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Join Jonathan, Kelly, Ashley, and Mari as we dive deep into the mesmerizing romance of Oak King Holly King by Sebastian Nothwell. We'll also unravel the magic behind exclusive editions like Fairyloot's When the Moon Hatched and explore the perks and pitfalls of popular book subscription services such as Fairyloot, Lumicrate, and Owlcrate. Plus, don't miss our excitement over T. Kingfisher's upcoming release, A Sorceress Comes to Call.

We take a brief divergence into 80s with "The Black Cauldron," delving into its eerie plot and the impact it had on young audiences. We'll discuss why Disney initially buried this sinister animated film and our evolving perceptions of other Disney classics and animated shorts. Our nostalgic trip doesn't stop there; we reminisce about beloved 80s cartoons like "He-Man" and ponder how our views have changed over the years.

Our literary adventure continues with in-depth review of this month's pick. From the historical setting of Victorian London and the fantasy world of the Fae, we meet the destined lovers of Shrike and Wren Lofthouse. We debate on the elements of fantasy, romance, and spice, along with a discussion on the real elements of history and prejudices the author seamlessly blends into the story. We analyze character transformations, memorable scenes, and shocking plot twists, culminating in a reflection on how side characters can enrich a story.

Note: We unintentionally used the incorrect pronouns for one of the characters in our discussion. Our apologies and thanks to the author for the correction that Daniel's pronouns are He/Him.

We wrap things up with a lightning round asking if the classic movie "A Knight's Tale" can be considered romantasy. Finally, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast. Join us next time as we delve into "The Last Storm" by JD Linton and continue our journey through the world of books!

Links from the News Segment and Show:

• Fairyloot is doing a special exclusive edition of When the Moon Hatched. It’s blue and turquoise and white with holographic foil and sprayed edge images and pretty. Shopping is open to Fairyloot subscribers first and then to the general public starting 4pm BST June 7th.
  • Fairyloot Promotion
• T. Kingfisher’s newest fairy tale retelling releases August 6th. If you preorder and submit your receipt to Tor Books by August 5th, you get a free 5 X 7 art print.
  • A Sorceress Comes to Call (Goodreads)
  • Link for the Promotion
• Sebastian Nothwell
  • Author's website
• June is Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ+) Pride Month
  • https://www.loc.gov/lgbt-pride-month/about/
• Romantasy Book Convention (Orlando 2024)
  • https://www.fabledfantasyevents.com/
• Disney's "The Black Cauldron"
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Black_Cauldron_(film)

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Have you ever felt the heart-pounding anticipation of a plot twist you never saw coming, or the sting of a character's betrayal that felt all too real? Our latest episode of is a literary feast for the senses, as we unravel the complex world of Kendare Blake's Three Dark Crowns.

We touch on the news that Sarah Maas is the best-selling author (all genres) in 2024 so far with House of Flame and Shadow according to Business Insider. Also, the surprising news that Carissa Broadbent is releasing book two of the Crowns of Nyaxia series, Ashes and the Star Cursed King, on June 4. The surprising part is that each vampire house is gong to get its own duology.

This episode isn't just about reviews; it's a deep exploration of how the publishing industry is evolving, a conversation spurred by the news and Business Insider article linking the explosive growth of the romantasy genre to social media. We weave comparisons with the music industry's digital leap and celebrate the romance genre's self-publishing phenomena that's rewriting the rules.

Then, we cast an analytical eye over the charming yet sinister tapestry of Three Dark Crowns, where magic, mayhem, and monarchy collide, leaving us all with fierce opinions and starry-eyed predictions for the Queen of Fennbirn's fate. We give our spoiler-free ratings and thoughts before a deep, spoiler-filled, discussion. We debate which of the three queens we would support in the struggle for the throne.

Concluding with a heart-to-heart on the intoxicating mix of fantasy and romance within Blake's tale, we spar over the authenticity of enchanted romances versus those forged in the fires of genuine connection. The episode's cover art debate is the cherry on top, as we ponder the power of first impressions and the lure of a beautiful book jacket. We cap it off with a fierce discussion on whether the new Dune movies meet the definition of Romantasy.

Prepare to be enchanted by our insights, laughter, and maybe even find a new favorite to add to your collection.

Links from the News Segment and Show:

• Sarah Maas is the best selling author so far in 2024, social media, and the rise of romantasy in the publishing world.
  • Business Insider article
• Crowns of Nyaxia vol. II, Ashes and the Star Cursed King
  • Amazon link to author
• Kendare Blake
  • Author's website
• May is Asian & Pacific American Heritage Month
  • https://www.asianpacificheritage.gov/
• Romantasy Book Convention (Orlando 2024)
  • https://www.fabledfantasyevents.com/

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Instagram - @ofswordsandsoulmates

Goodreads - http://www.goodreads.com/ofswordsandsoulmates

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Prepare to indulge your literary senses in a world where romance intertwines with the intrigue of royal fantasy. As we embark on a vibrant discussion, our quartet of book enthusiasts—Mari, Kelly, Ashley, and Jonathan —discuss Abigail Owen's "The Liar's Crown."

We unveil the news on Holly Black's new card game, Enemies and Lovers: The Crown of Elfhame. There is a new stained-glass limited cover of "Crowns of Niaxia." Discover what awaits in Abigail Owen's final installment in the Dominions trilogy, "The Shadows Rule."

Immerse yourself in the tapestry of relationships and mythology that weaves through our featured fantasy book, where the magic of names and power of bloodlines craft a narrative as compelling as the legends that inspired them. We dissect the nuances of royal privilege and the chains of duty, drawing parallels to the Windsors' own saga. From the enigmatic allure of the Shadowraith to the bittersweet plight of Tabra, we delve into the depths of character arcs that promise to unfurl in the sequel, leaving us yearning for more.

