Podcasts about strong female characters

Send us Fan MailRites of the Starling, Rites of the Starling, Rites of the Starling…if you say it three times, does The Guardian appear?

From three Spider-Man films to Mean Girls, Mare of Easttown, and now leading the rom-com Finding Emily, Angourie Rice has been one of the most quietly compelling actresses of her generation. And she has been doing it since she was six years old. In this chat with Josh, Angourie opens up about what it's really like being a child actor, navigating a world of adults as a child, and the people-pleasing that made it hard to stand up for herself. She talks candidly about body image and costume fittings, why comparison is something she still struggles with and the incredible advice that helped her overcome it.  Angourie also gets into what genuinely frustrates her about the way women are written on screen, why the phrase "strong female character" needs to be retired, and why the responsibility for women's safety shouldn't fall on women. Plus, she tells the story of her grade seven boyfriend ditching her for laser tag, reveals her karaoke go-to, and shares what she learned about British university culture filming in Manchester. 

Send us Fan MailRemember two years ago (almost to the day!) when this new dragon book came onto the Romantasy scene called When The Moon Hatched, we voted for it as a Besties & the Book Club read (going in completely blind), and it took us all by storm?! Well, we do! We're here today to officially deep dive When the Moon Hatched by the amazing Sarah A. Parker to finally do one of our favorite dragon books of all time justice. Hey… it might even be our most favorite dragon book to date. Just sayin'… The world building is insane, the magic system complex, the writing immaculate, and the CHARACTERS?! Don't even get us started on Raeve and Kaan… they are unmatched.However, we understand that this isn't necessarily a book that everyone can digest easily. This was a reread for both of us and as we took notes, looked over the index, and mapped this episode out for you it became increasingly clear exactly how much vital info. we missed the first time. So today is all about recapping, talking our faves and fails dragon edition, sharing lore, speculations, and Easter eggs with you in preparation of the release of book two in the Moonfall Series: The Ballad of Falling Dragons out on May 19th!If you've already read it and you need a refresher, we hope this helps! If you're new to Moonfall and you want our spoiler free reviews at the top of the episode, we've got you! And don't forget to jump into our free Fable book club chat for When the Moon Hatched (book two coming soon!) if you need to debrief and check out our initial reactions to book one at the beginning of episode 11! YES, ELEVEN. Linked below. Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Shop our Merch line | *  https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.comCheck out these narrator interviews? ⬇️Anthony Palmini gives us the lowdown on what it's like to voice act Rhysand, Kingfisher, AND Slade Ravinger! https://youtu.be/zcCyrlZ5Jcc?si=2k7ULbRPgZl_5pUJCheck out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbWe interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4____Shop Bookish Merch we are wearing:Ashley is wearing a Fly or Die Dragon T-shirt from @CaffeineandCurses | https://caffeineandcurses.comLiz is wearing “I'm a Book Dragon” Clash of Tides tee from the Author Alivia Maar @livesbookshelf (gifted in PR)Any link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commission to us with no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping support our podcast!Support the showYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

Send us Fan MailDid you read The Hunger Games or Divergent and love it with your whole heart but want more adult romance… or maybe even some fantasy? Do you love dystopian shows like The Walking Dead and Fallout but wish the entire time for those main characters to just kiss already!? We know we're not alone in this, and we know that Above the Ashes by K.M. Lister, book one in her Survivors of the Smoke series, will scratch that itch.Today's episode is our follow up deep dive into this dystopian romantasy after our spoiler free author interview! We talk about all things post-apocalyptic and dystopian with one of our favorite indie authors, get to know her story and inspiration, and discuss themes, sequels, characters, and even some fun announcements. So today we're diving into ALL the spoilers, giving our five sentence summary and reviews, and basically convincing you all to read this book!Above the Ashes has multi-pov, found family, hidden identity, witches, fae, a curse, multiple realms, a slowww burn, and all the amazing world building we expect from the first fantasy book in a series! It leaves us with an amazing cliffhanger and the promise that book two will take us to other realms and expand this dystopian hellscape in the most unique ways. And we cannot wait! Stick around for all this, a fave and fail Disney cruise and upcoming reads edition, and a smash or pass with a really big lumberjack selling paper products, and a classic tiger from a childhood classic.Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Shop our Merch line | *  https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.comCheck out our interview with K M Lister ⬇️https://youtu.be/lgcGfz_NxXY?si=mBNyhs1l8FCC6OS8Check out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbCheck the official Follow Up Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of the Split or Swallow Universe all about Between Two Kings! https://youtu.be/OW1cxXTVcTc?si=oOxVIzbIheET_bNE____Shop Bookish Merch we are wearing:Ashley is wearing: Besties and the Books merch and a custom jersey made by Etsy account: @CustomJerseyGoodLiz is wearing :  A “Books are Trashy” tank by @darkanddisturbedshop | https://darkanddisturbedshop.com/products/trashy-micro-rib-racer-tank-top?_pos=3&_sid=eccd2768a&_ss=r | Code: VEGAN10Any link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commission to us with no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping support our podcast!Support the showYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

Send us Fan MailLet's travel back to Oz in this West of Wicked Book! The day we've been waiting for since we started this podcast has come… the day when one of our favorite authors of all time's people pop into OUR inbox to talk with our people (just us) for some crazy reason and invite us to yap about her new book. After we passed away, revived ourselves, and regained composure we immediately sent an email back to let them know that yes… we'd love to have NIKKI ST. CROWE on to promote West of Wicked! Today we're completely fangirling over chatting with originally indie published and now trad published queen of spicy Romantasy reimaginings Nikki St.Crowe! We're here to celebrate her newly released spicy Oz retelling: West of Wicked, book one in The Great and Terrible Land Series!  Think: Oz but Dorothy is badass, there are four witches, and the tinman, scarecrow, lion, and wizard are hot AF… You know, just exactly what all of us fairytale girlies have been fantasizing about our entire lives. Today's episode will be completely spoiler free, so stick around to get to know Nikki better and to find out what you'll be getting into when you pick up West of Wicked, or any of her other spicy fairytales, like her Vicious Lost Boys Series which begins with The Never King. We talk about what inspires her, how the transition from indie to trad publishing has been, themes, strong female characters, her audiobooks being unmatched in the romance genre, and what she has planned for the future.Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for making this possible. Follow Nikki on Instagram for the latest updates https://www.instagram.com/nikkistcrowe?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==Get your copy of West of Wicked today! https://go.magik.ly/ml/3pvxs/Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Check out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbCheck the official Follow Up Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of the Split or Swallow Universe all about Between Two Kings! https://youtu.be/OW1cxXTVcTc?si=oOxVIzbIheET_bNE____Shop Bookish Merch we are wearing:Ashley is wearing a Wicked OZ shirt from @TrendyStreetCouture but no longer makes this t-shirtLiz is wearing our Besties and the Books Cropped hoodie from our Merch Drop | * https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.com/en-usd/products/cropped-hoodie-besties-anti-social-crowAny link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commission to us with no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping support our podcast!Support the showYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

Send us Fan MailYou've heard us scream her praises over and over for the last two years and finally… She's here with a new book and big news to spill! K.M. Lister, the author behind one of our very favorite Romantasy rip-your-heart-out one offs The Shackled Serpent is here to chat with us about her newest release Above the Ashes, a post apocalyptic Romantasy and book one in her Survivors of the Smoke Trilogy. So sit back, get those book orders in, and prep to read with this spoiler free look behind the curtain!Above the Ashes is a dystopian post apocalyptic story about an FMC who cannot touch any living thing without turning it to ash. We have different realms, found family, a perfectly written slow burn, and a bleak landscape inspired by dystopian settings. Think: Fallout, but in K.M.'s version we might get some romance, a magic system, and some compelling world building with our horrific curse-riddled hellscape! We know you all will eat this up just like we did! We know that K.M. is an absolute master at making us feel ALL the feelings, and we can't wait for you all to jump on this bandwagon. We talk about the writing process, self publishing pros and cons, additional works coming down the pipeline, character inspo, deep themes, and drop two BIG pieces of news. One is disguised as a smash or pass, and the other is an exciting announcement you'll hear here first! Follow K M Lister on Instagram @EarthToKace  | https://www.instagram.com/earthtokace?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Shop our Merch line | *  https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.comCheck out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbCheck the official Follow Up Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of the Split or Swallow Universe all about Between Two Kings! https://youtu.be/OW1cxXTVcTc?si=oOxVIzbIheET_bNE____Shop Bookish Merch we are wearing:Ashley is wearing:  a Twilight Vintage style t-shirt from LambComedy | * https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT9JWeP68q2yk-I0EzA/ Liz is wearing :  our Besties and the Books branded Cropped Hoodie | * https://besties-and-the-Finding Fantasy ReadsFully narrated fantasy stories to help you find your next favorite fantasy author!Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

Send us Fan MailToday we're taking a deep dive right into book five in The Plated Prisoner Series by Raven Kennedy: Gold. This is the book in the series where the tone completely changes, our main characters are forced to evolve individually,while “side” characters get their legs, and breaking generational curses, healing trauma, and revolution are at the forefront. It's the setup for the epic conclusion, and definitely reads as a “part one…” so how do we feel about that? We give you our spoiler free star and spice ratings and faves and fails, then dive into the five sentence summary (multi POV style), the tea on the audiobook and all our unfiltered thoughts, and then discuss themes, quotes, and why this book might be more difficult for some but is absolutely necessary to build character arcs, and pivotal overall to the series. Did we find Easter eggs? (Yes. Liz found two

Send us Fan MailWell, we finally read our first Jane Austen Novel… and OF COURSE it had to be Pride and Prejudice! We needed to know what the hype was about, and why this book is such a pivotal piece of the romance canon. What is that hand flex all about??!!Welcome to our newest bonus series where we're taking deep dives into some of the most beloved classics of our time. We kicked it off with Wuthering Heights, and today we're moving on to our Jane Austen journey with a cutie little crash course into Pride and Prejudice.We decided that rather than attempt to become overnight experts we would phone a friend! And today Sarah @sarahsliteraryworld is here to give us a little help with Pride and Prejudice as first time readers and helps provide us with the tips and tricks we need to really understand this novel. Sarah breaks down the Bennett family dynamics, the setting and timeline, gives us some background on Jane Austen herself, outlines central themes, and gives us all her advice on how to truly immerse yourself in this story. We hope that you enjoy this bonus mini episode, and will join us for our future deep dive into the novel and movies! And don't forget to go follow @Sarahsliteraryworld | https://www.instagram.com/sarahsliteraryworld/ for some more amazing bookish content! Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Shop our Merch line | *  https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.comCheck out these narrator interviews? ⬇️Anthony Palmini gives us the lowdown on what it's like to voice act Rhysand, Kingfisher, AND Slade Ravinger! https://youtu.be/zcCyrlZ5Jcc?si=2k7ULbRPgZl_5pUJCheck out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbWe interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4Check the official Follow Up Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of the Split or Swallow Universe all about Between Two Kings! https://youtu.be/OW1cxXTVcTc?si=oOxVIzbIheET_bNE____Shop Bookish Merch we are wearing:Ashley is wearing our merch:  Black Crop Besties Hoodie Liz is wearing our merch:  Grey Full Zip Besties HoodieShop the collection: https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.comAny link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commission to us with no exSupport the showYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

Send a textWhat's it like going to a bookcon? What are some tips and tricks we have to make the most of your romantasycon experience? We'll tell ya! At the beginning of this year we set some podcast goals for 2026 and shared them with you all… and just a week later we were invited to join Fabled Fantasy Events for their 2026 Romantasycon event in LA as media partners! To go to a bookcon in a professional capacity was an absolute dream come true, and a way for us to really see that this is just the beginning! Because of you and all the amazing people we've met in the book world, we hope to do many more events in the future. So THANK YOU for listening. Without our Crow Cult we'd just be two silly ladies yappin' about books… with you, we get to be a MURDER of crows yappin' about books.

Send a textToday we're taking a DEEP dive right into book four in The Plated Prisoner Series by Raven Kennedy: Glow. What happens after the FMC realizes her power and lets her feminine rage free? And how does our MMC navigate that? This book is all about that transition… but just when we thought we could relax a little we're thrown another major curveball and the rug is pulled out from under us (and every character) once again.

#428 Half a Melted KitKat - Richard reveals that he is (according to the press) boycotting the Edinburgh Fringe, but that doesn't mean the end of podcasts from the Festival necessarily. His guest is Taskmaster songstress and sausage painter, Fern Brady. They mainly talk about her remarkable new book Strong Female Character, detailing her life, career and discovery that she is autistic, how the media is weighted against the working class, how TV fails to depict the truth about strip clubs, how comedy was a world where she suddenly fitted in, why Taskmaster was a TV show where she also fitted in, why would anyone get married, unsettling Alex Horn and are your relatives coming back in bird form?Buy Fern's book - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Audible-Strong-Female-Character/dp/B0BJ2SXTQF/Come and see us live http://richardherring.com/rhlstpSUPPORT THE SHOW!See details of the RHLSTP LIVE DATES Watch our TWITCH CHANNELBecome a badger and see extra content at our WEBSITE Buy DVDs and books from GO FASTER STRIPE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

No longer the damsels in distress waiting in the castle to be rescued, women and girls in geek culture have grown strong, independent, and, frankly, bad-ass over the years, and we love them all the more for it.Whether Princess Peach is powerhousing through koopas, Donna Noble is sparring brilliantly with both Doctor and Dalek, or Molly Weasley is making Chuck Norris eat his vegetables, each has uniquely feminine traits stronger than any man!Today's root beer is Slice.Intro and Outro music by Stockmusic331 on Pond5Send a text

Send a textToday is for the real MVPs. Just when you thought things over here at Besties and the Books Podcast couldn't get any weirder… may we present to you our 100th episode filmed from our hotel room at Romantasycon Los Angeles 2026, slumber party style! We'll be bringing you a full recap video of RomantasyCon Bookcon in all of its glory, but before then, please enjoy this “after dark” gardening

Send a textFamous last words: “We can cover Wuthering Heights in one episode. It'll be fine.”

Send a textToday we're diving right into book three in The Plated Prisoner Series by Raven Kennedy: Gleam. This book has one of the most satisfying character arcs we've ever read, culminating in an ending we never saw coming. If you enjoy a good feminine rage story, prepare yourself to experience one of the most impactful instances of that trope in any Romantasy we've read to date! We give you our spoiler free star and spice ratings and faves and fails, then dive into the five sentence summary, the tea on the audiobook and all our unfiltered thoughts, and then discuss why and how fantasy books can help us process hard things and inspire us to believe in our inner strength and ability to grow into the powerful beings we're meant to be. Did we find Easter eggs? Do we have unanswered questions? What about plot holes? Are we excited to read the next one? We dive into all this and more, plus a fave and fail about Wuthering Heights, Lord of the Rings, and Molly Moonplume.Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Shop our Merch line | *  https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.comCheck out these narrator interviews? ⬇️Anthony Palmini gives us the lowdown on what it's like to voice act Rhysand, Kingfisher, AND Slade Ravinger! https://youtu.be/zcCyrlZ5Jcc?si=2k7ULbRPgZl_5pUJCheck out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbWe interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4Check the official Follow Up Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of the Split or Swallow Universe all about Between Two Kings! https://youtu.be/OW1cxXTVcTc?si=oOxVIzbIheET_bNE____Shop Bookish Merch we are wearing:Ashley is wearing: The Last Bookstore sweater from @TheLastBookstore in LALiz is wearing :  A Feminine Rage Crewneck by @darkanddisturbedshop | Code: VEGAN10 | https://darkanddisturbedshop.com/products/rage-crewneck?_pos=2&_sid=221487d37&_ss=rAny link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commission to us with no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping support our podcast!Support the showYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

Send a textWe're fantasy readers! You can get us to believe anything! Almost… Today we're unpacking all those things in fantasy and romance books that have us thinking…

Send a textHave you officially jumped on the Wuthering Heights bandwagon yet? If you're anything like us, reading this classic novel by Emily Brontë for the first time, you may find yourself thinking “WTF!?” on every other page, confused about the point of view, the narrator, the timelines, and the ghosts…? And we get it! So do not fret; we've got you! Welcome to our newest bonus series where we're taking deep dives into some of the most beloved classics of our time, kicking it off with Wuthering Heights! We're just in time for the new and controversial movie written and directed by Emerald Fennell… starring Margo Robbie and Jacob Elordi and marketed as “the greatest love story of all time.”

Send a textToday we're diving right into book two in The Plated Prisoner Series by Raven Kennedy: Glint. This book is the perfect journey story (both literal and figurative), and follow up to the polarizing book one. If you weren't hooked by the end of Gild, we hope you're hooked now, because these books have A LOT of important things to say. We give you our spoiler free star and spice ratings and faves and fails, then dive into the five sentence summary, the tea on the audiobook and all our unfiltered thoughts, and then discuss why and how fantasy books can help us process hard things like abuse and trauma in a safe, neutral space. And why Romantasy (and in particular Raven Kennedy) does that so well. Did we find Easter eggs? Do we have unanswered questions? What about plot holes? Are we excited to read the next one? We dive into all this and more, plus a smash or pass with our favorite treasure hoarder, and a luchador with a heart of gold. Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Shop our Merch line | *  https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.comCheck out these narrator interviews? ⬇️Anthony Palmini gives us the lowdown on what it's like to voice act Rhysand, Kingfisher, AND Slade Ravinger! https://youtu.be/zcCyrlZ5Jcc?si=2k7ULbRPgZl_5pUJCheck out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbWe interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4Check the official Follow Up Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of the Split or Swallow Universe all about Between Two Kings! https://youtu.be/OW1cxXTVcTc?si=oOxVIzbIheET_bNE____Shop Bookish Merch we are wearing!Ashley is wearing: Tye Dye Skeleton Hoodie | * https://go.magik.ly/ml/3hgv9/Liz is wearing :  Our Crop Besties & the Books Anti Social Book Club Hoodie | * https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.com/en-usd/products/cropped-hoodie-besties-anti-social-crowAny link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commission to us with no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping support our podcast!Support the showYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

Send us a textOur 2025 Reading Wrap Up 2.0 is here in all of its spoiler free glory! We're giving you our one sentence star and spice rating for every book we read from July to December of last year, so get your pad and pencil out to add to your TBR… or to cross some things off… depending on how you look at it. We're bringing you over 100 book reviews and then going over our yearly bookish goal recap from 2025 and reset for 2026.First and foremost, we want to thank each and every one of you for coming along with us on this amazing podcast journey. As we go over our bookish goals of 2025, we realize that we were able to cross SO MANY off the list because of you, like interviewing dream authors, reaching 1k on YouTube, and doing four bonus series! We've already accomplished one big one of 2026: moderating author panels at RomantasyCon! We hope to meet even more of our reading and podcast goals this year so we can continue bringing you fun content, and we know we will because of our book besties.

