My Fav Podcasts

With the quarantines and social distancing , we’re all looking for ways to escape a bit. While I love reading and writing, I always adore a good podcast. I’ve compiled a list of shows I really enjoy, so while you’re working out, taking walks, driving, cleaning, whatever, you can immerse yourselves in some awesome stories. I listen strictly on the Apple Podcast app, but these shows are usually available on all podcast platforms.

Crime Junkies

Crime Junkies is a true crime series hosted by a pair of best friends who lay out the facts about murders, kidnappings, and missing people in a way that really pulls you in. While they cover the big stories, they also dive into the lesser known cases that might be new for you. It’s great for true crime lovers who aren’t looking to be bogged down with too much back story. The hosts are also really good at connecting with their fans and have active blogs and Facebook pages so you can double down. You can listen on any podcast platform HERE.

Tumanbay

This podcast was inspired by the Mamluk Slave Dynasty of ancient Egypt and pulls historical themes and all new elements in to build a sweeping story. It follows the intertwining lives of several people, including the nephew of a Sultan, a king turned slave, a slave trader’s daughter, and a mysterious queen with a vast network of spies. It really feels like you’re listening to an episode of Game of Thrones without the dragons. Really, the narration and the background noises are insanely good. From BBC Radio, it’s available HERE or wherever you listen to your podcasts.

History Extra Podcast

A podcast that follows the stories published in BBC History Magazine, it delivers bite sized facts for any history lover. From war to food to famous figures, there are dozens of episodes that cover a multitude of themes and periods. History fans really shouldn’t miss this informative show, which has taught me quite a few lesser-known tales from bygone ages. You can begin listening HERE.

Dateline

This one is exactly what you think…Dateline shows turned podcast episodes. Watching Dateline was never my thing, but I really like true crime and enjoy how each Dateline episode is folded into a neat story. It’s edited in such a way that not seeing the evidence and photos doesn’t complicate things. You can start listening now HERE.

Noble Blood

Noble Blood is a new favorite of mine. It lays out the darker stories of the kings, queens, and other blue bloods who had less than picture perfect lives…or ends. It’s sparked more than a few midnight Google searches, which is basically what we all need right now. History and royalty lovers will adore listening to tales of poison, jilted lovers, and missing gems. Dive in HERE.

The White Vault

A fictional found footage drama, each season follows a new cast as they explore and unearth ancient secrets that are more dangerous than they could ever imagine. The cast is amazing and the storyline is detailed, but easy enough to follow, even if you’re multi-tasking. Fans of horror and sci-fi will probably really enjoy following the repair team to an arctic outpost or a team of archeologists as they explore hidden caves. Start listening on any platform HERE.

Stuff you Missed in History Class

This show is a lighter look at some of the stranger pieces of history, like the Victorian Orchid craze or the haunted Flannan Islands. Of course they cover some of the basic historical themes like World War II, but from new angles that are great for old fans of specific eras or newbies interested in learning some fun facts. It’s a nice way to learn a fun fact or two incase Jeopardy ever calls. They’re on all platforms, so start listening HERE.

We’re Alive

Set in the backdrop of a zombie apocalypse, it follows a ragtag military team as they try to contain an outbreak and pick up civilians along the way. Each character has their own voice actor and the stories, while deep, are easy to follow. The story continues for decades with the cast aging, dying, having kids, and exploring new ways of finding out how to rebuild in a post-undead world. Horror and sci-fi fans will declare this one a hit. Start listening HERE.

Blackout

Rami Malek is the star host of this apocalyptic drama where he plays a small town radio DJ who watches as the world goes dark. As his teenage son and his friends try to make their way home from a camping trip, Rami’s character tries to stick to the facts on his radio show as things around him fall apart. Part thriller, part drama, it’s a must for lost who enjoy heart racing stories. Begin episode one HERE.

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I’m always on the lookout for something new. If you have a podcast to share, please let me know! And Sarah and I both hope that you and your families stay safe, happy, and healthy in this difficult time.

Ultimate Fandom Gift Guide

As we said yesterday, when we posted the Outlander Gift Guide, the holidays are almost here and the time to order your presents are slowly coming to an end! So, we’ve giving you out ultimate fandom gift guide that isn’t full of the usual stuff, but some unique pieces we’ve pored over and hand selected. Unlike our Outlander post, we haven’t tried these products, and can’t vouch for the awesomeness like we could yesterday! Nonetheless, we think these things look rad and if they end up in your stocking, we’d love to hear about it!

♥Harry Potter♥

Butterbeer Lip Balm

Um, hello, how tasty does this all-natural lip balm look? At $3 for one or $10 for a 4 pack, it’s a total steal. Snag one here.

A Magical Starry Night

Love art and want to decorate your place with a subtle nod to Hogwarts? This Etsy print gives you a beautifully done piece that blends two worlds together. They come in many different sizes, so you can find one to fit your needs. Head here to get your own.

Harry Potter Candles

Ever wanted to step onto the quidditch field an take a big whiff? Or have a cup of tea with Hargrid and take in the scents of his magical creatures? Get a pack of themed candles here that will fill your home with some magical smells.

For the Healer

Know a doctor? Love a nurse? Have a cousin studying psychology? This store offers a St. Mungos mug that only Potterheads can appreciate. BTW, it comes in a few different colors.

Show Your Team Spirit

Who doesn’t love a good sports sweater? This shop has a line of Hogwarts hoodies to keep you cozy on the pitch. Fun fact: Kelsey is a Slytherin and Sarah is a Ravenclaw.

♥Gilmore Girls♥

Luke’s Coffee Mug

Get a reusable Luke’s Diner mug here as a subtle and functional nod to your favorite show.

Quote Bookmarks

Get a 4 pack of bookmarks for $6.53 here so you can keep your place when you’re going through books like Rory.

These BFF Mugs

Looking like they’re straight from the Dragonfly Inn, these mugs are just the thing to get you and your best friends; one for you and one for them! Grab a set here.

Themed Candles

Feel like you live in Stars Hollow all year with this four pack of candles. Each one represents a new season with a spread of delicious smells. Get yours at this shop today. BTW they come pre-wrapped, so you can give it right over, straight out of the mailbox.

This Dainty Necklace

Remind your love that you go where they go with this little necklace from this shop!

Bonus Fact: Sarah watched the new season and had a lot of thought. Read them here and watch them here!

♥Sailor Moon♥

Hair Bows

Be a Sailor Scout with these great accessories. With each only being $8, getting one for every day of the week is totally doable! Get one, or all six, here!

Decals

Channel your inner Sailor Moon and harness that power to get all your schoolwork done. for $5, you get get one here!

Sailor Scout Backpack

These mini backpacks are the epitome of versatile. Perfect for school or to use as a purse. Made to order, you can get your own here and show your planetary pride!

A Simple Keychain

This charming chain will keep all your keys in check, while not being over the top. Get one here, now! BTW, they come in a cute box, so the job of wrapping is already done!

THE Compact

What little girl didn’t want this cosmic compact? This shop has them!

♥Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them♥

This Laptop Case

Disguise your laptop as a Hogwarts textbook here and keep your tech cozy and safe.

Your Own Luggage

Look at this glorious phone case from this shop! You can even customize it with your name, so all the muggles know whose cellphone it is.

A Wise Necklace

Remind yourself to overlook the little stresses and take a deep breath with this little necklace. Starting at $12, this shop offers it in different metals, to suit every no-maj.

This Fantastic Ornament

Picture this fancy piece on your Christmas tree this year! At only $15, this store promises to make your holidays a bit more magical.

A Mini Niffler

Nifflers are known for finding treasure. Maybe this little one will give you luck! Order yours here in time for the holidays!

Bonus Facts: Sarah’s written two posts about this new movie! One without spoilers and one with allll the nitty gritty feelings!

♥Supernatural♥

Dean’s Box of Tricks

Be ready to hunt your pray with this handy mini kit. You can get yours from this shop and get ready for action

BFF Keychains

For $13, this shop is offering to let you get a little something for yourself and your partner in crime.

These Nail Decals

If you, or someone you love, likes to do their own nails, you can get a set of nail decals here for the low price of $4!

An Awesome Journal!

Handmade and full of blank pages, this notebook is perfect for the new year. Snag one here!

Castiel’s Grace Necklace

Look at this magical, glowing necklace! Get one from this shop soon, before they’re all gone.

♥Doctor Who♥

This Delicate Clip

A subtle nod to your obsession, this classy piece could be worn all day, at a wedding, out to dinner, or traveling as the new companion. Get yours here.

A Customizable Gallifreyan

Build your own Gallifreyan from the chain down from this shop now!

Dr. Who Key Chain

Gotta keep your keys together while you’re traveling time! Get one here!

For the Artsy Whovian

For some reason, watercolor makes everything prettier. This shop has tons of phone cases that highlight this classy print.

A Charm Bracelet

All these charms were carefully selected by this store for the Whovian in your life that loves some bling.

♥Game of Thrones♥

This Perfect Glass

Get this cup here and let everyone know what you’re the Hand of the Queen.

A Set of Mugs

For the Khal and Khalessi in your life, you can get a matching set of mugs with a romantic meeting. Order yours now here!

Your Own Winterfell

This ring is a beautiful homage to the King in the North. As this is made in Russia, you might have to order fast in time to get it. Check it out here!

This Classy Map

Want to decorate your pad like a true Westerosian? Look no further than this store.

For Your Tea Sipping Friend

For $9 you can have the perfect accessory for the person who binge watches GOT and enjoys a hot beverage. Make an order here!

♥Star Wars♥

A Millennium Falcon Mug

Look at the detail on this cup. It’s a perfect technical nod to Starwars without literally being a lightsaber…not that we don’t still want one of those! Get yours here.

Death Star Earrings

These little gems are made from laser cut wood. Order a set here for $9!

This Fun Decal

This Boba Fett laptop decal is a total steal at $3. I love when those little stickers really take advantage of the apple light and this store agrees.

Bff Necklaces

This store offers a chance for you and your friend to get a cute gift at a great price!

A Personalized Present

Let someone special know how much you care with this cute, personalized, key chain. Grab one here!

♥Middle Earth♥

A Vintage Map

Nothing better than a map from Tolkien’s design. This print comes in many sizes, so you can pick your own adventure.

A Traveling Token

Probably one of the most famous Tolkien book quote, what better place for this decal than your car, or that of an adventurous friend? Get one here and start wandering!

Hobbit Door Necklace

How adorable is this? When you open the door, there’s even a special surprise. For $6.24, this shop offers such a deal, I might even get one for myself.

A Candle Set

Geek Nest is on fire with these fandom candles! This LOTR package offers scents from Rivendell and the Shire, and a special Gandalf blend. Get the set here and split them up to give to three loved ones, or offer someone the whole package.

For Your Friend Who Loves to Drink

This shop offers a charming flask that’s a great deal at $23! You can get it in different finishes, and even in a gift pack.

♥Stranger Things♥

This Xmas Sweater

While it’s perfect for Christmas, true fans can rock this piece all year. Get one, of more, here.

Squad Goals Mug

This shop offers a fun mug with cute characters of the whole Stranger Things group. Btw, the other side says “Squad Goals”.

An Eleven Candle

Don’t worry, it smells less like a powerful child and more like a delicious breakfast. Get a kosher soy candle here.

♥Once Upon a Time♥

A Magical Keychain

Remind yourself of the rules in Storybrooke  with this cluster of themed charms. Grab one here for $10 and never lose your keys again!

A Real Locket

These cute lockets really open and have two slots for pictures! At only $8, this store helps you show your obsession in an adorable and miniature way.

Hook’s Rum Lip Balm

These all-natural lip balms are sure to please, and all orders come with a free sample of another product! That’s basically two gifts for the price of one. Order some here.

♥Hunger Games♥

Snowy Mug

President Snow was a terrible guy, but he’s got some awesome one liners. Snag this mug here.

This Dainty Arrow

For $8, you can get a delicate arrow here that Katniss would be proud to wear. Are you in a trio of friends? These would be perfect gifts for all of you.

Your Own Compass

Be as good at Katniss in the wilderness with this useful necklace. This shop will even add additional charms, if you’d want them.

A Ring Dish Fit for a Tribute

Put all of your District One jewels in this little dish. Like it? You get get yours here for $7.

A Phone Cover

Always have a reminder that we’re all rooting for you with a phone case from this etsy shop.

♥Vampire Diaries♥

Elena’s Necklace

Get your own medallion here with some lovely, and useful, vervain to stick inside. You can even get the back engraved!

Sarah and her cousins went to one of the Vampire Diaries conventions and they bought this. It’s very pretty in real life, the vervain smells good, and the chain was sturdy. We’d recommend it!

Vervain Elixar Soap

This vegan soap comes from this little shop that takes their good seriously. Good for the skin, calming, and keeps unwanted vampires away! Perfect gift for your favorite cousin.

A Masquerade Mask

Be ready for any masked ball with Damon with this delicate piece. For how sturdy and flawless it is, $15 if a steal! Get one here.

Bonus Fact: Did you know Sarah Went to meet the cast? Read about it here.

♥The Walking Dead♥

A Special Map

Call me a romantic, but this personalized Terminus map is an awesome gift for the newlyweds in your life. May we all find a love like Maggie and Glenn. Order one here.

This Mug

This shop has a sick sense of humor, but this quote makes sense. Get one for the Negan in your life.

This Steamy Cup

There are two people in this world; people that love Daryl and dirty liars. Get your honest loved ones this festive mug here for $14.

This Delicate Piece

Here’s a nice bangle to remind you to appreciate the little things…or to never turn your back on Carol. Get some here.

Saint Glenn

The loss of Glenn was a hard one, and this store understands that. Get a Saint Glenn candle for your saddest friend today.

Bonus Fact: Kelsey has a lot of feels regarding Glenn’s death. Sob along with her here.

♥Mermaids♥

This Magical Necklace

You guys, I’m in love. This dainty seashell glows in the dark, highlighting your mermaid power. Order some for the whole squad here!

Mermaid Makeup

Here’s a cute bag for all your mermaid beauty needs. Get one here for $12.

A Darling Notebook

A new year calls for a new notebook to make your grocery lists and appointments a little more whimsical. Get one for yourself, or for the mom in your life, here!

This Awesome Tank That Kelsey Owns!

This lovely little number is a keeper. Machine washable, Kelsey got it as a large for optimal comfort. A bit wide in the arm (on purpose), so she wears cute bras with it! Get one here and be her twin.

Ursula’s Necklace

This shop offers a necklace that’s perfect for your singing friend! Or the one who barters for souls. We don’t judge.

♥Sherlock♥

This Charming Keychain

Your fav fandom will help you never lose your keys again. It even comes with a 221B key! Get one here for your Watson.

A Delectable Candle

Ever wondered what Sherlock smelled like? Apparently like mahogany and leather. Get one here and bask in some British glory.

The Iconic Necklace

This shop has the perfect necklace for the Sherlock fan in your life. Dainty, delicate, and a steal at $7.

BFF Bangles

This store gives you a great way to showcase the love between you and your partner in crime!

♥DC♥

Superman Laptop Sticker

How cool is it that his chest can be lit by your Mac apple? This store has Superman and a ton of other characters to please everyone on your list.

This Cute Bow

Look at this adorable homage to Arrow? This shop even offers different style, in case you want something a bit flashier!

BFF Necklaces

Is there an Ivy to your Harley? Let everyone know with these friendship necklaces. Order yours here!

♥Marvel♥

Thor’s Hammer

Harness the power of the gods with a minimalist bracelet from this store.

This Strange Necklace

This Eye of Agamotto necklace is sure to please any Doctor Strange fan. Order one here!

For the Proud Parent in Your Life

This shop offers every mom and dad the chance to show their school pride!

We hope that gave you a little inspiration as you scramble to finish your holiday shopping! Obviously, there are many beloved shows, books, and movies that didn’t make the cut, but only because then this list would be endless! Now, remember that we posted a giveaway yesterday for a beautiful Outlander necklace, so hurry and enter before it’s too late!

Sarah and I both have books out now, so if you like our posts, you’ll probably love our books! First Semester is a thrilling college romance that you can get HERE. Queen of Emeralds is a historic romance set in the highlands that you can get HERE.

What to Watch

I’ve heard tittering that Outlander season 3 is filming in late August. But, what can we watch until Jamie and Claire reenter our lives? Here’s a few fun shows you should give a try. Some are historical, others are fantasy, all are awesome.

The Pillars of the Earth

This show, which aired on Starz, is based on a book, The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett. It’s much more historically based than some others on this list, taking place in England during the 12th century and involving the tumultuous events that surround the building of a cathedral. There’s love triangles, violence, a hint of superstition, and characters you can really sink your teeth into (hello, Eddie Redmayne!). You’ll cry along with Tom the Builder when he buries his wife, you’ll root for Jack when he fights to win the hand of the girl, and you’ll be sad when it finally ends.

The Tudors

Is any historical series complete without The Tudors? It’s centered around King Henry VIII’s search for a wife to give him an heir and, while it does exaggerate to make parts of the story more interesting, can be oddly educational. It also features an all-star cast with Johnathan Rhys Meyers as King Henry, Natalie Dormer as Anne Boleyn, Henry Cavill as the Duke of Suffolk, and Maria Doyle Kennedy as Catherine of Aragon, among many other famous faces. The costumes and acting are on point and, since it aired for four seasons on Showtime, so there’s plenty of episodes to binge watch.

The White Queen

The White Queen, by Philipa Gregory, is another lovely historical-based novel that was made into a series. It follows Elizabeth Woodville, a widow with two young sons, who seduced, and married, the young king Edward IV. She, along with the other women in her family, are known for harnessing the power of Melusina, a legendary mermaid, to bend their lives to their making. However, Elizabeth can only use her powers so much, as they often come back around, sometimes putting her own family at risk. She lives during the infamous War of the Roses (1455-11487) and her marriage to Edward sparks the famous Tudor line. The show, which aired on Starz, did an awesome job of bringing the book, and the history surrounding it, to life.

Call The Midwife

No, there aren’t any sword and knights in this television take on memoir Call The Midwife by Jennifer Worth, but it deserves a place on the list as an awesome historical show. Set in the late 1950’s and early 1960’s, it followed a group of midwives out of Nonnatus House in London’s poor East End. The women go through the many trials of their time giving a platform of conversation to things that aren’t widely talked about now, such as the practice of doctors leaving disabled newborns to die and how dangerous back-alley abortions could be. Homosexuality, rape, violence, and new medical practices are tucked away in the lives of the young women who are just trying to make the East End a better place. On BBC, it’s a heavy show, but deserves a shot as it warms your heart as much as it moves you.

Reign

This show, which is still on The CW is a very, very, fictionalized version of the early life of Mary, Queen of Scots. If you’re able to look past the incorrect historical facts and fanciful costumes, it’s a really fun show. You’ll see her life in France as the fiance of young Prince Francis, hear about how ladies of the court would take lovers, and watch as her heart is broken, as well as renewed as she fends off would-be assassins. Even as someone who loves themselves some true facts, I was able to see the show as a worthwhile fantasy series that is good for a binge session.

Black Sails

This Starz period drama is one hell of a crazy ride. It’s like if Pirates of the Caribbean took ‘Molly’ and became slightly more historically accurate. It follows the early years of Captain Jack Flint, who is a fictional pirate from Treasure Island, during the ‘Golden Age of Piracy’ where gold was king and the laws were forged by blood. Mainly taking place on New Providence Island, one of the major shipping hubs of the 1700’s, fact meets fiction as some historical pirates try to lay claim to ships, sell their goods, and maintain control of the sea. The characters are complex and their story lines include a woman fighting for respect, the British fighting to retake the island, and men on the run, among numerous others. It’s currently setting up for season four, so there’s plenty of time to catch up.

Da Vinci’s Demons

This series is on the same vein as Reign; loosely historically-based, but awesome all the same. In the show, Leonardo Da Vinci works for the famous Medici family and uses his genius to try and help them gain total control of Renaissance Florence. This puts him at odds with the Catholic Church, as well as the Pazzi family, especially when he begins inventing things for the Borgias. It’s involved and can get a little fanciful at times, especially when Leonardo gets involved with a real-life cult known as the Sons of Mithras. The Starz show is over, but I hear there may be a mini series in the works.

Those are some of my top picks. So, tell me, what shows would you add to the list?

Read about Kelsey’s Scottish historical romances here and Sarah’s contemporary romances here!