This week on Friday Conversation, we sit down with legendary fantasy author Tad Williams, the mind behind Memory, Sorrow and Thorn, Otherland, Shadowmarch, and more.

From Shakespeare to Tolkien, from tropes to subversion, this conversation dives deep into the craft of storytelling and what it means to write in a genre where readers already know the rules.

We explore:

This week on Panel Chewing, we’re back in the saddle with a stacked lineup of comics, breaking down the best reads, biggest disappointments, and everything in between.

From indie standouts to superhero staples, we dig into what worked, what didn’t, and what’s worth adding to your pull list.

💥 This Week’s Highlights:

In this episode of Page Chewing, the crew dives into Midnight Tides Chapters 18–20, where the tension escalates and the cracks in both empires, and characters, begin to widen.

We unpack the haunting mystery of the Nerek and the strange sanctification that shields them, questioning whether divine power, belief, or something far older is at play. From there, the conversation turns toward one of the most compelling emotional cores of the book: the fractured relationship between Fear and Trull Sengar. Is Fear acting out of loyalty… or cowardice? And what does “treason” even mean in a world already unraveli...

In this episode of The Friday Conversation, Steve is joined once again by Jose, and briefly by Jarrod, for an open-floor discussion that turns into something much bigger.

From rediscovering the joy of reading to the harsh realities of publishing, the conversation dives deep into what it really means to be a reader in a world flooded with books.

Jose shares exciting news about his upcoming PhD and writing journey, while the group reflects on reading habits, burnout, and the books that remind us why we fell in love with reading in the first place.<...

In this episode, we dive into one of the most controversial and disturbing comics ever published — Crossed by Garth Ennis and Jacen Burrows.

Originally released in 2008, Crossed presents a brutal vision of societal collapse where a mysterious contagion strips humanity of all restraint, turning the infected into sadistic killers marked by the red cross across their faces.

This episode explores the entire first volume (Issues 0–9), breaking down the story arc, the major characters, and the themes that make the series both fascinating and deeply unsettling.

We follow Stan, Cindy, and a smal...

In this episode of Page Burners, the crew continues their journey through Midnight Tides, Book Five of Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson, diving deep into the chaos and revelations of the late-book chapters as the Letherii–Edur conflict erupts into full war.

The discussion explores the sudden devastation unleashed by Letherii sorcery, wiping out entire villages and throwing the Edur world into upheaval. The hosts unpack the emotional weight of Buruk’s tragic storyline and Seren Pedac’s complicated reaction to his death, debating whether Erikson’s “fog of war” storytelling heightens the tension or obscures...

This week on Panel Chewing Pick of the Week, Steve and Jarrod dive into another stack of comics and break down the books that stood out from the week’s pull list.

Before jumping into the comics, the conversation kicks off with a nostalgic look at the comic-magazine era. From Wizard Magazine to Comic Shop News, the hosts reflect on the lost culture of comic journalism and how the internet—and now social media—has changed how fans interact with the hobby.

Then it’s time to talk comics.

Highlights this week include discussi...

Steve and Jose revisit Garth Ennis’ Crossed, one of the most controversial horror comics ever published. Is it a brutal survival story about the collapse of humanity, or simply shock value taken to the extreme? In this episode, they break down the original run (issues 0–9), explore the themes behind the violence, and debate whether Crossed adds anything new to the zombie apocalypse genre.

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In this episode, the hosts delve into the intricacies of 'Midnight Tides,' the fifth book in the Malazan series. They explore character dynamics, particularly focusing on Kettle and the Ratcatchers Guild, while discussing broader themes such as destiny, greed, and the nature of power. The conversation highlights Erikson's unique blend of humor and horror, as well as the philosophical underpinnings of the narrative. In this conversation, the participants delve into the intricate web of character dynamics, political intrigue, and the moral complexities of revolution and war within a fantasy narrative. They explore the motivations and backgrounds of various...

This panel discussion covers the latest in comic books, industry news, and a deep dive into the Batman and Son series by Grant Morrison. The hosts share insights on recent reads, industry shifts, and their favorite issues, providing a comprehensive look at current comic trends.

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In this episode, the group discusses the intricacies of Midnight Tides, focusing on chapters 9, 10, and 11. They explore themes of death, resurrection, and the complex character dynamics between Rulad, Udinas, and the Crippled God. The conversation delves into the nature of war and peace within the Malazan universe, highlighting the horror elements present in Rulad's resurrection and the moral ambiguities of the characters involved. The discussion emphasizes the depth of character development and the philosophical questions raised by the narrative. In this conversation, the participants delve into the intricate themes of mercy, compassion, and the complexities of character dynamics within...

In this episode, Steve and Jarrod discuss their recent comic book readings, transitioning from Frank Miller's Daredevil to Grant Morrison's Batman. They explore various titles, including Detective Comics, and delve into the impact of art and storytelling in comics. The conversation highlights the nostalgia of classic comics while also addressing the absurdity found in some modern titles. They wrap up with reflections on their favorite reads and the importance of character development in comic storytelling.

Next week we begin Batman: Batman's Son volume 1, the first two issues. You can find it free on Libby or Hoopla or...

In this episode, the group discusses the themes, characters, and writing style of Midnight Tides, the fifth book in the Malazan series. They explore the balance of humor and darkness, the significance of the Oodaloo character, and the complexities of the Warlock King. The conversation also touches on the themes of colonialism and enslavement, as well as the evolution of Erikson's prose. The group reflects on their favorite moments and characters, speculating on the implications of the sword introduced in the story. In this conversation, the participants delve into the intricate themes of the Malazan series, focusing on the...

In this episode of the Pick of the Week podcast, hosts Steve and Jarrod discuss their favorite comic book picks of the week, including a review of Daredevil's concluding issues, Superman, and various indie comics. They also delve into industry news regarding comic book production challenges and share insights on the evolving landscape of comic publishing. The episode wraps up with a group read of Daredevil issues 181 and 219, highlighting the impact of Frank Miller's work and the transition to new story arcs.

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In this episode, the hosts discuss their favorite comic book picks of the week, diving into various new releases and ongoing series. They explore themes of character development, unique storytelling, and artistic styles, while also sharing their thoughts on the impact of release schedules on narrative flow. The conversation culminates in a discussion of their picks of the week, highlighting the emotional and thematic depth of the stories they enjoyed.

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In this episode, Steve and Jarrod discuss their love for comic books and the creative outlet that podcasting provides. They review various comic book issues, including classics and new releases, while reflecting on the impact of storytelling in comics. The conversation also touches on the importance of community in reading and sharing opinions, as well as their group read of Frank Miller's Daredevil.

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In this episode, the group discusses the complexities of the Malazan book 'Midnight Tides', focusing on character dynamics, political intrigue, and the cultural aspects of the Tiste-Edur. They explore the significance of history in shaping present events, the relationships between characters, and the material concerns that influence political actions. The conversation delves into the motivations of the Singar brothers and the ambiguity of their interactions, highlighting the intricate web of relationships and power dynamics at play. The conversation delves into the intricate political dynamics within the Sengar family, the connections between local conflicts and larger narratives, and the ghostly...

In this episode, the panel discusses their favorite comic book picks of the week, delving into various themes such as the trend of grab bags in comics, the appeal of crossover stories, and the impact of historical fiction in graphic novels. They review new releases, including Marvel's black, white, and blood series, and explore the darker narratives found in indie comics. The conversation also touches on the storytelling techniques of Frank Miller in Daredevil, highlighting the contrasts between action and substance in superhero narratives.

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In this episode of Page Burners, the hosts dive into the intricate world of the Malazan series, focusing on 'Midnight Tides.' They discuss the prologue and the first two chapters, exploring themes of betrayal, identity, and the significance of prologues in the Malazan universe. The conversation highlights the complexity of characters, as well as the cultural nuances and their history. The hosts also reflect on the poetic nature of the narrative and the challenges of remembering the multitude of characters and their names, which adds to the richness of the storytelling. The conversation highlights the cultural reflections within...

FULL SERIES SPOILERS in this episode!

In this episode of Page Burners, the hosts delve into the intricacies of 'House of Chains,' the fourth book in the Malazan series. They discuss the pivotal character arcs, particularly focusing on Karsa Orlong, Tavor, and Felisin, and how their journeys reflect broader themes of redemption, tragedy, and transformation. The conversation also touches on the significance of the Tiste Edur, the dynamics of the Paran siblings, and the complexities of characters like Leomund. Through a reread, the hosts uncover new insights and connections, enriching their understanding of the narrative and...

In this episode of the Panel Chewing, hosts Steve and Jarrod discuss their recent comic book readings, including the Grant Morrison run on Daredevil and various other titles. They share their thoughts on the evolution of superhero narratives, the impact of Frank Miller's work, and their personal reading plans for the year. The conversation flows through their picks of the week, exploring themes and character developments in the comics they love, while also inviting listeners to join in on the reading journey.

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In this episode of Page Burners, the hosts delve into the complexities of the Malazan book series, focusing on 'House of Chains.' They explore the intricate themes of character development, the significance of endings, and the role of humor amidst darker narratives. The discussion highlights the interconnectedness of life and death, the tragic fate of key characters, and the implications of rebellion and choices within the story. The hosts reflect on their personal experiences with the book, emphasizing the depth of its characters and the impact of their journeys. In this conversation, the participants delve into the themes...

In this episode, Steve and Jarrod discuss their favorite comic book series of the year, including their top five picks and honorable mentions. They delve into the Frank Miller run on Daredevil, exploring its impact and storytelling techniques. The conversation also covers current comic book reviews, highlighting various titles and their themes, while wrapping up with reflections on the year in comics and what to look forward to in the next.

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In this year-end update, Steve reflects on his reading journey, sharing insights on the books he's enjoyed, his top picks of the year, and his plans for the upcoming year. He discusses the challenges of reading dense novels, highlights his favorite comics, and expresses a desire to explore more classics and significant literary works in 2026.

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In this episode of Pick of the Week, hosts Steve and Jarrod discuss their favorite comic book picks of the week, delve into the holiday season's impact on comic book gifting, and review various titles including '30 Days of Night', 'Detective Comics', and 'Frank Miller's Daredevil'. They explore themes of violence, storytelling, and social commentary in comics, while also sharing insights on the importance of understanding the audience when gifting comics. The episode concludes with a discussion on their top picks and a preview of the next episode's focus on their favorite comics of the year.

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In this episode, Steve discusses the ongoing migration of his website, sharing the challenges he faces with database transfers. He updates listeners on his current reading, including 'House of Chains' and 'Steppenwolf', reflecting on the importance of being selective with reading material. Steve also shares comic book recommendations and addresses the challenges content creators face on platforms like YouTube, particularly with AI moderation. He concludes with thoughts on social media trends and the potential shift away from digital platforms.

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In this episode of Page Burners, the hosts delve into the intricate world of the Malazan series, focusing on character dynamics, particularly the relationship between Cutter and Absalar. They explore the rich lore surrounding the Talanai Mass and the First Empire, while also discussing the romantic tensions that arise among the characters. The desert of Raraku is portrayed as a living entity, and the concept of memory plays a crucial role in the narrative. The Hounds of Darkness emerge as a significant threat, and the implications of the First Throne are examined. The episode concludes with reflections on Kalam's...

In this episode of the Pick of the Week podcast, hosts Steve and Jarrod discuss their latest comic book reads, including a variety of new releases and classic runs. They explore themes of refining tastes in comics, the impact of independent creators, and the evolution of beloved characters like Batman and Daredevil. The conversation also touches on the significance of artwork in storytelling and the importance of supporting creators in the comic book industry.

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In this episode, Steve discusses his recent reading experiences, including 'House of Chains' and 'The Outer Dark,' while also sharing insights into the comic book world. He delves into the current state of the entertainment industry, particularly the potential acquisition of Warner Brothers by Netflix, and reflects on the implications for consumers and creators alike. The conversation wraps up with future plans for reading projects and a heartfelt thank you to the community.

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In this episode, the group discusses chapters 16-19 of House of Chains, focusing on character development, particularly Karsa's journey of growth and isolation. They explore themes of belief, the nature of gods, and the moral complexities of power dynamics. Felicin's struggles with the whirlwind goddess and the implications of cold iron versus hot iron are also examined, alongside the failures of parental figures in the narrative. In this conversation, the participants delve into the intricate character dynamics and themes present in the Malazan series, particularly focusing on leadership challenges, the nature of rebellion, sibling relationships, and the emotional struggles...

In this episode, Steve and Jarrod discuss their weekly comic book picks, delve into the implications of the Warner Brothers sale on DC Comics, and explore the preservation of old comics. They review various titles including Berserker, You Won't Feel a Thing, and Red Coat, while also engaging in a group read of Daredevil issues 175 and 176. The conversation touches on the future of comics in the streaming era and the potential for new readers through digital platforms.

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In this episode, the hosts delve into the intricate world of the Malazan series, focusing on 'House of Chains.' They explore the complexities of characters like Karsa Orlong, the moral ambiguities present in the narrative, and the significant themes of power struggles, suffering, and the role of female characters. The discussion also touches on the psychological aspects of oppression and the impact of hallucinations as a narrative device, all while appreciating the rich world-building that defines the series. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the intricate themes and character developments within the Malazan series, particularly focusing on...

In this engaging conversation, Andrew Rubin discusses his debut novel 'Hell or High Winter', a contemporary urban fantasy that retells the myth of Hermes and Persephone. He shares insights into his creative process, the importance of comedy in storytelling, and the transition from screenwriting to novel writing. Rubin also reflects on the impact of technology and AI on human connection and creativity, as well as the significance of mental health themes in his work. The discussion highlights the challenges and joys of writing, the role of feedback, and the evolving landscape of storytelling in the modern world.

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In this episode, Steve and Jarrod discuss their favorite comic book picks for the month of November, highlighting the quality of indie comics and the significance of storytelling in graphic novels. They delve into their weekly comic book haul, providing insights on various titles, including Detective Comics and new series like Galactic and Good as Dead. The conversation also touches on the importance of character development and emotional depth in comics, particularly in the context of Frank Miller's Daredevil run, which they explore in their group read segment.

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In this weekly update, Steve discusses his recent reading experiences, including challenges faced in keeping up with his reading goals. He shares insights on the books he's currently reading, including 'House of Chains' and 'Outer Dark', and highlights his comic book picks of the week. The conversation also touches on the creative processes of authors, community engagement through the website, and ongoing film discussions related to Oscar-winning movies. Additionally, Steve reflects on content creation, the impact of AI in the creative space, and encourages listeners to embrace their creative pursuits without the pressure of competition.

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In this episode, the group delves into the intricacies of the Malazan book 'House of Chains', focusing on character dynamics, symbolism, and the overarching themes of power and sacrifice. They discuss Tavor's leadership challenges, the legacy of Coltain, and the significance of the sword of vengeance, while also exploring the implications of the Throne of Shadow and the motivations of various factions within the narrative. In this conversation, the participants delve into the intricate themes of factions, allegiances, and character relationships within the Malazan series. They explore the significance of the Drift of Oli, Kalam's journey, and the Cult...

Join us for a captivating conversation with Alex French, the author of "Carpentry in the Elven Forest." Discover the journey behind the book, from its inception in a writer's forum to its publication. Alex shares insights into the challenges of self-publishing, the creative process of writing comedy, and the whimsical world-building that brings his characters to life. Whether you're an aspiring author or a fan of fantasy, this episode offers a delightful blend of humor, inspiration, and practical advice. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the making of a modern fantasy tale.

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In this episode of the "Pick of the Week" podcast, Steve and Jarrod dive into their latest comic book reads, including Frank Miller's iconic Daredevil run. They explore the dynamics of indie comics versus mainstream giants like Marvel and DC, and discuss the challenges and triumphs of self-publishing. Tune in for insights on the evolving comic book market, intriguing storylines, and their top picks of the week. Whether you're a seasoned comic enthusiast or new to the scene, there's something for everyone in this engaging discussion.

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In this episode of Page Burners, we dive into the intricate world of the Malazan Book of the Fallen, focusing on chapters 8 through 10 of House of Chains. Join us as we explore the complex dynamics between characters like Varsha, L'Oric's Number One Fan, and Shanrack, and unravel the mysteries surrounding the Hounds of Shadow and Darkness. We also delve into the philosophical discussions on power, belief, and the nature of omens, all while navigating the rich tapestry of Erikson's universe. Whether you're a seasoned Malazan reader or new to the series, this episode promises to deepen your understanding and...

Join Steve and Jarrod in this week's episode of the "Panel Showing Pick of the Week" podcast as they dive into the world of comic books. From discussing their favorite artists like John Buscema and Frank Miller to reviewing the latest issues of "Savage Sword of Conan" and "Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees," they explore the art and storytelling that make comics captivating. Tune in for insights, reviews, and a lively discussion on the evolution of comic book art and storytelling.

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