Secrets, Sorcery, and a Bloody Turning Point – Crown of Midnight Heats Up

Welcome back to Books, Cats, & Chaos, where the stakes are rising as we continue our deep dive into Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas. This episode covers Chapters 22–29, and fair warning—it’s a brutal one. If you’ve been following our journey through the Throne of Glass series, you know we don’t hold back on the laughs, the chaos, or the heartbreak. If you’re new here, now might be a good time to grab a drink, hug your cat, and brace yourself.

Celaena is straddling two worlds more than ever—assassin and protector, lover and warrior, loyal servant and secret rebel. Her tangled relationship with Chaol takes a steamy turn, while Dorian begins unraveling the threads of his magical heritage. But all the tension boils over in a heart-wrenching twist we never saw coming.

In this episode, we cover:

• Dorian’s deep dive into ancient bloodlines and a creepy library scene straight out of a horror novel

We also unpack what’s really going on beneath the surface: is Nehemia’s fate part of a bigger prophecy? Was Chaol’s silence a betrayal or a tragic mistake? And what kind of monster would leave a scene that horrific?

This is a turning point episode for Crown of Midnight—full of heartbreak, rage, and major character evolution. As always, we throw in our wild theories, lore breakdowns, and yes… just a little cat-related chaos.

We’d love to hear your reactions: Did you see that ending coming? Do you trust Archer? And what do you think Celaena is going to do next?

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We also fully support the work that K911 ResQ does in their efforts to save as many abandoned animals as possible. If you would like to donate to their efforts you can do it directly from their website. Every little bit helps - https://k911resq.com/donate/

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A Book Lover’s Dream: Romantasy BookCon LA – Panels, Signings & Chaos!

What happens when you bring together 200+ fantasy romance authors, exclusive book editions, immersive panels, and a crowd of book lovers? Absolute bookish mayhem—in the best way possible!

In this episode of The In-Between, we’re recapping our adventure at Romantasy BookCon LA 2025, an event put on by Fabled Fantasy Events that celebrates all things romantasy. With only one day to experience as much as we could, we packed in author signings, engaging discussions, unexpected book discoveries, and even a surprise fan moment with an audiobook narrator!

If you love fantasy books with a romantic twist, or if you’re considering attending this con in the future, this is the perfect deep dive into everything that made this event unforgettable.

The Experience – A Day of Bookish Adventure

Romantasy BookCon LA was a dream for book lovers, offering three massive ballrooms filled with authors, panels exploring the rise of the romantasy genre, and vendors selling everything from stunning bookish art to custom cosplay accessories.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Author Signings & Long-Awaited Bookish Meetups – From Fourth Wing to Throne of Glass, we met some of today’s biggest fantasy romance authors and navigated the chaos of ticketed signings.

Epic Author Panels – Strong female leads, romantasy’s growing dominance, and behind-the-scenes insights—these panels delivered some serious wisdom (and some unfiltered rants).

Fangirling Over Audiobook Narrators – Ka-Ce had a full-blown fan meltdown meeting the legendary Laura Horowitz. It was everything.

The Ultimate FOMO – We almost made it to the masquerade ball, magic show, and murder mystery… but one day just wasn’t enough.

The Parking Garage of Doom – If you’re attending next year, DO NOT PARK AT THE BILTMORE. We have horror stories.

Was It Worth It?

Absolutely. The bookish energy, the passionate fans, and the chance to be in a space that fully celebrates fantasy romance made this event unforgettable. Next time? We’re going VIP, bringing a rolling book cart, and packing snacks.

Did you go? If you did let us know how your experience was!

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If you like what you hear and want to support our show, you can buy us a coffee, it's what keeps us going!

Help a pet in need! The work that Pasadena Humane is doing, especially with the recent events involving the Eaton fire, is critical to everyone and everything affected. Consider helping if you can so injured and lost pets can be reunited with their families - https://pasadenahumane.org/

We also fully support the work that K911 ResQ does in their efforts to save as many abandoned animals as possible. If you would like to donate to their efforts you can do it directly from their website. Every little bit helps - https://k911resq.com/donate/

We hope you enjoy our show, and don't forget to share with your friends!

Secrets, Betrayal, and a Prince’s Hidden Power – A Deep Dive into Crown of Midnight

Welcome back, book lovers! In this episode of Books, Cats, & Chaos, we continue our deep dive into Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas, covering chapters 15–21. Expect heated debates, hidden story clues, and plenty of bookish chaos as we analyze character motives, major plot twists, and the underlying themes shaping Celaena’s journey.

