Escape with Me Bookclub

Episode 186 - Love Hina Vol. 4-6 by Ken AkamatsuWe're back with Love Hina!For James, this series is a core memory. He first read Love Hina in high school, and it was one of his first manga series. For Sam, it's a completely different experience: she's been watching anime and reading manga for more than two decades, but this is her first time actually reading Love Hina.So what happens when one person revisits a formative favorite and the other comes to it with years of anime and manga experience already under her belt?That's exactly what we're exploring in Volumes 4-6.We talk about:How Love Hina holds up through James' nostalgiaSam's perspective as a first-time readerHow our previous experience with anime and manga changes the way we look at the seriesThe characters, comedy, romance, and increasingly chaotic situationsWhether James' high-school memories still match the series we're reading todayIt's nostalgia versus a fresh set of eyes and we're finding out whether Love Hina survives the comparison.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Disney at Dark by Ridley Pearson⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:20 Background02:15 Age Level & Content Warning03:42 Judge a Book by Its Cover06:51 Discussion49:29 General Thoughts51:56 One Question for the Author53:09 Rating56:09 Read Again?57:42 Outro🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 185 - Princess of Thieves by Mari MancusiOnce again, we have read a Disney Twisted Tales book that was published in the UK and Australia.And once again: WE WERE ROBBED!Seriously, it will never stop baffling us that some of the best books in the Disney Twisted Tales series aren't published in the United States.Sam and Kaitlyn dive into Princess of Thieves by Mari Mancusi and this isn't just another enjoyable entry in the series.This book is FIVE STARS.It may even be one of our favorite Disney Twisted Tales books we've ever read.We talk about:Why this book deserves to be available to more readersWhat makes it stand out in the Disney Twisted Tales seriesHow it compares to other books in the seriesThe characters, story, and everything that worked for usAnd why we are once again asking the very important question: WHY CAN'T WE HAVE THE GOOD BOOKS?!If you've been following our Disney Twisted Tales journey, this is an episode you won't want to miss.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Love Hina vol. 4-6 by Ken Akamatsu⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:05 Background05:24 Age Level and Content Warning07:57 Judge a Book by Its Cover12:09 Discussion58:36 General Thoughts01:03:11 One Question for the Author01:06:25 Rating01:06:59 Read Again & Favorite of the Series so Far01:07:48 Outro📖 Follow the Author - Mari MancusiWebsite: ⁠http://www.marimancusi.com/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/marimancusi⁠Twitter: ⁠https://x.com/marimancusi⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/marimancusi⁠🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754⁠Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 184 - Divergent by Veronica RothTwo readers. Two different experiences. And one very important question:Was Divergent actually done dirty by being compared to The Hunger Games?Danielle read Divergent when it originally came out. Sam is reading it for the first time, and together they're digging into one of the biggest YA dystopian series of the 2010s.We talk about why comparing Divergent to The Hunger Games can actually be a disservice to the book, how the movie adaptation helped drag the series down, and (yes) the MANY problems that exist in the book itself.But then things get really interesting.Veronica Roth is revisiting the world of Divergent with an alternate-timeline story, which raises one extremely important question:Which faction will Tris choose this time?And because we couldn't leave well enough alone, we also took the BuzzFeed faction quiz.We had our predictions.We were wrong.Sam: CandorDanielle: EruditeApparently we know ourselves less well than we thought.We discuss:Divergent vs. The Hunger GamesWhy the comparison isn't necessarily fairThe book's strengths AND its problemsHow the movies affected the reputation of the seriesVeronica Roth's alternate-timeline rewriteAnd which faction Tris might choose in the new storyNew episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Princess of Thieves by Mari Mancusi⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:40 About the Author04:42 Background07:27 Rewrite?10:09 Age Level & Content Warning12:30 Judge a Book by Its Cover13:55 Discussion01:04:04 General Thoughts01:09:39 One Question for the Author01:13:17 Rating01:14:12 Read Again?01:15:40 Outro📖 Follow the Author - Veronica RothWebsite: https://veronicarothbooks.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VeronicaRothBooks?fref=ts#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veronicaroth/Threads: https://www.threads.com/@veronicaroth🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754⁠Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 183 -The People of Sparks by Jeanne DuPrauWhat happens when the book you remember loving as a kid has to live up to the original?Sam and Keira are heading back to the world of City of Ember with The People of Sparks, the second book in Jeanne DuPrau's series.Both of them read City of Ember as kids, but their journeys stopped in very different places. Sam went on to read the first three books, while Keira stopped after Book 1.So this isn't quite a reread for either of them.For Sam, it's a return to a series she hasn't touched since childhood. For Keira, it's discovering what happened after the story she remembers.And there's one major problem:The first book was REALLY good.We talk about:Revisiting The City of Ember series as adultsHow The People of Sparks compares to the first bookThe differences between reading the sequel as a longtime reader versus someone who stopped after Book 1Whether the series successfully expands beyond its original premiseAnd whether this sequel lives up to the childhood favorite that came before itSometimes the hardest book for a sequel to compete with is the book you loved when you were a kid.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Divergent by Veronica Roth⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:18 Background06:28 Age Level & Content Warning09:08 Judge a Book by Its Cover12:10 Discussion01:02:31 General Thoughts01:07:14 One Question for the Author01:09:23 Rating01:10:53 Read Again?01:11:40 Favorite of the Series so Far01:12:29 Outro📖 Follow the Author - Jeanne DuPrauWebsite: https://www.jeanneduprau.com/🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754⁠Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 182 - Murder in Mesopotamia by Agatha ChristieThe Anti-Hastings Club gets a much-needed break this week.Sam and Hannah are back with Agatha Christie, but Murder in Mesopotamia gives us something we don't always get in these episodes: a different narrator. And Sam is particularly excited because this mystery takes us into the world of ancient Mesopotamia, one of her favorite historical subjects.Set at an archaeological excavation in Iraq, the book brings together a suspicious group of characters, buried secrets, and, naturally, murder.Sam has theories.Hannah is along for the ride.And for once, Hastings isn't here to ruin anyone's day.We talk about:The mystery and its unusual settingThe archaeological and historical elementsThe narrator and how the change affects the storySam's theories as she tries to solve the mysteryAnd whether this Christie classic lives up to its reputationGrab your metaphorical archaeologist's hat and join us for another Christie mystery!New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: The People of Sparks by Jeanne DePrau⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:11 Agatha History02:59 Background03:42 Age Level & Content Warning03:54 Judge a Book by Its Cover06:01 Discussion53:32 General Thoughts54:38 One Question for the Author55:30 Rating56:30 Read Again & Favorite of the Series so Far57:42 Outro🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754⁠Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 181 - The Cat Who Sniffed Glue by Lilian Jackson BraunWe're back in Pickax with Qwilleran, Koko, Yum Yum... and somehow the biggest mystery isn't the murder.It's Qwill's love life.Sam and Tim continue their journey through The Cat Who... series with The Cat Who Sniffed Glue, but this time the romance takes center stage and not necessarily in a good way.We discuss:Why the romance overshadows the mysteryQwill's inability to decide what he wantsWhether Polly deserves someone who can actually make up his mindWhy Agatha Christie may have been right to keep Poirot's love life out of the spotlightAnd yes... we eventually get around to talking about the murder, too.As much as we love spending time with Qwill, Koko, and Yum Yum, this installment left us wishing the mystery had received as much attention as the romance.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Murder in Mesopotamia by Agatha Christie⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:52 Background02:06 Age Level & Content Warning03:46 Judge a Book by Its Cover05:15 Discussion41:52 General Thoughts44:30 One Question for the Author47:31 General Thoughts49:49 Read Again?51:55 Favorite of the Series so Far52:48 Outro🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 180 - Death on the Lanai by Rachel Ekstrom CourageWe're heading back to Miami!Sam and James return to the Golden Girls Cozy Mystery series with Death on the Lanai. After enjoying the first book while feeling it still had room to grow, we couldn't wait to see if this second installment finally delivers on the series' potential.So... does it?We discuss:Whether the series has found its footingHow this mystery compares to the first bookSpending more time with Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, and SophiaWhat worked, what still needs improvement, and where we'd like to see the series go nextAnd the big question: Will there be a third book?Whether you're a lifelong Golden Girls fan or just love a good cozy mystery, grab a slice of cheesecake and join us for another trip to Miami.Thank you for being a friend. 💛New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: People of Sparks by Jeanna DuPrau⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro00:57 Background04:28 Age Level & Content Warning05:04 Judge a Book by Its Cover08:22 Discussion01:04:40 General Thoughts01:07:10 One Question for the Author01:10:37 Rating01:11:34 Read Again & Favorite of the Series so Far01:12:28 Outro📖 Follow the AuthorWebsite: https://www.rachelekstromcourage.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100071357919222Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelekstromcourage/🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 179 - Fourth Wing by Rebecca YarrosIt finally happened.After months (okay... years) of recommendations, Kaitlyn has finally convinced Sam (the podcast's biggest skeptic) to read one of the biggest fantasy books of the decade.The pressure was on.When seemingly everyone around you loves a book, can you still judge it on its own merits? Sam certainly tries.In this episode, Sam and Kaitlyn discuss:Sam's long-awaited first read of Fourth WingWhether the hype helped or hurt the experienceThe worldbuilding, dragons, romance, and actionDisability representation in the bookWhether Sam's expectations were changed or confirmedWhether you're a devoted fan, a curious skeptic, or somewhere in between, join us as we dive into one of BookTok's biggest sensations.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Death on the Lanai by Rachel Ekstrom Courage⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:13 Background05:35 About the Author13:04 Age Level & Content Warning13:45 Judge a Book by Its Cover15:17 Discussion01:30:46 General Thoughts01:34:12 One Question for the Author01:36:20 Eyebrows and Dain's Beard01:37:37 Rating01:39:15 Read Again?01:42:04 What Next?01:43:12 Outro📖 Follow the Author - Rebecca YarrosWebsite: https://rebeccayarros.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RebeccaElizabethYarros/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccayarros/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rebeccayarrosPinterest: https://au.pinterest.com/rebeccayarros/🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 178 - Secrets of My Hollywood Life by Jen CalonitaCan a book be nostalgic if you barely remember reading it?Sam first read Secrets of My Hollywood Life back in middle school and remembers loving the series. Here's the strange part: she can still recall events from later books, but she'd completely forgotten the plot of the very first one, including the fact that the main character spends the book trying to attend a normal high school.So how does a childhood favorite hold up when you remember the series but not the beginning?Sam and Danielle discuss:-Revisiting a YA favorite nearly 20 years later-Why Book 1 felt almost like a brand-new read-The celebrity-meets-normal-life premise-Which parts still work today and which feel very much like the mid-2000's-Whether this series deserves a modern rereadThere's something fascinating about rediscovering a story you thought you knew. This episode is part nostalgia trip, part first-time reaction, and all kinds of fun.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:46 Background09:15 Age Level & Content Warning13:00 Judge a Book by Its Cover14:26 Discussion43:37 General Thoughts46:12 One Question for the Author49:16 Rating50:35 Read Again?51:29 Outro📖 Follow the Author:Website: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.jencalonitaonline.com/⁠⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/jencalonitabooks⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jencalonita/⁠⁠⁠Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/JenCalonita⁠⁠⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@jencalonitaofficial⁠⁠⁠🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 177 - Disney After Dark by Ridley PearsonThis might be the most unhinged premise we've ever covered.Thanks to Keira's special interest in the Disney Parks, we discovered the Kingdom Keepers series and after reading the first book, we have just one question:Who approved this?Every night, five middle schoolers are teleported into Walt Disney World Resort while they sleep. Their mission? Save the parks from the Disney villains, solve a mystery connected to Walt Disney himself, and keep the Magic Kingdom from falling into chaos.Is it completely ridiculous? Absolutely.Is it giving serious Disney Channel Original Movie energy? Without question.Are we immediately committing to the rest of the series? Also yes.In this episode, Sam and Keira discuss:-Why this premise somehow works despite being completely bonkers-Keira's Disney Parks knowledge and how it changes the reading experience-The campy adventure vibes-Whether this deserves its cult following-Why we're absolutely continuing the seriesSometimes the weirdest books become the most fun to talk about.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Secrets of My Hollywood Life by Jen Calonita⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:01 About the Author03:53 Background06:29 Age Level & Content Warning08:01 Judge a Book by Its Cover46:27 General Thoughts47:46 One Question for the Author52:29 Rating53:42 Read Again?54:41 Outro📖 Follow the Author - Ridley PearsonWebsite: https://ridleypearson.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thekingdomkeepersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ridleypearsonYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ridleypPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ridleypearson/🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 176 - The Well of Ascension by Brandon SandersonIs being a "middle book" an excuse... or a flaw?Sam and James continue their journey through the Mistborn trilogy with The Well of Ascension, and while they agree on one thing (that this is very much a second book in a trilogy) they couldn't disagree more on whether that's a compliment.For Sam, "middle book syndrome" means one thing: filler until the finale.For James, it's exactly what a sequel should do: build anticipation and make you desperate to read the final book.In this episode, we discuss:-Whether The Well of Ascension suffers from middle-book syndrome-The political intrigue, character development, and expanding world of The Final Empire-What makes a great second book in a trilogy-Whether this installment stands on its own or exists primarily to set up the finale-And whether we'll settle the debate or simply agree to disagree.If you've ever argued about whether a sequel is "all setup" or "necessary development," this episode is for you.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Disney After Dark by Ridley Pearson⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro00:51 Background05:11 Age Level & Content Warning06:07 Judge a Book by Its Cover07:49 Discussion01:00:07 General Thoughts01:01:24 One Question for the Author01:05:56 Read Again?01:07:21 Favorite of the Series so Far01:09:32 Death of the Author?01:11:24 Outro📚 Follow the Author:Website: https://www.brandonsanderson.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrandSanderson/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandsanderson/Twitter: https://x.com/BrandSandersonTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorbrandonsandersonYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrandSanderson🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 175 - Somewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ KluneWe thought we knew what we were getting into.After loving The House in the Cerulean Sea for its cozy, heartwarming vibe and hopeful message, Sam and Hannah went into Somewhere Beyond the Sea expecting something similar.We were not prepared.This sequel keeps the compassion and humanity of the first book, but the conversations become much heavier. What starts as a return to a beloved world quickly turns into a discussion about prejudice, fear, belonging, and the weight of trying to create a better future.We talk about:-Why the tone feels so different from the first book-The themes that hit much harder than expected-Whether the sequel succeeds because of that shift-And why this might be a book that deserves a content warning conversation before recommending itWe'd still gift Cerulean Sea to almost anyone. Somewhere Beyond the Sea? We'd gift it with a long conversation attached.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: The Well of Ascension by Brandon Sanderson⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:02 Background02:54 Age Level & Content Warning04:38 Discussion01:02:01 One Question for the Author01:07:01 Rating01:07:51 Read Again?01:08:52 Favorite of the Series01:13:07 Outro📚 Follow the Author:Website: ⁠https://www.tjklunebooks.com/⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/tjklunebooks/⁠⁠Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/tjklune⁠🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 174 - The Silver Chair by C. S. LewisFor years, The Silver Chair was Tim's favorite Narnia book.But was it actually the book or was it his dad's absolutely legendary voice for Puddleglum doing all the work?Sam and Tim revisit one of the most beloved entries in the Narnia series and ask a dangerous question: does childhood nostalgia hold up under adult scrutiny?We discuss:• Why The Silver Chair became Tim's favorite as a kid• The unforgettable Puddleglum voice that defined the story for him• How the book reads differently as an adult• Whether the themes and characters still work• If nostalgia enhanced the experience or completely carried itAnd, of course, we spend plenty of time talking about one of Narnia's most unique and memorable characters.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: The Well of Ascension by Brandon Sanderson⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro00:54 Background02:06 Age Level & Content Warning02:56 Judge a Book by Its Cover04:30 Discussion44:54 General Thoughts47:00 One Question for the Author49:14 Rating50:52 Read Again?51:13 Favorite of the Series so Far52:51 Outro🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 173 - Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne CollinsAfter more than a decade of encouragement, recommendations, and relentless badgering from Danielle, Sam is finally caught up on the entire Hunger Games book series.Mission accomplished.Now comes the next challenge: convincing her to watch the movies.But first, we have to answer a much bigger question:Is Sunrise on the Reaping the best Hunger Games book?Danielle says no.Sam is prepared to make her case.We discuss:• Sam's first-time reaction to the newest Hunger Games novel• Whether it belongs at the top of the series ranking• The themes that make the book resonate so strongly• How it changes the way we view the rest of the series• Sam's increasingly controversial Hunger Games reading order: Book 1 → Sunrise on the Reaping → Book 2 → The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes → Book 3Whether you agree or disagree, this episode is packed with Hunger Games discussion, rankings, and probably a few hot takes.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: The Silver Chair by C.S. Lewis⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro00:51 Background08:09 Age Level & Content Warning8:33 Judge a Book by Its Cover10:12 Discussion58:13 General Thoughts01:04:50 One Question for the Author01:06:05 Rating01:06:58 Poetry in the Book01:08:26 Favorite of the Series01:10:10 Reading Order01:12:28 Outro📖 Follow the Author - Suzanne CollinsWebsite: https://www.suzannecollinsbooks.com/🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 172 - Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas“You just need to get past the first book.”That was the recommendation. Repeatedly.So Sam and Kaitlyn finally picked up Throne of Glass and… oh boy.We get into what worked, what absolutely did not, and the question we kept circling back to the entire episode: Why did people keep reading this series?From characterization to pacing to the overall reading experience, we unpack why this first entry was a rough ride for both of us while also trying to understand the absolutely legendary reader loyalty surrounding Sarah J. Maas.Honestly, the author’s ability to inspire devotion deserves academic study.We talk about:• First-time reactions to Throne of Glass• Why the “it gets better later” recommendation is so fascinating• What did (and didn’t) work for us• Whether we understand the fandom… at allIf you’ve ever pushed through a first book because everyone swore the series improves, this one is for you.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:51 Background06:35 Age Level & Content Warning08:21 Judge a Book by Its Cover10:46 Discussion01:05:32 General Thoughts01:08:36 One Question for the Author01:09:57 Rating01:10:59 Read Again?01:11:40 Outro📖 Follow the Author - Sarah J. MaasWebsite: https://sarahjmaas.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theworldofsarahjmaas/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahjmaas/Twitter: https://x.com/SJMaasTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sarahjmaas🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 171 - Worth Fighting For by Jesse Q. Sutanto(Disney’s Meant to Be Series, Book 5)This episode is personal.Worth Fighting For is the reason we started covering the Meant to Be series in the first place and somehow, it’s also the reason Keira became a co-star on the podcast. Expectations? Extremely high. Stakes? Weirdly emotional.So… was it worth the hype?Oh boy.Sam and Keira dive into the fifth Meant to Be book, unpacking:• Whether the story lived up to the anticipation• How it compares to the rest of the series• The characters, romance, and execution• And what happens when a book carries way too much personal expectationSometimes the most anticipated reads become favorites.Sometimes they become podcast episodes.If you’ve been following our Meant to Be journey, this one is a must-watch.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas⏱️ Time Stamp00:00 Intro1:11 Background08:51 Age Level & Content Warning10:33 Judge a Book by Its Cover12:42 Discussion01:01:49 General Thoughts01:06:56 Ideas for More Books01:12:31 One Question for the Author01:14:03 Rating01:15:32 Read Again?01:15:54 Favorite of the Series01:18:56 Outro📖 Follow the AuthorJesse Q. SutantoWebsite: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.jesseqsutanto.com/⁠⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/JesseQSutanto/⁠⁠⁠Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/thewritinghippo⁠⁠⁠Instagram:⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jesseqsutanto/⁠⁠⁠TikTok:⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@jessesutanto?lang=en⁠⁠⁠Good Reads:⁠⁠⁠ https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19278992.Jesse_Q_Sutanto⁠⁠⁠🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 170 - Brigands & Breadknives by Travis BaldreeThis series just took its biggest swing yet.Sam and James dive into Brigands & Breadknives, the third published book in the series and easily the biggest departure from the original formula so far. The cozy fantasy vibes are still here, but this story shifts gears in a way we definitely didn’t expect.And somewhere along the way we realized something important:This is fantasy Eat, Pray, Love.We are not kidding.We talk about:• How this book changes the series formula• Why the shift works (or doesn’t)• Character growth, wandering, and self-discovery• Why “fantasy Eat, Pray, Love” somehow feels weirdly accurateIf you’ve been following this series, this episode gets into whether big swings help a cozy fantasy world grow or move too far away from what made readers fall in love in the first place.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Worth Fighting For by Jesse Q. Sutanto⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro02:10 Background04:02 Age Level & Content Warning08:15 Discussion54:14 General Thoughts55:39 One Question for the Author57:07 Rating01:00:18 Read Again01:02:05 Favorite of the Series so Far01:02:35 Outro📖 Follow the Author:Website: ⁠⁠https://www.travisbaldree.com/⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/TravisBaldreeNarrator/⁠⁠Twitter: ⁠⁠https://twitter.com/TravisBaldree⁠⁠Discord: ⁠⁠https://discord.com/invite/duzCS2D⁠⁠🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 169 -The A.B.C. Murders by Agatha ChristieWe’re finally reading one of Christie’s most famous mysteries and we’re going in completely blind.Sam and Hannah try to solve The ABC Murders in real time, following the clues, tracking the pattern, and throwing out theories as we go. Sam, in particular, develops a WILD and genuinely juicy theory that sends us down a very entertaining path while Hannah is just along for the ride.And somehow (against all odds) Hastings isn’t that bad in this one. We’re just as surprised as you are.We talk about:• First-time reader reactions to a Christie classic• The structure of the mystery and how it guides (or misguides) the reader• Sam’s theory and how it holds up• And whether this one earns its reputationIf you like trying to solve mysteries before the reveal, this is a fun one to play along with.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Brigands & Breadknives by Travis Baldree⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro00:58 Agatha History01:59 Background02:20 Age Level & Content Warning02:38 Judge a Book by Its Cover04:33 Discussion10:36 AAA13:27 BBB18:57 CCC28:32 DDD32:23 The True Culprit37:05 General Thoughts39:37 One Question for the Author42:32 Rating44:12 Read Again?44:56 Favorite of the Series so Far47:16 Outro🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 168 - The Cat Who Knew Shakespeare by Lilian Jackson Braun (The Cat Who Series Book 7)Are these books getting darker or are we just noticing it now?Sam and Tim continue their journey through The Cat Who series with The Cat Who Knew Shakespeare, and Tim is convinced this is the darkest installment yet. Sam isn’t so sure.We talk about:• Whether this book actually pushes the series further into darker territory• How the tone of mysteries shifted in the 1980s• If this is part of a larger trend in the series• And what we expect as we move into the 1990s entriesWhat started as a cozy mystery series is starting to feel like something else entirely and we’re tracking that evolution in real time.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: The ABC Murders by Agatha Christie⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:34 Background02:29 Age Level & Content Warning03:55 Judge a Book by Its Cover04:44 Discussion46:02 General Thoughts46:38 One Question for the Author49:27 Rating50:54 Favorite of the Series so Far51:48 Outro🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 167 - How Far I'll Go by Keala KendallWhat if Moana was worse?Sam and Kaitlyn discuss How Far I’ll Go, one of the newest entries in Disney’s Meant to Be series and unfortunately, this one was a major disappointment.We came away asking:• What lesson was this story even trying to teach?• Why does the plot feel like “What if Moana was dumber?”• And how did a relationship built around loving someone out of abusive behavior make it into the final version?We unpack the characterization, the story choices, and why this feels like a weak showing for a new author entering the series. Sometimes adaptations miss the magic and this one left us more confused than charmed.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: The Cat Who Knew Shakespeare by Lilian Jackson Braun⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:08 About the Author04:39 Background10:28 Age Level & Content Warning13:08 Judge a Book by Its Cover14:04 Discussion01:17:55 General Thoughts01:20:08 One Question for the Author01:21:52 Rating01:23:36 Read Again?01:24:03 Favorite of the Series so Far01:24:40 Outro📖 Follow the AuthorKeala KendallWebsite: https://www.kealakendall.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kealakendallBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/kealakendall.bsky.socialTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kealakendall🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 166 - The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne CollinsSam finally reads The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes for the first time and immediately develops theories.Joined by Danielle, we dive into Suzanne Collins’s Hunger Games prequel and unpack everything this book adds to the world of Panem, the psychology of power, and the making of Coriolanus Snow.But that’s not all.Sam leaves this episode with:• A brand new conspiracy theory• A completely new recommended reading order for the series• Strong opinions about what this book changes retroactivelyWe discuss whether prequels can deepen an original trilogy, what this book says about ambition and control, and how first-time readers react differently than longtime fans.If you love the Hunger Games universe, this is a fun one.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: How Far I'll Go by Keala Kendal⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:25 Background05:53 Age Level & Content Warning06:54 Judge a Book by Its Cover08:21 Discussion52:59 General Thoughts55:08 One Question for the Author57:14 Rating58:12 Read Again?01:01:46 Favorite of the Series so Far01:03:10 Outro📖 Follow the Author - Suzanne CollinsWebsite: https://www.suzannecollinsbooks.com/🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 165 - The Voyage of the Dawn Treader by C. S. LewisBook vs MovieSam and Tim return to Narnia for The Voyage of the Dawn Treader and this turned into a full book vs movie comparison.The verdict? The book delivers. The movie… does not.We talk about how the film takes the bones of the story and somehow still misses what makes it work. From major tonal changes to adaptation choices that just don’t land, this ends up being the weakest of the 2000s Narnia movies. And yes, you can absolutely feel the smaller budget.We break down:• What makes the book so effective• Where the adaptation goes wrong• Why this one feels like the biggest miss of the trilogy• And what would Lion Jesus do?If you’ve ever said “the book was better,” this is one of those times where it’s not even close.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:08 Background06:40 Age Level & Content Warning08:49 Judge a Book by Its Cover09:54 Discussion34:32 The Islands in the Book53:18 The Islands in the Movie01:06:51 General Thoughts01:08:15 One Question for the Author01:09:43 Rating01:10:32 Read Again?01:11:00 Favorite of the Series so Far01:11:48 Outro🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 164 - The Stranger, The Andalite's Gift, & The Alien by K. A. ApplegateWe’re back in the Animorphs universe and this time we’re covering three books at once. Since they’re short, Sam and James read the next batch together, and something important finally clicks: everyone now has a personal reason to fight.This series is one of James’s childhood favorites, but it’s Sam’s first time reading and she’s noticing a real shift in quality. The stakes feel clearer, the characters feel more grounded, and the emotional investment starts to deepen in a big way.We talk about:• How each Animorph’s motivation develops• Why this stretch of the series feels stronger• Childhood nostalgia vs first-time reader reactions• The growing emotional complexity of the storyThis is the point where the series starts becoming more than just a fun premise and begins building something lasting.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader by C.S. Lewis⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:14 Background06:45 Age Level & Content Warning08:46 Judge a Book by Its Cover12:38 The Stranger35:58 The Andalite's Gift58:26 The Alien01:16:13 General Thoughts01:17:37 One Question for the Author01:19:32 Rating01:21:08 Read Again?01:23:07 Favorite of the Series so Far📚 Follow the AuthorLearn more about K.A. Applegate and the Animorphs series:Website: ⁠⁠https://katherineapplegate.com/⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/kaaauthor⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kaaauthor/⁠⁠BlueSky: ⁠⁠https://bsky.app/profile/kaaauthor.bsky.social⁠⁠🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 163 - A Wizard's Guide to Defensive Baking by T. KingfisherThis was the co-star pairing Sam had been waiting for. Kaitlyn reads A Wizard’s Guide to Defensive Baking for the first time, and it’s exactly the conversation we hoped it would be.Even though this is technically middle-grade, the book tackles complex issues with surprising nuance. Instead of handing readers easy answers, it encourages critical thinking and asks tough questions about responsibility, power, and what it really means to be a hero.Sam and Kaitlyn discuss:• Why this works so well as a hero deconstruction• The balance between humor and heavy themes• How the book handles moral complexity for younger readers• Why this feels like something that should be taught in schoolThis is one of those rare children’s books that respects its audience and trusts them to wrestle with difficult ideas.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: The Stranger, The Andalite's Gift & The Alien by K.A. Applegate⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:26 About the Author06:34 Background08:10 Age Level & Content Warning10:35 Judge a Book by Its Cover11:34 Discussion01:03:15 General Thoughts01:06:21 One Question for the Author01:11:10 Rating01:13:31 Read Again?01:13:47 Outro📖 Follow the Author - T. KingfisherWebsite: https://redwombatstudio.com/🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 162 - Mockingjay by Suzanne CollinsSam has officially finished the trilogy… and Mockingjay absolutely wrecked her, just like it does to everyone.In this episode, Sam and Danielle unpack the emotional fallout of the final book, including Sam’s immediate membership in the “Finnick Odair is alive, what are you talking about” club. But beyond the denial, Sam also gives a powerful explanation for why both Finnick and Primrose Everdeen had to die for the narrative to work.We dive into how Mockingjay is fundamentally a book about war, not glory, not victory, but consequences. The story intentionally leaves readers asking: “What was this for?” And that question is exactly the point, because it’s the one people should be asking before wars begin, not after.This is a heavy one, but it’s also one of the most meaningful discussions we’ve had.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST✨Next week: A Wizard's Guide to Defensive Baking by T. Kingfisher⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:09 Background05:57 Age Level & Content Warning07:04 Judge a Book by Its Cover08:55 Discussion01:08:50 General Thoughts01:09:41 One Question for the Author01:14:55 Rating01:16:37 Read Again01:20:40 Favorite of the Series so Far01:21:31 Outro📖 Follow the Author - Suzanne CollinsWebsite: https://www.suzannecollinsbooks.com/🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 161 - The Guest List by Lucy FoleyTo celebrate Hannah’s recent wedding, we decided to read a wedding-themed book… and Sam chose The Guest List specifically because it would make everyone feel better about their own wedding planning.Mission accomplished.Sam and Hannah dive into this twisty thriller set during a destination wedding where secrets, grudges, and long-simmering tensions all collide. We talk about the characters, the structure of the mystery, and why this book works so well as a “things could always be worse” wedding story.If you’ve ever been stressed planning an event, just remember:at least it’s not THIS wedding.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:11 About the Author01:42 Background05:47 Age Level & Content Warning08:14 Judge a Book by Its Cover09:40 Discussion13:56 The Wedding Planner's Background18:40 The Best Friend's Wife's Secret22:09 The Bride's Secret23:35 The Maid of Honor's Secret33:03 The Best Man's and the Groom's Secret43:52 The Wedding Planner's Secret45:36 The Rest of the Book50:08 General Thoughts54:16 One Question for the Author58:15 Rating01:00:41 Read Again?01:01:31 Outro📖 Follow the AuthorLucy FoleyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LucyFoleyAuthor/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucyfoleyauthor/🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 160 - The Cat Who Played Post Office by Lilian Jackson Braun(The Cat Who… Series, Book 6)We’re six books into The Cat Who… series, and this one takes a turn.Sam and Tim discuss The Cat Who Played Post Office, and while the series has always dealt with murder and mystery, this installment pushes into much darker territory. You can absolutely tell this was written in the 1980s… and not in a cute, nostalgic way.We talk about:• How this book goes further than previous installments• Qwill's memory loss• The tonal shift within the series• And yes… that endingIf you’ve been reading along thinking this is a light, cozy-adjacent mystery series, this book might surprise you.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: The Guest List by Lucy Foley⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro00:55 Background01:57 Age Level & Content Warning03:11 Judge a Book by Its Cover06:20 Discussion39:52 General Thoughts41:08 One Question for the Author43:03 Rating44:44 Read Again?44:56 Favorite of the Series so Far45:57 Lack of Fan Art & TV Series47:39 Outro🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 158 - Tangled Up in You by Christina Lauren(Disney’s Meant to Be Series, Book 4 | Month of Love Finale)We’re closing out our Month of Love with the fourth installment in Disney’s Meant to Be series and this one gave us the strangest tonal experience of the entire project.Sam and Keira discuss Tangled Up in You and its baffling vibe shift that can only be described as Hallmark Meets True Crime. Sweet small-town romance? Yes. Suspicious undertones and oddly intense plot elements? Also yes.We talk about:• The books characters vs movie characters• The tonal whiplash• How it compares to the other Meant to Be books• And whether the series is going to continue after book 5Is it romantic? Technically.Is it cohesive? That’s… debatable.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Truth of the Divine by Lindsay Ellis⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:02 About the Author06:01 Background10:48 Age Level & Content Warning11:11 Judge a Book by Its Cover15:47 Discussion55:13 General Thoughts59:14 One Question for the Author01:00:08 Rating01:01:08 Rating01:01:48 Favorite of the Series so Far01:03:35 Outro📖 Follow the AuthorsWebsite: https://christinalaurenbooks.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristinaLaurenBooksInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/christinalauren/Twitter: https://x.com/christinalaurenSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1DX8en0YoEcRIA🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 157 - Love Hina (Volumes 1-3)Manga Discussion | Month of Love #3For our third installment of Month of Love, Sam is joined by James to revisit the first three volumes of Love Hina, a classic early-2000s romantic comedy manga that absolutely shaped the genre.We talk about the story, the tropes, and why this series became such a defining rom-com blueprint. We also address the elephant in the room, including the creator’s very unexpected political career, and how that context affects (or doesn’t affect) reading the series today.Is it nostalgic? Yes.Is it messy? Also yes.Is it still foundational to modern romance manga? Absolutely.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Tangled Up in You by Christina Lauren⏱️ TIME STAMPS00:00 Intro01:06 Background12:06 About the Author18:14 Age Level & Content Warning21:58 The White Elephant in the Room30:13 Judge a Book by It's Cover31:26 Book Review01:09:02 Read Again?01:13:20 One Question for the Author01:14:58 Rating01:19:02 Read Again?01:20:34 Outro🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 156 - The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels by India HoltonFebruary is our Month of Love, and this pick was a complete accident, but a delightful one. Sam picked up The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels expecting a cozy historical mystery and instead got flying houses, chaotic romance, and an absurdly charming story that won us over immediately.Sam and Hannah talk about why this book works so well, how its humor and tone set it apart, and why sometimes the best reading experiences come from wildly incorrect expectations. If you’re in the mood for romance that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but still delivers, this one is a joy.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Love Hina vol. 1-3⏱️ TIME STAMPS00:00 Intro00:52 About the Author02:16 Background03:26 Age Level & Content Warning03:52 Judge a Book by Its Cover06:16 Discussion42:02 General Thoughts44:11 One Question for the Author45:32 Rating46:19 Read Again?47:22 Outro📖 FOLLOW THE AUTHORIndia HoltonWebsite: https://www.indiaholton.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndiaHoltonAuthor/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/india.holton/🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 159 - Truth of the Divine by Lindsay Ellis(Noumena Series, Book 2)After loving the first book in the Noumena series, we went into Truth of the Divine excited.We did not leave excited.Sam and James break down what went wrong in this sequel, from the complete lack of communication (not even miscommunication… just none) to one of the main characters going fully MIA for a significant portion of the book. Somehow, the story stalls so hard that a new narrator and even a new alien have to be introduced just to make the plot move.And worst of all? It feels like the first book… but weaker.We talk about sequel structure, character agency, escalation stakes, and why this one feels like a regression instead of an evolution. If you loved book one, this discussion might help you decide whether to continue the series.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: The Cat Who Played Post Office by Lilian Jackson Braun⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro00:50 Background01:21 About the Author04:07 Age Level & Content Warning04:37 Judge a Book by Its Cover06:24 Discussion58:20 General Thoughts59:50 One Question for the Author01:00:36 Rating01:01:42 Read Again?01:02:28 Favorite of the Series so Far01:02:59 Outro📖 Follow the Author:Website: https://www.lindsayell.is/Twitter: https://x.com/thelindsayellisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/namebrandlindsay/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LindsayEllisVids/videosIMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3805989/🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 155 - The Love of My Afterlife by Kirsty GreenwoodThis book broke our rating system. Fully. Completely.Sam and Danielle talk about The Love of My Afterlife, a book we loved so much that Danielle would gladly revoke every other 5-star rating she’s ever given just to give them all to this one. It’s funny, heartfelt, weird in the best way, and emotionally devastating in a way that sneaks up on you.That said… Sam has a hot take that cannot be ignored: Merritt might actually be the true villain.We get into character dynamics, emotional manipulation vs intention, and why loving a book doesn’t mean we won’t still interrogate it.If you like romances with big feelings, existential questions, and the kind of love story that lingers long after the last page.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels⏱️ TIME STAMPS00:00 Intro01:05 About the Author02:33 Background04:24 Age Level & Content Warning07:07 Discussion01:05:03 General Thoughts01:07:22 Movie?01:08:19 One Question for the Author01:09:42 Rating01:11:13 Read Again?01:12:34 Outro📖 FOLLOW THE AUTHORKirsty GreenwoodWebsite: https://www.kirstygreenwood.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KirstyGreenwoodBooks/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kirsty_greenwood/Twitter: https://x.com/kirstystories🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 154 - A Twisted Tale Anthology, edited by Elizabeth LimAnthologies are always a gamble and this one was no exception. Sam and Kaitlyn dig into A Twisted Tale Anthology, where some stories absolutely worked for us, others really didn’t, and far too many landed in the worst category of all: boring.We talk about which retellings shine, which ones miss the mark, and why anthologies are especially vulnerable to pacing issues, tonal whiplash, and stories that feel more like extended concepts than actual narratives. If you’ve ever loved a premise but struggled to stay engaged, this episode will feel very familiar.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: The Love of My Afterlife by Kirsty Greenwood⏱️ TIME STAMPS00:00 Intro01:15 Age Level & Content Warning01:58 Judge a Book by It's Cover03:50 Cast Out - What if Snow White Learned Magic?13:35 A First Mission - What if Mulan became the Emperor’s Advisor19:17 Et Viola - What if Remy Met Colette First26:56 The Envelope - What if Anastasia Has a Change of Heart34:28 A New Dawn - What if Mufasa Gave Up His Throne?39:01 Rattle the Stars - What if Jim Hawkins joined the Pirates44:03 A Royal Game of Chess - What if History Wasn’t Quite Right About the Legend of Robin Hood47:51 The Secret Exchange - What if Eric Met Ariel After She Rescued Him51:31 Dust to Dust - What if Tinker Bell was Working for Captain Hook57:56 Gonna Take You There - What if Naveen Had to Get Home to Maldonia01:03:10 Fates Three - What if the Triplets Visited the Witch01:09:11 A Dragon in the Snow - What if Madame Mim and Merlin Went to School Together01:14:35 The Journey Home - What if Belle had to Take Her Father’s Place at the Fair01:18:02 Call it a Hunch - What if Hercules’s First Day as a God Didn’t Go as Planned?01:21:42 The Reluctant Prince - What if Bambi Didn’t Want to Be the Next Great Prince of the Forest?01:24:52 The Rose in the Thorn - What is Aura Knew the Truth about Her Curse?01:30:36 General Thoughts01:31:53 One Question for the Editor01:35:08 Rating01:37:30 Read Again?01:38:33 Favorite of the Book01:39:03 Outro📖 FOLLOW THE AUTHORSLivia BlacburneWebsite: https://liviablackburne.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LiviaBlackburneAuthor/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lkblackburneTwitter: https://x.com/lkblackburneTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@livia.blackburneElizabeth LimWebsite: https://www.elizabethlim.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elimpix/Twitter: https://twitter.com/lizlimTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elizabethlimwriter?Jen CalonitaWebsite: ⁠https://www.jencalonitaonline.com/⁠Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/jencalonitabooks⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/jencalonita/⁠Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/JenCalonita⁠TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@jencalonitaofficial⁠Liz BraswellWebsite: https://www.lizbraswell.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LizBraswell/?fref=ts&ref=br_tfhttp%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FwixInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lizbraswell/Twitter: https://twitter.com/lizbraswellTumblr: https://lizbraswell.tumblr.com/M.K. EnglandWebsite: https://mkengland.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mkenglandbooksInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mk_englandTwitter: https://x.com/mk_englandTumblr: https://mkengland.tumblr.com/Micol OstowWebsite: https://www.micolostow.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063126435640#Twitter: https://x.com/micolzTumblr: https://micolz.tumblr.com/Kristina PerezWebsite: https://www.kristinaperez.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kkperezbooks/Twitter: https://x.com/kkperezbooksFarrah RochonWebsite: ⁠https://www.farrahrochon.com/⁠🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 153 - The Seven Dials Mystery by Agatha Christie(The Book That Inspired the Netflix Adaptation)With a new Netflix adaptation on the horizon, Sam and Hannah finally dive into The Seven Dials Mystery and honestly? This one surprised us.We break down the mystery itself, talk through the solution, and speculate on what the upcoming adaptation is most likely to change for modern audiences. While this isn’t Christie at her absolute peak, we agree it’s a solid A-rank mystery: smart, fun, and very aware of what it’s doing, even if it doesn’t quite hit S-tier greatness.If you’re reading along before the Netflix release (or wondering if you should), this episode will get you ready.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: A Twisted Tales Anthology⏱️ TIME STAMPS00:Intro01:13 Netflix Adaptation03:25 Agatha Christie History04:20 Background05:38 Age Level & Content Warning06:13 Judge a Book by It's Cover10:20 Discussion51:13 General Thoughts53:28 One Question for the Author54:17 Rating56:33 Read Again?58:18 Outro🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 152 - Kiss the Girl by Zoraida Córdova(Meant to Be Series, Book 3)After two books of almost getting there, the Meant to Be series finally delivers. Sam and Keira dive into Kiss the Girl, the first book in the series that genuinely seems to understand what this project is trying to do.We talk through the characters, the set-up, and the overall story, unpacking why this book works better than its predecessors while still acknowledging the flaws that keep it from being perfect. Is it revolutionary? No. Is it satisfying to finally get what was promised? Absolutely.If you’ve been skeptical of the Meant to Be concept so far, this might be the book that changes your mind.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Seven Dials Mystery by Agatha Christie⏱️ TIME STAMPS00:00 Intro01:14 The 6th Book?03:22 About the Author - Zoraida Córdova10:13 Background14:24 Age Level & Content Warning16:24 Judge a Book by It's Cover18:29 What Band was Siren Seven Based On?21:58 Book Endorsements25:51 The Book29:18 The Other Characters36:33 The Music42:42 The Set-up51:56 The Story01:20:20 General Thoughts01:22:50 One Question for the Author01:24:05 Rating01:25:19 Read Again?01:26:08 Favorite of the Series so Far01:27:23 Outro📖 FOLLOW THE AUTHORZoraida CórdovaWebsite: https://zoraidacordova.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoraidasolo🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 151 - Prince Caspian by C.S. LewisBook vs MovieIt’s time for a classic book vs movie showdown. Sam and Tim revisit Prince Caspian and while the book still holds up, the movie… well, the Rotten Tomatoes score of 66% feels extremely earned.We break down what works so well on the page, what gets lost (or unnecessarily added) on screen, and why adapting The Chronicles of Narnia was always going to be tricky. From tone shifts to character changes to blockbuster-era decisions that just don’t age well, this episode is for anyone who’s ever said: “I swear the book was better.”New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Kiss the Girl by Zoraida Cordova⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:12 Background02:30 Age Level & Content Warning03:01 Judge a Book by It's Cover05:59 Discussion44:48 General Thoughts47:07 One Question for the Author48:05 Rating49:08 Read Again?49:39 Favorite of the Series so Far51:13 Outro🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 150 - Fate Be Changed by Farrah RochonDid We Read the Same Book?This week, Sam and Kaitlyn are genuinely confused — and not in a fun mystery way. Fate Be Changed left us with questions we still can’t answer, starting with why this author was chosen to write this book (no, really… why?), and spiraling into issues with characterization, time travel logic, and cliffhangers that feel less “exciting” and more “cheap.”We unpack what happens when a story feels pantsed instead of planned, from dropped subplots and disjointed storytelling to a complete inability to decide what the overarching plot is supposed to be. If you’ve ever finished a book and thought “Did I miss something… or did the book?” — this episode is for you.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Prince Caspian by C.S. Lewis⏱️ Time Stamps00:56 Background06:58 Age Level & Content Warning09:06 Judge a Book by It's Cover10:28 Discussion - Why This Author?16:09 Characterization & Cheap Cliffhangers20:33 Time Travel Mechanics and Cliches26:50 Outline or Pantsing? Either Way Pick a Plot57:21 General Thoughts01:00:24 One Question for the Author01:05:47 Rating01:09:10 Read Again?01:09:46 Favorite of the Series so Far01:10:26 Outro📖 Follow the Author - Farrah RochonWebsite: ⁠https://www.farrahrochon.com/⁠Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/farrahrochonauthor⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/farrahrochon/⁠Twitter: ⁠https://x.com/FarrahRochon⁠BookBub: ⁠https://www.bookbub.com/authors/farrah-rochon⁠🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen Wherever You Get Podcasts

Episode 149 - Catching Fire by Suzanne CollinsFirst-Time Reader vs. Long-Time FanIt’s time to return to Panem and this time, Sam and Danielle are coming in with very different reading histories. One is experiencing Catching Fire for the first time, the other knows exactly what emotional devastation is coming.We break down the love triangle drama, why President Snow is so bad at his job, the impact of the other victors, how The Quarter Quell changes everything, and what makes the rest of this book such a turning point in the series.Expect strong opinions, moral outrage, and the beginning of things getting very serious.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST✨Next week: Fate Be Changed by Farrah Rochon⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro00:54 Background04:30 Age & Content Warning05:10 Judge a Book by It's Cover05:55 Discussion07:08 Love Triangle Drama21:26 President Snow is an Idiot31:58 The Other Victors49:50 The Hunger Games56:03 The Rest of the Book01:11:50 General Thoughts01:13:41 One Question for the Author01:19:13 Rating01:20:21 Read Again?01:21:24 Favorite of the Series so Far01:23:50 Outro 📖 Follow the Author - Suzanne CollinsWebsite: https://www.suzannecollinsbooks.com/🔗 Connect with Us on SocialsFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen on YouTube or Wherever You Get Podcasts

