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When a teenage author asked herself "What if Cinderella was an assassin fleeing the palace?" she couldn't have known she was creating the foundation for one of fantasy's most beloved series. In this anniversary episode, we celebrate our podcast's first year by diving into Throne of Glass, the story of Celaena Sardothien – deadly assassin, reluctant competitor, and surprisingly relatable protagonist.

Our hosts debate the fascinating world-building that hints at a larger mythology, with magic that persists despite colonial-like suppression – much like human ingenuity finding ways around walls and barriers in our own history. We explore what makes Celaena such a compelling character, balancing deadly skill with vulnerability and confidence. The curious "pentagon of passion" between characters creates interesting dynamics without quite qualifying this as a romance in our books.

Whether you're new to Sarah J. Maas or revisiting where her literary journey began, this episode offers fresh perspectives on the foundation of an epic series. Subscribe, rate and review us wherever you listen to podcasts, and join our reading community on Goodreads or Fable to discuss our next book: One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig.

Links from the News Segment and Show:

• We made it a year!!! Gift us a review to unwrap!
• T Kingfisher announced a sequel to Swordheart
  • Threads Post/Article
  • Titled Daggerbound, will be out in 2026
  • Also, another book coming out Nov 2025, called Snake-Eater
    • Instagram Post
    • In an isolated desert town, a young woman seeking a fresh start is confronted by ancient gods, malevolent supernatural forces, and eccentric neighbors
• New website lists book conventions
  • https://romcons.com
  • Romance, fantasy, and romantasy book conventions
  • Good tool for planning ahead the year’s bookish activities
• Charissa Weaks is doing a special edition release of The Wolf and the Witch through The Arcane Society
  • Shopify Link
  • $35. Stenciled edges and reversible slipcover
  • Shipping in August 2025
• Ali Hazelwood is releasing a new book May 27
  • News Link
  • Title is Problematic Summer Romance
  • Contemporary romance with age gap set in Sicily

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