Paperback Friends

In this episode we take a look at the quite epic fantasy novel: Blood Song. Written by Anthony Ryan.

In many ways this novel is absolutely fantastic. In some ways, there a tough pill or two to swallow. How much does that hurt the novel, and what is so good about it, and what is so bad that it makes me doubt this otherwise amazing fantasy novel? We'll find out together!

Since this book was very long, and I had a lot to say, so I decided to try splitting it in to two parts. This is part one, part two will be out next week.

Type: Review | Book: Blood Song | Writer: Anthony Ryan

I promise this is the last Warcraft content for the rest of the year!

So, what does Twilight of the Aspects bring us? An early Christmas present maybe? Not quite. Christie Golden is at it again, and this time she’s got more to work with. Sadly, it’s still bad villains and larger than life plotlines again. Go figure…

I struggle with Warcraft these days, but there are a few interesting things in this novel. Some character interactions and relationships that actually feel pretty solid. Let’s see what we have, and laugh at my hysterically bad pronunciation of “Taretha Foxton.” It’s like I miss the R completely xD

This is something rare, maybe not as rare as Thunderfury back in the day, but rare still. This is a good Warcraft novel.

I poke fun, it's no secret that I have massive issues with the direction that Warcraft has been heading since Frozen Throne. Although, there are bits of cool still left in Warcraft, and Shadows of the Horde is one example of that.

Is this spectacular? No, but it is a good read with characters that are just good, most of them anyway... The villains suck, but the bonds between our heroes is strong enough to carry this one. Good job Stackpole.

Type: Review | Book: World of Warcraft: Vol'jin: Shadows of the Horde | Writer: Michael A. Stackpole

World of Warcraft: War Crimes, what can I even say about this one?

The novel feel like this is a bit, a joke which is funny as a concept, but does not a strong novel make. Archaic grammar aside, this one does nothing, but more damage to Warcraft's already limping credibility.

It's not for everyone, but is it for anyone? Yes, the most die-hard WoW-fans and lore fanatics may get some kind of a kick out of this – general fantasy fans or old school Warcraft fans; you have been warned.

Type: Review | Book: World of Warcraft: War Crimes | Writer: Christie Golden

I don't like many movies, but I do like the movie version of

Don't get me wrong, the book is well-written, but it has a very different tone. A tone that does not sit as well with me. It's raw, that's the best way I can describe it.

If you like that type of writing, the kind that's just a tab bit too dark, but still has some charm to it; this is for you.

Type: Review | Book: This Is Where I Leave You | Writer: Jonathan Tropper

Dark Space Universe is an uneven novel. While it boasts great action and intriguing lore, the story loses something due to its flat, unlikable characters.

The action is definitely the standout. The first hundred pages or so lack momentum, but once Jasper T. Scott picks up speed, he doesn’t stop.

I should feel more mixed about this novel, but honestly, it’s fun. Dumb, but fun. We’ll see how the sequels manage to walk that line.

Type: Review | Book: Dark Space Universe | Writer: Jasper T Scott

Am I pretentious enough to have a reflective episode, looking back on my long, long podcast career of ten episodes?

Well, apparently I am. I kid, of course, but this is a good chance for me to talk a bit about the podcast as a whole—things I think are working well and areas where I see room for improvement.

This might not be super interesting for new or first-time listeners, but if you care about this podcast, it could be a little fun. If nothing else, it was a good opportunity for me to reflect.

Type: Update | Book: N/A | Writer: Sam Ögren

These types of episodes are aimed at making us better writers, together!

For the first episode of this kind, we won't go crazy. We start with the most basic "How do you start writing?" The simple answer is that you just start.

Surely there has to be some tips or tricks though? Well, listen along for my take on the matter.

Type: Writing 101 | Book: N/A | Writer: N/A

Ruination is Anthony Reynold's attempt at extending the League of Legends lore beyond the MOBA (and a few other games). Where's something like Netflix's Arcane really hits home with great characters and solid drama. Ruination misses nearly every mark.

The main problem is Viego. He sucks, he sucks as a character, he sucks as a villain, he just plain sucks...

Since the novel features the story of how Viego becomes The Ruined King; this is a bad place to tell a story. There are a few good moments and some nice cameos, but it's hard to shake the stink of The Garbage King.

Type: Review | Book: Ruination: A League of Legends Novel | Writer: Anthony Reynolds

The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet is Becky Chamber’s debut novel, and you better believe it's impressive.

Chamber's writes a heartfelt story about a group of ding-dongs that become an odd family. The novel is almost entirely character driven, meaning that the overall narrative is not as important as the dialogue and the characters' own personal journeys.

For me, the characters are a bit lacking, but the cohesion that Chamber's manages throughout the novel is very impressive. This is a very, very hard novel to write, but she did it well, and realized her dream.

Type: Review | Book: The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet | Writer: Becky Chambers