Episodes

  • SJM Unbound: Crescent City Breakdown
    Jan 30 2025

    The hosts dive deep into the Crescent City series by Sarah J. Maas, discussing their favorite books, character dynamics, and the anticipation surrounding the upcoming release of Onyx Storm. They explore the unique urban fantasy setting, the potential for crossovers with other series, and share their theories about character connections and future plot developments. The conversation is filled with excitement, humor, and insightful analysis, making it a must-listen for fans of the series.


    REMINDER: January’s virtual book club read: THE COURTING OF BRISTOL KEATS by Mary E. Pearson. Read along with us to prepare for our virtual book club discussion when it airs in February!


    📖 Join the Conversation:

    Be sure to check out the All Things Book Related Facebook group for more bookish fun and virtual book club: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17qrT2kDux/⁠


    💬 Let’s Connect:

    Follow us on social media for updates and more bookish content:

    Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/twochicksandaplottwist/⁠

    Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567707466670⁠

    Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/TwoChicksandaPlotTwist?utm_source=linktree_profile_share


    🎧 Subscribe & Stay Tuned:

    Don’t miss our upcoming episodes where we’ll discuss more of our book club reads and chat with amazing authors. Hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications!


    Interested in being a guest? Sign up using the link below!

    ⁠https://forms.gle/PKrwrwJihdf7Jhgu6⁠


    Takeaways:

    The Crescent City series blends modern elements with fantasy.

    Bryce Quinlan's character is dynamic and relatable.

    The anticipation for Onyx Storm is palpable among fans.

    Character relationships add depth to the story.

    Crossover potential between Maas's series excites fans.

    The urban fantasy setting makes the story relatable.

    Lehaba's loyalty is a standout trait in the series.

    The pacing of House of Flame and Shadow disappointed some readers.

    The hosts encourage engagement with their audience.

    The series has a strong emotional impact on readers.


    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

    07:50 Crescent City Series Breakdown

    14:56 Character Dynamics and Development

    20:41 Crossover Potential and Theories

    24:47 Exploring Theories and Connections in Fantasy Worlds

    26:14 Sibling Dynamics: Rune and Bryce's Relationship

    27:59 Urban Fantasy: A Refreshing Setting

    29:52 Choosing Houses: Personal Connections to Fantasy

    30:40 Podcast Wrap-Up and Future Plans

    32:15 Podcast Episode Outro


    Keywords:

    Crescent City, book series, fantasy, character analysis, urban fantasy, book recommendations, Sarah J. Maas, Onyx Storm, book club, reading community

    Show More Show Less
    32 mins
  • SJM Breakdown: A Court of Thorns and Roses Breakdown
    Jan 23 2025

    Haley and McCayleigh dive deep into the 'A Court of Thorns and Roses' series by Sarah J. Maas. They discuss their favorite books, character arcs, and the emotional journeys of Feyre and Nesta. The conversation also explores various theories about the series, including potential betrayals and character relationships. The episode wraps up with a fun personality quiz to determine which ACOTAR character McCayleigh resembles, leaving listeners excited for future episodes.


    REMINDER: January’s virtual book club read: THE COURTING OF BRISTOL KEATS by Mary E. Pearson. Read along with us to prepare for our virtual book club discussion when it airs in February!


    📖 Join the Conversation:

    Be sure to check out the All Things Book Related Facebook group for more bookish fun and virtual book club: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17qrT2kDux/⁠


    💬 Let’s Connect:

    Follow us on social media for updates and more bookish content:

    Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/twochicksandaplottwist/⁠

    Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567707466670⁠

    Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/TwoChicksandaPlotTwist?utm_source=linktree_profile_share


    🎧 Subscribe & Stay Tuned:

    Don’t miss our upcoming episodes where we’ll discuss more of our book club reads and chat with amazing authors. Hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications!


    Interested in being a guest? Sign up using the link below!

    ⁠https://forms.gle/PKrwrwJihdf7Jhgu6⁠


    Takeaways:

    The hosts are excited about the ACOTAR series breakdown.

