Not Another Heroine

If you've been kind of iffy on Jude through part one, there's a very particular hand scene in part two where Jude establishes herself as one of the most badass heroines in the genre. This is the gritty, resilient kind of main character every romantasy author tries to write with middling success.------------------------------------------Is there anyone who hasn't read The Cruel Prince yet? This is an urban fantasy (kind of) filled with deliciously evil fairies, a bloodthirsty heroine, and a very questionable romantic lead.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26032825-the-cruel-princePoison Study by Maria Snyder is also mentioned in this episode, check it out here: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60510.Poison_StudyWant more of Jordan, Katie, and Not Another Heroine? Join us on Patreon for bonus episodes and to listen to our Patreon-exclusive series, Tawdry Tuesday! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

This week Katie is exploring all of Ali's forays into romance territory. Her most recent book, Deep End, seems to bridge the gap between the spicier side of romance (Not in Love) and her traditional rom-coms like Love, Theoretically and The Love Hypothesis. Deep End explores BDSM themes, power dynamics, and a peculiar type of love triangle.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/212808709-deep-endWant more of Jordan, Katie, and Not Another Heroine? Join us on Patreon for bonus episodes and to listen to our Patreon-exclusive series, Tawdry Tuesday! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

Is there anyone who hasn't read The Cruel Prince yet? This is an urban fantasy (kind of) filled with deliciously evil fairies, a bloodthirsty heroine, and a very questionable romantic lead. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26032825-the-cruel-princeCheck out Tithe by Holly Black for Lord Roiben's story.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/46777.TitheWant more of Jordan, Katie, and Not Another Heroine? Join us on Patreon for bonus episodes and to listen to our Patreon-exclusive series, Tawdry Tuesday! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

If you like the trope of damsel-gets-saved-by-badass-protector (of the ghost, demon, death, variety) then this is the book for you. Ladybirds is a younger, entry-level introduction to this author, who also wrote the darker romantasy duology Peaches & Honey.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59086069-ladybirds?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=hmdg2hUPuJ&rank=1Other books mentioned in this episode:Belladonna by Adalyn Gracehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59227936-belladonna?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=X9RVXpqfsw&rank=1Phantasma by Kaylie Smithhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/204593914-phantasma?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=yMfhZE8gJT&rank=1Peaches & Honey by R. Raetahttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62691790-peaches-honey?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=rp21XFSsc5&rank=1The Love of My Afterlife by Kirsty Greenwoodhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199928276-the-love-of-my-afterlife?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=fyZRgCypqH&rank=1The Dixon Rule by Elle Kennedyhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/200338241-the-dixon-rule?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=zYU0HddBQc&rank=1A Sensual Summoning by Rachel J. Romanhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/195742750-a-sensual-summoning?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=dDP8kbRusU&rank=1Want more of Jordan, Katie, and Not Another Heroine? Join us on Patreon for bonus episodes and to listen to our Patreon-exclusive series, Tawdry Tuesday! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

Want more of Jordan, Katie, and Not Another Heroine? Join us on Patreon for bonus episodes and to listen to our Patreon-exclusive series, Tawdry Tuesday! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroineTime travel? Check. A teeny, tiny, Corlath moment of romance? Check. More dragon books? Check. We're closing out Dragonflight this week, but come back next Monday for our first epic series of the season: The Cruel Prince by Holly Black.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61975.Dragonflight?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=1dVggNUtlb&rank=1---------Other books mentioned this episode:The Mistborn Saga by Brandon Sandersonhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/68428.Mistborn?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=xVi3lmZiGd&rank=1Song in the Silence by Elizabeth Kernerhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1022209.Song_in_the_Silence?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_19Dealing with Dragons by Patricia C. Wredehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/150739.Dealing_with_Dragons?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=hn5OINtlqe&rank=1The Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarroshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61431922-fourth-wing?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=X8dpktjyMK&rank=1Wyvern by Grace Dravenhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31560086-wyvern?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=PoorCyP5ki&rank=1The Temeraire Series by Naomi Novikhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28876.His_Majesty_s_Dragon?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=1LT7PxRDAx&rank=6Nerilka's Story by Anne McCaffrey https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61974.Nerilka_s_Story?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=mySSoIixvJ&rank=1

We all need a break from romantasy sometimes and Katie is fully invested in her contemporary romance era: enter her current obsession with Christina Lauren. Check out the whole series for a dual, first person POV style, and for bonus points, the audiobook has a very nice British narrator for the MMC.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62361081-the-true-love-experimentOther books mentioned in this episode:The Soulmate Equation by Christina Laurenhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58438593-the-soulmate-equation?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=4UmZfqwnEQ&rank=1 The Bodyguard by Katherine Centerhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58724801-the-bodyguard?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_14Bride by Ali Hazelwoodhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/181344829-bride?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_12

Want more of Jordan, Katie, and Not Another Heroine? Join us on Patreon for bonus episodes and to listen to our Patreon-exclusive series, Tawdry Tuesday! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroineIt's time for the mating flight. Yes, readers, remember Fourth Wing's cringey dragon sex? Here's the original. This is where the book started to lose us as it quickly shifts into F'lar's perspective.---------The OG of dragon stories and science fiction (yes, it's both), Anne McCaffrey wrote Dragonflight almost 60 years ago. If you're a Fourth Wing fan, you'll recognize many (sometimes alarmingly so) similarities between this book and its modern counterpart. Our heroine, Lessa, is gritty, clever, and ruthless - the only issue is we didn't get enough of her. A perspective switch a third of the way through the plot hijacks what could've been a solid romantasy story.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61975.Dragonflight?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=1dVggNUtlb&rank=1

Under the Star of Paris is a very clean, slow-burning, contemporary romance published in the 1950s - for today's reader, the cultural norms and gender roles are so dated, this feels like a historical. Take it as a palate cleanser - easy to read in a few hours on a rainy day. Also, a very believable, not toxic love triangle will keep you guessing the whole book.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3343881-under-the-stars-of-parisOther books mentioned in this episode:Lady Avery and The False Butler by Sofi Laportehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123238138-lady-avery-and-the-false-butler?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_24Blackmoore by Julianne Donaldsonhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15795628-blackmoore?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=84DaFReATJ&rank=1How to Marry a Millionairehttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt0045891/

Want more of Jordan, Katie, and Not Another Heroine? Join us on Patreon for bonus episodes and to listen to our Patreon-exclusive series, Tawdry Tuesday! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroineThe OG of dragon stories and science fiction (yes, it's both), Anne McCaffrey wrote Dragonflight almost 60 years ago. If you're a Fourth Wing fan, you'll recognize many (sometimes alarmingly) similarities between this book and its modern counterpart. Our heroine, Lessa, is gritty, clever, and ruthless - the only issue is we didn't get enough of her. A perspective switch a third of the way through the plot hijacks what could've been a solid romantasy.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61975.Dragonflight?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=1dVggNUtlb&rank=1

Type A heroine, flipped gender roles, fake dating. Can you tell it's Katie's pick this week? This was a surprisingly good, clean romance. Katie consumed it via audiobook but believes it can stand alone in either format. Whether you're an avid contemporary romance consumer or you're interested in dabbling in the genre, this is a perfect little cream puff of a book.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58724801-the-bodyguard?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=8I6R9pmgIQ&rank=1Other books mentioned in this episode: The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwoodhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56732449-the-love-hypothesis?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=szAk2MTyyt&rank=1The Graham Effect by Elle Kennedyhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123255391-the-graham-effect?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_17Draco Malfoy and the Mortifying Ordeal of Being in Love by isthisselfcarehttps://archiveofourown.org/works/34500952/chapters/85870804

Wish fulfillment is what the story feels like and there ain't nothing wrong with that, except when:a mustache-twirling villain hijacks the plot (at least it was exciting);the MCs have a taste for exhibitionism but awful timing; and,the heroine is an inconsistent idiot. We finished it (shocking considering how many issues we found in the overall design), but we highly recommend skipping this pod read in favor of some of the author's fanfiction. (You can find her on AO3 under LovesBitca8) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/201627074-not-another-love-songhttps://archiveofourown.org/users/LovesBitca8/pseuds/LovesBitca8Rating: 3Spice: 4Genre: ContemporarySub-genre: more romance than plotHeroine: The Diamond, The DowntroddenHero: Billionaire, Walking Red FlagTropes: slow burn, enemies to lovers

