Once Upon a Time Zone: A Bookish Podcast
Jaime Fok and Freya Valerio
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Two friends and book besties, Freya from Australia and Jaime from Canada, share their love of stories and dive into what they're reading, TBRs, and book recommendations. Each episode bridges their time zones as they discuss fantasy and fiction, offering a global perspective on books. They also run a book club on Patreon and have active communities on Instagram and YouTube.
Episoder
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VE Schwab says GOODBYE to Her Villains... 💔 Victorious, Therapy Gone Wrong & What's Next? 📚✨ [EP#64] 02.10.2026 53minWe had the incredible opportunity to chat with VE Schwab!! With Victorious releasing SO soon, we chat about villains, saying goodbye, magic, and the therapy of it all. Hope you enjoy!VE Schwab:https://www.veschwab.com/Books Discussed:Victorious - VE SchwabVicious - VE SchwabVengeful - VE SchwabThe Invisible Life of Addie LaRue - VE SchwabBury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil - VE SchwabA Darker Shade of Magic - VE SchwabThis Savage Song - VE SchwabThe Ending Writes Itself - Evelyn ClarkeThis Is About Running. This Is Not About Running - Chris BennettFruit Fly - Josh SilverEclipse and the Wolf - Akwaeke EmeziKing Sorrow - Joe HillNinth House - Leigh BardugoLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro(02:54) the moments before a book release(05:11) VE Schwab's current reads(07:18) on the overwhelming new releases & discoverability(12:10) on audiobooks & training for an ironman(16:28) when does VE Schwab write?(21:22) the origins of a villain(26:50) VE Schwab's favourite villain?(28:54) the end of an era and ALL the emotions(34:24) favourite magical creatures?(37:46) what will VE Schwab explore next?(44:14) navigating the puzzle of a timeline(47:49) VE Schwab's favourite of her books?(51:10) this or that -
The Love Story that Made Us ALL Cry... 😭 | INTO THE BLUE with Emma Brodie 📚💙 [EP#63] 25.09.2026 1t 2minWe LOVED Into the Blue by Emma Brodie, and had the most wonderful time chatting with her about yearning, genre-bending, emotional books, Vampire Diaries... and more!Emma Brodie:https://www.instagram.com/emma.c.brodieBooks Discussed:Into the Blue - Emma BrodieSongs in Ursa Major - Emma BrodieMad Mabel - Sally HepworthDawn of the North - Demi WintersVicious - VE SchwabLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro(01:46) how martha's vineyard inspired stories(08:02) our current reads(10:43) the improv of it all(16:19) morning writing vs night writing?(18:44) team damon or stefan?(20:41) about into the blue(21:56) the love story vs romance(23:54) are we pantsers or plotters?(28:49) let's talk genre-bending(32:26) the tunnel of connection between characters(36:17) why do noah and AJ feel so familiar?(39:51) dealbreakers in a love story?(41:26) is it really miscommunication?(43:40) what came first, the acting or the sci-fi?(44:57) how many author tears go into one reader tear?(49:09) the secret to yearning?(51:21) what's next for emma?(53:17) book club listener questions!(57:38) this or that
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Books We DISAGREE On... Why We LOVED and HATED These Books 📚💔 [EP#62] 18.09.2026 1t 5minIt's rare but sometimes we disagree... let's talk about some books that we had some different opinions on!Books Discussed:11/22/63 - Stephen KingThe Burning God - RF KuangA Court of Mist and Fury (ACOMAF) - Sarah J MaasPeck & Peck - Bonnie GarmusThe Sixth Faction - Veronica RothPractical Magic - Alice HoffmanThe Kiss of Deception (Remnant Chronicles) - Mary E PearsonThis Woven Kingdom - Tahereh MafiMy Husband's Wife - Alice FeeneyRock Paper Scissors - Alice FeeneyBeautiful Ugly - Alice FeeneyHis and Hers - Alice FeeneySometimes I Lie - Alice FeeneyVerity - Colleen HooverOne Dark Window - Rachel GilligTwo Twisted Crowns - Rachel GilligThe Knight and the Moth - Rachel GilligThe Knave and the Moon - Rachel GilligThe Jasad Heir - Sara HashemThe Naturals - Jennifer Lynn BarnesThe Inheritance Games - Jennifer Lynn BarnesMate - Ali HazelwoodBride - Ali HazelwoodLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro & current reads(12:29) freya's life is exciting(16:52) magnus bane is on dancing with the stars(21:49) the books we disagree on(22:12) the remnant chronicles(28:59) alice feeney's thrillers(34:13) jaime's mysterious email(36:19) rachel gillig duologies(44:02) the jasad heir(51:15) jennifer lynn barnes series(57:58) bride & mate by ali hazelwood
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The Books You're ALWAYS Telling Us to Read! 📚👀 [EP#61] 11.09.2026 1t 4minWe always give YOU book recs... but what if YOU give US recs instead? We had soooo much fun going through the most recommended books from you! 💖Books Discussed:Liberty Street - Heather MarshallThe Burning God - RF KuangThe Unselected Journals of Emma M Lion - Beth BrowerThe Bone Season - Samantha ShannonThe Tainted Cup - Robert Jackson BennettHeartless - Marissa MeyerCinder - Marissa MeyerStrange the Dreamer - Laini TaylorAssassin's Apprentice - Robin Hobb (Realm of the Underlings)Percy Jackson - Rick RiordanVerity Guild - Mai CorlandDark Rise - CS PacatThe Winged Game - Sophie KimThe Sun and the Starmaker - Rachel GriffinMad Mabel - Sally HepworthThe Raven Boys - Maggie StiefvaterBinding 13 - Chloe WalshThis Woven Kingdom - Tahereh MafiLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro & current reads(16:57) the unselected journals of emma m lion(22:20) the bone season(26:49) the tainted cup(30:12) heartless(34:29) strange the dreamer(38:21) realm of the underlings(44:18) percy jackson(48:46) verity guild(52:15) dark rise(54:22) the winged game(56:55) the sun and the starmaker(59:02) mad mabel(01:01:15) the raven boys(01:01:56) binding 13(01:02:48) this woven kingdom
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August Reading Recap, September TBR & New Book Releases! 📚 [EP#60] 04.09.2026 1t 7minLet's wrap up our August reading month & talk about what we're looking forward to in September!Books Discussed:11/22/63 - Stephen KingFourth Wing - Rebecca YarrosFruit Fly - Josh SilverTaipei Story - RF KuangPiranesi - Susanna ClarkeDaughters of Shandong - Eve J ChungBest Offer Wins - Marisa KashinoYellowface - RF KuangInto the Blue - Emma BrodieThe River She Became - Emily VargaThe Midnight Train - Matt HaigThis Story Might Save Your Life - Tiffany CrumNone of This is True - Lisa JewellMain Characters - Bobby PalmerThe Girl With a Thousand Faces - Sunyi DeanKnow My Name - Chanel MillerWild - Cheryl StrayedBottom of the Pyramid - Nia SiouxThe Third Gilmore Girl - Kelly BishopACOTAR - Sarah J MaasThe Knave and the Moon - Rachel GilligBurn of the Everflame - Penn ColeDead Beat - Leigh BardugoThe Thoroughbreds - Elin Hilderbrand & Shelby CunninghamThe Mirror of Infinite Endings - Stephanie GarberThreshing Day - Rebecca YarrosScion - James IslingtonTempest - Victoria AveyardHollywood, Ending - John GreenThe Wretched Divine - Adalyn GraceAmerican Hagwon - Min Jin LeeBaldur's Gate 3: Astarion - T KingfisherLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro & current reads(17:55) september book club pick!(19:13) jaime's august highlights(27:55) freya's august highlights(33:20) jaime's august lows(42:00) freya's august lows(49:59) jaime's september lookaheads(54:40) freya's september lookaheads(56:24) september book releases
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Books We Didn't LOVE… Until the Ending SAVED Them 😭📚 [EP#59] 28.08.2026 1t 5minSometimes you really want to DNF a book... but what if this makes you miss an INCREDIBLE ending? These are a few books that you just need to stick with until the very end - WE PROMISE it's worth it!Books Discussed:Writers and Lovers - Lily King11/22/63 - Stephen KingBest Offer Wins - Marisa KashinoFruit Fly - Josh SilverACOTAR - Sarah J MaasA Court of Splintered Harmony - Sarah J MaasA Court of Forgotten Melody - Sarah J MaasThe Ragpicker King - Cassandra ClarePiranesi - Susanna ClarkeThe Wretched Divine - Adalyn GraceAnxious People - Fredrik BackmanThe Prison Healer - Lynette NoniYou've Reached Sam - Dustin ThaoBlood Over Bright Haven - ML WangLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro & current reads(10:04) jaime saw josh silver and rf kuang!(18:02) jaime's boston and salem trip(28:43) ACOTAR titles debrief(36:58) the ragpicker king(42:05) piranesi(46:34) the wretched divine(51:58) anxious people(55:04) the prison healer(58:21) you've reached sam(01:01:19) blood over bright haven
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Books We LOVED… Until the Ending RUINED Everything 😭📚 [EP#58] 21.08.2026 1t 5minYou know when a book is PERFECT... right up until the very end? Let's chat about some books that just had very unsatisfactory endings :(Books Discussed:The River She Became - Emily VargaThis Story Might Save Your Life - Tiffany CrumEverything Was Beautiful and Nothing Hurt - Ben ReevesMartyr! - Kaveh AkbarThe Midnight Train - Matt HaigThe Odyssey - HomerNymph - Sofia MontroneCirce - Madeline MillerFruit Fly - Josh SilverA Darker Shore: Letters from Ketterdam - Leigh BardugoThe Bell Jar - Sylvia PlathThere Is No Antimemetics Division - QNTMInto the Blue - Emma BrodieThe Burning Side - Sarah DamoffThe Burning God - RF KuangMetal Slinger - Rachel SchneiderFlawless - Elsie SilverWild Love - Elsie SilverThis Book Made Me Think of You - Libby PageThe Naturals - Jennifer Lynn BarnesFourth Wing - Rebecca YarrosTropesick - Lauren OkieProject Hail Mary - Andy WeirLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro & current reads(09:47) the odyssey debrief(23:56) ebooks are EXPENSIVE rant(26:29) the mystery of the six of crows novella(28:53) the binocular set story update(31:43) let's get into it!(31:58) there is no antimemetics division(37:58) into the blue(44:43) metal slinger(47:56) chestnut springs(52:07) this book made me think of you(55:42) fourth wing(58:16) tropesick(01:01:22) project hail mary
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Book Cons & Fantasy Balls... Are Book Events Getting Out of Control?! 📚 [EP#57] 14.08.2026 1t 5minLet's talk about BOOK EVENTS! From author panels & signings, to book balls, conventions, influencer events and book clubs. What do you think about the recent rise of book events?Books Discussed:Flickerstate - FA DavidsonThis Woven Kingdom - Tahereh MafiInto the Blue - Emma BrodieHamnet - Maggie O'FarrellThe Odyssey - Homer (translated by Emily Wilson)Taipei Story - RF KuangThe Last Contract of Isako - Fonda LeeLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro & current reads(10:03) jaime watched hamnet!(15:17) author panels & signings(24:32) romantasy book balls(39:01) book conventions(44:34) influencer events(56:45) book clubs
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July Reading Recap, August TBR & New Book Releases! 📚 [EP#56] 07.08.2026 1t 9minLet's wrap up our July reading month & talk about what we're looking forward to in August!Books Discussed:Morning Star - Pierce BrownHoney - Imani ThompsonThe Burning Side - Sarah DamoffEverything Was Beautiful and Nothing Hurt - Ben ReevesMartyr! - Kaveh Akbar11/22/63 - Stephen KingThe Knave and the Moon - Rachel GilligDark Matter - Blake CrouchThe Sixth Faction - Veronica RothVictorious - VE SchwabThe Road of Bones - Demi WintersWild Dark Shore - Charlotte McConaghyEverything We Never Said - Sloan HarlowPool House - Mary HK ChoiNymph - Sofia MontroneWasp's Nest - Kat StoddardPiranesi - Susanna ClarkeThe Midnight Train - Matt HaigThis Woven Kingdom - Tahereh MafiThere Is No Antimemetics Division - QNTMTheodora's Tea Shop - Christy Anne JonesImmortal Game - Allison SaftFruit Fly - Josh SilverLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro & current reads(12:08) august book club read(14:03) freya watched the odyssey!(21:31) freya's july highlights(31:13) jaime's july highlights(42:22) freya's july lows(50:42) jaime's july lows(56:40) jaime's august lookaheads(01:00:55) freya's august lookaheads(01:04:32) august book releases
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We're FINALLY BACK! ☕📚 | Europe, Reading Updates & Book News [EP#55] 31.07.2026 1t 7minWE MISSED YOU!!! We're back after 3 weeks, and have SO much to catchup on. From Freya's Europe trip, to personal life updates, to all the book announcements and adaptation news... let's debrief!Book creators mentioned:Colleen: https://www.instagram.com/colleensreading/Lottie: https://www.youtube.com/lottiesmalleyBooks Discussed:Victorious - VE SchwabThe Shampoo Effect - Jenny JacksonThe Knave and the Moon - Rachel GilligMorning Star - Pierce BrownDark Matter - Blake CrouchMy Friends - Fredrik BackmanMain Characters - Bobby PalmerWriters & Lovers - Lily KingPractical Magic - Alice HoffmanVicious - VE SchwabBeach Read - Emily HenryLove Theoretically - Ali HazelwoodA Bittersweet Spell - Rebecca RossThe Last Days of Vic & Coco - Taylor Jenkins ReidLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro & current reads(13:07) freya's europe trip!(45:02) jaime is going to boston & ran a 10k(51:03) book to screen adaptation news(01:00:33) exciting book announcements!
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How Is Our Reading Year Going?! 📚👀 (Mid Year Check In) [EP#54] 24.07.2026 1tTime to reflect on our reading year so far! How are we doing with our reading goals? What books have hit, missed & what are we looking forward to for the rest of the year? Hope you enjoy this one :)Books Discussed:This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me - Ilona AndrewsThe Dark Mirror - Samantha ShannonRed Rising - Pierce BrownThe Fellowship of the Ring - JRR TolkienThe Bright Years - Sarah DamoffThe Burning Side - Sarah DamoffThe Way of Kings - Brandon SandersonUs Against You - Fredrik BackmanDungeon Crawler Carl - Matt DinnimanNeverthorn - Shannon MayerThe Count of Monte Cristo - Alexandre DumasJane Eyre - Charlotte BronteSense and Sensibility - Jane Austen11/22/63 - Stephen KingThe Ballad of Falling Dragons - Sarah A ParkerInto the Blue - Emma BrodieJade City - Fonda LeeYesteryear - Caro Claire BurkeNo Matter What - Cara BastoneRhythm of War - Brandon SandersonThe Diviners - Libba BrayRecursion - Blake CrouchShield of Sparrows - Devney PerryThe Last Contract of Isako - Fonda LeeDaughter of No Worlds - Carissa BroadbentChain of Gold - Cassandra ClareThe Road of Bones - Demi WintersA Stage Set for Villains - Shannon J SpannBurn of the Everflame - Penn ColeThe Knave and the Moon - Rachel GilligTaipei Story - RF KuangVictorious - VE SchwabDead Beat - Leigh BardugoThe Sixth Faction - Veronica RothAmerican Hagwon - Min Jin LeeLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro & current reads(11:22) freya's europe tripe!(16:41) how we're doing with our reading goals(27:21) fable reading stats(32:34) mid year book tags(32:50) books we immediately want to reread(36:51) new favourite authors(39:42) most frustrating characters(42:04) a book that should have been shorter(44:07) a book that should have been longer(46:21) series we want to read this year(48:59) character most likely to start a podcast(51:08) ranking our book club reads so far(54:56) most anticipated reads for the rest of the year
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Have Our Reading Tastes CHANGED?! 📚 (Re-Taking the Read Your Color Quiz) [EP#53] 17.07.2026 1t 9minOne year later, have our reading tastes changed? We are re-creating our very first episode in celebration of 1 year of the podcast!!! Thank you SO MUCH for being here 💖Read Your Color Quiz:https://readyourcolor.com/Books Discussed:The Jasad Crown - Sara HashemGolden Son - Pierce BrownSummer Island - Kristin HannahBlue Sisters - Coco MellorsCleopatra and Frankenstein - Coco MellorsThis Is How You Lose the Time War - Max Gladstone & Amal El-MohtarTress of the Emerald Sea - Brandon SandersonA Song to Drown Rivers - Ann LiangThe Correspondent - Virginia EvansA Man Called Ove - Fredrik BackmanMurder on the Orient Express - Agatha ChristieFive Survive - Holly JacksonThe Only One Left - Riley SagarThe Silent Patient - Alex MichaelidesMy Friends - Fredrik BackmanThe Good Parts - Evann NormandinRecursion - Blake CrouchStarside - Alex AsterSmall These Like These - Claire KeeganBroken Country - Clare Leslie HallThe Hating Game - Sally ThorneNot in Love - Ali HazelwoodIt Happened One Summer - Tessa BaileyMain Characters - Bobby PalmerThe Raven Scholar - Antonia HodgsonThe Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe - CS LewisCaraval - Stephanie GarberLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro & current reads(15:57) what we expect this time(18:01) taking the quiz(59:43) our final results!
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June Reading Recap, July TBR & New Book Releases! 📚 [EP#52] 10.07.2026 1t 3minLet's wrap up our June reading month & talk about what we're looking forward to in July!Books Discussed:Daughter of No Worlds - Carissa BroadbentThe Someday Garden - Ashley PostonDark Matter - Blake CrouchElodie and the Dark Lord - Ashley PostonRhythm of War - Brandon SandersonGolden Son - Pierce BrownLiar of Dreams - Libba BrayThe Wretched Divine - Adalyn GraceThe Young Will Remember - Eve J ChungInto the Blue - Emma BrodieThe Ballad of Falling Dragons - Sarah A ParkerThe Dark Mirror - Samantha ShannonThe Burning God - RF KuangThe Divorce - Freida McFaddenSummer Island - Kristin HannahYesteryear - Caro Claire BurkeThe Butcher's Masquerade - Matt DinnimanDungeon Crawler Carl - Matt DinnimanThe Hollow Gods - AJ VranaThe Shippers - Katherine CenterPhoebe Berman's Gonna Lose It - Brooke AverickMorning Star - Pierce BrownHoney - Imani ThompsonBest Offer Wins - Marisa KashinoRed Rising - Pierce BrownThe Poppy War - RF KuangThe Road of Bones - Demi WintersThis Woven Kingdom - Tahereh MafiChain of Gold - Cassandra ClareVicious - VE SchwabNinth House - Leigh BardugoThe Winged Game - Sophie KimThe Mash Up - Laura Marie MeyersEverything Was Beautiful and Nothing Hurt - Ben ReevesThe Good Parts - Evann NormandinLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro & current reads(08:13) LOTR casting update!(10:49) ashley poston is writing FANTASY!(12:57) dallas cowboys cheerleaders debrief(20:06) freya's june highlights(27:25) jaime's june highlights(36:20) freya's june lows(41:32) jaime's june lows(46:50) freya's july lookaheads(51:56) jaime's july lookaheads(55:05) july book releases
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Our Summer vs Winter TBRs 📚☀️❄️ (From Book Besties Across the World!) [EP#51] 03.07.2026 1t 2minWe're back with our dual season TBRs! This time, our Summer and Winter TBRs as long distance book besties from Canada & Australia! Books Discussed:To Dream in Darkness - Ann LiangMistborn - Brandon SandersonGolden Son - Pierce BrownThe Bright Years - Sarah DamoffEvery Summer After (Every Year After) - Carley FortuneLight Wielder - Rachel SchneiderThe Poppy War & The Dragon Republic - RF KuangThe Wretched Divine - Adalyn GraceSummer Island - Kristin HannahThe Diviners - Libba