Kris and Mads

Epizodes

• Kristen Read ONLY 5-Star Books?! | June Reading Wrap Up 03.07.2026 1h 14min

  Welcome back to the show you guys! June was one of our favorite reading months of the year...especially for Kristen, who somehow managed to read five books and give every single one ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐! 🤯📚In today's June Reading Wrap Up, we're sharing honest reviews, ratings, favorite moments, disappointments (or lack thereof!), and whether each book is worth adding to your TBR. From cozy summer romance and timeless classics to epic fantasy, literary fiction, nonfiction, and mythology, this month had a little bit of everything.Whether you're looking for your next five-star read or just love hearing readers passionately discuss books, grab a cozy drink and join us for another month of bookish conversations!Timestamps0:00 - Intro 3:06 - Every Summer After by Carley Fortune9:38 - One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune12:53 - Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte21:20 - Maame by Jessica George25:49 - Everything is Tuberculosis by John Greene29:41 - Carrie Soto is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid33:24 - Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney38:52 - Persuasion by Jane Austen46:08 - The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer58:10 - Infinite Wisdom by Tom Weaver1:03:52 - The Golden Fool by Robin Hobb1:08:29 - Troy by Stephen Fry1:13:20 - Wrap-upLet’s connect!Join our Patreon read-and-watch club: patreon.com/KrisandMadsSisterhoodHave a business inquiry? Email our manager: nancy@farq-media.comTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kris.and.madsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/krisandmadsAll our other links are here: https://linktr.ee/kris.and.madsTo check out our brother C.Ray's music which we use in all our episodes, you can find him here:https://www.youtube.com/@SeeRayHardly#BookTube #JuneReadingWrapUp #BookReviews #ReadingWrapUp #BookRecommendations #FantasyBooks #ClassicBooks #LiteraryFiction #BookLovers #Readers
• Meeting Chloe Gong in NYC! The Story Behind These Violent Delights, Immortal Longings & Coldwire 01.07.2026 1h 2min

  We had the incredible opportunity to sit down with bestselling fantasy author Chloe Gong in New York City for one of our favorite conversations we've ever had.Chloe's tumblr:   / chloegong  Chloe's tiktok:   / thechloegong  Chloe's instagram:   / thechloegong  Chloe's website: https://thechloegong.com/Chloe's debut novel, *These Violent Delights*, holds a special place in our hearts because it was the very first book our online book club ever read together. It became a gateway into fantasy for us and helped shape so much of our reading journey, so getting to interview Chloe in person truly felt like meeting one of our literary heroes.In this author interview, Chloe Gong shares the story behind her career, growing up in New Zealand before moving to the United States for college and work, and how those experiences have influenced her writing. We also dive into the differences between writing young adult fantasy, new adult fantasy, and adult fantasy, how her writing process has evolved throughout her career, and why Shakespeare continues to inspire so much of her work.Whether you're a longtime Chloe Gong fan, love fantasy books, enjoy Shakespeare retellings, or are curious about the publishing and writing process, this conversation is packed with insights and behind-the-scenes stories.✨ In this interview, we discuss:The inspiration behind These Violent DelightsThe worlds of Immortal Longings and ColdwireWriting YA, new adult, and adult fantasyShakespeare's influence on her novelsChloe Gong's writing processGrowing up in New Zealand and building a career in the United StatesAdvice for aspiring fantasy writersThese Violent DelightsOur Violent EndsFoul Lady FortuneFoul Heart HuntsmanImmortal LongingsVilest ThingsColdwire📚 Books Discussed:If you enjoyed this interview, be sure to subscribe for more author interviews, fantasy book discussions, reading vlogs, book recommendations, and conversations with your favorite authors.Let’s connect!Join our Patreon read-and-watch club:   / krisandmadssisterhood  Have a business inquiry? Email our manager: nancy@farq-media.comTikTok:   / kris.and.mads  Instagram:   / krisandmads  All our other links are here: https://linktr.ee/kris.and.mads#BookTube #FantasyBooks #BookClub #Reading #Books #ChloeGong #TheseViolentDelights #ImmortalLongings #Coldwire #FantasyBooks #AuthorInterview #BookTube #FantasyAuthor #WritingProcess #ShakespeareRetelling #YoungAdultBooks #AdultFantasy
• Top 10 Books That Shaped Us 19.06.2026 55min

  Every reader has a story, and these are the books that shaped ours.In this episode, we're taking a trip down memory lane and sharing the 10 books and series that formed us into the readers we are today. From beloved classics our parents read aloud to us as children to the stories that sparked lifelong obsessions with fantasy, adventure, and literature, these books helped shape our imaginations, our values, and our love of reading.Along the way, we share family memories, childhood stories, and a little bit of our reader lore as we reflect on the books that have stayed with us for years. If you've ever wondered what made us the readers we are today, this episode is for you.Whether you grew up reading alongside Anne Shirley, journeying through Narnia, exploring Middle-earth, attending Hogwarts, or venturing across Arrakis, we hope this conversation inspires you to revisit the books that helped make you who you are. Books Mentioned Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud MontgomeryLittle Women by Louisa May Alcott Chronicles of Narnia by C. S. Lewis The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson BurnettBoxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler WarnerPride and Prejudice by Jane AustenLord of the Rings by J. R. R Tolkien Harry Potter by J. K. RowlingDune by Frank Herbert Timestamps0:00 - Intro 2:11 - Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery6:46 - Little Women by Louisa May Alcott15:26 - The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis22:52 - The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien27:49 - The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett31:18 - The Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner34:01 - Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen37:54 - The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien41:14 - Dune by Frank Herbert45:47 - The Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling55:05 - Wrap-upLet’s connect!Join our Patreon read-and-watch club: patreon.com/KrisandMadsSisterhoodHave a business inquiry? Email our manager: nancy@farq-media.comTikTok:   / kris.and.mads  Instagram:   / krisandmads  All our other links are here: https://linktr.ee/kris.and.madsTo check out our brother C.Ray's music which we use in all our episodes, you can find him here:   / @seerayhardly  #BookTube #FantasyBooks #BookClub #Reading #Books
• Top 10 Best Books Of All Time 11.06.2026 56min

  Welcome back to the show you guys! Today we are each sharing our TOP 10 BEST BOOKS OF ALL TIME after reading hundreds of books every single year across fantasy, sci-fi, literary fiction, historical fiction, classics, romance, and more. These are the books that completely changed us as readers, stayed with us for years, and truly stand the test of time.From Robin Hobb and George R.R. Martin to Jane Austen, Pierce Brown, Ken Liu, and M.L. Wang, we’re ranking the books that we consider masterpieces and explaining why they’ve become our all-time favorites. Whether you’re looking for the best fantasy books, classic literature recommendations, emotional literary fiction, or unforgettable sci-fi reads, we hope this video helps you find your next favorite book!✨ Let us know YOUR favorite books of all time in the comments!📖 Books Mentioned:Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. FranklBreaking The Habit of Being Yourself by Joe DispenzaSpeaking Bones by Ken LiuThe Wolf Den by Elodie HarperA Room with a View by E.M. ForsterThe Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth BrowerPachinko by Min Jin LeeA Game of Thrones by George R.R. MartinLight Bringer by Pierce BrownThe Sword of Kaigen by M.L. WangHarry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. RowlingMorning Star by Pierce BrownSense and Sensibility by Jane AustenMad Ship by Robin HobbShip of Destiny by Robin HobbBlood Over Bright Haven by M.L. Wang⏱️ Timestamps:0:00 - Intro3:41 - Maddie’s #10: Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl5:26 - Kristen’s #10: Breaking The Habit of Being Yourself by Joe Dispenza7:22 - Maddie’s #9: Speaking Bones by Ken Liu10:29 - Kristen’s #9: The Wolf Den by Elodie Harper13:01 - Maddie’s #8: A Room with a View by E.M. Forster13:57 - Kristen’s #8: The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower15:34 - Maddie’s #7: Pachinko by Min Jin Lee18:26 - Kristen’s #7: A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin22:58 - Maddie’s #6: Light Bringer by Pierce Brown24:38 - Kristen’s #6: The Sword of Kaigen by M.L. Wang26:41 - Maddie’s #5: Harry Potter & the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling29:28 - Kristen’s #5: Morning Star by Pierce Brown31:18 - Maddie’s #4: Sense & Sensibility by Jane Austen32:47 - Kristen’s #4: Mad Ship by Robin Hobb34:24 - Maddie’s #3: Ship of Destiny by Robin Hobb36:27 - Kristen’s #3: Sense & Sensibility by Jane Austen39:02 - Maddie’s #2: The Sword of Kaigen by M.L. Wang41:16 - Kristen’s #2: Blood Over Bright Haven by M.L. Wang43:49 - Maddie AND Kristen’s Top Book48:09 - Kristen’s Honorable Mentions52:06 - Maddie’s Honorable Mentions54:38 - Wrap-up#BestBooksOfAllTime #FantasyBooks #BookTube #Top10Books #FantasyBookRecommendations #SciFiBooks #ClassicBooks #RobinHobb #PierceBrown #MLWang #JaneAusten #BookRecommendations #ReadingVlog #FavoriteBooks #BooksYouNeedToReadLet’s connect!Join our Patreon read-and-watch club: patreon.com/KrisandMadsSisterhoodHave a business inquiry? Email our manager: nancy@farq-media.comTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kris.and.madsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/krisandmadsAll our other links are here: https://linktr.ee/kris.and.madsTo check out our brother C.Ray's music which we use in all our episodes, you can find him here:https://www.youtube.com/@SeeRayHardly#BookTube #FantasyBooks #BookClub #Reading #Books
• The BEST & WORST Books We Read in May 👀 | Monthly Reading Wrap Up 02.06.2026 1h 5min

  Welcome back to the show you guys! In today’s video, my sister and I are sharing all 18 books we read in May and giving our full honest thoughts, ratings, reviews, disappointments, and new favorites. From fantasy and classics to romance and literary fiction, this month had a little bit of everything — including some books we absolutely loved and a few that did not work for us at all.We also watched a few book adaptations along the way and chat about whether they lived up to the stories we read!If you’re looking for book recommendations, trying to build your TBR, or just love hearing readers passionately discuss books, grab a drink and come hang out with us for our monthly reading wrap up.✨ Books Mentioned:Margo’s Got Money Troubles by Rufi ThorpeThe Score by Elle KennedyFury Bound by Sable SorensenThe Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre DumasSongs in Ursa Major by Emma BrodieDaughter of the Otherworld by Shauna LawleyYesteryear by Caro Claire BurkeThe Last Contract of Isako by Fonda LeeA Storm of Swords by George R.R. MartinThe Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion Vol. 5-8 by Beth BrowerFool’s Errand by Robin Hobb⏱️ Timestamps:0:00 - Intro2:49 - Margo’s Got Money Troubles15:18 - The Score20:18 - Fury Bound26:49 - The Count of Monte Cristo32:41 - Songs in Ursa Major35:31 - Daughter of the Otherworld39:42 - Yesteryear45:08 - The Last Contract of Isako50:23 - A Storm of Swords54:11 - The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion59:18 - Fool’s Errand1:02:47 - Wrap-up#BookTube #ReadingWrapUp #BookReviews #FantasyBooks #RomanceBooks #MonthlyWrapUp #ReadingVlog #BookRecommendations #ReadersOfYouTubeLet’s connect!Join our Patreon read-and-watch club: patreon.com/KrisandMadsSisterhoodHave a business inquiry? Email our manager: nancy@farq-media.comTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kris.and.madsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/krisandmadsAll our other links are here: https://linktr.ee/kris.and.madsTo check out our brother C.Ray's music which we use in all our episodes, you can find him here:https://www.youtube.com/@SeeRayHardly#BookTube #FantasyBooks #BookClub #Reading #Books
• 12 Top Books for 2026 Travel Inspo 21.05.2026 43min

  Welcome back friends! 🌍📚 In today’s podcast episode, we’re sharing the ultimate book lover travel bucket list — real places around the world that feel exactly like our favorite books. From the fantasy landscapes of New Zealand inspired by The Lord of the Rings, to the ancient streets of Pompeii from The Wolf Den Trilogy, and the gothic atmosphere of Romania inspired by Dracula, we are talking about the destinations that made us want to book a flight immediately.If you love fantasy books, historical fiction, literary fiction, classic novels, romantasy, or immersive world-building, this episode is packed with book recommendations and dream travel destinations for readers. We discuss books like The Odyssey by Homer, Jade City by Fonda Lee, The Sword of Kaigen by M.L. Wang, Pachinko by Min Jin Lee, A Game of Thrones, Jurassic Park, Kaikeyi, The Count of Monte Cristo, and so many more.Whether you’re building your TBR, planning future travels, or just want cozy bookish conversation, we hope this episode inspires your next adventure both on and off the page ✨📖 Books Mentioned:• The Odyssey by Homer — Greece• Jade City by Fonda Lee — Japan• The Sword of Kaigen by M.L. Wang — Japan• Pachinko by Min Jin Lee — Japan• A Game of Thrones — Croatia• The Lord of the Rings — New Zealand• Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton — Hawaii• Kaikeyi by Vaishnavi Patel — India• Rook & Rose Trilogy by M.A. Carrick — Venice, Italy• The Wolf Den Trilogy by Elodie Harper — Pompeii, Italy• Dracula by Bram Stoker — Romania• Bloodsworn Saga by John Gwynne — Scandinavia• Rage of Dragons by Evan Winter — Africa• The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas — Paris⏱️ Timestamps:0:00 - Intro3:00 - The Odyssey by Homer (Greece)9:06 - Jade City by Fonda Lee (Japan)10:44 - The Sword of Kaigen by ML Wang (Japan)12:15 - Pachinko by Min Jin Lee (Japan)14:28 - A Game of Thrones (Croatia)16:39 - The Lord of the Rings (New Zealand)19:16 - Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton (Hawaii)21:16 - Kaikeyi by Vaishnavi Patel (India)23:30 - Rook & Rose Trilogy by M.A. Carrick (Venice, Italy)25:47 - The Wolf Den Trilogy by Elodie Harper (Pompeii, Italy)29:08 - Dracula by Bram Stoker (Romania)32:04 - Bloodsworn Saga by John Gwynne (Scandinavia)35:01 - Rage of Dragons by Evan Winter (Africa)39:05 - The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas (Paris)41:13 - Maddie’s little dream43:03 - Wrap-up#BookPodcast #BookTube #FantasyBooks #HistoricalFiction #TravelBucketList #BookRecommendations #BookLovers #ReadingPodcast #FantasyTravel #LiteraryTravel #BooksAndTravel #Romantasy #TheLordOfTheRings #GameOfThrones #Dracula #Pachinko #JurassicPark #BookishTravel
• 12 Books We Changed Our Minds About (Fantasy, Romance, Classics & BookTok Favorites) 14.05.2026 41min

  In today’s episode, we’re revisiting some of the most popular fantasy, romance, literary fiction, and classic books we’ve ever reviewed… because honestly? We were WRONG about some of these ratings. From beloved BookTok fantasy series and viral romance books to classic literature staples and modern literary fiction, we’re sharing the books we should’ve rated higher — and the books we may have seriously overrated.We discuss books like Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë, The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde, The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas, Normal People by Sally Rooney, Assassin’s Apprentice by Robin Hobb, From Blood & Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout, Powerless by Lauren Roberts, The Folk of the Air by Holly Black, A Study in Drowning by Ava Reid, Christina Lauren romances, and more. If you love book podcasts, reading vlogs, fantasy books, romance books, literary fiction, classics, BookTube, or BookTok discussions, stick around! Our channel is packed with controversial reader opinions, book recommendations, and honest reviews.Let’s connect!Join our Patreon read-and-watch club:   / krisandmadssisterhood  Have a business inquiry? Email our manager: nancy@farq-media.comTikTok:   / kris.and.mads  Instagram:   / krisandmads  All our other links are here: https://linktr.ee/kris.and.madsTo check out our brother C.Ray's music, which we use in all our episodes, you can find him here:   / @seerayhardly  #bookpodcast #booktube #fantasybooks #romancebooks #booktok #readingpodcast #bookrecommendations #fantasyromance #literaryfiction #classicbooks
• did she read her best book of the year in april 08.05.2026 46min

  April was a great reading month for both of us! Together we did a buddy read of a popular romantasy book, sprinkled in some classic literature, devoured some gripping historic fiction, and even threw in a new contemporary romance! Great book recommendations from https://www.youtube.com/results?searc...Let’s connect!Join our Patreon read-and-watch club: patreon.com/KrisandMadsSisterhoodHave a business inquiry? Email our manager: nancy@farq-media.comTikTok:   / kris.and.mads  Instagram:   / krisandmads  All our other links are here: https://linktr.ee/kris.and.madsTo check out our brother C.Ray's music which we use in all our episodes, you can find him here:   / @seerayhardly  #BookTube #FantasyBooks #BookClub #Reading #Books
• Interview with Emma Brodie (Reese’s Book Club Pick Author!) | Into the Blue, A Love Story for Nerds 03.05.2026 1h 10min

  In this episode, we sit down with award-winning author Emma Brodie to talk all things Into the Blue—a Reese’s Book Club Pick and one of the most buzzed-about romance releases of 2026. From Star Trek references and fan fiction roots to improv acting, SNL dreams, and Comic Con culture, this is a love story that feels tailor-made for nerds, creatives, and anyone who has ever been obsessed with a fictional world.Emma Brodie is not just a novelist—she’s a longtime publishing insider and Executive Editor at Clarkson Potter, with over 15 years in the industry. Her debut novel Songs in Ursa Major earned the American Book Award, and her latest release is already earning major praise from bestselling authors like Taylor Jenkins Reid (“intoxicating”) and Gabrielle Zevin (“smart and romantic”).In Into the Blue, Brodie blends romance, sci-fi fandom, improv comedy, and the chaos of the entertainment industry into a sweeping, decade-spanning love story about two creatives navigating ambition, identity, and a connection that feels almost cosmic. Think: SNL writers’ rooms, intergalactic TV shows, acting partnerships, and the blurred line between fiction and reality.We talk about:✨ Writing a romance rooted in nerd culture and fandom✨ Star Trek, sci-fi influences, and fan fiction energy✨ The world of improv, acting, and comedy writing✨ Building a love story across time, fame, and creative ambition✨ What the future holds for Emma, and creative freedomIf you love books like Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, stories about artists and performers, or romance with a nerdy, pop culture twist—this episode is for you.You can purchase a signed edition of Into the Blue from the following independent bookstores:https://bookshop.org/p/books/into-the...https://bunchofgrapes.indielite.org/s...Find Emma on Stubstack and Instagram:https://emmabrodie.substack.com/  / emma.c.brodie  Let’s connect!Join our Patreon read-and-watch club:   / krisandmadssisterhood  Have a business inquiry? Email our manager: nancy@farq-media.comTikTok:   / kris.and.mads  Instagram:   / krisandmads  All our other links are here: https://linktr.ee/kris.and.madsTo check out our brother C.Ray's music, which we use in all our episodes, you can find him here:   / @seerayhardly  #BookTube #FantasyBooks #BookClub #Reading #Books
• No Reading Slumps for Spring! | TOP TBR BOOKS for Q2 23.04.2026 38min

  If you're looking for your next great read, and are determined to avoid a reading slump, this episode is packed with book recommendations across fantasy, romantasy, thrillers, classics, historical fiction, literary fiction, and contemporary fiction! The best strategy we've found to stay interested in our TBRs is to make sure there is a lot of variety!Today we’re sharing our Priority Q2 TBR—the books we absolutely HAVE to read this quarter. From epic fantasy like A Storm of Swords by George R.R. Martin, to new romantasy like Dire Bound, to classics like The Count of Monte Cristo, psychological thrillers like Yesteryear, and buzzy contemporary fiction like Margo’s Got Money Troubles, this list has something for every reader.We’re talking about the books we’re most excited for, the titles we think could become new favorites, and the reads we know everyone will be talking about this year.Whether you love fantasy romance, literary fiction, historical fiction, thrillers, or book club books, this episode is full of recommendations to add to your TBR.Books Mentioned:📖 A Storm of Swords by George R.R. Martin📖 Emma M. Lion Vol. 5–8 by Beth Brower📖 Direbound & Furybound by Sable Sorensen📖 A Court of Thorns and Roses / Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas📖 The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas📖 Margo’s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe📖 The Correspondent by Virginia Evans📖 I’m Thinking of Ending Things by Iain Reid📖 The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho📖 Family Drama by Rebecca Fallon📖 Yesteryear by Caro Claire BurkeTell us in the comments: What’s the #1 book on your TBR right now?Timestamps0:00 - Intro0:56 - Ditching the TBR wheel!5:10 - Storm of Swords by George RR Martin10:29 - The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower (5-8)15:09 - Dire Bound & Fury Bound by Sable Sorensen18:50 - ACOTAR & Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Mass20:06 - The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexander Dumas22:56 - Margo's Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe26:35 - The Correspondent by Virginia Evans28:49 - I’m Thinking of Ending Things by Iain Reid30:51 - The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho32:00 - The Fault in Our Stars by John Green33:08 - Family Drama by Rebecca Fallon35:20 - Yesteryear by Caro Claire BurkeLet’s connect!Join our Patreon read-and-watch club:   / krisandmadssisterhood  Have a business inquiry? Email our manager: nancy@farq-media.comTikTok:   / kris.and.mads  Instagram:   / krisandmads  All our other links are here: https://linktr.ee/kris.and.madsTo check out our brother C.Ray's music, which we use in all our episodes, you can find him here:   / @seerayhardly  #BookTube #BookPodcast #TBR #SpringTBR #FantasyBooks #RomantasyBooks #SarahJMaas #BookRecommendations #ReadingVlog #BooktokBooks #HistoricalFiction #ThrillerBooks #LiteraryFiction #ContemporaryFiction #ReadersOfYouTube #BookClubBooks #FantasyReaders #BooksToRead #ReadingRecommendations #QuarterlyTBR
• Writing Women's Stories That History Forgot - With Author Elodie Harper 16.04.2026 50min

  What does it take to write morally complex characters, handle dark subject matter with care, and bring ancient women's lives vividly to the page? We sat down with historical fiction author Elodie Harper — writer of The Wolf Den trilogy and her latest, Boudicca's Daughter — to talk about exactly that. No spoilers, no required reading. Just a genuinely fascinating conversation about craft, journalism, research, and why the "grey" characters are always the most interesting ones. Perfect for readers, writers, history lovers, and anyone who's ever wondered how authors make hard stories feel human.You can find Elodie online:https://elodieharper.substack.com/  / elodielharper  https://www.elodieharper.com/Timestamps0:00 - Intro1:14 - Elodie’s 2 Truths & 1 Lie3:17 - How journalism led Elodie to fiction7:01 - Elodie’s morally grey characters12:30 - Elodie’s female characters in The Wolf Den17:27 - Violence against women in fiction22:40 - Researching for historical fiction29:17 - Why the focus is on Boudicca’s daughter31:38 - The Druids in Roman history33:21 - What’s next for Elodie Harper39:49 - Boudicca’s Daughter new paperback!43:08 - The reception to Elodie’s writing44:16 - Where does Elodie want to be in 5 years?49:45 - Wrap-up!Let’s connect!Join our Patreon read-and-watch club:   / krisandmadssisterhood  Have a business inquiry? Email our manager: nancy@farq-media.comTikTok:   / kris.and.mads  Instagram:   / krisandmads  All our other links are here: https://linktr.ee/kris.and.madsTo check out our brother C.Ray's music, which we use in all our episodes, you can find him here:   / @seerayhardly  This episode was edited by Daniel Pena: https://danielpena.carrd.co#BookTube #FantasyBooks #BookClub #Reading #Books
• The Great War (WWI) Overview - Part 3 07.04.2026 1h 16min

  In case you missed it, check out Part 1 and 2 here: • The Great War (WWI) Overview - Part 1    • The Great War (WWI) Overview - Part 1   • The Great War (WWI) - Part 2    • The Great War (WWI) Overview - Part 2  While we are mostly a fiction-loving show, the more we read classics and historical fiction, the more we want to know the context of what really happened. One HUGE gap we have is the First World War, a.k.a. the Great War. Lucky for us, Mitch loves to read nonfiction history books and listen to history podcasts and has been amassing knowledge for like 20 years! He's joining us for a three-part series on the war to give us a little insight and fill in those gaps, so we can be prepared and knowledgeable going into our other fiction reading. Plus, our favorite fiction author of all time, J.R.R. Tolkien, fought in the First World War, so this gives us some insight into the lives of authors as well.Hope this episode is fun, approachable and entertaining!Timestamps:0:00 - Intro0:54 - Recap of Part 23:21 - 19174:59 - The Beginning of the Russian Revolution7:52 - Britain & France in April 191712:08 - Russia in July 191716:33 - Russian Revolution20:21 - 191825:23 - Operation Michael31:44 - The US in November 191835:33 - The Armistice on November 11th37:07 - Woodrow Wilson & the Treaty of Versailles44:08 - France after the War & the Big Three46:26 - What the world looks like Post-War55:56 - Germany excluded from the treaty58:25 - The Middle East Post-War1:02:10 - Germany finally gets the invite1:10:22 - The end of Woodrow Wilson1:13:24 - In ConclusionLet’s connect!Join our Patreon read-and-watch club: patreon.com/KrisandMadsSisterhoodHave a business inquiry? Email our manager: nancy@farq-media.comTikTok:   / kris.and.mads  Instagram:   / krisandmads  All our other links are here: https://linktr.ee/kris.and.madsTo check out our brother C.Ray's music, which we use in all our episodes, you can find him here:   / @seerayhardly  #BookTube #FantasyBooks #BookClub #Reading #Books
• march reads...maddie read no fantasy this month?! 05.04.2026 1h 12min

  let us know your best read of march!!Timestamps:0:00 - Intro1:10 - Our reading experience in March5:35 - Kindred by Octavia Butler15:34 - This month’s book club pick!16:39 - The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower23:58 - Reunion by Fred Uhlman26:01 - There is No Antimemetics Division by QNTM29:17 - The Second World by Jake Korell35:50 - The Expanse (7-9) by James S.A. Corey41:36 - Into The Blue by Emma Brodie51:38 - Isles of the Emberdark by Brandon Sanderson57:33 - Boudicca’s Daughter, The Wolf Den & The House with the Golden Door by Elodie Harper1:06:52 - Kristen’s March DNF…1:11:00 - Looking to AprilJoin our Patreon read-and-watch club:   / krisandmadssisterhood  Have a business inquiry? Email our manager: nancy@farq-media.comTikTok:   / kris.and.mads  Instagram:   / krisandmads  All our other links are here: https://linktr.ee/kris.and.madsTo check out our brother C.Ray's music which we use in all our episodes, you can find him here:   / @seerayhardly  This episode was edited by Daniel Pena: https://danielpena.carrd.co#BookTube #FantasyBooks #BookClub #Reading #Books
• The Great War (WWI) Overview - Part 2 24.03.2026 1h 39min

  In case you missed it, check out Part 1 here:    • The Great War (WWI) Overview - Part 1  While we are mostly a fiction-loving show, the more we read classics and historical fiction, the more we want to know the context of what really happened. One HUGE gap we have is the First World War, a.k.a. the Great War. Lucky for us, Mitch loves to read nonfiction history books and listen to history podcasts and has been amassing knowledge for like 20 years! He's joining us for a three-part series on the war to give us a little insight and fill in those gaps, so we can be prepared and knowledgeable going into our other fiction reading. Plus, our favorite fiction author of all time, J.R.R. Tolkien, fought in the First World War, so this gives us some insight into the lives of authors as well.Hope this episode is fun, approachable, and entertaining, and that you'll join us again next week as we wrap up in Part 3!Timestamps0:00 - Intro1:41 - Recap of Part 12:47 - Germany invades Luxembourg4:58 - The Beginning of the War21:35 - The First Battle of the Marne26:45 - The Hells of WW129:03 - Propaganda32:04 - What happened to the bodies?35:08 - What everyone else is up to37:25 - Power struggle in Germany42:23 - In Austria47:41 - The Ottoman Subplot50:46 - 191554:44 - Mental health & mindset of soldiers1:02:00 - In the trenches1:03:32 - Tipping the scales (The Battle of 1915)1:09:05 - What’s happening on the Eastern front?1:13:36 - Going into 19161:14:44 - Germany breaks the rules1:17:32 - The US gets involved1:23:50 - The Sinking of the RMS Lusitania1:29:09 - 19161:33:30 - 19171:37:35 - Wrap-upBook Referenced for this overview:The Sleepwalkers by Christopher ClarkThe World Remade by G. J. MeyerStorm of Steel by Ernst Jünger A World Undone by G. J. MeyerTrench by Stephen BullLet’s connect!Join our Patreon read-and-watch club:   / krisandmadssisterhood  Have a business inquiry? Email our manager: nancy@farq-media.comTikTok:   / kris.and.mads  Instagram:   / krisandmads  All our other links are here: https://linktr.ee/kris.and.madsTo check out our brother C.Ray's music which we use in all our episodes, you can find him here:   / @seerayhardly  This episode was edited by Daniel Pena: https://danielpena.carrd.co#booktube #HistoryBooks #BookClub #Reading #Books #worldwar1 #thegreatwar #historypodcast
• New Media and The Good Story Guild with Kyle Prue 17.03.2026 52min

  This interview was made possible by ‪@GoodStoryGuild‬ in partnership with their project In Media Res, a full-cast podcast story, nominated for the Ambie Awards. Thanks so much to The Good Story Guild and Kyle Prue for making this episode possible!We're so honored to chat with ‪@kyleprueofficial‬, the star of In Media Res from ‪@GoodStoryGuild‬. This full-cast drama podcast was nominated for the Ambie Awards for good reason! We loved listening to it and discovering this new form of storytelling. Tune in for a peek behind the curtain of bringing this project to life, and get to know Kyle better as a creative across mediums, from books, to television, and voice acting! Timestamps0:00 - Intro1:04 - The Ambies!2:30 - About ‘In Media Res’13:12 - Kyle’s Background17:16 - Audiobooks19:42 - Kyle’s Book Recs24:00 - The acting process on ‘In Media Res’35:05 - Reminiscing on the project38:12 - Kyle’s upcoming projects39:53 - Kyle’s 2 Truths & 1 Lie48:54 - Impersonations!51:35 - Wrap-upYou can check out In Media Res for FREE anywhere you listen to your podcasts!In Media Res Trailer:    • In Media Res - Trailer  In Media Res on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5JiCDwh...Check out the other projects from The Good Story Guild:https://goodstoryguild.co/listenConnect with Kyle here: https://www.instagram.com/kyleprue/?h...https://kyleprue.com/Check out his YouTube show Rabbit here:    • RABBIT EPISODE ONE: BREAK MY NOSE  Check out Kyle's book "How to Piss Off Men" here: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/how-...Other Books Mentioned:Butter by Asako YuzukiThis Is Your Mind on Plants by Michael PollanOn Beauty and Being Just by Elaine ScarryThis episode was edited by Daniel Pena: https://danielpena.carrd.coLet’s connect!Join our Patreon read-and-watch club:   / krisandmadssisterhood  Have a business inquiry? Email our manager: nancy@farq-media.comTikTok:   / kris.and.mads  Instagram:   / krisandmads  All our other links are here: https://linktr.ee/kris.and.madsTo check out our brother C.Ray's music, which we use in all our episodes, you can find him here:   / @seerayhardly  #BookTube #BookClub #Reading #Books #NewMedia #KylePrue #InMediaRes #goodstoryguild
• The Great War (WWI) Overview - Part 1 13.03.2026 1h 14min

  This is usually a fiction-loving channel, but the more we read classics and historical fiction, the more we want to know the context of what really happened. One HUGE gap we have is the First World War, or the Great War. Lucky for us, Mitch loves to read non-fiction history books and listen to history podcasts and has been amassing knowledge for like 20 years! He's joining us for a three-part series on the war to give us a little insight and fill in those gaps, so we can be prepared and knowledgeable going into our other fiction reading. Plus, our favorite fiction author of all time, J.R.R. Tolkien, fought in the First World War, so this gives us some insight into the lives of authors as well.Hope this episode is fun, approachable, and entertaining, and that you'll join us again next week as we dive into Part 2!Timestamps0:00 - Intro3:02 - What we already know about WW16:32 - Where to start with WW1 (Pre-War Context)7:37 - Here’s why you should care about WW113:00 - Setting the stage (The Major Players)17:51 - What classifies a “World War”? 19:34 - What started The Great War (The Murder of Franz Ferdinand)29:37 - The Central Powers: The Austrian-Hungarian Empire33:29 - The Central Powers: Germany43:14 - The Allied Powers: Russia46:08 - The Allied Powers: France52:40 - Initial Aftermath of Ferdinand’s murderBook Referenced for this Deep Dive:The Sleepwalkers by Christopher ClarkLet’s connect!Join our Patreon read-and-watch club:   / krisandmadssisterhood  Have a business inquiry? Email our manager: nancy@farq-media.comTikTok:   / kris.and.mads  Instagram:   / krisandmads  All our other links are here: https://linktr.ee/kris.and.madsTo check out our brother C.Ray's music, which we use in all our episodes, you can find him here:   / @seerayhardly  This episode was edited by Daniel Pena: https://danielpena.carrd.co#BookTube #HistoryBooks #BookClub #Reading #Books #worldwar1 #thegreatwar #historypodcast
• all the books we read in feb 05.03.2026 1h

  Is Maddie in her first EVER reading slump? We gotta get her some 5-star reads in March, or at least make her cry! Overall, Kristen had an AMAZING reading month, rating four books 5 stars! We have lots of books to discuss in this episode across genres. Grab your tea and a sweet treat for this one!Timestamps0:00 - Intro1:05 - Our February Reads3:24 - Maddie’s Reading Slump9:03 - A Clash of Kings by George RR Martin14:41 - The Everlasting by Alix E. Harrow17:00 - The Correspondent by Virginia Evans 21:28 - Extremity by Nicholas Binge23:12 - I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman 26:41 - ACADIA by Sterling Nixon31:30 - Cibola Burn/Nemesis Games/Babylon’s Ashes by James S.A. Corey35:34 - Pachinko by Min Jin Lee42:22 - Buffalo Hunter Hunter by Stephen Graham Jones49:14 - The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky53:51 - Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte58:08 - Wrap-up!Let’s connect!Join our Patreon read-and-watch club:   / krisandmadssisterhood  Have a business inquiry? Email our manager: nancy@farq-media.comTikTok:   / kris.and.mads  Instagram:   / krisandmads  All our other links are here: https://linktr.ee/kris.and.madsTo check out our brother C.Ray's music which we use in all our episodes, you can find him here:   / @seerayhardly  This episode was edited by Daniel Pena: https://danielpena.carrd.co#BookTube #FantasyBooks #BookClub #Reading #Books
• Kris and Mads Reading Starter Pack 25.02.2026 1h 12min

  Welcome back, readers! 📚✨In today’s podcast episode, we’re creating the ultimate Reader Starter Pack — a guide designed to help you fall in love with more genres and get the most enjoyment out of your reading life.We’re breaking down 12 popular book genres and sharing:✔️ the best entry-level book to start with✔️ the book you can work your way up to once you’re ready✔️ how to approach each genre so you don’t feel overwhelmedWhether you’re new to reading, trying to expand beyond your comfort zone, or building your next TBR, this episode gives you a clear path into fantasy, classics, sci-fi, literary fiction, romantasy, and more.Think of this as your roadmap to becoming a well-rounded reader — without forcing yourself through books you’re not ready for yet.Timestamps0:00 - Intro0:54 - Our Starter Pack!2:52 - Historical Fiction6:43 - Romantic Historical Fiction8:51 - Fantasy: Start Here!15:31 - Fantasy: Don’t Start Here…19:20 - Dystopian25:43 - Contemporary Fiction29:48 - Magical Realism36:21 - Lit Fic43:05 - Memoirs48:49 - Classics54:33 - Romantasy1:00:33 - Sci-Fi1:06:40 - Techno-Thrillers1:10:15 - Wrap-UpBooks Mentioned The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah Pachinko by Min Jin Lee The Unselected Journals of Emma M Lion Outlander by Diana GabaldonShowdown and Bone and Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo Blood over Bright Haven by M. L. Wang Realm of the Elderlings by Robin Hobb The Spear Cuts Through Water by Simon Jimenez The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins The Broken Earth trilogy by N. K. Jemisin Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid The Secret History by Donna Tartt The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young V. E. Schwab The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen ChboskyIntermezzo by Sally Rooney Green Lights  by Matthew McConaugheyMan’s search for Meaning by Viktor FranklLittle Women by Louisa May AlcottEast of Eden by John SteinbeckSerpent and the Wings of Night Sarah J Maas Throne of Glass, ACOTAR, Crescent City Red Rising by Pierce Brown Sun Eater by Christopher Ruocchio Techno ThrillerArtificial Wisdom by Thomas WeaverDark Matter by Blake CrouchAscension by Nicolas Binge Favorite: Silo by Hugh HoweyLet’s connect!Join our Patreon read-and-watch club: patreon.com/KrisandMadsSisterhoodHave a business inquiry? Email our manager: nancy@farq-media.comTikTok:   / kris.and.mads  Instagram:   / krisandmads  All our other links are here: https://linktr.ee/kris.and.madsTo check out our brother C.Ray's music which we use in all our episodes, you can find him here:   / @seerayhardly  Post production provided by Doppler Cow Studioshttps://dopplercowstudios.com#BookTube #FantasyBooks #BookClub #Reading #Books
• What if reading gets boring? 19.02.2026 54min

  In this episode, we're coming at you like a defibrillator for your reading habit, to revive your passion for stories, in case you're in a reading slump! It can happen. Sometimes we read too much of the same thing, and it all starts to run together. That's when switching up genres, or reading something in your favorite genre that breaks the mold, is perfect! We've got ten book recommendations for you today, across genres. These books were able to subvert our expectations, do something fresh, and hook us! If you're headed toward a slump or want something to have on hand when it comes, we hope this list helps you out.Timestamps0:00 - Intro0:53 - Why we need Slump-busters3:41 - 11/22/63 by Stephen King10:45 - The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie17:03 - The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower23:54 - The Broken Earth Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin30:55 - I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harper37:15 - Finding Grace by Loretta Rothschild40:39 - The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig44:56 - Ghosts by Dolly Alderton48:16 - Blood Over Bright Haven by M.L. Wong51:33 - Ascension by Nicholas Binge54:13 - Wrap-upLet’s connect!Join our Patreon read-and-watch club:   / krisandmadssisterhood  Have a business inquiry? Email our manager: nancy@farq-media.comTikTok:   / kris.and.mads  Instagram:   / krisandmads  All our other links are here: https://linktr.ee/kris.and.madsTo check out our brother C.Ray's music, which we use in all our episodes, you can find him here:   / @seerayhardly  #BookTube #FantasyBooks #BookClub #Reading #Books
• Romance Book Recs! 12.02.2026 1h 5min

  It's time to talk about spicy books...and more mild ones too. We're finally broaching the romance genre. What do we like? What do we hate? Which ones actually do it for us? And why!In this episode of the Kris and Mads Podcast, we’re talking about the love stories that go far beyond meet-cutes and tropes. Yes, we joke about sex (because obviously), but at the heart of this episode are powerful, unconventional romance book recommendations that explore enduring love, self-discovery, sacrifice, healing, and second chances.These are love stories that linger. Stories about choosing each other again and again. About intimacy, vulnerability, and connection — emotional and physical. Whether you love romance, literary fiction, fantasy with romantic elements, or books that blur genres, these recommendations are for readers who want big feelings and meaningful love stories.If you’re looking for romance books with depth, unconventional love stories, or book recommendations about healing, longing, and transformative relationships, this episode is for you.Books Mentioned by Category:SELF DISCOVERYAlone With You in the Ether by Olivia Blake Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid TRANSCENDENT LOVEThe Invisible Life of Addie Laure By V.E. Schwab Masters of Death by Olivie Blake The Spear Cuts Through Water by Simon JimenezSECOND CHANCE HEALINGSeven Days in June by Tia WilliamsHappy Place by Emily Henry SACRIFICIAL LOVESense and Sensibility by Jane Austen The Wolf Den by Elodie HarperMORE THAN ONE LOVEThe Lost Queen by Signe Pike Outlander by Diana GabaldonCONTEMPORARY ROMANCE First Time Caller by B.K. Borison Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren Let’s connect!Join our Patreon read-and-watch club:   / krisandmadssisterhood  Have a business inquiry? Email our manager: nancy@farq-media.comTikTok:   / kris.and.mads  Instagram:   / krisandmads  All our other links are here: https://linktr.ee/kris.and.madsTo check out our brother C.Ray's music, which we use in all our episodes, you can find him here:   / @seerayhardly  #BookTube #FantasyBooks #BookClub #Reading #Books