Culture Lit

In this engaging conversation, Octavia Marie interviews Jaquel, a prolific author in the Black romance genre. They discuss Jaquel's extensive literary universe, the personal connections readers have with her work, and the dynamics of her characters, particularly in her latest release, 'Heart of a Goon.' The conversation delves into reader reactions, character development, and the marketing strategies that have contributed to Jaquel's success. Additionally, they touch on the importance of self-care for writers and the authenticity of dialogue across different storylines. In this engaging conversation, Jahquel J. and Octavia Marie delve into the intricacies of character development, the writing process, and the balance between realism and hope in storytelling. They discuss the interconnectedness of plotlines, the impact of community support on a writer's journey, and the importance of redemption arcs for characters. Jahquel shares insights into her writing process, the themes she explores in her work, and her excitement for upcoming projects, all while emphasizing the significance of creating relatable characters that resonate with readers.Find Jahquel's books and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop!Find Jahquel:Instagram @jahquel_Threads: @jahquel_JahquelJ.comCulture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts!Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaTwitter: xooctaviamarieFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieMusic credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PRODA Subito Media productionMentioned in this episode:If you're enjoying the show, join our community at culturelitpodcast.com.Visit my bookshop!You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy!Visit my bookshop!

In this episode, Octavia breaks down exactly what makes sports romance so emotionally compelling — the high stakes, the public vs. private dynamic, the discipline that becomes devotion, and the sense of community that makes these stories feel like home. And because representation matters, Octavia is spotlighting the brilliance of Black sports romance and the authors who bring cultural nuance to every page.Plus, I’m sharing my top basketball and football recs, including standout picks from Kennedy Ryan’s Hoops series and other must-reads that deserve a spot on your TBR.Takeaways:Why sports settings deepen emotional and romantic tensionHow Black authors elevate the sports romance genre with cultural authenticityTop-tier sports romance reads for fall and winterIf you love this episode, make sure to subscribe, share it with a friend, and join the Culture Lit community on IG and Threads!Find these and other Black romance recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop!Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts!Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaThreads: becomingoctaviaFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieMusic credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PRODA Subito Media productionMentioned in this episode:If you're enjoying the show, join our community at culturelitpodcast.com.Visit my bookshop!You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy!Visit my bookshop!

After a hiatus filled with international exploration and life-changing decisions, Octavia returns to share why she disappeared—and what happened when she spent 60 days living in Portugal as a 54-year-old cancer survivor testing what international life could look like.Recording from the Algarve region, she opens up about her 8-year dream of exploring life abroad, how a stage 3 colorectal cancer diagnosis delayed everything, and the physical transformation that happened when she finally spent two months living like a local in Portugal.This episode is raw, honest, and deeply personal about what happens when you survive something that forces you to ask: "If I get through this, what do I actually want my life to look like?"—and then having the courage to explore that answer.EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:- The backstory: Why Portugal has been calling for 8 years and what finally made it possible- Physical transformation: How 30 days reduced inflammation, improved LARS syndrome symptoms, and reset her nervous system- The Puerto Vallarta chapter: Why she fell in love with Mexico too, and how astrocartography explained being pulled to two different places- "Safe and free" decoded: What those words mean practically for Black women living outside the U.S.- The visa reality: Digital Nomad Visa process and what's actually involved- Culture Lit's evolution: How the podcast is expanding to include wellness, entrepreneurship, and international living while still centering Black romanceBOOKS MENTIONED:Can't Get Enough - Kennedy RyanPlus Size Player - Danielle AllenQuasim Series - Jahquel JTender Offer - Tanvier PeartWorks by Regina Black, Tati Richardson, Mea MoniqueRESOURCES:🗺️ Astrocartography: astro-seek.comFind this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop!Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts!Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. If this episode resonated:✨ Leave a 5-star review✨ Share with someone considering a big life change✨ Tag @becomingoctavia with your takeawaysCulture Lit celebrates Black romance novels, Black women's wellness, and the courage to write your own story—on the page and in real life.STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaTwitter: xooctaviamarieFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieMusic credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PRODA Subito Media productionMentioned in this episode:If you're enjoying the show, join our community at culturelitpodcast.com.Visit my bookshop!

Octavia shares a moment of pure alignment - discovering Tracee Ellis Ross's solo travel series while living her own Portuguese adventure. This episode is about the courage to travel alone, living fully at any age, and trusting that your dreams don't have expiration dates. Plus, an emotional deep-dive into "August Lane" by Regina Black - a devastating and beautiful second-chance romance set in the country music world. Books MentionedAugust Lane" by Regina BlackThe Art of Scandal" by Regina BlackFind this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop!Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts!Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaTwitter: xooctaviamarieFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieMusic credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PRODA Subito Media productionMentioned in this episode:You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy!Visit my bookshop!

As you may know, I've had to start over at the age of 54 and I want to share something that's been on my heart. Today, I want to delve into the profound impact of storytelling and the many ways that the stories we talk about here shape our culture. Your story might be the most radical thing you've been keeping to yourself. We know resilience, we know authenticity, and we know how to live. What is really exciting is that we're seeing a surge of black romance novels being adapted for screen, featuring titles like Tia Williams' 'The Perfect Find' and 'Seven Days in June,' Kennedy Ryan's 'Skyland' series, and JL Seeger's 'New Haven Romance Series.' Never underestimate the importance of visibility and representation in media! Reclaim your narrative and invest in self-care as acts of visibility and political resistance. To help with this, I'd like to introduce the Wellness Ritual Bundle and Skin Ritual Bundle at https://jayneandbloom.com/collections/gift-guide. These bundles are an invitation to show up for yourself daily,  to invest in your comfort and beauty, and to create space for the fullness of who you are.Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop!Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts!Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaTwitter: xooctaviamarieFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieMusic credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PRODA Subito Media productionMentioned in this episode:You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy!Visit my bookshop!

If you enjoyed "Ella Gets the D," "Miles Apart," or "The Seven Month Itch," by Tanvier Peart. In this episode, we sit down with Tanvier Peart, indie romance author and creator of Tender Offer, to explore Madison’s unforgettable redemption arc. Once considered the villain in The Seven-Month Itch, Madison’s full-circle journey reveals the messy, layered beauty of second chances, knowing your worth, and letting love heal.We talk about:✨ Writing spicy, kinky romance that centers Black women’s joy and agency✨ Why Preston is the ultimate “cinnamon roll hero with alpha tendencies”✨ The power of rest, resistance, and self-love in Peart’s stories✨ How her policy background sneaks into her novels (climate change billionaires? Check.)If you love emotionally charged storytelling, “if he wanted to, he would” energy, and Black women embracing their soft life, this episode will have you swooning and reflecting in equal measure.🎧 Hit play and join us as we unpack love, liberation, and the unapologetic layers of Tanvier Peart’s world."Tender Offer" releases on July 29th, so preorder on Burn Bright Books or The Frenchy Press now!Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop!Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts!Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaTwitter: xooctaviamarieFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieMusic credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PRODA Subito Media productionMentioned in this episode:You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy!Visit my bookshop!

 Today I bring you my top reads so far of 2025! The struggle was real trying to narrow this list down. What I love about this collection is the variety. We've got traditional publishers, indie authors, different sub genres, characters at various life stages, young adult and adult romance. This is what Black Romance is all about, showing the full spectrum of our love stories.Church Girl by Naima SimoneThe Love Syllabus by Lauren LaceyAnd Then Life Was Beautiful by Asia MoniqueAudra & Bash Are Just Friends by Tia WilliamsThe World Around Us by Lauren LaceyPlus Size Player by Danielle AllenQuasim I & Quasim II by Jahquel JCan’t Get Enough by Kennedy RyanFind these and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop!Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts!Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaTwitter: xooctaviamarieFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieMusic credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PRODA Subito Media productionMentioned in this episode:You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy!Visit my bookshop!

One of my newest favorite authors is Danielle Allen, author of "Curvy Girl Summer," among many other titles. Danielle is a life and relationship coach and her insights into the dynamics of healthy relationships shine through in the way she writes her characters and their interactions. It is very important to her that her characters are loved as they are, and that they interact with each other in an emotionally mature way. Her newest romance, "Plus Size Player," follows the story of Nina, best friend of the heroine in "Curvy Girl Summer." Nina is curvy, confident, and sure about who she is and what she wants. Get ready for a spicy romance featuring plus size black women with natural hairstyles who aren't interested in changing themselves for anyone. The final book in the series is coming out in April 2026, but you can get "Plus Size Player" now! Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop!Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts!Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaTwitter: xooctaviamarieFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieMusic credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PRODA Subito Media productionMentioned in this episode:You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy!Visit my bookshop!

I'm coming to you from Puerto Vallarta on a solo adventure to talk about self-discovery and treating yourself.  If it's been a while since you've done something solo or you've been feeling a little anxious or hesitant about taking yourself on a date or planning a solo trip, I hope this episode will be the gentle nudge you need to push you past that hesitation and do the damn thing. There are some experiences in life that teach us profound lessons about ourselves, and solo adventures are absolutely one of them.Reading transports you to different places and different times, but there's nothing like spending time with yourself to really unwind and get to know who you really are and what really makes you tick. In my TBR bag for this trip, and this episode, are:Revive Me by JL SeegarsNo Ordinary Love by Myah ArielCapone I-III (Season one: Delgato Family Book 1-3) by Jahquel JQuasim : King Inferno (Season Four: Inferno Gods Book 1) by Jahquel JWork Song by Danielle AllenPlus Size Player by Danielle AllenFind this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop!Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts!Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaTwitter: xooctaviamarieFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieMusic credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PRODA Subito Media productionMentioned in this episode:You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy!Visit my bookshop!

Today I'll be focusing on themes of healing, self-love, and resilience inspired by my personal journey over the last two and a half years. I delve into Kennedy Ryan's novel 'Can't Get Enough,' the final installment in the Skyland series, highlighting its portrayal of black love, complex family dynamics, and authentic representation of a plus-sized, confident heroine, Hendrix Barry. Through the lens of Hendrix Bell and Maverick's love story, we discuss themes of healing, caregiving, mental health, plus-size representation, and the powerful sisterhood among Black women. This episode is a celebration of resilience, self-love, and the kind of romance that honors our true selves. Join us as we reflect on the transformative journey of the characters and the profound questions they raise about our own lives.A main theme that hit me personally was caregiving for aging parents, the emotional and financial impact of such roles, and how love can be both supportive and liberating. Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop!Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts!Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaTwitter: xooctaviamarieFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieMusic credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PRODA Subito Media productionMentioned in this episode:You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy!Visit my bookshop!

Join host Octavia Marie as she welcomes award-winning romance author LaQuette to discuss her latest book, 'Royal Bride Demand.' Dive into black love, legacy, sisterhood, and the balance of modern and royal life through the eyes of a Brooklyn billionaire. LaQuette shares her journey from indie to traditional publishing, creating complex black characters, and navigating the publishing world as a black woman. This episode is packed with insights into her writing process, personal experiences, and a fresh perspective on black joy in romance. Don't miss the chance to grab your copy of 'Royal Bride Demand' and join the conversation on black romance and representation.Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop!Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts!Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaTwitter: xooctaviamarieFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieMusic credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PRODA Subito Media production

We’ve been on a roller coaster of unprecedented times. Every time I think things are looking better, the world throws more chaos at us. During times like this, I turn to things that bring me joy. For me, that’s romance novels. Romance readers are often criticized, and the genre itself gets criticized. I would call romance novels my guilty pleasure but eventually I realized that I didn’t have to be ashamed of something that brings me so much joy.Today I’m visiting with Kay P, author of the blog Melanin Mindscape, voracious reader of all things black, in all genres. We’ll talk about what “guilty pleasures” actually are and why we feel like we need to hide them. We’re unpacking some thoughts around rest and productivity, the literature hierarchy that puts romance at the bottom, and why we deserve to just enjoy things.Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop!Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts!Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaTwitter: xooctaviamarieFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieMusic credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PRODA Subito Media productionMentioned in this episode:You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy!Visit my bookshop!

You're in for a treat with today's visit with Monica McCullough, the author of the debut novel "Songs of Lost Things: Sonata for the Sun." We'll discuss the book's themes of family dynamics, self-discovery, and the role of music in the story. Join in as Monica shares insights into her inspiration, the development of her characters, and her journey as an independent author. As a first-time self-published author, Monica has some tips for other aspiring authors about the publishing process. Tune in for an engaging and insightful conversation about storytelling, artistry, and the power of literature.If you order your copy of "Songs of Lost Things," from Monica's website, you will receive a signed copy! Visit her website here: https://monicamccollough.com/ The summer Lavender turned twelve, she was eager to dip her toes into the world of make-out sessions with her school crush and late-night misdeeds with her best friend in their raucous Newark, NJ neighborhood. Instead, her father had other plans...musical plans. He wanted to continue cultivating her gifted melodic mind and nudge her to begin preparing to apply to the local Arts Magnet High School.Lavender suddenly finds herself cast into an unrecognizable and dispiriting world where she fights to maintain her sense of self, connection to her musical gifts, and footing inside her own family dynamics.Years later, as a woman in her thirties who never reckoned with how much of herself she'd relinquished in her tumultuous adolescence, Lavender meets a younger man who reminds her of what she's lost...and what she's surrendered. Captivated by his charm, yet apprehensive of his interest, she's upended in unexpected ways. The mental health struggles she's managed to mildly overcome is ever present as ghosts from her past continuously appear. Love tries to find her as she finds herself.Will she reemerge from it all with her full self: stable, whole, and accepting of the love she deserves?Or will she fall back into the cycle of old habits and questionable choices that persisted and framed her reality for decades?If you're looking for a coming of age story focused on self-acceptance, overcoming trauma, and letting go of the past to move forward to the future, then this is the book for you!Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop!Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts! 867ee74025523ee6ed6778606760fb766bb83044Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaTwitter: xooctaviamarieFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieMusic credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PRODA a...

Over the past few years, there's been a movement towards the "soft life" among women, particularly black women. More and more women are choosing a life of peace and comfort where previously they had been forced into rigid "Mammy" or "strong black woman" roles. This doesn't always have to be financial luxury - it can also mean choosing joy, choosing relationships where you feel pampered, cared for, and loved intentionally. It's a rejection of the grind culture, a prioritization of peace, and a radical embrace of ease. For Black women, it’s a rebellion. There's been a beautiful evolution in Black Romance. Over the years we've moved away from narrative centered exclusively on pain and endurance to stories that celebrate joy, ease and intentional love. In the real world, the concept of black women living a comfortable life is met with vitriol - just look at the discussion around Duchess Meghan of Sussex's new Netflix show!I'll highlight a few books today that embrace the soft life, including, "Can't Get Enough," by Kennedy Ryan, "Seven Days in June," by Tia Williams, and "The Boyfriend Project," by Farrah Rochon, among others.Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop!Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts!Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaTwitter: xooctaviamarieFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieMusic credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PRODA Subito Media productionMentioned in this episode:You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy!Visit my bookshop!

Who says love is only for the young? Today I'll dive into the enriching and magical world of love after 40, particularly for mature Black heroines. Settle in as I talk about how age brings depth, resilience, and a new form of magic in romance as I highlight four captivating books: 'Ella Gets the D' by Tanvier Peart, 'Losing Sight' by Tati Richardson, 'Macy' (Whip & Fade Book 1) by Marlee Rae, and 'Candidly Yours' by Reese Ryan. Get ready to break societal stereotypes and celebrate the vibrant and powerful love stories of women in their 40s and beyond. I'll even share some of my own tips for a magical life after 40!Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop!Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts!Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaTwitter: xooctaviamarieFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieMusic credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PRODA Subito Media productionMentioned in this episode:You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy!Visit my bookshop!

In this episode of Culture Lit, host Octavia Marie celebrates Black romance novels with 9 brand new upcoming 2025 releases that promise to make your heart skip a beat. She introduces 'Just Our Luck' by Denise Williams, 'Audra and Bash' by Tia Williams, 'Candidly Yours: Carnival Chronicles' by Reece Ryan, 'The Love Lyric' by Christina Forrest, 'Breakpoint' by Yahrah St. John, 'Losing Sight' by Tati Richardson, 'Frenemies with Benefits' by Cynthia Williams, 'A Tropical Rebel Gets the Duke' by Adriana Herrera, and 'The Romance Rivalry' by Susan Lee. Octavia also shares her luxurious self-care rituals, including pairing these reads with gourmet snacks and drinks. Tune in for romance recommendations and self-love inspiration!Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop!Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts!Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaThreads: xooctaviamarieFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieMusic credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PRODA Subito Media productionMentioned in this episode:You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy!Visit my bookshop!

Today's episode is a special one! Tune in for Octavia's list of Top 10 Black Romance Books of 2024! There's more than just romance. There's strong character arcs, cinnamon roll heroes, slow burns, and second chances. What's next on your TBR?Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop!Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts!Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaTwitter: xooctaviamarieFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieMusic credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PRODA Subito Media productionMentioned in this episode:You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy!Visit my bookshop!

Join host Octavia Marie as she takes listeners on a heartfelt journey through the pages of "A Love Like the Sun" by Riss M. Nielson, a captivating romance that explores the delicate transition from friendship to love. The story centers around childhood friends Laniah Thompson and Isaac Jordan, who navigate the complexities of adulthood while rekindling their deep-seated bond amidst personal struggles. Laniah, a dedicated homebody running a natural hair care business with her mother, grapples with financial struggles and health challenges, while Isaac, now a social media sensation, faces the pressures of fame. Their decision to fake a romantic relationship sparks genuine feelings, prompting listeners to reflect on the complexities of relationships transitioning from friendship to romance. With a rich exploration of themes such as grief, resilience, and the impact of the past on present decisions, this engaging discussion resonates deeply, inviting readers to find solace and inspiration in their own love stories.Listen in while Octavia Marie skillfully unpacks the emotional layers of the story, illustrating how Laniah’s struggles with her family business and health challenges contrast with Isaac’s glamorous yet isolating fame. The podcast dives into the significance of their shared history and how it serves as a foundation for their evolving relationship. Through poignant flashbacks, listeners gain insights into their childhood bonds, which enrich the narrative and elevate the emotional stakes. The episode encourages a deeper understanding of how personal experiences, grief, and the challenges of adulthood shape their journey toward love, making it a relatable exploration of the human condition that resonates with anyone who has navigated the complexities of love and friendship.Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop!Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts!Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaTwitter: xooctaviamarieFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieMusic credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PRODA Subito Media productionMentioned in this episode:You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy!Visit my bookshop!

"Culture Lit" spotlights "Curvy Girl Summer" by Danielle Allen, a novel blending humor, romance, and self-discovery. The book follows Aaliyah James, a curvy protagonist navigating love in the digital age.This engaging episode not only entertains but also inspires listeners to celebrate their individuality and approach dating with confidence and humor.Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores CultureLitPodcastCulture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or website Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. Email me at hello at culturelitpodcast.comSign up for our newsletter to get even more romance recs and news!STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaTwitter: xooctaviamarieFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieSP5Dld5FDuXoXA3wy621Mentioned in this episode:If you're enjoying the show, join our community at culturelitpodcast.com.Visit my bookshop!

The Hiatus is over and I am finally getting into a groove. And what better time to come back than when one of my favorite Black romance authors releases a new novel? One I couldn't put down and read over two days.Today's show features a deep dive into 'This Could Be Us' by Kennedy Ryan with themes of self-love, empowerment, and resilience post-divorce. I discuss how Soledad Barnes overcomes betrayal and divorce to rediscover her worth and power. Emphasizing the importance of self-partnering and setting boundaries, the story takes us on Soledad’s journey toward self-acceptance and her supportive friends' roles in her healing process. 'This Could Be Us' challenges traditional romance narratives by focusing on self-love as the foundation for romantic love and introduces a relatable and realistic love interest, Judah Cross, a single dad of twins with autism. Through Soledad’s story, I encourage listeners to prioritize self-care and embrace their journey of self-discovery and growth.Find it and other recommendations at The CultureLit Digital BookShop and support independent bookstores Culture Lit is a community in celebration of black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer.Please subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts, or website Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. Email me at hello at culturelitpodcast.comTo get even more romance recs and news, sign up for our newsletter!STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: becomingoctaviaTwitter: xooctaviamarieFB: BecomingOctaviaMarieMentioned in this episode:If you're enjoying the show, join our community at culturelitpodcast.com.Visit my bookshop!