The focal point of this podcast episode revolves around our discourse on the newly released book "Sunrise on the Reaping" by Suzanne Collins, which serves as the second prequel to the illustrious "Hunger Games" series. We delve into Collins's narrative style and thematic exploration, particularly her incisive critique of authoritarianism and propaganda as illustrated within the fabricated reality of the Hunger Games. Through our dialogue, we strive to illuminate the evolution of dystopian elements across the series, as well as the profound societal implications that resonate even in contemporary times. Furthermore, we engage in a brief discussion of other literary works we've encountered, including "Here Be Dragons" by Dimitri Balcaen and "Malice" by John Gwynne, each contributing uniquely to the landscape of modern fantasy literature. Ultimately, we invite our listeners to join us in reflecting on these narratives and their broader relevance to our understanding of power, identity, and resistance in both fictional and real-world contexts.

The sixteenth installment of our podcast, Rolling into Fantasy, presents an engaging exploration of the literary realm, particularly focusing on the recent publication of Suzanne Collins' novel, "Sunrise on the Reaping." This work serves as a significant addition to the Hunger Games universe, functioning as a prequel that delves into the complexities of the 50th Hunger Games, a pivotal event within the narrative. Our discussion unfolds with an examination of Collins' narrative style and thematic depth, highlighting her adeptness at weaving social commentary through the tapestry of dystopian fiction. The conversation touches upon the evolution of the Hunger Games' portrayal throughout its iterations, emphasizing the stark contrast between earlier games and the later spectacles, ultimately revealing the insidious nature of propaganda and the manipulation of public perception by the Capitol. Through this lens, we scrutinize the moral quandaries presented in the text, as well as the implications of authority and rebellion, making connections to contemporary societal issues.

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of Suzanne Collins's latest work, 'Sunrise on the Reaping', which serves as a profound exploration of themes such as authoritarianism and propaganda.
• We examine the evolution of the Hunger Games series, noting how each installment reveals deeper societal critiques through its narrative and character development.
• The discussion emphasizes the significance of language in shaping perceptions of rebellion and compliance, illustrating how terminology can either empower or diminish the agency of individuals.
• We reflect on the implications of technology and media manipulation within the context of the story, drawing parallels to contemporary real-world issues around censorship and narrative control.

Links referenced in this episode:

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Hunger_Games
• https://www.suzannecollinsbooks.com/
• https://readmore.be/product-author/dimitri-balcaen/
• https://www.johngwynneauthor.co.uk/
• https://magic.wizards.com/en/products/tarkir-dragonstorm

This episode of **Rolling Into Fantasy** presents an exploration of our recent attendance at two significant events: Geeks and Freaks in Maastricht, the Netherlands, and a Belgian book convention. The primary focus of our discussion is the enriching interactions with various authors, most notably the renowned Belgian fantasy author Morgan Blade, who has graciously agreed to join us for an upcoming podcast episode. We delve into our experiences at these events, highlighting the unique offerings, including workshops and networking opportunities with fellow enthusiasts and creators. Furthermore, we reflect on the burgeoning interest in fantasy literature and its crucial role in fostering a vibrant reading culture. As we share insights from our conversations and the books we encountered, we express our enthusiasm for the upcoming interviews and the promise they hold for our listeners.

The fifteenth episode of our podcast delves into a comprehensive exploration of our recent engagements at two significant events: Geeks and Freaks in Maastricht, and a subsequent book convention in Belgium. We begin by reflecting on our initial impressions of Geeks and Freaks, which, despite its modest size relative to larger conventions, managed to foster a vibrant atmosphere teeming with workshops and artistic displays. Attendees participated in a variety of activities, from crafting potions to engaging with talented cosplayers. Notably, our interaction with Morgan Blade, a prominent Belgian fantasy author, was a highlight, culminating in her enthusiastic agreement to join us for a future episode. This initial event set the stage for our next undertaking, a larger book fair featuring over a hundred authors representing diverse genres. Here, we had the opportunity to engage with multiple fantasy authors and establish connections that promise exciting future collaborations for our podcast. The discussions illuminated the burgeoning interest in reading, particularly within the fantasy genre, highlighting its role in rejuvenating literary passion among younger audiences.

Takeaways:

• The podcast episode discusses the challenges faced in maintaining a bi-weekly recording schedule due to various commitments and events.
• During the episode, the speakers reflect on attending two significant events, which provided opportunities for networking and engaging with authors in the fantasy genre.
• One of the highlights of the episode includes the introduction of Morgan Blade, a Belgian fantasy author, who expressed interest in joining the podcast for future discussions.
• The hosts emphasize the growth of the fantasy genre in Belgium, noting the increasing visibility and accessibility of local authors at conventions.
• Dimitri Balkan, another author mentioned in the episode, has created a series that incorporates themes of disability, aiming to resonate with readers facing similar challenges.
• The episode concludes with a promise to feature upcoming interviews with various authors, showcasing the vibrant literary scene in fantasy literature.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Geeks and Freaks
• Facts
• Morgan Blade
• Dimitri Balcaen
• Petra Doom
• Mathias Maho
• Augustina Bastarica
• Jacqueline Hartman
• Robert Harris

The principal focus of this podcast episode is a thorough exploration of various literary works, with an emphasis on historical and fantasy genres. We commence by discussing our recent acquisitions of books, highlighting selections such as "Between Two Fires" by Christopher Buhlman, which intricately portrays the grim realities of the Black Plague and its psychological impacts on humanity. Following this, we delve into the anticipated narratives within the realm of historical fiction, including works by esteemed authors such as Susanna Clarke and Anne McCaffrey, examining their contributions to the genre and the thematic intricacies they present. Furthermore, we address current developments in the world of Magic: The Gathering, including an upcoming film and television adaptation, and contemplate its implications for the franchise's legacy. Conclusively, we provide insights on forthcoming literary events, inviting listeners to engage with the vibrant world of books and fantasy that we ardently cherish.

In the current episode of Rolling Into Fantasy, we embark on a comprehensive examination of the multifaceted literary landscape that fantasy encompasses, particularly through the lens of historical and contemporary narratives. The discussion begins with an exploration of my recent literary acquisitions, which include five newly acquired titles, each chosen for their thematic richness and narrative complexity. A focal point of our conversation is 'Between Two Fires' by Christopher Buhlmann, a poignant tale set amidst the ravages of the Black Plague in 14th-century France. Through the intertwined journeys of a fallen knight and a young girl, Buhlmann masterfully depicts the psychological and emotional toll of war and disease, prompting a deeper contemplation of the human condition during times of crisis.

Our dialogue then transitions to contemporary works that continue to shape the fantasy genre, such as Susanna Clarke's 'Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell', which intricately blends historical elements with magical realism. This exploration of practical magic during the Napoleonic Wars not only enhances our appreciation for character-driven narratives but also exemplifies the genre's capacity for profound emotional engagement. Additionally, we delve into the significance of 'Dragonflight' by Anne McCaffrey, a seminal work that marries science fiction with fantasy elements, featuring a compelling female protagonist navigating a world fraught with peril. Through these narratives, we aim to illuminate the enduring power of storytelling, encouraging our audience to engage with the profound themes that resonate within the literary fabric of fantasy.

Takeaways:

• In this episode of Rolling Into Fantasy, we delve deeply into various books, with a primary focus on historical fiction and its intricate narratives that captivate the imagination.
• A significant portion of our discussion centers around the impact of trauma and the psychological effects of war, particularly as depicted in grim dark fiction and historical narratives.
• We highlight the importance of character development in fantasy literature, emphasizing the allure of morally gray characters who reflect the complexities of human nature.
• We also discuss upcoming events related to fantasy literature, including local book fairs and conventions that celebrate the genre and its community.
• The episode features a critical review of 'Between Two Fires' by Christopher Buhlman, which intricately weaves themes of the Black Plague and human suffering into its storyline.
• Lastly, we express our anticipation for new releases, including works by renowned authors that continue to push the boundaries of fantasy and historical literature.

