Bones of the Storie

We are starting off Season 5 with a brand new spicy scale.This expanded spicy scale provides a clearer understanding of the varying levels of spice in romance novels, helping readers choose content that aligns with their preferences and comfort levels.Content Highlights:Fun Fact: SnailsAre we gonna remember all the thingsRerating previously discussed booksNew Spicy Scale:Bell Pepper - Off Page1 Pepper - Teasing & Suggestive2 Peppers - Lightly Descriptive3 Peppers- Making Us Sweat4 Peppers- Seductive & Taboo5 Peppers- Dark & ForbiddenBooks Mentioned: All books from Season 1-4.Other books / authors mentioned in this episode not recorded on the podcast: Ranger

Jenn and Mistie are back! Did you miss us like we missed you?!?! We also missed being in the studio recording and and the first episode of Season 5, you guessed it - is another trope/genre. We define the difference between what is a retelling and what is inspired by.Content Highlights:If ya know, you know - gosh MistieCheck your triggersJenn got a punch in her Swiftie CardOther books / authors mentioned: Grimm Brothers, Hans Christian Anderson, Vicious Lost Boys series, ACOTAR, Dark Olympus series, To Love A Monster, Made Beast, Lunar Chronicles, 9th Grave, Black Lyon, Smoke Bitten, Cathy Yardley, Fifty Shades / Twilight, Anna Todd, The Idea of You, Unholy Vows, Carter Reed, Light's Out

That's a wrap on Season 4 of Bones of the Storie, please enjoy all the giggles and mishap conversations that didn't make into our episodes.Make sure you subscribe and be on the look out for Season 5 to drop March 4, 2025 We've got some great things to look forward too.

As the fourth chapter of Bones of the Storie closes, Mistie and Jenn rank the books of Season 4. With the hints of new things and even darker books to follow along with us coming soon.Content HighlightsDiscussing DNF'sRanking order of S4

Hello listeners, today on Bones of the Storie, Mistie and Jenn are here to talk about Special Edition books. This whole conversation started with the announcement of the Ten Year anniversary "Special Night Court Edition" of the ACOTAR series that Bloomsbury is putting out.Yes, you read that right. I put it in quotations, cause in this episode, we laydown what makes it a special edition and what does not it a "special edition".Content Highlights: One Click Color, no thank youEffective Communication is sexyFor clarity, Mistie's birthday is January 12th.Books mentioned in this episode: ACOTAR, Shepard King Duet, Ice Breaker, Knock'em Out Series, Fourth Wing, CraveSubscription Boxes: Mystic Box, Arcane SocietyPublishers: Bloomsbury, RedTower, Entangled

Listen in to this sigh-filled episode where Mistie and Jenn discuss the dark romance novel, Haunting Adeline by HD Carlton. And see if you catch on to this surprising twist of a conversation, IYKYK!!!Also be sure and check out our Kickstarter campaign, it will run from January 12-31, 2025.Make 100 - What's Your Next Read - https://shorturl.at/njll1Content highlights:Mistie did not careIt's been FIVE days!!!!!Speaking of repetitive languageJenn's Ratings - Darkness 4, Spicy 4, Overall 2Mistie's Ratings - Darkness 4, Spicy 4, Overall 1NEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - Spicy 4Other books mentions: Den of Vipers, Hunting Adeline, Dead Soldiers vs Tailors

Join us as we take a walk down memory lane and talk about all the things in Beautiful Fiend. Plus we share a little bit of BOTS history and our first buddy read.Content Highlights:Say my name ...Most unhinged MMCJenn has an epiphanyJenn's Ratings: Darkness 4, Spicy 4, Overall 3Mistie's Ratings: Darkness 4, Spicy 4, Overall 3NEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - Spicy 4Other Books Mentioned: Sea of Ruin, Dead Soldiers vs Tailors, The Ritual, Lights Out, Corrupt

Discover your next favorite read and get insider thoughts as Jenn and Mistie rifle through their shelves to share the stories that have captivated them this yearThis episode is has some varied literary tastes. counting down their top six picks of 2024 and dishing out some well-deserved honorable mentions. From the dark and intense to the light and heartwarming, we've got your reading list covered.Content HighlightsSpoilers - Lots and lots of spoilers for all books discussed in this episodeHonorary mentions & Top 6 favorite books/authors of the yearForeshadowing for some future episodes on the podcastJenn's Top 6 Reads:Lights Out by Navessa AllenThe Wolf Hotel Series by K. A. TuckerShepherd King Duet by Rachel GilligBride by Ali HazelwoodThe Witch Collector by Charissa WeaksUnholy Vows by Mila KaneJenn's Honorary Mentions:Driving my Obsession by Lauren BielThe Housemaid by Frieda McFaddenAbby Jimenez - AuthorTessa Bailey - AuthorChristina Lauren - AuthorFrieda McFadden - AuthorMistie's Top 6 Reads:Unholy Vows by Mila KaneKylie Kent - AuthorTessa Hale - AuthorLights Out by Navessa allenThe Wrong Pucking Number by CR JaneThe Evelyn Maynard Trilogy by Kaydence SnowMistie's Honorary Mentions:Carnal Urges by JT GeissingerMaggie Moves On by Lucy ScoreThe Monsters Among Us Series by Debbie CassidyImmortal Vices & Virtues: Her Monstrous Mates Series by Multiple AuthorsCatharina Maura - AuthorAllie Santos - Omega Heat World BooksKingdom of Shifters & Witches Series by Lacey Carter AndersonFae Isles Series by Lisette MarshallOther Book mention: The Bonds that Tie Series, The Bridge Kingdom Duet, Perfect Strangers, The Dragon's Bride, Mary Higgins Clark, Heather Graham, Fourth Wing, Iron Flame, Leather & LarkAnticipated 2025 Book ReadsJennOnyx's Storm by Rebecca Yarros (Jan 2025)Plated Prisoner Series by Raven KennedyFlesh and Fire Series by JLAFae Isles Series by Lisette MarshallScythe & Sparrow by Brynne Weaver (Feb 2025)MistiePriest and his Antichrist by Amo Jones (Jan 2025)Alpha & Omega Book 7 (TBA 2025)Archangel's Ascension by Nalini Singh (May 2025)Quiet Ones by Penelope Douglas (TBA 2025)

Nothing else will measure up after reading this one, Unholy Vows might be the top dawg in mafia books for us. Listen in to found out why. Oh and maybe listen to the Carter Reed episode first, if you haven't already to get more context on the conversation.Content Highlights:Will we ever know the real pronunciation Normal people vs Mistie PeopleJenn has a lizard brain, who knewJenn's Ratings - Darkness 4, Spicy 4, Overall 5Mistie's Ratings - Darkness 4, Spicy 4, Overall 5NEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - Spicy 4Other Books Mentioned: Carter Reed, Beautiful Fiend, Driving My Obsession

If you are looking for a to get started on reading Mafia, this is the duet you want to read. Also, new word drinking game Jenn and Mistie didn't plan on working into this episode, if you drink - every time you hear the word like, seems we changed it up from our previous famous word agree, take a drink of your choice. If you know, you know ;)Content Highlights:No Pampered Prince VibesCharacters need to pick a laneWe don't really like that many MFCsJenn's Rating - Darkness 3 but a 4 for opening scene, Spicy , Overall 3.5Mistie's Rating - Darkness 3 but a 4 for opening scene, Spicy , OverallNEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - Spicy 3Other Books Mentioned: Heated Rivals, Thieves & Monsters, Cole, Bonds that Tie, Bridge Kingdom, Emerald Lakes, Throne of Glass

This is one episode you don't want to skip. Not going to give any spoilers but its Jenn and Mistie's first *REDACTED* since season 2. And that's saying a lot. High praise like this doesn't come around often.Content Highlights:Jenn's not wrongA sprinkle of psychology / realityDoes audio make a difference?Jenn's Rating - Darkness 2, Spicy 5, Overall 5Mistie's Rating - Darkness 2, Spicy 5, Overall 5NEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - Spicy 4Other Books Mentioned: Driving My Obsession, Butcher & Blackbird, Neon God's

