Reading Under the Covers: A Romance Novel Podcast

If your fantasy romance TBR is starting to feel like the same few books over and over again, this episode is for you. In this episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, Francesca shares five fantasy romances that helped pull her out of a reading rut and gave her some standout picks for the Romanceopoly 2026 reading challenge - Fantasy Theory prompts. Expect slow burns, fae, magical castles, epic fantasy vibes, sea gods, arranged marriage drama, hidden identities, and a few unexpectedly emotional moments along the way.These are not all identical reads, and that is part of the fun. Some delivered richer worldbuilding, some worked better as palate cleansers, and all of them offered something different for fantasy romance readers looking beyond the usual viral picks.In This EpisodeFrancesca talks about:the fantasy romances that helped revive her reading mood in early 2026how each book fits into the Romanceopoly 2026 reading challengewhich books work best for readers who want slow burn romance, epic fantasy, or lighter worldbuildingstandout five-star reads and a favorite surprise of the year so farwhy some “romantasy” titles may actually be better framed as epic fantasy with romanceBooks Mentioned1. Silver and Blood by Jessie Mihalik: https://rstyle.me/+egR2ElhBAtPG1k81rkgwFA2. Crown of War and Shadow by J.R. Ward: https://rstyle.me/+V-ISGtxmrBvkrtFAGN4Gsw3. Fated to the Frost King by Robin D. Mahle and Elle Madison: https://rstyle.me/+ODY3llanQwR4L7jnbwlZGQ4. The Trident and the Pearl by Sarah K.L. Wilson: https://rstyle.me/+IYyBZyqLMbEq6qvBzKI0UA5. The Second Death of Locke by V.L. Bovalino: https://rstyle.me/+2rSFZTHKMQ953m0_-gOhCQFantasy romance does not have to mean only the biggest names making the rounds online. This episode is a reminder that there are plenty of underrated or less-hyped books that can still deliver on romance, magic, worldbuilding, and fit your reading challenges in really satisfying ways.It is also a good episode for readers trying to get out of a reading slump, especially if you want books that range from immersive and emotionally intense to quick and easy palate cleansers.Mentioned in the EpisodeFrancesca’s J.R. Ward interview: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/jr-ward-interview/the January wrap-up podcast episode with the conspiracy theory discussion: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3N8Ui4H5dbNgJEPuvofnrU?si=lcbvO7nOSNaA8uIe52gnYARomanceopoly 2026 reading challenge: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/reading-challenge/Which fantasy romances have fixed your TBR lately? And if you are doing Romanceopoly, what have been your best Fantasy Theory reads so far?✨ 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 the new Netflix Pride & Prejudice remake going to ruin our lives, or is it exactly what we need? Let's talk about it! ☕️📖 In this Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, we are sharing a Novel Hour live show replay.In this LIVE reaction, we’re breaking down the first teaser for the new series. From debating the sensory details of that roof scene and whether the casting captures the true essence of Darcy, to our deep-seated fears of another Netflix adaptation disaster. Plus, we're getting into the great 1995 vs 2005 debate and going on a little rant about those Gen Z Penguin Austen covers!Grab your tea and join the chat.Watch the video: https://youtube.com/live/TVrg4mohHJc🕰️ Chapters:00:00 Trailer Reaction Setup00:50 Opening Shots and Roof Debate03:15 Sensory Details and Aesthetic04:40 Is Darcy Really Darcy08:20 2005 vs BBC 1995 Comparisons12:43 Purist Takes and Summer Watchlist16:00 Reading the YouTube Comments20:40 Netflix Track Record and Persuasion21:32 Netflix Remake Fears22:18 Persuasion Watch Debate22:56 1995 vs 2005 Consensus23:57 Casting Elizabeth Bennet26:38 Aesthetic and Styling Worries27:06 Why Keep Rebooting Classics28:09 Gen Z Cover Redesign Rant29:37 Better Marketing Ideas33:36 “Inspired By” vs True Adaptation37:59 Live Show Announcements39:28 Spring Reading Guide Preview40:24 Monster Romance Picks41:17 Wrap Up and QuestionsJoin live Thursdays at 12 pm Eastern for bookish filled good time!LINKS:Spring Reading Guide: https://bibliolifestyle.com/spring-reading-guide/Romanceopoly 2026: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/reading-challenge/✨ 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!

In today's episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, let's get into the biggest book adaptation of the month. Bridgerton Season 4 completely broke me and I have thoughts 😭We're talking Benedict, Sophie, the masquerade, the drama and then I'm giving you 5 romance books that hit the exact same tropes so you know what to read next.⚠️ Full spoilers for Bridgerton Season 4 Parts 1 & 2 ahead!Watch the video: https://youtu.be/os_IuXcpe0Q⏱️ Timestamps0:00 Intro00:54 Full Bridgerton Season 4 Review01:32 Benedict & Sophie (Benophie) Breakdown02:43 Francesca & Michaela Storyline - My Take03:59 Bridgerton Season 4 Ending Explained06:04 Books to Read After Bridgerton Season 406:26 Class Difference Romance08:21 Masquerade / Hidden Identity Romance09:58 Spicy Regency Romance11:23 Slow Burn with Dramatic Reveal13:30 Found Family Romance16:34 Final Thoughts📚 Books Mentioned→ The Leopard Prince: https://rstyle.me/+pcG5Pgl0cx3Xcjz-T-2ICw→ Desperately Seeking Suzanna: https://rstyle.me/+mQtMD15pEnQSYbO3cWsMaQ→ In Scandal with the Duke: https://rstyle.me/+tebAuV8FZULU3hqGJfHW8g→ The Earl Takes All: https://rstyle.me/+sYqf2Rih_RQ72c2DDIc27w→ Hello Stranger: https://rstyle.me/+9v5pyWGTNxs13PSATCqcvA✨ 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!

In this episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, we have our latest Novel Hour replay with our February Reading Wrap Up.Watch the video: https://youtube.com/live/GK5m1XRbjQ4?feature=shareWe’ll chat:Every book we finished this month (quick, honest thoughts)New 5‑star favorites to add to your TBRDisappointing reads and DNFs (and why they didn’t work)How our reading tastes are changing in 2026Check out my full February Reading Wrap-Up on the blog. Plus the 5 cozy iPad games that kept me sane.Join us live Thursdays at 12pm Eastern for spoiler-filled book club discussion, chat reactions, cozy community reading time, bookish news, TBRs, wrap-ups, and more over on Youtube.Timestamps00:00 February Wrap Up Intro00:33 Reading Month Check In01:22 Unreliable Artist Story02:53 Decades Long Love Story04:33 Epic Fantasy Road Trip07:18 Romance History Deep Dive10:33 Live Chat Tech Chaos12:05 Reading Slump Coping14:20 Literary Haunted House16:22 Maternal Grief Dark Humor18:38 Book Journaling Chat19:37 Setting Up Disappointments20:00 Unexpected Womens Fiction20:44 Wildfire County Healing23:01 Dystopian Spy Superheroes24:58 Tradwife Time Slip Satire29:18 Mystery Letdowns Roundup32:56 Book Club Disappointment35:01 Shifting Reading Tastes39:44 Upcoming Lives and Farewell✨ 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 made it. In this episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, we are coming to the end of the first Ripped & Ravished Book Club, Francesca (Under the Covers Book Blog) and Becky (Too Stupid to Live Podcast) cover Chapters 9-10 of The Flame and the Flower by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss, and the last two chapters feel like the book suddenly swerves into an entirely different genre with an epic finale.We finally get the long teased romance payoff (yes, that probing scene, Becky clocked the exact page), plus the most chaotic party in Charleston, peak jealousy, and the book's ultimate talent: miscommunication as a lifestyle. Then the story goes full gothic romance meets slasher: blackmail, bodies turning up, a surprise reveal, and Heather's London past crashing back into the present.We also talk about what actually works here (tension, suspense, and the feeling that Woodiwiss was writing from pure author freedom and desire rather than market formulas), what still doesn't, and why this book remains such an important artifact in romance history, even if it's complicated to "rate" with modern eyes.Catch up here (and watch the video of this episode): https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/the-flame-and-the-flower-review/Content warnings: discussion includes rape/forced seduction, coercion, violence, murder/death, blackmail, and misogyny. Please take care of yourself.What's next: We're not done with Ripped & Ravished, coming up, we'll be talking with romance authors who loved this book when it first hit, and what it's like to revisit it now. And of course announcing what is our next read for March/April.Timestamps00:00 Why It Feels Original00:25 Podcast Setup And Warnings01:39 Final Chapters Reaction02:17 Horse Ride Flirting06:39 Party Jealousy And Louisa08:41 Assault Trope And Gothic Vibes12:45 Miscommunication And Consent Tension21:47 Upstairs During The Party28:23 Chapter Ten Serial Killer Twist29:02 Whodunit Clues And Blackmail31:13 Louisa Murder Suspicions31:43 Doubt and Confession32:39 Heather Blackmail Spiral33:50 Romance Meets Suspense35:10 Explosive Final Chapters36:24 He Knew All Along37:36 Accountability and Consent41:41 Female Pleasure Awakens42:52 Can You Rate This54:55 The Bath Obsession59:38 Publishing Then vs Now01:03:00 Why Readers Want Original01:07:16 Wrap Up and Next StepsLinks to join the book club + resourcesRipped & Ravished Book Club hub:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/bodice-ripper-book-club/Sign up for the book club newsletter:https://underthecovers.myflodesk.com/ripped-ravishedKathleen E. Woodiwiss Author Guide:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/kathleen-e-woodiwiss-author-guide/Romance Evolution through the Decades (1970s):https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/history-of-1970s-romance-novels/1970s Romance: Iconic Romance Novels:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/1970s-romance-novels/Follow Becky / Too Stupid to Live Podcast:https://tstlpodcast.substack.comhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/too-stupid-to-live-romance-reviews-%245-and-under/id1141770521https://open.spotify.com/show/2rhn2BiyPFDZNMXIHxi2jChttps://www.instagram.com/tstlpodcast/?hl=en✨ 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!

In this episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, we are back with our Novel Hour live show book club! Today, we’re discussing Whispers of the Lake by Shanora Williams.Watch the video: https://youtube.com/live/bFwI98TXRcsWe’ll chat:• first impressions and expectations• characters and messy decisions• the twists and ending (full spoilers)• if we’d recommend it and to who• books like recommendations and moreBooks Mentioned:Whispers of the LakeThe Wife BeforeBeautiful Broken LoveMayhem and the MortalJoin us live Thursdays at 12pm Eastern for spoiler-filled book club discussion, chat reactions, cozy community reading time, bookish news, TBRs, wrap-ups, and more!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!

Episode 4 of Ripped & Ravished Book Club is here! In this episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, Francesca (Under the Covers Book Blog) and Becky (Too Stupid to Live Podcast) dive into Chapters 7-8 of The Flame and the Flower by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss and we are officially in the "so close to the end… please give us something" zone.These chapters bring big plot movement (hello, baby arrives) and yet somehow we're still drowning in domestic detail: baths, clothes, embroidery, household management, and a hero who keeps inching toward emotional growth… until he opens his mouth and resets the progress. We talk about how the book is crystal clear about his feelings, while Heather's inner life stays frustratingly out of reach, and why that makes the romance feel oddly hollow even as they're technically building a life together.We also get into: the hot-and-cold communication spiral, Jeff's increasingly confusing role, George's surprising moment of remorse, and why certain "dramatic" beats feel like random drive by tension instead of true relationship stakes. Plus, we're still waiting for the book's legendary "female pleasure" reputation to show up on page (Becky is keeping score).Catch up here (and watch the video of this episode): https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/the-flame-and-the-flower-review/Content warnings: This episode discusses rape/non-consent (referenced), coercion, pregnancy/childbirth, misogyny, and controlling dynamics. Please take care of yourself.Next up: Our final episode on this book discussion covers Chapters 9-10 and we want your thoughts before we wrap. Reply with where you're at: first-time reader vs reread, what's shifted for you, and whether the ending delivers the passion (and yes… the probing).Timestamps00:00 Probing and Passion Tease 00:14 Podcast Intro and Book Club 01:20 Chapters Seven and Eight Setup 01:58 Baths and Missing Chemistry 03:04 Hot and Cold Communication 04:59 Moving In and Blowups 07:23 Hattie the Wise Stereotype 09:40 Jeffs Forced Kiss and Vibes 10:48 George Confession Overheard 12:16 Brandon in New York Growth 17:18 Louise Debts and Power 21:51 Heather Changes and Birth POV 27:06 Her POV Missing 28:02 Becoming Mrs Birmingham 30:00 No Context for Competence 32:13 Shell of a Heroine 33:17 Stagnant Brandon Arc 36:08 Where Is the Heat 38:32 Yearning and Real Stakes 40:12 Side Characters and Style 43:35 Plot Finally Moves 49:08 Baths Without Purpose 50:57 One Bath That Works 51:57 Wrap Up and Next ReadLinks to join the book club + resourcesRipped & Ravished Book Club hub:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/bodice-ripper-book-club/Sign up for the book club newsletter:https://underthecovers.myflodesk.com/ripped-ravishedKathleen E. Woodiwiss Author Guide:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/kathleen-e-woodiwiss-author-guide/Romance Evolution through the Decades (1970s):https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/history-of-1970s-romance-novels/1970s Romance: Iconic Romance Novels:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/1970s-romance-novels/Follow Becky / Too Stupid to Live Podcast:https://tstlpodcast.substack.comhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/too-stupid-to-live-romance-reviews-%245-and-under/id1141770521https://open.spotify.com/show/2rhn2BiyPFDZNMXIHxi2jChttps://www.instagram.com/tstlpodcast/?hl=en✨ 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!

In this episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, we are so excited because J.R. WARD IS HERE. And she finally answers the question I have been asking:Is Crown of War and Shadow secretly the BDB origin story? 👀Watch the interview: https://youtu.be/tHIoFpn7LMsIn this 56-minute deep dive, we're talking:✨ Her brand new Kingdoms of the Compass series (slow-burn romantasy, demons, badlands and found family vibes)✨ How Crown of War and Shadow is different from Black Dagger Brotherhood (think "D&D meets LOTR")✨ BDB origin story easter eggs in the new series (yes… she really does confirm it)✨ BDB Season 2 scoop: how dark it gets, Rhage's Beast, and what's coming next✨ Merc & Sorrel's character vibes, why Sorrel is first-person only, and how hard this book was to draft✨ Four-book plan, IMAX-scale creature battles, and the spider scene from hell✨ Which BDB brother would die in this world (Ward refuses… mostly)✨ Passionflix creative control, cast reunion teases, and what comes after the Romantasy boomIf you love Black Dagger Brotherhood, paranormals, or you're hunting for your next big romantasy obsession after ACOTAR, you're in the right place. 💜Tell us in the comments: Are you reading Crown of War and Shadow? And wha't your favorite J.R. Ward book?Timestamps:00:00 J.R. Ward teases the new series + BDB Season 2 scoop00:25 What Crown of War and Shadow is about (slow-burn romantasy setup)01:19 "D&D meets LOTR": How Kingdoms of the Compass differs from BDB03:29 Meet Merc & Sorrel: 3-word character vibes04:05 Why first-person Sorrel only (and why drafting was a nightmare)05:33 Retrofitting a 20-year-old idea + keeping the big secrets hidden08:00 The four-book plan, backstory dreams & the spider scene from hell09:32 Writing IMAX-scale creature battles & cinematic action12:38 Which BDB brother would die in this world? (Ward refuses… mostly)13:53 Are there BDB origin story easter eggs in the new series?15:31 Merc's protective energy: Supportive hero vs. alpha power plays18:11 BDB crossover party game: Who Merc fights, befriends & lives with24:08 Passionflix BDB TV series: Creative control, Rhage's Beast & Season 2 build28:20 Is Season 2 lighter? Ward says "absolutely not" (setting up Season 3)29:36 Why horses keep appearing in her books30:35 From Cape Cod to Leaping Hearts: Writing what you know33:46 Romance influences: Johanna Lindsey, Elizabeth Lowell & medieval inspo35:57 Why men read her romance: Boundaries, grit and voice40:53 Alpha heroes then vs now: Decency, loyalty and moral compasses44:15 What she's reading (and why she rarely reads): ACOTAR, Lore of the Wilds & more48:31 What comes after Romantasy? Trends, vampires, paranormals & historicals53:12 Crown of War and Shadow updates: "Different" reviews, gratitude & KU access55:20 Wrap-upGrab your copy of Crown of War and Shadow: https://rstyle.me/+_Qy4c7F3Bp236GkKuWhxzAResources on the blog:J.R. Ward Reading Guide: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/a-beginners-guide-to-j-r-ward-reading-order/Black Dagger Brotherhood Series Guide: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/black-dagger-brotherhood-series-guide/Black Dagger Legacy Series Guide: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/black-dagger-legacy-series-guide/The Bourbon Kings Series Guide: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/the-bourbon-kings-by-j-r-ward-series-guide-drama-romance-and-secrets/Books Like Black Dagger Brotherhood: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/books-like-black-dagger-brotherhood/Watch Next:J.R. Ward Beginners Guide: https://youtu.be/P7NiUn-_9TEBlack Dagger Brotherhood Reading Order: https://youtu.be/KEaODIYEh8YRanking our favorite BDB books: https://youtu.be/TqziQMkW_-IMy Favorite BDB Heroes: https://youtu.be/ekURmqb4oPMIs the BDB TV Show Worth It?: https://youtu.be/l-mxD3mlB1QRanking the Top 8 Characters from the BDB Show (Season 1): https://youtu.be/pwGMx8s-SXo✨ 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!#JRWard #CrownOfWarAndShadow #BlackDaggerBrotherhood #BDB #Romantasy #ParanormalRomance #Passionflix #BookTube #AuthorInterview

Romance is always at the center of publishing… and this week, it’s chaos. We’re unpacking the New York Times headline "The New Fabio Is Claude" and the growing wave of AI-generated romance, plus the real issue nobody wants to say out loud: authors publicly denouncing AI while secretly using it. Then we pivot into pop culture (Super Bowl + Winter Olympics reactions)… and finally get into what you actually came for: our February Book Haul book mail, and upcoming book club picks.Watch the video: https://youtube.com/live/B1Td-hIZEMYIn This EpisodeThe NYT "New Fabio Is Claude" headline, and what it signals about romance publishing right nowThe ethics + reader trust problem: denouncing AI publicly, using it privately"Are readers getting duped?" + how AI content is showing up in categories and chartsSuper Bowl recap + the "overlooked/undervalued" underdogWinter Olympics opening ceremony thoughtsThen: February Book Haul time!Books Mentioned / FeaturedAuthor deep dive / book mail momentOne Summer in Savannah by Terah Shelton HarrisWhere the Wildflowers Grow by Terah Shelton HarrisLong After We’re Gone by Terah Shelton HarrisBook Club PicksNext week’s discussion: Whispers of the Lake by Shanora WilliamsMarch read-ahead: Rules for Ruin by Mimi MatthewsClassics mentionWilliam Golding (classic lit shoutout)Special EditionsHidden Legacy series by Ilona AndrewsNew ReleaseCrown of War and Shadow by J.R. WardListener QuestionWhere do you land on AI in romance: transparent use with clear labeling, or no AI in the writing process at all? And did you pick up anything good in February.Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Today’s Agenda00:13 AI in Romance Publishing: Controversies and Insights01:56 Debate on AI's Role in Writing12:24 Super Bowl Recap and Highlights16:18 Winter Olympics: Highlights and Opinions21:17 February Book Haul: Exciting New Reads24:03 Exploring William Golding's Lesser-Known Works27:15 Special Editions from the Arcane Society30:41 Terah Shelton Harris: A Contemporary Favorite33:16 Upcoming Book Club Reads35:13 TV Shows and Traitors38:40 Frustrations with Queen of Flow42:46 Final Thoughts and Upcoming EventsSources Mentionedhttps://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/08/business/ai-claude-romance-books.htmlIf you love bookish news + honest conversations about publishing, follow/subscribe and join us live every Thursday at 12pm EST on Youtube. Drop your February reads in the comments and tell us: Do you think readers can tell when a book is AI-generated?✨ 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!

In this episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, we go back into our Ripped and Ravished Book Club discussion of The Flame and the Flower by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss. Today we dive into Chapter 5 & 6 of the book. If you missed the previous chapter discussions, go back and listen to those first.Catch up here (and watch the video of this episode): https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/the-flame-and-the-flower-review/What we coverWhy Chapters 5-6 feel long (pacing + details)"Grooming as intimacy": clothes, baths, and what comfort means in this eraThe no-touching choice: space without sex (and why that helps the story)Heather's naiveté and why it's grating and revealingThe boat sequence: rules, danger, and shifting responsibility onto womenFever/hallucinations as the first real window into Heather's trauma"Was the bathtub kindness… or manipulation?" (modern baggage vs author intent)The "pants for women" scene: accidentally hilarious historical innovationThe slow burn problem: we're halfway in...where’s the emotional interiority?Louise's dockside meltdown: melodrama returns and we're kind of gratefulSpeculation corner: is the brother getting a spinoff romance in our heads?Content warningsThis episode includes discussion of: rape/non-consent, coercion, pregnancy, illness/fever, controlling dynamics, misogyny, and historical sexual double standards. Please take care of yourself.Timestamps00:15 Welcome + What We're Covering (Ch. 5-6) & Book Club Context01:46 These Chapters Feel Long: Pacing, Details, and the Slow Transition03:33 Dresses, Naivete, and Losing Sight of Heather's Character07:43 No Touching Allowed: Withholding Intimacy & Marriage Expectations09:51 Historical Accuracy vs Modern Palatability (and Bridgerton Comparisons)11:57 The Grooming Episode: Baths as Comfort, Symbol, and Suspicion14:21 Reading With Today's Lens: Triggers, Rereads, and 1972 vs Now17:40 On the Boat: Rules, "Milk" Moment, and Heather's Naivete Peaks21:51 Missing Inner Monologue: Emotional Distance & Birmingham's (Non)Remorse25:26 Brother Appears: Twin Vibes, Louise, and a Possible Book-Two Setup28:27 Back to the Boat: Seasickness Bonding & Heather's Buried Trauma31:46 Custom-Made Long Johns: The Comedy of 'Pants for a Lady'33:32 Was the Fever a Plot Shortcut? Skipping the Real Relationship Work35:00 Slow Burn Whiplash & 'Probing the Depths of Her Womanhood'39:03 Missing Inner Monologue: What Was Heather Thinking at the Dock?41:50 Louisa Arrives: Campy Soap-Opera Drama Turns Up to 1142:44 Side-Plot Brainstorming: The Brother Romance & Bucket-of-Goo Comeuppance51:50 Poison Tea Panic & Pregnancy Anxiety in 179953:17 Final Verdict on Chapters 5-6 + What's Next (Ch. 7-8)Listener question for youHow did these chapters land for you: "slow-burn settling period" or "Ohio road trip middle that drags"? And did Louise’s arrival make you more excited for what’s next?Links to join the book club + resourcesRipped & Ravished Book Club hub:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/bodice-ripper-book-club/Sign up for the book club newsletter:https://underthecovers.myflodesk.com/ripped-ravishedKathleen E. Woodiwiss Author Guide:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/kathleen-e-woodiwiss-author-guide/Romance Evolution through the Decades (1970s):https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/history-of-1970s-romance-novels/1970s Romance: Iconic Romance Novels:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/1970s-romance-novels/Follow Becky / Too Stupid to Live Podcast:https://tstlpodcast.substack.comhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/too-stupid-to-live-romance-reviews-%245-and-under/id1141770521https://open.spotify.com/show/2rhn2BiyPFDZNMXIHxi2jChttps://www.instagram.com/tstlpodcast/?hl=en✨ 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 love my husband. He's great. But let's be real... if a certain river pirate or a scarred Duke showed up at my door? I would pack my bags so fast it would make his head spin. 💍💨In today's episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, I'm ranking the god tier of Regency Romance heroes. These aren't just good book boyfriends; these are the men who are so devastatingly charming that they have ruined real men for me forever. And yes, my number one pick is a controversial "toxic" favorite... but I stand by it.📚 The Husband-Stealing Lineup:Honorable Mention: Unclaimed by Courtney Milan (Sir Mark Turner): https://rstyle.me/+r9DxfBpU2TbkLLKQwOFp-A5. Scandalous Desires by Elizabeth Hoyt (Mickey O'Connor): https://rstyle.me/+8jM_ggUNk_OkU-BCuou75A4. The Duchess Deal by Tessa Dare (The Duke of Ashbury): https://rstyle.me/+aNf2_fkXzry1N4J2fnYf-A3. Lord of Scoundrels by Loretta Chase (Sebastian Ballister, Lord Dain): https://rstyle.me/+yGSZ0_GoDJ0j6AKRzE0Smg2. It Happened One Autumn by Lisa Kleypas (Marcus, Lord Westcliff): https://rstyle.me/+ZSynXXXBOJxM55eGcc4faQ1. Reckless by Anne Stuart (Adrian Rohan): https://rstyle.me/+Y0BoTbu53ixAjvtYeyzr8AWhich fictional man would YOU leave your partner for? 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 Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, and our weekly live book talk show replay! 📚Watch the videoToday we’re doing two things: • talking about reports that Harlequin Historicals may be coming to an end, and what that means as mass market paperbacks fade out of bookstores• building my February TBR with cozy winter reads that fit my 2026 reading goalsWe’ll also chat about: • the “Last Call for Mass Market Paperbacks” report and what’s really happening with the format• why mass market romances, especially Harlequin Historicals, mattered to so many readers• how these changes might affect how we buy and read books going forward• the new releases and backlist titles on my February TBRJoin us live on Youtube Thursdays at 12pm Eastern for cozy Book Talk, bookish news.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Today's Agenda 00:13 Harlequin Historical Line Closure 01:15 Impact on Readers and Authors 04:19 Mass Market Paperbacks Distribution Issues 07:32 Discussion on Publishing Trends 13:35 February TBR: Exciting Reads 27:31 Live Book Club Announcements 29:02 Current TV Obsessions: Traitors 33:32 Turkish Drama and Queen of Flow 37:59 Real Housewives of Potomac42:00 Upcoming Book Club Events 43:05 Wrapping Up and FarewellBooks Mentioned: → How to Kill a Guy in Ten Dates by Shailee Thompson: https://rstyle.me/+_kNzpApr03TNIEXXokSFtw→ Wicked Onyx by Debbie Cassidy: https://rstyle.me/+JoGcxGS2hG8HlZQA40h1MQ→ Vanguard by Karina Halle: https://rstyle.me/+Ql5P9d8QU2bQOXHP0S74OA→ Half City by Kate Golden: https://rstyle.me/+qAow2JgvK3MNl7YEissGcw→ Only Friends by Lydia San Andres: https://rstyle.me/+_Kzg7kKY69vR5uEkuvGYrA→ Savage Lands by Stacey Marie Brown: https://rstyle.me/+D8WFgEGfQI2_iyqZ9wNhng→ Whispers of the Lake by Shanora Williams: https://rstyle.me/+EP-erKulRXkDOdDXZ_8HFA→ Cool Machine by Colson Whitehead: https://rstyle.me/+89qmTPEqUXRS3vWiSI_jhg→ Our Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune: https://rstyle.me/+PWRfcVmKhTOFynAIeuCbGw→ The Author Weekend by Laura Zigman: https://rstyle.me/+NYFJHuQDc3tnU8B__sL6aQ→ The Ex-Boyfriend's Favorite Recipe Funeral Committee by Saki Kawashiro: https://rstyle.me/+dHZqcDK2YCjaXI-W3io1ZQ→ Jamaica Road by Lisa Smith: https://rstyle.me/+8GSvkY6uRZbr3Ud8okSmqg→ Jane's Career by H. G. de Lisser: https://rstyle.me/+1svqH8xAOnuTd75CKTo-3wLINKS: → Victoria's Full TBR: https://youtu.be/a04zI86Qgho→ Francesca's Favorite Historical Romances: https://youtu.be/NfmYMR3yaIU→ Why Mass Market Paperbacks Are Disappearing: https://youtu.be/8Vpif8hE76k→ More February Releases I'm excited to read: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/february-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!

