Welcome to Season 2!! In this episode, Cady and Sharilyn journey into the realm of fantasy. Together, they unpack its origins, representation, and how gender bias has shaped the genre. They tackle the Bechdel Test and shine a light on why romance deserves more respect in fantasy storytelling.

The conversation celebrates under-recognized voices, highlighting the importance of diversity, strong female characters, and inclusive narratives. Along the way, Cady and Sharilyn share their own childhood and young adult favorites, reflecting on how those stories shaped their identities. They also explore the transformative role of fan fiction and small creators in pushing the genre forward.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Knee Deep without some giggles. The gworls get delightfully silly with a juicy (and mildly unhinged) “hear me out.”

Find our book list below!

Queer + BIPOC Authors:

• Iron Widow Xiran Jay Zhao
• Daughter of the Moon Goddess Sue Lynn Tan
• Earthsea Ursula K. Le Guin

Cady & Sharilyn’s Faves:

• Throne of Glass Sarah J. Maas
• A Discovery of Witches Deborah Harkness
• Percy Jackson & the Olympians (series) Rick Riordan
• Protector of the Small (series) Tamora Pierce

Childhood Nostalgia:

• Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi
• A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray
• Vampire Kisses by Ellen Schreiber
• Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
• Blue Bloods by Melissa de la Cruz
• Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter (series) by Laurell K. Hamilton
• Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

Follow Us:

• Instagram: @KneeDeepPodcast
• TikTok: @KneeDeepPodcast
• Cady: @ageofsexploration
• Sharilyn: @queerwomenspoetrycollective

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