Get ready for a bookish twist on March Madness in this episode of FanCastic! Hosts Loretta and Emyli bring the ultimate reader showdown to the mic with brackets! (Hold the basketball)

In this March Madness–inspired episode, we reveal the Plated Prisoner fan cast results, debate our ultimate Book Boyfriend Bracket, and discuss which fictional men deserve a spot in the championship round. Expect passionate arguments, surprising wins, and maybe a few controversial eliminations along the way.

We also dive into pop culture with a discussion about Timothée Chalamet’s controversial interview comments about ballet and opera, and why the internet had a lot to say about it.

Whether you're rooting for your favorite morally gray king or defending your top book boyfriend, this episode is packed with hot takes and fandom fun.

In this episode:

• Plated Prisoner fan cast results
• Book Boyfriend March Madness bracket
• Discussion of Timothée Chalamet’s controversial ballet and opera interview comments
• Romantasy Trope March Madness bracket
• Best Adaptation March Madness Bracket
• ACOTAR fan theories
• Listener-worthy hot takes

🎧 Tune in and see which fictional heartthrob takes the crown!

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What happens when fantasy readers get a microphone and zero fear about controversial casting?

In this episode of FanCastic, we fan cast The Shepherd King, the dark romantasy duology by Rachel Gillig — including One Dark Window and Two Twisted Crowns.

From bold casting picks for Elspeth, Ravyn, and the Nightmare to a few unexpected choices that might divide the fandom, we debate which actors could bring the eerie magic, gothic romance, and haunting atmosphere of this beloved romantasy series to life on screen.

We’re also sharing highlights from our time at Romantasy Con LA, including convention moments, fan energy, and what it’s like attending a romantasy convention in Los Angeles.

If you love romantasy books, fantasy fan casting, BookTok favorites, and chaotic reader discussions, this episode is for you.

⚠️ Series spoilers for The Shepherd King duology

Join the conversation:
Who would you cast in a Shepherd King adaptation?

🎙 Subscribe to FanCastic for weekly episodes about fantasy books, fandom culture, and dream book-to-screen adaptations.

HOLY CRAP! Be still our beating hearts!! Are we all still okay!?

Emyli & Loretta RAN to their studio minutes after the surprise Call Her Daddy episode with Sarah J. Maas drop on Wednesday, 3/4 to bring you this very special bonus episode!! Hit play to hear all of our thoughts and reactions to the BIG NEWS of more ACOTAR coming October 27th & January 12!! Everyone say "THANK YOU SARAH"!

PLUS! We did a a little teaser of who we would fan cast in the TV/Film adaptation of Crescent City-- fun!! Spontaneous! What a wild ride, right book girlies?!

All art featured is made by the following incredible artists:

Pins of Marvel and Magic
MERMAIDTALESLOJA
brunojlopez
Jemlincreations
Gemini Rising - bookishkoda

#sarahjmaas #acotar #acotarseries #fancast #alexcooper #crescentcity

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