Hannah finally gets a break from Hastings… because he’s not in this one. And honestly? Any book without Hastings starts at a 4-star baseline.Episode 148: Death in the Clouds by Agatha ChristieIt’s always a good day when we get a Poirot mystery and a Hastings-free flight. Sam and Hannah dive into one of Christie’s most delightfully absurd premises: murder above the clouds, suspicious passengers, and a wasp that definitely didn’t do it.We talk about Christie’s knack for misdirection, our running the Anti-Hastings Club lore, and why stories set in confined spaces (planes, trains, creepy mansions) just hit different. Sentiment this week: positive, with a healthy side of chaotic giggling.New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST ✨Next week: Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins (Episode 149)⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:25 Historical Context03:36 Background04:55 Age Level & Content Warning08:32 Judge a Book by It's Cover10:06 Discussion56:43 General Thoughts58:54 One Question for the Author01:01:48 Rating01:02:20 Read Again?01:02:28 Outro🔗 Connect with Us on SocialFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

🎧 Episode Title: The Cat Who Played Brahms by Lilian Jackson Braun✨ Episode Summary:This week on Escape With Me Bookclub, we’re heading to Moose County, 400 miles north of everywhere, for a cozy mystery with plenty of charm, chaos, and cats! 🐈Join us as we discuss The Cat Who Played Brahms by Lilian Jackson Braun, the fifth book in her beloved The Cat Who... series. There’s a suspicious body in the lake, a reporter with a nose for trouble, and two Siamese cats who always seem one step ahead.We chat about:🎻 How the change of formula changes the series🐾 Yum Yum finally helping solve the mystery📰 Where in the world is Moose County?💬 And whether Braun’s blend of humor, mystery, and feline intuition still holds up todaySo grab your tea, cuddle your cat (or your favorite mystery), and escape with us into the purr-fect world of The Cat Who Played Brahms!🕰 Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:27 Background02:57 About the Author06:03 Age Level & Content Warning06:22 Judge a Book by It's Cover09:21 Discussion49:26 General Thoughts52:29 One Question for the Author53:33 Rating54:12 Read Again?55:28 Favorite of the Series so Far56:34 Outro📚 Listen every Monday at 8 AM EST for new bookish adventures! Want more? Follow us on social media for weekly reviews, behind-the-scenes updates, and way too many reading puns.Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠#TheCatWhoPlayedBrahms #LilianJacksonBraun #CozyMystery #BookPodcast #EscapeWithMeBookclub #BookDiscussion #CatBooks #MysteryReaders #ReadersCommunity #BookLovers

📚 Once Upon a Letdown | The Retelling That Forgot the StoryWe’re diving into By the Book by Jasmine Guillory, a supposed Beauty and the Beast retelling that had all the potential for magic, but… left us wondering where the enchantment went. In this episode, we talk about what worked (barely), what didn’t (a lot), and why this modern retelling missed the mark on everything that makes Beauty and the Beast timeless. From awkward pacing to missing chemistry, it’s a tale as old as time… but not in a good way.📚 Follow the Author:Website: https://www.jasmineguillory.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jasmineguillorywriter/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasminepicsTwitter: https://x.com/thebestjasmine🕰 Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:02 Background04:20 About the Author07:50 Age Level & Content Warning08:43 Judge a Book by It's Cover14:23 Discussion01:14:10 General Thoughts01:19:14 One Question01:20:12 Rating01:21:40 Read Again?01:22:09 Favorite of the Series so Far01:22:54 Outro📚 Want more? Follow us on social media for weekly reviews, behind-the-scenes updates, and way too many reading puns.Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠#ByTheBook #JasmineGuillory #BookPodcast #BeautyAndTheBeastRetelling #BookReview #RomanceBooks #RetellingGoneWrong #EscapeWithMeBookclub #BookishHumor #FairytaleRetelling

Sometimes all it takes to overthrow a god is a little teamwork, a lot of trauma, and the right metals to burn. 💥In this week’s episode, the Escape with Me Bookclub dives into Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson: the heist, the heart, and the hero who literally changes the world. We’re talking found family, revolution, and the surprisingly scientific side of fantasy magic.When fantasy gets scientific and friendship becomes divine retribution.📚 Follow the Author:Website: https://www.brandonsanderson.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrandSanderson/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandsanderson/Twitter: https://x.com/BrandSandersonTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorbrandonsandersonYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrandSanderson🕰 Time Stamps00:00 Intro02:37 Background04:05 About the Author09:32 Age Level & Content Warning13:45 Judge a Book by Its Cover15:50 Discussion01:23:37 General Thoughts01:24:13 One Question for the Author01:28:38 Rating01:29:14 Read Again?01:30:23 Outro🎙️ Listen every Monday at 8AM EST for new episodes of Escape With Me Bookclub!📲 Follow us for more bookish fun:Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠#Mistborn #BrandonSanderson #BookPodcast #FantasyBooks #BookDiscussion #EscapeWithMeBookclub #BookClubPodcast #FoundFamily #Allomancy #Cosmere

Once upon a time, a fairy “blessed” a baby with obedience… and it went about as well as you’d expect. This week, we’re diving into Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine: the classic fairy tale retelling that turns obedience into a curse and shows us what real courage looks like. 💫We talk about Ella’s cleverness, the themes of autonomy and defiance, and (of course) that movie adaptation that took… some liberties. Let’s just say the overlap is about as small as a fairy godmother’s attention span. 😅Join us as we explore why this beloved middle-grade fantasy still enchants readers decades later, what makes Ella such a strong heroine, and why this book deserves its crown in the fairy tale hall of fame. 👑Follow the Author:Website: https://www.gailcarsonlevine.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GailCarsonLevine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gailcarsonlevine/?hl=en✨ Timestamps:0:00 Intro01:47 Background08:40 About the Author14:49 Age Level & Content Warning16:10 Judge a Book by It's Cover18:21 Discussion57:18 General Thoughts01:04:02 One Question for the Author01:06:11 Rating01:07:31 Read Again?01:07:42 Outro🎙️ Listen every Monday at 8AM EST for new episodes of Escape With Me Bookclub!📲 Follow us for more bookish fun:Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠#EllaEnchanted #GailCarsonLevine #BookReview #FairyTaleRetelling #EscapeWithMeBookclub #BookPodcast #FantasyBooks #YAReads #BookToMovie #ReadersOfYouTube

Step through the wardrobe with us as we revisit C.S. Lewis’s timeless classic The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe and its magical (and occasionally icy) movie adaptation! ❄️In this episode, we’re talking childhood nostalgia, book-to-movie differences, character changes, and the enduring magic of Narnia. From Turkish delight to talking lions, we’re asking the big question:Which told it better: the book or the movie? 🦁✨Grab your hot chocolate, wrap yourself in a cozy blanket, and get ready for a trip back to where it’s always winter, but never Christmas.📚 Books Discussed:The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis🎬 Adaptation Discussed:The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe (2005)💬 Tell us below: Which version of Narnia holds a special place in your heart — the book or the movie?🎧 Listen every Monday at 8 AM EST for new book club episodes!⏰ Time Stamps00:00 Intro00:57 Background05:39 Age Level & Content Warning07:41 Judge a Book by It's Cover09:20 Discussion52:18 General Thought55:06 One Question for the Author56:40 Rating57:49 Read Again?59:29 Outro📲 Follow us for more bookish fun:Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠

When teen witch Mila brings her best friend (and two of their school’s mean girls) back from the dead, chaos ensues. Between hexes, high school, and homicide, Undead Girl Gang by Lily Anderson gives us witchy weirdness, emotional heart, and zombie-level drama. 🧙‍♀️💀Join us as we break down this unhinged yet heartfelt story about grief, friendship, and teenage resurrection gone wrong. Was it worth the spell? Let’s find out!📚 Follow the AuthorWebsite: https://mslilyanderson.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mslilyanderson/?hl=en⏱️ Time Stamps00:00 Intro01:10 Background03:05 About the Author04:56 Age Level & Content Warning10:02 Judge a Book by It's Cover14:18 Discussion1:11:44 General Thoughts1:13:29 One Question for the Author1:15:49 Rating1:18:05 Read Again?1:18:31 Outro🔗 Our SocialsFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST!

✨ Found Family Magic ✨Why Everyone Loves The House in the Cerulean Sea 💙This week on Escape with Me Bookclub, we dive into TJ Klune’s whimsical, heartfelt tale of found family, acceptance, and a home where everyone belongs. From quirky magical children to a grumpy man learning how to love, The House in the Cerulean Sea has captured readers everywhere—and we’re unpacking why it works so beautifully.Come along as we laugh, cry, and explore the charm (and deeper meaning) behind one of the most beloved fantasy books of the decade.💡 New episodes every Monday at 8 AM EST!📚 Follow the Author:Website: https://www.tjklunebooks.com/Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/tjklunebooks/⁠Twitter: https://twitter.com/tjklune⏱️ Time Stamps0:00 Intro1:29 Background3:39 About the Author8:46 Age Level & Content Warning10:02 Judge a Book by It's Cover11:08 Discussion46:08 General Thoughts48:14 One Question for the Author51:40 Rating53:44 Read Again?54:04 Outro✨ Follow UsFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast Platforms: Spotify/Apple/etc.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more bookish conversations.

Does the Title Fit? | The Ghost Bride by Yangsze ChooThe Proposal That Changed EverythingWhat would you do if you were asked to marry… a ghost? 👻 In this episode, we dive into The Ghost Bride by Yangsze Choo — a story full of haunting family secrets, unexpected romance, and journeys through the afterlife. We discuss whether the title really fits the story, what worked (and what didn’t), and why this book left such an impression.⏱️ Time Stamps📚 Follow the AuthorWebsite: https://yschoo.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yschooauthor/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yangszechoo/?hl=en✨ Follow UsFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast Platforms: Spotify/Apple/etc.Would you say The Ghost Bride lives up to its title? Let us know in the comments!

🎃 "The Twisted Tale that Broke Us." That’s not just a catchy title, it’s the truth.This week we’re diving into Sally’s Lament by Mari Mancusi, the newest addition to Disney’s Twisted Tales series. And let’s just say… it was a ride. Equal parts good, unhinged, and maybe bad? We’re not totally sure, but one thing’s for certain: it was an experience we won’t forget anytime soon.From wild plot swings to unexpected choices for Sally’s story, this book had us laughing, groaning, and occasionally questioning our life decisions. By the end, we were ready to form a support group for everyone who made it through.💬 Join us as we try to make sense of the chaos, break down what worked (and what didn’t), and ask the important question: was this actually brilliant… or just bonkers?📌 Follow the AuthorWebsite: ⁠http://www.marimancusi.com/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/marimancusi⁠Twitter: ⁠https://x.com/marimancusi⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/marimancusi⁠🕰 Time Stamps00:00 Intro02:49 Background05:06 About the Author08:10 Age Level & Content Warning11:18 Judge a Book by It's Cover12:34 Discussion1:12:50 General Thoughts1:15:03 Read Again?1:19:06 One Question for the Author1:21:12 Rating1:23:44 Outro🔗 Our SocialsFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe if you enjoy book discussions that go a little off the rails!#SallysLament #TwistedTales #BookDiscussion #EscapeWithMeBookclub

✨ Episode 138: If the Shoe Fits by Julie Murphy ✨What happens when Cinderella meets The Bachelor? Julie Murphy’s If the Shoe Fits (the first book in Disney’s Meant to Be series) brings a modern, body-positive twist to the classic fairytale we all know. 👠In this episode, we dive into:The fresh, fun retelling of CinderellaHow Murphy balances rom-com charm with heartfelt themesReality TV drama meets fairytale magicIs the representation in this book too corporate?If you love retellings, rom-coms, or Disney magic, this one’s for you!👉 Listen along as we share our thoughts, favorite moments, and what makes If the Shoe Fits stand out.💬 Question for you: What’s your favorite fairytale retelling?📝 Follow the AuthorWebsite: https://www.imjuliemurphy.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juliemurphywritesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/andimjulieTwitter: https://x.com/andimJULIE🕰 Timestamps00:00 Intro00:47 Background03:44 About the Author08:00 Age Level and Content Warning10:52 Judge a Book by It's Cover12:07 Discussion55:49 General Thoughts1:00:10 One Question for the Author1:04:58 Rating1:08:01 Read Again?1:10:01 Outro📱 Follow Us on Social Media:Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠#JulieMurphy #IfTheShoeFits #DisneyMeantToBe #RomComBooks #CinderellaRetelling #EscapeWithMeBookclub

Welcome back to Escape With Me Bookclub! 🎙️ This week, we’re diving into The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins but here’s the twist: it’s the first time one of us has ever read it.From Katniss’ survival skills 🏹 to Peeta’s charm 🎂, we talk about the themes that made this dystopian classic unforgettable and how it hits when you’re reading it for the first time today.✨ In this episode, we cover:First impressions vs. nostalgia readsThe Capitol’s Crimes (some fashion)Why Suzanne Collins’ world-building still holds upAnd, of course, the Peeta vs. Gale debate 🔥Whether you read it back in middle school or you’re just now cracking it open, this one’s for you.📚 Join the conversation and tell us: When did you first read The Hunger Games and are you Team Peeta, Team Gale, or Team Katniss?🕰 Timestamps00:00 Intro01:19 Background10:35 Age Level & Content Warning13:55 Judge a Book by Its Cover14:44 The Map20:07 Book Discussion59:09 General Thoughts1:01:57 One Question1:04:52 Rating1:06:47 Read Again?1:08:05 Outro📝 Follow the AuthorWebsite: https://www.suzannecollinsbooks.com/📱 Follow Us on Social Media:Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575460276754Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/lunar_skulk/TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/lunar_skulk⁠⁠⁠⁠