The thirteenth episode of Rolling Into Fantasy presents a captivating blend of personal anecdotes and literary discussions, inviting listeners into the world of fantasy literature through the hosts' shared experiences. The episode begins with a light-hearted recounting of a birthday celebration in London, where one host humorously describes being 'kidnapped' for the occasion. This personal touch not only establishes a casual tone but also serves as a springboard into deeper discussions about the literary treasures acquired during the trip, culminating in the addition of twelve new books to their collection.

As the hosts transition into the segment titled 'Tales from the Tome', they embark on an exploration of their recent literary finds. Each book introduced becomes a focal point for discussion, allowing the hosts to delve into themes of narrative structure, character development, and the evolution of the fantasy genre. Among the highlighted titles is 'Onyx Storm' by Rebecca Yarros, which the hosts eagerly anticipate discussing due to its significance within its series. Their conversations reflect a thoughtful engagement with the texts, as they analyze the intricate relationships between characters and the thematic undercurrents that drive the narratives forward. The segment is rich with insights, making it a valuable resource for listeners seeking to enrich their own literary explorations.

The episode then shifts to 'The Bard’s Ballad', where the hosts reflect on the cultural significance of literary adaptations, particularly through the medium of musicals. One host shares their experience attending the musical adaptation of 'Wicked', offering a nuanced critique of its storytelling and character portrayals. This discussion highlights the dynamic interplay between literature and performance art, showcasing how adaptations can reinterpret and reinvigorate classic tales for contemporary audiences. Ultimately, the episode concludes with a reaffirmation of the importance of storytelling in all its forms, encouraging listeners to remain engaged with the literary world, both in print and on stage.

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we delve into the extensive discussion of twelve newly acquired books, showcasing diverse genres and themes.
• The hosts reflect on their recent trip to London, highlighting the significance of literary exploration and personal experiences.
• We emphasize the importance of reading as a means of escapism and intellectual engagement, particularly in fantasy literature.
• A thorough review of the musical 'Wicked' illustrates the hosts' appreciation for theatrical adaptations of literary works.
• The conversation navigates through various book introductions and reviews, fostering a rich dialogue on literary preferences and storytelling.
• The hosts encourage listeners to explore new books and broaden their literary horizons through shared recommendations.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Waterstones
• Rebecca Yarros
• Chiron Jao
• Ava Reid
• Sun Tzu
• Alex Aster
• Piers Brown
• Fonda Lee
• Rachel Harrison
• Mark Lawrence
• Thomas D. Lee
• Christopher Buhlman
• Jacqueline Hartman
• Stefan Schwarz
• Winnie Holtzman

Join us as we dive into the excitement of the literary world with the release of Brandon Sanderson's latest installment, "Wind and Truth," part of the renowned Stormlight Archive series. This episode also features a spotlight on the much-anticipated republishing of the classic "Dragonlance Chronicles," reminding us of the enduring legacy of epic fantasy. We explore the thrill of rekindling our passion for reading after a break and discuss our plans to attend various upcoming events, including the brand new Geeks and Freaks convention in Maastricht. Our conversation touches on the intriguing possibilities of a crossover between Sanderson's Cosmere universe and Magic: The Gathering, sparking our imaginations about what such a collaboration could entail. With a mix of book recommendations and event previews, we invite you to stay enchanted and curious as we navigate the realms of fantasy together.