Today we have a special treat. It's our very first special guest. Please give a warm welcome to Kelly!Content Highlights:Shoulda, Coulda, WouldaThat was not an accusation, we're all friends hereRecommending or warning books to Kelly, listeners choiceKelly's Rating - Darkness 4, Spicy 3, Overall 1Jenn's Rating - Darkness 4, Spicy 3, Overall 1Mistie's Rating - Darkness 3, Spicy 3, Overall 1NEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - Spicy 3Other Books Mentioned: Beatrix Hollow, Frankie's Funhouse, American Psycho, Butcher & Blackbird, Hades X Persephone Saga, The Bride, Leather & Lark, The Bridge Kingdom, Dead Soldiers vs Tailors, Sea of Ruin, Sinners duet, Jenn's fave book The RitualOther Mentions: Beast from Split

Readers dive in with Jenn and Mistie as they discuss the first Mafia book of the season, with a little bit of a twist.Content Highlights:What ... my name is who ... my name is ...Whoa whoa whoa, wait a minuteWas anything missing?Jenn's Rating - Darkness 2, Spicy 5, Overall 3Mistie's Rating - Darkness 2, Spicy 5, Overall 3NEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - Spicy 4Other Books mentioned: Neon Gods, Zodiac Wolves, Girl on the Train

These are a few of our favorites scenes ... listen in to hear Jenn and Mistie pull favorite scenes from favorite books / series. Content Highlights: No prep, no prep, la--la-la--la-laa-laa!Twofers for the winDid Mistie take on Jenn's light & fluffy?Books from Mistie's favorite scenes: Archangel Enigma by Nalini SinghBeasts Behaving Badly by Shelly LaurenstonIsn't It Bromantic by Lyssa Kay AdamsThe Mercy Thompson Series by Patricia Briggs (River Marked & Fire Touched)Charley Davidson Series by Darynda Jones The Chosen Series by Stacy Jones.Mistie's Honorary Mentions:Beast of Temptation by Nalini SinghBooks from Jenn's favorite scenes: A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J MaasButcher and Blackbird by Brynne WeaverThe Traitor Queen by Danielle L JensenSinners Duet by Sophie LarkKingdom of Ash by Sarah J MaasA Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J Maas.Jenn's Honorary Mentions:Neon Gods by Katee RobertsOther books mentioned: Pride and Prejudice, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies

Starting off the new season with an interesting book. We were surprised by our reactions to this popular "dark" romance novel.Content Highlights:Of course Mistie didn't skip the good partsis 23 a weird age to not be sexual curiousHow dark is dark if only a few scenesJenn's Ratings: Darkness 3.5, Spicy 3, Overall 2Mistie's Ratings: Darkness 3.5, Spicy 3, Overall 2NEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - Spicy 3Other books mentioned: Sunshine and the Stalker, The Ritual (only in passing this time.

Welcome back to another season, which one we're not sure, of Bones of the Storie. Today Jenn and Mistie are discussing Mafia in dark romance.Content HighlightsBrain fog is a real thingIs it really mafia if no one does anything but carry a gun?Mafia vs Secret SocietyOther books mentioned: The marriage contract by Katee Robert.

That's a wrap on Season 3 of Bones of the Storie, please enjoy all the giggles and mishap conversations that didn't make into our episodes.Make sure you subscribe and be on the look out for Season 4 to drop November 5, 2024, We've got some great things to look forward too.

As we close out the third chapter of Bones of the Storie, Mistie and Jenn rank the books of Season 3. With the promise of even more dark stories to sink your teeth into coming your way soon.Content HighlightsDiscussing DNF'sRanking order of S3

Jenn and Mistie are mixing it with the season three final episode by giving additional recommendations based off of season one and two discussed books / series on Bones of the Storie.Be warned some high level summaries of the new books being suggested, so if you don't like spoilers you may just want to check out the books' blurbs.Season 1Mistie's SuggestionsIf you like the Madison Kate series by Tate James, then you should read The Sainthood - Boys of Lowell High series by Siobhan DavisIf you like the Vicious Lost Boys series by Nikki St. Crowe, then you should read the Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti If you like the Bonds That Tie series by J Bree, then you should read The Evelyn Maynard Trilogy by Kaydence Snow Jenn's SuggestionsIf you like the Bonds That Tie series by J Bree, then you should read the Emerald Lakes series by Britt Andrews Season 2Jenn's SuggestionsIf you like the ACOTAR series by Sarah J Maas, then you should read the Fae Isles series by Lisette MarshallIf you love Aelin from Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas, then you should read Lara from The Bridge Kingdom duet by Danielle L Jenson or vice versaMistie's SuggestionsIf you like Sea of Ruin by Pam Godwin, then you should read Stormfire by Christine Monson, Sweet Savage Love by Rosemary Rogers, or The Devil's Embrace by Catherine CoulterOther books / authors mentions in this episode: Kathleen Woodiwiss, Zodiac Academy, Christina Lauren

