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This week on Swords and Soulmates, Mari, Kelly, Ashley, and Jonathan discuss the potential opening of "The New Romantics," Orlando's first romance-exclusive bookstore. We share our excitement and concerns regarding the rise of niche bookshops, the challenges of securing traditional loans, and the growth of crowdfunding. Join us as we explore the unique community such a bookstore could nurture and what it means for the future of romance and fantasy literature.

Ever tried reading "Ice Planet Barbarians"? We discuss the beloved series and how there are official candles - "Not-Hoth" and "Resonance." We can barely contain ourselves before we discuss our plans for DragonCon in Atlanta. Then we move on to our review of "The Spellshop" by Sarah Beth Durst, a cozy fantasy that left us feeling warm and enchanted. Hear our comparisons to "Legends and Lattes," "Animal Crossing," Studio Ghibli, and enjoy our varied ratings and insights.

Is the city really the villain in fantasy novels? We ponder this and more as we dissect "The Spellshop," discussing themes like the romanticization of rural life, economic depression, and the democratization of magic. From the story’s intricate magic system to its slow-burn romance and fantastical elements, we unpack it all. Despite some spicy disappointments, we find plenty to appreciate, including the book’s adventure, community spirit, the beautiful lavender-sprayed cover, and Caz the Talking Plant. Join our lively, laughter-filled discussion, and let's celebrate the enchanting world of romantic and fantasy literature together.

Links from the News Segment and Show:

• The New Romantics
  • https://www.thenewromanticsbooks.com
  • Orlando, FL’s first romance only bookshop is in the works. Check out their crowdsourcing campaign.
• Ali Hazelwood will be at the 2025 Orlando Fabled Fantasy event
  • https://www.fabledfantasyevents.com/home
  • Author of Bride, The Love Hypothesis, and other contemporary romance with women in STEM
• Ice Planet Barbarians Official Merchandise
  • Ruby Dixon, author of the Ice Planet Barbarians series, has official scented candles from Briarwick Candles (Click Here for the website)
  • Two scents – Not-Hoth (driving snow, ice, and blue musk) and Resonance (cozy blankets, winter spice, and Khui vibrations)
  • $6.50 to $22 (depending on size)
• Dragoncon
  • Largest multi-genre convention (anime, art, fantasy, literature, sci-fi, and more)
  • https://www.dragoncon.org
  • Thursday Aug 29th - Monday Sep 2nd in Atlanta, GA
• Romantasy Book Convention (Orlando 2024)
  • https://www.fabledfantasyevents.com/
• This episode's book is The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst
  • Goodreads
  • Author's Website

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