Episodes

In this episode of Books Between Friends , we're diving into the heart of A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab, covering Parts 6 through 10. Tensions rise, new alliances form, and the magic gets even more dangerous as Kell and Lila find themselves pulled deeper into a world of dark power, high stakes, and shifting loyalties. Join us as we break down key moments, share our favorite (and most frustrating) character choices, and explore the expanding magical universe that keeps us hooked. Whether...

In this episode of Books Between Friends , we're opening the magical doors to A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab and diving into the first five parts of the novel. Get ready for a whirlwind introduction to parallel Londons, forbidden magic, and one mysterious traveler caught between worlds. We meet Kell, a rare magician with the power to walk between realms, and Lila, a daring thief with dreams far bigger than the grim streets she calls home. As the story begins to unfold, we explore the lay...

In this concluding chapter of Onyx Storm , the hosts come together one last time to reflect on the wild ride this fantasy sequel took them on. With drinks in hand and laughter flowing, they revisit the predictions and theories they made throughout the season—grading themselves on just how right (or hilariously wrong) they were. From character fates and magical twists to secret identities and surprise alliances, no theory is off limits as they break down what actually unfolded versus what they th...

In this powerful season wrap-up episode of Books Between Friends , the hosts gather for one last recording at Plot Twist romance book bar to reflect on the final chapters of Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros. With cozy coffee drinks in hand and emotions running high, they unpack the heart-pounding conclusion of this epic fantasy read. Join Jen, Ethan, and Stef as they dive into Violet’s fiercest battles yet, examining the emotional and physical toll of war, the bonds that hold teams together, and the...

In this heartfelt and high-energy episode of Books Between Friends Podcast , we cozy up and dive into chapters 55–60 of Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros. Join Jen, Ethan, and Stef as they unravel the emotional weight of leadership, the blurred lines between duty and desire, and the rising tension as war looms closer than ever. This week, the crew digs into the evolving magic system, including the mysterious powers of dreamwalking and shadow wielding, as well as the deeper meaning behind runes, pries...

SPOILERS AHEAD: In this episode of Books Between Friends Podcast , we dive into another thrilling stretch of Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros! Big revelations shake Violet’s world as she unlocks a hidden part of her magic — but just as new powers emerge, an urgent threat looms over Tyrrendor, forcing her and her squad into action. As the battle for survival unfolds, unexpected encounters and shocking decisions push Violet to her limits. Meanwhile, relationships are tested and long-buried secrets ris...

In this episode of the Books Between Friends Podcast , we're back with another deep-dive discussion into the ever-twisting world of Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros. Join Jen, Ethan, and Stef as we unpack chapters that are packed with political shifts, mounting magical tension, and emotional turning points that will leave you holding your breath. As Violet and her squad return to familiar territory, nothing feels quite the same. New threats loom on the horizon, alliances are tested, and secrets are ...

In this emotional and action-packed episode of Books Between Friends Podcast , we’re diving into a pivotal stretch of Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros—where strategy, sacrifice, and magical revelations take center stage. As Violet faces impossible choices, we explore her evolving leadership, the weight of her responsibilities, and the ripple effects of decisions that leave lasting impact. With tension building across the continent, Violet's squad makes their way to the isle kingdom of Zehyllna, the ...

We’re diving into a wild stretch of chapters from Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros—and let’s just say, the tension is sky-high. From unexpected reunions to cryptic prophecies, and a stop on a new island that’s anything but relaxing, Violet and the gang are put through the wringer in ways we didn’t see coming. We’re talking about mysterious symbols, unanswered questions, and the kinds of magical moments that make you pause and say, “Wait… did that really just happen?” As we unravel the latest twists,...

In this episode, it’s back to the world of Onyx Storm as we break down chapters 25-30, exploring character growth, shifting relationships, and the escalating conflict that keeps us hooked. Violet’s strategic brilliance takes center stage as tensions rise, alliances shift, and the stakes grow higher than ever. We unpack the growing influence of royalty, the power struggles shaping the battlefield, and the looming threats that test our favorite characters. From sabotage and secret agendas to the m...

In this episode, we dive into chapters 19 through 24 of Onyx Storm , unpacking major character developments, high-stakes missions, and the ever-growing complexity of magic and power. Violet’s confidence and leadership take center stage as she navigates the challenges of a dangerous mission to Anca, testing her strength, strategy, and alliances. Ridoc steps up in unexpected ways, proving just how crucial teamwork is—especially when poor leadership threatens to derail everything. We also explore t...

THIS EPISODE CONTAINS SPOILERS: In this episode, we dive into chapters 13 through 18 of Onyx Storm , unraveling the ever-evolving character relationships, high-stakes conflicts, and jaw-dropping twists that keep us hooked. Violet grapples with trust issues as alliances shift and secrets come to light, while Xaden steps into his unexpected new role as a professor—bringing tension, power struggles, and maybe even a little temptation. Meanwhile, the task force faces mounting challenges, pushing our...

In this episode, we dive into chapters 7 through 12 of Onyx Storm , breaking down character dynamics, Violet’s growth, and the challenges she faces—especially with Aetos. We explore the significance of alliances, the reveal of a new dark wielding threat, and what these twists could mean for the story’s future. Magic and power take center stage as we discuss the unique abilities of Violet and Xaden, the role of the venin, and the impact of their transformations. Along the way, we share our theori...

THIS EPISODE CONTAINS SPOILERS: In this episode, we dive into the first six chapters of 'Onyx Storm,' discussing our excitement for the book, recapping the events of 'Iron Flame,' and sharing our first impressions. We explore the themes of determination, the threat of the venin, and the complexities of Xaden's transformation. We discuss the intricate dynamics of control, political tensions, and the urgency of Violet's quests. We explore the role of runes in magic, Violet's transformation into a ...

In this episode, we dive deep into 'Iron Flame' by Rebecca Yarros, discussing character development, plot twists, and the emotional dynamics between characters. We explore the challenges faced by Violet and her friends as they navigate their second year at Basgiath, the political scheming involved in their world, and the romantic developments that unfold. The conversation highlights key moments in the book, including Violet's resilience during torture and her quest for the Luminary, while also t...

This conversation delves into the intricacies of 'Iron Flame,' exploring character developments, significant plot twists, and the implications of signets. The discussion highlights Violet's journey, Xaden's transformation, and the overarching themes of sacrifice and moral dilemmas within the narrative. We share their insights on the characters' motivations and the impact of their choices, culminating in theories about future developments in the series.

Join us on our first stop on the Empyrean series journey! We are leading up to our discussion of Onyx Storm, but before we get there, our first stop is recapping the book that started it all, Fourth Wing!

Join us, Jen, Stef, and Ethan, as we introduce ourselves. We will give you some backstory on our lives, how we all came to know one another, give some background of our own reading lives and why we decided to create this podcast. This is the first episode of many to come, so join us on this literary ride!