Galaxies and Goddesses: A Sci-Fi & Fantasy Bookcast

In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, we explore the lasting influence of J. R. R. Tolkien on modern fantasy and beyond. From shaping iconic tropes in The Lord of the Rings to inspiring authors like R. F. Kuang and Christopher Paolini, Tolkien’s impact spans generations. We also discuss the Hero's Journey as a timeless storytelling framework and how it plays into the Lord of the Rings. At the end of the episode we announce our next trilogy pick, swinging back into the realm of science fiction with Isaac Asimov’s Foundation trilogy.03:43 Spotting Tolkien References05:56 Influence vs Infringement08:57 What Is The Hero’s Journey12:16 Why Tropes Still Work13:56 Travel Inspired by Books14:40 Back to The Hero's Journey16:50 The Circle as a Symbol20:48 Tolkien-esque Names25:51 Tolkien Language Intent28:52 Eragon And Dragon Nostalgia32:05 Next Read Foundation Trilogy33:56 Episode Wrap And TeaserBooks MentionedThe Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. TolkienThe Hobbit by J. R. R. TolkienKatabasis by R. F. KuangThe Golden Compass by Philip Pullman Outlander by Diana GabaldonThe Sword of Shannara by Terry BrooksThe Lost Symbol by Dan BrownBrimstone by Callie HartWhen the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. ParkerEragon by Christopher PaoliniFoundation by Isaac AsimovLove chatting about books? Follow Galaxies and Goddesses and leave a review to support the show.

Join Andrea and Elizabeth as they discuss The Return of the King, the epic conclusion to J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, highlighting standout moments, character arcs, and what makes the ending memorable. They compare book and film differences, while emphasizing the book’s quieter moments and added history. They focus on Aragorn’s kingship revealed through the House of Healing, Éowyn’s confidence and role in defeating the Lord of the ringwraiths, and Faramir’s unexpected romance. They note the extensive chapters after the Ring’s destruction and both rate the series five stars, giving appreciation to Tolkien for his gift to the world.00:52 Where Return of the King Begins05:26 Books Versus Movies Debate07:55 Stand Out Moments10:52 Love in the House of Healing15:54 Encounters with Saruman18:39 The Battle Isn't the End of the Story24:348 Library Reading Buddies29:59 Feelings at the End32:28 It's Not a Trilogy38:05 RatingsSpoiler warning for:The Fellowship of the RingThe Two TowersThe Return of the KingReddit fan theories mentioned in the episode:Was Bilbo’s mithril coat originally made for Legolas?https://www.reddit.com/r/tolkienfans/comments/yr9lrl/bilbos_mithril_coat_was_made_for_legolas/

In this special one year anniversary episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, we’re reflecting on our favorite moments from the past year of podcasting, how our reading habits have evolved, and the books that have shaped our journey. Instead of looking back at our top reads, we’re each adding three intentional picks to our TBR: a highly anticipated sci-fi or fantasy book, a wild card outside our usual genres, and an intimidating or long read we’ve been putting off. 06:49 The ‘River of Books’ & Managing a TBR09:33 Highly Anticipated Sci-Fi or Fantasy Book15:41 Wild Card Book Pick21:23 An Intimidating Read25:09 Tolkien and The Silmarillion27:45 Looking AheadBooks mentioned in the episode:The Raven Scholar by Antonia HodgsonA Canticle for Leibowitz by Walter M. Miller Jr.1984 by George OrwellFahrenheit 451 by Ray BradburyThe Housemaid by Freida McFaddenHow to Art: Bringing a Fancy Subject Down to Earth by Kate BryanThe Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha ShannonMoby-Dick by Herman MelvilleIn the Heart of the Sea by Nathaniel PhilbrickThe Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. TolkienThe Silmarillion by J.R.R. TolkienFollow along & explore more:Our 26 to Read in 2026:https://www.instagram.com/p/DT-wnMqicdB/TBR Mindset Post:https://www.instagram.com/p/DVNlgZfD7F8/Independent Bookstore Day (last Saturday in April):https://www.bookweb.org/independent-bookstore-day 💫 Have a favorite sci-fi or fantasy trilogy we should read next? Let us know! We’d love your recommendations!

Andrea and Elizabeth continue their journey through The Lord of the Rings with The Two Towers by J.R.R. Tolkien. With the Fellowship scattered, the story suddenly expands across Middle-earth, following Merry and Pippin’s unexpected role in the fall of Isengard, Aragorn and the Riders of Rohan at Helm’s Deep, and Frodo and Sam’s increasingly complex relationship with Gollum. Along the way, they discuss the deeper themes of mercy and redemption, as well as how the pacing and storytelling shift dramatically from The Fellowship of the Ring. With five-star ratings from both hosts, they call The Two Towers a fast-paced, action-driven, and unexpectedly humorous turning point in the trilogy.⚠️ Spoilers! for The Fellowship of the Ring and The Two Towers00:57 The Fellowship is Broken02:59 Merry & Pippin’s Big Purpose08:36 Merry and Pippin Continue to Shine13:10 Palantiri16:22 What Would Gandalf Do?18:08 Realm of Rohan21:44 Two Towers vs Fellowship23:31 Meta Storytelling Moments24:56 Gollum As A Timeless Character30:51 Well What About?31:30 RatingsJ.R.R.Tolkien’s Study of Beowulf “Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics” (1936)https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beowulf:_The_Monsters_and_the_Critics✨Connect with UsFollow along for bookish updates, polls, and behind the scenes contentInstagram: @galaxiesandgoddesses

Join Andrea and Elizabeth as they explore the remarkable friendship between J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, including their Oxford writing groups, shared faith, as documented in the graphic novel biography The Mythmakers by John Hendrix. They discuss how belief, war, and literary community shaped The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia, then pivot to memoirs and the power of telling your own story, highlighting reads like I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy, Educated by Tara Westover, Born a Crime by Trevor Noah, while debating why some celebrity memoirs resonate more than others. 00:53 Exploring Tolkien and Lewis's Friendship02:36 The Mythmakers Graphic Novel10:07 Celebrity Memoirs and Their Impact13:35 Memoirs of Overcoming Trauma19:18 Trevor Noah is Wonderful23:56 Celebrities in Real Life26:25 Lord of Maps!Books mentioned in this episode: The Mythmakers by John HendrixThe Hobbit  by J.R.R. TolkienThe Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. TolkienThe Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. LewisKatabasis by R.F. Kuang Open Book by Jessica SimpsonI’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdyEducated by Tara WestoverThe Glass Castle by Jeannette WallsFriends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing by Matthew PerrySpare by Prince HarryBorn a Crime by Trevor NoahInto the Uncut Grass by Trevor NoahMemorial Days by Geraldine BrooksLord of Maps StampsBring your fantasy world to life with Lord of Maps stamps, designed for creating detailed, Middle-earth-inspired maps for tabletop gaming, journaling, or creative writing. For a limited time, use promo code GALAXIES for 10% off your order at https://lordofmaps.com/  Trevor Noah: Born a Crime 10-Year Anniversary and Tour DatesTrevor Noah’s bestselling memoir Born a Crime, which explores his childhood growing up during apartheid in South Africa, is celebrating its 10-year anniversary with a special re-release. Trevor Noah is also touring this year. https://www.trevornoah.com/ Jennette McCurdy Memoir Adaptation (Apple TV+)Jennette McCurdy’s bestselling memoir I’m Glad My Mom Died is being adapted into a 10-episode Apple TV+ series. Jennifer Aniston is set to star as McCurdy’s mother and will executive produce alongside McCurdy.  https://www.imdb.com/news/ni65360818/ Emerald City Comic Con 2026 Lord of the Rings Fan MeetupJoin us at Emerald City Comic Con in Seattle, March 5–8, for a Lord of the Rings fan meetup celebrating the works of J.R.R. Tolkien. We’ll be gathering on Thursday, March 5 to connect with fellow fantasy readers, Tolkien fans, and cosplay enthusiasts. https://www.emeraldcitycomiccon.com/en-us/experiences/meetups/meetup-info.html?gtID=923374&panel-name=Lord-of-the-Rings-Fan-Meetup Galaxies and Goddesses Bookshop.org StorefrontBrowse and shop all the books mentioned in this episode through our Bookshop.org storefront. Every purchase supports Galaxies and Goddesses while also helping sustain independent bookstores across the United States. https://bookshop.org/shop/galaxiesandgoddesses 

Andrea and Elizabeth dive into J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Fellowship of the Ring, comparing it to The Hobbit and the film adaptations while unpacking Tolkien’s themes of power, temptation, fellowship, and endurance. They discuss differences in pacing, tone, and character development, reflect on first-time versus reread experiences, and consider how reading The Hobbit first adds emotional depth. The conversation explores the corrupting influence and possible sentience of the Ring, Gandalf’s respect for hobbits, the mystery of Tom Bombadil, and how Tolkien builds scale through geography, time, and long roads across Middle-earth.⚠️ Spoilers for The Fellowship of the Ring and The Hobbit00:52 Synopsis and Initial Thoughts02:13 Reading it for the First Time05:01 Journey and Geography in Middle Earth09:31 What Surprised You?12:33 Tom Bombadil: A Mysterious Character14:10 Standalone Novel Discussion16:09 Goblins vs. Orcs: Clarifying the Confusion17:07 The Sentience of the Ring21:14 Sauron and Saruman: The Dark Forces23:53 Tom Bombadil: The Enigma27:51 The Fellowship and Character Bonds28:53 Rating and Reviewing the Book33:11 Fellowship Match QuizFellowship Match QuizDiscover your inner fantasy reader archetype with our quiz! Screenshot and share with us on Instagram so we can see who is part of our podcast fellowship! https://forms.gle/6WWHLRoaWy4PGTnv9✨Connect with UsFollow along for bookish updates, polls, and behind the scenes contentInstagram: @galaxiesandgoddesses

In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth dive into the trilogies they are currently reading and eagerly anticipating. They discuss Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel, Callie Hart’s Brimstone, and Colson Whitehead’s Harlem Trilogy, while exploring what makes the three book structure so compelling for readers. From historical fiction to fantasy, they reflect on the joy of committing to a trilogy and the anticipation of what comes next. The episode wraps up with their excitement for next week’s discussion of The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien, inviting listeners to read along.00:55 Elizabeth's Recent Read: Wolf Hall04:11 Andrea's Recent Read: Brimstone07:18 Was the first book enough to commit?08:45 Colson Whitehead's Harlem Trilogy11:24 Book Covers and Shelf Frustrations12:31 When is a Trilogy Really a Trilogy?14:46 The Empire Trilogy and Thematic Storytelling17:49 History through a Fantasy Lens19:38 Dragon Trilogies Dilemma21:33 Finally Diving into The Lord of the Rings25:36 Wrapping Up and Looking AheadTrilogies and Series Mentioned:Wolf Hall Trilogy by Hillary Mantel Fae & Alchemy Series by Callie HartHarlem Trilogy by Colson WhiteheadHierarchy Series by James IslingtonThe Empire Trilogy by J.G. FarrellThe Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi Series by Shannon ChakrabortyThe Moonfall Series by Sarah A. ParkerUpcoming Read A Long TrilogyThe Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. TolkienThe Fellowship of the RingThe Two TowersThe Return of the KingSupport the ShowExplore our Bookshop.org storefront to find the books we discuss. Purchases support independent bookstores and help keep the podcast going.https://bookshop.org/shop/galaxiesandgoddesses 

In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth revisit J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, diving into a spoiler-light discussion for new and returning readers. They reflect on personal reading experiences, explore Tolkien’s world building, songs, and maps, and compare the book to the movie adaptations. Join them as they share nostalgia, laugh at the dragon’s antics, and discuss why The Hobbit is the perfect introduction to Middle-earth. Fans of Tolkien, fantasy literature, and epic adventures won’t want to miss this episode! 00:32 Introduction to Middle-earth01:33 Personal Reading Experiences07:49 Tolkien's World Building10:40 Oral Quality of the Tale13:45 Why Bilbo?15:44 Dwarven Songs16:59 Maps!20:29 The Lord of the Rings in Theaters21:26 Would you read it again?22:19 Delightful Moments24:39 British Influence26:27 Final Thoughts and RatingsA brief introduction to JRR Tolkien’s Mapshttps://www.tolkienestate.com/painting/maps/ The Lord of the Rings Extended Edition in Theaters January 2026https://www.fathomentertainment.com/series/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy/Soon May the Wellerman Come Historyhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WellermanFollow us on Instagram @galaxiesandgoddesses for more books, magic, and updates!Support the Show:Explore our Bookshop.org storefront to find the books we discuss. Purchases support independent bookstores and help keep the podcast going.https://bookshop.org/shop/galaxiesandgoddesses 

In this Season Two kickoff episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth look back at their Top 10 books of 2025, spanning sci-fi, fantasy, romantasy, literary fiction, and standout nonfiction that reads like fiction. From epic, immersive reads and thought-provoking classics to surprising favorites and an audiobook honorable mention, they reflect on reading habits, bookish stats, and what makes a story truly memorable. Stick around to the end for the big reveal of the podcast’s 2026 theme.00:56 Top 10 Books of 202502:31 Similar Books in our Top 1003:59 Long Books and Epic Reads05:27 Medical Insights in Fiction06:57 Stephen King's Dark Tower Series08:00 Romantasy Reads and Sequels10:28 Book Club Favorites13:31 More of Elizabeth's Top 10 Books23:15 Rounding Out the Top 1025:12 Andrea's Favorite Audiobook of the Year26:16 Number of Books Read for the Year27:07 Epic Trilogies for 2026Books MentionedA Psalm for the Wild-Built — Becky Chambers (Andrea & Elizabeth)The Dispossessed — Ursula K. Le Guin (Andrea & Elizabeth)Awry with Dandelions — J.S. Fields (Andrea)The Covenant of Water —  Abraham Verghese (Elizabeth)Wolves of the Calla —  Stephen King (Elizabeth)The Moonday Letters — Emmi Itäranta (Andrea)Water Moon — Samantha Sotto Yambao (Andrea)Quicksilver — Callie Hart (Andrea)When the Moon Hatched — Sarah A. Parker (Andrea)All the Colors of the Dark — Chris Whitaker (Andrea)By Any Other Name — Jodi Picoult (Andrea)Wellness — Nathan Hill (Elizabeth)Bel Canto — Ann Patchett (Elizabeth)Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland — Patrick Radden Keefe (Elizabeth)James — Percival Everett (Elizabeth)Squeeze Me — Carl Hiaasen (Elizabeth)In the Heart of the Sea — Nathaniel Philbrick (Elizabeth)Blood Over Bright Haven — M.L. Wang (Andrea)Honorable Mention: Best Audiobook You Didn’t Hear This From Me: Mostly True Notes on Gossip — Kelsey McKinney, narrated by the author Referenced Articles and Media:New York Times: The 100 Best Books of the 21st Centuryhttps://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/books/best-books-21st-century.html The Global Wellness Economy Hits a Record $6.8 Trillion and Is Forecast to Reach $9.8 Trillion by 2029https://globalwellnessinstitute.org/press-room/press-releases/the-global-wellness-economy-hits-a-record-6-8-trillion-and-is-forecast-to-reach-9-8-trillion-by-2029The Smithsonian Magazine - The Snakes That Ate Floridahttps://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/snakes-ate-florida-180972534/Freakonomics Podcast - The First Great American Industryhttps://freakonomics.com/podcast/the-first-great-american-industry/In the Heart of the Sea - IMDBhttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt1390411/ 

Andrea and Elizabeth dive into their December book pick, Water Moon by Samantha Sotto Yambao. This listener voted book pick made it to the second round of the Goodreads Choice Awards, is discussed in detail, including its synopsis and thematic elements. The story follows Hana Ishikawa, the new owner of a mystical pawn shop in Tokyo, as she embarks on a journey to find her missing father. The hosts analyze the book's Ghibli-esque charm, poetic writing, romantic subplot, cultural references, and philosophical themes. They conclude with their ratings and comparisons to similar works, recommending it to fans of Japanese cozy fantasy and those intrigued by magical realism.Spoiler Alert: We do go into spoilers mid-episode!Content Note: This episode discusses themes of regret, reproductive choice (including implied abortion), and pregnancy/childbirth.02:35 Meaning of the Title05:49 Romance Sub-plot10:15 Fictional Folklore12:01 Japanese Vocab14:26 Dreamlike Reflections of the Real World18:47 Well, What About?22:49 Spoilers and Interpretations25:15 Flying Paper Birds26:44 Folding the Cover28:34 Ratings29:53 Other Similar Books31:16 Closing RemarksSimilar Book RecommendationsDaughter of the Moon Goddess by Sue Lynn TanThe Night Circus by Erin MorgensternThe Full Moon Coffee Shop by Mai Mochizuki Similar Movie RecommendationsSpirited AwayEternal Sunshine of the Spotless MindInceptionOther Books with Flying Paper BirdsThe Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly BarnhillThe Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu MandannaWhen the Moon Hatched by Sarah A ParkerWhat is the Super-Kamiokande? https://www-sk.icrr.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/sk/about/outline/ No Face from Spirited Awayhttps://ghibli.fandom.com/wiki/No-FaceKitsune from Japanese folklorehttps://www.britannica.com/topic/kitsune The Art of Japanese Ceramics Repair - Kintsugi https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KintsugiWater Moon themed Playlist on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/playlist/25kdPSzyM0b9w6v0T7LYEV?si=DqPUE3jaSyefSQVK_PRDzQBarnes and Noble Monthly Pick -  Guest Post by Samantha Sotto Yambaohttps://www.barnesandnoble.com/blog/samantha-sotto-yambao-guest-post/ 

Andrea and Elizabeth delve into the world of novellas, discussing the defining characteristics of a novella and the blurry line where it becomes a novel. They share their favorite short reads of the past month, including Automatic Noodle, The Outsiders, and Amsterdam. The episode also highlights Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, exploring its cultural impact, the accuracy of its numerous adaptations, and its enduring significance as a holiday classic. 00:00 Introduction to Novellas00:46 Defining a Novella04:39 Novella Stats06:24 Automatic Noodle by Annalee Newitz10:45 The Outsiders by SE Hinton13:06 Amsterdam by Ian McEwan15:02 A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens24:27 The Fantasy Elements in A Christmas Carol28:18 Recommending a Classic30:25 Wrapping UpBooks mentioned in this episode:I’m a Fan by Sheena PatelThe Outsiders by SE HintonAmsterdam by Ian McEwanAutomatic Noodle by Annalee NewitzA Christmas Carol by Charles DickensWater Moon by Samantha Sotto Yambao - Our December Book PickSFWA Nebula Award Criteriahttps://nebulas.sfwa.org/about-the-nebulas/nebula-rules/Hugo Award Criteriahttps://www.thehugoawards.org/hugo-categories/ A Christmas Carol Audiobook - Narrated by Patrick Stewarthttps://open.spotify.com/show/5q6TxUY7gYLCEbCNAh24Yt?si=192f9fdc5fca485f A Christmas Carol at Grand Stree Theatre, Helena, MThttps://grandstreettheatre.com/event/a-christmas-carol/Michael Caine Loves The Muppet Christmas Carol as Much as You DoBy Lauren Larson, December 15, 2016https://www.gq.com/story/michael-caine-muppet-christmas-carol-interview Support the ShowExplore our Bookshop.org storefront to find the books we discuss. Purchases support independent bookstores and help keep the podcast going.https://bookshop.org/shop/galaxiesandgoddesses 

Andrea and Elizabeth dive into Becky Chambers’ solarpunk novella Psalm for the Wild-Built and explore its themes of hope, utopia, and relatable self-discovery. They discuss Sibling Dex’s journey, the meaning of sentience, and how solarpunk reimagines sustainable futures in science fiction.Episode Chapters00:00 A Psalm for the Wild-Built00:55 Understanding Solarpunk01:57 Initial Impressions05:32 Character Analysis: Sibling Dex07:38 Language and Gender in Literature09:50 Relatability11:07 Asking Big Questions13:37 Personal Utopia14:50 Sentience and Robots20:23 Recommended by a Bookseller23:15 Adapting the Book for Screen25:36 Rating and Final Thoughts27:50 Supporting the PodcastSupport the ShowExplore our Bookshop.org storefront to find the books we discuss. Purchases support independent bookstores and help keep the podcast going.https://bookshop.org/shop/galaxiesandgoddesses References Mentioned: Genre of Solarpunkhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SolarpunkAreas of outstanding natural beauty (AONBs): Designation and managementhttps://www.gov.uk/guidance/areas-of-outstanding-natural-beauty-aonbs-designation-and-managementFuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law by Mary Roachhttps://www.maryroach.net/fuzz.htmlNew Zealand National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee: Animal sentiencehttps://www.nawac.org.nz/animal-sentienceLate Night with Seth Meyers: The Best of The Kind of Story We Need Right Nowhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UABJH6zLHBEHugo Award lists for 2022: Psalm for the Wild-Built Won Best Novellahttps://www.thehugoawards.org/hugo-history/2022-hugo-awards/ 

In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth dive into the age-old debate of borrowing versus buying books. They discuss their personal experiences, motivations, and the joy of owning or sharing books. Highlights include anecdotes about book fairs, the allure of special editions, independent bookstores, and the ethical considerations of supporting authors and local businesses. The episode also touches on the thrills of discovering new reads through unexpected avenues such as estate sales and Little Free Libraries. They emphasize the underlying love for stories, regardless of how the books are acquired.00:00 Borrowing V Buying04:20 Different Feel to Buying Versus Borrowing06:04 Dandelion Chocolate06:53 Special Edition Books09:26 Borrowing from Little Free Libraries14:54 Unconventional Ways of Buying Books16:48 Adventure and Discovery of In Person Book Browsing20:09 The Debate on Supporting Used Bookstores24:27 Atypical Library Books27:48 No Patience for the Hold List29:26 Concluding Thoughts on Book Buying and BorrowingBooks mentioned in this episode:Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros A Dance with Dragons by George R. R. Martin One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig Two Twisted Crowns by Rachel Gillig Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer Gulliver’s Travels by Jonathan Swift The Great Gatsby by F. Scott FitzgeraldFuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law by Mary RoachBlackfish City by Sam J. MillerThrone of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers (November book pick)A Sweet Shoutout to Dandelion ChocolateDandelion Chocolate’s 2025 Advent Calendar is a delicious way to honor 25 of our Solar System’s moons this holiday season. This is an affiliate link, not a discount, and another way to support the show while giving something special to yourself or others.dandelionchocolate.pxf.io/7azQny Friends Of The Historical Museum At Fort Missoula’s Annual Used Book Salehttps://fortmissoulamuseum.org/event/annual-used-book-sale/The Ninepipes Museum of Early Montanahttps://ninepipesmuseum.org/Arts Midwest: National Endowment for the Arts Big Readhttps://artsmidwest.org/about/updates/announcing-the-2025-26-nea-big-read-grantees/FY2025-26 NEA BIG READ TITLEShttps://artsmidwest.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/NEA-Big-Read-25-26-Titles.pdf Galaxies and Goddesses now has a Bookshop.org affiliate storefront! It’s a curated page where we share the books we talk about on the podcast. When you buy through our storefront, Bookshop.org donates a portion of every sale to independent bookstores nationwide and we earn a small affiliate commission. It’s a great way to support indie bookstores and our show at the same time.https://bookshop.org/shop/galaxiesandgoddesses 

