In Bed With Books
Arts
Leisure
Melissa
A bookish podcast for bookish babes.Hosted by Melissa, a former academic and long-time lover of fantasy, romance, and literature.Join me every other Monday for new episodes about YA, NA, and fantasy romance! Where to find the pod >>Instagram: https://instagram.com/inbedwithbookspodYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InBedWithBooksPodEmail: [email protected]
Interview with the Author: J.K. Kennedy
In this episode of In Bed With Books, I sit down with J.K. Kennedy, author of Clumsy Beauty, a beautifully illustrated collection of bite-sized poems filled with warmth, wit, and a dash of irreverence. Clumsy Beauty is a celebration of life’s imperfections, offering inspiration for embracing our quirks, stumbles, and unique journeys. J.K. and I discuss the joy of self-acceptance and finding beauty in everyday moments, even when they’re messy.Tune in to hear her insights on vulnerability, creativity, and what it means to live authentically in a world obsessed with perfection.Clumsy Beauty is available now! So run to your nearest bookstore or library and grab your copy!Jodie can be found on instagram @/jkkennedywritesCover Artist for Clumsy Beauty: Jessica Benhar @/harkenbackIf you have an author, book, or topic you want to hear about on the podcast, then don't hesitate to slide into my DMs on Instagram or shoot me an email!Where else to find me:IG: @inbedwithbookspodYT: https://www.youtube.com/@InBedWithBooksPodEM: [email protected]
01:22:5904/11/2024
What the River Knows by Isabel Ibanez: A Historical Fantasy Romance Review
In episode 80 of In Bed With Books, I dive into What the River Knows by Isabel Ibanez, a captivating historical fantasy romance. Join me as I explore Inez’s thrilling adventure to uncover the truth behind her parents' deaths and the mysterious gifts they left behind, including the dreamy but closed-off Whitford Hayes. With book two, Where the Library Hides, coming soon, this is the perfect time to revisit or discover this awesome tale.If you have an author, book, or topic you want to hear about on the podcast, then don't hesitate to slide into my DMs on Instagram or shoot me an email!Where else to find me:IG: @inbedwithbookspodYT: https://www.youtube.com/@InBedWithBooksPodEM: [email protected]
35:5407/10/2024
Interview with the Author: Lyndsay Rush
Join me and author Lyndsay Rush in conversation about her new book, A Bit Much. Her book is a collection of poems that explore all of the big feelings that we experience as women today - from love and rage, to impassioned or doubtful. Rush’s poems are a confident look at how life could feel if we let ourselves take up more space than we’ve been allowed.A Bit Much is available now! So run to your nearest bookstore or library and grab your copy!You can find Lyndsay on Instagram @maryoliversdrunkcousin or at thebread.netIf you have an author, book, or topic you want to hear about on the podcast, then don't hesitate to slide into my DMs on Instagram or shoot me an email!Where else to find me:IG: @inbedwithbookspodYT: https://www.youtube.com/@InBedWithBooksPodEM: [email protected]
51:0623/09/2024
Bookish Chat with Kristin, Part 4
Join me and my long-time friend, Kristin, for the final part of our bookish chat! We start off with some pretty strong opinions on Pride and Prejudice, before moving onto a conversation about audiobooks. We are pro-audiobook, of course, but whether we actually know what's going on in the books is a different story.We end the episode talking about DNFing books vs pushing through, and expectations between readers and authors. We wanna know: what are books that booktok or bookstagram suggested to you that really let you down? What about books that were better than you expected?If you have an author, book, or topic you want to hear about on the podcast, then don't hesitate to slide into my DMs on Instagram or shoot me an email!Where else to find me:IG: @inbedwithbookspodYT: https://www.youtube.com/@InBedWithBooksPodEM: [email protected]
44:4302/07/2024
Between the Covers: Spring 2024
Join me for episode 77 of In Bed With Books, where I’ll be reviewing the books I’ve read over the past Spring! Please be warned, there are spoilers ahead.If you want more reviews from me, you can find me on Goodreads or Storygraph!Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/86407489-melissaStorygraph: https://app.thestorygraph.com/profile/melissa_roseBooks Discussed:On Silver Winds by Ava SmiddyFive Broken Blades by Mai CorlandFourth Wing by Rebecca YarrosMorgan Is My Name by Sophie KetchBook Lovers by Emily HenryWhat the River Knows by Isabel IbanezIf you have an author, book, or topic you want to hear about on the podcast, then don't hesitate to slide into my DMs on Instagram or shoot me an email!Where else to find me:IG: @inbedwithbookspodYT: https://www.youtube.com/@InBedWithBooksPodEM: [email protected]
