Sam and Dan review Jade Legacy by Fonda Lee, book 3 in the Green Bone Saga.

SPOILER ALERT: This episode contains spoilers. We strongly recommend reading this book before listening.

Join us as we dissect the sprawling "Jade Legacy" by Fonda Lee, exploring the highs, lows, and missed opportunities across this ambitious final instalment of the trilogy. We discuss the storytelling choices, character development, world-building, and how the series ultimately lands (or doesn't!) with its conclusion.

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Sam and Dan review Jade War by Fonda Lee, book 2 in the Green Bone Saga.

SPOILER ALERT: This episode contains spoilers. We strongly recommend reading this book before listening.

In episode 2 of our three-episode exploration of the Green Bone Saga by Fonda Lee we dive into the sequel, Jade War. We examine the widening of the world as the clan conflict requires political and economic moves to be made outside of Kekon. We re-join all of the main characters to see how the twists and turns of the plot have impacted them. We discuss the continuing themes of family and modernisation vs tradition, and we comment on some issues with the writing style and decisions throughout.

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Sam and Dan review Jade City by Fonda Lee.

SPOILER ALERT: This episode contains spoilers. We strongly recommend reading this book before listening.

This is the first episode in our three-episode exploration of the Greenbone Saga by Fonda Lee. We explore the intricate world-building, the unique magic system involving Jade, and the complex dynamics of the clans in the fictional city of Kekon. We discuss the characters' development, the cultural and political themes, and the narrative's balance between action and character-driven storytelling. We also touch on the book's exploration of power, honour, and modernisation within the context of a fantasy setting.

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Sam and Dan review A Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna.

SPOILER ALERT: This episode contains spoilers. We strongly recommend reading this book before listening.

In this episode, Dan and Sam delve into the world of cosy fantasy with Sangu Mandana's "A Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping." They discuss the book's unique charm, its exploration of themes like chosen family, inclusivity, and the balance between magic and personal growth. The conversation highlights the book's whimsical writing style, its engaging characters, and the gentle yet impactful social commentary woven throughout the narrative.

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In this episode, Sam and Dan delve into two books, "Alice with a Why: Return to Wonderland" by Anna James and "Hecate: The Witch" by Nikita Gill.

SPOILER ALERT: This episode contains spoilers. We strongly recommend reading these books before listening.

We explore the themes of reimagining classic stories and mythology, discussing how these modern retellings bring new perspectives to well-known narratives. The conversation touches on the challenges and creativity involved in continuing beloved tales, the use of verse in storytelling, and the impact of historical context on these narratives. We also reflect on the broader trend of revisiting and revising classic myths and stories in contemporary literature.

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Sam and Dan review the Dissolution by Nicholas Binge.

SPOILER ALERT: This episode contains spoilers. We strongly recommend reading these books before listening.

In this episode, Dan and Sam dive into the sci-fi techno thriller, Dissolution, by Nicholas Binge. They discuss the characters, the presentation of the relationships, the somewhat shallow and convenient introduction of both technology and magic, and some issues with the writing. Prepare for strong opinions!

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In this episode, Dan and Sam host the second annual Escapists Anonymous End of Year Awards for 2025. They reflect on the books they've read throughout the year, discussing categories such as Best Character, Best World Building, Biggest Flop, Biggest Surprise, and Best Book. They share their personal favourites and disappointments, highlighting standout moments and characters from various books. The episode also includes a look ahead to 2026, with goals and ideas for the upcoming year, including exploring classic fantasy series.

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Sam and Dan review the first two instalments of Ben Aaronovitch's Rivers of London Series.

SPOILER ALERT: This episode contains spoilers. We strongly recommend reading these books before listening.

In this episode, Dan and Sam dive into the Rivers of London series by Ben Aaronovitch, discussing the first two books: 'Rivers of London' and 'Moon Over Soho'. They explore the unique blend of magic and police procedural elements, the vivid depiction of London, and the character development, particularly focusing on Peter Grant and Thomas Nightingale. The conversation also touches on the series' humour, its cultural references, and the broader themes of multiculturalism and history.

Join in the conversation by following us on social media @EscapistsAnonymousPod.