Zodiac Academy, Ruthless Fae (Book 2), Review, Themes, and Failed Pepper Prophecies

“Iron is made stronger in the hottest part of the fire, Seth, You didn’t break me, you forged me.” - Darcy Vega, owner of mysterious red and blue fire and illicit longing for Professor Grumpy Fangs Welcome back to episode 12 of Whimsy, Spice, and Sometimes Nice, a spoiler-free, read-along romantasy podcast. Whether you're a first-time Solarian traveler or a greedy, slippery salmon back for seconds, you fit right in, bae. Madeline (the fan-girling, fast-talking, certified yapper) has read the whole series. And incessantly bugged Josie (the calm, cool professional hater) to start Zodiac Academy. Josie will be reading in real time with you. Providing initial reactions and predictions, while Madeline serves as the guide to help point you along in the right direction.  This is a uniquely formatted bookish podcast because we wanted to create a space where you can join the conversation and get in on the action WITHOUT having to finish the book, series, or ENTIRE universe!!!!  This week we're reviewing Ruthless Fae, book 2 of Zodiac Academy, by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti. This episode covers the entire book, but is spoiler-free for the series. For chapter-by-chapter recaps, check out episodes 7 through 11 (labeled Ruthless Fae episodes 1 through 3).  This week we discuss: \- Cultural relevance and importance of claiming Romantasy as a genre and rejecting shame around “feminine” speech patterns \- Tropes and major themes of Ruthless Fae \- Brief recap of the book by Josie Rae \- Favorite moments and standout scenes \- Important information to remember for the rest of the series \- Detention or Fornication, the game where you send characters to detention or your bedroom with no explanation \- Updates on predictions and Pepper Prophecies  \- Changes we’ve noticed prioritizing reading instead of social media or TV HUUUUUUGE thanks to Emma for feedback on finding the pod and predictions and Sydney from @storyinasip for mocktail inspo.  We want to hear your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and predictions! Text or leave us a voicemail at (323)-612-8008 or email us at whimsyspicepod@gmail.com. And of course, be sure to follow us on Instagram @whimsyspicepod for all the latest updates (and to be slightly entertained sometimes). And please, for the love of the stars, leave us a 5-star review. Xoxo, Madeline and Josie