Fiction Fanatics

Buckle up for an episode that's as unpredictable as a car birth—which, yes, you heard right, might be a real possibility for Stacy! We're weaving through the cosmic laughter of shared astrological signs and TV series that steal our hearts, like "The Sandman" and "The Dead Boy Detectives." And if you're in search of a show that brings the house down with humor and representation, let "We Are Lady Parts" tickle your funny bone. We're chatting all things pop culture and personal milestones, with stories and suggestions that'll have you hooked from the get-go. Turn the pages with us as we get into the meat of fantasy literature—one where humor clashes with the serious business of magic and representation. It's a landscape where "A Court of Mist and Fury" can leave us hungry for more inclusive character palettes, and books like "A Day of Fallen Night" serve up the cultural diversity we crave. Whether we're rooting for the knight in shining armor or falling for the bad boy, we're celebrating the narratives that shake up the norm and immerse us in worlds inspired by rich, varied heritages. In this chapter of our lives, the reading list is long and every title brings with it a promise of escapism and enlightenment. As we round off with a nod to our book club picks, we're not just talking spine-tingling reads like "Butcher and Blackbird"—we're living through the real-life suspense of Stacy's pending labor. Reflecting on our podcast journey, we share giggles over the unparalleled genius of "The Office's" "Dinner Party" episode and drop hints about our deep-dive into Sarah J. Maas's work. So pull up a chair, grab your favorite beverage, and join us for an episode that promises equal parts laughter, heartfelt companionship, and a treasure trove of must-hear recommendations.

Hey nerds, we are discussing part one of Seven Days in June by Tia Williams. This book is an instant favorite of ours, and we know you will love it too! Our narrative takes a sharp turn as we unwrap the complex emotions entangling Eva's past and present relationships, her quest for answers, and the tensions that surge when family secrets are on the brink of exposure. Eva's confrontation with her past love, a mystery locked away by her mother's silence, is a raw display of the heartache of unfinished business. We wade through the murky waters of jealousy, sabotage, and the redemptive power of understanding as we trace the steps of Eva and her mother, whose strained bond refracts the longing we've all felt for maternal connection and closure. We top off this emotional rollercoaster with a glowing review of a spicy tale that's caught Reese Witherspoon's eye—a story of characters clawing their way to redemption, love, and a kiss that's been years in the making. We're not just recounting plot points; we're lauding our favorite lines, basking in the satisfaction of a tale that's every bit deserving of its silver screen buzz. Summary: Brooklynite Eva Mercy is a single mom and bestselling erotica writer, who is feeling pressed from all sides. Shane Hall is a reclusive, enigmatic, award-winning literary author who, to everyone's surprise, shows up in New York. When Shane and Eva meet unexpectedly at a literary event, sparks fly, raising not only their past buried traumas, but the eyebrows of New York's Black literati. What no one knows is that twenty years earlier, teenage Eva and Shane spent one crazy, torrid week madly in love. They may be pretending that everything is fine now, but they can't deny their chemistry - or the fact that they've been secretly writing to each other in their books ever since. Over the next seven days in the middle of a steamy Brooklyn summer, Eva and Shane reconnect, but Eva's not sure how she can trust the man who broke her heart, and she needs to get him out of New York so that her life can return to normal. But before Shane disappears again, there are a few questions she needs answered... With its keen observations of Black life and the condition of modern motherhood, as well as the consequences of motherless-ness, Seven Days in June is by turns humorous, warm and deeply sensual. *Summary from Goodreads* ***Produced by Jen Hardin***

