In which Bethanie and Ash discuss chapters 17-19 of Shadow Kiss by Richelle Mead.

Rose continues to struggle with guilt over Mason’s death and her complicated emotions, especially during therapy sessions that push her to confront her feelings about love, loyalty, and her identity as Lissa’s guardian. Her interactions with Adrian reveal that while she feels some attraction to him—especially under compulsion—it pales in comparison to her deep connection with Dimitri. Meanwhile, rumors of the secretive “Mana” group raise concerns, as their use of compulsion may be linked to dangerous and unethical behavior among Moroi students.

Tensions escalate when conflicts break out among their friends, particularly between Christian and Adrian, nearly leading to violence before Rose intervenes.

Bite Me is a Three Sisters Podcast Network podcast. Hosted by Bethanie Finger and Ashleigh Tanner and featuring the literary works of Richelle Mead. The logo art was created by Bethanie Finger and the intro/outro music was composed by Something Weird.

In which Bethanie and Ash discuss chapters 17-18 of Shadow Kiss by Richelle Mead.

Rose continues to struggle with guilt over Mason’s death and her complicated emotions, especially during therapy sessions that push her to confront her feelings about love, loyalty, and her identity as Lissa’s guardian. Her interactions with Adrian reveal that while she feels some attraction to him—especially under compulsion—it pales in comparison to her deep connection with Dimitri. Meanwhile, rumors of the secretive “Mana” group raise concerns, as their use of compulsion may be linked to dangerous and unethical behavior among Moroi students.

Rose also becomes increasingly unsettled by her ability to see ghosts and fears she may be losing control, but Dimitri reassures her and encourages her to trust those close to her. At the same time, Lissa faces pressure from elite peers to use her powers for their benefit, forcing her to confront difficult questions about morality and responsibility.

Bite Me is a Three Sisters Podcast Network podcast. Hosted by Bethanie Finger and Ashleigh Tanner and featuring the literary works of Richelle Mead. The logo art was created by Bethanie Finger and the intro/outro music was composed by Something Weird.

In which Bethanie and Ash discuss chapters 14-16 of Shadow Kiss by Richelle Mead.

Rose prepares for Victor’s trial while supporting Lissa, who bravely testifies about the torture she endured, leading to Victor being found guilty and sentenced to life in prison. Although the verdict brings relief, Queen Tatiana soon creates new tension by offering Lissa opportunities at Court while privately warning Rose to distance herself from Adrian and questioning her role as Lissa’s guardian. This confrontation highlights the rigid social expectations between Moroi and dhampirs and leaves Rose feeling threatened and frustrated.

Afterward, Rose and Lissa take time to relax at a luxurious spa, briefly escaping their stress and reconnecting as friends, while lighthearted moments—including meeting Ambrose—add humor. Ambrose’s unconventional choice to avoid becoming a guardian challenges Rose’s beliefs about duty and identity, forcing her to reconsider societal norms.

Their visit to a psychic brings mixed revelations: Lissa receives an encouraging vision of leadership and change, while Dimitri’s ominous reading hints at loss and uncertainty ahead. Altogether, these events deepen the themes of identity, expectation, and the uncertain futures awaiting each character.

Bite Me is a Three Sisters Podcast Network podcast. Hosted by Bethanie Finger and Ashleigh Tanner and featuring the literary works of Richelle Mead. The logo art was created by Bethanie Finger and the intro/outro music was composed by Something Weird.