Reading After Bedtime: Booktok Romantasy, Fantasy, and Romance Book Reviews

🚨This episode contains FULL SPOILERS for Between Tides and Thunder by Leena Kazak. If you don't want the ENTIRE story spoiled, please return once you've read the stories.🚨

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Allyson and Becca introduce the Reading After Bedtime podcast and discuss Lena Kazak’s romantasy Between Tides and Thunder (published March 31, 2026), joking about difficult fantasy name pronunciations and asking for social follows and reviews. They read the back-of-book blurb, rate the book 4/5 each (slow start and an early twist they predicted), and debate a “weird” spice level around 2 with pepper words and near-interruptions. After a spoiler warning, they list tropes (elemental powers, arranged marriage, enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, one tent, he falls first) and content warnings (attempted SA, past SA reference, PTSD/trauma, torture, character death, child injury). They explain it’s a standalone with an optional Zev POV book and tandem guide, give a detailed plot recap, share critiques on twists/powers and Mayah’s neediness, highlight favorite moments/quotes, praise included art, and preview the next episode on Red Runs the Blood plus an author interview.

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🎉LET'S PARTY!🎉

Let's celebrate the release of ACOTAR 6 together! Reading After Bedtime has teamed up with Bibliobar in Plano, Texas to bring you an unforgettable evening counting down to the release of ACOTAR 6! The ACOTAR 6 release party is TICKETED, so make sure to grab yours before they sell out!

Your ticket includes:

- 📚 Gift bag + your copy of ACOTAR 6

- 🎤 Trivia & costume contest🎙️

- 🔮 Conspiracy theories & fandom fun

- 🎯 Games, archery & sword fighting

- 📸 Photo ops

- 🍸 Snacks & drinks (cash bar available)

- ✨ Flash tattoos*

- 🛍️ Shopping & more!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy your ticket here!⁠⁠

_____________________________________________________________

Let's be friends on socials!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join our monthly newsletter to get a peek at our book chat schedule before anyone else 👀: https://reading-after-bedtime-podcast.kit.com/b1121f3780

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⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🛍️ Shop our Merch!🛍️⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Still looking for something? 👀 (Find Goodreads, Book of the Month, a tip jar and so much more here!)

_____________________________________________________________

🎶 Intro music by the talented Sean Lavrisa!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ⁠Sean Lavrisa Spotify⁠:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ⁠Sean Lavrisa Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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00:00 Fantasy Names Struggle

00:53 Podcast Welcome

02:05 Book Blurb Setup

02:36 Back Cover Summary

03:55 Ratings Breakdown

07:22 Spice Scale Debate

10:37 Spoiler Warning

11:17 Tropes And Triggers

12:53 Reading Order Notes

13:38 Mom Brain Recap Begins

18:05 Recap Marriage Twist

20:42 Recap Betrayal And Escape

22:31 Recap Rebels Reveal

23:23 Crowning and Forgiveness

24:19 Standalone Hopes and Mermaid Mislead

25:01 Mayah Desperation Debate

28:10 Truth Wielder Twist Issues

29:36 Blood Wielding Confusion

30:44 Hair Plucking and Zev Falls First

32:39 Purity Talk and Daak Ick

33:22 Rebellion and Friendship Forgiveness

36:15 Final Thoughts and Book Art Praise

38:13 Favorite Quotes Rapid Fire

39:58 Power Sharing and Control

46:23 Favorite Moments and Wrap Up

#BetweenTidesandThunder #fantasy #magicwielding #booktok #bookdiscussion #bookreview

🚨This episode contains FULL SPOILERS for Mile High (Book 1 of the Windy City Series) by Liz Tomforde. If you don't want the ENTIRE story spoiled, hit that pause button, and we'll see you once you've read the story.🚨_________________________________________________________________________________

Allyson and Becca welcome listeners to the Reading After Bedtime Podcast and share where to follow them on social media, ask for five-star reviews, and announce a ticketed ACOTAR 6 release party with Bibliobar Books and Gifts in Plano, Texas. They dive into Mile High by Liz Tomforde, reading the back-of-book overview and giving their ratings (4 and 5 stars) plus a spice rating of 4 (explicit scenes, multiple scenes, and light kink without overtaking the plot). After a spoiler warning, they cover genre and tropes (workplace/forbidden, forced proximity, he falls first, curvy FMC, found family, third-act breakup) and content warnings. They recap the plot of Stevie and NHL player Evan Zanders’ secret relationship, discuss themes like insecurity, mental health and therapy, power imbalance, friendships, and favorite quotes and moments, including the senior dog shelter and Stanley Cup ending.

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Mile High by Liz Tomforde [Book Chat]

The Nightborn Duet and Six Scorched Roses by Carissa Broadbent [Book Chat]

The Shadowborn Duet & Slaying the Vampire Conqueror by Carissa Broadbent [Book Chat]

The Lion and the Deathless Dark by Carissa Broadbent [Book Chat]Lights out by Navessa Allen [Book Chat]Thea Claire [Author Interview] - Go Find Less: _________________________________________________________________________________

🎉LET'S PARTY!🎉

Let's celebrate the release of ACOTAR 6 together! Reading After Bedtime has teamed up with Bibliobar in Plano, Texas to bring you an unforgettable evening counting down to the release of ACOTAR 6! The ACOTAR 6 release party is TICKETED, so make sure to grab yours before they sell out! Your ticket includes:

- 📚 Gift bag + your copy of ACOTAR 6

- 🎤 Trivia & costume contest🎙️

- 🔮 Conspiracy theories & fandom fun

- 🎯 Games, archery & sword fighting

- 📸 Photo ops

- 🍸 Snacks & drinks (cash bar available)

- ✨ Flash tattoos*

- 🛍️ Shopping & more!⁠

Buy your ticket here!

_________________________________________________________________________________

Let's be friends on socials!⁠

Youtube

Instagram ⁠

TikTok

_________________________________________________________________________________

🛍️ Shop our Merch!🛍️

Still looking for something? 👀

(Find Goodreads, Book of the Month, a tip jar and so much more here!)

_________________________________________________________________________________

🎶 Intro music by the talented Sean Lavrisa!⁠⁠⁠

- ⁠Sean Lavrisa Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠

- ⁠Sean Lavrisa Instagram_________________________________________________________________________________

00:00 Intro

00:23 Podcast Welcome

01:10 Socials Reviews And Events

02:28 Mile High Blurb

03:52 Ratings And Vibes

07:48 Spice Scale Breakdown

09:25 Spoiler Warning

10:21 Tropes And Content Warnings

12:02 Mom Brain Recap

15:42 Curvy Rep And Insecurities

21:18 Family Drama And Ryan

25:28 Friendships Power And Money

30:13 Rings Sensory And Rio

33:54 More Rio Please

34:33 Selfish Series Explained

35:40 Final Thoughts Wrap

37:07 Therapy And Emotions

41:20 Favorite Quotes Roundup

53:07 Best Moments Highlights

01:02:54 Closing And Next Read

#milehigh #windycityseries #liztomforde #contemporaryromance #forbiddenromance #booktok #booktube #bookrecommendations #bookreview

🚨This episode contains FULL SPOILERS for The Lion and the Deathless Dark by Carissa Broadbent. If you don't want the ENTIRE story spoiled, please return once you've read the stories.🚨

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The Lion and the Deathless Dark by Carissa Broadbent [Book Chat]

Crowns of Nyaxia Part 1: The Nightborn Duet [Book Chat]

Crowns of Nyaxia Part 2: The Shadowborn Duet [Book Chat]

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Allyson and Becca introduce the Reading After Bedtime podcast and review Carissa Broadbent’s romantasy The Lion and the Deathless Dark (published August 4, 2026), giving it five stars for being unputdownable, emotionally intense, and plot-forward, though they note the series can feel repetitive when binged and they still want Septimus’s POV and more layers to Kyrene. After a spoiler warning, they cover the back-of-book premise (a war-torn human-vampire world where bounty hunter Kyrene teams with vampire prince Septimus to hunt gods), discuss spice (notably a club scene with voyeurism/exhibitionism and trauma-related drug/alcohol use), list tropes and extensive content warnings (including pregnancy loss and child loss), provide recommended series reading order, and deliver a detailed plot recap ending with Nyaxia imprisoned, Acaeja revealed as a manipulator seeking to remove free will, Kyrene turned Bloodborn, and Septimus captured while cursed.

____________________________________________________________

🎉LET'S PARTY!🎉

Let's celebrate the release of ACOTAR 6 together! Reading After Bedtime has teamed up with Bibliobar in Plano, Texas to bring you an unforgettable evening counting down to the release of ACOTAR 6! The ACOTAR 6 release party is TICKETED, so make sure to grab yours before they sell out!

Your ticket includes:

- 📚 Gift bag + your copy of ACOTAR 6

- 🎤 Trivia & costume contest🎙️

- 🔮 Conspiracy theories & fandom fun

- 🎯 Games, archery & sword fighting

- 📸 Photo ops

- 🍸 Snacks & drinks (cash bar available)

- ✨ Flash tattoos*

- 🛍️ Shopping & more!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy your ticket here!⁠⁠

_____________________________________________________________

Let's be friends on socials!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

_____________________________________________________________

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🛍️ Shop our Merch!🛍️⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Still looking for something? 👀 https://linktr.ee/readingafterbedtimepodcast (Find Goodreads, Book of the Month, a tip jar and so much more here!)

_____________________________________________________________

🎶 Intro music by the talented Sean Lavrisa!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ⁠Sean Lavrisa Spotify⁠:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ⁠Sean Lavrisa Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

_____________________________________________________________

00:00 Podcast Welcome

02:59 Book Overview

04:25 Ratings Reaction

06:43 Standalone Debate

08:46 Spoiler Warning Spice

10:41 Tropes Triggers

12:40 Reading Order Guide

15:28 MomBrain Recap

19:35 Initial Thoughts

21:28 Kyrene Character

27:01 Sentient Sword Banter

30:08 Twists Ending Setup

33:52 Why He Bit Her

34:38 God War Speculation

34:48 Septimus and Ulric

35:57 Marks and Heirs

37:16 God War Predictions

38:05 Next Book Theories

40:09 Nightborn Truce Questions

42:39 Final Thoughts and Critiques

45:06 Favorite Quotes Roundup

50:28 Swear Words and Intent

57:21 Best Moments and Tropes

01:01:48 Wrap Up and Next Read

#TheLionandtheDarklessDeath #Romantasy #CrownsofNyaxia #booktok #bookdiscussion #bookreview

🚨This bonus episode contains spoilers for ALL of the A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) Series, AS WELL AS Throne of Glass and Crescent City by Sarah J Maas. If you aren't completely caught up with the Maas-verse, please press pause, and return once you are.🚨

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Looking for the rest of the Maas-Termind files? Check out our full coverage here!

⁠⁠⁠⁠Sarah J Maas x Call Her Daddy Reaction⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Prythian Mountains x Where is Vaughan?⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Bargains x Queen Mor⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Wyrdgates x Crossover Opportunities⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠Swords x Pegasus⁠

Vassa, Amren x Koschei & The Pool of Starlight

_____________________________________________________________Allyson and Becca host a spoiler-filled Maas-termind Files episode of Reading After Bedtime focused on lore, conspiracy theories, and predictions spanning Sarah J. Maas’s ACOTAR, Throne of Glass, and Crescent City worlds. They recap an SJM interview describing Amren as an Old Testament-style angel assassin with fiery wings who entered another world through a portal, then compare Amren’s traits and sacrifice to Maasverse beings like the Asteri/Daglan/Valg. They review Vassa’s curse as a queen-by-night firebird-by-day bound to Koschei, outline Koschei’s Russian folklore roots with a soul hidden in nested objects, and connect Elain’s visions to a black stone box and a feather of fire. They discuss a Reddit theory linking Koschei to Crescent City’s Astronomer and a stolen black box holding captive women, propose a map-based theory about the Pool of Starlight as a possible pathway to Koschei’s lake, and predict ACOTAR 6 will set up a larger quest involving the queens, Koschei, and future character arcs (Lucien/Elain, Eris, and Tamlin’s healing).

Referenced Reddit thread from emmyeggo

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🎉LET'S PARTY!🎉

Let's celebrate the release of ACOTAR 6 together! Reading After Bedtime has teamed up with Bibliobar in Plano, Texas to bring you an unforgettable evening counting down to the release of ACOTAR 6! The ACOTAR 6 release party is TICKETED, so make sure to grab yours before they sell out!

Your ticket includes:

- 📚 Gift bag + your copy of ACOTAR 6

- 🎤 Trivia & costume contest🎙️

- 🔮 Conspiracy theories & fandom fun

- 🎯 Games, archery & sword fighting

- 📸 Photo ops

- 🍸 Snacks & drinks (cash bar available)

- ✨ Flash tattoos*

- 🛍️ Shopping & more!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy your ticket here!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

_____________________________________________________________

Let's be friends on socials!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Reading After Bedtime Podcast Youtube:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Reading After Bedtime ⁠Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Reading After bedtime ⁠TikTok:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

_____________________________________________________________

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🛍️ Shop our Merch!🛍️⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Still looking for something? 👀

⁠https://linktr.ee/readingafterbedtimepodcast⁠⁠ (Find Goodreads, Book of the Month, a tip jar and so much more here!)

_____________________________________________________________00:00 Maasverse Mysteries Intro01:06 Hosts and Social Links01:46 ACOTAR 6 Party Details02:39 Spoiler Warning Setup03:16 Episode Pivot to Amren07:05 Amren Angel Origins08:05 Amren vs Hunt Parallels10:03 Amren True Form Evidence14:56 Vassa Firebird Lore17:22 Koschei Folklore Explained18:37 Elain Vision Black Box22:38 Soul Nesting Doll Debate23:58 Reddit Theory Astronomer Link27:28 Dragons and Firebird Speculation28:24 Pool of Starlight Teaser28:58 Map Setup Check29:37 Mystery Circle Clue29:53 Pool Starlight Pathway33:43 Thin Spaces Mist Theory35:25 No Crumbs NDAs36:58 ACOTAR 6 Predictions42:32 Eris Morally Gray45:29 Tamlin Healing Debate49:38 Ships POV Hopes54:09 Title Guesses Wrap

#acotar6 #acourtofthornsandroses #maastermindfiles #maasverse #bookrecommendation #bookpodcast #romantasypodcast #booktok

🚨This episode contains FULL SPOILERS for Slaying the Vampire Conqueror, The Songbird and the Heart of Stone, and The Fallen and the Kiss of Dusk AS WELL AS the previous Crowns of Nyaxia books. If you don't want the ENTIRE series spoiled, please return once you've read the stories.🚨

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The Nightborn Duet and Six Scorched Roses [Book Chat]

The Shadowborn Duet and Slaying the Vampire Conqueror [Book Chat]

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The Shadowborn Duet Deep Dive: Spoiler Recaps, Tropes, and RatingsAllyson and Becca introduce the Reading After Bedtime podcast and discuss Carissa Broadbent’s Shadowborn Duet, including the standalone Slaying the Vampire Conqueror and the novels The Songbird and the Heart of Stone and The Fallen and the Kiss of Dusk, with ratings, spice levels, tropes, and extensive content warnings. They share the author’s recommended reading order across the broader series and then deliver spoiler-filled “Mom Brain” recaps: Sylina infiltrates vampire conqueror Atrius’s army, kills the Sightmother, and prepares to rule Glaea; Mische and Asar journey through Morthryn to resurrect the god of death, leading to Mische killing Atroxus and triggering eternal night; and in Fallen, Mische and Asar pursue relics for Asar’s ascension, reunite with familiar characters, and set the stage for a looming god war. They end with favorite quotes, moments, and predictions for the next duet.

____________________________________________________________

🎉LET'S PARTY!🎉

Let's celebrate the release of ACOTAR 6 together! Reading After Bedtime has teamed up with Bibliobar in Plano, Texas to bring you an unforgettable evening counting down to the release of ACOTAR 6! The ACOTAR 6 release party is TICKETED, so make sure to grab yours before they sell out!

Your ticket includes:

- 📚 Gift bag + your copy of ACOTAR 6

- 🎤 Trivia & costume contest🎙️

- 🔮 Conspiracy theories & fandom fun

- 🎯 Games, archery & sword fighting

- 📸 Photo ops

- 🍸 Snacks & drinks (cash bar available)

- ✨ Flash tattoos*

- 🛍️ Shopping & more!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy your ticket here!⁠⁠⁠

_____________________________________________________________

Let's be friends on socials!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

_____________________________________________________________

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🛍️ Shop our Merch!🛍️⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Still looking for something? 👀 https://linktr.ee/readingafterbedtimepodcast (Find Goodreads, Book of the Month, a tip jar and so much more here!)

_____________________________________________________________

🎶 Intro music by the talented Sean Lavrisa!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ⁠Sean Lavrisa Spotify⁠:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ⁠Sean Lavrisa Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

_____________________________________________________________

00:00 Cold Open Banter00:31 Podcast Welcome01:28 Socials and Reviews01:54 ACOTAR 6 Party02:47 Slaying Overview04:05 Songbird Blurb05:47 Fallen Blurb06:49 Ratings and Spice10:45 Spoiler Warning11:39 Genres Tropes Warnings13:16 Series Reading Order15:10 Mom Brain Slaying Recap18:49 Mom Brain Songbird Recap22:48 Mom Brain Fallen Recap28:15 Tangent Fly Swatters31:09 Initial Thoughts Nyaxia32:17 Religious Trauma Talk35:45 Slaying Deep Dive41:21 Sightmother Motives44:06 Is the Standalone Needed48:42 Mische and Asar Setup51:00 Asar Shadow Daddy52:21 Heir Theories53:36 Mische Chosen by Dead54:34 Underworld Map Explained55:46 Relics Quest Structure59:22 POV Style and Romance01:00:45 Luce the Ghost Dog01:01:41 Vincent and Saescha Twists01:03:06 Justice and Sentinel Lore01:10:40 Next Duet Predictions01:12:13 Final Thoughts and Gripes01:14:33 Favorite Quotes Roundup01:27:35 Favorite Moments and Wrap

#Thecrownsofnyaxia #thesongbirdandtheheartofstone #enemiestolovers #slayingthevampireconqueror #thefallenandthekissofdusk #booktok #bookdiscussion #bookreview #bookchat

🚨This episode contains FULL SPOILERS for The Serpent and the Wings of Night, Six Scorched Roses and The Ashes and the Star-Cursed King . If you don't want the ENTIRE story spoiled, please return once you've read the stories.🚨

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The Nightborn Duet and Six Scorched Roses [Book Chat]

The Shadowborn Duet and Slaying the Vampire Conqueror [Book Chat]

_____________________________________________________________

Allyson and Becca introduce the Reading After Bedtime podcast and discuss Carissa Broadbent’s Nightborn duet—The Serpent and the Wings of Night, the novella Six Scorched Roses, and The Ashes and the Star-Cursed King—sharing socials, spoiler warnings, spice level (mild, “two”), tropes (games/trials, enemies-to-lovers, political intrigue, marriage of convenience) and extensive content warnings. They give ratings (Allyson: Serpent 4, Roses 4–5, Ashes 3; Becca: Roses 4, Ashes 3) and outline the recommended reading order leading into Shadowborn and Bloodborn. In spoiler recaps, they summarize Oraya’s Kejari alliance/romance with Raihn, Vincent’s death, the coriatous bond plot, Lilith and Vale’s bargain and turning, and Ashes’ political conflict, quests for god-blood, and Oraya/Raihn’s joint rule. They critique character choices (especially Oraya), pacing in Ashes, and wanting more Vale/Lilith and Vincent, then share predictions, quotes, favorite moments, and announce the next Shadowborn episode.

____________________________________________________________

🎉LET'S PARTY!🎉

Let's celebrate the release of ACOTAR 6 together! Reading After Bedtime has teamed up with Bibliobar in Plano, Texas to bring you an unforgettable evening counting down to the release of ACOTAR 6! The ACOTAR 6 release party is TICKETED, so make sure to grab yours before they sell out!

Your ticket includes:

- 📚 Gift bag + your copy of ACOTAR 6

- 🎤 Trivia & costume contest🎙️

- 🔮 Conspiracy theories & fandom fun

- 🎯 Games, archery & sword fighting

- 📸 Photo ops

- 🍸 Snacks & drinks (cash bar available)

- ✨ Flash tattoos*

- 🛍️ Shopping & more!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy your ticket here!⁠⁠

_____________________________________________________________

Let's be friends on socials!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

_____________________________________________________________

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🛍️ Shop our Merch!🛍️⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Still looking for something? 👀 https://linktr.ee/readingafterbedtimepodcast (Find Goodreads, Book of the Month, a tip jar and so much more here!)

_____________________________________________________________

🎶 Intro music by the talented Sean Lavrisa!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ⁠Sean Lavrisa Spotify⁠:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ⁠Sean Lavrisa Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

_____________________________________________________________

00:00 Podcast Welcome

01:50 Socials And Reviews

03:41 Book Blurbs Overview

07:36 Did It Deliver Ratings

09:21 Spice And Spoiler Warning

10:59 Tropes And Triggers

12:11 Reading Order Guide

14:38 Mom Brain Recaps

24:29 Initial Thoughts Setup

25:59 Oraya And Raihn Critique

35:57 Ashes Pacing Complaints

40:37 Kejari And Plot Highlights

42:26 Rishan Wing Symbolism

43:23 Mische Taken Out

43:52 Septimus Returns

44:57 Duet Struggles

46:06 Vale Lilith Missing

48:04 Six Scorched Debate

49:41 Plot Bloat Complaints

51:43 Lahor Creepy Cousin

52:45 Next Books Predictions

53:57 Final Thoughts Wrap

54:44 Novella Length Debate

56:43 Moon Phase Structure

57:35 Favorite Quotes Marathon

01:09:42 Favorite Moments Recap

01:14:15 Next Episode Outro

#Thecrownsofnyaxia #theserpentandthewingsofnight #enemiestolovers #sixscorchedroses #theashesandthestarcursedking #booktok #bookdiscussion #bookreview

In this bonus episode of the Reading After Bedtime podcast, Allyson and Becca record in the same room for the first time in a while and share life updates, including a recent move, unpacking and downsizing frustrations, Texas allergies and humidity, and family travel stories from Miramar Beach near Destin. They discuss the realities of vacationing with toddlers, swim safety and paddle jumper debates, and upcoming plans like a future Disney trip. On the book side, they recommend Liv Zander’s Heartstrings Duet (Crown Me Dead, Crown Me Yours) for its grief, love, and sacrifice themes and emotionally impactful ending, while noting its graphic elements, and they also mention current reads like Bad Bishop, Duskbound, and upcoming chunkier fantasy picks. They close with updates on the ACOTAR 6 release party and costume ideas.

_____________________________________________________________

🎉LET'S PARTY!🎉

Let's celebrate the release of ACOTAR 6 together! Reading After Bedtime has teamed up with Bibliobar in Plano, Texas to bring you an unforgettable evening counting down to the release of ACOTAR 6! The ACOTAR 6 release party is TICKETED, so make sure to grab yours before they sell out!

Your ticket includes:

- 📚 Gift bag + your copy of ACOTAR 6

- 🎤 Trivia & costume contest🎙️

- 🔮 Conspiracy theories & fandom fun

- 🎯 Games, archery & sword fighting

- 📸 Photo ops

- 🍸 Snacks & drinks (cash bar available)

- ✨ Flash tattoos*

- 🛍️ Shopping & more!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy your ticket here!⁠⁠⁠

_____________________________________________________________

Let's be friends on socials!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

_____________________________________________________________

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🛍️ Shop our Merch!🛍️⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Still looking for something? 👀 https://linktr.ee/readingafterbedtimepodcast (Find Goodreads, Book of the Month, a tip jar and so much more here!)

_____________________________________________________________

🎶 Intro music by the talented Sean Lavrisa!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ⁠Sean Lavrisa Spotify⁠:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ⁠Sean Lavrisa Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

_____________________________________________________________

00:00 Tearjerker Fantasy Talk01:36 Podcast Intro And Announcements03:33 Texas Allergies And Weather05:16 Beach Vacation Recap06:41 Travel With Toddlers09:11 Pool Safety And Floaties12:42 Disney Plans And Family Drama17:16 Moving Unpacking And Downsizing19:44 Selling Books And TBR Goals23:21 Heartstrings Duet Recommendation26:26 Gross Scenes And Dark Romance28:53 Current Reads And Duskbound29:48 TBR Chunky Fantasies30:25 Contemporary Palate Cleanser31:46 Sports Romance Hunt33:09 World Cup Culture Shock35:52 Buc-ees and Road Trip Stops37:59 Italy Dreams No Kids39:25 Cruising With Toddlers41:53 Beach Days Tan Lines43:59 Heels Date Nights Babysitting45:25 Fathers Day Book Gift48:29 Moving Bookshelves DIY50:47 ACOTAR Costume Planning53:51 Ballgown Budget Feet Pics56:08 Bonus Episode Wrap Up

#heartstringsduet #livzander #summerreads #darkromantasy #booktok #bookdiscussion #bookreview

🚨This episode contains FULL SPOILERS for The Book of Azrael by Amber V. Nicole. If you don't want the ENTIRE story spoiled, please return once you've read the stories.🚨

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The Book of Azrael by Amber V. Nicole [Book Chat]

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Allyson and Becca introduce the Reading After Bedtime podcast and review The Book of Azriel by Amber V. Nicole, noting its self-publication in 2022, traditional release in 2024, and appeal of the deluxe editions. They rate it 5 stars and 4 stars, discuss its dark fantasy romance tone, tropes (enemies-to-lovers, slow burn, yearning, “touch her/him and die,” morally gray heroine, lost royalty), spice level (about 2–3), and publisher-listed content warnings. In their spoiler recap, Dianna—bound to monster Kaden by a deal to save her sister Gabby—clashes with Samkiel/Liam, is captured and tortured, shifts into working with Liam to find the Book of Azriel, is betrayed by Tobias and others, and after a broadcast where Kaden kills Gabby, Dianna loses her humanity. They debate Gabby’s role, betrayals, catacombs chaos, unanswered questions about Kaden, and predictions for book two, then announce upcoming coverage of Carissa Broadbent’s Crowns of Nyaxia books due to receiving an ARC of The Lion and the Deathless Dark.

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🎉LET'S PARTY!🎉

Let's celebrate the release of ACOTAR 6 together! Reading After Bedtime has teamed up with Bibliobar in Plano, Texas to bring you an unforgettable evening counting down to the release of ACOTAR 6! The ACOTAR 6 release party is TICKETED, so make sure to grab yours before they sell out!

Your ticket includes:

- 📚 Gift bag + your copy of ACOTAR 6

- 🎤 Trivia & costume contest🎙️

- 🔮 Conspiracy theories & fandom fun

- 🎯 Games, archery & sword fighting

- 📸 Photo ops

- 🍸 Snacks & drinks (cash bar available)

- ✨ Flash tattoos*

- 🛍️ Shopping & more!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy your ticket here!⁠⁠

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Let's be friends on socials!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🛍️ Shop our Merch!🛍️⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Still looking for something? 👀 https://linktr.ee/readingafterbedtimepodcast (Find Goodreads, Book of the Month, a tip jar and so much more here!)

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🎶 Intro music by the talented Sean Lavrisa!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ⁠Sean Lavrisa Spotify⁠:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ⁠Sean Lavrisa Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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00:00 Hot Mess Cold Open

00:50 Podcast Welcome

03:11 Book Overview Setup

03:39 Back Cover Blurb

04:33 Ratings And Vibes

06:39 Summer Mom Tangent

12:17 Spice Rating Talk

13:55 Spoiler Warning

14:49 Tropes And Warnings

16:42 Series Length Breakdown

18:47 Mom Brain Recap

21:13 Names And Pronunciation

22:46 Initial Thoughts And Deluxe

27:19 Dianna Powers Explained

29:40 Gabby Debate

36:01 PTSD And Darkness

38:10 Oblivion Weapon Hype

39:40 Book Of Azriel Stakes

41:04 Immortality And Birth Talk

43:09 Catacombs Chaos Recap

44:02 Heart Rip and Resurrection

45:08 Betrayals and Bad Instincts

47:07 Rings Weapons and Book Boyfriends

50:05 Four Kings and Kaden Mysteries

51:28 Prophecy and Morality Theories

55:25 Next Book Predictions

56:41 Resurrection Price Debate

58:29 Final Thoughts and Pet Peeves

01:00:43 Favorite Quotes Roundup

01:07:52 Favorite Moments and Tangents

01:11:16 Next Episodes and ARC Plans

01:14:57 Wrap Up and Subscribe

#thebookofazrael #darkromantasy #enemiestolovers #booktok #bookdiscussion #bookreview

🚨This episode contains FULL SPOILERS for Duskbound by Bree Grenwich and Parker Lennox. If you don't want the ENTIRE story spoiled, please return once you've read the stories.🚨

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Duskbound by Bree Grenwich and Parker Lennox [Book Chat]

Riftborne by Bree Grenwich and Parker Lennox [Book Chat]

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Allyson and Becca introduce the Reading After Bedtime podcast and review Duskbound by Bree Grenwich and Parker Lennox (published March 4, 2025), giving it a 4 and a 5, praising constant, purposeful action and calling it a strong “book two” that builds toward the finale; they rate the spice at 2. They list tropes (found family, slow burn, hidden royalty/unknown princess, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, war setting) and extensive content warnings including graphic violence, torture, self-harm, genocide, mind control, psychological manipulation, imprisonment, and non-consensual blood drinking. In a spoiler recap, Fia is imprisoned in Umbrathia, confirmed Duskbound, bonds with Vordr Tryger, learns the Sidhe king’s siphoning is killing Umbrathia, survives Valken’s torture, discovers mixed Kalfar/Aossi heritage and royal lineage, regrows arcanite, breaks blood oaths, and witnesses Ma executed by Lyric as Vilda is revealed as the siphon, triggering war; they discuss character growth, Aether/Fia romance, reread plans, predictions, favorite moments/quotes, and Ascended crossover connections.

____________________________________________________________

🎉LET'S PARTY!🎉

Let's celebrate the release of ACOTAR 6 together! Reading After Bedtime has teamed up with Bibliobar in Plano, Texas to bring you an unforgettable evening counting down to the release of ACOTAR 6! The ACOTAR 6 release party is TICKETED, so make sure to grab yours before they sell out!

Your ticket includes:

- 📚 Gift bag + your copy of ACOTAR 6

- 🎤 Trivia & costume contest🎙️

- 🔮 Conspiracy theories & fandom fun

- 🎯 Games, archery & sword fighting

- 📸 Photo ops

- 🍸 Snacks & drinks (cash bar available)

- ✨ Flash tattoos*

- 🛍️ Shopping & more!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy your ticket here!⁠⁠

_____________________________________________________________

Let's be friends on socials!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

_____________________________________________________________

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🛍️ Shop our Merch!🛍️⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Still looking for something? 👀 https://linktr.ee/readingafterbedtimepodcast (Find Goodreads, Book of the Month, a tip jar and so much more here!)

_____________________________________________________________

🎶 Intro music by the talented Sean Lavrisa!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ⁠Sean Lavrisa Spotify⁠:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ⁠Sean Lavrisa Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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00:00 Five Star Hook

00:44 Podcast Welcome

02:41 Book Overview

03:54 Ratings And Spice

05:52 Spoiler Warning Setup

06:51 Tropes And Triggers

09:24 Series Reading Order

12:14 Mom Brain Recap

15:33 Initial Thoughts

19:33 Fia Growth Arc

22:32 Vordr Bonding

27:42 Enemies To Lovers Beats

30:36 Valkan Captivity Fallout

31:53 Heir Reveal and Backstory Dreams

34:05 Found Family and Siphoning Explained

36:38 Rage at the Ending Dream

37:10 Lyric vs Aether Love Debate

40:28 Predictions Check and Next Guesses

42:29 Final Thoughts and Favorite Quotes

54:00 Favorite Moments and Spoiler Warning

57:50 Ascended Connections and Big Theories

01:02:20 Wrap Up and Next Episode

#Duskbound #fantasy #slowburnromance #booktok #bookdiscussion #bookreview

🚨This episode contains FULL SPOILERS for Riftborne by Bree Grenwich and Parker Lennox. If you don't want the ENTIRE series spoiled, please return once you've read the stories.🚨

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Referenced episodes:

Our Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune

Dungeon Crawler Carl by Matt Dinniman

Duskbound by Bree Grenwich and Parker Lennox

The Ascended by Bree Grenwich and Parker Lennox [Part 1]

The Ascended by Bree Grenwich and Parker Lennox [Part 2]

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Allyson and Becca of the Reading After Bedtime podcast announce social links, request reviews, and promote an ACOTAR 6 release party with Bibliobar Books and Gifts in Plano, Texas, then discuss book-community drama around someone trademarking the common phrase “Hot Girls Read” for merch and how trademarking, copyright, and licensing affect small businesses and fandom merchandise. They review Riftborne by Bree Grenwich and Parker Lennox (published Sept. 3, 2024), rating it 4 stars with 2 chili peppers, noting a slow start, strong worldbuilding, and mixed feelings about the romance and General Laryk Ashford. After spoiler warnings, they cover tropes and content warnings and give a detailed recap: Riftborne refugee Fia’s dangerous “focus,” coerced training with Laryk and Faction Venom, wraith attacks, mind-control abilities, a shared sex-dream incident, and Fia being taken to Umbrathia where Aether reveals Sidhe’s role in the conflict, ending with predictions for Duskbound.

_____________________________________________________________

🎉LET'S PARTY!🎉

Let's celebrate the release of ACOTAR 6 together! Reading After Bedtime has teamed up with Bibliobar in Plano, Texas to bring you an unforgettable evening counting down to the release of ACOTAR 6! The ACOTAR 6 release party is TICKETED, so make sure to grab yours before they sell out!

Your ticket includes:

- 📚 Gift bag + your copy of ACOTAR 6

- 🎤 Trivia & costume contest🎙️

- 🔮 Conspiracy theories & fandom fun

- 🎯 Games, archery & sword fighting

- 📸 Photo ops

- 🍸 Snacks & drinks (cash bar available)

- ✨ Flash tattoos*

- 🛍️ Shopping & more!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy your ticket here!⁠⁠⁠

_____________________________________________________________

Let's be friends on socials!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

_____________________________________________________________

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🛍️ Shop our Merch!🛍️⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Still looking for something? 👀 https://linktr.ee/readingafterbedtimepodcast (Find Goodreads, Book of the Month, a tip jar and so much more here!)

_____________________________________________________________

🎶 Intro music by the talented Sean Lavrisa!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ⁠Sean Lavrisa Spotify⁠:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ⁠Sean Lavrisa Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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00:00 Cold Open Banter00:59 Podcast Intro Setup01:39 Socials Reviews Events02:56 Hot Girls Read Drama07:11 Licensing Merch Talk10:38 Reels TikTok Summer Chat13:55 Riftborne Back Cover15:36 Ratings Spoiler Warning17:06 Tropes Warnings Series19:30 Off Topic London Feet20:56 Spoiler Recap Summary26:15 Initial Thoughts Pacing28:23 Riftborne Explained Branding30:22 Fia Osta Romance Critique33:43 Fia and Osta Reunion34:44 Side Characters Debate35:49 Laryk Red Flags40:29 Raine Briar and Rep43:58 Nazul and Baelor Talk45:45 Ma Blood Oath Issues48:37 Aether and Wraith Truth51:11 Predictions for Book Two54:22 Final Thoughts and Quotes01:00:54 Favorite Moments and Wrap

#riftborne #espritheantrilogy #grenwichandlennox #romantasy #booktok #bookdiscussion #bookreview