​Are you ready for a story that grips you from the first page and refuses to let go until the very last word? Our latest podcast episode delves into the twisted world of 'Look Closer' by David Ellis, a thriller that will have you questioning everything you thought you knew about the characters within.

In the heart of Chicago, a wealthy couple, Simon and Vicky, live a life that seems too normal to be true. And you guessed it—it isn't. As we peel back the layers of their seemingly stable existence, we discover a labyrinth of lies, a secret affair, and a looming $20 million trust fund that sets the stage for murder.

Our hosts, Tamara and Classy, take you on a deep dive into this complex tale, where every character's motive is suspect, and the truth is as elusive as the city's shadows. The book's rich narrative, told through multiple perspectives, each narrated by voice talents like Will Damron and Hillary Huber, creates a cinematic experience that's both enthralling and unsettling.

As the story of Simon and Vicky unfolds, we realize that we're not just reading about characters; we're witnessing the unravelling of master con artists whose lives are more intertwined than we could ever imagine. But who is the puppeteer in this deadly game? Join us as we explore the intricate plot, the author's skillful writing, and the moments that made us cheer for the antiheroes.

If you're a fan of stories like 'Gone Girl' or 'Strangers on a Train', 'Look Closer' is the psychological thrill ride you've been waiting for. It's a tale that reminds us that sometimes, the most dangerous lies are the ones we tell ourselves.

So, plug in your headphones and let us guide you through the murky waters of deceit and revenge. By the end of our conversation, you'll be itching to grab your own copy of 'Look Closer' and experience the adrenaline rush for yourself. Listen to the episode now and join the book club conversation that everyone will be talking about!

​Don't miss out the exclusive content available on Patreon (for video) and Spreaker (for audio)!​

From the very beginning, we're whisked away into a world where the ordinary clashes with the extraordinary. Imagine a life where your biggest concern is expanding the family spice farm and maybe, just maybe, getting a cat. But for Spice Trader Cinnamon, her quiet life is disrupted by a wine drunk escapade that leads her into a quest with a fiery demon. This isn't your average romcom; it's a fantasy that's sweet, steamy, and funny. 

Our hosts peel back the layers of this quirky tale, discussing everything from the diverse cast of characters to the modern language that gives a fresh twist to the fantasy genre. They don't shy away from the spicy romance that unfolds between Cinnamon and her demon companion, Fallon. And yes, there are trigger warnings, but as Casey points out, they're handled with care, adding depth to the story rather than detracting from the enjoyment.

As Tamara and Casey reflect on their reading experience, it's clear that this book has made an impression. With laughter and earnest discussion, they explore the themes of freedom and love, and how sometimes, saving a demon can be the least of your worries when your heart is on the line.

Whether you're a fan of fantasy, romance, or just looking for a book that is unique, this episode is a must-listen. Join Tamara and Casey on this literary journey that's as unpredictable as it is delightful. By the end, you might just find yourself reaching for your own copy of 'That Time I Got Drunk and Saved a Demon' to experience the magic firsthand.

Listen to the episode now and let the enchantment of this romantasy sweep you off your feet. Who knows? You might just find yourself rooting for witches, demons, and the power of a good spice farm.

Thrillers have a way of gripping us, pulling us into the depths of suspense and mystery, often leaving us on the edge of our seats. But what happens when a thriller goes beyond fiction and touches upon the chilling realities of true crime? In our latest podcast episode, we explore the hauntingly evocative narrative of 'Bright Young Women' by Jessica Knoll, a novel that does just that.

Our hosts, Tamara and Classy, delve into this January buddy read with a thoughtful and profound discussion that is sure to intrigue any book lover. 'Bright Young Women' takes us back to the late 70s, intertwining the lives of vibrant sorority sisters at Florida State University and a serial killer whose crimes have captivated the public for decades. But this isn't just another retelling of a gruesome saga. Knoll's novel seeks to shift the focus from the infamy of the killer to the exceptional lives of the women he targeted, proposing a new narrative that honors their stories.

As Tamara and Classy navigate the dual timelines and perspectives within the book, they bring to light the layers of character development, the emotional depth, and the societal reflections that Knoll weaves into her story. The novel's approach to discussing the impact of violence against women, the media's portrayal of criminals, and the resilience of survivors is something our hosts examine with both sensitivity and candor.

But it's not all heavy; there are moments of levity and camaraderie as our hosts share their personal experiences with the book and the author's previous works. They invite listeners to consider the themes within the novel and how they resonate with our understanding of crime, victimhood, and justice.

'Bright Young Women' stands out as a thriller with a purpose, challenging readers to look beyond the sensational headlines and remember the bright, promising lives that were unjustly dimmed. This episode is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of remembering that behind every crime statistic is a human story worth telling.

If you're ready to be captivated by a discussion that's as engaging as the book itself, listen to our latest episode. You may find yourself looking at thrillers—and the true stories that inspire them—in a whole new light.

​Don't miss out the exclusive After Show available on Patreon and Spreaker!

Are you constantly on the lookout for your next thrilling read but hesitant to commit to a new book without knowing if it's worth the space on your already overflowing shelves? Shelf Bytes is here to rescue you from the dilemma of deciding which books to invest in and which to skip.

"Only If You're Lucky" takes us into the life of Margot, a college student whose world turns upside down when she befriends the enigmatic Lucy Sharp. As their sophomore year unfolds, a fraternity boy's murder and Lucy's subsequent disappearance set the stage for a story filled with twists, turns, and dark secrets. 
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In this episode of Shelf Byte, Tamara reviews the book 'Only If You're Lucky' by Stacey Willingham. She discusses the aspects she liked and disliked about the book, including the unpredictable plot and morally gray characters. Tamara also praises the narrator, Karissa Vacker, for her excellent performance. She gives the book a rating of three out of five stars and recommends it to readers who enjoy college campus stories with drama and unreliable characters. Tamara suggests borrowing the book from the library or using an Audible credit to listen to the audiobook.

​Don't miss out the exclusive After Show available on Patreon and Spreaker!
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Welcome to a New Year of Bookish Adventures!

As we turn the page to 2024, we're all about fresh starts and new experiences. What better way to kick off this literary journey than by delving into a unique format that's been capturing the hearts of book lovers and audio enthusiasts alike? In our latest podcast episode, we dive into the immersive world of graphic audiobooks, and we're taking you with us!

Graphic audiobooks are not your average listening fare. They're an innovative blend of traditional storytelling and audio drama, complete with a full cast of voice actors, sound effects, and musical scores that bring the story to life in your mind's theater. It's a cinematic experience for your ears, and we couldn't be more excited to share our thoughts on one such audiobook that has set the bar for this genre.

The story in question is "Clean Sweep" by Ilona Andrews, a tale that spins a web of fantasy and science fiction around a seemingly ordinary bed and breakfast in Texas. But as we soon discover, there's nothing ordinary about Dina DeMille's establishment. With otherworldly visitors, a magical inn with a mind of its own, and a lurking danger that threatens the safety of her neighbors, Dina's world is anything but normal.

Our episode peels back the layers of this graphic audiobook, exploring the elements that make it a standout piece and discussing the nuances that could've been better executed. We share our genuine reactions, from moments of awe to instances of boredom, and everything in between. Our co-hosts, Tamara and Casey, don't hold back, offering insights that are as entertaining as they are enlightening.

Whether you're a fan of Ilona Andrews or new to their work, this episode is sure to pique your interest. Are graphic audiobooks the future of storytelling? Can they replace the traditional reading experience? We tackle these questions and more, inviting you to join the conversation and share your own views.

So, if you're intrigued by the idea of a bed and breakfast with secrets hidden in every nook and cranny, an innkeeper wielding a deadly broom, and a shih tzu with more bite than bark, this is the episode for you. Tune in, listen closely, and let us guide you through the captivating world of graphic audiobooks.

Don't forget to subscribe and like our podcast wherever you're tuning in from, and if you're craving a visual component, head over to our Patreon for an exclusive video format without commercials.

Ready to start your year with a story that's as magical as it is mysterious? Press play on our latest episode and let the adventure begin!

​Don't miss out the exclusive After Show available on Patreon and Spreaker!

In this podcast episode, Tamara and Casey wrap up their annual fantasy series and romance book chat. They discuss the series they read throughout the year, including the Red Rising trilogy by Pierce Brown, the duology These Hollow Vows by Lexi Ryan, and the Crowns of Niaxia duology by Carissa Broadbent. They also share their best and worst books of the year, with Red Rising being the standout favorite. The book club discussions for Red Rising and Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros were particularly engaging and memorable. In this conversation, Tamara and Casey discuss their mixed feelings about a book, the worst book they read, and their thoughts on book adaptations. They also talk about their personal reading goals for the year and set podcast goals for the upcoming year. The conversation concludes with a wrap-up of the year and a look forward to future episodes.

Takeaways

• The Red Rising trilogy by Pierce Brown was the standout series of the year, with engaging characters and a captivating story.
• The Crowns of Nyaxia duology by Carissa Broadbent and the duology These Hollow Vows by Lexi Ryan were also enjoyable reads.
• The worst book of the year was The Becoming by Nora Roberts, which received low ratings from both the hosts and the book club.
• The book club discussions for Red Rising and Fourth Wing were particularly engaging and led to insightful conversations. Mixed feelings about a book can arise even if it is rated highly.
• Not all books are memorable in the long term.
• Book adaptations can be hit or miss.
• Setting personal reading goals can help with accountability and enjoyment.
• Podcast goals can include exploring different types of books and adaptations.