Story Darlings
High school besties from Northwest Arkansas, Tera Palozola and Sandra Bruxvoort take a timeout from parenting to read books and binge film—romantasy, fantasy, and romance being their favorite genres. They discuss series by Sarah J Maas (Throne of Glass, ACOTAR, Crescent City), Rebecca Yarros (Fourth Wing, Iron Flame, Onyx Storm), and other popular media. Subscribe for discussions on these and more.
Episodes
Author Spotlight: Sariah Wilson (A Tribute of Fire, A Vow of Embers, A Curse of Ashes, The Chemistry of Love & other romance stories!
We had the honor of speaking with the prolific Sariah Wilson in today's episode! Sariah is the author of nearly 30 romance and romantasy novels, including The Paid Bridesmaid, The Chemistry of Love, and now her debut romantasy trilogy The Eye of the Goddess, which concludes in December with A Curse of Ashes.You may recall Sariah's name on the show because back in May 2024, Sandra read The
Interview with Audrey Goldberg Ruoff, author of Hopelessly Teavoted
Today we welcome Audrey Goldberg Ruoff to the show! Audrey is the author of the cozy (but steamy) debut fantasy romance novel HOPELESSLY TEAVOTED, which releases today, September 16, right in time for #BiWeekEveryone, go support Audrey by picking up a copy of her novel. And then add the companion novel Vengefully Matched to your TBR!Audrey, it was such a pleasure sitting down to chat with you. Tha
Interview with Bea Northwick, author of Blackwicket, The Cruel Dark, and other romance stories.
We're so pleased to welcome Bea Northwick to the show! Bea is the author of the award-winning twisty gothic romance THE CRUEL DARK and its companion novella LOVER, and today is the release of her sophomore novel BLACKWICKET.In this interview, Bea opens up and shares her inspiration for the nuanced magic system in her latest novel (the FMC, Eleanora Blackwicket, is a curse-eater returning home
Interview with Jade Kim Monsen, author of Nylos in the Cache and Milk and Blood
Today, we welcome multi-genre author Jade Kim Monsen to the show! Jade is the author of Milk and Blood, a literary fiction novel about motherhood, and recently, she published her second novel Nylos in the Cache, a YA scifi fantasy that boasts darker themes, incredible worldbuilding and lore, and a diverse cast of characters.In this interview, Jade shares her 10-year journey in writing Nylos—from i
Interview with Veronica Lancet, author of Fairydale and other dark romance stories
We’re thrilled to sit down and chat with Veronica Lancet, author of Fairydale, House of Cryos, and other dark romance stories! Grab your copy of Fairydale in stores everywhere on 8/19.In this episode, Veronica shares Fairydale’s cozy beginnings, gives us the ins and outs of her backlist and forthcoming work, and talks about that time she got a white Pomeranian—as inspired by her Barbi and the Vill
A Tribute of Fire by Sariah Wilson (The Eye of the Goddess) April Book of the Month!
A Tribute of Fire by Sariah Wilson—Holy Greek mythology, Batman! We need A Vow of Embers RIGHT NOW!In this episode of Story Darlings, Tera and Sandra talk (chaotically) about everything that happened in Sariah Wilson's debut romantasy book. This is pretty much Tera's dream because she gets to wax poetic on Greek mythology for 90% of this episode. 🤣Pack your homemade pasteli and join us as we bante
A Fate Inked in Blood by Danielle L Jensen (Saga of the Unfated) March book club pick!
A Fate Inked in Blood by Danielle L Jensen is the first book in the Saga of the Unfated duology—a Norse-inspired fantasy romance with rune magic, prophecies, tangled destinies, and sloooow-burn tension that burns as hot as Bjorn's axe. 😉 We discuss Freya's marriage to Vragi (and her horrible relationship with her mother and brother), the foreshadowing of the gods at war—particularly Hlin and anoth
Quicksilver by Callie Hart (Fae & Alchemy) February Book Club Pick!
Quicksilver by Callie Hart is book one in the wildly popular Fae & Alchemy romantasy series, first indie published in June 2024. The series has since been picked up for traditional publication, as well as sold at auction in a 7-figure deal for possible adaptation at Netflix. The story follows 24-year-old thief Saeris Fane and her 20-year-old brother Hayden who are residents of the water-depriv
Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros (Empyrean) SPOILERS + chaotic theories
Season 4 kicks off with ONYX STORM by Rebecca Yarros, an absolute MASTERPIECE of a mid-series book. The word play, the foreshadowing, the questions answered, the banter, the love, Professor Riorson, the chocolate cake, the DRAMA. The best Empyrean book yet!
Hope you enjoy our lively discussion on major happenings and some crackpot theories for what's next.
We're giving this book 6 ONYX STARS.
Join
Tale of the Heart Queen by Nisha J Tuli (Artefacts of Ouranos) Happy Thanksgiving!
Happy book birthday to Tale of the Heart Queen by Nisha J Tuli! Today, the Darlings discuss the big finale to the Artefacts of Ouranos quartet (otherwise known as the Trial of the Sun Queen books), and it was a CHONKER.Is Lor able to save Nadir and get her happily ever after? What becomes of Nadir and Amara’s father, Rion the Aurora King? And what about Grumpy Gabriel and Tyr—do they find freedom
The Hurricane Wars by Thea Guanzon / Filipino-inspired, slow burn, enemies-to-lovers romance
The Hurricane Wars by Thea Guanzon is a debut Asian adult fantasy proudly featuring inspo from the Philippines and Filipino culture.With the slowwwwest enemies-to-lovers burn, this is the first book in a fantasy romance trilogy that takes its time getting to the "lovers" part of the trope. 😂Today, we're super excited to talk about Alaric and Talasyn's enemy story, the book's Filipino influence, an
Heat of the Everflame by Penn Cole (The Kindred's Curse Saga) The SLOWEST slow burn ever???
Heat of the Everflame by Penn Cole completes our journey of The Kindred's Curse Saga! Well, until Burn of the Everflame is released, anyway. 😂Honorary Story Darling, Jess Jurhs, joins Tera and Sandra again for some final discussion on everything that happened in book 3. What happened with Diem's coronation ceremony? Does she ever find out who her father is? And what about Auralie—whose side is she
Glow of the Everflame by Penn Cole (The Kindred's Curse Saga) TO BE CLEAR: Chaol > Henri. Justice for Chaol!
GLOW OF THE EVERFLAME BY PENN COLE. The madness continues with the sequel to Spark of the Everflame—the strongest installment yet!
We're joined again by honorary Story Darling, Jess Jurhs, and she has some personal offenses to surface with Tera and Sandra. (Don't worry—we're all still friends!) 😂
The trio of Darlings discuss Diem's affinity for power, her poor decision-making skills, and Jess does
Spark of the Everflame by Penn Cole (The Kindred's Curse Saga) October Amazon Book Club pick!
Spark of the Everflame by Penn Cole! IS THE KINDRED'S CURSE SAGA OUR NEW FAVORITE ROMANTASY OBSESSION?? I think so!
We're joined by honorary Story Darling, Jess Jurhs from Gym Was Cancelled: A Buffycast to talk all-things Diem Bellator, Luther Corbois, unhinged theories, and even Hunger Games and Vampire Diaries lol.
Buckle up for the most chaotic book discussion ever, but the good news is that Je
The Cruel Dark by Bea Northwick / Twisty gothic romance for spooky season!
The Cruel Dark is a twisty, gothic romance by author Bea Northwick and is absolutely worth the read! With the perfect atmosphere for spooky season, swoon-worthy romance scenes and smut, and a twisty ending, you can find it on Kindle Unlimited, order a paperback copy through Amazon, or purchase signed copies and special hardcovers from the author's website.Quick update on the author's special givea
It Starts With Us by Colleen Hoover (It Ends With Us 2) We love found family!
It Starts With Us by Colleen Hoover. October 1 marks the start of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, so we thought we'd release the sequel discussion to our It Ends With Us episode.In this follow-up book, one year has passed and Lily has to balance her divorce from Ryle, co-parenting with him, and navigating her complicated, newfound relationship with Atlas.Like so many mothers who escape their ab
A Fire in the Sky by Sophie Jordan
Happy book birthday to A Fire in the Sky by Sophie Jordan! And a big thank you to Avon for the advance reader copy. With Sophie Jordan's considerable backlist of romance novels and YA romantasy, this marks her debut into the adult romantasy genre, and it was a fun ride!
If you're curious about the book's tropes, you will find: Forced marriage, enemies to lovers, orphaned MCs, multiple POVs, a sort
Vote on the next Story Darlings Amazon Book Club pick!
It's time to vote on the Story Darlings Amazon Book Club pick for October! In this episode, Tera and Sandra discuss some of the latest book submissions, which include: Gild by Raven Kennedy, Spark of the Everflame by Penn Cole, A Fate Inked in Blood by Danielle L. Jensen, and more!
Previous submissions include When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker, A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire and Fall of Ru
The Finish Line by Kate Stewart (The Ravenhood 3) We love our rainy days...forever!
We're back with The Finish Line by Kate Stewart! This is the third and final book in The Ravenhood series, BUT if you're looking for more discussions on the boys of the 'hood, stay tuned because we may just cover the spin-off series, Ravenhood Legacy, here on Story Darlings for next year! 😉Where Flock and Exodus were very much focused on Cecilia's story, The Finish Line really centers on Tobias an
The Mist Thief by LJ Andrews – The Ever Seas 3 // August Amazon Book Club pick!
We're back with our August Amazon Book Club pick, The Mist Thief by LJ Andrews! This is the third book in The Ever Seas and, this time around, we follow shameless flirt, Prince Jonas of the Alvers, and the impenetrable Skadi of the shadow elven.This might be Tera and Sandra's favorite book yet, and they'd definitely agree that each book continues to get better and better. The Mist Thief is centere
Exodus by Kate Stewart (The Ravenhood 2) Can you live a lie?
EXODUS by Kate Stewart. How dare you break our hearts like this, Kate (again)!The second book in The Ravenhood series is equal parts devastating and pulse-racing romance as Cecilia is forced to come to terms with being double-dumped, then ghosted, by Sean and Dominic.And on top of putting the pieces of her heart back together, she’ll have to buck and rage against a brash, new man in her life who t
Flock by Kate Stewart (The Ravenhood 1) Can you keep a secret?
In this episode, the Darlings discuss Flock by Kate Stewart, the first book in The Ravenhood series, which is being re-released under Kensington Publishing. Don't forget to order your copies!This video contains SPOILERS about the sexy, mysterious summer romances of Cecilia Horner, and takes place in the quaint town of Triple Falls, NC. Cecilia is just two weeks from turning 19 when her story begin
It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover: Domestic Violence, Unreliable Narrators, and Blake Lively (Book vs Movie)
Get ready for an emotional rollercoaster as the Darlings unpack Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel, It Ends With Us, and its highly anticipated movie adaptation which stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni. We discuss the heartbreaking stories of Lily Bloom, Ryle Kincaid, and Atlas Corrigan and the pivotal moments that made both the book and film unforgettable. From their childhood tragedies to the
The Ever Queen by LJ Andrews – The Ever Seas 2 // July Amazon Book Club pick!
Today, the Darlings are super excited to discuss the sequel to The Ever King by LJ Andrews, THE EVER QUEEN! This installment amps up the fun with more swashbuckling enemies-to-lovers pairings, and we are. Eating. It. Up. Spoilers ahead!
As always, thank you for listening and supporting the show. Look out for the August Amazon Book Club episode, which will cover the third book in The Ever Seas, The
Fate of the Sun King by Nisha Tuli – Artefacts of Ouranos 3 // June Amazon Book Club pick!
Fate of the Sun King by Nisha Tuli is the third book in the Artefacts of Ouranos quartet! Tera and Sandra discuss everything that happened in this book (with spoilers), and Tera takes a stab at some theories for how this can possibly wrap up.
We get several answers to the questions that have popped up since Trial of the Sun Queen, but the cliffhanger we're left with has us chomping at the bit for
Maxton Hall: The World Between Us (Enemies to Lovers, Academia, and Class Divisions) Mona Kasten
Welcome to Maxton Hall, where the harsh whispers of old money and unseemly secrets echo through its grand corridors. Nestled in the English countryside, Maxton Hall has been the posh boarding school for generations of the old elite. Among them the Beaufort family, whose heirs James and Lydia are currently enrolled as they prepare to one day inherit the family's high-end fashion empire.
Also enroll
Tera Picks 3 Books for Sandra to Read // Tera's May Birthday Picks
In May, the Darlings celebrated Tera's birthday by letting Tera choose THREE of her favorite books and authors for Sandra to read. They landed on Ruthless Knight by A. Jade, The Chemistry of Love by Sariah Wilson, and About Tomorrow by Abbi Glines.Sandra had major...thoughts after finishing all three books (specifically about Ruthless Knight—what in the world??), and Tera shared why these are her
Rule of the Aurora King by Nisha Tuli – Artefacts of Ouranos 2 // May Amazon Book Club pick!
Tera and Sandra are back to discuss the sequel to Trial of the Sun Queen, Rule of the Aurora King by Nisha J Tuli! Sandra says she enjoyed this book even more than the first.
The Darlings discuss the feisty dynamic between Lor and Nadir, as well as their favorite scenes, and readers are introduced to a fascinating flashback character named Cersei and her Woodlands mate, Wolf.
Rule of the Aurora Ki
The Ever King by LJ Andrews – The Ever Seas // April Amazon Book Club pick!
Today, the Darlings are super excited to talk about The Ever King by LJ Andrews (The Ever Seas 1)! There's lots to love in this swashbuckling enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance, and we're excited to cover its sequel, The Ever Queen, in a future episode!
Be sure to get a copy of the book's two bonus scenes by subscribing to LJ Andrews's newsletter on her website. These bonus scenes are from Livia a
THE IDEA OF YOU (starring Anne Hathaway & Nicholas Galitzine) Do we get a happy ending?
Tera and Sandra discuss the recently released Prime Video adaptation of THE IDEA OF YOU, with megastar Anne Hathaway and the multi-talented Nicholas Galitzine, and based on the incredible novel by Robinne Lee.
Sandra has read the book (Tera has not), and shares some of the changes from book to movie.
The Idea of You follows 40-year-old Solène Marchand and the unexpected, but blazingly hot, love a
Trial of the Sun Queen by Nisha Tuli – Artefacts of Ouranos // March Amazon Book Club pick!
Today, the Darlings are super excited to talk about Trial of the Sun Queen by Nisha Tuli (Artefacts of Ouranos 1)! In Taylor's words (Sandra's littlest sister), Trial of the Sun Queen is basically Throne of Glass meets The Bachelor, and there is SO much to enjoy about this fast-paced romantasy book.
At this time, Artefacts of Ouranos will be a four-book series, and Tera and Sandra are delighted to
F**K MARRY KILL (FMK) feat. ACOTAR + Throne of Glass! / Our first Amazon Book Club winner!
Big shoutout to acourtofstarsanddreams for the F**k Marry Kill questionnaire—the SJM edition! The Darlings kick things off with their March Amazon Book Club winner announcement (it was SO close!). Then they dive into 10 FMK questions that combine ACOTAR and Throne of Glass trios.
Obvi, there may be some out of context spoilers for across the two series.
Thank you for listening and supporting! We a
It's Time to Vote on Our First Amazon Book Club Read! SHOCKER: We Have ALL Romantasy Books!
The Darlings are excited to announce the inaugural Amazon Book Club vote over on their Story Darlings Amazon page! The nine books in this round's running: The Hurricane Wars by Thea Guanzon, The Cruel Dark by Bea Northwick, Fall of Ruin and Wrath by Jennifer Armentrout, The Wicked in Me by Suzanne Wright, Heavenly Bodies by Imani Erriu, Trial of the Sun Queen by Nisha J Tuli, The Ever King by
House of Flame and Shadow (Crescent City) – feat. Jess Jurhs from Gym Was Cancelled
We are thrilled to invite back our dear friend Jess Jurhs from Gym Was Cancelled to discuss the #1 New York Times bestselling book House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J Maas (aka HOFAS, Crescent City book 3).So, did Flame and Shadow live up to the hype?That's for you, the Maasverse, to decide.Thanks so much for listening.If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or r
House of Sky and Breath (HOSAB pt. 2) – Crescent City
It's like Sunball Sunday in the SJM fandom—House of Flame and Shadow drops tomorrow and the anticipation is too much to bear!In this episode, the Darlings discuss the last half of House of Sky and Breath by Sarah J Maas (chapters 39+), and what a rollercoaster it is! We share our thoughts on the chaos that SJM has wrought upon fans of Throne of Glass, A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR), and Cres
House of Sky and Breath (HOSAB pt. 1) – Crescent City
The Darlings discuss the first 38 chapters of House of Sky and Breath by Sarah J Maas. The second Crescent City book follows the disappearance of Sofie Renast and her little brother Emile after they escape from the Kavalla death camp with intel that could shatter the world.When HOSAB begins, it's been a few months since the spring events of House of Earth and Blood, and things between Bryce and Hu
House of Earth and Blood by Sarah J Maas (HOEAB pt. 2) – Crescent City
In today's episode, the Darlings discuss the second half of House of Earth and Blood by Sarah J Maas (Crescent City series book 1).
Bryce is still drowning in the aftermath of Danika's murder, and her relationship with Hunt is growing into something more...intimate that brings out the best in one another. But there's a cost to defending Bryce, one that Hunt is forced to pay when they d
House of Earth and Blood by Sarah J Maas (HOEAB pt. 1) – Crescent City
In today's episode, Sandra and Tera talk through House of Earth and Blood by Sarah J Maas (Crescent City series).CC is SJM's third series to date, and HOEAB transports readers to a modern Roman Empire-esque society where six Asteri rule over the planet of Midgard, home to humans and the four houses of creatures and fae: Earth and Blood, Sky and Breath, Flame and Shadow, and Many Waters.House of Ea
Author Chat with Ty Carlson (Dadirri Saga)
Thank you so much for listening.If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or review. It's such a huge help! 🩶Have something to say? Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com Leave us a voice messageConnect with Ty Carlson: Instagram: @tcrivers85 X: @tcrivers TikTok: @tycarlsonauthor
Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros (Empyrean 2)
Hello, cadets. Today, the Darlings discuss the sequel to Fourth Wing, Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros (Empyrean series book 2)! THAT ENDING.
Violet and crew managed to survive their first year at Basgiath War College (thanks, Brennan!), and Xaden gets to graduate. But with new second-year classes, such as Rider Survival Course (ahem, torture class), advanced flight training, and ill-timed kidnap and
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros (Empyrean 1)
Greetings, would-be cadets. Today, the Darlings discuss the romantasy phenomenon that has taken the world by storm, Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros (Empyrean series book 1), and what a ride it is.
Consider yourself conscripted into Basgiath War College where, if lucky, you'll gain entry into your desired quadrant. That is, if you can survive its demands. Rider, Scribe, Healer, Infantry—choose ca
A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J Maas! (ACOSF pt. 2) feat. Jess Jurhs from Gym Was Cancelled
Sandra and Tera are joined by one of their FAVORITE story darlings and SJM fangirls, Jessea Jurhs from the Gym Was Cancelled podcast! Together, they discuss the second half of A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J Maas (ACOSF chapters 38+)!Seeing as how this is the final ACOTAR book, at least for now, the trio gives a broad-strokes recap of the major plot developments while sharing their theories ab
A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J Maas! (ACOSF pt. 1)
The Darlings discuss the first half of one of their favorite ACOTAR books to date, A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J Maas (ACOSF ch. 1–37). Nesta has been a bad, bad girl, and our poor Prince of B*stards, Cassian, has been tasked with fetching the eldest Archeron daughter for a capital 'I' Intervention at Feysand's sprawling estate.Nesta's new reality? She is to live at the House of Wind, train
A Court of Frost and Starlight by Sarah J Maas! (ACOFAS)
Tera and Sandra discuss A Court of Frost and Starlight by Sarah J Maas (ACOFAS). Feyre tries to find her purpose in Velaris post-Hybern, the Archeron sisters have to adjust to horrible biannual periods, Nesta's still super mean, and Cassian's just a big, strong brute with a heart of pure gold. Feysand and the Inner Circle enjoy the Winter Solstice holiday, and it's adorbs.Thanks so much for listen
A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J Maas! (ACOWAR Part 2)
The Darlings finish their discussion of A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J Maas (ACOWAR chapters 37+). Tera says Feyre was thrust into her role as the temptress. Sandra begs to differ. 😏Here's that TikTok/Reel reference for Azriel teaching Feyre to fly.Thanks so much for listening.If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or review. It's such a huge help! 🩶Have so
A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J Maas! (ACOWAR Part 1)
Sandra and Tera dive into the third ACOTAR book: A Court of Wings and Ruin (ACOWAR) by Sarah J Maas (chapters 1–36).
Previously, the Darlings discussed every book in SJM's Throne of Glass series. Strongly recommend reading those books and listening to those episodes!
Thanks so much for listening.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or review. It's such
A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J Maas! (ACOMAF Part 2)
The Darlings finish the second ACOTAR book: A Court of Mist and Fury (ACOMAF) by Sarah J Maas. At last, they arrive at the long-anticipated chapters of 54 and 55. First the sweet, and then the spicy. SJM feeds us in the second half! 👀
Thanks so much for listening.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or review. It's such a huge help! 🩶
Have something to say
A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J Maas! (ACOMAF Part 1)
Tera and Sandra crack open the second ACOTAR book: A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J Maas (chapters 1–32). Tera is an ACOTAR first-timer, Sandra a fourth-timer.Previously, the Darlings hosted a readalong for SJM's entire Throne of Glass series. Strongly recommend reading those books and listening to those episodes.Thanks so much for listening.If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Maas! (ACOTAR Part 2)
Welcome back to our series readalong of A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Maas! In this episode, the Darlings talk about the second half of book one (chapters 24+). Tera is an ACOTAR first-timer, Sandra a fourth-timer.
Previously the Darlings hosted a readalong for SJM's Throne of Glass series. Strongly recommend reading those books and listening to those episodes.
Thanks so much for list
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Maas! (ACOTAR pt. 1)
Welcome to our series readalong of A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Maas! In this first episode, Tera and Sandra talk about the first half of book 1 (chapters 1–23). Tera is an ACOTAR first-timer, Sandra a fourth-timer.
Spoilers ahead, including some mentions for SJM's Throne of Glass series (we highly recommend you go back and read those books—we have 16 full episodes discussing them!).
Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J Maas! (Part 2)
Thanks for listening to the second half of our discussion of Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J Maas. This concludes our first SJM series readalong for Throne of Glass. And wow—we caught feelings. 😭😭😭If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or review. It's a huge help! 🩶Have something to say? Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com Leave us a voice messageFind St
Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J Maas! (Part 1)
Thanks so much for listening to the first part of our discussion of Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J Maas.If you enjoyed this episode, you can support our show by leaving a rating or review. It's such a big help! 🖤Follow along on our Throne of Glass series readalong: Instagram: https://instagram.com/storydarlings/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/storydarlings Facebook:
Tower of Dawn by Sarah J Maas! (Part 2)
Our wrap-up of Tower of Dawn by Sarah J Maas ends on a high note (as compared to Empire of Storms). In the second half, SJM delights us, then destroys us, with helpless baby ruks 🥺. Yrene and Chaol attend a very dramatic party in The Oasis for a covert mission of their own. And a fun race across the desert ensues on a hell-horse called Farasha, or “Butterfly.”
There are bloodline secrets, and the
Tower of Dawn by Sarah J Maas! (Part 1)
The Darlings have a book talk about Tower of Dawn by Sarah J Maas! Welcome to the Southern Continent. Tower of Dawn transports readers to Antica, or Milas Agia, the god-city. Some say the city itself was built by the very hands of the gods. Hmmm... 🤔
We FINALLY get to see what became of the aspiring healer from back in Innish: Yrene Towers (spoiler: she's been killing it as the most distinguished
Empire of Storms by Sarah J Maas! (Part 2)
The second half of Empire of Storms by Sarah J Maas is a whirlwind. Lorcan dazzles the ladies at the knife show while Elide gets jelly. Dorian nurses Manon back to her bad self (Princeling’s bedside manner leaves Witchling—nay, ALL of us—hot and bothered). And Aedion loses brownie points with Lysandra.
MATES, SECRET MARRIAGE, and an iron coffin?! ⚰️
But then Lorcan goes and loses brownie points w
Empire of Storms by Sarah J Maas! (Part 1)
What’s that, you say? Something’s in the water?? It’s a shark! No—a sea wyvern?! NO. It’s Lysandra, AKA the MVP of Skull’s Bay!
Today, we bring you Empire of Storms by Sarah J Maas (the first half). Just 2.5 more books to go in our SJM readalong for the Throne of Glass series! 😭
Manon gets her ass kicked by Grandma Blackbeak, Aedion calls dibs on his future wifey, Kitty-Cat Boy grapples with his n
Queen of Shadows by Sarah J Maas! (Part 2)
Welp—Tera got the MAASacre she's been hankering for. In this episode, the Darlings discuss part 2 of Queen of Shadows by Sarah J Maas (chapters 48+).
Kaltain goes full Carrie on Morath. There's a new king in "Otterland." Chaol makes his bed. Then lies in it. Permanently. Maybe... 👀
And Lady Lysandra of Lysandraland does NOT make nice with the super serious, stiff-lipped Lorcan.
Thanks so much for
Queen of Shadows by Sarah J Maas! (Part 1)
The Darlings discuss part 1 of Queen of Shadows by Sarah J Maas (the first 47 chapters). Aelin (or Alien, as Tera sometimes refers to her), is known to her enemies as the Fire-Breathing B*tch Queen—but mainly Lorcan.
We find out so much in the first half of the book, such as how is Kaltain Rompier looking these days? What of the indomitable Manon Blackbeak? (What realization does our favorite witc
The Assassin's Blade by Sarah J Maas! (Part 2)
The Darlings wrap up their discussion of The Assassin's Blade by Sarah J Maas, sharing their insights on the last 2 novellas: The Assassin and the Underworld and The Assassin and the Empire. Since Tera and Sandra are NOT reading the Throne of Glass series in box set order, you might avoid this episode until you've read Throne of Glass, Crown of Midnight, and Heir of Fire.
There are a few Easter eg
The Assassin's Blade by Sarah J Maas! (Part 1)
Part 1 of this SPOILER-filled discussion covers The Assassin's Blade by Sarah J Maas. Tera and Sandra talk about the first 3 novellas in TAB: The Pirate Lord, The Healer, and The Desert. Since we're NOT reading the Throne of Glass series in box set order, you might avoid this episode until you've read Throne of Glass, Crown of Midnight, and Heir of Fire!
Celaena Sardothien is a riot in The Assassi
Heir of Fire by Sarah J Maas! (Part 2)
The Darlings discuss the second half of Heir of Fire by Sarah J Maas. There are giant talking spiders, Dorian’s relationship is short-lived, Rowan and Celaena get closer, and it turns out Manon ain’t ALL bad—she’s got a soft spot for broken things—à la Abraxos—much to Grandma’s infinite disapproval.
This is the book where major pivotal things pop off and IT'S SO GOOD! 🔥🔥🔥
Thanks so much for listen
Heir of Fire by Sarah J Maas! (Part 1)
The Throne of Glass series readalong continues with Heir of Fire by Sarah J Maas (the first half). Tera and Sandra are fully aboard the "Good Ship Aedion." You don't have to tell them twice. And Rowan who?? There are so many characters being introduced, but this is when Throne of Glass finally starts to feel like epic fantasy.
Manon Blackbeak might be Sandra's favorite character ever (despite Ter
Crown of Midnight by Sarah J Maas! (Part 2)
The Darlings discuss the second half of Crown of Midnight by Sarah J Maas! After the events discussed in the previous episode, Tera was ready for capital 'R' Revenge. So, did she get it? More importantly, why does Dorian have "magic fingers" according to some (Sandra)?
Book 2 was a classic SJM rollercoaster, and now we glance ahead to Heir of Fire.
Thank you so much for listening!
If you enjoyed t
Crown of Midnight by Sarah J Maas! (Part 1)
"We've already got a love triangle going on—we don't need a love square." In this episode, Tera and Sandra discuss the first half of Crown of Midnight by Sarah J Maas (chapters 1–29), and oof. It's a lot. Does Tera still love Chaol Westfall? Why is Celaena eating so much chocolate cake? We need all the girl rage, plz. Thanks for listening!
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Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas! (Part 2)
In this episode, Tera and Sandra discuss the second half of Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas (chapters 27+). Tera still has love for Chaol, but will it last? Safe to say Tera has major love for SJM's first-published protagonist, Celaena Sardothien.
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Follow along on the Throne of Glass series read
Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas! (Part 1)
Happy Galentine's Day! Veteran SJM reader, Sandra, joins virgin SJM reader, Tera, to discuss the first 26 chapters of Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas. Do you think it's fair to call Celaena Sardothien cocky? Is Chaol Westfall's gruff sense of honor a hindrance to what is right? Should Crown Prince Dorian be "knocked down a peg" as Tera puts it? And what the hell are wyrdmarks?
We discuss all this
We're reading the Throne of Glass series by Sarah J Maas!
Hip-hip-hooray! Tera & Sandra are BACK after a loooong staycation, and they're kicking things off with a series readalong: Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas. Take a shot every time someone says "ship." The first episode drops Valentine's Day (2023).
Please excuse the shoddy audio on Tera's end for this sneak peek trailer episode!
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From Blood and Ash by Jennifer Armentrout (feat. Jess Jurhs)
Happy Valentine's Day! Tera and Sandra are joined by Jessea from Tiaras and Books to discuss the New York Times bestselling romantasy sensation From Blood and Ash by Jennifer Armentrout.
Jessea also gushes about her favorite show of all time: Angel. So you know Tera appreciates that. Show notes: storydarlings.com/018
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You can support Story Darlings by leaving a rating
Our Favorite Reads of 2021!
In this episode, Sandra and Tera share their favorite reads of 2021. From indie books and non-fiction to romance and epic fantasy—these are the stories that resonated the most and will be remembered for years to come.
Show notes: storydarlings.com/017
Author Interview: Ty Carlson (Dadirri Saga)
Tera and Sandra are joined by friend and science fiction author, Ty Carlson. They discuss his first book, The Bench, and forthcoming stories planned for his Dadirri Saga. He also shares insights into his writing process. You can order a copy of his book here!Show notes: storydarlings.com/016
Blast from the Past: MEAN GIRLS
Happy New Year! The Darlings are back, kicking off 2022 with another blast from the past: the 2000s cult classic, Mean Girls. They also share their appreciation for Lan's butt from Amazon Prime's Wheel of Time adaptation, and Sandra talks demonic possession and how her first experience with jury duty went (spoiler alert: it was SUPER weird).
Show notes: storydarlings.com/015
Merry Christmas, Ya Filthy Animal.
Sandra Bruxvoort and Tera Palozola share their favorite Christmas movies. Tera has a lot, Sandra does not. These are the movies that get them in the holiday spirit—reminding them of Christmas-Past, and giving hope for Christmas-Future. You can tell Tera wrote this because if Sandra had, it would just read, “Bah humbug!”
The Darlings are observing the holidays over the next two weeks, so the next e
Blast from the Past: GILMORE GIRLS
Sandra Bruxvoort and Tera Palozola take a trip down memory lane with the hit TV show Gilmore Girls. They discuss how the series defined their teenage years and how they relate to the characters now as adults. Show notes: storydarlings.com/013
Thanks so much for listening. You can support Story Darlings by leaving a rating or review—it helps the show more than you know! 🖤
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Red Notice: Ryan Reynolds, Gal Gadot, The Rock
Tera Palozola and Sandra Bruxvoort discuss Netflix's Red Notice (starring Ryan Reynolds, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, and Gal Gadot), about two international art thieves vying for top spot with an American agent hot on their trail. Show notes: storydarlings.com/012
Thanks so much for listening. You can support Story Darlings by leaving a rating or review—it helps the show more than you
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
Sandra Bruxvoort and Tera Palozola discuss the book series and television adaptation of Me Before You by Jojo Moyes, and whether it’s better to have loved and lost or to have never loved at all. They also share why it’s important to not only find joy in the small things, but to live life to the fullest. Show notes: storydarlings.com/011
Thanks so much for listening. You can support Story Darlings
American Murder: The Family Next Door – Chris Watts
Sandra Bruxvoort and Tera Palozola discuss the Netflix documentary, American Murder: The Family Next Door, which follows Chris Watts and the disappearance of his wife, Shanann Watts, and their two daughters, Bella and CeCe. Show notes: storydarlings.com/010
Thanks so much for listening. You can support Story Darlings by leaving a rating or review—it helps the show more than you know. 🖤
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Kissing Booth Hot Takes with David Ziama
Sandra Bruxvoort and Tera Palozola welcome college buddy, David Ziama, to Story Darlings to discuss the Netflix Kissing Booth movies, which star Joey King and Jacob Elordi. Show notes: storydarlings.com/009Thanks so much for listening. You can support the show by leaving a rating or review—it helps more than you know! 🖤---Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storydarl
Author Interview: Nonku Kunene Adumetey
In celebration of International Author Day, Tera Palozola and Sandra Bruxvoort welcome children’s book author Nonku Kunene Adumetey to talk about her sophomore book “I Celebrate My Voice.” Nonku shares deeply personal stories on overcoming adversity. Show notes: storydarlings.com/008
Thanks so much for listening. You can support Story Darlings by leaving a rating or review—it helps the show more t
Sexism, Feminism, and Jennifer's Body
Twelve years after its release, Jennifer’s Body, which stars Megan Fox and Amanda Seyfried, has finally found its audience as a commentary on sexism, feminism, and the male gaze. Sandra Bruxvoort and Tera Palozola unpack the film’s influences and themes. Show notes: storydarlings.com/007
Apologies for the old school landline quality to Sandra's audio on this episode. Oops.
Thanks so much for l
Final Thoughts on the Mr. Corman Finale
Some things are too good to last. Sandra Bruxvoort and Tera Palozola discuss the season finale of Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s Apple TV+ series, Mr. Corman. Show notes: storydarlings.com/006
Thanks so much for listening. You can support Story Darlings by leaving a rating or review—it helps the show more than you know! 🖤
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