That Pretentious Book Club

Send us Fan MailWelcome to this Season 6 bonus episode of That Pretentious Book Club! What happens when only half of a book club reads LJ Andrews’s spicy romantasy hit The Ever King… and then have to explain the entire plot to the club members who know absolutely nothing about it?Confusion. Unjustly hot characters. Questionable explanations. Wheezy’s golden retriever. General unhinged behavior.Welcome to this bonus episode of That Pretentious Book Club, where we tried something completely new — and things went almost exactly as you'd expect.In this episode:✨ Two hosts read The Ever King by LJ Andrews✨ Two hosts go in blind✨ Everyone attempts to survive the retelling while maintaining the ability to look each other in the eyesWhether you've read The Ever King cover to cover or have no clue what this romantasy phenomenon is about, this episode is equal parts detailed recap, hot takes, and disaster.Let us know in the comments:📚 Have you read The Ever King?😂 Should we do more episodes like this?That Pretentious Book Club is a Story Sirens Studio production, made in collaboration with The Story Emporium & Bookshop in Hutto, TX. Come see us in person to browse our shelves, yap about books, explore irresistible literary merch, and more: https://www.thestoryemporiumandbookshop.comLooking to browse online while still supporting the shop? Visit us at Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/shop/thestoryemporiumandbookshopMore of an audiobook listener? Switch to Libro.fm and support indie bookstores like ours: https://libro.fm/thestoryemporiumandbookshopVisit Story Sirens Studio online for more about our podcasts, hosts, writing retreats, and more: https://storysirensstudio.com/Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 6 Episode 8 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode, the hosts dive into The Princesses of Bamarre by Gail Carson Levine—a beloved young adult fantasy filled with courage, sisterhood, and the kind of quiet bravery that lingers long after the final page.We’re also breaking in our brand-new microphones (so yes, we sound a little different), while Wheezy shares more about her first pregnancy and current pregnancy than anyone wants to know and we all learn some interesting new fun facts about Dr. Spoons Palermo.Expect sincere moments, ample chaos, and plenty of laughter-riddled discussion about what makes this story such a classic—from its gentle worldbuilding to its deeply human characters.☕ Pour yourself a cup of tea📚 Grab your copy🗡️ Join the club for our discussion of The Princesses of Bamarre!That Pretentious Book Club is a Story Sirens Studio production, made in collaboration with The Story Emporium & Bookshop in Hutto, TX. Come see us in person to browse our shelves, yap about books, explore irresistible literary merch, and more: https://www.thestoryemporiumandbookshop.comLooking to browse online while still supporting the shop? Visit us at Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/shop/thestoryemporiumandbookshopMore of an audiobook listener? Switch to Libro.fm and support indie bookstores like ours: https://libro.fm/thestoryemporiumandbookshopVisit Story Sirens Studio online for more about our podcasts, hosts, writing retreats, and more: https://storysirensstudio.com/Support the showVisit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 6 Episode 7 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode, the hosts dive into The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig—a lush, atmospheric fantasy filled with prophecy, devotion, and an overachieving heroine. For once, the hosts find themselves surprisingly aligned on most of the book… except for the love interest—which, yet again, sparks some spirited disagreement. Expect some swooning, side-eyeing, and lively debate as the group unpacks this story, the amazing worldbuilding, and characters that range from beloved to loathsome. ☕ Pour yourself a cup of tea 📚 Grab your copy 🦋 Join the club for our discussion of The Knight and the Moth! Note: Video episodes are mostly raw footage with minimal editing. For polished audio and time-edited episodes, find That Pretentious Book Club wherever you listen to podcasts. That Pretentious Book Club is a Story Sirens Studio production, made in collaboration with The Story Emporium & Bookshop in Hutto, TX. Come see us in person to browse our shelves, yap about books, explore irresistible literary merch, and more: https://www.thestoryemporiumandbooksh... Looking to browse online while still supporting the shop? Visit us at Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/shop/thestoryemporiumandbookshopMore of an audiobook listener? Switch to Libro.fm and support indie bookstores like ours: https://libro.fm/thestoryemporiumandbookshopVisit Story Sirens Studio online for more about our podcasts, hosts, writing retreats, and more: https://storysirensstudio.com/Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 6 Episode 6 of That Pretentious Book Club!In this episode, the hosts are once again joined by special guest Lacy for an absolutely unhinged deep dive into the YA/NA fantasy Elixir by Hilary Duff (yes—that Hilary Duff). What starts as a seemingly straightforward read quickly spirals into wild theories, wildly different opinions, questionable love interest allegiances, and serious side-eye over who may have actually written this book. Expect hot takes, disbelief, laughter, and zero consensus—just the way we like it.Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Elixir!Reserve your spot at a Story Sirens Studio Writing Retreat now! https://storysirensstudio.com/retreatsLearn more or plan a visit to Wheezy's bookstore!https://www.thestoryemporiumandbookshop.com/Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 6 Episode 5 of That Pretentious Book Club!In this episode the hosts return to discuss famous classic The Prince and the Pauper by Mark Twain—a tale of switched identities, social satire, and boys who definitely should not have been left unsupervised in historic England.Expect big opinions and some debate, as certain hosts were charmed while others were... skeptical. Join us for a wildly entertaining and occasionally ridiculous discussion of this well-known classic.Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of The Prince and the Pauper by Mark Twain!Reserve your spot at a Story Sirens Studio Writing Retreat now! https://storysirensstudio.com/retreatsLearn more or plan a visit to Wheezy's bookstore!https://www.thestoryemporiumandbookshop.com/Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 6 Episode 4 of That Pretentious Book Club!In this episode the hosts dive without hesitation into Small Favors by Erin A. Craig! This charming gothic retelling of classic fairytale Rumplestiltskin seasoned liberally with elements of horror was a gripping read start to finish. One of the club's most unhinged episodes in a while, you can expect plenty of laughter, questionable tangents, Wheezy's most intense fictional infatuation yet, and discussions over whether the fae can, in fact, be trusted (spoiler: they cannot).Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Small Favors by Erin A. Craig!Join a team, crush your TBR, and support a new indie bookstore in the Bookshop Read-A-Thon!https://myevent.com/sebookshopreadathonReserve your spot at the Story Sirens Studio Fall Writing Retreat now! https://storysirensstudio.com/retreatsHelp Ash launch her bookstore!https://www.ifundwomen.com/projects/story-emporium-bookshopSupport the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 6 Episode 3 of That Pretentious Book Club!In this twisty episode, the club dives into With a Vengeance by Riley Sager—a 1950s, fast-paced psychological thriller that had even the smartest of us second-guessing everything. Join the hosts as they unravel the backstories of a cast of incredibly dislikable suspects, all of whom played a part in the mysterious tragedy that destroyed our (incredibly badass) heroine's life. If you liked Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express, this book is almost guaranteed to satisfy.Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of With a Vengeance by Riley Sager!Join a team, crush your TBR, and support Wheezy's new indie bookstore in the Bookshop Read-A-Thon!Reserve your spot at the Story Sirens Studio Fall Writing Retreat now! Help Ash launch her bookstore!https://www.ifundwomen.com/projects/story-emporium-bookshopSupport the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of That Pretentious Book Club, hosts Spoons, Wheezy, and Gino are joined by fellow teacup Grandmaster Myla for a magical deep dive into Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston.This popular middle grade fantasy quickly has quickly become a contender for one of the best books in the genre—ever. We're talking Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief level praise here, which, if you know this podcast, is the highest honor we can bestow.Join us as we discuss what makes this story so special, the unique experience of being an adult reader enjoying middle grade books, and many a humorous opinion about the characters in this book.Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Amari and the Night Brothers!Reserve your spot at the Story Sirens Studio Fall Writing Retreat now! https://storysirensstudio.com/retreats Help Ash launch her bookstore! https://www.ifundwomen.com/projects/story-emporium-bookshopSupport the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 6, Episode 1 of That Pretentious Book Club! In the first episode of season 6, Spoons, Wheezy, and Gino join The Teacups to discuss ethereal classic mystery The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins. Heralded as one of the first detective novels (despite the absence of any licensed detective), this book ranges from spooky to intensely intriguing, heart-wrenching, and back again. Also up for debate, is Marian Halcombe a feminist icon or a cringe-worthy pick-me girl?Don't forget to pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of The Woman in White!Reserve your spot at the Story Sirens Studio Fall Writing Retreat now! https://storysirensstudio.com/retreatsHelp Ash launch her bookstore! https://www.ifundwomen.com/projects/story-emporium-bookshopSupport the show with merch and more at storysirensstudio.com!Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our Story Sirens writing group on Facebook!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan Mail✨ Come behind the scenes of our Spring 2025 Story Sirens Writing Retreat—a weekend filled with creativity, connection, and storytelling magic!In this short episode, we share some of our favorite moments from Story Sirens inaugural retreat and discuss some of the things we are looking forward to at our next one!🌿 Whether you're drafting a novel, revising a memoir, or just craving time with fellow storytellers, the Story Sirens Studio writing retreats are designed to fill your creative cup with exactly what you need.📣 Applications for our Fall 2025 retreat are OPEN!Spots are limited and already going fast, so don’t wait—visit https://storysirensstudio.com/retreats to explore testimonials and pictures from previous retreats, learn about upcoming events, and apply!💌 Questions? Drop them in the comments, reach out via our site, or email us at [email protected]!🖋️ Your story matters—and we want to help you tell it.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5, Episode 23 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode (the last episode of Season 5!), hosts Spoons, Wheezy, and Gino dive into the girl-power-inspired world of Just Ella by Margaret Peterson Haddix. This Cinderella retelling flips the classic tale on its head, exploring the harsh realities and pressures of royal life for our beloved protagonist, Ella. As Ella navigates the treacherous waters of palace protocol and a less-than-charming prince, the club unpacks the book's take on freedom, independence, and true love. Expect passionate debates, side-splitting tangents, and the always-unpredictable antics of the hosts. Don't forget to pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this engaging discussion of Just Ella!Reserve your spot at the Story Sirens Studio Fall Writing Retreat now! https://storysirensstudio.com/retreatsSupport the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5, Episode 21 of That Pretentious Book Club!In this episode, Spoons and Wheezy deep-dive into listener recommendation North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell. This Victorian romance is rife with more than just yearning (although make no mistake—the yearning is copious), and also features fascinating social commentary and confirmation that humans have always been humans. Featuring the first truly in-depth author bio the club has covered in a while, this slightly-longer-than-usual episode is bound to have you in fits, with the hosts doing their best to remind you why this podcast is shelved under  "comedy" on your listening app of choice.Skippers jump to 37:39 Now pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of North and South!P.S. Wheezy may or may not have lost her editing notes for this episode—so if you catch a few extra “um”s, awkward pauses, or rogue throat clearings, just pretend it’s part of the authentic Victorian atmosphere.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5, Episode 20 of That Pretentious Book Club!In this episode Wheezy and Gino slip into the shadowy world of The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides—an unsettling psychological thriller and the second book by this author the club has covered this season! Fueled by a hilariously fitting cocktail, chaos quickly takes the reins as our hosts try to piece together the tangled threads of a story where silence speaks louder than words—and nothing is ever quite what it seems. Expect unexpected feline interference from Flora the Void Cat, scattered memories of mind-bending plot twists, and the creeping suspicion that someone—or something—isn’t telling the whole truth.Skippers jump to 40:21Now pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of The Silent Patient!Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailIn this special episode, Wheezy (aka Ash O'Rourke) is joined by guests Lacy Rising and Madison Hull to dive into the romantasy sensation that has taken the internet by storm – Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros!Surprisingly on-topic (no skip notes needed this time!), this trio doesn't have to search hard for juicy details in this spicy, action-packed fantasy. Tune in as we break down the plot, characters, and all the moments that have made this story  capable of capturing so many imaginations.Grab a cup of tea, raise your pinky, and join the club for this chaotic yet thorough review of Fourth Wing.And don't forget to follow Lacy Rising on Instagram @author_lacyrising for more literary goodness!Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5, Episode 18 of That Pretentious Book Club!This week, Spoons, Wheezy, and Gino are venturing into a world of treacherous fae, forbidden love, and a Cinderella story like you've never seen before. In Ash by Malinda Lo, we’re diving deep into a fable reimagined—a tale of grief, magic, romance, and a powerful journey of self-discovery. Tune in as we give this enchanting novel a thorough review, complete with the full spectrum of pinkies-up ratings, ranging from “must-read” to “meh, not so much.”Skippers jump to 29:42Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Ash!Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5 Episode 17 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode Spoons, Wheezy, and Gino dive headfirst into the wildly popular academic folkloric fantasy, Emily Wilde's Encylopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett. Get ready for some serious fangirling over Wendell Bambleby—who somehow manages to be both a golden-haired prince AND a bad-boy dreamboat, and a main character who is nothing less than an inspiration to the hosts (and probably all women everywhere). From swooning to snarking, we can’t help but gush, laugh, and go off about this enchanting, hilarious, and occasionally curmudgeonly cast of characters. You won’t want to miss it!Skippers jump to 21:10 Pour yourself a cup of tea (or hot chocolate), raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Emily Wilde's Encylopaedia of Faeries!P.S. Don't forget to sign up for the Spring 2025 Writing Retreat! https://storysirensstudio.com/retreats/spring2025Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailIt's that time of year again! Are you ready to throw out the time codes and embrace the nonsense? Welcome to Season 5 Episode 16 of That Pretentious Book Club and Episode 117 of The Scripturient Society -- also known as the 4th Annual Story Sirens Studio Christmas Party!Join the hosts for a series of bookish games, deranged laughter, and friendship as all four hosts come together for the first time ever for this holiday extravaganza. This year you can look forward to (or possibly fear), a return of Lewis's custom madlibs and a shockingly dark Christmas chain story.Keep your teacups full, pinkies high, and we'll see you on the next pretentious page! Did we do that right?Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5 Episode 15 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode Spoons and Wheezy discuss cozy regency romance Merry Little Match by independent author Celine Rachelle. Inspired by Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice (an all-time and iconic pod-favorite) but taking place during Christmas, this story is positively bursting with holiday cheer and all the enemies-to-lovers vibes an Austen girlie could wish for. Skippers jump to 37:23Pour yourself a cup of tea (or wassail--however that's pronounced), raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Merry Little Match!Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5 Episode 14 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode Gino and Wheezy discuss the absolutely gripping thriller The Fury by Alex Michaelides. This novel takes place on a private Greek island when an ex-movie star's spontaneous vacation is derailed by a shocking murder, told in a series of five acts by an unreliable narrator who--let's face it--we would all love to be friends with (at least for a little while). This story takes the locked-door-murder-mystery trope and turns it on its head for a high stakes, fast-paced, irresistible story rife with allusions to Greek mythology and reflections on the human condition.  Skippers jump to 28:00 Pour yourself a cup of tea (or a "perfect" martini), raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of The Fury!Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5 Episode 13 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode Spoons and Wheezy come to you (recorded) live from "Girl World" to discuss classic young adult novel The Outsiders, by master-of-her-craft S. E. Hinton. This coming-of-age novel has more than earned its spot in middle and high school reading curriculums, and may just be begging to take up residence on your TBR list this year.  With what we are going to call "thought-provoking interruptions" from Wheezy's tiny dragonslayer (assuming those thoughts are about the importance of hiring babysitters), Ash and Kendall find plenty to talk, laugh, and cry about in this discussion of one of the best pieces of classic literature your high school syllabus has to offer.Skippers jump to 19:00Pour yourself a cup of chocolate milk, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of The Outsiders!Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5 Episode 12 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode Wheezy and Gino fill their glasses and dive into the sweet, slightly nostalgic young adult fantasy Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones--the inspiration for Studio Ghibli's 2004 Japanese animated fantasy film of the same name. From comparisons between the relative "thirst-worthiness" of Howl in the book versus the movie, to life lessons we can all learn from Sophie Hatter, the hosts had their work cut out for them fitting this episode into a remotely acceptable length of time.Skippers jump to 23:35Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Howl's Moving Castle!Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5 Episode 11 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode Spoons, Wheezy, and Gino team up for a (slightly out of control) discussion of YA sci-fi/fantasy Four Dead Queens by Astrid Scholte. Catch up with the club, sit back, relax, and listen to some very mixed opinions about this book.Skippers jump to 12:16Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Four Dead Queens!Note: Pod-baby was under the weather and joined the club for this episode, so don't be surprised if you hear some...energetic...commentary from Wheezy's kiddo.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5 Episode 10 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode Spoons and Wheezy return for a rousing (and mildly deranged) discussion about none other than the infamous tragedy Macbeth by the bard himself, William Shakespeare -- or as the club may better know him, good ol' Billy Shakes. Join Ash and Kendall as they dive into the spooky, treacherous, and questionably... feminist...?Skippers jump to 26:53Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Macbeth!Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5 Episode 9 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode the club makes a spectacular return from its extended hiatus with the addition of new co-host Myrissa "Gino" Yokie! Join Ash (AKA Wheezy) and Gino as they celebrate this return with a fittingly chaotic and humorous discussion of YA fantasy Chaos and Flame by Justina Ireland and Tessa Gratton.Skippers jump to 13:38Pour yourself a cup of tea (or fizzy wine), raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Chaos and Flame!Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5 Episode 9 of That Pretentious Book Club and Episode 103 of The Scripturient Society!After a long, unannounced hiatus, Wheezy and Spoons return for this bookish holiday extravaganza--and introduce a new little member of the pod crew while they're at it!Join sister podcasts and Story Sirens Studio productions The Scripturient Society and That Pretentious Book Club in this third annual Christmas party for readers, writers, and nerds, and lovers of babies! This year the hosts witness a return of the bookish madlibs and a wholesome yet theologically confusing Christmas chain story. Join the story sirens as they celebrate the season in true comedic-yet-literary fashion!For all the storytellers out there, keep writing, and we'll see you on the next page!Find this season's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Follow That Pretentious Book Club and The Scripturient Society on Instagram and TikTok!Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioFind Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World by Ash Leigh O'Rourke now available on Amazon!Find us on social media @thescripturientsocietyVisit the pod online at storysirensstudio.comCheck out our sister podcast That Pretentious Book Club for some refreshing book club comedy!Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5 Episode 8 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode not only does Ash returns in all her Wheezy glory, but the club is also joined by pod-sister-graphic-designer Maddie Hull for a truly rousing discussion of The Catcher in the Rye byJ.D. Salinger. With a polarizing protagonist and a painfully relatable (to some) portrayal of the teenage experience, this is a book that is renowned for being entirely loved or entirely hated. One thing is for certain, Spoons, Wheezy, and even the club's special guest host this episode have STRONG opinions and plenty to say (and laugh) about when discussing this classic. Skippers jump to 30:52Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of The Catcher in the Rye!Support Leah, Jacob, and their beautiful family at GoFundMe! Every bit helps!  https://gofund.me/3941ad83Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5 Episode 7 of That Pretentious Book Club! This very special episode is hosted by none other than Dr. Spoons Palermo and Pod Nurse Haleigh (usual host Wheezy has taken a break this episode due to-well-her wheezy-ness). In this episode Spoons and Haleigh discuss King of Scars by our queen of fantasy, Leigh Bardugo! The first book in the final duology to the Grishaverse focuses on the dangers facing former-prince-now-king Nikolai of Ravka, Zoya, Nina, and other beloved characters from the universe. Join the club as these hosts swoon over our boy Nikolai and find PLENTY to laugh about from the truly hilarious to the absurd in this fan-favorite!Skippers jump to 10:35Pour yourself some kvas, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of King of ScarsSupport Leah, Jacob, and their beautiful family at GoFundMe! Every bit helps!  https://gofund.me/3941ad83Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan Mail*please note: this episode contains brief discussion of sexual assault, violence, and other sensitive topics as relevant to the book* Welcome to Season 5 Episode 6 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode the hosts discuss one of the most famous American novels of all times - I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by the ever-impressive and eternally inspiring Maya Angelou. Despite facing periodic censorship due to the sensitive nature of some of this book's content, this autobiography of the famous Maya Angelou has changed hearts, minds, and captured souls ever since its initial publication, revealing a society that in same ways seems eons away, despite being a shockingly recent part of our history. Join the hosts as they gush over this literary hero and one of her greatest masterpieces, finding every opportunity to lighten the mood along the way.Skippers jump to 22:11Pour yourself a drink, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings...Support Leah, Jacob, and their beautiful family at GoFundMe! Every bit helps!  https://gofund.me/3941ad83Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5 Episode 5 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode the hosts discuss "the book Kiera wasn't writing" - AKA the long-awaited YA fantasy novel A Thousand Heartbeats by master-of-her-craft Kiera Cass. Joined again by pod-astrologist-Katherine, the club has plenty to say about this beautiful, action-packed story full of twists, turns, and unforgettable characters - but will the hosts opinions align with one another or will dissension be the order of the day...? Skippers jump to 20:14 Pour yourself a drink, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of A Thousand Heartbeats...Support Leah, Jacob, and their beautiful family at GoFundMe! Every bit helps!  https://gofund.me/3941ad83Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5 Episode 4 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this new year's episode do their best to digest and discuss one of the most swashbucklingly fantastic adventures and also one of the longest books ever - The Three Musketeers by the talented writer and haver-of-good-times Alexandre Dumas. Join the book club as the hosts discuss the three musky boys and their young and irrationally confident companion in The Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas.Skippers jump to 17:44Pour yourself a cup of tea (or join Porthos in inbibing something stronger), raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of The Three Musketeers.Support Leah, Jacob, and their beautiful family at GoFundMe! Every bit helps!  