48:1111/06/2024
Bookish Chat with Kristin, Part 3
And we’re back! This time with another (longer) installment of my earlier conversation with Kristin. This time around, we’re getting a little more critical of books we’ve read - some recent and some not so recent.We talked about our terrible tolerance for horror, gave some book recommendations, and some books we recommended never picking up. Once again, Kristin proves that she doesn’t know a single actor’s name, but she makes up for it by being a blast to have on the podcast.If you have an author, book, or topic you want to hear about on the podcast, then don't hesitate to slide into my DMs on Instagram or shoot me an email!Where else to find me:IG: @inbedwithbookspodYT: https://www.youtube.com/@InBedWithBooksPodEM: [email protected]
49:4227/05/2024
Interview with the Author: Mai Corland
In this episode of In Bed With Books, I’m joined by author Mai Corland to talk about her upcoming book release, Five Broken Blades, transitioning from Children’s lit to adult fantasy, and the craft behind creating the world in her book. Please note: This is a spoiler free discussion, as the book has not been released at the time of this episode’s premiere.We discuss Mai’s early introduction to books before diving into a behind-the-scenes look at her writing process, revealing how she defined distinct voices for each character and navigated the complexities of multiple points of view. We explore the themes of power, identity, and sacrifice present in Five Broken Blades, as well as the influences of real history and cultural diversity on the fictional world she has created.From childhood memories of sneaking forbidden books to advice for writers, Mai was a stellar guest to have on the podcast. You can find Five Broken Blades on bookshelves May 7th, 2024.If you have an author, book, or topic you want to hear about on the podcast, then don't hesitate to slide into my DMs on Instagram or shoot me an email!Where else to find me:IG: @inbedwithbookspodYT: https://www.youtube.com/@InBedWithBooksPodEM: [email protected]
39:0029/04/2024
Bookish Chat with Kristin, Part 2
Join me and my long-time friend Kristin for the second part of our chat! We grabbed some cheese and wine, and caught up on our TBR's.We're talking about why I haven't read Fourth Wing yet (while Kristin continues to try and convince me), the issue with series that go on for too long, and some of our broader requirements for really enjoying fantasy reads.This is part of a longer conversation. You can catch the rest of it in the coming weeks.If you have an author, book, or topic you want to hear about on the podcast, then don't hesitate to slide into my DMs on Instagram or shoot me an email!Where else to find me:IG: @inbedwithbookspodYT: https://www.youtube.com/@InBedWithBooksPodEM: [email protected]
25:5216/04/2024
In Defense of Play: A Bookish Chat, with Michael Pons
Join my friend Michael and me for a conversation about the necessity of fantasy, fiction, and the simple act of play, whether that's through fantasy and romance books or tabletop games, like D&D.This conversation started in response to his recent academic paper where Michael defends play, and fantasy, as a way to create meaning, reflect, and to simply take the edge off. Through the episode, we use books, games, and community to defend the human need to simply have fun.WARNING: The episode starts in the middle of us talking about the recent documentary, Quiet on Set. If you're sensitive to the subject matter of that documentary, then I recommend skipping to the 3 minute, 8 second mark.If you have an author, book, or topic you want to hear about on the podcast, then don't hesitate to slide into my DMs on Instagram or shoot me an email!Where else to find me:IG: @inbedwithbookspodYT: https://www.youtube.com/@InBedWithBooksPodEM: [email protected]
01:32:0601/04/2024
Between the Covers: Recent Book Reviews
In episode 72, I'm reviewing some of my recent reads over the last few months! If you want to read more fleshed out versions of these reviews, then find me on Goodreads or Storygraph!Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/86407489-melissaStorygraph: https://app.thestorygraph.com/profile/melissa_roseBooks discussed:The Scarlet Veil by Shelby MahurinChalice of the Gods by Rick RiordanSanctuary of the Shadow by Aurora AscherThe Ex Hex & The Kiss Curse by Erin SterlingEvery Which Way but Dead by Kim HarrisonHouse of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J MaasFragile Threads of Power by VE SchwabIf you have an author, book, or topic you want to hear about on the podcast, then don't hesitate to slide into my DMs on Instagram or shoot me an email!Where else to find me:IG: @inbedwithbookspodYT: https://www.youtube.com/@InBedWithBooksPodEM: [email protected]
