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.

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Sam and Dan share their thoughts on Alchemised by SenLinYu.

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

In this episode, Dan and Sam discuss their experience with 'Alchemised' by SenLinYu, which they both decided not to finish. They explore the reasons behind their decision, including the book's pacing, character development, and the challenges of adapting fan fiction into a novel. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of publishing fan fiction and the expectations set by social media hype. They conclude with a look forward to their next episode, which will cover Ben Aaronovitch's 'Rivers of London' series.

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Sam and Dan review Lady Macbeth by Ava Reid.

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

In this episode, Sam and Dan delve into Ava Reid's reimagining of Lady Macbeth, exploring the cultural impact and reinterpretation of Shakespeare's iconic character. They discuss the themes of power, femininity, and survival, as well as the book's fantasy elements, including dragons and magic. The conversation also touches on the portrayal of Lady Macbeth's character, her struggles with agency, and the societal expectations placed upon her.

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am and Dan review The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig.

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

We dive into the world of 'The Night and the Moth' by Rachel Gillig, exploring its themes, characters, and the genre of romantasy. We discuss the book's pacing, the portrayal of romance, and the unique setting of the Stonewater Kingdom. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of the book's themes, including societal structures and personal identity. And Sam has some wild theories about where the sequel will take us.

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Sam and Dan review Katabasis by R.F. Kuang.

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

Dan and Sam discuss the new fantasy release 'Katabasis' by R.F. Kuang. They delve into the book's themes, characters, and the unique setting of an academic journey through hell. The conversation explores the challenges of PhD life, the dynamics between the main characters Alice and Peter, and the book's reception in the fantasy community.

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Dan challenged Sam to read one of his favourite books, Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson, and now we get to find out what he thought.

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

We dive into the intricate world of Brandon Sanderson's "Mistborn." In this episode, they explore the unique magic systems, character arcs, and the rich world-building that makes this series a standout in modern fantasy. The allure of Sanderson's rules-based magic systems and their impact on the plot. Vin's journey from mistrust to empowerment and Kelsey's complex role as a mentor. The thematic exploration of bloodlines and societal structures within the Mistborn universe. Reflections on the book's influence on contemporary fantasy and its unique steampunk-like aesthetic. And will Sam continue with the trilogy?

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