Did Two Twisted Crowns stick the landing, or did we just want more vibes from One Dark Window?
We’re breaking down the entire Shepherd King duology conclusion, the possession tropes, the magic system, and that romance subplot we didn't know we needed until now. It’s gothic, it’s moody, and we have some THOUGHTS about it all.
Come hang out and let us know if you think this duology is worth the hype!
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f you’ve read Two Twisted Crowns, we want to hear from you. Did you love the sequel as much as we did?
Reading is supposed to be FUN but for so many readers it’s turned into pressure, performance, and constant comparison.
In this episode of the Always Booked Podcast, we’re breaking down the unspoken reading rules we’re officially leaving in 2025 and the *healthier* reading habits we’re taking into 2026.
From DNF guilt to book count obsession to algorithm driven TBRs, we talk honestly about how modern reading culture can steal the fun and how to get it back.
This episode is for anyone who wants reading to feel fun again.
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We’re diving into the viral BookTok sensation Alchemy of Secrets by Stephanie Garber on this week's episode of the Always Booked podcast. It’s trending everywhere as a must-read, but do we agree?We’re breaking down the plot, the characters, and exactly why this popular book sparked a massive debate at the table.Is it a masterpiece or a total mess? Whether you loved it or DNF'd it, come hang out with us and talk books!📲 Follow us on Instagram → @always.bookd🌐 Visit our website → https://www.alwaysbooked.netJoin our community in the comments! Did you love or hate this book? ✨ Subscribe for more honest book reviews
Our 2025 Reading Wrapped is finally here and we are breaking down the best books of the year, the worst books of the year, and everything in between in this full reading wrap up episode.
From five star reads we could not stop thinking about to the books that fully betrayed us and ended up as one star ratings, nothing is safe. This is our most honest reading recap yet as we rank our top reads of 2025, call out the biggest disappointments, and relive the stories that completely wrecked us emotionally.We also look ahead to 2026 and share what we are most excited to read next. New releases, anticipated sequels, and the reading goals we are manifesting for the year ahead. Whether you are here for reading inspiration, validation for your unpopular opinions, or just to watch us argue about books, this episode has it all.
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We’re talking about the romantasy book boyfriends who have absolutely RUINED us.In this episode of Always Booked, we’re breaking down the most well-written romantasy men... the ones with emotional depth, vulnerability, and actual communication skills. Not just “he’s hot and broody,” but:- Men who actively listen- Men who are emotionally available (most of the time 😌)- Men who create safe, soft spaces - Men who prove that strength and softness can exist togetherWe’ll talk about why these characters feel so real, how their trauma is handled on the page, and why their love stories hit harder than anything happening in real life. Let us know in the comments:- Which romantasy book boyfriend lives in your head rent-free, and WHY? Name names. We’re taking notes for our TBR. 👇📲 Follow us on Instagram → @always.bookd🌐 Visit our website → https://www.alwaysbooked.netJoin our community in the comments and share your current romantasy obsession.Subscribe so you never miss an episode!
We ADORED Rachel Gillig's One Dark Window and we're diving deep into why this gothic fantasy stole our hearts. From the haunting magic system to the dynamic between Elspeth and the Nightmare, we're breaking down everything that made this book 5 stars. If you loved the dark atmosphere, morally gray characters, and magic of One Dark Window, this episode is for you.⚠️ SPOILER WARNING: We discuss major plot points and character arcs throughout this episode. Read the book first if you want to go in blind!ABOUT ONE DARK WINDOW:One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig is a gothic fantasy romantasy featuring a kingdom cursed by mist, a heroine with a dark secret, and a dangerous quest for magical Providence Cards. Perfect for fans of dark fairy tales, morally complex characters, and atmospheric world-building.CONNECT WITH US:🖤 Subscribe for weekly book deep dives every Thursday📲 Follow us on Instagram💬 Join the conversation in the comments - what did YOU think of One Dark Window?
We're ranking EVERY Sarah J Maas book in the entire SJM universe! From Throne of Glass to ACOTAR to Crescent City, we're placing all the books in our tier list: God Tier, Elite, Love, Good, and Just Okay. Watch us debate Tower of Dawn, agree on Kingdom of Ash, and get into heated arguments about House of Flame and Shadow and A Court of Silver Flames. Plus, find out which controversial ranking almost gets someone kicked off the podcast!If you love Sarah J Maas books, BookTok discussions, or just want to see three friends passionately debate fantasy rankings, this episode is for you. Drop your own SJM tier list in the comments - we want to see your controversial takes!Subscribe for more deep dives on fantasy books, romantasy reviews, and honest book discussions from three friends who feel way too much about books!CONNECT WITH US:📲 Follow us on Instagram → / always.bookd 🌐 Visit our website → https://www.alwaysbooked.netComment "you're so smart and pretty" if you agree with our rankings, or "you're stupid" if you disagree 😂
November is STACKED with incredible book releases and we're breaking down the 5 we're most excited to get our hands on. From fantasy to literary fiction, these are the books about to take over our lives (and our TBRs).BOOKS MENTIONED:- The Strength of the Few by James Islington- The Burning Library by Gilly Macmillan- Hollow by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti- Brimstone by Callie Hart- The Moorwitch by Jessica Khoury📚 Subscribe for more bookish deep dives every Thursday📲 Follow us on Instagram → / always.bookd 🌐 Visit our website → https://www.alwaysbooked.netGet booked 🖤
We’re diving into Crescent City 3: House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas! From Bryce’s big choices to Hunt’s pain and all the wild lore reveals, we’re unpacking every twist and theory. If you love Sarah J. Maas, Throne of Glass, or ACOTAR, this one’s for you. Expect laughter, deep lore talk, questionable theories, and a few tears (because Sarah J. Maas never lets us rest).✨ In this episode:- Our biggest “WTF” moments- Who frustrated us the most (looking at you, Ithan)- Why this book feels made for Throne of Glass fans- Bryce’s choices and what they might really mean- Our favorite characters and theories for what’s nextLet us know your Crescent City mate in the comments and drop your wildest theory — we might feature it in our next theory episode!📚 Subscribe for more bookish deep dives every Thursday📲 Follow us on Instagram → / always.bookd 🌐 Visit our website → https://www.alwaysbooked.net
Some of these reviews should be illegal. We’re reading the WORST 1-star takes on beloved books and trying not to lose our minds. From Divine Rivals to Kingdom of Ash, the opinions are unhinged and the reactions are real.
In this episode of Always Booked, we dive into the world of one-star reviews and the psychology behind them. Why do people rate masterpieces like they’re personal enemies? When does a bad take actually have a point? And what makes a book worthy of one star versus five?
Join Olivia, Emily, and Dani as they defend their favorite reads, question Goodreads culture, and laugh through some truly dramatic opinions. It’s a mix of hot takes, honest conversations, and reader emotions that every book lover can relate to.
Books Mentioned:
Divine Rivals, Fourth Wing, Sunrise on the Reaping, House of Sky and Breath, Normal People, Educated, The Secret History, Kingdom of Ash, and Happy Place
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R.F. Kuang’s Katabasis isn’t just another dark academia fantasy. It’s a descent into the underworld of intellect, guilt, and ambition. Two rival grad students, Alice Law and Peter Murdoch, literally go to Hel to save their mentor, but what they find there says more about academia than it does about demons.Set in 1980s Cambridge, Katabasis turns the university into its own inferno, powered by obsession, genius worship, and the belief that brilliance excuses everything. It’s sharp, haunting, and honestly kind of unhinged in the best way.In this episode, we’re breaking down:How academia becomes its own circle of HelWhy ambition and morality can’t coexist hereThe pull between logic, memory, and madnessWhat it means to lose yourself in the pursuit of knowledgeWhy Katabasis might be Kuang’s darkest and smartest book yet📲 Follow us on Instagram → / always.bookd 🌐 Visit our website → https://www.alwaysbooked.net✨ Subscribe for more dark academia breakdowns, book discussions, and chaotic literary therapy sessions.
Think you know your favorite books? Think again. In this episode of Always Booked, we’re testing our literary knowledge with the most chaotic book summaries ever written. From fantasy favorites to literary classics, we’re turning iconic stories into unhinged descriptions that’ll make you question everything you’ve ever read.In this episode:- Try to guess the book from the world’s most ridiculous summaries- Roast some of our favorite fantasy and romance plots (lovingly, of course)- Test who really pays attention during their rereads- Laugh way too hard at our own terrible clues- Prove that even bookworms can fail a book quiz spectacularly📲 Follow us on Instagram → / always.bookd 🌐 Visit our website → https://www.alwaysbooked.net
House of Sky and Breath by Sarah J Maas delivers one of the most jaw-dropping endings in fantasy history. In this episode of Always Booked, we dive into every detail of Crescent City 2 — the characters we love, the storylines we can’t get over, and the moments that made us SCREAM. Of course, spoilers ahead!✨ In this episode:- Honest takes on Bryce, Hunt, Ruhn, and the whole Crescent City cast- Favorite quotes and unforgettable scenes- Why this ending changed the entire SJM universeJoin us for a insane, emotional, and very bookish breakdown of House of Sky and Breath. Whether you’re a longtime Sarah J Maas fan or just starting the Crescent City series, this episode will have you reliving every twist.📚 Connect with us:📲 Follow us on Instagram → / always.bookd 🌐 Visit our website → https://www.alwaysbooked.net
Are you a red flag reader? Let’s be honest… we all have a few. From dog earing pages and buying books we’ll definitely read “someday,” to never finishing that one series everyone loves, we’re calling out the red and green flags of readers everywhere. NO ONE IS SAFE. And yes, we’re guilty of most of them too. 💅📚We’re breaking down the most relatable bookish habits and what they say about you. Whether you’re a cozy fantasy girly, a dark romance devotee, or just here for the vibes, this one’s for you.In this video, we’re talking about:-Common reader red flags we all pretend we don’t have-Green flag reading habits that give main character energy-Bookish hot takes about what makes a “good reader”-Why our reading habits say more about us than we think-Confessions from self-proclaimed red flag readers📲 Follow us on Instagram → @always.bookd🌐 Visit our website → https://www.alwaysbooked.net
✨ Discover the magic of Wild Reverence by Rebecca Ross in this episode of Always Booked! ✨We dive deep into the world of Wild Reverence and explore the characters, themes, and emotional layers that make this novel unforgettable. From its focus on human connection and unspoken bonds to its rich sense of nature and belonging, Rebecca Ross delivers a story that lingers long after the final page.Whether you are a longtime Ross fan or just discovering her books for the first time, this episode offers fresh insights, honest reactions, and plenty of bookish banter to enhance your reading experience.📚 What we cover in this episode:- Key themes and motifs in Wild Reverence- Our favorite character moments and arcs- How this story fits into Rebecca Ross’s body of work- Why this book is a perfect fall read💌 Join the Always Booked community:📲 Follow us on Instagram → / always.bookd 🌐 Visit our website → https://www.alwaysbooked.netRemember to like, subscribe, and share with your fellow readers so you never miss a new bookish deep dive.
Looking for the best fall book recommendations? We’ve got you covered. In this episode of Always Booked, we’re sharing our must read books for fall 2025, including cozy romances, atmospheric fantasies, and annoying fiction.If you’re building your autumn TBR, these fall reads are perfect for curling up with a blanket, sipping something warm, and soaking in the seasonal vibes.
DROP your fav fall reads in the comments 🍂✨
In this video you’ll discover:
- The top fall books to read in 2025
- Cozy book recommendations for fall vibes
- Fantasy, romance, and literary fiction picks for your fall TBR
Whether you love fantasy, romance, or literary fiction, you will find something here to add to your reading list.
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This week, we’re getting vulnerable about our Crescent City obsession. From the moment we opened House of Earth and Blood, Sarah J. Maas had us completely hooked. We’re breaking down exactly what makes this book so addictive, why these characters live rent free in our heads, and how this fantasy world became our comfort read.In this episode:- What hooked us from page one and never let go- Character development that feels real and earned- The friendship dynamics that hit different- Why the world building works so perfectly- Moments that made us cry, laugh, and fall in loveIf you love thoughtful book analysis, character-driven discussions, and exploring why certain stories stick with us, this episode is for you. Tell us in the comments! Who's your favorite Crescent City character?
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Friendships in books are everything. They're the bonds that shape characters, move the plot forward, and give us some of the most emotional reading experiences.In this episode of Always Booked, we are talking about the friendships that truly stand out in literature and why they matter so much to readers. From iconic duos to complicated squads, we are breaking down the best bookish friendships and what they reveal about love, loyalty, and connection.✨ What you will get in this episode:- Insights into how friendships influence character development and story arcs- Deep dives into iconic duos and squads like Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson and the Harry Potter crew- Discussion on why these bonds feel so real and relatable, even in fantastical worlds- A look at how friendship themes shape our own views on loyalty, love, and connection✨ Subscribe for more bookish podcasts, spoiler discussions, and deep dives into your favorite novels!📲 Follow us on Instagram for more: always.bookd💻 Explore our events and blog: alwaysbooked.net
We finally read Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein and it wrecked us. This heartbreaking World War II historical fiction novel is a beautiful book about friendship, sacrifice, and survival. In this episode, we share our raw reactions, emotional takeaways.Included in this episode:- Code Name Verity summary and spoiler discussion- Why this WWII historical fiction novel stands out- Friendship, betrayal, and survival themes- The ending that left us devastated- How Elizabeth Wein’s writing compares to other historical fiction authors💬 What was your reaction to Code Name Verity? Share your thoughts in the comments.✨ Subscribe for more bookish podcasts, spoiler discussions, and deep dives into your favorite novels.📲 Follow us on Instagram for more: always.bookd💻 Explore our events and blog: alwaysbooked.net
From The Hunger Games to It Ends With Us, we break down some of the biggest book to movie adaptations, the wins, the flops, and everything in between. We talk about poor casting choices, surprising plot changes that actually worked, and the adaptations that completely missed the mark. Whether it is Twilight, The Hunger Games, or the latest Colleen Hoover adaptation, we rank our favorite and least favorite book to screen moments in Hollywood. If you love talking about book adaptations, you do not want to miss this.
Included in this episode:
💬 Tell us your favorite book to movie adaptation in the comments!
✨ Subscribe for more bookish deep dives, spoiler chats, and book recs.
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