Friends Talking Fantasy Podcast (Friends Talking Fantasy)

Spoiler free! The Friends recommend and discuss The Maleficent Seven by Cameron Johnston. Once described by author Rob Hayes as "Kings of the Wyld smooshed together with Suicide Squad into a glorious, gory, sweary melee," this action-packed grimdark fantasy novel cannot be missed!

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

What should The Friends read next? In this episode, Dylan pitches three books to read on the show, but Charles can only choose one!

Dylan's Pitches:

Blackwing by Ed McDonald

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

Powder Mage by Brian McClellan

Help us choose our next book!

https://twitter.com/TheFTFPodcast1

https://www.instagram.com/theftfpodcast/

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

In this episode of the Friends Talking Fantasy Podcast, The Friends discuss Mistborn Book 1: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson. We go through our favorite scenes, quotes, and themes. 

The Friends discuss the pilot episode of The Lord of the Rings prequel, The Rings of Power.

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

Join the Friends Talking Fantasy as they unveil their reading journey through the realms of fantasy with a special episode dedicated to their r/Fantasy Book Bingo results. In this episode, Charles and Dylan share their triumphs, challenges, and standout reads as they reflect on their experiences completing the r/Fantasy Book Bingo challenge.

Check out the challenge on r/Fantasy: https://www.reddit.com/r/Fantasy/comments/128oxqt/official_rfantasy_2023_book_bingo_challenge/ 

Listen in as the Friends highlight the fantasy books that left a lasting impression, from epic sagas to hidden gems, and discuss the diverse range of themes and genres explored throughout the challenge. Whether it's a captivating character, an immersive world, or a thought-provoking narrative, Charles and Dylan reveal the elements that made each book a standout on their Bingo card.

From completing squares like "New to You Author" and "Book That's Been on Your TBR Too Long" to discovering unexpected favorites, the Friends offer insights and recommendations that will inspire your own fantasy reading adventures. Whether you're a seasoned bingo participant or considering joining the challenge for the first time, this episode provides a glimpse into the rich tapestry of fantasy literature waiting to be explored.

Visit our website at https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ for more Friends Talking Fantasy content and to stay connected with the community. Whether you're seeking your next fantasy read or simply curious about the r/Fantasy Book Bingo challenge, this episode promises to be a highlight of your podcasting journey. Get ready to celebrate the magic of fantasy literature with the Friends!

In this episode of the Friends Talking Fantasy Podcast, we take a spoiler-free journey into the gripping world of Max Brooks’ World War Z. Join us as we explore the unique format of the book, presented as an oral history of the global zombie apocalypse, and discuss the major themes of survival, resilience, and global cooperation. We’ll share our impressions of how this realistic take on a zombie outbreak stands out within the genre and why it’s a must-read for fans of speculative fiction. Whether you’re a veteran zombie enthusiast or new to the apocalypse, this episode will have something for everyone—without spoiling the thrill of discovering World War Z for yourself!

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

The Friends pick up at the aftermath of Cardotti's House of Leisure in Part 2 of their book discussion of Best Served Cold by Joe Abercrombie.

Spoilers for The First Law Trilogy and Best Served Cold by Joe Abercrombie

We're diving deep into book 1 of The Kingkiller Chronicle - The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss with a spoiler-filled discussion covering the prologue through chapter 5. Join us as we explore the intricacies of Kvothe's early life, the rich world-building, and the narrative techniques that make this series a fantasy masterpiece. Be prepared for a detailed analysis as we connect the dots across the entire Kingkiller Chronicle!

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/

Set sail with us as we dive deep into Mad Ship, the second book in Robin Hobb’s Liveship Traders trilogy. We explore the rich, character-driven storylines, from the mysterious liveships to the complex family dynamics and political intrigue. With spoilers throughout, we’ll discuss key moments, the evolving relationships, and the emotional highs and lows that make this epic fantasy one of Hobb's most beloved works. If you're ready to delve into the heart of the Vivacia, don’t miss this detailed exploration of Mad Ship!

Visit our website at https://www.theftfpodcast.com/

Embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of "The Last Phi Hunter" as the Friends Talking Fantasy sit down for an exclusive interview with author Salinee Goldenberg. In this special pre-release episode, Charles and Dylan are joined by Salinee herself as they delve deep into the enchanting world of her Thai-inspired fantasy adventure.

Support Salinee Goldenberg: https://salgowrites.wordpress.com/

The Last Phi Hunter: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/747427/the-last-phi-hunter-by-salinee-goldenberg/ 

Together, they unravel the mysteries of "The Last Phi Hunter," exploring its plot, characters, and major themes in a candid and insightful discussion. From the resilient protagonist Ex to the headstrong Arinya and the enigmatic necromancer Minister Iyun, Salinee offers unique perspectives on the motivations and complexities of her beloved characters.

Listen in as the Friends and Salinee delve into the major themes of "The Last Phi Hunter," from identity and forbidden love to the destruction of the natural world and the struggle against societal expectations. With Salinee's firsthand insights and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, this episode offers an intimate glimpse into the creative process behind the novel.

Visit our website at https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ for more Friends Talking Fantasy content and to stay updated on the release of "The Last Phi Hunter." Whether you're a fan of dark fantasy, Thai-inspired folklore, or immersive world-building, this episode promises to be a captivating exploration of Salinee Goldenberg's debut novel. Get ready to uncover the secrets of "The Last Phi Hunter" with the Friends and Salinee Goldenberg!

SPOILER FREE. The Friends discuss the origin story to the Dragonriders of Pern Series: 'Dragonsdawn' by Anne McCaffrey.

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

Today we have a special crossover episode with Wizards, Warriors, & Words: A Fantasy Advice Podcast.

The guys at WW&W are joined by John Gwynne (author of Malice, The Shadow of the Gods, and A Time of Blood) to discuss how he creates rich, interesting, and compelling characters. We hope you enjoy this crossover event! 

Support Wizards, Warriors, & Words: A Fantasy Advice Podcast: https://wizardswarriorswords.com/ 

Looking to expand your reading goals for 2023? Consider playing along with r/Fantasy's Book Bingo Challenge- an annual reading challenge designed to challenge readers to try books and authors outside their comfort zone with their comprehensive fantasy book bingo card. 

Completing some of the bingo squares can be though, which is why The Friends decided to go square-by-square to recommend their top fantasy books for each category.

Learn more about the r/Fantasy 2023 Book Bingo Challenge: https://www.reddit.com/r/Fantasy/comments/128oxqt/official_rfantasy_2023_book_bingo_challenge/ 

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

It's our 200th Episode! To celebrate, the Friends are going to rapid fire review 200 best fantasy books! It's a Fantasy Literature event you don't want to miss!

A special thank you to all of you for listening to our show! We greatly appreciate all the support we've received over the past 200 episodes. It means a lot to us that you would take the time to listen to us talk fantasy.

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/

In this episode, the Friends dive into the vibrant and imaginative world of Yumi and the Nightmare Painter by Brandon Sanderson, all without giving away any spoilers. Charles and Dylan share their first impressions of this standalone novel, exploring its unique blend of magic, art, and character-driven storytelling. Whether you're a long-time fan of Sanderson or new to his work, this episode offers a thoughtful and spoiler-free look at what makes Yumi and the Nightmare Painter a must-read. Tune in to hear why this latest entry from one of fantasy’s most prolific authors has captured their attention.

Visit our website at https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

What should we read next? In this ep, Dylan pitches three fantasy books, but Charles can only pick one! Which book would you pick? Tell us on social media before Friday, 1/20 to place your vote!

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheFTFPodcast1  

Dylan's Books:

The Rage of Dragons by Evan Winter

Jade War by Fonda Lee

Tigana by Guy Gavriel Kay

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

Join The Friends as they dive into the explosive world of "Promise of Blood" by Brian McClellan, the first installment of The Powder Mage Trilogy.

In this episode (first part spoiler free), the Friends unravel the intricate threads of this captivating fantasy tale, exploring the magic, politics, and characters that make McClellan's world truly unique.

Discover whether this fantasy gem lives up to the acclaim, as The Friends share their thoughts on the debut work from student of Branden Sanderson, Brian McClellan. From epic battles to political intrigue, The Friends delve into the elements that make "Promise of Blood" a standout in the fantasy genre.

Brandon Sanderson once hailed it as “Just plain awesome.” But do The Friends agree? Tune in to this engaging book discussion to find out!

Visit our website at https://www.theftfpodcast.com/

Join the Friends Talking Fantasy for an exhilarating episode where the tables turn, and Charles takes on the role of the literary pitchman! In this first installment of the "Friends Pitching Fantasy" series, Charles passionately presents three gripping titles: "Fires of Vengeance" by Evan Winter, "The Black Prism" by Brent Weeks, and the timeless classic "Dune" by Frank Herbert.

Listen in as Charles weaves a compelling narrative for each book, exploring the unique worlds, characters, and storytelling styles that make them stand out. Will the epic battles of "Fires of Vengeance" win over Dylan? Can the intricate magic system of "The Black Prism" capture his imagination? Or will the grandeur of the sci-fi masterpiece "Dune" be the ultimate choice?

Dylan, faced with the challenging decision, must weigh the merits of each pitch and make the tough call on which book will be featured on the upcoming episodes. The anticipation builds as the Friends embark on a literary adventure, and you're invited to join the journey.

Visit our website at https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ for more Friends Talking Fantasy content and to stay tuned for the next thrilling installment where Dylan takes center stage, pitching his three book choices. Get ready for a literary showdown as the Friends decide the next fantasy adventure to grace their podcast!

The Friends discuss the best Glokta moments and themes throughout The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie.

Spoiler warning for The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie. 

Spoiler Free! The Friends recommend the 2019 science fiction epistolary novel This Is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone. It won the BSFA Award for Best Shorter Fiction, the Nebula Award for Best Novella of 2019 and the 2020 Hugo Award for Best Novella.

Our Website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

This is episode three of three special (AKA self-indulgent) bonus episodes designed to accompany our Lord of the Rings buddy-read discussions. Back in 2016, before 'the friends' became 'The Friends,' we went on a road trip through picturesque New Zealand to see filming locations for The Lord of the Rings movies directed by Peter Jackson. 

This episode features another lifelong friend, Derek, the third member of our fellowship we call "The M-Crew." We're excited to introduce him to you, as we discuss events such as visiting the The Shire, climbing Mt. Doom, and much, much more!

We highly recommend viewing this episode on our YouTube channel, as a big part of the conversation focuses on discussing photos and videos taken on our quest in a video chat.

Link to video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UAumh-dY0jg&t=109s&ab_channel=FriendsTalkingFantasy 

It's Rerelease Friday and today we are featuring one of our favorite conversation about Mistborn that we called: The Art of the Magic System. We hope you enjoy our discussion of Brandon Sanderson's Laws of Magic and a discussion on hard vs soft magic systems.

This episode contains spoilers for the Mistborn Trilogy Era I by Brandon Sanderson.

The Friends attempt to improvise a fantasy book outline with a randomly generated book title, protagonist, and antagonist in a series we like to call: Friends Creating Fantasy. 

The Friends use their Fantasy Scenario Generator to speculate 'who would win' random contests between randomly selected fantasy characters. SPOILER FREE. 

Say one thing about the FTF Podcast, say they're discussing book 1 of The First Law Trilogy: The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie. 

In the third episode of our deep dive into The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss, we tackle chapters 11-15 with full spoilers for the entire Kingkiller Chronicle. Join us as we explore Kvothe’s journey from his time with the Edema Ruh to the devastating events that shape his future. We discuss key moments, character development, and the lore of Rothfuss' world. Whether you're a long-time fan or reading along with us, this episode is packed with insights and analysis!

Visit our website at https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ for more Friends Talking Fantasy content and to join the conversation about The Kingkiller Chronicles and other fantasy favorites.

Is the phrase 'Mary Sue' a constructive criticism or a dismissive put-down? Does it have any relevance in today's world? The Friends discuss their thoughts on the phrase 'Mary Sue' within speculative fiction reviews. 

Very light spoilers for Star Wars Force Awakens and Hunger Games.

The Friends have the honor and privilege to interview Joe Abercrombie, author of the world of The First Law.

Wisdom of Crowds (Book 3 of The Age of Madness Trilogy) releases September 14th.

Follow / support Joe Abercrombie: https://joeabercrombie.com/ 

The Friends Talking Fantasy Podcast:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5vpHG19r16r0xxDc6K2oUL 

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/friends-talking-fantasy-podcast/id1520122469 

Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkLnBvZGJlYW4uY29tL3RoZWZ0ZnBvZGNhc3QvZmVlZC54bWw= 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheFTFPodcast1 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theftfpodcast/ 

Website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

Set sail with The Friends as they dive into a spoiler-free recommendation of "Ship of Magic" by Robin Hobb. In this episode, Charles and Dylan explore the rich world of the Liveship Traders Trilogy, highlighting its unique blend of maritime adventure, intricate character dynamics, and deep world-building.

Discover why this novel is a must-read for fantasy fans, as The Friends discuss the compelling plot, unforgettable characters, and the mesmerizing magic system that sets it apart. Whether you're a long-time Hobb fan or new to her work, this episode will provide you with all the reasons you need to pick up "Ship of Magic" and embark on a thrilling nautical journey.

Visit our website at https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ for more Friends Talking Fantasy content and to explore even more book recommendations. Get ready to be enchanted by the world of the Liveship Traders!

What should The Friends read next? In this episode, Dylan pitches three books to read on the show, but Charles can only choose one!

Dylan's Pitches:

Senlin Ascends by Josiah Bancroft

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

The Maleficent Seven by Cameron Johnston

Help us choose our next book!

https://twitter.com/TheFTFPodcast1

https://www.instagram.com/theftfpodcast/

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

SPOILER FREE! The Friends are LIVE at TBRCon2023 to discuss their top fantasy books published in 2022.

Watch the livestream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jachWd5tZ8k

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/

The Friends ramble on about the rockin' fantasy novel that is Kings of the Wyld by Nicholas Eames. 

The Friends discuss their favorite show stealing sidekicks in Fantasy literature.

The Friends are joined by OWWR Pod to discuss The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon.

Support OWWR Pod: https://owwrpod.com/ 

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

#IndieAugust is here! To celebrate, we took to Twitter to get independently published fantasy book recommendations. 

View the Twitter thread for all of the book recommendations: https://twitter.com/TheFTFPodcast1/status/1419307640216121348 

Dylan's review of 'The Trials of the Core' by Michael E. Thies: https://beforewegoblog.com/the-trials-of-the-core-by-michael-e-thies/  

In this SPOILER FREE episode, The Friends discuss some of fantasy's best side characters. 

First half spoiler free! The Friends discuss New York Times Best Seller and Goodreads Choice Award Winner for Best Fiction - Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin. Is this top literary fiction book of 2022 a solid recommendation for fantasy fans? Listen and find out!

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

The Friends exchange several of their favorite quotes from A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin.

Spoiler warning for A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin.

I (Dylan) provided an update on what's been going on and why we haven't had any episodes in a while. We will be back in due time!

Email us at theftfpodcast@gmail.com to let us know what you'd like to see from the show moving forward!

We turn to #TwitterOfTime to find out what things a first-time reader of Wheel of Time should know before starting the 14 book series. 

The Friends discuss The Paper Menagerie, a Hugo Award winning short story by Ken Liu.

The Friends read and discuss some of their favorite quotes in a series known for its prose: The Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss

This episode contains spoilers for The Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss. 

In this NEW series, The Friends improvise a story outline based on their 'Fantasy Novel Generator.' 

Spoiler free! The Friends discuss Yellowface - the latest release from New York Times Best Selling author R. F. Kuang (The Poppy War Trilogy, Babel). While Yellowface is not a fantasy book, that won't stop The Friends from talking about one of their favorite fantasy authors!

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

Brandon Sanderson is a prolific, New York Times Best Selling fantasy author. If you're looking for recommendations on which of his books to start reading, then you're in the right place!

This episode is SPOILER FREE.

'Where Do I Start?' by Brandon Sanderson: https://www.brandonsanderson.com/where-do-i-start/ 

Stephen and Jake from Fantology join The Friends in a discussion of 'Eye of the World,' book 1 of The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan.

Check out Fantology: https://www.fantologybooks.com/ 

Join the Friends Talking Fantasy as Dylan and Charles dive into the latest episodes of "House of the Dragon" Season 2, discussing the epic dragon battle that has everyone talking! In this episode, they share their excitement over the jaw-dropping CGI dragon fight and the strategic battle scenes that brought a fresh twist to the series.

Listen as they analyze the key moments, including the portrayal of dragons' size differences, and explore the show's shift towards a more action-packed format.

Don't miss their thoughts on Aegon Targaryen's controversial actions, Daemon's intriguing character arc, and the show's ability to reinvigorate their interest in Westeros.

Visit our website at https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ for more Friends Talking Fantasy content and join the conversation about "House of the Dragon."

Between the two of us, we’ve managed to rack up 13 unspent Audible credits—time to fix that! In this episode, we dive into social media recommendations for top fantasy audiobooks to see how many credits we can spend. From epic sagas to immersive worlds, we’re on the hunt for the best listens. Tune in for some great recommendations and help us put these credits to good use!

Perfect for fantasy fans with credits to burn or anyone looking for their next immersive audiobook adventure!

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/

So, we’re going on a hiatus. As some of you may have noticed, we have not been as active as usual. In this episode, we talk about our reasons for taking a break and our plans for the future of the show.

Thanks for your understanding. We’ll be back.

The Friends discuss the latest fantasy action heist comedy to hit the movies: Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves.

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/

The Friends discuss the full character arc of The Young Lion, Leo dan Brock himself. Spoiler warning for The First Law and The Age of Madness trilogies by Joe Abercrombie. 

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

The Friends finish their discussion of The First Law Standalones with Red Country by Joe Abercrombie. 

Spoiler warning for The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie as well as all standalone novels in The First Law universe by Joe Abercrombie. 

We made it to 100 episodes! To celebrate, The Friends are answering every question from our Q&A thread on Twitter. 

Thank you for tuning in! We appreciate you taking the time to listen to two friends talking fantasy.

Join in on the conversation: https://twitter.com/TheFTFPodcast1 

In this episode, we introduce the Character Series by talking about some of our favorite characters in all of fantasy!

Enter the Fungalverse and Support Adrian M. Gibson: https://adrianmgibson.com/ 

Step into the dark and immersive world of "Mushroom Blues" by Adrian M. Gibson as the Friends Talking Fantasy welcome special guest and debut author Adrian M. Gibson for an in-depth book discussion. In this episode, Charles, Dylan, and Adrian explore the unique blend of genres that define Gibson's fungalpunk noir debut, delving into its themes, characters, and world-building.

Join the conversation as the Friends and Adrian unravel the mysteries of Neo Kinoko and follow Detective Henrietta Hofmann and her mushroom-headed partner, Koji Nameko, on a thrilling investigation through the war-torn streets of Hōppon. From the eerie atmosphere reminiscent of "Blade Runner" to the gritty realism of "True Detective," "Mushroom Blues" offers a gripping narrative that captivates readers from start to finish.

Listen in as the Friends and Adrian discuss the influences, inspirations, and creative process behind "Mushroom Blues," offering insights into the storytelling techniques and thematic depth of Gibson's debut novel. Whether you're a fan of speculative fiction, noir mysteries, or immersive world-building, this episode promises to be a fascinating exploration of a truly unique literary work.

Visit our website at https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ for more Friends Talking Fantasy content and to learn more about "Mushroom Blues" and Adrian M. Gibson's other works. Get ready to uncover the secrets of Neo Kinoko and dive into the fungalpunk noir of "Mushroom Blues" with the Friends and Adrian M. Gibson!

The Friends continue their read-through of The First Law books with the second stand-alone: The Heroes by Joe Abercrombie.

SPOILER WARNING for The First Law Trilogy, Best Served Cold, and The Heroes by Joe Abercrombie. 

With season 8 fading into memory, are we ready to ready to love Game of Thrones Again? The Friends discuss if the good can outweigh the bad of the Game of Throne's legacy. 

To celebrate our one year anniversary, The Friends have hand picked 'classic' episodes to re-release every Friday this summer. We hope you enjoy this re-release episode. 

SPOILER WARNING for HBO Series Game of Thrones based off A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin.

The Friends discuss the pilot episode of the Game of Thrones prequel, House of the Dragon. 

The Friends discuss the third and final book in the top fantasy series The Farseer Trilogy by Robin Hobb. This visionary fantasy series leaves The Friends with a lot to reflect on and discuss in this book discussion. And that ending!?! So much to unpack in this very exciting episode of The Friends Talking Fantasy Podcast!

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

The discussion continues of the grimdark, 20th-century-China-inspired Poppy War Series book 1 - The Poppy War by R. F. Kuang on the Friends Talking Fantasy Podcast.

Join the Friends Talking Fantasy for Part 2 of "Friends Pitching Fantasy" as Charles steps up to pitch three captivating book choices to Dylan. In this episode, Charles presents a diverse array of fantasy and science fiction titles, each promising an exciting adventure.

First up is "The Three Body Problem" by Liu Cixin, a mind-bending science fiction masterpiece that explores humanity's encounter with an alien civilization. Next, Charles introduces "Fairy Tale," Stephen King's latest fantasy release that will keep listeners on the edge of their seats. Finally, he presents "The Liveship Traders Trilogy" by Robin Hobb, an epic fantasy saga filled with rich characters and intricate world-building.

Tune in to hear Dylan consider each intriguing pitch and anticipate which book will be featured in the upcoming episode. Visit our website at https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ for more Friends Talking Fantasy content and to stay tuned for the exciting conclusion of the "Friends Pitching Fantasy" series in Part 3!

Prepare to embark on a new literary adventure as the Friends Talking Fantasy explore Charles's book selections in Part 2 of "Friends Pitching Fantasy"!

What should The Friends read next? In this episode, Charles pitches three books to read on the show, but Dylan can only choose one!

Charles' Pitches:

Gideon The Ninth by Tamsyn Muir

The Gunslinger by Stephen King

Between Two Fires by Christopher Buehlman

Help us choose our next book!

https://twitter.com/TheFTFPodcast1

https://www.instagram.com/theftfpodcast/

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

The Friends discuss the top fantasy books for newcomers to the fantasy genre. We also crowdsourced some recommendations for social media. Looking to get into the Fantasy genre or maybe convert a friend? Try one of these fantasy book recommendations!

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

Ben and Jake from Fantology join us for an in-depth discussion of the novella Emperor's Soul by Brandon Sanderson. 

Check out Fantology: https://www.fantologybooks.com/

The Friends discuss how Andrzej Sapkowski's use of folklore, prejudice, and the human condition makes the monsters in the Witcher series. Don't forget, not all monsters have claws and fangs...

Spoiler warning for The Last Wish by Andrzej Sapkowski and season 1 of The Witcher Netflix series.

Looking for a fantasy series to make you "lol?" In this SPOILER FREE episode of our Recommendation Series we discuss books that are chock-full of chortles. 

The Friends read one of the most popular fantasy books in modern history, #1 New York Times Bestseller and a USA Today and Indie Bestseller Rhythm of War by Brandon Sanderson, Book 4 of The Stormlight Archive. 

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

Our Buddy read of The Wheel of Time continues with our discussion of Book 3- The Dragon Reborn by Robert Jordan.

Contains spoilers for books 1-3 of The Wheel of Time. 

In this short story from Book of the Ancestor by Mark Lawrence, Nona and Ara take on their greatest challenge yet... kissing!

SPOILER FREE! Stay tuned for the upcoming spoiler-filled discussion of "Dune" releasing on Wednesday.

Embark on a journey to the desert planet of Arrakis with the Friends Talking Fantasy in this special spoiler-free discussion of "Dune" by Frank Herbert. In this episode, Charles and Dylan delve into the iconic science fiction masterpiece, exploring its intricate world-building, memorable characters, and timeless themes without revealing any spoilers.

Join the Friends as they share their initial impressions of "Dune" and discuss why this novel has stood the test of time as a cornerstone of the science fiction genre. From the political intrigue of the Great Houses to the mystique of the spice melange, they unravel the layers of Herbert's richly imagined universe and offer insights into why "Dune" continues to captivate readers decades after its publication.

Tune in for a spoiler-free discussion that serves as the perfect introduction to the world of "Dune" for both new readers and longtime fans alike.

Visit our website at https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ for more Friends Talking Fantasy content.

Whether you're a seasoned science fiction enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this episode offers a tantalizing glimpse into the sands of Arrakis and invites you to join the conversation surrounding one of the most beloved novels in the genre. Get ready to explore the desert planet and uncover the secrets of "Dune" with the Friends!

Get those bee emojis ready! The Friends discuss the season one finale of the Game of Thrones spinoff show - House of the Dragon.

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

#IndieAugust continues! To celebrate, we took to Twitter to get independently published fantasy book recommendations.

View the Twitter thread for all of the indie book recommendations: https://twitter.com/TheFTFPodcast1/status/1419307640216121348 

The Friends continue their discussion of one of the most popular fantasy series, The Stormlight Archive, with book 3: Oathbringer by Brandon Sanderson. Spoiler warning for books 1-3 of The Stormlight Archive.

Visit our Website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

Get ready to fill out your 2024 r/Fantasy Book Bingo card with our top fantasy book recommendations for each square! In this episode, we break down the categories and suggest the perfect reads to help you conquer this year's challenge. Whether you're looking for something new or want to revisit a classic, we've got you covered. Tune in, and don't forget to check out r/Fantasy for more details on the bingo challenge and to join the community!

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/

First part spoiler free! The Friends discuss the #1 New York Times and international bestselling adult fantasy series A Court of Thorns and Roses with book one of the same name by Sarah J. Maas. What do The Friends think of this top spicy young / new adult fantasy book? Tune in to find out!

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

Get ready for another thrilling installment of the "Friends Pitching Fantasy" series as Dylan takes the stage to pitch three captivating titles to Charles. In this episode, the choices are nothing short of extraordinary: books 2 and 3 of The Gentleman Bastards Trilogy by Scott Lynch, "Legacy of the Brightwash" by Krystle Matar, and the epic journey that is "Gardens of the Moon" by Steven Erikson in the Malazan Book of the Fallen series.

Listen in as Dylan paints vivid pictures of heists and camaraderie in The Gentleman Bastards, explores the dark and mysterious world of Brightwash, and navigates the intricate and expansive narrative of Malazan. The stakes are high as Charles must decide which fantasy adventure will be the next focus of Friends Talking Fantasy.

Will the allure of Locke Lamora and his band of thieves win Charles over? Can the rich world-building of Brightwash capture his imagination? Or will the complex tapestry of Malazan prove irresistible?

Visit our website at https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ for more Friends Talking Fantasy content and to catch up on the latest book discussions. Stay tuned for the exciting conclusion in Pt. 3, where the Friends make their ultimate choices and set the course for their next fantasy journey. It's a literary battle royale, and you won't want to miss a moment!

The Finally pick which fantasy books they will read next from their pitches in Friends Pitching Fantasy. Also, we have a very exciting announcement about an upcoming LIVE event. You won't want to miss it folks!

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

The Friends discuss why they like talking fantasy. 

Zack from Middle Fantasy - ‘Why Fantasy?: A Fantastical Collaboration!’ : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEOh2sSayrI 

Our epic buddy read of The Book of the Ancestor comes to an end with our discussion of Holy Sister by Mark Lawrence. 

The Friends interview M.J. Kuhn, author of AMONG THIEVES to discuss her writing style, her experiences in publishing, and the wonderful world of #over30booktok.

Support M.J. Kuhn: https://www.mjkuhn.com/ 

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

Our discussion of the Poppy War Series continues with book 2, The Dragon Republic by R.F. Kuang. 

The Friends interview author Saara El-Arifi during her unmissable debut of her novel 'The Final Strife.' Join us to hear how Saara's heritage, life experiences, and love of theater influence her debut novel that was signed in only 10 days!

Support Saara El-Arifi:

https://www.saaraelarifi.com/

https://twitter.com/saaraelarifi 

The Final Strife:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/671930/the-final-strife-by-saara-el-arifi/ 

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54440543-the-final-strife 

The Friends are joined by Steven and Josh from Fantology Podcast to randomly generate various competitions between characters from The First Law by Joe Abercrombie.

Follow Fantology Pod: https://www.fantologybooks.com/ 

SPOILER WARNING for the world of the First Law

The Friends attempt to improvise a fantasy book outline with a randomly generated book title, protagonist, and antagonist in a series we like to call: Friends Creating Fantasy. 

Why do we do this?... Because The First Law Trilogy is AWESOME! In this episode, The Friends discuss Before They Are Hanged by Joe Abercrombie. 

Our character profile of First Law characters continues with everyone's favorite narcissist: Jezal dan Luthar.

This episode contains spoilers for The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie

In this episode of the Friends Talking Fantasy Podcast, The Friends experiment with a new show idea with a fantasy-themed game of 'Would You Rather?'

Fantasy Mentioned: Mistborn, Star Wars, Harry Potter, First Law, Song of Ice and Fire, The Lord of the Rings

The Friends are joined by award-winning author Nicholas Eames to discuss The Band Series ('Kings of the Wyld', 'Bloody Rose'), his writing process, and the magical properties of Rod Stewart.

Follow / Support Nicholas Eames: https://nicholaseames.com/ 

SPOILER FREE! The Friends discuss one of their top fantasy books: Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norell by Susanna Clark.

Visit our website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ 

The Friends randomly generate contests and characters from the original Mistborn Trilogy by Brandon Sanderson to speculate on the age old question - who would win?

Spoilers for the original Mistborn Trilogy by Brandon Sanderson

In this SPOILER FREE episode, The Friends discuss some of their favorite uses of the mentor trope in fantasy. Inspiration and life direction not guaranteed. 

Did you enjoy reading the Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson? Looking for more? Well look no further! In this SPOILER FREE episode, The Friends recommend fantasy books for Mistborn fans. This episode also includes recommendations from other fantasy creators and enthusiasts from social media.  

To celebrate our one year anniversary, The Friends have hand picked 'classic' episodes to re-release every Friday this summer. We hope you enjoy this re-release episode.

This episode is SPOILER FREE.

A book so good we just HAD to read it! The Friends of the Friends Talking Fantasy Podcast are excited to discuss the grimdark, 20th-century-China-inspired Poppy War Series book 1 - The Poppy War by R. F. Kuang.

The Friends share some of their favorite villains / antagonists in fantasy. 

Series discussed: A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin, Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling, Saga by Brian K. Vaughn and Fiona Staples

Spoilers for Game of Thrones (announced in the episode)

Grab you best soap and wash your hands and face and feet, becuase we're talking The Slow Regard of Silent Things, a novella in The Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss. 

Note: This episode was recorded in August 2020.

In a series focused on questions rather than answers and the journey over the destination, The Friends attempt to answer: 'What is The Kingkiller Chronicle about?'

Spoiler Warning for The Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss

We take a deep dive into the character of Bayaz from The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie. Spoilers ahead for The First Law Trilogy!

Join the Friends Talking Fantasy for another exciting round of "Friends Pitching Fantasy" in this three-part series! In Part 1, Dylan presents three intriguing book choices to Charles, who must decide which one will be featured on the show in Part 3.

In this episode, Dylan pitches "The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet" by Becky Chambers, a delightful space opera filled with diverse characters and interstellar adventures. Next, he introduces "Yumi and the Nightmare Painter" by Brandon Sanderson, a captivating tale blending fantasy and suspense. Finally, Dylan presents "The Magicians" by Lev Grossman, a modern fantasy novel exploring magic and the complexities of adulthood.

Tune in to hear Charles weigh the merits of each book and make his decision for the upcoming episode. Which adventure will the Friends embark on next? Visit our website at https://www.theftfpodcast.com/ for more Friends Talking Fantasy content and to stay tuned for Parts 2 and 3 of the "Friends Pitching Fantasy" series!

Get ready to join the discussion and choose the next fantasy adventure with the Friends Talking Fantasy!

The Friends discuss how Andrzej Sapkowski's use of folklore, prejudice, and the human condition makes the monsters in the Witcher series. 

Spoiler warning for The Last Wish by Andrzej Sapkowski and season 1 of The Witcher Netflix series.

To celebrate our one year anniversary, The Friends have hand picked 'classic' episodes to re-release every Friday this summer. We hope you enjoy this re-release episode.