In the series' finale of Why You’re Reading, Ellen and Ellie dive headfirst into the world of Bridgerton — from Julia Quinn’s beloved novels to Shonda Rhimes’ game-changing Netflix adaptation. They unpack what made Bridgerton a global obsession: the romance, the scandal, the stunning representation, and the perfect dose of escapism. Is it just a gu…

In this episode of Why You’re Reading, Ellen and Ellie take on Atomic Habits by James Clear, the wildly popular self-help book promising life-changing results through tiny behavioural shifts. They explore the book’s central ideas around habit formation, share their personal responses to the methods, and question how much of the advice holds up unde…

In this episode of Why You’re Reading, Ellie and Ellen dive into Yellowface—R.F. Kuang’s sharp, twisty take on the publishing world, identity, and who gets to tell which stories. They get into the messy, compulsively readable plot, the chaos of June Hayward’s downward spiral, and how Kuang blends satire, thriller, and social commentary. They talk a…

In this episode of Why You’re Reading, Ellie and Ellen - without spoilers - discuss Sunrise on the Reaping—Suzanne Collins’ long-awaited return to the world of Panem. They explore what this new entry means for the franchise, why the world of the Games still resonates, and how our relationship to the series shifts when reading it as adults. From Cap…

In this episode of Why You’re Reading, Ellie and Ellen dive into Daisy Jones & The Six—Taylor Jenkins Reid’s exploration of fame, music, and heartbreak. They unpack the novel’s complex character dynamics, the portrayal of addiction, and how the narrative structure mirrors the chaotic glamour of 70s rock ’n’ roll. From the book’s striking parallels …

In this episode of Why You're Reading, Ellie and Ellen dive into The Song of Achilles—Madeline Miller’s retelling of the Achilles and Patroclus myth that’s captivated BookTok. They unpack the novel’s themes of love, fate, and grief, while exploring how Miller brings a fresh, emotional depth to ancient Greek mythology. From the book’s tender LGBTQ+ …

In this episode of Why You’re Reading, Ellie and Ellen dive into Book Lovers—Emily Henry’s romance that’s taken BookTok by storm. They unpack the plot, dissect Nora and Charlie’s dynamic, and explore how Henry uses sisterhood, humour, and MANY tropes in the story. From the novel’s perfect escapism to its fresh take on modern dating, they discuss wh…

This episode Ellie and Ellen dive into A Court of Thorns and Roses—the fantasy romance that took over BookTok. They break down the plot, messy love triangles, and why Sarah J. Maas’s world has readers hooked. From female empowerment to those spicy scenes, they explore what makes ACOTAR so addictive (and controversial). Plus, they chat about the ris…

Welcome back to Why You’re Reading! This episode, Ellie and Ellen tackle Intermezzo, the much-anticipated new novel from Sally Rooney. After Conversations with Friends and Normal People cemented her literary stardom—and Beautiful World, Where Are You? left readers divided—the question remains: has Sally Rooney redeemed herself or has she run her co…

Welcome to the very first episode of Why You're Reading! In this debut, Ellen and Ellie dive into The List of Suspicious Things by Jennie Godfrey, a historical mystery following 12-year-old Miv as she sets out to solve the case of the Yorkshire Ripper. They unpack the novel’s unique perspective, its blend of thriller and coming-of-age themes, and t…