Episodes

  • Planning Fantasy Book Events: How Tea and Tropes Owner Brianna Transforms Passion into Epic Conventions!
    Apr 2 2026
    Most fantasy fans don’t realize how magical and crazy organizing a themed event really is. Brianna, creator of Tea and Tropes, reveals how she built a thriving community and turns her passion into epic live experiences, from her first Comic-Con BLAST to her upcoming Nashville and Arizona events that sell out in YEARS.In this episode, Brianna shares the rollercoaster journey from starting a niche podcast about fantasy tropes to planning multi-day conventions that attract bestselling authors and thousands of fans. She reveals the insider secrets on securing top authors like Stephanie Garber and Pierce Brown, even pulling off appearances from Ireland’s Sarah Reese Brennan, all while managing a $20,000 personal loan to launch her first event. You'll discover how her wedding planning background taught her to adapt on the fly and how she’s creating fully themed, Greek-God-inspired festivals that mix bookish market stalls, carnival games, and live performances.We break down the meticulous planning that goes into booking venues two to three years out, overcoming venue rejection, and building trust with the author community, all without a big team. Brianna shares her unexpected challenges, like navigating brutal venue negotiations and handling walkie talkies, all to create immersive, outdoor experiences that readers dream about. Plus, you'll hear her tips on reaching out to authors, dropping rejection fears, and the surprising support from her community that made these dreams a reality.Why does this matter? Because building a thriving author-reader world outside conventional publishing is a game-changer. Brianna’s story shows that with boldness, resilience, and a sprinkle of fairy-tale magic, you can create events that unite passionate fans and authors in ways digital alone never can. Whether you're a paranormal author, aspiring event planner, or fantasy enthusiast, this episode unlocks the blueprint to turning your passion into a legendary community experience.Perfect for indie authors looking to level up, readers craving themed gatherings, and entrepreneurs dreaming of crafting their own legendary festivals, this is the story of turning raw passion into spectacular reality, one Greek-inspired carnival at a time. Tune in to get inspired and learn how to make your own event magic happen.Upcoming 2026 Tea and Tropes events:FORBIDDEN LOVE in Nashville, TN: July 31st-August 1stTickets Here: https://www.teaandtropes.com/forbiddenloveSNOWED IN in Mesa, AZ: December 4th & 5thhttps://www.teaandtropes.com/snowed-in-homeStay in touch with Tea and Tropes events!Social Media: @teaantropeseventsWebsite: https://linktr.ee/teaandtropesevents?utm_source=linktree_profile_shareInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/teaandtropesevents/📖 Join our Virtual Book Club: https://fable.co/club/two-chicks-and-a-plot-twist-with-two-chicks-and-a-plot-twist-487984389220**Be sure to check out the All Things Book Related Facebook group for more bookish fun: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17qrT2kDux/⁠⁠💬 Let’s Connect:Follow us on social media for updates and more bookish content and giveaways:Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/twochicksandaplottwist/⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567707466670⁠⁠Linktree: ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/TwoChicksandaPlotTwist?utm_source=linktree_profile_share⁠🎧 Subscribe & Stay Tuned:Don’t miss our upcoming episodes where we’ll discuss more of our book club reads and chat with amazing authors. Hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications!Interested in being a guest? Sign up using the link below!⁠⁠https://forms.gle/PKrwrwJihdf7Jhgu6⁠⁠💫 A Note From UsAt Two Chicks and a Plot Twist, we believe stories are for everyone. While we may feature books by authors with varying views, our platform is rooted in respect, curiosity, and the joy of reading. Thanks for being here. Let’s keep it cozy, curious, and kind. 💛
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    37 mins
  • Book Plug Tuesday: Clovis with Author Annie Dike
    Mar 31 2026

    Most stories don’t go deep enough, but this one unflinchingly peels back the layers of family trauma, resilience, and transformation. If you’ve ever loved someone who both saved and broke you, this raw, gritty novel will stay with you long after the last page. Annie Dike reveals how her personal life and love of storytelling fueled Clovis, an unfiltered coming-of-age saga where family wounds are etched into the very dirt.


    You’ll discover how Annie captures the messy truth of childhood, addiction, betrayal, and healing through the fierce voice of Callie, a girl caught between innocence and the brutal realities of life. We break down the dark humor and lyricism that make Clovis a book that makes you laugh and cry simultaneously, a powerful reminder that family secrets and scars often forge the deepest strength. Plus, Annie shares how she navigated the delicate art of writing complex, misunderstood characters, especially her mother, who are rooted in the real-life struggles she’s experienced.



    🛒 Get your copy of Clovis today:

    Website: https://anniedikeauthor.com

    Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FPJ3S4ST



    Follow Annie Dike on social media:

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anniedike.author

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

    YouTube: (Annie reads Clovis chapter by chapter here, with authors’ notes for each) - https://www.youtube.com/@AnnieDikeAuthor


    Clovis is a book that sticks with you. Annie is currently writing the sequel now and gathering beta readers for it. Join her “Clovis Club” newsletter for the opportunity to become an Annie Dike Author beta reader:

    https://subscribepage.io/2dz48u



    ✨ And don’t forget — Tune in to Book Plug Tuesday each week as we spotlight incredible indie authors and share the stories that stick with us long after the final page.


    Are you interested in being featured as our next Book Plug of the Week? Fill out the form here: ⁠https://forms.gle/7iTwxGDrfoEjdMNg9⁠

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    23 mins
  • How "The Song of Achilles" by Madeline Miller Reveals the Tragic Cost of Love and Destiny - Fable Quarterly Book Club Discussion
    Mar 26 2026

    In this chaotic, heartfelt episode of Two Chicks and a Plot Twist, Haley and McCayleigh dive deep into Madeline Miller’s mesmerizing reimagining of Homer’s classic. From the overlooked story of Patroclus to Achilles' complex flaws, they unravel how this novel blends mythology with raw, shadowed romance that leaves readers emotionally wrecked, yet longing for more. You'll discover how Miller’s storytelling turns the myth of the Trojan War inside out, exploring themes of identity, love, and sacrifice you won’t find in the history books.


    They discuss the surprising LGBTQ-centric perspective that flips the traditional hero narrative, why Patroclus’ quiet strength is revolutionary, and how Achilles’ flaws make him human rather than heroic. The hosts break down Miller’s masterful use of second-person point of view, which immerses you directly into these legendary lives, making their tragedy resonate on a new level. Plus, get insights on the book’s close ties to Homer’s epics, and why understanding Greek mythology adds exciting layers to this retelling.




    📖 Join our Virtual Book Club: https://fable.co/club/two-chicks-and-a-plot-twist-with-two-chicks-and-a-plot-twist-487984389220

    **Be sure to check out the All Things Book Related Facebook group for more bookish fun: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17qrT2kDux/⁠⁠


    💬 Let’s Connect:

    Follow us on social media for updates and more bookish content and giveaways:

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

    Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567707466670⁠⁠

    Linktree: ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/TwoChicksandaPlotTwist?utm_source=linktree_profile_share⁠


    🎧 Subscribe & Stay Tuned:

    Don’t miss our upcoming episodes where we’ll discuss more of our book club reads and chat with amazing authors. Hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications!


    Interested in being a guest? Sign up using the link below!

    ⁠⁠https://forms.gle/PKrwrwJihdf7Jhgu6⁠⁠


    💫 A Note From Us

    At Two Chicks and a Plot Twist, we believe stories are for everyone. While we may feature books by authors with varying views, our platform is rooted in respect, curiosity, and the joy of reading. Thanks for being here. Let’s keep it cozy, curious, and kind. 💛

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    14 mins
  • Event Plug Tuesday: TALES AS DARK AS TIME Book Event in Grantsville, Pennsylavannia - July 25th, 2026
    Mar 24 2026

    Step into the vibrant world of fantasy fandom like never before with an event that promises immersive experiences, exclusive author panels, and a celebration of the fantasy community's diversity. This isn't just another book signing—it's Tales as Dark as Time, a one-of-a-kind gathering happening July 25th, 2026 at the Hollywood Casino in Grantville, Pennsylvania, brought to life by the visionary Jane Rose.


    In this episode, you'll discover how this event is redefining the traditional book fair with engaging workshops, electrifying trivia contests, and chaotic Mad Libs-style romance twists that will leave you laughing. We break down the exciting lineup, supercharged panels like Fantasy Family Feud where readers and authors go head-to-head in a battle of wits, and Book Bingo that shines a spotlight on stories censored or silenced, highlighting voices from marginalized communities. Plus, get a sneak peek into exclusive workshops like candle making, fairy tale survival kits, and a sold-out snow globe craft that’s already becoming legendary.


    And what makes it truly special? This episode features an exclusive chat with Jane Rose herself, revealing what inspired Tales as Dark as Time, what sets it apart, and how it aims to unite the community in ways no other event has before. Whether you're eager to meet your favorite authors, participate in wild panels, or simply soak up the lively festival atmosphere, this is your must-listen guide.


    Perfect for fantasy lovers, book community explorers, or anyone craving a full day of adventure, connection, and fun—don't miss out on the event that everyone will be talking about. Hit play now and prep your wishlist; incredible stories and experiences await at Tales as Dark as Time.


    🛒 Get your tickets to Tales as Dark as Time today:

    Website: https://talesasdarkastime.com/


    Stay up to date on social media:

    Instagram (@talesasdarkastimeevent): https://www.instagram.com/talesasdarkastimeevent/

    TikTok (@talesasdarkastime): https://www.tiktok.com/@talesasdarkastime?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579846831990

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    16 mins
  • Spring TBR Secrets: Why We Always Overestimate Our Reading Goals
    Mar 19 2026

    Most readers start their spring TBR list optimistic, dreaming of 15 books in two months. But what if you could actually pick the right ones to get you out of your reading slump? In this episode of Two Chicks and a Plot Twist, Haley and McCayleigh share their refreshing spring reading plans alongside hilarious struggles with busy schedules, unexpected book discoveries, and the reality of reading slumps. Get ready to see your TBR in a whole new light and finally find books that will actually motivate you to turn the page.


    You'll discover the books that have revived Haley's reading mojo, from A Song of Achilles to heavy fantasy titles like The Ever King and Project Hail Mary. McCayleigh reveals her own strategy of audiobook listening during long drives and her obsession with fantasy, Greek mythology, and monster romance. These two spill their Spring TBR hopes—ranging from popular new releases to cozy series—showing how to balance must-reads with the chaos of real life. Whether you're looking for the perfect fantasy to fix your slump, or need inspiration to stick to your reading goals, this episode is packed with concrete tactics and book recs that resonate with busy readers like you.


    Ready to fuel your TBR and get out of your slump? Hit play and turn those pages.



    📖 Join our Virtual Book Club: https://fable.co/club/two-chicks-and-a-plot-twist-with-two-chicks-and-a-plot-twist-487984389220

    **Be sure to check out the All Things Book Related Facebook group for more bookish fun: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17qrT2kDux/⁠⁠


    💬 Let’s Connect:

    Follow us on social media for updates and more bookish content and giveaways:

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

    Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567707466670⁠⁠

    Linktree: ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/TwoChicksandaPlotTwist?utm_source=linktree_profile_share⁠


    🎧 Subscribe & Stay Tuned:

    Don’t miss our upcoming episodes where we’ll discuss more of our book club reads and chat with amazing authors. Hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications!


    Interested in being a guest? Sign up using the link below!

    ⁠⁠https://forms.gle/PKrwrwJihdf7Jhgu6⁠⁠


    💫 A Note From Us

    At Two Chicks and a Plot Twist, we believe stories are for everyone. While we may feature books by authors with varying views, our platform is rooted in respect, curiosity, and the joy of reading. Thanks for being here. Let’s keep it cozy, curious, and kind. 💛

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    17 mins
  • Book Plug Tuesday: Talisman Gifts of the Shavtal with Author Toni Yap
    Mar 17 2026

    Most young adult fantasies are predictable—Toni Yap’s Talisman’s Gifts of the Shavtal shatters expectations with a powerful story of resilience, magic, and self-discovery. Discover how a Filipino girl’s traumatic past becomes her greatest strength when she’s forced to unlock her hidden powers in a richly woven world inspired by real-life friendship and ancestral heritage. This episode unveils the magic behind Yap’s captivating novel and the deeply personal journey that inspired it.


    🛒 Get your copy of Talisman Gifts of the Shavtal today:


    Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Talisman-Gifts-Shavtal-Toni-Yap/dp/1639888489/ref=sr_1_1?crid=VGW2DDIU4J6J&ref=toniyap.com&asin=B0CLQNX1BQ&revisionId=d33988c2&format=3&depth=1

    Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/talisman-toni-yap/1144179738?ean=9781639888481&ref=toniyap.com

    Website: www.toniyap.com


    Follow Toni Yap on social media!

    Instagram (@toniyappublication): https://www.instagram.com/toniyappublication/

    TikTok (@yappubs): https://www.tiktok.com/@yappubs

    Threads (@toniyappublication): https://www.threads.com/@toniyappublication?xmt=AQF0Qh70XIEekrAodAz78OCzw2hUiAWYofVxoxoEJSZz7BM

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/toniyapauthor/


    ✨ And don’t forget — Tune in to Book Plug Tuesday each week as we spotlight incredible indie authors and share the stories that stick with us long after the final page.


    Are you interested in being featured as our next Book Plug of the Week? Fill out the form here: ⁠https://forms.gle/7iTwxGDrfoEjdMNg9⁠

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    22 mins
  • Inside the Mind of a Multi-Genre #1 NYT Bestselling Author Who Balances Horror, History, and Hope | Why Writing Fast and Going All-In Could Be Your Secret to Success
    Mar 12 2026

    Most authors dream of hitting the bestseller list, and Kiersten White has done it multiple times. But what does it really take to reach the heights of a New York Times bestseller and a Bram Stoker award? In this electrifying episode, Kiersten pulls back the curtain on her journey from an aspiring writer to a literary force, sharing behind-the-scenes moments like the adrenaline rush of her first #1 hit and the resilience it took to keep going through rejection after rejection.


