Story Darlings
By Sandra Bruxvoort, Tera Palozola
High school besties from Northwest Arkansas, Tera Palozola and Sandra Bruxvoort take a timeout from parenting to read books and binge film—romantasy, fantasy, and romance being their favorite genres.
Subscribe for discussions on series by Sarah J Maas (Throne of Glass, A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR), Crescent City); Fourth Wing and Iron Flame (Empyrean) by Rebecca Yarros; Lucifer; and other popular media.
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Email: storydarlings@gmail.com
Story DarlingsOct 11, 2021
Trial of the Sun Queen by Nisha Tuli – Artefacts of Ouranos // March Amazon Book Club pick!
Today, the Darlings are super excited to talk about Trial of the Sun Queen by Nisha Tuli (Artefacts of Ouranos 1)! In Taylor's words (Sandra's littlest sister), Trial of the Sun Queen is basically Throne of Glass meets The Bachelor, and there is SO much to enjoy about this fast-paced romantasy book.
At this time, Artefacts of Ouranos will be a four-book series, and Tera and Sandra are delighted to kick off their Amazon Book Club reads with this first book. Book 2, Rule of the Aurora King, will be discussed in the very near-future.
Thank you for listening and supporting. Look for our next episode on The Ever King by LJ Andrews as the next Story Darlings Amazon Book Club pick, which will be released in early May.
Join the Story Darlings Amazon Book Club.
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
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Find Story Darlings:
- Instagram: @storydarlings
- X: @storydarlings
- Facebook: facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: @sandras.library
- X: @sgbrux
- YouTube: @SandrasLibrary
Find Tera:
- Instagram: @terapalozola
- X: @terapalozola
F**K MARRY KILL (FMK) feat. ACOTAR + Throne of Glass! / Our first Amazon Book Club winner!
Big shoutout to acourtofstarsanddreams for the F**k Marry Kill questionnaire—the SJM edition! The Darlings kick things off with their March Amazon Book Club winner announcement (it was SO close!). Then they dive into 10 FMK questions that combine ACOTAR and Throne of Glass trios.
Obvi, there may be some out of context spoilers for across the two series.
Thank you for listening and supporting! We are so excited to read our first book club winner, and we'll plan to discuss it on the podcast in early April.
Join the Story Darlings Amazon Book Club.
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
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Find Story Darlings:
- Instagram: @storydarlings
- X: @storydarlings
- Facebook: facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: @sandras.library
- X: @sgbrux
- YouTube: @SandrasLibrary
Find Tera:
- Instagram: @terapalozola
- X: @terapalozola
It's Time to Vote on Our First Amazon Book Club Read! SHOCKER: We Have ALL Romantasy Books!
The Darlings are excited to announce the inaugural Amazon Book Club vote over on their Story Darlings Amazon page! The nine books in this round's running: The Hurricane Wars by Thea Guanzon, The Cruel Dark by Bea Northwick, Fall of Ruin and Wrath by Jennifer Armentrout, The Wicked in Me by Suzanne Wright, Heavenly Bodies by Imani Erriu, Trial of the Sun Queen by Nisha J Tuli, The Ever King by LJ Andrews, When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A Parker, and A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire by Jennifer Armentrout.
To vote, thumbs up your choice on the Amazon Book Club page, and for good measure, be sure to cast your vote across the Story Darlings social media pages on Instagram and Facebook @StoryDarlings
Join the Story Darlings Amazon Book Club.
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
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Find Story Darlings:
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- X: @storydarlings
- Facebook: facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: @sandras.library
- X: @sgbrux
- YouTube: @SandrasLibrary
Find Tera:
- Instagram: @terapalozola
- X: @terapalozola
House of Flame and Shadow (Crescent City) – feat. Jess Jurhs from Gym Was Cancelled
We are thrilled to invite back our dear friend Jess Jurhs from Gym Was Cancelled to discuss the #1 New York Times bestselling book House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J Maas (aka HOFAS, Crescent City book 3).
So, did Flame and Shadow live up to the hype?
That's for you, the Maasverse, to decide.
Thanks so much for listening.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or review. It's such a huge help! 🩶
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
- Leave us a voice message
Find Jess:
- Instagram: @tiaras.and.books
- Gym Was Cancelled: anchor.fm/gymcancelledpod
Find Story Darlings:
- Instagram: @storydarlings
- X: @storydarlings
- Facebook: facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: @sandras.library
- X: @sgbrux
- YouTube: @SandrasLibrary
Find Tera:
House of Sky and Breath (HOSAB pt. 2) – Crescent City
It's like Sunball Sunday in the SJM fandom—House of Flame and Shadow drops tomorrow and the anticipation is too much to bear!
In this episode, the Darlings discuss the last half of House of Sky and Breath by Sarah J Maas (chapters 39+), and what a rollercoaster it is! We share our thoughts on the chaos that SJM has wrought upon fans of Throne of Glass, A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR), and Crescent City, and Tera and Sandra share their favorite fan theories for CC3.
Hold on tight, because we are NOT ready for January 30. Happy reading.
*** Quick callout: please disregard the video banner that reads "chapters 1–39+" — it should read chapters 39+. Also, Tera's audio quality is dodgy in this episode—sorry about that! That'll be fixed in forthcoming episodes! Thanks for bearing with us. 🖤 ***
Thanks so much for listening.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving us a rating or review. It's such a huge help! 🩶
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
- Leave us a voice message
Find Story Darlings:
- Instagram: @storydarlings
- X: @storydarlings
- Facebook: facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: @sandras.library
- X: @sgbrux
- YouTube: @SandrasLibrary
Find Tera:
- Instagram: @terapalozola
Creator mention(s):
The Real Life Book Reviewer: youtube.com/@thereallifebookreviewer
House of Sky and Breath (HOSAB pt. 1) – Crescent City
The Darlings discuss the first 38 chapters of House of Sky and Breath by Sarah J Maas. The second Crescent City book follows the disappearance of Sofie Renast and her little brother Emile after they escape from the Kavalla death camp with intel that could shatter the world.
When HOSAB begins, it's been a few months since the spring events of House of Earth and Blood, and things between Bryce and Hunt are heating up. But BB has committed to waiting until Winter Solstice to seal the deal with our favorite fallen angel.
Former sunball superstar Ithan Holstrom has been concealing romantic feelings for the starborn princess—the poor pup was kicked out of Sabine's wolves. Ruhn's been playing James Bond with a mysterious Agent Daybright. And Tharion the mer has gone full F*ckboy™ much to the River Queen's ever-wrathful disapproval.
We meet the shadow-wielding Crown Prince Cormac of the Avallen fae, more princes of Hel (hello, Thanatos and Apollion), and even more warriors of the deceased archangel, Sandriel: the Hind, the Hammer, the Hound, and the Harpy. That's a lot of H's.
Danika was keeping SO many secrets...but not as many as SJM. 😭
ONE MORE WEEK UNTIL HOUSE OF FLAME AND SHADOW. We are not ready for the machinations of our queen, SJM.
Thanks so much for listening.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving us a rating or review. It's such a huge help! 🩶
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
- Leave us a voice message
Find Story Darlings:
- Instagram: @storydarlings
- X: @storydarlings
- Facebook: facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: @sandras.library
- X: @sgbrux
- YouTube: @SandrasLibrary
Find Tera:
- Instagram: @terapalozola
- X: @terapalozola
House of Earth and Blood by Sarah J Maas (HOEAB pt. 2) – Crescent City
In today's episode, the Darlings discuss the second half of House of Earth and Blood by Sarah J Maas (Crescent City series book 1).
Bryce is still drowning in the aftermath of Danika's murder, and her relationship with Hunt is growing into something more...intimate that brings out the best in one another. But there's a cost to defending Bryce, one that Hunt is forced to pay when they displease the archangel Micah.
The second half of Crescent City 1 comes with classic SJM-style betrayal, twists and turns, and Bryce's harrowing Ordeal when the gates of Hel are unleashed upon Lunathion's citizens during the Asteri's Summit. We also bid farewell to one of the most cherished characters in the series so far. Cue all the wallowing in tears. Chapters 79–99 are extremely emotional, and HOEAB's epilogue leaves us with a ton of mystique around Aidas, Jesiba, and Hunt's and Bryce's heritage.
Stay tuned for next week's episode when Sandra and Tera discuss chapters 1–38 of House of Sky and Breath.
Thanks so much for listening.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving us a rating or review. It's such a huge help! 🩶
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
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Find Story Darlings:
- Instagram: @storydarlings
- X: @storydarlings
- Facebook: facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: @sandras.library
- X: @sgbrux
- YouTube: @SandrasLibrary
Find Tera:
- Instagram: @terapalozola
- X: @terapalozola
House of Earth and Blood by Sarah J Maas (HOEAB pt. 1) – Crescent City
In today's episode, Sandra and Tera talk through House of Earth and Blood by Sarah J Maas (Crescent City series).
CC is SJM's third series to date, and HOEAB transports readers to a modern Roman Empire-esque society where six Asteri rule over the planet of Midgard, home to humans and the four houses of creatures and fae: Earth and Blood, Sky and Breath, Flame and Shadow, and Many Waters.