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

Send us a textJust in case you haven't heard… our first full length deep dive series for 2026 is none other than THE Plated Prisoner by Raven Kennedy! Today we're kicking off this (at least) six-book, and seven-part journey with book one: Gild.We know that this series can be triggering, controversial, or even so slow to start (for some

Send us a textWe're baaaaAAAk! And we're bringing you a very special episode to kick off the new year! Something we've never done in a standalone episode before… it's a book versus movie showdown with a deep dive into The Housemaid by Freida McFadden and a comparison deep dive into the 2025 movie adaptation starring Amanda Seyfried and Sydney Sweeney. Which was better the book or the movie?Thrillers are a genre that we historically haven't covered much here on the podcast, but the hype surrounding this story encouraged us to go down the rabbit hole… and boy howdy a new type of episode was born. We give you the five sentence summary with a "Did that happen in the movie?!” twist, and an on the spot “Which was better?” We give star and spice ratings for both (spoiler free!) and then go over the tropes, reviews, the characters, and our favorite book vs. movie moments.Do we understand the hype and fandom surrounding The Housemaid after doing the research? Are we reading more Freida McFadden books? And do we have unanswered questions… that only sequels can answer? Stick around for our yap sesh all about fem rage and what we hope movies like his can do for the film industry as a whole. But not before a new year's goal fave and fail and a smash or pass with a follow up and a… punk rock turtle? Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Shop our Merch line | *  https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.comCheck out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbWe interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4Check the official Follow Up Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of the Split or Swallow Universe all about Between Two Kings! https://youtu.be/OW1cxXTVcTc?si=oOxVIzbIheET_bNE____Shop Bookish Merch we are wearing:Ashley is wearing: A Kejari embroidered sweater from @TheBeanWorkshop (use our affiliate code “BOOKBESTIES10”)  | * https://www.thebeanworkshop.store/BOOKBESTIES10 Liz is wearing : Our Besties And The BooSpeculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut NovelMost writing podcasts just inspire. This one teaches the craft skills that hook readers.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

Send us a textIt's the most wonderful time… of the year? Happy Holidays from us to you! We hope you're surviving the chaos, insanity, and general family drama. So in true Besties & the Books fashion, we're here to bring you some distraction and laughs to help carry you through the madness, and to remind you that you're not alone… because “It's Christmas and we're all in misery!” (As the famous Clark Griswold would say.)In our last episode of the year, we've got everything from stripper discrimination, college-level microwave mac and cheese Christmas dinner, and DIY gift complaints… to the classics like absentee fathers, unconventional food choices… and headwear requests? Come with us on this journey to determine who the holiday a holes really are. Plus, we start with a fave and fail Christmas treat edition, give some holiday book recommendations, and end on a high note with a classical unhinged smash or pass.Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Shop our Merch line | * https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.comCheck out these author interviews? ⬇️Need more Halloween reads in your life? Find out if “Halloweentown for adults” with Gilmore Girls vibes might be for you with our Haven Ever After Hazel Mack Interview! https://youtu.be/-kDxchCTysw?si=KpEbcsCHAniU-JTSPenn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbWe interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4Check the official Follow Up Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of the Split or Swallow Universe all about Between Two Kings! https://youtu.be/OW1cxXTVcTc?si=oOxVIzbIheET_bNE____Shop Bookish Merch we are wearing:Ashley is wearing: A Velaris T-shirt from @TheBeanWorkshop (use our affiliate code “BOOKBESTIES10”)  | * https://www.thebeanworkshop.store/BOOKBESTIES10 Liz is wearing : “The Season” Crewneck by @darkanddisturbedshop (use our affiliate code “VEGAN10”) | https://darkanddisturbedshop.com/products/the-season-crewneckWe are both wearing a 2 PACK of ridiculous Santa hats from @ Amazon | * https://amzn.to/3MR6janAny link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commission to us with no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping support our podcast!Support the showYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

Send us a textToday we FINISH our coverage of the entire Wicked universe and close our bonus “Are Books Political” series! And is Wicked Worth Reading?Wicked: For Good has officially been out for three weeks, and we are ready to yap about it with all of you. Which is better? The movies? The book series? Or the Broadway musical? We rank everything in the universe, give you our number one overall pick, and talk about all of the movie moments we thought were faves, and the ones that were fails.We discuss the completely different ending the books take and how that choice truly changed the tone of the entire story, if we have unanswered questions or “hot takes,” and if we think there's more to come. If you've stuck around this long, enjoy a special treat at the end of the episode where we spill the beans on our next bonus series coming in February of 2026! We'll give you two hints… Margo Robbie and Jacob Elordi may have inspired our choices.

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

Send us a textLiterally what in the actual heck is this episode? It's all of us having a great time at the water cooler of the future, that's what! Thank you so much to everyone who submitted unhinged bookish (and random!) questions for us to answer. It was truly a blast, and we hope you got to know us a little bit better. We got to know ourselves better, that's for sure!

Send us a textThis episode is chalk full of all the magical things we hope to receive this holiday season, including but not limited to: revenge on abusive fiances via honeyed ham cleaver, several foot long Krampus tongues, monster cages, Christmas tree farms, skiing sessions, and double penetration involving a college hottie and his… step dad?

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

Send us a textIt's that time again, where we ask and answer “Am I The A Hole” but this time its Thanksgiving Reddit Stories! In yet another installation of our fan fave series “Am I the A hole?!” holiday edition, we're tackling Thanksgiving Day and all the completely unhinged problems that arise when friends and family get together to “give thanks.” And then as a bonus, we're sharing our most favorite fall book recommendations and some hopefuls! If nothing else, we hope that listening to other peoples' holiday family drama can help you relax and laugh amidst the chaos, and remind all of us that we're not the only weird ones with crazy families. In short… you are not alone.

Send us a textIn this thought-provoking episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we are joined by author Rodney Phillips, who delves into the complexities of human conflict and communication through his debut novel, "Dissension: A Disagreement that Leads to Discord." Rodney shares his journey from writing his book in childhood to its recent publication, discussing the powerful themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the moral dilemmas faced by his characters. Set against the backdrop of rival drug cartels, the story follows a young woman caught in the crossfire, highlighting the importance of communication amidst chaos. Rodney reflects on his experiences coaching youth sports and how they influenced his writing, emphasizing the significance of teamwork and resilience. Join us for an engaging conversation that inspires listeners to pursue their dreams, no matter how long they may be on hold. Discover more about Rodney and his work at www.rodneyphillipsauthor.com and get ready for his upcoming sequel!

Send us a textToday we're bringing you our reviews and unhinged deeeep dives on two of the most “cringy” sounding Thanksgiving themed romance novellas we could find on Kindle Unlimited. As we continue this time honored tradition of bringing you the holiday smut, we want you to know that even if we don't love it (but hey, we might though…) we're happy if you do. Because there truly is something for everyone, even if that something is three turkey basters with the capability to impregnate you with their… juices.