In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth dive into When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker, a sweeping romantasy filled with dragons, magic, and mystery. They unpack the novel’s intricate world building, discuss what defines epic fantasy versus romantasy, and share their first impressions, including how this hefty book compares to War and Peace in sheer size.From the protagonist’s haunted frozen lake coping mechanism to paper birds that come to life and shimmering aurora cycles, the hosts explore what makes this story and its world so unforgettable. They also draw comparisons to other epic and romantasy favorites such as A Court of Thorns and Roses, Fourth Wing, Throne of Glass, The Name of the Wind, and The Lord of the Rings trilogy.Spoiler warning! There are a few MAJOR mid-episode spoilers.00:00 When the Moon Hatched01:14 First Impressions and Book Size04:41 Romantasy vs. Epic Fantasy08:06 World Building and Unique Concepts16:09 Characters & Tropes19:29 Spoiler Alert!23:21 Explicit Content24:35 When the Moon _______26:29 Final Thoughts and RatingsOther links and resources: PBS segment on Romantasyhttps://www.pbs.org/video/romantasy-1706739868/ Romantasy: An Old Genre with a New Name, blog article, February 25, 2025 by Rosemary Jones, Science Fiction Writer’s Association https://www.sfwa.org/2025/02/25/romantasy-an-old-genre-with-a-new-name Between Pages & Friends Podcast: Interview with Sarah A Parkerhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sarah-a-parker-interview-when-the-moon-hatched/id1747110661?i=1000731947711Sarah A Parker Instagram Post: Ballad of Falling Dragons to the Copy Editor https://www.instagram.com/p/DP40si9E_Vf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==Tak: The boardgame from the world of Patrick Rothfusshttps://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/197405/takYou can support this podcast and independent bookstores through purchasing the book When the Moon Hatched on Bookshop.org with the affiliate link below:https://bookshop.org/a/117783/9780063415805 

In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth lean into spooky season. They discuss their favorite books featuring witches, vampires, and other supernatural elements. Andrea shares her thoughts on The Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli, a YA book focused on witches, while Elizabeth reflects on reading Carrie, Stephen King's debut novel. They also touch on the history of Halloween and temporary tattoos as a fun addition to Halloween costumes! Be sure to listen for the Sparrow and Wilde limited time promo code in the middle of the episode for a fun discount on bookish merch and temporary tattoos.00:00 Spooky Season00:53 Kicking off Spooky Season02:02 Witchy Reads04:28 Stephen King's Carrie14:13 Fated Mates15:24 Exploring Vampire Literature18:25 Halloween Costumes and Temporary Tattoos22:12 The Origins of Halloween25:20 Haunted Houses27:26 Seasonal Reading Habits30:43 Concluding RemarksSparrow & Wilde: Romantasy Apparel, Accessories, and Temporary Tattooshttps://sparrowandwilde.com/Stephen King is the most banned author in U.S. schoolshttps://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/stephen-king-banned-books-rcna235326

In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth delve into Ursula K. Le Guin's sci-fi classic The Dispossessed. They discuss major themes such as privacy, identity, societal structure, and capitalism vs. socialism, exploring how these themes remain relevant today. They examine how Le Guin's world-building brings new perspectives on familiar societal norms and reflects on how the book made them reconsider aspects of their own lives. 00:00 The Dispossessed07:14 Deep Themes09:36 Meaning of the Title17:52 Does Money Buy Politeness?23:21 Words that Stood Out25:40 Relevant Today?33:18 Similar Books?38:17 Elizabeth's Favorite Publication Pages41:22 Ratings44:45 ConclusionThe Ursula K. Le Guin Prize for Fictionhttps://www.ursulakleguin.com/prize-overviewFreakonomics - Why Does Tipping Still Exist? (Update)https://freakonomics.com/podcast/why-does-tipping-still-exist-update/ Smithsonian - History Behind Shaving in the United Stateshttps://www.si.edu/spotlight/health-hygiene-and-beauty/hair-removal What is Arcosanti?https://www.arcosanti.org/history/

In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth recap their Summer Book Bingo Challenge, discussing their favorite reads and the books that stood out to them. Elizabeth proudly shares her three bingos, while Andrea talks about edging out a single bingo with a bit of strategic shuffling. Both highlight the works that contributed to their wins, including discussions on titles like By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult, Awry with Dandelions by JS Fields, and The Death of Ivan Ilyich by Leo Tolstoy, among others. They wrap up by announcing the winners of their Instagram Summer Book Bingo Challenge and discuss potential changes for next year's challenge. Tune in for book recommendations and a fun bookish conversation.00:00 Summer Bingo Recap00:51 Did You Get a Bingo?02:01 Number of Books Read02:36 Andrea's Bingo Reads10:01 Elizabeth Bingo Highlights19:22 Using the Free Space27:46 Andrea's ARC Bingo Square30:59 Instagram Bingo Winners32:46 New To You Format?34:00 Still in the StackGalaxies and Goddesses on Bookshop.org. Find books mentioned in this episode in a curated list on Bookshop.org. Purchases on this site help support the podcast as well as independent bookstores across the US.https://bookshop.org/shop/galaxiesandgoddesses Check out author JS Fields!https://jsfieldsbooks.com/book/awry-with-dandelions/ Montana Shakespeare in the Parkhttps://shakespeareintheparks.org/Seattle Parks Shakespeare in the Parkhttps://parkways.seattle.gov/2025/05/20/2025-shakespeare-in-the-park/ NYT 100 Best Books of the 21st Century - 2024https://thegreatestbooks.org/v/grid/lists/431NYT Readers Pick Their 100 Best Books of the 21st Centuryhttps://headfullofbooks.blogspot.com/2024/07/nyt-readers-picks-100-best-books.html Global Peace Index report for 2025https://www.visionofhumanity.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Global-Peace-Index-2025-web.pdf 

In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, join Andrea and Elizabeth as they recap Andrea’s recent experience at WorldCon 2025 in Seattle. They delve into the Hugo Awards, explaining their significance and highlighting the 2025 winners in categories like Best Novel, Best Novella, and Best Series. The episode also covers what makes a book a sci-fi or fantasy classic, mentioning influential books from the hosts' reading journeys. From Frank Herbert’s Dune to J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, some classics live on and inspire the next generation. The episode concludes with an announcement for their next book pick, The Dispossessed by Ursula K. Le Guin.00:00 Worldcon, Hugos, & Classics03:35 Hugo Awards Mini FAQ05:23 2025 Hugo Award Winner Highlights09:02 Previous Hugo Award Winning Novels14:18 Other Notable Awards17:00 How Would You Define a Classic?19:02 Sci-Fi Classics Being Film Adaptations26:00 Back to Defining Classics28:58 Next Month's Book PickPrevious WorldCon Locationshttps://www.worldcon.org/worldcon-history/WorldCon 2026, August 27-31st, at the Anaheim Convention Center (LACon V)https://www.lacon.org/about/2025 Hugo Award Winners:https://locusmag.com/2025/08/hugo-lodestar-and-astounding-awards-winners-2/Previous Hugo Award Winners By Year:https://www.sfadb.com/Hugo_Awards_Winners_By_CategoryLateral Episode: When Brad Pitt Caused a Walk Outhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CHIbBMowOkcOrg Chart 30 Rock: Sheinhardt Wig Company, the fictional parent company of NBChttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G03R3fvLIhI

In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth delve into Sangu Mandanna's cozy fantasy novel The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches. They explore how main character Mika Moon connects to their lunar theme for the year, the heartwarming found family at the center of the story, and how trust takes time to build. They touch upon the 'twee' aesthetic of the book, comparing it to other similar novels and discussing British cultural influences. They also share some moments that didn’t quite work for them, just enough to impact their overall rating. Additionally, the hosts share their favorite teas and offer a special discount code for Plum Deluxe Tea to enhance the cozy reading experience.00:00 Secret Society of Irregular Witches06:56 Being Nice Versus Being Kind12:36 British Vocabulary Lessons17:27 Similarities to Other Books19:36 Tea Love24:45 Cozy Fantasy Square for Book Bingo?29:00 Where We Got Lost on the Way to Nowhere House31:25 Our Ratings33:48 Concluding RemarksOther books mentioned in this episode:Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ KluneThe Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly BarnhillThe Golden Compass by Philip PullmanFavorite Teas:https://www.barrystea.ie/https://www.shop.tipuschai.com/https://www.plumdeluxe.com/ Promo code in the episode for Plum Deluxe Tea is for first order during the month of August 2025, does not combine with other codes.

In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, hosts Andrea and Elizabeth dive into the sub-genre of Dark Academia, discussing its key elements.. They talk about essential Dark Academia characteristics such as elite academic settings, gothic elements, and intellectual pursuits, citing examples like ‘The Secret History’ by Donna Tartt and TV shows like ‘Wednesday’. The hosts discuss the allure of magical schools, secret societies, and libraries. They touch upon various books like Rebecca Yarros' ‘Onyx Storm’, Naomi Novik's ‘A Deadly Education ', and R.F. Kuang’s upcoming release ‘Katabasis.’ They also delve into the allure of libraries, their dreams of personal libraries, and a few of their favorite libraries IRL.  00:00 Introduction to Dark Academia00:45 Defining Dark Academia04:02 Tropes and Personal Preferences06:14 Dark Academia on Netflix08:22 Naomi Novik's Scholomance Series12:33 More Dragons13:38 Book Bingo Dark Academia Square and TBR15:18 Elizabeth’s Current Librarian Recommendation18:37 Pirate Academy: A Dark Academia Twist19:43 Pirates and Dragons in Tress of the Emerald Sea21:19 Libraries: The Heart of Dark Academia23:03 Dream Libraries27:40 RF Kuang's Dark Academia Books: Katabasis & Babel30:22 Closing RemarksBooks Mentioned:The Secret History & The Goldfinch by Donna TarttA Deadly Education by Naomi Novik Ninth House by Leigh BardugoOnyx Storm by Rebecca YarrosPaper Towns by John Green The Wide Wide Sea by Hampton Sides. Tress of the Emerald Sea by Brandon Sanderson The Library Book by Susan Orlean Katabasis & Bable by R.F. KuangOther fun things:https://www.instagram.com/1000libraries/

In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth dive into John Scalzi's book When The Moon Hits Your Eye, exploring its whimsical premise of the moon turning to cheese and the ensuing effects on Earth. They discuss the book's blend of absurdity, philosophical musings, and scientific implications. The conversation also touches on favorite plotlines, perhaps a few too many characters to follow, and the book's overall impact. They debate the book's categorization within genres like sci-fi and satire, and conclude with mixed reviews, ranging from three to four stars. Tune in next time for a discussion on Dark Academia.00:00 When the Moon Hits Your Eye00:51 Quick Book Recap and Synopsis09:03 Spoiler Alert14:23 A Very American Point of View16:38 Talking Cats, Dinosaurs, or Dragons?19:28 The Caseusian Hoax20:52 What kind of cheese did you imagine?22:49 Reading Large Print Books24:34 Does this count as science fiction?32:33 Would this be a good book club book?35:03 Ratings36:27 Who would you recommend read this book?37:48 Conclusion

In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, hosts Andrea and Elizabeth discuss their annual reading goals, methods for setting those goals, and tracking their progress. They talk about various book tracking systems such as Goodreads, StoryGraph, and physical journals. They share their personal experiences and preferences in reading habits. Book club assignments, mood reading, and the impact of life circumstances on reading frequency are covered, alongside a quick review of the New York Times Best 100 Books of the 21st Century lists. They also check in their the Galaxies and Goddesses Summer Book Bingo progress. Additionally, listen closely for a promo code on the bookish merchandise at https://www.book-sisters.com. Tune in next time for a discussion on 'When the Moon Hits Your Eye' by John Scalzi.00:00 Reading Goals00:56 Setting Reading Goals for the Year06:05 How do you decide what to read next?08:24 Elizabeth's Current Read: Say Nothing10:43 Andrea's Book Tracking Methods13:17 Elizabeth's Book Tracking Systems15:39 Galaxies and Goddesses Summer Book Bingo17:18 Fantasy Semantics : Warlocks Versus Wizards18:41 Other Recent Summer Reads25:17 ConclusionListen in for a special discount code to help plan your reading journey with The Book Sisters:  https://www.book-sisters.com/Other fun resources:The New York Times Book Review Best Books of the 21st Centuryhttps://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/books/best-books-21st-century.html The New York Times Book Review Best Books of the 21st Century - Reader’s Choicehttps://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/books/reader-best-books-21st-century.html 

In this week's episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth delve into their first sci-fi book pick “The Moonday Letters” by Emmi Itäranta. They share their thoughts on the book, highlighting its unique blend of science fiction, ecological themes, and mystical elements. The story, written in an epistolary format, follows Lumi's quest to find her missing spouse, Sol, across space in the year 2168. The hosts discuss the book's melancholic beauty, realistic world-building, and the interplay between science and mysticism. They also touch on similar book recommendations and their personal ratings.Other books mentioned in this episode: Origin by Dan BrownThis is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max GladstoneThe Mimicking of Known Successes by Malka Older00:00 Galaxies & Goddesses Episode Intro02:32 Themes and Structure of the Book04:45 Defining a Thriller?09:50 The Anthropocene Epoch12:59 Digging the Details16:13 Mythology References19:19 Life on Earth vs. Mars: A Tale of Inequality23:59 Mysticism and Science: A Delicate Balance29:33 Final Thoughts and Ratings

In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth celebrate Pride Month, emphasizing the importance of visibility and support for queer stories as allies. They discuss the origins of Pride Month, highlighting the 1969 Stonewall riots and their impact on LGBTQ+ rights movements. The conversation transitions to LGBTQ+ books, with the hosts sharing recommendations and discussing various stories that feature queer characters and relationships. The episode concludes with details about various pride parades across the United States and an invitation for listeners to tune into their June book pick for their next episode The Moonday Letters by Emmi Itäranta. Books mentioned in this episode:The Song of Achilles by Madeline MillerOn Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean VuongThe Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K Le GuinPsalm for the Wild-Built by Becky ChambersA Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky ChambersThe Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde Interview with the Vampire by Anne RiceMooncakes by Suzanne Walker, Wendy Xu (Illustrator)Middlesex by Jeffrey EugenidesOn our TBRThe Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha ShannonA Marvellous Light by Freya MarskThe Moonday Letters by Emmi Itäranta00:00 Introduction and Pride Month Acknowledgment01:32 History of Pride Month and Stonewall Riots06:02 Queer Representation in Literature16:36 Normalizing Queer Relationships18:33 "Middlesex" by Jeffrey Eugenides23:30 Books on on TBR26:26 Parades!Let’s Connect…Email us at galaxiesandgoddesses@gmailPodcast IG: @galaxiesandgoddesses

In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, hosts Elizabeth and Andrea explore their seasonal reading habits and discuss nostalgic summer reading programs that foster a love for books. They share childhood memories of reading on backyard patios, discuss the impact of reading programs such as Pizza Hut’s and local library initiatives, and emphasize the charm and community of independent bookstores. The episode wraps up with the announcement of their own summer book bingo challenge and encourages listeners to join in on the fun!Books Mentioned in this episode:(Books We’ve Found in Little Free Libraries)Crying in H Mart by Michelle ZaunerThe Plot Against America by Phillip RothThe Human Stain by Phillip RothA Fine Balance by Rohinton MistryThe Rose Code by Kate Quinn(A Book that Andrea Owns Two Copies) All Systems Red by Martha Wells(A Book that Elizabeth bought on Independent Bookstore Day)James by Percival EverettBingo Programs:Little Free Library Book Bingohttps://littlefreelibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/lfl-bingo-card-2025.pdfUniversity of Maryland: Terp Summer Challengehttps://alumni.umd.edu/events/marquee/terp-summer-reading-challengeOhio State Summer Reading Challenge​​https://www.osu.edu/alumni/reading-bingo-challenges Seattle Public Library Summer Bingohttps://www.spl.org/programs-and-services/authors-and-books/book-bingoKids Reading Programs:PIzza Hut Summer Reading Programhttps://www.bookitprogram.com/Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Programhttps://www.barnesandnobleinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025-BN-Kids-Summer-Reading-Journal.pdf Connect with us on Instagram @galaxiesandgoddesses00:00 Welcome to Galaxies and Goddesses00:34 Episode Overview00:46 Seasonal Reading Habits02:27 Outdoor Reading Spaces 04:38 Nostalgic Backyard Patios06:36 Exploring Little Free Libraries17:49 Excitement for Alexander Skarsgard's New Show18:12 New Orleans Bookstore Adventure21:29 Independent Bookstore Day Marathon30:46 Summer Reading Programs and Conclusion

Join hosts Andrea and Elizabeth in this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses as they discuss Daughter of the Moon Goddess by Sue Lynn Tan. They explore the book's setting, plot, and connections to Chinese mythology, and offer their thoughts on whether it leans more towards young adult or adult fiction. They also share personal reflections and library anecdotes, and touch on themes like dragons in fantasy worlds and the inclusion of meditation. The episode concludes with their ratings and invites listeners to their next episode about favorite summer reading activities. Tune in for an engaging and informative book discussion!Other books mentioned in this episode:Go Set a Watchman by Harper LeeThe Clan of the Cave Bear by Jean M. AuelThe Pillars of the Earth by Ken FollettThe City of Brass by S.A. ChakrabortyCirce and Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller00:00 Welcome to Galaxies and Goddesses00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:31 Book Discussion: Daughter of the Moon Goddess02:08 Themes and World-Building04:41 Character Analysis and Final Thoughts18:27 Telepathic Dragons and Mythical Creatures20:07 Exploring Chinese Mythology24:02 Meditation and Mindfulness33:03 Book Ratings and Final Thoughts

Join hosts Andrea and Elizabeth as they dive into what’s next on their TBR shelf of their favorite sci-fi and fantasy series, along with a few stand alone novels. They share personal anecdotes and detailed insights about why these books captivate them. They also touch upon upcoming releases by authors like Rachel Gillig and R.F. Kuang. Additionally, the hosts discuss Independent Bookstore Day and their plans to celebrate, including how to find out more about local bookstore events.Fantasy books on our TBRKingdom of Ash  (Throne of Glass #7) by Sarah J MaasThe Blackbird Oracle (All Souls #5) by Deborah HarknessWolves of the Calla (The Dark Tower #5) by Stephen KingWritten in My Own Heart's Blood (Outlander #8) by Diana GabaldonOathbound (The Legendborn Cycle #3) by Tracy DeonnSci-Fi books on our TBRThe Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells (upcoming on Apple TV+)Project Hail Mail by Andy Weir (film in production)Parable of the Sower by Octavia ButlerI,Robot by Isaac AsimovThe Dispossessed by Ursula Le GuinAuthors with new releasesRachel Gillig with The Knight and the Moth, May 20, 2025R.F. Kuang with Katabasis, August 26, 2025Independent Bookstore Day Indiebound Map and other resources: https://www.indiebound.org/independent-bookstore-day/mapTrevor Noah’s Podcast, “What Now? With Trevor Noah”https://open.spotify.com/show/122imavATqSE7eCyXIcqZL The Book Larder, Seattlehttps://booklarder.com/products/seattle-independent-bookstore-day-2025 Parnassus’ Books, Nashvillehttps://parnassusbooks.net/event/independent-bookstore-day-2025 

Andrea and Elizabeth dive into the world of children's literature with an in-depth discussion of 'The Girl Who Drank the Moon' by Kelly Barnhill, which won the Newbery Medal in 2017. They explore its themes, characters, and setting. The podcast episode touches on the simplicity and depth often found in children's literature, the duality of characters, and the poetic prose unique to these stories. The conversation also touches on religious allegories and the significance of names and symbols within the book. Andrea and Elizabeth conclude by introducing their next book, 'The Daughter of the Moon Goddess' by Sue Lynn Tan, which continues their full moon theme.Let’s Connect…Email us at galaxiesandgoddesses@gmailGalaxies & Goddesses on YouTubePodcast IG: @galaxiesandgoddesses

In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth delve into 'The Full Moon Coffee Shop' by Mai Mochizuki. They discuss the book’s themes, such as astrology, talking cats, and its translated title, which led to some unexpected elements. The hosts share their personal insights, perceptions of astrology, and how these influenced their enjoyment of the book. Conversations also touch on related topics, including other books with talking cats, cultural differences in translation, and cat cafes. They conclude the episode with their individual ratings and encourage the audience to read along next time. 00:00 Welcome to Galaxies and Goddesses00:27 Introducing 'The Full Moon Coffee Shop'01:56 Exploring the Book's Themes and Translation04:14 Astrology and Character Analysis08:55 Book Structure and Personal Reflections15:40 Music and Cultural Context24:14 Cat Cafes and Other Books28:50 Conclusion and RatingsLet’s Connect…Email us at galaxiesandgoddesses@gmailGalaxies & Goddesses on YouTubePodcast IG: @galaxiesandgoddesses

Note from Andrea & Elizabeth: This was our very first episode of Galaxies and Goddesses! Our audio and editing have come a long way since then, but we’re leaving this episode as part of the podcast’s history. If you enjoy it, be sure to check out some of our newer episodes to hear how the show has evolved. ✨In the first episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, hosts Andrea and Elizabeth introduce themselves and their new podcast dedicated to sci-fi and fantasy books. They discuss their reasons for starting the podcast, emphasizing their love for the genres and the unique perspectives they bring. They also preview the year ahead, focusing on a theme of the full moon and upcoming book discussions. Listeners are encouraged to follow along on social media and read with the hosts.Elizabeth’s Top Reads so far…“Wellness” by Nathan Hill “Pachinko” by Min Jin Lee Broken Earth trilogy, which includes “The Fifth Season”, “The Obelisk Gate”, and “The Stone Sky” by N.K. Jemisin Andrea’s Top Reads so far…“The Will of the Many” by James Islington“Onyx Storm” by Rebecca Yarros“The Full Moon Coffee Shop” by Mai Mochizuki, translated by Jesse KirkwoodLet’s Connect…Email us at galaxiesandgoddesses@gmailGalaxies & Goddesses on YouTubePodcast IG: @galaxiesandgoddesses