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An Interview with Author Heidi Swain
This week I am really happy to have had the opportunity to chat with author Heidi Swain who is the Queen of Seasonal Romances. Her latest novel, All Wrapped Up, takes us to autumn in the town of Wynbridge, where love may (or may not) be in the air for the latest residents. We're talking all things bookish, including inspiration for her novels, love of all things seasonal, and the fact that All Wrapped Up is her first venture into autumn in her books. All Wrapped Up would make a really great Hallmark movie and has a cosy Gilmore Girls, community village/town feel. Episode Links Heidi's Instagram Buy the bookAn Interview with the Author Intro music by Darren Curtis
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Warrior Princess Assassin by Brigid Kemmerer
This week I’m diving into the brand new romantasy Warrior Princess Assassin by Brigid Kemmerer, a sweeping fantasy full of danger, betrayal, and uneasy alliances. The story starts off as the tale of two people marrying for political gain, to merge their two kingdoms, both of which are in danger. Slowly, the story develops: a perilous journey, assassination attempts, political intrigue, palace secrets. Trust becomes as valuable as survival. It’s an adventure laced with romance, loyalty, and the constant threat of blades in the dark. In this episode, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on how the story unfolds, from the complex palace relationships, the anger and frustration, the jealousy and the tension of life on the road as talks of peace break down and accusations are made. As always, I remain spoiler-free and always honest. I'll be talking about the characters, the fantasy, the romance and the tropes, and all without straying from the family-friendly path or revealing any huge spoilers. And if that weren’t enough, I’ll also be giving a shorter review of Finding Mr. Write by Kelley Armstrong, a romantic comedy full of witty banter, false identities, and the delightful chaos of love turning up where you least expect it. So, if you’re after a mix of fantasy adventure and light-hearted romance, make yourself a cuppa, get comfortable, and let’s talk books. Featured Episodes Shield of Sparrows Fourth Wing Iron Flame The Games Gods Play Intro music by Darren Curtis
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A Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna
This week I’m travelling to Lancashire to join a witch and her found family in the cosy fantasy A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna. This one is equal parts heart and magic, as we follow Sera Swan while she discovers what is most important to her after being exiled from the Sorcerer's Guild following a huge rule infraction! Since then, she's built a new life running an inn that only appears to those who truly need it. With a backdrop of enchanted rooms where petals fall from the ceiling, a house full of eccentric misfits, and the ever-present shadow of the Guild, this story offers gentle humour, found family warmth, and the quiet ache of desperation to get back what was lost years before. At the heart of it all is Sera, a heroine who has to decide not just whether she wants her magic back, but whether she’s ready to open herself up to let people into her life. As with every episode, while I’ll be touching on the views of others to keep things balanced, ultimately, the opinions here are my own. I’ll be talking through the world-building, the cast of characters who make the inn feel alive, and whether the romantic thread kept me invested, or if it had me rolling my eyes. Everything remains completely spoiler-free and 100% honest, because what’s the point otherwise? And don’t forget to stay tuned for a second, shorter review. I’ll also be sharing my thoughts on The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst. Think bookshops, quiet rebellion, and a story about finding a place to belong. So, pop the kettle on, get comfy, and let’s talk books.
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The Halfway Mark (just a little late)
Somehow it happened, we've passed the halfway mark for 2025 (where did the time go)! That means it's time to take a look at my reading journey so far (yes, I know it's a bit late). So, in this episode, I’m reflecting on the books that have shaped the last six months, the highs, the lows and everything in between. Well, not quite everything, that would take a little bit too long! I’ll be talking honestly about what worked for me, what didn’t quite hit the mark, and why. Of course, there was that one stand-out read that should already be placed on a podium somewhere, and I am going to be working up to that one, because it's special...and if you haven't read it already, maybe you should...I can’t wait to tell you why it’s stayed with me long after the final page. Plus, if you’re already planning your next few reads, I’ll also be sharing the titles I’m most looking forward to for the rest of the year. Whether you’re here for inspiration, reflection, or just to compare notes, if you find joy in a good book and love to talk about them, you're in the right place. Sit back, relax and enjoy my six-month check-in, a month late! Mentioned Episodes Brat: An '80s Story by Andrew McCarthy Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor
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Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry
This week I’m taking a deep look at the brand new romantasy Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry. This is a rich, emotionally layered fantasy looking at a blend of light-hearted and deep topics, including duty and survival as well as the quiet rebellion of a heroine who’s been overlooked all her life. With a backdrop of dangerous creatures, political tension, and a marriage forged through ancient magic, this one offers slow-burn dynamics, fierce training scenes, and a world where power is rarely what it seems. As with every single episode, while I take a look at the views of others (to keep things just a little bit more balanced), ultimately, the views are mine. I'm going to be talking through the world-building, the pacing, character dynamics, and whether the romantic tension kept me turning pages, or just turning up my eyebrows. As always, everything remains completely spoiler-free and is 100% honest, because what's the point if it's not? If you’re into brooding protectors, blood-bound rituals, and heroines who earn their power step by step, this might be one for your TBR.And don't forget to stay tuned for the second, shorter review. I’ll be sharing my thoughts on For Whom the Belle Tolls by Jaysea Lynn. Let’s just say... I had feelings. So, pop the kettle on, get comfy, and let’s talk books.
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