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Just in case you haven’t heard… our first full length deep dive series for 2026 is none other than THE Plated Prisoner by Raven Kennedy! Today we’re kicking off this (at least) six-book, and seven-part journey with book one: Gild.

We know that this series can be triggering, controversial, or even so slow to start (for some 😉) that it gets a “dnf.” We’re here to convince you to read it because in our not so humble opinion, it’s one of the most well-written, soul-crushing completed romantasy series out there, and it does not get the credit it deserves. Hey… it even has one of Liz’s top three book boyfriends OF ALL TIME. Don’t you want to meet him?

These books take us on an intense journey through abuse, trauma, transformation, healing, self-discovery, empowerment, and love. We discuss the unique nature of a story that begins with a main character who’s job as a quite literal golden sex worker keeps her locked in a cage by a greedy and abusive king. And what it takes for her to attain freedom, literally and otherwise by finding her own power.

We have everything from spoiler free star and spice ratings to the five sentence summary, important themes, most loved and hated plot points, tropes, and characters… and our incite into why this book is worth every page read. We hope you join us on this journey every other week (with a big bonus guest coming soon!) to see where Auren ends up.

And don’t worry, we still bring you our faves and fails of the week and a smash or pass with a golden robot, and a crazed hottie…?

Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)

• Shop our Merch line | * https://besties-and-the-books-shop.fourthwall.com

Check out these author interviews? ⬇️

Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKb

We interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4

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Shop Bookish Merch we are wearing:

Ashley is wearing: “Support Your Local Book Dealer” tee from @ShopWildeshadows | https://www.wildeshadows.com

Liz is wearing : A Medusa “Female Gaze” Crop Tank by @feralreaderco | https://feralreaderco.com & A “Good Girl” Beanie by @little.Villians.shop | https://littlevillains.ca/products/good-girl-beanie-embroidery?srsltid=AfmBOoo2YA_vB825EKUtWAjXvy6voDESSyZvFJ7jc686Vs-KaTSgGkmu

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