On this week's Chosen One episode, we speak to Shara Curlett about the first book in her brand-new fantasy series, Protector of Beyond, that's full of mythical creatures, perilous trials and kids with mysterious powers. She tells us how she came up with the 'spark' for this magical world after a winding professional journey from DJ to author (tune in to hear the surprising thing those two jobs have in common!). We also talk about about the power of fantasy to capture children's imaginations, and how important it is to get kids reading books in today's online world.

Lit Witches is hosted by Adelaide Jensen, and this episode's guest is Shara Curlett.

Produced by Liz Burnett. Video Production by Michael Windle and Isabella Francis. Additional scripting and research by Shané Oosthuizen. Recording and theme song composition by Ben Cauduro. Content co-ordination by Tiana Warner. Graphic design by Sally Dunkerley and Olivia Mead.

Release the kraken! On today's Roundtable episode, we're chatting about our latest epic fantasy romance obsession, Steelborn by Taylor J LaRue. From well-crafted magic systems and expansive worlds to underground networks of thieves and spies, we dive into everything we loved about this fantasy debut. We also ask the hardhitting questions: What do we do when fae aren't the love interests? Why aren't there more krakens and pirates in our books? And, most important of all, should the name 'Gavin' be banned in fantasy?

Our book recommendations this week:

Adiba: The Poison Daughter by Sheila Masterson

Issi: Mine After Midnight by Lauren Jackson (check out our interview with Lauren Jackson!)

Adelaide: The Eye of the Bedlam Bride by Matt Dinniman (don't miss our roundtable chat on the Dungeon Crawler Carl series)

Spoiler Alert! We discuss major spoilers and the ending of Steelborn in our After Dark section, from 30.42 to 39.30.

Lit Witches is hosted by Adelaide Jensen, and this episode's guests are Adiba Oemar and Isabelle Werro.

Produced by Liz Burnett. Video Production by Michael Windle and Isabella Francis. Additional scripting and research by Shané Oosthuizen. Recording and theme song composition by Ben Cauduro. Content co-ordination by Tiana Warner. Graphic design by Sally Dunkerley and Olivia Mead.

Read Shadow Reaper yet? Good. Let's spoil everything!

In this full spoiler review, we're diving deep into Lynette Noni's latest fantasy novel, breaking down the biggest plot twists, shocking reveals, unforgettable character moments, and that ending. From our favourite scenes and emotional moments to the questions we're still asking, nothing is off limits. Whether you're looking for a Shadow Reaper review, an ending explained, or simply want to hear fellow fans obsess over every twist, this episode is for you. Want more on Lynette Noni, Prison Healer or Shadow Reaper? Check out our previous episode 'Soul-sucking reapers or death prisons? Fantasy queen Lynette Noni is back with Shadow Reaper'.

Lit Witches is hosted by Adelaide Jensen, and this episode's guests are Adiba Oemar and Isabelle Werro.

Produced by Liz Burnett. Video Production by Michael Windle and Isabella Francis. Additional scripting and research by Shané Oosthuizen. Recording and theme song composition by Ben Cauduro. Content co-ordination by Tiana Warner. Graphic design by Sally Dunkerley and Olivia Mead.