Finally, we cap off this episode with a flourish of visual and romantic musings, critiquing the arresting cover art of Elizabeth Turner Stokes for "The Liar's Crown" and musing over the symbolic resonance within. We then shift gears for a humorous homage to Robin Hood's cinematic journey, ranking our favorite portrayals of Maid Marian and her dashing outlaw. Get ready for a hint of nostalgia and a peek at "Three Dark Crowns" by Kendare Blake, all while we encourage you, our dear listeners, to contribute your burning questions for our next rapid round of literary banter.

Links from the News Segment and Show:

• Holly Black card game: Enemies and Lovers: The Crown of Elfhame
  • Kickstarter Link
• Acrylipicsbookishnook version of Crowns of Nyaxia
  • https://acrylipics.com/
• The final book in the Dominions trilogy by Abigail Owens, The Shadows Rule All, will be released on November 12, 2024
  • Author's website with announcement
• Romantasy Book Convention (Orlando 2024)
  • https://www.fabledfantasyevents.com/

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Unearth the secrets of "The Mummy" as we mark its 25th anniversary, not just reminiscing about its thrills but also digging into the rich tapestry of its characters and their moral ambiguity. Are our heroes really the good guys, or is there more to Imhotep's curse than meets the eye? Join us for a lively debate on this cinematic classic and the implications of its narrative through a contemporary lens. We discuss how 1999 was an amazing year for movies, and this was a great film in a year of great films.

Evie's character, with Rachel Weisz's impeccable portrayal, continues to enchant us with her blend of intellect and audacity. We chuckle over our favorite quotes and concede that some special effects have aged poorly and some like fine wine – or in this case, like a perfectly preserved mummy. The film's success story, from its desert shoots to its box office surprise, makes "The Mummy" a cult phenomenon worth revisiting. And let's not forget the other characters who add zest to the adventure, making every rewatch an expedition worth taking.

Our topic waltzes through the romance of Jerry Goldsmith's score and the bygone era of Hollywood, where movie posters were as much a work of art as the films they represented. We dissect the visual and auditory elements that make "The Mummy" not just a movie but an experience. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a newfound enthusiast, this chapter of our podcast promises to rekindle your love for the magic that "The Mummy" has cast over us for a quarter of a century. So, adjust your fedoras and sharpen your wits, as we set out on this podcast journey into the heart of cinematic nostalgia as we discuss if this classic is in fact, romantasy.

Links from this episode:

https://www.indiebound.org/independent-bookstore-day

https://jenniferlarmentrout.com/apollycon/

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Discover the enchanting intersections of romantic literature and fantasy realms as we, your impassioned hosts Mari, Kelly, Ashley, and Jonathan, unveil literary treasures that will beguile your heart and challenge your imagination. With the buzz surrounding Carissa Broadbent's "The Songbird and the Heart of Stone" and the anticipated mecha magic of Xiran Jay Zhao's "Iron Widow" sequel, we're thrilled to share our musings on these upcoming releases and the beautifully bound new editions of "Legends and Lattes." We also will also touch on the announcement of the next installment of Rebecca Yarros' 'Fourth Wing' sequel as well as the special edition of the Throne of Glass books on FairyLoot.

Our book for this episode is "Vikings in the Mist / Shadows of Kiev" by Eliza Milton. As we navigate through a whirlpool of mixed fantasy elements and dissect the fiery romance of Viking fantasy novels, our candid thoughts flow like a cascade of insights as we give an overall rating in a spoiler-free segment before a detailed discussion where spoilers abound.

We're excited for you to join us and share your own thoughts on these narrative odysseys. Whether you're drawn to the thrill of a well-wrought fantasy or the tender entanglement of soulmates, our podcast is your sanctuary for all things romantasy. Engage with us across our social platforms, and let's revel in the art of storytelling together.

Links from the News Segment:
The Songbird and the Heart of Stone (Crowns of Nyaxia book 3) by Carissa Broadbent release date November 19, 2024 - https://a.co/d/5bLjZki

Heavenly Tyrant (Iron Widow book 2) by Xiran Jay Zhao has been pushed back to December 24, 2024 release date - https://a.co/d/imKsqJa

Legends & Lattes and Bookshops & Bonedust by Travis Baldree being released in special edition hardcovers on October 29, 2024 - https://tinyurl.com/5e683f92

Fairyloot is doing special editions of Throne of Glass, open to the general US public for purchase on April 18, 2024 - https://tinyurl.com/2p8k7xdj

Rebecca Yarros announces on Good Morning America that the third book in the Empyrean series (Fourth Wing, Iron Flame) will be released on January 21, 2025 and will be titled Onyx Storm - https://tinyurl.com/2zv5ufbs

Romantasy Book Convention (Orlando 2024)
https://www.fabledfantasyevents.com/

Book Reviewed:

Shadows of Kiev / Vikings in the Mist by Eliza Tilton - https://a.co/d/eog2XFp

Author’s Webpage - https://elizatilton.com/

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Embark on an enchanting journey through the intertwined paths of romance and fantasy with your guides Mari, Kelly, Ashley, and Jonathan! We delve into what "romantasy" truly means. In this introductory episode, we review what this podcast will be about as we begin the journey with our listeners as our lively discussion paints a portrait of a genre that defies the mundane.

With our unique rating system, we will meticulously assess everything from the authenticity of cover art to the depth of fantasy and romantic elements that make a narrative irresistible. We also share our insights on how romantasy even includes the 'bromances' that define iconic films. Join us for a heart-stirring exploration that promises to leave you spellbound, as we celebrate the inclusivity that allows love to bloom in the most unexpected places, all while discovering how these tales resonate with our diverse literary palates.

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Goodreads - http://www.goodreads.com/ofswordsandsoulmates