us on Patreon for bonus content and virtual gatherings: patreon.com/gatheringgold Some of our recent bonus episodes include: What Sheryl Forgot and Victoria's Experiment | The Slipstream of Time | Give and Receiving - Shudder - Feedback | The Problem with Pedestals | Are Intrusive Thoughts like Stray Cats?

This week Shannon, Brooke, and Stacy are discussing romantasy novels. Titles mentioned include:Kristen Ciccarelli, Heartless Hunter (The Crimson Moth #1)E.M. Riedl, A Weave Of LiesSable Sorensen, Dire Bound (The Wolves Of Ruin #1)Shannon Mayer, Taken By Fate (The Alpha Territories #1)Annabelle McCormack, Carved In Crimson (Heirs Of Lirien #1)Clare Sager, A Kiss Of Iron (Shadows Of The Tenebris Court #1)Tigest Girma, Immortal Dark (Immortal Dark #1)Sheila Masterson, The Poison DaughterEmily Thiede, This Vicious Grace (The Last Finestra #1)Freya Marske, A Marvellous Light (The Last Binding #1)Amy Yorke, Alchemy & Ashes (The Shadowbound Duet #1)Brittney Arena, A Dance Of Lies (A Dance Of Lies #1)You can always contact the Book Bistro team by searching @BookBistroPodcast on facebook, or visiting:https://www.facebook.com/BookBistroPodcast/You can also send an email to:TheBookBistroPodcast@gmail.comFor more information on the podcast and the team behind it, please visit:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/book-bistro

Boy meets boy, boy loses boy, boy wins boy back - and everyone’s incredibly ripped. This is the new formula for female-friendly entertainment, from Canadian ice hockey TV phenomenon Heated Rivalry to new leather-and-motorbikes movie Pillion, starring Alexander Skarsgard. Today, Bianca Farmakis joins us to explore how far we’ve come since Philadelphia. Find out more about The Front podcast here. You can read about this story and more on The Australian's website or on The Australian’s app. The weekend edition of The Front is co-produced by Claire Harvey and Jasper Leak. The host is Claire Harvey. Audio production and editing by Jasper Leak who also composed our theme.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our live show is still available to watch on VOD through Dynasty Typewriter, get it now while you still can! Tickets available here: https://www.dynastytypewriter.com/calendar-squad-up?event-id=128389Fairies with giant wings and even larger shlongs meet feisty female assassins who are also princesses. Vampires and witches fall in love when the world forbids it. These are just some of the plots you can find within the pages of romantasies, the hot and steamy genre of literature that has taken the world and TikTok by storm. Today on the podcast, we sit down with 5 of the world's foremost romantasy writers as we learn the books that inspired them, the books they're most proud of, and maybe even get a peek into their favorite steamy scenes. So pause that audio book, settle in with your glass of wine and book club, and listen in!Our incredible guest who had us breaking from minute 1 is D.J. Mausner! Watch the movie they wrote, Prom Dates, on Hulu and find them @djmausner on socials!This episode was filmed in the beautiful Dynasty Typewriter Theater, and tech-produced by Samuel Curtis. For live shows and events you can find more about them at dynastytypewriter.com.To learn more about the BTS of this episode and to find a world of challenges, games, inside scoop, and the Artists being themselves, subscribe to our Patreon! You won't be disappointed with what you find. Check out patreon.com/aoaoaoapod Artists on Artists on Artists on Artists is an improvised Hollywood roundtable podcast by Kylie Brakeman, Jeremy Culhane, Angela Giarratana, and Patrick McDonald. Produced by Laservision Productions. Music by Gabriel Ponton. Edited by Conner McCabe. Thumbnail art by Josh Fleury. Hollywood's talking. Make sure you're listening. Subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Youtube! Please rate us five stars!

In this Thursday episode of Book Talk for BookTok, we bring an academic lens to bookish culture, genre fiction, and the conversations shaping romance and romantasy today. Our podcast blends literary analysis, cultural criticism, and emotional honesty. We treat romance, romantasy, and fanfiction as genres worthy of serious discussion, not just quick takes. This episode is part of our Subtext Society series, inspired by The Subtext Society Journal. The Subtext Society Journal is a collaborative publication dedicated to thoughtful essays on romance, romantasy, fan culture, and publishing ethics. We explore moral questions, genre evolution, power dynamics, and the real-world impact of stories, guided by values of literary rigor without gatekeeping, community over hierarchy, and ethics-first analysis. Today's discussion focuses on the article: “The Mother Curse in Fantasy and Romantasy." This episode explores a thought-provoking essay examining the “mother curse” in fantasy and romantasy — the recurring pattern in which maternal figures are absent, idealized, villainized, or narratively sidelined. Drawing on examples across popular genre fiction, the article argues that mothers are frequently reduced to plot devices: either saintly protectors who lack depth, antagonistic figures who embody trauma, or background characters removed from the story through death, illness, or distance. Rather than treating this as a simple trope critique, the piece considers why authors may struggle to portray complex motherhood and asks whether the genre itself avoids fully realized maternal perspectives. Ultimately, it proposes a shift toward richer, more nuanced portrayals (including stories that center mothers as protagonists) and invites readers to reconsider how fantasy narratives shape our understanding of gender, agency, and family dynamics. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on Mythmakers, you’re invited to join us on a short visit to the world of fantasy romance. What's all the fuss about romantasy and where did it come from? What's the secret sauce (pun intended) of Fourth Wing? And why was the world so transfixed by Twilight back early 2000s?Be sure to stay to the end to hear Julia’s recommendations of what you might like to read this Valentine's Day from the fantasy genre.(01:00) The Rise of Romantasy and Fourth Wing(02:00) Market Forces and Female Readership(04:40) Twilight and the Power of Restrained Desire(06:50) What Makes a True Fantasy Romance(09:20) Recommended Romantic Fantasy Reads(14:00) Writing Romance in the Finding Sky Series(15:10) Why We Read Romance and the Hope of Finding the Right PersonFor more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Wuthering Heights is out this weekend so we're diving into some of the press tour's juiciest moments, from Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie's ‘affair baiting' to Elordi's Esquire interview with Emerald Fennell. Also on the show: Bella Hadid's break-up, Charli XCX on her fave red carpet moments, and the powerful rise of motherhood horror, from Rose Byrne's ‘monumental' new film to an addictive, hun-recommended book about a baby shower gone terribly wrong. Plus, the viral Billy Bob Thornton and Demi Moore TV series, an excellent Romantasy rec and Freida McFadden's new revenge novel.Follow us on IG ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@straightuppod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and TikTok @straightuppodFind us on YouTube @straightupmediapodEmail at ⁠⁠hello@straightuppodcast.co.uk⁠Recs/ reviews: Landman, Paramount+Yellowstone, Netflix What ‘Landman' Understands About Oil, New York Times Charli xcx is the Moment, Gloves Off with Nicky Campbell on YouTube Jacob Elordi Opens up on the Magnetic Power of Margot Robbie and the Yorkshire Moors in Wuthering Heights, EsquireRose Byrne: ‘You lose part of yourself when you become a mother', The Times If I Had Legs I'd Kick You, in cinemas from 20 FebExpectation, Anna HopeSo Thrilled for You, Holly BourneDire Bound, Sable SorensenDear Debbie, Freida McFadden. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bridget, Caitlin, and Hilda are back with part 1 of "Between Two Kings" book 2 in Lindsay Straube's Split or Swallow series. And if you read book 1 (or listened to the episode) then you know how outrageous this series is, and this book does NOT disappoint. Like we're sure there's a plot we're supposed to care about, but the basilisks have entered mating season which means Tem is indulging her basilisk nature. Anyways, listen now for thoughts on part 1.  Join our Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content and let's be friends!Instagram > @Booktokmademe_podTikTok > @BooktokMadeMe

Welcome to Season of Aquarius, our book club season on Book Talk for BookTok, a fantasy and romantasy podcast centered on thoughtful discussion and literary analysis. This season is created for readers who want more than quick takes and star ratings, offering space to explore how and why stories work on the page. This is not a traditional book review podcast; it's an analysis and conversation. Each week, we share flash literary analysis that examines themes, authorial intent, character arcs, symbolism, world-building, and key plot devices. Our discussions move beyond initial impressions to unpack narrative choices, emotional resonance, and the craft behind fantasy and romantasy storytelling. We aim to bridge academic literary insight with the modern reading experience shaped by BookTok and online reading communities. This week, we discuss Blood & Brujas by Mikayla Hornedo. Season of Aquarius Book Club Reading List: Alchemized by SenLinYu Phantasma by Kaylie Smith Silver Elite by Dani Francis An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir Blood & Brujas by Mikayla Hornedo Belladonna by Adalyn Grace As Many Souls as Stars by Natasha Siegel Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli New episodes release twice weekly. Every Tuesday, we publish a book club episode focused on that week's featured novel. Every Thursday, we zoom out for deeper conversations about bookish culture, reading communities, genre trends, and the larger ideas shaping fantasy, romantasy, and BookTok today. If you're searching for a fantasy book podcast, romantasy podcast, or book club podcast that blends thoughtful literary analysis with a genuine love of reading, Season of Aquarius invites you to read, reflect, and discuss alongside us. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send a textToday we're diving right into book two in The Plated Prisoner Series by Raven Kennedy: Glint. This book is the perfect journey story (both literal and figurative), and follow up to the polarizing book one. If you weren't hooked by the end of Gild, we hope you're hooked now, because these books have A LOT of important things to say. We give you our spoiler free star and spice ratings and faves and fails, then dive into the five sentence summary, the tea on the audiobook and all our unfiltered thoughts, and then discuss why and how fantasy books can help us process hard things like abuse and trauma in a safe, neutral space. And why Romantasy (and in particular Raven Kennedy) does that so well. Did we find Easter eggs? Do we have unanswered questions? What about plot holes? Are we excited to read the next one? We dive into all this and more, plus a smash or pass with our favorite treasure hoarder, and a luchador with a heart of gold. 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 narrator interviews? ⬇️Anthony Palmini gives us the lowdown on what it's like to voice act Rhysand, Kingfisher, AND Slade Ravinger! https://youtu.be/zcCyrlZ5Jcc?si=2k7ULbRPgZl_5pUJCheck out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn 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: Tye Dye Skeleton Hoodie | * https://go.magik.ly/ml/3hgv9/Liz is wearing :  Our Crop Besties & the Books Anti Social Book Club Hoodie | * https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.com/en-usd/products/cropped-hoodie-besties-anti-social-crowAny link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commission to us with no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping support our podcast!Support 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

In this Thursday episode of Book Talk for BookTok, we bring an academic lens to bookish culture, genre fiction, and the conversations shaping romance and romantasy today. Our podcast blends literary analysis, cultural criticism, and emotional honesty. We treat romance, romantasy, and fanfiction as genres worthy of serious discussion, not just quick takes. This episode is part of our Subtext Society series, inspired by The Subtext Society Journal. The Subtext Society Journal is a collaborative publication dedicated to thoughtful essays on romance, romantasy, fan culture, and publishing ethics. We explore moral questions, genre evolution, power dynamics, and the real-world impact of stories, guided by values of literary rigor without gatekeeping, community over hierarchy, and ethics-first analysis. Today's discussion focuses on the article: “The Impact of Romance Novels on Real-Life Expectations." This article interrogates the long-standing claim that romance novels give women “unrealistic expectations” about men, arguing instead that the genre often clarifies (not distorts) what readers actually want. By unpacking the appeal of romance novel MMCs, she reframes the conversation away from abs, wealth, and fantasy physiques, and toward emotional availability, respect, loyalty, and genuine desire. Drawing on pop-culture examples, therapy insights, and personal reflection, the article positions romance novels as a form of emotional exposure therapy: a safe space where readers can examine what triggers them, what heals them, and what healthy connection can look like. Rather than setting women up for disappointment, Sahlin suggests romance fiction can help readers recognize that asking to be cherished, listened to, and liked is not unrealistic at all—it's foundational. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we sit down with Liz Shipton, author of Dot Slash Magic, to talk about one of the most emotionally nuanced and quietly subversive fantasy novels we've read. We dive deep into the evolution of Seven as a female main character and how reader perception shifts over the course of the novel, and what it was like for Liz to write a protagonist who masks loneliness with humor, bravado, and sharp edges. A major focus of our conversation is Dot Slash Magic's bold engagement with AI, technology, and creativity. Liz unpacks how the story interrogates the idea that art must look a certain way to be considered “real,” and why the novel deliberately blurs the line between magic, tech, art, and athletic flow states. We also talk about mental health as something hidden in plain sight: how loneliness, addiction, and internal struggle are embedded into each character rather than treated as a single narrative device. This conversation is for readers who love character-driven fantasy, are curious about AI and art in fiction, and want stories that trust the audience to read between the lines. The Subtext Society Journal: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hello, Friends! Before we dive into "Between Two Kings," the second novel in Lindsay Straube's Split or Swallow series, we thought we'd rerelease our episode on Split or Swallow so you know what's going on. Enjoy! Join our Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content and let's be friends!Instagram > @Booktokmademe_podTikTok > @BooktokMadeMe

