In this episode of our Discworld Deep Dive podcast, Varsha, Susana and I explore Eric (also known as Faust Eric), one of Terry Pratchett’s most unique and shortest Discworld novels. We unpack its clever parody of the Faust legend, the return of the hapless wizard Rincewind, and Pratchett’s sharp wit as he takes us across the Disc from hellish bargains to epic (and hilarious) misadventures.

📚 What we cover in this episode:

How Eric fits into the Rincewind series of Discworld.

Parody, satire, and Pratchett’s take on Faust.

Key themes: temptation, bureaucracy, and the absurdity of power.

Why Eric is one of the shortest but most memorable Discworld novels.

Our favorite jokes, moments, and character insights.

Whether you’re a longtime Discworld fan or new to Pratchett’s magical world, join us for this in-depth conversation that celebrates one of the funniest entries in the series.

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more Discworld podcast episodes, fantasy book discussions, and Terry Pratchett deep dives!

#Discworld #TerryPratchett #Eric #FaustEric #Rincewind #FantasyPodcast #BookDiscussion #PratchettPodcast #Satire #FantasyBooks

In this spine-tingling episode of Fantasy Talks Live, I'm joined by Jeff Devine, host of The Eldritch Episodes podcast, for a deep dive into the chilling world of H.P. Lovecraft adaptations. From cult classics like The Call of Cthulhu and Re-Animator to modern cosmic horror films and streaming series, we explore how Lovecraft’s mythos has influenced cinema, television, and pop culture. We discuss the challenges of adapting the unspeakable, how Lovecraft’s themes of madness and the unknown are brought to life on screen, and which adaptations truly capture the horror of the cosmic abyss.

Jeff also shares his expert insight into what makes a successful Lovecraftian film and how his podcast connects fans to all things eldritch.

👁️‍🗨️ Whether you're a fan of cosmic horror, an H.P. Lovecraft enthusiast, or a newcomer to the genre, this episode is packed with dark insights and obscure recommendations.

🔎 Topics Covered:

Best and worst Lovecraft adaptations.

🎧 Guest: Jeff Devine – Host of The Eldritch Episodes 🔗 www.eldritchepisodes.com

👍 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives into fantasy, horror, and speculative fiction.

#HPLovecraft #LovecraftAdaptations #CosmicHorror #HorrorPodcast #FantasyTalksLive #TheEldritchEpisodes #ReAnimator #CallOfCthulhu #Lovecraftian #WeirdFictio

In this episode of Fantasy Talks, Varsha takes over hosting duties as alongside Susana and Alex we plunge into the chaotic, hilarious, and surprisingly profound world of Guards! Guards!, the first installment in Terry Pratchett’s beloved City Watch arc of the Discworld series.

🛡️ From Captain Vimes' reluctant rise to heroism to the introduction of Sybil Ramkin, Carrot Ironfoundersson, and a dragon with an attitude, this book marks a turning point in the Discworld saga — blending sharp satire with real character growth.

📚 We explore:

The transformation of the Night Watch

Carrot’s earnest idealism vs. Ankh-Morpork’s corruption

Pratchett’s take on power, order, and belief

Dragons, secret societies, and the Patrician’s pragmatism

Why this is a perfect starting point for Discworld newcomers

🧠 Whether you're a longtime fan or just diving into Pratchett’s work, this episode is packed with insight, humor, and appreciation for one of fantasy's most unique worlds.

👉 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share if you love Discworld and smart fantasy discussion!

#GuardsGuards #TerryPratchett #Discworld #CityWatch #CaptainVimes #DiscworldPodcast #FantasyBooks #BookDiscussion #ComicFantasy #SatireFantasy #AnkhMorpork #PratchettFans #FantasyTalksLivePodcast

You can contact me:

email: [email protected]

Dr Goodwyn is back to discuss in greater depth his debut novel King of the Forgotten Darkness. In this episode we discuss the use of symbolism in the fantasy genre and the connection between jungian archetypes and fantasy tropes, with particular attention to talking animals!

We find common ground in our appreciation of books that work simply as an adventure story and at a deeper level trying to say something about humanity or society.

You can find out more about Dr Goodwyn and his work over at: www.erikgoodwyn.com

Varsha hosts once again, and joined by Chris, Alex and myself, we take a deep dive into Pyramids, the seventh novel in Terry Pratchett’s iconic Discworld series. From camels and quantum philosophy to gods, assassins, and ancient pyramids that mess with time itself, Pyramids is one of Pratchett’s most clever and underrated stand-alone stories.

📚 Topics We Cover:

Tepic, Dios, and the struggle between tradition and progress

How Pyramids fits into the wider Discworld universe

The book’s themes of memory, time, and identity

Why Pratchett’s humor still hits hard decades later

🧠 Whether you're a Discworld veteran or just discovering Pratchett's genius, this episode offers thoughtful analysis and a bit of irreverent fun — just as Sir Terry would’ve liked.

🎧 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share.

#TerryPratchett #Discworld #Pyramids #FantasyTalksPodcast #DiscworldPodcast #Tepic #FantasyBooks #SatiricalFantasy #ComicFantasy #BritishHumor #BookDiscussion #PodcastFantasy #PratchettFans

Join us for an in-depth discussion on the fantastical and macabre worlds crafted by Clark Ashton Smith, a seminal figure in early 20th-century weird fiction. In this episode, we delve into Smith's unique contributions to the genre, his poetic prose, and his influence on contemporaries and successors alike.

👤 About the Guests:

Lee Weinstein: A dedicated scholar of speculative fiction, Lee brings a wealth of knowledge on Smith's literary artistry and historical context.

Darrell Schweitzer: An esteemed author and editor, Darrell offers critical insights into Smith's narratives and their lasting impact on fantasy literature.

🔍 Topics Covered:

The distinctive themes and settings in Smith's stories

His role within the "Weird Tales" circle alongside H.P. Lovecraft and Robert E. Howard

The enduring legacy of Smith's work in modern fantasy and horror genres

Whether you're a longtime admirer of Clark Ashton Smith or new to his oeuvre, this conversation provides valuable perspectives on his imaginative storytelling.

📌 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more discussions on fantasy literature and its luminaries.

#ClarkAshtonSmith #WeirdFiction #FantasyLiterature #LeeWeinstein #DarrellSchweitzer #PulpFiction #SpeculativeFiction #LiteraryDiscussion

In this episode, Dr. Oliver joins us to discuss his new book on Robert E. Howard, legendary creator of Conan the Barbarian. With special guest The Fantasy Thinker, we explore Howard’s life, imagination, and lasting legacy in fantasy. Plus, live audience questions you won't want to miss!

In this episode of the podcast, we dive into Wyrd Sisters by Terry Pratchett, the sixth book in the beloved Discworld series and a fan-favorite from the Witches subseries. We break down the plot, explore its Shakespearean influences, and discuss why Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg, and Magrat are some of the most iconic witches in fantasy literature.

💬 Expect a mix of humor, critical insight, and lots of love for Pratchett’s unique style. Whether you're a longtime Discworld reader or just discovering the magic, this episode is for you!

🌀 Topics we cover:

The brilliance of Pratchett’s satire and wordplay

Connections to Macbeth & Hamlet

Female power, destiny, and the role of storytelling

Favorite quotes & scenes

How Wyrd Sisters fits into the wider Discworld universe

🔔 Subscribe for more book discussions, fantasy deep dives, and author spotlights.

#TerryPratchett #WyrdSisters #Discworld #BookPodcast #FantasyBooks #WitchesOfDiscworld #PratchettPodcast #BookDiscussion #BookClub #Satire #MacbethRetelling

In this episode I am joined by author and Lovecraft biographer David J. Goodwin to talk about the complex personality of the genius of Providence, and yes, we address the elephant in the room!

You can find out more about Mr Goodwin and his work over at: www.davidjgoodwin.com

In this episode I talk to author Violet Castro about her experiences with psychodelics and plant medicine for the mind whilst renowned psychiatrist Dr Erik Goodwyn provides insights from a medical perspective.

You can find out more about Ms Castro and her work over at: www.vcastrostories.com

You can find out more about Dr Goodwyn and his work over at: www.erikgoodwyn.com