Reading Under the Covers: A Romance Novel Podcast

Novel Hour sits down for a chat with Virginia Kantra to discuss our January book club pick: Meg & Jo.Drop your thoughts in the chat - we want to hear from you!Watch the video: https://youtube.com/live/x1822eXaxpgBooks Mentioned:- Meg & Jo: https://rstyle.me/+OEUq7UC7pJNzblEwxB-6Rg- Beth & Amy: https://rstyle.me/+bUUuGeVkg-vL4IfdO1L9uQ- Anne of a Different Island: https://rstyle.me/+L9RgiUAMNIAxh25FZ1lixQ- Whisper at the Lake: https://rstyle.me/+A8bLwac01gLNYZHYgz22CAResources Mentioned:- Virginia shares her favorite contemporary heroines like Anne of Green Gables: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/if-you-love-anne-of-green-gables/- March Sisters Series Guide: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/march-sisters-series/My reviews:- Meg & Jo: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/meg-and-jo-by-virginia-kantra/- Beth & Amy: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/beth-and-amy-by-virginia-kantra/Tune in EVERY THURSDAY LIVE at 12 PM ET, join the chat, and share your thoughts!More January Releases I'm excited to read: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/january-2026-book-releases/All the book clubs and readalongs you can do with us: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/romance-book-club/✨ Loved the episode?Follow Reading Under the Covers wherever you listen and leave a quick review. It helps more romance readers find us (and lets me know what you’re loving). 💕💌 Talk to Me:Got a rec, trope request, or hot take? → Drop me a voice message.☕ Support the Show:Enjoyed hanging out? Leave us a tip. Even a dollar keeps the mics on and the coffee flowing.📚 Stay Connected:Blog: reviews, book lists, and seasonal reading inspo.YouTube: book chats, reading lifestyle and recs.Newsletter: join our insider for the latest updates.💖 This episode may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting the show!

Let’s settle the "Romantasy" debate once and for all. (And yes, we need to talk about Bride by Ali Hazelwood).Does anyone else feel like book genres have gotten completely out of hand lately? We’re throwing around terms like they’re interchangeable (spoiler: they’re not), and don’t even get me started on the Bride discourse.Today on the Reading Under the Covers podcast, I’m breaking down the Genre Funnel in a simple way. We’re going to look at the actual hierarchy of these sub-genres, define where the hard lines are, and finally explain why mislabeling books is actually hurting your reading experience.Watch the video: https://youtu.be/oz7iyAjpi_cWe’re getting into the weeds of:- The difference between a Romantasy and actual High Fantasy with romantic elements.- Why tropes in marketing are confusing everyone- And my official defense of why Ali Hazelwood's Bride is absolutely NOT an Omegaverse book.👇 WANT TO GO DEEPER?If you want to really understand your reading tastes and stop wasting time on books that aren't for you, I’m running a free email mini-series diving deep into genres!→ Sign up here: https://underthecovers.myflodesk.com/book-genres⏳ TIMESTAMPS:00:00 - Introduction: The Confusion of Book Labels00:53 - Understanding Book Genres: The Basics01:49 - Diving Deeper: Subgenres and Tropes05:17 - The Romantasy Debate06:59 - Case Study: Why "Bride" isn't Omegaverse08:16 - Conclusion and Final Tips💬 Let's Chat: Do you agree with my distinction between genres, subgenres and tropes? And where do you stand on the Bride debate? Let me know in the comments!✨ Loved the episode?Follow Reading Under the Covers wherever you listen and leave a quick review. It helps more romance readers find us (and lets me know what you’re loving). 💕💌 Talk to Me:Got a rec, trope request, or hot take? → Drop me a voice message.☕ Support the Show:Enjoyed hanging out? Leave us a tip. Even a dollar keeps the mics on and the coffee flowing.📚 Stay Connected:Blog: reviews, book lists, and seasonal reading inspo.YouTube: book chats, reading lifestyle and recs.Newsletter: join our insider for the latest updates.💖 This episode may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting the show!

Welcome to the Reading Under the Covers podcast. On today's replay of our Novel Hour live show, come for a chat about the latest books we've added to our shelves. Physical and digital.Tune in EVERY THURSDAY at 12 PM ET, join the chat, and share your thoughts!Watch the video: https://youtube.com/live/24QtFN4WCYMComing soon, new book announcements:Unrivaled: https://rstyle.me/+c4ajaycvIdKv8dhUkju1BQQueen of Lombard Street: https://rstyle.me/+jo9CDVrDln0U9K5ZUbcmKgFrancesca's books:Tender is the Storm: https://rstyle.me/+NYLgwjRs9y-X8O8euHE9MgCarnival Fantastico: https://rstyle.me/+cFGL_VwZoQcOVAp_xljREgThe Very Definition of Love: https://rstyle.me/+H7LDN3bUT2TT8XrgF44k4wThe Duke's Got Mail: https://rstyle.me/+LfqXqh3_meBp8pXkcYBSSwMiss Wick and the Duke Dilemma: https://rstyle.me/+Ijwc_eJ4mM9SaPh6mHzvCAHold Me Like a Grudge: https://rstyle.me/+i_JzooES5ALbpYHXLNSxbgGame On: https://rstyle.me/+QCo1b5dnd3sXYXJPhOpGkAVictoria's books:Somewhere Soft to Land: https://rstyle.me/+6kSe8Z3F_8qVGkSL8EAyTASummer's Never Over: https://rstyle.me/+oG479qyQp-GJS6ofSED5IwBest of the Strand Magazine: https://rstyle.me/+rEes1HDx7QM9Wv2c9HpA3QMore Than Friends: https://rstyle.me/+AuQko_n4Nm9OdQfViSdljwThe Book of Blood & Roses: https://rstyle.me/+_vb4m6uzHXmgi7xBP32RhA

Is it excessive? Probably. Do I regret it? Absolutely not. 😅Welcome to the maximalist reading tracking setup of your dreams (or nightmares). In this video, I'm breaking down exactly how, and WHY, I use 8 different systems to track my reading in 2026.From my detailed Notion database to the only app I actually pay for and my physical journal, every single one of these has a specific job. If you’ve ever felt like one app just isn't enough, you have found your people.Let's embrace the chaos.Watch the video: https://youtu.be/Fnukl62uK6M⏳ TIMESTAMPS:00:00 The Confession: Why I need 8 systems00:55 The "New Toy": Margins App01:44 The "Big Three": Storygraph, Pagebound, Fable03:28 The "Timekeeper": Bookly (My only paid sub!)04:42 The "Legacy Archive": Notion Setup06:18 The "Boss": Shelf Control & ARCs07:21 The "Artist": Physical Reading Journal08:47 Outro: Embracing the maximalist life💬 How do you track your reading? Are you "Team Spreadsheet," "Team Journal," or "Team Chaos" or no tracking at all? Let me know in the comments!🔗 GRAB MY TEMPLATES:✨ My Notion Template: https://utcbookblog.com/rfCo3S👯‍♀️ LET'S BE FRIENDS ON THE APPS:Follow me on Fable:→ Profile: https://fable.co/francesca-graziella-521424706323?referralID=GexUWSu3xv→ Romanceopoly Book Club: https://fable.co/club/romanceopoly-2026-challenge-with-francesca-graziella-440377114136?invite=011926db-19e5-4565-b032-5a8911d1db04Follow me on Pagebound:→ Profile: https://pagebound.co/users/FrancescagraziellaFollow me on Storygraph:→ Profile: https://app.thestorygraph.com/profile/itsfrancesca✨ Loved the episode?Follow Reading Under the Covers wherever you listen and leave a quick review. It helps more romance readers find us (and lets me know what you’re loving). 💕💌 Talk to Me:Got a rec, trope request, or hot take? → Drop me a voice message.☕ Support the Show:Enjoyed hanging out? Leave us a tip. Even a dollar keeps the mics on and the coffee flowing.📚 Stay Connected:Blog: reviews, book lists, and seasonal reading inspo.YouTube: book chats, reading lifestyle and recs.Newsletter: join our insider for the latest updates.💖 This episode may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting the show!

We're back for 2026 with a January TBR stack, some spicy reading goals (or non-goals...we see you, mood readers), and a book club launch that kicks off with Meg and Jo by Virginia Kantra. Plus, we react to the news that Harlequin France is testing AI-assisted translations.This month's TBRs are stacked with fantasy, gothic romance, historical mysteries, mythology, queer love stories.Watch the video: https://youtube.com/live/8jO9dbrzHiwHere's what we’re planning to read:Francesca's TBR:→ Fruit of the Flesh by I.V. Ophelia: https://rstyle.me/+dMHZNPHHNtBsj069Agn98g→ The Younger Gods by Katie Shepard: https://rstyle.me/+mAd7B2dfZnQVoXDOuFOSWQ→ The Serpent's Sin by Kathryn Ann Kingsley: https://rstyle.me/+xIUmDaIAZS2ahPutd-eFqg→ Silver & Blood by Jessie Mihalik: https://rstyle.me/+7AhkOsIP5UYsF0zvpp1n4QVictoria's TBR:The Re-Do List by Denise Williams: https://rstyle.me/+W1C8kTlmt7krmFfeiVEL2Q→ Into the Midnight Wood by Alexandra McCollum: https://rstyle.me/+D9h_nN9YN68BTFr_-AUuBQ→ Whispers at Painswick Court by Julie Klassen: https://rstyle.me/+QXzcx-5qpPsUQtarQT3phQ→ The Wolf and the Crown of Blood by Elizabeth May: https://rstyle.me/+hUJcj5T39AuhXn0De2LG2g→ You'll Never Forget Me by Isha Raya: https://rstyle.me/+Xj9F2UZupSEqDsIJhchMcQWe also talk about:Heated Rivalry’s TV adaptation and why it’s blowing up everywhereBookish burnout and giving yourself permission to read lessHow reader goals vary wildly (yes, you can be valid at 12 or 200+ books)Book Club Pick:→ Meg & Jo by Virginia Kantra: https://rstyle.me/+2gnIBV_regIb7omnJbrJ-wTune in January 22 for the discussion!Drop your January TBRs and reading goals in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe to catch our book haul next week.✨ Loved the episode?Follow Reading Under the Covers wherever you listen and leave a quick review. It helps more romance readers find us (and lets me know what you’re loving). 💕💌 Talk to Me:Got a rec, trope request, or hot take? → Drop me a voice message.☕ Support the Show:Enjoyed hanging out? Leave us a tip. Even a dollar keeps the mics on and the coffee flowing.📚 Stay...

Tired of downloading the same 5 hyped Kindle Unlimited authors from BookTok? Today I’m ranking my Top 10 best new-to-me KU authors of 2025, the hidden gems I had to actually go looking for.We’re talking everything from cozy romantasy to dark paranormal romance and a full-on Dark/Edgy KU Corner (with BIG content warnings). If you want fresh romance book recommendations that feel addictive, bingeable, and a little unhinged in the best way… this one’s for you.Tell me in the comments: ONE KU author you discovered in 2025 that more people should be reading, especially if they’re a total hidden gem.Watch the video: https://youtu.be/5xiSn7IcAgw⏱ Timestamps:00:00 Why I Tested KU Authors for You00:56 KU Authors #10–8 (Hidden Gems Start Here)03:03 KU Authors #7–5 (Surprising New Obsessions)05:07 KU Authors #4–2 (Instant Auto-Buy Territory)07:37 My #1 Kindle Unlimited Author of 202508:56 Dark & Edgy KU Corner ⚠️ Check Content Warnings11:26 Final Thoughts, Poll & Your KU RecsBooks Mentioned:→ To Catch a Lord: https://rstyle.me/+Cx-Yb9yrIVkDTde7Hcc05w→ Bound and Tide: https://rstyle.me/+NVe14ltyAneywoZ2R0s_iA→ If All Else Sails: https://rstyle.me/+zeEh1ce5vWsnVCoK0DZUrQ→ The Bone King and the Starling: https://rstyle.me/+8009rWTPkZE-AM6efSsYsA→ Bargain with Benefits: https://rstyle.me/+DJWMC1yQkm3YQ6HPaw1igA→ A Spell for Heartsickness: https://rstyle.me/+NdtmwEI3n0Zl_CM6eeASfg→ How to Fake it With a Fae: https://rstyle.me/+GDuxmJWLOa-rB4HuL16p2A→ I Accidentally Summoned a Demon Boyfriend: https://rstyle.me/+BIXuA1Yeof39YpAEPTo_AA→ Kiss the Rake Hello: https://rstyle.me/+CuT_16TLMu6LozRjwuOSsg→ Her Soul to Take: https://rstyle.me/+fxdng2u1KitxkE339gZJsQ→ The Poisoner: https://rstyle.me/+KdjLVB23irU2EozcyhjPjg→ Leave Me Behind: https://rstyle.me/+5uLWDDiqESaTd-Dku-5PGQ→ Sinners Retreat: https://rstyle.me/+FfcKtsIFia2bp-h-da4EXw✨ Loved the episode?Follow Reading Under the Covers wherever you listen and leave a quick review. It helps more romance readers find us (and lets me know what you’re loving). 💕💌 Talk to Me:Got a rec, trope request, or hot take? → Drop me a voice message.☕ Support the Show:Enjoyed hanging out? 

Kicking Off 2026 with Exciting Romance Book Clubs and Read Alongs!In this first episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, in 2026, Francesca introduces an exciting lineup of romance book clubs and read alongs for the year.You can choose from community-driven projects like the Romanceopoly study sessions or the Novel Hour Book Club, as well as guided binge experiences like read alongs for the Night Huntress World and J.D. Robb's In Death series.There's also a unique 'Ripped and Ravished' vintage romance book club for those interested in exploring old-school bodice rippers.Francesca ensures there's a lane for every type of romance reader, whether you want social interaction or a more private, guided reading experience.Find out how you can sign up for each in our romance book club hub.00:00 Introduction to 2026 Reading Projects01:46 Romanceopoly Study Sessions03:50 Novel Hour Book Club08:36 Ripped and Ravished Book Club10:28 In Death Read Along12:45 Night Huntress Series Read Along15:40 Choosing Your Reading Lane17:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts✨ Loved the episode?Follow Reading Under the Covers wherever you listen and leave a quick review. It helps more romance readers find us (and lets me know what you’re loving). 💕💌 Talk to Me:Got a rec, trope request, or hot take? → Drop me a voice message.☕ Support the Show:Enjoyed hanging out? Leave us a tip. Even a dollar keeps the mics on and the coffee flowing.📚 Stay Connected:Blog: reviews, book lists, and seasonal reading inspo.YouTube: book chats, reading lifestyle and recs.Newsletter: join our insider for the latest updates.💖 This episode may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting the show!

Is Amazon using authors' work to train AI without consent? We break down the controversy. Plus, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are producing 'The Wedding Date' for Netflix! In this episode of Novel Hour live show, we discuss the latest bookish news and share our definitive list of the best books of 2025.Grab a hot drink, your TBR list, and hang out live in the chat with us! Drop your thoughts in the chat - we want to hear from you!Watch the video: https://youtube.com/live/9npoVUouNgsTune in EVERY THURSDAY at 12 PM ET, join the chat, and share your thoughts!📚 BOOKS MENTIONEDThis weeks' new releases: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/new-book-releases-this-week/→ Love in Plain Sight by Lauren Connolly: https://rstyle.me/+SwkcypKahAg9djGexCyrOQ→ The Opportunist by Tarryn Fisher: https://rstyle.me/+l1qsoIpcKqFfMAm2dNuHvA→ You Can Scream by Rebecca Zanetti: https://rstyle.me/+4hYREUfgFjb1tvIoxHE2nw→ Caste in the Stars by Leylah Attar: https://rstyle.me/+V6QxOkbG5925Gk6mRbqJtg→ A Most Worthy Husband by Faye Delacour: https://rstyle.me/+TCUHChFvH2UXmX2_yYJk1Q→ A Fate So Dark and Delicate by Sophia St. Germain: https://rstyle.me/+9xMuZftmukx8n5a4c9I6JA→ Avenging Angel Bad Medicine by Kristen Ashley: https://rstyle.me/+z2AFhKDisNTuRZ9P2eULaA→ A Whisper of Secrecy by Darcy Burke: https://rstyle.me/+NJ0QTov11K_iVjzEmVJaTwLINKS:Winter Reading Guide: https://bibliolifestyle.com/2026-winter-reading-guide/Romanceopoly 2026: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/reading-challenge/WATCH NEXT:2025 Reading Wrapped: https://youtu.be/3YCUQJqEsGsBest Fantasy Romance of 2025: https://youtu.be/8LlbZQkKaMgBest Historical Romance of 2025: https://youtu.be/NfmYMR3yaIUBest Kindle Unlimited Authors I Read in 2025: https://youtu.be/5xiSn7IcAgwSOURCES:https://www.tiktok.com/@dietrichstogner/video/7584108074705685773?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Finding good historical romances is weirdly hard right now, so in this video I’m RANKING the best historical romance books I read in 2025… from “this was fun” all the way up to “new all‑time favorite unlocked.”This is a true countdown style video: I’m starting with the ones I liked but wasn’t totally obsessed with and working my way up to my absolute favorite historical romance of the year. If a book made this list at all, I still recommend it, they just hit me at different levels.Watch the video: https://youtu.be/NfmYMR3yaIUIf you’re looking for:• Smart, emotional historical romance• Romcom‑y Regencies with banter• Gilded Age, Scottish castles, and a little espionage• Options from cozy/clean to pretty dang spicy…hopefully you’ll find at least one new favorite for your TBR.TELL ME IN THE COMMENTS: What’s the best historical romance you’ve read in 2025 so far? And which of these would you pick up first?⏱ Timestamps:00:00 Intro – 2025 Historical Romance Book Ranking00:39 #12 – How to Train Your Viscount by Courtney McCaskill (historical romance review)01:37 #11 – The Brazen Bluestocking by Tracy Sumner (historical romance recommendation)02:25 #10 – Sense and Suitability by Pepper Basham (historical romance review)03:07 #9 – The Gilded Heiress by Joanna Shupe (Gilded Age historical romance)03:38 #8 – The Austen Affair by Madeline Bell (Austen-inspired historical romance)04:18 #7 – A Duke Never Tells by Suzanne Enoch (Regency romcom romance)05:12 #6 – In Scandal with the Duke by Stacy Reid (spicy historical romance)05:47 #5 – Dare to Love a Duke by Eva Leigh (forbidden historical romance)06:19 #4 – Never Gamble Your Heart by Lindsay Lovise (gaming hell historical romance)06:57 #3 – Someone to Watch Over Me by Lisa Kleypas (classic historical romance)07:39 #2 – Earl Crush by Alexandra Vasti (marriage of convenience historical romance)08:46 #1 – Don’t Let Your Dukes Grow Up to Be Scoundrels by Louisa Darling (top pick)09:27 Conclusion – Final historical romance recommendations 2025Books Mentioned:→ How to Train Your Viscount - https://rstyle.me/+BZmDzmmth9Va5d9fQM7yAg→ The Brazen Bluestocking - https://rstyle.me/+aorUZ_0PJgpW8rmahlN_Rg→ Sense and Suitability - https://rstyle.me/+f8VMh26nkC6XYf44-vCm_w→ The Gilded Heiress - https://rstyle.me/+gTxdC1W53gHyMwt2BrSlAA→ The Austen Affair - https://rstyle.me/+Sjs3UlY9OVB6qap4N1vvUA→ A Duke Never Tells - https://rstyle.me/+5YwNyxBOeBCC-E4BFxPqmQ→ In Scandal with the Duke - https://rstyle.me/+q2SRDJzQ6EuLFku5X0lDdA→ Dare to Love a Duke - https://rstyle.me/+KU7kfPDOgxTenSeC2Nsuww→ Never Gamble Your Heart - https://rstyle.me/+Ge_mbYLk-OBjv8bDcqVxSg→ Someone to Watch Over Me -

Pull up a chair, pour the coquito, and get ready for the ultimate cozy chat about how we really do the holidays. In this special archive episode from 2024, we're talking about our personal Christmas (and beyond) traditions, what we grew up with in Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Panama, Italy, and the States, and how they've evolved over time.From grand markets and real pine trees to nativity set wars and debating Santa Claus’ spending limit, we’re diving into the cultural, religious, and just plain chaotic layers of what makes this time of year meaningful...or stressful.We cover:When the holiday season actually starts depending on where you’re fromWhy Three Kings Day might be bigger than ChristmasWhat’s on our holiday tableThe most iconic holiday movies and music we still replayElf-on-the-Shelf hacks and gift-giving pressureHot takes on modern holiday traditionsOur personal survival tips for a low-stress seasonPlus, we get nostalgic about Sia’s Christmas album, Hallmark movies, and the Bravo girlies... naturally.🎄 Got your own favorite holiday tradition or hot take? Let us know in the comments!✨ Loved the episode?Follow Reading Under the Covers wherever you listen and leave a quick review. It helps more romance readers find us (and lets me know what you’re loving). 💕💌 Talk to Me:Got a rec, trope request, or hot take? → Drop me a voice message.☕ Support the Show:Enjoyed hanging out? Leave us a tip. Even a dollar keeps the mics on and the coffee flowing.📚 Stay Connected:Blog: reviews, book lists, and seasonal reading inspo.YouTube: book chats, reading lifestyle and recs.Newsletter: join our insider for the latest updates.💖 This episode may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting the show!

If you loved Fourth Wing but you're tired of seeing the same book recommendations everywhere, today on Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, we are sharing 3 underrated fantasy romance books will give you that addictive enemies-to-lovers, high-stakes magic energy WITHOUT being carbon copies. From dragon shifters to star-powered warriors, these hidden gems deliver everything you crave about Rebecca Yarros' world with fresh twists you won't see coming.Watch the video: https://youtu.be/KblbB7qwqSIIn this episode, I'm sharing three fantasy romance books that capture the magic, tension, and swoon-worthy romance of Fourth Wing without being obvious copycats. Whether you're craving brutal training academies, morally gray love interests, or epic world-building with dragons (or dragon shifters!), these underrated reads belong on your TBR. Plus, I break down what makes each book similar to Fourth Wing AND what makes it deliciously different, so you know exactly what you're getting into.📖 BOOKS MENTIONED:• A Fire in the Sky by Sophie Jordan: https://rstyle.me/+z0elwdHwV9d08XUXRgYhuw• The Starlight Heir by Amalie Howard: https://rstyle.me/+gz8dJq9EET-UOz8V6XuMWA• The Seventh Champion by Sylvia Mercedes: https://rstyle.me/+oaxzKb9fR8WtqwTOCqgL6w⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Introduction: Tired of the Same Old Recommendations?00:40 Book 1: A Fire in the Sky by Sophie Jordan - Dragon Shifters Meet Game of Thrones02:31 Book 2: The Starlight Heir by Emily Howard - Craft Weapons with Star Magic04:19 Book 3: The Seventh Champion by Sylvia Mercedes - The Slowest Burn Fantasy Romance05:55 Conclusion: Your Next Read and More Recommendations✨ Loved the episode?Follow Reading Under the Covers wherever you listen and leave a quick review. It helps more romance readers find us (and lets me know what you’re loving). 💕💌 Talk to Me:Got a rec, trope request, or hot take? → Drop me a voice message.☕ Support the Show:Enjoyed hanging out? Leave us a tip. Even a dollar keeps the mics on and the coffee flowing.📚 Stay Connected:Blog: reviews, book lists, and seasonal reading inspo.YouTube: book chats, reading lifestyle and recs.Newsletter: join our insider for the latest updates.💖 This episode may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting the show!

Tired of seeing the same 5 fantasy romance books recommended over and over? In this video I’m sharing 20 underrated fantasy romance books I read in 2025 and bringing you the hidden gems and romantasy favorites you need on your TBR. 🖤✨These are for you if you love fantasy romance with strong vibes, great worldbuilding, emotional damage, and a decent amount of spice… but want something beyond the usual mega-hyped titles.Watch the video: https://youtu.be/8LlbZQkKaMg⏱ TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Intro: Underrated Fantasy Romance Book Recommendations (2025)00:26 Vampire Fantasy Romance Books: Dark, Spicy & Underrated02:28 Witches & High Seas Fantasy Romance: Magical Adventure Books04:18 Shifters, Dragons & Beasts: Creature Fantasy Romance Recs06:08 Mythology Fantasy Romance & Retellings: Old Stories, New Twists07:28 Dystopian & Urban Fantasy Romance: High Stakes Hidden Gems09:05 Conclusion: Fantasy Romance Hidden Gems Beyond the Bestseller ListBOOKS MENTIONED:→ Slaying the Vampire Conqueror by Carissa Broadbent: https://rstyle.me/+7cgOoUD9lDQW7peG_UfW4g→ A Bargain So Bloody by Vasilisa Drake: https://rstyle.me/+ngU6BAb2lE2F7NLNWEvf6g→ The Serpent's Bride by Kathryn Ann Kingsley: https://rstyle.me/+F9sF5wfELK_C7G8ySP2Icg→ We Who Will Die by Stacia Stark: https://rstyle.me/+i9l-iMYEwMmvaFwDjWwKzA→ Wooing the Witch Queen by Stephanie Burgis: https://rstyle.me/+ZrsZ1JyDEtlwFMqb-R3MgQ→ The Sea Witch by Eva Leigh: https://rstyle.me/+08W4bNA2TL1MrbM39-21gA→ Enchantra by Kaylie Smith: https://rstyle.me/+z5r9aHzKBcyEPwS3F8_X9g→ Soul Gazer by Maggie Rapier: https://rstyle.me/+eJ00ovES5jHt-VgQuOMoZA→ The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig: https://rstyle.me/+A_Np87ssxt0hRf7QVbPdMg→ Psycho Shifters by Jasmine Mas: https://rstyle.me/+ztEqVKRMWfALStt6IL0QNw→ A Scar in the Bone by Sophie Jordan: https://rstyle.me/+jPLUQFv8zRkDE8evs5ND_Q→ The Bastard King by Donna Grant: https://rstyle.me/+to45HFKHYtUjiP4m56t-xg→ The Uncrowned King by Donna Grant: https://rstyle.me/+1uwL8TvkpkkzvqI6UFZtyw→ In the Veins of the Drowning by Kalie Cassidy: https://rstyle.me/+QADGR4w-Tgy8MI2Co88n1A→ The Great and Terrible by Gena Showalter: https://rstyle.me/+HqKCJp2J_YYn-kDSuvU3Bg→ Kiss of the Selkie by Tessonja Odette: a...

What would Jane Austen read if she were alive today? We are celebrating her 250th birthday by building her perfect modern TBR and asking the big question: would she DNF YOUR favorite book?In this episode of Reading Under the Covers, we're diving into:✨ What romance books Jane would absolutely devour✨ The non-romance picks that would blow her mind✨ What Jane would write if she was an author today✨ Whether she'd have a BookTok (spoiler: YES)Drop in the comments which book you think Jane would DNF, I want ALL the hot takes!Watch the video: https://youtu.be/IWAhj0aLhpo📚 SOME AUTHORS MENTIONED:Talia Hibbert | Emily Henry | Cat Sebastian | Alexandra Vasti | Taylor Jenkins Reid | Fredrick Backman | Courtney Milan | K.J. Charles | Nalini Singh | Celeste Ng and more.🎮 Join us for ROMANCEOPOLY: our annual romance reading challenge! https://youtu.be/sAvVlrq_PNg⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Would Jane Austen DNF Your Favorite Book?00:38 Romance Books Jane Austen Would Love02:10 Modern Romance Tropes Jane Would Absolutely Roast02:48 Jane Austen's Non-Romance TBR04:16 What Would Jane Austen Write in 2026?05:15 Would Jane Austen Have a BookTok Account?06:29 Jane Austen's Perfect Modern Reading List✨ Loved the episode?Follow Reading Under the Covers wherever you listen and leave a quick review. It helps more romance readers find us (and lets me know what you’re loving). 💕💌 Talk to Me:Got a rec, trope request, or hot take? → Drop me a voice message.☕ Support the Show:Enjoyed hanging out? Leave us a tip. Even a dollar keeps the mics on and the coffee flowing.📚 Stay Connected:Blog: reviews, book lists, and seasonal reading inspo.YouTube: book chats, reading lifestyle and recs.Newsletter: join our insider for the latest updates.💖 This episode may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting the show!

Goodreads just dropped the 2025 Choice Awards winners, and we had… feelings. In this episode of Reading Under the Covers, we go category-by-category reacting to the wins, the vote blowouts, and the surprises (and yes, we rant a little about repeats in the romance lane). We also rapid-fire the books we think got robbed/snubbed and deserved nominations, then wrap with our most anticipated new releases for December 1-6-including romance, romantasy, thrillers, cozy-ish mysteries, and some "nostalgia bait" for longtime fandom readers.Inside this episode:Our live reactions to the Goodreads Choice Awards 2025 winners across major categoriesThe snubs we're still thinking about (historicals, indies, overlooked thrillers, and more)New releases to add to your TBR (Shadowhunters stories, BDB anniversary goodies, winter reads, and a wild AI boyfriend premise)Watch the video: https://youtube.com/live/I_qCJI1EgVA?feature=share✨ Loved the episode?Follow Reading Under the Covers wherever you listen and leave a quick review. It helps more romance readers find us (and lets me know what you’re loving). 💕💌 Talk to Me:Got a rec, trope request, or hot take? → Drop me a voice message.☕ Support the Show:Enjoyed hanging out? Leave us a tip. Even a dollar keeps the mics on and the coffee flowing.📚 Stay Connected:Blog: reviews, book lists, and seasonal reading inspo.YouTube: book chats, reading lifestyle and recs.Newsletter: join our insider for the latest updates.💖 This episode may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting the show!

I skipped the cozy, feel‑good Christmas romance books this year and went straight for the unhinged, unholy, and totally unhinged ones instead 🎄💀 From murderous Santas to deeply questionable MMCs to… a certain horned holiday menace at the end, this was a chaotic festive reading experiment.If you’re in your "I want vibes and bad decisions under the mistletoe" era, this one’s for you.Watch the video: https://youtu.be/4Cy9Kdrnsyk⏱ TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Introduction: A Twist on Holiday Romance – Why I Skipped Cozy Christmas Romance Books for Dark Romance00:50 Undead and Unwed by Sam Tschida: A Paranormal Hallmark – Vampire Christmas Romance Book Rec01:39 Elf on the Edge by Alina Jacobs: Hitman Holiday Chaos – Dark Christmas Romance with an Assassin Hero02:45 A Man for Mrs. Claus by Rebekah Weatherspoon: North Pole Romance – Spicy Paranormal Holiday Romance Book03:40 He Sees You When You're Sleeping: Stalker Romance – Obsessive Christmas Romance by Alta Hensley04:29 He Knows When You're Awake: Billionaire Stalker Romance with Forced Proximity by Alta Hensley05:19 Scrooged for the Holidays: Paranormal Polyamory Christmas Romance by Kayla Grosse06:17 Paddled by the Krampus: Monster Kink – Krampus Monster Romance by Harley Laroux07:05 Conclusion: Unhinged Holiday Reads – Best Dark Christmas Romance Book RecommendationsON THE BLOG:2025 Christmas Movies: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/2025-christmas-movies/All Holiday Book Recs: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/category/seasonal-reading/holiday-books/BOOKS MENTIONED:Undead and Unwed: https://rstyle.me/+PlmuRc_4nQmrJgsuWmrEpAElf on the Edge: https://rstyle.me/+RhKg33SAwtg-pFcBlyno1QA Man for Mrs. Claus: https://rstyle.me/+QKnBXBb1JfSMxF82RDwq1Q He Sees You When You’re Sleeping: https://rstyle.me/+mAVGhhgS7CnMruH3SmUQHgHe Knows When You're Awake: https://rstyle.me/+OALQJLVzKXAP7YJgHaj6UAScrooged for the Holidays: https://rstyle.me/+wgRj4wcurdM2d-M1HUCVjAPaddled by the Krampus: https://rstyle.me/+GQlPUoPsrp65hZtvdcN2Ng✨ Loved the episode?Follow Reading Under the Covers wherever you listen and leave a quick review. It helps more romance readers find us (and lets me know what you’re loving). 💕💌 Talk to Me:Got a rec, trope request, or hot take? → Drop me a voice message.☕ Support the Show:Enjoyed hanging out? Leave us a tip. Even a dollar keeps the mics on and the coffee flowing.📚 Stay Connected:a...

Welcome to Romanceopoly University: the 2026 romance reading challenge where YOU choose your major, minor, and build your perfect reading year. Choose from 5 departments, customize everything, or follow the Simple Path!This is the romance reading challenge I wish existed... fully customizable, flexible, and designed around what YOU actually want to read in 2026.Watch the video: https://youtu.be/sAvVlrq_PNgIn this episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, I break down the entire Romanceopoly University challenge including:✨ The 5 romance departments (Romantic Arts, Paranormal Studies, Fantasy Theory, Historical Studies, Dark Psychology)✨ How to choose your major and minor✨ The elective system that gives you total control✨ Optional clubs and seasonal sports leagues for extra fun✨ Monthly Study Sessions (book club)✨ The Simple Path for overwhelmed readers✨ All the FREE resources to help you succeedWhether you want to read 20 books or 40+ books in 2026, this challenge adapts to YOUR goals and YOUR favorite romance subgenres.📚 FREE RESOURCES (DOWNLOAD NOW):→ Full Challenge Details and Resources: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/reading-challenge🎥 COMING TUESDAY DEC 3RD: Full Notion tracker tutorial video. I'll show you exactly how to set up and use the tracker step by step! Subscribe so you don't miss it!⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Romance Reading Challenge 2026 - What is Romanceopoly?00:19 Core Curriculum Books - 20 Book Baseline Explained00:57 How to Choose Your Major & Minor Departments01:43 5 Romance Departments Breakdown (Contemporary, Romantasy, Historical & More)03:43 Elective Books - Customize Your Reading Path04:37 Optional Clubs & Seasonal Reading Events07:35 Free Reading Tracker & Notion Template Download10:44 Join the Romanceopoly Community & Get Started💌 STAY CONNECTED WITH ROMANCEOPOLY:→ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/utcbookblog→ Fable: https://utcbookblog.com/CX9IoU→ Newsletter: https://utcbookblog.com/mMz56WAre you joining Romanceopoly University in 2026? Drop a comment and tell me which department you're choosing as your major! 👇✨ Loved the episode?Follow Reading Under the Covers wherever you listen and leave a quick review. It helps more romance readers find us (and lets me know what you’re loving). 💕💌 Talk to Me:Got a rec, trope request, or hot take? → Drop me a voice message.☕ Support the Show:Enjoyed hanging out? Leave us a tip. Even a dollar keeps the mics on and the coffee flowing.📚 Stay Connected:Blog: reviews, book lists, and seasonal reading inspo.YouTube: book chats, reading lifestyle and recs.

Did Elyse Myers actually break the #1 rule of author etiquette… or is BookTok being dramatic? 👀 This week on Reading Under the Covers, Novel Hour chat, we’re talking about the Elyse Myers book drama, what really went down when she replied to a negative review of That’s a Great Question, I’d Love to Tell You, and where the line is between “reader spaces” and parasocial mess.Watch the video: https://youtube.com/live/XANiNlQZtAMWe’ll chat about:→ Should authors ever respond to reviews that don’t tag them?→ Why the book community is calling her response “unprofessional” vs “totally fine”→ What this means for reviewers, influencers, and debut authors trying not to step in it online→ And of course, we’re also hitting this week’s new romance, romantasy, and mystery releases we’re excited about.💬 Let us know in the comments: What are your thoughts on the controversy?⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 Introduction and Overview00:58 Elyse Myers Controversy Explained02:59 Discussion on Author and Reader Spaces17:28 National Book Awards 2025 Winners20:09 New Book Releases for November 16th-22nd30:46 Discussing New Book Releases31:36 Current Reads: Cozy Mysteries and More40:35 What We're Watching: Reality TV Highlights48:16 Viewer Comments and Final ThoughtsTune in EVERY THURSDAY at 12 PM ET, join the chat, and share your thoughts!📚 Books mentionedNote: These are affiliate links which means we earn a small commission if you buy using these links at no extra cost to you.This weeks' new releases: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/new-book-releases-this-week/→ That’s a Great Question, I’d Love to Tell You by Elyse Myers: https://rstyle.me/+YzsZDgUpFiPb5UV0QKM6ZA→ And Then There Was You by Sophie Cousens: https://rstyle.me/+KU6gWvVPkUm6yD-sI9pIew→ The Burning Library by Gilly Macmillan: https://rstyle.me/+vzvHZB7IeRcGnOD9iKWBSw→ Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore by Emily Krempholtz: https://rstyle.me/+M7ubZWi90pU_hTxIUC2O4Q→ Haven’t Killed In Years by Amy K. Green: https://rstyle.me/+vkhBB4fcvltFhkMhi0v_ww→ Secret Nights and Northern Lights by Megan Oliver: https://rstyle.me/+A_ncfvuCCsqFwJXziMdlnA→ The Botanist’s Assistant by Peggy Townsend: https://rstyle.me/+AywY1OGqWlhWTc_uUnrNlA→ After Hours at Dooryard Books by Cat Sebastian: https://rstyle.me/+jySb0CRmYPzJfso-Wi3uIQ→ Brimstone by Callie Hart: https://rstyle.me/+BJq_6OkiyzN34Xp1Bp1dYA→ The Seven Rings by Nora Roberts: https://rstyle.me/+1ZRPo5sDy61q-t04B7u15w→ The Cuffing Game by Lyla Lee:

After 13 years on Goodreads, I finally quit 3 years ago. Here's what happened when I tested every major alternative and found the one that actually works for tracking my reading life.In this episode of the Reading Under the Covers podcast, I'm comparing Pagebound, Storygraph, and Fable - the three biggest Goodreads alternatives right now. I spent 6 months migrating my data, testing features, and figuring out which platform deserves your reading data.Watch the video: https://youtu.be/md9_a9digu8💬 COMMENT BELOW: What do you use right now to track your reading?⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Introduction: Why I Quit Goodreads After 13 Years of Book Tracking00:30 Pagebound Review: Testing the Aesthetic and Fun Goodreads Alternative02:39 Storygraph Deep Dive: Advanced Reading Statistics and Book Recommendations04:16 Fable Platform Review: Social Reading Features and Book Club Communities06:38 Final Verdict: Which Goodreads Alternative You Should Use07:27 Other Reading Tracker Resources: Notion Templates and Reading Journals📖 RESOURCES MENTIONED:→ Get My Notion Reading Tracker: https://utcbookblog.com/EZyrNv→ Notion Reading Tracker Walkthru: https://youtu.be/s2QE2356na4→ Travelers Notebook Reading Journal Walkthrough: https://youtu.be/9gcKdlOILFAFollow me on Fable: → Profile: https://fable.co/francesca-graziella-521424706323?referralID=GexUWSu3xv→ Romanceopoly Book Club: https://fable.co/club/romanceopoly-2026-challenge-with-francesca-graziella-440377114136?invite=011926db-19e5-4565-b032-5a8911d1db04→ Ripped & Ravished Book Club: https://fable.co/club/ripped-ravished-with-francesca-graziella-466160823536?invite=d69ac401-632d-43b6-b05c-e99a81e8ace9Follow me on Pagebound:→ Profile: https://pagebound.co/users/FrancescagraziellaFollow me on Storygraph: → Profile: https://app.thestorygraph.com/profile/itsfrancescaWhether you're a data nerd who needs reading stats, someone looking for better book recommendations, or just tired of Goodreads' outdated interface, this comparison breaks down exactly what each platform does best.✨ Loved the episode?Follow Reading Under the Covers wherever you listen and leave a quick review. It helps more romance readers find us (and lets me know what you’re loving). 💕💌 Talk to Me:Got a rec, trope request, or hot take? → Drop me a voice message.☕ Support the Show:Enjoyed hanging out? Leave us a tip. Even a dollar keeps the mics on and the coffee...

In this episode of the Reading Under the Covers Podcast, we are diving into the Goodreads Choice Awards 2025, aka the Super Bowl of book drama. We’re breaking down the nominees, sharing our knee-jerk reactions, casting our votes, and making very confident predictions about who’s going to take home the crown in each category. And are we ready to go full conspiracy theory over the voting process? (Always.)Watch the video: https://youtube.com/live/XEzRbKRj-9QPlus we’re also spotlighting some buzzy new releases worth adding to your TBR immediately.💬 Let us know in the comments: What are your thoughts on the GoodReads Choice Awards this year? Predictions, reactions, your votes. Let us know in the comments.You may be interested in:→ Brynne Weaver's comments about her nominations: https://www.threads.com/@brynne_weaver/post/DQ98OonCR3O→ Support Nia Davenport's GoFund Me: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-nia-and-her-children-after-tragic-loss→ or Pick up and read Our Vicious Oaths by N.E. Davenport: https://rstyle.me/+jOd3Zz7DSKmlZXbAEnWUWQ→ Sylvia Mercedes stops by the blog to share her favorite slow burn romantasy books:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/slow-burn-romantasy/⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 Introduction to the 2025 Goodreads Choice Awards00:41 Fiction Category: My Votes and Predictions01:46 Historical Fiction: Who Will Win?03:12 Mysteries and Thrillers: The Top Contenders05:05 Live Interaction and Viewer Comments08:04 Romance Category: Disappointments and Predictions15:27 Fantasy Category: Popular Picks18:38 Science Fiction: Passionate Picks20:37 Horror Category: Gothic vs. Traditional22:39 Debut Novels: Fresh Faces24:14 Audiobooks: Production Value and Predictions29:04 Young Adult Fantasy: Disappointments and Predictions29:56 Young Adult Fiction Nominees30:58 Nonfiction Predictions32:19 Memoir Category Highlights34:05 History and Biography Picks38:41 New Book Releases This Week47:41 Current Reads and Recommendations51:44 What We're Watching01:01:24 Final Thoughts and Wrap-UpTune in EVERY THURSDAY at 12 PM ET, join the chat, and share your thoughts!📖 BOOKS MENTIONED:→ The Seventh Champion by Sylvia Mercedes: https://rstyle.me/+9h6m0ck83D6TRXxGnAp_UA→ Your Knife, Your Heart by K.M. Moronova: https://rstyle.me/+zzGdmoHGdetVXw9EGP5lsw→ Indulge by Luna Mason: https://rstyle.me/+bttvTDtuz1Azp-tJnZt_og→ The King’s Ransom by Janet Evanovich: https://rstyle.me/+yld4NVYtExexd7VDZzn7IQ→ A Matter of Murder by Tirzah Price: https://rstyle.me/+gLWvc-zBb9MxujY4oDf1sA→ So My Ex-Boyfriend is a Serial Killer by Kylie Scott:

In this episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, we did the impossible... we ranked the Black Dagger Brotherhood books.And yes, someone said one twin should've eaten the other in the womb. It's fine. Everything's fine.Join Francesca, Jen (@BooksJenRecs), and Angela as they reveal their very different top 10 lists, roast each other’s bad takes, and emotionally spiral over Zsadist, Wrath, and Rehvenge. We only agreed on one book, so naturally, chaos ensued.💬 In this episode:Why Lassiter deserved betterWhich book broke us (and we still loved it)How The King brought the Brotherhood backWhy Lover Mine still hits differentAnd our collective love for tortured heroes (send help)⚔️ Tell us your top 5! Drop your rankings in the comments and yes, we’re ready to fight you (lovingly). Roast us!📺 Watch the full video on YouTube: Can't get enough Black Dagger Brotherhood? Find all our BDB content on the blog.✨ Loved the episode?Follow Reading Under the Covers wherever you listen and leave a quick review. It helps more romance readers find us (and lets me know what you’re loving). 💕💌 Talk to Me:Got a rec, trope request, or hot take? → Drop me a voice message.☕ Support the Show:Enjoyed hanging out? Leave us a tip. Even a dollar keeps the mics on and the coffee flowing.📚 Stay Connected:Blog: reviews, book lists, and seasonal reading inspo.YouTube: book chats, reading lifestyle and recs.Newsletter: join our insider for the latest updates.💖 This episode may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting the show!