Welcome to Season of Aquarius, our book club season on Book Talk for BookTok, a fantasy and romantasy podcast centered on thoughtful discussion and literary analysis. This season is created for readers who want more than quick takes and star ratings, offering space to explore how and why stories work on the page. This is not a traditional book review podcast; it's an analysis and conversation. Each week, we share flash literary analysis that examines themes, authorial intent, character arcs, symbolism, world-building, and key plot devices. Our discussions move beyond initial impressions to unpack narrative choices, emotional resonance, and the craft behind fantasy and romantasy storytelling. We aim to bridge academic literary insight with the modern reading experience shaped by BookTok and online reading communities. This week, we discuss Silver Elite by Dani Francis. Season of Aquarius Book Club Reading List: Alchemized by SenLinYu Phantasma by Kaylie Smith Silver Elite by Dani Francis An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir Blood & Brujas by Mikayla Hornedo Belladonna by Adalyn Grace As Many Souls as Stars by Natasha Siegel Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli New episodes release twice weekly. Every Tuesday, we publish a book club episode focused on that week's featured novel. Every Thursday, we zoom out for deeper conversations about bookish culture, reading communities, genre trends, and the larger ideas shaping fantasy, romantasy, and BookTok today. If you're searching for a fantasy book podcast, romantasy podcast, or book club podcast that blends thoughtful literary analysis with a genuine love of reading, Season of Aquarius invites you to read, reflect, and discuss alongside us. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Never have we ever...loved a secondary as much as we love Bartholomew the gargoyle. Today we are chatting about the book The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig. This is book 1 in a duology that follows Six, our Diviner and her very blunt and emotional gargoyle on a search for her fellow diviners. She is leaving Aisling for the first time to keep a promise. What she discovers along the way is equal parts endearing and heartbreaking. Our main male character Rory provides us readers with a perfect of example of what it means to show up and be committed.  We have little deaths. Sexy scenes that don't involve sex. And of course, Brienne of Tarth level of charmed.We hope you enjoy.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 textJune LeBlanc walked into the studio like she had a sword in one hand and your orgasm in the other.Her debut romantasy, The Lioness in Winter, is filthy in the way that sneaks up on you, like, “Oh cute, fantasy politics” and then suddenly you're reading a sex scene that makes your soul leave your body and your Kindle file self-destruct. We're talking betrayal, power, pole dancing, and men who choke respectfully.She choreographs her smut with her husband (yes, tested). And her characters? Can't be left alone without someone getting railed against a pillar of ancient stone while the kingdom burns in the background. MM on side quests...we love to see it.This episode is not safe. Not for work. Not for your group chat. Not for the part of your brain that used to care about plot. (It has lots of plot too)Grab your copy of The Lioness in Winter NOW!Follow June! Instagram:@juneleblancauthor, TikTok:@june.leblancauthorAnd when you hit that scene, you'll know the one, leave us a 5-star review and hydrate, you nasty little legend.

In this Thursday episode of Book Talk for BookTok, we bring an academic lens to bookish culture, genre fiction, and the conversations shaping romance and romantasy today. Our podcast blends literary analysis, cultural criticism, and emotional honesty. We treat romance, romantasy, and fanfiction as genres worthy of serious discussion, not just quick takes. This episode is part of our Subtext Society series, inspired by The Subtext Society Journal. The Subtext Society Journal is a collaborative publication dedicated to thoughtful essays on romance, romantasy, fan culture, and publishing ethics. We explore moral questions, genre evolution, power dynamics, and the real-world impact of stories, guided by values of literary rigor without gatekeeping, community over hierarchy, and ethics-first analysis. Today's discussion focuses on the article: “Romantasy: The next frontier of feminism, or where feminism goes to die?" This article explores romantasy as both a powerful feminist space and a revealing site of internalized misogyny, examining why female main characters in women-written fantasy are so often criticized as “too much” in every direction. It connects modern fandom discourse to long-standing cultural conditioning that encourages women to compete rather than support one another, and questions whether those critiques reflect genuine narrative flaws or unresolved discomfort with women claiming power, desire, and complexity. Ultimately, the piece argues that romantasy has the potential to become a training ground for a more thoughtful, generous feminism. One that challenges how we read, write, and talk about women. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Liquid IV Liquid I.V. Go to LiquidIV.com and get 20% off your first order with code BOOKTALK at checkout. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do romantic tropes and fantasies impact how you understand politics?You might be a fan of Romantic Fantasy, or as the internet calls it: Romantasy. Even if you're not, you would recognize the tradwives or fascism. Romantasies combine supernatural characters and plotlines with the rush of a whirlwind romance novel, and, in this episode, we're exploring how the politics of some of these books have an effect on politics in the real world.Brittany is joined by Netta Baker,  Advanced Instructor of English at Virginia Tech, and Princess Weekes, video essayist and online pop culture critic. They get into how this genre demolishes misogyny while reinforcing conservative politics.Support Public Media. Join NPR Plus.Follow Brittany Luse on Instagram: @bmluseFor handpicked podcast recommendations every week, subscribe to NPR's Pod Club newsletter at npr.org/podclub.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Abby joins Moira Donegan and Adrian Daub on one of our favorite podcasts, In Bed With the Right! The topic is romantasy - as a genre of fiction, as a publishing phenomenon, and, above all, as a cultural symptom. What do readers - and women specifically - find in romantasy narratives? How does reading relate to play, and fantasy to trauma and healing? The three explore all these questions and more!Texts include:Sarah J. Maas, A Court of Thorns and Roses seriesRebecca Yarros, Empyrean seriesJudith Herman, Trauma and Recovery Andrea Dworkin, Women HatingSigmund Freud, "Creative Writers and Daydreaming" (1907)Have you noticed that Freud is back? Got questions about psychoanalysis? Or maybe you've traversed the fantasy and lived to tell the tale? Leave us a voicemail! (646) 450-0847  A podcast about psychoanalysis, politics, pop culture, and the ways we suffer now. New episodes on Saturdays. Follow us on social media:  Linktree: https://linktr.ee/OrdinaryUnhappiness Twitter: @UnhappinessPod Instagram: @OrdinaryUnhappiness Patreon: patreon.com/OrdinaryUnhappiness Theme song: Formal Chicken - Gnossienne No. 1 https://open.spotify.com/album/2MIIYnbyLqriV3vrpUTxxO Provided by Fruits Music

Two friends unravel a Viking fantasy packed with prophecy, messy power, and a twist that flips hero and traitor. We argue about Freya's flaws, Bjorn's choices, and whether fate is faith or leverage, with plenty of heat, humor, and battle scars.• star ratings and first impressions• marriage politics, god-born privilege, village dynamics• duel reveal, shield maiden prophecy, forced ritual• raid strategy, ship burning, early chemistry cues• training, backstory, and anger versus agency• undead mountain trial and moral cost of winning• sacred summit, masks, storms, and spectacle• siege of Grindel, loss, rage, and restraint• family betrayals, public accusations, and control• the river leap, cave vows, and the allegiance twist• is Bjorn a traitor or a liberator• fate, free will, and who sets the rulesLike, share, subscribe, follow. Comment. Let us know. Come talk to us. We want to get to know you guys.Support the showEditing done by Connor Luther @clfilms.coMusic by @thundercatlouisMerch Here

For this episode, Moira and Adrian are joined by Abby Kluchin from the Ordinary Unhappiness podcast to discuss a recent publishing phenomenon and its implications for gender politics: romantasy, a genre that's been emerging over the last 10 years with renewed force. Series like Sarah J. Maas's A Court of Thorns and Roses and the Empyrian-novels by Rebecca Yarros mix fantasy tropes with costume drama and pretty explicit sex scenes -- and they rely on a very particular kind of trauma heroine, and what seems to be a very particular understanding of gendered trauma.

Welcome to Season of Aquarius, our book club season on Book Talk for BookTok, a fantasy and romantasy podcast centered on thoughtful discussion and literary analysis. This season is created for readers who want more than quick takes and star ratings, offering space to explore how and why stories work on the page. This is not a traditional book review podcast; it's an analysis and conversation. Each week, we share flash literary analysis that examines themes, authorial intent, character arcs, symbolism, world-building, and key plot devices. Our discussions move beyond initial impressions to unpack narrative choices, emotional resonance, and the craft behind fantasy and romantasy storytelling. We aim to bridge academic literary insight with the modern reading experience shaped by BookTok and online reading communities. This week, we discuss An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir. Season of Aquarius Book Club Reading List: Alchemized by SenLinYu Phantasma by Kaylie Smith Silver Elite by Dani Francis An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir Blood & Brujas by Mikayla Hornedo Belladonna by Adalyn Grace As Many Souls as Stars by Natasha Siegel Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli New episodes release twice weekly. Every Tuesday, we publish a book club episode focused on that week's featured novel. Every Thursday, we zoom out for deeper conversations about bookish culture, reading communities, genre trends, and the larger ideas shaping fantasy, romantasy, and BookTok today. If you're searching for a fantasy book podcast, romantasy podcast, or book club podcast that blends thoughtful literary analysis with a genuine love of reading, Season of Aquarius invites you to read, reflect, and discuss alongside us. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Liquid IV Liquid I.V. Go to LiquidIV.com and get 20% off your first order with code BOOKTALK at checkout. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a textDo you love Audiobooks? Well, hold onto your buttz! Today we have a very special completely spoiler free interview episode for you. We're bringing you something (someone?) new and exciting to go along with our deep dive series for the Plated Prisoner books by Raven Kenneny, going on now! We're chatting with none other than the man behind our favorite voices…including THE Slade Ravinger… Anthony Palmini! Yes, you heard that right: he's the voice of some of our most treasured MMC's like Kingfisher from the Fae and Alchemy series by Callie Hart and Rhysand in the dramatized adaptation of A Court of Thorns & Roses by Sarah J Maas… and we want to know… how did he get here? He has a corner on the Romantasy shadow daddy market, and we need to know what that's like? No pressure at all! And maybe if we're extra lucky he might just show off his talents a little and answer some listener submitted questions! Anthony has over 10 years in the professional voice acting field, doing everything from voice overs for commercials, to audiobooks, to composing music for independent films. He does video editing and directing, writing for online production companies, video editing for brand names and television studios, and has even been part of a comedy troupe. We think it's safe to say that he knows his stuff, and that's the reason why he has become such a vital and beloved member of the book community. 

