In this 2025 Reading Wrapped episode of the Book Love Podcast, we’re looking back on a year full of books, audiobooks, podcasting milestones, and hard-earned reading lessons. We talk about the reading goals we set (and wildly exceeded), how audiobooks changed the way we read, the authors and genres that surprised us most, and the bookish events that made 2025 unforgettable. Along the way, we reflect on what reading taught us about hype versus quality, why community matters more than numbers, and how podcasting pushed us to explore beyond our comfort zones. We wrap things up by looking ahead to 2026, sharing the reading goals we’re excited about next and why curiosity and exploration are guiding everything we plan to read.

Like, Comment, Subscribe | New episodes every Week

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Connect with Becca & Matt:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/booklove_podcast
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@book.love.podcast
• Email: BookClubByBecca@gmail.com (podcast) & bookishohiomatt@gmail.com (Matt from Ohio)

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All Podcast Episodes: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2XvdSdqrDORzMqa_Et6k8Qngm&si=WFy7RbVmhBtjWB3k

Author Interviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2XvfXXKrG6X4UWTnyU0S7s6NI&si=ZFwZw9FuJvk0IYXq

Spoiler-Free Book Reviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2XvfSpfBBfAfxynAgLTcNvnAT&si=TUqkQ3bv7pQJtyb6

Spoiler Filled Book Reviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2Xve832drS0lPw_coM67FyWC5&si=euj8-tBou3s5FhV7

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• 00:00 - Intro
• 03:00 - Wrapped...is that right?
• 04:49 - Reading Goals
• 09:15 - Audiobooks
• 13:45 - Reading Achievements
• 15:40 - Favorites
• 20:01 - Least Favorites
• 24:05 - Lessons Learned: The Industry
• 28:23 - Most Read
• 31:20 - What Did You Learn About Yourself?
• 37:00 - A Year of Podcasting
• 42:45 - Bookish Events and Experiences
• 46:50 - Internet Trends
• 49:50 5 Star & 1 Star Reads
• 01:02:15 - DNF & Not Rated
• 01:04:20 - 2026 Things
• 01:05:30 - Closing Thoughts
• 01:06:35 - Outro

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#2025wrapped #readingwrapped #bookpodcast #booksof2025 #booklovers

In this episode, we’re sharing our full book review of Timeborne by Sara Samuels, a fantasy romance that blends time travel, ancient Rome, and emotionally driven storytelling. If you’re curious whether Timeborne lives up to the hype, where it shines, and where it stumbles, this spoiler-aware discussion breaks it all down.

We talk through what worked for us, what surprised us, and how the characters (especially Olivia) grew over the course of the story. We dig into character development, pacing, and the balance between plot-driven action and emotional depth, plus how the revamped edition strengthened the overall experience. And yes — we cover the spice level, the historical details, and those moments that made us stop and say, “Okay… that was a choice.”

You’ll hear our personal ratings, where this one landed for us as a fantasy romance, and what we’re hoping to see if the story continues — including future timelines, bigger stakes, and shifting relationship dynamics. If you’ve finished Timeborne, are deciding whether to pick it up, or just want a cozy, thoughtful book review, come hang out with us and talk it through.

Like, Comment, Subscribe | New episodes every week

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Connect with Becca & Matt:

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

Email: BookClubByBecca@gmail.com (podcast) & bookishohiomatt@gmail.com (Matt from Ohio)

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Timeborne Videos: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2XvdiPtvz7ZzQxdMZKt-VIaNH&si=-AsUUT_JDKXTjBue

Author Interviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2XvfXXKrG6X4UWTnyU0S7s6NI&si=ZFwZw9FuJvk0IYXq

Spoiler-Free Book Reviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2XvfSpfBBfAfxynAgLTcNvnAT&si=TUqkQ3bv7pQJtyb6

Spoiler Filled Book Reviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2Xve832drS0lPw_coM67FyWC5&si=euj8-tBou3s5FhV7

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• 00:00 - Intro
• 00:45 - Story Synopsis
• 02:40 - Ratings and Reviews
• 04:45 - Recommendation?
• 07:00 - Character and Plot Analysis
• 11:12 - Historical Context and Setting
• 13:20 - Spice & Romance
• 16:04 - Predictions
• 20:04 - Podcast Future
• 24:15 - Outro

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#bookpodcast #bookreview #bookrecommendations #bookanalysis #bookdiscussion #fictionbooks #romantasy

We’ve made it to the end of Timeborne, and chapters 26–37 bring the chaos, the revelations, and a whole lot to talk about. In this episode, we’re unpacking the final stretch of the book — from complicated relationships and brutal turning points to the jaw-dropping twists around Roman’s past and the prophecy of time-controlling twins.

We share our reactions as the story leans darker and more intense, talk through what worked (and what left us questioning things), and dig into how character development and plot twists shaped the ending. And of course, we can’t help but debate historical accuracy, time-travel logic, and what all of this could mean if the story continues.

If you’ve finished Timeborne, are reading along with us, or just want a thoughtful book club-style discussion of the final chapters, grab a drink and come break it all down with us.

Like, Comment, Subscribe | New episodes every week

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Connect with Becca & Matt:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/booklove_podcast
• Email: BookClubByBecca@gmail.com (podcast) & bookishohiomatt@gmail.com (Matt from Ohio)

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Timeborne Videos: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2XvdiPtvz7ZzQxdMZKt-VIaNH&si=-AsUUT_JDKXTjBue

Author Interviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2XvfXXKrG6X4UWTnyU0S7s6NI&si=ZFwZw9FuJvk0IYXq

Spoiler-Free Book Reviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2XvfSpfBBfAfxynAgLTcNvnAT&si=TUqkQ3bv7pQJtyb6

Spoiler Filled Book Reviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2Xve832drS0lPw_coM67FyWC5&si=euj8-tBou3s5FhV7

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• 00:00 - Intro
• 00:38 - General Thoughts & Impressions
• 02:55 - Plot Recap & Summary
• 16:10 - The Historical Accuracy Refund Program (satire)
• 17:25 - Deep Dive Discussion
• 35:30 - Outro

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#BookDiscussion #BookPodcast #FantasyDiscussion #TimeTravel #BookTube #StoryAnalysis

We’re back with Timeborne by Sara Samuels, and chapters 16–25 mark a serious turning point. In this episode, we talk through how our opinions of the main characters are shifting (and why we’re still not totally sold), the growing tension between Olivia and Roman, and the moments that made this section feel darker, more emotional, and surprisingly passionate.

We dig into the blend of time travel, ancient Rome, fantasy, and romance, including a historically grounded celebration, a new and unsettling threat, and questions about what it really means to be a Timeborn. Along the way, we speculate about where the story might be headed and whether these characters can outrun the past — or time itself.

If you’re reading along or just want a thoughtful book club-style discussion of Timeborne, grab a drink and come unpack this middle stretch with us.

Like, Comment, Subscribe | New episodes every Wednesday

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Connect with Becca & Matt:

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

Email: BookClubByBecca@gmail.com

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Timeborne Videos: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2XvdiPtvz7ZzQxdMZKt-VIaNH&si=-AsUUT_JDKXTjBue

Author Interviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2XvfXXKrG6X4UWTnyU0S7s6NI&si=ZFwZw9FuJvk0IYXq

Spoiler-Free Book Reviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2XvfSpfBBfAfxynAgLTcNvnAT&si=TUqkQ3bv7pQJtyb6

Spoiler Filled Book Reviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2Xve832drS0lPw_coM67FyWC5&si=euj8-tBou3s5FhV7

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• 00:00 - Intro
• 01:18 - Check-In05:05 - General Impressions & Thoughts
• 10:18 - Plot Recap & Summary
• 22:35 - The Aftercare Awareness Alliance (satire)
• 24:30 - Deep Dive Discussion
• 53:35 - Predictions
• 57:00 - Outro

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#bookdiscussion #bookpodcast #fantasybooks #timetravel #romantasy #bookcommunity #booktube

We’re diving into the first 15 chapters of Timeborne by Sara Samuels_, and wow… there’s a lot to unpack. From time travel and ancient Rome to messy emotions and even messier character choices, this story gives us plenty to talk about.

In this episode, we share our early impressions, chat about the characters who are already testing our patience (in the best way), and explore how themes like grief, trauma, and emotional growth shape the journey so far. We’re also looking ahead — making predictions, questioning motives, and wondering where this time-twisting adventure will take us next.

If you’re reading along or just curious about Timeborne’s blend of fantasy, history, and character-driven storytelling, grab your drink of choice and come hang with us.

Like, Comment, Subscribe | New episodes every Wednesday

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Connect with Becca & Matt:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/booklove_podcast
• Email: BookClubByBecca@gmail.com

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More Book Love Episodes:

• Timeborne Videos: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2XvdiPtvz7ZzQxdMZKt-VIaNH&si=-AsUUT_JDKXTjBueAuthor Interviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2XvfXXKrG6X4UWTnyU0S7s6NI&si=ZFwZw9FuJvk0IYXq
• Spoiler-Free Book Reviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2XvfSpfBBfAfxynAgLTcNvnAT&si=TUqkQ3bv7pQJtyb6
• Spoiler Filled Book Reviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2Xve832drS0lPw_coM67FyWC5&si=euj8-tBou3s5FhV7

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• 00:00 - Intro
• 02:43 - First Impressions & Overall Thoughts
• 10:05 - Plot Recap & Summary
• 27:06 - Enemies to Lovers Start Kit Ad
• 28:34 - Deep Dive Discussion
• 58:45 - Outro

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#bookdiscussion #bookpodcast #historicalfiction #readerscommunity #fantasybooks #romantasy #bookreview #bookrecommendations

In this episode, we sit down with Kristin Kisska, author of The Hint of Light, for a conversation that’s equal parts heart, craft, and honest reflection. Kristin shares how she went from a finance career during the 2008 crash to becoming a storyteller drawn to themes of love, home, grief, and the complicated ways families hold together.

We talk about her writing process, how becoming a writer can completely change how you read, and why character development is the foundation of her work. Kristin opens up about crafting suspense and emotional depth, the symbolism behind her title, and the role that settings — both real and personal — play in shaping a story.

We also dig into the importance of reader feedback, the evolving relationship writers have with their own stories, and why she approaches women’s fiction differently from her thrillers. And yes — we even touch on AI in writing, future book ideas, and her fascination with sisterhood and personal resilience.

Whether you’re a reader, a writer, or a book club fan looking for a deeper look at The Hint of Light, this conversation is full of insight, warmth, and the kind of perspective only an author like Kristin can offer.

Like, Comment, Subscribe | New episodes every Wednesday

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Connect with Kristin:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristinkisskaauthor?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
• Website: https://www.kristinkisska.com/

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Connect with Becca & Matt:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beccasbookclubadventure/
• Email: BookClubByBecca@gmail.com

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Watch More:

• Author Interviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2XvfXXKrG6X4UWTnyU0S7s6NI&si=ZFwZw9FuJvk0IYXq

• Spoiler-Free Book Reviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2XvfSpfBBfAfxynAgLTcNvnAT&si=TUqkQ3bv7pQJtyb6

• Spoiler Filled Book Reviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2Xve832drS0lPw_coM67FyWC5&si=euj8-tBou3s5FhV7

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• 00:00 - Intro
• 02:55 - Journey to Being an Author
• 17:00 - The Writing Process
• 35:56 - 'The Hint of Light'
• 01:17:15 - Future Projects
• 01:22:40 - Contact the Author
• 01:25:39 - Outro

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#authorinterview #bookpodcast #storytelling #podcastinterview #bookdiscussion #beccasbookclubadventure

Hey book friends — today we’re diving into The Cursed by Harper L. Woods, a dark and emotional fantasy sequel that wastes zero time picking up where book one left off. In this full plot recap and review, we talk through Willow’s messy, complicated journey — her struggles with boundaries, consent, trauma, and the morally gray choices that shape her character.

We’re also unpacking the heavy Maiden-Mother-Crone trope, the boost in spice level, the vague-but-vivid writing style, and the parts of the story that made us pause, cringe, cheer, or yell out loud. And of course, we chat about future books in the series, how they might shift perspectives, and what it feels like to stay engaged as a reader in an online book community that moves fast.

If you’re looking for an honest, cozy, slightly chaotic fantasy book review of The Cursed — complete with character analysis, themes, and a full plot rundown — grab a drink and settle in with us.

Like, Comment, Subscribe | New episodes every Wednesday

------------------------------------------Connect on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beccasbookclubadventure/

Email: BookClubByBecca@gmail.com

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More Harper L. Woods: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2Xvc2HwMzm-vYoiLC91ees4k4&si=J1Q4YBJQU2towUaB

Spoiler-Free Book Reviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2XvfSpfBBfAfxynAgLTcNvnAT&si=TUqkQ3bv7pQJtyb6

Spoiler Filled Book Reviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2Xve832drS0lPw_coM67FyWC5&si=euj8-tBou3s5FhV7

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• 00:00 - Intro & Dog Talk
• 00:51 - Overall Review & Rating
• 04:38 - Plot Recap & Summary
• 12:05 - National Turkey Council Satire
• 13:03 - Deep Review & Book Discussion
• 34:03 - Outro

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#TheCursed #HarperLWoods #BookReview #FantasyBooks #romantasy #BookPodcast #beccasbookclubadventure

Hey book friends — today we’re diving into Apples Dipped in Gold by Scarlett St. Clair, a dark, fairy-tale-twisted fantasy filled with magic, romance, and just the right amount of bite. 🍎✨

In this episode, we recap the full story, share our honest ratings and reactions, and talk through the parts that stuck with us — from Samara’s strength and Lore’s slow-burn romance to the dark themes woven through the Witch of the Woods. We’ll touch on the spiciness level (spoiler: it’s mild), the moments that made us laugh, and the ones that made us pause.

Whether you’ve already read it or are just curious about this fantasy romance and its clever mix of fairy-tale magic and witchcraft, grab a cozy drink and join us for our Apples Dipped in Gold book review — complete with plot recap, character analysis, and a few light-hearted tangents along the way.

Like, Comment, Subscribe | New episodes every Wednesday

Connect on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beccasbookclubadventure/

Email: BookClubByBecca@gmail.com

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Everything Scarlett St. Clair: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2Xveir1Tcd16Xc8wSbErBML9j&si=_umvvbzCzX95HbMV

Spoiler-Free Book Reviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2XvfSpfBBfAfxynAgLTcNvnAT&si=TUqkQ3bv7pQJtyb6

Spoiler Filled Book Reviews: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUbby2KW2Xve832drS0lPw_coM67FyWC5&si=euj8-tBou3s5FhV7

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• 00:00 - Intro & Dog Talk
• 02:00 - Overall Review & Rating
• 04:30 - Spiciness Review & Rating
• 07:57 - Immortal Therapy Satire
• 08:51 - Plot Recap & Summary
• 19:32 - Deep Review & Book Discussion
• 37:15 - Outro

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#ApplesDippedInGold #ScarlettStClai #bookreview #fantasyromance #FairyTales #BookPodcast #BookishCommunity #beccasbookclubadventure