Podcasts about sarah j maas

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Book Talk for BookTok
House of Flame and Shadow Chapters 44 - 50: Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks

Book Talk for BookTok

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2026 65:08


Dive into our literary analysis of House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas, the long-awaited third novel in the bestselling Crescent City series. In this season, we break down House of Flame and Shadow through an academic lens, using our combined 13 years of literary training to analyze Bryce Quinlan, Hunt Athalar, Ruhn Danaan, Lidia Cervos, and the novel's most pivotal character arcs, relationships, and world-building. We explore Sarah J. Maas's use of symbolism, mythology, foreshadowing, narrative structure, and character development while examining the book's biggest themes—including fate, power, identity, sacrifice, love, and redemption. Whether you're searching for a House of Flame and Shadow recap, Crescent City theories, Sarah J. Maas Easter eggs, Maasverse connections, ACOTAR crossovers, or in-depth literary analysis, this season is your complete companion to one of the most talked-about fantasy books of the year. In this Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks episode, we're sharing listener thoughts, uncovering hidden clues and “breadcrumbs” from House of Flame and Shadow, and diving into fan theories that connect across the Crescent City series and the wider Maas universe. This episode contains spoilers for the full ACOTAR series, Throne of Glass series, and all Sarah J. Maas interviews. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. 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. 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

Sarah's Book Shelves Live
The BIG Books Episode with Chrissie Whitley | Ep. 235

Sarah's Book Shelves Live

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2026 54:07


Sarah and Chrissie (@ChrissieWhitley) dig into their very different relationships with big books, from what counts as "big" and knowing when the moment is right to what makes a long book worth the extra pages. They also share some of their favorite big books — and a few they wish had been shorter. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Highlights Where Sarah and Chrissie each draw the line between a regular book and a big book. Is a 700-page book intimidating … or an invitation to settle in? When, and why, are they most likely to pick up a long book? Does format or genre change how big a book feels? What makes a book actually deserve its high page count? Some of their favorite big books … and a few they really wish had been shorter. Some Favorite BIG Books Chrissie 4 3 2 1 by Paul Auster (2017) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [30:38]  The Princes of Ireland (The Dublin Saga, 1) by Edward Rutherfurd (2004) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [33:36] Fox by Joyce Carol Oates (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [35:54] Red Comet by Heather Clark (2020) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [39:10] Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke (2004) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [42:45] The Love Songs of W. E. B. Du Bois by Honoree Fanonne Jeffers (2021) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [44:30]  Sarah 11/22/63 by Stephen King (2011) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [32:31]  I Know This Much Is True by Wally Lamb (1998) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [34:32] A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving (1989) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:23] The World According to Garp by John Irving (1978) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:25] Natchez Burning (Penn Cage, 4; Natchez Burning, 1) by Greg Iles (2014) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [41:19]  Wanderers (Wanderers, 1) by Chuck Wendig (2019) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:40] Other Books Mentioned War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy (1869) [30:06] The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas (1846) [30:07]   The Heart's Invisible Furies by John Boyne (2017) [31:43]  Sarum by Edward Rutherfurd (1987) [33:49] London by Edward Rutherfurd (1998) [33:53]   The Rebels of Ireland (The Dublin Saga, 2) by Edward Rutherfurd (2006) [34:19]  Whistler by Ann Patchett (2026) [38:04]  Destiny of the Republic by Candice Millard (2011) [40:23] Some BIG Books That Felt Too Long Chrissie Ordinary Monsters (The Talents, 1) by J. M. Miro (2022) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [48:39] Wellness by Nathan Hill (2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [51:24]  Sarah City on Fire by Garth Risk Hallberg (2015) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:39]  The Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy (1986) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [49:51] Other Books Mentioned The Bonfire of the Vanities by Tom Wolfe (1987) [46:06] The Second Coming by Garth Risk Hallberg (2024) [48:05]  Books From the Opening Discussion The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett (1989) [9:24] The Brightness by Chad Harbach (October 27, 2026) [11:47] I Know This Much Is True by Wally Lamb (1998) [14:07] Throne of Glass (Throne of Glass, 1) by Sarah J. Maas (2012) [14:51]  Outlander (Outlander, 1) by Diana Gabaldon (1991) [19:05]  1929 by Andrew Ross Sorkin (2025) [22:12] Helter Skelter by Vincent Bugliosi with Curt Gentry (1974) [22:19] Generations by Jean M. Twenge, PhD (2023) [22:26]   Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke (2026) [26:13]  The Elements by John Boyne (2025) [29:08]  A Court of Forgotten Memory (ACOTAR, 7) by Sarah J. Maas (January 12, 2027) [29:39]  Other Links The Gilmore Guide to Books | Catherine's Review of Ordinary Monsters

Best Friend Book Club
Tower of Dawn Summary

Best Friend Book Club

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2026 78:24


Hi bestie! Over the 16 weeks leading up to ACOTAR 6 I will be focusing on every book in the Sarah J. Maas universe. Join me this week as we deep dive into Tower of Dawn by Sarah J. Maas. This is a chapter by chapter summary that covers everything you need to know so you don't have to reread it!Connect with me on Instagram @bestfriend.bookclub OR @simplysaratoninIf you want early access to all the episodes as well as access to the podcast backlog, check out the Patreonpatreon.com/bestfriendbookclubpodcast

Flights of Fantasy
S6 : Ep 32 - Everything You Need to Know from Crescent City Before ACOTAR 6 & 7

Flights of Fantasy

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2026 65:13


This week, we're so excited to bring you a CC crash course breaking down all of the biggest Crescent City series revelations, lore, crossover connections, magical objects, and character history that we think could matter most heading into Sarah J Maas season aka our ACOTAR 6 & 7 era! ✨

Book Talk for BookTok
House of Flame and Shadow Chapters 44 - 50: Bryce Travels to Avallen

Book Talk for BookTok

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2026 84:24


Dive into our literary analysis of House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas, the long-awaited third novel in the bestselling Crescent City series. In this season, we break down House of Flame and Shadow through an academic lens, using our combined 13 years of literary training to analyze Bryce Quinlan, Hunt Athalar, Ruhn Danaan, Lidia Cervos, and the novel's most pivotal character arcs, relationships, and world-building. We explore Sarah J. Maas's use of symbolism, mythology, foreshadowing, narrative structure, and character development while examining the book's biggest themes, including fate, power, identity, sacrifice, love, and redemption. Whether you're searching for a House of Flame and Shadow recap, Crescent City theories, Sarah J. Maas Easter eggs, Maasverse connections, ACOTAR crossovers, or in-depth literary analysis, this season is your complete companion to one of the most talked-about fantasy books of the year. Spoilers: This episode contains full spoilers for House of Earth and Blood, House of Sky and Breath, as well as the entire ACOTAR series (A Court of Thorns and Roses, A Court of Mist and Fury, A Court of Wings and Ruin, Frost and Starlight, and A Court of Silver Flames). Any other books or larger Sarah J. Maas universe theories and connections will be discussed in a separate Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks episode. Chapters Summary: Hypaxia joins the House of Flame and Shadow after losing her throne to a witch coup, and attempts to raise Sigrid from the dead, only for the alpa to choose reaperdom instead. Lidia faces her sons one last time to answer their questions before she is forced to leave the Depth Charger. Bryce, Hunt, and the rest of their friends enter Avallen, only to be met by a very unhappy King Morven. Tharion absconds with them, hiding behind the mists to escape the Ocean King's wrath, but steps up to marry Sathia, Flynn's sister, when the young fae noble is faced with an impossible choice – marry a Murder Twin, or go back to Lunathion to be hunted down by the Asteri. The now larger group heads to the Avallen Archives in hopes of finding any clues that will help them take down their intergalactic overlords, though secretly, Bryce isn't certain they will get so lucky. The question we ask ourselves this week: How has each character's development stalled or accelerated at the halfway point of House of Flame and Shadow? Is the progression following a standard arc, or something different? Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. 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. 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

Middletown Strong: Looking Up with Russell Library
Sarah J Maasverse | Briana & Christy

Middletown Strong: Looking Up with Russell Library

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2026 21:16 Transcription Available


There's no denying that Sarah J. Maas has created a whole new generation of fantasy and romantasy lovers. Through atmospheric world-building, she has enticed readers to delve deeper and deeper into the mythical and magical. The Maasverse, a name given by fans to encompass the interconnected multiverse, is made up of three unique series; Throne of Glass, A Court of Thorns and Roses, and Crescent City. In today's conversation, Christy sits down with Briana, an avid reader of Maas's work, to discuss her experience engaging with these novels. Whether you're already a fan or simply considering the series, you won't want to miss this conversation! Book Recommendations by Sarah J. MaasThrone of Glass (8 Book Series)A Court of Thorns and Roses (7 Book Series)Crescent City (3 Book Series)Intro Music by nikitsan

Pierwsza Randka
Romantasy: dlaczego dorosłe kobiety czytają o smokach, magii i toksycznej miłości?

Pierwsza Randka

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2026 62:49


O najgorętszym gatunku literackim ostatnich lat rozmawiam z literaturoznawczynią i krytyczką literacką Agnieszką Budnik.Romantasy (romance + fantasy) sprzedaje się w milionach egzemplarzy: Rebecca Yarros sprzedała 2,7 mln kopii „Onyx Storm" w tydzień (a to tylko trzecia część sagi), a Sarah J. Maas ma na koncie 40 mln książek. Ale kto naprawdę to czyta? Okazuje się, że nie nastolatki, a dorosłe kobiety między 25 a 45 rokiem życia. Rozmawiamy o tym, skąd wziął się ten fenomen (od Owidiusza, przez „Zmierzch" i Harry'ego Pottera, po Wattpad i BookTok), dlaczego schemat „enemies to lovers" działa na nas tak mocno i, najważniejsze, czy te książki zmieniają nasze oczekiwania wobec prawdziwych związków.Rozmowa o miłości romantycznej, kliszach patriarchatu, kobiecej sprawczości, marketingu bestsellerów i o tym, jak czytać romanse mądrze. Na koniec Agnieszka poleca 5 książek dla tych, które pokochały ten gatunek.Agnieszkę Budnik znajdziecie tutaj: IG: https://www.instagram.com/raportzliteratury/podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2VGOciq4sOFDpYbHi3n3kHmnie znajdziecie tu:IG: www.instagram.com/nataliakusiak o mnie: https://www.nataliakusiak.commój tajny podcast na herohero: https://herohero.co/pierwszarandka/

Book Talk for BookTok
House of Flame and Shadow Chapters 37 - 43: Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks

Book Talk for BookTok

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2026 39:34


Dive into our literary analysis of House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas, the long-awaited third novel in the bestselling Crescent City series. In this season, we break down House of Flame and Shadow through an academic lens, using our combined 13 years of literary training to analyze Bryce Quinlan, Hunt Athalar, Ruhn Danaan, Lidia Cervos, and the novel's most pivotal character arcs, relationships, and world-building. We explore Sarah J. Maas's use of symbolism, mythology, foreshadowing, narrative structure, and character development while examining the book's biggest themes—including fate, power, identity, sacrifice, love, and redemption. Whether you're searching for a House of Flame and Shadow recap, Crescent City theories, Sarah J. Maas Easter eggs, Maasverse connections, ACOTAR crossovers, or in-depth literary analysis, this season is your complete companion to one of the most talked-about fantasy books of the year. In this Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks episode, we're sharing listener thoughts, uncovering hidden clues and “breadcrumbs” from House of Flame and Shadow, and diving into fan theories that connect across the Crescent City series and the wider Maas universe. This episode contains spoilers for the full ACOTAR series, Throne of Glass series, and all Sarah J. Maas interviews. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. 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. 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

Best Friend Book Club
Empire of Storms Summary

Best Friend Book Club

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2026 99:56


Hi bestie! Over the 16 weeks leading up to ACOTAR 6 I will be focusing on every book in the Sarah J. Maas universe. Join me this week as we deep dive into Empire of Storms by Sarah J. Maas. This is a chapter by chapter summary that covers everything you need to know so you don't have to reread it!Connect with me on Instagram @bestfriend.bookclub OR @simplysaratoninIf you want early access to all the episodes as well as access to the podcast backlog, check out the Patreonpatreon.com/bestfriendbookclubpodcast

Flights of Fantasy
S6 : Ep 31 - ACOTAR 6 & 7 Theories

Flights of Fantasy

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2026 53:02


Grab your red string and join us at the conspiracy board, book besties, because we're breaking down some of the fandom's wildest theories surrounding ACOTAR 6 and 7! From Koschei and Stryga to the Astronomer in Crescent City—and SO much more—we're connecting clues, questioning everything, and spiraling headfirst into what could be coming next. Come deep dive, wildly speculate, and lose your minds with us over our most anticipated romantasy releases basically EVER!⚠️ MAJOR SPOILER WARNING: This episode contains spoilers for all three Sarah J. Maas series: A Court of Thorns and Roses, Throne of Glass, and Crescent City✨ Love the show? Make sure you're subscribed so you never miss an episode! Leaving us a rating and review is one of the best ways to support the podcast and help more fantasy romance readers find our book club! ✨Everything You Need to Know About Koschei Before ACOTAR 6/7Our Maas Masterclass Series on PatreonJoin the Flights of Fantasy community:PatreonWebsiteInstagramTikTokSJM Series Episode Playlists:ACOTARThrone of GlassCrescent CityMaasverse Theory Episodes  Follow along for episode updates, book recommendations, theories, reactions, and all things romantasy! 

Book Talk for BookTok
House of Flame and Shadow Chapters 37 - 43: Bryce's Reunion

Book Talk for BookTok

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2026 93:29


Dive into our literary analysis of House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas, the long-awaited third novel in the bestselling Crescent City series. In this season, we break down House of Flame and Shadow through an academic lens, using our combined 13 years of literary training to analyze Bryce Quinlan, Hunt Athalar, Ruhn Danaan, Lidia Cervos, and the novel's most pivotal character arcs, relationships, and world-building. We explore Sarah J. Maas's use of symbolism, mythology, foreshadowing, narrative structure, and character development while examining the book's biggest themes, including fate, power, identity, sacrifice, love, and redemption. Whether you're searching for a House of Flame and Shadow recap, Crescent City theories, Sarah J. Maas Easter eggs, Maasverse connections, ACOTAR crossovers, or in-depth literary analysis, this season is your complete companion to one of the most talked-about fantasy books of the year. Spoilers: This episode contains full spoilers for House of Earth and Blood, House of Sky and Breath, as well as the entire ACOTAR series (A Court of Thorns and Roses, A Court of Mist and Fury, A Court of Wings and Ruin, Frost and Starlight, and A Court of Silver Flames). Any other books or larger Sarah J. Maas universe theories and connections will be discussed in a separate Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks episode. Chapters Summary: Despite dying on the cliffs of Pangera, Lidia makes a full-recovery thanks to the mediwitches on the Depth Charger as Ruhn watches over her comatose form. Only when she awakens, instead of a heartfelt reconciliation with Ruhn, Lidia storms the ship to find the twin boys – her sons – from whom she's been separated for over 15 years. Bryce tricks the Autumn King into becoming a captive in his own estate and sets out to find Hunt and the rest of the crew, showing up on the Depth Charger just in time to prevent the Ocean Queen from jettisoning Tharion from her midst. Reunited at last, Bryce, Hunt, Ruhn, and their friends catch each other up on the details of their misadventures, while Ithan assists Jesibel back in Lunathion and learns about the unimaginable history that ties her to Midgard. The question we ask ourselves this week: How has the trauma of these characters influenced the writing style if at all? Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. 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. 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

Two Nerdy Sluts
TNS s3e1½ | Minisodes Are Back!

Two Nerdy Sluts

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 6, 2026 27:46


1 and a ½? You may be asking why the half? Well, that's because minisodes are back! While full-length episodes are every other Sunday, on the off weeks, y'all get these short and sweet minis that are silly, fun, and full of your story submissions! As well as book club! This month's book is A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas! Send us your story submissions/topic ideas/book recs/etc.: https://forms.gle/KgtHq5vyUzDaHg4TAAnd as always, you can email thenextseasonpod@gmail.com, or DM us on social media @t_n_s_podcast, till next Sunday! xoxo, A+Shttps://linktr.ee/t_n_s_podcast

Maas-ive Fans Book Club
CC: HOSAB Ep. 16, Ch. 65-70: Tharion and the Viper Queen, Ruhn and Agent Day, Hunt and his Umbra Mortis Helmet ... A LOT HAPPENS

Maas-ive Fans Book Club

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2026 127:57


Welcome to Season 6, Episode 16, covering Chapters 66-70 of "Crescent City, House of Sky and Breath”  by Sarah J. Maas. As always, this show is NOT for little ears and contains potential triggers due to the nature of the chapter topics. For more info about your hosts, or to reach out to us with your fan-cast and playlist suggestions, you can follow us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/MaasiveFansBookClubandPodcast), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/maasivefanspodcast/), or email maasivefanspodcast@gmail.comJoin the Maas-ive Fans Book Club Discord Server here: https://discord.gg/sNCfaBvutc Read Kelsey's fan fic on Wattpad here: https://www.wattpad.com/user/kelseyreadnwrite

Book Talk for BookTok
House of Flame and Shadow Chapters 28 - 36: Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks

Book Talk for BookTok

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2026 39:51


Dive into our literary analysis of House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas, the long-awaited third novel in the bestselling Crescent City series. In this season, we break down House of Flame and Shadow through an academic lens, using our combined 13 years of literary training to analyze Bryce Quinlan, Hunt Athalar, Ruhn Danaan, Lidia Cervos, and the novel's most pivotal character arcs, relationships, and world-building. We explore Sarah J. Maas's use of symbolism, mythology, foreshadowing, narrative structure, and character development while examining the book's biggest themes—including fate, power, identity, sacrifice, love, and redemption. Whether you're searching for a House of Flame and Shadow recap, Crescent City theories, Sarah J. Maas Easter eggs, Maasverse connections, ACOTAR crossovers, or in-depth literary analysis, this season is your complete companion to one of the most talked-about fantasy books of the year. In this Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks episode, we're sharing listener thoughts, uncovering hidden clues and “breadcrumbs” from House of Flame and Shadow, and diving into fan theories that connect across the Crescent City series and the wider Maas universe. This episode contains spoilers for the full ACOTAR series, Throne of Glass series, and all Sarah J. Maas interviews. 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

Best Friend Book Club
Queen of Shadows Summary

Best Friend Book Club

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2026 85:34


Hi bestie! Over the 16 weeks leading up to ACOTAR 6 I will be focusing on every book in the Sarah J. Maas universe. Join me this week as we deep dive into Queen of Shadows by Sarah J. Maas. This is a chapter by chapter summary that covers everything you need to know so you don't have to reread it!Connect with me on Instagram @bestfriend.bookclub OR @simplysaratoninIf you want early access to all the episodes as well as access to the podcast backlog, check out the Patreonpatreon.com/bestfriendbookclubpodcast

Mortal Lands: A Sarah J. Maas Book Club
HoFaS Ch 46-70: "He's Erected" (CC 3)

Mortal Lands: A Sarah J. Maas Book Club

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2026 102:30


We are really getting into it now. The club dives into chapters 46 - 70 of House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas, book 3 in the Crescent City (CC) series. Hypaxia's idea to use a certain thunderbird is unethical right? Did Hunt and Bryce goooo toooo sppaccee??? And, who's your daddies? Safe if you've read through chapter 70 of House of Flame and Shadow in the Crescent City series, and no cross Sarah J. Maas universe spoilers. Send voice memos or emails to sandtfaemail@gmail.com and check @mortallands on Instagram for updates! Season 1: A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) series Season 2: Throne of Glass (TOG) series Season 3: Crescent City (CC) series Season 4: Maasverse – coming in October!

Book Talk for BookTok
House of Flame and Shadow Chapters 28 - 36: Bryce Returns to Midgard

Book Talk for BookTok

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2026 90:58


Dive into our literary analysis of House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas, the long-awaited third novel in the bestselling Crescent City series. In this season, we break down House of Flame and Shadow through an academic lens, using our combined 13 years of literary training to analyze Bryce Quinlan, Hunt Athalar, Ruhn Danaan, Lidia Cervos, and the novel's most pivotal character arcs, relationships, and world-building. We explore Sarah J. Maas's use of symbolism, mythology, foreshadowing, narrative structure, and character development while examining the book's biggest themes, including fate, power, identity, sacrifice, love, and redemption. Whether you're searching for a House of Flame and Shadow recap, Crescent City theories, Sarah J. Maas Easter eggs, Maasverse connections, ACOTAR crossovers, or in-depth literary analysis, this season is your complete companion to one of the most talked-about fantasy books of the year. Spoilers: This episode contains full spoilers for House of Earth and Blood, House of Sky and Breath, as well as the entire ACOTAR series (A Court of Thorns and Roses, A Court of Mist and Fury, A Court of Wings and Ruin, Frost and Starlight, and A Court of Silver Flames). Any other books or larger Sarah J. Maas universe theories and connections will be discussed in a separate Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks episode. Chapters Summary: Ithan heads to the House of Flame and Shadow to seek a necromancer to raise Sigrid from the dead, and in the process becomes Jesiba Roga's unwilling assistant. Bryce returns from Prythian, only to be caged like an animal in the Autumn King's estate. Lidia puts her plan into motion, breaking Ruhn, Hunt and Baxian from the Asteri's palace and destroying the Spine of Pangera with the help of Ophion and Irythis. But her best laid plans take a turn, requiring the males to fly for the Depth Charger while Lidia faces down the wolves she once led, knowing it'll be her doom. The question we ask ourselves this week: Now that we're in part 2 of HOFAS, how have the themes of the story and character arcs changed or remained the same? 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

Relatable with Allie Beth Stuckey
Ep 1390 | ‘A Court of Thorns & Roses' is Bad for Your Marriage. My Warning

Relatable with Allie Beth Stuckey

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 31, 2026 69:54


Is Romantasy ruining reality? Allie unpacks the ACOTAR phenomenon, highlighting how the author of the series, Sarah J. Maas, is proud of the smut she writes, but she's even prouder that readers are leaving their boyfriends and husbands thanks to her work. While women should always leave an abusive partner, Allie believes ACOTAR is setting an unrealistic standard of romance for women that is causing them to throw away good relationships and self-improvement. Meanwhile, the Bible showcases far better examples of romance and strong, female protagonists than spicy novellas from BookTok. Allie is also joined by Share the Arrows guest speaker Costi Hinn, who discusses the similarities between Kathryn Krick and his uncle Benny Hinn and the broader dangers of the charismatic movement. Do you have a question for Allie? Leave a voicemail at 844-755-5252. Share the Arrows 2026 is on October 10 in Dallas, Texas! Tickets are on sale now at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://sharethearrows.com⁠⁠⁠ Share the Arrows is sponsored by: A'del Natural Cosmetics: AdelNaturalCosmetics.com Range Leather: RangeLeather.com/ALLIE We Heart Nutrition: WeHeartNutrition.com Buy Allie's book "Toxic Empathy: How Progressives Exploit Christian Compassion": ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.toxicempathy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – Time Codes 0:00 Introduction 11:34 Sarah J. Maas & ACOTAR 25:17 ACOTAR Ruins Relationships 45:34 Biblical Femininity 56:34 Costi Hinn on Kathryn Krick – Today's Sponsors: Head to https://cozyearth.com and use my code RELATABLE for an exclusive 20% off. A'del | Visit AdelNaturalCosmetics.com and enter promo code ALLIE for 25% off your first-time purchase. Pre-Born | To donate, dial #250 and say the keyword “BABY.” Or visit Preborn.com/ALLIE. Good Ranchers | If you go to ⁠⁠⁠GoodRanchers.com⁠⁠⁠ and subscribe to any box of 100% American meat, you'll save up to $500 a year! Plus, if you use code ALLIE, you'll get an additional $25 off your first order. Take charge of your health expenses and be part of a community. Join CrowdHealth to get started today for $99 a month for your first three months using code ALLIE at joincrowdhealth.com. Episodes You May Like: Ep 1319 | Teen Fiction's Dark Turn, Islamification Update & Reaction to Netflix's Dino Doc https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-1319-teen-fictions-dark-turn-islamification-update/id1359249098?i=1000756011652 Ep 1240 | TikTok's Spicy Novels Are Warping Women's Minds https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-1240-tiktoks-spicy-novels-are-warping-womens-minds/id1359249098?i=1000725942755 --- ► Buy Allie's book, "You're Not Enough (& That's Okay): Escaping the Toxic Culture of Self-Love": https://alliebethstuckey.com/book ► Subscribe to the podcast: iTunes: https://apple.co/2UVssnP Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2FwkXxj ► Connect with Allie on Social Media: https://twitter.com/conservmillen https://www.instagram.com/alliebstuckey/ https://facebook.com/allieBlazeTV/ ► Relatable merchandise – use promo code 'ALLIE10' for a discount: https://shop.blazemedia.com/collections/allie-stuckey

Moms Who Create
Cooking Inspired by ACOTAR & Fourth Wing with Author Chelsea Cole

Moms Who Create

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 31, 2026 37:28


What happens when your deep love for fantasy books meets your kitchen? You get incredibly DELICIOUS recipes that bring your favorite books to life!Chelsea Cole, Portland based food blogger and author, shares her journey of writing and publishing her cookbooks inspired by the worlds of Sarah J. Maas and Rebecca Yarros: A Feast of Thorns and Roses and A Guide to the Kitchen Quadrant. Connect with Chelsea:Check out her recipes on her Website: https://aducksoven.com/Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chel.seacole/Buy her cookbooks! : https://aducksoven.com/sous-vide-cookbook/Disclaimer: This podcast episode is an independent commentary and interview. It is not official, and it is not authorized, approved, licensed, or endorsed by Sarah J. Maas, Rebecca Yarros, Bloomsbury Publishing, Entangled Publishing, Weldon Owen, Insight Editions, or any of their affiliates.Grab a Coffee & Say HelloSupport the showSupport the Show & Connect with Kelli:Follow Moms Who Create on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momswhocreatepodcastVisit the podcast website: Moms Who CreateLove the show? Buy Me a Coffee to support me!! I do this at home and run on lots of coffee. :

BookTalks
Booktalks Podcast Episode 113: August Wrap Up + September TBR

BookTalks

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 30, 2026 45:36


Booktalks Podcast Episode 113: We're wrapping up our August reading and looking ahead to our September TBR!

BookTalks
Booktalks Podcast Episode 114: ACOTAR Reread | A Court of Thorns and Roses

BookTalks

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 30, 2026 35:41


Booktalks Podcast Episode 114: We're rereading A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas!

Besties and the Books Podcast
Ep 124 MAASPIRACY! Spiraling w/ these *NEW* ACOTAR 6 & 7 Books + Conspiracy Theories!!

Besties and the Books Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2026 118:49 Transcription Available


Send us Fan MailWe're reacting to all things related to the cover and overview releases for ACOTAR 6: A Court of Splintered Harmony, AKA The Valkyrie Cycle: Movement 1, AKA: ACOSH, annnd ACOTAR 7: A Court of Forgotten Melody, AKA The Valkyrie Cycle: Movements 2 & 3, AKA ACOFM, by none other than our lord and savior Sarah J. Maas. If you're new to us, the book community in general, or the SJM fandom, just know that we love our abbreviations. #cantstopwontstop

Book Talk for BookTok
House of Flame and Shadow Chapters 20 - 27: Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks

Book Talk for BookTok

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2026 58:19


Dive into our literary analysis of House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas, the long-awaited third novel in the bestselling Crescent City series. In this season, we break down House of Flame and Shadow through an academic lens, using our combined 13 years of literary training to analyze Bryce Quinlan, Hunt Athalar, Ruhn Danaan, Lidia Cervos, and the novel's most pivotal character arcs, relationships, and world-building. We explore Sarah J. Maas's use of symbolism, mythology, foreshadowing, narrative structure, and character development while examining the book's biggest themes—including fate, power, identity, sacrifice, love, and redemption. Whether you're searching for a House of Flame and Shadow recap, Crescent City theories, Sarah J. Maas Easter eggs, Maasverse connections, ACOTAR crossovers, or in-depth literary analysis, this season is your complete companion to one of the most talked-about fantasy books of the year. In this Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks episode, we're sharing listener thoughts, uncovering hidden clues and “breadcrumbs” from House of Flame and Shadow, and diving into fan theories that connect across the Crescent City series and the wider Maas universe. This episode contains spoilers for the full ACOTAR series, Throne of Glass series, and all Sarah J. Maas interviews. Sponsor: Jones Road Beauty For a limited time our listeners are getting a FREE full-sized mascara on their first purchase when they use code BOOKTALK at checkout. ⁠JonesRoadbeauty.com⁠ 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

Best Friend Book Club
The Assassin's Blade Summary

Best Friend Book Club

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2026 57:16


Hi bestie! Over the 16 weeks leading up to ACOTAR 6 I will be focusing on every book in the Sarah J. Maas universe. Join me this week as we deep dive into The Assassin's Blade by Sarah J. Maas. This is a chapter by chapter summary that covers everything you need to know so you don't have to reread it!Connect with me on Instagram @bestfriend.bookclub OR @simplysaratoninIf you want early access to all the episodes as well as access to the podcast backlog, check out the Patreonpatreon.com/bestfriendbookclubpodcast

The Smut Couch
S2 Ep9: The Smut Couch goes OFF CAMPUS!!! The Deal by Elle Kennedy

The Smut Couch

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2026 62:42


HI FRIENDS!!!! Today we are chatting about the mega hit The Deal by Elle Kennedy!! Love you so bad!!Hey bookish besties! Meet Maddy and Alexandros, the dynamic duo behind "The Smut Couch," a laid-back podcast where two work buddies turned besties spill the tea on their love for books. Join in the laughter, banter, and camaraderie as Maddy and Alexandros share their unique stories, including their deep dive into Dramione fan fiction, obsession with Sarah J Maas's worlds, and the latest BookTok gems.

Mortal Lands: A Sarah J. Maas Book Club
HoFaS Ch 20-45: “Leave It. Don't Move.” (CC 3)

Mortal Lands: A Sarah J. Maas Book Club

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2026 95:37


The book club discusses chapters 20-45 of the final published book in Sarah J. Maas's Crescent City series, House of Flame and Shadows. Tara was so good at not spoiling Ithan and Sigrid's arc for the club that she confused Sheila. Locked up by the Asteri? You're dangerous. Jesiba, why are you dishing now? Dungeon break. Sound off. “Blast it to Hel . . .” Chills.  Safe if you've read through chapter 45 of House of Flame and Shadow in the Crescent City series, and no cross Sarah J. Maas universe spoilers. Send voice memos or emails to sandtfaemail@gmail.com and check @mortallands on Instagram for updates!   Season 1: A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) series Season 2: Throne of Glass (TOG) series Season 3: Crescent City (CC) series Season 4: Maasverse – coming in October!

Book Talk for BookTok
House of Flame and Shadow Chapters 20 - 27: Bryce's New Power

Book Talk for BookTok

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2026 86:58


Dive into our literary analysis of House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas, the long-awaited third novel in the bestselling Crescent City series. In this season, we break down House of Flame and Shadow through an academic lens, using our combined 13 years of literary training to analyze Bryce Quinlan, Hunt Athalar, Ruhn Danaan, Lidia Cervos, and the novel's most pivotal character arcs, relationships, and world-building. We explore Sarah J. Maas's use of symbolism, mythology, foreshadowing, narrative structure, and character development while examining the book's biggest themes, including fate, power, identity, sacrifice, love, and redemption. Whether you're searching for a House of Flame and Shadow recap, Crescent City theories, Sarah J. Maas Easter eggs, Maasverse connections, ACOTAR crossovers, or in-depth literary analysis, this season is your complete companion to one of the most talked-about fantasy books of the year. Spoilers: This episode contains full spoilers for House of Earth and Blood, House of Sky and Breath, as well as the entire ACOTAR series (A Court of Thorns and Roses, A Court of Mist and Fury, A Court of Wings and Ruin, Frost and Starlight, and A Court of Silver Flames). Any other books or larger Sarah J. Maas universe theories and connections will be discussed in a separate Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks episode. Chapters Summary: The fight for Tharion's freedom results in a duel to the death between Ithan and Sigrid, and though he pulls his punches, she is surprisingly ruthless. Though Ithan does his best to avoid hurting the Fendyr heir, he accidentally kills Sigrid, and his hopes for the future of all wolf shifters end with her. In the Asteri's dungeons, Baxian bites of Ruhn's hand in an attempt to free them and Hunt, but their attempts are in vain when Rigelus shows up to steal Hunt's lightning. Forced to put her plans into motion, Lidia frees Irythis from her cage and shares her plan with the fire sprite queen. Meanwhile, in Prythian, Bryce, Nesta, and Azriel are witness to Silene's story of the past. Before Nesta and Azriel can attempt to seize her to remove the Horn from her back, Bryce claims the power left by Silene in the stone of the Prison, only to discover the true evil lurking beneath their feet. The question we ask ourselves this week: How does colonization shape the landscape of the story and the characters' development as well? Sponsor: Jones Road Beauty For a limited time our listeners are getting a FREE full-sized mascara on their first purchase when they use code BOOKTALK at checkout. JonesRoadbeauty.com 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

A Court of Fandoms and Exploration - A Podcast.
262. Animal Farm: "Sugar Candy Mountain, Charlie."