This week we are joined by Ashley Bennett. Ashley is a small-town paranormal and monster romance author from Baltimore, Maryland. She writes stories that are equal parts spice and swoon. When she's not writing, you can find her reading webtoons, playing cozy video games, and taking care of her houseful of rescue animals.In this episode, Ashley shares her journey from being a veterinary technician to a successful author in the monster romance genre. She discusses her experiences with community engagement, marketing strategies, and entering the traditional publishing space. Give this episode a listen!Recommendations From This Episode: TwilightHeated RivalryFollow Ashley: @ashleybennettauthorFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpodPlease 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.

In this Thursday episode of Book Talk for BookTok, we bring an academic lens to bookish culture, genre fiction, and the conversations shaping romance and romantasy today. Our podcast blends literary analysis, cultural criticism, and emotional honesty. We treat romance, romantasy, and fanfiction as genres worthy of serious discussion, not just quick takes. Today's discussion focuses on Heated Rivalry: In this episode, we dive into Heated Rivalry and explore how its recent adaptation from beloved romance novel to television series highlights the growing cultural appetite for queer love stories on screen. We unpack what makes this particular story resonate so deeply, especially with women readers and viewers, from emotionally rich character development to the safe exploration of intimacy, vulnerability, and desire outside of traditional heterosexual power dynamics. By looking at the broader popularity of gay romance among women, we examine how these narratives offer space for emotional authenticity, mutual longing, and romance untethered from the gendered expectations often placed on female characters, ultimately asking what these stories reveal about what audiences are craving from modern love stories. Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of sexual assault, sexual harassment, and non-consensual behavior. Listener discretion is advised. Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of sexual assault, sexual harassment, and non-consensual behavior. Listener discretion is advised. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Monarch Use code BOOKTALK at Monarch.com for 50% your first year. Sponsor: Liquid IV Liquid I.V. Go to LiquidIV.com and get 20% off your first order with code BOOKTALK at checkout. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bridget, Caitlin, and Hilda discuss "Tender Cruelty," book 9 in Katee Robert's Dark Olympus series. Longtime listeners know Hilda's feelings on this series, but what do Bridget and Caitlin think? Did this book live up to what they were hoping for? Well, listen now and find out.  Join our Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content and let's be friends!Instagram > @Booktokmademe_podTikTok > @BooktokMadeMe

In this episode of Book Talk for BookTok, we sit down with T.C. Kraven, author of Of Prophecies and Pomegranates, a dark mythological retelling that grapples honestly with one of the most contested stories in Greek mythology: Hades and Persephone. Together, we explore how Kraven approached retelling a myth that has been romanticized, sanitized, and rewritten countless times. We discuss what it means to engage with the original mythos, including the complicated history behind the so-called “Rape of Persephone,” and how linguistic nuance, power, and consent shaped her interpretation of Persephone's story. This conversation also dives into one of the novel's central thematic threads: self-deception. From Demeter's possessive motherhood, to Helios's obsession, to Hades's self-punishment, we unpack how characters lie to themselves in the name of love, protection, and control. We pay special attention to Kraven's striking portrayal of Demeter as an abusive parent and why that interpretation felt both mythologically grounded and narratively necessary. We also talk about Narcissus, whose arc moves beyond vanity into something far more human and tragic, and why his emotional depth matters to the story as a whole. Finally, for aspiring writers, Kraven shares candid insight into her journey through self-publishing and her transition into traditional publishing, offering thoughtful advice for authors navigating both paths. This episode is a must-listen for readers interested in mythological retellings, feminist reinterpretations of Greek myths, and stories that refuse to look away from uncomfortable truths. Find T.C Kraven Her Website: https://tc-kraven.square.site/ Instagram: t.c.kravenauthor TikTok: oracleoforleans Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of sexual assault, sexual harassment, and non-consensual behavior. Listener discretion is advised. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Monarch Use code BOOKTALK at Monarch.com for 50% your first year. Sponsor: Liquid IV Liquid I.V. Go to LiquidIV.com and get 20% off your first order with code BOOKTALK at checkout. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Alley and Nicole as they cover their top ten reads of 2025. You'll definitely want to read the top 3, because they'll be featured in the coming months on the podcast!

Welcome to Season of Aquarius, our book club season on Book Talk for BookTok, a fantasy and romantasy podcast centered on thoughtful discussion and literary analysis. This season is created for readers who want more than quick takes and star ratings, offering space to explore how and why stories work on the page. This is not a traditional book review podcast; it's an analysis and conversation. Each week, we share flash literary analysis that examines themes, authorial intent, character arcs, symbolism, world-building, and key plot devices. Our discussions move beyond initial impressions to unpack narrative choices, emotional resonance, and the craft behind fantasy and romantasy storytelling. We aim to bridge academic literary insight with the modern reading experience shaped by BookTok and online reading communities. This week, we discuss Phantasma by Kaylie Smith. Season of Aquarius Book Club Reading List: Alchemized by SenLinYu Phantasma by Kaylie Smith Silver Elite by Dani Francis An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir Blood & Brujas by Mikayla Hornedo Belladonna by Adalyn Grace As Many Souls as Stars by Natasha Siegel Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli New episodes release twice weekly. Every Tuesday, we publish a book club episode focused on that week's featured novel. Every Thursday, we zoom out for deeper conversations about bookish culture, reading communities, genre trends, and the larger ideas shaping fantasy, romantasy, and BookTok today. If you're searching for a fantasy book podcast, romantasy podcast, or book club podcast that blends thoughtful literary analysis with a genuine love of reading, Season of Aquarius invites you to read, reflect, and discuss alongside us. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Monarch Use code BOOKTALK at Monarch.com for 50% your first year. Sponsor: Liquid IV Liquid I.V. Go to LiquidIV.com and get 20% off your first order with code BOOKTALK at checkout. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Watch as a full video on YouTubeWe're back! On this week's episode, we discuss the show everyone is talking about - The Traitors! With crime author Harriet Tyce's appearance, we chat about the impact it has had on her book sales, and also wonder which reality show we would choose to go on to boost our publicity (there is also some spoiler discussion about this season of the UK Traitors, so be careful if you are not up-to-date!)Plus, we talk about big money's interest in Romantasy, and whether that will crowd out the market for other genres, and also discuss the rapid rise of scam marketing emails that are being sent to authors thanks to AI...00:00 Intro01:34 Dollars & Dragons - Is Big Money Skewing Fiction?16:52 The Flattery Trap - Predatory Promo Offers27:30 Killer Marketing? - The Traitors Effect44:14 Off Script - Nadine finds another stranger than fiction story for inspiration49:33 Off Script - Final Chapter: What we've been watching and readingLinks:Chernin Group invests in Romantasy publisher EntangledAuthors hit with deluge of scam emails from fake marketersWhy crime writers make good Traitors contestantsAdventures in Publishing-land is brought to you by STET Podcasts - the one stop shop for all your writing podcast needs, featuring Page One - The Writer's Podcast, The Conversation with Nadine Matheson and more!Follow us on BlueskyFollow us on Instagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Thursday episode of Book Talk for BookTok, we bring an academic lens to bookish culture, genre fiction, and the conversations shaping romance and romantasy today. Our podcast blends literary analysis, cultural criticism, and emotional honesty. We treat romance, romantasy, and fanfiction as genres worthy of serious discussion, not just quick takes. This episode is part of our Subtext Society series, inspired by The Subtext Society Journal. The Subtext Society Journal is a collaborative publication dedicated to thoughtful essays on romance, romantasy, fan culture, and publishing ethics. We explore moral questions, genre evolution, power dynamics, and the real-world impact of stories, guided by values of literary rigor without gatekeeping, community over hierarchy, and ethics-first analysis. Today's discussion focuses on the article: “Is Dark Romance Allowing a Dark Space?” Using the Sinners and Stardust controversy as a case study, we examine accountability in fandom spaces, consent versus cosplay, and whether increased freedom within romance and dark romance has been misunderstood or misused. This conversation challenges us to hold women to the same ethical standards as men, interrogate harmful behavior without demonizing the genre itself, and ask how communities can protect spaces meant to feel safe. Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of sexual assault, sexual harassment, and non-consensual behavior. Listener discretion is advised. These Subtext Society episodes are designed to be reflective, critical, and grounded— creating space for nuance, responsibility, and care within the bookish community. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've ever wondered how myths were made, especially during the Medieval period, we've got you covered! We're joined by Professor Matthew Gabriele, host of American Medieval, to talk about Medieval mythmaking, Castlecore vs Crusadecore, and Romantasy as a way of reflecting on the Medieval period! Content Warning: This episode contains conversations about or mentions of fascism, white supremacy, islamaphobia, misogyny, death, sex, and genitals. GuestMatthew Gabriele is a professor of medieval studies at Virginia Tech. The co-author of "The Bright Ages: A New History of Medieval Europe" and "Oathbreakers: The War of Brothers that Shattered an Empire and Made Medieval Europe," he'll talk your ear off about the Middle Ages. This is why he started the Multitude podcast, "American Medieval." See more at profgabriele.com and americanmedieval.comHousekeeping- Books: Check out our previous book recommendations, guests' books, and more at spiritspodcast.com/books- Call to Action: Send in those urban legend emails as you head home for the holidays!- Submit Your Urban Legends Audio: Call us! 617-420-2344Sponsors- Bookshop.org, where you can now use the code we shared in the midroll to get 10% off your purchase!Find Us Online- Website & Transcripts: spiritspodcast.com- Patreon: patreon.com/spiritspodcast- Merch: spiritspodcast.com/merch- Instagram: instagram.com/spiritspodcast- Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiritspodcast.com- Twitter: twitter.com/spiritspodcast- Tumblr: spiritspodcast.tumblr.comCast & Crew- Co-Hosts: Julia Schifini and Amanda McLoughlin- Editor: Bren Frederick- Music: Brandon Grugle, based on "Danger Storm" by Kevin MacLeod- Artwork: Allyson Wakeman- Multitude: multitude.productionsAbout UsSpirits is a boozy podcast about mythology, legends, and folklore. Every episode, co-hosts Julia and Amanda mix a drink and discuss a new story or character from a wide range of places, eras, and cultures. Learn brand-new stories and enjoy retellings of your favorite myths, served over ice every week, on Spirits.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Is it too late to say Happy New Year?! Well, your girls are finally back to finish their discussion on "Brimstone," book 2 in Callie Hart's Fae & Alchemy series. That's right -- Bridget, Caitlin, and Hilda finally got it together so they can tell you what they THINK happened in this book, because let's be honest, there's a lot going on. It's not bad, just a lot. But don't worry, Carrion is still around enough to make it worthwhile.  Join our Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content and let's be friends!Instagram > @Booktokmademe_podTikTok > @BooktokMadeMe

Welcome to Season of Aquarius, our book club season on Book Talk for BookTok, a fantasy and romantasy podcast centered on thoughtful discussion and literary analysis. This season is created for readers who want more than quick takes and star ratings, offering space to explore how and why stories work on the page. This is not a traditional book review podcast—it's a book club conversation. Each week, we share flash literary analysis that examines themes, authorial intent, character arcs, symbolism, world-building, and key plot devices. Our discussions move beyond initial impressions to unpack narrative choices, emotional resonance, and the craft behind fantasy and romantasy storytelling. We aim to bridge academic literary insight with the modern reading experience shaped by BookTok and online reading communities. This week, we discuss Alchemized by SenLinYu Season of Aquarius Book Club Reading List: Alchemized by SenLinYu Phantasma by Kaylie Smith Silver Elite by Dani Francis An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir Blood & Brujas by Mikayla Hornedo Belladonna by Adalyn Grace As Many Souls as Stars by Natasha Siegel Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli New episodes release twice weekly. Every Tuesday, we publish a book club episode focused on that week's featured novel. Every Thursday, we zoom out for deeper conversations about bookish culture, reading communities, genre trends, and the larger ideas shaping fantasy, romantasy, and BookTok today. If you're searching for a fantasy book podcast, romantasy podcast, or book club podcast that blends thoughtful literary analysis with a genuine love of reading, Season of Aquarius invites you to read, reflect, and discuss alongside us. How to participate: Send your theories and spicy takes by commenting on this episode, DMing us, or using the form on our website. The Subtext Society Journal: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are ushering in 2026 with our safe word of the year. Because lets be honest, we should have had one last year. Who knew board game safe words could be a thing? Much like many of you we are still in cave mode. The bear is slumbering. The stirring and awareness of spring is on the horizon. Let us know if you are in cave mode or allowing spring to start now.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

I stumbled across Stacy on Threads back in early 2025 when she posted about who she was hoping the algorithim would bring to her account. I followed Stacy for awhile and then realized "I bet she has an Instagram page" and followed her work there too. One of my favorite things about Stacy is that she wants to build and engage with those who do follow her on her platforms. I love that, and it's one of the things I enjoyed as I got to know her. This episode is split in half! The first half we're talking about Fantasy and Romantasy books. Stacy talks about what she looks for in a book, and what she's drawn to in the Romantasy sphere. We cover a number of different books including Cruel Prince, A Court of Thorns and Roses, and more. Stacy's full list of recommended titles is at the bottom of the show notes including links to purchase! The second half of the episode features Stacy talking about what she creates! From her fantasy inspired costumes to the photography that goes along with it - including great behind the scenes stories on some of her iconic shots from her instagram. Stacy gives us the inside scoop and I am absolutely here for it. We also talk about renaissance faires and fantasy balls, including Stacy's upcoming appearance at FrostFire Ball by Storybook Soirees (link in the notes for ticket info!)  Books that Stacy recommended are: The Cruel Prince by Holly Black - https://amzn.to/3LkH4gd A Court of Thorns and Roses series by Sarah J. Maas - https://amzn.to/4qNzFoG Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas - https://amzn.to/454cG0d The Assassin's Blade novella by Sarah J. Maas - https://amzn.to/3LumYQH The Rogue King by Abigail Owen - https://amzn.to/4svVQS5 Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros - https://amzn.to/4sz7UC1 Quicksilver by Callie Hart - https://amzn.to/4jxcX1C You can find more info about FrostFire Ball at: https://www.storybooksoirees.com/frostfire-ball You can find Stacy at: https://www.instagram.com/stacylkellam/ https://www.threads.com/@stacylkellam https://www.tiktok.com/@stacylkellam https://linktr.ee/stacylkellam

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