The podcast begins with a celebratory tone as the hosts welcome listeners to the first episode of the new year, expressing their eagerness to reconnect after a break. They outline the episode’s structure, which will explore three main topics: 'Tales from the Tome,' 'Lorebound,' and 'Epic Events.' The discussion kicks off with 'Tales from the Tome,' where the hosts dive into the literary world, highlighting Brandon Sanderson’s latest release, 'Wind and Truth.' This book, they explain, is significant in the Stormlight Archive series as it marks the conclusion of the first half of the saga. The hosts are particularly excited about its extensive length and the intricacies of its plot, which weaves themes of resurrection and the unique magic system present in Sanderson’s work.

In addition to Sanderson’s contribution, the hosts turn their attention to the nostalgic 'Dragonlance Chronicles,' discussing its impending republication and its foundational role in fantasy literature, particularly its ties to Dungeons and Dragons. Their conversation reveals their shared excitement for these classic tales, as they reminisce about the impact these stories had on the genre and the community. They also introduce Victoria Schwab’s 'Vicious,' drawing comparisons to Neal Shusterman’s 'Scythe,' which leads to a thoughtful exploration of the themes of power and morality in modern fantasy literature.

The next segment, 'Lorebound,' shifts focus to the latest news surrounding Sanderson’s universe, discussing rumors of a potential crossover with Magic: The Gathering. This revelation stirs excitement among the hosts, who delve into the implications of such collaborations in expanding the fantasy genre. They discuss the depth of Sanderson’s Cosmere universe, highlighting its significance and the breadth of stories it encompasses. Finally, the hosts transition into 'Epic Events,' where they highlight a range of upcoming conventions and gatherings in Belgium and the Netherlands, emphasizing the strong sense of community among fantasy enthusiasts. They conclude the episode by encouraging listeners to stay engaged and look forward to the exciting literary and community events that await them in the new year. The episode encapsulates a celebration of storytelling, community, and the magic of fantasy, leaving listeners with a sense of anticipation for future adventures.

Takeaways:

• The podcast kicks off the new year with excitement about upcoming books and events.
• Brandon Sanderson's fifth installment of the Stormlight Archive, Wind and Truth, has been released recently.
• Listeners can look forward to the republishing of the classic Dragonlance Chronicles series.
• Vicious by Victoria E. Schwab is highly anticipated, drawing comparisons to Neal Shusterman's Scythe.
• The episode highlights various upcoming fantasy and comic events in Belgium and the Netherlands.
• The hosts express their enthusiasm for exploring medieval festivals and unique literary events.

Companies...

This episode of Rolling Into Fantasy delves into the enchanting world of "The Wizard of Oz" and its lasting impact on fantasy literature, highlighting its whimsical departure from traditional fairy tales. Laurent and Marie-Noor explore the cultural context of the book, discussing how Frank Baum's storytelling was influenced by his experiences and the political landscape of the late 19th century. They also touch on the excitement surrounding the recent film adaptation of "Wicked," which reinterprets the classic tale, and the importance of recognizing the original source material. In the second segment, Marie-Noor shares insights about the animated series "Arcane," based on the popular game League of Legends, emphasizing its masterful storytelling and stunning animation. The hosts conclude with reflections on their hopes for 2025, focusing on supporting emerging writers and expanding their literary explorations.

The 11th episode of Rolling Into Fantasy brings listeners a reflective and engaging discussion as Laurent and Marie-Noor delve into two beloved cultural phenomena: L. Frank Baum's classic, The Wizard of Oz, and the animated series Arcane, inspired by the popular game League of Legends. With the festive season approaching, the hosts candidly acknowledge their busy schedules while emphasizing their commitment to maintaining a bi-weekly podcast rhythm. Laurent shares his enthusiasm for revisiting The Wizard of Oz, sparked by recent movie adaptations like Wicked. He explores the book's historical context, its whimsical departure from darker fairy tales, and its immediate success upon publication, selling over 90,000 copies in its first year. Laurent highlights Baum's storytelling prowess and the book's underlying themes of adventure and optimism, contrasting it with the conventional moralistic tales prevalent in children's literature at the time. As they transition to discussing Arcane, Marie-Noor outlines its narrative focus on character origins and the stunning animation quality, emphasizing its emotional depth and mature themes, paralleling societal issues. The hosts contemplate the evolving landscape of fantasy storytelling and the implications for aspiring writers, culminating in a discussion about their hopes for 2025, including spotlighting underrepresented authors and engaging with their audience more actively.

Takeaways:

• The Wizard of Oz's success in 1900 marked a significant shift in children's literature, moving away from darker themes.
• Arcane's storytelling and animation quality set a new standard for adaptations of video games.
• Laurent and Marie-Noor discussed the importance of cultural context when analyzing classic fantasy works.
• The challenges faced by aspiring writers today include the pressure of audience expectations and critical scrutiny.
• Marie-Noor highlighted the emotional depth and character growth present in Arcane's narrative and animation.
• Both hosts expressed excitement for upcoming fantasy literature and their plans for engaging with new authors.

• Wicked Collector’s Edition – Gregory Maguire
• Wicked (2024)
• Oz Series - Fourteen Oz books, written by L. Frank Baum.
• The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (Oz, #1) by L. Frank Baum | Goodreads
• Marvel Teams Up with Riot Games for Graphic Novels Based on 'League of Legends'
• Fortiche | French creative, animation and production company
• Riot Games. Developer of...

Episode 10 of Rolling Into Fantasy delves into the hosts' recent literary explorations, highlighting Laurent's progress in reading the first book of the Liveship Traders trilogy, "Ship of Magic" by Robin Hobb, which features unique elements like sentient ships. As Marie-Noor balances her exam preparations, the conversation touches on the challenges of maintaining a reading routine amidst life's obligations. The episode also includes insights into the newly released Dungeons and Dragons DM's guide, emphasizing its accessibility for new DMs while discussing the pros and cons for seasoned players. Additionally, Laurent shares his excitement about the recent Magic: The Gathering set, Foundations, and the fun of introducing new players to the game through jump-start packs. The episode wraps up with a discussion about a recent concert featuring music from Studio Ghibli films, celebrating the emotional connection these compositions have with fans.

The latest installment of Rolling Into Fantasy dives into the whirlwind of life that has kept hosts Laurent and Marie-Noor from recording more frequently. They candidly share their experiences, such as Marina's exam preparations, which have taken precedence over their podcasting, and the challenges Laurent has faced in tackling his extensive 'to be read' list. Despite their busy schedules, they manage to carve out time to discuss their love for fantasy literature and gaming. Laurent reveals his ongoing journey with the Dungeons & Dragons Dungeon Master's Guide, highlighting its accessibility for new DMs while also addressing the potential complications it introduces. He reflects on the balance of pros and cons in the guide, emphasizing how it streamlines the creation of balanced encounters and introduces new rules for firearms, which sparks a debate on their place in traditional D&D settings. Marie-Noor contributes her insights on the difficulties of being a veteran DM amidst these changes, showcasing the tension between old and new gameplay styles.

The conversation shifts to Laurent's literary pursuits, with a focus on Robin Hobb's Ship of Magic, the first book in the Liveship Traders trilogy. He passionately describes the unique premise of sentient ships and how this element intertwines with themes of family, ambition, and adventure. The rich world-building and character perspectives keep him engaged and eager to explore the rest of the series. Their discussion seamlessly weaves through different literary works, including Magic Realms, a retrospective on fighting fantasy art, which Laurent rates highly due to its nostalgic value. The episode wraps up with a lively recount of their experience attending a Studio Ghibli concert, where they share their thoughts on the music, the atmosphere, and how it connects to their shared love for the movies.

