Page Chewing

Steve
  • 5.0 (14)
  • BOOKS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Page Chewing is where books, comics, and conversations collide. From in-depth chats with authors and artists to lively discussions with fellow readers, we explore the craft of storytelling, the worlds we love, and the ideas that stay with us long after the last page.

  1. Page Burners: Night of Knives by Ian C. Esslemont. - Chapters 4, 5 & Epilogue

    2H AGO

    Page Burners: Night of Knives by Ian C. Esslemont. - Chapters 4, 5 & Epilogue

    In this episode of Page Burners, we wrap up our discussion of Night of Knives by Ian C. Esslemont, covering Chapters 4, 5, and the epilogue—and there’s a lot to unpack. From the mysterious Stormriders to the shadowy aftermath of Kellenved and Dancer’s ascension, we dive into what wasn’t shown just as much as what was. Does the book’s decision to keep major events off-page strengthen its mythic tone, or leave the story feeling incomplete? We spend time breaking down Kiska and Temper as our POV characters—whether their arcs land emotionally, and how they function within the larger Malazan Book of the Fallen universe. We also explore the shifting portrayal of characters like Tayschrenn, the lingering mystery of the Stormriders, and the role of ordinary people caught in world-changing events. Along the way, we debate expectations vs execution, the strengths and weaknesses of Esslemont’s storytelling, and whether Night of Knives truly works as a standalone—or feels more like a missing piece of a much larger puzzle. If you’ve ever wondered what really happened that night… you’re not alone. Next Episode: We begin The Bonehunters by Steven Erikson, reading through Chapter 2.

    1h 46m
  2. Page Burners: Night of Knives by Ian C. Esslemont. - Chapters 3 & 4

    4D AGO

    Page Burners: Night of Knives by Ian C. Esslemont. - Chapters 3 & 4

    This week on Page Burners, the group continues their journey through Night of Knives with a deep dive into Chapters 3–5. The discussion explores the book’s slower, more atmospheric middle section, the confusion and chaos of Malaz Island during Shadow Moon, and the increasingly tangled loyalties surrounding Dancer, Kellanved, Surly, and the Claw. The crew debates whether Chapter 3 drags or intentionally leans into disorientation and tension, while also unpacking personal reading pet peeves, confusing timelines, and Esslemont’s descriptive style. Things heat up once the flashbacks begin, giving us our first real look at Dasem Ultor during the fall of Y’Ghatan — including his conflict with Hood, Surly’s growing influence, and the legendary reputation that made soldiers willing to follow him into hell. Along the way, the episode also touches on Stormriders, Hairlock memes, Shadow Cultists, Dancer’s intimidating presence, and the ongoing question at the heart of Night of Knives: who actually knows what’s happening tonight on Malaz Island?

    1h 27m
  3. Panel Chewing Pick of the Week: The Cost of Comics & This Week’s Picks | Episode 131

    MAY 6

    Panel Chewing Pick of the Week: The Cost of Comics & This Week’s Picks | Episode 131

    This week on Panel Chewing, Steve and Jarrod dive into another round of weekly comic reads—with a candid conversation to kick things off about something most podcasts don’t always say out loud: we pay for every book we review. No review copies, no publisher influence—just honest takes from readers spending their own money each week. That reality shapes what we stick with, what we drop, and why our pull list leans heavily into indie books that actually earn their place. From there, it’s business as usual—breaking down this week’s comics, debating what’s worth your time (and your wallet), and crowning our Pick of the Week. We also wrap up our ongoing group read of Grant Morrison’s Batman and share final thoughts on the run—what worked, what didn’t, and whether it lives up to its reputation. 📚 Next Week’s Read Along: We’re starting Lone Wolf and Cub Vol. 1—available free on Libby and Hoopla. Grab it and read along with us! If you’re looking for real, unfiltered comic talk from readers just like you—this is it.

    41 min
  4. Page Burners: Night of Knives by Ian C. Esslemont. - Prologue & Chapters 1, 2

    MAY 5

    Page Burners: Night of Knives by Ian C. Esslemont. - Prologue & Chapters 1, 2

    We’re back in the world of Malazan—this time stepping into new territory with Night of Knives by Ian C. Esslemont. In this episode, the crew begins their first-ever discussion of Esslemont’s work, breaking down the prologue and first two chapters of this gothic, atmospheric entry into the Malazan universe. While we planned to go further, there’s already plenty to unpack—from eerie tone-setting to early character impressions and the shifting political landscape of Malaz City. We dig into: First impressions of Esslemont’s writing style and how it compares to Steven EriksonThe edict against sorcery and what it reveals about Surly/Laseen’s ruleWhether Night of Knives is a good entry point—or a risky detour—for Malazan readersThe book’s dense, gothic atmosphere and how it shapes the reading experienceEarly thoughts on key characters like Temper and KiskaWhy longtime fans might (or might not) want to explore the Novels of the Malazan Empire We also tackle a big question: Why read Esslemont at all? If you’re deep into Malazan or just curious about expanding your understanding of the world, this episode lays out the case. Whether you’re rereading alongside us or diving into Esslemont for the first time, this is your starting point for Night of Knives. Next episode: Chapters 3 & 4.

    1h 58m
  5. Panel Chewing Pick of the Week: Chaos, Cults & Capes | Episode 130

    APR 29

    Panel Chewing Pick of the Week: Chaos, Cults & Capes | Episode 130

    This week on Panel Chewing: Pick of the Week, we’re back with another stacked lineup of comics—from indie standouts to big publisher swings—as we break down everything we read this week and crown our top pick. We kick things off with a preview of our upcoming group read, diving into the legendary Lone Wolf and Cub—a classic manga rooted in Edo-period Japan, blending historical drama, political intrigue, and brutal samurai storytelling. If you’ve ever been curious about the series, now’s the perfect time to jump in with us. From there, we run through this week’s books, including: American Caper #6 and its sharp satire and character-driven chaos Fury of the Firestorm #1 and a darker take on heroism Corpse Knight #1 and its medieval revenge setup The Hab #1 and a twisted post-apocalyptic bunker story Florida Hippopotamus Cocaine Massacre #3—a wild, over-the-top ride that may divide readers  Plus more hits, misses, and everything in between  We also wrap up the Night City mini-series, revisit Spawn: The Dark Ages, and catch up on Hyde Street as it continues to impress with its character-driven storytelling. 🏆 Pick of the Week:  Jared highlights Astro Quantum #3 for its pulpy sci-fi energy and expanding universe  Steve chooses The Peril of the Brutal Dark #3 for its smooth storytelling, layered mystery, and strong pacing  📚 Group Read Discussion: We continue our journey through Batman by Grant Morrison, covering issues #673–674. As we near the end, we break down themes of isolation, grief, and identity—while debating whether this run lives up to its legendary reputation. Send us a message (I'm not able to reply) Support the show Page Chewing Blog Page Chewing Forum Film Chewing Podcast Speculative Speculations Podcast Support the podcast via PayPal Support the show by using our Amazon Affiliate link Join Riverside.fm  Co-Hosts: Jarrod Varsha  Chris Jose Carl D. Albert (author) Thomas J. Devens (author) Alex French (author) Intro and Outro Music by Michael R. Fletcher (2024-Current)

    44 min
  6. Page Burners: The Healthy Dead: Extremism, Lust, and the Illusion of Purity

    APR 26

    Page Burners: The Healthy Dead: Extremism, Lust, and the Illusion of Purity

    In this episode, we dive into The Healthy Dead, the second Bauchelain and Korbal Broach novella in the Malazan universe — and one of the most sharply satirical entries in the series. What starts as a darkly comedic side story quickly reveals itself as something more pointed: a critique of extremism disguised as virtue. We break down the novella’s central ideas, including:  The satire of “health fascism” and enforced purity  How good intentions spiral into control, paranoia, and collapse  The role of lust, obsession, and imbalance in shaping society  Why this story feels more grounded — and more uncomfortable — than traditional fantasy themes  We also talk character highlights, including Emancipor Reese’s growing agency, the unsettling presence of minor demons, and the strange brilliance of Bauchelain’s final conclusions. While The Healthy Dead may not be the most complex Malazan story, it might be one of the most direct — forcing us to confront how easily any ideology, no matter how well-intentioned, can become something destructive when taken too far. If nothing else, this novella asks a simple question:  What happens when being “healthy” becomes more important than being human? Send us a message (I'm not able to reply) Support the show Page Chewing Blog Page Chewing Forum Film Chewing Podcast Speculative Speculations Podcast Support the podcast via PayPal Support the show by using our Amazon Affiliate link Join Riverside.fm  Co-Hosts: Jarrod Varsha  Chris Jose Carl D. Albert (author) Thomas J. Devens (author) Alex French (author) Intro and Outro Music by Michael R. Fletcher (2024-Current)

    59 min
  7. Panel Chewing Pick of the Week 128: Trombone Week, Ice Cream Man Returns & Conan Claims the Crown

    APR 22

    Panel Chewing Pick of the Week 128: Trombone Week, Ice Cream Man Returns & Conan Claims the Crown

    It’s a rollercoaster week on Panel Chewing: Pick of the Week—and not always in a good way. Steve and Jarrod break down a mixed bag of comics, featuring everything from disappointing reads (yes… multiple trombones 👀) to standout surprises that kept the stack from falling apart completely. From the eerie return of Ice Cream Man to the wild swings of Absolute Batman and Dead Teenagers, this week proves not every pull list is a winner. On the flip side, Jarrod finds gold with Human Nature and dives headfirst into Hyde Street, while Steve explores a new take on Deathstroke and battles through a confusing adaptation of Smile. And when all hope seems lost… Conan shows up. 🔥 Pick of the Week: Savage Sword of Conan #13 brings classic storytelling, stunning black-and-white art, and everything you want from a Conan tale—proving sometimes the old ways still hit the hardest. 📚 Group Read Update: We continue our journey through the Batman and Son run, with a stylish murder mystery and a confusing jump into modern-day chaos. With only a few issues left, the big question remains: does this run come together… or fall apart? 💬 Got suggestions for our next group read? Let us know—we want you reading along with us! Send us a message (I'm not able to reply) Support the show Page Chewing Blog Page Chewing Forum Film Chewing Podcast Speculative Speculations Podcast Support the podcast via PayPal Support the show by using our Amazon Affiliate link Join Riverside.fm  Co-Hosts: Jarrod Varsha  Chris Jose Carl D. Albert (author) Thomas J. Devens (author) Alex French (author) Intro and Outro Music by Michael R. Fletcher (2024-Current)

    52 min
  8. Page Burners: Malazan After Midnight Tides (Full Series Spoilers)

    APR 19

    Page Burners: Malazan After Midnight Tides (Full Series Spoilers)

    We’ve finished Midnight Tides—and now it’s time to zoom out. In this full series-spoiler discussion, the crew breaks down how this turning-point book reshapes the Malazan story, especially when it comes to the Crippled God. Is he still the big bad… or something else entirely? We also dig into reread insights, how we each discovered Malazan, and which storylines we’re most excited to follow as the series moves forward. ⚠️ Full spoilers for the Malazan Book of the Fallen. Send us a message (I'm not able to reply) Support the show Page Chewing Blog Page Chewing Forum Film Chewing Podcast Speculative Speculations Podcast Support the podcast via PayPal Support the show by using our Amazon Affiliate link Join Riverside.fm  Co-Hosts: Jarrod Varsha  Chris Jose Carl D. Albert (author) Thomas J. Devens (author) Alex French (author) Intro and Outro Music by Michael R. Fletcher (2024-Current)

    1h 43m
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5
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

Page Chewing is where books, comics, and conversations collide. From in-depth chats with authors and artists to lively discussions with fellow readers, we explore the craft of storytelling, the worlds we love, and the ideas that stay with us long after the last page.

Information

  • Creator
    Steve
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    686
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Page Chewing
  • Show Website
    Page Chewing

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