Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice

Salutations and welcome to our very first Pepper X Book Club episode, a special side-series where we'll discuss other books we're reading in a more casual format.

Think book club over wine with the girls, rather than our usual deep-dive style. 

For this episode, Madeline is joined by Sarah (@sarahvolumesandvibes) and Lexy (@bookswithlexy) to spin out over "Kiss of the Basilisk", book 1 of the Split or Swallow series by Lindsay Straube for endless laughs and a few takes that might surprise you. 

This episode is good for a light review before starting "Between Two Kings" (book 2) or "Kneel Before Me" (book 3) if it's been a while since you read. 

Or if you haven't read it yet due to concerns about the content, you can listen to this episode to get a good feel it. There are some spoilers, but it's a very high- level, conversational style recap, and there will still be shocking surprises to first-time readers who listen to this episode first!

In this episode, we discuss:

Book recommendations from Sarah:

Book recommendations from Lexy: 

Be sure to follow them on Instagram and Tik Tok for more amazing book recs @sarahvolumesandvibes and @bookswithlexy and come back for their guest episodes with us for Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac!

We'll start our coverage of Vicious Fae by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti shortly!

We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions!

Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at [email protected]. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie

“Because I needed some joy in my life like a starving man needed meals. And I planned on gorging myself on him for as long as I could with whatever time I could steal with him.” - Elise “I’ll never pick one man” Callisto

Welcome back to episode 28 of Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice, a spoiler-free, read-along romantasy podcast. Whether you're popping your cherry (gum), or an insatiable, lil monster back for seconds, you fit right in, bae.

Madeline (the fan-girling, fast-talking, certified yapper) has read the whole series. And incessantly bugged Josie (the calm, cool professional hater) to start Zodiac Academy.

Josie will be reading in real time with you. Providing initial reactions and predictions, while Madeline serves as the guide to help point you along in the right direction. 

This is a uniquely formatted bookish podcast because we wanted to create a space where you can join the conversation and get in on the action WITHOUT having to finish the book, series, or ENTIRE universe!!!! 

This week we're reviewing Savage Fae, book 2 of Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac, by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti. This episode covers the entire book, but is spoiler-free for the rest of the series. For chapter-by-chapter recaps, check out our last four Savage Fae episodes. 

This week, we’re joined by Ryann, a NYC based bookish creator obsessed with Zodiac Academy, Xaden (her pup), and consuming an absurd amount of romantasy books. Follow her on Instagram @readingwith.ryann and Tik Tok @readingwithryann for book recs and to join her book club!

This week we discuss:

HUUUUUUGE shout out to Ryann for joining us on this special episode!

We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions!

Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at [email protected]. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie

“You’re Elise Callisto… an angel of vengeance” - Gabriel “boy with The Sight and no Common Sense” Nox

Welcome back to episode 27 of Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice, a spoiler-free, read-along romantasy podcast. Whether you're popping your cherry (gum), or an insatiable, lil monster back for seconds, you fit right in, bae.

Madeline (the fan-girling, fast-talking, certified yapper) has read the whole series. And incessantly bugged Josie (the calm, cool professional hater) to start Zodiac Academy.

Josie will be reading in real time with you. Providing initial reactions and predictions, while Madeline serves as the guide to help point you along in the right direction. 

This is a uniquely formatted bookish podcast because we wanted to create a space where you can join the conversation and get in on the action WITHOUT having to finish the book, series, or ENTIRE universe!!!! 

This week, we're covering chapters 28 through 43 of Savage Fae, book 2 of Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, where more mysteries are popping up than moles in a smack-a-mole game at the faerie fair.

This week, we deep-dive chapters 28 through 43, have a quick world building sesh, insane Prophecy Updates, and the Whimsy and Spice Report.

On this episode we discuss:

We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions!

Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at [email protected]. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie

“Although you really shouldn't worry about being my Elysian Mate. Because I'd rather be star-crossed than stuck with you for the  rest of my life.” - Elise “I’m never choosing one man” Callisto

Welcome back to episode 26 of Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice, a spoiler-free, read-along romantasy podcast. Whether you're popping your cherry (gum), or an insatiable, lil monster back for seconds, you fit right in, bae.

Madeline (the fan-girling, fast-talking, certified yapper) has read the whole series. And incessantly bugged Josie (the calm, cool professional hater) to start Zodiac Academy.

Josie will be reading in real time with you. Providing initial reactions and predictions, while Madeline serves as the guide to help point you along in the right direction. 

This is a uniquely formatted bookish podcast because we wanted to create a space where you can join the conversation and get in on the action WITHOUT having to finish the book, series, or ENTIRE universe!!!! 

This week, we're covering chapters 14 through 27 of Savage Fae, book 2 of Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, where we learn just how exciting “just watching” can be. 

This week, we deep-dive chapters 14 through 27, world building, Prophecy Updates, and the Whimsy and Spice Report.

On this episode we discuss:

We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions!

Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at [email protected]. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie

 “We all appreciate a jolly shenanigan or two but we do take exception to the griffin who took a dumpadoodle on our chaise lounge…” Principal Greyshine, Lionel Admirer, Sphinx, and stinkiest sphinx around. 

Welcome back to episode 25 of Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice, a spoiler-free, read-along romantasy podcast. Whether you're popping your cherry (gum), or an insatiable, lil monster back for seconds, you fit right in, bae.

Madeline (the fan-girling, fast-talking, certified yapper) has read the whole series. And incessantly bugged Josie (the calm, cool professional hater) to start Zodiac Academy.

Josie will be reading in real time with you. Providing initial reactions and predictions, while Madeline serves as the guide to help point you along in the right direction. 

This is a uniquely formatted bookish podcast because we wanted to create a space where you can join the conversation and get in on the action WITHOUT having to finish the book, series, or ENTIRE universe!!!! 

This week, we're covering chapters 1 through 13 of Savage Fae, book 2 of Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, where Elise is getting closer to all the kings on campus. 

This weeks’ coverage will be split into two parts. Part 1 includes a deep-dive recap of chapters 1-7. Part 2 covers chapters 8-13, world building, Prophecy Updates, and the Whimsy and Spice Report.

On this episode we discuss:

We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions!

Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at [email protected]. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie

“Dont touch her. She’s mine.” - Mr “Pain and Lust” himself, Ryder Draconis

Welcome back to episode 24 of Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice, a spoiler-free, read-along romantasy podcast. Whether you're popping your cherry (gum), or an insatiable, lil monster back for seconds, you’ll fit right in, bae.

Madeline (the fan-girling, fast-talking, certified yapper) has read the whole series. And incessantly bugged Josie (the calm, cool professional hater) to start Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac.

Josie will be reading in real time with you. Providing initial reactions and predictions, while Madeline serves as the guide to help point you along in the right direction. 

This is a uniquely formatted bookish podcast because we wanted to create a space where you can join the conversation and get in on the action WITHOUT having to finish the book, series, or ENTIRE universe!!!! 

This week, we're covering chapters 1 through 13 of Savage Fae, book 2 of Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, where the stakes are rising every day on the quest to solving Gareth’s murder.

This weeks’ coverage will be split into two parts. Part 1 includes a deep-dive recap of chapters 1-7. Part 2 will cover chapters 8-13, world building, prophecy updates, and the Whimsy and Spice Report.

On this episode we discuss:

We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions!

Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at [email protected]. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie

“And I was alone. All alone ever since Gareth had left me. And I was so, so mad at him for leaving me. Leaving me all alone. All alone forever.” - Elise Callisto

Welcome back to episode 23 of Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice, a spoiler-free, read-along romantasy podcast. Whether you're a first-time Solarian traveler or a greedy, slippery salmon back for seconds, you fit right in, bae.

Madeline (the fan-girling, fast-talking, certified yapper) has read the whole series. And incessantly bugged Josie (the calm, cool professional hater) to start Zodiac Academy.

Josie will be reading in real time with you. Providing initial reactions and predictions, while Madeline serves as the guide to help point you along in the right direction. 

This is a uniquely formatted bookish podcast because we wanted to create a space where you can join the conversation and get in on the action WITHOUT having to finish the book, series, or ENTIRE universe!!!! 

This week we're reviewing Dark Fae, book 1 of Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac, by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti. This episode covers the entire book, but is spoiler-free for the rest of the series. For chapter-by-chapter recaps, check out our last four Dark Fae episodes. 

