We continue our read-through the Hobbit with chapters 11-15. (or as Ron would call them, the DRAGON CHAPTERS!!) We go from the dwarves (and Bilbo) first entering the mountain to the point when they barricade themselves inside against those who want a part of the treasure. What were your favorite parts of this section?

Our hosts talk about the next five chapters of the Hobbit, taking them from their run-in with the wolves all the way to their safe arrival in Laketown.

At long last, we begin our read-through of the Hobbit, going from Bilbo's unexpected party to the riddle-battle under the mountain. What are your favorite parts of those first few chapters?

Our hosts try (unsuccessfully) to unravel the mystery of Tom Bombadil. What sort of being is he? We'd love to hear your thoughts!

Our hosts chat about how Luthien grows into one of Tolkien's greatest characters as he continues to develop her (and how her singing becomes key to her power).

We continue our series of character deep-dives looking at Saruman and asking ourselves "When exactly did he become the bad guy?"

Our hosts spend some time today talking about Fëanor. Tolkien describes him as the greatest elf of Middle-Earth but he is also in many ways the most problematic. We talk a little bit about his history and what makes him so great and terrible.

Following up on a recommendation from a listener, our hosts talk TRoP Season 3, the newly confirmed cast members, and what the next season might have in store for us.

Why does Tolkien spend so much time talking about what people are drinking? What do the drinks say about the characters? (And what sort of cocktail does Denethor drink with his tomatoes?)

Our hosts finally return to their discussion of resting places in Middle-Earth, wrapping up with the (few) places of rest in Return of the King (and the return to several resting places that were discussed earlier).