Today, I fell for the rage bait on Booktok, talk about another author with receiving allegations, and have some big news about Enemies & Lovers!
I also get to hang out with Harlowe Savage and talk our favorite Baldur's Gate dates, some gay history, and a sneak peak at some new stories!
Today's episode is so special to me as I get to hang out with one of my best friends, Nikkita Bell, and talk about her upcoming novel The Bombshell Devil's Advocate.
She shares so many behind the scenes stories, we laugh, we cry, we justify murder and you absolutely don't want to miss it!
You can preorder this debut novel now and get extra goodies at www.nikkitabell.com
Stories this week include the struggles of buying the Target exclusive Onyx Storm and some upcoming TV and Movie news!
On the news this week, Rebecca Yarros has talked about the Forth Wing TV show, AI is running rampant, new makeup for the book girlies, and an attending author announcement for Enemies & Lovers!
We also talk to SG Blaise about her sci-fi fantasy series, The Last Lumenian.
https://sgblaise.com/
We are back with an all new style and all new episodes!
I had to take a break from the show for a few months and figure out the direction I wanted it to go. Having a book of the month was really daunting on my schedule and wasn't working for my mental health.
Now, each week we will talk about the latest in bookish tea and news and still welcoming different authors each week in our Author Spotlights!
This week, we discuss the latest booktok drama including the "Booktok is WILD" video from CallMeKris, a stolen copywrite claim from IndyaMarie, Audible's new listening speed ad, and SJM's Nightcourt Special Editions.
Check it out and let me know what you think of these stories!
Hang around to hear all about Shelby McFadden's Grove Hollow series!
A gothic romance set in the 80's between a teen girl and a Victorian ghost!
You can find Shelby on Instagram @shelbynicoleauthor
and on her website!
Sorry for skipping last week! I had a cold, but I am making up for it this week as I discuss Acts II & III of Lady Macbeth!
And then I am hanging out with author Rosalyn Briar!
Tea of the Week: Shakespeare's Romance by Mountain Song Herbals
Rosalyn Briar is a former teacher who is married to her soul mate. Together, they have built a beautiful life and have two fearless daughters. Rosalyn is obsessed with gothic fairy tales, scary movies, sun dresses, traveling, and reading books. When Rosalyn isn’t writing or reading, you can find her playing dress up with her two princesses or exploring the woods for wildflowers.
Rosalyn is an author and a poet with many published projects including The Crown of Bones, A Sea of Pearls & Leaves, The Mermaid & the Pearl, and Her Dark Enchantments.
https://www.rosalynbriar.com/
We are starting out spooky season with a classic tragedy! Lady Macbeth by Ava Reid is the Book of the month for October, and today we are chatting act 1.
After, we are hanging out with Jenn Czep about her kindle vella series, An Ideal of Roses.
Tea of the Week: The Scottish Tea by Tea Punk Teas
https://jenn-czep.square.site/
Join us today for the 1 year anniversary episode!!!
Today we finish A Sorceress Comes To Call and hang out with author Vermilion H Baine!
Make sure to check out the giveaway on Instgram!
Tea of the Week: Cozy Cottage by D & Tea
Vermilion H Baine is an indie fantasy author based in the American Southwest. After a tour as a nuclear electrician’s mate in the US Navy, she now works as a field service engineer in the semi-conductor industry. She writes fantasy, low and high, and tries to sprinkle in humor between the extreme bouts of angst. She lives with two very codependent rescue dogs, her grumpy, can-fix-anything husband, and her Viking-sized son.
Her favorite book series from her childhood is the Lioness Quartet by Tamora Pierce. Her favorite video game is Morrowind, though Dragon Age inspired her to start writing.
This week, we are continuing our discussion on A Sorceress Comes To Call by T. Kingfisher and hanging out with dark fantasy author Rylo Kinn!
Tea of the Week: Floral Fantasy by The Cafe Connection
Author Spotlight: Rylo Kinn
Born and raised in Sechelt, British Columbia Canada, Rylo Kinn's passion for storytelling began at a young age. He spent his childhood exploring the beautiful natural surroundings of his hometown, sparking his imagination and inspiring his creative talents.
