Deep Trope Fantasy & Romance Podcast

The Deep Trope Podcast
  • 4.7 (15)
  • Books

Looking for your next obsessive bookish deep dive? Welcome to Deep Trope, the podcast where we go deep into the best of fantasy and romance, one trope at a time.  Join your unfiltered millennial hosts, Rachel and Kate, as we discuss both popular and underrated book series and dissect everything from worldbuilding and magic systems to the easter eggs you may have missed on the first read. There's nothing we love more than a theory spiral. Whether you're obsessed with dragons and fairies, devastating heartbreak, or just here for the romance, this is your safe space to gush over unforgettable characters, plot twists, easter eggs, theories, and, of course, our favorite spicy moments.  Pour a glass of wine (or water, you dehydrated queen), grab your current read, and let's get deep into the tropes. What We Cover: Deep Dives: Multi-episode immersive chapter-by-chapter series breakdowns and single-episode mini deep divesBook Summaries & Reviews: Fast recaps of popular romantasy books so you’re prepared for the latest release in the seriesAuthor Interviews: Behind-the-scenes chats with your favorite fantasy romance authors Deep Dives Include: Practical Magic by Alice HoffmanThe Silversmith and The Incendiary by LJ ClarenDire Bound and Fury Bound by Sable SorensenHunted by the Fae Duke by Kris K. Haines Author Interviews: LJ Claren Kris K. HainesTee Harlowe Book Summaries: The Silversmith by LJ ClarenMetal Slinger by Rachel SchneiderDire Bound by Sable Sorensen www.deeptropepodcast.com

  1. 18h ago

    The Incendiary Deep Dive (Ch. 53-62) | THAT Epic Cliffhanger, Missing Gods, and Book 3 Theories

    Welcome to the final episode of our six-part deep dive into The Incendiary by LJ Claren, book two in the Selvaren series. Rachel and Kate break down chapters 53 through 62, covering the truth behind Ary’s PTSD, an ill-fated diplomatic mission, another showdown with Molochai, and perhaps the most iconic last three words in romantasy history. Grab your headphones and maybe some snacks because we have a LOT to unpack in this finale.  Spoiler warning! This episode and description contain spoilers for The Incendiary. If you haven’t finished the book, proceed at your own risk. 🎧 Episode Highlights: Simeon's Brutal Truths: Ary confronts Simeon in his mad scientist laboratory, uncovering her horrifying history, the truth behind her abdominal scar, and what happened to her missing baby. The Gang Goes to Miami…I mean Peradine: The group travels to the hyper-sexual city of Peradine where Ary executes a secret scheme with Shera to secure an ancient enchanted book from Duke Melonius. Elias delivers an elite touch her and die moment while the Duke makes his gross demands. We also meet Ben Wynterton, that’s right, spelled with a “y”. Eli might be pissed, but we have thoughts on this character.Molochai's Ambush and Ezra's Tragic Fate: A gruesome roadside trap leads to a devastating showdown with Molochai and an impossible choice for Ary. As Ezra dies, he shares a chilling final vision revealing that all the gods are missing from the temple. We finally get confirmation that Simeon is caught under a divine curse when he leaves a note stating that “she” can hear everything.The Wedding Interruption: Forced into a political marriage with Elias, Ary walks down the aisle with her heart broken. But just as hope seems lost, a newly resurrected shadow daddy bursts through the doors and delivers the ultimate closing line.  Theories and Easter Eggs We DiscussThe Lou Theory: Exploring whether Lou is Gavin and Ary's teenage daughter hiding in plain sight.The Missing Gods: What Ezra's vision means for the Selvaren and Nyxar's true whereabouts.Simeon's Binding Deal: Who is the mysterious dark entity controlling Simeon through magical coercion? We want to hear from you! Do you think the hidden child is Lou or Ben Wynterton…or someone else? Head over to Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube and let us know your thoughts on who the child is and what that explosive ending means for book three! Follow & Subscribe for Weekly Episodes: Instagram: @DeepTropePodcastTikTok: @DeepTropePodcastFacebook: /deeptropepodcastWebsite: www.deeptropepodcast.com Can’t get enough of The Selvaren? Check out our completed deep dive of The Silversmith and two interviews with LJ Claren.  What’s next on Deep Trope 11/10: Romantasy BookCon Recap with Cosplayer Bethany Joyful  11/12: A Court of Splintered Harmony Reaction with Claire from RuningBooks 11/17: Threshing Day Deep Dive begins! Deep Trope is a fantasy romance podcast where two unfiltered millennials go deep into popular romantasy books, breaking down plot, characters, easter eggs, theories, tropes, and of course, their favorite spicy moments.

  2. Oct 27

    The Incendiary Deep Dive (Ch. 44–52) | Ary's Rage, Found (and Lost) Family, & Power Reveal

    In episode five of our deep dive into The Incendiary by LJ Claren, Rachel and Kate break down Chapters 44 through 52, and have some strong words for Elias. From Eli’s infuriating fumbles to Ary and Simeon’s earth-shattering reveals, we're unpacking every single detail and emotional gut-punch. And we have one theory about a very minor character that might just blow your mind.  Spoiler warning! This episode and description contain spoilers for The Incendiary. If you haven’t finished the book, turn back now!  🎧 Episode Highlights:Elias's Infuriating Response: After surviving a brutal attack in the showers, Ary turns to Elias for help, only to face victim-blaming and infuriatingly relatable insensitivity. Found Family to the Rescue: Mina, Mavic, Abram, and Damond step up with fierce loyalty, offering safe havens, emergency care, and a safe space to grieve without judgment.Gavin's Fate & Shera's Secrets: Shera confirms Gavin’s fate, but lingering mysteries leave us questioning if she knows more than she lets on. Iconic Feminine Rage: Ary goes full Katniss Everdeen and we ate it up. The Ultimate Battlefield Reveal: A deadly Insidion trap puts Gemma and her unborn baby in mortal peril, forcing Ary to drop her disguise and unleash a staggering display of fire, water, and wind power that leaves the entire army (and Elias) on their knees. Deep-Dive Fan Theories: We break down heavy clues regarding Ary's missing baby, the identity of Ary and Gavin's child, and Simeon's manipulative long-game.WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU  Do you think we’ve met Ary’s baby? Who do you think it is? Drop us a message or comment with your thoughts on this episode! Follow & Subscribe for Weekly Episodes: Instagram: @DeepTropePodcastTikTok: @DeepTropePodcastFacebook: /deeptropepodcastWebsite: www.deeptropepodcast.com Deep Trope is a fantasy romance podcast where two unfiltered millennials go deep into popular romantasy books, breaking down plot, characters, easter eggs, theories, tropes, and of course, their favorite spicy moments.

  3. Oct 20

    The Incendiary Deep Dive (Ch. 33–43): The Reverie Ball, Molochai's Bargain, & Ary's Feminine Rage

    In Episode 4 of our six-episode deep dive into The Incendiary by LJ Claren, Rachel and Kate cover chapters 33 through 43! Things get gorgeous, intense, and heartbreaking as we unpack the stunning floral magic of the Reverie Ball, Gavin’s dark past encounters with Molochai, Elias's growing internal conflict, soul-level connections, and that absolutely devastating attack.  Content warning! This episode and description contain spoilers for The Incendiary. If you haven’t finished the book, turn back now! All content warnings from the book apply to this podcast, including discussion of Ary’s brutal assault.   Episode Highlights: The Reverie Ball: Breaking down the breathtaking god-themed floral bouquets, fashion moments, and Ary's dance with Elias.Gavin's Flashbacks & Molochai: Exploring the black sand castle in Tugaf, shadow magic, and the fateful "fairy deal" blood oath that bound Gavin to his shadow-father.Elias's Realizations: Unpacking Elias's shower spice scene, forced proximity on the road, snake venom treatment, and his growing suspicions about Simeon.Soulmates & Soul Pieces: Examining the literal soul-level connection and tether between Ary and Gavin.The Brutal Climax: The devastating news of Gavin's alleged death, the horrific shower attack by Gerard and his men, and the fierce awakening of Ary's feminine rage.WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU  Do you think Ary and Gavin are demigods descending from Aesta and Helios for Ary and Nyxar for Gavin? How do you think Simeon is managing to spy on everyone? Drop us a message or comment with your thoughts on this episode! Follow & Subscribe for Weekly Episodes: Instagram: @DeepTropePodcastTikTok: @DeepTropePodcastFacebook: /deeptropepodcastWebsite: www.deeptropepodcast.com Deep Trope is a fantasy romance podcast where two unfiltered millennials go deep into popular romantasy books, breaking down plot, characters, easter eggs, theories, tropes, and of course, their favorite spicy moments.

  4. Oct 18 ·  Bonus

    Author LJ Claren Spills the Tea on The Incendiary, Audiobooks, and What to Expect in The Nocturne

    Rachel and Kate sit down with LJ Claren, author of the Selvaren series, to break down every single detail of The Incendiary. From unpacking Gavin's intense poetic devotion to debating Elias's controversial choices, this conversation covers it all. LJ spills major behind-the-scenes secrets about how a Lord of the Rings discussion with her husband inspired Nyrida's religious system, reacts to some of our most unhinged fan theories, and drops exclusive hints about what to expect in Book 3, The Nocturne! 🎧 Key Takeaways from This Episode: Exclusive Audiobook Scoop: LJ Claren confirmed that both Gavin and Elias will have distinct, separate male narrators for the upcoming duet-style audiobooks. The Inspiration Behind Nyrida's Lore: Claren revealed that Nyrida's unique calendar, pairing months with specific gods, colors, and flower symbolism, was born after her husband challenged her use of a standard Gregorian calendar in a high-fantasy world.Gavin's Genuine Intensity: While some readers view Gavin's dramatic language as overwhelming, Claren emphasized that his intense declarations come from a place of genuine, unadulterated adoration.The Elias Debate: Claren weighed in on why Elias remains such a polarizing character, sparking fierce reader debates over human flaws, accountability, and the possibility of a redemption arc.What to Expect in The Nocturne: Book 3 is officially set to release on July 13, 2027, Gavin Smyth’s birthday! And we hear it’s going to be SPICY! Connect with LJ Claren: Website: https://ljclaren.com/Instagram: @ljclarenDeep Trope Selvaren Schedule: Catch Up: Listen to our completed 4-episode deep dive of The Silversmith, episodes 1-3 of our deep dive of The Incendiary, and our previous interview with LJ Claren. October 20: The Incendiary Episode 4October 27: The Incendiary Episode 5November 3: The Incendiary Episode 6What’s next after The Selvaren series? We’re heading to Basgiath! Our Threshing Day deep dive starts November 10.  CONNECT & SUBSCRIBE Follow along for weekly episode drops, extra book breakdowns, and community discussions: Website: deeptropepodcast.comInstagram: @DeepTropePodcastTikTok: @DeepTropePodcastFacebook: /deeptropepodcastDeep Trope is a fantasy romance podcast where two unfiltered millennials go deep into popular romantasy books, breaking down plot, characters, easter eggs, theories, tropes, and of course, their favorite spicy moments.

  5. Oct 13

    The Incendiary Deep Dive (Ch. 22–32): Gavin Smyth’s Mom, Simeon’s Notes & the Worst Party Ever

    In episode three of our deep dive into The Incendiary, by LJ Claren, we discuss chapters 22-32, including some full-on tinfoil hat theories. Join us as we revisit Ary’s second trial, some major revelations from her notes with Creepy Uncle Simeon, Mina and Mavic’s discovery of Ary’s true identity, and the work party from hell.  🚨 SPOILER ALERT: This episode contains major spoilers for all of The Incendiary. 🎧 Episode Highlights & Breakdown: What We're Actually Screaming About The Great Elias Winterton Debate: We are officially putting Elias's questionable decisions into the "cons" column. From his instinct to choose the easy way out to kissing Ary without consent, we are side-eying his red flags (and totally cheering for Ary when she brutally bites Finch in self-defense).Notes with Creepy Uncle Simeon: We compare manipulative Uncle Simeon to an always-listening smart-home device, question his shady blood deals, and dissect each one of his cryptic notes to Ary. Grammar Rage & Magic Systems: We are losing our sanity trying to decipher vague prepositional phrases, grimoires, and how power gets obtained through murder versus bloodlines. Is magic just a recipe?Gavin & Ary’s Heart-Wrenching 10-Day Marriage: We completely spiral over the emotional devastation of their short-lived marriage, and the backstory on Gavin’s 400-year old beard. The Most Toxic Work Party: We rage against the patriarchy when cadets try to diminish Ary's accomplishments by claiming she slept her way to the top, and we're not holding back on how gross Elias's friends act.The Mother of All Theories (Gavin's Birthmother): We deep-dive into our wild new theory that Molochai hunted Gavin's mother for her godlike powers. We spiral over whether she might not actually be dead and could be the mysterious "she" threatening Ary!Trope Tracking & Endgame Theories: We track our favorite micro-tropes, like private dorms and a hint of a one-horse ride, while deep-diving into whether Gavin's shadow powers tie him to Molochai or if the mysterious "she" is the true villain. WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU Who is the mysterious “she”? Is Gavin’s birthmother actually dead? Drop your thoughts in the comments or come spiral with us on social media! Follow & Subscribe for Weekly Episodes: Instagram: @DeepTropePodcastTikTok: @DeepTropePodcastFacebook: /deeptropepodcastWebsite: www.deeptropepodcast.com Deep Trope is a fantasy romance podcast where two unfiltered millennials go deep into popular romantasy books, breaking down plot, characters, easter eggs, theories, tropes, and of course, their favorite spicy moments.

  6. Oct 6

    The Incendiary Deep Dive (Ch. 12–21): Fated Mates, Ary’s First Trial, & an Elias Theory

    In Episode 2 of our six-episode deep dive into The Incendiary by LJ Claren, we cover chapters 12-21, and things are getting intense. Join us as we break down Ary's brutal first days of training at the barracks, Elias Winterton's flirtatious knife lessons, historical flashbacks to Gavin's 402nd birthday, and a chilling murder discovery in the ravine. 🚨SPOILER ALERT: This episode contains major spoilers for all of The Incendiary. 🎧 Episode Highlights & Breakdown Training Halls & Fighting Smart: Ary navigates her first day of sparring by going straight for a man's biggest weakness, uncovers a hidden library door, and continues to build her friendship with Mavic and Mina.A Chilling Discovery: Ary uncovers a murdered cadet in the ravine, and when she rushes to bring it to Elias’s attention, she encounters her first threesome. 400-Year-Old Flashbacks: We step back in time to Gavin's 402nd birthday on the 13th of Helios, exploring his blacksmith shop, deep-seated devotion, and a vulnerable swimming scene where Ary reveals her hidden powers.The First Trial: From Ary’s search for her and Gavin’s stolen wedding bands to being hunted by her fellow cadets, the first trial reveals much about Elias’s army.New Theories: We discuss our theories on Elias Winterton’s origins, Ary and Gavin’s bond, Ary’s connection with the god Nyxar, and dissect the meaning behind Ary’s creepy nightmares. WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Do you think there’s a connection between Ary and Nyxar? Did Simeon conjure Elias Winterton? Drop your thoughts in the comments or come spiral with us on social media! Follow & Subscribe for Weekly Episodes: Instagram: @DeepTropePodcastTikTok: @DeepTropePodcastFacebook: /deeptropepodcastWebsite: www.deeptropepodcast.comDeep Trope is a fantasy romance podcast where two unfiltered millennials go deep into popular romantasy books, breaking down plot, characters, easter eggs, theories, tropes, and of course, their favorite spicy moments.

  7. Oct 1 ·  Bonus

    Unpacking Threshing Day with AXHarleston & RuningBooks: Dragon Secrets, Lore, & Bloodline Theories

    We just read Threshing Day, and our jaws are on the floor! In this special reaction episode, Rachel and Kate sit down with fellow Fourth Wing theorists Avorie & Xavier Harleston (@axharleston) from the Romantasy Chaos HQ Podcast and Claire (@runingbooks) for an immediate, unfiltered breakdown of the newest Empyrean release. Fresh off our virtual release party and an all-day reading sprint, we're spiraling over every little detail packed into these 224 pages. ⚠️ SPOILER WARNING: This episode and description contains full, detailed spoilers for Threshing Day, as well as Fourth Wing, Iron Flame, and Onyx Storm! Proceed at your own risk! What we discuss:  Initial Reactions & Bets: Who won our Threshing Day bets? Who’s writing an Imogen-Garrick fanfic and who has to read sci-fi by a male author?Major Character & Lore OMGs: Why dragons might not wait until Threshing to bond, how dragons fake their identities, sizzling romances for Garrick-Imogen and Dain-Sloane, and what Aaric’s chilling declaration really means for the monarchy.Favorite POV Chapters: Discussing the surprising humor in Brennan's chapter, the emotional heartbreak of Sloane’s, and Garrick’s dreamy POV.Easter Eggs & Mind-Blowing Theories: Did Dain’s father manipulate him using a signet? Why didn't Dain bleed at Threshing? Plus, we discuss theories on why the Rune Master is the key in the war against venin, Imogen’s true lineage, why and when dragons choose their riders, and what tf is up with Molvic. Grab your copy of Threshing Day and spiral with us! Follow Our Guests: Avorie & Xavier (Romantic Chaos HQ): @axharleston  (Instagram & TikTok) | Romantasy Chaos HQ PodcastClaire: @runingbooks (Instagram & TikTok)Follow & Subscribe for Weekly Episodes: Instagram: @DeepTropePodcastTikTok: @DeepTropePodcastFacebook: /deeptropepodcastWebsite: www.deeptropepodcast.comUpcoming on Deep Trope:  We’re currently deep diving The Incendiary by LJ Claren! New episodes drop on Tuesdays. Want more Threshing Day? We’re deep diving every single POV. Episode schedule to be announced. Resources: If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please know help is available. Contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. Deep Trope is a fantasy romance podcast where two unfiltered millennials go deep into popular romantasy books, breaking down plot, characters, easter eggs, theories, tropes, and of course, their favorite spicy moments.

  8. Sep 29

    The Incendiary Deep Dive (Ch. 1–11): Umbras, Beasties, and Flashbacks, Oh My!

    In episode one of our deep dive into The Incendiary by LJ Claren, we kick off our six-episode coverage of book two in the Selvaren series by discussing chapters 1-11, picking up where we left off in The Silversmith, getting more backstory on Gavin and Ary, and seeing a whole new version of Ary as she steps into her power.  We unpack a hefty list of romantasy tropes featured in this section of the book, including InstaLove, Who Did This To You?, and Kisses in a Library. This episode is full of theories about magic in Nyrida, the origin of Molochai’s beasts, and the possibility that Gavin and Ary are fated mates.  🚨SPOILER ALERT: This episode contains major spoilers for all of The Incendiary. Topics discussed in this week’s episode: Analysis of the opening epigraph letters and their implications for future historical recordsGavin and Ary’s first date and his immediate draw to Ary Vixen Ary aka Fera - strong, cunning, and a total flirt (but it’s all part of her plan) The introduction of Shera, her bond with Ary, and her ability to speak and share memoriesA budding love triangle with the introduction of Elias Winterton Theories about fated mates, Molochai’s beasts, soul-eating magic, and whether Ary is carrying a piece of Gavin’s soulWE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Do you think Gavin and Ary are fated mates? What secrets is Shera hiding? Drop your thoughts in the comments or come scream with us on social media! Follow & Subscribe for Weekly Episodes: Instagram: @DeepTropePodcastTikTok: @DeepTropePodcastFacebook: /deeptropepodcastWebsite: www.deeptropepodcast.comDeep Trope is a fantasy romance podcast where two unfiltered millennials go deep into popular romantasy books, breaking down plot, characters, easter eggs, theories, tropes, and of course, their favorite spicy moments.

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4.7
out of 5
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About

Looking for your next obsessive bookish deep dive? Welcome to Deep Trope, the podcast where we go deep into the best of fantasy and romance, one trope at a time.  Join your unfiltered millennial hosts, Rachel and Kate, as we discuss both popular and underrated book series and dissect everything from worldbuilding and magic systems to the easter eggs you may have missed on the first read. There's nothing we love more than a theory spiral. Whether you're obsessed with dragons and fairies, devastating heartbreak, or just here for the romance, this is your safe space to gush over unforgettable characters, plot twists, easter eggs, theories, and, of course, our favorite spicy moments.  Pour a glass of wine (or water, you dehydrated queen), grab your current read, and let's get deep into the tropes. What We Cover: Deep Dives: Multi-episode immersive chapter-by-chapter series breakdowns and single-episode mini deep divesBook Summaries & Reviews: Fast recaps of popular romantasy books so you’re prepared for the latest release in the seriesAuthor Interviews: Behind-the-scenes chats with your favorite fantasy romance authors Deep Dives Include: Practical Magic by Alice HoffmanThe Silversmith and The Incendiary by LJ ClarenDire Bound and Fury Bound by Sable SorensenHunted by the Fae Duke by Kris K. Haines Author Interviews: LJ Claren Kris K. HainesTee Harlowe Book Summaries: The Silversmith by LJ ClarenMetal Slinger by Rachel SchneiderDire Bound by Sable Sorensen www.deeptropepodcast.com

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