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Page Chewing

Looking for a place to discuss your favorite books and hear more about the book industry? We're here to help. When we're not reading a book together and discussing each week with friends, we're having casual, fun and informative conversations with other readers, authors, and content creators in the book sphere. 


While we mostly read fantasy books, we venture out into other genres often. Love comic books? Our Panel Chewing series has you covered! Mike, Jarrod and Steve discuss their favorite weekly books on the Pick of the Week and discuss other series with their own dedicated episodes.


On the Friday Conversation we often invite guests to discuss certain topics or meet with a group of friends from the Page Chewing forums to have a talk about anything type of discussion. We invite you to start your weekend the right way with us. So grab a drink, relax and unwind with us.

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Episodes

Friday Conversation | Ep 112: Rhonda Parker-Taylor & Bob Gonzales - Exploring the Writer's Journey: Publishing, Writing, and Beyond

Join Bob Gonzalez and Rhonda Parker-Taylor on an insightful journey into the world of publishing and writing in this engaging podcast episode. Bob shares his captivating tales of fishing adventures, while Rhonda delves into the suspenseful realm of her latest novel. Together, they unravel the intricacies of the writing business, emphasizing the entrepreneurial mindset required for success. From the importance of discipline and feedback to the nuances of traditional, blended, and self-publishing,...

Apr 26, 20241 hr 23 min

Friday Conversation | Ep 111: Page Chewing Forum Hangout

In this conversation, the participants discuss their thoughts on various book series, including A Song of Ice and Fire and The Second Apocalypse. They share their opinions on the unfinished status of these series and the impact of the TV adaptations. They also discuss the writing style of George R.R. Martin and R. Scott Bakker, highlighting their strengths in world-building, dialogue, and thematic depth. The conversation touches on the challenges of creating the next big cultural phenomenon and ...

Apr 19, 20241 hr 55 min

The Judging Eye by R. Scott Bakker Exploring Themes of Damnation, Immortality, and Morality

The group embark on a thrilling journey into the world of R. Scott Bakker's "The Judging Eye." With razor-sharp analysis and infectious enthusiasm, they dissect the intricate writing style, immersive descriptions, and compelling character development that make Bakker's work a standout in the fantasy genre. Diving deep into the heart of the narrative, the group speculate on the motivations of the enigmatic non-men, exploring the complex theology that underpins their worldview. They wrestle with w...

Apr 17, 20241 hr 56 min

Friday Conversation | Ep 110 w/ Mike Trigg: The Impact of the Tech Industry on Modern Life

Mike Trigg, a former tech executive turned fiction author, discusses his transition from the tech industry to writing and the parallels he sees between the two. He shares his experiences in the tech industry and how they influenced his first book, which critiques Silicon Valley tech culture. Trigg also talks about the challenges of writing fiction and the importance of editing and getting feedback. He explores the impact of technology on modern life and the issues surrounding social media, data ...

Apr 12, 20241 hr 33 min

Preview: Friday Conversation | Episode 110: Mike Trigg

Full episode will be live on Friday, April 12th! Send us a message Support the show Film Chewing Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2235582/follow Lens Chewing on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lenschewing Speculative Speculations: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/speculative-speculations Support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/7EQ7XWFUP6K9E Join Riverside.fm: https://riverside.fm/?via=steve-l...

Apr 10, 20249 min

Exploring Themes and Characters in "The Judging Eye" Chapters 9 - 13 by R. Scott Bakker

Join us as we journey deeper into the world of R. Scott Bakker's "The Judging Eye" in our latest episode. In this installment, we dissect chapters 9 through 13, unraveling the enigma of the White Luck Warrior and decoding the cryptic phrase 'a life forgotten.' Our discussion delves into the intricate themes of power dynamics, motherhood, and sexuality that permeate the series, examining the profound influence of gods on characters. As we navigate the complex motivations and actions of the charac...

Apr 08, 20241 hr 59 min

Friday Conversation | Ep 109: Crafting Authenticity: Navigating the World of Content Creation w/ Matts Fantasy Book Reviews

Join us in this insightful episode as we delve into the intricate world of content creation, exploring the importance of authenticity amidst the evolving landscape of online platforms. From YouTube to podcasting, social media to blogging, creators face a myriad of challenges and opportunities in their quest to connect with audiences and carve out their unique voice. Our guests share their experiences and reflections on maintaining authenticity in an era dominated by algorithms and trends. Throug...

Apr 05, 20242 hr 3 min

Unraveling Mysteries: The Judging Eye Chapters 5 - 8 | The Second Apocalypse Series

Join us in this episode as we embark on a deep dive into the intricacies of R. Scott Bakker's epic Second Apocalypse series. Our conversation unfolds with the introduction of a new priesthood devoted to Yatwer, offering insights into the complex web of beliefs and worship within the Thousand Temples. Speculation runs wild as we ponder the elusive identity of the White Luck Warrior and unravel the enigmatic interactions between characters like Sorweel and Kel. As the discussion progresses, we exp...

Mar 31, 20242 hr 1 min

Friday Conversation Ep 108 - Crafting Immersive Worlds: Behind the Scenes of The Dex Legacy Audio Drama

Note: the BSFA nomination is for season 2 specifically, not season 1 Join host Tim Hardy in a captivating conversation with Emily Inkpen and Chris Gregory, the brilliant minds behind The Dex Legacy audio drama. Delve into the dark and thought-provoking world of this political science fiction series as the co-creators unravel the complexities of super soldier development and the moral dilemmas it entails. From the selection of actors to the meticulous editing process, discover the intricate steps...

Mar 29, 202456 min

Unveiling the Mysteries of Fantasy: A Journey into "Truth of Crowns" with Author Carl D. Albert

In this conversation, author Carl D. Albert discusses his book Truth of Crowns, the first book of the Ash Eternal series. He shares the spark and evolution of the idea, the influences that shaped the story, and the balance between drama and subtlety. Carl also talks about the impact of working with editor AP Canavan and how his background in screenwriting influenced his writing process. Additionally, he discusses his interest in writing for different mediums and the research he conducted to crea...

Mar 24, 20241 hr 49 min

Navigating Desolation: Exploring 'The Road' by Cormac McCarthy

Dive into the desolate landscape of Cormac McCarthy's masterpiece, 'The Road,' in this gripping podcast episode. Join our hosts as they traverse the bleak world painted by McCarthy's prose, dissecting the themes of hope, resilience, and the human spirit in the face of overwhelming despair. In this episode, we unpack the haunting brilliance of McCarthy's writing style, which envelops readers in a palpable sense of dread and hopelessness through its atmospheric descriptions. From the decision to l...

Mar 21, 20241 hr 25 min

Deep Dive into the Prince of Nothing Trilogy Appendices

Welcome to "Deep Dive into the Prince of Nothing Trilogy," where we explore the intricacies, themes, and mysteries of R. Scott Bakker's epic fantasy series. Join us as we embark on a journey through the appendices and spoilers of this captivating saga, delving into the depths of its world-building, characters, and philosophical underpinnings. In this episode, we dissect various elements of the trilogy, from the enigmatic No-God and the machinations of the Consult to the profound questions of fre...

Mar 16, 20242 hr 5 min

Friday Conversation | Ep 107: Writing Through Challenges: A Conversation with Jennifer Manocherian

Jennifer Manocherian discusses her experience writing a novel during COVID and the challenges of incorporating multiple points of view. She highlights the importance of collaboration and feedback in the writing process. Jennifer also shares her transition from theatre to novel writing and the differences in storytelling techniques. She emphasizes the need to fill in the gaps in a novel and create three-dimensional characters. The conversation explores the balance of multiple characters' stories ...

Mar 15, 20241 hr 24 min

Exploring The Thousandfold Thought by R. Scott Bakker Chapters 15-17

In this final discussion for the Thousandfold Thought and the Prince of Nothing trilogy, the hosts express their appreciation for the series and discuss their favorite aspects and surprises. They have mixed reactions to the battle scenes, with some finding them confusing and others enjoying the cinematic elements. The character endings also elicit conflicting feelings, with some being satisfied and others feeling teased. The nature of Kellhus and his beliefs and motivations are explored, along w...

Mar 11, 20242 hr 10 min

Friday Conversation | Ep 106: The Brotherhood of the Eagle Kickstarter w/ Tim Hardie, RJ Bayley & Paromita

Tim Hardy and R.J. Bayley discuss Tim's upcoming Kickstarter campaign to fund the production of an audiobook for his book series. They delve into the process of creating audiobooks, funding goals, and rewards for supporters. R.J. shares his voice acting experience and the nuances of narrating audiobooks. They explore the differences between reading and listening to books and the impact of audiobooks in reaching wider audiences. Topics include writing, narrating, Kickstarter campaigns, interpreti...

Mar 08, 20241 hr 12 min

Navigating Belief and Power in R. Scott Bakker's The Thousandfold Thought Chapters 10 -14

Together, we untangle the rich tapestry of consciousness, the soul, and the manipulative brilliance of the series' protagonist, Kellhus. Can we discern truth from deception in a world where belief is both a weapon and a weakness? Our discussions cut to the heart of the series' most enigmatic themes, from the nature of damnation and salvation to the political chess game of religions and empires. As we navigate the labyrinthine plot and its deeply complex characters, we uncover the poignant emotio...

Mar 02, 20241 hr 58 min

Friday Conversation | Ep 105: February Reading Wrap-Up with The Fantasy Thinker & Paromita

Discover the intricacies of epic narratives as we unravel the layers of literature and cinema that captivated us this February. Together, we wander through the narrative intricacies of "The Spear Cuts Through Water," debate the merits of magical realism, and revisit the rich textures of "Malazan Book of the Fallen" and "Dune." We also contrast the investment in history books with their fictional counterparts and share our recent journey into the realm of film, seeking a refreshing complement to ...

Mar 01, 20241 hr 41 min

Unraveling the Intricate Weave of R. Scott Baker's 'The Thousandfold Thought' Chapters 5 - 9: A Deep Dive into Characters, Power, and Language

As we navigate chapters 5 through 9, our conversation spirals into the abyss of character psyches, dissecting the delicate interplay of power and vulnerability within Esmenet's ascension and Akka's internal conflicts. The richness of this literary tapestry becomes evident as we trace the emotional threads and shifting paradigms that challenge societal norms, mirroring the disorientation felt by the characters themselves. Amid the dark labyrinths of intrigue and the looming shadow of war, we spec...

Feb 25, 20241 hr 35 min

Friday Conversation | Ep 104: Unveiling the Enchantment and Wisdom within Fairy Tales: A Journey from Grim Origins to Modern Interpretations

We investigate the complex roles these narratives play in society, examining their potential as enchanting stories for children or darker carriers of cautionary wisdom. Join us as we trace their evolution from their blood-stained origins in oral tradition to the polished pages of the Brothers Grimm and beyond, delving into their psychological implications and the glimmers of hope they extend to listeners across the ages. Fairy tales often wear charming masks, yet beneath lie tales of brutality a...

Feb 19, 20241 hr 47 min

Navigating the Dark Labyrinths of Power and Destiny in R. Scott Bakker's "The Thousandfold Thought" Chapters 1 - 4

Embark with us on a literary odyssey through the entangled destinies within R. Scott Bakker's "The Thousandfold Thought." Our seasoned panelists, Steve, Mike, Carl, and Varsha, return to dissect a world where power is as perilous as it is enticing. Witness Esmenet's swift rise and the moral labyrinths navigated by Kellhus, while we untangle the enigmatic Dunyain's place in this cryptic tapestry of high fantasy and philosophy. This episode spirals into the depths of transformation, war, and the a...

Feb 19, 20241 hr 51 min

Friday Conversation | Ep 103: What is Slipstream w/ Susana Imaginário, Jose's Amazing Worlds & Paromita

Embark on a journey through the twisting corridors of slipstream fiction with your hosts and our special guest, Susana Imaginário. As a seasoned mythological slipstream aficionado and author, Susanna guides us through this enthralling genre where fantasy, science fiction, and literary fiction coalesce. Together with Paramita's voracious appetite for literary fiction and Jose's boundless enthusiasm for fantastical worlds, we dissect the elements that make slipstream a genre that both perplexes an...

Feb 09, 20241 hr 55 min

Defining Grimdark: Perspectives from Authors

In this conversation, Steve explores the complexities of grimdark fantasy, discussing its defining characteristics, key themes, and the moral ambiguity present in its narratives. He shares his personal insights and invites perspectives from various authors, highlighting the genre's focus on consequences and the human experience. The discussion delves into the nature of storytelling within grimdark, emphasizing the unpredictability and depth of character development. Intro 1:50 Faye (Sienna Frost...

Feb 08, 202438 min

Friday Conversation | Ep 102: What is Grimdark? w/ Holly Tinsley, Susana Imaginario, Jose's Amazing Worlds and Jozua

Prepare to venture into the dark and morally intricate universe of Grimdark literature with us and our esteemed guests—Holly Tinsley, Susana Imaginario, Jozua, and Jose. This week's episode promises to unravel the complex tapestry of a genre that defies easy categorization, through a discourse ripe with personal interpretations and a shared appreciation for fantasy's brooding alleyways. From the allure of morally grey characters to the intricate balance of hope and despair, we explore the essenc...

Jan 31, 20241 hr 55 min

January Reading Wrap-Up

Ever found yourself in the throes of a hobby that's slowly morphing into something more? That's exactly where the conversation begins in our latest Page Chewing podcast, as Varsha, Chris, Chibipoe, and Jarrod, we gather around the digital campfire to share the evolution of our geeky pursuits into full-blown content creation. From the art of audio editing to the intricacies of book collecting, we cover it all. Join us for an episode that intertwines humorous anecdotes with insightful reflections ...

Jan 28, 20242 hr 4 min

The Warrior Prophet Chapters 22-25: A Discussion on Epic Fantasy and Prophetic Transformation

Join us as we discuss the riveting second book of the "Prince of Nothing" trilogy, with first-timers Mike and Carl adding a dash of fresh insight. Together, we tackle the series' dense themes, character arcs, and the intricate dance of fate and agency that propels Kellhus, Achamian, and Esmenet forward. Witness as we dissect the surprising character transformations and the intense emotional landscapes that set the backdrop for these complex relationships. Tread carefully through the murky depths...

Jan 28, 20241 hr 58 min

Friday Conversation | Ep 101: From Ancient Myths to AI and Modern Consciousness

Have you ever considered the colossal power of stories to forge our reality? This episode welcomes a quartet of narrative connoisseurs: Jared Michaud, Carl D Albert, Susana Imaginario, and Jose, as they unravel the intricate web of writing, mythology, and the potent force of storytelling. With each guest bringing a unique perspective from their respective journeys, we examine whether the stories we tell can indeed shift the course of history, and how, when woven together, these narratives sculpt...

Jan 26, 20242 hr 6 min

The Warrior Prophet Chapters 18 - 21: Mysteries of the Holy War A Journey Through Bakker's Creation

Unravel the layered motives of R. Scott Bakker's characters and the machinations within "The Warrior Prophet" as we traverse chapters 18-21. This week, Varsha, Dan, Carl, and I weave a tapestry of political intrigue and sorcerous battles, from the birth of Serwë's child to the Consult Synthese's disturbing fascinations. We address the political chessboard within the Holy War, paralleling historical Crusader states, while we speculate on Keles's true nature amid the Mandate's arcane secrets. Our ...

Jan 20, 20241 hr 36 min

Friday Conversation | Episode 100: Unboxing Nostalgia - Transforming Collections, Epic Reads, and the Evolving Reviewer's Landscape – Celebrating 100 Episodes

Ever wonder what lurks inside the mind of an avid Transformers collector? ChibiPo and Chris Mohan, the dynamic duo of nostalgia and critique, join us to unravel the complexities of collecting these iconic toys. They weigh in on the Transformers film saga with a special nod to "Bumblebee," while our banter with Alex—an aspiring writer with a fantastical tale to tell—sparks a lively debate on whether collectibles should ever escape their pristine packaging. As the leaves change color, so too does ...

Jan 19, 20241 hr 56 min

The Warrior Prophet Chapters 14-17: Navigating the Dark Tapestry of "The Warrior Prophet": A Deep Dive into Character Motives and Cosmic Intrigue

Embark on a harrowing expedition through the shadowy psyche of R. Scott Bakker's "The Warrior Prophet" with us. This episode promises to illuminate the darkest corners of character development where logic strips humanity bare and manipulation weaves its insidious web. As we dissect the grim complexities of the Prince of Nothing trilogy, we confront the uncomfortable allure of Bakker's world, where the chilling influence of power and the specter of doubt cast long shadows over our protagonists' f...

Jan 12, 20241 hr 37 min

Friday Conversation Ep 100 (Part 2/3) Deconstructing Book Reviews: Bias, Genre, and the Complexities of the Reader-Author Dynamic

Ever wrestled with the idea that your favorite book might not be someone else's cup of tea? We're tearing apart the layers of bias and genuine critique in book reviews, especially when genres like Young Adult or grimdark fiction enter the fray. Join us for a candid discussion where we promise to leave no page unturned in the quest to understand the responsibilities of reviewers and the impact of personal taste on literature's reception. Navigating the digital landscape of author-reader relations...

Jan 12, 20241 hr 47 min
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