https://gofund.me/3941ad83Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season #5 Episode #3 of That Pretentious Book Club!Join sister podcasts and Story Sirens Studio productions That Pretentious Book Club and The Scripturient Society in this second annual Christmas party for readers, writers, and story nerds of all varieties! From ridiculous bookish madlibs to an even more unhinged chain story game than last year (spoiler: the pyrokinetic cat makes a reappearance), this episode is choked full of laughter and holiday cheer - particularly for readers and writers! Pour yourself some eggnog (or hot cocoa if you think eggnog is gross), raise a pinky, and join the club for this special holiday episode!Find this season's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World by Ash Leigh O'Rourke now available on Amazon!Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5 Episode 2 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this special holiday episode TPBC is joined again by the holiday fox Lexi Potter for this discussion of Hercule Poirot's Christmas by Agatha Christie. This impenetrable whodunit still offers plenty for the hosts to plaugh about, with Aggie's ability to spin a dazzlingly complex plot into the most satisfying mystery keeping all the hosts on their toes. Join the book club as the hosts discuss Hercule Poirot's Christmas by Agatha Christie.Skippers jump to 25:55Pour yourself a cup of cocoa, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Hercule Poirot's Christmas.Support Leah, Jacob, and their beautiful family at GoFundMe! Every bit helps!  https://gofund.me/3941ad83Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5 Episode 1 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode TPBC rings in the beginning of Season 5 in true pretentious book club fashion with another classic by Jane Austen, Mansfield Park. This unique Austen story offers plenty for you and the hosts to love and about - from sweet but awkward protagonists who can't help but be buzzkills to the once-again troubling trope of cousin lovers... Join the book club as the hosts discuss the classic if lesser-known novel Mansfield Park by Jane Austen.Skippers jump to 16:12 Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Mansfield Park.Support Leah, Jacob, and their beautiful family at GoFundMe! Every bit helps!  https://gofund.me/3941ad83Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome club members and new listeners alike!This week That Pretentious Book Club is on hiatus to celebrate the end of Season 4! Don't miss us too much though, we'll be back next week to start off Season 4 in true TPBC tradition with another Jane Austen classic, - Mansfield Park!Until then, check out our sister podcast for writers - The Scripturient Society - and enjoy catching up on any missed episodes. Reach out on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub to let us know which books you liked (or hated) the most from this season!As always, lots of love to the club, and remember to keep your teacups full, pinkies high, and book club pretentious until we get back!Find all of this season's books and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World by Ash Leigh O'Rourke now available on Amazon!Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 4 Episode 22 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this last episode of TPBC's Season 4 reading list, the club covers New Moon by Stephenie Meyer! The club's Team Edward vs Team Jacob tensions come to a head in discussions about this absolutely outrageous book full of copious amounts of drama, laughter, and hot supernatural love interests. Join the book club as the hosts discuss this iconic YA paranormal romance and the second book in the Twilight series, New Moon.Skippers jump to 18:10Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of New Moon.Support Leah, Jacob, and their beautiful family at GoFundMe! Every bit helps!  https://gofund.me/3941ad83Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 4 Episode 21 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this special Halloween episode, the club is joined once again by Lexi Potter (AKA the Holiday Fox)! In this episode Wheezy, Spoons, and the Fox discuss all things Frankenstein by Mary Shelly. From the book's scandalous origins to the absolutely insufferable nature of the protaganist (if he can even be called that), there is plenty to laugh about and enjoy whether you think you know everything about Frankenstein's story or if you know nothing at all.Join the book club as the hosts discuss the frightful Gothic novel by the mother of science fiction, Frankenstein.Skippers jump to 18:08Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Frankenstein.Support Leah, Jacob, and their beautiful family at GoFundMe! Every bit helps!  https://gofund.me/3941ad83Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to a bonus interview episode with author Sara Bennett Wealer! In this episode Ash (AKA Wheezy), chats with author Sara Bennett Wealer about her brand-new YA paranormal coming-of-age story, Grave Things Like Love. This book follows teenager Elaine as she struggles to balance obligations to her family and the funeral home they have owned since the 1800s, with the obligations she feels to her friends and to herself. When a new boy moves to town obsessed with ghost hunting, the funeral home, and her, Elaine is forced to figure out what she wants for herself - and how her best-friend-slash-boy-next-door figures into those wishes - especially when he expresses suspicion for the hot new ghost hunter. Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this special author interview!Find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclubFollow Sara on her websiteTwitter @sbennettwealerInstagram @sbennettwealerand on FacebookSara's book Grave Things Like Love can be purchased from your local bookstore or https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to benefit independent bookstores around the country AND the club.Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 4 Episode 20 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode, the club discusses YA fantasy favorite Caraval by Stephanie Garber! This book is absolutely PACKED with plot and gripping twists that leave you wondering if you can tell the difference between dreams, nightmares, and reality.  Join the book club as the hosts speed through as much of this action-packed book as possible, finding plenty to laugh about on their journey through Caraval.Skippers jump to 28:03Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Caraval.Support Leah, Jacob, and their beautiful family at GoFundMe! Every bit helps!  https://gofund.me/3941ad83Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 4 Episode 19 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode, the club discusses all-time children's classic Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by the dark and whimsical Roald Dahl. If you've seen the movies, you probably have a good idea just how zany this book this, but the hosts still find plenty to compare, contrast, and laugh hysterically about in the surprisingly short book that inspired it all. Join the book club for this discussion of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and follow That Pretentious Book Club on social media.Skippers jump to 14:28 Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.Support Leah, Jacob, and their beautiful family at GoFundMe! Every bit helps!  https://gofund.me/3941ad83Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 4 Episode 18 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode, the club discusses YA/NA fantasy favorite and listener recommendation,The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern. This enigmatic novel is woven together with imagery that practically breathes magic, while the plot offers plenty of material to gush and laugh over. Join the book club for this discussion of Night Circus and follow That Pretentious Book Club on social media.Skippers jump to 19:19Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of The Night Circus.Support Leah, Jacob, and their beautiful family at GoFundMe! Every bit helps!  https://gofund.me/3941ad83Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 4 Episode 17 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode, the club is joined by co-host from sister podcast The Scripturient Society for Writers, Karissa Harlow (AKA Katherine, AKA Lewis) to discuss Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux in honor of the official start of spooky read season! This dark, operatic novel weaves together a tale of twisted romance, obsession, and the intoxicating power of music - while still providing plenty of fodder for the hosts to laugh over. Join the book club as the hosts discuss this read of Phantom of the Opera.Skippers jump to 20:25Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Phantom of the Opera.Support Leah, Jacob, and their beautiful family at GoFundMe! Every bit helps!  https://gofund.me/3941ad83Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 4 Episode 16 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode, the club is joined by long-lost pod-nurse Haleigh to cover a personal recommendation, Falling Kingdoms by Morgan Rhodes. This YA Fantasy offers an intoxicating combination of game of thrones intensity vibes with all the fast-paced young adult fantasy elements we love - and you've never heard it discussed by more passionate hosts. From ship wars to EXTREMELY questionable love interests, the debate rages on - and in cloaks too. Join the hosts as they find plenty to laugh about after this read of Falling Kingdoms.Skippers jump to 23:13Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Falling Kingdoms.Support Leah, Jacob, and their beautiful family at GoFundMe! Every bit helps!  https://gofund.me/3941ad83 Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to a bonus interview episode with author Nicole Lesperance! In this episode Ash (AKA Wheezy), chats with author Nicole Lesperance about her brand-new gothic YA with strong fantasy-horror vibes, The Depths. This book takes all the elements of ghosty gothic fiction that Wheezy is obsessed with and sets it on a mysterious tropical island with imagery so vivid you can practically smell the flowers. Suffice it to say, this was a read Ash could not put down, and is definitely joining both her lists of favorite books and soon-to-be-read-again books.Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this special author interview!Find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclubFollow Nicole on her website Twitter @NicLesperanceInstagram @nicolesperanceand on Facebook Nicole's books The Depths can be purchased from your local bookstore or https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to benefit independent bookstores around the country AND the club.Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 4 Episode 15 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode, the club covers long-awaited and much-dreaded (at least by Wheezy) classic, Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. If you've visited the club a time or two, you probably know that this author has acted as the inciting (and only) real source of conflict between the hosts, with one believing this author to be one of the greatest writers of all time, with the other believes he is unnecessarily long-winded at best. Join the hosts as they find plenty to laugh and find out what Wheezy really thinks of this book after her latest read of Great Expectations.Skippers jump to 13:52Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Great Expectations.Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 4 Episode 14 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode, the club covers middle-grade favorite Leven  Thumps and the Gateway to Foo by Obert Skye - a book recommendation from Dr. Spoons Palermo herself! Vacillating wildely from aggressively whimsical to alarmingly grim, this is a read that adults can enjoy just as much as their inner child. Join the hosts as they find plenty to laugh about in this book club coverage of Leven Thumps and then Gateway to Foo. Skippers jump to 11:15Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Leven Thumps and the Gateway to Foo.Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 4 Episode 13 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode, the club covers dubious classic Treasure Island by famous author Robert Louis Stephenson. From thorough comparisons to the different media adaptations of this well-known story to critical character analyses and whole breadth of completely nonsensical opinions, the hosts find plenty to laugh about in this book club coverage of Treasure Island. Skippers jump to 16:45Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Treasure Island.Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 4 Episode 12 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode, the club covers the beautiful novel well-known for its equally beautiful movie adaptation, Brooklyn by Colm Tóibín. Set in the 1950s, when young Irish woman Eilis Lacey ventures to America in search of work for herself and her family, her life changes in ways she never could have expected, but leaving home behind is harder than she thought. While the hosts themselves may be particularly deranged this episode, their takeaways from the book are as potent as ever.  Join the hosts as they find plenty to adore and laugh about it in this gorgeous and inspiring novel.Skippers jump to 41:45Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Brooklyn.Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 4 Episode 11 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode, the club covers beloved favorite Anne of Green Gables by L. M. Montgomery. This Canadian classic has captured the hearts and minds of the cottage-core lovers long before the term came into existence. Join the hosts as they find plenty to adore and laugh about it in this soul-sweet novel.Skippers jump to 22:00Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Anne of Green Gables.*Please note: this episode contains brief discussion of depression and suicide. If you are struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, reach out to someone close to you and/or call or text the suicide help line at 988Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season #4 Episode #10 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode, the club covers listener-recommendation Midnight for Charlie Bone, the first book in the Children of the Red King series by Jenny Nimmo. This middle-grade urban fantasy offers strong Harry Potter vibes with a quick, snappy writing style that keeps the plot moving for a quick read you can't put down. A great choice to recommend to any middle grade reader or lover of middle grade fiction, this is a book Wheezy would have been obsessed with as a twelve-year-old. Join the hosts as they find plenty to laugh about both on and off topic in this delightfully bookish episode.Skippers jump to 20:48Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of Midnight for Charlie Bone.Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season #4 Episode #9 of That Pretentious Book Club! In this episode, the club covers all-time favorite and one of the most objectively hilarious plays ever written, The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde. This truly hysterical three-act play is rife with satire and vibrant yet nonsensical characters that make for what feels like a completely frivolous and yet deeply clever story both on the page and on the stage. Join the hosts as they discuss the merits of a cult dedicated to Oscar Wilde and all the bookish comedy bestowed by him and others that make laughter positively irresistible.Skippers jump to 15:35Pour yourself a cup of tea, raise a pinky, and join the club for this discussion of The Importance of Being Earnest.Find this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Looking for exclusive TPBC content? Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/storysirensstudioCheck out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers!Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.Support the showFind this episode's book and more by shopping at https://bookshop.org/shop/storysirensstudio to support the club AND local bookstores!Visit us at storysirensstudio.com or find us on social media @thatpretentiousbookclub.Check out sister podcast The Scripturient Society for writers and join our writing group on Facebook! Find Space Aliens, Southerners, and Saving the World  by Ash Leigh O'Rourke on Amazon.