Sincerely Yours is a gender-swapped Dramione retelling of You've Got Mail. Hidden identities, letter writing, self-growth - all wrapped into a tidy novella. This is a perfect introduction to fanfiction if you're not a die-hard HP fan and tomes like Manacled are a little intimidating. https://archiveofourown.org/works/48211207/chapters/121579090 Other books mentioned in this episode:Forget Me Not by Julie Sotohttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61618737-forget-me-not?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=24LFYmEpAo&rank=1 Divine Rivals by Rebecca Rosshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60784546-divine-rivals?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_13All things Ali Hazelwoodhttps://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21098177.Ali_Hazelwood

Want more of Jordan, Katie, and Not Another Heroine? Join us on Patreon for bonus episodes and to listen to our Patreon-exclusive series, Tawdry Tuesday! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroineYou know when you're hungry and the only thing available is a gas station sandwich that's a few days old but somehow still has some flavor? So you finish it and you feel less hungry but somewhat disappointed with your life choices. That's how we feel about this book.The writing is fine, there's some semblance of a plot, and the cool background details are engaging, but the characters are unlikeable mostly due to their immaturity. Stick around for the fun music references but maybe wait until the title pops up on Libby to start reading.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/201627074-not-another-love-songRating: 3Spice: 4Genre: ContemporarySub-genre: more romance than plotHeroine: The Diamond, The DowntroddenHero: Billionaire, Walking Red FlagTropes: slow burn, enemies to loversOther books mentioned in this episode: Forget Me Not by Julie Sotohttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61618737-forget-me-not

Reality TV is about how Katie sums this book up. It's not great, there are definitely other books that surpass Icebreaker in general quality, but if you need something to fill the time and you're in your hockey romance era, this just might tide you over until you find a better read. *Mild caution for some eating disorder themes.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61767292-icebreaker Other books mentioned in this episode:The Graham Effect and The Dixon Rule by Elle Kennedyhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123255391-the-graham-effect?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=MUKab2vIIr&rank=1 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/200338241-the-dixon-rule?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=mL7O9iE78r&rank=1All of Ali Hazelwood's works:https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21098177.Ali_Hazelwood?from_search=true&from_srp=true Some hidden gems:Easy by Tammara Weberhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16056408-easy?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=3vpKLYRjSK&rank=2Simon Says by Lori Fosterhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/155317.Simon_Says?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=mNVqcFA8gg&rank=19

We have entered our era of fanfiction. This week we're reading "The Right Thing To Do" by LovesBitca8 (aka Julie Soto, the author of Forget Me Not). This work is the author's first fanfiction, posted in 2017 and served as the inspiration for another beloved fic, "The Auction," due to be published later this year under the title "Rose in Chains.""The Right Thing To Do" feels like a 16-episode corporate romance k-drama complete with makeover sequence, busybody mom, several secondary love interests, and a third-act break-up. At its heart, this story is driven by the character's insecurities and repeated instances of miscommunication, but despite these typically alienizing tropes we devoured this story and the slowburn to a happily ever after.https://archiveofourown.org/works/11472648/chapters/25724661Rating: 5Spice: 3Genre: FantasySub-genre: more romance than plotHeroine: Soft GirlHero: Billionaire, Golden Retriever Tropes: slow burn, forbidden loveOther books mentioned in this episode: Not Another Love Song by Julie Sotohttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/201627074-not-another-love-song

It's another DNF week for both of us but not for the reasons you might think. Throne in the Dark is the first book in the Villains & Virtues series and it is all over the romantasy subbreddit. This book is frequently recommended hand in hand with Reign & Ruin by J. D. Evans (which we loved), but this just hits a little different. Well-written but created in the vein of Spaceballs and The Princess Bride, this is a campy romp following the evil son of a demon lord and a do-goody damsel. If that's your thing, you will love this book.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62232755-throne-in-the-dark?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=zFYRO5uAfD&rank=1Other books mentioned in this episode:Assistant to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrerhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123257687-assistant-to-the-villain?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_5The Songbird & The Heart of Stone by Carissa Broadbenthttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210134467-the-songbird-the-heart-of-stone?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_23Reign & Ruin by J. D. Evanshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50607309-reign-ruin?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=oUkIsWUSuJ&rank=1When The Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parkerhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/202507554-when-the-moon-hatched?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=Sb4riMkZpN&rank=1Also check out: Galavant https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3305096/

We have entered our era of fanfiction. This week we're reading "The Right Thing To Do" by LovesBitca8 (aka Julie Soto, the author of Forget Me Not). This work is the author's first fanfiction, posted in 2017 and served as the inspiration for another beloved fic, "The Auction," due to be published later this year under the title "Rose in Chains.""The Right Thing To Do" feels like a 16-episode corporate romance k-drama complete with makeover sequence, busybody mom, several secondary love interests, and a third-act break-up. At its heart, this story is driven by the character's insecurities and repeated instances of miscommunication, but despite these typically alienizing tropes we devoured this story and the slowburn to a happily ever after.https://archiveofourown.org/works/11472648/chapters/25724661Rating: 5Spice: 3Genre: FantasySub-genre: more romance than plotHeroine: Soft GirlHero: Billionaire, Golden RetrieverTropes: slow burn, forbidden love

Rival gang members in early 20th century Shanghai battle a mysterious plague while battling feelings for each other: seems like a stay-up-all night reading concoction but this take on Romeo and Juliet falls flat. Katie recommends it if you're an Allison Saft fan (which she is not) but maybe check out Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross or Dance of Thieves by Mary Pearson instead.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50892212-these-violent-delights?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=YQOUh4VyNf&rank=1

We have entered our era of fanfiction. This week we're reading "The Right Thing To Do" by LovesBitca8 (aka Julie Soto, the author of Forget Me Not). This work is the author's first fanfiction, posted in 2017 and served as the inspiration for another beloved fic, "The Auction," due to be published later this year under the title "Rose in Chains.""The Right Thing To Do" feels like a 16-episode corporate romance k-drama complete with makeover sequence, busybody mom, several secondary love interests, and a third-act break-up. At its heart, this story is driven by the character's insecurities and repeated instances of miscommunication, but despite these typically alienizing tropes we devoured this story and the slowburn to a happily ever after.https://archiveofourown.org/works/11472648/chapters/25724661Rating: 5Spice: 3Genre: FantasySub-genre: more romance than plotHeroine: Soft GirlHero: Billionaire, Golden Retriever Tropes: slow burn, forbidden loveOther books mentioned in this episode: Almost Forever by Linda Howardhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/411698.Almost_Forever?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=uAVvxC0TbP&rank=1Rose in Chains by Julie Sotohttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/221179254-rose-in-chains?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=mM8W2eM1IT&rank=1

An introverted librarian with a talking plant escapes a burning city to flee to her island home out in the boondocks. A gorgeous neighbor delivers her delicious treats. And that's as far as Jordan got in this book. Despite its GoodReads Choice Award nomination, this one is standing on a pretty cover and a cottage-core setting only. It's not bad, it's boring...and blue.The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst

This week we're finishing "The Songbird & The Heart of Stone" by Carissa Broadbent. Despite great world-building and compelling character backstories, this book was ultimately boring and predictable. Recycled tropes, a grating heroine, and a hero with everything going for him except personality.Rating: 2Spicy: 3.5 (not plentiful but very explicit)Genre: FantasySub-genre: more plot than romanceTropes: almost enemies to lovers, slowburnHeroine: Soft GirlHero: Shadow Daddyhttps://www.notanotherheroine.com/the-spice-archive/the-songbird-%26-the-heart-of-stone https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210134467-the-songbird-the-heart-of-stoneOther books mentioned in the episode:"Slaying the Vampire Conqueror" by Carissa Broadbenthttps://www.notanotherheroine.com/the-spice-archive/slaying-the-vampire-conquerorhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123368729-slaying-the-vampire-conqueror?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=PEAiN1KLTS&rank=1"Assistant to the Villain" by Hannah Nicole Maehrerhttps://www.notanotherheroine.com/the-spice-archive/assistant-to-the-villainhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123257687-assistant-to-the-villain?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_4"The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy" by Megan Bannenhttps://www.notanotherheroine.com/the-spice-archive/the-undertaking-of-hart-and-mercyhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58510253-the-undertaking-of-hart-and-mercy?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=3KlweTl7wW&rank=1"Deathless" by Catherynne M. Valentehttps://www.notanotherheroine.com/the-spice-archive/deathlesshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8694389-deathless?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=KqF2jJkYXa&rank=1patreon.com/notanotherheroine www.notanotherheroine.com

This book is everywhere so Katie finally gave in and immediately started a Reddit argument. Campy, rife with misogyny, reminiscent of an early 2000's teen girl series - it's something when Katie recommends Fourth Wing over another book. Just read for the vibes, man.The Zodiac Academy: The AwakeningBut, seriously, read A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik or The Cruel Prince by Holly Black instead.

This week we're reading "The Songbird & The Heart of Stone" by Carissa Broadbent. Despite great world-building and compelling character backstories, this book was ultimately boring and predictable. Recycled tropes, a grating heroine, and a hero with everything going for him except personality. Rating: 2Spicy: 3.5 (not plentiful but very explicit)Genre: Fantasy Sub-genre: more plot than romanceTropes: almost enemies to lovers, slowburnHeroine: Soft GirlHero: Shadow Daddyhttps://www.notanotherheroine.com/the-spice-archive/the-songbird-%26-the-heart-of-stone https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210134467-the-songbird-the-heart-of-stoneOther books mentioned in the episode:"Deathless" by Catherynne M. Valente https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8694389-deathless?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=KqF2jJkYXa&rank=1"Bonesmith" by Nicki Pau Pretohttps://www.notanotherheroine.com/the-spice-archive/bonesmithhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62919122-bonesmith?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=Krqo0Ifma6&rank=1 "Gideon the Ninth" by Tamsyn Muirhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42036538-gideon-the-ninth?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=8LAvTriWgQ&rank=1patreon.com/notanotherheroinewww.notanotherheroine.com

We did it, readers! 100 episodes, two seasons, and a third yet to come. Join us on Monday, January 13th for our first book of 2025, Carissa Broadbent's "The Songbird & The Heart of Stone."https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/209740448-the-songbird-the-heart-of-stone The NAH AwardsBest Heroine: Kestrel from "The Winner's Curse" by Marie Rutkoskihttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16069030-the-winner-s-curse?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=vRfLlprRat&rank=1Best Hero: Lowe from "Bride" by Ali HazelwoodSleeper Hit: "Reign & Ruin" by J.D. Evanshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50607309-reign-ruin?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=7HBGnFyRt9&rank=1https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/181344829-bride?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=kk68IlTksC&rank=1Worst Heroine: Violet from "Fourth Wing" by Rebecca Yarroshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61431922-fourth-wing?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=0HMubJMO3V&rank=1Worst Hero: Bjorn from "A Fate Inked in Blood" by Danielle L. Jensenhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/165940202-a-fate-inked-in-blood?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_21Don't forget to check out The Spice Archive to see all of our pod books and ratings: notanotherheroine.comFind us on Patreon: patreon.com/notanotherheroine

Welcome to Jordan's corruption: i.e. Katie has hyped up fanfiction so much that Jordan has come and joined the dark side - and started with reading the ENTIRETY of PacificRimbaud's catalog. For your four course meal, Jordan recommends starting with the funny and sweet, Love and Other Historical Accidents (covered in full length pod episodes too!), then a quick and smutty palate cleanser, The Secretary. Next the heavy and deeply romantic, Remember One Thing, and end on the silly (and very, very spicy!) One and Done.

"There you are sweetheart."Come on readers, Christian Bale as the voice of our beloved rakish wizard Howl? This movie is up there with Pride and Prejudice in the comfort film rotation, but this week, we're reading, listening, and watching this story. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6294.Howl_s_Moving_Castle

Oh no... Katie has fallen down the hockey smut romance rabbit hole... and is surprisingly having a decent time. The verdict: The Graham Effect by Elle Kennedy was fun the way reality TV is. But worth mentioning, maybe only consume this story as an audiobook for your own sanity.The Graham Effect by Elle KennedyThis being Katie's first foray into the sports romance genre, her only other suggestion is the movie, Legally Blonde (lol).

"There you are sweetheart."Come on readers, Christian Bale as the voice of our beloved rakish wizard Howl? This movie is up there with Pride and Prejudice in the comfort film rotation, but this week, we're reading, listening, and watching this story. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6294.Howl_s_Moving_Castle

We step into an alternate universe this week as Jordan recommends a surprisingly deep and touching monster romance featuring a lich, a word we both mispronounce for the entire first half of the episode (what's new?). Trigger warning, however, for eating disorders and body dismorphia!Goodreads: Wed to the Lich by Layla Fae

Proof that all books are not published equally, this week we're finishing a Dramione fanfic that is perhaps the best story we've read all year. The romantic tension, the beautiful quirky writing, the Austen-esque plot is all free to download at Archive of Our Own.https://archiveofourown.org/works/21496525?view_full_work=trueFor those of you with a Kindle, you can download a PDF copy of this work and send it to your Amazon account. Just search for "send to Kindle."

It's fanfiction central over here on the pod and Katie's pick this week is a big ol' masterpiece - Measure of a Man by Inadaze22. Generational trauma, terrorism, and dementia give this story depth and a slowburn romance to end all slowburn romances keeps you entranced the entire time. Honestly, just start it now, you won't regret it.Measure of a Man by Inadaze22(Audiobook format) Measure of a Man - SEP Fanfic ReadingsTo send works from Archive of Our Own (AO3) to your kindle:Open the fanfiction, in the right hand corner click download > AZW3Then follow the Amazon Kindle instructions found here: https://www.amazon.com/sendtokindle/email

Proof that all books are not published equally, this week we're reading a Dramione fanfic that is perhaps the best story we've read all year. The romantic tension, the beautiful quirky writing, the Austen-esque plot is all free to download at Archive of Our Own.https://archiveofourown.org/works/21496525?view_full_work=trueFor those of you with a Kindle, you can download a PDF copy of this work and send it to your Amazon account. Just search for "send to Kindle."

Jordan's pick this week is a lil sneak peak at what's to come next season! We'll be covering The Winternight Trilogy by Katherine Arden in season 3 of the pod - so start reading now! The Trilogy includes The Bear and the Nightinggale, The Girl in the Tower, and The Winter of the Witch.Goodreads: The Winternight Trilogy by Katherine ArdenIf you're looking for something similar try:The Shadow and Bone Trilogy by Leigh BardugoAnything by Juliet Marillier

Proof that all books are not published equally, this week we're reading a Dramione fanfic that is perhaps the best story we've read all year. The romantic tension, the beautiful quirky writing, the Austen-esque plot is all free to download at Archive of Our Own.https://archiveofourown.org/works/21496525?view_full_work=trueFor those of you with a Kindle, you can download a PDF copy of this work and send it to your Amazon account. Just search for "send to Kindle."

Katie DNF's another booktok book, Phantasma by Kalie Smith, even with giving it the good ol' college try at 21%. The main heroine was rude for no reason (strike 1), the romantic tension was nonexistent (strike 2), and it was just sorta... boring (strike 3).https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/204593914-phantasmaIf you're looking for something better, try:The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbenthttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60714999-the-serpent-and-the-wings-of-night?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_7What Monstrous Gods by Rosamund Hodgehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/173953567-what-monstrous-gods?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_9Cruel Beauty by Rosamund Hodgehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15839984-cruel-beauty?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_12

This is not an episode for a fourth wing fangirl, but it is our last one for this book, so thank you to all the readers who stuck with us through this yucky dragon journey.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61431922-fourth-wing

Jordan's got TWO picks this week, one for you and one for the younger readers in your life. The first is a fairytale retelling YA pick, Enchanted by Alethea Kontis. The second, a firmly adult, hefty, more fantasy than romance deep cut: The Assassins of Tamurin by S.D. Tower (which is only available in print - gasp!)https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12180248-enchantedhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43684.The_Assassins_of_Tamurin

As you will soon discover, we had some mishaps during the recording of part 3. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61431922-fourth-wing

Katie does love a found family, and especially so in this week's pick Realm Breaker by Victoria Aveyard. She does warn though - this is pretty heavy in the fantasy genre with only hints at a few brewing romances on the horizon. But if you're looking for a more gender equitable high fantasy pick instead of the male lead-heavy usuals like Tolkien or Martin, this is for you!https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54513688-realm-breakerIf you're looking for something similar, try Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien or A Song of Ice and Fire by George R. R. Martin.

For you all dear readers it's a new week, for us, it's one long rant session about dragons who really should have better things to do.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61431922-fourth-wing

Jordan's pick this week is getting steampunky with a master/assistant romance and a secret society of - you guessed it - super hot, immortal men. Sign me UP. (And hey, it's Kindle Unlimited and Jordan has read it like 8 times - what's not to love?)https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18515966-prince-of-heartsLooking for similar vibes?The Parasol Protectorate Series by Gail Carrigerhttps://www.goodreads.com/series/46888-parasol-protectorateAnything by Olivia Atwaterhttps://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20153683.Olivia_AtwaterThe movies Van Helsing (2004) or The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003)

It's been a long time in the making but we finally finished it. Fourth Wing is here for better or worse, readers. If you loved this one, you might be better off just skipping the next few episodes.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61431922-fourth-wing

Jordan accuses someone of murder and Katie apparently loves golden retriever characters - and neither point is related to Katie's (thoroughly enjoyed!) pick this week, Legendborn by Tracy Deonn. A YA paranormal fantasy for younger girls who maybe think they're a little older than they actually are.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50892338-legendbornIf you're looking for something with similar vibes (that Katie also very much enjoyed!):Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo (a previous pick of the week!)https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43263680-ninth-houseThe Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvaterhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17675462-the-raven-boysOnly a Monster by Vanessa Len (also a previous pick of the week!)https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58210340-only-a-monster

Who needs spice when you can have a sash scene. Hari recruits a militia, takes down an entire demon army, and somehow, no one dies: not the cat, the horse, or Mathin. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/407813.The_Blue_Sword

In this week’s pick, something tragic almost happened - Jordan was on the verge of DNFing our newest fav book, Reign & Ruin by J. D. Evans. If you’re like Jordan (and Katie when she tried too!) and find yourself struggling, keep at it for the first 50 or so pages, and then the magic happens.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50607309-reign-ruinIf you’re looking for something similar (or are still being convinced to read it), take a look at:The Winner’s Curse by Marie Rutkoskihttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16069030-the-winner-s-curseDaughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillierhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13928.Daughter_of_the_ForestAnything by Grace Dravenhttps://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2759153.Grace_Draven

This week, Hari goes to boot camp with her pet leopard and battles a mysterious stranger.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/407813.The_Blue_Sword

Katie gives likely the most lukewarm review of a book ever for An Enchantment of Ravens by Margaret Rogerson - "it was a book." In today's world of fast fashion publishing though, that's actually decent praise.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30969741-an-enchantment-of-ravensIf you're looking for something similar (and maybe better):Half a Soul by Olivia Atwaterhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60717747-half-a-soulA Fragile Enchantment by Allison Safthttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/127305900-a-fragile-enchantmentThe Cruel Prince by Holly Blackhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26032825-the-cruel-prince

Kidnap me, hill king! This week we kick off The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley, a fixture in the fantasy romance genre , and perhaps some of the first-ever fan-fiction. Apparently, McKinley rage wrote this in response to an early 20th century novel called The Sheikh.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/407813.The_Blue_Swordhttps://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-sheik-edith-maude-hull/1127775915

Readers, we're having a bit of crisis of self. What are we reading these days? How do we define it and what is actually a good book?

Jordan gets back to her roots this week with a fun, quirky, and not too serious regency romance - What I Did for a Duke by Julie Anne Long. While we're still not clear on what was done to get the duke, it's likely something naughty (especially since this is an open door romance!) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8430098-what-i-did-for-a-dukeIf you're looking for something similar, try anything by Julia Quinn, Lisa Kleypas or Sherry Thomas.