Hey nerds, we are discussing part one of Seven Days in June by Tia Williams. This book is an instant favorite of ours, and we know you will love it too! Gather 'round as we pull back the curtain on an author's intimate struggle with self-doubt and chronic. Our narrative weaves through the vibrant streets of Brooklyn, pausing to reflect on the life of Eva, a single mother and writer navigating the complexities of raising a spirited daughter and revisiting a shared past with the enigmatic Shane Hall. The tapestry of their story is one of trauma, redemption, and the undeniable connection that literature fosters among us. Summary: Brooklynite Eva Mercy is a single mom and bestselling erotica writer, who is feeling pressed from all sides. Shane Hall is a reclusive, enigmatic, award-winning literary author who, to everyone's surprise, shows up in New York. When Shane and Eva meet unexpectedly at a literary event, sparks fly, raising not only their past buried traumas, but the eyebrows of New York's Black literati. What no one knows is that twenty years earlier, teenage Eva and Shane spent one crazy, torrid week madly in love. They may be pretending that everything is fine now, but they can't deny their chemistry - or the fact that they've been secretly writing to each other in their books ever since. Over the next seven days in the middle of a steamy Brooklyn summer, Eva and Shane reconnect, but Eva's not sure how she can trust the man who broke her heart, and she needs to get him out of New York so that her life can return to normal. But before Shane disappears again, there are a few questions she needs answered... With its keen observations of Black life and the condition of modern motherhood, as well as the consequences of motherless-ness, Seven Days in June is by turns humorous, warm and deeply sensual. *Summary from Goodreads* ***Produced by Jen Hardin***

This week we are taking a re-read on the episode "The Fanatics Have a New Best Friend, Meet Kate Goldbeck!". We hope you enjoy a look back on one of our favorite episodes with one of our favorite people! Hey Nerds, have you ever wondered what it's like to leap from the world of fanfic to the shelves of your local bookstore? The enchanting Kate Goldbeck joins us to recount her metamorphosis from fanfiction aficionado to the author of the bewitching novel "You Again." We wade through the complexities of reimagining beloved characters for a whole new audience, and the shift from the fanfic community's embrace to the terrain of traditional publishing. Kate's insights illuminate the dedication required to breathe new life into well-loved tropes and the delicate balance of staying true to the fanfic spirit while courting mainstream success. If you're hankering for a tantalizing tale of love, laughter, and the occasional sprinkle of life's bittersweet symphonies, Kate's "You Again" is a rendezvous you won't want to miss. Join us for a podcast episode that's a love letter to storytelling, a toast to personal growth, and, above all, a tribute to the books that make us swoon. ***Produced by Jen Hardin***

Our Fan Cub President Miguel has being watching the Harry Potter series for the first time, crazy we know! Check out our new bonus episode series were we get Miguels thoughts and opinions on the Harry Potter series! Step into our enchanting conversation on 'Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire' as Lindsay and Miguel, our two whimsical guests, stir the potion of debate and adoration for the series. With Miguel's fresh eyes casting a critical spell and Lindsay's deep-rooted Potterhead knowledge, we conjure a rich brew of insights. From the portrayal of creatures and wizarding schools to the nuances of character development and the series’ alignment with the ages of its characters, we tap into the very essence of the magical world that's captivated us for decades.

Hey Nerds! We hope you are excited to discuss our favorite book of the year so far, Bride by Ali Hazelwood! This episode is a testament to the power of names—whether they're mispronounced or carry an unexpected depth, they have a way of enriching our discussions and keeping us on our toes. We ponder over the idiocy of love, finding ourselves both amused and exasperated by the heartbreaks and knots of drama our beloved characters endure. The engaging banter between Chanel and Stacy brings out the hilarity and humanity in each twist and misunderstanding, proving that even supernatural beings can have their own share of ordinary woes. Summary: A dangerous alliance between a Vampyre bride and an Alpha Werewolf becomes a love deep enough to sink your teeth into in this new paranormal romance. Misery Lark, the only daughter of the most powerful Vampyre councilman of the Southwest, is an outcast—again. Her days of living in anonymity among the Humans are over: she has been called upon to uphold a historic peacekeeping alliance between the Vampyres and their mortal enemies, the Weres, and she sees little choice but to surrender herself in the exchange—again... Weres are ruthless and unpredictable, and their Alpha, Lowe Moreland, is no exception. He rules his pack with absolute authority, but not without justice. And, unlike the Vampyre Council, not without feeling. It’s clear from the way he tracks Misery’s every movement that he doesn’t trust her. If only he knew how right he was…. Because Misery has her own reasons to agree to this marriage of convenience, reasons that have nothing to do with politics or alliances, and everything to do with the only thing she's ever cared about. And she is willing to do whatever it takes to get back what’s hers, even if it means a life alone in Were territory…alone with the wolf. *Summary from Goodreads* ***Produced by Jen Hardin***

Hey Nerds! We hope you are excited to discuss our favorite book of the year so far, Bride by Ali Hazelwood! As we flipped open the pages of "Bride" by Ali Hazelwood, the sweet scent of nostalgia for those fanfiction-laden, Tumblr-drenched days of 2012 was undeniable. Get whisked away on our latest literary adventure, where we explore the intentionally hazy world-building that keeps you anchored to the characters' vibrant stories. We've got the lowdown on the Omega verse and nodding practices, and trust us, they make for a stirring read. Summary: A dangerous alliance between a Vampyre bride and an Alpha Werewolf becomes a love deep enough to sink your teeth into in this new paranormal romance. Misery Lark, the only daughter of the most powerful Vampyre councilman of the Southwest, is an outcast—again. Her days of living in anonymity among the Humans are over: she has been called upon to uphold a historic peacekeeping alliance between the Vampyres and their mortal enemies, the Weres, and she sees little choice but to surrender herself in the exchange—again... Weres are ruthless and unpredictable, and their Alpha, Lowe Moreland, is no exception. He rules his pack with absolute authority, but not without justice. And, unlike the Vampyre Council, not without feeling. It’s clear from the way he tracks Misery’s every movement that he doesn’t trust her. If only he knew how right he was…. Because Misery has her own reasons to agree to this marriage of convenience, reasons that have nothing to do with politics or alliances, and everything to do with the only thing she's ever cared about. And she is willing to do whatever it takes to get back what’s hers, even if it means a life alone in Were territory…alone with the wolf. *Summary from Goodreads* ***Produced by Jen Hardin***

Hey Nerds, Chanel can't make it this week so our friend Cole stepped in! Our nerdy hearts are on full display as we swap tales of chemistry wizardry, taco nights infused with science, and deep dives into the 'Dune' universe. We'll also shine a spotlight on the enchanting force of Harry Potter fanfiction, marvel at the delightful absurdity of modern vampires in New Jersey, and ponder the delicate art of adapting beloved stories for the screen. It's a rollercoaster of emotions, from laughter to reflective appreciations of the friendships forged through podcasting. With Cole's insights as a photographer and pharmacist, we're capturing life's special moments in more ways than one. So, come share in the camaraderie and leave feeling like part of the gang!

Ever wondered if you're more of a vampire enthusiast or a werewolf warrior at heart? We're stirring the pot of pop culture this week with a playful examination of these nocturnal beings, starting with a throwback to the '80s classic "Teen Wolf." Prepare your inner bookworm for a treat as we dive into Ali Hazelwood's "Bride," our tantalizing book of the month. With its promise of vampires, werewolves, and sizzling enemies-to-lovers antics, it's a literary feast you won't want to miss. Our discussion meanders through the moonlit lore of pop culture's most beloved werewolves, from Harry Potter's Remus Lupin to "Teen Wolf's" charming shapeshifters. Hollywood has given us many faces of the supernatural, but none as enduring as these furry heartthrobs, whose legacies we explore amidst tales of personal celebrity run-ins and on-screen portrayals that have us hotly debating their seductive allure.

Ever found yourself drawn into the magnetic world of a fantasy series, only to become embroiled in the lives of its characters like they're old friends? That's exactly what happened to us with Sarah J. Maas's 'A Court of Thorns and Roses' series. As we jump into the fray, we're dishing out a feisty analysis of Feyre's journey and her complex relationships, comparing it to the fervor of Maas's 'Throne of Glass'. From our first impressions swayed by the book's buzz to our evolving perspectives on character likability, we're dissecting what makes these fictional beings tick and how they capture our hearts—or sometimes don't. Get ready to explore part two of this amazing series Nerds! Summary: When nineteen-year-old huntress Feyre kills a wolf in the woods, a terrifying creature arrives to demand retribution. Dragged to a treacherous magical land she knows about only from legends, Feyre discovers that her captor is not truly a beast, but one of the lethal, immortal faeries who once ruled her world. At least, he’s not a beast all the time. As she adapts to her new home, her feelings for the faerie, Tamlin, transform from icy hostility into a fiery passion that burns through every lie she’s been told about the beautiful, dangerous world of the Fae. But something is not right in the faerie lands. An ancient, wicked shadow is growing, and Feyre must find a way to stop it, or doom Tamlin—and his world—forever. From bestselling author Sarah J. Maas comes a seductive, breathtaking book that blends romance, adventure, and faerie lore into an unforgettable read. *Summary from Goodreads* ***Produced by Jen Hardin***

Ever found yourself drawn into the magnetic world of a fantasy series, only to become embroiled in the lives of its characters like they're old friends? That's exactly what happened to us with Sarah J. Maas's 'A Court of Thorns and Roses' series. As we jump into the fray, we're dishing out a feisty analysis of Feyre's journey and her complex relationships, comparing it to the fervor of Maas's 'Throne of Glass'. From our first impressions swayed by the book's buzz to our evolving perspectives on character likability, we're dissecting what makes these fictional beings tick and how they capture our hearts—or sometimes don't. Get ready to explore part one of this amazing series Nerds! Summary: When nineteen-year-old huntress Feyre kills a wolf in the woods, a terrifying creature arrives to demand retribution. Dragged to a treacherous magical land she knows about only from legends, Feyre discovers that her captor is not truly a beast, but one of the lethal, immortal faeries who once ruled her world. At least, he’s not a beast all the time. As she adapts to her new home, her feelings for the faerie, Tamlin, transform from icy hostility into a fiery passion that burns through every lie she’s been told about the beautiful, dangerous world of the Fae. But something is not right in the faerie lands. An ancient, wicked shadow is growing, and Feyre must find a way to stop it, or doom Tamlin—and his world—forever. From bestselling author Sarah J. Maas comes a seductive, breathtaking book that blends romance, adventure, and faerie lore into an unforgettable read. *Summary from Goodreads* ***Produced by Jen Hardin***

Get ready Nerds and plug in, because we're celebrating Gallentines Day with a heart-filled episode of romance and fantasy! Our conversation whirls from the sticky-sweet intricacies of romance novel tropes to the intoxicating allure of dark fantasy romances. Plus, we're dissecting our slow-burn book of the month—patience, dear listeners, good things come to those who wait for worlds to build. Whether it's a classic enemies-to-lovers setup or an unexpected werewolf-vampire romance, rest assured we've got the hot takes and the hearty laughs to fuel your literary fire. Curl up and join us for a journey through the pages of our lives and bookshelves, where laughter is abundant, and every story is an ode to the things we love most.

Chanel, Ashley, and Stacy do not discuss a book this episode but we do get in to fantasy books with our special guest Nora! Join us, where each page turn in our discussion unveils the celebration of love in its myriad forms and the connection we find within the fictional worlds we adore. Follow us at https://instagram.com/fanficfanaticspod?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=, https://www.facebook.com/fanficfanaticspod/, and https://twitter.com/Fanfic_Fanatics.

Hey Nerds, Stacy, Chanel, and Ashley discuss the second part of You, Again by the amazing Kate Goldbeck. We had Kate on a while back to discuss her fabulous debut novel! This romcom set in New York City gives us the perfect amount of nostalgia with witty banter. Will Ari and Josh get their happily ever after?? Summary: Can they stop hating each other long enough to fall in love? When Ari and Josh first meet, the wrong kind of sparks fly. They hate each other. Instantly. A free-spirited, struggling comedian who likes to keep things casual, Ari sublets, takes gigs, and she never sleeps over after hooking up. Born-and-bred Manhattanite Josh has ambitious plans: Take the culinary world by storm, find The One, and make her breakfast in his spotless kitchen. They have absolutely nothing in common . . . except that they happen to be sleeping with the same woman. Ari and Josh never expect their paths to cross again. But years later, as they’re both reeling from ego-bruising breakups, a chance encounter leads to a surprising connection: friendship. Turns out, spending time with your former nemesis is fun when you’re too sad to hate each other—and too sad for hate sex. As friends-without-benefits, they find comfort in late-night Netflix binges, swiping through each other’s online dating profiles, and bickering across boroughs. It’s better than romance. Until one night, the unspoken boundaries of their platonic relationship begin to blur. . . . *Summary from Penguin Random House* ***Produced by Jen Hardin***

Hey Nerds, Stacy, Chanel, and Ashley discuss the first part of You, Again by the amazing Kate Goldbeck. We had Kate on last week to discuss this fabulous debut novel! This romcom set in New York City gives us the perfect amount of nostalgia with witty banter. Will Ari and Josh get their happily ever after?? Summary: Can they stop hating each other long enough to fall in love? When Ari and Josh first meet, the wrong kind of sparks fly. They hate each other. Instantly. A free-spirited, struggling comedian who likes to keep things casual, Ari sublets, takes gigs, and she never sleeps over after hooking up. Born-and-bred Manhattanite Josh has ambitious plans: Take the culinary world by storm, find The One, and make her breakfast in his spotless kitchen. They have absolutely nothing in common . . . except that they happen to be sleeping with the same woman. Ari and Josh never expect their paths to cross again. But years later, as they’re both reeling from ego-bruising breakups, a chance encounter leads to a surprising connection: friendship. Turns out, spending time with your former nemesis is fun when you’re too sad to hate each other—and too sad for hate sex. As friends-without-benefits, they find comfort in late-night Netflix binges, swiping through each other’s online dating profiles, and bickering across boroughs. It’s better than romance. Until one night, the unspoken boundaries of their platonic relationship begin to blur. . . . *Summary from Penguin Random House* ***Produced by Jen Hardin***

Hey Nerds, have you ever wondered what it's like to leap from the world of fanfic to the shelves of your local bookstore? The enchanting Kate Goldbeck joins us to recount her metamorphosis from fanfiction aficionado to the author of the bewitching novel "You Again." We wade through the complexities of reimagining beloved characters for a whole new audience, and the shift from the fanfic community's embrace to the terrain of traditional publishing. Kate's insights illuminate the dedication required to breathe new life into well-loved tropes and the delicate balance of staying true to the fanfic spirit while courting mainstream success. If you're hankering for a tantalizing tale of love, laughter, and the occasional sprinkle of life's bittersweet symphonies, Kate's "You Again" is a rendezvous you won't want to miss. Join us for a podcast episode that's a love letter to storytelling, a toast to personal growth, and, above all, a tribute to the books that make us swoon. ***Produced by Jen Hardin***

Hey Nerds, brace yourselves for a splash of newness with our snazzy rebrand to "Fiction Fanatics," complete with our own candid shots in the logo! The show's evolution promises more than just new visuals; it serves up a heaping helping of comedic genius, heartfelt acknowledgments, and aspirations to delve into future bookish discussions and author interviews. Are supporting characters the unsung heroes of our beloved tales? We're tipping our hats to them, diving into the essence of their wit, and how it intertwines with the fabric of narratives like "You Again" (our January book of the month). We wrap with a heartfelt shoutout to everyone who's hopped aboard our 2023 podcast train. From the laugh-out-loud moments, to the cherished feedback from folks like Justin, we're traversing this wild literary landscape together. And we can't forget the fanfic throwbacks, our burgeoning romance with rom-coms, and the page-turning tropes that have us all heart-eyes. So, embrace the quirky, the heartfelt, and the sheer joy of story-loving camaraderie as we share our passion for fiction with you, our dear listeners. ***Produced by Jen Hardin*** Follow us at https://instagram.com/fanficfanaticspod?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=, https://www.facebook.com/fanficfanaticspod/, and https://twitter.com/Fanfic_Fanatics.

The time is here, we are finally covering the EPIC story of "Manacled", by Senlinyu. Join us, Chanel, Stacy, Ashley as we journey into the layers of this incredible fanfiction. Magic is more than just wands and spells; it's about the emotional bonds that form in its shadow, the sacrifices made for love, and the strength found in the midst of a war-torn world. We dissect the moments of vulnerability that bring characters like Hermione and Draco to life, moving from the strategic tension in war council meetings to the intimacy of their blossoming relationship. Warning: This work is dark. Rape and non-consensual sex are a significant and ongoing aspect of the plot. There are also character deaths, psychological trauma, descriptions of battlefield violence, and references to torture. Reader discretion is advised. Author's Note: The characters in this story are not mine: they belong to JK Rowling, whom I happen to not be. The initial inspiration of this plot occurred when watching the first episode of The Handmaid’s Tale. In homage there are elements of it maintained throughout the story. The title High Reeve was drawn from Lady_of_Clunn’s use in her story Uncoffined. This story diverges from canon following the conclusion of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Summary: Harry Potter is dead. In the aftermath of the war, in order to strengthen the might of the magical world, Voldemort enacts a repopulation effort. Hermione Granger has an Order secret, lost but hidden in her mind, so she is sent as an enslaved surrogate to the High Reeve until her mind can be cracked. ***Produced by Jen Hardin***

The time is here, we are finally covering the EPIC story of "Manacled", by Senlinyu. Join us, Chanel, Stacy, Ashley and our special guest Elle as we journey into the layers of this incredible fanfiction. Magic is more than just wands and spells; it's about the emotional bonds that form in its shadow, the sacrifices made for love, and the strength found in the midst of a war-torn world. We dissect the moments of vulnerability that bring characters like Hermione and Draco to life, moving from the strategic tension in war council meetings to the intimacy of their blossoming relationship. Warning: This work is dark. Rape and non-consensual sex are a significant and ongoing aspect of the plot. There are also character deaths, psychological trauma, descriptions of battlefield violence, and references to torture. Reader discretion is advised. Author's Note: The characters in this story are not mine: they belong to JK Rowling, whom I happen to not be. The initial inspiration of this plot occurred when watching the first episode of The Handmaid’s Tale. In homage there are elements of it maintained throughout the story. The title High Reeve was drawn from Lady_of_Clunn’s use in her story Uncoffined. This story diverges from canon following the conclusion of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Summary: Harry Potter is dead. In the aftermath of the war, in order to strengthen the might of the magical world, Voldemort enacts a repopulation effort. Hermione Granger has an Order secret, lost but hidden in her mind, so she is sent as an enslaved surrogate to the High Reeve until her mind can be cracked. ***Produced by Jen Hardin***

Chanel, Ashley, and Stacy discuss all things Manacled this episode, and we have an amazing guest star on! Everyone welcome Jay, aka .hey.im.jay. His reactions to this fanfic are EVERYTHING! Check out his TikTok now to see his epic reactions and thoughts on Manacled. Follow Jay at: https://www.tiktok.com/@.hey.im.jay Follow us at https://instagram.com/fanficfanaticspod?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=, https://www.facebook.com/fanficfanaticspod/, and https://twitter.com/Fanfic_Fanatics