Once Upon a Hot Take

In this special episode, Leah and Jordan interview Samantha, the host of the Benevolent Ball, who shares insights about planning the upcoming fantasy ball, the Fractured Heavens Masquerade. She discusses the charitable aspect of the ball and the pre-ball market, offering a glimpse into the immersive world of fantasy balls. We get a behind-the-scenes look at planning and organizing a fantasy-themed event. Samantha shares insights into costume attire, who should attend, and what to do if you've never been to a fantasy ball before. Benevolent Ball website to find more info about the ball and buy tickets. Benevolent Ball Instagram

Delta County by J.L. Hyde follows the story of Heather, who moves back to her idyllic small town in the UP, only to find out it's not as quaint and unassuming as she remembers. Leah and Jordan share their hot takes on e-readers, drinking culture, college housing, and much more! If you like Colleen Hoover and Freida McFadden, Delta County is right up your alley.  TakeawaysE-readers vs. Physical BooksCharacter Analysis: Ryan and Heather UP Culture and High School NostalgiaAlcohol Culture and College Experiences Small town dramaCharacter portrayalsBook recommendationsChapters00:00 E-readers vs. Physical Books30:40 Capturing UP Culture and High School Nostalgia39:55 Exploring Alcohol Culture and College Experiences01:01:49 Small Town Drama01:08:48 Book Recommendations01:22:31 Project Hail Mary Preview

Tune in to Leah and Jordan's coverage of Throne of Glass. They butcher some name pronunciations, share their best/worst parts of the book, debate the merits of love triangles, pick some excellent actor choices, and share some theories about the rest of the series.

Join Jordan and Leah as they unpack the grand adventure in the debut novel by indie author Brian Maes! This fantasy story is book 1 in a series currently under way. Leah and Jordan discuss all the fantasy tropes they love about this book, from magic to immortals, element control to alternate dimensions. They also have a special author interview for the second half of the episode! Brian gives his hot takes on the writing process, discusses his choice to go the self-publishing route, where his inspiration has come from, and so much more! Listen in to hear more details about up coming works by this indie author!

To celebrate Valentine's Day, Leah and Jordan are coving the romance novel Book Lovers by Emily Henry. Tune in to hear all of their hot takes (and differing opinions!) on the book and the romance genre in general. From character analysis to actor portrayals to character cocktails, they are covering it all for this romance novel full of witty banter!

Leah and Jordan dive into the life of author Ally Shaw in her debut memoir Chasing Tigers in the Dark: Life Lessons of a Fierce Survivor. Ally brings her positive energy onto the page as she tells her stories of the multiple traumas that have plagued her life and how she has processed this trauma and has learned life lessons along the way in the hopes of helping others in similar situations. Her strength, bravery, intentionality, Christianity, and positivity shine a bright light on all who pick up this book! There is a special author interview with Ally at the end of the episode! She is authentic and wonderful in person, just like she is in her book. We had a blast talking with her so stay tuned to the end to hear her advice on several topics including finding publishers and processing trauma.

Leah and Jordan discuss their favorites and least favorites from their reads in 2025! Best and worst characters, favorite worlds, most unhinged plot twists, FMK, hot takes on Onyx Storm, and much more! Stay tuned to the very end for bloopers on the Goodreads 2025 Year in Books discovery.

Tune in to listen to Leah and Jordan discuss all things "In A Holidaze" by Christina Lauren. This charming holiday read is sure to give you all the warm feelings that come with this time of year all wrapped up in a nice rom-com bow. They cover character analysis on Maelyn , Andrew, Theo and Benny. They talk about favorite childhood games and sledding. This episode is full of charm and laughs! Happy Holidays to all!

Leah and Jordan take on Kristin Hannah's juggernaut The Women. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll rage, but above all, you'll enjoy these two friends recapping the powerful Vietnam War story that will stick with you for days after finishing, much like the book.

Join Leah and Jordan as they dive into the magical worlds created by debut author Kristen Cari! The coverage on this gripping romantasy is followed up with a special interview with Kristen herself. Listen to hear all about her inspiration, writing process, and so much more!

Does the story stand the test of time? Tune in to listen to Leah and Jordan discuss and debate all things Twilight 20 years later!

Join Leah and Jordan as they discuss all the ups and downs they felt with These Tangled Vines.

Listen in as Leah and Jordan discuss (and gush) over a fall favorite read that has won over their witchy hearts!

Dive into the high stakes world of art heists with Jordan and Leah as they give their reviews on the debut novel Portrait of a Thief by Grace D. Li.

Leah and Jordan have special guest Laura on to discuss all things The Life of a Showgirl.

Listen to Leah and Jordan give their hot takes (and frustrations) on the mystery thriller, The Silent Patient.

Daring heist, rough and ragged crew, questionably moral characters, and chilly settings: join us as we discuss Leigh Bardugo's Six of Crows!

Meddlesome mothers, toxic relationships, handsome men: what more could you ask for in a book review podcast's premier episode!

Listen here to find out what Once Upon a Hot Take is all about. 🔥