Send us a textToday we continue our coverage of the Wicked 5-book universe by Gregory Maguire with book two: Son of a Witch! We're diving into political fantasy like we never have before, just in time to watch Wicked for Good with all of you! Check out our kickoff  “Are Books Political" episode all about why books and reading are inherently political and why it's not only important to acknowledge this, but to read our favorite books through this lens. We concluded during our subsequent deep dive of Wicked (book one) that Maguire intentionally uses the fantastical to expertly critique issues like authoritarianism, colonialism, and racism, just to name a few.In this episode we dive into book two: Son of a Witch, released ten years after Wicked, which follows the life of Liir, protege and possible son of Elphaba as he grapples with what it means to be a soldier, a “man,” a human, and a possible rebel and military deserter. Who were our favorite and least favorite characters and plot points? Was this book what we expected?  Do we think these books can be separated from politics just because they're fantasy?  What philosophical questions are posed? And what literary devices does Maguire use to critique government structures like the military industrial complex, and the ensuing “isms?”Fantasy stories can be so much more than surface level storytelling, and often are. We're here to discover why! Listen on for our reviews of book two, our deep dive reactions with five sentence summary, and fun facts about the book that started the Wicked phenomena! Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Shop our Merch line | https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.comCheck out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbWe interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4Check the official Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of Split or Swallow! Now a Barnes & Noble & AmThe Podcast Inside Your HouseWeird Horror. Created by Kevin Schrock and Annie Marie Morgan. Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify You've Got to Be Critting MeMagic, mayhem, and moral dilemmas, an actual play with heart and hilarity!Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

Send us a textIt's that time of year again! Time to react to AITA Halloween Stories, time to put on our special surprise wigs, try not to laugh at literally everything we say, and give you guys the spoiler free Halloween rundown! We've got a spooky season fave and fail including a holiday meet cute, and the official Scream House, a smash or pass (fictional) serial killer / monster edition, and a whole lot of hilarious Am I the A Hole scenarios with one thing in common: Halloween. Are they justified for their outburst at being bested at a halloween costume contest by A DOG?! Is she the a hole for not telling her “super vegan” neighbor she was eating gelatin candy until it was too late? What about childhood trauma about a mom dressing up her daughter as… you guessed it… a HOTDOG?! We bring you all of these, and more, plus our seasonal book recommendations and fall hopefuls on our neverending TBR lists. See you there, ghouls!

Send us a textToday we begin our coverage of the Wicked 5-book universe by Gregory Maguire. We're diving into political fantasy like we never have before, just in time to watch Wicked for Good with all of you! Check out our latest Tuesday full length episode https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1Z1NeJej2k all about why books and reading are inherently political, why it's not only important to acknowledge this, but to read our favorite books through this lens, and how Maguire uses the fantastical to expertly critique issues like authoritarianism, colonialism, and racism. We also provide a bit of context by discussing what political happenings were taking place when Wicked was written, and what influences the Wizard of Oz and L. Frank Baum may have had on this more current work. In this episode we dive into book one: Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West in which we experience the hostile takeover of Oz by the Wizard, a fascist dictator, through the eyes of Elphaba, the flawed and ultimately the unfortunate martyr to the resistance. Who were our favorite and least favorite characters and plot points? Do we think these books can be separated from politics just because they're fantasy?  What philosophical questions are posed? And what literary devices does Maguire use to critique government structures and the ensuing “isms?”Fantasy tales can be so much more than surface level storytelling, and often are. We're here to discover why! Listen on for our reviews of book one, our deep dive reactions, and fun facts about the book that started the Wicked phenomena!WICKED Movie 1 VS Book? | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nqvJvfaD61A Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Shop our Merch line | https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.comCheck out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbWe interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4Check the official Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of Split or Swallow! Now a Barnes & Noble & Amazon best seller titled: Kiss of the Basilisk!  https://youtu.be/fknhocSNIKM____Shop bookish apparel worn in this episode!Ashley and Liz are both wearing Wicked The Musical Tees from Broadway | https://wickedthemusicalstore.com/collections/apparelAny link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commission to us with no extra cost to you. Thank you for helpinSupport the showYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

Send us a textToday we're bringing you a deep dive follow up to a very exciting and mostly spoiler free author interview episode with Hazel Mack all about the monster romcom series that stole our hearts: Haven Ever After! We'll be discussing all NINE books that complete this lighthearted happily ever after series including eight full length books, and one short novella. This series has every type of monster - gargoyles to vampires, witches to werewolves, and everyone in between… and they are ALL falling in love. Single dad, sports romance, enemies to lovers, fated mates, second chance romance, and he falls first are just some of the tropes we love. And don't worry… every book is at least a 3-4 on the spice scale, despite the Gilmore Girls vibes.

Send us a textWe blinked and it's suddenly spooky season again… and don't you know we are not complaining about it! The leaves are turning, Home Depot skeletons are gracing the front lawns of every neighborhood in suburban America, and pumpkin cold foam is the highlight of our crisp mornings. It. Has. Begun. And for us fall girlies, that's all we want in this life. Well, that and some good old Halloween peens.

Send us a textToday we have a very exciting and mostly spoiler free author interview episode for you! We're chatting with independently published monster romcom, paranormal romance author Hazel Mack to celebrate the spooky season and to get us all in the Halloween mood! We'll be discussing all things Haven Ever After, the monster romance series that unexpectedly got us into the genre with book 1: Getting it on With Gargoyles, and it's the series we describe as “Halloweentown for adults” that we've been screaming at everyone to read!Hazel is the self published author of the lighthearted “Gilmore Girls-ish” monster rom com series Haven Ever After, and also writes omegaverse and dark shifter paranormal romance under the name Anna Fury. She's a North Carolina native, fluent in snark and sarcasm, tiki decor, and is a phallic plant aficionado. She writes any time she has a free moment because the voices in her head wait for no one! When she's not writing, Hazel loves to hike, bike, and spend time with her Mr. Right, seven year old tornado, and two lovely pit bulls. Stick around for an author fave and fail; find out what spicy monster love story shenanigans you'll be getting into when you pick up any of the Haven Ever After Series, what other new series is on the horizon, who Hazel would smash or pass, and get to know the author behind the story! Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Shop the Haven Ever After Series | * https://amzn.to/4gXbT5V  Check out on Instagram:Hazel Mack | https://www.instagram.com/hazelmackauthor?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==Anna Fury | https://www.instagram.com/annafuryauthor?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==Check out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbWe interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4____Shop Bookish Merch we are wearing:Ashley is wearing a Vintage Style Hocus Pocus Bleached T-Shirt @ Etsy — https://go.magik.ly/ml/38n8u/Liz is wearing our Besties and The Books Zip Hoodie | https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.com Any link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commission to us with no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping support our podcast!Support the showYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

Send us a textToday we're officially wrapping up and ranking everything in our latest coming of age miniseries covering the Anne of Green Gables 8-book collection by L.M. Montgomery, and the classic movie adaptations! And… announcing the POP-u-lar book series we'll be covering for the fall.

Send us a textDo you have any bookish confessions that you've been holding inside, waiting for the opportunity to share with a nonjudgemental group of silly girls just here for a good time? Skeletons in your closet… bookish habits that keep you up at night…things you could never tell to your own inner circle? Well, we're here for you. You are not alone! Not only do we share our own biggest bookish confessions, we also make some up about iconic book characters for you (and each other) to guess, and then react to several that we dug up from the depths of reddit and threads. Have you ever not read the last page of a book because you loved it so much that you didn't want it to end? Bought the e-book copy when you already own the physical? Do you rate things on Goodreads based on what others might think or say? Have you ever buried a book? Yes.. you read that right. Buried. Nothing is off the table when we're discussing your deepest, darkest bookish secrets.We're bringing you all of this, a fave and fail vacation edition, and a smash or pass with some rocks and a plane.SHOP OUR NEW BESTIES and the BOOKS X CROW Merch! | * https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.comDon't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Check out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbWe interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4Check the official Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of Split or Swallow! Now a Barnes & Noble & Amazon best seller titled: Kiss of the Basilisk!  https://youtu.be/fknhocSNIKMNeed more ACOTAR in your life? Cook your way through Velaris with the help of Chelsea Cole and her cookbook A Feast of Thorns & Roses. Check out our author interview here! https://youtu.be/fjzmqd-x3OA?si=kNJ4D9cxvUjhp-Ik____Ashley is Wearing: “Undead Readers Book Club” tee from @bookbabedesigns | https://bookbabedesigns.comLiz is Wearing: “I'm a Hoa Hoa Hoa” Crop tee from @shadowboundspines | https://shadowboundspines.com/products/im-a-hoa-hoa-hoa-organic-rib-baby-teeAny link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commission to us with no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping support our podcast!Support the showYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

Send us a textToday we're wrapping up our deep dive videos for our newest miniseries covering the Anne of Green Gables 8-book collection by L.M. Montgomery. Anne is now a mother of six, navigating a reality in which herself, her husband, and all of her children exist in World War One Canada. What does this mean for the country, the world, and more specifically, the Blythe family and the small community they live in? We're here to give you the “411” on these lesser-read books in this series, and answer the question of whether or not they're worth the read.In this episode we dive into books seven and eight: Rainbow Valley and Rilla of Ingleside - we've moved past the well-known perspective of Anne Shirley and are now seeing the world through the eyes of her children, and more specifically, her youngest daughter Rilla. What do we think about the differences, and how do we currently feel about the focus slowly shifting away from Anne and predominantly onto her daughter? Who were our favorite and least favorite characters and plot points? Do we think these books carry on the feminist legacy of the more popular installations, and how did we feel about reading a “war book?”Check out our kickoff episode all about what the Bildungsroman is, why women and girl's stories are so important for everyone to read, and how Montgomery expertly uses this book series to critique social and political issues of the early 1900's, with an emphasis on women's roles in society. We also provide a bit of context by discussing Montgomery's life, and the political climate in Canada when this story takes place. Coming of age tales can be so much more than simple children's books. We're here to discover why! Listen on for our reviews of the final books: seven and eight, our deep dive reactions, and important things we learned about history because of this book. Like where daylight savings time comes from, where the draft is legal, and why several pages of Rilla of Ingleside were redacted until 2010.And stick around for next week - the final Anne episode where we rank the books and all of the 1980's movie adaptations! Check out our Anne of Green Gables Playlist | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WLmUGmwxrZs&list=PLHf5v0KOoZMk43z5cbKp6b9WVMXwsYWki&pp=gAQB SHOP OUR NEW BESTIES and the BOOKS X CROW Merch! | * https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.comDon't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Check out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbWe interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4Check the official Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of Split or Swallow! Now a Barnes & Noble & Amazon best seller titled: Kiss of the Basilisk!  https://youtu.be/fknhocSNIKM____Shop bookish apparel worn in this episode!Ashley is wearing “Sword Heart” necklace from Ziracle Gems | *  https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTHnYSJEBQVjo-lTQgb/ Liz is wearing a grey Green Gables Sweater from Amazon | * https://amzn.to/41JA1CB Support the showYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

Send us a textToday we're doing the impossible task of ranking every book in the entire Sarah J. MAAS averse, including Throne of Glass, A Court of Thorns and Roses, Crescent City, and the lesser known standalone book and DC collaboration, Catwoman. That's SEVENTEEN books that are all 4+ stars that we pick apart with a fine-toothed comb to come up with one winner, and unfortunately, one at the bottom of the barrel. What's fun about this episode is that it's full of SJM spoilers and possible connections, if you've read them all and you're just here for the tea. It's also interesting to see how much our rankings have possibly changed over the years, and after doing rereads, buddy reads, and multiple podcast conversations. Our choices might just surprise you! Listen on to find out our official (current) Sarah j Maas book ranking, and our defense of our choices. Let us know if you agree or disagree with our criteria and ratings, and defend your case! And don't you worry, we have an extra special fave and fail SJM character edition, and a smash or pass to go right along with it! Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Check out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbWe interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4Check the official Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of Split or Swallow! Now a Barnes & Noble & Amazon best seller titled: Kiss of the Basilisk!  https://youtu.be/fknhocSNIKMNeed more ACOTAR in your life? Cook your way through Velaris with the help of Chelsea Cole and her cookbook A Feast of Thorns & Roses. Check out our author interview here! https://youtu.be/fjzmqd-x3OA?si=kNJ4D9cxvUjhp-Ik____Shop bookish apparel worn in this episode!Ashley is Wearing:  “Women of Maas World Tour” Tee from @caffeineandcurses | https://caffeineandcurses.comLiz is Wearing:  “You Do Not Yield” Throne of Glass Tee by @shopsecondbreakfast | https://www.etsy.com/shop/ShopSecondBreakfastAny link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commission to us with no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping support our podcast!YouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