This week, we’re joined by Alina Marie, a bookish creator from Austria obsessed with horses, Fourth Wing, Solaria, and iced coffee. Follow her on Instagram and Tik Tok @alinamariesa for hilarious memes, vlogs, and reviews. 

This week we discuss:

HUUUUUUGE shout out to Alina for joining us on this special episode!

We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions!

Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at [email protected]. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie

“ Do any of you poor, lost souls wish to offer your power up to the light?” - The King of The Black Card

Welcome back to episode 22 of Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice, a spoiler-free, read-along romantasy podcast. Whether you're popping your cherry (gum), or an insatiable, lil monster back for seconds, you fit right in, bae.

Madeline (the fan-girling, fast-talking, certified yapper) has read the whole series. And incessantly bugged Josie (the calm, cool professional hater) to start Zodiac Academy.

Josie will be reading in real time with you. Providing initial reactions and predictions, while Madeline serves as the guide to help point you along in the right direction. 

This is a uniquely formatted bookish podcast because we wanted to create a space where you can join the conversation and get in on the action WITHOUT having to finish the book, series, or ENTIRE universe!!!! 

This week, we're covering chapters 21 through 41 of Dark Fae, book 1 of Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, where Elise is getting closer to all the kings on campus. 

This weeks’ coverage will be split into two parts. Part 1 includes a deep-dive recap of chapters 21-30. Part 2 covers chapters 31-41, world building, Prophecy Updates, and the Whimsy and Spice Report.

On this episode we discuss:

We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions!

Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at [email protected]. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie

“What the f**k just happened? Did I just enjoy getting kicked in the nuts?” - Leo the Lion after a rendezvous with his lil monster

Welcome back to episode 21 of Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice, a spoiler-free, read-along romantasy podcast. Whether you're popping your cherry (gum), or an insatiable, lil monster back for seconds, you fit right in, bae.

Madeline (the fan-girling, fast-talking, certified yapper) has read the whole series. And incessantly bugged Josie (the calm, cool professional hater) to start Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac.

Josie will be reading in real time with you. Providing initial reactions and predictions, while Madeline serves as the guide to help point you along in the right direction. 

This is a uniquely formatted bookish podcast because we wanted to create a space where you can join the conversation and get in on the action WITHOUT having to finish the book, series, or ENTIRE universe!!!! 

This week, we're covering chapters 21 through 41 of Dark Fae, book 1 of Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, where tension is building between Elise and her male roomies (though Laini is proving to be helpful support!!!)

This weeks’ coverage will be split into two parts. Part 1 includes a deep-dive recap of chapters 21-30. Part 2 will cover chapters 31-41, world building, Prophecy Updates, and the Whimsy and Spice Report.

On this episode we discuss:

We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions!

Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at [email protected]. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie

“ You managed to draw surprise, amusement, and intrigue from Ryder Draconus with a shrug and one word. So I'm already thrilled to have met you." - Miss Tomato A.K.A., Miss Nightshade, guidance counselor to the deeply disturbed and highly skeptical Fae of Aurora Academy

Welcome back to episode 20 of Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice, a spoiler-free, read-along romantasy podcast. Whether you're popping your cherry (gum), or an insatiable, lil monster back for seconds, you fit right in, bae.

Madeline (the fan-girling, fast-talking, certified yapper) has read the whole series. And incessantly bugged Josie (the calm, cool professional hater) to start Zodiac Academy.

Josie will be reading in real time with you. Providing initial reactions and predictions, while Madeline serves as the guide to help point you along in the right direction. 

This is a uniquely formatted bookish podcast because we wanted to create a space where you can join the conversation and get in on the action WITHOUT having to finish the book, series, or ENTIRE universe!!!! 

This week, we're covering chapters 1 through 20 of Dark Fae, book 1 of Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, where we see what a little snooping and a lot of luck can bring to a certain lilac-haired fae.

This weeks’ coverage will be split into two parts. Part 1 includes a deep-dive recap of chapters 1-9. Part 2 will cover chapters 10-20, world building, Prophecy Updates, and the Whimsy and Spice Report.

On this episode we discuss:

We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions!

Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at [email protected]. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie