The Bookish Hour

Laughter, Literature and Life's Twists

The Bookish Hour is more than just a podcast; it's a tapestry of our lives woven with the threads of quirky tales, the tranquility of cherished moments, and the celebration of connections that bridge distances. Join Fab and Jor, as we navigate through a medley of discussions, we dive into why we decided to change the name of the podcast...Again...

Ever wondered what happens when podcast hosts have a "lightbulb" moment? For us, it involved transforming "30Talks" into "The Bookish Hour," a whimsical decision that reflects our growing passion for all things literary and Taylor Swift. Listen in on the laughter as we recount the comedic ebb and flow of life's mishaps and the courage it takes to chase new dreams—even if it means stumbling over the fear of failure. The rebrand heralds a fresh era of content, as we dive into the future with a sea of books, author interviews, and the joy of sharing those stories with you, our fellow book enthusiasts.

Pull up a cozy chair and indulge in our literary banquet, where we dissect the "Zodiac Academy" series' roller coaster ride and the excitement of receiving a package bursting with reading treasures, albeit after a wait. Our conversation is a kaleidoscope of the profound and the prosaic, spanning the dilemmas of book series continuity, the allure of sprayed-edge novellas, and the quest for the perfect coffee companion. Whether you're in it for the books or the camaraderie, there's a chapter in this episode that will resonate, entertain, and perhaps even influence your next page-turner.

Cover Art by: Fabienne and Jordan
Contact email: [email protected]
Intro/Outro music: Season Two: Ramaramaray by Aiyo via Epidemic Sound Season One: Sweet Psycho via TikTok’s Offical Sound Studio on Capcut
Follow Us:
Podcast: @thebookishhourpod
Fabienne: @oxonheart
Jordan: @sipsoffiction

Ever found yourself chuckling at the thought of smearing face paint for a national celebration or getting tangled in the hilarity of juggling oversized suitcases in a bustling city? That's where we kick things off on our latest adventure to Amsterdam! On this episode of The Bookish Hour; our escapades take us from the quirky encounters at the airport to the streets packed with King's Day revelers, painting a picture of a city that's as unpredictable as it is delightful. Alongside the joy of Dutch pastries and the marvel of snack vending machines, we find ourselves wrapped in the communal tapestry that only solo travel can weave.

FAB AND JOR ARE IN THE SAME SPACE!!

You won't want to miss the candid tales and light-hearted misunderstandings that are the heartbeat of our journey that we discuss in person together. From the confusion of gender-neutral bathrooms to the endearing mix-ups between cities and countries, our conversations uncover the comedic side of cultural nuances. We also take a moment to indulge in pop culture musings, contemplating the life choices of celebrities and the enigma of their seemingly ageless glow. And for the music aficionados, we share the adrenaline rush (and wallet groans) that come with snagging tickets to Taylor Swift's ERAS Tour (but also not really), proving that the pursuit of live music knows no borders.

As our laughter-filled session wanes, we dish out insider tips for diving into the King's Day festivities like a true Amsterdammer—think street vending and spontaneous dancing! Wrapping up, we muse over the importance of a solid action plan while also embracing the twists that come with going off-script. So plug in, prepare to giggle, and maybe even jot down a note or two for your next adventure, as we take you through the vibrant, whimsical streets of Amsterdam. 

You don't want to miss this LIVE FROM AMSTERDAM! But actually this is still a recording and sadly we are not in the same space as this episode goes live, but when we recorded it, we were in the same room. Jor was in Amsterdam, visiting Fab. 

Cover Art by: Fabienne and Jordan
Contact email: [email protected]
Intro/Outro music: Season Two: Ramaramaray by Aiyo via Epidemic Sound Season One: Sweet Psycho via TikTok’s Offical Sound Studio on Capcut
Follow Us:
Podcast: @thebookishhourpod
Fabienne: @oxonheart
Jordan: @sipsoffiction

You won't want to miss the quirky charm of Jor and Fab as we kick off this week's The Bookish Hour with tales from my spontaneous leap into a local 10k run, sprained knee and all. Amid discussing the camaraderie of the running community, we can't help but dive headfirst into the emotional rollercoaster that is Taylor Swift's latest album. Swifties and casual listeners alike will revel in our breakdown of the drama-infused lyrics, especially the mythical echoes in "Cassandra."

Strap on your running shoes, or in Fab's case, a knee brace, as we journey through the music that fuels our strides and the cinematic inspirations behind hit music videos. This week's chat veers from the talent in the Hawke family to a lighthearted generational debate, before landing in the engrossing world of "The Good Wife." Plus, we'll regale you with the comedic saga of our foray into tanning and the untimely dental emergency that followed, proving life's script is often penned by Murphy's Law.

Finally, as Jor prepare for a European adventure, we unpack the art and science of packing—because who doesn't love a challenge that involves strategically rolling clothes and playing Tetris with a suitcase? We also muse over our caffeine preferences to combat jet lag, with a nod to the comforting rituals of coffee and tea that make anywhere feel like home. So, whether you're prepping for a trip or just seeking a dose of laughter, grab your passport—or your toothbrush—and tune in to this episode for a joyride through life's unexpected twists and turns.

Cover Art by: Fabienne and Jordan
Contact email: [email protected]
Intro/Outro music: Season Two: Ramaramaray by Aiyo via Epidemic Sound Season One: Sweet Psycho via TikTok’s Offical Sound Studio on Capcut
Follow Us:
Podcast: @thebookishhourpod
Fabienne: @oxonheart
Jordan: @sipsoffiction

Ever had one of those weeks where adulting felt like an extreme sport? Join Fab and Jor as we navigate the rollercoaster of our 30s, from the highs of clever Bluetooth triumphs to the lows of job search blues. We're dishing out tales from the trenches—like that time a birthday trip to Oxford reminded me of the simple yet profound joy of mom-time and the bliss found in the nooks of a beloved city. And for our fellow strugglers in the relentless grind, we're sharing a little hope and a lot of laughter, because if you can't find your coffee at the end of the drive-thru, at least you've found us.

Imagine a place that resonates with your soul, where the air feels like a long-lost friend's hug—welcome to our paranormal pit stop! We're chatting ley lines, Oxford's mystical embrace, and the stories that tether spirits to locales.  And because we love a good story, we're pulling out gems from our book trove. Whether it's the allure of romance novels or the escapism offered by paranormal fiction, we're trading book titles like they're going out of style.

Now let's talk about life's curveballs, like moving during a pandemic or waving farewell to places dear to our hearts. Unpacking boxes and emotions, we recount the chaos and comedy of relocating, alongside future dreams sparkling on the horizon. Through the bittersweet and the outright bizarre, our conversation spins from the trials of transition to the comfort found within the pages of our favorite books. Whether you're into fantasy romances that twist the tongue or contemporary tales that tug at the heartstrings, we're serving up our latest bookish obsessions and inviting you to curl up with us for a literary escape.

Cover Art by: Fabienne and Jordan
Contact email: [email protected]
Intro/Outro music: Season Two: Ramaramaray by Aiyo via Epidemic Sound Season One: Sweet Psycho via TikTok’s Offical Sound Studio on Capcut
Follow Us:
Podcast: @thebookishhourpod
Fabienne: @oxonheart
Jordan: @sipsoffiction

Have you ever felt the buzz of excitement over something as simple as buying a new sofa? It might just be one of the unexpected joys of adulting, something our guest Cass Geller knows a thing or two about. This week on the 30Talks, we're joined by Cass, a charming author who shares her adventures navigating life's milestones, the creative bliss and blunders of writing, and the sweet spot of redefining success in one's thirties. With laughter and candid tales, we traverse the landscape of personal revelations and discuss embracing the thrills of entering a new decade of life, all while juggling the realities of work, parenthood, and the pursuit of literary dreams.

Remember the last time a book transported you back to the days of your school years? We stroll down memory lane with nostalgic reflections on classic reads from our youth, examine the influence of literature on our lives, and dole out some hand-picked book recommendations for those daring to dip their toes into genres like dark romance and fantasy. Our conversation with Cass turns the pages on the nuances of the literary world, from the beloved books that shaped us to the process of creating worlds that enthrall readers today. For book lovers and those who savor a good story, this episode weaves together the threads of fond memories, the dynamics of author-fan relationships, and the joy of finding solace in the written word.

Strap in for an honest look at the highs and lows of the creative journey as we reveal the behind-the-scenes of publishing 'The Golden Key', a novel written against the backdrop of life's unpredictable challenges. Cass Geller gives us a peek at her writing process, from the spark of inspiration to the intricate dance of drafting a story that twists classic fairytales into something deliciously new. If you've ever wondered how to balance passion projects with the demands of daily life or yearned for a community that supports your creative endeavors, this episode is a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and the magic that happens when you put pen to paper—or fingers to keyboard—in the pursuit of your dreams.

Cover Art by: Fabienne and Jordan
Contact email: [email protected]
Intro/Outro music: Season Two: Ramaramaray by Aiyo via Epidemic Sound Season One: Sweet Psycho via TikTok’s Offical Sound Studio on Capcut
Follow Us:
Podcast: @thebookishhourpod
Fabienne: @oxonheart
Jordan: @sipsoffiction

Get ready to embark on a delightful exploration of the curious and the charming as we chat with the most delightful robot around, Craig. Our latest conversation takes us from a laugh-out-loud game of word association to the enchanting streets of Oxford, where Fab giddily anticipates a birthday city trip with her mom. Let us regale you with tales of the allure of British detective shows and the memorable escapades they inspire, all while balancing the tightrope of travel expenses and the lure of souvenir shops.

Imagine a rainy night transformed into an unexpected culinary adventure, just as we did over vegan nachos and a standout cardamom margarita at Plant City. We'll take you through the maze of cocktail cultures we've experienced, from Dallas to Providence, sharing our top tips for savoring the best drinks that cities have to offer. Raise a glass with us as we celebrate the variety of life's flavors in both our glasses and our travels.

HD CARLTON DISCUSSION! Where we discuss all of HD books in this completely spoiler free episode. We discuss our favorites of hers and maybe our not so favorites too.  We talk about all of her books; Haunting Adeline, Hunting Adeline, Satan's Affair,  Shallow River, Does it Hurt and Where's Molly. We'll unravel the complexities of dark romance novels, diving into our evolving perceptions of brooding characters like Enzo and the twisted tales of the Cat and Mouse duet. We ponder the growth of authors, as seen through the lens of one writer's journey from "Shallow River" to "Where's Molly" and eagerly anticipate her next creation. Join us for a candid discussion filled with literary insights, and perhaps you'll find your next favorite read among our confessions.

Cover Art by: Fabienne and Jordan
Contact email: [email protected]
Intro/Outro music: Season Two: Ramaramaray by Aiyo via Epidemic Sound Season One: Sweet Psycho via TikTok’s Offical Sound Studio on Capcut
Follow Us:
Podcast: @thebookishhourpod
Fabienne: @oxonheart
Jordan: @sipsoffiction

Ever sipped wine with your grandma and found yourself pondering the quirks of life in your 30s? That's exactly where Fab and Jor begin our latest heart-to-heart, swirling through everything from high wine indulgences to beauty secrets that might make you squirm (hello, snail mucus!). But it's not all giggles and skin care; we also share our personal anecdotes on the sweet surprises of travel plans that promise to whisk us away on adventures we're just itching to tell.

Have you ever scrolled through social media and stumbled upon a family plot twist? Our chat takes an unexpected dive into the world of newfound half-siblings and the emotional maze of forming bonds with family you never met before. We'll have you laughing one moment and reaching for the tissue the next as we candidly discuss the comedy and complexity of these revelations, musing over whether a good therapist should be on speed dial for such family sagas.

BOOKCLUB DISCUSSION: Midnight is the Darkest Hour by Ashley Winstead

To cap things off, pull up a chair to our book club where Midnight is the Darkest Hour takes center stage. We dissect Ashley Winstead's spine-tingling mystery, trading opinions on its chilling suspense and the slow burn of its intricate character dynamics. Join us for a riveting conversation that moves from the thrills of thriller novels to the thrills of our own lives, including the roller coaster of house hunting and DIY victories. So, pour yourself a glass of something cozy, and let's unravel the stories that keep us turning the pages of life.

Cover Art by: Fabienne and Jordan
Contact email: [email protected]
Intro/Outro music: Season Two: Ramaramaray by Aiyo via Epidemic Sound Season One: Sweet Psycho via TikTok’s Offical Sound Studio on Capcut
Follow Us:
Podcast: @thebookishhourpod
Fabienne: @oxonheart
Jordan: @sipsoffiction

Hey there, adulting aficionados and bookworms! Well, Fab and Jor, are shaking things up on the 30Talks podcast with bookish banter and midnight magic. And stirring in a generous spoonful of humor as we dish on the simplicity and struggles of our 30s—from quirky dragon rider necklaces to the thumping beats of new music releases. So whether you're here for the laughs, the candid tales, or just to sate that bookish appetite, we've got your back!

Turns out there's a fine line between mystery and thriller, and we're tightroping across it with some killer book recommendations that are sure to keep your nights long and your coffee strong. We're pouring over everything from Jeneva Rose to Alex Michaelides, and let's just say your TBR pile is about to get as tall as your ambitions. And if you've ever wondered about the gothic allure of dark academia or flipped through a rom-com only to find yourself knee-deep in fantasy, you're not alone. We're unpacking the genre-blending game and inviting you to join the conversation—because who says you can't have a little romance with your suspense?

Before we flip the sign to 'closed', let's chat about the stroke of midnight and the magic it holds in the pages of our favorite novels. Our discussion takes a playful turn, as we explore authors like Ashley Winstead and Rebecca Yarrow who hop genres like we did hopscotch back in the day. So, lace up your nostalgia boots and come along for the ride—just don't forget to hit us with that five-star rating and share your thoughts. We can't wait to hear from you, and remember, keep turning those pages and embracing the quirks that make you, well, you. Until next time, stay tuned and stay fabulous!

Cover Art by: Fabienne and Jordan
Contact email: [email protected]
Intro/Outro music: Season Two: Ramaramaray by Aiyo via Epidemic Sound Season One: Sweet Psycho via TikTok’s Offical Sound Studio on Capcut
Follow Us:
Podcast: @thebookishhourpod
Fabienne: @oxonheart
Jordan: @sipsoffiction

Beyond the page with RuNyx (a New York Time and USA Today best selling author) her life tales and literary reflections - imagine sitting down with a dear friend, one who's woven words that have touched your heart, and getting to ask them everything you've ever wondered about their craft and life. That's exactly what we get to do with RuNyx, the cherished author from our The Smutty Book Podcast days, in her highly-anticipated interview on our show. As she unravels her writing journey and intimate life reflections, we too share the personal victories and simple delights that have brightened our week, like the latest fashion find and a life-changing tool for organizing our reading lists.

Journeying through the complexities of our 30s, RuNyx has just entered the cool kids club with us, we open up about the pressures to hit certain milestones and how we're redefining success on our own terms, including the pursuit of holistic well-being and the dreams that continue to spark our wanderlust. Literature remains our ever-present companion, shaping our financial acumen and personal growth, as we playfully imagine dining with historical authors, debating their mysterious pasts and the books that have profoundly influenced our lives.

As the episode unfolds, we peer into the publishing world through the lens of RuNyx's experiences with her book Gothikana dissecting the trials and triumphs of being a hybrid author. We tackle the delicate dance of receiving negative reviews and celebrate the audacity of authors who take bold risks in their writing. By the time we close this chapter, you'll have laughed, pondered, and maybe even found a new piece of yourself in the stories we've shared. Join us for a heartfelt episode that's all about embracing life's journey and the joy of storytelling.

Cover Art by: Fabienne and Jordan
Contact email: [email protected]
Intro/Outro music: Season Two: Ramaramaray by Aiyo via Epidemic Sound Season One: Sweet Psycho via TikTok’s Offical Sound Studio on Capcut
Follow Us:
Podcast: @thebookishhourpod
Fabienne: @oxonheart
Jordan: @sipsoffiction

Hey People, ever found yourself chuckling at the thought of still needing your parents to help with taxes, or that dash of panic when your shopping buddy vanishes in search of a last-minute grocery store find? Join us, Fab and Jor, as we bring you a laughter-laden episode that pairs the comedic with the candid in the chronicles of adulting. From the sheer elation of shredding down Austrian ski slopes to the familiar comfort of mom's advice during tax season, we bring you tales of triumphs and tribulations that resonate with anyone.

We've got moving stories – and not just the emotional kind. Listen in as we unpack the nuances of packing up life and planning for new beginnings, including the comedy that ensues when moving back in with family. And as if our personal anecdotes weren't enough, we step into the gripping world of psychological thrillers, dissecting a tale that eschews clichés for a riveting narrative that intertwines the past with the present, all while celebrating protagonists who mirror our own mid-thirties complexities.

Wrap up your day with our discussion on the magnetic pull of a bookish discussion. Where's Molly by HD Carlton a spin off from the Cat & Mouse Duet (you must read those first before Where's Molly, trust us here). We talk everything about the book, and some of her other stories too so be prepared there are SPOILERS. But don't worry, we do let you know where they are so you can tune out then. So tune in, lean back, and let us regale you with our take on life's escapades, literary joys, and the art of embracing the chaos – all with a healthy dose of humor.

Cover Art by: Fabienne and Jordan
Contact email: [email protected]
Intro/Outro music: Season Two: Ramaramaray by Aiyo via Epidemic Sound Season One: Sweet Psycho via TikTok’s Offical Sound Studio on Capcut
Follow Us:
Podcast: @thebookishhourpod
Fabienne: @oxonheart
Jordan: @sipsoffiction