Send us a textToday we continue on with our newest miniseries covering the Anne of Green Gables 8-book collection by L.M. Montgomery. We're diving into classic literature like we've never done before to give you the 411 on beloved “children's” books that we KNOW are actually for everyone! In this episode we dive into books three and four: Anne of The Island, and Anne of Windy Poplars - we're officially moving past the well-known initial trilogy into Anne's life as an adult, and the tone has definitely shifted. What do we think about the differences, and how do we currently feel about book four? Who were our favorite and least favorite characters and plot points? Do we think Anne helped pave the way for our favorite FMCs of today? And what literary devices does Montgomery use to critique women's roles in society? Check out our kickoff episode all about what the Bildungsroman is, why women and girl's stories are so important for everyone to read, and how Montgomery expertly uses this book series to critique social and political issues of the early 1900's, with an emphasis on women's roles in society. We also provide a bit of context by discussing Montgomery's life, and the political climate in Canada when this story takes place. Coming of age tales can be so much more than simple children's books. We're here to discover why! Listen on for our reviews of books three and four, our deep dive reactions, and fun facts about this timeless classic! Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Check out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbWe interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4Check the official Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of Split or Swallow! Now a Barnes & Noble & Amazon best seller titled: Kiss of the Basilisk!  https://youtu.be/fknhocSNIKMNeed more ACOTAR in your life? Cook your way through Velaris with the help of Chelsea Cole and her cookbook A Feast of Thorns & Roses. Check out our author interview here! https://youtu.be/fjzmqd-x3OA?si=kNJ4D9cxvUjhp-Ik____Shop bookish apparel worn in this episode!Ashley is Wearing: Ashley is wearing a green Throne of Glass “Fireheart” tshrit from @shopsecondbreakfast | https://www.etsy.com/shop/ShopSecondBreakfastLiz is wearing a black Anne of Green Gables Tee from Amazon | * https://amzn.to/472WzSp + an exclusive “Besties and the Books Beanie” DM us on instagram to get on the waitlist! Any link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commission to us YouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

FSF PopCast LIVE - Strong Female Characters Strong female characters and why we need them! It seems that in this modern era, when a movie comes out with the strong female character, not even the lead character, the movie gets negative reviews and gets called “Woke” Let's talk about why that's a fallacy, and why we need strong female characters now and in the future! Follow our guests - Sam and Anna from Growing Up Skywalker - @growingupskywalker on Instagram For more on our show partners - Bones Coffee - http://www.bonescoffee.com/FSFPOPCAST and use code FSFPOPCAST Idea Farm - www.ideafarm.store - use discount code FSF15 Level Up Sabers https://bit.ly/FSFLevelUpSabers Win free loot - sign up here - www.fsfpopcast.com/contact Tim Beisiegels articles - https://couchsoup.com/author/byeseagull For more on our Show - Join our Patreon https://patreon.com/fsfpopcast Join our Discord! https://discord.gg/cpry4fCDTq Visit our website - https://www.fsfpopcast.com This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

FSF PopCast LIVE - Strong Female Characters Strong female characters and why we need them! It seems that in this modern era, when a movie comes out with the strong female character, not even the lead character, the movie gets negative reviews and gets called “Woke” Let's talk about why that's a fallacy, and why we need strong female characters now and in the future! Follow our guests - Sam and Anna from Growing Up Skywalker - @growingupskywalker on Instagram For more on our show partners - Bones Coffee - http://www.bonescoffee.com/FSFPOPCAST and use code FSFPOPCAST Idea Farm - www.ideafarm.store - use discount code FSF15 Level Up Sabers https://bit.ly/FSFLevelUpSabers Win free loot - sign up here - www.fsfpopcast.com/contact Tim Beisiegels articles - https://couchsoup.com/author/byeseagull For more on our Show - Join our Patreon https://patreon.com/fsfpopcast Join our Discord! https://discord.gg/cpry4fCDTq Visit our website - https://www.fsfpopcast.com This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

Send us a textToday we start covering the Anne of Green Gables 8-book series by L.M. Montgomery. We're diving into classic literature like we've never done before to give you the 411 on beloved “children's” books that we KNOW are actually for everyone! Check out our latest Tuesday full length episode all about what the Bildungsroman is, why women and girl's stories are so important for everyone to read, and how Montgomery expertly uses this book series to critique social and political issues of the early 1900's, with an emphasis on women's roles in society. We also provide a bit of context by discussing Montgomery's life, and the political climate in Canada when this story takes place. In this episode we dive into books one and two: Anne of Green Gables, and Anne of Avonlea in which we experience adolescence through Anne Shirley's eyes. Who were our favorite and least favorite characters and plot points? Do we think Anne helped pave the way for our favorite FMCs of today? And what literary devices does Montgomery use to critique women's roles in society? Coming of age tales can be so much more than simple children's books. We're here to discover why! Listen on for our reviews of books one and two, our deep dive reactions, and fun facts about this timeless classic! Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Check out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbWe interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4Check the official Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of Split or Swallow! Now a Barnes & Noble & Amazon best seller titled: Kiss of the Basilisk!  https://youtu.be/fknhocSNIKMNeed more ACOTAR in your life? Cook your way through Velaris with the help of Chelsea Cole and her cookbook A Feast of Thorns & Roses. Check out our author interview here! https://youtu.be/fjzmqd-x3OA?si=kNJ4D9cxvUjhp-Ik____YouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllixShop bookish apparel worn in this episode!Ashley is Wearing: Green “Depths of Despair” Anne of Green Gables Tee from Amazon | * https://amzn.to/41eXnA2Liz is Wearing:  Black “Depths of Despair”  Anne of Green Gables Tee from Amazon | * https://amzn.to/472WzSpAny link with an * is an affiliate link through theYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

Send us a textAccording to Miriam Webster, the Bildungsroman is a novel about the moral and psychological growth of a main character. Today, we're kicking off our Anne of Green Gables bonus episode series with an introduction to the genre, a basic examination of life on Prince Edward Island, the 7th Canadian province where the Anne books primarily take place, and some context and backstory about L.M. Montgomery, the creator and author of this timeless series. If we think back to our high school days, it's likely that most of us read popular titles like Catcher in the Rye, Invisible Man, and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. But what about coming of age stories that center the experiences of women and girls? Popularized by titles like Jane Eyre and Pride and Prejudice, the Bildungsroman has also been used throughout history by female authors to challenge societal expectations of women's roles and the politics that make them law. Coming of age stories about women and girls are oftentimes infantilized and deemed appropriate reading material for girls only. We argue they're important and good for everyone, regardless of age and gender. The themes and journeys depicted reflect a very different perspective when boys and men are not the central protagonist, focusing more on romance, gender roles, and access to independence and mobility. Join us this Friday, and for the following five as we read and discuss all eight of the Anne of Green Gables books and the 1980's movie adaptations within this feminist, coming of age context. We'll cover everything from our least and most favorite characters and plot points, to how L.M. Montgomery uses the genre to examine political issues, women's roles, and society at large. We'll bring you fun facts, and even a bonus feature called “That's JUST Like A Man!” These books surprised us in all the best ways and we cannot wait to share them with you! And today we even bring you a fave and fail with a childhood twist, and an old timey / animated smash or pass.Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Check out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbWe interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4Check the official Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of Split or Swallow! Now a Barnes & Noble & Amazon best seller titled: Kiss of the Basilisk!  https://youtu.be/fknhocSNIKM____Shop bookish apparel worn in this episode!Ashley is Wearing: Troop Beverly Hills sweater from Etsy | * https://go.magik.ly/ml/2g6nn/ Liz is Wearing:  Anne of Green Gables sweater from Amazon | * https://amzn.to/41JA1CB AnyYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

Send us a textWhat time is it? Unhinged would you rather time!! Get to know Liz and Ashley, your wonderfully open-bookish podcast hosts through a series of would you rathers, generally off the rails asks, and smash or passes that don't hold back. Oh! And this episode is entirely spoiler free! We gathered a collection of would you rather submissions from you, our lovely listeners, so buckle up to hear all the inappropriate answers that you indeed asked for! We also prepare and blind-answer a series of rapid fire book related (and some random AF) would you rathers, then we even dive down into the dregs of the internet to come up with some even more inappropriate asks from Reddit and Threads.Would we rather have a step dad or a step brother book boyfriend? Have Cheeto fingers or mayonnaise mouth? Be Bella or Anastasia? Fight Erewan or Maeve? Marry Dain or Tamlin? If you need to know where we stand on these extremely important topics, make sure to stick around for plenty of laughs. We also kick it off with a fave and fail podcasting together edition, and a smash or pass with an unlikely heart throb and a buff sea creature. Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Check out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbWe interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4Check the official Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of Split or Swallow! Now a Barnes & Noble & Amazon best seller titled: Kiss of the Basilisk!  https://youtu.be/fknhocSNIKMNeed more ACOTAR in your life? Cook your way through Velaris with the help of Chelsea Cole and her cookbook A Feast of Thorns & Roses. Check out our author interview here! https://youtu.be/fjzmqd-x3OA?si=kNJ4D9cxvUjhp-Ik____Shop bookish apparel worn in this episode!Ashley is Wearing: @thelastbookstore hoodie and a Besties and the Books beanie, DM us to be added to preorder listLiz is Wearing:  "Is Butter a Carb” Mean Girls Tee by Candee Cult | https://www.etsy.com/listing/4320362301/is-butter-a-carb-womens-baby-tee-retro?ref=yr_purchasesAnd Double Pom Beanie From @charlieandlunaco | https://www.charlieandlunaco.comAny link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commission to us with no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping support our podcast!YouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

In this searingly funny and deeply affecting live conversation, Elizabeth speaks to stand-up comedian, author and Taskmaster favourite Fern Brady about her autism diagnosis, her working-class roots, and the failures that shaped her award-winning memoir Strong Female Character. Fern opens up about late diagnosis, social masking, and stripping to fund her education - all delivered with the brutal honesty and whip-smart humour that's made her one of the most exciting voices in comedy today. A powerful exploration of identity, feminism, and finding your voice. What stood out for you in this episode? Leave us a comment.  ✨ IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Intro 01:58 Autism Diagnosis and Masking 04:40 Experiences on Taskmaster 11:40 University Struggles and Stripping 17:33 Challenges of Writing a Memoir 20:03 Reflections on Edinburgh 21:49 Struggles with Mental Health and Misdiagnosis 22:35 University Challenges and Autistic Shutdowns 23:25 Extreme Stress and Physical Symptoms 24:34 Breaking into Comedy and Facing Limitations 26:05 Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs 27:55 Navigating the Comedy Industry 34:02 Rejecting Mainstream Entertainment 37:21 Celebrity Bakeoff Experience

Send us a textIt's our mid-year one sentence spoiler free book review episode! How is it the middle of 2025? We have no idea how we got here but we know we only did it through a healthy amount of disassociation and yapping… courtesy of books.Stick around if you want to hear 85+ rapid reviews on every single book we've read for the podcast, for personal enjoyment, and for science! A bit of a Mid-year book freakout tag, if you will. Get your pen and paper out to start adding to your TBR. Or maybe cross some of those off the list because we read it so you didn't have to. We cover our top three reads of the first half of the year, our bottom three (some might surprise you

Send us a textWe interviewed Penn Cole, we took a deep dive into Spark and Glow of the Everflame, and today we're continuing on with our deep dive into book 3: Heat of the Everflame. With the first fifteen minutes being spoiler free, and including our basic star and spice ratings! Check out our full Kindred's Curse Saga Playlist | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=103nCXINMP4&list=PLHf5v0KOoZMmK0bBoRxZWmqNtG88fxs4v&pp=gAQBAt this point, we're taking the time needed to deep dive some conspiracy theories and speculate as to how this series may end. Honestly, we can't even imagine how Penn Cole is going to tie up all these loose ends, especially with Heat ending in the epic way it did… on a cliffhanger like no other. Diem continues to break away from more common fantasy conventions and tropes by embodying feminist themes focused on ruling with non-violence, even when presented with immense power. We discuss why this is important, and why having an MMC like Luther who continues to support her, but must now make some impossible choices may challenge some of the more alternative themes we've grown to appreciate from this series. We break down our favorite and least favorite parts, tropes, and characters, share reviews, and discuss whether or not we're looking forward to reading the final book. And dive into the web of secrets that we feel like we (and Diem) are just now beginning to unravel. As usual, we have some extra treats, starting out with a Labubu and bruised pinky themed fave and fail and a smash or pass fantasy daddy / bad boy fish edition.Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Check out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbCheck the official Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of Split or Swallow! Now a Barnes & Noble & Amazon best seller titled: Kiss of the Basilisk!  https://youtu.be/fknhocSNIKMShop bookish apparel worn in this episode!Ashley is Wearing: body suit from OQQ Fitness | *  https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT6jVseYC/Liz is Wearing:  “Fireheart To Whatever End” Throne of Glass Crewneck by @thebeanworkshop | Use Code: BOOKBESTIES10 to save! | https://thebeanworkshop.store/products/whatever-end-sweatshirt?_pos=5&_sid=10b3abca7&_ss=rAny link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commission to us with no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping support our podcast.YouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix