2 To Ramble

Join us for our monthly recaps where we discuss:Books we read this month & our thoughtsWhat we're reading nextPO Box OpeningsChannel UpdatesWhat's to comeWriting UpdatesRespond to Questions & Suggestions LivePrivate Book Club! Join/Support:https://www.patreon.com/2torambleCheck out our Merch!https://2toramble.comOur social media:https://linktr.ee/2ToRamblePO Box address:200 Lawyers Rd #6 Vienna, VA, 22183Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Austin and Rich dive into the intricate world of Shadows Upon Time, highlighting the importance of the Sun Eater series. They discuss the emotional weight of Hadrian's journey, the narrative's epic battles, and intricate character arcs. The hosts evaluate themes like myth-making and free will, along with the political ramifications stemming from monumental events, such as the sun's destruction. Their lively conversation touches on the effective storytelling and the layered world-building that define this captivating space opera.

The hosts dive into the ethics of Oz Perlman's book marketing, questioning if it misleads about real-world skills. They explore the distinction between mentalism and magic while analyzing Oz's viral NFL trick with Joe Burrow. The discussion reveals how Oz shifts from performance to book promotion, balancing valid self-help advice with questionable claims. Ethical boundaries in mentalism are scrutinized, particularly Oz's take on deception as 'slight of mind.' Ultimately, they advocate for clearer marketing that distinguishes performance-derived insights from true magic.

Dive into a gripping Gothic tale set during the Black Death, exploring the harrowing journey of Thomas and Delphine. The hosts dissect emotional highs, including torment and redemption, while offering insights into the impactful prose of Christopher Buhlman. They evaluate character development and the unique episodic structure of the story. With vivid worldbuilding and a blend of historical details, the discussion captivates listeners who enjoy atmospheric narratives. Tune in for an engaging exploration of resilience and the haunting artistry of storytelling.

The hosts dive into the 'romantasy' subgenre, critiquing its common tropes and clichés. They discuss the obsession with physical attraction that often overshadows character depth. Archetypal love interests and the overused 'bad boy' trope receive sharp criticism. With examples from literature, they explore the weaknesses in enemies-to-lovers narratives and predictable meet-cutes. The conversation raises questions about the emotional depth lacking in many stories and suggests ways to enhance the genre with genuine conflict and stronger worldbuilding.

Explore the complexities of kindness in the political landscape of a fantasy world. Listen in as the hosts dive into the unique challenges faced by an unexpected emperor. They examine the balance of mercy and justice in decision-making and discuss the rich prose and immersive world-building. Emotional moments rise to the surface, revealing the characters' growth and struggles. The hosts evaluate the novel’s strengths and weaknesses, and share recommendations for readers drawn to noble leadership stories.

Can physical bookstores thrive in a digital world? The hosts explore the rise and fall of Borders, highlighting its failure to adapt. They discuss Barnes & Noble's successful turnaround through local inventory strategies. The debate around BookTok's influence on sales reveals intriguing trends amidst the COVID-19 boom. Memorable bookstore atmospheres create essential experiences, suggesting that the love for physical books and unique shopping environments can keep bookstores alive against online giants.

Dive into the intriguing premise of aliens with Catholic faith that hooks listeners from the get-go. Explore the flawed protagonist, Austin DeSantis, whose emotional journey raises profound questions about faith and morality. Discover key themes of redemption and pride, and witness powerful tear-jerking moments, particularly the bond between Austin and his mother. The hosts critically assess the pacing and the world-building, while also analyzing character choices and theological dilemmas. A compelling discussion that engages both heart and mind!

Dive into Chesterton's insights on art and aesthetics! Discover his metaphor of the sun tower representing the divine within classical art. Explore how Gothic art embraces the grotesque, reflecting devotion to the divine. The hosts challenge modern realism, arguing it often lacks purpose and soul. They also critique contemporary design, showcasing how functionality can overshadow artistry. Finally, unleash your creativity by embracing purposeful exaggeration over mundane realism in storytelling and art.

Join us for our monthly recaps where we discuss:Books we read this month & our thoughtsWhat we're reading nextPO Box OpeningsChannel UpdatesWhat's to comeWriting UpdatesRespond to Questions & Suggestions LivePrivate Book Club! Join/Support:https://www.patreon.com/c/2torambleCheck out our Merch!https://2toramble.comOur social media:https://linktr.ee/2ToRamblePO Box address:200 Lawyers Rd #6 Vienna, VA, 22183Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy