Shows
Swords & SapphicsNew Season, Old UsWelcome back! After a little hiatus, the first episode of season five (FIVE!) is out now! As is usual, we kicked it off with a little catch up of what media we're currently loving and shared what we would like to achieve this year.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2026-02-111h 02
The Curvy Literary I Plus-Size RomanceWriting Real Love: Rachel Bowdler on Inclusive Romance, Neurodivergent Voices & Creative FreedomIn this episode of The Curvy Literary Podcast, host Keshia chats with romance author Rachel, the creative force behind multiple pen names — including Bonnie Woods and Bryony Rosehurst. Known for her plus-size romance novels and emotionally rich, character-driven storytelling, Rachel shares her journey from writing fanfiction to earning a creative writing degree and publishing across several romance genres.The conversation explores representation in publishing, the challenges and triumphs of being a neurodivergent, plus-size author, and how Rachel’s background in photography and painting inspires her vivid, visual approach to writing. She also talks about her work in ghos...
2025-10-2052 minSwords & SapphicsAbout The Maiden and Her Monster with Maddie MartinezFor our newest episode, we were joined by Maddie Martinez to chat about her debut sapphic novel, The Maiden and Her Monster. We talked about the Golem of Prague legend that inspired the story, how Maddie created the fantasy languages, and so much more!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2025-10-011h 15Swords & SapphicsAnnual Keeping up with the SapphicsThis week, catch up with the sapphics for their final episode before their September break. We talk all about our current interests, including games, shows, and books, plus look back on some of our early queer experiences — before we knew queer was even a thing!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2025-08-271h 17Swords & SapphicsAbout Zomromcom with Olivia DadeOur guest for this week's episode was the wonderful Olivia Dade, author of our favourite Spoiler Alert series (among many others) and her new upcoming supernatural book, Zomromcom. Listen to us fangirl- I mean, learn about how Olivia chose to balance the combination of zombies and romcom, about where she gets her inspiration and so much more!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2025-08-131h 00Swords & SapphicsAbout Muted with Miranda MundtListen to our new episode to meet Miranda Mundt, the creator of queer graphic novel, Muted. We learned all about their process, their inspiration and how they got their originally Webtoon comics traditionally published. Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2025-07-301h 00Swords & SapphicsAbout Secret Spark with Kelly FarmerFor our newest episode, we were joined by Kelly Farmer to chat about her sapphic superhero book, Secret Spark, and the upcoming sequel, Fanning the Flames. Our conversation involved everything superheroes, villains and the normies who can't get insurance in the cities full of superpowered people.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2025-07-161h 02Swords & SapphicsAbout Somewhere New with Annie BennetFor what was supposed to be last week's episode until someone (Ivy) messed up the schedule, we sat down with author Annie Bennet to chat about her new achillean cozy fantasy Somewhere New. We asked about her inspiration for the story, learned about Annie's love for Teen Wolf fan fiction (we can relate), and also talked about her crime series that she writes under her real name, Anna Britton.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2025-07-0959 minSwords & SapphicsAbout And They Were Neighbors with Brenna BaileyWe were lucky enough to chat with Brenna Bailey for this week’s episode! Listen now to learn all about her newest book in the Juniper Creek universe, And They Were Neighbors, as well as her focus on characters in their golden years, her freelance editing business, and her struggles with writer’s block.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2025-06-181h 08Swords & SapphicsAbductions and Other Forms of EntertainmentWe prepare for our first break of the season this week with a one-on-one catch-up about everything we're enjoying - including all things Sims 4 (buckle in; it gets weird). We then answer some questions from our much appreciated listeners about writing, upcoming publishing plans, and the journey so far as indie and trad authors.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2025-04-301h 02Swords & SapphicsAbout Tea You at the Altar with Rebecca ThorneWe have a returning guest this week! Rebecca Thorne is back to update us about all things Tea and Tomes, including how she wrote a wedding heist and what's next for beloved characters Kianthe and Reyna. Plus, she shares some valuable publishing insight and updates us on what's changed from her first episode with us as an indie author in season one to now.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2025-04-161h 00Swords & SapphicsAbout How We End with LM JuniperThis episode, we get apocalyptic with L.M. Juniper, chatting all about his zombie novel HOW WE END alongside the vast array of representation it features, including the importance of Asian and trans identities within the genre. We also get excited for L.M.'s upcoming sapphic romantasy and explore the importance of found family at the end of the world.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2025-04-021h 04Swords & SapphicsAbout Joy with Samantha LeighThis week, we chat with author and tattoo artist Samantha Leigh about her queer literary romance novel, Joy, including the book's Liverpudlian roots, how the characters came to life, what it was like to work with a small northern press, and future plans!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2025-03-1956 minSwords & SapphicsAbout Wooing the Witch Queen with Stephanie BurgisFor this week's episode, we were joined by Stephanie Burgis to talk about her new romantasy book, Wooing the Witch Queen. She told us all about the first book in the Queens of Villany series, what we can be excited about next, and where she finds her inspiration to write new stories after creating over 50 of them!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2025-03-0554 minSwords & SapphicsAbout Modern Divination with Isa AgajanianOur first guest of this season is the author of Modern Divination, Isa Agajanian. We talked about what inspired this book, all the changes it went through, and Isa's experience in both indie and trad publishing. They also teased a few more projects they're working on (we're so excited).Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2025-02-191h 07Swords & SapphicsWe're Back with too many HobbiesWe’re back for season 4! Join us for a catch up where we share how we’re staving off the winter blues, not just with our usual media, but also with our beloved hobbies. Plus, find out what we have planned for the coming year!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2025-02-051h 15
Swords & SapphicsLooking Back and ForwardToday, we're wraping up season 3 of Swords & Sapphics. It's been one hell of a year, so for today's episode, we've decided to take a look back at our accomplishments and joys. We also shared what we're excited about or would like to do next year! Thank you all for being part of our journey. We can't wait to show you what we have planned. We wish you happy holidays and a happy New Year!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-12-181h 01
Swords & SapphicsAbout Dublin Drag Mysteries with Kitty MurphyFor our newest episode, we were joined by our last guest of the year – Kitty Murphy! We asked about the inspiration behind her Dublin Drag Mysteries series, how she fell in love with drag, what type of research, if any, she does for her murders (visiting an autopsy was mentioned), and so much more!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-12-041h 02
Swords & SapphicsSongwriting with PoesyIn this week’s episode, we’re lucky enough to sit down with talented rock siren Poesy to chat all about her songwriting process and what her upcoming EP means to her, as well as the similarities and differences between writing prose. Plus, Epic the Musical fans will be thrilled to hear more about how Poesy came to play the role of Hera in The Wisdom Saga.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-11-201h 03
Swords & SapphicsOur TBR before 2025This week, we picked out ten books we'd like to finish before the end of the year. Get a glimpse into our TBR and wish us luck as we try to combat our reading slumps!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-11-061h 15
Swords & SapphicsAbout Castle Swimmer with Wendy MartinThis week we sit down with Webtoon creator Wendy Martin to chat all things Castle Swimmer! She tells us about how she came to pursue art and storytelling, the differences between Webtoon vs. traditional publishing, and her interest in fantastical sea creatures. Listen to our episode now and then be sure to dive into the first volume of this heartwarming achillean underwater romance! Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-10-2355 min
Swords & SapphicsAbout Best Hex Ever with Nadia El-FassiWe're getting into the autumn spirit this week as we chat with author and commissioning editor Nadia El-Fassi about her brand new steamy bi romantasy, Best Hex Ever. Listen to our latest episode to discover more about how Nadia began writing this perfect, witchy romance, why including Moroccan ties and a unique magic system was important to them, and what may be next for some of the fun side characters! Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-10-0258 min
Bookish & Unbalanced023 - Try Melons - Rachel BowdlerJoin Ami, Katie, & AJ as we interview Rachel Bowdler about IBS, anxiety, autism, and just why she was told "Have you tried melons?"
2024-09-1044 min
Swords & SapphicsQuerying an Agent with Laura BennettFor this week's episode, we were joined by The Liverpool Literary Agency's Laura Bennett. She shared with us how she became a literary agent, what she loves about it and other things about the job, that might come as a surprise to us all. And if you're a writer looking to be represented, you will learn a few tips on how to pick and query an agent!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-08-281h 10
Swords & SapphicsAbout Flogging Faith, romance and kinks with Ali WilliamsThis week, we sit down with the lovely author, editor, and PhD student Ali Williams, also known as Ellie Rose, to talk about her experience of queerness and neurodiversity, and how they are represented alongside romance and kink both in her books and in her studies. We also explore her love of retellings in the Godstouched Universe, from the local myths of her Irish and Italian heritage to Greek pantheons. Her newest work, Flogging Faith, is out this Thursday - don't miss it!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on...
2024-08-141h 11
Swords & SapphicsAbout When Ivy Met Adam with Jennifer J. ColdwaterFor this week's episode we sat down with Jennifer J. Coldwater, the author of When Ivy Met Adam. We chatted about the book (and the strange similarities between book Ivy and our Ivy) and the unusual but wonderful mix of queerness and religion in Jennifer's work.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-07-311h 11
Swords & SapphicsAbout Estella's Revenge with Barbara HavelockeThis week, we sit down with award-winning author, Barbara Havelocke, to chat about her newest novel, Estella's Revenge, which follows the famous Miss Havisham's daughter. We talk all about female rage, genre, and Great Expectations, with insight into how Barbara's background in true crime journalism helps her to step into the powerful shoes of her main character!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-07-1752 min
Swords & SapphicsSwords, Sapphics & Scribbles introducing #CampPrideThis week we properly introduce Swords, Sapphics & Scribbles with the ongoing month-long writing event #CampPride. We also share what we need before sitting down to write our own WIPs and what we do to reward ourselves (because that's always needed).Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-07-031h 03
Swords & SapphicsDearest Gentle ListenerDearest gentle listener, these podcasters have much to say about the newest season of Bridgerton. After a much needed catch up, we share our thoughts on the popular regency show's latest installment, including our love for Nicola Coughlan and the introduction of not one, but two, queer storylines.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-06-191h 14
Swords & SapphicsTalking Crime with Rachel McLeanWe're back after our short break! This week, we bring you an interview with award-winning crime author Rachel McLean. She tells us how she plots her murders (fictional, of course), how she came to write full-time with the Dorset Crime series, and how her own relationship to her sexuality inspired main character DCI Lesley Clarke's journey as a later-in-life lesbian. Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-06-051h 04
Swords & SapphicsSapphics sit down with the LibroriansFor this week's episode we were joined by another podcasting duo – the Librorians! We found out how they started their podcast and what listeners can find when tuning in. They shared what they love about working in a library, but also what it's like these days, especially with all the book bans happening across the US.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-04-2457 min
Swords & SapphicsAbout A Sweet Sting of Salt with Rose SutherlandThis week, we bring you a very exciting episode! We chat about A Sweet Sting of Salt with none other than Rose Sutherland! She told us how this wonderful story came to be, what inspired her writing and perhaps a little tease on what comes next. Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-04-1054 min
Swords & SapphicsMerlina Garance's Achillean Book Bingo 2024In this week's episode, we have a guest you might already be familiar with – Merlina Garance. We chat about their Achillean Book Bingo, what both readers and writers can expect from this wonderful event, and then we share some recommendations!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-03-271h 04
Swords & SapphicsGood Grief, Let’s Get to the Bottoms of ThisFor this week's episode, we've watched two queer movies, Good Grief and Bottoms, and chatted about them! We of course started with a catch-up and ended up spilling some book twitter tea (we also hated on Taylor Swift, so be aware).Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-02-281h 17
Swords & SapphicsSwords & Sorcery with Oliver BrackenburyIn our second episode of the new season, we bring an exciting interview with Oliver Brackenbury, the editor of New Edge Swords & Sorcery magazine. He shares some exciting secrets and lots of his plans for the future, as well as everything readers and fans of the genre can expect next!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-02-141h 05
Swords & SapphicsThird Season's the CharmWE. ARE. BACK! Season 3 is here and we're kicking it off with a catch up. After Rach shows off her Czech vocabulary, she spills lots and lots of tea from the end of last year so get ready for some great laughs. We end the episode by sharing what are our goals and dreams for 2024!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-02-071h 03
Swords & SapphicsHeartstopping NaNoWriMoThis week, after our usual catch-up on what we’re currently enjoying, in which we dive into a conversation about Grey’s (shocker, I know, who could have seen this coming), we share our thoughts on the new season of Heartstopper! Then we chat about NaNoWriMo and how we're doing. And before we say our goodbyes, Rach spills some tea!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-11-0857 min
Swords & SapphicsThe Spooky Time of PreptoberBoo! The scariest time of the year is upon us: preptober. After our usual catch up, we shortly talk about how we get into the Halloween spirit, our small spooky traditions, and our favourite scary media to consume during these weeks. Then we dive into the yearly subject of how we're preparing for NaNoWriMo.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-10-251h 08
Swords & SapphicsThank You For Sharing, Rachel Runya KatzAfter a little break, we're back with quite the exciting episode. This week, we chat with the lovely Rachel Runya Katz, the author of Thank You For Sharing. We talk about her book, what inspired them to write it, and what we can expect from her next!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-10-111h 06Swords & SapphicsWe Put the Spice in NeurospicyThis week we decided to share a secret... Yes, the rumours are true. We're neurodivergent. After our usual catch-up, we talk about how we figured out we're autistic and ADHD respectively and we share how it impacts our life, as well as our media and creative experiences.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-09-061h 18
Swords & SapphicsHistory, huh? They made some.After our usual media catch-up, we share our thoughts on the Red, White & Royal Blue movie and compare this new adaptation to the book by Casey McQuiston. At the end of this episode, we answer some of our listener's questions in a new segment!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-08-231h 02
Swords & SapphicsKeeping up with the Sapphics (again)This is not a drill – we are back! After a small break, we are returning with a new episode in which we simply catch up on all the things we're enjoying. We, of course, close the episode with a little bit of tea to spill and some ongoing drama in the book community.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-08-091h 04Swords & SapphicsMarketing with the SapphicsAfter we catch up on what we're currently enjoying as usual, we dive into what might be a painful subject to some... marketing. In Episode 6, we discussed our writing processes and in Episode 8, we talked about publishing your book. Now it's time to talk about how to market your little brainchild! Ivy offers her expert insights on how to approach marketing and what channels might be the best for you when promoting your story.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for...
2023-05-311h 11Swords & SapphicsPublishing with the SapphicsAfter we catch up on what we're currently enjoying, we dive into the broad subject of publishing. In Episode 6, we discussed our writing processes, but what comes next? Find outwith our published author, Rach, who shares her views and tips on both indie and traditional publishing, and how to get your manuscript ready for readers!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-05-171h 02Swords & SapphicsIt's All Fun and GamesThis week we dived into another activity we enjoy and a subject we mention here and there: gaming. We discuss the games we are currently loving and then head back in time to look at our gaming journey and share what games we loved as kids. The spot of this week's "Forgotten Women in History" belongs to Mary Elizabeth Anderson, the inventor ofwindshield wipers.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-05-031h 08Swords & SapphicsExtra Tea HourExtra Tea Hour is our new episode feature, in which we have a little chat (okay, a rant) about current social media discourse making the rounds, usually within the book community or pop culture. This week, we discuss the varying attitudes towards representation and diversity in literature, discussing what these words really mean to marginalised identities and how hostility within the industry is sometimes misdirected towards individual authors when it comes to marginalisation. We argue that instead of expecting a multitude of representations from one author who is unqualified to write from so many perspectives, we should hold publishers...
2023-04-2639 minSwords & SapphicsWriting with the SapphicsAs always, we catch up with our current reads as well as the shows we’re currently watching. Then, in honour of Camp NaNoWriMo month, we talk about our writing challenges, works in progress, and how we feel about setting our books in places we know well. As usual, random tangents may be included.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-04-191h 12Swords & SapphicsShadow & SadnessWe are back after quite the hiatus! Ivy kicks the episode off with her new segment in whichshe introduces a woman forgotten in history, then as usual, we catch up on what we're currently consuming. Rach tells us all about the Indie Author Spring Festival about which youcan find more details in our article before we dive into Netflix's new season of Shadow and Bone! We discuss the made disservice to the characters and how rushing storylines is never really a good idea.Last but not least, Ivy spills some Selena Gomez x Hailey Bieber tea and takes over Rach's attempts at promoting her new book Summer at the Scottish...
2023-04-051h 11
Explore the Latest Full Audiobooks in Romance, LGBTQ+Summer at the Scottish Castle: a totally heart-warming and uplifting romance to escape with this summer by Rachel BowdlerPlease visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/655519 to listen full audiobooks. Title: Summer at the Scottish Castle: a totally heart-warming and uplifting romance to escape with this summer Author: Rachel Bowdler Narrator: Imogen Church Format: Unabridged Audiobook Length: 15 hours 0 minutes Release date: April 4, 2023 Ratings: Ratings of Book: 2 of Total 2 Genres: LGBTQ+ Publisher's Summary: A Scottish castle. A summer escape. A love story that could change her life forever... It's always been expected of Jessamine Byron to settle down with someone her family would approve of. But Jess is tired of living a lie. When her so-called perfect life as the...
2023-04-0505 minSwords & SapphicsDon't Make Fan Accounts of Ted BundyBuckle in, because it’s a busy one this week! Catch up with what we’re enjoying at the moment, and then listen to us diveinto the issues surrounding TV and movie adaptations of recent true crime and celebrity stories, focusing on the way real-life trauma is used, glamorised, and exploited to generate profit by big-name productions such as with Pam and Tommy,Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, and Blonde. Content WarningsStrong language, and discussions of murder, rape, and death.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more informa
2023-02-221h 11Swords & SapphicsSapphic Stories Confined by HistoryThis week we take a look at a few historical movies centered around sapphic relationships. We discuss how most of these movies rely on the patriarchal and puritanical restrictions of the period to build a story of forbidden love, acknowledging that while female sexuality and lesbianism is a powerful transgression, we also deserve contemporary stories of queer joy, love, and acceptance.At the end, Ivy spills some tea from the world of book twitter which inevitably sends both of us on yet another rant about book pirating and how it can affect people's livelihood.
2023-02-151h 07Swords & SapphicsTea for Three with Rebecca ThorneThis week we're bringing you an interview with Rebecca Thorne, author of cosy fantasy Can't Spell Treason without Tea, for which you can read our review here. We've been sitting on thisgem for a while and we're over the moon to be able to share it with you now too. We chatted in depth about Rebecca's book, her inspiration and writing process and some other projects she's planning on blessing us with.While Ivy might not have any tea to spill this week, we did go on a little rant involving authors and reviews. Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.
2023-02-081h 02Swords & SapphicsWelcome to twenty-twenty-teaWe’re back — and with lots of new updates! In our first podcast of 2023, we catch up on what books and shows we’ve been enjoying recently, and then dive into the most recent drama surrounding the book community (spoiler alert: there’s a lot). From an author faking their death to an It Ends With Us colouring book, January has already given us plenty of strange and not-so-wonderful topics to rant about, so if you’re behind on the latest social media incidents, this is the place to learn things about authors, books, and discourse against your will.B...
2023-02-011h 02Swords & SapphicsIn the Event of Queermas with Courtney KaeIf you keep up with the queer reading community, you will have seen Courtney Kae's In The Event of Love already, and we're so excited that, for our final day of Queermas, we got to sit down and talk to the wonderful author behind Rachel and Morgan's snowy love story. We discuss traditions and inspirations in this special episode, and also explore thedifficulties that come with being a queer author in an open discussion about Courtney's experiences. Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-12-2153 minSwords & SapphicsThe Queermas Catch with Clare LydonToday, we're here with our third Queermas podcast episode, this time with best-selling romance author Clare Lydon, whohas published over twenty sapphic books, including The Christmas Catch and Christmas in Mistletoe. Listen to us talkabout festive joy in fiction, Clare's impressive writing career, and also her own podcast, Lesbians Who Write!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-12-1857 minSwords & SapphicsBus Ticket Queermas with Imogen Markwell-TweedWe're already halfway through Queermas, and today we have another special guest episode - this time with ImogenMarkwell-Tweed, author of over twenty queer romance novellas. Imogen's work promises cosy baking scenes and low-stake plotlines, and at Christmas, with her fake dating story Bus Ticket Baby, what could be better? Listen to us talk aboutpregnant protagonists, sexy Christmas ghosts, and Imogen's future projects now! Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-12-1550 minSwords & SapphicsMake You Mine This Queermas with Lizzie Huxley-JonesOn the third day of Queermas the sapphics gave to me... a very special Queermas episode with Make You Mine ThisChristmas author, Lizzie Huxley-Jones (try fitting that into one verse!). Lizzie tells us about their experience andinspirations behind their wonderful, festive laugh-out-loud romance, from their sapphic twist on the fake dating trope, tochasing a baby reindeer through a Christmas market, to their plans for Book Two. You can also expect insight into writingdisabled and autistic characters, and to hear about Lizzie's festive favourites and 2023 book recs!We also sit down to talk about Ivy's festive Czech traditions — which may or may not involve fish scales. Theme song: Forces of Attracti...
2022-12-1250 minSwords & SapphicsA Stabby Halloween Special: Ghosts and GuestsMuahahahaha! Happy Halloween, stabby sapphics! To get in the spooky spirit, we had our very first guests on the podcastthis week: up first, author Wendy Dalrymple talks all about her gothic-inspired horror stories, including her newestreleases, Roser Park and Don’t Read This or you Might Die. Then we chat to P.K. Reeves about her new urban fantasynovel, Vampire Magic, which is the second book in the Lineage Series. We also talk about our favourite Halloween go-tosand share some exciting news with our listeners - so be sure to stay tuned until the end, boos, and if you haven’t already,check out Wendy and P.K’s books! Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Sco
2022-10-311h 18Swords & SapphicsMy Heart Suffered a Lot... It Was AmazingJoin us this week for a good old catch-up about everything we’ve been loving recently, including Apple TV+ dramas and a lot of books! We then ask “What’s the tea, Ivy?” and discuss current subjects such as even more friction in fiction, the Try Guys, Kanye West, and the lack of fat representation in media.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-10-271h 16Swords & SapphicsFriction in FictionThis week, we discuss all things publishing, including the strained dynamic between readers and authors in online spaces, the ramifications of piracy on indie authors’ livelihoods, and the drawbacks of traditional publishing.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-10-081h 04Swords & SapphicsLet's Be Real: The Ongoing Fight for Freedom in IranThis week we return with another Let’s Be Real episode, where we discuss the protests and restrictions of bodily autonomy following the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who was arrested by “morality police” in Tehran after being accused of violating laws that require women to cover their hair with a hijab and their bodies with loose clothing. We also examine the weaponisation of religion and the worldwide restriction of women’s bodily autonomy.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-09-2828 minSwords & SapphicsDo Norse Gods Not Have ShampooWe analyse the idea of ‘false activism’ by looking at a range of celebrities and how they choose to use their platform. Before that, we catch up on all things film, TV, and literature and ask “What’s the tea, Ivy?”, our newest segment surrounding the latest celebrity gossip.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-09-2255 minSwords & SapphicsLet's Be Real: Elizabeth the Great... ColoniserThis week, we return with our second Let’s Be Real episode, discussing the conflicting reactions spurred by the recent death of Queen Elizabeth II and why ignoring the royal institution’s role in colonisation, poverty, and other social ills becomes a problem not just in recognising global history, particularly surrounding people of colour, but also the ignorance perpetuated in present day. Before that, we catch up on all things film, TV, and literature and ask “What’s the tea, Ivy?”, our newest segment surrounding the latest celebrity gossip, dealing with the strange fallout of Venice Film Festival.Them...
2022-09-141h 15Swords & SapphicsMaybe the Ancient Greeks Were Hella GayThis week, we introduce a new segment named “What’s the tea, Ivy?” where Ivy updates us on recent Tik Tok and media industry drama. She tells us all about the hidden conflict surrounding new movie Don’t Worry Darling, Netflix’s Bridgerton lawsuits, and pious adaptations of musicals Hamilton and The Greatest Showman. We then discuss the Ancient Greek poetess, Sappho, exploring how male and female scholars’ perspectives of the ambiguous figure differ and analyse verses that became the reason why the queer term ‘sapphic’ was derived from her name.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes...
2022-09-0739 minSwords & SapphicsKeeping up with the SapphicsOur newest episode is about... us. We talk about the shows we're enjoying, the books we're loving and much more.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-08-3154 minSwords & SapphicsNetflix Owes Us TherapyThis week, we watched new Netflix movie Purple Hearts and discussed the harmful romanticisation of the relationship between a liberal woman and a conservative man. Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-08-241h 01Swords & SapphicsThe Poetry of Villanelle II.In our newest episode we once again dive into our favorite show – Killing Eve! We go into detail while discussing episode three and four of season one and we share our thoughts about the show, the representation and more, so be aware of the spoilers!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-07-271h 01Swords & SapphicsFuck the PatriarchyThis week we've dissected the portrayals of female friendships and queer representation in the media, what they mean to us and what we're missing.Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-07-131h 03Swords & SapphicsWomen Don't Have to Be Pretty, Especially When They Are GreenThis week we talk about the iconic fictional women who shaped us when we were growing up, and those we look up to now.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-07-061h 02Swords & SapphicsThe Poetry of VillanelleIn our second episode we dive into our favorite show – Killing Eve! We go into detail while discussing episode one and two of season one and we share why we love the show and some of our favorite moments so be aware of the spoilers!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-06-2958 minSwords & SapphicsLet's Be Real: No Uterus, No OpinionWe introduce our new feature, "Let's Be Real," a sporadic spin-off where we discuss the impact of current events. This week, we address the overturning of Roe v Wade in the US Supreme Court and the consequences this has on people seeking abortions.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-06-261h 02
The Broke BookwormEp. 2: Partners in CrimeHello listeners! On episode 2 of the podcast, a special Pride Month edition episode, I discuss and review "Partners in Crime", a sapphic romance/mystery novella written by Rachel Bowdler. If you read this book, tell me what you thought! Share your comments on my Facebook page, or respond to the Spotify poll!
You can find more info about Rachel and her books at her website here: https://rachelbowdler.co.uk/
If you'd like to see what other books I'm reading, check me out on Goodreads! https://www.goodreads.com/broke_bookworm
2022-06-2331 minSwords & SapphicsTwo Women's Wrongs Make a RightWe kick off our brand new Sapphics & Swords podcast show with conversations about queer and plus-size representation surrounding First Kill, Olivia Dade books, and more, and discuss our own experiences with sexuality, queer media, and what we’re avidly consuming this week! Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-06-2037 min
WJMS SpeakerboxEp 9 - Police Brutality and PoliticsTonight on Speakerbox, Rachel-Kate Bowdler discusses one of the most prominent issues facing society this past year: police brutality and politics. Download TuneIn to listen at 6pm
2021-04-0930 min
WJMS SpeakerboxEp 8 - Art in Politics by Rachel-Kate BowdlerOn this episode of Speakerbox, former WJMS intern Rachel-Kate Bowdler discusses art and politics. Mainly, how art has facilitated political movements and been the expression of the people!
Tune in to Speakerbox every Thursday at 6pm on WJMS to hear intern-inspired commentary about what is important to THEM!
2021-03-2520 min
WJMS SpeakerboxEp. 6 - Voter SuppressionTonight on Speakerbox, Rachel-Kate Bowdler and Aklima Kohndoker discuss the upcoming voting bill, ways in which voter suppression is happening, and how to combat it in your community.Download TuneIn to listen
2021-03-0434 min
WJMS SpeakerboxEp. 4 - Women in PoliticsOn this episode of Speakerbox, Rachel-Kate Bowdler speaks with Sarah Holden about some of the most prominent and influential women in political history. Tune in at 6pm to hear these ladies discuss the impact of Vice President Kamala Harris, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and more.For new and varied content, tune in ever Thursday at 6pm EST
2021-02-0433 min
Check This Out with Rachel BarenbaumEp 34 Michelle Bowdler: IS RAPE A CRIME?Episode 34 Michelle Bowdler: IS RAPE A CRIME? Rachel Barenbaum interviews Michelle Bowdler about her new memoir. It is a personal story, an investigation and a memoir. It will blow you away.
2020-10-2712 min