Reading Under the Covers: A Romance Novel Podcast

Episodios

• 2 Five-Star Romance Reads You Need This Summer | May 2026 Wrap-Up + June TBR 05.06.2026 42m

  In this episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, I walk you through everything I read in May 2026: eleven books, two five-star reads, and a lot of summer-ready picks that go beyond what BookTok is talking about. There's dark Hollywood romcom with revenge, a Paris fake-dating soccer romance ahead of the World Cup, a Loch Ness Monster shifter, a cozy vampire murder mystery with Interview with the Vampire energy, and two amazin five star books I'll be preaching about: a witchy urban fantasy and a biker MC second chance that wrecked me. Then a quick look at three June releases already on the must-read TBR.Timestamps:00:00 May Wrap-Up Teaser00:53 Reading Stats Snapshot02:05 Dark Hollywood Revenge04:48 Paris Fake-Dating Soccer06:28 YA Ghost Rivals Mystery08:28 Hockey DM Meet-Cute11:33 Off Campus Reread Thoughts14:33 More Soccer College Vibes16:06 Sapphic Vineyard Book Club17:55 Loch Ness Shifter Buddy Read21:31 Cozy Vampire Mystery Getaway24:50 Five-Star Witchy Urban Fantasy28:56 Five-Star Biker Second Chance36:43 June Must-Read New Releases41:40 Final Recap & GoodbyeLinksMost Anticipated June Releases → https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/june-2026-book-releases/Romanceopoly Reading Challenge → https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/reading-challengeRomanceopoly Monthly Study Sessions → https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/romanceopoly-2026-study-sessions/Off Campus TV show review → https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/off-campus-season-1-review/Join the Discord → https://discord.gg/JfHWVdYz5UTell me what you read this month and how Romanceopoly's going. Comment on the blog or reply to the newsletter. Mid-year Romanceopoly review coming soon.✨ 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!
• Can't Get Over Interview with the Vampire? Start Here. 29.05.2026 11m

  If Interview with the Vampire broke you, these 6 books are what to read next before Season 3 (The Vampire Lestat) premieres June 7 on AMC+.Each book hits a different part of what makes ITV so consuming:- toxic immortal romance & gaslighting- sapphic gothic atmosphere, opulence, and the cost of survival- Victorian shadows, obsession, and the feeling of being watched- queer longing, vampire politics, slow burn ménage- Lestat rockstar energy, 1970s paranormal horror- camp, humor, cozy paranormal mysteryJoin the Discord: https://discord.gg/JfHWVdYz5U📚 Books in this episode:✦ A Dowry of Blood by S.T. Gibson✦ House of Hunger by Alexis Henderson✦ The Poisoner by I.V. Ophelia✦ Silver Under Nightfall by Rin Chupeco✦ The Devil's Metal by Karina Halle✦ Be Still My Unbeating Heart by Josh Winning📚 Full list of 11 books coming soon on the blog⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Need More Lestat Vibes01:47 What Makes the Show Hit02:33 Dowry of Blood Pick03:54 House of Hunger05:04 The Poisoner06:45 Politics and Queer Longing07:50 Rockstar Devil Deal09:08 Vegetarian Vampire Mystery10:46 Wrap Up and Next Steps✨ 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!
• Paranormal Romance vs Fantasy Romance vs Romantasy (Why Everyone Gets This Wrong) 22.05.2026 15m

