Shows
Reading & RantingIntroducing R&R Seasons + Summer Break Update!Hey besties, Karly and Mia have an exciting announcement for y'all! Reading & Ranting is officially announcing seasons - and this is the official end to Season 1! The girls are taking a brief hiatus to come back bigger and better than ever with more book recs, life updates, tips on how to survive life as a girl in your 20s, and of course, endless SJM and Rebecca Yarros content. With Season 2 on the horizon (coming to all podcast platforms soon!), please keep in touch on TikTok @readingandrantingpod and send through ALL the book recs! Until then, happy reading besties!
2025-05-1502 minReading & RantingGreat Big Beautiful Life Deep DiveIn today's episode, Karly and Mia are diving deep into A Great Big Beautiful Life, the brand-new release from their favorite rom-com author, Emily Henry. Honestly, enough said there - full spoilers ahead for this debrief of Henry's latest book (and yet another 5-star hit)!
2025-05-021h 00Reading & RantingIs Dating Rigged?Your favorite podcast hosts are spiraling over how dating in your 20s seriously feels like a man’s world. Why is it that guys can go on three dates and end up in a relationship, while the most beautiful, emotionally intelligent women they know are out here getting ghosted by men whose best Hinge prompt is “What I order for the table: tequila”?
Mia & Karly break down the frustrating state of modern dating, the societal pressure to be “chosen,” and how organic meet-cutes have essentially died off. The girls also chat about shifting their mindsets, dating with more inten...
2025-04-2535 minReading & RantingPitching A Book To A Friend Part 2Mia & Karly are back and swapping book recs like it’s their full-time job (they wish it was)! This week, Karly dives into People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry, because who doesn’t love a good friends-to-lovers moment? Meanwhile, Mia’s bringing the spice with Heavenly Bodies, the latest romantasy sensation trending on BookTok. The girls also catch up on life updates, including Mia’s recent induction into the 25 and up club and their mission to upgrade their bar scene, because let’s be real, 23 and 25 are not the same, and they’re officially done getting hit on by 22-yea...
2025-04-1949 minReading & Ranting25 at 25 - Life Lessons from BooksIt’s Mia’s birthday, and she’s turning 25 in the most on-brand way possible - by making it about books. In this special solo episode, she reflects on 25 life lessons she's learned through books, from childhood fables to dystopian rebels to 20th century classics and ultimately, faeries.
Whether you're in your mid twenties or just remembering your own quarter-life crisis fondly, this episode is for anyone who's ever turned to a book to figure out life, or at least cry about it.
And the lesson of the episode? You’re never too old to be shaped...
2025-04-1242 minReading & RantingSJM Rankings & Defrosting for SpringOkay besties, time for a heated debate… Mia & Karly are dropping their official Sarah J. Maas book rankings! In this episode, the girls rank all 16 books from Throne of Glass, A Court of Thorns and Roses, and Crescent City, comparing their favorites (and least favorites) and discussing the plot points that made them scream, cry, and throw the books across the room. You might just be surprised by what book ends up on top for both Mia & Karly…
Plus, the girls are ranting about how NYC just had its first 80-degree day, Aries season is in full swin...
2025-04-0445 minReading & RantingReading & Life Updates (Karly is Back from Down Under)Karly is finally back from her incredible two week trip to Australia! Now that the besties and co hosts are reunited, they’re here to tell all about their latest reads and life updates. Karly has lots to share about her trip down under (inclusive of blackout uber eatsing $80 worth of drunk eats and waking up at 5am on her friend’s couch) and Mia has a new frenemies relationship with a dive bar bartender. Happy reading besties!
2025-03-281h 07Reading & RantingTaylor Swift By The Book Pt. 2 (Lover - TTPD)Besties, welcome back for part two of Mia’s deep dive into Taylor Swift’s literary influences! With Karly still off living her best life in Australia, Mia takes the mic solo to continue unpacking the insights from Taylor Swift By The Book: The Literature Behind the Lyrics, From Fairy Tales to Tortured Poets by Rachel Feder and Tiffany Tatreau.
This time, she’s covering the emotional rollercoaster of Lover, the poetic heartbreak of Folklore and Evermore, the gothic depths of Midnights, and the raw vulnerability of The Tortured Poets Department. From sentimentalism to postmodernism, Mia explores how Tay...
2025-03-141h 24Reading & RantingTaylor Swift By The Book Pt. 1 (Debut - Reputation)It’s been a long time coming… Karly may be off living her Wildest Dreams in Australia, but Mia is here with a solo episode topic she’s been waiting for: Taylor Swift. Inspired by Taylor Swift By The Book: The Literature Behind the Lyrics, From Fairy Tales to Tortured Poets by Rachel Feder and Tiffany Tatreau, Mia unpacks the literary influences behind Taylor’s discography, one era at a time.
This book offers a fascinating lens through which to analyze Taylor’s evolution as both a songwriter and a storyteller. Mia found herself learning new vocab words from...
2025-03-0753 minReading & RantingPsychoanalyzing Xaden & the Existential Crisis of Choosing a CityMia & Karly are still deep in their Onyx Storm hangover, so naturally, it’s time for a full-blown therapy session psychoanalyzing Xaden Riorson. The girls discuss his mommy and daddy issues, his self-sacrificing streak, and his relationship with Violet. But let’s be honest, they’re really just here to swoon over yet another shadow daddy book boyfriend. Spoilers for Onyx Storm are included in this episode!
Based on a real life conversation held last weekend on Mia’s couch, the girls are rehashing the dilemma of where the hell to move next. As single twenty-something women, the worl...
2025-02-2154 minReading & RantingHow to Cure Your Onyx Storm HangoverKarly & Mia are here to save you from that post-Onyx Storm book hangover! If you’re still reeling from the emotional rollercoaster and just can't seem to recover, don’t worry—the girls have got you covered with some romantasy recommendations that'll have you out of your reading slump and back on your feet. There’s nothing quite like a hair of the dog (i.e., treating your post romantasy book depression with another post romantasy book depression).
The girls also are giving a real time life update, but don’t expect too much. Sometimes life is just… borin...
2025-02-1548 minReading & RantingOnyx Storm Reactions & Deep DiveFULL Spoilers for the Empyrean series by Rebecca Yarros!
Cadets, welcome to Battle Brief! Mia, Karly & book bestie Gill are here to break down Onyx Storm, sharing their raw reactions to the book. But most importantly, it’s time to break out the tin foil hats because it’s time to theorize. What really happened in the missing 12 hours? Who turned venin? And what the literal f*ck was Papa Sorrengail doing? The girls somehow came out of this book with even more questions than answers (but did get a few new ideas about how to use an a...
2025-02-051h 38Reading & RantingSurviving January & The Year of Dramione2025 is already off to a chaotic start, but at least the Dramione girlies are winning! This year, three iconic fics are getting traditionally published (The Auction → Rose in Chains, DMATMOBIL → Irresistible Urge to Fall for Your Enemy, Manacled → Alchemised), and Karly & Mia are gnawing at the bars of their enclosure to get their hands on these bad boys.
Meanwhile, January is being January. TikTok got banned, LA was on fire, Dry January tested our limits (edibles don’t count, right?), and the NYC weather gaslit us into thinking 40 degrees is “warm.” To survive, the girls are straight up hibernatin...
2025-01-3148 minReading & RantingOnyx Storm TheoriesIT’S TIIIIIIIIIME!! Karly & Mia (along with book bestie Gill) are headed back to Basgiath War College to celebrate the upcoming release of Onyx Storm on January 21st! They kick things off with recaps of Fourth Wing and Iron Flame, revisiting the unforgettable moments that introduced us to Violet, her dragons Tairn and Andarna, and everyone’s favorite dragon riding shadow daddy, Xaden Riorson himself.
Mia, the resident theory master, has been preparing for this book like an AP Navarrian History test. The girls unleash their most elaborate theories about what’s coming next in Onyx Storm. Could V...
2025-01-151h 21Reading & RantingCurrent Reads & 2025 Ins and OutsHey besties, Karly & Mia are reunited at last (AKA going 3 weeks without seeing each other) and are recapping their current reads. The girls could not be on more different vibes as Mia continues to tackle Romantasy books, and Karly has found herself in a LGBTQ hockey romance wormhole. Sound… interesting? Listen in and get some inspiration for your 2025 TBR!
They’re also ranting about their 2025 ins and outs, which include but are not limited to drunk cigs, dry January, and QR code menus. They’ll see you guys at the end of the year to recap what stayed...
2025-01-1057 minReading & RantingMia's 2024 Best Reads & Lessons LearnedIn this solo episode, Mia kicks off 2025 by reflecting on her top 10 reads of 2024 and the lessons that shaped her year.
She’s dropping short and sweet spoiler-free reviews of her standout books, including 6 romantasy reads, 3 rom coms, and even 1 memoir (thank you Drew Afualo!) Oh, and here’s your annual reminder to switch from Goodreads to The StoryGraph for all your book tracking needs in 2025!
Mia also opens up about the personal growth she experienced in 2024, from learning to live intentionally and embracing financial mindfulness to building new friendships and setting boundaries. Happy new year...
2025-01-0330 minReading & RantingHoliday Movies & Euro Trip RecapThe holidays are here, and Karly & Mia are bringing you the ultimate cozy-girl movie list for the season. The girls break down their must-watch holiday favorites from Elf (watched a thousand times, and still iconic) to the slightly terrifying Polar Express and the nostalgic chaos of The Grinch.
Karly & Mia are also recapping their first international girls trip together and let’s just say it was giving… chaotic 20-somethings on a budget. From arriving to their hostel and spontaneously upgrading to an Airbnb to getting swindled by a bartender, they learned some life lessons the hard way. Edinb...
2024-12-201h 07Reading & RantingThe Bindle Punk Duology with Author Desideria MesaReading & Ranting is making history with its first-ever author guest, Desideria Mesa! Desi, the brilliant mind behind the Bindle Punk Duology (Bindle Punk Bruja and Bindle Punk Jefe), joins Mia & Karly to share her journey as a writer and the inspiration behind her books.
Set in the roaring 1920s, the series follows Luna Alvarado, a Mexican-American Bruja navigating Kansas City’s bootlegging scene, blending magic, mobsters, and feminism with themes of identity and empowerment.
Don’t miss this fascinating conversation about history, culture, and the magic (pun intended) behind the Bindle Punk world. Follow Desi on In...
2024-12-1349 minReading & RantingDramione Recs & Dealing with LonelinessHey besties, we've got another solo episode for you today! Karly is taking the reins on this one, diving deep into her longstanding addiction—Dramione fanfiction! If you love Draco Malfoy and Hermione Granger together (or even if you're just curious), you're in for a treat. This episode is part two of her Dramione recs, with everything from angsty novels to fluffy one-shots.
Karly also opens up about the very real struggles of dealing with loneliness, especially as we head into the colder months. While loneliness is something we all grapple with at some point, it can fee...
2024-12-0626 minReading & RantingWinter TBRs & Addictive PersonalitiesMia & Karly are back from their one-week hiatus to Europe (we missed you besties!) to help you update your Goodreads and build your winter TBR. Between new releases like The Songbird and the Heart of Stone and upcoming ones (*cough* Onyx Storm) the list is truly miles long. They’re also dropping hints about some hot ARCs they’re reading (don’t worry, no spoilers... yet).
And in true chaotic R&R fashion, the girls are ranting about their addictive personalities. When they set their mind to something, they fully commit, whether its binging Outlander or heaving one to...
2024-11-3034 minReading & RantingThe 2024 U.S. Presidential Election: Our ThoughtsWaking up as a woman in this country last week was… difficult to say the least. Karly & Mia are here to offer up their thoughts, feelings, and straight up grief following the results of the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election.
Please note: This episode reflects our personal opinions, thoughts, and feelings. The views expressed are our own, and we're sharing our perspectives in the hopes of fostering an open and safe space for women navigating these challenging times.
We launched this podcast with the goal of finding others who read to cope with life in their twen...
2024-11-1526 minReading & RantingReading BookTok Books So You Don’t Have To Part 2Please note: this episode was planned and recorded before the results of the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election. While we are still processing the events of this past week, like so many of you, reading offers us an escape. This week, we want to ensure our podcast remains a safe space for our community and those looking to discuss books with a little humor. While this episode’s rant section discusses dating and men with funny anecdotes, we will be back next week with more thoughts.
We launched this podcast with the goal of finding others who read to...
2024-11-0854 minReading & RantingSJM Subplots & Single Girl RightsDo any of these Sarah J. Maas quotes live in your head rent-free?
“He never married. And even when he was an old man, I’d sometimes see him sitting on that front porch. As if he were waiting for someone.”
“The next day, the theater was closed by royal decree, and no one saw the musicians or conductor again.
“Who cares what my father does to me?”
If so, you’ve come to the right place. Karly & Mia are diving into the most hurtful SJM subplots aka small moments that had them screaming, crying, and throwing up. From Asterin...
2024-11-0154 minReading & RantingAudiobook Virgins & Adulting 101Did you know fan-made audiobooks of Dramione fanfics exist? Well, Karly does. Recently, your favorite podcast hosts have been dipping their toes into the world of audiobooks. So far, they seem like the perfect solution when you want to read, but also fold laundry, do a craft, or pretend to be productive at the office. We’re breaking down why audiobooks are suddenly everywhere and how they’ve turned us into multitasking queens.
Getting back to the roots of this podcast, the girls are ranting about adulting 101. Karly & Mia are here to unpack the struggles no one prep...
2024-10-2550 minReading & RantingFlesh & Fire Series by Jennifer Armentrout Deep DiveToday, the girls welcome their best friend Gillian—a fellow book bestie and Karly’s childhood best friend! Yes, if you remember Karly talking about her Percabeth fanfiction and Harry Potter obsessed confidante, that is indeed Gill. Together, they dive deep into all four books of Jennifer Armentrout’s Flesh and Fire series. While they butcher the pronunciation of every character and location (sorry, we can’t get behind Seraphena’s name being pronounced SEE-raphena) the girls can't help but rave about the captivating characters and steamy scenes that kept them hooked. However, with the extensive world-building and the series’ ro...
2024-10-1848 minReading & RantingHow To Be a Better Reader & Why Romantasy Is Redefining Women’s StandardsMia & Karly are here to help you go from “I wish I could read more” to “I accidentally read a 700-page romantasy in one day and now I need therapy.” Whether you're looking to become a reading girly or just want to stop doomscrolling before bed, the girls have all the tips and tricks to get you into reading.
Inspired by Mia’s recent viral TikTok, the girls are ready to rant about how romance books like Sarah J. Maas’ are fueling a cultural reset. Call it faerie porn all you want, but millions of women are setting high...
2024-10-1142 minReading & RantingClassics for Fall… GroundbreakingWhile fantasy fall has officially kicked off, it’s time to take a step back and dive into the timeless works of classic literary giants like Charlotte Brontë and Jane Austen for those crisp fall days. Karly & Mia explore how these classics encapsulate the essence of autumn, from moody atmospheres to heartwarming romances. Grab your Nicole Kidman cardigan and a steaming cup of hot tea (or sauv blanc) for an autumnal read when you need a cozy night in.
But it’s not only about the fall vibes; for today’s rant, the girls will unleash several thoughts...
2024-10-0437 minReading & RantingWhen the Moon Hatched & One Year of R&RIn this special anniversary episode of Reading & Ranting, Karly & Mia are celebrating their one-year milestone by diving into a spoiler-free discussion of When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker, a beautifully crafted fantasy romance novel that captivated them with its beautiful prose, stabby FMC, and sexy new book boyfriend of the week. And did we mention… dragons?
In honor of a year since launching this podcast, the girls are discussing the hard work, dedication, and countless hours that have gone into creating R&R content for you. Between the rewarding moments that have made it all wo...
2024-09-2741 minReading & RantingRomantasy Icks and Career MovesFantasy romance books… we know them, we love them, and they’re great for escapism but sometimes… things just get cringe. Mia & Karly are talking about those moments that break the spellbinding world building and give them the ick—like “lactic acid” existing in Prythian. And let’s not forget: does anyone need a character named Thad in romantasy or any book for that matter? Didn’t think so.
Plus, Karly’s got some big news: she’s leaving her first "big girl job" for a new opportunity! The girls chat about career moves, why job hopping is the ultimate prom...
2024-09-2041 minReading & RantingBook Lovers by Emily HenryIn today’s episode, the girls are diving into one of their favorite author’s novels, Book Lovers by Emily Henry. Between exploring the book’s underlying themes of familial relationships and self-discovery, memorable side characters, and romance that develops between the shelves of a bookstore (the dream), Emily Henry yet again does not disappoint. Spoiler warning: the girls discuss the plot points in detail so beware!
However, for today’s rant, the girls are getting into a topic they’ve never discussed before: the world of workout routines. Between everyone on TikTok arguing what’s the best workout...
2024-09-1351 minReading & RantingStages of the Maasiverse & Fall FeelsCome one come all, Mia & Karly are talking about how to spread the gospel (Maasiverse) to your friends. Spoilers ahead, so listen at your own risk! The girls are spiraling through the stages of grief one experiences while watching friends dive into the Maasiverse for the first time. From pretending Tamlin’s likable to surviving the emotional pain of “take it off” and the Thirteen to the full crossover in House of Flame and Shadow, they’re breaking down the reactions from friends on their first reads.
They’re also diving into their excitement (and a little dread on M...