Welcome to the second episode of Ripped & Ravished Book Club, your deep dive into vintage "bodice ripper" romances that helped shape the romance genre as we know it. In this episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, Francesca from Under the Covers Book Blog and Becky from Too Stupid to Live discuss Chapters 3 and 4 of The Flame and the Flower by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss, often referred as the foundational book of the modern romance boom.We talk about whether Birmingham is even remotely redeemable, how the book handles trauma aftermath for Heather, and the way "marriage of convenience" shows up here as something closer to marriage for survival. We also compare these vintage dynamics to modern dark romance tropes, and why some scenes read as controlling/abusive through a 2026 lens.Trigger warningsThis episode includes discussion of: forced marriage, rape/non-consent, abuse of power, controlling behavior, pregnancy, trauma responses, and coercive dynamics. Please take care of yourself and skip if needed.Becky / Too Stupid to LiveSubstack: https://tstlpodcast.substack.comApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/too-stupid-to-live-romance-reviews-%245-and-under/id1141770521Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2rhn2BiyPFDZNMXIHxi2jCInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tstlpodcast/?hl=enTimestamps00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:34 Diving into Chapters 3 and 401:03 Trigger Warnings and Sensitive Topics01:45 Character Analysis: The Redeemable Hero?03:51 Discussion on Side Characters and Plot Dynamics14:04 Marriage of Convenience and Historical Context22:51 Dark Romance Tropes and Modern Comparisons27:32 Controlling Behavior and Abusive Dynamics28:31 Modern Parallels and Personal Anecdotes30:31 The Fiance and Blame Shifting32:13 Disgusting Virginity Obsession34:02 Heather's Powerlessness and Hope for Change36:41 Anticipation and Fear for the Future38:12 Historical Context and Character Analysis50:54 Concluding Thoughts and Next StepsWhat we cover in this episodeThe book's attempts (or lack thereof) at making Birmingham "redeemable"Side characters: "saviors," opportunists, and why everyone feels complicitMarriage of convenience as a survival mechanism (and why it lands differently today)Dark romance parallels: "burn the world for her" vs. controlling behavior that reads as abuseThe grooming/control vibes around clothing, possessiveness, and escalationThe fiancé angle, blame-shifting, and the love-triangle tension returningVirginity as obsession: why it feels uniquely enraging and dehumanizing on the pageHeather as the emotional anchor-her intelligence, anger, and realismWhy the writing keeps you turning pages even when you hate (almost) everyoneLooking ahead to Chapters 5-6 (boat ride dread + America/plantation anxiety)Links & resourcesRipped & Ravished Book Club hub:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/bodice-ripper-book-club/Sign up for the book club newsletter:https://underthecovers.myflodesk.com/ripped-ravishedKathleen E. Woodiwiss Author Guide:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/kathleen-e-woodiwiss-author-guide/Romance Evolution Through the Decades (1970s):https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/history-of-1970s-romance-novels/1970s Romance: Iconic Romance Novels:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/1970s-romance-novels/Next episodeNext up: Chapters 5-6. We're bracing for the voyage, watching for any real shift in power, and asking: when (and how) does this story start to feel like a romance, if it ever does?✨ 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!

In this episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, it's time for our January wrap-up: what we read, what surprised us, and what totally missed. Then we go full detective mode on J.R. Ward’s Crown of War and Shadow with conspiracy theories we can’t unsee… including a possible Black Dagger Brotherhood tie-in and a “Scribe Virgin origin story” vibe that has us ready to highlight every suspicious clue (yes, including demons and spiders 👀).Guests: Jen (BooksJenRecs) + Angela (Under the Covers OG)Watch the chat on Spotify!Time Stamps00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:50 Discussing Book Series and World Building02:08 Tamlin and Rhysand Debate07:14 January Reading Wrap-Up15:16 JR Ward's New Series Theories26:09 What to pick up next - Top recommendation from each27:19 Discussing Jessie Mihalik backlist27:50 Disappointment of the Month: People We Meet on Vacation29:57 Heated Rivalry and Book-to-Screen Adaptations (Bridgerton)40:50 Reading Goals and Challenges (Romanceopoly, reading goals, mood reading vs prompts)44:22 Final ThoughtsThe JR Ward Conspiracy CornerIs Crown of War and Shadow setting up a hidden connection to the Black Dagger Brotherhood universe?“Scribe Virgin origin story” + lineage questions + clues we want to highlight and track“Demons and spiders” getting highlighted for… no reason at all 😅If you listened and immediately started building your own theory board… you’re our people. 💅DM us or send a voice note: What was your top January read and do you think Ward is secretly tying this back to BDB?Send a voice note: https://www.speakpipe.com/UndertheCoversFollow Jen (BooksJenRecs)Follow Angela✨ 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!

In this episode of Novel Hour Live Show, we are counting down the best (and not so great) reads of January 2026. Including a Romanceopoly reading update.Victoria's Mood Reading Vlog: https://youtu.be/pgT5r8TkMEQ?si=cTq604lOoBv3Ud2i Victoria's Wrap-Up: https://youtu.be/lBvhsS8eTgg?si=iGvE2aUERWNnuZBlWatch the video: https://youtube.com/live/vB24mcY_SvwDrop your thoughts in the chat - we want to hear from you! Tune in EVERY THURSDAY at 12 PM ET, join the chat, and share your thoughts!Books Mentioned:→ The Night We Met: https://rstyle.me/+xrsoDt9V4iIkKRJy5mNn3Q→ You'll Never Forget Me: https://rstyle.me/+HNtlDcoyT77QeiyShZwUBQ→ Silver & Blood: https://rstyle.me/+fGIpe1PeKnZCiJkK8mJlTQ→ Beautiful Things: https://rstyle.me/+4kriPS2k7DNrsrGEupWHjg→ The Re-Do List: https://rstyle.me/+EBqkAa3ujunFUgRGM83UTQ→ You Watched In Silence: https://rstyle.me/+g-hrhlJbu_rH0UV_iwv-2w→ Fruit of the Flesh: https://rstyle.me/+j_rUJHZu7Hhr_n7PNzBNzw→ Slay Ride: https://rstyle.me/+maz-rxbfmPRsxhNPHDR46g→ The Wolf and the Crown of Blood: https://rstyle.me/+ovVLkh-IVKxqGfW-iM2sLA→ Whispers at Painswick Court: https://rstyle.me/+8aQooBMxASizo2wGVzUImw→ Dolly All the Time: https://rstyle.me/+ReYTZu4NiYuEHeKpGFw4Sw→ Halfway to the Grave: https://rstyle.me/+slixZOfuB0Up9W2Glk-XrA→ Crown of War and Shadow: https://rstyle.me/+ERQImAo4ED86piJeS1_arAUpcoming Book Club Picks:→ Whispers of the Lake: https://rstyle.me/+V0UahvGmaEUOjZbXav2jpQ→ Rules for Ruin: https://rstyle.me/+wEToS9Dlj9llXEHlM8Ec-gLINKS:- Night Huntress Read-a-long: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/night-huntress-readalong/- Winter Reading Guide: https://bibliolifestyle.com/2026-winter-reading-guide/- Romanceopoly Reading Challenge: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/reading-challenge/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!

Welcome to the very first episode of Ripped & Ravished Book Club, your deep dive into vintage "bodice ripper" romances that helped shape the romance genre as we know it. In this episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, Francesca from Under the Covers Book Blog and Becky from Too Stupid to Live discuss Chapters 1 and 2 of The Flame and the Flower by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss, often referred as the foundational book of the modern romance boom.We unpack initial reactions, the heroine's impossible situation, how "forced seduction" functioned in the cultural landscape of the 1970s, and why these books were so widely consumed, while keeping a clear modern lens on consent, trauma, and reader safety.Watch the video on SpotifyContent warningsThis episode includes discussion of: non-consent/rape, sexual violence, pregnancy, forced marriage, abuse of power, and family mistreatment. Please take care of yourself and skip if needed.Becky / Too Stupid to LiveSubstack: https://tstlpodcast.substack.comApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/too-stupid-to-live-romance-reviews-%245-and-under/id1141770521Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2rhn2BiyPFDZNMXIHxi2jCInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tstlpodcast/?hl=enTimestamps00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Book Club01:01 Content Warnings and Sensitive Themes01:57 Initial Reactions to ‘The Flame and the Flower’04:19 Discussion on the Heroine's Plight09:12 Exploring Forced Seduction and Dark Romance16:26 Redemption Arc and Character Growth21:27 Comparing Modern and Vintage Romance31:17 Empathy and Reader Reactions34:46 Content Warnings and Author Responsibility35:16 The Fascination with Kathleen E. Woodiwiss37:01 Romance Genre and Feminism39:25 Romance Reading and Gender Perceptions41:19 The Structure and Tropes of Romance Novels47:39 AI in Romance Writing51:09 Reflecting on Romance and Consent58:23 Concluding Thoughts and Next StepsWhat we cover in this episodeWhy this book is considered such a major (and controversial) romance landmarkFirst-time-reader shock vs. historical "mythic" reputationThe heroine's lack of power and how the story escalates quicklyForced seduction as a past cultural "permission structure" (and why it lands differently now)The challenge of redemption arcs when harm happens on page earlyModern dark romance vs. vintage coercion: what's changed (and why it matters)Why romance gets unfairly dismissed as "predictable," and the case for romance structure as a feature, not a flawReader empathy, responsibility, and how/why content warnings change the reading contractA quick conversation on AI books and POV/structure tellsLinks & resourcesRipped & Ravished Book Club hub:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/bodice-ripper-book-club/Sign up for the book club newsletter:https://underthecovers.myflodesk.com/ripped-ravishedKathleen E. Woodiwiss Author Guide:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/kathleen-e-woodiwiss-author-guide/Romance Evolution Through the Decades (1970s):https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/history-of-1970s-romance-novels/Referenced in discussion (context article):https://www.jezebel.com/the-sweet-savage-sexual-revolution-that-set-the-romanc-1789687801Next episodeWe'll be back with Chapters 3-4, watching closely for:how the book frames accountability vs. "provision,"whether the narrative acknowledges consent,and what "romance structure" looks like once the marriage pressure arrives.✨ 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 asked 13 friends to choose my reading fate for 2026... and added 13 of my own backlist books to make the ultimate 26-book challenge spread. If I don't make it look pretty in my journal, I won't do it...so let's set this up!In this episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, I'm building my "26 Books in 2026" spread. It's half "books I've been avoiding" and half "books my friends forced me to read." Friendships will be tested, stickers will be used, and hopefully, my TBR will finally shrink.Watch the journal spread: https://youtu.be/uMp6idyKkDE⏳ TIMESTAMPS:0:00 The brutal truth about my reading01:15 My 13 Backlist Picks06:21 The 13 Friend Recommendations11:55 The final spread reveal📚 BOOKS MENTIONEDMy Backlist Picks:✨ Son of the Morning by Akwaeke Emezi: https://rstyle.me/+IQJJ0_LHsSVC5UmEMSOuAQ✨ The Book of Azrael by Amber V. Nicole: https://rstyle.me/+W60sajqH4j6UhVRHeGjoOg✨ The Second Death of Locke by V.L. Bovalino: https://rstyle.me/+VVUNed5hCK6yxmL-T9_B3Q✨ What Fury Brings by Tricia Levenseller: https://rstyle.me/+9rNcJRJxnhm2GpTbg4osgQ✨ A Tongue So Sweet and Deadly by Sophia St. Germain: https://rstyle.me/+1_HE10MOhTN7_abLR9kaZQ✨ Stalked by Seduction and Shadows by Maggie Sunseri: https://rstyle.me/+ypQ8t7VoCQkyQSeyFVqvMg✨ The Jasad Heir by Sara Hashem: https://rstyle.me/+ml4T1P7D22wkQCfPKdqgtg✨ Endless Anger by Sav R. Miller: https://rstyle.me/+A4B45ZF6BgzwSIDBR16jBw✨ Grim's Delight by Abigail Kelly: https://rstyle.me/+r3f_8tc56fcVXEguWlI_gg✨ The Predator by Runyx: https://rstyle.me/+HVDXJn6iMGe4EvjUTmzJow✨ A Ship of Bones and Teeth by Karina Halle: https://rstyle.me/+m81kbzv3dL9kYDOmLlnYpw✨ Scoundrel Take Me Away by Louisa Darling: https://rstyle.me/+gFHL11m3FyFmLNYz76FkoQ✨ Daggermouth by H.M. Wolfe: https://rstyle.me/+-J-v3su905_3vIwFuAdNmQThe Friend Recommendations:✨ The Darkness Outside Us by Eliot Schrefer (rec by Chase @wandereader): https://rstyle.me/+cJZiBp0VjIgx3zhub4uMKA✨ The Scattered Bones by Nicole Scarano (rec by Nancy @ravenousreader): https://rstyle.me/+-311plHXwvezzWNgkfCztw✨ Our Wives Under the Sea by Julia Armfield (rec by Victoria @bibliolifestyle): https://rstyle.me/+7IgKNnTwZUL42zd0OnDMAg✨ Shades of Silver City by Miranda Joy (rec by Jen @booksjenrecs): https://rstyle.me/+7cjfSX8Tqzemb8kCzjN4AA✨ I Hope This Doesn't Find You by Ann Liang (rec by Tiffany @quilltreefox): https://rstyle.me/+lYAuzN_PPs1gsvtpmU6DCw✨ Red City by Marie Lu (rec by Nina @tender.curiosity): https://rstyle.me/+r4z6DMKyYe212tsJQY2qlQ✨ Beautiful Things by Emily Rath (rec by Cassi @fervorandfables): https://rstyle.me/+WnTBWacmZl6nQ8h3RswIAw✨ Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry (rec by Angela @rn.gela): https://rstyle.me/+RUzIPP8XS5e43Bb9wYytAw✨ For Pleasure or Worse by Karissa Kinword (rec by Amanda @amandacxyz): https://rstyle.me/+WKpUDRGS3Z1kG77XQOzU8w✨ Star Shipped by Cat Sebastian (rec by Laura @whattoreadnextpodcast): https://rstyle.me/+9h9L3Lyw0aD5Pj84r7xWZA✨ The Female by Invi Wright (rec by Stephanie @ideallyinspired): https://rstyle.me/+7d91effAmaH9ilt_HHd1_w✨ A Darkness So Sweet by Emma Hamm (rec by Jasmine @horse_gal): https://rstyle.me/+X2otkHjO13x6MGf4Si6EpQ✨ Naughty & Nice by Azalea Crowley (rec by Malia @romanceschmomance): https://rstyle.me/+_XoJGa9SvLol0n1vHWnz_Q✨ 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!

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/+_vb4m6uzHXmgi7xBP32RhADaughter of Crows: https://rstyle.me/+xLASxtV0UV5EcFGtUOUc6wLast Summer at Maine Chance: https://rstyle.me/+M4LmIeLqGkjcg9KjnF4xhQChasing the Fire: https://rstyle.me/+Wc776NLpdtGBo0XI6msc3AInnamorata: https://rstyle.me/+IpOWp18XnHTzcLVC5-EX0gLINKS:Winter Reading Guide: https://bibliolifestyle.com/2026-winter-reading-guide/Romanceopoly: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/reading-challenge/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!