BrayBury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil - VE SchwabBelladonna - Adalyn GraceThe Wolf King - Lauren PalphreymanYesteryear - Caro Claire BurkeWind and Truth - Brandon SandersonThe Good Parts - Evann NormandinThe Someday Garden - Ashley PostonHeart the Lover - Lilly KingThe Burning Side - Sarah DamoffMain Characters - Bobby PalmerLost Lambs - Madeline CashMad Mabel - Sally HepworthBest Offer Wins - Marisa KashinoGood Joy, Bad Joy - Mikki BrammerDaughters of No Worlds - Carissa BroadbentPool House - Mary HK ChoiHoney - Imani ThompsonOne and Only - Maureen GooDay of Now - Miranda ReasonNymph - Sofia MontroneShadow Reaper - Lynette NoniScythe - Neal ShustermanLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro & current reads(11:18) every year after debrief(23:15) light wielder reviews(24:45) spring and fall tbr recap(36:21) summer tbr 1(39:15) winter tbr 1(42:26) summer tbr 2(44:05) winter tbr 2(46:33) summer tbr 3(49:03) winter tbr 3(51:43) summer tbr 4(54:05) winter tbr 4(56:03) summer tbr 5(57:56) winter tbr 5
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The Books That Made Us CRY 😭📚 (with @madisonkait) [EP#50] 26.06.2026 1t 1minWe LOVE book bestie Madison Kait, and we also love books that make us cry. So this was just the PERFECT time to chat about how emotional we got over fiction. Hope you enjoy this episode!Madison Kait:https://www.tiktok.com/@lettersfrommadsBooks Discussed:Tropesick - Lauren OkieThe Wretched Divine - Adalyn GraceThe Shippers - Katherine CenterInto the Blue - Emma BrodieDestiny's Edge - ML WangAlchemised - SenLinYuJade Legacy - Fonda LeeA Little Life - Hanya YanagiharaThe Burning God - RF KuangAtmosphere - Taylor Jenkins ReidThe Ballad of Falling Dragons - Sarah A ParkerSay You'll Remember Me - Abby JimenezProject Hail Mary - Andy WeirMy Friends - Fredrik BackmanOnyx Storm - Rebecca YarrosCrooked Kingdom - Leigh BardugoThe Invisible Life of Addie LaRue - VE SchwabRed Rising - Pierce BrownA Court of Wings and Ruin (ACOTAR) - Sarah J MaasLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro & current reads(09:01) ML Wang's surprise book release?!(11:18) what were our BIGGEST book cries of all time?(20:43) how hard did these books make us cry?(20:54) the ballad of falling dragons(24:32) alchemised(28:38) say you'll remember me(30:28) project hail mary(32:00) my friends(36:02) madison's annotating system(40:03) onyx storm(46:19) crooked kingdom(50:23) what were the first books that made us cry?(52:47) the invisible life of addie larue(56:16) acowar
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How to ACTUALLY Get Out of a Reading Slump 📚 [EP#49] 19.06.2026 1t 1minAre you in a reading slump? Let's chat about what our reading slumps look like, how we get out of slumps & also some reading slump book recs!Books Discussed:Into the Blue - Emma BrodieSummer Island - Kristin HannahYesteryear - Caro Claire BurkeThe Deal (Off Campus) - Elle KennedyWhen the Moon Hatched - Sarah A ParkerThe Ballad of Falling Dragons - Sarah A ParkerAmerican Hagwon - Min Jin LeeNever Lie - Freida McFaddenSix Crimson Cranes - Elizabeth LimThe Rose Bargain - Sasha Peyton SmithWelcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop - Hwang Bo ReumA Series of Unfortunate Events - Lemony SnicketThe Six Deaths of the Saint - Alix E HarrowAfter I Do - Taylor Jenkins ReidBest Offer Wins - Marisa KashinoJulie Chan is Dead - Liann ZhangLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro & current reads(09:33) catchups & announcements!(10:11) freya's obsession debrief(14:14) freya's yesteryear update(17:02) jaime is WATCHING OFF CAMPUS?(23:58) random thoughts on when the moon hatched(25:31) min jin lee's new book release!(28:11) what do our reading slumps look like?(31:37) our tips to get out of a reading slump(38:15) reading slump book recs(38:33) anything freida(41:52) six crimson cranes(45:16) the rose bargain(47:04) welcome to the hyunam-dong bookshop(49:51) a series of unfortunate events(53:13) the six deaths of the saint(55:44) anything TJR(57:55) an unhinged protagonist
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May Reading Recap, June TBR & New Book Releases! 📚 [EP#48] 12.06.2026 1t 9minLet's wrap up our May reading month & talk about what we're looking forward to in June!Books Discussed:Rhythm of War - Brandon SandersonThe Arcane Arts - SD CoverlyThe Deal (Off Campus) - Elle KennedyBinding 13 (Boys of Tommen) - Chloe WalshEvery Summer After - Carley FortuneWhen the Moon Hatched - Sarah A ParkerThe Ballad of Falling Dragons - Sarah A ParkerObsession (Movie)The Last Contract of Isako - Fonda LeeThe Dragon Republic - RF KuangDawnshard - Brandon SandersonMark of the Warrior - Fonda LeeWind and Truth - Brandon SandersonClockwork Princess - Cassandra ClareThe Kiss of Deception - Mary E PearsonThe Gate of the Feral Gods - Matt DinnimanThis Kingdom Will Not Kill Me - Ilona AndrewsThe Good Parts - Evann NormandinThe Burning Side - Sarah DamoffMy Husband's Wife - Alice FeeneyDungeon Crawler Carl - Matt DinnimanYesteryear - Caro Claire BurkeHoney - Imani ThompsonThe Someday Garden - Ashley PostonPhoebe Berman's Gonna Lose It - Brooke AverickGood Joy, Bad Joy - Mikki BrammerTo Dream in Darkness - Ann LiangThe Thoroughbreds - Elin Hilderbrand & Shelby CunninghamVictorious - VE SchwabShadow Reaper - Lynette NoniLight Wielder - Rachel SchneiderPool House - Mary HK ChoiThe River She Became - Emily VargaA Darker Shore - Leigh BardugoLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro & current reads(11:00) book to screen catchups(16:30) jaime met Sarah A Parker!(23:20) the Obsession debrief(30:09) freya's may highlights(35:13) jaime's may highlights(39:18) june book club pick!(39:40) back to jaime's highlights(42:41) freya's may lows(46:25) jaime's may lows(53:15) freya's june lookahead(55:58) jaime's june lookahead(01:00:11) june new book releases
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Inside the Worlds of Fonda Lee 👀 | Green Bone Saga, The Last Contract of Isako, Breathmarked & More 📚 [EP#47] 05.06.2026 59minWe are in AWE of Fonda Lee and still cannot believe we were able to chat with her in this episode! We chat all things Jade City, The Last Contract of Isako, Breathmarked duology and more!Fonda Lee:https://www.instagram.com/fonda.leeBooks Discussed:The Last Contract of Isako - Fonda LeeJade City (Green Bone Saga) - Fonda LeeMark of the Warrior (Breathmarked) - Fonda LeeBreath of the Dragon - Fonda LeeDark Matter - Blake CrouchRhythm of War - Brandon SandersonLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro(01:08) life on the Isako book tour(04:29) current reads(09:20) Fonda's perfect eggs benedict(10:50) what is The Last Contract of Isako?(12:30) writing about characters in different stages of life(16:42) will we ever revisit Isako?(18:16) writing platonic love vs romantic love(20:45) finding love in a company town(25:00) the impending doom of characters slowly declining(28:00) when your job is your LIFE(30:29) plotting an unpredictable book(33:48) building a rich world in a standalone novel(37:00) the art of physical combat in a book(40:05) film adaptations on the horizon?(41:47) which of your fictional worlds would you live in?(43:21) the transition from corporate to being an author(46:14) the wild google history of an author(49:46) listener questions!(49:58) what's the best starting point to dive into fonda's books?(50:50) how do you decide what is a standalone vs series?(52:16) how do you come up with the names for characters and places?(54:51) this or that!(54:59) who would win in a fight, isako or hilo?(56:18) no more eggs benedict or no more caffeine?(57:03) revenge arcs or redemption arcs?
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Inside the MUST-READ Fantasy That Will Break Your Heart 👀 | The Poet Empress with Shen Tao 📚 [EP#46] 29.05.2026 50minYou know we LOVE The Poet Empress, and we had the best time chatting with Shen Tao about her book, early inspiration (warrior cats, anyone?) and how fonts might speak in different ways!Shen Tao:https://www.instagram.com/storygooseBooks Discussed:The Poet Empress - Shen TaoImmaculate Deception - Isabela LivinoThe Ballad of Falling Dragons - Sarah A ParkerThe Beauty of Darkness - Mary E PearsonLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro & current reads(04:35) where did @storygoose come from?(07:23) Shen's journey to becoming a published author(10:22) Influences on Shen's writing style(13:54) warrior cats fanfiction to fantasy pipeline(15:38) life as a debut author(19:10) what is The Poet Empress about?(20:30) is the protagonist really the main focus?(23:24) Shen's favourite character to write?(25:03) the influence of siblings(26:09) publishing fantasy with a romantasy imprint(28:55) developing a magic system based in poetry(31:03) Shen's favourite moment in the book(32:28) the font challenge(36:09) Shen's next novel reveal!(39:03) listener questions(39:12) a song to describe the characters?(40:16) how to manage emotions while writing(41:58) The Poet Empress in three words(42:51) favourite edition of The Poet Empress(44:18) how does it feel to have rocketed to success?(49:00) this or that
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The PERFECT Books for Your VERY Specific Moods 👀📚 [EP#45] 22.05.2026 1t 5minYou asked for book recs that were oddly specific... and we had so much fun matching books to your prompts! Hope you enjoy these oddly specific reading recs!Books Discussed:The Kiss of Deception - Mary E PearsonThe Heart of Betrayal - Mary E PearsonUpgrade - Blake CrouchWhen the Moon Hatched - Sarah A ParkerThe Ballad of Falling Dragons - Sarah A ParkerDungeon Crawler Carl - Matt DinnimanThe Last Contract of Isako - Fonda LeeJade City - Fonda Lee (Green Bone Saga)Jade Legacy - Fonda LeeThe Invisible Life of Addie LaRue - VE SchwabBefore the Coffee Gets Cold - Toshikazu KawaguchiThe Bane Witch - Ava MorgynA Discovery of Witches - Deborah HarknessBright Young Women - Jessica KnollYesteryear - Caro Claire BurkeThe Witch Below the Dreaming Wood - HG ParryGraceless Heart - Isabel IbanezNot Quite Dead Yet - Holly JacksonLost Lambs - Madeline CashOne True Loves - Taylor Jenkins ReidReady or Not - Cara BastoneThe Favorites - Layne FargoInto the Blue - Emma BrodieBest Offer Wins - Marisa KashinoThe Good Parts - Evann NormandinAtmosphere - Taylor Jenkins ReidChain of Gold - Cassandra Clare (The Last Hours)No Matter What - Cara BastoneThe Names - Florence KnappLong Distance Book Club:https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponaTimeZoneFollow us on Instagram: @onceuponatimezonepodWatch our video podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponaTimeZonePodcastJaime's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@jaimefokInstagram: @jaimefokTiktok: @jaime.fokFreya's socials:https://www.youtube.com/@freyvalerioInstagram: @freyv_readsTiktok: @freyvalerio(00:00) intro & current reads(12:15) jaime met fonda lee!(18:40) freya's weekend catchup(20:48) oddly specific book recs(21:14) exploring identity and what it means to be human but in a fun, original way(26:16) a witchy Gone Girl(29:46) staring at a wall like what did I just read but in a good way(35:55) count the amount of letters in your last read’s title(41:33) everyone is coping through sarcasm and poor sleep schedule(47:20) love triangle where the choice is not obvious(52:17) watching a car crash into a dumpster fire in a good way(55:38) cross-genre love stories(01:00:46) running through a field with fresh rain on your face
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