    Haley shares her experience with snowstorms and school.

    McCayleigh discusses her recent reading accomplishments.

    The hosts reflect on their writing journeys and ideas.

    Haley introduces her book idea involving magical powers.

    McCayleigh reveals her book cover and ARC signups.

    The hosts discuss their favorite books in the ACOTAR series.

    They analyze character arcs of Feyre and Nesta.

    The conversation includes various theories about the series.

    The episode concludes with a fun personality quiz.



    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction to the Episode and Spoiler Alert

    01:16 Personal Updates and Life Events

    02:55 Discussion on Epic the Musical

    03:58 Writing Projects and Creative Ideas

    05:42 Book Release News and PR Strategies

    06:56 Health Updates and Experiences with Illness

    07:35 Giveaways and Affiliate Marketing Insights

    07:35 Book Recommendations and Recent Reads

    08:57 Comparative Analysis of Book Series

    12:20 Interest in Harry Potter and Future Reading Plans

    12:51 The Magic of Storytelling

    17:06 TikTok's Temporary Ban and Its Impact

    19:20 Diving into Akatar: A Summary

    21:30 Favorite Characters and Their Arcs

    26:39 Theories and Speculations on ACOTAR

    29:48 Character Relationships and Theories

    31:11 Special Editions and Fan Reactions

    32:21 Comparing Feyre and Nesta's Journeys

    34:33 Tamlin's Redemption Arc: Does He Deserve It?

    37:49 Betrayal Within the Inner Circle

    39:34 Value of A Court of Frost and Starlight

    42:05 Hypotheticals: Choosing Courts and Side Characters

    45:43 ACOTAR Personality Quiz and Wrap-Up

    49:13 Podcast Episode Outro



    Keywords:

    ACOTAR, A Court of Thorns and Roses, book series, character analysis, theories, podcast, fantasy, Sarah J. Maas, reading community, book recommendations

    Show More Show Less
    49 mins
  • SJM Unbound: Throne of Glass Breakdown
    Jan 16 2025

    Haley and McCayleigh dive deep into the 'Throne of Glass' series by Sarah J. Maas. They discuss their personal reading experiences, character dynamics, and the impact of key characters like Dorian and Aelin. The conversation also explores various theories about the series and its connections to other works by Maas. The hosts engage in a fun character quiz, revealing their similarities to characters from the series, and conclude with thoughts on the future of the series and upcoming episodes.


    REMINDER: January’s virtual book club read: THE COURTING OF BRISTOL KEATS by Mary E. Pearson. Read along with us to prepare for our virtual book club discussion when it airs next month!


    📖 Join the Conversation:

    Be sure to check out the All Things Book Related Facebook group for more bookish fun and virtual book club: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17qrT2kDux/⁠


    💬 Let’s Connect:

    Follow us on social media for updates and more bookish content:

    Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/twochicksandaplottwist/⁠

    Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567707466670⁠

    Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/TwoChicksandaPlotTwist?utm_source=linktree_profile_share


    🎧 Subscribe & Stay Tuned:

    Don’t miss our upcoming episodes where we’ll discuss more of our book club reads and chat with amazing authors. Hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications!


    Interested in being a guest? Sign up using the link below!

    ⁠https://forms.gle/PKrwrwJihdf7Jhgu6⁠


    Takeaways:

    The 'Throne of Glass' series is rich in world-building and character development.

    Reading order can significantly impact the understanding of the series.

    Aelin's journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment.

    Dorian plays a crucial role in the dynamics of the group.

    Character relationships evolve throughout the series, adding depth to the story.

    Theories about character connections and future plotlines keep fans engaged.

    The hosts emphasize the emotional weight of character arcs and their resolutions.

    Loyalty and compassion are key themes in the series.

    The discussion highlights the importance of personal experiences in reading.

    The hosts express excitement for future episodes and other series by Sarah J. Maas.