44:4921/03/2024
Bookish Chat with Kristin
Join me and my long-time friend Kristin in my living room for a bookish chat! We grabbed some cheese and wine, and caught up on what we're currently reading.We talked about Kristin's (not-so) scathing GoodReads reviews, her love of Emily Henry, and whether she actually knows who Jessica Biel is. And the episode wouldn't be complete without me bringing up vampires! Thank you, Shelby Mahurin and The Scarlet Veil.This is just part of a longer conversation. You can catch the rest of it in the coming weeks.If you have an author, book, or topic you want to hear about on the podcast, then don't hesitate to slide into my DMs on Instagram or shoot me an email!Where else to find me:IG: @inbedwithbookspodYT: https://www.youtube.com/@InBedWithBooksPodEM: [email protected]
37:2304/03/2024
Interview with the Author: Aurora Ascher
Join me for another episode of In Bed With Books! Today we're chatting with the author of Sanctuary of the Shadow, Aurora Ascher. We talk about different inspirations for the book, her writing rituals, the women-led reimagining of the publishing process, and a little hint about the sequel. (shh!)Sanctuary of the Shadow was release on January 9th, 2024 through Red Tower Books. You can find out more about the books and Ascher on her website: https://auroraascher.com/If you have an author, book, or topic you want to hear about on the podcast, then don't hesitate to slide into my DMs on Instagram or shoot me an email!Where else to find me:IG: @inbedwithbookspodYT: https://www.youtube.com/@InBedWithBooksPodEM: [email protected]
47:2919/02/2024
Conspiracy Theories: Blood & Ash Edition pt. 2
In episode 69, we're looking at the second half of the FBAA/ALITF saga for any theories or guesses to get our hopes up for the next book, A Soul of Ash and Blood.Armed with our insatiable curiosity and sharp analytical skills (re: occasionally being right), we retraced our steps through each of the FBAA and AFITF episodes.From questions of loyalty to heartbreaking betrayals, we try to unravel the threads of our own thoughts, seeking answers where possible and more questions where necessary. This week's part includes The War of Two Queens, A Shadow in the Ember, and A Light in the Flame.Join us in preparing for this month's new release!Got something to say? Feel free to email us at [email protected], shoot us a dm on IG @inbedwithbookspod, or reach out to us on our Discord. Stay up to date on the latest news by checking out our website and joining our email list!
01:08:1503/07/2023
Conspiracy Theories: Blood & Ash Edition pt. 1
In episode 68, we're taking a retrospective journey through our From Blood and Ash episodes in anticipation of next month's new release!Armed with our insatiable curiosity and sharp analytical skills (re: occasionally being right), we retraced our steps through each of the FBAA and AFITF episodes. From intricate character arcs to enigmatic plot twists, we unravel the threads of our own conjectures, seeking answers where possible and more questions where necessary.This week includes the first three books of the FBAA series, so tune in next week to to catch up on Poppy's story and start Sera's!Got something to say? Feel free to email us at [email protected], shoot us a dm on IG @inbedwithbookspod, or reach out to us on our Discord. Stay up to date on the latest news by checking out our website and joining our email list!
01:08:4926/06/2023
If Beale Street Could Talk
In episode 67, we're talking about James Baldwin's If Beale Street Could Talk, a novel that explores the love story between Tish and Fonny, two young African Americans living in 1970s New York City.Between Fonny's wrongful imprisonment and Tish's preparation for their child, it seems as though they have every reason to lose hope, but Baldwin's frank writing style blends together the hope and fear throughout the book. The result is a beautiful and heart-wrenching portrayal of love in the face of adversity.Got something to say? Feel free to email us at [email protected], shoot us a dm on IG @inbedwithbookspod, or reach out to us on our Discord. Stay up to date on the latest news by checking out our website and joining our email list!
01:24:3119/06/2023
Currently Reading
In episode 66, we're chatting about the books we're currently reading and what we think about them so far. Like most of our conversations, we got a little side-tracked, so listen for more Maas theories, personal stories (like, very personal), and occasional book talk.Got something to say? Feel free to email us at [email protected], shoot us a dm on IG @inbedwithbookspod, or reach out to us on our Discord. Stay up to date on the latest news by checking out our website and joining our email list!
01:30:1612/06/2023
In Bed With: Sex
In episode 65, we're talking about s-e-x, baby. It's time to get deep with the smut. Whether you're seeking thrills or some x-rated high fantasy, this episode has the dirty talk. 🎧From the first signs of enemies to lovers to the soulmate revelation, we're talking about when the sex is good for the plot, and when sex IS the plot. And of course, we share some of our hottest reads. From classic love stories to modern rom-coms, there's something for everyone's fancy. So why not snuggle up in bed with your favorite book and tune in to episode 65 of In Bed With Books? We promise you'll come away feeling warm and fuzzy inside.Got something to say? Feel free to email us at [email protected], shoot us a dm on IG @inbedwithbookspod, or reach out to us on our Discord. Stay up to date on the latest news by checking out our website and joining our email list!
01:27:3205/06/2023
Kingdom of the Feared
In episode 64, we're talking about the finale to Kerri Maniscalco's Kingdom of the Wicked trilogy. Kingdom of the Feared is the fantastic ending to Emilia's story, her journey back to herself.After months of mourning Vittoria's death, and then discovering Vittoria was not actually dead and also possibly the one behind all of their troubles, Emilia returns to her full power, breaks curses, saves her love, and has time to cook food between everything. She's proof that we can have it all, ladies (except magic powers? We're still unsure of how we feel about THAT part). This book also serves what we were so desperately waiting for: sex with Wrath. The bedroom cliffhanger in book two might have left us wanting more, but KOTF picks right back up where things left off, finally jumping into the spice we've been waiting for.Got something to say? Feel free to email us at [email protected], shoot us a dm on IG @inbedwithbookspod, or reach out to us on our Discord. Stay up to date on the latest news by checking out our website and joining our email list!
01:11:2129/05/2023
In Bed With: Revenge
In episode 63 of our podcast, we're delving into the theme of revenge, exploring its long history in storytelling. Join us as we examine revenge as a compelling plot device, discussing its intricacies and its appeal with examples across books, TV, and movies.We touch on the distinction between revenge and justice, challenging the traditional "eye for an eye" mentality. We're unraveling the secrets behind revenge narratives, examining their enduring popularity and the universal themes they embody, in defense of it.Got something to say? Feel free to email us at [email protected], shoot us a dm on IG @inbedwithbookspod, or reach out to us on our Discord. Stay up to date on the latest news by checking out our website and joining our email list!
59:5722/05/2023
Eclipse
In episode 62 of our podcast, we're talking about Eclipse, the third installment in Stephenie Meyer's Twilight Saga. We're following Bella as she tries to balance her love for Edward with her kind-of-love for Jacob? It's a very confusing love triangle for everyone involved, ourselves included.The episode starts with a little catch-up, after a couple of months' hiatus, including a look at the season ahead!Got something to say? Feel free to email us at [email protected], shoot us a dm on IG @inbedwithbookspod, or reach out to us on our Discord.Stay up to date on the latest news by checking out our website and joining our email list!
01:20:0715/05/2023
Season Finale: The Hottest & the Messiest Characters of Season 5
In episode 61, we're going down the list of season 5 characters deciding who to marry, f*ck, or kill. After several conversations deep, we quickly realize that Nektas holds the daddy of the season award. We make some shrewd judgements ranking the characters by most hot and most messy (sorry Edward and Bella). Never have we been more excited to continue the Hollows series and follow our hottest character of the season, Rachel Morgan.If you have any thoughts, email us at [email protected], or dm us on Instagram @inbedwithbookspod. You can also reach us on our Discord. Make sure to check out our website and join our email list for the latest updates!
01:22:2715/03/2023
Dead Witch Walking
In episode 60, we're talking about Melissa's favorite book, it's one she has not been able to stop talking about. Bethany finally gave the "okay" and the last read of the season is Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison, the first in The Hollows series.Taking place in an alternate world, eerily similar to our own, Dead Witch Walking introduces us to Rachel Morgan, a witch, and her investigative partners, Jenks and Ivy, who all quickly earn our love and Rachel's loyalty. A classic detective novel mixed with the charm of a fantasy novel, this book wastes no time jumping into the action and the drama of Rachel's life.This is the first of many books in The Hollows series (18 so far!), and we're so happy to share a few with you here on the podcast.If you have any thoughts, email us at [email protected], or dm us on IG @inbedwithbookspod. You can also reach us on our Discord.Make sure to check out our website and join our email list for the latest updates!
54:3606/03/2023
Passing
In episode 59, we're talking about the 1929 classic, Passing by Nella Larsen. This book takes place in 1920's New York City, through the eyes of Irene Redfield, a woman deeply invested in her community. Her life takes a turn one summer day when she runs into Clare Kendry, a childhood friend who's been hiding her racial identity to lead an entirely new life. Their reunion leads to months of paranoia, fear, and confusion for Irene, coming together in a devilishly ambiguous ending that pleads for no solution.If you think you know who killed her, email us at [email protected], or dm us on IG @inbedwithbookspod. You can also reach us on our Discord.Make sure to check out our website and join our email list for the latest updates!
50:2227/02/2023
Queen of Myth and Monsters
In episode 58, we're talking about Scarlett St. Clair's second book in the Adrian x Isolde series, Queen of Myth And Monsters. We fell in love with the pair and their world in the first book and were so happy to get to return so soon.After declaring their love in book one, forces inside and outside of their relationship are threatening the happiness that felt assured after the reveal that Isolde was (spoiler!) his long lost love, reborn. Betrayals in their inner circle, threats from neighboring kingdoms, and the ire of a goddess seem like impossible odds, but their love only grows through the upheaval. Through all of this, Isolde is growing into a queen that we are eager to see ascend to power.If you have any thoughts, email us at [email protected], or dm us on IG @inbedwithbookspod. You can also reach us on our Discord.Make sure to check out our website and join our email list for the latest updates!
01:05:5813/02/2023
In Bed With: Love
In episode 57, Bethany & Melissa are looking at all the ways they've seen love in the books read here on the podcast. We're talking romantic love, platonic love, familial. And yes, we're talking about the question of mates, because we have a lot of opinions on this.The episode covers couples and friends from books old and new to the pod, those that hold special places in our hearts.If you have any thoughts, email us at [email protected], or dm us on IG @inbedwithbookspod. You can also reach us on our Discord.Make sure to check out our website and join our email list for the latest updates!
01:09:5706/02/2023
A Fire Endless
In episode 56, we're talking about Rebecca Ross's phenomenal sequel in the Elements of Cadence duology, A Fire Endless. Bethany and Melissa could not get enough of the Adaira/Jack, Torin/Sidra love story and we're so happy to share this discussion with you.Picking up just a few weeks after A River Enchanted, we catch the fall out from all of the secrets that have held the island together. There's really no other way to describe this book than "beautiful" - a beautiful universe, love stories, and ending to their blight.As always, if you have any thoughts, email us at [email protected], or dm us on IG @inbedwithbookspod. You can also reach us on our Discord.Make sure to check out our website and join our email list for the latest updates!
01:07:3730/01/2023
2023 Reunion, in Forks, Washington!
In episode 55, we saw each other, in person, for the first time since September 2019. This was a very special trip for us: Melissa got to go to Seattle for the first time, and both Bethany and Melissa spent a night in Forks, Washington. That's where we recorded this special reunion episode, living out our Twilight dreams and soaking up the fresh air.If you have any thoughts, email us at [email protected], or dm us on IG @inbedwithbookspod. You can also reach us on our Discord.Make sure to check out our website and join our email list for the latest updates!
32:2523/01/2023
Kingdom of the Cursed
In episode 54, we're talking about the second book in Kerri Maniscalco's Kingdom of the Wicked trilogy. Kingdom of the Cursed starts right where we left off, with Emilia's first trip to the Underworld in hopes of solving her sister's murder. This book was full of secrets and plot twists, keeping us and Emilia on her toes.We do some fancasting, some theorizing, and can't help but gush over Emilia's emotional growth through this book.If you have any thoughts, email us at [email protected], or dm us on IG @inbedwithbookspod. You can also reach us on our Discord.Make sure to check out our website and join our email list for the latest updates!
58:1616/01/2023
BONUS EPISODE: A Merry Little Holiday Special
We are coming to you on the *Friday before Christmas because we know the holidays are not always happy for everyone. Family can be stressful or unwanted for various reasons and so we are here to be your family and talk about our favorite Christmases spent alone or otherwise, our favorite Christmas songs to sing, and holiday movies to watch. We hope this season treats you well and we will see you in the new year!If you have any thoughts, email us at [email protected], or dm us on IG @inbedwithbookspod. You can also reach us on our Discord.Make sure to check out our website and join our email list for the latest updates!
43:3423/12/2022
In Bed With: Molly Tullis pt. 2
This is the second part of episode 53, split up to make life a little easier this holiday season. We're talking underrated books, the writing and self-publishing process, and a get to meet Molly's pup!Molly was a fantastic guest to have on the podcast, and we're eager to have her on again in the future. You can find her on the socials @thebibliophileblonde or take a look at the books she's published here.If you have any thoughts, email us at [email protected], or dm us on IG @inbedwithbookspod. You can also reach us on our Discord.Make sure to check out our website and join our email list for the latest updates!
59:5419/12/2022
In Bed With: Molly Tullis - The Bibliophile Blonde
In episode 53, we're talking with Molly Tullis about all things reading, writing, and publishing. This first half of our conversation starts with the Emmett to Cassian pipeline, covers some of our favorite pop culture phenoms from the last thirty years, and ends with a defense of open-door scenes in fantasy.Molly was a fantastic guest to have on the podcast, and we're eager to have her on again in the future. You can find her on the socials @thebibliophileblonde or take a look at the books she's published here.If you have any thoughts, email us at [email protected], or dm us on IG @inbedwithbookspod. You can also reach us on our Discord.Make sure to check out our website and join our email list for the latest updates!
56:2412/12/2022
A Light in the Flame
In episode 52, Bethany and Melissa are talking about A Light in the Flame, the second book in the Flesh and Fire series by Jennifer L. Armentrout. The book picks up exactly where we left off in A Shadow in the Ember and has given us just as many questions as answers around the prophecy, and Sera and Poppy's fate.Sera's journey, while parallel to Poppy's own path to self-assurance and power, is so distinctly and beautifully her own that it feels impossible not to love her. Her relationship with Nyktos becomes a space for her to explore her own wants and needs without the threat of death. And of course, through all of that healing, JLA gave us some of the best sex scenes we could have asked for! Join us to speculate wildly about where Sera and Nyktos' story is headed, and what this all means for the prophecy and the fate of their world.If you have any thoughts, email us at [email protected], or dm us on IG @inbedwithbookspod. You can also reach us on our Discord - the link can be found in our IG bio.Make sure to check out our website and join our email list for the latest updates!
01:40:0805/12/2022
Gleam
In episode 51, Bethany & Melissa are talking about Gleam, the third book in the Plated Prisoner series.Gleam finally gave us what we'd been waiting for: dirty sex and women's wrongs. What started out as a story about women being at the whims of men and Auren's stockholm syndrome has turned into one of scheming and feminine rage. From the new and not-to-be-trusted Queen Kaila, to Auren's explosion of power at the end, we couldn't be more excited for these women claiming their own paths. And Slade's blind support of Auren is exactly the kind of energy we need from our latest book boyfriend.If you have any thoughts, email us at [email protected], or dm us on IG @inbedwithbookspod. You can also reach us on our Discord - the link can be found in our IG bio.Make sure to check out our website and join our email list for the latest updates!
01:08:2228/11/2022
In Bed With: Death - Scenes, Themes, and Our Greatest Losses
In episode 50, we're talking about death - as a plot device, as a theme, and the scenes that wrecked us in the way that only a good book can.We start with a longer-than-usual catch-up, talking astrology and some recent TV shows before jumping into it. Our conversation covers deaths used to push the MCs story forward, deaths with or without meaning, and times when a character couldn't seem to stay dead.If you have any thoughts, email us at [email protected], or dm us on IG @inbedwithbookspod. You can also reach us on our Discord - the link can be found in our IG bio.Make sure to check out our website and join our email list for the latest updates!
01:18:0421/11/2022
New Moon
In episode 49, we're picking up where we left off and starting season 5 with New Moon by Stephanie Meyer. This one has been much anticipated, as most can agree it's the best book in the series. Evading the curse of most sequels, New Moon succeeds in creating a new story while keeping all of the best parts of book one.We're talking about Team Edward vs Team Jacob, popular fan theories, and growing up and realizing the Rosalie is actually the best.If you have any thoughts, email us at [email protected], or dm us on IG @inbedwithbookspod. You can also reach us on our Discord - the link can be found in our IG bio.Make sure to check out our website and join our email list for the latest updates!
01:00:0714/11/2022
Season Finale!
Episode 48 brings an end to season four. Rounding out a year of the podcast, and reflecting on our favorite people and moments from this season.If you have any thoughts, email us at [email protected], or dm us on IG @inbedwithbookspod.Make sure to check out our website and join our email list for the latest updates!
01:15:1510/10/2022
Twilight
In episode 47, we finally did it...we read Twilight together. This is the first in a series where we revisit Melissa's favorites from her teen years and slowly catch Bethany up on YA, fantasy, and romance. Starting with Twilight felt only right and was a total success in convincing Bethany to dive deeper into the 2010's YA fantasy rabbit hole.Twilight isn't without its flaws, but we cover what we believe to be some glaring issues as well as the unavoidably sexy parts. The Twilight renaissance is upon us and we're happy to come along for the ride.If you have any thoughts, email us at [email protected], or dm us on IG @inbedwithbookspod.Make sure to check out our website and join our email list for the latest updates!
01:01:0903/10/2022
King of Battle and Blood
In episode 46, we're talking about Scarlett St. Clair's King of Battle and Blood. This book had everything we've come to expect from St. Clair and more. Following Princess Isolde on the day of her country's invasion, we're introduced to a world of vampires, witches, curses, and monsters. In ways Isolde could never have guessed, Adrian's invasion of her country changes everything she knows about her home and her history. Between Isolde's confidence, and Adrian's unwavering support of her chaos, Scarlett St. Clair has created a power couple that we can't get enough of.Join us in talking about the court politics, plot twists, and sex St. Clair gifted us with in King of Battle and Blood.Make sure to check us out on our website and Instagram (@inbedwithbookspod) for updates and more!
01:03:4326/09/2022
BONUS EPISODE: What we've been up to
This week we decided we needed a quick breather, so here's a little bonus episode to make it up to you. Listen to find out why we're taking the week off, what's coming up, and what we're doing in the meantime!Make sure to check us out on our website and on Instagram (@inbedwithbookspod).
44:3219/09/2022
A River Enchanted
In episode 45, we're talking about Rebecca Ross's book, A River Enchanted. Set on Cadence, an island off the coast of Scotland, the book follows Jack Tamerlaine's return to a home that he never felt a part of. Jack finds himself in the middle of a mystery they're convinced is the doing of angry spirits. The book has enemies to lovers, star-crossed lovers, marriage of convenience - whatever romance tropes get your rocks off. Ross's prose is so beautiful that we found ourselves incapable of putting the book down.Join our talk as we unravel the mysteries of Cadence, and eagerly await the sequel, coming out this Winter.Make sure to check us out on our website and Instagram (@inbedwithbookspod) for updates and more!
01:03:0312/09/2022
In Bed With: Authors
In episode 44, we catch each other up on some of our favorite authors from childhood favorites to the classics close to our hearts. Throughout the episode, we reflect on our reading journeys, how we came to read what we read now, and what were the most influential books for us.If you're listening to the audio version of this, then you might miss some of the images shared during the recording of this episode. Hop on over to YouTube or IG for those pictures!Make sure to check out our website or our Instagram (@inbedwithbookspod) for more updates.
01:18:3805/09/2022
The Dispossessed
In episode 43, we're talking about our classic for this season, Ursula K. Le Guin's The Dispossessed. While the book was an easy read, its content included some heavy and rather topical subjects, using the politically opposed planets Urras and Anarres to ask: How do you feel at peace with the earth you live on?We knew we wouldn't be able to hit all of the topics raised in the book, but we discuss the themes we felt the most strongly towards. As such, if there is anything that you think we missed during our discussion, then feel free to DM us on IG because we're more than happy to talk about it!Make sure to find us on Instagram (@inbedwithbookspod) and on our website for updates!
01:36:4829/08/2022
In Bed With: Magic Powers
In episode 42, we sat down and talked about the wide range of magical powers we've read in fantasy, both on and off the podcast. We start by discussing the ways magical objects are used in fantasy, from the One Ring to Excalibur. Then we explore the differences between inherited powers and earned powers, and how that distinction fundamentally changes their stories.Make sure to find us on Instagram (@inbedwithbookspod) or on our website for updates!
59:1122/08/2022
Kingdom of the Wicked
In episode 41, we talk about the first book in Kerri Maniscalco's Kingdom of the Wicked trilogy. Both of us immediately fell in love with Emilia and Wrath. The lengths Emilia is willing to go to for her sister. and the support that Wrath offers her through it is beautiful to watch unfold.Make sure to check out our website and our Instagram (@inbedwithbookspod) for updates!
01:02:4715/08/2022
Glint
In episode 40, we're talking about Glint, the second book in the Plated Prisoner series, by Raven Kennedy. We finally saw Auren take a few steps toward her own agency and reckon with the breakdown of her perception of their world. It's no secret that we're both eager for Auren to come into her own power, and this book has set the stage for that with some lovely plot twists (Rip is who??) and displays of power.Make sure to check out our website and our Instagram (@inbedwithbookspod) for more updates!
01:01:5908/08/2022
In Bed With: Fantasy Creatures
In episode 39 of the podcast, we take a look at some of our favorite creatures from literary fantasy. Creatures we'd like to be, those we'd like to befriend, and those we'd like to...well, you can probably guess. This is a fantasy romance podcast after all.Make sure to check out our website and our Instagram (@inbedwithbookspod) for more content and updates!
01:05:4801/08/2022
Queen of Nothing
In episode 38 of the podcast, we talk about the final book in the Folk of the Air trilogy, Queen of Nothing. We had a blast talking about Jude's growth, from fearing what her feelings for Cardan had done to her life, to fearing what her life would look like without him. From the girl power this book exudes to the subtle lessons in forgiveness, we could not have asked for a better conclusion to Jude's rise to power.
50:0725/07/2022
In Bed With: Fantasy Realms
And we're back! Episode 37 kicks off our fourth season with a look at the different fantasy realms that we've read on and off the podcast. We look at some of our favorite worlds, the elements inherent to specific world-building, and the kinds that are easier for us to accept as fantasy readers.For more information on the discussion of "hard" vs. "soft" world-building that we get into, check out the video below!Hard Worldbuilding vs. Soft Worldbuilding | A Study of Studio Ghibli
01:20:1518/07/2022
BONUS EPISODE: ACOTAR Edition
We all knew Bethany and I couldn't go that long without recording something, so after finishing A Court of Silver Flames for our book club, we knew we had to record more of our thoughts! Thus, the ACOTAR bonus episode was born! Spliced up with some previously removed tangents with took in season 3, what we planned to be a short episode turned into an hour and a half of ACOTAR goodness!Enjoy! And we'll be back in a few weeks with the start of season 4.
01:28:3823/06/2022
Season Finale: Fancasting
In episode 36, Bethany & Melissa take a look back at some of the characters from each book we read this season, warming up with a game of f**k/marry/kill, and then diving into the fancasting. We're proud of the cast lists we were able to come up with, surprising ourselves and each other.Join us here, and then head to our instagram (@inbedwithbookspod) to tell us what you think, or who could do it better!(Pst! Catch us take a small digression near the end about the latest season of Bridgerton, in defense of Penelope Featherington!)
01:30:4016/05/2022