Sam and Dan discuss Gardens of the Moon by Steven Erikson.

SPOILER ALERT: This episode contains spoilers. If you’re planning to read this book, we’d recommend doing so before listening.

In this episode, we take on the first entry in Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson — though not in the way we usually do. Dan didn’t finish the book, and we'll find out exactly why!

We explore what makes Gardens of the Moon such a divisive read, from its lack of clarity and fragmented structure to a magic system that feels deliberately opaque. We also dig into Erikson’s own comments in the preface, where he acknowledges the book’s difficulty—and what that means for readers who struggle to connect with it.

This is less a traditional review and more an honest discussion about readability, expectations in epic fantasy, and whether complexity always equals depth.

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Sam and Dan review Operation Bounce House by Matt Dinniman.

SPOILER ALERT: This episode contains spoilers. We strongly recommend reading this book before listening.

Join us as we delve into Matt Dineman's latest offering, Operation Bounce House, exploring its mix of action, humour, and thought-provoking themes. We unpack how this sci-fi novel comments on contemporary issues like dehumanisation, militarisation, and AI ethics, all while delivering high-octane battles and relatable characters.

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Sam and Dan review Godstorm, by Solitaire Townsend.

SPOILER ALERT: This episode contains spoilers. We strongly recommend reading this book before listening.

Join us as we explore Solitaire Townsend’s debut novel, Godstorm, a fresh take on alternate history fantasy grounded in climate science. We unpack the world-building, character development, themes of agency and environmentalism, and the narrative choices that shape this compelling story.

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Sam and Dan review Jade Legacy by Fonda Lee, book 3 in the Green Bone Saga.

SPOILER ALERT: This episode contains spoilers. We strongly recommend reading this book before listening.

Join us as we dissect the sprawling "Jade Legacy" by Fonda Lee, exploring the highs, lows, and missed opportunities across this ambitious final instalment of the trilogy. We discuss the storytelling choices, character development, world-building, and how the series ultimately lands (or doesn't!) with its conclusion.

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Sam and Dan review Jade War by Fonda Lee, book 2 in the Green Bone Saga.

SPOILER ALERT: This episode contains spoilers. We strongly recommend reading this book before listening.

In episode 2 of our three-episode exploration of the Green Bone Saga by Fonda Lee we dive into the sequel, Jade War. We examine the widening of the world as the clan conflict requires political and economic moves to be made outside of Kekon. We re-join all of the main characters to see how the twists and turns of the plot have impacted them. We discuss the continuing themes of family and modernisation vs tradition, and we comment on some issues with the writing style and decisions throughout.

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Sam and Dan review Jade City by Fonda Lee.

SPOILER ALERT: This episode contains spoilers. We strongly recommend reading this book before listening.

This is the first episode in our three-episode exploration of the Greenbone Saga by Fonda Lee. We explore the intricate world-building, the unique magic system involving Jade, and the complex dynamics of the clans in the fictional city of Kekon. We discuss the characters' development, the cultural and political themes, and the narrative's balance between action and character-driven storytelling. We also touch on the book's exploration of power, honour, and modernisation within the context of a fantasy setting.

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Sam and Dan review A Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna.

SPOILER ALERT: This episode contains spoilers. We strongly recommend reading this book before listening.

In this episode, Dan and Sam delve into the world of cosy fantasy with Sangu Mandana's "A Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping." They discuss the book's unique charm, its exploration of themes like chosen family, inclusivity, and the balance between magic and personal growth. The conversation highlights the book's whimsical writing style, its engaging characters, and the gentle yet impactful social commentary woven throughout the narrative.

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In this episode, Sam and Dan delve into two books, "Alice with a Why: Return to Wonderland" by Anna James and "Hecate: The Witch" by Nikita Gill.

SPOILER ALERT: This episode contains spoilers. We strongly recommend reading these books before listening.

We explore the themes of reimagining classic stories and mythology, discussing how these modern retellings bring new perspectives to well-known narratives. The conversation touches on the challenges and creativity involved in continuing beloved tales, the use of verse in storytelling, and the impact of historical context on these narratives. We also reflect on the broader trend of revisiting and revising classic myths and stories in contemporary literature.

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