  Paranormal romance, fantasy romance, romantasy, urban fantasy. What's actually the difference? In this episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, I'm breaking down the four categories that cover all of speculative romance fiction and giving you the three questions that sort any book correctly every time. No more guessing. No more conflicting labels. Just a map that works.Is ACOTAR paranormal romance? Is Shadowhunters fantasy romance? Where does Romantasy actually live? We're settling all of it.📖 Full Paranormal Romance Guide: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/paranormal-romance-genre-guide/📖 Full Fantasy Romance Guide: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/fantasy-romance-guide/📖 Fantasy Subgenres on the blog: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/popular-fantasy-subgenres/👀 WATCH NEXT: Genre vs Trope vs Category video: https://youtu.be/oz7iyAjpi_cJoin the Discord: https://discord.gg/JfHWVdYz5U⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Introduction00:57 Three Question Sorting Method01:16 Question One Setting Matters02:14 Made Up Worlds Romance Test03:23 Romantasy Marketing Myth04:45 Our World Creatures Check05:50 Paranormal Romance Essentials07:37 Urban Fantasy Versus PNR10:39 Creature Types Tropes Not Genres12:21 Cheat Sheet Recap13:40 Q&A Wrap Up And Next VideoBOOKS MENTIONED:A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. MaasFourth Wing by Rebecca YarrosKushiel's Dart by Jacqueline CareyDark Lover by J.R. WardSlave to Sensation by Nalini SinghA Hunger Like No Other by Kresley ColeCity of Bones by Cassandra ClareKate Daniels series by Ilona AndrewsMercy Thompson series by Patricia BriggsNight Huntress series by Jeaniene FrostHaven Ever After series by Hazel MackThe Dresden Files by Jim ButcherThe Iron Druid Chronicles by Kevin Hearne✨ 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!
• Off Campus Season 1 Review: I Have Feelings (And Dean Is One of Them) 15.05.2026 22m

  I binged all 8 episodes of Off Campus on Amazon Prime in one sitting and I have a lot to say about it. I didn't re-read the book first on purpose and I think you shouldn't either. Today on Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, I'm talking about the Off Campus and Heated Rivalry comparison that needs to die, the chemistry hierarchy (Dean and Allie are running away with this thing, sorry not sorry), the spice level reality check, how the show handles the heavy stuff without being heavy, the random locker room penises (yes really), and whether this show captures the same addictive crack energy that made the books impossible to put down.Also: casting feelings, a confession about Belmont vs. Ella, and the sex scene conversation that's more about narrative purpose than body count.Come discuss the show with us over on DiscordJoin Discord: https://discord.gg/JfHWVdYz5UOff Campus Chat Thread: https://discord.gg/GX4FUZH37t📺 Off Campus Series Reading Order: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/off-campus-series-reading-order/📝 Blog post comparing the book vs. show changes coming soon!🎁 Signed Off Campus Bundle Giveaway:Comment on the Youtube video for this and then fill out the form below. Giveaway closes May 23, 2026. Additional chances to enter at the links at the top of the form. https://airtable.com/appBLTJOpGtECUf2m/pagsNM6fIQaQFWCa6/form⏱️ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Season One Setup 00:55 Book Background 02:06 Heated Rivalry Debate 03:56 Vibe And Worldbuilding 05:17 Casting Breakdown 08:45 Justin Plot Issues 11:28 Chemistry Standouts 12:51 Future Season Worries 14:50 Spice And Sex Scenes 18:38 Bingeable Energy 19:57 Season Two Tease 21:53 Wrap Up And Questions✨ 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!
• Ranking Every Elle Kennedy Off-Campus Book from Worst to Best 12.05.2026 32m

  We’re going back to Briar, and yes, Garrett Graham is still a problem.In this episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, I’m ranking the books in Elle Kennedy’s Off-Campus universe from my least favorite to my absolute favorite. That includes the original Off-Campus series, the Briar U spinoff, and the next generation books connected to the original couples.I first read The Deal before it came out in 2015, and watching that book explode before BookTok even existed was wild. Now that Off Campus is coming to Amazon Prime, it felt like the perfect time to revisit the whole universe and see which books still hold up, which ones surprised me, and which ones I would personally defend with my whole chest.This is a ranking episode, not a reading order, so if you’re new to the series and want to know where to start, I’ve linked the full reading order and individual reviews below.Links Mentioned📚 Full Series Reading Order + Individual Reviews:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/off-campus-series-reading-order/🎁 Signed Off-Campus Bundle Giveaway:I’m giving away a signed bundle of the original four Off-Campus books and the first two Briar U books with the original covers.Podcast note: you can’t enter through the podcast app. To enter, comment on the YouTube video, Facebook post, Instagram post, or blog post, then fill out the giveaway form below. All linked through form below.Giveaway closes May 23, 2026.https://airtable.com/appBLTJOpGtECUf2m/pagsNM6fIQaQFWCa6/formTimestamps00:00 How The Deal Went Viral01:10 Ranking Rules And Giveaway02:02 Next Gen Worst To Best10:07 Briar U Ranking19:52 Off-Campus Ranking30:34 Recap And How To Enter✨ 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!
• April Reading Wrap Up: Paranormal Romance, Romantasy, Sports Romance 08.05.2026 23m

  April was… a month. I only managed to read 11 books, but when I did pick something up, I flew through it so we’re calling that a win.In this April reading wrap up, I’m chatting through my StoryGraph stats, the genres I actually reached for, and all the books I read this month, including cozy paranormal mystery, vampire romance, dark romantasy, historical romance, a popcorn thriller, sports romance with magic, tennis rivals, and a few next-generation series surprises.Plus, I’m sharing which books worked for me, which ones were just okay, why some next-gen romances hit better than others, and what I’m hoping to read more of in May.Timestamps:00:00 April Wrap Up Intro00:53 StoryGraph Reading Stats01:35 Cozy Paranormal Mystery03:18 Vampire Retreat Romance04:20 Dark Romantasy Debut05:45 Popcorn Thriller Review07:22 Second Chance Historical08:39 Off Campus Next Gen12:49 Bodice Ripper Book Club14:28 Demonica Next Gen Surprise16:32 Beauty Beast Twist18:41 Magic Sports Romcom19:36 Tennis Rivalry Romance22:08 Final Thoughts And May Plans✨ 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!
• Tender Is the Storm Part 2: From Cover to Cover, This Book Is Nuts 01.05.2026 57m

  We're back at Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, with the second and final discussion of Tender Is the Storm by Johanna Lindsey for the Ripped & Ravished Book Club.This episode covers chapters 22 through the end, and honestly? Things get wild. Francesca is joined again by Becky from Too Stupid to Live to talk through the reveals, the missing emotional beats, the secret twins, the revenge plot, the questionable communication skills, and whether this romance actually earns its happily ever after.We also discuss whether Tender Is the Storm reads like a vintage romance palate cleanser, a soap opera, a telenovela, or just two deeply chaotic people making choices.And stay tuned until the end because we announce the next Ripped & Ravished Book Club pick.In This EpisodeWe discuss:The second half of Tender Is the StormWhy so many major scenes happen off-pageThe big Slade/Lucas revealSecret twins and extremely casual baby announcementsWhether Sharisse and Lucas/Slade actually trust each otherThe revenge plot and whether it was satisfyingJohanna Lindsey’s storytelling styleWhy this book feels like vintage romance meets soap operaFinal ratings and whether we’d recommend itOur next book club pickLinks MentionedRead the blog post and join the discussion:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/tender-is-the-storm-by-johanna-lindseySign up for the Ripped & Ravished Book Club newsletter:https://underthecovers.myflodesk.com/ripped-ravishedGet all the details about the next book club read:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/bodice-ripper-book-club/Timestamps00:00 Bonkers Cold Open00:14 Podcast Setup01:51 Where We Left Off02:20 Town Showdown Offscreen03:40 Missing Scenes Problem06:54 Low Angst No Romance09:06 Secrets And Trust Issues11:04 Wild Final Reveals12:31 Twins Bombshell Fallout15:17 Dad Schemes And France Trip18:11 No Act Three Closure22:12 Shock Value Vs Story25:28 Everyone Is Psychotic26:37 Reveals That Dont Land28:01 Brother Twist Fallout29:41 Revenge Plot Undercooked30:56 Missing Payoff Scenes32:35 Bonkers Ending Whiplash34:54 Why Choose Detour38:41 Trauma And Kink Talk40:34 Final Ratings Breakdown43:46 Palate Cleanser Debate52:54 Sharing With Mom Safe55:28 Book Club Wrap And Next Pick✨ 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!
• Tender Is the Storm by Johanna Lindsey Part 1: Iconic Cover, Mail-Order Bride & Soapy Old-School Romance 24.04.2026 50m

  In this episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, Francesca is joined again by Becky from Too Stupid to Live for the first half of the Ripped & Ravished Book Club discussion of Tender Is the Storm by Johanna Lindsey.We’re covering chapters 1–21, and yes, we have to start with that cover. The nudity. The perspective. The grocery store checkout line questions. The pearls were clutched.Then we dig into Johanna Lindsey’s writing style, how this book compares to The Flame and the Flower, our first book club read, the evolution of old-school romance, the drama of mail-order bride setups, and why this book gives major telenovela energy.Expect vintage romance modern reader reactions, and plenty of discussion about what makes these older romances fascinating, uncomfortable, iconic, and very much worth talking about.In This EpisodeWe discuss:The iconic original cover of Tender Is the StormWhy old-school romance covers still live rent-free in reader brainsJohanna Lindsey’s writing style and chapter transitionsHow this book compares to Kathleen WoodiwissSide character POVs in older romanceMail-order bride tropes then and nowSoapy family drama and telenovela-level emotionsReading bodice rippers through a modern lensTimestamps00:00 Introduction00:25 Podcast Intro and Book Club Setup 01:31 Iconic Cover Pearl Clutching 04:09 Cover Scene Theories and Fabio Talk 07:07 Writing Style and Time Jumps 10:04 POV Shifts and Reader Expectations 13:14 Western Opening and Revenge Plot 16:50 Tone Whiplash and Ohio Chapters 18:40 Fish Out of Water Without Growth 20:10 Show Dont Tell and Cartoonish Leads 23:28 Depth Compared to Flame 23:48 Indigenous Portrayal Issues 25:41 Women in the Old West 26:44 Ranch Isolation and Pacing 29:09 Luke’s Ruse and Revenge 31:36 The Bath Obsession 33:18 Heroine Backstory and Agency 37:40 Virginity Myths and Discomfort 40:22 Slade Threat and Tone 44:08 Mail Order Bride Weirdness 48:06 Soapy Drama and Wrap Up 49:58 Part One Closing NotesLinks MentionedRead the blog post and join the discussion:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/tender-is-the-storm-by-johanna-lindseySign up for the Ripped & Ravished Book Club newsletter:https://underthecovers.myflodesk.com/ripped-ravishedLearn more about the Ripped & Ravished Book Club:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/bodice-ripper-book-club/Have thoughts on Tender Is the Storm? Come leave a comment on the blog post or reply to our email so we can include reader reactions in future email notifications.✨ 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!
• The Rise, Fall, and Return of the Clinch Cover in Romance Books 17.04.2026 27m

  In this episode of Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast, we’re going down the full romance history rabbit hole and talking about the clinch cover: where it started, why it took over, why it disappeared, and why I think it’s making a comeback. From Fabio accidentally discovering he was on romance covers in a Miami club, to Avon, Playboy Press, Elaine Duillo, and the unapologetic visibility of desire, we’re diving into what these covers really meant. Because the clinch was never just a design trend. It was a signal of what publishing thought women were allowed to want out loud. And now? I think something is shifting bringing it back again.Watch this episode on video: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5rFKvDU6HRbJwS3qrTz14z?si=R02fwlVpT825zUhzEl-eWAOn the blog:What is a clinch cover: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/what-is-a-clinch-cover/10 Historical romance clinch covers for readers who miss the classics: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/historical-romance-clinch-covers/Watch the video about my personal journey with cover shame: https://youtu.be/yLhUnGTa0FgTimestamps00:00 Introduction00:49 Why Clinch Matters02:41 Candy Box Era03:54 Avon Sparks Change05:12 Playboy Invents Clinch07:38 Clinch As Art09:44 Naked Heroes Controversy11:07 Fabio Takes Over12:26 Mockery And Backlash13:38 Stepback Covers Explained15:15 Retreat To Safe Covers17:08 Man Chest And Objects19:17 Illustrated Cover Boom20:34 Monster Romance Revival22:49 Clinch As Cultural Barometer24:30 Whose Desire Gets Seen26:44 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!
• I Cheated on My Kindle with a Kobo (Here's What Happened) 10.04.2026 31m

  I've been a Kindle girl for years. But then I spent three months sneaking around with a Kobo Libra Color and honestly? I'm not going back.This is my full, honest breakdown of what it's actually like to switch from Kindle to Kobo: the ecosystem shock, the color screen glow-up, the annotation situation, and whether the Kindle Paperwhite can even compete anymore. I also tried the Kindle Colorsoft before this and returned it. So this isn't a hot take. It's three months of real use.Accessories:Kindle accessories: https://liketk.it/6687VKobo accessories: https://liketk.it/668j0⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 Kindle to Kobo Setup00:48 Why Try Kobo Color02:11 Size and Feel Compared03:22 Ergonomics and Buttons06:36 Cases and Protection09:36 Remotes and Stylus14:49 Color and Annotation Wins19:38 Books and Ecosystems23:28 Battery and Interface Speed26:16 Should You Switch29:33 Final Verdict and Wrap✨ 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!
• March 2026 Reading Wrap Up: New Obsessions & Reading Regrets 03.04.2026 35m

  Time to unpack everything we read in March on Reading Under the Covers, a romance novel podcast.In this LIVE March Reading Wrap Up, we’re chatting:– Every book we finished this month– New favorite reads we’re low‑key obsessed with– Reading regrets and DNFs– How our reading mood is shifting going into AprilCheck out my full reading wrap up for March on the blog: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/march-2026-reading-wrap-up/March 2026 book releases:https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/march-2026-book-releases/TIMESTAMPS00:00 March Wrap Up Kickoff00:52 Cozy Fantasy Bookshop02:08 Art World Thriller04:06 Historical Romcom Picks06:42 Dark Oz Retelling08:06 Live Check In Prompt08:38 Angsty Best Friends Romance11:13 Experimental Ali Smith13:30 First Lines Segment Idea14:40 Series Sequels Fantasy17:05 Vampires And Fae Revenge18:45 Vampire Mafia Vibes19:08 Spoiler Free Series Talk19:57 Kennedy Ryan Second Chance22:06 Avoiding Popular Authors23:11 Big Nobody Dark Humor26:24 The Jasad Heir Expectations28:36 Romance Marketing Debate29:45 Political Intrigue Cliffhanger30:36 Scoundrel and Siren Treasure32:06 Norfolk Setting Standout33:16 Next Lives and Wrap Up✨ 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!
• 25 Spring Romance Books You Need to Read Right Now | Community Recs 27.03.2026 15m

  25 spring books for romance readers 🌸 Come join the Romanceopoly Spring Event — 4 prompts, 3 months, and you can use the same book for multiple prompts. No yearly challenge required, everyone is welcome!Our Discord and Fable communities brought SO many incredible recs across hockey romance, magical realism, time travel, and cozy fantasy, plus my personal TBR pick for each prompt.📚 PROMPTS:⭐ Prompt 1: Mirror Power Play (sports romance)⭐ Prompt 2: Enchanted Brawl (magical realism)⭐ Prompt 3: Time Loop Triple Play (time travel & time loops)⭐ Prompt 4: Heartstopper Hustle (flowers, nature & growth)📖 MY TBR PICKS:• Big Stick Energy by Sarina Bowen• The Book Witch by Meg Shaffer• Her Time Traveling Duke by Bryn Donovan• The Jewel of the Isle by Kerry Rea📅 APRIL BOOK CLUB: The Earl That Got Away by Diana Quincy⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Spring Challenge Overview00:44 Prompt 1 Hockey Romance01:40 Hockey Recs and TBR03:44 Prompt 2 Magical Realism04:42 Magical Realism Recs08:17 Prompt 3 Time Twists08:58 Time Loop Recs and TBR11:01 Prompt 4 Spring Nature Reads11:38 Nature Recs and TBR14:16 Wrap Up and 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!
• Can You Love a Problematic Classic? The Flame and the Flower Wrap-Up (with Kate Baxter) 20.03.2026 1h 16m

  We’re wrapping up our first Ripped & Ravished Book Club read: The Flame and the Flower by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss, one of the most foundational (and most debated) romance novels of all time.In this episode, Francesca (Under the Covers Book Blog) and Becky (Too Stupid to Live Podcast) are joined by special guest Kate Baxter / Amanda Bonilla, who first read Woodiwiss as a teenager and reread The Flame and the Flower with us for the club. Together we unpack what still works, what doesn’t, and why this book’s fingerprints are still all over romance today.We talk about reading vintage romance with modern eyes (without pretending), the tropes that never died (makeover/clothing montage, “touch her and die,” instant obsession), and why Brandon Birmingham might be the granddaddy of morally gray/dark romance heroes.We also get into the wild genre bridges: how bodice rippers helped pave the way for paranormal romance, the role of “danger + destiny” storytelling, and why 2010s PNR is having a moment again, perfect timing, because Amanda’s paranormal romance The Last True Vampire is being re-released (revamped!) in May 2026.And yes: we address the truly iconic, deeply confusing details, like the book’s bath economy and Brandon’s legendary hairiness.Content noteThis discussion references themes from the book including non-consent/forced seduction, misogyny, and historical power dynamics. Please take care of yourself.Links mentionedHow to read vintage bodice rippers (modern guide): https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/read-vintage-bodice-rippers/The Flame and the Flower review + episode hub: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/the-flame-and-the-flower-review/Ripped & Ravished Book Club hub: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/bodice-ripper-book-club/What’s next in the book clubOur next Ripped & Ravished pick for March/April is Tender Is the Storm by Johanna Lindsey (first-time read for Francesca + Becky), and we’ll kick off discussion in early April.✨ 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!
• Judge a Book by Its First Lines: Hooked or Hard Pass? 17.03.2026 54m

  Can you really tell if a book is worth reading from the very first lines?In this episode of Reading Under the Covers Podcast, we put that question to the test with a chaotic, fun, and surprisingly revealing game of Hooked or Hard Pass. We each brought a stack of books, read the opening lines out loud without showing the cover or revealing the title, and decided on the spot whether we were intrigued, unsure, or totally out.This round featured a deliciously unexpected mix: gothic and eerie classics versus monster romance. Along the way, we reacted in real time to poetic openings, overly long introductions, playful prose, immersive worldbuilding, and first paragraphs that absolutely did not do their job.Watch the video: https://youtube.com/live/GHSUrOq2bp8?feature=shareIn this episode, we talk about:whether first lines really matterthe difference between a strong hook and an info dumpwhich openings made us immediately want morewhich books landed in the “maybe” pilewhich ones were an instant passwhy some genres can get away with more than othersthe books we ended up most curious to keep readingExpect honest reactions, a little chaos, lots of laughter, and plenty of bookish opinions.Books mentioned include:Dante’s InfernoHell ScreenOf Ghosts and GoblinsI Oops! Summoned a LeaderOrc’s SweetheartThe Wick DemonMy Summer Girland more.Were we too harsh, or do first lines really make or break a book for you?Let us know: which opening would have hooked you, and which one would you have passed on?Timestamps:00:00 Speed Dating Bookshelves01:11 Classic Hook Dante03:25 Monster Romance Opener05:16 Gothic Mini Classic Reveal09:33 Suitcase Meet Cute Maybe13:05 Vampire Classic Letdown18:26 Demon Romance Hard Pass20:29 Japanese Ghost Tales Win24:21 Royal Wedding Monster Hook27:43 Gilda Stories First Look30:17 Vampire Freedom Setup31:52 Catsuit Cold Open33:17 Why It’s a Pass35:36 Poe Plague Exposition37:11 Mask of Red Death Verdict39:08 Office Life Meltdown42:09 Monster Wrestling Tease43:03 Lolly Willows Move In44:33 Bureau Drama Hooked47:22 Queen Seeks Love49:27 My Summer Girl Yes Vote50:39 Final Tally and Next Themes53:37 Wrap Up and ScheduleSubscribe to Reading Under the Covers Podcast and join us for more bookish conversations, reading experiments, and unapologetically honest reader reactions.✨ 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!
• 5 Criminally Underrated Fantasy Romance Books I Read in 2026 13.03.2026 27m

  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!
• The NEW Pride & Prejudice Teaser: Is Darcy Actually... Darcying? 11.03.2026 42m

  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!
• Bridgerton Season 4 Left Me in a Chokehold & Here's 5 Books to Read Next 06.03.2026 17m

  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!
• February Reading Wrap Up: 5 New Favorites & a Few Regrets 05.03.2026 41m

  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!
• The Soap-Opera Slasher Finale: The Flame and the Flower Chapters 9-10 04.03.2026 1h 8m

  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!
• Thriller Book Chat | Whispers of the Lake by Shanora Williams Discussion & Review 25.02.2026 36m

  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!