Join Jenn and Mistie as they play guess who on character names from the Deliciously Dark Fairytales series by K. F. Breene. Suggesting that readers approach this series with an expectation of fun rather than high-stakes.Content Highlights:Here, there be dragonsTrying to figure out WestonParody Fantasy, thoughts?Jenn's Ratings: Darkness 2, Spicy 4, Overall 4Mistie's Ratings: Darkness 2, Spicy 4, Overall 3NEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - Spicy 3Other books / authors mentioned in this episode: ACOTAR, The High Mountain Court

Join Mistie and Jenn, as we discuss their initial expectations of the book Friends with the Monsters by Albany Walker, not Friends with Monsters, and how the book met—or didn’t meet—those anticipations. We share our thoughts on the characters and plot, noting that this book could be a great choice for readers new to the monster / reverse harem genre.Content Highlights:Humanoid monsters vs Traditional monstersYes, Mistie does know her ABC'sWow, look at the time, that was a quick oneJenn's Rating: Darkness 2, Spicy 2, Overall 3Mistie's Ratings: Darkness 2, Spicy 2, Overall 3NEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - Spicy 2Other Books / Authors Mentioned: Albany Walker backlist, Driving My Obsession, Better Run, Butcher & Blackbird, Bonds that Tie series, Sophie Lark, JT Geissinger

Jenn and Mistie make their own rules about their favorite tropes and kinks they love to read while also discussing a few other random book topics.Content Highlights: Jenn's disclaimer - take a shot every time that Mistie says Bonk.Yes peeps, fact fucking is a thingBetter yet, what don't we like is the real questionMistie's favorite tropes: dragons, shapeshifters or monsters/creatures, omegaverse, reverse harem, mafia, academy/new adult, aliens, angstJenn's favorite tropes: main character with a dog (pet trope), enemies to lovers, female driven plot, single dad, hallmark (leaving the city life for the small town), Books mentioned: Lucy Score, Catharina Maura, Unfated Mates, Emerald Lakes, Heat Stroke, Desperate Measures, Ranger, Luna Wolf, The Ritual, Bonds That Tie,

Imagine our surprise when we read this book that embodies all the elements of a dark romance, Driving My Obsession by Lauren Biel is today's discussion.Content Highlights:Gollum or Gremlin, you decideJenn has dubbed this a retelling for Phantom of the OperaSometime later when Mistie is editing this episode she asks - who the F is Oaklyn?Jenn's Ratings: Darkness 4, Spicy 4, Overall 4Mistie's Ratings: Darkness 4, Spicy 4, Overall 3NEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - Spicy 4Other Books Mentioned: Butcher & Blackbird, Phantom of the Opera, Lucy Score, Christina Lauren, Group Therapy, Hitched, Sinners Duet

Join Jenn and Mistie as they unpack their mixed feelings about this unconventional romance. They explore the novel’s unique take on fantasy romance, including its unconventional portrayal of dragons. Who do you agree with?Content Highlights:Real or not real - no wingsWho doesn't love a cactus?Dinosaur romance in disguiseJenn's Ratings - Darkness 2, Spicy 3, Overall 3Mistie's Ratings - Darkness 2, Spicy 3, Overall 3NEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - Spicy 2Other books: Ice Planet Barbarians, Stacy Jones, Katee Robert Backlist, Emerald Lakes

Jenn and Mistie dive into another romance novel. If you’re curious about the balance between monster romance and plot development or just want to hear their detailed take on this genre, this episode is a great listen.Content Highlights:blah, blah, blahWhere did all the threads go?Unexpected ShiftsJenn's Rating -Darkness: 2, Spicy 2, Overall 2Mistie's Rating - Darkness 2, Spicy 2, Overall 2NEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - Spicy 2Other books mentions: Jenika Snow, Unfated Mates, A Soul to Keep

Discussing Alina May's debut dark romance, Better Run. We have a few things up our sleeves with this one, so be sure and listen in. We break down the foundation of this book and we theorized on what could have been.Content Highlights:New podcast sloganGetting a glimpse into our currently reading list (at time of recording)Again, why can't people use stalker correctlyJenn's Ratings: Darkness 3, Spicy 4, Overall 2Mistie's Ratings: Darkness 3, Spicy 4, Overall 2NEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - Spicy 3Books mentioned in this episode: Fae King, Child of Blood and Bone, Book Of Living Secrets, Unfated Mates, City of Ruin, Red, Dead Guy Next Door, Bonds That Tie, Ruins of Sea and Souls, Emerald Lakes series, No One Has To Know.

Our first "monster" romance of the season, is the full Shadow Bred Series by Grace McGinty. Join us as we talk all the great things.Content Highlights:New world and shifters, with cute floppy earsUnfinished businessMale omegaverse pregnancy, new we say moreJenn's Rating: Darkness 2, Spicy 5, Stars 4Mistie's Rating: Darkness 2, Spicy 5, Stars 4NEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - Spicy 3Other Mentions: Split, the movie.

One of the most anticipated sequels of the year for dark romance - Jenn and Mistie don't hold back in this discussion on what they liked, didn't like, and what they hoped for for this story and the overarching plot of the trilogy.Content Highlights:Contemporary vs darkSomething new, instead of what we expectPossibly different writing stylesJenn's Rating - Darkness: 3, Spice: 2-3, Overall 3.5Mistie's Rating - Darkness: 2, Spice 2, Overall 3NEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - Spice 3Other books mentioned: Butcher & Blackbird

What makes a monster, a monster, in a monster romance?Content Highlights: Mistie's disappointment about not arguingWait, Beast has a name?Edging the audienceBooks mentioned in this episode:Bride, The Dragon Bride, Ensnared, A Soul to Keep, Flirting with Monsters, The Morning Wood Tree, Squeak, Ice Planet Barbarians, Phantom of the Opera, Twilight, Beauty and the Beast

We are starting off with a new season with a brand new darkness scale.This expanded darkness scale provides a clearer understanding of the varying levels of darkness in romance novels, helping readers choose content that aligns with their preferences and comfort levels.Content Highlights: Words are hardRerating previously discussed booksArguing for the sake of arguingNew Darkness Scale: 1 Skull - Light Hearted 2 Skulls - Mild Darkness 3 Skulls - Moderate Darkness 4 Skulls - Significant Darkness 5 Skulls - Extreme Darkness

That's a wrap on Season 2, please enjoy all the giggles and mishaps that didn't make into some of our episodes.Make sure you subscribe and be on the look out for Season 3 to drop July 2, 2024, We've got changes and great discussions to look forward too.

As the curtain falls on this chapter, Mistie and Jenn rank their the books of Season 2. But the stage is set for a season three, did you catch all those hints, that promises even more gripping narratives to sink our teeth into.Content HighlightsDiscussing DNF'sRanking order of S2

In our latest episode, Jenn and Mistie encounter a book that challenges both of their comfort levels. We grapple with the intricate dance of power dynamics and consent, while dissecting the book's representation of master-slave relationships, pet play, and the broader impact these narratives have on the BDSM community but also in a true alternative lifestyle relationship.Content Highlights: Curious but total Mindfuck Struggling with how to respond to this book Is this really our rating?Jenn's Rating: Darkness 5, Spicy 5, Overall 1 but 4 for the first 60%Mistie's Rating: Darkness 5, Spicy 5, Overall 2 or 3NEW DARKNESS SCALE UPDATED JULY 2, 2024 - 5 SkullsOther Books Mentioned: The Handmaid's Tale, Perfect Strangers, The Ritual

On this literary adventure, we explore the whimsical world of romance terminology, a lexicon that binds together the hearts of readers and writers alike. Content Highlights: Jenn coined a new term RTRPublic Service Announcement - Always check the triggers/content warningsIt might be way too early for this conversation Terms we discuss - Romancelandia, HEA / HFN, Cliffhanger, Standalone / Series / Shared Universe / Interconnected, TBR, DNF / DNR Trash, Trope / Kink, Smut, Trigger Warnings (TW) / Content Warnings (CW), Dubious Consent (Dub Con), Consensual Non-Consent (CNC), Non-Consensual (Non-Con), Reverse Harem (RH) / Why Choose / Poly, Sword Crossing, Omegaverse, Ship / Shipping Character initials and pairings: H/h, MC / MMC / MFC, FF or F/F, MM or M/M, MF, MFM / MMF, MMMF / MMFM

Haunted by the vivid imagery and tumultuous emotions from Pam Godwin's "Sea of Ruin," Jenn and Mistie found ourselves ensnared by the novel's dark romance, debating its stark themes and the protagonist's perilous plight.Content HighlightsIntense feelingsChallenging themesNew Darkness?Jenn's Rating: Darkness 5, Spice 5, Overall 4Mistie's Rating: Darkness 5+++, Spice 5, Overall 4NEW DARKNESS SCALE UPDATED JULY 2, 2024 - 5 SkullsNEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - 5 SpiceOther Books Mentioned: Dead Soldiers Vs Tailors, Consequences, Sweet Savage Love, Tears of Tess, Bridge Kingdom Duet, Den of Vipers, The Ritual, Haunting/Hunting Adeline, That Sik Luv

Listen in as Jenn and Mistie continue to unpack the complex worlds created by Sarah J. Maas. Join us as we share our final thoughts and ratings, encapsulating the impact of Sarah J. Maas's storytelling mastery.Content Highlights:Secondary CharactersStrong Female CharactersFavorite ScenesCrescent City Jenn's Rating: Darkness 3, Spicy 1, Overall Book One 4, Book Two & Three 3.5Mistie's Rating: Darkness 3, Spicy 1, Overall Book One 4, Book Two & Three 3NEW DARKNESS SCALE UPDATED JULY 2, 2024 - 3 SkullsNEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - 2 SpicyACOTARJenn's Rating: Darkness 1.5, Spicy 1 (ACOMAF 2 & Silver Flame 3), Overall 5Mistie's Rating: Darkness 1.5, Spicy 1 (ACOMAF 2 & Silver Flame 3), Overall 3.5NEW DARKNESS SCALE UPDATED JULY 2, 2024 - 2.5-3 SkullsNEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - 2 SpicyThrone of GlassJenn's Rating: Darkness 4, Spicy 1, Overall 5Mistie's Rating: Darkness 4, Spicy 1, Overall 5Other Books Mentioned: Bridge Kingdom Duet & The High Mountain CourtNEW DARKNESS SCALE UPDATED JULY 2, 2024 - 4 SkullsNEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - 1 Spicy

Listen in as Jenn and Mistie unpack the complex worlds created by Sarah J. Maas, starting with the latest buzz in her Crescent City series. This episode isn't just a fan's paradise; it's a candid critique where we don't shy away from talking about the parts of Maas's work that we all hate to love and love to hate.Content Highlights: Candid thoughts & speculationComparison of characters a crossed booksShocking - Jenn asking Mistie for a Characters name

Listen in as we tackle the polarizing narrative of "Still Beating" by Jennifer Hartmann, examining the flawed decision-making of its characters and the portrayal of trauma within its pages.Content Highlights:We got it right on the first try!!!!!A real serial killerTherapy anyone?Jenn's Rating: Darkness 5, Spicy 1, Overall 2Mistie's Rating: Darkness 5, Spicy 1, Overall 2NEW DARKNESS SCALE UPDATED JULY 2, 2024 - 4 SkullsNEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - 2 SpicyOther books mentioned: Dead Soldiers Vs Tailors, The Teacher by Freida McFadden, Perfect Strangers

Listen in as we unravel the intricacies of crafting strong, compelling heroines in fiction, shining a light on the characteristics that make them resonate with readers and viewers alike. We share our personal favorites.Content Highlights: Traits of a Female Main CharacterMasculine and Feminie enegryBest Mic Drop in ToGFave Female Main Characters:Charley Davidson by Darynda Jones, Mercy Thompson by Patricia Briggs, Oleander by J. Bree, Lara by Danielle L. Jensen, Sloane by Brynne Weaver, Saige by Britt Andrews, Elena by Nalini Singh, Feyra, Nesta, and Aelin by Sarah J. MaasOther Books mentioned: Fae Isles and Crescent City

Our latest chat, Her Soul To Take by Harley LaRoux, dives headfirst into the story's fear-laced eroticism and the role of supportive friendships amidst the chaos.Content Highlights:Leon on the demonWho to trust?Foreshadowing of a future episodeJenn's Rating: Darkness 4, Spicy 4, Overall 3Mistie's Rating: Darkness 4, Spicy 3, Overall 2NEW DARKNESS SCALE UPDATED JULY 2, 2024 - 2.5 SkullsNEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - 3 SpicyOther Books mention - Sinners Duet, plus all previous recorded BOTS episodes

Prepare to be ensnared in our discussion on "No One Has To Know" by Carin Hart and the twisted power dynamic in a tale of orchestrated abduction and unexpected control.Content Highlights:How unhinge do we want him to beGood girl attitudeA submissive topping from the bottomJenn's Ratings - Darkness 2, Spicy 2, Overall 3Mistie's Ratings - Darkness 2, Spicy 2, Overall 3NEW DARKNESS SCALE UPDATED JULY 2, 2024 - 2 SkullsNEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - 2 SpicyOther books mentioned - The Sinners Duet

Step into the darker corridors of love as Jenn and Mistie, your quirky hosts, reflect on the slow-burn intimacy and complex character arcs that we loved in this dark monster romance.Content HighlightsThe unique charm of non-human love interestsMistie's PTSD from another seriesA whole new world, that leaves us craving more about itJenn's Ratings - Skulls: 2, Peppers: 3, Stars: 3Mistie's Ratings - Skulls: 2, Peppers: 3, Stars: 3NEW DARKNESS SCALE UPDATED JULY 2, 2024 - 2 SkullsNEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - 3 PeppersOther books mentioned: Black Dagger Brotherhood, Invisible Life of Addie LaRue

Ever found yourself trapped in the pages of a book, unable to escape the magnetic pull of intricate plots and enthralling characters? That's precisely the enchantment that awaits you with Danielle L. Jensen's "The Bridge Kingdom" and "The Traitor Queen."Content Highlights:Stationary nightmaresThe best redemption arc, ever!!Silent letters in side character namesJenn's Rating: 4 Skulls, 1 Pepper, 5 StarsMistie's Rating: 4 Skulls, 1 Pepper, 5 StartNEW DARKNESS SCALE UPDATED JULY 2, 2024 - 3 SkullsNEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - 1 PepperJenn's Disclaimer - If you've read the other books that we've rated five on the darkness scale, I feel like you don't have the details that those books do on the page. So just something to consider if you aren't going to read this book because of the darkness scale, I would still say like double-check your triggers, but I would still recommend we read it.

Ever wondered where the line is drawn between a romance and a fantasy novel?Jenn and Mistie are back for a sensational second season, where we tease apart the threads of Romantasy and Dark Romance,Content HighlightsSpot the difference Real or not real We are never, ever, ever - forgetting The Ritual Other Mentions: Throne of Glass, ACOTAR, Fae Isles, Patricia Briggs, True Blood, Darynda Jones, Guild Hunter, From Blood and Ash, The Ritual, The High Mountain Court

Content HighlightsGiggling buffoonsNo drinks were drunk while recording these outtakesThat's a wrap on Season 1, please enjoy all the giggles and mishaps that didn't make into any of the episodes.Make sure you subscribe and be on the look out for season 2 to drop February 27, 2024, We've got some great discussions planned.

Content HighlightsDiscussing DNF'sRanking order of S1 favesAs we close the chapter on this season, we're already looking ahead to the dark romance tales that beckon us into their shadowy embrace. Join us as we bid adieu to the books of season 1 that have been our companions through every twist and turn, and extend an invitation to our listeners to share their own memorable moments. The curtain may be falling on season one, but the stage is set for a season two that promises even more gripping narratives to sink our teeth into. Don't miss out as we continue our exploration of the love stories that dare to venture into the night.

Content Highlights:Character Name debateHorse breed terminologyRealities of Gang Life in Romance NovelsEver found yourself bickering over how to pronounce the name Aeron, or debating whether an Arabian mare is a suitable gift for a rookie rider? That’s just a snippet of the rich banter we shared in our latest episode, where we dissect the layers of Rosa Lee's "Dead Soldiers vs Taylor's Duet."Jenn's Rating: 5 Skulls, 5 Peppers, 3 StasMistie's Rating: 5 Skulls, 5 Peppers, 2 StarsNEW DARKNESS SCALE UPDATED JULY 2, 2024 - 4 SkullsNEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - 5 PeppersOther Books Mentioned: Bonds that Tie SeriesOther Mentions: Arcane Society Book Box Subscription

Content HighlightsSpoilers - Lots and lots of spoilers for all books discussed in this episodeHonorary mentions & Top 6 favorite books/series of the yearForeshadowing for some future episodes on the podcastWe're rifling through our shelves to share the tales that have captivated us, from the intricate dilemmas of new adult fiction to the pulse-pounding suspense of criminal intrigue—each book a journey into the depths of our varied literary tastes.Discover your next favorite read and get insider thoughts on the latest literary gems with Jenn and Mistie on Bones of the Storie. This episode is a treasure trove of bookish delights, counting down our top six picks of 2023 and dishing out some well-deserved honorable mentions. From the dark and intense to the light and heartwarming, we've got your reading list covered. Jenn's Top 6 Reads:Butcher & Blackbird Fourth Wing (Placeholder)Emerald Lakes SeriesFae Isles SeriesTower of DawnThe Invisible Life of Addie LaRueJenn's Honorary Mentions:Lucy ScoreThe Kiss QuotientRangerLovelight SeriesThe Lochlann Feud SeriesMistie's Top 6 Reads:Butcher & BlackbirdMidnightThorne of Glass SeriesDeals with Demons SeriesSteel Demon MC SeriesFourth WingMistie's Honorary Mentions:Siobhan DavisA Court of NightmaresRangerHades SeriesBridge Kingdom DuetOther Book mention: ACOTAR, FBAA, Bonds that Tie Series, Den of Vipers, Gangsters and Guns, Tryst Venom Six, CredenceOther Mentions: Criminal Minds, Broadway, Sara Bareilles

Content HighlightsWho is the real villain?Character ReversalPlus an additional tangent rantHave you ever imagined a Neverland where Peter Pan is not the hero but the villain? Join Mistie and Jenn as they take you on a sinister voyage into Nikki St Crowe's 'Vicious Lost Boys' series, where the tables are turned in this darkly imaginative retelling. Unpack the wickedness of Pan, the surprising depth behind a switch in character like Smee as a female and Croc as a man, and the treachery of Tinkerbell. The steamy undercurrents of the narrative are not for the faint-hearted, and neither are our candid discussions about the allure and discomfort that come with such provocative storytelling.Jenn's Rating: 3 Skulls, 4 Peppers, 4 OverallMistie's Rating: 3 Skulls, 3 Peppers, 3 OverallNEW DARKNESS SCALE UPDATED JULY 2, 2024 - 3 SkullsNEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - Jenn 4 Spicy / Mistie 3 SpicyOther Books Mentioned: The Bonds that Tie series, Perfect Strangers

Content HighlightsAngst, Tension, and Nox DravenCharacter Development and Overcoming ObstaclesReverse Harem DynamicsJoin us for an exciting exploration of paranormal fantasy and reverse harem series. This episode unwraps the thrilling, The Bonds That Tie by J Bree. We circle around the strong, independent characters, a dash of darkness, and a few perplexing plot points that will leave you hooked. We highly recommend this series and encourage you to read it for an unforgettable journey.Jenn's Rating: 4 Skulls, 3 Spicy, 5 OverallMistie's Rating: 4 Skulls, 3 Spicy, 5 OverallNEW DARKNESS SCALE UPDATED JULY 2, 2024 - 4 SkullsNEW SPICY 2.0 SCALE UPDATED March 11, 2025 - 4 SpicyBooks mentioned: Emerald Lakes by Britt Andrews, Corrupt by Penelope Douglas, Guild Hunter Series by Nalini Singh, Empyrean Series by Rebecca Yarros, High Mountain Court by A. K. Mulford, Fae Isles Series by Lisette Marshall, Brandon Sanderson, Flesh and Fire by JLA, ACOTAR by SJM, Four Horsemen by Sarah BaileyOther Mentions: Arcane Society Book Box Subscription