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Romantasy Roundtable: Fantasy Romance Reviews

Romantasy Roundtable: Fantasy Romance Reviews

87 episodes — Page 2 of 2

Mate: Chapters 1-12

Episode Title: Mate – Chapters 1–12 (Werewolf Bar Mitzvah Edition!) ???? Description: The Romanty Roundtableis back and absolutely unhinged, diving into the Omegaverse with Mate by Ali Hazelwood, the companion novel to Bride! Amanda, Kim, and Rick break down the first 12 chapters, introducing the hunted Human-Were hybrid Serena Paris and the formidable Alpha Koen Alexander. The crew discusses Serena's mysterious hybrid illness, the undeniable mate bond vs. Koen's infamous Celibacy Covenant, and the confusing science of werewolf biology. Expect an accidental giveaway announcement, debates on why Millennials love email, and a deep dive into the canonical Judaism of the Northwest Pack.Key Topics Discussed:Alpha vs. Alpha: We discuss the difference between the "domesticated" investment banker Low and the "wild" Jewish Alpha Koen, who hates being thanked.The Alpha's Rules: Koen claims Serena as his mate for protection, despite his centuries-old vow of celibacy, setting up a primal conflict with their sharp, magnetic chemistry.Dying Hybrid: Serena is secretly dealing with CSD (Cortisol Surge Disorder) and keeps her illness from Koen and Misery, forcing her to hide her rapidly increasing need for her mate.Pack Drama & Genetics: The crew debates werewolf anatomy, the significance of the Northwest Pack's destroyed records, and whether Serena's father is the key to her past."Mental Throat Punch" The episode features a dramatic re-enactment of the worst line of dialogue ever written, plus an accidental giveaway for listeners brave enough to make it to the end.Join us for chaos, cringe, and conspiracy theories. Chapters 13–26 are next—we’re one step closer to figuring out why Ali Hazelwood's heroes are so into woodworking!

Oct 31, 202559 min

A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire: Chapters 36-End

Episode Title: A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire – Chapters 36–End (Finale!)Description: The Romanty Roundtable has survived the third-quarter slump and is finally done with A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire! Amanda, Kim, and Rick close the book on Poppy and Casteel's chaotic journey, covering the final, explosive chapters (36 through 45). They discuss the long-awaited wedding, a sudden battle, a heartbreaking betrayal, and a shocking divine power-up in the final minutes. The crew gives their definitive final ratings, debates the concept of "soul eating," and celebrates the fact that the two best parts of the book were, unfortunately, the last two chapters.Key Topics Discussed: * The Atlantian Wedding: Poppy and Casteel actually get married in a surprisingly un-Christian ritual, complete with burying rings and a mark of union on their palms. * The Best Bad Sentence: We revisit the terrible, cringe dialogue, including the line: "I've always known you like that I enjoy when you make me bleed." * The Final Betrayal: The crew reacts to the unexpected traitorous plot twist involving the "cute little puppy" Becket, and the subsequent "Red Wedding" chaos. * The Power-Up: Poppy discovers a terrifying new use of her empath skills: soul eating and channeling hatred back at her attackers, causing the sky to rain blood. * The Divine Reveal: In the book's climax, Casteel kneels, Queen Eloana abdicates, and Poppy is proclaimed the rightful Queen, the descendant of the King of the Gods. * Join or Don't: We discuss the constant teasing of the threesome/joining and the consensus that the third book has to deliver. * Hot Takes & Final Ratings: The crew gives their final star rating (a reluctant 2.5 ⭐️) and "soup" score for the whole book, concluding that author Jenny should stick to writing plot, not romance.Next Up: Omegaverse!We’re putting away the heartmates and jumping into Mate by Ali Hazelwood, the highly anticipated paranormal companion novel.Join us next time as we begin reading Chapters 1–12!

Oct 24, 202541 min

A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire: Chapters 24-35

Episode Title: A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire – Chapters 24–35Description: The Romantasy Roundtable returns, barely surviving the third-quarter slump of Jennifer L. Armentrout’s A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire. Amanda, Kim, and Rick tackle bacon jokes from 2013, the world’s slowest “joining” talk, soup in the soup, and an alarming number of thumb references. Somewhere between hot springs foreplay and military strategy, our trio wonders if anything in this book actually happens—or if we’re all just second-screening it at this point.Highlights include:The Joining Threesome That Wasn’t: Poppy, Castile, and Kieran keep talking about it, and everyone just wants them to do it already.Juice Box Chronicles: Kieran supervises the world’s most awkward feeding scene while Rick logs every thumb movement.Spark Notes & Show Your Spark: Poppy gains lightning, healing powers, and a personal fan club of wolves who think she smells like mothballs.Soup in the Soup: The hot-spring scene finally happens, complete with recycled cave romance energy and deeply questionable dialogue.Drama at Spessa’s End: Political betrayals, dead side characters we barely met, and Poppy declaring she’s ready to fight while everyone else begs her to stay in the tent and heal.The Fire Rises: The Ascended are marching, Rick is losing the will to live, and Kim sneezes through the prophecy of “one more soup scene.”Plus: Comic-Con shout-outs, Kingdom of Threads merch obsession, “halp” frogs, and confirmation that the pod loves The Life of a Showgirl more than this entire series.Next up: Chapters 36–End—expect chaos, confessions, and (allegedly) the final bowl of soup.

Oct 17, 202548 min

A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire: Chapters 13-23

Episode Title: A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire – Chapters 13–23Description: The Romanty Roundtable continues the chaos with Jennifer L. Armentrout’s A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire, covering chapters 13–23. Amanda, Kim, and Rick unpack Atlantean lore dumps, blood-soaked battles, pantry makeouts, and a very questionable use of the word “honeydew.” From cave cats and silver hawks to Dead Bones cannibals and heartmate drama, this section of the book gives us everything from messy soup scenes to Hot Topic-level life mottos.Key Topics Discussed:Library Laps & Lightning Teases – Poppy learns about empath warriors while being forcibly lap-sat, discovers wyverns (not dragons), and sparks that might foreshadow a fiery new signet.Ascended Attack – Lord Cheney (aka Dick Cheney) kidnaps Poppy mid-chaos, baby-eating vamps abound, and Castile rips out throats with war-crime efficiency.Carriage Carnage – Poppy stabs her way to survival with the legendary “meat knife” before Castile goes full dramatic rescue and feeds her his blood.Pantry Passion – A supply closet smooch with Castile gives us heat, vegetables, and the classic fake-engagement angst.Cheney’s Final Curtain – Poppy gets her vengeance with the bloodstone dagger, while Kieran and Castile’s wolven bond raises more moral questions than answers.Soup Complaints – A nightmare, an ick-inducing bedside feeding, and nipple pain discourse lead to one of the weirdest soup scenes yet.Dead Bones Clan Throwdown – Skin masks, bone windchimes, and Poppy proving she can slay with a bloodstone bow. Action scene clarity not included.Pompei & Spessa’s End – Ruins, secret strongholds, and Atlantian plumbing logistics: showers exist… sometimes.Honeydew & Heartmates – Castile’s trance-feeding ends with the worst pet name ever, before Kieran drops the “heartmate” bomb that no one asked for.Join us for pantry kisses, bone masks, and Hot Topic one-liners. Next stop: Chapters 24–35—pack your cloaks, cave cats, and emotional support wolven.

Oct 3, 202557 min

A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire: Chapters 1-12

Description: The Romanty Roundtable is BACK with Jennifer L. Armentrout’s A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire, and Poppy wastes no time reminding us why she’s the queen of chaotic inner monologues. Amanda, Kim, and Rick dive into the opening 12 chapters, covering bloody banquets, lore dumps, tree bears, and lap-sitting that nobody actually asked for. Expect unhinged notes, vampire math equations, and the revelation that Castile’s full name is somehow worse than we imagined.Key Topics Discussed:Marriage Ultimatum – Castile proposes (or, well, demands) marriage, Poppy fumes, and everyone wonders how long we can drag out this conversation. Spoiler: 200 pages.Heart-Ripping Romance – From banquet brawls to Indiana Jones callbacks, Castile proves that tearing out hearts is just his love language.Vampire Math 101 – Mortals + blood loss = Craven? Mortals + Atlantean blood = Ascended? Maybe it’s Maybelline.Tree Bears & Bear Rats – The animal kingdom of Atlantia is unhinged, and Jennifer L. Armentrout is just making up vibes.Middle Name Madness – Hawkthrone. Yes, that’s really his middle name. No, we are not okay.One Throne, One Horse – Lap-sitting at dinner cements the “one throne” trope. Ergonomics be damned.Lore Dumps & Bloodlines – Seven Atlantean subtypes, changelings, wolven bonds, and why Poppy is giving “extinct bloodline, but make it main character energy.”Hallmark Moments – Castile promises her a diamond so big it enters the room before she does. Romantic? Terrifying? Both.Join us for heart-ripping, lap-sitting, and tree bear spotting. Next stop: Chapters 13–23. Bring your snowballs, inner hips, and at least one spare throne.

Sep 26, 20251h 10m

Enchantra: Chapters 36-End

???? Episode Title: Enchantra – Chapters 36–End???? Description: The Romanty Roundtable closes out Kaylie Smith’s Enchantra with a finale full of bargains, betrayals, memory wipes, and one very stubborn fox. Amanda, Kim, and Rick unpack the final chapters as Genevieve and Rowan descend into hell, face Knox’s manipulations, and fight through the last deadly round of the Hunt. Expect shadow soup, soul lock drama, and an ending that had us equal parts swooning and side-eyeing.???? Key Topics Discussed:Hell is Basically Norway? – Demons, shops, fans on “Enchantrogram,” and why Knox’s estate feels more like a goth shopping district than eternal damnation.Bargains on Bargains – Knox tempts Rowan and Genevieve with freedom, cures, and impossible choices, while our duo proves their love with some very messy confessions.The Trove & The Soul Lock – A James Bond-style villain monologue meets foreshadowed trinkets as Genevieve makes her fateful pick.Final Rounds & Fake-Outs – Ellen bows out, Rowan vs. Grave hits heel-turn territory, and the ultimate sacrifice lands in Genevieve’s hands (and locket).Memory Loss Meltdown – Genevieve wakes up without Rowan, Salem gets snarky, and we all collectively groan at the “amnesia trope”… until the letters (and a certain ring) start rolling in.The Ring & The Reunion – Rowan trades his immortality, Genevieve chooses love, and the waterfront kiss delivers the romantasy payoff.Epilogue Set-Up – Crimson rot cures, devil frat houses, and the looming big bad king—plus, Lucy’s subplot heating up for book three.Soup Ratings & Star Ratings – Was the shadow soup hot enough? Did the pacing land? We debate and land on an average of 3.5 cans of soup and 4 stars.???? Join us for devil bargains, shadow kisses, and fox squeals. Book three is coming—bring your keg stands and soul lockets.

Sep 19, 202552 min

Enchantra: Chapters 17-35

Episode Title: Enchantra – Chapters 17–35Description: The Romanty Roundtable dives back into Kaylie Smith’s Enchantra, covering chapters 17–35—aka the absolute chaos portion of the book. Amanda, Kim, and Rick wade through deadly hunts, shadow soup, fox games, piranha attacks, and family rituals that make Thanksgiving dinner look tame. Expect labyrinth chills, Umbra adoration, and some of the spiciest shadow play we’ve read yet.Key Topics Discussed:The Hunt Heats Up – Grave’s turn in the labyrinth brings Squid Game vibes, horror-movie choices, and one too many flimsy dresses in the snow.Two Truths & a Lie – Rowan and Genevieve crack open their pasts with games that double as surprisingly emotional intimacy-building.Umbra Supremacy – The little black fox steals the show (and our hearts), from flower crowns to tragic piranha drama.Shadow Soup™ – Rowan brings his shadows into the mix for a scene none of us were prepared for. Extra hands, extra spice.Birthday Stabbings & Family Secrets – Genevieve’s birthday dinner involves stabbing Dad and spilling secrets. Because of course it does.Fox Says… – A trust-building, very not-PG version of Simon Says that escalates fast.Betrayals & Confessions – From bets on Genevieve to Rowan’s secret letter-writing past, trust is tested and love is confessed.Predictions & Theories – Will Genevieve win the Hunt? Or is a trip to hell (literally) setting the stage for book three?Join us for labyrinth chills, shadow thrills, and Umbra squeals. Only one round left in the Hunt—place your bets and hide your foxes.

Sep 12, 202548 min

Enchantra: Chapters 1-17

Episode Title: Enchantra – Chapters 1–17Description: We’re back with a brand-new series! The Romantasy Roundtable crew embarks on a new gothic romantasy journey with the highly anticipated sequel to Fantasma, Enchantra by Kylie Smith. Amanda, Kim, and Rick discuss the book's first 17 chapters, following Ophelia's sister, Genevieve Grim, as she enters a whole new world of paranormal chaos. From a mysterious new love interest and a deadly scavenger hunt to ancient curses and a whole lot of questions about who is who, the crew breaks down the introduction to the Enchantra world and Genevieve’s new role in the hunt. Expect discussions on chaotic book boy names, the difference between an acceptable and unacceptable "okay" movie, and a very wholesome “soup” scene.Key Topics Discussed:Welcome to Enchantra – We dive into a new book and a new world, picking up right where Phantasma left off and following Genevieve as she travels to Italy to find her mother’s old friend.The Hunt – The crew breaks down the deadly game the Silver family is forced to participate in every year, and the shocking revelation that Genevieve must join them.A New Kind of Book Boy – The gang discusses Genevieve’s introduction to a new kind of book boyfriend, Rowan, a Shadow Wraith whose mysterious past and alluring nature has them all a little confused.Family Secrets – We discuss the complicated family dynamics of the Silver family, their ancient curse, and the unresolved mystery of what a Spectre is.The Soup Scene – The long-awaited discussion of a very wholesome but very forgettable “soup” scene.Final Thoughts & Predictions – The Romantasy Roundtable rates the book so far, gives some wild guesses, and speculates wildly about what’s to come.Join us for more secrets, more curses, and more chaotic energy. Chapters 18–35 are next—bring your tin foil hats and some more soup!

Aug 29, 20251h 13m

Knight and the Moth: Chapters 15-End

Episode Title: The Knight and the Moth – Chapters 15–EndDescription: The Romanty Roundtable returns to the haunted moors of Traum for the final stretch of The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig—and what a wild ride it is. Amanda, Kim, and Rick dissect the closing chapters of this gothic romantasy, from sprite showdowns and knightly confessions to shocking betrayals and a gargoyle reveal that had us all yelling. Expect boss-battle energy, found-family feels, and exactly one can of soup (complimentary).Key Topics Discussed:Sprite Trouble & Omen Hunts – From mountain sprites to the Heartsore Weaver, we follow Cibil’s dangerous encounters and growing mastery with her hammer, chisel, and magic coin.Rituals, Revelations, & Rory – Cold-water ceremonies, political pomp, and Rory’s steadfast (if slightly too quick) devotion to our Diver-turned-knight.Boss Battle Bliss – A thunderous fight with the Ardent Oarsman that cements Cibil’s strength—and raises new mysteries about her past.Gargoyle Gatekeeping – The truth about the first Diver, the Abbis’ twisted plans, and why our beloved Bartholomew might just be the best Disney-style sidekick never drawn.Benji’s Heel Turn – The shocking betrayal, the wing-shattering cruelty, and how this sets the stage for an epic duology finale.Soup Scene Review – Sweet, gentle, and… easy to forget. One can, no spice.Predictions for Book Two – Sprite alliances, gargoyle armies, and why Ma should probably start drafting her will.Join us for prophecies, betrayals, and pining across battlefield ruins. The second (and final!) book awaits—bring your gargoyle snacks and vengeance lists.

Aug 18, 20251h 19m

The Knight and the Moth Chapters 1-14

Episode Title: The Knight and the Moth – Chapters 1–14Description: The Romanty Roundtable embarks on a brand-new gothic romantasy journey with The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig. Amanda, Kim, and Rick unpack the first 14 chapters of this moody, magical tale set in the haunted moors of Traum. From cathedral drownings and cryptic prophecies to knife-to-throat banter and suspiciously hot knights, the crew dissects the eerie worldbuilding, ominous omens, and slow-burn tension between our divine dreamer and the heretical knight who doesn’t believe a word she says. Expect moth metaphors, theological debates, and just enough book boy thirst to keep things holy.Key Topics Discussed:Opening Vibes & Gothic Atmosphere – The trio gushes over Gillig’s prose, the cathedral setting, and the windswept moors, while struggling to pin down Traum’s religious and political structure.The Diviner’s Burden – We break down Sybil “Six” Delling’s life as a prophecy-prisoner, her role in serving the Six Omens, and the claustrophobic isolation of Aisling Cathedral.Enter the Knight – Rodrick “Rory” Myndacious rides in with heresy, sarcasm, and zero patience for divine visions. Cue the banter and mutual distrust.Knife Scene™ Energy – A tense, blade-to-throat confrontation turns into a mutual understanding… sort of.The Escape & the Pilgrimage – Six’s reluctant journey with Rory kicks off, complete with countryside tension, questions of faith, and some slow-burn horse proximity.Moth & Light Symbolism – We break down the moth motif, its ties to prophecy, and how Gillig uses it to foreshadow emotional and romantic arcs.Predictions & Theories – Who are the real villains—divine forces, mortal politics, or Rory himself? And what’s the endgame for Six’s prophecies?Bonus Reads & Recs – Amanda’s latest romantasy haul, Kim’s current dark fantasy obsession, and Rick’s ongoing Throne of Glass read.Join us for prophecies, politics, and pining on horseback. Chapter 15–28 is next—bring your moth nets and heresy shields.

Aug 11, 20251h 11m

Phantasma: Chapters 35-End

Episode Title: Phantasma – Chapters 35–EndDescription: The Devil’s Manor saga comes to a blood-soaked, betrayal-packed close—and the Romanty Roundtable is here to scream about it. Amanda, Kim, and Rick finish Phantasma by Kaylie Smith with a finale episode full of spicy phantom angst, crown conspiracies, and emotionally devastating sister drama. As Ophelia faces the final trials, confronts her dark past, and makes her last soup-laced choices, the crew dives into the book’s big reveals, lore dumps, and unhinged epilogues. Did it stick the landing? Were we emotionally okay afterward? No and also no. But we had fun.Key Topics Discussed:Phantom Sex & Shadow Voices – Ophelia finally lets go—emotionally, mentally, and physically—with Blackwell. We break down the power of consent, trauma recovery, and… floating ghost cuddles.Salmaestrus & the Devil Crown Lore Drop – Demon dads, political betrayals, angelic ancestry, and bargain loopholes galore. Amanda explains the whole Devil’s Grant system like we’re five.OCD Metaphors & Mental Health Payoff – Ophelia's shadow voice arc comes full circle in a way that’s powerful, tender, and genuinely therapeutic. We cried. A lot.The Final Trial & The Real Devil – Forget Hunger Games. Ophelia goes full sacrificial lamb, Rick loses it over the sword moment, and we all scream at the final reveal of Sinclair.The Epilogue(s) – Blackwell’s back (ish), Ophelia's free (maybe), and no one is okay. We debate the open ending, mourn missing soup, and spiral over the possible Book 2 vibes.Rating & Reflection – Stars are given, predictions are re-evaluated, and the group talks about what worked, what didn’t, and why we’re still haunted by Poe the cat.Join us for one last round of chaos, coping, and catharsis as we put Phantasma to rest. We laughed, we screamed, we made soup metaphors. And we’ll probably summon Blackwell one last time… just to be sure.

Aug 3, 20251h 16m

Phantasma: Chapters 18-34

Episode Title: Phantasma – Chapters 18–34Description: Things heat up—and bleed—on the latest episode of Romanty Roundtable. Amanda, Kim, and Rick dive into chapters 18 through 34 of Phantasma by Kaylie Smith, tackling phantom thirst traps, demon drama, and the existential horrors of the gluttony level (whatever that was). With blood rain, teleportation sex, and soul-deep OCD metaphors, the gang breaks down Oilia’s increasingly high-stakes trials inside Devil’s Manor and her spiraling bond with our favorite ghostly himbo, Blackwell. Plus: soup theories, devil politics, Sims achievements, and a bourbon-fueled educational tangent you didn’t know you needed.Key Topics Discussed:BookTok & Bookstagram Updates – The team reflects on their growing TikTok community, Instagram apathy, and Rick’s descent into algorithm addiction.OCD, Shadow Voices & Literary Representation – Amanda gets real about OCD representation, praising Kaylie Smith’s depiction of intrusive thoughts and internal chaos.The Lust Level (Yes, There’s Soup) – Bloodlust, fake Blackwell, a vampire orgy maze, and some truly gendered soup dynamics. It’s giving Top Ramen, but haunted.The Greed Cage Death Trap – Gilded cages over lava? Moral dilemmas? Cade f***ing Barlo being the worst? Yup. Cue existential dread.Gluttony Level Confusion – Pendulums, gold bars, and chessboard mechanics no one understands. Reading on vibes only.Wrath & the Consensus Escape – Group trauma bonding, a musical chairs-style death match, and Edna being the MVP.Phantom Soup & Ghost Physiology – They did the ghost with the most. In blood rain. While floating. Questions remain.Sinclair, Secrets & Betrayal – We meet the devil daddy prince Salmaestrus (aka Sal Mistress), learn Blackwell’s hiding things, and Oilia spirals.Predictions & Theories – Angelic ancestry? Genevieve endgame twist? Will Oilia forfeit or fight? Also: what even are spectres?Bonus Reads & Bourbon Rants – Amanda teaches Bourbon 101, Kim’s watching Netflix again, and Rick is deep in his tandem Throne of Glass read. Plus: the literary war crime that is Pizza My Heart.Join us for teleportation make-outs, shadow voice therapy, and a very serious discussion of Sims ghost woohoo achievements. Homework: finish Phantasma! Soup and secrets await.

Jul 26, 20251h 18m

Phantasma Chapters 1-17

Episode Title: Phantasma – Chapters 1–17Description: The Romanty Roundtable trio kicks off Fantasma by Kaylie Smith with their signature blend of literary insight and chaotic charm. In this episode, Amanda, Kim, and Rick unpack the first 17 chapters of this gothic romantasy adventure set in a haunted New Orleans. From phantom flirtations and necromantic rituals to soup dreams and ghost cats, the team breaks down the eerie vibes, complex magic system, and early trials of the Devil’s Manor competition—all while making wildly accurate predictions, literary deep dives, and a surprising number of Danny Phantom references.Key Topics Discussed:Technical Difficulties & TikTok Shoutouts – The crew fights through dying fans and phantom mics, gives love to BookTok followers, and teases upcoming reads including The Knight and the Moth.Setting & Style – Praise (and confusion) for the New Orleans setting, gothic atmosphere, and the unclear time period—carriages and septum piercings?OCD Representation & Shadow Voice – Amanda discusses the depiction of OCD through Oilia’s intrusive thoughts and internal “shadow voice,” sharing both personal insights and community feedback.Hierarchy of the Paranormal – The group nerds out over the glossary chart, breaking down demons, ghosts, necromancers, and ephemerals.Ophelia's Journey – From her mother’s death and the magical inheritance ritual to finding herself trapped in Fantasma, Ophelia struggles with responsibility, family legacy, and (of course) hot ghosts.Blackwell the Phantom – Green eyes, snow-white hair, and disembodied banter. Blackwell enters as a mysterious phantom trapped in the manor. Is he the love interest? Danny Phantom? Both?The Blood Bargain – Ophelia refuses at first, but later accepts Blackwell’s blood pact to help her find her sister and win the Devil’s Grant—setting up a classic romantasy deal-with-a-demon trope.The Trials Begin – Level One (Limbo) throws contestants into a disorienting maze with a hellhound. Ophelia survives thanks to her wits and magic sparks, but tensions rise between contestants.Favorite Details – Poe the ghost cat, the glimmers of soup (aka spice), and the Dante’s Inferno-inspired structure of the competition get big love from the team.Theories & Predictions – Who’s the heart? Who’s the key? Is Cade the Jack Barlow of this book? Will Genevieve be the one to set Blackwell free?Bonus Reading Recs – Amanda powers through five books for her bingo board. Kim’s back in Crescent City, and Rick is deep in Throne of Glass, rating Crown of Midnight a 5-star banger.Join us for a wild ride through ghouls, ghost cats, bargain demons, and growing soup tension. Chapter 18–35 is next—lust awaits. Like, subscribe, and summon Blackwell by saying his name three times… if you dare.

Jul 15, 20251h 11m

ACOTAR: Speed Run

Episode Title: A Court of Thorns and Roses – Rapid Fire RecapDescription: The Romanty Roundtable kicks off their SJM journey with a chaotic, unfiltered rapid-fire recap of A Court of Thorns and Roses. We’re diving headfirst into the book that started it all—spring court, sexy fae, and Tamlin slander included. From rants about riddle logic to a heated debate about Rhys’s early behavior, Rick, Amanda, and Kim pull no punches as they tear through plot points, throw shade, and confess unpopular opinions. It’s feral, it’s unhinged, it’s ACOTAR—Romanty style.Key Topics Discussed:Drinking Game Chaos — Fueled by wine and increasingly unhinged energy, the crew plays a Romantasy-themed drinking game that turns every red flag and plot hole into a reason to sip, spiral, and scream-laugh.Feyre’s Foolishness — Our leading lady catches heat for some truly baffling decisions, including trusting the Suriel and falling for a golden retriever in a mask. Survivalist? Maybe. Smart? Questionable.Tamlin the Wet Noodle — The gloves come off. The crew roasts Tamlin’s lack of personality, manipulative vibes, and general beige energy. Kim calls it early: “This man is not it.”Rhysand: Red Flag or Misunderstood? — Rhys gets major side-eye for his behavior under the mountain, sparking a spicy debate. Amanda’s not convinced, Rick’s conflicted, and Kim is just tired.The Riddle Heard ‘Round the World — The infamous “love” riddle breaks the group. Is Feyre just illiterate? Is the riddle too easy? Did Amarantha secretly want to lose?Under the Mountain Drama — From trials to torture, the crew unpacks the darkness of Amarantha’s rule and why the book’s final act feels so tonally different (and better?) than the rest.Sarah J. Maas's Writing Glow-Up — Everyone agrees: the first book is messy, fun, and not her best work. But it sets the foundation for future chaos, spice, and character growth.Bone-Carver Confusion — Wait… wrong book? Too late. The gang spirals into ACOMAF territory and can’t stop. Feyre's sisters, Illyrians, and future mate-bombs are already on the table.Insights Based on Numbers:1 spring court, 1 golden retriever fae, 3 spicy opinions per minute3 trials, 1 riddle, 0 satisfying Tamlin moments1 red flag love interest, 1 glow-up pending, 100% unhinged1 starter book → endless SJM drama to come

Jul 10, 20251h 21m

Bride: Chapters 21-End

Episode Title: Bride – Chapters 21–EndDescription: The Romanty Roundtable sinks its fangs into the final chapters of Bride by Ali Hazelwood—complete with blood bag cocktails, Cheez-It ASMR, and a full breakdown of werewolf anatomy (you’ve been warned). As the book wraps up its steamy werewolf-vampire politics, the crew reflects on everything from consent and hybrid identity to disappointing twists and anatomically confusing soup. With equal parts chaos and critique, Rick, Amanda, and Kim bring laughs, hot takes, and heartfelt reviews in this finale.Key Topics Discussed:Consent in the Soup — The group appreciates how Hazelwood handles consent during spicy scenes, contrasting it with other monster romances. Lowe may be dominant, but Misery stays in control.The Knot Situation — Yes, that scene. Confusion, Google searches, and too much canine anatomy lead to a collective existential crisis—and a firm line between monster romance and monster biology.Ending Letdowns — Despite strong early chapters, the crew agrees the final twist fell flat. Misery’s dad as the villain? Meh. Gabby? Underused. The final battle? Mostly off-page. A lot of build-up, not much bite.Misery: Smart or Dumb? — The hosts debate how someone so book-smart can be so romantically clueless. Is it endearing, frustrating, or just bad character development?Serena Returns — The not-so-dead best friend is back, and the group enjoys her reunion with Misery. Bonus points for Sylvester the cat and the term “fuckwaffle” making a repeat appearance.Lo’s Emotional Walls — “You're not a problem, you're a privilege” hits hard—but so does his hot/cold pushback. The final declaration of love is satisfying, but the road there is bumpy.Werewolf Worldbuilding — The Roundtable digs into Council drama, political fallout, and the vampire/wear hierarchy—and the overarching message that maybe all systems are bad.Blood Cocktails & Book Pong — The episode ends with a live game of book pong to pick the next read (Fantasmawins!), lots of wine-fueled laughter, and a debate about rating systems.Insights Based on Numbers:10 final chapters → 1 werewolf knot explained in horrifying detail3 podcasters → 1 group braincell as they piece together plot, romance, and worldbuilding3.5 stars from all three readers → Fun but flawed4 soup cans for spice → “Good soup… except for the knot”1 confirmed hybrid, 1 soft alpha, 1 villain dad, 0 epic on-page final fights

Jul 9, 202554 min

Bride: Chapters 11-20

Episode Title: Bride – Chapters 11–20Description: The Romanty Roundtable continues their journey through Bride by Ali Hazelwood, covering chapters 11–20 with spirited discussion, deepening character insights, and steamy werewolf-vampire dynamics. From big Jewish weddings to bouncy castle party planning, the team brings humor and heart as they dive into evolving relationships, complex world-building, and juicy plot twists—including a surprise poisoning! The soup (read: sexual tension) is definitely simmering.Key Topics Discussed:Pack Politics & Parallel Traumas – Misery and Lo’s shared histories of displacement and forced roles emerge as emotional glue, building mutual understanding amid werewolf-vampire hierarchies.Sensual Scenting & Consent – A pivotal scene in California features Lo scenting Misery to claim her as pack—a powerfully intimate and respectful act that underscores simmering chemistry.Tech Meets Fantasy – From Raspberry Pi devices to spy museum dreams, this section blends realism and tech into a magical world with hacker wolves and digital-illiterate alphas.Dinner Parties & Declarations – Scenes with family-style meals, Capri Sun-esque blood pouches, and vampire birthday bans spotlight the novel’s clever juxtaposition of domestic charm and dark lore.Soup Check: Blood = Pleasure – Feeding becomes sensual as Misery drinks from Lo for the first time, sparking euphoric sensations, mutual vulnerability, and undeniable romantic bonding.Mating Misunderstandings – Lo clearly sees Misery as his mate, but Misery remains hilariously oblivious. The crew debates whether it’s cultural ignorance or classic rom-com blindness.Poisoned Peanut Butter & Plot Twists – Misery’s collapse after a sweet moment (literally—peanut butter!) suggests foul play, possibly from within. Suspicion brews around Juno’s motives.Fluffy Werewolf Cuddles – After near-death, Misery awakens to find Lo in wolf form guarding her. What follows is a heartwarming and deeply cozy one-bed-turned-closet moment that blurs romance with puppy-level affection.Predictions & Speculations – Is Serena dead? Is she Anna’s sister? Is Juno jealous or just shady? The roundtable lays their bets for what’s next—often with wine on the line.Join the Romanty Roundtable for another lively discussion full of insights, headcanons, literary laughs, and just the right amount of chaos. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and weigh in with your predictions and favorite theories!

Jul 6, 202551 min

Bride: Chapters 1-10

Episode Title: Bride – Chapters 1–10Description: The Romanty Roundtable kicks off their readalong of Bride by Ali Hazelwood, diving into a steamy supernatural world of vampires, werewolves, and forbidden romance. In these early chapters, we meet Misery Lark—an academic forced into a political marriage with the mysterious werewolf Lowe. Packed with power dynamics, witty banter, and hidden agendas, this book starts hot and gets hotter. The crew discusses themes of autonomy, loyalty, identity, and spice, with plenty of detours into wolfish behavior and bloodplay banter.Key Topics Discussed:Misery Lark’s Dilemma — Half-vampire, full mess: Misery is forced into a werewolf marriage for political reasons while secretly trying to find her missing best friend. Her dry wit and inner voice steal the show early on.Lowe’s Alpha Energy — Territorial, protective, and fanged: Lowe, the werewolf alpha, brims with mate tropes, charm, and quiet dominance. His interactions with Misery sizzle from the start, blending gruffness with genuine intrigue.Fake Marriage, Real Sparks — Enemies to lovers with a bite: The political betrothal setup rapidly turns into romantic tension, with subtle shifts in power, desire, and trust between Misery and Lowe.Missing Friend Mystery — Misery’s secret mission: Beneath the surface romance lies a compelling mystery as Misery searches for her missing friend Kira and unravels truths about vampire-werewolf relations.Spice and Bloodplay — Early heat and taboo kinks: The group talks about Hazelwood’s fearless approach to spice, including bloodplay, mate tropes, and physical intimacy that’s intense, primal, and layered with emotional beats.Political Worldbuilding — Laws, tensions, and governance: From vampire nobility to werewolf social hierarchies, the hosts discuss the nuanced supernatural politics that shape the story’s stakes.Insights Based on Numbers10 chapters, 1 steamy encounter, 2 hidden motives: Lays the groundwork for deeper character arcs and evolving relationships.1 missing friend, 1 suspicious father, 3 vampire laws mentioned: The tension builds across multiple threads.2 fated mates?: The ambiguity around fate and choice keeps the romantic stakes high.

Jun 30, 202557 min

That Time I got Drunk and Saved a Demon: Full Book

Episode Title: That Time I Got Drunk and Saved a DemonDescription: In this episode, the Romanty Roundtable dives into That Time I Got Drunk and Saved a Demon by Kimberly Lemming — a fast, fun, and ridiculous romantasy romp. The crew explores Cinnamon Hot Pepper’s journey from drunken spice farmer to unlikely demon-saving heroine. Filled with pirate hijinks, dragon transformations, dubious soups, and plenty of laughs, this tale delivers humor, steamy moments, and self-aware silliness. Expect hearty banter, sharp critiques, and more than a few detours into video games and soup metaphors.Key Topics Discussed: Cinnamon’s Unlikely Adventure — Drunken night leads to demon drama: Cinnamon Hot Pepper stumbles into an unexpected quest after smacking a demon with a cinnamon stick, discovering her “goddess” is an undead witch enslaving demons.Fallon the Dragon Demon — Demon ally with hidden powers: Cinnamon’s companion turns out to be a dragon demon, fiercely protective and increasingly enamored, adding steamy tension and pirate flair to their quest.Pirate Escapades — From city destruction to high seas: After burning a city in a rage, Fallon and Cinnamon become pirates, gathering allies (a werewolf, snake demon, and tavern owner) for their final showdown.Final Battle Against the Lich — Hero’s party clash and goddess defeat: The group battles the false goddess (a lich), Cinnamon smashes the last chalice, and Fallon’s dragon fury nearly destroys everything — until love saves the day.Soup & Romance Tropes — Dubious consensual scenes stir debate: The crew critiques repetitive “soup” scenes (steamy moments) and the handling of dubious consent tropes, while reflecting on the book’s self-aware absurdity.Bonus detours — Video games & ratings talk: Tangents include Clare Obscure Expedition 33 game reviews and musings on star ratings, highlighting the fun chaos of the podcast.Insights Based on Numbers200 pages, 15 chapters, 1 epilogue: A compact tale that barrels through plot points at breakneck speed.4 temples/chalices smashed: A video game-like progression that fuels the quest structure.3 months of island honeymoon: Marks the characters’ transition from chaos to peace, highlighting the shift from adventure to domesticity.Average crew rating: 2.5 stars: Reflects enjoyment of the humor but criticism of repetitive tropes and consent issues.

Jun 23, 202554 min

Onyx Storm: Chapters 50-End

Episode Title: Onyx Storm – Chapters 50–EndDescription: The finale of Onyx Storm delivers everything fans could want—intense showdowns, magical revelations, emotional heartbreak, and hilarious commentary from the Romantasy Round Table crew. As Violet navigates devastating losses, newfound powers, and shocking betrayals, the team breaks down every major twist and epic moment with passion and wit.Key Topics Discussed: • Violet’s Second Signet – Dreamwalking:Violet’s new power allows her to enter others’ dreams, revealing her as a rare dreamwalker—more powerful than Zaden’s ability to read thoughts. This magic emerges from her emotional drive to reach Andarna and shapes her journey profoundly. • The Return of the Irids:The peaceful Irid dragons return in a critical moment, reigniting the wards and shifting the balance of power. Leoan, revealed to be of Andarna’s line, powers the wards to protect Violet, emphasizing family ties and destiny. • Battle and Loss – Theophony’s Threat:Wyvern swarm, Tairn is wounded, and Andarna leaves Violet. Theophony attacks, threatening Meera’s life and igniting major conflict. Though Meera’s throat is slit, a stunning siphon-based healing saves her—highlighting magic’s complexity and emotional stakes. • Violet’s Three Signets – A Magical Evolution:A groundbreaking moment suggests Violet holds three signets, two from Tairn, reflecting his strength and lineage. This unprecedented power hints at her unique destiny in the world of riders and dragons. • Family Secrets and the Path to Venon:Violet’s past comes to light—her incomplete dedication to the priesthood, her parents’ secret decisions, and Zaden’s confession of turning Venon. A shadow looms: is Violet destined to turn too? Or will she resist temptation? • Theophony vs. Violet – Magic Showdown:In an explosive duel, Violet faces off against Theophony, who reveals storm magic and a personal vendetta tied to Violet’s mother. Violet’s clever use of lightning and aerial acrobatics turns the tide, with Scale and Tairn as loyal allies. • Rider-Dragon Bonds Deepen:The team explores how dragon personalities reflect their riders. Violet, Rhiannon, and others showcase these profound relationships during high-stakes battles, adding emotional depth and fun to the action. • Comic Relief and Chaos:From dragons named “Queer” and “Tiny” to debates over Venon baby names and Rebecca Yarros’ love of chairs, the crew blends deep analysis with irreverent fun and their trademark banter.Join the Romantasy Round Table as they wrap up Onyx Storm with epic insights, heartfelt commentary, and a healthy dose of chaos. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your favorite moments in the comments!

Jun 12, 20251h 18m

Onyx Storm: Chapters 34-49

Episode Title: Onyx Storm – Chapters 34–49Description: In this thrilling installment of Romanty Roundtable, the hosts dive into chapters 34–49 of Onyx Storm, where the emotional stakes rise and the fantastical elements intensify. From poisoned dinner parties and dragon diplomacy to mysterious signets and kitten gifts, this section of the book offers rich plot development, complex character arcs, and laugh-out-loud moments. The team brings their signature humor and heartfelt analysis to every twist and turn.Special thanks to The Literary Lifestyle for their incredible chapter summaries that helped guide this week’s discussion!Dinner with Zaden’s Mom – Violet and the crew confront family drama and political pressure over cauliflower-laden meals, while contract marriages and stepbrothers emerge from the shadows.Wisdom Trials and Poison Plots – The group faces a philosophical challenge with the Triumvirate, leading to a dinner laced with double poison. Violet’s brilliance shines as she negotiates freedom and survival.Double Poison Reveal – Violet flips the script with a surprise double-cross, leveraging Andarna’s stealth for dramatic blackmail, and establishing a hard-earned alliance.The Luck Trial Turns Deadly – A mystical card game gifts everything from tunics to kittens… and ends in tragedy. Trager’s death is swift and heartbreaking, marking a powerful narrative shift.Dragon Diplomacy and Andarna’s Origin – Feather-tailed Irid dragons arrive, revealing complex moral codes and judging Violet’s use of Andarna. Andarna’s past as the “criterion” sparks questions of ethics and purpose.Riddick’s Rise – The fan-favorite continues to shine with wit, loyalty, and emotional depth, navigating Violet’s secrets and confronting Zaden’s growing darkness.Violet’s Second Signet Hints – Dream-based power theories and cryptic warnings suggest Violet may have the ability to enter others’ dreams or minds, raising tantalizing questions about her true potential.Zaden’s Inner Turmoil – The shadow wielder’s red-eyed secrets and potential fall into darkness are revealed to Riddick, sparking a moral debate that tests squad loyalty.Military Briefings and Magical Balances – The team returns to Basgiath to discover massive destruction, traitor speculation, and a second shadow wielder—hinting at cosmic balances and double signets.Broccoli the Kitten & Birthday Gifts – Light-hearted moments shine through grief with the introduction of Broccoli the kitten and a heartfelt birthday scene between Violet and Zaden.Join the Romanty Roundtable as they unpack this emotionally intense and philosophically rich section of Onyx Storm. From epic dragon lore to witty banter, this episode has it all. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts about Broccoli, signets, and soup!

Jun 5, 202551 min

Onyx Storm: Chapters 17-33

Episode Title: Onyx Storm – Chapters 17–33Description: This episode of Romanty Roundtable dives deep into chapters 17–33 of Onyx Storm, where the fantasy saga surges forward with intense action, rich worldbuilding, and sizzling character dynamics. Violet and her quest squad are back—and this time, the stakes are even higher. Expect plenty of twists, heartfelt revelations, and the podcast's signature humor as the crew unpacks magical battles, dragon lore, political drama, and romantic turmoil.Special thanks to The Literary Lifestyle for their incredible chapter summaries that helped guide this week’s discussion!https://theliterarylifestyle.com/onyx-storm-summary/Key Topics Discussed:Dane’s Underwhelming Arc – The much-anticipated reveal fizzles as Dane simply hands over the book offscreen, prompting critiques of lazy storytelling and missed tension.Classic Fantasy Quest Unlocked – Violet's journey truly begins with secret codes, cryptic letters from her father, and a mission to retrieve rare magical items far beyond the reach of known magic.Prince Halden Arrives – Violet’s ex reenters the picture, causing jealousy sparks with Zaden. Their complicated history gets tangled in diplomacy and dragonfire.The Password is... Love? – Intricate riddles lead to the unlocking of Violet's father’s book, revealing deep truths and literary nods (Dan Brown and ACOTAR fans will be thrilled).Quest Squad Chaos – Violet forms her ideal team: Zaden, Meera, Riddick, Cat, Halden, and more—a cocktail of exes, frenemies, and misfits on a mission. Hilarity (and danger) ensues.Wyverns and Tragedy – A powerful wyvern attack leads to Aura's fiery downfall. Andarna and Tairn return with fierce dragon energy, shifting the balance of power.Ice Magic Unleashed – Riddick reveals his terrifying new abilities, hinting at the limits of signet training and the creative evolution of magic beyond the school system.Dragon Diplomacy – Violet negotiates with kings and nobles, trading secrets, shells, and sarcastic burns to keep her squad alive and their mission intact.Steamy Romance – Zaden and Violet finally act on their tension in a scene that’s both spicy and emotionally vulnerable—dubbed “The Soup Chapter” by the crew.Andarna's Reveal – The mysterious dragon is confirmed as the seventh kind, showcasing stealth, sass, and immense magical potential in key battle moments.Panther Fights and Political Moves – The tension escalates in Devarelli with betrayals, assassinations, and magical brawls that leave Halden sidelined and Zaden in charge.Join the Romanty Roundtable for an episode full of literary theories, emotional unpacking, and signature chaos. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your favorite quest squad moments in the comments!

Jun 1, 20251h 9m

Onyx Storm: Chapters 1-16

Episode Title: Onyx Storm – Chapters 1–16Description:The Onyx Storm adventure begins! The Romanty Roundtable crew kicks off their deep dive into the first 16 chapters of Rebecca Yarros' highly anticipated third installment in the Fourth Wing series. With wild conspiracy theories, emotional dragon moments, and a brand-new Quest Squad forming (sort of), this episode is packed with laughs, lore, and lots of lightning.From Violet’s dual-dragons dilemma to Zaden’s ever-growing shadowy signet, the gang explores memory-sharing theories, silver-haired Venon, and whether Violet is more powerful—and more connected—than we ever imagined. Plus, we unpack Tairn and Andarna’s elite-level banter, soup scenes, and wild fan predictions about time travel, betrayal, and…wrestling plot metaphors?Key Topics Discussed:Andarna’s Evolution – From freshman dragon to time-bending MVP, we track Andarna’s powerful growth and her significance to Violet’s second signet theory.Zaden the Venon – Is he truly lost? Or can Violet “cure” him? We debate what it means to channel shadow magic—and what his role in the revolution might really be.Theophany’s Arrival – Who is the lightning-wielding, silver-haired villain? A future version of Violet? A long-lost relative? A scribe cover-up? The theories fly.Quest Squad Assembles – Violet sets off on a new mission with a very non-friend-squad team. Will the OG gang reunite? Or are we doomed to fight Venon with strangers?Second Signets & Dragon Lineage – Double-signet powers, family dragons, and how memory and legacy might shape who’s chosen to fight—and win.Soup Scenes & Shadow Kisses – There’s still romance in the air! We break down the spicy (and shadowy) moments between Violet and Zaden.Scribe Conspiracies – Are the scribes hiding everything? Is this story even reliable? We ask the big meta-questions—and toss in a Zootopia reference for good measure.What’s Up with Dane? – Has our least-favorite ex gone full redemption arc? Or is he setting up for the ultimate twist?Join Rick, Amanda, and Kim as they make predictions, share Kindle highlights, and debate everything from lavender lemonade to silver hair genetics. It’s book club chaos at its finest.Drop your wildest Onyx Storm theory in the comments!Like, subscribe, and follow for weekly romantasy deep dives!Now streaming on all podcast platforms.

May 31, 20251h 3m

Iron Flame: Chapters 52 - End

Episode Title: Iron Flame – Chapters 52–EndDescription: The epic conclusion to Iron Flame brings all the tension, heartbreak, and revelations fans have been waiting for! In this episode, we dive into the final chapters of Violet’s journey as she uncovers betrayals, discovers hidden powers, and confronts the full wrath of the Venon. With powerful character arcs, game-changing plot twists, and emotionally charged moments, this finale has it all—plus some hilarious detours, theories, and favorite quotes from the hosts.Key Topics Discussed:The Tunnel Mission – Violet’s team faces Solas the dragon in a deadly underground battle. Vezia dies, Sloan reveals her signet, and Cat defies expectations to fight beside Violet.Xaden’s Second Signet – He finally reveals he can read intentions, showing how much trust has grown between him and Violet.Jack’s Dark Turn – Jack returns, kills his dragon, and is revealed to be Venon. His betrayal leads to the destruction of the wardstone at Basgiath.The Final Battle – Violet, her mother, and their squad defend Basgiath against a massive Venon and Wyvern invasion. Andarna plays a pivotal role with her camouflage and time-bending powers.Violet’s Squad Unites – Violet’s team shows growth and loyalty as they stay together during the final fight, showcasing their bond and development.New Dragon Lore – A seventh dragon type is revealed—Andarna’s true identity—and Brennan repairs the wardstone with a surprising use of his mender signet.Political Power Plays – General Melgren tries to recruit the revolution but is rebuffed. Violet’s mother surprises everyone by handing over the second journal, hinting at deeper motives.Theories and Emotional Beats – From foreshadowing Xaden’s mother to big feelings about Andarna’s arc, the team dives deep with both heart and humor.Join the Romanty Roundtable crew for their final Iron Flame discussion—full of laughter, insights, and just the right amount of chaos. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your favorite moments in the comments!

May 31, 20251h 5m

Iron Flame: Chapters 37–51

Episode Title: Iron Flame: Chapters 37–51Description: The revolution heats up in this wild stretch of Iron Flame! In this episode, we dive deep into Violet’s recovery, her evolving powers, and the growing tension between dragon and griffin riders. With battles, betrayals, and bold new characters, chapters 37–51 raise the stakes for our heroes like never before. From training with rebel leaders to confrontations with exes and emotional cliffside rescues, there’s plenty to unpack—plus an unfiltered Cliffords Corner and unexpected Aladdin singalongs.Key Topics Discussed:Violet’s Recovery & Training – As she heals from her torture, Violet begins advanced training with Felix to harness her powers more precisely.Dragon Lore & Griffin Bonds – We meet new dragons, learn about luminaries, and discover major differences between dragon and griffin magic.The Takarus Deal – Violet must prove her lightning ability to a high-ranking rebel by battling a surprise Venon from a chest.Cat vs Violet – The tension explodes in a dramatic, emotionally charged fight with confessions about power, politics, and past relationships.Rising Romance & Foils – The complicated Zaden/Violet/Cat triangle gets messier with psychic overlaps and biting remarks.The Cliffside Tragedy – A deadly mountain climb leaves Luella and her griffin dead, sparking further conflict.Venon Attack & Dragon Secrets – The Venon track the hatchlings, revealing a terrifying new vulnerability in Arisha.Rival Cultures & Combat Trials – Dragon riders and flyers face off in a reality TV-style grudge match to settle team dynamics.Sign Language & Inclusion – A heartfelt subplot explores how Sawyer learns to sign for a crush, showing positive disability representation.Major Rune Revelation – Violet’s mistranslation is revealed: it’s breath, not blood, needed for the wards—risking imbalance between dragon and griffin powers.

May 6, 202540 min

Fourth Wing: Iron Flame Part 1

Summary Plot Continuation from Fourth Wing – Violet awakens in Aretia under Brennan’s care and learns the truth about the revolution and the secrets the government has hidden—including the survival of Aretia itself. Trust Issues with Zaden – Violet struggles with Zaden's lies about her brother, leading to an emotional and moral debate on loyalty, honesty, and love. Her initial emotional distance and eventual reconciliation fuel much of the early tension. Return to Basgiath – The group returns to Basgiath where tensions mount. Violet and others face threats, assassination attempts, and political suspicion as their knowledge of the Venon becomes dangerous. New First Years & Shifting Dynamics – Characters like Sloan (Liam’s sister) and Aric (the king’s son) are introduced, bringing conflict, bitterness, and surprising alliances. Sloan resents Violet, and Aric hates Zaden for killing his brother. Dragons & Their Bonds – Violet continues to feel growing pains in her bond with Andarna, now a sullen “teen” dragon. New dragon lore is introduced, like names with Scots Gaelic meanings and dragons playing parental roles. Assassination & Betrayals – A shocking mid-training execution of Nadine reaffirms the dangers at Basgiath. Violet also struggles with manipulating Sloan using letters from Liam as motivation. Memory & Secrets – Violet’s friendships are strained by secrecy, especially with Rhiannon. Eventually, she reveals the truth to her core group, changing the course of their trust and teamwork. Heist into the Archives – A thrilling stealth mission with Aric grants access to warding journals crucial to the resistance, while Zaden’s jealousy and old wounds flare up. Nolan’s Betrayal – In a gut-wrenching twist, Nolan drugs Violet, handing her over to General Varrish, who tortures her for information. Nolan, coerced, heals her between sessions. Dane’s Redemption – Dane sees Violet’s memories, realizes the truth about the Venon and Wyvern, and kills Varrish in a surprise move, realigning his loyalty. Violet’s Mom Returns – Her mother admits she knew much more all along and implies everything she did was to protect her daughter. A debate ensues over whether she’s a secret ally or just self-interested. Spreading the Truth – With proof of the Venon’s existence, Violet and her allies share their memories via dragon bonds, urging others to choose sides. The resistance gains new recruits as they prepare for war.

May 2, 202541 min

The Night Circus: Full Book Discussion

Episode Title: The Night Circus – Full Book ReviewDescription: In this episode, we share our honest and unfiltered take on The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern. We discuss the book’s magical premise, nonlinear storytelling, and the elusive romance between Celia and Marco. While the circus setting is undeniably atmospheric and imaginative, the plot and character development left us divided. We unpack what worked, what didn’t, and why this novel stirred up such a wide range of reactions.Key Topics Discussed:Unpacking the Premise – Two magicians locked in a mysterious competition that takes place within a magical circus sounds great—but does it deliver?Love Story or Letdown? – We dive into the underwhelming romantic arc between Celia and Marco, and whether it actually served the story.The Real Star: The Circus – The setting outshines the characters, with detailed and whimsical tents that feel like characters themselves.Bailey and the Ending – The sudden pivot to Bailey as the future ringmaster raises questions about choice, age, and narrative payoff.The Writing Style – Nonlinear chapters, multiple perspectives, and second-person vignettes—do they add atmosphere or dilute clarity?Reader Reactions – We compare our personal experiences: boredom, frustration, appreciation for moments of magic, and the struggle to stay engaged.Final Verdicts – Mixed ratings and very few soup cans for this one, especially for those expecting a more traditional romantic arc.Join us for a passionate and often hilarious review of this much-hyped novel—and don't forget to like, subscribe, and drop your own hot take in the comments!

Apr 16, 202523 min

Fourth Wing: Chapters 31-End

Episode Title: Fourth Wing: Chapters 31-EndDescription: The explosive conclusion to Fourth Wing is here! In this episode, we dive into the action-packed final chapters, filled with shocking betrayals, intense battles, and game-changing revelations. As Violet and Zaden navigate trust, love, and the shifting tides of war, they must also confront the ultimate threat looming over Basgiath War College. With everything on the line, these chapters redefine what we thought we knew.Key Topics Discussed:Violet & Zaden’s Relationship Tension – A deep dive into their complicated dynamic as they wrestle with secrets and loyalty.Dane’s Ultimate Betrayal – The shocking revelation that Dane has been stealing Violet’s memories and using them against her.The Griffin Riders Alliance – A twist that forces Violet to reconsider who the true enemies really are.The Deadly Venin & Wyvern Battle – The long-foreshadowed threat arrives, bringing an epic showdown of magic, dragons, and sacrifice.Liam’s Heartbreaking Death – A devastating loss that shakes Violet and her squad to their core.Violet’s Lightning Powers in Action – The moment her Signet truly proves its worth in battle.Andarna’s Time-Stopping Ability – How the baby dragon’s secret power changes the course of the fight.The Final Twist – Brennan’s Return – Just when Violet thought she had lost everything, her supposedly dead brother reappears with a shocking invitation: Welcome to the revolution.Join us as we break it all down—don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! ⚡

Mar 21, 202527 min

Fourth Wing: Chapters 21-30

Episode Title: Fourth Wing: Chapters 21-30Description: As the stakes rise at Basgiath War College, Violet faces new challenges, deeper connections, and shocking revelations. In this episode, we discuss her growing bond with Liam, her struggle to channel her power, and the escalating danger surrounding her. From training battles to personal confrontations, these chapters push Violet to her limits—both physically and emotionally. Plus, the tension between her and Zaden reaches new heights, leading to some unforgettable moments.Key Topics Discussed:Liam’s Growing Importance – Violet and Liam’s friendship deepens, but ominous hints suggest he may not be safe.The Archives Discovery – A classified battle report raises questions about what’s being hidden from the cadets.Violet’s Struggle with Power – She begins feeling Tairn’s emotions, including overwhelming surges of energy and desire.Jack’s Deadly Challenge – Their long-brewing rivalry comes to a head when Jack challenges Violet in a brutal fight.Violet’s First Kill? – A shocking moment as Violet is forced to use an unexpected tactic against Jack.Squad Battles & The Outpost Mission – Violet and her squad take part in high-stakes training exercises that test their strategy and survival skills.The Revelation of Zaden’s Ability – A major twist as Violet discovers that she and Zaden can communicate telepathically through their dragons.Violet’s Signet Power Revealed – Her long-awaited ability finally manifests, but does it live up to expectations?A Steamy Moment – Sparks (and lightning) fly in a pivotal scene between Violet and Zaden.

Mar 16, 202524 min

Fourth Wing: Chapters 11-20

Episode Title: Fourth Wing: Chapters 11-20Description: The journey at Basgiath War College gets even more intense! In this episode, we discuss Violet’s continued struggles as she faces the brutal training, deadly rivalries, and high-stakes dragon bonding ceremony. We explore the tense presentation day, where Violet’s fate takes an unexpected turn, the shocking reveal of her unique dragon bond, and the growing conflicts with Jack and the other cadets. With political intrigue, life-threatening challenges, and deeper connections forming, these chapters are packed with action and surprises.Key Topics Discussed:Presentation Day & The Bonding Ceremony – The hosts analyze how the dragons select their riders and the deadly consequences of rejection.Violet’s Unlikely Bond – A shocking twist as she bonds with both the formidable black dragon, Tairn, and the small but powerful feather tail, Andarna—a first in history.Jack’s Continued Threats – The growing tension between Violet and Jack, leading to a deadly confrontation over Andarna.The Attack on Violet – A life-or-death moment where unbonded cadets attempt to kill Violet, believing it will make them worthy of a dragon.Andarna’s Secret Power – The revelation that Andarna can pause time, saving Violet from certain death.Zaden’s Protection & Tairn’s Influence – A discussion on how Zaden and Tairn play key roles in Violet’s survival, hinting at deeper connections.The Impact of Dragon Bonds – How Tairn’s ability to share memories exposes treason and changes the political dynamics at Basgiath.Join us as we break it all down—don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!

Mar 6, 202528 min

Fourth Wing: Chapters 1-10

Episode Title: Fourth Wing: Chapters 1-10 Description: We're diving into the world of Fourth Wing! In this episode, we explore the opening chapters, introducing Violet Sorrengail as she embarks on her dangerous journey at Basgiath War College. We discuss the intense conscription day, early rivalries with characters like Jack and Xaden, and the challenges Violet faces as she navigates life in the Riders Quadrant. With high-stakes training, unexpected alliances, and hints of looming mysteries, there's plenty to unpack. Join us as we break it all down—don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!

Mar 3, 202530 min

From Blood and Ash Chapters: 31-End

Episode Title: From Blood and Ash: Chapters 31-End Description: We've reached the thrilling conclusion of From Blood and Ash! In this episode, we discuss the shocking twists and major revelations as Poppy, Hawke (or should we say Castile?), and Kieran navigate the aftermath of intense battles and unexpected betrayals. We explore the evolving relationships, high-stakes confrontations, and the game-changing secrets that reshape the story's direction. Join us as we break down the final chapters and share our thoughts on what’s next. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and let us know your predictions in the comments!

Feb 28, 202526 min

From Blood and Ash: Chapters 21-30

Episode Title: From Blood and Ash: Chapters 21-30Description: In this episode, we dive into the action-packed and emotionally charged chapters 21-30 of From Blood and Ash. Join us as we explore significant moments for Poppy, Hawke, and Victor, examining their evolving relationships and how recent events challenge their beliefs and loyalties. We also discuss the introduction of new characters like the mysterious wolven and the complexities surrounding the Duke and Duchess. With unexpected twists, intense confrontations, and deeper insights into the Ascended, this episode is perfect for fans eager to reflect on pivotal events. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments below!

Feb 19, 202524 min

From Blood and Ash: Chapters 13-20

Episode Summary: From Blood and Ash Chapters 13-20*Mild Spoilers*In this episode, the discussion covers major revelations, intense character developments, and deep dives into the unfolding mysteries of From Blood and Ash. The hosts analyze key events, including a shocking confrontation between Poppy and the Duke, the return of the Craven, and Poppy's growing awareness of the truth behind the Ascended.Topics explored include:Poppy’s Harrowing Encounter with the Duke – A deeply unsettling scene that further cements the cruelty of the Ascended.The Return of the Craven – The long-awaited attack forces Poppy into action, showing her growth and skill in battle.Hawk’s Big Reveal – The group debates Hawk’s true motives and whether he’s hiding even bigger secrets.The Ascended’s Dark Truth – Clues start falling into place about what they really are and the sinister role of the Rite.Theories on the First Maiden – A major theory emerges about the fate of the first Maiden, questioning everything Poppy has been told.

Feb 17, 202527 min

From Blood and Ash: Chapters 7-12

Episode Title: From Blood and Ash Chapters 7-12Description: In this episode, we explore the gripping events of From Blood and Ash chapters 7-12. Our discussion dives into the emotional aftermath of pivotal moments, examines the evolving dynamics between key characters, and unpacks the unfolding mysteries surrounding the world’s complex lore. We also touch on themes of trust, duty, and power struggles as the story builds toward new revelations. If you’re enjoying this journey with us, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and join the conversation in the comments below!

Jan 27, 202529 min

From Blood and Ash: Chapters 4-6

Episode Title: From Blood and Ash Chapters 4-6 Description: In this exciting episode, we explore the captivating events and nuanced character developments in From Blood and Ash chapters 4-6. We discuss the emotional highs and lows, unpack intriguing mysteries surrounding the Craven and Atlanteans, and share thoughts on the cliffhangers that keep us hooked. Our conversation also delves into themes of power, morality, and resilience in a richly built fantasy world. Whether you're reading along or just love great discussions about books, join us for a thoughtful and entertaining journey. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!

Jan 25, 202521 min

From Blood and Ash: Chapters 1-3

Summary (Spoiler-Free)Introducing the Book Club: This inaugural episode discusses the first three chapters of From Blood and Ash. The hosts, Rick, Amanda, and Kim, dive into initial impressions, the book's setting, and its main characters.Curiosity and Questions: The team unpacks early mysteries, key themes, and concepts introduced in the chapters, sparking curiosity about the protagonist’s role and the story's world.Dynamic Discussions: Through casual banter and humorous tangents, the hosts share insights into the story's tone and style, blending lighthearted commentary with thoughtful analysis.Speculations and Theories: Without giving away plot details, the episode highlights intriguing plot elements and theories about where the story might lead.

Jan 18, 202522 min

Episode Zero: So it begins

Welcome to episode zero of Romantic Round Table: A Tale of Rick and Roses!

Jan 18, 202512 min