Rolling Into Fantasy takes listeners on a delightful journey through the lives of its hosts, Laurent and Marina, as they navigate the complexities of balancing academic responsibilities with their passion for fantasy literature and gaming. The episode opens with an honest discussion about the reasons behind their recording hiatus, primarily due to Marina's exams, which resonates with anyone familiar with the pressures of academic life. Laurent reflects on the weight of his reading list, expressing both frustration and excitement as he attempts to prioritize his literary interests while preparing for a new D&D campaign. The hosts engage in a thoughtful dialogue about the evolution of the Dungeon Master's Guide, noting its improved accessibility for new DMs, while raising concerns about the inclusion of firearms and the implications for traditional gameplay.

As the episode progresses, Laurent shares his current reading of Robin Hobb's Ship of Magic, highlighting its innovative narrative that centers around sentient ships and complex family dynamics. His enthusiasm for the book is...

This episode of Rolling Into Fantasy features a deep dive into the literary experiences of Laurent and Marie-Noor, highlighting their contrasting views on two fantasy books: "The Last Wish" by Andrzej Sapkowski and "Piranesi" by Susanna Clarke. Marie-Noor shares her struggles with "The Last Wish," citing its slow pacing and philosophical dialogue as barriers to her enjoyment, while Laurent praises "Piranesi" for its unique style and atmospheric writing. They also discuss their recent foray into Magic: The Gathering, including an exciting unboxing of Kamigawa booster packs and their experiences at a local Comic Con. The conversation touches on the significance of storytelling in both books and music, culminating in Marie-Noor's recommendation of the album "Ninth Hour," which offers a modern retelling of Beowulf. The episode wraps up with reflections on upcoming books and potential guest appearances, leaving listeners eager for the next installment.

The ninth episode of Rolling Into Fantasy immerses listeners in a delightful exploration of both literature and gaming. Laurent and Marie-Noor begin by reminiscing about their previous guest episode, expressing excitement about future guests. They then dive into their individual reading experiences, focusing on 'The Last Wish' by Andrzej Sapkowski and 'Piranesi' by Susanna Clarke. Marie-Noor candidly shares her struggles with Sapkowski's writing style, describing it as overly poetic and slow, which made it difficult for her to engage with the story. In contrast, Laurent speaks highly of 'Piranesi,' highlighting its captivating atmosphere and the protagonist's introspective journey through a labyrinthine world. Their discussion underscores the subjective nature of reading and how personal preferences can shape one's literary experiences.

The episode then transitions to a lively discussion on gaming, where Laurent recounts his experience at Comic Con Brussels, providing insights into the atmosphere and organization of the event compared to the more expansive FACTS convention. Despite missing FACTS this year, he shares the joy of participating in a Magic: The Gathering booster draft, emphasizing the thrill of deck-building and the strategic nature of gameplay. The hosts reflect on the community aspect of tabletop gaming and how it fosters connections among gamers, making it a cherished pastime that brings people together.

As the episode draws to a close, the Bard's Ballad segment introduces listeners to 'Ninth Hour,' an album that reinterprets the epic poem Beowulf through music. Marie-Noor delves into the album's themes of humanity, power, and the internal struggles of its characters, paralleling the narrative depth found in literature. Laurent shares his admiration for the death metal band Frozen Soul, noting their positive approach to heavy themes and their unique connection to Magic: The Gathering. This segment encapsulates the rich interplay between music and storytelling, showcasing how both art forms can inspire and resonate with audiences, leaving listeners eager for more insightful discussions in future episodes.

Takeaways:

• The hosts discussed their reading experiences, highlighting their contrasting opinions on the Witcher series.
• Laurent enjoyed Piranesi for its unique style and philosophical depth, rating it highly.
• Marie-Noor found A Monster Calls engaging but questioned its target audience's maturity level.
• The hosts expressed disappointment about missing the Facts event, sharing their friends' feedback.
• Laurent described the Comic Con experience as mixed due to its lack of organization.
• Frozen Soul, a death metal band, creatively merges music with Magic the Gathering gameplay.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Magic the Gathering