Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice

“And I was alone. All alone ever since Gareth had left me. And I was so, so mad at him for leaving me. Leaving me all alone. All alone forever.” - Elise Callisto
Welcome back to episode 23 of Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice, a spoiler-free, read-along romantasy podcast. Whether you're a first-time Solarian traveler or a greedy, slippery salmon back for seconds, you fit right in, bae.
Madeline (the fan-girling, fast-talking, certified yapper) has read the whole series. And incessantly bugged Josie (the calm, cool professional hater) to start Zodiac Academy.
Josie will be reading in real time with you. Providing initial reactions and predictions, while Madeline serves as the guide to help point you along in the right direction. 
This is a uniquely formatted bookish podcast because we wanted to create a space where you can join the conversation and get in on the action WITHOUT having to finish the book, series, or ENTIRE universe!!!! 
This week we're reviewing Dark Fae, book 1 of Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac, by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti. This episode covers the entire book, but is spoiler-free for the rest of the series. For chapter-by-chapter recaps, check out our last four Dark Fae episodes. 
This week, we’re joined by Alina Marie, a bookish creator from Austria obsessed with horses, Fourth Wing, Solaria, and iced coffee. Follow her on Instagram and Tik Tok @alinamariesa for hilarious memes, vlogs, and reviews. 
This week we discuss:
Alina’s life as a bookstagrammer and certified horse girl
Our favorite and least favorite tropes
Solarian Universe reading order (and how the re-read compares to our first go)
General feelings and thoughts on Dark Fae
Tropes and major themes in Dark Fae (Revenge, Grief, Fate vs Free Will)
Book recap and main character check-in
Madeline, Josie, and Alina’s current King Rankings
Biggest mysteries we’re left with at the end of book 1
Would You Rather, Unhinged Edition
Updates on predictions and Pepper Prophecies
Final Whimsy and Spice Reports
HUUUUUUGE shout out to Alina for joining us on this special episode!
We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions!
Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at whimsyspicepod@gmail.com. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie

“ Do any of you poor, lost souls wish to offer your power up to the light?” - The King of The Black Card
Welcome back to episode 22 of Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice, a spoiler-free, read-along romantasy podcast. Whether you're popping your cherry (gum), or an insatiable, lil monster back for seconds, you fit right in, bae.
Madeline (the fan-girling, fast-talking, certified yapper) has read the whole series. And incessantly bugged Josie (the calm, cool professional hater) to start Zodiac Academy.
Josie will be reading in real time with you. Providing initial reactions and predictions, while Madeline serves as the guide to help point you along in the right direction. 
This is a uniquely formatted bookish podcast because we wanted to create a space where you can join the conversation and get in on the action WITHOUT having to finish the book, series, or ENTIRE universe!!!! 
This week, we're covering chapters 21 through 41 of Dark Fae, book 1 of Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, where Elise is getting closer to all the kings on campus. 
This weeks’ coverage will be split into two parts. Part 1 includes a deep-dive recap of chapters 21-30. Part 2 covers chapters 31-41, world building, Prophecy Updates, and the Whimsy and Spice Report.
On this episode we discuss:
Ryder tastes sweet as cherry pie
Elise interrogates another blazer (surprise, surprise it goes nowhere)
Gareth visits a fetish club, meets Lional Af**ks, and gets footage to blackmail his principal
Dante and Elise have a heart-to-heart at the boathouse
Leon pays attention and gifts Elise just what she needs
Ryder gets ambushed by the Oscuras and offered a deal he can’t refuse
Leon reclaims a family heirloom from a local pawn shop
Elise gets on her knees for her lion
Elise is drugged, kidnapped, and rescued in the same evening
Gabriel can’t deny the Elysian mate bond anymore
World Building: The Fire Signs and notable Zodiac Academy characters
We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions!
Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at whimsyspicepod@gmail.com. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie

“What the f**k just happened? Did I just enjoy getting kicked in the nuts?” - Leo the Lion after a rendezvous with his lil monster
Welcome back to episode 21 of Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice, a spoiler-free, read-along romantasy podcast. Whether you're popping your cherry (gum), or an insatiable, lil monster back for seconds, you fit right in, bae.
Madeline (the fan-girling, fast-talking, certified yapper) has read the whole series. And incessantly bugged Josie (the calm, cool professional hater) to start Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac.
Josie will be reading in real time with you. Providing initial reactions and predictions, while Madeline serves as the guide to help point you along in the right direction. 
This is a uniquely formatted bookish podcast because we wanted to create a space where you can join the conversation and get in on the action WITHOUT having to finish the book, series, or ENTIRE universe!!!! 
This week, we're covering chapters 21 through 41 of Dark Fae, book 1 of Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, where tension is building between Elise and her male roomies (though Laini is proving to be helpful support!!!)
This weeks’ coverage will be split into two parts. Part 1 includes a deep-dive recap of chapters 21-30. Part 2 will cover chapters 31-41, world building, Prophecy Updates, and the Whimsy and Spice Report.
On this episode we discuss:
Gabriel is an asshat with an orange soda grenade
Insight on the vampire code and Professor Titan’s compassionate nature
Dante picks Elise over the Oscura Clan in a school grounds battle
Elise discovers where the secret society has been gathering on campus
Gareth gets employed by the Oscuras (thanks wheel of fortune and the fool!) and snoops in a roof nest
Ryder gets a (scary) tingle
Gabriel gets attacked by Felix and healed by Elise
Elise gets her class rank and a pat on the back
We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions!
Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at whimsyspicepod@gmail.com. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie

“ You managed to draw surprise, amusement, and intrigue from Ryder Draconus with a shrug and one word. So I'm already thrilled to have met you." - Miss Tomato A.K.A., Miss Nightshade, guidance counselor to the deeply disturbed and highly skeptical Fae of Aurora Academy
Welcome back to episode 20 of Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice, a spoiler-free, read-along romantasy podcast. Whether you're popping your cherry (gum), or an insatiable, lil monster back for seconds, you fit right in, bae.
Madeline (the fan-girling, fast-talking, certified yapper) has read the whole series. And incessantly bugged Josie (the calm, cool professional hater) to start Zodiac Academy.
Josie will be reading in real time with you. Providing initial reactions and predictions, while Madeline serves as the guide to help point you along in the right direction. 
This is a uniquely formatted bookish podcast because we wanted to create a space where you can join the conversation and get in on the action WITHOUT having to finish the book, series, or ENTIRE universe!!!! 
This week, we're covering chapters 1 through 20 of Dark Fae, book 1 of Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, where we see what a little snooping and a lot of luck can bring to a certain lilac-haired fae.
This weeks’ coverage will be split into two parts. Part 1 includes a deep-dive recap of chapters 1-9. Part 2 will cover chapters 10-20, world building, Prophecy Updates, and the Whimsy and Spice Report.
On this episode we discuss:
Kindred’s Curse Saga and Throne of Glass FMCs compared to Elise
Basilisk’s are OP’d
Gareth’s quest to find his first 2000 Auras payment
Dante sends Elise flying in a power move that puts him in time out
Gabriel and Elise have some nest time, plus a shocking reveal from the stars
Ryder struggles with vulnerability and facing his past
Leon tries to do something nice for someone else without help, and has to take a cat nap
New orders!!! Centaurs, Storm Dragons, Basilisks, oh my!
World Building: The Water Signs and notable Zodiac Academy characters
We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions!
Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at whimsyspicepod@gmail.com. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie

“Rule one dickhead: dont try and lie to a vampire, i can hear your fucking heartbeat” - Ladies and gentlemen, our legendary, lilac-haired, FMC, Elise Callisto.
Welcome back to episode 19 of Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice, a spoiler-free, read-along romantasy podcast. Whether you're popping your cherry (gum), or an insatiable, lil monster back for seconds, you fit right in, bae.
Madeline (the fan-girling, fast-talking, certified yapper) has read the whole series. And incessantly bugged Josie (the calm, cool professional hater) to start Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac.
Josie will be reading in real time with you. Providing initial reactions and predictions, while Madeline serves as the guide to help point you along in the right direction. 
This is a uniquely formatted bookish podcast because we wanted to create a space where you can join the conversation and get in on the action WITHOUT having to finish the book, series, or ENTIRE universe!!!! 
This week, we're covering chapters 1 through 20 of Dark Fae, book 1 of Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, where we see what it takes to hack your way into a magical academy and take no shit.
This weeks’ coverage will be split into two parts. Part 1 includes a deep-dive recap of chapters 1-9. Part 2 will cover chapters 10-20, world building, Prophecy Updates, and the Whimsy and Spice Report.
On this episode we discuss:
Elise tortures a local gang member for information on her brother’s death
Background on Elise and her family
Introduction to the MMCs, including their orders (and very many weeny thoughts)
Brief overview of gang culture in Alestria and on campus at Aurora Academy (Oscura Clan versus The Lunar Brotherhood)
Potions class! Concealment spells! Taking what you want when you want it! Oh my… we are NOT in Zodiac Academy anymore.
We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions!
Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at whimsyspicepod@gmail.com. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie

Greetings Bothersome Barracudas and Sultry Starfishes, we bring you this short and sweet episode with a few announcements that will bedazzle your brain with delight and pre-heat your oven for our journey ahead.
In this episode, we give high-level summary of what to expect in our upcoming Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac spoiler-free, deep-dive coverage starting on August 19, 2026. 
Plus announce our buttery bagel worthy special guests blessing us with their intrigue and sass for our review episodes. 
Be sure to follow @whimsyspicepod on Instagram for alllll the latest news and by the stars, hit follow/subscribe, and rate 5 stars. 

“I’d find it easier to carve my eyes out than I would to stop them landing on you.” - Darius “the moon made me do it… but also I totally mean it, and I’m terrified” Acrux
Welcome back to episode 18 of Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice, a spoiler-free, read-along romantasy podcast. Whether you're a first-time Solarian traveler or a greedy, slippery salmon back for seconds, you fit right in, bae.
Madeline (the fan-girling, fast-talking, certified yapper) has read the whole series. And incessantly bugged Josie (the calm, cool professional hater) to start Zodiac Academy.
Josie will be reading in real time with you. Providing initial reactions and predictions, while Madeline serves as the guide to help point you along in the right direction. 
This is a uniquely formatted bookish podcast because we wanted to create a space where you can join the conversation and get in on the action WITHOUT having to finish the book, series, or ENTIRE universe!!!! 
This week, we're covering chapters 26 through 39 of The Reckoning, book 3 of Zodiac Academy by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, where dreams come true and fall apart just as quickly. 
This weeks’ coverage will be split into two parts. Part 1 includes a deep-dive recap of chapters 26-30. Part 2 will cover chapters 31-39, world building, Prophecy Updates, and the Whimsy and Spice Report.
On this episode we discuss:
Caleb treats his source to Cotton Fae and the House of Horrors
The twins pass The Reckoning with the highest score of all
Tory “accidentally” sexts her hot, arch-nemesis
The golden dragon is moon drunk, love sick, and confused as hell
Darcy enjoys a playful spanking and exciting stroking (of the shoulder blades)
Seth breaks up with Kylie Major 
Lionel kidnaps the twins, threatens his son, and  reveals the fifth element
The Vega Twins’ orders!!! They have WINGS!!!
World Building: The Earth Signs and notable Zodiac Academy characters
We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions!
Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at whimsyspicepod@gmail.com. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie

 ”The moon is making me horny as fuck” - Seth Capella to his nearest and dearest, so they stop declining his snuggies.
Welcome back to episode 17 of Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice, a spoiler-free, read-along romantasy podcast. Whether you're a first-time Solarian traveler or a greedy, slippery salmon back for seconds, you fit right in, bae.
Madeline (the fan-girling, fast-talking, certified yapper) has read the whole series. And incessantly bugged Josie (the calm, cool professional hater) to start Zodiac Academy.
Josie will be reading in real time with you. Providing initial reactions and predictions, while Madeline serves as the guide to help point you along in the right direction. 
This is a uniquely formatted bookish podcast because we wanted to create a space where you can join the conversation and get in on the action WITHOUT having to finish the book, series, or ENTIRE universe!!!! 
This week, we're covering chapters 26 through 39 of The Reckoning, book 3 of Zodiac Academy by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, where we finally make it to the earth elemental trial and the Fairy Fair.
This weeks’ coverage will be split into two parts. Part 1 includes a deep-dive recap of chapters 26-30. Part 2 will cover chapters 31-39, world building, Prophecy Updates, and the Whimsy and Spice Report.
On this episode we discuss:
Max’s deep-rooted insecurities 
The Celestial Council’s handling of the detained Nymph
Psychotic, sociopathic Lionel 
Tory and Darcy would NOT defeat the Middengard Wyrm
Darcy and Diego’s “date” to the fairy fair
Caleb and Tory call a truce– and it only takes a small head wound, hot banter, and a little blood
Lance makes a shocking apology and wins back Darcy’s favor
We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions!
Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at whimsyspicepod@gmail.com. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie

“By the stars, Seth Capella is eating shit!” shouted Tyler Corbin, king of the class clowns and Backstreet Boys wannabees. 
Welcome back to episode 16 of Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice, a spoiler-free, read-along romantasy podcast. Whether you're a first-time Solarian traveler or a greedy, slippery salmon back for seconds, you fit right in, bae.
Madeline (the fan-girling, fast-talking, certified yapper) has read the whole series. And incessantly bugged Josie (the calm, cool professional hater) to start Zodiac Academy.
Josie will be reading in real time with you. Providing initial reactions and predictions, while Madeline serves as the guide to help point you along in the right direction. 
This is a uniquely formatted bookish podcast because we wanted to create a space where you can join the conversation and get in on the action WITHOUT having to finish the book, series, or ENTIRE universe!!!! 
This week, we're covering chapters 12 through 25 of The Reckoning, book 3 of Zodiac Academy by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, where we see what it takes to claim your place the best school in Solaria.
This weeks’ coverage will be split into two parts. Part 1 includes a deep-dive recap of chapters 12-17. Part 2 will cover chapters 18-25, world building, Prophecy Updates, and the Whimsy and Spice Report.
On this episode we discuss:
Tamlin’s Earthbound doppleganger
Tory’s enchanted by a dagger and ghost snoops on sneaky boys plotting something
Darius finds out who really burnt down his room and played him for a fool (and loses his starsdamned mind)
Lance is a good friend (and lover)
Darcy and Lance have their first lover’s quarrel (and angry makeout)
Lance dumps his other lover, Bourbon
The Vega Twins obliterate the water trial
Tory and Caleb get it on in Terra House
The Celestial Heirs plot revenge
Hell week prank... from hell
Fire trial and tribulations (and most importantly, revelations)
World Building: The Air Signs and notable Zodiac Academy characters
We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions!
Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at whimsyspicepod@gmail.com. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie

“That boy is six feet of rancid crustacean juice on a hot summer’s day.” - Geraldine “Buttery Bagels” Gruss
Welcome back to episode 15 of Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice, a spoiler-free, read-along romantasy podcast. Whether you're a first-time Solarian traveler or a greedy, slippery salmon back for seconds, you fit right in, bae.
Madeline (the fan-girling, fast-talking, certified yapper) has read the whole series. And incessantly bugged Josie (the calm, cool professional hater) to start Zodiac Academy.
Josie will be reading in real time with you. Providing initial reactions and predictions, while Madeline serves as the guide to help point you along in the right direction. 
This is a uniquely formatted bookish podcast because we wanted to create a space where you can join the conversation and get in on the action WITHOUT having to finish the book, series, or ENTIRE universe!!!! 
This week, we're covering chapters 12 through 25 of The Reckoning, book 3 of Zodiac Academy by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, where we see what it takes to claim your place the best school in Solaria.
This weeks’ coverage will be split into two parts. Part 1 includes a deep-dive recap of chapters 12-17. Part 2 will cover chapters 18-25, world building, Prophecy Updates, and the Whimsy and Spice Report.
On this episode we discuss:
A hunt through the woods with a sweet surprise
A new tarot card from Astrum’s collection
Orion’s growing jealousy 
Xavier has a good night for once
Tory ALMOST beats Darius in a dangerous race
Darcy dyes her hair and makes a declaration
Orion gets two surprise visitors in one night
We learn more about Dark Magic
We finally make it to the Air Trial!
We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions!
Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at whimsyspicepod@gmail.com. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie