Best Jim Scriven Podcasts (2025)

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The Boy on the Bridge — A Sequel, a Prequel, and an Ending You’ll Never Forget 6:35

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1h ago6:35

6:35

Think you already know everything after The Girl With All the Gifts? Think again. In this solo review, Jim explores The Boy on the Bridge by M.R. Carey—a novel that both expands and deepens the haunting world of the first book. With shocking reveals, unforgettable characters, and a powerful ending, this isn’t just a prequel… it’s a story that chang…

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Which are the MOST Overhyped Characters of Fantasy? 37:37

18h ago37:37

37:37

Some characters get all the love… but do they really deserve it? In this episode, Jim and Zach dive into the Most Overhyped Characters in Fantasy. From beloved heroes to so-called legends of the genre, we’re putting names on the table and asking the tough question: Are they really that good, or is the fandom just a little too obsessed? Don’t get us…

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BEST Sci-Fi Novels of the 2010s SHOCKINGLY IGNORED by Awards 20:33

3d ago20:33

20:33

🚀✨ It’s the grand finale of our series on the Best Science Fiction Novels Overlooked by the Awards! ✨🚀 Across the Hugo, Nebula, Locus, Clarke, Campbell, and BSFA ballots of the 2010s, countless worthy books never received a nomination. In this episode, Jim dives into the two best sci-fi novels from each year, 2010 through 2019, that somehow slipped…

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BEST Sci-Fi Books of the 2000s SNUBBED by Awards 19:04

4d ago19:04

19:04

The 2000s gave us some of the biggest names and boldest ideas in science fiction—space operas that redefined the genre, cyberpunk evolutions, and near-future thrillers that feel eerily relevant today. But here’s the twist: not every great book of the decade made it onto the Hugo, Nebula, or Locus ballots. In this episode, Jim continues the series b…

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Best Sci-Fi Novels of the 1990s OVERLOOKED by Awards 11:15

6d ago11:15

11:15

✨ The 1990s were packed with groundbreaking science fiction—cyberpunk matured, space opera returned in force, and near-future thrillers exploded. The Hugo, Nebula, and Locus Awards recognized plenty of classics…but they didn’t catch everything. In this episode of Fantasy for the Ages, Jim takes you year by year through the 1990s to spotlight the to…

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Best Sci-Fi Novels of the 1980s Snubbed by Awards 19:57

10d ago19:57

19:57

✨ Think the Hugo, Nebula, and Locus Awards caught all the best science fiction of the 1980s? Think again. In this episode of Fantasy for the Ages, Jim digs deep into the decade that gave us cyberpunk, space opera epics, and dystopian thrillers—spotlighting the amazing books that somehow slipped through the awards radar. From forgotten alien invasio…

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Snubbed by the Awards: Best Sci-Fi Novels of the 1970s 22:19

11d ago22:19

22:19

Some of the best science fiction of the 1970s never even made it onto an awards ballot. No Hugos. No Nebulas. No Locus trophies, Clarke medals, or BSFA plaques. But these are books that sold strongly, earned lasting fan love, and still hold up with terrific ratings and critical praise. In this episode, Jim digs into the hidden gems of each year in …

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Best Sci-Fi Novels of the 1960s that the Awards Ignored 16:25

14d ago16:25

16:25

The 1960s gave us some of the most legendary science fiction ever written… but many incredible novels were completely ignored by the Hugos, the Nebulas, and every other major award. In this episode, Jim dives deep into the data — sales numbers, Goodreads/StoryGraph/Amazon ratings, and critical reviews — to uncover 20 sci-fi gems from the 1960s that…

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Stephen Graham Jones’ Darkest Novel Yet? (The Least of My Scars) 6:02

15d ago6:02

6:02

Step into the mind of a killer—if you dare. In this solo review, Jim explores The Least of My Scars by Stephen Graham Jones, a psychological horror novel that locks you into the twisted thoughts of a serial killer. With its shocking opening scene, layers of manipulation, and an ending you’ll never see coming, this book is as unsettling as it is bri…

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The Girl With All the Gifts — Brilliant, Unsettling, Unmissable 5:56

16d ago5:56

5:56

What makes a zombie apocalypse novel stand out from the crowd? In this solo review, Jim explores The Girl With All the Gifts by M.R. Carey—a dystopian sci-fi horror story that’s as thoughtful as it is terrifying. From the unforgettable protagonist Melanie, to the shocking opening, to that mind-blowing conclusion, this book delivers everything you w…

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What's Hiding in the Pages of “Three Miles Past” by Stephen Graham Jones? 5:26

17d ago5:26

5:26

Step into the unsettling world of Stephen Graham Jones with Three Miles Past (2011), a chilling collection of three novellas: Interstate Love Affair, No Takebacks, and The Coming of Night. In this episode, Jim dives into each story with spoiler-lite synopses, then shares why this volume stands out as a delightfully creepy addition to Jones’ growing…

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Top 15 Audiobook Series I’ve Enjoyed Binging 22:11

19d ago22:11

22:11

🎧 Ever been swept away by an audiobook so good you forget you’re doing chores, working out, or driving across town? In this episode, Jim shares the Top 15 Audiobook Series (plus an honorable mention!) that he’s loved binging—trilogies and longer series that combine incredible storytelling, immersive worlds, and unforgettable narration.From epic fan…

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Top FANTASY Books from Self Published Authors 2011-2024 36:14

21d ago36:14

36:14

What are the best self-published fantasy and science fiction novels of the last decade-plus? From The Martian and Wool to The Sword of Kaigen and Waybound, indie authors have proven they can go toe-to-toe with the biggest names in traditional publishing. In this episode, Jim walks through four standout indie releases from every year between 2011 an…

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Does Mira Grant's Zombie Story FALL Flat? 4:56

23d ago4:56

4:56

Mira Grant’s Newsflesh Trilogy is one of the most brilliant zombie apocalypse series ever written… but what about Feedback (2016), the so-called “Book 4”? In this spoiler-lite review, Jim (flying solo for Fantasy for the Ages) dives into this parallel tale that runs alongside the events of Feed. Does Feedback add anything compelling to the Newsfles…

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Fantasy, Sci-Fi & Horror’s Greatest Opening Lines | How Many Do You Know? 14:25

24d ago14:25

14:25

Some opening lines stay with you forever. From the mysterious, the chilling, and the downright legendary, these first words transport us into other worlds and unforgettable stories. In this episode, Jim takes you on a journey through 30 of the best opening lines in fantasy, science fiction, and horror — moving from lesser-known gems to the most ico…

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Steven Erikson's Weirdness Unleashed in Bauchelain & Korbal Broach 6:52

25d ago6:52

6:52

Bauchelain and Korbal Broach are back—and things are as dark, grotesque, and hilarious as ever. In this episode, I review The Second Collected Tales of Bauchelain and Korbal Broach by Steven Erikson, which bundles together three novellas: The Crack’d Pot Trail (2009), The Wurms of Blearmouth (2012), and The Fiends of Nightmaria (2016). Join me for …

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Most Heartbreaking Fantasy Deaths (That We Still Aren’t Over) 48:39

26d ago48:39

48:39

💔 Some characters die. Others take a piece of us with them. In this gut-punch of an episode, Jim and Zach dig deep into the most devastating deaths in fantasy fiction—the ones that made us cry, rage, or throw the book across the room. From noble sacrifices to unexpected gut-wrenchers, these are the moments that left permanent scars. 📚 Whether it’s …

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Top 10 Sci-Fi Novels Critics Love But Fans Hate! 7:09

27d ago7:09

7:09

Not all “classics” are created equal. Some science fiction novels are hailed as visionary, genius, and even essential by critics… while regular readers toss them across the room in frustration. In this episode of Fantasy for the Ages, Jim takes on 10 sci-fi novels since 1930 that critics adored but fans couldn’t stand. From psychedelic word salads …

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10 Fantasy Books Critics Loved But Fans Hated 8:05

28d ago8:05

8:05

Some fantasy novels win awards, earn glowing reviews, and get called “masterpieces” by critics… but when actual fans picked them up? They cried, “Boring!” “Pretentious!” and “I want my weekend back!” In this episode of Fantasy for the Ages, Jim counts down 10 fantasy novels since 1930 that critics adored but general readers couldn’t stand. From spr…

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The Mt Rushmore of Fantasy Authors: Only 4 Can Make It! 19:09

29d ago19:09

19:09

🗿 Only FOUR can be carved in stone. Who gets eternal glory… and who gets left in the rubble? In this episode of Fantasy for the Ages, Jim and Zach face one of the most impossible challenges in fantasy fandom—choosing the ultimate Mount Rushmore of Fantasy. We each make our author nominations and fiercely defend our picks. Expect: • Legendary names …

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The Wildest Zombie Story You’ve Never Read | “Zombie Bake Off” 7:33

30d ago7:33

7:33

🍩🧟‍♂️ Wrestling rings, cooking contests, pothead antics, and… zombies? That’s the insane mash-up at the heart of Stephen Graham Jones’ Zombie Bake-Off (2012), a fast, funny, and gloriously absurd take on the zombie apocalypse. In this episode of Fantasy for the Ages, Jim dives into a spoiler-lite review of the book—sharing why it’s such a blast to …

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Top Horror Novels of the 2020s (2020–2025 So Far) 17:16

1M ago17:16

17:16

The 2020s have already delivered some unforgettable horror. From the pandemic years through 2025, every year has given us stories that terrified, thrilled, and captured readers’ imaginations. In this episode, we’re revealing the three best horror novels of each year from 2020 through 2025 (so far)—ranked not by opinion, but by the numbers. Our data…

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The 30 Best Horror Novels of the 2010s – Ranked by Sales, Awards & Fans 27:02

1M ago27:02

27:02

The 2010s brought horror roaring back into the mainstream. From breakout bestsellers to bold new voices, the decade proved that the genre wasn’t just alive—it was thriving. In this episode, we’re revealing the three best horror novels of each year from 2010 through 2019—ranked not by opinion, but by the numbers. Our data-driven formula balances: 1️…

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2000s Horror: The 30 Books That Ruled the Decade 26:28

1M ago26:28

26:28

The 2000s were a turning point for horror. Gone were the days of endless paperback racks at the drugstore—instead, horror was evolving, experimenting, and mixing with thrillers, fantasy, and even postmodern storytelling. In this episode, we’re counting down the three best horror novels from each year of the 2000s, ranked not by opinion, but by the …

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These 90s Horror Novels Still Give Nightmares! 26:33

1M ago26:33

26:33

The 1990s were a strange time for horror. After the explosive boom of the ’80s, the genre shifted, experimented, and evolved—sometimes darker, sometimes subtler, and sometimes downright unexpected. In this episode, we’re counting down the three best horror novels of the 1990s, ranked not by opinion, but by the numbers. These rankings are powered by…

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Top Three Horror Novels Each Year of the 1980s! 27:58

1M ago27:58

27:58

The 1980s weren’t just neon lights and big hair—they were also a golden age for horror fiction. In this episode of our series, we’re counting down the three best horror novels of the 1980s, ranked not by opinion, but by the numbers. These rankings are built from a formula that blends: 1️⃣ Sales performance – the books that dominated shelves and nev…

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Top Three Horror Novels of Each Year, By the Numbers - The 70s! 27:54

1M ago27:54

27:54

The 1970s weren’t just polyester suits and disco balls—this was the decade when horror exploded onto the bestseller lists and refused to let go. In this episode of our series, we’re counting down the three best horror novels of each year of the 1970s, ranked not by opinion, but by the numbers. These rankings come from a unique formula that blends: …

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Top Three Horror Novels of Each Year, By the Numbers - The 60s! 33:46

1M ago33:46

33:46

This kicks off a viewer-requested series to discover the definitive list of best horror novels from each year—ranked by the numbers, not opinion. In this episode, we count down the top three horror novels of each year of the 1960s. In every episode of this series, we count down the top three horror novels from a specific decade, using a data-driven…

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Top 10 Fantasy Duos That Totally Rule! 43:22

1M ago43:22

43:22

Some heroes are great on their own… but when they’re paired up? Legendary. In this episode, Jim and Zach go head-to-head (in the friendliest way possible) to debate and rank the Top 10 duos in fantasy fiction. From lifelong companions to unlikely allies—and even a few rival pairings—we’ll argue, laugh, and maybe surprise each other (and you) with o…

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The Most Cinematic Horror Novel You’ll Ever Read – Demon Theory 7:17

1M ago7:17

7:17

What if a slasher film wasn’t something you watched… but something you read? Stephen Graham Jones’ Demon Theory isn’t just a horror novel—it’s a cinematic experience, written as a literary film treatment that puts you right behind the camera. Creepy settings, unstoppable killers, and a pace that never lets up—this is slasher horror reimagined for t…

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The 30 Best Unknown Fantasy, Sci-Fi, and Horror Books Since 1970 18:33

1M ago18:33

18:33

Think you’ve read all the best fantasy, science fiction, and horror novels? Think again. In this episode, I’m counting down 30 spectacular but little-known books published since 1970—hidden gems you probably haven’t read, but absolutely should. From eerie Southern Gothic to brain-bending science fiction, and from dark, lush fantasy to inventive hor…

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Full Spoil Deep Dive – Zach Reacts to Red Sister by Mark Lawrence 20:29

2M ago20:29

20:29

It’s time for a full spoil conversation about Red Sister, Book 1 of The Book of the Ancestor trilogy by Mark Lawrence! In this episode, Jim interviews Zach about his very first read-through of this brutal, brilliant, and beautifully written dark fantasy. Nothing is off-limits—we’re talking every twist, reveal, and gasp-worthy moment. What You’ll He…

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Assassins, Intrigue, & Ravens – A Dark Fantasy You’ll Love 12:11

2M ago12:11

12:11

Step into a world of assassins, political intrigue, and mysterious magic in my review of A Conspiracy of Ravens by Stephen Hubbard — Book 1 of The Codex of Wretches & Kings. In this spoiler-lite discussion, I share why this dark fantasy debut hooked me from the very first page, why classic D&D fans will love the tone, and 10 reasons you might want …

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MOST EPIC Fantasy Heroes of the 2020s 8:29

2M ago8:29

8:29

Join us as we count down the most epic fantasy heroes of the 2020s! From magical warriors to legendary mages, we're exploring the most iconic and powerful heroes that have captivated audiences in recent years. Get ready to revisit some of the most memorable characters from fantasy novels of the decade (so far), and discover new ones to obsess over.…

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MOST INCREDIBLE Fantasy Heroes of the 2010s! 11:13

2M ago11:13

11:13

Join us as we count down the most iconic fantasy heroes of the decade! From mythical warriors to magical mavericks, we're celebrating the characters that have captured our imaginations and inspired our dreams. With epic battles, unforgettable quests, and legendary powers, these heroes have left an indelible mark on the world of fantasy. So, sit bac…

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Bold. Broken. Brilliant! — Best Fantasy Protagonists of the 2000s! 12:16

2M ago12:16

12:16

Dive into the world of 2000s fantasy and uncover what makes the protagonists of this iconic era so brilliant! From incredible wit to mind-boggling courage, we're exploring the characteristics that make these heroes unforgettable. Join us as we delve into the world of fantasy and discover what sets these 2000s protagonists apart. Whatever your fanta…

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These 90s Fantasy Heroes Changed Everything! 12:32

2M ago12:32

12:32

Join Jim on a nostalgic trip back to the epic decade of fantasy icons! From the wisecracking heroes to unforgettable creatures, we're diving into what made these legends of the fantasy world so iconic. With their memorable backstories and epic journeys, it's no wonder these 90s fantasy icons continue to inspire new generations of fans. Get ready to…

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Awesome 80s Fantasy Heroes You’ll LOVE! 8:51

2M ago8:51

8:51

Get ready for a blast from the past as we count down the most epic fantasy heroes of the 80s! From sword-wielding warriors to magic-wielding wizards, we're exploring the iconic characters that defined a decade of fantasy storytelling. Join us as we revisit the heroes who captured our imaginations and inspired our sense of wonder. Grab your sword, d…

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Most EPIC Fantasy Book Heroes of the 1970s! 13:13

2M ago13:13

13:13

Get ready to embark on a thrilling journey through the world of fantasy! In this epic countdown, we're revisiting the most iconic heroes of the 1970s, the decade that brought us some of the most unforgettable characters in fantasy history. From sword-wielding warriors to magical wizards, these legendary heroes have captivated audiences for generati…

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From Ged to Gurgi: 1960s Fantasy’s Finest! 7:27

2M ago7:27

7:27

Join me on a thrilling journey as we delve into the fascinating world of fantasy legends from the 1960s! In this episode, we're counting down the most iconic protagonists from Ged to Gurgi, exploring their origins, unique qualities, and the impact they've had on modern fantasy. Get ready to revisit the fantastical heroes that shaped a generation. S…

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Fantasy’s First Heroes: BEST Protagonists of the 1950s! 7:58

2M ago7:58

7:58

Explore the epic fantasy heroes of the 1950s era! Join us on a thrilling journey through the most iconic characters that shaped the fantasy genre. From legendary warriors to mythical creatures, we'll delve into the fascinating world of fantasy heroes that captured the hearts of readers and audiences alike. Get ready to revisit the golden age of fan…

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Why The Silver Chair Is the Most Underrated Narnia Book | A Deep Dive Review 8:36

2M ago8:36

8:36

Dive into the magical world of Narnia as we explore the often-overlooked gem, The Silver Chair. Is it the most sleeper hit in the series? Join us as we delve into the story, characters, and themes that make this book a hidden treasure. From the White Witch knock-off to the mysterious underground world, we'll uncover the magic that makes The Silver …

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Top 10 Millennial Sci-Fi and Fantasy Authors You Need to Know! 27:53

2M ago27:53

27:53

Join the conversation as we delve into the world of Science Fiction and Fantasy writing, where Millennials are making their mark! From epic fantasy quests to dystopian futures, this new generation of writers is bringing fresh perspectives and ideas to the table. In this episode, we'll explore how Millennials are attempting a take-over of SFF writin…

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Generation X Authors TAKE OVER Science Fiction Fantasy! 28:05

2M ago28:05

28:05

Get ready for a literary revolution! In this epic episode, we're shining the spotlight on the trailblazing Generation X authors who are taking the science fiction and fantasy genres by storm. From groundbreaking novels to thought-provoking short stories, we're sharing our Top 10 Gen Xers, visionary writers who are redefining the boundaries of specu…

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Top 10 SFF Authors by Generation: The Baby Boomers! 24:47

2M ago24:47

24:47

Join us on a journey through literary history as we explore the most iconic books of all time, written by the talented baby boomers who shaped the world of science fiction and fantasy literature. From classic novels to thought-provoking tomes, we'll delve into the works of authors who defined a generation. Which baby boomer authors will make the cu…

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Zombie Apocalypse Fans REJOICE Over This Fresh Take! 8:04

2M ago8:04

8:04

Get ready to experience the undead like never before! This fresh take on the zombie apocalypse is a game-changer for fans of the genre. From heart-pumping action sequences to unexpected twists and turns, this spin on the classic concept is sure to leave you on the edge of your seat. Whether you're a die-hard fan of The Walking Dead or just looking …

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SHUNNED by Awards: Forbidden Fantasy Novels of the 2010s & 2020s 21:20

2M ago21:20

21:20

Explore the uncharted territory of fantasy novels from 2010-2023 that were shockingly snubbed by major awards. In this episode, we'll delve into the fascinating stories and worlds that flew under the radar, despite their captivating characters, intricate plots, and richly detailed settings. From hidden gems to underrated authors, we'll uncover the …

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Overlooked Fantasy Gems of the 2000s! 16:15

2M ago16:15

16:15

Get ready for a blast from the past as we dive into the forgotten fantasy gems of the 2000s! From brilliant debut novels to overlooked fantasy treasures, we're counting down the fantasy tales of the decade that were completely disregarded by the international fantasy award judges. Whether you're a fan of high fantasy, urban fantasy, or something in…

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What 90s Fantasy Books Got ROBBED of Awards? 17:32

2M ago17:32

17:32

Join Jim traveling down memory lane to explore the era of 1990s fantasy novels, particularly the best books to be snubbed by the award circuit. From beloved classics to cult favorites, we're counting down the novels that deserved more recognition. Did your favorite fantasy tome of the 90s get robbed of the Hugo or Locus, and not even get the nomina…

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WE Hit 3K Subscribers — LIVE Party EVENT! 1:43:24

2M ago1:43:24

1:43:24

Check out this audio of our livestream event, where we celebrated that major milestone - 3,000 subscribers! This epic celebration was a ton of fun, filled with laughs, games, surprises, fiction recommendations, and EIGHT guests! Unforgettable! #FantasyForTheAges #Fantasy #SFF #scifi #horror #contentcreator #booktube #booktuber Enjoyed our guests? H…