Page Chewing

Episodes

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  The Gentleman Makes His Move | Carpentry in the Elven Forest (Chapters 26–38) 17.08.2026 13m

  The quest is heating up as we continue our group read of Carpentry in the Elven Forest by Alex French, covering chapters 26–38.This week, Jef, Amber, and Oggy attempt their heist for the Feather of Choosing with a plan that doesn't exactly go as expected. We also get a different perspective on the Rangers, learn more about what Amber may have to prove, and discover an unexpected benefit from the magical anklet she can't seem to get rid of.Meanwhile, the Gentleman finally makes his move against the Deep Dark, raising even more questions about his master plan and just how much influence he has over Jeff. With Jeff and Amber growing closer, the jewelry box suddenly feels a little more complicated than it did before.We also have trolls, goblins, an Indiana Jones style escape, Oggy's ongoing hatred of birds, and plenty of the humor that has made this such a fun change of pace.With the Rangers in danger and everyone seemingly headed toward the same place, the stage is set for the finale.Join me as we discuss chapters 26–38, share some theories about where everything is heading, and prepare to finish Carpentry in the Elven Forest next week.What do you think the Gentleman is really planning and how much of Jef's journey has actually been his own choice?Page Chewing BlogPage Chewing ForumAffiliate Links that support the show:Audible Standard Free Trial: https://amzn.to/4z1iKnsAudible Standard Monthly Membership: https://amzn.to/3S6vaddKindle Unlimited Free Trial: https://amzn.to/4wqkYdDAmazon Prime Free Trial: https://amzn.to/3UptxI9Join Captivate.fmSend a message via SpeakPipe
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  Blood Meridian is Coming & Friday Conversations Is Back! | Weekly Update 16.08.2026 21m

  After missing last week's update, I'm back with plenty to catch up on!This week I'm talking about my continued journey through The Bonehunters, why reading Malazan with a group has become almost essential for me, and the very different experience I've been having with the much lighter and funnier Carpentry in the Elven Forest. I'm also continuing Lone Wolf and Cub on Panel Chewing and our full-spoiler reread of The Warrior Prophet and The Second Apocalypse.I'm also officially announcing my upcoming Blood Meridian readalong. Starting September 7, I'll be tackling Cormac McCarthy's novel one chapter at a time, with a new episode every day. Rather than simply recapping each chapter, I want to slow down, ask questions, track how my thoughts change throughout the novel, and hopefully bring in a guest at the end to help dig even deeper into the book.There's plenty happening with Beyond the Page as well. I talk about some recent and upcoming conversations covering everything from Hollywood and science fiction to romance, Sasquatch, AI, creativity, and some incredible real-life stories.And Friday Conversations is officially back! We recently recorded a new episode with Leila Gausi and Alex French discussing dystopian science fiction, AI, separating the art from the artist, and plenty more. I'm hoping to make these casual, free-flowing conversations a regular part of Page Chewing again.I also talk about the new Page Chewing Patreon, revisiting The Hunger Games movies, why the ebook deals posts have ended, and why I'm more than ready for summer to be over.Thanks for listening, reading along, and continuing to support Page Chewing!This week:The Bonehunters reading updateCarpentry in the Elven ForestLone Wolf and CubThe Warrior Prophet full-spoiler rereadThe upcoming Blood Meridian daily readalongNew and upcoming Beyond the Page interviewsThe return of Friday ConversationsPage Chewing PatreonRevisiting The Hunger GamesAnd more!Question of the Week:Have you read Blood Meridian? If you have, what did you think of it? If you haven't, would you join me for one chapter a day starting September 7?Page Chewing BlogPage Chewing ForumAffiliate Links that support the show:Audible Standard Free Trial: https://amzn.to/4z1iKnsAudible Standard Monthly Membership: https://amzn.to/3S6vaddKindle Unlimited Free Trial: https://amzn.to/4wqkYdDAmazon Prime Free Trial: https://amzn.to/3UptxI9Join Captivate.fmSend a message via SpeakPipe
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  Page Burners: The Bonehunters Ch. 13–16 | Broken Gods, Broken People 15.08.2026 1h 27m

  In this episode of Page Burners, we continue our journey through The Bonehunters with a full-spoiler discussion of Chapters 13–16, where gods fall, old conflicts return in new forms, and Steven Erikson keeps pushing the series deeper into questions of power, suffering, and whether humanity ever truly learns from its mistakes.We spend a lot of time with Paran as he steps further into his role as Master of the Deck, and the increasingly complicated war among the gods. We also unpack what these chapters reveal, while debating whether such a major threat was resolved too quickly.Elsewhere, Felisin Younger emerges at the center of a new incarnation of the Apocalypse, leading us into a discussion about Erikson's recurring use of the same ideas in changing forms and why the Apocalypse in Seven Cities never seems to truly disappear.We also dig into Spite's bleak view of humanity, the cost of war, the idea that people continually fight one another instead of confronting the problems that actually threaten them, and how those themes connect back to philosophy.Along the way, we talk Karsa, Mappo, Quick Ben, Shadowthrone, the increasingly tangled games being played by gods and mortals, and some surprisingly quiet, human moments buried beneath all the chaos.As always, this is a full-spoiler discussion for everything we've covered so far in Malazan Book of the Fallen and the connected novels by Ian C. Esslemont.Page Chewing BlogPage Chewing ForumAffiliate Links that support the show:Audible Standard Free Trial: https://amzn.to/4z1iKnsAudible Standard Monthly Membership: https://amzn.to/3S6vaddKindle Unlimited Free Trial: https://amzn.to/4wqkYdDAmazon Prime Free Trial: https://amzn.to/3UptxI9Join Captivate.fmSend a message via SpeakPipe
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  Beyond the Page 17: Not a Real Enemy: Survival, Freedom & Family History with Robert J. Wolf 14.08.2026 52m

  In this episode of Beyond the Page, I’m joined by Dr. Robert J. Wolf, author of Not a Real Enemy: The True Story of a Hungarian Jewish Man’s Fight for Freedom.Robert shares the extraordinary story of his father, Ervin Wolf, a Hungarian Jewish man who survived forced labor during World War II, escaped multiple times, endured Nazi and Communist rule, and eventually fled Hungary following the 1956 Hungarian Revolution.We discuss Robert’s decision to transform his father’s autobiography into a biography, the emotional weight of researching his family’s history, and how learning the full extent of what his parents endured changed his own perspective on freedom and everyday life.Robert also talks about the continuing importance of Holocaust education, combating antisemitism, and preserving these stories for future generations. And, as always on Beyond the Page, we eventually lighten things up with conversations about music, favorite albums, food, and Robert’s first job.It’s a conversation about survival, resilience, family, history, and why stories like this cannot be allowed to disappear.Find Rob: https://mybook.to/I3hEA5Page Chewing BlogPage Chewing ForumAffiliate Links that support the show:Audible Standard Free Trial: https://amzn.to/4z1iKnsAudible Standard Monthly Membership: https://amzn.to/3S6vaddKindle Unlimited Free Trial: https://amzn.to/4wqkYdDAmazon Prime Free Trial: https://amzn.to/3UptxI9Join Captivate.fmSend a message via SpeakPipe
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  Beyond the Page 16: Liam Begley on Broken Interstellar, Sci-Fi & Worker Solidarity 13.08.2026 53m

  In this episode of Beyond the Page, Steve sits down with author Liam Begley to discuss Broken Interstellar, a science fiction space opera that approaches humanity’s future among the stars from a very different perspective: the workers who keep everything running.Liam describes the novel as a “union workers space opera,” following a cargo worker stranded on a deserted planet who must find his way back to his crew and career. That premise opens the door to a much larger conversation about worker solidarity, interstellar trade, economics, technology, and the kinds of societies humanity might build as it spreads beyond Earth.We also explore Liam’s influences, including Ursula K. Le Guin, Iain M. Banks, Lois McMaster Bujold, and The Lord of the Rings, along with the challenge of balancing detailed worldbuilding with an engaging story.Later, Liam shares his experience pursuing traditional publishing before choosing self-publishing, the difficulty independent authors face finding the right audience, and why good marketing isn't about reaching everyone, it's about reaching the readers who actually want your book.We also get into AI and creativity, the importance of human perspective and imperfection in art, Liam's work in the film industry, and what an early job cleaning out a family home taught him about work as a form of service.It’s a wide-ranging conversation about science fiction, labor, storytelling, publishing, technology, and what happens when ordinary workers, not emperors or military heroes become the center of an interstellar adventure.Find Liam: https://www.liambegley.ca/Page Chewing BlogPage Chewing ForumAffiliate Links that support the show:Audible Standard Free Trial: https://amzn.to/4z1iKnsAudible Standard Monthly Membership: https://amzn.to/3S6vaddKindle Unlimited Free Trial: https://amzn.to/4wqkYdDAmazon Prime Free Trial: https://amzn.to/3UptxI9Join Captivate.fmSend a message via SpeakPipe
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  A Rough Week for Comics, an Amazing Week for Lone Wolf & Cub | Panel Chewing #142 12.08.2026 1h 1m

  This week on Panel Chewing, Steve and Jarrod are back with two weeks' worth of comics and unfortunately, the stack isn't exactly overflowing with winners.They dig into Absolute Green Lantern, Absolute Superman, Kingdom of Earth, Endeavour, Savage Sword of Conan, Queen in Black, Foundations, Red Roots, Powers 25, Terabytes, American Caper, The Dirt Beneath the Devil, Ezra Cain: Mysteries of the Peril Brutal Dark, City of Demons, and more. There are plenty of disappointments, a few books headed straight off the pull list, and thankfully some standouts that make the rough week worthwhile. For their Picks of the Week, Jarrod celebrates Patrick Zircher's return to Solomon Kane with The Lion Errant #1, while Steve finds an unexpected favorite in Mad Cave Studios' The Omega Book #1, a strange science fiction mystery involving an estranged father and son, hidden dimensions, and a device capable of revealing what lies behind the reality we see. Then it's time to continue the Lone Wolf and Cub readalong with Volume 10, and this may be the best volume yet. The conflict between Ogami Itto and the Yagyu reaches a new level, Ogami and Daigoro are pushed into unfamiliar territory, and some of the series' most impressive action and visual storytelling takes center stage. Steve and Jarrod discuss the emotional weight of Daigoro's journey, the incredible artwork, and why this decades old manga still feels timeless. Which comics survived the week, and is Volume 10 really the best Lone Wolf and Cub volume so far? Join us and find your Pick of the Week.Page Chewing BlogPage Chewing ForumAffiliate Links that support the show:Audible Standard Free Trial: https://amzn.to/4z1iKnsAudible Standard Monthly Membership: https://amzn.to/3S6vaddKindle Unlimited Free Trial: https://amzn.to/4wqkYdDAmazon Prime Free Trial: https://amzn.to/3UptxI9Join Captivate.fmSend a message via SpeakPipe
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  Beyond the Page 15: From Hollywood to Novelist with Kay A. Oliver 11.08.2026 56m

  What happens when someone who spent decades behind the scenes in Hollywood decides to become a novelist?In Episode 15 of Beyond the Page, I sit down with award-winning author Kay A. Oliver to talk about her journey from a nearly 30-year career in the entertainment industry to writing fiction and building an impressive catalog of 18 novels.Kay shares how her experiences in Hollywood influenced her storytelling, why she gravitates toward writing strong and intelligent female protagonists, and what she's learned about finding—and trusting—her own creative voice.We also discuss the realities of the entertainment industry, her writing process, working with editors, resilience, artificial intelligence and creativity, and the importance of continuing to pursue the work that matters to you.Kay also talks about her Kutter Murder Mystery series, including Fear Struck, and what continues to motivate her after publishing so many books.It's a conversation about writing, reinvention, persistence, and following your own path—even when that path takes you somewhere you never expected.Find Kay: https://kayaoliver.com/Page Chewing BlogPage Chewing ForumJoin Captivate.fmJoin PodMatchWant to be a guest on Page Chewing? Send Steve a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17812034246205083f1bfa4f1Send a message via SpeakPipePodcast equipment used (Amazon Affiliate links):Rodecaster DuoRode PSA1+ Professional Studio ArmRode Procaster Microphone
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  The Quest Takes Shape | Carpentry in the Elven Forest (Chapters 14–25) 10.08.2026 18m

  The pieces are starting to come together in our Carpentry in the Elven Forest by Alex French group read!This week, we're diving into chapters 14–25, as Jeff and Oggy set out to rescue Amber, the trolls turn out to be far more complicated than expected, and Gaskin continues to reveal just how powerful and mysterious he might actually be.We also learn more about the Gentleman and the Deep Dark, the strings they're pulling behind the scenes, and the real purpose behind Jeff's seemingly simple mission to build a jewelry box. Meanwhile, Amber's situation puts a ticking clock on the group's journey, and Jeff, Oggy, and Amber finally begin to come together as a team.Plus, I finally discover the painfully obvious joke from last week's chapters that somehow went completely over my head.Join me as we discuss the reveals, humor, characters, theories, and everything else from chapters 14–25. Next week, we'll continue with chapters 26–38.What did you think of this section? And just how powerful do you think Gaskin really is?Page Chewing BlogPage Chewing ForumJoin Captivate.fmJoin PodMatchWant to be a guest on Page Chewing? Send Steve a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17812034246205083f1bfa4f1Send a message via SpeakPipePodcast equipment used (Amazon Affiliate links):Rodecaster DuoRode PSA1+ Professional Studio ArmRode Procaster Microphone
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  The Darkness That Comes Before Part V: The Holy War – Prophecy, Politics & the Gathering Storm 08.08.2026 43m

  Our reread of The Darkness That Comes Before concludes with Part V: The Holy War, where years of prophecy, politics, and preparation finally converge as the march toward Shimeh begins. In this spoiler-filled discussion, we explore Kellhus' growing influence within the Holy War, Cnaiür's remarkable ability to navigate an unfamiliar culture, and Achaamian's continuing struggle with prophecy, dreams, and the weight of the Mandate. We also discuss the many factions that gather for the campaign, whether Bakker's sprawling world-building enhances the story or becomes overwhelming, and how seemingly minor moments take on new meaning after completing the entire series.Along the way, we dive into the Dûnyain, Kellhus' flashbacks and philosophy, the Consult's hidden influence, Esmenet's emotional journey, and several reader theories that continue to spark debate years after publication. As always, we share our favorite moments, unanswered questions, and the details that make The Second Apocalypse one of fantasy's richest rereading experiences.⚠️ Warning: This episode contains major spoilers for the entire Second Apocalypse series, including The Aspect-Emperor novels.Join us as we wrap up The Darkness That Comes Before before continuing our journey into The Warrior Prophet in two weeks.Page Chewing BlogPage Chewing ForumJoin Captivate.fmJoin PodMatchWant to be a guest on Page Chewing? Send Steve a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17812034246205083f1bfa4f1Send a message via SpeakPipePodcast equipment used (Amazon Affiliate links):Rodecaster DuoRode PSA1+ Professional Studio ArmRode Procaster Microphone
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  Beyond the Page 14 | Zack James on StarScript & the Future of Independent Publishing 07.08.2026 1h 1m

  In this episode of Beyond the Page, I'm joined by Zack James, founder of StarScript, a new self-publishing and entertainment platform built to help authors, podcasters, musicians, filmmakers, and other creators grow sustainable businesses around their work.We discuss why publishing is only the beginning, the challenges of audience discovery, social media algorithms, community building, creator ownership, and how StarScript hopes to bring publishing, marketing, monetization, and fan engagement together under one roof.If you're an indie author—or you're considering self-publishing—this conversation offers an interesting look at one possible future for creator-owned platforms.In this episode we discuss:Why Zack created StarScriptThe biggest struggles facing self-published authorsAudience ownership vs. social media algorithmsBuilding community around creative workMonetization and subscription modelsChapter-by-chapter publishingWhy discovery is still the hardest part of publishingZack's own science fiction and comic book projectsThe future of independent publishingStarScript: https://starscript.com/Page Chewing BlogPage Chewing ForumJoin Captivate.fmJoin PodMatchWant to be a guest on Page Chewing? Send Steve a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17812034246205083f1bfa4f1Send a message via SpeakPipePodcast equipment used (Amazon Affiliate links):Rodecaster DuoRode PSA1+ Professional Studio ArmRode Procaster Microphone
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  Beyond the Page 13 | From TEDx to Death's Intern - Paul Pape on Creativity, Horror & Building a Creative Career 06.08.2026 54m

  What does it take to build a life around creativity?In Episode 13 of Beyond the Page, Steve sits down with entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, designer, and author Paul Pape for a fascinating conversation about writing, business, imagination, and the challenges of publishing.Paul shares how years of helping creative entrepreneurs eventually led him to fiction, including his supernatural horror novel Death's Intern, a coming-of-age story about a boy chosen to become Death's apprentice. Along the way, they discuss traditional publishing versus self-publishing, marketing books, horror fiction, storytelling, TEDx speaking, and why creativity can become both a career and a calling.Topics include:Writing Death's InternTraditional publishing vs. self-publishingQuerying literary agentsHorror and supernatural fictionBuilding authority through TEDxEntrepreneurship and creativityGamifying businessMarketing booksThe importance of imaginationWhy the 1980s remain such a compelling setting for fictionIf you're an author, entrepreneur, or simply love hearing the stories behind great books, this episode is packed with practical insights and plenty of laughs.Page Chewing BlogBecome a Page Chewing MemberPage Chewing ForumJoin Captivate.fmJoin PodMatchWant to be a guest on Page Chewing? Send Steve a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17812034246205083f1bfa4f1Send a message via SpeakPipePodcast equipment used (Amazon Affiliate links):Rodecaster DuoRode PSA1+ Professional Studio ArmRode Procaster Microphone
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  A World of Gods, Badgers, and Carpenters | Carpentry in the Elven Forest (Chapters 1–13) 04.08.2026 19m

  Join me for the first installment of our Carpentry in the Elven Forest group read as we dive into chapters 1–13. We discuss the book's surprisingly humorous tone, the creation of its world, the growing conflict between the Gentleman and the Deep Dark, and meet an unforgettable cast of characters including Jeff, Amber, and everyone's favorite foul-mouthed talking badger, Oggy.We'll also share first impressions of the story, speculate on where the many plot threads might be leading, and talk about why this fantasy adventure has already exceeded expectations without spoiling what's to come.Whether you're reading along or deciding if this book is for you, grab a seat and join the conversation. Next week we'll continue with chapters 14–25, so there's still plenty of time to catch up.Page Chewing BlogPage Chewing ForumJoin Captivate.fmJoin PodMatchWant to be a guest on Page Chewing? Send Steve a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17812034246205083f1bfa4f1Send a message via SpeakPipePodcast equipment used (Amazon Affiliate links):Rodecaster DuoRode PSA1+ Professional Studio ArmRode Procaster Microphone
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  Beyond the Page 12 | Nancy Jasin Ensley on Healing Through Storytelling 04.08.2026 54m

  Some stories are written to entertain.Others are written because they need to be told.In Episode 12 of Beyond the Page, Steve welcomes author, artist, educator, and former nurse Nancy Jasin Ensley to discuss her deeply personal memoir, The Tire Swing: A Memoir About Survival.Nancy shares the experiences that inspired her book, the challenges of writing about trauma, and how storytelling became an important part of her healing journey. She also reflects on careers in nursing and education, raising a family, embracing creativity later in life, and encouraging others to find hope through writing.Together they discuss:The inspiration behind The Tire SwingWriting memoir with honesty and compassionHealing through storytellingBalancing truth with vulnerabilityNursing, teaching, and caring for othersCreativity after life's hardest momentsPublishing a deeply personal storyAdvice for aspiring memoir writersFinding hope after adversityWhether you're a reader, writer, or someone who believes stories can change lives, this conversation is a powerful reminder that sharing our experiences can help both ourselves and others.Guest: Nancy Ensley https://nancyjasinensley.com/Page Chewing BlogBecome a Page Chewing MemberPage Chewing ForumJoin Captivate.fmJoin PodMatchWant to be a guest on Page Chewing? Send Steve a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17812034246205083f1bfa4f1Send a message via SpeakPipePodcast equipment used (Amazon Affiliate links):Rodecaster DuoRode PSA1+ Professional Studio ArmRode Procaster Microphone
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  Books, Bookstores & Big Ideas | Page Chewing Weekly Update 02.08.2026 27m

  This week on the Page Chewing Weekly Update, I'm sharing what I've been reading, what's coming up on the podcast, and a few changes happening behind the scenes.We talk about my progress through The Bonehunters, the beginning of The Warrior Prophet reread, and why Carpentry in an Elven Forest has been even funnier than I remembered. I also share updates on upcoming Beyond the Page interviews, the future of Friday Conversations, and why I've been paying closer attention to podcast analytics as I plan new content.I also recap a return trip to one of the most overwhelming used bookstores I've ever visited, discuss a few recent horror movies, and explain why some projects are moving forward while others are taking a back seat.In this episode:Reading updates for The Bonehunters, The Warrior Prophet, and Carpentry in an Elven ForestUpcoming Page Burners and Beyond the Page episodesPlans to revive Friday ConversationsThoughts on recent horror filmsBehind-the-scenes podcast updates and analyticsA used bookstore revisit and recent haulWhat's coming next for Page ChewingQuestion of the Week:What topic would you love to hear covered on Page Chewing? Whether it's a book, an author, a genre, or a discussion topic, I'd love to hear your suggestions in the comments.If you're enjoying the podcast, consider becoming a member to help support the show and keep new episodes coming. Thanks for listening, and happy reading!Page Chewing BlogBecome a Page Chewing MemberPage Chewing ForumJoin Captivate.fmJoin PodMatchWant to be a guest on Page Chewing? Send Steve a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17812034246205083f1bfa4f1Send a message via SpeakPipePodcast equipment used (Amazon Affiliate links):Rodecaster DuoRode PSA1+ Professional Studio ArmRode Procaster Microphone
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  Page Burners: The Bonehunters by Steven Erikson Ch. 11–12 | Gods, Faith & Shadows 01.08.2026 1h 44m

  In this episode of Page Burners, we continue our readthrough of The Bonehunters with a deep dive into Chapters 11 and 12, where Steven Erikson blends philosophy, mythology, and character drama into another thought-provoking stretch of the Malazan saga.Our discussion explores Heboric's increasingly enigmatic journey and the divided opinions he inspires, as we debate his role, his connection to the gods, and whether he's a tragic figure or simply one of the series' most frustrating characters. We also examine the Crippled God's growing influence, unpack his followers' unsettling worldview, and dive into one of the most fascinating conversations yet about faith, suffering, and religion in the Malazan universe.Elsewhere, we break down the mysteries surrounding the Hounds of Shadow and the Hounds of Darkness, revisit Shadowthrone and Cotillion's latest moves, and discuss the emotional and manipulative dynamics between Icarium, Mappo, and Taralack Veed. Along the way, we share theories, challenge one another's interpretations, and speculate on where these storylines are leading.As always, this is a full-spoiler discussion for everything we've covered so far in Malazan Book of the Fallen and the connected novels by Ian C. Esslemont.If you're reading along with us, be sure to finish Chapters 13 and 14 before joining us for the next episode as The Bonehunters continues to build toward its unforgettable final act.Page Chewing BlogBecome a Page Chewing MemberPage Chewing ForumJoin Captivate.fmJoin PodMatchWant to be a guest on Page Chewing? Send Steve a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17812034246205083f1bfa4f1Send a message via SpeakPipePodcast equipment used (Amazon Affiliate links):Rodecaster DuoRode PSA1+ Professional Studio ArmRode Procaster Microphone
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  The Darkness That Comes Before Part IV: The Warrior – Kellhus, Cnaiür & the Road to the Holy War 01.08.2026 1h 14m

  Warning: This discussion contains major spoilers for the entire Second Apocalypse series, including The Aspect-Emperor novels.Our spoiler-filled reread of The Second Apocalypse continues with Part IV: The Warrior from The Darkness That Comes Before by R. Scott Bakker.This section marks the return of Kellhus to center stage as he begins his uneasy journey alongside Cnaiür. Looking back after finishing the entire seven book series, these chapters reveal countless layers of foreshadowing that are easy to overlook on a first read.In this episode, we discuss Kellhus' reunion with Cnaiür, Moënghus' lasting influence over both father and son, and the complicated relationship that begins to form between Kellhus, Cnaiür, and Serwë. We also explore the brutality of the northern wilderness, the nature of the Sranc, the first hints surrounding Kellhus' mysterious halos, and several fascinating clues that point toward revelations much later in the series.Along the way, we examine Bakker's incredible prose, the philosophical ideas hidden beneath the action, and some of our favorite passages from Part IV: The Warrior.Page Chewing BlogBecome a Page Chewing MemberPage Chewing ForumJoin Captivate.fmJoin PodMatchWant to be a guest on Page Chewing? Send Steve a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17812034246205083f1bfa4f1Send a message via SpeakPipePodcast equipment used (Amazon Affiliate links):Rodecaster DuoRode PSA1+ Professional Studio ArmRode Procaster Microphone
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  Beyond the Page Episode 11 | Darlene Campbell on Fantasy, Mythology & the Stories That Shape Us 31.07.2026 42m

  What makes stories so powerful?In Episode 11 of Beyond the Page, Steve sits down with author, artist, educator, and award-winning poet Darlene Franklin Campbell for a thoughtful conversation about fantasy, mythology, identity, and the enduring importance of storytelling.Darlene discusses how her love of Southern fiction eventually led her back to the science fantasy series she'd been developing for nearly three decades, explores Carl Jung's ideas about identity and the shadow self, and explains why mythology continues to resonate with readers across generations.They also talk about worldbuilding, poetry, teaching, creativity in the age of AI, and why authentic human stories are the stories we come back to generation after generation.Whether you're a fantasy fan, a writer, or someone fascinated by the power of stories, this episode offers plenty to think about.Guest: Darline Franklin-Campbell https://www.darlenefranklincampbell-author.com/Featured Books: The Zhandarian Chronicles https://www.darlenefranklincampbell-author.com/the-zhandarian-chroniclesPage Chewing BlogBecome a Page Chewing MemberPage Chewing ForumJoin Captivate.fmJoin PodMatchSend a message via SpeakPipePodcast equipment used (Amazon Affiliate links):Rodecaster DuoRode PSA1+ Professional Studio ArmRode Procaster Microphone
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  Beyond the Page #10 | Inside the Mind of Bestselling Thriller Author Jon Land 30.07.2026 1h 8m

  In Episode 10 of Beyond the Page, Steve sits down with New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Jon Land to explore the craft of storytelling, pacing, and keeping readers hooked from the very first page.Jon shares lessons learned from writing more than 70 novels, why he believes stories should begin "in the middle," the importance of writing with confidence, and why the best writers trust their characters instead of rigid outlines.The conversation also dives into his newest sci-fi thriller Icefall, collaboration in publishing, marketing in today's crowded book industry, and what aspiring authors need to know before publishing their first novel.Whether you're a writer, reader, or thriller fan, this episode is packed with practical advice and fascinating stories from one of the genre's most accomplished authors.Page Chewing BlogBecome a Page Chewing MemberPage Chewing ForumJoin Captivate.fmJoin PodMatchSend a message via SpeakPipePodcast equipment used (Amazon Affiliate links):Rodecaster DuoRode PSA1+ Professional Studio ArmRode Procaster Microphone
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  Comic Reviews + Lone Wolf & Cub Vol. 9 Discussion | Panel Chewing #141 29.07.2026 1h 2m

  This week on Panel Chewing, Steve and Jarrod tackle another packed week of comics, discussing everything from superhero slugfests and creator-owned horror to indie standouts and long-awaited returns. Along the way they share their thoughts on Absolute Superman, Assorted Crisis Events, White Boat, Fury of the Firestorm, King Spawn, Odin, Fear of Death, Star Crossed, American Caper, and more as they reveal their Picks of the Week. They also kick off the episode with a conversation about the current state of the comic industry, Marvel's sales expectations, and why smaller publishers continue to produce some of the medium's most creative work.In the second half of the episode, the discussion returns to Lone Wolf and Cub with Volume 9. The hosts explore how the series continues to blend historical detail with powerful storytelling, examining themes of honor, tradition, social hierarchy, and resistance to change. They also discuss why this volume feels like a turning point for the larger narrative as Ogami's conflict with the Yagyu clan escalates and the story begins building toward something even bigger.Whether you're looking for your next comic recommendation or reading along with our ongoing Lone Wolf and Cub series, there's plenty to chew on in this week's episode.Page Chewing BlogBecome a Page Chewing MemberPage Chewing ForumJoin Captivate.fmJoin PodMatchWant to be a guest on Page Chewing? Send Steve a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17812034246205083f1bfa4f1Send a message via SpeakPipePodcast equipment used (Amazon Affiliate links):Rodecaster DuoRode PSA1+ Professional Studio ArmRode Procaster Microphone
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  Beyond the Page #9 | Seth Panitch on Creativity, Shakespeare & Finding Worth Through Story 28.07.2026 1h 1m

  In this episode, Steve sits down with Seth Panitch, author, playwright, actor, director, and educator to discuss his debut novel, Antique, and the lifelong creative journey that led him to writing fiction.Drawing on decades of experience in theater, performance, and teaching, Seth shares how storytelling has shaped every stage of his life. The conversation explores the lasting influence of Shakespeare, the importance of mentors, and why art continues to matter in an increasingly digital and AI-driven world.Together they discuss:The inspiration behind AntiqueTransitioning from theater to novel writingWhy Shakespeare is meant to be experiencedCreativity as a lifelong callingTeaching the next generation of storytellersMarketing a debut novel in today's publishing landscapeArtificial intelligence and the future of creative workThe value of mentors and artistic communityFinding purpose through storytellingWhy stories continue to connect us across generationsSeth also reflects on the lessons he's learned throughout his career as an actor, playwright, director, and professor, offering thoughtful advice for aspiring writers and creatives looking to find their own voice.Whether you're passionate about books, theater, writing, or simply enjoy meaningful conversations about creativity and the arts, this episode offers an inspiring look at why storytelling remains one of humanity's most powerful traditions.Guest: Seth Panitch https://sethpanitch.com/Featured Book: Antique https://www.amazon.com/Antique-Novel-Seth-Panitch-ebook/dp/B0FBLVCVPD