    Chapters:

    00:00 Throne of Glass Series Overview

    02:46 Reading Orders and Preferences

    07:20 Throne of Glass Breakdown

    13:19 Character Development and Themes

    20:20 Emotional Connections in Fantasy Literature

    21:57 Theories and Speculations in Sarah J. Maas' Universe

    26:40 Character Arcs and Development: Kale's Journey

    37:21 Manon's Role and Transformation in the Series

    42:48 Double Standards and Female Empowerment

    44:27 Imagining Alyn in the Modern World

    46:13 Choosing the Best Friend from Throne of Glass

    49:15 The Impact of Dorian's Potential Death

    52:25 Character Quiz: Discovering Your Throne of Glass Alter Ego

    58:23 Podcast Episode Outro



    Keywords:

    Throne of Glass, Sarah J. Maas, book series, character analysis, reading order, fantasy, book breakdown, A Court of Thorns and Roses, SJM universe, book recommendations

    Show More Show Less
    59 mins
  • Plotting 2025: Our Reading Goals & Must-Read Books
    Jan 9 2025

    McCayleigh and Haley share their excitement about McCayleigh's recent engagement and discuss their reading goals for the year. They dive into their favorite recent reads, explore new genres they want to tackle, and recommend books to each other. The conversation also touches on their podcast goals, community engagement, and the importance of connecting with their audience. They express their enthusiasm for upcoming book releases and the potential for future episodes focused on specific series.


    Announcing January’s virtual book club read: THE COURTING OF BRISTOL KEATS by Mary E. Pearson.


    Read along with us to prepare for our virtual book club discussion when it airs next month!



    📖 Join the Conversation:

    Be sure to check out the All Things Book Related Facebook group for more bookish fun and virtual book club: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17qrT2kDux/⁠


    💬 Let’s Connect:

    Follow us on social media for updates and more bookish content:

    Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/twochicksandaplottwist/⁠

    Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567707466670⁠

    Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/TwoChicksandaPlotTwist?utm_source=linktree_profile_share


    🎧 Subscribe & Stay Tuned:

    Don’t miss our upcoming episodes where we’ll discuss more of our book club reads and chat with amazing authors. Hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications!


    Interested in being a guest? Sign up using the link below!

    ⁠https://forms.gle/PKrwrwJihdf7Jhgu6⁠


    Takeaways:

    McCayleigh got engaged during a trip to Mexico.

    Haley is working on her first book and is excited about it.

    Both hosts are setting reading goals for the year.

    They want to explore new genres, including historical fiction and horror.

    Haley's favorite recent read is a Draco and Hermione fanfiction.

    They plan to read and discuss Sarah J. Maas's Throne of Glass series.

    Community engagement is important to them, with goals for social media growth.

    They are excited about upcoming book releases and their book club.

    Both hosts want to read more Agatha Christie and Kristin Hannah.

    They believe in manifesting their goals for the podcast and personal growth.



    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates

    00:43 Engagement Announcement and Celebration

    03:34 Reading Goals and Recent Reads

    06:57 Book Recommendations and Fanfiction Discussion

    09:52 Book Quizzes and Favorite Characters

    12:34 Living in a Book World and Seasonal Preferences

    15:26 Setting Personal Reading Goals

    18:22 Engaging with the Audience

    20:01 Exploring New Genres

    22:58 Diving into Classics and Historical Fiction

    26:28 Anticipating New Authors and Series

    29:07 Discussing Specific Books and Series

    33:13 Audiobook Adventures

    34:10 Anticipating New Releases

    41:12 Rereading Favorites

    45:48 Goals for the Year

    48:46 Book Club Announcement

    51:45 Podcast Episode Outro



    Keywords:

    engagement, reading goals, book recommendations, new genres, podcast growth, community engagement, book club, Sarah J. Maas, fantasy, romance

    Show More Show Less
    52 mins
  • 2024 Shelf Showdown: Faves & Flops + How My Neighbor Stole Christmas by Meghan Quinn Discussion
    Jan 2 2025

    In this episode of 'Two Chicks and a Plot Twist', hosts Haley and McCayleigh reflect on their reading experiences in 2024, sharing their favorite and least favorite books. They discuss their reading goals, achievements, and the challenges they faced in selecting standout reads. The conversation also delves into their thoughts on the holiday-themed romance 'How My Neighbor Stole Christmas', highlighting its humor, romance, and some predictable tropes. The episode wraps up with a look ahead to their 2025 reading plans.


    📖 Join the Conversation:

    Be sure to check out the All Things Book Related Facebook group for more bookish fun: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17qrT2kDux/⁠


    💬 Let’s Connect:

    Follow us on social media for updates and more bookish content:

    Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/twochicksandaplottwist/⁠

    Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567707466670⁠

    Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/TwoChicksandaPlotTwist?utm_source=linktree_profile_share


    🎧 Subscribe & Stay Tuned:

    Don’t miss our upcoming episodes where we’ll discuss more of our book club reads and chat with amazing authors. Hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications!


    Interested in being a guest? Sign up using the link below!

    ⁠https://forms.gle/PKrwrwJihdf7Jhgu6⁠



    00:00 Introduction to Two Chicks in a Plot Twist

    00:55 Reflecting on 2024 Reading Goals

    09:25 Monthly Book Highlights: January to June

    19:02 Monthly Book Highlights: July to December

    25:59 Rediscovering Classics

    27:12 Books That Disappointed Us

    27:58 Letdowns and DNF Reads

    29:11 Exploring Dark Romance

    30:35 High Expectations vs. Reality

    31:41 Romance vs. Fantasy

    32:55 Series That Missed the Mark

    34:23 Narration and Book Choices

    35:30 Bookish Quizzes and Fun

    36:53 Favorite Reads of 2024

    43:45 Looking Ahead to 2025

    50:40 Podcast Episode Outro


    Show More Show Less
    51 mins
  • Book Swaps & Honest Reviews + Phantasma by Kaylie Smith Discussion
    Dec 26 2024

    In this episode of 'Two Chicks and a Plot Twist', hosts Haley Rogers and McCayleigh Daniels discuss their recent book recommendations, reactions to 'The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue', and a deep dive into the dark fantasy novel 'Phantasma'. They share personal updates, including holiday plans and the launch of their new website, while also engaging in character analysis and thematic discussions surrounding the books they've read. The episode wraps up with a preview of future episodes and a call for listener engagement.


    📖 Join the Conversation:

    Be sure to check out the All Things Book Related Facebook group for more bookish fun: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17qrT2kDux/⁠


    💬 Let’s Connect:

    Follow us on social media for updates and more bookish content:

    Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/twochicksandaplottwist/⁠

    Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567707466670⁠

    Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/TwoChicksandaPlotTwist?utm_source=linktree_profile_share


    🎧 Subscribe & Stay Tuned:

    Don’t miss our upcoming episodes where we’ll discuss more of our book club reads and chat with amazing authors. Hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications!


    Interested in being a guest? Sign up using the link below!

    ⁠https://forms.gle/PKrwrwJihdf7Jhgu6⁠



    Keywords:

    book recommendations, Addie LaRue, Phantasma, reading, book club, fantasy, romance, Emily Henry, character analysis, podcast



    Show More Show Less
    40 mins
  • Book Icks & Savage One-Star Picks
    Dec 12 2024

    In this episode of Two Chicks in a Plot Twist, hosts Haley and McCayleigh dive into their personal book icks, share hilarious one-star reviews of beloved books, and discuss their recent reads. They explore various book tropes, engage in a fun quiz about character types, and invite listeners to share their own book-related pet peeves. The episode is filled with laughter, relatable bookish frustrations, and a deep love for reading.


    📖 Join the Conversation:

    Be sure to check out the All Things Book Related Facebook group for more bookish fun: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17qrT2kDux/


    💬 Let’s Connect:

    Follow us on social media for updates and more bookish content:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twochicksandaplottwist/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567707466670

    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/TwoChicksandaPlotTwist?utm_source=linktree_profile_share


    🎧 Subscribe & Stay Tuned:

    Don’t miss our upcoming episodes where we’ll discuss more of our book club reads and chat with amazing authors. Hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications!


    Interested in being a guest? Sign up using the link below!

    https://forms.gle/PKrwrwJihdf7Jhgu6


    Takeaways:

    Book icks can be specific and personal.

    Hilarious one-star reviews can provide comic relief.

    Miscommunication as a plot device can be frustrating.

    Long chapters can deter readers from finishing a book.

    Dog-earing pages is a major book ick for some.

    Book covers with real people can be off-putting.

    Different heights in a book series can be annoying.

    Insta-love is often unrealistic in modern stories.

    Readers appreciate character name pronunciations in books.

    Engaging with listeners about their book icks is fun.


    00:00 Introduction to Two Chicks in a Plot Twist

    00:25 Spilling the Tea on Book Pet Peeves

    06:13 Recent Reads and Personal Updates

    13:12 Bookish Quizzes and Fun Discussions

    17:42 Exploring Bookish Icks and Tropes

    17:51 Book Aesthetics and Collecting

    19:40 Insta-Love and Character Relationships

    21:30 Character Pronunciations and Audiobooks

    22:51 Plot Twists and Character Revelations

    23:22 Book Pet Peeves and Reader Preferences

    25:27 Reader Reactions and Book Reviews

    28:31 Hilarious One-Star Reviews

    32:15 Social Media and Bookish Responsibilities


    Keywords:

    book podcast, book reviews, book recommendations, book icks, reading community, book lovers, book tropes, hilarious book reviews, book discussions, bookish fun




    Show More Show Less
    35 mins
  • Bookish Thanksgiving & Isle of Beasts and Shadows Interview with Author/Co-Host McCayleigh Daniels
    Nov 28 2024

    In this episode of Two Chicks in a Plot Twist, hosts Haley Rogers and McCayleigh Daniels celebrate Thanksgiving by reflecting on their gratitude for books, characters, and the reading community. They share their Thanksgiving plans, discuss the books they are thankful for, and dive into a fun quiz about their favorite characters. The episode also features an interview with McCayleigh about her novel 'Isle of Beasts and Shadows,' exploring her writing journey, themes of time, and what readers can expect in the next installment. The hosts wrap up by recommending books to each other and inviting listeners to share their own bookish gratitude.


    📖 Join the Conversation:

    Be sure to check out the All Things Book Related Facebook group for more bookish fun: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17qrT2kDux/


    💬 Let’s Connect:

    Follow us on social media for updates and more bookish content:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twochicksandaplottwist/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567707466670

    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/TwoChicksandaPlotTwist?utm_source=linktree_profile_share


    🎧 Subscribe & Stay Tuned:

    Don’t miss our upcoming episodes where we’ll discuss more of our book club reads and chat with amazing authors. Hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications!


    Interested in being a guest? Sign up using the link below!

    https://forms.gle/PKrwrwJihdf7Jhgu6


    00:00 Introduction and Technical Glitches

    02:46 Thanksgiving Plans and Cozy Reads

    05:49 Books We're Thankful For

    08:37 Listener Engagement: What Are You Thankful For?

    10:55 Books That Shaped Us

    12:56 Favorite Characters and Their Impact

    15:25 Fun Quiz: Which Character Are You?

    20:55 Character Representation in Fantasy Literature

    22:32 Introducing 'Isle of Beasts and Shadows'

    23:11 The Journey of Writing a Book

    25:12 Plot Summary of 'Isle of Beasts and Shadows'

    25:57 Content Warnings and Themes

    27:18 Haley's Review of the Book

    27:58 Exploring Writing Challenges

    32:24 The Impact of Time on Relationships

    35:25 Character Development and Favorites

    36:26 Teasing the Next Installment

    38:01 Book Recommendations and Wrap-Up


    Show More Show Less
    42 mins