Tracy Wolff Interview: Healing, Fame, and Romance in It Happened on a Sunday

Welcome to Autumn-ish Book Club! In this flash analysis series, we take an academic approach to some of the most talked-about books in Romantasy and fantasy today. With over 13 years of combined academic literary training, we bring a critical lens to fandom favorites while keeping the discussion fun, thought-provoking, and accessible. In this episode, we’re discussing A Cruel Thirst by Angela Montoya. We explore how this YA fantasy is masterfully crafted, offering a rich and authentic representation of Mexican culture, and why it’s so refreshing to have a standalone story that delivers a complete, satisfying ending. This season, we’ll be covering: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins A Cruel Thirst by Angela Montoya When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker Where the Shadows Meet by Patrice Caldwell Blood of Hercules by Jasmin Mas Blood Over Bright Haven by M.L. Wang Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard The Jasad Heir by Sara Hashem And when book club wraps up, get ready! Our next full literary analysis will dive into Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas. If you’re new here, we also have full seasons analyzing A Court of Thorns and Roses, A Court of Mist and Fury, A Court of Wings and Ruin, A Court of Frost and Starlight, House of Earth and Blood, House of Sky and Breath, Throne of Glass, and Crown of Midnight. Go back and check those out to see how we break down metaphors, symbolism, narrative structure, and character arcs through multiple literary lenses. Plus, we’re thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We’re publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. If you love Sarah J. Maas, Romantasy, and deep literary analysis, you’re in the right place. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. The Subtext Society Journal: ⁠https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/⁠  Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special episode, we sit down with Tracy Wolff, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Crave series, to talk about her brand-new contemporary romance novel, It Happened on a Sunday. Known for writing everything from vampires to dark, spicy romances, Tracy takes us in an exciting new direction with Sloan and Sly’s story. A heartfelt, deeply emotional romance that explores healing, fame, and the balance between public persona and private truth. We ask Tracy about the real-life inspiration behind the book, how she approached Sloan’s powerful healing journey, and what made Sly such a swoon-worthy character (taking his abuela to a concert—need we say more?). We also dive into the unique narrative challenges of writing about fame, identity, and vulnerability, and explore how It Happened on a Sunday fits into her wide range of novels. If you loved the Crave series or any of Tracy’s bestselling romances, you won’t want to miss this behind-the-scenes conversation about her latest release. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/  Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the first installment of our Autumn-ish Book Club! In this flash analysis series, we take an academic approach to some of the most talked-about books in Romantasy and fantasy today. With over 13 years of combined academic literary training, we bring a critical lens to fandom favorites while keeping the discussion fun, thought-provoking, and accessible. In this episode, we’re discussing The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. We explore Katniss Everdeen as a heroine whose personality type makes her both powerful and vulnerable, how Peeta functions as a unique male main character (MMC), and why the series’ themes of power, media, and survival feel even more relevant today than when the books were first released. This is part 2 of this week's episode. This season, we’ll be covering: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins A Cruel Thirst by Angela Montoya When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker Where the Shadows Meet by Patrice Caldwell Blood of Hercules by Jasmin Mas Blood Over Bright Haven by M.L. Wang Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard The Jasad Heir by Sara Hashem And when book club wraps up, get ready! Our next full literary analysis will dive into Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas. If you’re new here, we also have full seasons analyzing A Court of Thorns and Roses, A Court of Mist and Fury, A Court of Wings and Ruin, A Court of Frost and Starlight, House of Earth and Blood, House of Sky and Breath, Throne of Glass, and Crown of Midnight. Go back and check those out to see how we break down metaphors, symbolism, narrative structure, and character arcs through multiple literary lenses. Plus, we’re thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We’re publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. If you love Sarah J. Maas, Romantasy, and deep literary analysis, you’re in the right place. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. The Subtext Society Journal: ⁠https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/⁠  Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the first installment of our Autumn-ish Book Club! In this flash analysis series, we take an academic approach to some of the most talked-about books in Romantasy and fantasy today. With over 13 years of combined academic literary training, we bring a critical lens to fandom favorites while keeping the discussion fun, thought-provoking, and accessible. In this episode, we’re discussing The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. We explore Katniss Everdeen as a heroine whose personality type makes her both powerful and vulnerable, how Peeta functions as a unique male main character (MMC), and why the series’ themes of power, media, and survival feel even more relevant today than when the books were first released. This is part 1 of this week's episode. Come back Thursday for part 2. This season, we’ll be covering: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins A Cruel Thirst by Angela Montoya When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker Where the Shadows Meet by Patrice Caldwell Blood of Hercules by Jasmin Mas Blood Over Bright Haven by M.L. Wang Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard The Jasad Heir by Sara Hashem And when book club wraps up, get ready! Our next full literary analysis will dive into Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas. If you’re new here, we also have full seasons analyzing A Court of Thorns and Roses, A Court of Mist and Fury, A Court of Wings and Ruin, A Court of Frost and Starlight, House of Earth and Blood, House of Sky and Breath, Throne of Glass, and Crown of Midnight. Go back and check those out to see how we break down metaphors, symbolism, narrative structure, and character arcs through multiple literary lenses. Plus, we’re thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We’re publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. If you love Sarah J. Maas, Romantasy, and deep literary analysis, you’re in the right place. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/  Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we sit down with Analeigh Sbrana, author of the highly anticipated romantasy sequel Lore of the Tides. Following her breakout debut Lore of the Wilds, Sbrana returns with a story full of forbidden magic, grief, identity, and longing romance that raises the stakes for both her heroine and her world. We talk with Analeigh about: Why she chose to center Lore’s journey around justice instead of revenge, setting her apart in a genre that often leans into vengeance arcs. How she approached writing Lore’s grief and emotional growth after the fallout of book one. The symbolism of Lore’s ink-stained hands and forbidden magic, and how it ties into themes of identity and power. Crafting a romance arc filled with longing, betrayal, and trust issues—and why the emotional risks feel just as high as the magical ones. How queerness and Black identity are seamlessly woven into her worldbuilding. The larger themes of power, oppression, and resistance that resonate with our world today. Whether you’re already obsessed with Analeigh’s romantasy universe or discovering her books for the first time, this conversation digs deep into the heart of her storytelling and why Lore of the Tides is a must-read for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Rebecca Yarros, and epic romantasy sagas. Sponsor: Lola Blankets: For a limited time, our listeners are getting a huge 35% OFF their entire order at LolaBlankets.com by using code BOOKTALK at checkout. Just head to LolaBlankets.com and use code BOOKTALK for 35% OFF. After you purchase, they will ask you where you heard about them. PLEASE support our show and tell them we sent you. Hello Fresh: Go to HelloFresh.com/BOOKTALK10FM now to Get 10 Free Meals + a Free Item for Life! One per box with active subscription. Free meals applied as discount on first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special wrap-up episode, we close out our Crown of Midnight season by highlighting listener thoughts, theories, and favorite moments from Sarah J. Maas’s Throne of Glass sequel. Over the course of this season, we explored Celaena’s grief, vengeance, identity, and transformation through 13 years of combined academic literary training, using two literary lenses to analyze metaphors, symbolism, foreshadowing, and imagery. Now, we turn the mic to our listeners. From debates about Chaol’s choices and Dorian’s growing magic, to the heartbreak of Nehemia’s death, Archer’s betrayal, and the reveal of Celaena’s Fae identity as Aelin Galathynius, we revisit the biggest questions of the book through your insights. We also discuss your favorite themes, most shocking twists, and what this book sets up for Heir of Fire. This episode is perfect for people who love: Throne of Glass fan theories and literary analysis Community discussions around Romantasy Breaking down character arcs, betrayals, and reveals Sharing perspectives on Celaena, Chaol, and Dorian Foreshadowing and how it connects to the rest of the Maasverse Join us as we wrap up Crown of Midnight and reflect on everything this season revealed about destiny, grief, and transformation before turning to what’s next for Aelin in Heir of Fire. Sponsor: Lola Blankets: For a limited time, our listeners are getting a huge 35% OFF their entire order at LolaBlankets.com by using code BOOKTALK at checkout. Just head to LolaBlankets.com and use code BOOKTALK for 35% OFF. After you purchase, they will ask you where you heard about them. PLEASE support our show and tell them we sent you. Hello Fresh: Go to HelloFresh.com/BOOKTALK10FM now to Get 10 Free Meals + a Free Item for Life! One per box with active subscription. Free meals applied as discount on first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s episode, we explore chapters 49–56 of Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas. With 13 years of combined academic literary training, we bring two literary lenses to our analysis, exploring metaphors, foreshadowing, symbolism, narrative devices, plot structure, and imagery. Our guiding question: Have the circumstances and outcomes of Crown of Midnight properly prepared Celaena to begin her journey as Aelin Galathynius? These chapters deliver some of the most pivotal reveals of the Throne of Glass series. From Chaol’s desperate battle against a creature from another world, to Celaena unleashing her hidden Fae identity in order to save Fleetfoot and Dorian, the stakes rise with every page. Archer’s betrayal is finally exposed, Nehemia’s legacy deepens, and Celaena’s choices blur the line between vengeance and survival. Meanwhile, Chaol strikes a deal with his father that sends Celaena toward Wendlyn, Dorian struggles with the isolation of his magic, and the painful goodbyes between Celaena, Chaol, and Dorian reshape their relationships forever. The final reveal of Celaena’s true identity as the lost Queen of Terrasen sets the stage for the series to transform. This episode is perfect for people who love: Throne of Glass character analysis and plot breakdowns Romantasy full of betrayal, magic, and hidden identity Fae reveals and Aelin Galathynius foreshadowing Chaol vs. Dorian debates and ship wars Symbolism-rich fantasy worldbuilding Dark assassins, blood oaths, and queenly transformations This is Part 2 of our two-part discussion. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s episode, we explore chapters 49–56 of Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas. With 13 years of combined academic literary training, we bring two literary lenses to our analysis, exploring metaphors, foreshadowing, symbolism, narrative devices, plot structure, and imagery. Our guiding question: Have the circumstances and outcomes of Crown of Midnight properly prepared Celaena to begin her journey as Aelin Galathynius? These chapters deliver some of the most pivotal reveals of the Throne of Glass series. From Chaol’s desperate battle against a creature from another world, to Celaena unleashing her hidden Fae identity in order to save Fleetfoot and Dorian, the stakes rise with every page. Archer’s betrayal is finally exposed, Nehemia’s legacy deepens, and Celaena’s choices blur the line between vengeance and survival. Meanwhile, Chaol strikes a deal with his father that sends Celaena toward Wendlyn, Dorian struggles with the isolation of his magic, and the painful goodbyes between Celaena, Chaol, and Dorian reshape their relationships forever. The final reveal of Celaena’s true identity as the lost Queen of Terrasen sets the stage for the series to transform. This episode is perfect for people who love: Throne of Glass character analysis and plot breakdowns Romantasy full of betrayal, magic, and hidden identity Fae reveals and Aelin Galathynius foreshadowing Chaol vs. Dorian debates and ship wars Symbolism-rich fantasy worldbuilding Dark assassins, blood oaths, and queenly transformations This is Part 1 of our two-part discussion. Part 2 will be released Thursday. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show:  Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠  Merch: ⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s Crown of Midnight deep dive, we cover chapters 44–48 of Sarah J. Maas’s Throne of Glass series, where the darkness under the glass castle closes in. Literally. With 13 years of combined academic literary training, we use two literary lenses to break down the rich symbolism, foreshadowing, metaphors, and plot devices that make these chapters some of the most pivotal in the series. Our guiding question: Why does SJM continue to tie Celaena and Dorian together through their actions and the symbolism surrounding them if they are never quite aligned? From Dorian’s magic flaring as a warning in the catacombs, to a haunting monster hunt in the dark, to the revelation that the King already claimed the first Wyrdkey, this section is full of turning points. We analyze the predator/prey role reversals between Celaena and Dorian, the layered imagery of light, darkness, and thresholds, and how these moments tie into their ongoing connection. We also unpack Nehemia’s cold farewell from beyond the grave, Gavin’s cryptic warning, and Archer’s shocking betrayal that threatens to expose Celaena’s greatest secret. This episode is perfect for people who love: Throne of Glass literary analysis & character studies Romantasy with complex female leads Fate vs. free will in fantasy Wyrdkeys, Wyrdmarks & the Maasverse Dark fantasy creature battles Slow-burn alliances & betrayals Symbolism-rich worldbuilding This is Part 2 of our two-part discussion. Sponsor: Task Rabbit: Tackle your to-do list today and get 15% off your first task at TaskRabbit.com or on the Taskrabbit app using promo code BOOKTALK. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠⁠ Merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s Crown of Midnight deep dive, we cover chapters 44–48 of Sarah J. Maas’s Throne of Glass series, where the darkness under the glass castle closes in. Literally. With 13 years of combined academic literary training, we use two literary lenses to break down the rich symbolism, foreshadowing, metaphors, and plot devices that make these chapters some of the most pivotal in the series. Our guiding question: Why does SJM continue to tie Celaena and Dorian together through their actions and the symbolism surrounding them if they are never quite aligned? From Dorian’s magic flaring as a warning in the catacombs, to a haunting monster hunt in the dark, to the revelation that the King already claimed the first Wyrdkey, this section is full of turning points. We analyze the predator/prey role reversals between Celaena and Dorian, the layered imagery of light, darkness, and thresholds, and how these moments tie into their ongoing connection. We also unpack Nehemia’s cold farewell from beyond the grave, Gavin’s cryptic warning, and Archer’s shocking betrayal that threatens to expose Celaena’s greatest secret. This episode is perfect for people who love: Throne of Glass literary analysis & character studies Romantasy with complex female leads Fate vs. free will in fantasy Wyrdkeys, Wyrdmarks & the Maasverse Dark fantasy creature battles Slow-burn alliances & betrayals Symbolism-rich worldbuilding This is Part 1 of our two-part discussion—Part 2 drops Thursday. Sponsor: Task Rabbit: Tackle your to-do list today and get 15% off your first task at TaskRabbit.com or on the Taskrabbit app using promo code BOOKTALK. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at ⁠⁠⁠booktalkforbooktok.com⁠⁠⁠ for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok⁠⁠⁠ Merch: ⁠⁠⁠Etsy Store⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices