Shows
A Couple Guys ReadingHeir of Fire (Ch. 36–68): To Purr, or Not to PurrWe survived Heir of Fire—barely. In this episode, we tackle the slow start, the suddenly NASCAR-paced second half, and the very real problem of every man in this book purring. We talk cousin love, messiah complexes, flying witches, bubble battles, and the unkillable fantasy dog. Plus: why the ending felt like a CW fever dream, and what it means when your protagonist is too perfect to care about.Also featuring:Star Wars tangentsBelow Deck fanficYA fantasy scorecardsAnd our next read: Train Dreams by Denis Johnson.2025-05-0745 minA Couple Guys ReadingHeir of Fire (Ch. 1–35): Rowan is Hot, She's Mary Sue, Dorian's Got Magic, and Chaol BroodsChapters 1–35 of Heir of Fire are in the books, and we're here to talk trauma bonding, wyvern ethics, and why the witches are carrying the narrative weight. We break down the endless setup, the purr count (eight, if you're asking), and whether Celaena is a queen or just a YA fever dream. Also: Rowan might be Tarzan, Chaol broods, and yes—we have strong opinions about fantasy maps. Welcome back to Couple Guys Reading, the only podcast brave enough to compare East of Eden to a Sarah J. Maas novel.Watch the Episode on YouTube!2025-04-2346 minA Couple Guys ReadingHeir of Fire Predictions: Secret Princes, Jungle Spas, and Total NonsenseIn this episode of A Couple Guys Reading, Sam and Tex dive into Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas, cracking jokes and swapping predictions like fantasy football picks. They revisit the reading order debate around Assassin’s Blade, compare the series to Star Wars and Narnia, and reflect on Sarah J. Maas’s tendency to make her heroine, Celaena Sardothien, the best at everything. With deadpan takes and affectionate jabs at the fantasy genre, they lay out wild theories—from Fey love interests turning out to be evil overlords, to inexplicable spas in ancient kingdoms—all while keeping the vibe...2025-04-0926 minA Couple Guys ReadingPalate Cleanser: East of Eden by John SteinbeckAfter a long run of romantasy, we needed a breather. So for this palate cleanser episode, we picked up East of Eden by John Steinbeck.It’s a book that feels bigger than itself—family, legacy, good and evil, the whole deal. We talk about what hit us, what surprised us, and how somehow this 20th-century novel about California farmers felt more intense than half the fantasy battles we’ve read.No fae in this one. Just some deeply human stuff and a lot of thoughts we didn’t expect to have.Sam ref...2025-03-2635 minA Couple Guys ReadingCrown of Midnight (ch. 30-56): Celaena Is Fae Not BaeThis week, Sam and Tex return to Crown of Midnight, diving into Chapters 30-56! As Celaena Sardothien’s journey intensifies, so do the stakes, with twists and turns that push her to the brink.In this episode, we’ll delve into the escalating tension at court, dissect the evolving relationships, and peel back the layers of secrets emerging from the shadows. From high-stakes missions to surprising alliances, there’s a lot to cover—without spoiling anything, of course.Join us as we break down Celaena’s path, toss around some wild theories, and share our usual bant...2024-10-0933 minA Couple Guys ReadingCrown of Midnight (ch. 1-29): Baba O'YellowlegsThis week, Sam and Tex are back to dive into Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas, covering the first half of the book! Celaena Sardothien’s world gets even more intense as she takes on new missions and faces increasingly complex challenges.In this episode, we’ll unpack the growing tension within the castle walls, explore the relationships that are shifting in unexpected ways, and dig into the mysteries that are starting to unravel. From dangerous assignments to intriguing alliances, there’s plenty to discuss without giving anything away.Join us as we break down C...2024-09-1836 minA Couple Guys ReadingCrown of Midnight Predictions: Fantasy Draft ShowdownIn this special preview episode, Tex and Sam dive into the world of Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas—only this time, we're doing it Fantasy Draft style! We’re boldly predicting the twists, turns, and swoon-worthy moments that Maas is sure to throw our way. Will Celaena embrace her destiny or continue to guard her secrets? Who will come out on top in the brewing love triangle between Chaol and Dorian? And what dark forces are lurking behind the castle walls, ready to wreak havoc? Join us as we draft our top picks for what we think (or h...2024-09-1132 minA Couple Guys ReadingThrone of Glass (Ch. 30-55): DORIAN STINKS AND HE IS THE WORSTThis week, Sam and Tex are back to discuss the latest twists and turns in Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas, covering chapters 30 through 55. Things are heating up for Celaena Sardothien as she faces new challenges, both on and off the battlefield.In this episode, we’ll explore the mounting tension within the castle, the deepening relationships that could change everything, and the dark secrets lurking just beneath the surface. From dangerous trials to unexpected alliances, these chapters are packed with moments that will keep you on the edge of your seat.Join us as...2024-08-2239 minA Couple Guys ReadingThrone of Glass (Ch. 1-29): To All the Boys I've Killed BeforeThis week, Sam and Tex are diving into a world of magic, assassins, and, yes, intense palace drama with Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas. And while we might not be the typical target audience for a fantasy novel featuring a fierce female assassin deciding betwixt two lovers, we’re here to give you our take on the first half of this epic saga.Join us as we unravel the story of Celaena Sardothien, a notorious assassin who’s gone from the salt mines to the palace. We’ll tackle the thrilling competition that tests her skills...2024-08-1539 minA Couple Guys ReadingIntroducing Our Next Book: Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas!Hey there, book enthusiasts! We’re Sam and Tex, and we’re kicking off our new podcast with a deep dive into the enchanting world of Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas. We’re here to give you our unfiltered take on the series that’s got everyone talking.In this introductory episode, we’ll set the stage for our journey through Celaena Sardothien’s world—an assassin’s playground full of magic, royal intrigue, and, yes, plenty of intense training montages. We’ll give you a sneak peek into what’s coming up in our exploration of the f...2024-08-0829 minA Couple Guys ReadingPalate Cleanser: The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest HemingwayBetween books, we like to "cleanse our palates" by sharing a book that means a lot to us. This week, Tex has chosen the winner of the 1953 Pulitzer Prize, The Old Man and the Sea by Earnest Hemingway. Set against the backdrop of the Cuban coast, Hemingway's masterpiece immerses readers in the poignant tale of Santiago, an aging fisherman, as he grapples with the enduring struggle between man and nature, courage and defeat.Throughout the episode, Sam and Tex engage in a thoughtful discussion, dissecting the rich tapestry of themes woven into Hemingway's prose. From t...2024-05-3033 minA Couple Guys ReadingFourth Wing Recap (with Amanda McIntyre)We're wrapping up Fourth Wing and we've invited our friend Amanda, who introduced Sam to the series, to talk about the book, the phenomenon and Amanda even gives some recomendations for our next book! Connect with Amanda Amanda references the Real Life Book Reviewer 2024-05-1535 minA Couple Guys ReadingFourth Wing (ch. 31-39): There's Something About XadenYou won't want to miss out on the excitement that's about to unfold! The story of Violet, Xaden, and their friends is just heating up, and you don't want to be left out in the cold. With new books being released and rumors of even more on the horizon, the adventure is just beginning. But before the VENIN problems take hold, there's a banquet to attend and war games to play. You'll be on the edge of your seat as Tex and Sam express their frustrations and share what they loved about the book.Video explainer of...2024-04-2438 minA Couple Guys ReadingFourth Wing (ch. 26-30): What Happens in Montserrat, Stays in MontserratToday's episode features a discussion of content in the book that features sexual content, discretion is advised. Join Tex and Sam on the latest episode of their podcast as they embark on a thrilling discussion of chapters 26-30 of "Fourth Wing" by Rebecca Yarros. In this episode, listeners are taken on a whirlwind journey as Violet Sorrengail travels to Montserrat, reunites with her sister, and finds herself entangled in a confusing, romantic encounter with Xaden.Back at Basgiath War College, tensions rise as war games unfold, and Violet discovers her latent signet powers. But t...2024-04-1051 minA Couple Guys ReadingFourth Wing (ch. 21-25): Sleepless in NavarreTex and Sam are on the case, unraveling the latest escapades in "Fourth Wing" by Rebecca Yarros in Chapters 21-25. Brace yourselves for the steamy encounter between Violet and Xaden. Meanwhile, Violet faces off with her mortal enemy, Jack, on the sparring mat. And just when you think things can't get crazier, the gang decides a heist into Violet's mom's office is a brilliant idea – because what's family drama without a touch of breaking and entering? Join the laughter, chaos, and BookTok book talk as Tex and Sam navigate the wild ride of romantic fantasy gone rogue.2024-03-0639 minA Couple Guys ReadingFourth Wing (ch. 16-20): Tairn Up My HeartWe continue our epic journey through Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros. Join Tex and Sam as they discuss the latest chapters, 16-20, of this romantic fantasy (or "Romantasy"). They dive into Violet Sorrengail's growing relationship with Tairn, her dragon, and all the JUICY drama surrounding Dain Aetos and Xaden Riorson. Of course, they can't help but throw in their own hilarious commentary and witty banter along the way. So, grab your copy of Fourth Wing and join the guys for some laughs and BookTok book talk.2024-02-2143 minA Couple Guys ReadingFourth Wing (ch. 11-15): A Dragon Called OveSam didn't read chapter 15, so Tex reads the climactic scene for a LIVE REACTION. Ooooh the drama! The guys also discuss Jack as a character, have a literary discussion and of course WE. MEET. SOME. DRAGONS. 2024-02-0738 minA Couple Guys ReadingFourth Wing (ch. 6-10): 10 Things I Hate About DainOur journey continues! Violet hits the sparring mat! Dain is annoying! And are we going to learn something new about the mysterious Xaden Riorson? 2024-01-2445 minA Couple Guys ReadingFourth Wing (ch. 1-5): When Violet Met XadenSo it begins! Violet Sorrengail enters Basgiath War College! 2024-01-1746 minA Couple Guys ReadingFourth Wing: Introduction & PredictionsThe journey begins! Today we're introducing the show, as well as our first book: Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros. We will discuss the "It Book" phenomenon of this book as well as offer some predictions. Whether you're a fan of the book or your wife is, there's something for everyone. Here's what the book with the black pages looks like.2024-01-1727 minA Couple Guys ReadingFourth Wing (ch. 1-5): When Violet Met XadenSo it begins! Violet arrives at Basgiath War College and all hell breaks loose! As it will in our show! This podcast may discuss some content from the book that might not be suitable for young ears. 2024-01-1746 minA Couple Guys ReadingTrailer: Let's Read Fourth WingWelcome to a Couple Guys Reading, a podcast where we read the "It" book. In this episode, our hosts, Sam and Tex, preview our first book: Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros. 2024-01-1008 min