If you love Throne of Glass and want engaging, in-depth discussions that break down every chapter, this episode is for you! Join us as we uncover secrets, explore relationships, and question just how “legendary” the world’s greatest assassin really is.

What You Can Expect in This Episode:

A Song of Rebellion: The haunting melody performed at Prince Hollin’s welcome celebration is more than just music—it’s a bold, dangerous statement. But why doesn’t the King react?

Roland’s Role: Is Roland a willing conspirator, or just another pawn in the King’s twisted game? His involvement is raising eyebrows, and we have theories.

Nehemia vs. Celaena – A Friendship on the Brink? Nehemia wants Celaena to do more, pushing her to take risks. But is her pressure justified, or is she withholding crucial secrets of her own?

The Eye of Elena Mystery Deepens: Celaena pieces together cryptic clues that could unlock ancient power, but someone seems determined to keep her distracted.

Can Archer Finn Be Trusted? Celaena is playing a dangerous game with the King, but is Archer her ace—or her downfall? His suspicious behavior is making us question everything.

Dorian’s Awakening: A prince with a buried secret. When rage and frustration reach their peak, Dorian’s magic manifests in an explosive way. But how long can he hide it?

The King’s Deadly Game: Death threats, shadowy alliances, and political maneuvering—why does the King want Nehemia gone now? And is Chaol walking into a trap?

Bonus Chaos: Cameo appearance by Fynn, our adorable tabby cat, plus our usual mix of sarcasm, unfiltered thoughts, and passionate bookish debates.

Why You Should Listen

Deep-Dive Analysis – We go beyond surface-level discussion to analyze character growth, foreshadowing, and underlying themes.

Spoiler-Free Past the Chapters Discussed – No future book spoilers, so you can enjoy without worry.

Perfect for Fantasy Fans – If you love Throne of Glass, ACOTAR, and Fourth Wing, this podcast is your new home.

Why not give us a follow?

Email us your thoughts, theories, and favorite scenes: [email protected]

Or subscribe and listen on your favorite podcast apps

If you like what you hear and want to support our show, you can buy us a coffee, it's what keeps us going!

Help a pet in need! The work that Pasadena Humane is doing, especially with the recent events involving the Eaton fire, is critical to everyone and everything affected. Consider helping if you can so injured and lost pets can be reunited with their families - https://pasadenahumane.org/

We also fully support the work that K911 ResQ does in their efforts to save as many abandoned animals as possible. If you would like to donate to their efforts you can do it directly from their website. Every little bit helps - https://k911resq.com/donate/

We hope you enjoy our show, and don't forget to share with your friends!

Romance, Horror, and the Haunting Unknown: Exploring Thrum by Meg Smitherman

In this “In-Between” segment, we dive deep into Thrum by Meg Smitherman—a short but unforgettable sci-fi horromance that blends romance, horror, and psychological terror in a haunting deep-space narrative. If you’re a fan of cosmic horror with a romantic twist, this episode is tailor-made for you!

Thrum follows Ami, the sole survivor of a deep-space crew who wakes from stasis only to face unsettling truths. Her only companion is Dorian, a mysterious entity whose true nature and ship remain cloaked in illusion. As Ami navigates the eerie corridors of Dorian’s vessel, she confronts not just external threats but the fragile boundaries of her own mind.

This gripping book delivers intense psychological horror with vividly disturbing imagery—think shadowy figures, visceral nightmares, and chilling hallucinations. The psychological unraveling of the protagonist as she questions reality will captivate fans of titles like Dead Space and The Callisto Protocol. The romantic tension between Ami and Dorian isn’t just an add-on; it’s intricately woven into the fabric of the horror, making both elements inseparable and essential to the story’s impact.

I share my spoiler-free thoughts on the book’s unique blend of genres, exploring how Thrum keeps readers guessing until the final pages with unexpected twists and cosmic dread. This isn’t your typical romance-in-space story—it’s a mind-bending exploration of what it means to be human when confronted with the incomprehensible.

If you’re searching for a quick read packed with suspense, vivid horror, and a romance that challenges reality, Thrum deserves a spot on your bookshelf. Plus, with the audiobook releasing soon, there’s no better time to jump into this psychological sci-fi gem.

Watch the full video now and join the conversation. Let us know your thoughts, and drop recommendations for more sci-fi, romance, and horror blends!

Find the book here at The Ripped Bodice - https://www.therippedbodice.com/book/9798986522784

Why not give us a follow?

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Or subscribe and listen on your favorite podcast apps

If you like what you hear and want to support our show, you can buy us a coffee, it's what keeps us going!

Help a pet in need! The work that Pasadena Humane is doing, especially with the recent events involving the Eaton fire, is critical to everyone and everything affected. Consider helping if you can so injured and lost pets can be reunited with their families - https://pasadenahumane.org/

We also fully support the work that K911 ResQ does in their efforts to save as many abandoned animals as possible. If you would like to donate to their efforts you can do it directly from their website. Every little bit helps - https://k911resq.com/donate/

We hope you enjoy our show, and don't forget to share with your friends!

Dragons, Secrets, and Shocking Bonds – The Journey Heats Up in Fourth Wing!

Welcome back, fantasy fans, book lovers, and podcast enthusiasts! In this exciting episode of Books, Cats, & Chaos, James and Ka-Ce return with a deep dive into Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros, covering chapters 13–18. This episode is packed with dragons, shocking twists, and intense character dynamics that will leave you wanting more.

In this spoiler-free discussion, we explore Threshing Day, where cadets risk everything to bond with dragons. Will Violet survive the danger from both dragons and fellow cadets? Why does Jack seem to know more about feathertails than he should? And what’s the real story behind Xaden’s mysterious intervention?

What you can expect in this episode:

Threshing Day Chaos: The most dangerous day yet—will Violet survive the cadets, dragons, and deadly ambitions?

Jack’s Sinister Knowledge: How does Jack know so much about feathertails? Is there more to him than we think?

The Feathertail Mystery: The elusive golden dragon, dismissed by many—could it hold secrets that will change everything?

Xaden’s Shocking Move: Why does the cold and calculated Xaden risk stepping in? Does he have a personal stake in Violet’s survival?

Tairn’s Unexpected Bond: The continent’s second-largest black dragon chooses Violet. But why her?

Two Dragons, One Rider: Violet bonds with two dragons—an unprecedented event. What does this mean for the power balance?

Melgren’s Calculations: General Melgren’s cold assessment—Is Violet a threat or a weapon to control?

Names Hold Power: Why do dragons guard their full names so fiercely? Could this reveal impact future books in the Empyrean series?

This episode also unpacks Violet’s unprecedented bond with not one—but two dragons! As the story unfolds, we ask critical questions about power dynamics, dragon lore, and the significance of dragon names. Plus, General Melgren’s calculating gaze suggests there’s more at stake than anyone realizes.

Whether you’re new to the Empyrean series or deep into the fandom, this discussion will give you fresh insights and bold theories to consider.

Check out this Reddit for more information on the proper pronunciation of the dragon names - https://www.reddit.com/r/fourthwing/comments/14svjfr/gaelic_names_and_their_translations/

Why not give us a follow?

Email us your thoughts, theories, and favorite scenes: [email protected]

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If you like what you hear and want to support our show, you can buy us a coffee, it's what keeps us going!

Help a pet in need! The work that Pasadena Humane is doing, especially with the recent events involving the Eaton fire, is critical to everyone and everything affected. Consider helping if you can so injured and lost pets can be reunited with their families - https://pasadenahumane.org/

We also fully support the work that K911 ResQ does in their efforts to save as many abandoned animals as possible. If you would like to donate to their efforts you can do it directly from their website. Every little bit helps - https://k911resq.com/donate/

We hope you enjoy our show, and don't forget to share with your friends!

Jealous Princes, Dangerous Secrets, and a Mysterious Courtesan – Dive Deeper into Crown of Midnight!

Welcome back, book lovers, podcasters, and fellow fantasy fans! In the latest Books, Cats, & Chaos podcast episode, we (James and Ka-Ce) dive deep into Crown of Midnight (Book 2 of the Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas). In this spoiler-free discussion of chapters 8–14, we explore Celaena’s complicated relationships, dark court politics, and subtle hints of rebellion that keep readers hooked.

Expect thoughtful commentary, fresh theories, and emotional reactions as we break down character growth, plot twists, and the underlying tension between duty and freedom. We also highlight key themes shaping the Maasiverse, with engaging banter perfect for readers and podcast fans looking for thoughtful book discussions.

What you can expect in this episode:

Tension at the State Dinner: Celaena is forced to play the obedient assassin while the King’s presence keeps everyone on edge. But why is Chaol so cautious tonight?

Dorian’s Jealousy Unleashed: The charming prince reveals a darker side as jealousy clouds his judgment. Is his anger toward Celaena justified, or is he battling his own insecurities?

Chaol’s Silent Test: The Captain of the Guard faces a subtle loyalty test. Can he protect those he cares for without crossing dangerous lines?

Kaltain’s Dark Return: A surprising reunion in the dungeons reveals Kaltain’s tragic fate. Is she a broken pawn or part of something far more sinister?

Nehemia’s Quiet Rebellion: The princess pushes Celaena toward her destiny. But is Nehemia’s persistence part of a greater plan, or a dangerous gamble?

The Courtesan’s Secret: Archer Finn steps back into Celaena’s life—but can he be trusted? His dangerous knowledge could change everything.

A Party with Hidden Dangers: A masquerade filled with secrets and lies—will Celaena uncover the truth, or walk straight into a trap?

Join us for:

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your theories in the comments! Follow us for more discussions on current books, fantasy series, and bookish chaos.

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If you like what you hear and want to support our show, you can buy us a coffee, it's what keeps us going!

Help a pet in need! The work that Pasadena Humane is doing, especially with the recent events involving the Eaton fire, is critical to everyone and everything affected. Consider helping if you can so injured and lost pets can be reunited with their families - https://pasadenahumane.org/

We also fully support the work that K911 ResQ does in their efforts to save as many abandoned animals as possible. If you would like to donate to their efforts you can do it directly from their website. Every little bit helps - https://k911resq.com/donate/

We hope you enjoy our show, and don't forget to share with your friends!

Secrets in the Shadows, Deadly Training, and the Chaos of Basgiath War College

Basgiath War College is getting deadlier, and in this episode, we cover Fourth Wing Chapters 7-12, where Violet Sorrengail finds herself navigating not just ruthless cadets but a growing web of secrets. Her path is more dangerous than ever as training intensifies, alliances shift, and tensions between the Marked Ones and the rest of the Riders become impossible to ignore.

In this episode, we break down:

Violet’s secret strategy—she’s smart, but is she being too clever for her own good?

As always, we mix serious analysis with plenty of laughter, wild theories, and the signature chaos that makes Books, Cats, & Chaos a must-listen for fantasy book lovers. Whether you’re reading for the first time or revisiting with fresh eyes, there’s plenty to discuss.

Want to share your theories? Got a favorite moment? Drop us a comment or find us on social media!

Why not give us a follow?

Email us your thoughts, theories, and favorite scenes: [email protected]

Or subscribe and listen on your favorite podcast apps

If you like what you hear and want to support our show, you can buy us a coffee, it's what keeps us going!

Help a pet in need! The work that Pasadena Humane is doing, especially with the recent events involving the Eaton fire, is critical to everyone and everything affected. Consider helping if you can so injured and lost pets can be reunited with their families - https://pasadenahumane.org/

We also fully support the work that K911 ResQ does in their efforts to save as many abandoned animals as possible. If you would like to donate to their efforts you can do it directly from their website. Every little bit helps - https://k911resq.com/donate/

We hope you enjoy our show, and don't forget to share with your friends!

Secrets, Assassinations, and a Not-So-Heartless Assassin – Welcome to Crown of Midnight!

Welcome to the first episode of our deep dive into Crown of Midnight, the second book in Sarah J. Maas’s Throne of Glass series! If you’ve been with us since our coverage of Throne of Glass, welcome back! If you’re new, we highly recommend checking out our previous discussions before diving in—things are about to get intense.

Celaena Sardothien has officially taken on her role as the King’s Champion, but this is not the Celaena we saw in book one. She’s colder, more dangerous, and seemingly ruthless in her new duties. But as we break down chapters 1-7, it becomes clear that not everything is as it seems.

What you can expect in this episode:

The brutal opening: Celaena’s first “job” as the King’s assassin—did she really go through with it?

We also dive into a few broader themes, including loyalty, survival, and the struggle between personal freedom and duty. Oh, and of course, we compare Throne of Glass characters to those in Fourth Wing (because how could we not?).

As always, we bring plenty of laughter, chaos, and a little bit of cat talk to the mix. We hope you enjoy this episode and would love to hear your thoughts! Have a hot take? A wild theory? A favorite moment? Drop a comment or reach out on social media!

Why not give us a follow?

Email us your thoughts, theories, and favorite scenes: [email protected]

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If you like what you hear and want to support our show, you can buy us a coffee, it's what keeps us going!

Help a pet in need! The work that Pasadena Humane is doing, especially with the recent events involving the Eaton fire, is critical to everyone and everything affected. Consider helping if you can so injured and lost pets can be reunited with their families - https://pasadenahumane.org/

We also fully support the work that K911 ResQ does in their efforts to save as many abandoned animals as possible. If you would like to donate to their efforts you can do it directly from their website. Every little bit helps - https://k911resq.com/donate/

We hope you enjoy our show, and don't forget to share with your friends!

Survival, Dragons, and Destiny: Exploring the High Stakes of Fourth Wing

In this episode of Books, Cats, & Chaos, James and Ka-Ce kick off a brand-new series of book discussions with Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros. Having just wrapped up their coverage of Throne of Glass, they now take listeners on an epic journey through the world of Basgaith War College. Violet Sorrengail’s life takes a dramatic turn as she is forced to abandon her dreams of becoming a scribe and join the deadly Rider’s Quadrant. The parapet crossing alone claims lives, but dragons, rivalries, and a mysterious wing leader named Xaden Riorson promise even greater challenges ahead.

James and Ka-Ce reflect on the intense stakes, character dynamics, and key moments from the first six chapters—all while keeping things spoiler-free for new readers. Along the way, they share their thoughts on romantasy tropes, survival themes, and dragon lore.

If you’re ready for a thrilling new series, grab your headphones and join the chaos! Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Why not give us a follow?

Email us your thoughts, theories, and favorite scenes: [email protected]

Or subscribe and listen on your favorite podcast apps

If you like what you hear and want to support our show, you can buy us a coffee, it's what keeps us going!

Help a pet in need! The work that Pasadena Humane is doing, especially with the recent events involving the Eaton fire, is critical to everyone and everything affected. Consider helping if you can so injured and lost pets can be reunited with their families - https://pasadenahumane.org/

We also fully support the work that K911 ResQ does in their efforts to save as many abandoned animals as possible. If you would like to donate to their efforts you can do it directly from their website. Every little bit helps - https://k911resq.com/donate/

We hope you enjoy our show, and don't forget to share with your friends!

Exploring Throne of Glass Bonus Chapters: Hidden Stories, Character Depth, and a Touch of Chaos

In this episode of Books, Cats, & Chaos, we’re taking you on a journey through two bonus chapters from Sarah J. Maas' Throne of Glass series. These often-overlooked scenes offer fans a fresh perspective on beloved characters and pivotal moments, adding extra layers of intrigue and emotion to an already captivating world.

Join us as we break down key events from "The Captain and the Prince" and "The Assassin and the Princess." We explore the dynamics between Dorian and Chaol, their difficult choices, and the moment that set Celaena Sardothien’s story in motion. Later, we follow Celaena and Nehemia on a rare day out of the castle that reveals both the burdens they carry and the strength of their friendship.

Throughout the episode, we discuss whether these chapters should have been included in the main books, reflect on their narrative significance, and highlight subtle ties to the larger series arc. You’ll also hear our thoughts on favorite moments, character growth, and how these stories deepened our love for Maas’ intricate world-building.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of Throne of Glass or someone curious about the series, this episode has something for everyone. We dive into:

Plus, we share our ratings and opinions on how these bonus chapters enhance the series. Don’t worry—we keep spoilers to a minimum so you can enjoy the full experience when you’re ready to read.

Read the special bonus chapters below -

1.) The Captain and the Prince - this takes place right before Throne of Glass, but after the Assassin's Blades stories.

https://bookofademigod.tumblr.com/post/190808078911/throne-of-glass-extra-story

2.) The Assassin and the Princess - this takes place in between Throne of Glass and Crown of Midnight. 

https://allnovel.net/the-assassin-and-the-princess-throne-of-glass-1-1.html

Why not give us a follow?

Email us your thoughts, theories, and favorite scenes: [email protected]

Or subscribe and listen on your favorite podcast apps

If you like what you hear and want to support our show, you can buy us a coffee, it's what keeps us going!

Help a pet in need! The work that Pasadena Humane is doing, especially with the recent events involving the Eaton fire, is critical to everyone and everything affected. Consider helping if you can so injured and lost pets can be reunited with their families - https://pasadenahumane.org/

We also fully support the work that K911 ResQ does in their efforts to save as many abandoned animals as possible. If you would like to donate to their efforts you can do it directly from their website. Every little bit helps - https://k911resq.com/donate/

We hope you enjoy our show, and don't forget to share with your friends!