A Court of Fandoms and Exploration - A Podcast.

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 24, 2026 61:05


ACOFAE Podcast Presents: "Sugar Candy Mountain, Charlie." 2026 is the year that ACOFAE is covering the classics apparently, because they mentioned Animal Farm in the beginning of the year and here we all are now covering this Orwell classic. Published in 1945, and with the subtitle "a fairy story" in the UK, Animal Farm is a short book that covers the Russian Revolution of 1917 using a farm as the setting and animals as the characters for the most part. A story that begins with passion stirring for change, an opportunity, and then the slow decent into the same situation everyone started from, Animal Farm, is a story about how man corrupts. Which are the pigs and which are the humans? Impossible to tell. Horrifying. "Man is the enemy." TW / CW: For additional TW/CW information for your future reads, head to this site for more: https://triggerwarningdatabase.com/ Spoilers: Animal Farm by George Orwell, 1984 by George Orwell *Thank you for listening to us! Please subscribe and leave a 5-star review and follow us on Instagram at @ACOFAEpodcast and on our TikToks! TikTok: ACOFAELaura : Laura Marie ( https://www.tiktok.com/@acofaelaura) ACOFAEJessica : Jessica Marie (https://www.tiktok.com/@acofaejessica) Instagram: @ACOFAEpodcast https://www.instagram.com/acofaepodcast/ @ACOFAELaura https://www.instagram.com/acofaelaura/

those F%#KING fangirls
175 | ACOTAR BOOK 5 & 6 Title and Cover Discussion!!

those F%#KING fangirls

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2026 77:57


Christine Riccio & Natasha Polis talk all things nerdy in the book, tv, movie, pop culture, fandoms, and how they integrate into their adult lives. Today they're talking about the cover and title reveal for ACOTAR books 6 & 7 - A Court of Splintered Harmony and A Court of Forgotten Melody by Sarah J. Maas! Plus they chat Sterling Point, Moody's Point, Adversary to the Villian, Vera Stein is Fine, Taylor Swift, and more!The Main discussion start at: 53:16Today in Fangirl Tea Time : Join Christine and Natasha for more stories about their recent life escapades. Support the pod by joining the Forking Fangirls Patreon community: http://patreon.com/thoseforkingfangirls TEAM EDWARD: The first five Heated Rivalry episode commentaries are up now! Follow the visual show on our Youtube: http://youtube.com/@thoseforkingfangirls  Get Christine's new book THIRTY, FLIRTY, & FOREVER ALONE: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1662532156Add Thirty Flirty & Forever Alone on Goodreads:https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/230393104-thirty-flirty-and-forever-aloneCheck out Natasha's sewing classes: https://www.natashapolis.com/Join our patron to get 10 dollars off the classes!Website: https://thoseforkingfangirls.com/ Email us feedback: thoseforkingfangirls@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thoseforkingfangirls/Twitter: https://twitter.com/forkfangirlspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thoseforkingfangirlsGet Christine's novel Attached at the Hip: https://a.co/d/grmPeVy Check out the Selkie Collection and get 10% off your order with code TASHAPOLIS https://selkiecollection.com/collections/all

Flights of Fantasy
S6 : Ep 28 - ACOTAR 6 & 7 NEWS : Titles, Covers, Plot Clues & Theories

Flights of Fantasy

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2026 66:03


THE WAIT IS OVER, BOOK BESTIES. We're here with a very special ACOTAR EMERGENCY EPISODE

Book Talk for BookTok
House of Flame and Shadow Chapters 13 - 19: Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks

Book Talk for BookTok

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2026 57:03


Dive into our literary analysis of House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas, the long-awaited third novel in the bestselling Crescent City series. In this season, we break down House of Flame and Shadow through an academic lens, using our combined 13 years of literary training to analyze Bryce Quinlan, Hunt Athalar, Ruhn Danaan, Lidia Cervos, and the novel's most pivotal character arcs, relationships, and world-building. We explore Sarah J. Maas's use of symbolism, mythology, foreshadowing, narrative structure, and character development while examining the book's biggest themes—including fate, power, identity, sacrifice, love, and redemption. Whether you're searching for a House of Flame and Shadow recap, Crescent City theories, Sarah J. Maas Easter eggs, Maasverse connections, ACOTAR crossovers, or in-depth literary analysis, this season is your complete companion to one of the most talked-about fantasy books of the year. In this Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks episode, we're sharing listener thoughts, uncovering hidden clues and “breadcrumbs” from House of Flame and Shadow, and diving into fan theories that connect across the Crescent City series and the wider Maas universe. This episode contains spoilers for the full ACOTAR series, Throne of Glass series, and all Sarah J. Maas interviews. 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

Straight Up
The Ariana Grande discourse, ACOTAR and Nicole Kidman's Vogue backlash

Straight Up

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2026 55:23


Ariana Grande's tour has been getting rave reviews, but the increasingly feverish discussion around her weight has us asking whether it's more harmful to comment or stay silent, and what this and the tragic case of Jason Arday tell us about how journalists can lose sight of the real people behind headlines. Also this week: romantasy fans rejoice as Sarah J Maas reveals the covers, titles and blurbs for ACOTAR 6 and 7, Nicole Kidman faces backlash for looking “unrecognisable” on the cover of Vogue and the passing of actor Hayden Panettiere.Join the ticket waitlist for our book club on Wed 2 September via Ticket Tailor and order Where Are the Kings here Join us on Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes plus early access and ad-free listening at patreon.com/straightuppodcastTry the adaptogenic coffee that changed our lives with 20% off using code straightup at londonnootropics.comFollow us on IG ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@straightuppod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and TikTok @straightuppodFind us on YouTube @straightupmediapodEmail at ⁠⁠hello@straightuppodcast.co.ukRecs/reviewsDTF St Louis, HBO Max The A Court of Thorns and Roses series, Sarah J Maas The Last House, Netflix The InviteCamp MiasmaHow do you assign a star rating to Ariana Grande? Ellie's SubstackWhen the Snowflakes Pretend They Played No Part in the Avalanche, Conquest of the Useless Substack“Where Am I Going? And What's Next?”: Nicole Kidman Is Keeping Her Heart Open, VogueWe call her Emma podcastThis Is Me: A Reckoning, Hayden Panettiere Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Best Friend Book Club
Heir of Fire Summary

Best Friend Book Club

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2026 84:41


Hi bestie! Over the 16 weeks leading up to ACOTAR 6 I will be focusing on every book in the Sarah J. Maas universe. Join me this week as we deep dive into Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas. This is a chapter by chapter summary that covers everything you need to know so you don't have to reread it!Connect with me on Instagram @bestfriend.bookclub OR @simplysaratoninIf you want early access to all the episodes as well as access to the podcast backlog, check out the Patreonpatreon.com/bestfriendbookclubpodcast

Mortal Lands: A Sarah J. Maas Book Club
HoFaS Prologue-Ch 19: "Bite Off My Foot" (CC 3)

Mortal Lands: A Sarah J. Maas Book Club

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2026 105:11


The book club kicks off the last published book (to date) in the Crescent City (CC) series by Sarah J. Maas, House of Flame and Shadow (HoFaS). First things first, the cousins commit to only discussing the content of this book through the lens of Crescent City, which is nearly impossible given this book could be referenced in the upcoming ACOTAR 6, but we can do this. Which storyline were you most excited about aka was Bryce in 4th place for you too? Say the Asteri have you in a dungeon, would you flinch at biting off your friend's hand if needed? Silene's monologue, we need to know, what's your interest level? Safe if you've read through Chapter 19 of House of Flame and Shadow in the Crescent City series, and no cross Sarah J. Maas universe spoilers. Send voice memos or emails to sandtfaemail@gmail.com and check @mortallands on Instagram for updates! Season 1: A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) series Season 2: Throne of Glass (TOG) series Season 3: Crescent City (CC) series Season 4: Maasverse – coming in October!

Book Talk for BookTok
House of Flame and Shadow Chapters 13 - 19: Bryce, Nesta, and Azriel

Book Talk for BookTok

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2026 87:33


Dive into our literary analysis of House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas, the long-awaited third novel in the bestselling Crescent City series. In this season, we break down House of Flame and Shadow through an academic lens, using our combined 13 years of literary training to analyze Bryce Quinlan, Hunt Athalar, Ruhn Danaan, Lidia Cervos, and the novel's most pivotal character arcs, relationships, and world-building. We explore Sarah J. Maas's use of symbolism, mythology, foreshadowing, narrative structure, and character development while examining the book's biggest themes—including fate, power, identity, sacrifice, love, and redemption. Whether you're searching for a House of Flame and Shadow recap, Crescent City theories, Sarah J. Maas Easter eggs, Maasverse connections, ACOTAR crossovers, or in-depth literary analysis, this season is your complete companion to one of the most talked-about fantasy books of the year. Spoilers: This episode contains full spoilers for House of Earth and Blood, House of Sky and Breath, as well as the entire ACOTAR series (A Court of Thorns and Roses, A Court of Mist and Fury, A Court of Wings and Ruin, Frost and Starlight, and A Court of Silver Flames). Any other books or larger Sarah J. Maas universe theories and connections will be discussed in a separate Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks episode. Chapters Summary: Bryce regrets her choice to abandon Nesta and Arizel to the Middengard worm and returns to rescue them, only to have her treachery served back to her on a cold platter and a forced encounter with the Mask of the Dread Trove. In the Asteri's Dungeons, Hunt, Ruhn and Baxian attempt to escape their shackles while Lidia seeks the help of Ophion to enact her plan to liberate them. Meanwhile, Ithan makes a deal with the Viper Queen to let him and his friends go (including Tharion) but doesn't bargain well enough to avoid the worst possible outcome. Back in Prythian, Bryce, Nesta and Azriel resume their trek through the subterranean tunnels to find themselves at the bottom of the prison, where a hidden message from Princess Silene is waiting to be found by a starborn heir. The question we ask ourselves this week: How does colonization shape the landscape of the story and the characters' development as well? 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 Club for Masochists: a Readers’ Advisory Podcast
Episode 236 - Summer 2026 Media Update

Book Club for Masochists: a Readers’ Advisory Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2026 54:08


It's episode 236 and time for our summer media update! Join us as we talk about books, games, and comics we've recently enjoyed. You can download the podcast directly, find it on Libsyn, or get it through Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcast delivery system. In this episode Anna Ferri | Meghan Whyte | Matthew Murray

A Court of Fandoms and Exploration - A Podcast.
261. Daughters of the Moon #6- The Lost One: "Everyone's lost."

A Court of Fandoms and Exploration - A Podcast.

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2026 57:33


ACOFAE Podcast Presents: Daughters of the Moon #6- The Lost One: "Everyone's lost." ACOFAE is back in the 2000's with Daughters of the Moon #6! Six! Can you believe it?! This book starts off with a cold open on top of a cold open, and then we the reader get an outside perspective on our favorite LA goddesses. Turns out after losing their friend Catty, they got weird? Maybe they're witches? But they totally most definitely killed her. Our new lost girl, Tianna, is having one hell of a day. Memory loss on top of high-school is the dumps. Top it off with weird guys stalking her and Tianna doesn't have time for soccer Vanessa, or poetry Serena, or talking it out Jimena. Tianna has to save herself and get her memories back before something worse happens. Probably. The teen club. TW / CW: loss of family For additional TW/CW information for your future reads, head to this site for more: https://triggerwarningdatabase.com/ Spoilers: the Daughters of the Moon series by Lynne Ewing Mentions: Buffy, Pretty Little Liars, Rosewell, V for Vendetta, Teen Witch, Pixar *Thank you for listening to us! Please subscribe and leave a 5-star review and follow us on Instagram at @ACOFAEpodcast and on our TikToks! TikTok: ACOFAELaura : Laura Marie ( https://www.tiktok.com/@acofaelaura) ACOFAEJessica : Jessica Marie (https://www.tiktok.com/@acofaejessica) Instagram: @ACOFAEpodcast https://www.instagram.com/acofaepodcast/ @ACOFAELaura https://www.instagram.com/acofaelaura/

The Creative Penn Podcast For Writers
Going Indie, Publishing Innovation, And The Challenges Of Book Marketing With John Bond

The Creative Penn Podcast For Writers

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2026 67:51


How can you tell where the real innovation in publishing is happening right now, and why is it emerging from the indie side first? How do you market your own book when you've spent 35 years marketing everyone else's? John Bond talks about Going Indie and what he's learned about authors who last. In the intro, my thoughts on writing with AI, Charles Dickens and encouragement for the 3-year-old dancing to K-Pop at the wedding, UK copyright law, The end of an era — Hugh Howey; Notre Dame, Paris; Today's show is sponsored by Bookfunnel, the essential tool for your author business. Whether it's delivering your reader magnet, sending out advanced copies of your book, handing out ebooks at a conference, or fulfilling your digital sales to readers, BookFunnel does it all. Check it out at bookfunnel.com/thecreativepenn This show is also supported by my Patrons. Join my Community at Patreon.com/thecreativepenn John Bond is the co-founder of Whitefox, a premium publishing services agency, and has over 35 years in traditional publishing, from bookselling to marketing and management. He's also the co-author of Going Indie: Publishing Your Book Your Way, with James Silver. You can listen above or on your favorite podcast app or read the notes and links below. Here are the highlights and the full transcript is below. Show Notes Why 2012 was a watershed moment for publishing in the UK Whether the snobbery around self-publishing has finally gone How to co-write a book with someone, and why there's no formula The pride swallowing involved in getting endorsement quotes for your own book The shadow economy of indie sales that no industry chart measures The hallmarks of writers who build a long-term career You can find John at wearewhitefox.com. Transcript of the interview with John Bond Jo: John Bond is the co-founder of Whitefox, a premium publishing services agency, and has over 35 years in traditional publishing, from bookselling to marketing and management. He's also the co-author of Going Indie: Publishing Your Book Your Way, with James Silver. So welcome back to the show, John. John: Thank you, Jo. Thanks so much for having me. Jo: You were last on the show in 2022. You've been on a couple of times, but just set the scene. Tell people a bit more about you and your long background in publishing. John: I suppose I could say I started as a marketing manager at Penguin back in the early 1990s in London, and that role eventually evolved into running sales and marketing, as it often does. I did that at Penguin and at HarperCollins. Then I ran one of the publishing divisions at HarperCollins, including 4th Estate, and published Hilary Mantel and Jonathan Franzen and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and others. I left that in 2011 and set up Whitefox in 2012, and it's a classic startup story. It was somebody I worked with at HarperCollins. We sat around a kitchen table, came up with an idea for a business, which was Whitefox, and that's grown into the creative agency that it is today. Jo: So back then, did you think, “I can do this better”? Was that the impetus, “I can do publishing better than Penguin and HarperCollins”? John: No, I thought we would solve a problem. There's something very attractive about that whole startup mentality and beginning something from scratch. I mean, I was in my early 50s. I'd had a long career in traditional publishing. On the plus side, I knew a lot of people, and I thought I could get meetings, people would reply to my phone calls or my emails. On the downside, I didn't necessarily have the energy of a 20 to 25-year-old. I knew a lot of people and I knew quite a lot of things, and I also knew what problems something like Whitefox could solve. We set up with this idea that if we could galvanise and organise the diaspora of freelancers in the publishing space and make them available to anybody that wanted to make a book, that that would be quite a powerful thing. These incredibly creative, wonderful people who were below the radar and were not particularly valued or managed or utilised properly. I thought if we could access that and make that available not just to traditional publishing people who know about these people, but to individual authors, businesses, brands, people that wanted to make a book, and if you added a layer of our expertise from traditional publishing, that could be quite powerful, I suppose. That's what I was thinking back then. Jo: It's funny, though. You said these wonderful freelancers who were not particularly valued or managed or utilised properly. That could also apply to a lot of authors in traditional publishing. John: Totally. Totally. But if I'm honest, I don't think I was thinking about that. What's really evolved since we started, even in that 2011, 2012 period, is so much has happened to independent writers, indie authors. The whole ecosystem has become much more vibrant, and what is accessible to those writers is much greater. I'd like to think we've played a part in that. What that's done is put power back into writers' hands, and that quickly became apparent in the business as a byproduct of what we'd set up. Jo: Yes, and 2012 I do think in the UK was a pivot point, because I got into self-publishing in 2006/2007 when the Americans did with the beginning of the Kindle and the iPhone. Really the American ecosystem grew first. I happened to be in Australia, and so I think I was able to escape the negativity of the vortex in the UK, which took a number more years to embrace self-publishing as a force to be reckoned with as opposed to an embarrassing thing in the corner for vanity press. Do you see 2012 as a changing point in UK publishing? John: I think we'd just come out of the Kindle moment, hadn't we? There were all sorts of conversations going on about how that was going to change things forever. I think no one quite knew what the upshot of that was going to be, but we knew that it was incredibly disruptive. In 2012, Penguin, as it was then, before Penguin Random House, had offered to buy Author Solutions for $115 million, presumably seen as some kind of defensive measure as to what the market was going to evolve into. I think it felt like a real period of change. In the UK, James Daunt took over running Waterstones, and he was then ultimately going to run Barnes & Noble. It felt like a bit of a watershed. I think we were lucky in that sense, that maybe in the UK and in London, what we were creating coincided with an opening up of opportunity and creativity, and people wanting access to more tools to be able to do things themselves. Getting this idea that you invest in your own talent and what that could mean for your ability to do things quicker, better. Some of it was happenstance, but lucky for us. As you say, we then became aware that in a sense a lot of these things had come to fruition earlier on the US side. In London, that whole idea of setting up something that wasn't a traditional rights-owning model, but where you wanted to be working with people creatively, felt actually really exciting and timely. Jo: And when you started to work with independent authors, probably a couple of years after that, you started to work with a lot more indie authors and things really started to change in terms of the business side. Did you feel any of the snobbery from the traditional industry? Like you mentioned, you have a lot of contacts, a lot of connections. I came to your wonderful launch party and there were just people from all over the industry. I wondered if you got any kickback, or if anyone raised their eyebrows a little bit at who you were choosing to work with? John: Oh, definitely. And I would say I really think that's gone. You may think differently, Jo, but from my perspective, I think there has been such an evolution in the nearly 15 years that we've been going. So any of that residual snobbery, looking down your nose at people that were going DIY, producing multiple books, learning from every single publication. We've spoken about this before. I remember you sat on the panel of a FutureBook conference in the UK, which was run by a trade magazine, with this idea of looking at the, in quotes, “digital future of the business.” It felt like there were a lot of things being talked about, but not a lot of action on the traditional side. I suppose some sort of awe that there was some magic going on with people who were making a success of self-publishing. But then quite a lot of people looking down their noses at things that shouldn't get through the gatekeepers. I do think that's gone. Or if it's not completely gone, I can see it on the way out of the door, because there's no room for that when agents are struggling to sell books to publishers because publishers are looking at the next indie author, the next Freida McFadden, the next Sarah J. Maas, the next Rebecca Yarros. So whoever it may be, or wherever they're publishing, whatever they're doing now, wherever they may be, knowing that a lot of those people will already be publishing and be on not their first, second, third or fourth, but potentially their 10th or 11th book. It's a race to see who can help those authors, as a traditional publisher would see it, amplify what they're doing. I think the idea that there's an us and them, if it did exist then, which it certainly did in certain publishing quarters, is gone. I used to go to those conferences, like the FutureBook Conference, and certain publishers would talk about publishing, and when they meant publishing, they meant a really tiny area of quite literary, traditional imprints. That's what publishing meant. They didn't even mean publishing to mean educational publishing, or children's publishing, or academic publishing, and certainly not Kindle or POD or whatever. So I think that's had to change for very good, sound, commercial, economic reasons. Jo: Yes, you're right. I definitely have heard, as we go to similar events sometimes, and you do hear agents used to talk a lot more about finding books very occasionally in a slush pile, or doing courses so you could meet people and do pitch events and all this. Now it's often build an audience on BookTok or whatever, and sell lots of books, and traditional publishing as an amplifier, as you said. That's how I always hear them pitch it now, the question of— What can traditional publishing still do when indie authors can do so much? It does seem to be, well, we can amplify you, we can get you into traditional press, we can get you in traditional bookstores, we can help you with film and movie deals, that kind of thing. So that's really interesting, because that's actually changed quite a lot. They don't now seem to say, “Oh, well, we can make sure we pay you,” or, “We are editorial success as such.” John: I think they don't say editorial success or quality or indeed marketing, because that was what used to be said. I think there's an understanding that a lot of indie writers are better marketeers of their own books than traditional publishers, and if you go into the publishing machine, then you'll get your slot. It lasts for a certain period of time and then that moves on to another book. Whereas obviously if you're writing your own book and you're marketing your own book, you're able to do that yourself 24/7 wherever you are in the world, and you will know more about your readers and your audience and how that evolves than a traditional publisher would. What they probably mean now is, as you said, as much as anything, distribution, or even physical distribution. Because to be part of that process, I think that is still where a large conglomerate is able to wield some muscle, with this idea that if you physically want to see your book in bricks and mortar retailers in X outlets around the world, that's potentially easier to do if that is your aim, via a traditional publisher. So it is constantly evolving, because it used to be that marketing was the silver bullet, and I don't think that's the case anymore. Jo: No. We'll come back to marketing, shall we? Struggling with marketing. So let's get into your book. You recently co-wrote Going Indie with James Silver, Publishing Your Book Your Way. Obviously you already knew a lot about indie authors, so I wonder, what did you discover in the process of researching the book and the interviews you did? And I was one of your interviews. Did anything come up that surprised you, since you're already pretty embedded in the world? John: I would say some of it was reinforcing what I knew. So how everything is so intertwined, how in some ways unlinear everything is. People are doing lots of things in a different order to the way that traditionally writers would perceive this relay race of a manuscript gets passed to an editor, an editor passes on. That's just not how it is or needs to be anymore. I still think there is—not even a misconception—but I think there's a received wisdom that when you're talking about self-publishing, you're talking about fiction. The majority of books that Whitefox produces are not fiction, they're non-fiction. Some of them are quite mainstream, some of them are quite niche. That idea of connecting to your audience and your followers, and being slightly more scientific about how you find readers in your non-fiction niche, I think is still unspoken about in a way, in that genre fiction tends to be what people automatically assume the conversation is about. This probably doesn't surprise you, but I was pleasantly surprised to have it confirmed to me quite how much swapping and sharing there is of skills and knowledge in that space. I'm not saying indie writing is egoless at all, but there's quite a lot of sharing of knowledge and what works, and collaboration, which I think is great to see. Again, if you've, as I did many years ago, come out of corporate conglomerate publishing, traditional publishing, there's less of that by the very nature of the kind of organisation. And look, we just talked about marketing a little while ago. I do think this whole idea that the cutting edge of experimentation, it's not traditional publishing, it's indie writers. They are looking at not just how to find readers, but how to fulfil orders, how to make commercial sense of what they're doing from the absolute outset and get-go of what they're doing. And just how now the lines are blurring between what would be classified as traditional digital publishers and the writers who are doing their own thing, or doing their own thing on behalf of a few other writers. Those lines have completely blurred. There used to be this traditional hardback, paperback, X number of books a year, a year after hardback there's a paperback. This is the model we have been doing for centuries, and people doing things on their own. I think that's blurring massively, and the Venn diagrams of people's areas of expertise are just overlapping massively. Jo: Well, I think you're right there, and certainly the hardback special editions with sprayed edges and foil. A lot of us now are doing that first and not putting out the other, or putting out the rest of it at the same time. I dare say probably there are more indie authors with sprayed edge hardbacks than there are traditionally published authors. John: I'm sure that's right. And what's interesting is if you go to a traditional book printer, they are loving the direct communication with writers, that's not coming through traditional channels and traditional relationships. It's great business, it's interesting. I think that's something that's even developed in the last couple of years, that cutting out of some of the middle men required. Jo: Yes, and in terms of supporting freelancers and small publishing houses and printers and stuff, the other thing I've heard is that indie authors pay upfront, or they pay quickly, compared to some of these big publishers who are asking for long lead times and steep discounting. So actually a lot of these independent businesses are doing better under indie author work than they were under traditional. John: I think that's right, and that's what I mean also about the sharing of information and this collaborative idea of sharing creative knowledge. I mean, I'm making it sound like a kind of 19th century cooperative, which it isn't. I'm not suggesting that for a second. It's this idea that there's a lot of people learning a lot of things and there's a keenness to share some of that information, because if you've developed your own readership for your unique creative product, some of those learnings are very exciting. The printers I've spoken to love working on those kinds of things, because they are also being challenged to come up with new ways of developing ever more innovative physical product. Jo: Yes, I think it's a fun, creative time for sure. Things like Kickstarter, which you came on and talked about crowdfunding years ago, and I've obviously done. I think, what am I on now? Seven? I've just done my seventh. John: Wow. Jo: It's so much fun. But now what's happening is traditional publishers are arriving on Kickstarter and all that kind of thing. So we really see a blurring. Let's come back to your book, so Going Indie. You co-wrote it. Now obviously there are lots of positive sides of collaboration, but in terms of any challenges with collaboration and co-writing and the writing process of doing this? Because I've done this several times and I've found it very challenging. So tell us about the collaborative writing process. John: We thought a lot about it before we took it on. What I would say, having done it, is I am assuming there is no formula for how you do this. At Penguin I worked with a married couple who were crime writers, and they wrote books together. They merged their names so it appeared to be one name. I could not tell you, and they didn't share what that process was, whether they were writing different chapters or … I don't know. So I can only speak from my own experience. James is an established journalist. He's great with deadlines. He was very good at chivvying me along when I needed to be persuaded to hit the deadlines that I'd promised. I write blogs, I write newsletters, I write content for our website, but this is my first book. I've never written anything of this length. So in a way it started with the structure. It started with this idea that we would play to what we perceived as our respective strengths in terms of writing. We absolutely were not each writing every third word or anything like that. It was a process of trust in different parts. I thought, James had done some research and will be better at writing that. He deferred to me on areas that he took to be my areas of expertise. We did every interview for the book together. We went over the notes from those before they became part of the interviews for the book. And some of the book's elements are diagrammatic, so those are very easy to collaborate on. I think we tried to be professionally, creatively constructive with each other. So it was raising an eyebrow rather than shouting at each other if we didn't agree about something. A lot of it was down to the editing, and I don't know what your experience was like with a co-writer, but a lot of it came down to: here is something which is quite baggy. How do we, between us, make this as tight as we possibly can? I don't mean copy editing or proofreading. I mean the actual sort of, how do we get this into a pithy, usable, practical but discursive book? We didn't ever set out for this to be a pure reference book at all. We wanted to take a snapshot of what was going on. So a lot of it was genuinely trying to do some research and get people to feed into what was going on from lots of different perspectives, which is why we wanted to get mainstream traditional publishers, we wanted to get agents, we wanted to get indie writers, we wanted to get people who have all sorts of experiences and perspectives. That's what makes it what it is, which is, here's what we think are some of the interesting discussion points of what's going on now. Jo: It is a fantastic snapshot. I think it's really interesting—and obviously you also have seen my book, Successful Self-Publishing, which is on its fourth edition—this is one of the difficult things with snapshot type books. So have you already thought about that? I know this one has just come out, but have you thought, “Oh no, in five years we have to do it again”? John: Well, I think we thought we're going to have to address AI, which we do in the book, and we really tried to caveat that with saying, look, so much may change so quickly, and here we are talking about what we know now. We obviously tried to set the context for where we are now, and we tried as much as possible to make something which would last as long as we can. I think what we did think was, we have tried to make it as international a perspective as possible. But at the same time, we are a London-based agency, and a lot of the views will be from people based in the UK. So I think what I would like to explore is something that looks at potentially somewhere like the US, where I think there'll be different people that would perhaps have different perspectives on different things. So I think we thought about potentially there being future iterations of the book, but not yet. Jo: Not yet. This is the challenge with non-fiction, of course. On that, I would say what you just said around the US and stuff, the successful UK authors all use the same systems as the US. So I wouldn't say that the US … I mean, we all have the US companies we all use. I say Kobo is obviously Canadian, but I would say that we use the same ways of doing things. Obviously you might interview a different author, but … John: That was all I meant. I meant interviewing. Because we've interviewed agents and authors and publishers and they are largely UK based. So it was the idea that maybe there are some perspectives on things rather than systemic. Jo: Differences. John: Yes. Just that. Jo: So then I guess another challenge, we've kind of nodded to it so far, is marketing. So let's talk about the challenges of getting this book out in terms of publishing and marketing. Because you've been on the inner circle side, trying to do that for other people's books, but your own book, this is a whole nother thing. So tell us about that. John: Well, how do you do it, Jo? I mean, honestly, I've loved some of it. I get how you become completely obsessed with your book and trying to make sure that you can get it into the hands of the people that you want to get it into the hands of. We've got some great endorsement quotes, which was a task that, how can I say this? I would call it pride swallowing. The idea that you really try and get people to say nice things about your book and, if they don't reply, you think, “How much do I pester them? How much do I annoy them by asking them again nicely?” And the absolute sheer unadulterated joy when they come back with something positive that you can use and utilise in some way. So that whole process of waiting for feedback, I suppose, and hoping that people are going to like what you've done and help you spread the word for it. We had a launch event, we've given books away. We've published the book as ebook and POD. I think one of the great things about that is it's enabled us to be completely adaptable and make changes right up until the last minute. That drove everybody in my team completely crazy because we were making changes up until the last minute. So, is the book definitely going to be available on publication date? What's it going to do? You know, all of that kind of stuff. Also, just getting this idea that I suppose you can never stop. Is that a very obvious thing to say to a writer? It probably is. You just can't stop, because if you go, “Right, well, I've done it,” complacency is the enemy. Just as soon as you've got that quote, or someone said that they're going to give you an opportunity to talk about it on a platform, it's just another day and you've got to keep thinking about how you can spread the word and tell people that it exists. Jo: Yes, well, I think that's right, and particularly non-fiction, which unless it's very timely and you must get it out right now. But other than that— Most books you just have to keep marketing for years. Then just as you say, when do you stop? Well, you kind of never stop unless you want to, unless you want to retire and just give up, basically. Dean Wesley Smith, who's a big writer in the US and a kind of a mentor of mine in past years, he talks about it as this massive sea of books. And when a book arrives, he pictures it coming down and landing on the water. So the day you launch, it's landed on the water, and then it begins to sink. Then there are all these other books coming down. It's like this rain of books, and your book is sinking as soon as it lands. And your job is to keep it afloat somehow. John: Keep it afloat. Jo: Yes. John: I think you're right, and it's such an interesting perspective for us, who work with a lot of people who have one book. You know, they've spent 10 years writing it. It's their life story. It's their memoir. It's their self-help book. It's their book that accompanies them on their speaking journey, or whatever. Then there are the people who are writing constantly and can't stop writing because they're exercising that creative muscle all the time and wanting to get better, and wanting to improve and learn and understand why this works and why that hasn't worked. Just getting a glimpse into what it must be like for that person for whom writing is not a hobby. I kept saying to myself, “This is not something you're doing as a hobby.” I want this book to be of value to people, and if I'm investing that time and effort into something that I want to get out there, you've got to commit to whatever it is you need to do to make sure you're not sinking. Jo: Yes. John: I will now not be able to get that image out of my head. Jo: Yes. I know there's people listening who don't have a mind's eye, which I always find fascinating, but for those of us with a mind's eye, you can now picture that and you will never forget it. The other thing, I guess, is that, having done a lot, over 40 books now, the inevitable thing is you cannot keep pushing all of those books back up to the surface. So when you do get the bug as such of writing, the most interesting thing for all of us is always the next book. It's always like, ooh, the next thing I'm doing, I'm very excited about. So you do have to pick your battles on marketing. So have you got the bug, do you think? Are you thinking of other books in general? Because as you said, you must be, I guess, in your 60s. John: I am. Jo: You could retire. John: I am. You were talking about that long career. I could. I mean, I really love doing it, and I would love to do more. I think one of the things that surprised me was just how many ideas came up while we were doing the book about tangents that one could take it. I have no desire to write a novel. I don't want to do that. I wouldn't be very good at that. I do think there are some interesting spaces around where there's a kind of intersection of creativity and learning, and how you can develop books that would help people who are trying to achieve different things in different sectors of publishing. So without getting too granular about it, this book doesn't really address brands who want to become publishers, and I think that is something that our business has developed into working with, not just individuals, but businesses and brands. I think there's definitely spin-offs of this book which are not about repeating what we've done so far. And this whole idea of what you've been doing for a long time, what we've been doing since 2011, 2012, it's evolving now at such a speed. I mean, who would have known what was going to come out of TikTok? As you talk about TikTok to Shopify, that whole kind of new ways of finding readers, of taking books to market. As you said, Kickstarter, crowdfunding. There's all sorts of things that I think will emerge, because in a funny sort of way traditional publishing at the moment feels quite conservative with a small c. I mean, the bestsellers. Dan Brown is number one in the bestseller list this week in the UK as I speak, who has been a bestseller forever. And obviously new writers come along the whole time, but the market feels a little bit as if it's waiting now for innovation. I think if that innovation's going to happen, it's probably going to happen in the indie space before it happens in mainstream publishing. So people are coming to us and thinking, does that represent a trend? Does that represent something which could be a way of looking at something a little bit deeper, doing some research around and creating something which is not a long book, not a massive thesis, but something which is indicative of something which could be useful for people. Jo: Just coming back on the Dan Brown is in the bestseller list. I think this is completely to do with the way that traditional publishing measures things. For many years, more than a decade, probably since the beginning of Kindle, certainly the beginning of Kindle Unlimited, there is a shadow economy, I call it, or a parallel economy. I would say that almost zero of my own personal sales are measured by any industry standards. Anyone who makes any money from Kindle Unlimited or Kickstarter or Shopify, or selling direct in any form, or selling books at conventions, none of this is measured by any traditional things. As you know, the New York Times list, for example, does not include Amazon sales in their bestseller list. So you've got indie authors in the UK who are incredibly successful who have to decide, say, someone like LJ Ross, for example, decides, “Okay, I'm going to set up a proper imprint with Gardners or whatever so that I can get in bookstores so that I can hit a Sunday Times list or something.” So I would say that seeing things like Dan Brown on a bestseller list has almost no meaning in the shadow indie economy. John: No, you're absolutely right. We're not even able to see audiobook sales. Jo: Yes, audio. Any kind of borrows, like Spotify. John: No, you're completely right. I suppose I was making a broader cultural point, that it doesn't feel like there's an enormous amount of innovation going on or risk taking within what I would call mainstream trade publishing. And there doesn't seem to be the need to be, because there will be more consolidation. Small companies will be bought by big companies, so there's growth through acquisition. There's still a hope that something will take off that is a surprise, and there's still an enormous reliance on established brands who, even through the traditional metrics of how you measure them, are probably selling less, but still at the top of the pile. I suppose that's what I was meaning. Jo: Yes, and I agree with what the industry looks at as signals. It's just, as we said, a lot of these signals are invisible. So coming onto innovation, at London Book Fair this year there were a lot of sessions on AI, and you mentioned AI briefly, and there is a chapter in Going Indie on generative AI. And of course there's a lot of negativity and drama and lawsuits and this, that and the other. But at the same time, at London Book Fair, a lot of traditional publishers talking about using it, and of course they always say, “Oh, we use AI only in marketing and business, not with the creative or editorial.” Everyone makes this distinction. What are your thoughts on what's happening and where's it going with AI? Is a lot of this stuff not happening in public and just going on behind closed doors? John: I think so. We do have a chapter in the book on AI. We've generated summaries of every chapter using AI, which we explicitly said in the book as well. We've got our Ten Commandments of what we think are useful guidelines. I think that there has to be an enormous amount being done, whether it's experimentation or speeding up for efficiency's sake, or things that slow you down, within mainstream publishing. There has to be more than just the guardrails around the creative process. And clearly when we're talking about metadata, book description, cover copy, presumably royalty calculations, presumably if you're trying to grow your newsletters. There has to be an enormous amount of activity going on. We're driven by the market, so we do not commission. Writers come to us and they either want to work with us and we want to work with them, or that doesn't happen. So we're in a sense seeing what the market is seeing, and that is a whole range of things. As I've said before, there's a lot of sweeping generalisations out there, which if you look back to that Kindle moment, we were talking a little while ago about what was going on in 2010/2011, about the enormous broad brush strokes that were being perceived as a result of Kindle. Kindle has affected some areas of publishing, it's affected some not at all. I think it will be absolutely fascinating when the sweeping generalisations stop and there becomes, I suppose, even more transparency. The thing that people are looking for, isn't it? A little bit less opaqueness as to what is really being done. Because everybody's being so careful about what they say they're doing and what they're not doing. I suppose ElevenLabs is the one where people are openly engaging on the audio side. I mean, everyone is being so careful and cautious. Jo: Me too. John: What do you think? We spoke a bit about AI within the book, and I'm interested to know what you think. Jo: Well, I've obviously been openly talking about it since 2016. I openly talk about using it, and I've got my Patreon community where we talk about how we're using it, and tips on how to use it. But then, because I have been writing and publishing since 2007, 2008, I'm very strong in my creative voice. I'm very strong in my understanding of what I consider to be my level of output, and what I publish under my own name is what I publish under my own name. John: Totally. Jo: So the problem is for people who are less confident, I think, in what they're doing creatively perhaps. I know some people feel like they're scared it will take over or something. When you're as strong-minded as me, it's not taking over anything. John: It's not going to take over anything. And the other side of the coin is how many people are finding Whitefox using ChatGPT. Jo: Mm. John: I'm thrilled that we are emerging, through very detailed briefing of AI, as something that is worth engaging with. Jo: Positive marketing. John: Yes, exactly. As you say, I think there's a lot of negativity, and I think it will settle down eventually. I think less hysteria. Jo: Yes, hopefully sooner rather than later. So as we come to an end, you've been in the publishing industry a long time and seen a lot of people who have disappeared, but also those who've lasted. I wondered if maybe you could comment on those who last, because I definitely feel like I'm in my 50s now, and I want to keep doing this. I'm pretty obsessed with— What are the hallmarks of people who have a long-term career? So reflections on that. John: Oh, that's such a good question. I think there's some common characteristics and themes. So I think authenticity, I think this idea of being continually curious. I think there are people who can't help but create, and this idea that once you've sort of expelled once, that's enough. I think there's people that just can't stop creating, whatever you do with it. But this idea that the more you do, the better you get, the more you evolve and keep an open mind. I think there's definitely entrepreneurial writers who love this idea of keeping their readers engaged, and how that conversation is something that evolves and that collaboration evolves, is fascinating. I think if you love that, and you listen, there's always an opportunity to keep building on what you do. I love the writers who we work with. I can think of a writer who we're working on his fourth novel at the moment, and he is a bundle of positivity. No matter the trials and tribulations, the things that have gone wrong, his expectations definitely not being met with his first book. He definitely has this idea that he wants to keep writing, he wants to get better, and he is getting better. It isn't a journey that has a beginning and an end. It's something that will continue for as long as he wants to write. Every single book that he has published, he has learned and gained confidence, gained a network of connections that he's utilised himself now to not make the first half a dozen mistakes he made on the first book. Who knows where it will end up? But certainly the satisfaction he's getting, and the sales he's getting, are growing as he becomes savvier and quicker to make the right choices and decisions. So I think that's my honest answer to that. I think there are definitely people who think, “Phew, I have really wanted to do this book. Now I can rest easy. I've done my book.” Then there are people who really, whatever their objective, whatever the definition of success is from the get-go, just can't help creating. I do love that and respect that. I don't think our book falls quite into that category, because I think it's a slightly different thing. I think there are people who are still making a success of what they do and redefining that as they go on, and who are really open to ideas and input from different people and are not closed off. I love working with those people. Jo: So where can people find Going Indie and everything you do online? John: Well, Going Indie is available online at all good bookshops. It's available at Amazon and anywhere you buy books online as ebook and POD. Our website is wearewhitefox.com, and you'll find information about not just our book there, but a lot of other things that we're doing on that site. Jo: Brilliant. Well, thanks so much for your time, John. That was great. John: Thank you so much, Jo. It's been a pleasure. The post Going Indie, Publishing Innovation, And The Challenges Of Book Marketing With John Bond first appeared on The Creative Penn.

Book Talk for BookTok
House of Flame and Shadow Chapters 5 - 12: Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks

Book Talk for BookTok

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2026 46:45


Dive into our literary analysis of House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas, the long-awaited third novel in the bestselling Crescent City series. In this season, we break down House of Flame and Shadow through an academic lens, using our combined 13 years of literary training to analyze Bryce Quinlan, Hunt Athalar, Ruhn Danaan, Lidia Cervos, and the novel's most pivotal character arcs, relationships, and world-building. We explore Sarah J. Maas's use of symbolism, mythology, foreshadowing, narrative structure, and character development while examining the book's biggest themes—including fate, power, identity, sacrifice, love, and redemption. Whether you're searching for a House of Flame and Shadow recap, Crescent City theories, Sarah J. Maas Easter eggs, Maasverse connections, ACOTAR crossovers, or in-depth literary analysis, this season is your complete companion to one of the most talked-about fantasy books of the year. In this Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks episode, we're sharing listener thoughts, uncovering hidden clues and “breadcrumbs” from House of Flame and Shadow, and diving into fan theories that connect across the Crescent City series and the wider Maas universe. This episode contains spoilers for the full ACOTAR series, Throne of Glass series, and all Sarah J. Maas interviews. 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

Best Friend Book Club
Crown of Midnight Summary

Best Friend Book Club

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2026 60:36


Hi bestie! Join me this week as we deep dive into Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas. This is a chapter by chapter summary that covers everything you need to know so you don't have to reread it!DM me on Instagram @bestfriend.bookclub OR @simplysaratonin and let's chat about it!If you want early access to all the episodes as well as access to the podcast backlog, check out the Patreonpatreon.com/bestfriendbookclubpodcast

Mortal Lands: A Sarah J. Maas Book Club
HoSaB Wrap: "Take Out and Put Out" (CC 2)

Mortal Lands: A Sarah J. Maas Book Club

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2026 83:07


The book club wraps House of Sky and Breath by Sarah J. Maas, book 2 in the Crescent City series, but . . . is it really the beginning of book 6 in the A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) series hitting book stores at midnight on October 27, 2026??? Can we talk for a minute about Hunt Athalar's little trick? What was the pre-Asteri world really like? And, what boundaries does Bryce need to set with Ember Quinlan? Remember, Lorcanis is watching

Flights of Fantasy
S6 : Ep 26 - Maastermind: The Full Collection of ACOTAR Series Connections Across the Maasverse

Flights of Fantasy

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2026 122:45


Welcome to the ultimate Maastermind Compilation! We've gathered every Maastermind segment from our entire ACOTAR: Revisited series into one place, tracing the foreshadowing, Easter eggs, lingering plot threads, hidden connections, and theories Sarah J. Maas has planted throughout all 3 series! ⚠️ MAJOR SPOILER WARNING: This episode contains spoilers for all three Sarah J. Maas series: A Court of Thorns and Roses, Throne of Glass, and Crescent City ✨ Love the show? Make sure you're subscribed so you never miss an episode! Leaving us a rating and review is one of the best ways to support the podcast and help more fantasy romance readers find our book club! ✨Join the Flights of Fantasy community:PatreonWebsiteInstagramTikTokSJM Series Episode Playlists: ACOTAR Throne of Glass Crescent City Maasverse Theory Episodes  Follow along for episode updates, book recommendations, theories, reactions, and all things romantasy! 

Book Talk for BookTok
House of Flame and Shadow Chapters 5 - 12: Bryce and Nesta Enter the Tunnels

Book Talk for BookTok

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2026 107:12


Dive into our literary analysis of House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas, the long-awaited third novel in the bestselling Crescent City series. In this season, we break down House of Flame and Shadow through an academic lens, using our combined 13 years of literary training to analyze Bryce Quinlan, Hunt Athalar, Ruhn Danaan, Lidia Cervos, and the novel's most pivotal character arcs, relationships, and world-building. We explore Sarah J. Maas's use of symbolism, mythology, foreshadowing, narrative structure, and character development while examining the book's biggest themes—including fate, power, identity, sacrifice, love, and redemption. Whether you're searching for a House of Flame and Shadow recap, Crescent City theories, Sarah J. Maas Easter eggs, Maasverse connections, ACOTAR crossovers, or in-depth literary analysis, this season is your complete companion to one of the most talked-about fantasy books of the year. Spoilers: This episode contains full spoilers for House of Earth and Blood, House of Sky and Breath, as well as the entire ACOTAR series (A Court of Thorns and Roses, A Court of Mist and Fury, A Court of Wings and Ruin, Frost and Starlight, and A Court of Silver Flames). Any other books or larger Sarah J. Maas universe theories and connections will be discussed in a separate Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks episode. Chapters Summary: Bryce and Nesta navigate the ancient tunnels beneath the Court of Nightmares. On their trek, they encounter a Middengard Worm and discover mysterious carvings that hint at the history of the Dusk Court. In Midgard, Ithan and company find uneasy refuge with the Viper Queen, where they reunite with Tharion. Lidia tests the honor of Irithys, Queen of the Fire Sprites, and begins recruiting Ruhn's friends to help break Hunt and Ruhn out of the Asteri's dungeons, where the two men and Baxian continue to endure relentless torture. The question we ask ourselves this week: All of our characters are struggling or in terrible situations right now. Out of all of them, which has SJM made us personally sympathize with most? Least? 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

A Court of Fandoms and Exploration - A Podcast.
260: Blood Over Bright Haven: "All. Mages."

A Court of Fandoms and Exploration - A Podcast.

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2026 69:14


ACOFAE Podcast Presents: Blood Over Bright Haven: "All. Mages." Have you seen Rogue One? Excellent. That's the tone of Blood Over Bright Haven, a standalone that has kept ACOFAE thinking and feeling all the emotions. Ugh, so many emotions. Frustration, disbelief, and sheer audacity are some of the ones that come to mind. Sciona Freynan is determined to the the first female high mage in history and she's been single minded about that fact for years. Blind to her environment outside of study, Sciona embarks on a three month journey of discovery and creation that shatters not only her faith in magic, but in society and religion as well. You know how ACOFAE loves that shit. "Not all men, but all mages." TW / CW: addiction, loss of family For additional TW/CW information for your future reads, head to this site for more: https://triggerwarningdatabase.com/ Spoilers: Blood Over Bright Haven Mentions: Star Wars: Rogue One *Thank you for listening to us! Please subscribe and leave a 5-star review and follow us on Instagram at @ACOFAEpodcast and on our TikToks! TikTok: ACOFAELaura : Laura Marie ( https://www.tiktok.com/@acofaelaura) ACOFAEJessica : Jessica Marie (https://www.tiktok.com/@acofaejessica) Instagram: @ACOFAEpodcast https://www.instagram.com/acofaepodcast/ @ACOFAELaura https://www.instagram.com/acofaelaura/

Book Talk for BookTok
House of Flame and Shadow Prologue - Chapter 4: Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks

Book Talk for BookTok

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2026 44:16


Dive into our literary analysis of House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas, the long-awaited third novel in the bestselling Crescent City series. In this season, we break down House of Flame and Shadow through an academic lens, using our combined 13 years of literary training to analyze Bryce Quinlan, Hunt Athalar, Ruhn Danaan, Lidia Cervos, and the novel's most pivotal character arcs, relationships, and world-building. We explore Sarah J. Maas's use of symbolism, mythology, foreshadowing, narrative structure, and character development while examining the book's biggest themes—including fate, power, identity, sacrifice, love, and redemption. Whether you're searching for a House of Flame and Shadow recap, Crescent City theories, Sarah J. Maas Easter eggs, Maasverse connections, ACOTAR crossovers, or in-depth literary analysis, this season is your complete companion to one of the most talked-about fantasy books of the year. In this Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks episode, we're sharing listener thoughts, uncovering hidden clues and “breadcrumbs” from House of Flame and Shadow, and diving into fan theories that connect across the Crescent City series and the wider Maas universe. This episode contains spoilers for the full ACOTAR series, Throne of Glass series, and all Sarah J. Maas interviews. 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

Best Friend Book Club
Throne of Glass Summary

Best Friend Book Club

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2026 66:27


Hi bestie! Join me this week as we deep dive into Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas. This is a chapter by chapter summary that covers everything you need to know so you don't have to reread it!DM me on Instagram @bestfriend.bookclub OR @simplysaratonin and let's chat about it!If you want early access to all the episodes as well as access to the podcast backlog, check out the Patreonpatreon.com/bestfriendbookclubpodcast

Book Talk for BookTok
House of Flame and Shadow Prologue - Chapter 4: Bryce in Prythian

Book Talk for BookTok

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2026 97:55


Dive into our literary analysis of House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas, the long-awaited third novel in the bestselling Crescent City series. In this season, we break down House of Flame and Shadow through an academic lens, using our combined 13 years of literary training to analyze Bryce Quinlan, Hunt Athalar, Ruhn Danaan, Lidia Cervos, and the novel's most pivotal character arcs, relationships, and world-building. We explore Sarah J. Maas's use of symbolism, mythology, foreshadowing, narrative structure, and character development while examining the book's biggest themes—including fate, power, identity, sacrifice, love, and redemption. Whether you're searching for a House of Flame and Shadow recap, Crescent City theories, Sarah J. Maas Easter eggs, Maasverse connections, ACOTAR crossovers, or in-depth literary analysis, this season is your complete companion to one of the most talked-about fantasy books of the year. Spoilers: This episode contains full spoilers for House of Earth and Blood, House of Sky and Breath, as well as the entire ACOTAR series (A Court of Thorns and Roses, A Court of Mist and Fury, A Court of Wings and Ruin, Frost and Starlight, and A Court of Silver Flames). Any other books or larger Sarah J. Maas universe theories and connections will be discussed in a separate Breadcrumbs and Broomsticks episode. Chapters Summary: Bryce Quinlan finds herself imprisoned beneath the Night Court's mountain, mistrustful of the Inner Circle and determined to protect her secrets. In Midgard, the Hind kneels before the Asteri, masters she despises, all the while fooling them of her intentions to destroy them. Tharion fights for the Viper Queen while Ithan struggles to convince his friends that the mer is in need of saving. In the Asteri's dungeons, Hunt, Ruhn, and Baxian find dark humor and unexpected brotherhood, while Ruhn refuses to hear Lidia's truth, choosing pain over understanding. The question we ask ourselves this week: Given the publishing gap between Sky and Breath and Flame and Shadow, do these opening chapters sufficiently reorient us to where we are at in the Crescent City series? How does what the opening achieves differ from fan expectations prior to the book's publication? 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

A Court of Fandoms and Exploration - A Podcast.
259: Blood Like Fate: "Not all men, ALWAYS a man."

A Court of Fandoms and Exploration - A Podcast.

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2026 53:57


ACOFAE Podcast Presents: Blood like Fate: "Not all men, ALWAYS a man." ACOFAE is back with the sequel to an earlier 2026 read, making it twice so far this year Laura Marie and Jessica Marie just needed to know what happened! Blood like Fate, the sequel to Blood like Magic, picks up 6 months after the first book ended. Voya is the matriarch and is hitting roadblocks from all angles. Her family does support her, the "community" doesn't respect her, and oh she's given a vision where witches are dying from a hacked gene! She has a lot going on. Throw in a couple of revenge plots and a slight murder mystery and you've got the jammed back sequel and conclusion, so far, to Voya and her journey to break generation curses. "Take your revenge more seriously." TW / CW: addiction, loss of family For additional TW/CW information for your future reads, head to this site for more: https://triggerwarningdatabase.com/ Spoilers: Blood Like Magic, Blood Like Fate Mentions: *Thank you for listening to us! Please subscribe and leave a 5-star review and follow us on Instagram at @ACOFAEpodcast and on our TikToks! TikTok: ACOFAELaura : Laura Marie ( https://www.tiktok.com/@acofaelaura) ACOFAEJessica : Jessica Marie (https://www.tiktok.com/@acofaejessica) Instagram: @ACOFAEpodcast https://www.instagram.com/acofaepodcast/ @ACOFAELaura https://www.instagram.com/acofaelaura/

Maas-ive Fans Book Club
CC: HOSAB Ep. 15, Ch. 61-64: We're just living for the side characters at this point...

Maas-ive Fans Book Club

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2026 153:01


Welcome to Season 6, Episode 15, covering Chapters 61-64 of "Crescent City, House of Sky and Breath”  by Sarah J. Maas. As always, this show is NOT for little ears and contains potential triggers due to the nature of the chapter topics. For more info about your hosts, or to reach out to us with your fan-cast and playlist suggestions, you can follow us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/MaasiveFansBookClubandPodcast), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/maasivefanspodcast/), or email maasivefanspodcast@gmail.comJoin the Maas-ive Fans Book Club Discord Server here: https://discord.gg/sNCfaBvutc Read Kelsey's fan fic on Wattpad here: https://www.wattpad.com/user/kelseyreadnwrite