As he grew older, Rylo Kinn's love for writing and storytelling only continued to flourish. His ability to spin a captivating yarn drew people in, and he quickly became known as the go-to guy for entertaining stories.
Despite initially getting in trouble for his wild imagination, Rylo Kinn's mother always believed that if he could harness his artistry, he could go far in life. And she was right. With the publication of his poetry piece, Rylo Kinn began his journey as an author.
Today, Rylo Kinn's hometown continues to be a source of inspiration to him, and he often draws on his memories of growing up in Sechelt in his writing. His ability to blend real-world knowledge with mystical and magical elements creates a unique and immersive reading experience that his fans can't get enough of.
A day late, but still amazing! We continue our discussion on A Sorceress Comes To Call by T. Kingfisher and then hang out with author Kimberly Grymes!
Tea of the Week: Poison Apple
Author Spotlight:
Kimberly Grymes is drawn to the imaginative realms of science-fiction, fantasy, mystery, and the paranormal. Her passion lies in crafting original tales within the young adult fantasy genre, where she explores worlds of magic, adventure, and the supernatural. In addition to her storytelling, Kimberly supports fellow writers through her Etsy shop, where she provides a range of checklists and worksheets designed to guide writers through the brainstorming, outlining, and writing process.
When she’s not immersed in creating resources or weaving narratives, Kimberly enjoys spending time with her family, indulging in movies or TV shows, and delving into captivating books. She and her family reside on the outskirts of Wichita, Kansas, accompanied by their two lively miniature pinschers, Cori and Jubilee.
https://kimberlygrymes.com/
Author Jessica Leigh hangs out with me as we answer all the questions about A Daughter Forged In Fire!
And we get an exclusive sneak peek at an upcoming release!
We are starting spooky season early with a fairytale retelling by T Kingfisher and then hanging out with author Emma Elizabeth!
Tea of the Week: The Gilded Teafling X EPIC
https://emmaelizabethwrites.com/
We are finishing up Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli and then hanging out with author Cassie Sanchez!
Tea of the Week: Fairy Dust by The Whistling Kettle
As a child, Cassie wanted superpowers and to be like Princess Leia, fighting the Empire alongside unlikely heroes. She also wanted a pet tiger. Suffice it to say, she lost herself in books, from fantasy to sci-fi to a suspenseful romance.
Cassie grew up in Albuquerque, New Mexico, graduating with a degree in marketing, and marrying her husband, Louie. After a few years in the business world, she became a stay-at-home mom, raising her two sons, Tyler and Chase. Her passions in life are her faith and her family. And now, writing—creating worlds where adventure awaits.
Writing a novel had swirled in the back of Cassie’s mind since she was young, but she didn’t pursue it until the empty nest loomed in front of her and vacant bedrooms had her asking, “now what?” She ferociously learned the craft of writing, and after more than a year of characters arguing in her head, she finished her award-winning debut novel, Chasing the Darkness in 2021. The sequel and winner of eight awards, Embracing the Darkness, released in 2022, and the final book in the Darkness Trilogy, Conquering the Darkness released in 2023. What adventure will Cassie embark on next? Only magic knows.
Her first love of all that’s magical is Harry Potter; however, she’s still surprised the Sorting Hat put her in Slytherin, even though her family is not.
Cassie lives and works out of her home in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where she enjoys coffee and sunrises, golfing with her husband, and pestering her two adult children.
www.cassiesanchez.com
We are continuing our read through of Heartless Hunter and then chatting with author Kristin Ardis!
Tea of the Week: Chocolate Chip Chai by Witchy Pooh
Kristin Ardis writes emotional YA/NA fantasy books for those who believe in hopeful endings and the enduring power of love. Her stories take place in magical worlds where resilient characters must grapple with who they are and find their way home to themselves.
When she’s not immersed in twisting tropes or curating a playlist for her next book, she’s probably enjoying her second cup of tea, living her best aunt life, or hiking the wooded trails at her favorite park. She’ll be the one staring at trees, taking photos, and typing story notes on her phone whenever inspiration strikes.
Sign up for her email list to receive exclusive bonus content, sneak peeks, and the kind of conversations you’d have over a cup of tea.
https://kristinardisbooks.com/
Join us as we continue our chat on Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli and then hang out with author Mallory Marlowe as we chat about her upcoming release Love and Other Conspiracies!
Tea of the Week: Masala Chai by Joffrey's
Mallory Marlowe is an author and video game writer living in Los Angeles, CA. Seriously right-brained since childhood, her love of telling stories began with highly elaborate plots for her Barbie dolls and taking elementary school writing projects too seriously. She studied Writing for Film and TV at Emerson College. While romance is her truest love, she also loves to write across several genres from paranormal to fantasy to horror. When she isn’t writing, she’s likely reading, stuck in L.A. traffic, or fallen down a weird internet rabbit hole.
Love and Other Conspiracies is her debut novel.
www.mallorymarlowe.com
We are starting Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli today with chapters 0-12 and then hanging out with TA Reilly!
Tea of the Week: Crimson Berry Tea by The Adom Company
T.A. Reilly is an author of NA fantasy romance with equal levels of adventure, time travel, and romance mixed in. Reading came naturally to her at a young age, and the words began flowing shortly after that. She has traveled all over the world from a young age and is constantly counting down the days until her next trip! After graduating with a master’s in Professional Communications, she decided to pursue her lifelong dream… bringing time-travel to life on paper. Currently, she calls Florida home. In her free time, she loves rewatching Friends, going to the beach, and staying up too late lost in a good book. https://www.tareillybooks.com/
We are talking the final chapters of A Daughter Forged In Fire by Jessica Leigh and talking with returning guest, Danie Hoots!
Tea of the Week: Fireball Chai by Misty Mountain Tea Shop
Buy it here.
Dani has a new book coming out next year and the Kickstarter starts August 12th! Make sure you follow her on Instagram to learn more about it!
www.danihoots.com
August Book of the Month: Heartless Hunter by Kristin Ciccarelli
Tickets for Enemies and Lovers in May 2025 are available today! Get them at www.teaandtropes.com
We are continuing our discussion on A Daughter Forged In Fire by Jessica Leigh and then hanging out with Elise Nelson, author of The Light In Hades!
Tea of the Week: What About Second Breakfast by Wild Leaf Store
You can find Elise Nelson on Instagram and get a copy of The Light In Hades here!
Continuing our chat on A Daughter Forged In Fire by Jessica Leigh and later hanging out with the author of the new cozy fantasy The Bartender Between Worlds, Herman Steuernagel!
Tea of the Week: Motorcycle Club Romance by Swoon Sips
(https://swoonsips.com/products/motorcycle-club-romance)
Herman Steuernagel is a science fiction and fantasy author. His internationally best-selling debut Lies the Guardians Tell reached the top of the science fiction charts on multiple retailers in the U.K., Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
Herman grew up with a love of story and science fiction, watching Star Trek, The Next Generation with his father. As a teenager he fell in love with The Sword of Shannara by Terry Brooks, and The Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan.
His currently published works are dystopian science fiction that highlight the struggle between humanity and the technology we keep, as well as the motivations that keep us fighting with each other.
Herman currently lives in British Columbia, Canada, While he’s not working on a new book he can be found cycling, running and dreaming up new worlds.
Preorder The Bartender Between Worlds Today!!
We are talking the beginning of A Daughter Forged In Fire by Jessica Leigh and then later hanging out with debut author, Bailey Estep!
Tea of the Week: Feyre Darling by The Bearded Bee Homestead
(https://www.etsy.com/listing/1654011494/feyre-darling-herbal-tea-bookish-gift?ref=user_profile&frs=1)
You can find Bailey on Instagram at baileyestep.author
Today, we get to hang out with Kara Douglas again and talk in depth about Lunaria! We answer some burning questions and theories!
Also, tickets for Enemies & Lovers in Mesa, AZ go on sale July 24th at 9am MST!
Kara's Tea of the Week: Victorian London Fog by Harney & Sons
(https://www.harney.com/products/victorian-london-fog?variant=132715446278&tw_source=google&tw_adid=&tw_campaign=16724889261&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw7ZO0BhDYARIsAFttkCjt-MbXygxdzc4-Uzzui03Z5_wBklunEfZRqcseKoWURPRzd335Dj0aAj6HEALw_wcB)
July Book of the Month: A Daughter Forged In Fire by Jessica Leigh
