Literary Quest

This week we're discussing This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me by Ilona Andrews. Maggie awakens in Kair Toren, the fantasy world created by her favorite author, at the start of the first book in the series and realizes quickly that she cannot die and that she will have to use her knowledge of the world to find safety. She cleverly uses her knowledge of the world to set about fixing the wrongs done to her beloved characters, and in doing so, collects a crew of characters that become integral to her. Together they set out to save the kingdom of Rellas from death and war.

This episode we interview NYT best selling author Geneva Lee! Her upcoming epic fantasy romance, Harbinger, debuts on September 22nd. Harbinger is the first novel in a new series full of banter, tension, world-building, and magic. Geneva elaborates on the characters, her writing process, and inspiration for Harbinger!

Arden Icaros is unexpectedly branded as an omen of war and is being hunted by the nobility. Her only chance of survival is a mysterious and feared man, known only as Bishop. He offers her sanctuary but the longer Arden is under Bishop's protection, the more dangerous he becomes.

This week, we're discussing The Lion and the Deathless Dark by Carissa Broadbent. Shoutout to the folks at Tor for sending us each a copy of this book!

Kyrene, part time bounty hunter and part time servant of Shiket, goddess of Justice, is doing what she can to scrape by with her god created sword, Zefiah, and keep the people she cares about alive. A devastating miscalculation leaves Kyrene stunned by grief and rage and leads to an unlikely partnership with Septimus, prince of the Bloodborn vampires, pursuing their mutual goal to kill the gods. What could go wrong? So much.

We are thrilled to finally have part 1 of Septimus and Kyrene's story. We have previously discussed the other full length novels in this series and invite you to check them out if you need a refresher.

This week we're interview Ann Aguirre about her upcoming novel - The Hocus Pocus Handbook. It is a cozy fae romance with fun lore and dynamic characters! Thea is given an almost impossible task of hunting down the fae she was forced to wed. She is accompanied by Kerboros, a sullen fae enforcer known as Winter’s Hound. Kerboros, who lives under the strict control of his cousin in the treacherous Winter Court, finds his life changed by the warm and wild Thea. As they journey together, the "sunshine and shadow" pair find themselves in a forbidden, potentially magical romance.

The Hocus Pocus Handbook releases on September 1st!

This week, we're continuing our side quest into classic literature with Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte. Jane Eyre evolves from an impoverished orphan, shunned by her remaining living family, into a refined young woman of fine moral standards, eager to move beyond the charity school she was sent to as a child. Armed with a sharp mind, she takes a job at Thornfield Hall where she serves as a governess for a young French girl, Adele, who is the ward of Thornfield's owner, Edward Rochester. Jane and Edward form a fast friendship, which is challenged by social barriers. Though they overcome these barriers, when Edward's secrets come to light, they cannot be ignored by Jane. She sets off on her own with limited resources, seeking peace and clarity, but her journey leads her to so much more than she anticipated.

**Jump to about 13 minutes into the episode to bypass the character and plot summaries.**

This week we're discussing Emily Bronte's classic gothic novel Wuthering Heights! Heathcliff is adopted by Mr. Earnshaw and soon forms a close bond with his daughter, Catherine but must endure abuse from Mr. Earnshaw's son. Heathcliff and Catherine's bond is strong but is tested when she accepts an offer of marriage from the rich Edgar Linton. In response, Heathcliff disappears and when he returns several years later, he is mysteriously wealthy. He is looking for revenge and is prepared to wait years for the opportune moment. Join us as we discuss Heathcliff and Catherine's haunting tale of love, spite, and vengeance.

In this episode, we're joined by Emily Renk Hawthorne, author of the YA fantasy mystery duology Of Mountains and Seas and From the Depths, which was released on June 9th. Emily shares with us about the inspiration for her books, how Chinese mythology is represented through her characters and storytelling, and how exposure to fantasy novels as a child has influenced her writing today.

In a world filled with magic, shifters fight to maintain their secrecy among the statics (non-shifters). Of Mountains and Seas and From the Depths explores consequences of pursuing power and the impact that is felt across multiple generations.

Check out Emily's work at www.emilyrenkhawthorne.com and find her on IG at @emilyrenkhawthorne

Happy Pride Month! This episode we're discussing The Once and Future Witches by Alix E. Harrow! This is a tale of three sisters who must come together to fight against the misogynistic Gideon Hill, who wants to rid the world of witches. They each have their own struggles to overcome, June is young and filled with unchanneled rage, Agnes is isolated and pregnant, while Bella hides her true nature. Can they overcome their challenges to unite the women and witches in New Salem? Or will old prejudices and fear be their downfall?

This week we're discussing Wings of Life, the first book in the Dragonbound Chronicles, with the author, Meghan Le Fay! In this episode, Meghan shares about the inspiration for her novel and delves into her characters with us.

Serae has been a constant challenge to her parents. She is curious and intelligent, which her father typically laments, until the opportunity for her to serve as spy for Inra presents itself. Her betrothal to the High Dane of Rihtlond's son offers the best circumstance for her to gather information about Rihtlond's secrets. The Riht do not easily accept Serae. In working to prove herself as worthy of the High Dane's son, she gains the trust of a group of people who she comes to care deeply for, including their weaponmaster. Not only does she discover the hidden magic of Rihtlond, but she also discovers herself and her own magic.

Join us this week!

This episode we're discussing Rites of the Starling by Devney Perry. This is the sequel to Shield of Sparrows. Odessa and Evie have been separated from Ransom. They plan to meet up with him in Quentis, but encounter quite a few issues along the way. When they do finally arrive, it is not a warm welcome, they are attacked on multiple occasions and even framed for crimes. It all seems connected to the Vosters. Will Odessa, Evie, and Ransom be able to survive the journey and figure out the secret behind the Vosters magic before the Lyssa overtakes Ransom?

A new character is also introduced - Caspia. She is from a different continent and is traveling to avenge her sister's death. However, when she meets Andreas and falls in love, her plans must change. Will she be able to complete her quest? Or will the responsibility fall on Andreas?

This week, we're discussing Of Blades and Wings by Eliza Raine. Princess Madivia of the Ice Court never expected to be chosen to attend Featherblade, a training school for future Valkyries, not only because her magic has never been as strong as her Freydis, her sister, but also because a medical condition causes Maddy to pass out unexpectedly. Each fainting episode may mean the end of her life. However, to the surprise of everyone, Maddy is selected to train among Odin's remaining elite Valkyrie. Though she has felt like an outsider for most of her life, Maddy feels excited about the opportunity to develop her power and get her wings. However, there are bullies among her fellow rooks, and a grumpy fire fae, Kain, who can't keep his eyes off her. This is a slow burn, enemies to lovers, romantasy novel inspired by Norse mythology. Join us this week!

This episode we discuss Thief of Night by Holly Black! It is the second and final book in the Charlatan Duology. Charlie Hall agreed to be tethered to her shadow boyfriend Vince and become the Hierophant to save his life. However, Vince no longer remembers her or even being Vince. He now goes by Red, he remembers being the shadow of Remy Carver but has lost about a year's worth of memories. He is distrustful of Charlie and their relationship is tense. When Charlie is approached by the new head of the puppeteers to investigate a murder, secrets start to be revealed. Will Charlie and Red be able to work together? Or is Red's inability to take Charlie at her word going to cost them everything?

This week we're discussing When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker. Raeve, as assassin for a rebel group in the Fade, merely seeks to complete her missions, do what she can to help those less fortunate than her, and live her life. However, a cloaked male, who Raeve believes to be a bounty hunter, crosses her path and despite her efforts, she cannot shake him...not even from her jail cell. When Kaan Vaegor, King of the Burn, recognizes Raeve, a female from his past, nothing will stop him from ensuring her safety, even to his own detriment.

Our discussion starts at 12:45 into this recording.

This week we discuss the second book of Heather Fawcett's Emily Wilde Series - Map of the Otherlands. Emily and Wendell are searching for a way into the otherlands and Wendell's kingdom. They are joined by Emily's niece, Ariadne, and the head of the dyradology department Dr. Ferris Rose. The crew follow clues and make their way to Austria to investigate Danielle De Grey's last known location. De Grey was searching for and likely found a nexus and her research is their best chance at finding Wendell a way back to his kingdom. However, his evil step mother is determined to keep her throne and tries to thwart Wendell through attacks and even with poison. Will Emily and Wendel find the nexus before it's too late?

This week, we have a special guest! Brigid Kemmerer, author of Warrior, Princess, Assassin, joined us for our discussion of her book! We are so grateful for her time!

To dive straight into our discussion with Brigid and skip the character and plot summary, jump ahead to 11:20 in this episode.

Princess Jory of Astranza faces the difficult reality of becoming engaged to a king, Maddox Kyronan of Incendar, or risk placing the safety and future of her kingdom at risk. Ky's fire magic is rumored to be terribly destructive, which is extremely effective against the enemies, the Draegonis. However, the rumors also suggest that Ky has used such power against his own people. Jory seeks comfort from her only friend, Asher, an assassin for hire and her childhood love. Dark dealings by men in power unexpectedly drive Asher, Ky, and Jory together, and while they ally together out of necessity initially, their attraction to each other draws them even closer. Join us this week!

This episode we discuss These Immortal Truths by Rachelle Raeta! Anna is gifted immortality by the god Khiran. She spends a large part of her immortality caring for others as a healer, midwife, or healthcare worker. Khiran visits her periodically through the centuries and they grow closer. However, Khiran is keeping secrets and as humanity evolves more ways to kill each other, Anna's immortality comes into question. If you enjoyed V.E. Schwab's The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, you're sure to enjoy These Immortal Truths!

This week we're discussing Mate by Ali Hazelwood. Serena Paris is in trouble. She reveals herself as the first human-werewolf hybrid on national television in an effort to reclaim her life after being kidnapped and involuntarily outed as hybrid. Unfortunately, it puts a target on her back as someone on the council of Vampyres has placed a bounty on her head. With Vampyres coming from all directions to collect, Serena is relocated to the one place where she can truly be kept safe: her mate Koen's house. While Serena is perfect for Koen in every way, he tells her from the start that he's not interesting in pursuing her. The more time she spends in his house, the harder it is for them to stay apart though. There are larger factors at work keeping them apart, besides Koen's stubbornness, and things get even more complicated when ghosts from Serena's childhood return unexpectedly.

Join us this week while we discuss Brimstone by Callie Hart! Saeris and Fisher are newly mated but there is little time to enjoy their new matehood. Saeris must learn to balance being half-fae, half-vampire, being an alchemist and the new queen of the vampires. When rot begins to take hold in Yvelia, they know they must act quickly but with King Belikon looking for them, Saeris' brother still in Zilvaren, Everlayne in a coma, angry high bloods, and new super-feeders that can only be killed with Brimstone, they have a lot on their plates. Can Saeris and Fisher overcome these new challenges? Will they be able to keep their friends and family safe? Tune in to find out!

This week we're discussing Anathema by Keri Lake. Maevyth has always been treated as an outcast by the people of Foxglove Parish. Strange encounters with ghosts and a journey into the Eating Woods leads her to a new realm, one that belonged to her ancestors, and the discovery of her own magic. However, her presence as a mortal puts a target on her back, and into the keep of Zevander Rydainn, who has his own deadly curse to cope with. Maevyth is determined to return to her home and her sister, but her journey uncovers the existence of a malevolent threat that was long thought destroyed.

This week we discuss The Dark Lord's Guide to Dating (and other war crimes) by Tiffany Hunt! When Arabella Evenfall is captured by Kazimir Blackrose, the Dark Lord, to be his bride, she decides to make the most of her situation. Determined to master her magic and be free of her father, Arabella and Kazimir quickly grow closer. Kazimir is determined to use an Heirloom to tap into the ley-lines and control the kingdom and he needs Arabella to activate the Heirloom. However, they face enemies on all fronts, a spy in their midst, scheming by Arabella's father, the snooping Syndicate, and an angry King all want to be rid of the Dark Lord. Will Arabella and Kazimir be able to defeat their enemies? Or will Arabella be forced to obey her father and the king?

Happy Halloween! To celebrate, we're discussing Jack's Head by Siggy Shade. Bess had the life of her dreams: great career, great fiance, bright future. However, it all comes crashing down when her fiance William makes an indecent proposal at a Halloween party at his estate. Rather than debase herself with William's awful uncles, Bess flees William's home and drives straight into danger. Sixteen string Jack, the headless horseman haunts the highways on Halloween, and he is inescapable. Bess' enticing appearance and her attempts to seduce Jack to save her life has Jack making her a unique offer: if she impresses him with the pleasure she offers, he'll spare her life. If she pleasures him through the night, he'll give her his fortune. Who could say no? Join us this week!

This episode we continue Monster Smash October with Deceived by the Gargoyles by Lillian Lark! Grace is ready to settle down but has had difficulty finding the right person for her. She decides to go to a matchmaker to help her find a match. She gets more than expected when she's matched with Elliot, a gargoyle who already has two mates. Luckily, these mates are also sexy gargoyles and the three are determined to court Grace and add her to their clan. However, Grace is being stalked and harassed by Theo Bradshaw III, who is determined to marry her for her family money and connections. Will Grace's gargoyles be able to keep her safe? Or will a sacrifice have to be made?

It's Monster Smash October! This week, we're discussing A Soul to Touch by Opal Reyne. Once a skilled Demonslayer, Mayumi has exiled herself to her family's cabin in the woods, where she continues to bait and hunt demons. One of her hunting ventures brings her face to face with the duskwalker, Faunus, a cat-skulled demon that saved her life as a child. After being wounded by the Demon King, Faunus has returned to Mayumi's property to watch over her for what remains of his life. Neither of them anticipated the heat that would grow between them, but both embrace it enthusiastically. Join us this week!

Join us this episode where we discuss Matt Dinniman's lit RPG book - Dungeon Crawler Carl! Carl's act of kindness in rescuing his ex-girlfriend's cat, Donut, saves him from being killed in the apocalypse. Now he must compete in a dungeon crawler event, hosted by the very same aliens who are harvesting Earth. Carl and Donut must navigate their way through the dungeon and find the stairs to the next level in order to survive. They'll battle monsters, other humans, and be TV stars in order to advance. Will they survive the dungeon or will they be killed by cocaine addicted goblins?