House of Earth and Blood is a fast-paced urban fantasy centered around a string of brutal murders, a mystery surrounding Bryce and Danika's past, and Bryce's journey from the darkest depths of her depression back into the light.
There is major romantic tension with our resident Shadow of Death—the Umbra Mortis himself—Hunt Athalar (Athie as Lehabah calls him), but Earth and Blood is primarily a story about love and the power of friendship.
Grab the tissues.
In this episode, we openly discuss the first 42 chapters. Buckle up for the next episode, where we finish up the second half of our discussion of HOEAB.
Thanks so much for listening.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving us a rating or review. It's such a huge help! 🩶
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
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Find Story Darlings:
- Instagram: @storydarlings
- X: @storydarlings
- Facebook: facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: @sandras.library
- X: @sgbrux
- YouTube: @SandrasLibrary
Find Tera:
- Instagram: @terapalozola
- X: @terapalozola
Author Chat with Ty Carlson (Dadirri Saga)
Thank you so much for listening.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or review. It's such a huge help! 🩶
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
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Connect with Ty Carlson:
- Instagram: @tcrivers85
- X: @tcrivers
- TikTok: @tycarlsonauthor
- Buy his books on Amazon US
Find Story Darlings:
- Join our Amazon Book Club
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- Our blog: storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: @sandras.library
- X: @sgbrux
- YouTube: @sgbrux
Find Tera:
- Instagram: @terapalozola
- X: @terapalozola
Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros (Empyrean 2)
Hello, cadets. Today, the Darlings discuss the sequel to Fourth Wing, Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros (Empyrean series book 2)! THAT ENDING.
Violet and crew managed to survive their first year at Basgiath War College (thanks, Brennan!), and Xaden gets to graduate. But with new second-year classes, such as Rider Survival Course (ahem, torture class), advanced flight training, and ill-timed kidnap and navigation challenges, the strength, endurance, and wits of our dear cadets will be pressure tested.
And with Xaden assigned to Samara, Iron Flame is a slowww burn compared to Fourth Wing.
We also meet Catriona, Liam's little sis Sloane, and Brennan isn't the only one who makes a return to the land of the living.
We have an absolute blast diving into our Fourth Wing theories—what is Violet's second signet? What is the extent of her lightning power... or is that power something more vast? Xaden has secrets of his own, as does Andarna, and Violet. Second year is going great!
We hope you enjoy this bonus episode while we take a short break between our ACOTAR and Crescent City series readalongs. Rebecca, WE NEED BOOK 3!!!
Thank you so much for listening.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or review. It's such a huge help! 🩶
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
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Find Story Darlings:
- Instagram: @storydarlings
- Twitter: @storydarlings
- Facebook: facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: @sandras.library
- Twitter: @sgbrux
- YouTube: @SandrasLibrary
Find Tera:
- Instagram: @terapalozola
- Twitter: @terapalozola
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros (Empyrean 1)
Greetings, would-be cadets. Today, the Darlings discuss the romantasy phenomenon that has taken the world by storm, Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros (Empyrean series book 1), and what a ride it is.
Consider yourself conscripted into Basgiath War College where, if lucky, you'll gain entry into your desired quadrant. That is, if you can survive its demands. Rider, Scribe, Healer, Infantry—choose carefully.
We meet chronically injured, Violet Sorrengail (aka Violence) and the tall, dark, and handsome, Xaden Riorson—son of the Great Betrayer, Jack(-ass) Barlowe, and a small army of other cadets who may or may not survive their first year at Basgiath.
Pour one out for [redacted].
We hope you enjoy this bonus episode while we take a short break between our ACOTAR and Crescent City series readalongs. Iron Flame discussion: imminent.
Thank you so much for listening.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or review. It's such a huge help! 🩶
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
- Leave us a voice message
Find Story Darlings:
- Instagram: @storydarlings
- Twitter: @storydarlings
- Facebook: facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: @sandras.library
- Twitter: @sgbrux
- YouTube: @SandrasLibrary
Find Tera:
- Instagram: @terapalozola
- Twitter: @terapalozola
A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J Maas! (ACOSF pt. 2) feat. Jess Jurhs from Gym Was Cancelled
Sandra and Tera are joined by one of their FAVORITE story darlings and SJM fangirls, Jessea Jurhs from the Gym Was Cancelled podcast! Together, they discuss the second half of A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J Maas (ACOSF chapters 38+)!