    Discover how Kiersten navigates her prolific writing process, whether she’s drafting 82,000 words in just six days or editing countless drafts in her focused, obsessive style. She reveals her secret to harnessing ADHD and rapid thinking to produce over 29 novels across genres, including YA, fantasy, horror, and adult fiction. Her unique approach emphasizes the importance of working with your brain's rhythm, embracing intense writing sprints, and reading aloud to perfect every word. Plus, she shares the surprising regional folktales and historical facts that inspire her dark, compelling stories like The Fox and the Devil.


    We explore the transformative power of horror and dark fiction, how these stories serve as honest reflections of human fears, offering catharsis and validation. Kiersten discusses her deliberate writing for different age groups, the importance of authentic characters, and her bold reinterpretations of classic figures like Van Helsing, blending historical accuracy with regional supernatural legends. Whether you're a writer struggling with deadlines or a fan eager to learn how to craft stories that resonate, this episode offers invaluable insights and inspiration.


    Perfect for aspiring authors, seasoned writers, and horror fans alike, this conversation reveals what it truly takes to turn passion into a bestselling career. Kiersten White’s relentless determination and candid wisdom remind us all: no matter how many rejections or dark moments, persistence is the key to making your dreams come true, and having fun along the way.


    If you’re ready to learn how to craft compelling stories, stay resilient, and celebrate your creative journey, hit play now. Kiersten’s story is proof that with grit, a love for storytelling, and a touch of chaos, you too can reach the top.


    Stay in touch with Kiersten White and her upcoming projects!

    Social Media: @authorkierstenwhite

    Her website: https://www.kierstenwhite.com/

    Her instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorkierstenwhite/?hl=en


    📖 Join our Virtual Book Club: https://fable.co/club/two-chicks-and-a-plot-twist-with-two-chicks-and-a-plot-twist-487984389220

    **Be sure to check out the All Things Book Related Facebook group for more bookish fun: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17qrT2kDux/⁠⁠


    💬 Let’s Connect:

    Follow us on social media for updates and more bookish content and giveaways:

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

    Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567707466670⁠⁠

    Linktree: ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/TwoChicksandaPlotTwist?utm_source=linktree_profile_share⁠


    🎧 Subscribe & Stay Tuned:

    Don’t miss our upcoming episodes where we’ll discuss more of our book club reads and chat with amazing authors. Hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications!


    Interested in being a guest? Sign up using the link below!

    ⁠⁠https://forms.gle/PKrwrwJihdf7Jhgu6⁠⁠


    💫 A Note From Us

    At Two Chicks and a Plot Twist, we believe stories are for everyone. While we may feature books by authors with varying views, our platform is rooted in respect, curiosity, and the joy of reading. Thanks for being here. Let’s keep it cozy, curious, and kind. 💛

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    51 mins
  • Book Plug Tuesday: A Dance in the Devil's Arms with Author Dr. Sarah Monday
    Mar 10 2026

    Unlock the profound connection between our shadows and our salvation. In this episode, discover how the seven deadly sins are more than moral flaws, they're mirror images of our deepest truths and struggles. If you've ever wondered how your biggest vices shape your life and relationships, this episode is your invite to reflect, confront, and grow.


    When Dr. Sarah Munday wrote her debut romance series inspired by the seven deadly sins, she didn’t just craft stories, she crafted a lens through which to examine human nature. She reveals how her personal journey, from a childhood filled with stories to a career as an Air Force veteran and international business doctor, led her to explore morality, psychology, and human flaws. Her unique twist on the sins, a fresh perspective where sloth isn’t just laziness, but a challenge to self-awareness, sets her apart in the genre. Through her emotionally charged narratives, you'll learn that embracing our imperfections is the key to genuine self-improvement.


    🛒 Get your copy of A Dance in the Devil's Arms today:

    Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/drsarahmonday

    Website: www.drmonday.co


    Follow Dr. Sarah Monday on social media!

    Instagram (@therealdrmonday): https://www.instagram.com/therealdrmonday/

    TikTok (@therealdrmonday): https://www.tiktok.com/@therealdrmonday?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc



    ✨ And don’t forget — Tune in to Book Plug Tuesday each week as we spotlight incredible indie authors and share the stories that stick with us long after the final page.


    Are you interested in being featured as our next Book Plug of the Week? Fill out the form here: ⁠https://forms.gle/7iTwxGDrfoEjdMNg9⁠


    Show more Show less
    27 mins