2024-09-0650 minReading & RantingHeal Your Inner Book Girl & Stop Living to Please OthersHey besties! Welcome to the first R&R solo episode, where Mia's taking the reins to revisit the books that shaped her childhood and how reconnecting with them has been a healing experience. If you wondered what house you would be sorted into, what cabin you would live in, whether you would survive the Hunger Games, or of course, graduate from a secret academy for spies in training as a Gallagher Girl, this is the episode for you.
Mia’s also ranting about a difficult struggle: unlearning people-pleasing tendencies. She gets personal about her journey of setting bou...
2024-08-3033 minReading & RantingHow To Cure Your SJM Hangover Part TwoInspired by a recent trip to Barnes & Noble and curating their fall romantasy reads, Mia & Karly are back with part two of their ultimate Sarah J. Maas hangover cures! They share their updated book recommendations to help fill the void, with books featuring deadly trials, epic battles, and swoon-worthy love interests (and spice.) The girls are only discussing their 4.5 and 5 star reads to ensure a swift recovery from the Maasiverse. They offer swift, spoiler free reviews of Daughter of No Worlds, Serpent and The Wings of Night, Bridge Kingdom, The Hurricane Wars, Quicksilver, An Heir Comes to Rise, A...
2024-08-2336 minReading & RantingThe Art of Pitching a Book to a FriendIn today’s episode, join Mia & Karly as they dive into the art of pitching a book to a friend. Mia kicks things off with a pitch for Quicksilver, an addicting romantasy read brimming with enemies-to-lovers drama that has BookTok buzzing with a new book boyfriend. On the other end of the spectrum, Karly introduces Love Theoretically, a heartwarming rom-com with an Emily Henry flair that promises to be your next favorite feel-good read.
And of course, any romance reader knows the most important accessory when starting a new book is your vibrator. The girls launch into a...
2024-08-1637 minReading & RantingHouse Of The Dragon Season Two ReviewOkay besties, welcome to Westeros! Mia & Karly are breaking down their thoughts on House of the Dragon Season Two. TL;DR, the plot was definitely a slow burn, and not in a good way. The girls want to shout “Dracarys” at the scripts that kept Daemon at Harrenhal for an entire season and the lack of a follow up on Rhaenyra and Mysaria. But, of course, the season was filled with characters they love (Baela the Brave) and love to hate (looking at you, Crispy Cole) as Team Black and Team Green solidified.
Plus, they’re ranting about...
2024-08-0955 minReading & RantingBook Q&A with Karly and MiaDiscover Karly and Mia’s book preferences in today’s Q&A episode! The two are asking each other questions they’ve never asked before, ranging from book guilty pleasures to the first book they ever read. The real question is whether Karly prefers fanfiction over published books. Spoiler alert: if it’s a Dramione fic, the answer is probably yes.
The girls are open books so submit additional questions to their TikTok @readingandrantingpod or email @readingandrantingpod@gmail.com if you have any juicy questions for them. Happy reading besties!
2024-08-0229 minReading & RantingMicrotropes & Euro SummerThis week, Mia & Karly are breaking down their favorite oddly specific book tropes. From knife-wielding heroines (The Cruel Prince), dramatic "who hurt you?" moments (Heir of Fire always hits different), angsty betrayals (Bridge Kingdom), romance-filled training montages (Fourth Wing), the classic one-bed trope (ACOMAF), dark and broody MMCs who'd burn the world for their love (Shatter Me), comedic best friends who lighten the mood (Six of Crows), assassin love stories (A Shadow in The Ember), and fake make-outs that turn real and steamy.
Plus, they’re ranting about affordable ways to enjoy summer when you're too broke for...
2024-07-2643 minReading & RantingTexts from an ExIn Karly & Mia’s opinion, one of the worst jumpscares you can receive is a text from your ex. And that begs the question: how do you respond? They share personal stories of shock, anger, and hurt, exploring the disrespect and gaslighting often encountered when dealing with an immature ex. And let’s be clear, the girls have RECEIPTS, PROOF, TIMELINES, SCREENSHOTS, as Mia quite literally scoured her iMessages for the out of the blue post break up texts.
Hopefully you can find these anecdotes relatable, and maybe some valuable advice on handling the return of an ex w...
2024-07-1934 minReading & RantingHappy PlaceKarly & Mia are completely enamored with Emily Henry's "Happy Place," set against a coastal Maine backdrop which, be warned, sparks an intense craving for buttery lobster rolls. Among the book’s several tropes, including fake dating and found family, Happy Place weaves together themes of mature friendships, romance, and personal growth, earning Emily Henry yet another five-star rating from the girls.
If you’ve been here since last summer, you know the girls' Fourth of July weekend got rowdy and expensive. Karly & Mia are happy to share that absolutely nothing has changed as they spent anoth...
2024-07-1255 minReading & RantingSJM Presidential Debate: Aelin vs. RhysandIn honor of using fantasy faerie books to escape reality, today’s episode takes a special twist on last week’s U.S. presidential debate, Maasiverse style. Karly & Mia are breaking down presidential campaigns with a showdown between Aelin and Rhysand. They firmly believe the country would be in better hands if it were led by everyone’s favorite fictional characters.
On a different note, for today’s rant Mia discusses how she has officially gotten Karly into her gardening era. (This may or may not have been induced by accidentally taking extremely potent edibles to watch...
2024-07-0536 minReading & RantingReading BookTok Books So You Don’t Have To Part 1POV: you finally picked up that “FIVE STAR MUST READ” book you’ve seen all over BookTok, and it left you less than satisfied. Well you’re in luck, because today Karly & Mia settle in for a candid conversation separating the overhyped from the underrated. Brace yourselves as they share their unfiltered opinions on which viral reads deserve the hype and which ones might have missed the mark. But they’re not just critiquing—make sure you have your TBR handy for a trove of underhyped book recommendations that deserve more love.
As summer swings into full gear, so do t...
2024-06-2832 minReading & RantingEloise Bridgerton is So Real for Wanting Single FriendsDearest Gentle Listeners, Karly & Mia are back with their thoughts on Bridgerton Season Three Part Two! To be honest, the girls feel like Part One was all foreplay, and Part Two offered no climax. Some of the most unexpected plot lines stuck with them (Michaela Stirling and Benedict’s random threesome) more than the main attraction of Polin itself. Eloise was once again the realest Bridgerton for wondering why the only thing girls can talk about is their prospects and impending engagements.
With that being said, today’s rant is all about why you need single girlfriends. As Ka...
2024-06-2139 minReading & RantingHunger Games x OzempicDystopian is so back baby. Karly & Mia’s jaws were on the floor when they heard the news that Suzanne Collins is dropping Sunrise on the Reaping, the fifth installment in the Hunger Games series.
The girls can’t wait until March 2025, but until then they will have to be content with speculating every fan theory under the sun about the second Quarter Quell, starting with Haymitch’s family and backstory, Maysilee Donner, and for the love of god Suzanne please give us Tigris as a stylist in the games
Suzanne said the question of "real or...
2024-06-1438 minReading & RantingWhy We’re Gay For The SJM GirliesHappy Pride Month! In the wise words of Chappell Roan, what we really need is a… femininomenon! And Sarah J. Maas consistently delivers. Today, Karly & Mia dive into their not so secret obsessions with the leading ladies, from Aelin’s sass to Bryce’s body-ody-ody, they break down why these badass ladies have captured their hearts (and fantasies).
Sticking to the theme, Karly & Mia break down the importance of exploring your sexuality, and Mia’s current status as a baby gay.
2024-06-0742 minReading & RantingBook Wars: Dystopian EditionToday Karly & Mia are throwing it back to the 2010s YA Dystopian Fiction era and diving into the worlds of "Shatter Me" by Tahereh Mafi and "Uglies" by Scott Westerfeld. In this episode, they provide spoiler-free background insights into both captivating series, exploring the dystopian landscapes and compelling characters that have captured their 10-year old (and now 24-year old) imaginations. Join the girls as they pit these two beloved series against each other to determine which one reigns supreme.
Speaking of the 2010s, remember when we all downloaded instagram for the first time and followed a...
2024-06-0135 minReading & RantingDearest Gentle Reader, Bumble FumbledWhat’s that song playing in the background? Oh… no… it’s actually just the carriage scene with classical Pitbull in the background. Brace yourselves, ladies and gentlemen, as Mia & Karly are swooning over the Polin in the air. The girls were giggling and kicking their feet binge watching Bridgerton Season Three Part One, but fear Netflix must make haste to drop Part Two.
But the true scandal (which we just know Lady Whistledown would have written about) is Bumble's latest campaign, which quite literally feels like it could be a relic from the Regency era. Being called a...
2024-05-2442 minReading & RantingWhat Makes a Five-Star Read and Our Biggest FlopsHave you ever wondered what makes a book a 5 star read? Although it varies from person to person (see also: “I didn’t say it was a GOOD book, I said I ENJOYED it”), the girls have some thoughts.
Karly & Mia weigh the importance of character depth, world-building, romance tropes, pacing, and the rare book (or Dramione fanfic in Karly’s case) that is such an emotional rollercoaster we are left staring at the ceiling with a book hangover that lasts for days.
Per usual, your favorite podcast co-hosts aren’t afraid to laugh at themselves...
2024-05-1748 minReading & RantingFunny StoryEmily Henry has done it again folks! Join the girls as they dissect Funny Story, arguably their first 5-star read of 2024!
With forced proximity, friends to lovers, and fake dating tropes all packaged into a small-town whirlwind summer romance with a sexy Nick Miller coded tatted bartender, what’s not to like?
While Karly & Mia haven’t experienced any of this IRL, Emily Henry’s writing is so good they truly felt like they lived in Waning Bay, Michigan.
But let’s be honest, what they have experienced is struggling with the fear of being unl...
2024-05-1045 minReading & RantingRules for Hot Girl SummerWhile Karly & Mia’s relationship status has remained firmly single in the dating world, their relationship status with reading has taken a turn, and it’s complicated.
Dare they say they have hit a Romantasy overload. The girls are ready to branch out a little, and you know they already have reads lined up. Plus, a little treat in the spirit of revisiting the 2010s era books… Mia shares an excerpt of her famous Gallagher Girls fanfiction with Karly for the first time ever.
But most importantly, this couldn’t come at a better...
2024-05-0346 minReading & RantingPsychoanalyzing RhysandIt was all over when Karly & Mia realized Rhys is pronounced Reese, and therefore Rhysand is not, in fact, pronounced Rice-and. In this episode, Karly & Mia unravel the inner world of Rhysand from ACOTAR (A Court of Thorns and Roses) by Sarah J. Maas. From his initial introduction as a mysterious villain figure to his transformation into a beloved character, the girls put on their detective hats and break out the magnifying glass to explore Rhysand's complexities, decode his every move, and uncover his motivations.
As they delve into Rhysand's journey, Karly & Mia also take a moment...
2024-04-2733 minReading & RantingBook Boyfriends Pt. 2 & NYC ReunionJoin the girls for round two of swoon-worthy book boyfriends and their personal two cents on the latest BookTok drama. With men questioning why women are "only reading smut," the girls aren't holding back. They're here to defend the female gaze and why these steamy reads hit the spot (the g-spot that is) for the ladies.
In a major personal life update, Mia & Karly are FINALLY reunited! Mia has arrived in the Big Apple, and in response the earth literally quaked. Karly shares her take on taking the plunge in your 20s to move to a...
2024-04-1938 minReading & RantingLightlark by Alex AsterToday’s episode is a special review of the Lightlark series by Alex Aster!
Karly & Mia received their first ever gifted book PR, the Lightlark series by Alex Aster! Today, they’re diving into their reactions with a spoiler free review of Lightlark, and the newly released sequel Nightbane. The girls are a tad split on this one, but they can agree it was entertaining to read, and loved that the story was set against a unique background with fun world building! (However, can we get some love for the untalented girls in fantasy books, please?)
N...
2024-04-1221 minReading & RantingLiterary Libations and Cinematic ConversationsYes, you did read the title right - Karly & Mia do more than read - they sometimes watch movies and TV too. However, in line with their entire personality, it comes as no surprise that their favorite genre is book to movie/tv adaptations. Think Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, Twilight, Pride & Prejudice, The Summer I Turned Pretty, and more, because the girls have seen them all (except to Mia’s complete and utter shock, Karly still needs to watch LOTR and they will be promptly binge watching together.)
But what do the girls love mayb...
2024-04-0548 minReading & RantingEntering Our Hater EraMia & Karly are officially entering their hater era… AKA talking about the characters they love to hate from their favorite books. From Tamlin's questionable fiddling in ACOTAR to Elena Galathynius' top spot on Mia's hit list, they’re exposing the biggest icks characters have given them. They’re also diving into the drama of frenemies and unhealthy friendships, and how to recognize toxic behaviors (please refer to the people who are constantly competing with you, talking shit behind your back, or purposely excluding you.) Long story short, they’ve had their fair share of ups and downs in friendships and have...
2024-03-2938 minReading & RantingBook Girls Try DatingToday, Karly & Mia are giving you every tip you’ll ever need to build a book community. Whether it’s striking up a conversation with your local book bar bartender or attending a book launch party, you’ll be set to build your book bestie community and talk smutty books with your girl friends.
The girls also dive into the trials and tribulations of dating, especially on dating apps like Hinge. Dating apps are quite literally at their all time low but it’s nearly impossible to meet people IRL. Between men refusing to approach women and...
2024-03-2256 minReading & RantingCelebrating Our 6 Month Anniversary with Rebecca RossNew standard unlocked: emotionally charged love letters from an anonymous pen pal that lead to a love so strong it *literally* transcends godly powers. That’s right, today Mia & Karly are delivering a spoiler free review of Divine Rivals and Ruthless Vows (AKA the Letters of Enchantment duology by Rebecca Ross.) The girls feel very strongly about these books, and their presidential campaign to bring love letters back 2024.
And… drumroll please… HAPPY 6 MONTH ANNIVERSARY TO READING & RANTING! Mia & Karly were clearly born to yap but forced to work, and thus Reading & Ranting was born as a passio...
2024-03-1531 minReading & RantingReading & Life SlumpsPicture this: You just devoured a book so good, it left you in an emotional and fragile state. You're in a complete book hangover, stuck in literary limbo, and the mere thought of cracking open a book makes you break out in a cold sweat. From revisiting old favorites to trying out new genres, Karly & Mia share some of their hacks to help claw your way out of that literary abyss.
The girls also tackle the rollercoaster ride of life and how to manage life slumps. Whether it's navigating post-relationship blues or grappling with career u...
2024-03-0847 minReading & RantingThe Three Ps: Plated Prisoner & (Second) PubertyHave you ever had a book boyfriend with literal spikes coming out of his skin? Well, after this episode you will! Karly & Mia are diving headfirst into the dark fantasy romance world of the Plated Prisoner series by Raven Kennedy. Join the dynamic duo as they give you the lowdown on Auren's quest for freedom and autonomy amidst a kingdom teetering on the edge of war. They’re dying to talk about how this series truly lives up to the hype, and are giving a spoiler-free rundown of the plot! If you enjoy our discussion, take this as your si...
2024-03-0147 minReading & RantingWelcome to Camp Half-BloodIf Rick Riordan has no fans, then Mia & Karly are dead. In today’s episode, your fav podcast hosts are diving into the latest adaptation of the Percy Jackson & The Olympians series on Disney+. (Please note: Karly uses Mia’s Disney+ account and their profile pics are a shark and Dory from Finding Nemo, respectively.)
Middle school Mia & Karly would be hard fangirling knowing that they would eventually get the adaptation of Percy Jackson that they DESERVE - although they’re still disappointed the show didn’t pay homage to the mediocre Logan Lerman movie adaptatio...
2024-02-2338 minReading & RantingTo Finish or Not To FinishYour favorite podcast hosts are here to tackle the eternal struggle of whether to push through a book or give it the ol' DNF (Did Not Finish) treatment. Mia stands firm in her stubborn determination to see it through to the bitter end (or she’s simply motivated by the StoryGraph stats), while Karly is happy to leave a book unfinished and read a Dramione fanfic instead. But we can all admit that sometimes you come across a book that just doesn’t do it for ya (*cough* Poppy's inner monologue). Between prequels, sequels, and spin-off series, sometimes it’s hard...
2024-02-1640 minReading & RantingHouse of Flame and Shadow Reactions & Deep DiveCalling all Sarah J. Maas loyalists (which, if you’re listening to this podcast, we hope you already are), it’s the moment we’ve all been waiting for… House of Flame and Shadow is finally here!
Today, Karly and Mia spill all the details. From jaw-dropping plot twists that had them screaming, to bonus chapters that practically had them weeping on the page, they discuss the highs and lows without holding back. The unexpected MVPs of this book? Coping with torture through dark humor, Lidia Cervos, listening to club music in a dark tunnel under a mo...
2024-02-0657 minReading & RantingThe Maasiverse AKA Our SuperbowlIT’S TIMEEEE - *cue Mariah Carey voice*
We’ve almost been waiting a whole year to record this one, because in today’s episode, Karly & Mia are breaking down the entire Sarah J. Maas universe, better known as the Maasiverse, ahead of the release of House of Flame and Shadow (Crescent City #3) on January 30, 2024. They accumulated about 11 pages of evidence (better known as their red string crime scene board) to prepare for this episode, so buckle in and grab your notebook because you’re gonna want to take some notes.
Between the hard facts, hidden de...
2024-01-2557 minReading & RantingTwo Girls, One Ski Trip, Zero LimesIf you listened to last week’s episode, then you know Mia & Karly were reunited in Aspen and had one too many spicy margaritas. This week, they’re diving into the perfect reads based on your travel destination/season, as the girls were obviously snuggling by the fire (made by Mia) and tearing through some books during couch rotting time.
Today’s rant is the star of the show, as they discuss the ins and outs of a group trip, including roles & responsibilities set for each guest as well as what’s absolutely illegal (forgetting to buy lim...
2024-01-1945 minReading & RantingCrescent City Deep DiveIn today’s episode, Karly & Mia will be diving into their favorite fantasy zootopia, the world of Crescent City by Sarah J. Maas. Between Fae, Angels, Wolves, Mer-people, Vampires, and more, Midgard is every fantasy girly's dream come true. This book is packed with amazing main characters, centering around our favorite Starborn girl Bryce (who we both have crushes on, along with every other male in the Crescent City universe), as well as our favorite Angel boy Hunt (refer to the backwards Sunball cap and grey sweatpants). Karly & Mia will discuss notable takeaways from House of Earth and Blood (CC...
2024-01-131h 06Reading & RantingNew Year, New Me
Welcome to our Reading & Ranting 2024 debut! In the spirit of diving into a new year in their 20s, in today’s episode Karly & Mia break down some of the most influential self-help books Mia has read. Please note: this was the sole reading era Mia had in college if that tells you anything about her mental state at the time. From Brene Brown's wisdom in "Rising Strong" to Glennon Doyle's storytelling in "Untamed" to the comfort of Brianna Weist’s essays, get ready for the life-changing advice Mia took away from these books.
In the rant...
2024-01-0544 minReading & RantingA Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) Deep DiveWelcome back to another ACOTAR themed episode. Sick of it yet? Not us.
In today’s episode, Karly & Mia dive into the A Court of Thorns and Roses series that literally kickstarted their friendship. In their discussion about the five books in the series so far (four novels and one novella), Karly & Mia dissect notable takeaways, their ACOTAR Roman Empires, and unanswered questions (like the pool of starlight in the Spring Court…) that they hope the Maasiverse will answer soon.
They also rant about their ideal ACOTAR fancasts for when the series in...
2023-12-291h 01Reading & RantingBeach Read & Our Bust-a-Nut FoundationBuckle up besties -- class is in session. The course? All things female orgasm. Today’s episode features our first ever R&R guest, self-proclaimed sexpert Emily!
Of course, they kick things off by diving into Beach Read, a non-romantasy read that got Karly & Mia hooked on Emily Henry books. They discuss why January and Augustus are #relatable as anti-social bookworms that enjoy a drink or two, and how it’s the perfect feel-good read for a beach day (quite literally as the title says).
The bread and butter of today’s episode...
2023-12-2251 minReading & RantingThrone of Glass Deep DiveWhile Karly & Mia normally have zero chill, they will ABSOLUTELY lose their shit if you mention the title “Throne of Glass.” Be prepared for them to pull a seat up to your table and word vomit until you are literally begging them to leave your personal space.
That’s right, in today’s episode, Karly and Mia deliver a breakdown of the series book by book; covering the highs, the lows, and the moments that made them scream.
While today’s episode is heavy on the reading section, we couldn’t forget about our...
2023-12-151h 05Reading & RantingBook Besties & Long Distance FriendshipsFrom initially bonding over ACOTAR to the nostalgia of childhood booknerd-dom, Karly & Mia explore the profound impact of reading on their friendship in today’s episode. Your favorite duo covers the joy of recommending books, the love in the #BookTok community, and the intricacies of friend buckets (yes, that's a thing).
Spoiler alert: Mia and Karly’s relationship status officially changed to long-distance when Karly moved to New York this fall. So of course they’re bringing you along to navigate the challenges of maintaining long-distance friendships in the chaos of your early 20s.
2023-12-0846 minReading & RantingThe Most Wonderful Time of the Year: Harry Potter SeasonWhat’s the first thing you think of when you imagine winter, a cozy snow day, or Christmas? Harry Potter? Us too.
If Harry Potter is your ultimate comfort movie and book series, this episode is for you. Karly & Mia have been HP girlies since day one (once again living the same childhood by both reading Harry Potter during recess in middle school.) One serious expectation for their future romantic partners is they must also be fans of the Harry Potter Wizarding World. I mean, isn’t everyone’s ideal date night binge-watching three HP movies i...
2023-12-0142 minReading & RantingThe Astrology of the SJM Universe and Manifesting 101What do zodiac signs, manifesting, and Mia & Karly’s birth charts have in common? Hint: Today’s episode covers all three. As the resident astrology girly, Mia is giggling and kicking her feet to cover these topics. First, they will psychoanalyze every main Sarah J. Maas character and decide their sun signs. Then, they rant about how manifesting is misunderstood, and how having an abundance mindset is helping them get through the shitty time period that is your early 20s.
2023-11-2450 minReading & RantingHow to Cure your ACOTAR Hangover with Carissa BroadbentHave you or a loved one experienced withdrawal upon finishing a Sarah J. Maas book? Well, Karly & Mia are here to give you the ultimate hangover cure: Carissa Broadbent. Both Daughter of No Worlds (The War of Lost Hearts series) and The Serpent and the Wings of Night (the Crowns of Nyaxia series) are some of Karly & Mia’s 5-star, top-tier romantasy recommendations. With incredible world-building, unique magic systems, strong female main characters, complex themes, and sexy male love interests, Karly & Mia can’t say enough good things about these books. Of course, they also take some time to rant...
2023-11-1733 minReading & RantingIron Flame Reactions & Deep DiveThe Fourth Wing and Basgiath War College CONTINUE in Rebecca Yarros’ latest book, Iron Flame, the sequel to Fourth Wing and continuation of The Empyrean Series. Mia & Karly got their hands on Iron Flame copies ASAP following release and took it upon themselves to binge read so they could give y’all their reacts and theories in today’s episode.
Filled with slightly overwhelming world building, some SPICY sex scenes (Mia fully admits she had to take care of herself after reading chapter 48, iykyk), some new faces, and of course, dragon content, Iron Flame did not disa...
2023-11-1447 minReading & RantingSpice Scenes and Horrible HookupsToday’s episode is going to be hotter than a spicy margarita (conveniently, also Karly & Mia’s drink of choice.) What makes a good spice scene? Glad you asked, because Karly & Mia will be reading their favorite spice scenes… to each other… out loud. After they recover from these steamy sex scenes, they’ll bring it back down to life, as sexy time IRL typically does not live up to these bookish expectations (i.e., men written by women.) So, grab that spicy marg because we’ve got some horrible hook up stories to share with you.
P.S. If...
2023-11-0351 minReading & RantingKarly’s Secret Addiction (Dramione)It all started with one fanfiction (*cough* Manacled) and ultimately led to a full-blown addiction. Today, Karly & Mia will be discussing (more like obsessing for Karly) Dramione fanfiction, AKA fan-written stories shipping Draco Malfoy and Hermione Granger from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter as a romantic couple. Karly has completely ignored her growing TBR list and read close to 100 Dramione fanfics, so she has the credentials to give some amazing recommendations for fellow Dramione lovers out there. BTW, Karly & Mia are both Gryffindors and are patiently waiting for some rich, blonde, Slytherin hotties to hit up their line.
2023-10-2752 minReading & RantingOur Favorite Book TropesAre you an enemies to lovers girly? Or perhaps grumpy sunshine tickles your fancy? Is found family your comfort trope?
In today’s episode, Karly & Mia are offering their recommendations for books that fit various popular tropes. Sometimes recommendations based on trope rather than personal reviews are way more helpful -- so this is basically the TBR (to be read) list they’ve curated from BookTok (Mia is still begging Karly to read half of these). They’ll also be ranting about shitty financial decisions, ranging from daily little “treats” to how their drunk alter egos act li...
2023-10-2041 minReading & RantingClimb The Mountain“For every Nesta out there - climb the mountain.” Sarah J. Maas wrote this on the dedication page of A Court of Silver Flames, and truer words have never been spoken. Today Karly & Mia are diving into why this book and Nesta’s journey means so much to them. They’ll also be discussing how they relate to Bryce Quinlan’s from Crescent City, including but not limited to eating takeout noodles and watching reality TV to cope. Lastly, Karly & Mia will share a bit about their own struggles with mental health and why they think it’s worth it to climb...
2023-10-1345 minReading & RantingQ&A with Karly & MiaSurprise bonus episode! We know absolutely no one asked for it, but you can get to know your favorite book podcast co-hosts a little better with today’s bonus episode. Karly & Mia will be asking each other extremely important questions, ranging from their astrology birth charts, a classic FMK (F*ck, Marry, Kill) game, and what Hogwarts House they would be in. We’re open books so submit additional questions to our TikTok @readingandrantingpod or email us @readingandrantingpod@gmail.com if you would like a second bonus Q&A episode. Happy reading besties!
2023-10-1133 minReading & RantingCharacter Development: Between the Pages of Books & Our Own LivesWe’ve all had that one book character growing up that resonated with us more than anything (refer to Mia wearing the Katniss Everdeen braid to middle school every day for a year). In today’s episode, Karly & Mia will discuss the book characters that shaped them as the women they are today and how they related to their journeys. Special shoutout to Hermione Granger, Elizabeth Bennett, and Jo March for being the bookish, independent, badass babes they are. And we KNOW y’all can relate to Bella Swan entering a sad girl autumn depression spiral when she got dumped...
2023-10-0641 minReading & RantingWelcome to the Fourth WingA dragon without its rider is a tragedy, a rider without their dragon is dead. Welcome to the Fourth Wing. *internally screams*
In today’s episode, Karly & Mia will be discussing this year’s hottest new read, Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros. If you were a Daenerys Targaryen fangirl, or love the magical school trope, you will be obsessed with this book about a war college for dragon riders. Of course, the plot also revolves around a steamy romance which introduces BookTok’s latest Shadow Daddy (he’s 6'4, I repeat, he’s 6'4) and some pretty...
2023-09-2941 minReading & RantingBook Boyfriends Are BetterWho needs a real boyfriend when you have a a fictional boyfriend and a vibrator? This is the question Mia and Karly have been asking for the last year, and now they want to get into it with you. For the record, a 500 page slow burn basically just shows how important foreplay is IRL. They’ll also rant about how casual sex changes after college, why every girl should own a vibrator, and why men will just never live up to their unrealistic expectations (blaming the book boyfriends for this one).
2023-09-2247 minReading & RantingSarah J. Maas’ Latest VictimsWe know you’ve been waiting for this one besties. In today’s episode, Mia and Karly will explain the absolute CHOKEHOLD Sarah J. Maas, author of the A Court of Thorns and Roses, Throne of Glass, and Crescent City series, has on their lives. While reading a five book fantasy smut series in 48 hours may not sound healthy, they’ll discuss why ACOTAR is behind their mental instability and why Fae men are the reason behind their unrealistic dating expectations. Of course, Karly & Mia have a rant prepared, and will be discussing the importance of strong female friendships and wh...
2023-09-1536 minReading & RantingWelcome to Reading & RantingFollow along with coworkers Mia and Karly as the duo dives into their reading journeys. First, they’ll begin where it all started, as childhood gifted readers whose hobbies later escalated into an adult reading obsession (with smut books of course). Outside of their reading identities, Karly & Mia will discuss the complicated hell of being in your early 20s and how to rediscover your identity after college. Relationships, identity crises, the post-grad social scene, and more are all addressed here on Reading & Ranting. Happy reading besties!
2023-09-1417 min