This week we're discussing The Fallen and the Kiss of Dusk, book 4 in the Crowns of Nyaxia series by Carissa Broadbent. Asar will do anything to be reunited with his love Mische, even if it means allying with a goddess and embarking on a path that will lead him and his through many dangerous lands. While love drives them to obtain redemption and seek the power of a god, will it be enough to save their world and the underworld from collapse? Join us!

This week we discuss Phantasma by Kaylie Smith! Ophelia Grimm has been training to be a necromancer her entire life but when her mom dies suddenly and the magic transfers to her, secrets start to emerge. Her sister, Genevieve, runs off to compete in Phantasma. A dangerous competition filled with people's greatest fears. The winner gets any wish of their choice. Ophelia follows Genevieve to Phantasma and quickly meets a charming Phantom, Blackwell, who promises to help her in exchange for her help in freeing him. Will Blackwell ever break free of his punishment? Will Ophelia find her sister? Or will the horrors of Phantasma prove to be too much to overcome?

For Odessa Cross, being a princess is not as glamorous as you'd think it might be. After being forced into an arranged marriage, and traveling to a new, dangerous land with frightening monsters, including the dashing Guardian, Odessa grapples with continuing to live according to her father's wishes, or making her own path in a new world. Her journey into the unknown is fraught with danger and unexpected twists. Join us this week!

This week we discuss Bewitching Rhaego by Victoria Aveline! Rhaego is working with dissidents to rescue human women that have been illegally traded by the Queen of Clecania. When he takes a mission to go back to his come country of Tuva, he promises to find and rescue his friend's mate. However, plans change when Rhaego becomes bewitched by one of the other human women, Aurora. Her scent calls to him and he claims her during the wedding chase. Now they must work together to rescue the other women and escape Tuva.

Join us this week for The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas. As a jade semidios, Teo planned to spend the Sunbearer trials with his best friend Niya, touring new towns and having fun. The last thing expected was to be selected by Sol as a competitor, but Sol deemed Teo and 9 other semidioses worthy of entering the trials that will keep away the Obsidian gods for another decade. For the first time in many years two Jade demigods will compete with 8 Golds, who have been training for years for the trials. The odds are stacked again Teo and his fellow Jade, Xio. Will they make it out alive?

It's Pride Month! This week we're discussing The Witch King by H.E. Edgmon. After Wyatt accidently uses his witch powers to burn down part of the fae kingdom, he fled to the human world. However, when Emyr, the future king shows up, he demands that Wyatt return and fulfill their marriage contract. Wyatt wants no part of the fae world but he is bound by the blood contract. He is determined to find his way out of this situation but can't deny his feelings towards Emyr. Happy Pride!

This week we're discussing The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang. Rin, a war orphan from the southern region of Nikara, is determined to get out of Tikany and the marriage her aunt has arranged for her. She scores astonishingly high on a national test and is accepted at Sinegard, a highly respected military academy in the north. At school she excels, despite the doubts of many, and her path leads her to study shamanism. Nikara's tentative peace with the Federation of Mugen grows shakier every day, and Rin's gifts may be the only way to save her people. Join us!

This week we discuss Apprentice to the Villain, the second in Hannah Nicole Maehrer's Villain series. The Villain has been captured by the Valiant Guard and King Benedict is determined to unmask him. However, Evie and The Villain's guards are plotting to save him. In this book Evie and The Villain must navigate their feelings while also trying to solve the mystery of her mother and try to stop the King from fulfilling a prophecy. If they are unsuccessful, magic may be gone from the Kingdom forever...

This week, we're discussing Assistant to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer. Evie Sage would never have guessed that literally falling into Rennedawn's notorious Villain would result in the most stable and fulfilling job she's ever had. It's not without it's risks though--a bombing, dead bodies on her desk, and a burgeoning crush on her boss. When a mole infiltrates the ranks of Massacre Manor and thwarts the Villain's efforts to exact revenge on King Benedict, Evie is determined to set things back to order. Join us!

This episode we discuss Ensnared by Tiffany Roberts! The first in an alien romance series with spider-type aliens. Ivy was part of a mission to start a new colony on a new planet. However, when the ship crashes onto an alien planet she, and several other humans, remain in their cryo-chambers. Until Ketahn, a male Vrix, stumbles upon the ship. When he accidently releases Ivy from her slumber, things get interesting. Ivy has quite a bit of adjusting to do on a strange alien planet but with the help of Ketahn she begins to settle in. They slowly begin to develop feelings for each other but are their differences too much to overcome? This book surprised both of us and was a delight to read!

This week, we discuss Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett. Emily Wilde, professor of dryadology, journeys to a quiet village in the north to complete the research for her book by studying the Hidden Ones, or the fae, of Ljosland. Things start rough between Emily and the townfolk, but the appearance of academic rival, Wendell Bambleby, serves to create chaos while also endearing her to the people of Hrafnsvik. Emily and Wendell form a partnership that serves to further her data collection, while also driving her into greater danger.

Join us this week while we discuss What the River Knows by Isabel Ibanez. When Inez's parents die on an expedition in Egypt, she is suspicious. Determined to find out the truth she travels to Egypt but encounters many obstacles. Her uncle and his attractive but questionable "assistant" Whit, try desperately to convince her to return to Argentina. Inez is persistent though and manages to join them in their search for Cleopatra's tomb. Luckily for Inez, she has the ability to sense magic which will make the find easier. As she starts to get closer to the truth, things become more dangerous. Will Inez discover what really happened to her parents or will she be forced to return to Argentina with more questions than answers? A fantastic read for anyone who is a fan of The Mummy!

Join us for Onyx Storm, the third installment in the Empyrean series by Rebecca Yarros. Violet Sorrengail is faced with the impossible seeming task of finding the seventh breed of dragons, who disappeared from the continent many years ago. Their hope rides on obtaining the dragons help to re-establish the wards around Aretia while also with saving the lives of thousands of civilians as the threat of the venin to the rest of the continent grows. Will she and her squadmates be able to pull off one of their most challenging missions yet?

This week we discuss The Marriage Hex by Sarah Blue. When Violet turns 30 a hex she accidently cast on herself and her former friend Silas starts to push them together. Unfortunately, Violet is now a witch in the Celestial Coven and Silas is the Alpha of the Moon Walker Pack, which has a long and fraught history with her coven. Their quest to find a way to break the hex reminds them why they had feelings for each other in the first place. Will they be able to overcome their differences? Can shifters and witches ever mingle? Will Violet's grand-mere sabotage everything? Find out on this episode of Literary Quest!

This week we're discussing Blood and Steel by Helen Scheurer. Althea Zoltair dreams of becoming a war sword, a famed protector of the Mid Realms. Though women are no longer permitted to wield weapons or fight in her country, a chance encounter results in her taking up shield bearer training with the men in Thezmarr. Thea must face the scorn of several of the men she trains with, as well as the threat of monsters escaping through the magical veil in their world, bringing death and chaos. Thea will need the help of her friends, as well as the skilled war sword, Wilder Hawthorne, to become a guardian of the mid-realms. Join us this week!

In this episode we revisit Zoey Draven's Horde King world, only it is is 200 years in the future. This is the start of a new series set in the same universe.

Despite being the daughter of the Dothikar, Klara has spent her life as an outcast, hiding her visions from everyone. When she's presented with the opportunity to travel to a new continent she barely hesitates. Being a queen to a fierce people who have dragons was not in her plans but she is ready to face the challenge head on.

Sarkin never intended to take a wife, but when he see's Klara's scar, he knows she is marked for him. He believes that she can help with the diminishing power of the heart stone. He had to fight for his position as king and prove himself to his people, so bringing in a foreign queen is a risk. He is determined to help Klara succeed but does not believe he is capable of love. Can they work together to solve the heart stone problem? Or will they be unable to overcome their differences?

This week, we're discussing the Songbird and the Heart of Stone, the newest addition to the Crowns of Nyaxia series by Carissa Broadbent. Mische desperately seeks redemption from her god Atroxus, who abandoned her when she was turned into a vampire. The opportunity to redeem herself arrives when she is saved from execution by Asar, prince of the Shadow born vampires, who needs her for his own mission given to him by the goddess Nyaxia. Asar must resurrect Nyaxia's husband Alarus, but he cannot do it without Mische's help. What he does not realize is that Mische has a mission of her own from Atroxus to murder Alarus once he's been resurrected. Their missions will take them on a path to the Underworld and on a path to self-discovery. Join us!

This episode we discuss Bride by Ali Hazelwood. Misery is a vampire living among humans after leaving the vampire community at 18. Her best friend Serena goes missing and in order to find her, Misery agrees to marry the alpha of the werewolves - Lowe Moreland. Tension is high between the weres and vampires so this is very risky. Will Misery be able to find Serena? Will her new husband accept her and help? Or will she be left alone in enemy territory?

This week we're discussing Born of Blood and Ash, the final installment in the Flesh and Fire series by Jennifer L. Armentrout. Sera and Ash are determined now more than ever to craft the life they want, free of Kolis' obsession. With fate and time working against them, they must call together friends and form new alliances to end Kolis' tyrannical reign. Will it be enough, though? **Trigger warning for discussions of SA**

This week we dive into The Inadequate Heir by Danielle L. Jensen, the gripping third book in the Bridge Kingdom Saga. Join us as we explore the intricate world of politics, magic, and forbidden love. Keris is the future king of Maridrina but he does not want to continue the Endless War with the Valcottans. When he has a chance encounter with Zarrah, the general and future Empress of Valcotta, he helps open her eyes to the possibility of ending the war. Can they bring peace to their world before their predecessors destroy it completely? Or are they doomed to follow the endless cycle of war and violence?

We wrap up Monster Mash October with the Morning Wood Tree by Siggy Shade. Millie's dreams of a future filled with love come crashing down on her wedding day when she discovers her fiance in a compromising position with his mother. Discovering this family secret endangers Millie's life. She never would have guessed that her savior would be an ancient, man-eating tree with a taste for her sap. Join us this week!

We're continuing Monster Mash with Shots and Barbs by Lily Mayne. This is the second installment of the Deep Earth Dating series. Nuni Var Rorik is having a celebration for his architecture firm and needs an event planner. Anita Chaudhary is a one of the best event planners and is assigned to work with Nuni to organize his event. Anita and Nuni are immediately attracted to each other but their personalities clash. As they spend more time together the attraction grows. Will they remain professional or give in to their desires?

Happy Monster Mash October! We're kicking off our month of monster romances with Moth by Lily Mayne. Charlie had planned to return to the military, but a pit stop at the raider camp in Nebraska derails his plans. He ends up on a long journey with a prickly companion, Moth, who is half human/half monster, deadly with a sword, and lacking in conversation skills. Their path takes them in search of someone missing from the Nebraska camp, and along the way Charlie and Moth discover a growing attraction between themselves. However, Moth has some secrets, and years of rejection and shame keep him from wanting to share all with Charlie. Danger looms for Moth though. Will Moth's secrets keep them apart?

In this episode we discuss Quicksilver by Callie Hart. Saeris has spent her life living in the third ward and fighting for survival. When a theft goes wrong and she gets caught she finds herself sucked into a new world, full of the fae and new types of danger. Especially, since she is the first alchemist who can manipulate quicksilver in a long time. She meets the mysterious and grumpy Kingfisher who seems to hate her. Together, they must work to stop a war that has been going on for centuries. Can Saeris find a way to manipulate the quicksilver and win the war? Will the differences between her and Kingfisher be too much or will they give in to the obvious tension between them?

This week, we discuss two books from the Chronicles of Narnia series. In the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, the Pevensie children go through a wardrobe and discover a magical world called Narnia that is coated in snow. They are tasked with rescuing a kind faun from the self-proclaimed queen of Narnia, Jadis, who has cursed Narnia to be always winter but never Christmas. The Pevensie children must work together with the residents of Narnia and its high king, Aslan, to end the curse on the land and free its citizens. In The Horse and His Boy, Shasta, a young boy, works together with a talking horse, Bree, to free themselves from their owners and escape to Narnia. On the way, they meet Aravis, a young Tarkheena, and Hwin, a talking mare, who are on a similar mission. Their path through Calormen to Narnia brings them through many obstacles, including a plot to bring war to Archenland and to force a queen of Narnia into an undesired marriage. Join us this week!

This episode we're talking about mermen! Whispers of the Deep by Emma Hamm is the first in her new series about merpeople and their humans. Ever since humans developed colonies in the oceans, the undine (merpeople), have been their enemies. Humans destroyed parts of the ocean to create new homes, angering the creatures already in the sea. Argus is given the task of kidnapping a human to learn their secrets so they can find a way to destroy the humans once and for all. Mira, an engineer living in Beta is his target. As they get to know each other, they realize that perhaps humans and the undine could get along. Will they be able to overcome decades of hate? Or will their differences prove to be too much?

This week we're discussing The Color of Magic by Terry Pratchett. Twoflower, a tourist, takes a break from his job as an insurance adjuster to explore Ankh-Morpork, a destination that he has read and heard so much about. He wants to see the famed heroes, dragons, bar fights, and have an adventure! However, Twoflower has no idea of the danger that he is in, and Rincewind, a mediocre, sort-of wizard, is tasked with keeping him safe. Rincewind and Twoflower's travels take them through an inferno of a city, into the temple of the Soul Eater, across a land populated by dragons before reaching the very edge of the world, narrowly escaping Death each time. Join us!

Join us for the final book in Scarlett St. Clair's Hades and Persephone retelling - A Touch of Chaos. Hades has been captured and put in the labyrinth by Theseus, Persephone has recently killed her mother, and Theseus has let out a few Titans. Theseus remains committed to his goal of destroying all the gods and has the support of mortals and demi-gods. Will Hades and Persephone be able to stop him from succeeding or will Theseus destroy the gods and the world? TW: Discussion of sexual assault/rape.

We kick off pride month with Peter Darling by Austin Chant. Peter returns to Neverland 10 years later and finds that not everything is the same as before. His fights with Captain Hook stir something inside of him. Will they remain enemies or overcome their differences to return to the real world?

This week we're discussing Eragon by Christopher Paolini! Eragon discovers a dragon egg but when it hatches he becomes a target. After the death of his uncle he vows revenge and travels the kingdom with his dragon, mentor, and friend. Will Eragon be able to evade the king or will the pressure prove to be too much for him?

In this episode we discuss Iron Flame, the sequel to Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros. Violet is reeling from the revelations in the last book and is still furious at Xaden, who is determined to make things right. However, there is war brewing on multiple fronts. Will Violet, Xaden, and the rest of the rebels be able to defend themselves from multiple attacks? Will Violet be able to get wards up to protect them or will they be overrun by the enemy?

We're back from our break with a Halloween Special! We are discussing the erotic novellas in the book Hollow by C.M. Nacosta. Ichabod Crane is fascinated by Brom Bones and his thick thighs. While Katrina Van Tassel finds herself drawn to a seasonal sexy ghost. Will they find love? Or at least get a few orgasms? Join us to find out! But beware, this episode details explicit sexual content.

In this episode your hosts discuss The Ashes and the Star Cursed King by Carisa Broadbent. This is the conclusion to the duology but not the end of the Crown of Nyaxia world. We pick up where the first book left off. Raihn is struggling to enforce his role as king during a civil war. Oraya is struggling with her grief and the knowledge that she is an Heir. Soon however, it becomes clear that they will need to work together. Despite Raihn's heartbreaking betrayal in the previous book Oraya agrees to assist him. Septimus and the blood-born vampires are a problem and in order to get them out of The House of Night, Oraya needs to help Raihn find god-blood. Since it is suspected that her father and previous king, Vincent, knew of this Oraya is crucial to this journey. Only she can access and understand the clues Vincent left behind. Is she ready to uncover the secrets her father left? Can she overcome Raihn's betrayal? Or is she only helping so that she can take her rightful place on the throne?

This week your hosts discuss Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir. Gideon Nav has spent her life as an indentured servant for Harrowhark, when her plan to escape fails, she agrees to be Harrow's cavalier. She and Harrow travel to the first house for a competition between the other houses to find out who will become lyctors. Soon, strange events happen that result in the deaths of the necromancers from the other houses. Will Gideon and Harrow fall prey to the unknown force or can the previous enemies work together and survive?

This week, we discuss A Soul of Ash and Blood by Jennifer L. Armentrout. This is the fifth installment in the From Blood and Ash series, and in the book, Casteel recounts the events in From Blood and Ash from his perspective, while he, Kieran, and their trusted friends guard Poppy who has slipped into stasis to complete the culling. Join us for our discussion!

In this episode we discuss Ruby Dixon's 4th book in the Ice Planet Barbarian Series - Barbarian Mine. When Harlow finds herself captured by a large blue alien she must quickly adapt. Rukh was left an orphan at 7 years old and since then has been on his own. When his kuhi resonates with Harlow, he wastes no time taking her. He is unable to speak English or the common language so they must find other ways to communicate. It is difficult and there are times of misunderstandings but Rukh and Harlow work hard getting to know each other. When Harlow has a difficult pregnancy, Rukh must decide if it worth the risk of bringing her back to communal cave to seek help. Will Harlow be okay? Will Rukh leave her to return to his nomadic ways? Or can they find a way to stay together?

We wrap up pride month with The Fate of Stars by SD Simper. When Tallora, a mermaid saves the disgraced princess of Solvira, she is not expecting to be captured instead of thanked. Dauriel, the disgraced princess, is constantly seeking her mother's approval and she believes that kidnapping a mermaid for a pet would be appreciated. However, it does not go as planned when Tallora and Dauriel begin to develop feelings towards each other. Can Tallora forgive her captor? Will Dauriel outgrow her need for her mother's affection? TW: Infertility.

This week we discuss Dark Lover, the first

installment of the Black Dagger Brotherhood by JR Ward and we are joined by our resident

horse expert, Sydney! Wrath, the last remaining purebred vampire, skillfully leads his brothers in the Black Dagger Brotherhood, destroying leaders who would seek to eliminate all vampires. When one of his oldest friends is killed by a lesser, his duties become even more daunting as he takes on the task of seeing his friend’s daughter, Beth, through her transition where she will become a vampire. Beth Randall does not know vampires are real, and has the shock of her life when she learns that not only are they real, but also her dad and Wrath, who she’s tremendously attracted to, are vampires and she will also shortly become one. Wrath and Beth are undeniably drawn to each other, but dating the vampire king comes with threats that neither of them are prepared for. Join us this week!

This week your hosts discuss Katee Robert's newest addition to her Dark Olympus series. This book focuses on Apollo and Cassandra. There is a new player in town - Minos, but he is a mysterious character. When Apollo is invited to Minos' house for a week long party, he brings Cassandra along to help find any suspicious activity. As the party progresses sinister events begin to happen, plus-ones go missing and parlor games go awry. Will Cassandra and Apollo be able to work out the mystery before Cassandra becomes the next victim? Will they finally act on their mutual attraction? This is an after dark episode!

This episode your hosts discuss The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune. In this best-seller Linus is chosen to evaluate an orphanage by the sea. Management seems to think that it is dangerous and should be shut down. It turns out that this is no ordinary orphanage, the children are powerful and very special. As Linus gets to know the children and the keepers of the orphanage it becomes clear that it should remain open. Will Linus be able to convince management to keep the orphanage open? Or will the children be separated from their home and friends? 

This week, we're discussing Book of Night by Holly Black.  Charlie Hall, talented thief and con artist, has spent much of her life stealing for gloamists, people with quickened shadows.  Though Charlie tries to leave that part of her life behind, her plans disintegrate when a man comes to her bar trying to sell part of the Liber Noctem, a mysterious, famous book that was stolen from Lionel Salt.  When the man is mysteriously murdered, Charlie, begins to investigate the whereabouts of the elusive book.  She discovers that there is far more to her kind but quiet boyfriend than she realized, and embarks on a dangerous mission to discover the Liber Noctem.  Join us this week! 

This week, we discuss The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab.  Sketchy deals with dark gods have unexpected and life-altering consequences.  When young Addie LaRue makes a desperate bargain to live the life she desires, she obtains immortality but at a steep cost:  to be forgotten by everyone she encounters.  She finds small ways to leave her mark on history over the centuries and on the dark being she made a deal with.  However, her life changes when she stumbles across the first person to remember her in 300 years.   

This week your hosts discuss A Curse So Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer. Harper is stolen from Washington D.C. and taken to Emberfall in the hopes that she will fall in love with Prince Rhen and break his curse. However, Harper is not one to be wooed and she is determined to go home but when she sees the state that Emberfall is in she wants to help. She and Rhen grow closer as they visit villages and cities to inspire the people. Will they fall in love before the end of the season? Or will Rhen succumb to the sorceress Lilith and be trapped forever? 

Join us for our discussion of The Book of Azrael by Amber Nicole.  Dianna has made herself a villain, serving Kaden for hundreds of years in repayment for saving her sister.  In seeking out the Book of Azrael, a powerful relic, for Kaden, Dianna discovers that the World Ender, Samkiel, is still very alive, goes by Liam now, and is displeased with her.  Though they start as enemies, Dianna and Liam must learn to work together or risk destruction of their world.

This week your hosts discuss These Hollow Vows by Lexi Ryan. This is the first book of a young adult duology. Brie and her sister have been living with a massive amount of debt. Their aunt decides to sell Jas to the fae. Determined to get her sister back Brie braves going to Faerie to rescue her sister. However, she finds much more than she expected. She unlocks new powers, discovers secrets, and helps with a revolution. Will Brie be able to save her sister from the illegitimate shadow king without losing her heart or her life?   

This week, your hosts discuss A Light in the Flame by Jennifer L. Armentrout.  After discovering that she carries the embers of life within her, Sera grapples with realizing that she wants a life beyond the one that was pre-determined for her.  But first, she must figure out how to survive the culling as her power continues to grow.  With the help of Nyktos, they begin the search for alternative options that may remove the embers from Sera and grant her the freedom she desires.  However, as the search for ways to remove the embers continues, the passion between Sera and Nyktos gets hotter and hotter.  Join us this week!

We are wrapping up Monster Smash month with Luxuria by Colette Rhodes.  When Ophelia, rejected Hunter, is given the opportunity to fulfill the terms of the treaty between Hunters and shades by entering into an arranged marriage with Allerick, King of the Shades, she enthusiastically accepts, believing that she'll finally have her monster fantasies come true.  There's just the little issue of convincing her husband that she's actually hot for him... Join us this week!  

MonsterSmash continues with a minotaur and human pairing in C.M. Nascosta's Morning Glory Milking Farm! To avoid having to move back in with her parents, Violet is desperate to find a job. After quite a bit of searching she discovers Morning Glory Milking Farm. The facility "milks" male minotaurs and uses their donations in pharmaceuticals. It is a well paying job and Violet is happy to accept. While there she has instant chemistry with one of the minotaurs who donates weekly, Rourke. Their relationship slowly progresses and eventually leaves the milking room. *This book is wholesome smut so we do discuss after dark themes*

We're kicking off MonsterSmash October with A Soul to Keep by Opal Reyne. Reia is an outcast in her town and when it comes time to have a bride ready for the duskwalker she is the obvious choice. However, the duskwalker is not what he seems. He may look scary with a wolf skull and impala antlers but he is just looking for a companion. Unfortunately, this is difficult for him since his bloodlust is triggered by the scent of fear. Luckily for Reia she is rarely afraid and this allows her to get closer to Orpheus and see him for who he really is. Not everything is perfect though, the demon-king hates duskwalkers because they are powerful and hard to kill so he is constantly looking for ways to hurt them. Will Reia and Orpheus be able to overcome their differences or is a human eating, dark entity with a skull for a face too monstruous?