The Pretty Little Death

Join the hosts of Ink & Asteroids for their debut episode as they dive deep into Robert A. Heinlein's controversial 1959 classic, Starship Troopers. This isn't your typical sci-fi discussion - discover why this military-focused novel left both hosts questioning whether it truly belongs in the science fiction genre.What We Cover:Why Starship Troopers feels more like military recruitment propaganda than space operaThe philosophical heavy-handedness that dominates the middle chaptersJohnny Rico as an unreliable narrator and possible author self-insertCold War era influences and militaristic democracy themesThe surprising lack of actual sci-fi elements in this "sci-fi" classicWomen's roles and military segregation in Heinlein's future societyThat saccharine ending with Johnny's father (yes, we call BS too)Mini hydrogen bombs as grenades and other questionable tech choices

Somehow, our YouTube version of this episode went up perfectly, but the audio version did not!We are gearing up to come back from our hiatus which ends in Sept, and only just now realized WE HAD NO AUDIO FOR A WHOLE MONTH!We are so sorry, all. Don't miss this episode, as it is a DOZY! Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of sensitive material including trauma, BDSM themes, and adult content. Not suitable for children.After a year-long wait, we finally dive into Rebecca Quinn's highly anticipated finale to the Brutes of Bristlebrook series. "Entwined" promised to be our most anticipated release of the year, but did it deliver? Join us as we discuss the 800+ page conclusion to Eden and the Brutes' story.We break down everything from character development (or assassination), pacing issues, and the overwhelming amount of explicit content that dominated the narrative. From Jaykob's inexplicable personality shift to Dom's redemption arc, we explore what worked, what didn't, and what we wished had been different.This episode covers our thoughts on the series as a whole, the challenges of writing ensemble casts, and why sometimes more isn't always better. We also discuss BDSM representation in romance novels and the importance of seeking proper resources for real-life situations.Resources mentioned are available in the episode description. This is a work of fiction discussion for educational and entertainment purposes only.Episode 11 of Season 2 - Part of our ongoing series coverageEpisode Highlights: Detailed spoiler-free review of the 800+ page finale Analysis of character arcs and development issues Discussion of pacing and structural problems BDSM representation in romance literature Comparison to previous books in the series Rating breakdown (plot vs. spice level) What we wished had been included from the "ghost book" Author's revision process and ARC feedback impactContent Warnings: Discussion of trauma and PTSDBDSM themes and practicesAdult sexual contentReferences to violence and captivityMental health topicsRemember: Fiction is not a substitute for professional help. Resources and hotlines are available 24/7 for those who need support.National Human Trafficking HotlineLanguages: English, SpanishHours: 24 hours, 7 days a week888-373-7888 Text Info to 233733National Domestic Violence HotlineLanguages: English, Spanish and 200+ through interpretation serviceHours: 24/7800-799-7233 Text Begin to 88788Suicide and Crisis LifelineLanguages: English, SpanishHours: Available 24 hours988 Text 988National Mental Health Helpline1866-903-3787

In this special episode of The Pretty Little Death podcast, the host shares an original short story written for a supernatural romance contest. Despite receiving over 1,100 submissions and not making it past the first round, the host was so passionate about the writing process that they decided to share "The Harbinger" with their loyal listeners.The story follows Belethal, a supernatural being known as a Harbinger—an agent of death responsible for collecting souls and bringing them to the afterlife for purification. When she encounters Derek, a charming thief at a wedding reception, she breaks the fundamental rules of her order by falling in love with her target instead of completing her mission. Her dereliction of duty leads to a trial before the Irreverent Mother and her fellow sisters, where she must face the consequences of choosing love over duty.The narrative explores themes of forbidden love, sacrifice, and transformation as Belethal is ultimately "unwritten" from existence for her transgressions, only to be reborn as a ruby-throated hummingbird—a creature she had always admired during her earthly missions. The story concludes with Derek, unaware of the supernatural drama that unfolded around him, expressing his desire to find the mysterious woman from the wedding.This episode serves as a special thank-you to the podcast's most dedicated listeners while the regular Book of the Month episode is delayed due to scheduling issues.

Join the critic and the bestie for a nostalgic journey into 90s romance with Lisa Kleypas's "When Strangers Marry." Originally published in 1992, this historical romance takes us to the Louisiana Territory where fiery 19-year-old Lizette escapes an unwanted betrothal by running into the arms of the mysterious and brooding Maximilian.The hosts dive deep into this pocket edition romance featuring twins, political intrigue, a murder mystery, and Creole culture. They explore character dynamics, the surprising depth beneath the romance, and how this retro read compares favorably to contemporary romances. The episode also includes announcements about upcoming reads, including May's vampire romance "Kade's Dark Embrace" by Kym Grosso.Rating: 4/5 stars - A solid romance with engaging characters and quick pacing

In this episode, the hosts discuss "The Poisoner" by Ivy Ophelia, a book marketed as Gothic romance but which they argue is more of an Edwardian fantasy. They critique historical inaccuracies, including the lack of chaperones and phone usage that contradicts the Victorian setting. The story follows Alina, an apothecary who poisons "bad men," and her complex relationships with Silas (a snake-like vampire) and Luca/Victor (who turns out to be more sinister than initially portrayed). Despite major plot holes and disconnected storylines, both hosts enjoyed the unexpected ending where Alina escapes on a ship. They rate the book 3-4 stars and announce next month's read: "When Strangers Marry," a historical romance set in 1805 Louisiana.

The Critic shares candid reviews of three romance novels available on Kindle Unlimited that didn't meet expectations. Despite high ratings online, all three books - a cowboy Omegaverse story, a Russian mafia romance, and a dark billionaire tale - received two-star ratings from the host.

The Critic reviews three unconventional romance books they read as "palate cleansers" after a draining week. They discuss "Monsterland Mayhem" (an Omegaverse Alice in Wonderland retelling), "Baby Proposal" (a billionaire boss romance), and "Her Guy Friday" (a workplace romance with a contractual dating premise). Each review includes candid thoughts on plot, pricing, and whether the books are worth reading on Kindle Unlimited.Featured Books:Monsterland Mayhem by Lexi C. Foss (2.5/5)Baby Proposal by Evie Rose (1/5)Her Guy Friday by Savannah Reese (3/5)