Seeing as how this is the final ACOTAR book, at least for now, the trio gives a broad-strokes recap of the major plot developments while sharing their theories about the series—no matter how unhinged they might sound.
The second half of ACOSF screams sex, sex, and more sex, but it is the overarching plot behind Lady Death and the Valkyries that is *chef's kiss*
They talk about why Nessian might be superior to Feysand, what makes Nesta such a compelling protagonist, potential Azriel ships, and there are lots of musings around Eris, Lucien, and that pesky thing called the mating bond.
Silver Flames brings belly laughs, lots of crying and trauma healing, and glorious girls kicking butt moments, making the latest ACOTAR installment one of SJM's greatest books to date. Cue the sad tears for not having another ACOTAR book to read.
But next up? Crescent City.
Thanks so much for listening.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or review. It's such a huge help! 🩶
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
- Leave us a voice message
Find Jess:
- Instagram: @tiaras.and.books
- Gym Was Cancelled: anchor.fm/gymcancelledpod
Find Story Darlings:
- Instagram: @storydarlings
- Twitter: @storydarlings
- Facebook: facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: @sandras.library
- Twitter: @sgbrux
- YouTube: @sgbrux
Find Tera:
- Instagram: @terapalozola
- Twitter: @terapalozola
A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J Maas! (ACOSF pt. 1)
The Darlings discuss the first half of one of their favorite ACOTAR books to date, A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J Maas (ACOSF ch. 1–37). Nesta has been a bad, bad girl, and our poor Prince of B*stards, Cassian, has been tasked with fetching the eldest Archeron daughter for a capital 'I' Intervention at Feysand's sprawling estate.
Nesta's new reality? She is to live at the House of Wind, train with Cassian Illyrian-style at Windhaven, and work for Clotho in the House of Wind's library. Azriel gets to play chaperone. Commence Nesta striking a bargain with Cassian, LOTS of sexual tension, and terrible flashbacks and PTSD.
Tamlin has apparently gone full beast mode. Rhysand is hiding something major from Feyre. Mor is off in Vallahan. The Inner Circle is dealing with the remaining mortal queens (headed up by Briallyn) and trying to find the Dread Trove.
Something is very, very wrong with Nesta. And Eris. It seems the presumed heir of the Autumn Court is hiding secrets of his own... perhaps secrets that aren't his to tell. Silver Flames is shaping up to be an SJM masterpiece!
Thanks so much for listening.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or review. It's such a huge help! 🩶
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
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Find Story Darlings:
- Instagram: @storydarlings
- Twitter: @storydarlings
- Facebook: facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: @sandras.library
- Twitter: @sgbrux
- YouTube: @sgbrux
Find Tera:
- Instagram: @terapalozola
- Twitter: @terapalozola
A Court of Frost and Starlight by Sarah J Maas! (ACOFAS)
Tera and Sandra discuss A Court of Frost and Starlight by Sarah J Maas (ACOFAS). Feyre tries to find her purpose in Velaris post-Hybern, the Archeron sisters have to adjust to horrible biannual periods, Nesta's still super mean, and Cassian's just a big, strong brute with a heart of pure gold. Feysand and the Inner Circle enjoy the Winter Solstice holiday, and it's adorbs.
Thanks so much for listening.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or review. It's such a huge help! 🩶
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
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Find Story Darlings:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/storydarlings/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/storydarlings
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: https://storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/sandras.library/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/sgbrux
- YouTube: https://youtube.com/@sgbrux
Find Tera:
A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J Maas! (ACOWAR Part 2)
The Darlings finish their discussion of A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J Maas (ACOWAR chapters 37+). Tera says Feyre was thrust into her role as the temptress. Sandra begs to differ. 😏
Here's that TikTok/Reel reference for Azriel teaching Feyre to fly.
Thanks so much for listening.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or review. It's such a huge help! 🩶
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
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Find Story Darlings:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/storydarlings/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/storydarlings
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: https://storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/sandras.library/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/sgbrux
- YouTube: https://youtube.com/@sgbrux
Find Tera:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/terapalozola/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/terapalozola
Chapters:
(00:00) Intro
(01:30) ACOWAR talk
(01:07:08) Outro
A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J Maas! (ACOWAR Part 1)
Sandra and Tera dive into the third ACOTAR book: A Court of Wings and Ruin (ACOWAR) by Sarah J Maas (chapters 1–36).
Previously, the Darlings discussed every book in SJM's Throne of Glass series. Strongly recommend reading those books and listening to those episodes!
Thanks so much for listening.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or review. It's such a huge help! 🩶
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
- Leave us a voice message
Find Story Darlings:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/storydarlings/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/storydarlings
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: https://storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/sandras.library/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/sgbrux
- YouTube: https://youtube.com/@sgbrux
Find Tera:
A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J Maas! (ACOMAF Part 2)
The Darlings finish the second ACOTAR book: A Court of Mist and Fury (ACOMAF) by Sarah J Maas. At last, they arrive at the long-anticipated chapters of 54 and 55. First the sweet, and then the spicy. SJM feeds us in the second half! 👀
Thanks so much for listening.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or review. It's such a huge help! 🩶
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
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Find Story Darlings:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/storydarlings/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/storydarlings
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: https://storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/sandras.library/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/sgbrux
- YouTube: https://youtube.com/@sgbrux
Find Tera:
A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J Maas! (ACOMAF Part 1)
Tera and Sandra crack open the second ACOTAR book: A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J Maas (chapters 1–32). Tera is an ACOTAR first-timer, Sandra a fourth-timer.
Previously, the Darlings hosted a readalong for SJM's entire Throne of Glass series. Strongly recommend reading those books and listening to those episodes.
Thanks so much for listening.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or review. It's such a huge help! 🩶
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
- Leave us a voice message
Find Story Darlings:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/storydarlings/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/storydarlings
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: https://storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/sandras.library/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/sgbrux
- YouTube: https://youtube.com/@sgbrux
Find Tera:
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Maas! (ACOTAR Part 2)
Welcome back to our series readalong of A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Maas! In this episode, the Darlings talk about the second half of book one (chapters 24+). Tera is an ACOTAR first-timer, Sandra a fourth-timer.
Previously the Darlings hosted a readalong for SJM's Throne of Glass series. Strongly recommend reading those books and listening to those episodes.
Thanks so much for listening.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or review. It's a huge help! 🩶
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
- Leave us a voice message
Find Story Darlings:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/storydarlings/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/storydarlings
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: https://storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/sandras.library/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/sgbrux
- YouTube: https://youtube.com/@sgbrux
Find Tera:
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Maas! (ACOTAR pt. 1)
Welcome to our series readalong of A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Maas! In this first episode, Tera and Sandra talk about the first half of book 1 (chapters 1–23). Tera is an ACOTAR first-timer, Sandra a fourth-timer.
Spoilers ahead, including some mentions for SJM's Throne of Glass series (we highly recommend you go back and read those books—we have 16 full episodes discussing them!). Proceed at your own risk.
Thanks so much for listening.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or review. It's a huge help! 🩶
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
- Leave us a voice message
Find Story Darlings:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/storydarlings/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/storydarlings
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: https://storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/sandras.library/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/sgbrux
- YouTube: https://youtube.com/@sgbrux
Find Tera:
Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J Maas! (Part 2)
Thanks for listening to the second half of our discussion of Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J Maas. This concludes our first SJM series readalong for Throne of Glass. And wow—we caught feelings. 😭😭😭
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the show by leaving a rating or review. It's a huge help! 🩶
Have something to say?
- Send an email: storydarlings@gmail.com
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Find Story Darlings:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/storydarlings/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/storydarlings
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/storydarlings
- Our blog: https://storydarlings.com
Find Sandra:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/sandras.library/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/sgbrux
- YouTube: https://youtube.com/@sgbrux
Find Tera:
Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J Maas! (Part 1)
Thanks so much for listening to the first part of our discussion of Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J Maas.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can support our show by leaving a rating or review. It's such a big help! 🖤
Follow along on our Throne of Glass series readalong:
Tower of Dawn by Sarah J Maas! (Part 2)
Our wrap-up of Tower of Dawn by Sarah J Maas ends on a high note (as compared to Empire of Storms). In the second half, SJM delights us, then destroys us, with helpless baby ruks 🥺. Yrene and Chaol attend a very dramatic party in The Oasis for a covert mission of their own. And a fun race across the desert ensues on a hell-horse called Farasha, or “Butterfly.”
There are bloodline secrets, and the truth about the spiders is revealed. Maeve’s past comes to light, and we have another secret wedding with a whole lotta feels and redemption sprinkled in. 🖤
It seems some ties will go deeper than marriage.
SO… did Chaol redeem himself?? 🤔
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Tower of Dawn by Sarah J Maas! (Part 1)
The Darlings have a book talk about Tower of Dawn by Sarah J Maas! Welcome to the Southern Continent. Tower of Dawn transports readers to Antica, or Milas Agia, the god-city. Some say the city itself was built by the very hands of the gods. Hmmm... 🤔
We FINALLY get to see what became of the aspiring healer from back in Innish: Yrene Towers (spoiler: she's been killing it as the most distinguished healer in the Torre Cesme's 1,000-year history).
Chaol and Nesryn meet the Khaganate, and there is DRAMA—a suicidal princess, a Prince of Spies, ruk riders, family reunions, lavish parties in the desert, and... sterilization??
Yrene is NOT nice to Chaol. But it seems they're stuck in this together, because they BOTH have a lot of trauma to process.
While this addition to SJM's Throne of Glass series isn't about battlefield action and gore, there is a ton of court intrigue with some horror elements sprinkled in. The question is: what's really going on in Antica?
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Empire of Storms by Sarah J Maas! (Part 2)
The second half of Empire of Storms by Sarah J Maas is a whirlwind. Lorcan dazzles the ladies at the knife show while Elide gets jelly. Dorian nurses Manon back to her bad self (Princeling’s bedside manner leaves Witchling—nay, ALL of us—hot and bothered). And Aedion loses brownie points with Lysandra.
MATES, SECRET MARRIAGE, and an iron coffin?! ⚰️
But then Lorcan goes and loses brownie points with EVERYONE. 🫣
Manon & Dorian character art by Méabh.
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Empire of Storms by Sarah J Maas! (Part 1)
What’s that, you say? Something’s in the water?? It’s a shark! No—a sea wyvern?! NO. It’s Lysandra, AKA the MVP of Skull’s Bay!
Today, we bring you Empire of Storms by Sarah J Maas (the first half). Just 2.5 more books to go in our SJM readalong for the Throne of Glass series! 😭
Manon gets her ass kicked by Grandma Blackbeak, Aedion calls dibs on his future wifey, Kitty-Cat Boy grapples with his new reality, Aelin dons an old mask, and Dorian becomes Sad Boy™️
Oh, and Lorcan reluctantly accepts his new role as protector to the Lady Elide…despite still being blood oathed to B*tch Queen Maeve.
The A-team's seas look suspiciously calm, don’t you think? 🤔
What can go wrong?
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Queen of Shadows by Sarah J Maas! (Part 2)
Welp—Tera got the MAASacre she's been hankering for. In this episode, the Darlings discuss part 2 of Queen of Shadows by Sarah J Maas (chapters 48+).
Kaltain goes full Carrie on Morath. There's a new king in "Otterland." Chaol makes his bed. Then lies in it. Permanently. Maybe... 👀
And Lady Lysandra of Lysandraland does NOT make nice with the super serious, stiff-lipped Lorcan.
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Queen of Shadows by Sarah J Maas! (Part 1)
The Darlings discuss part 1 of Queen of Shadows by Sarah J Maas (the first 47 chapters). Aelin (or Alien, as Tera sometimes refers to her), is known to her enemies as the Fire-Breathing B*tch Queen—but mainly Lorcan.
We find out so much in the first half of the book, such as how is Kaltain Rompier looking these days? What of the indomitable Manon Blackbeak? (What realization does our favorite witch come to about Elide?)
And is it too late to save Dorian?
It’s cute that Aedion is Rowan’s biggest fangirl, and Lysandra goes Gone Girl on Arobyn’s ass. AT LAST.
The Story Darlings discuss all this and more! 🤓🤓
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The Assassin's Blade by Sarah J Maas! (Part 2)
The Darlings wrap up their discussion of The Assassin's Blade by Sarah J Maas, sharing their insights on the last 2 novellas: The Assassin and the Underworld and The Assassin and the Empire. Since Tera and Sandra are NOT reading the Throne of Glass series in box set order, you might avoid this episode until you've read Throne of Glass, Crown of Midnight, and Heir of Fire.
There are a few Easter eggs sprinkled in this one (for those viewing the episode)! Can you find them?! You never fully realize all the ridiculous things said until the video's been edited. LOL. 😂
Celaena experiences a taste of real love with the selfless Sam Cortland. Tera rags on Arobyn's new favorite toy, Lysandra, and both Tera and Sandra are ready for ALL the girl rage after Rourke Farran rips away Celaena's long-deserved shot at peace and happiness.
Once again, Celaena proves she really should have brushed up on her poisons. This one hurts. 😢
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The Assassin's Blade by Sarah J Maas! (Part 1)
Part 1 of this SPOILER-filled discussion covers The Assassin's Blade by Sarah J Maas. Tera and Sandra talk about the first 3 novellas in TAB: The Pirate Lord, The Healer, and The Desert. Since we're NOT reading the Throne of Glass series in box set order, you might avoid this episode until you've read Throne of Glass, Crown of Midnight, and Heir of Fire!
Celaena Sardothien is a riot in The Assassin's Blade. There is CHAOS in Skull's Bay. Celaena does her best Gracie Lou Freebush with Yrene Towers (holla, Miss Congeniality fans!). Asterion horse-racing across the Red Desert, silent assassin dance parties, spidersilk-selling merchants, and the dashing Sam Cortland... oh my! This one was fun.
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Heir of Fire by Sarah J Maas! (Part 2)
The Darlings discuss the second half of Heir of Fire by Sarah J Maas. There are giant talking spiders, Dorian’s relationship is short-lived, Rowan and Celaena get closer, and it turns out Manon ain’t ALL bad—she’s got a soft spot for broken things—à la Abraxos—much to Grandma’s infinite disapproval.
This is the book where major pivotal things pop off and IT'S SO GOOD! 🔥🔥🔥
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Heir of Fire by Sarah J Maas! (Part 1)
The Throne of Glass series readalong continues with Heir of Fire by Sarah J Maas (the first half). Tera and Sandra are fully aboard the "Good Ship Aedion." You don't have to tell them twice. And Rowan who?? There are so many characters being introduced, but this is when Throne of Glass finally starts to feel like epic fantasy.
Manon Blackbeak might be Sandra's favorite character ever (despite Tera thinking she's chaotic-evil), and awww. Tera thinks Dorian has a good thing going with Sorscha. That's cute. IYKYK.
Witches, wyverns, wyrdmarks, and Wendlyn... oh my! This story is just getting started.
Thank you so much for tuning in to part 1 of our Heir of Fire summary and discussion.
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Crown of Midnight by Sarah J Maas! (Part 2)
The Darlings discuss the second half of Crown of Midnight by Sarah J Maas! After the events discussed in the previous episode, Tera was ready for capital 'R' Revenge. So, did she get it? More importantly, why does Dorian have "magic fingers" according to some (Sandra)?
Book 2 was a classic SJM rollercoaster, and now we glance ahead to Heir of Fire.
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Crown of Midnight by Sarah J Maas! (Part 1)
"We've already got a love triangle going on—we don't need a love square." In this episode, Tera and Sandra discuss the first half of Crown of Midnight by Sarah J Maas (chapters 1–29), and oof. It's a lot. Does Tera still love Chaol Westfall? Why is Celaena eating so much chocolate cake? We need all the girl rage, plz. Thanks for listening!
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Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas! (Part 2)
In this episode, Tera and Sandra discuss the second half of Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas (chapters 27+). Tera still has love for Chaol, but will it last? Safe to say Tera has major love for SJM's first-published protagonist, Celaena Sardothien.
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Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas! (Part 1)
Happy Galentine's Day! Veteran SJM reader, Sandra, joins virgin SJM reader, Tera, to discuss the first 26 chapters of Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas. Do you think it's fair to call Celaena Sardothien cocky? Is Chaol Westfall's gruff sense of honor a hindrance to what is right? Should Crown Prince Dorian be "knocked down a peg" as Tera puts it? And what the hell are wyrdmarks?
We discuss all this and more in the season premiere of Story Darlings.
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Find Tera:
We're reading the Throne of Glass series by Sarah J Maas!
Hip-hip-hooray! Tera & Sandra are BACK after a loooong staycation, and they're kicking things off with a series readalong: Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas. Take a shot every time someone says "ship." The first episode drops Valentine's Day (2023).
Please excuse the shoddy audio on Tera's end for this sneak peek trailer episode!
Have something to say? Leave us a voice message (we may feature you on a future episode!)
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From Blood and Ash by Jennifer Armentrout (feat. Jess Jurhs)
Jessea also gushes about her favorite show of all time: Angel. So you know Tera appreciates that. Show notes: storydarlings.com/018
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Our Favorite Reads of 2021!
In this episode, Sandra and Tera share their favorite reads of 2021. From indie books and non-fiction to romance and epic fantasy—these are the stories that resonated the most and will be remembered for years to come.
Show notes: storydarlings.com/017
Author Interview: Ty Carlson (Dadirri Saga)
Tera and Sandra are joined by friend and science fiction author, Ty Carlson. They discuss his first book, The Bench, and forthcoming stories planned for his Dadirri Saga. He also shares insights into his writing process. You can order a copy of his book here!
Show notes: storydarlings.com/016
Blast from the Past: MEAN GIRLS
Happy New Year! The Darlings are back, kicking off 2022 with another blast from the past: the 2000s cult classic, Mean Girls. They also share their appreciation for Lan's butt from Amazon Prime's Wheel of Time adaptation, and Sandra talks demonic possession and how her first experience with jury duty went (spoiler alert: it was SUPER weird).
Show notes: storydarlings.com/015
Merry Christmas, Ya Filthy Animal.
Sandra Bruxvoort and Tera Palozola share their favorite Christmas movies. Tera has a lot, Sandra does not. These are the movies that get them in the holiday spirit—reminding them of Christmas-Past, and giving hope for Christmas-Future. You can tell Tera wrote this because if Sandra had, it would just read, “Bah humbug!”
The Darlings are observing the holidays over the next two weeks, so the next episode will be released on January 3, 2022. Happy New Year.
Show notes: storydarlings.com/014
Thanks so much for listening. You can support Story Darlings by leaving a rating or review—it helps the show more than you know! 🖤
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Chapters:
(00:00) Intro
(02:01) Co-host chatter
(06:47) Fave Christmas movies
(42:24) Outro
Blast from the Past: GILMORE GIRLS
Sandra Bruxvoort and Tera Palozola take a trip down memory lane with the hit TV show Gilmore Girls. They discuss how the series defined their teenage years and how they relate to the characters now as adults. Show notes: storydarlings.com/013
Thanks so much for listening. You can support Story Darlings by leaving a rating or review—it helps the show more than you know! 🖤
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Chapters:
(00:00) Intro
(02:47) Co-host chatter
(16:10) GILMORE GIRLS
(01:11:05) Outro
Red Notice: Ryan Reynolds, Gal Gadot, The Rock
Tera Palozola and Sandra Bruxvoort discuss Netflix's Red Notice (starring Ryan Reynolds, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, and Gal Gadot), about two international art thieves vying for top spot with an American agent hot on their trail. Show notes: storydarlings.com/012
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Chapters:
(00:00) Intro
(00:14) Co-host chatter
(08:08) Red Notice
(34:00) Outro
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
Sandra Bruxvoort and Tera Palozola discuss the book series and television adaptation of Me Before You by Jojo Moyes, and whether it’s better to have loved and lost or to have never loved at all. They also share why it’s important to not only find joy in the small things, but to live life to the fullest. Show notes: storydarlings.com/011
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Chapters:
(00:00) Intro
(02:25) Co-host chatter
(10:07) Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
(53:50) Outro
American Murder: The Family Next Door – Chris Watts
Sandra Bruxvoort and Tera Palozola discuss the Netflix documentary, American Murder: The Family Next Door, which follows Chris Watts and the disappearance of his wife, Shanann Watts, and their two daughters, Bella and CeCe. Show notes: storydarlings.com/010
Thanks so much for listening. You can support Story Darlings by leaving a rating or review—it helps the show more than you know. 🖤
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Chapters:
(00:00) Intro
(00:45) Co-host chatter
(10:43) American Murder: Chris Watts
(59:30) Charity spotlight
(01:03:45) Outro
Kissing Booth Hot Takes with David Ziama
Sandra Bruxvoort and Tera Palozola welcome college buddy, David Ziama, to Story Darlings to discuss the Netflix Kissing Booth movies, which star Joey King and Jacob Elordi. Show notes: storydarlings.com/009
Thanks so much for listening. You can support the show by leaving a rating or review—it helps more than you know! 🖤
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Chapters:
(00:00) Intro
(02:36) Co-host chatter
(20:19) Kissing Booth
(01:21:36) Outro
Author Interview: Nonku Kunene Adumetey
In celebration of International Author Day, Tera Palozola and Sandra Bruxvoort welcome children’s book author Nonku Kunene Adumetey to talk about her sophomore book “I Celebrate My Voice.” Nonku shares deeply personal stories on overcoming adversity. Show notes: storydarlings.com/008
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Chapters:
(00:00) Intro
(00:32) Author interview
(57:53) Outro
Sexism, Feminism, and Jennifer's Body
Twelve years after its release, Jennifer’s Body, which stars Megan Fox and Amanda Seyfried, has finally found its audience as a commentary on sexism, feminism, and the male gaze. Sandra Bruxvoort and Tera Palozola unpack the film’s influences and themes. Show notes: storydarlings.com/007
Apologies for the old school landline quality to Sandra's audio on this episode. Oops.
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Chapters:
(00:00) Intro
(00:20) Co-host chatter
(07:07) Jennifer's Body
(54:10) Charity spotlight
(55:21) Outro
Final Thoughts on the Mr. Corman Finale
Some things are too good to last. Sandra Bruxvoort and Tera Palozola discuss the season finale of Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s Apple TV+ series, Mr. Corman. Show notes: storydarlings.com/006
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Chapters:
(00:00) Intro
(01:03) Co-host chatter
(05:50) Mr. Corman
(42:17) Outro