Not Another Heroine

What does Naomi Novik have to do with *checks notes* Blippi? Jordan's pick this week is A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik, otherwise known as "a fucked up Hogwarts run by Slytherins." Nice.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50548197-a-deadly-educationFor something similar, try:The Folk of the Air series by Holly Blackhttps://www.goodreads.com/series/159680-the-folk-of-the-air

We are so excited to talk about this trilogy and we're going to talk a lot. The Winner's Curse came out in 2014, a year before ACOTAR, and it does not get the attention it deserves (especially when compared to books in the same genre).https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16069030-the-winner-s-curse

Yes, you did read that right. Katie explored the terrifying wilds of fanfic land to bring you the mafia romance of your dreams (and the best part is it's free!), Bloody, Slutty and Pathetic by WhatMurdah. Word to the wise - it's a bit spicier and toxic than most our picks.https://archiveofourown.org/works/52884502

We are so excited to talk about this trilogy and we're going to talk a lot. The Winner's Curse came out in 2014, a year before ACOTAR, and it does not get the attention it deserves (especially when compared to books in the same genre).https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16069030-the-winner-s-curse

If you're looking for a soul cleanser after last week's pick left you feeling bloody, slutty and pathetic, Jordan's pick this week is all sunshine and butterflies in Song of the Six Realms by Judy Lin. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/172979755-song-of-the-six-realmsFor similar vibes, try:Thorn by Intisar Khananihttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/51265989-thornDaughter of the Moon Goddess by Sue Lynn Tanhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57789637-daughter-of-the-moon-goddessThe Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea by Axie Ohhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56978100-the-girl-who-fell-beneath-the-sea

ACOTAR is your hot friend in low-rise jeans and a belly chain and The Winner's Curse is your effortlessly chic cousin who went to NYU and could pass as a Gossip Girl extra. We think both of these books are firmly in the romantasy genre but some (apparently on Reddit) disagree. What does fantasy mean to you?Stay bothered readers!

The trauma continues in book two of Marie Rutkowski's phenomenal Winner's trilogy. We're only doing two episodes for this book, and one final episode for book three. The end is near readers!https://www.goodreads.com/series/119513-the-winner-s-trilogy

He's hot so therefore he *must* live - the alternate title of Katie's pick of the week, What Monstrous Gods by Rosamund Hodge (the same author as one of our pod books, Cruel Beauty!) Also, Katie kept saying Charlie Clearwater - it's Charlie Bowater. Charlie Clearwater is a weird combination of two Twilight characters, lol.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/173953567-what-monstrous-godsAnd if you're looking for something similar, try:The Shadow and Bone Trilogy by Leigh Bardugohttps://www.goodreads.com/series/69714-the-shadow-and-bone-trilogyThe Familiar by Leigh Bardugohttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/133286777-the-familiarHall of Smoke by H.M. Longhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53759101-hall-of-smoke

In this week's brain dump, we talk about Utah's recent book ban that included our girl Sarah Maas' entire repertoire. Lip service to protecting children from the dangers of explicit sexual content or an actually effective limit on access? And for older, middle and high school readers, are these books better to read than viewing other explicit content on the internet? Stay bothered, readers!

The trauma continues in book two of Marie Rutkowski's phenomenal Winner's trilogy. We're only doing two episodes for this book, and one final episode for book three. The end is near readers!https://www.goodreads.com/series/119513-the-winner-s-trilogy

"It's basically two quirky weird people with baggage realizing their baggage works together, and that they make each other... like whole?" This week Jordan has us all crying in the club with her Netflix K-Drama, Mad For Each Other. Two weirdos falling in love? What more could you want?

This week, it's Katie's turn to be bothered - and this time it's about some guy whose voice sounds like dripping honey (what does that even mean!)Stay bothered, readers!

We're finally closing out The Winner's trilogy. To be honest readers, we skimmed this last book so we're wrapping the whole thing up in one episode - or half an episode - we spend the majority of the second half discussing fanfic ideas, the golden age of romantasy, and The Aragorn Upgrade.https://www.goodreads.com/series/119513-the-winner-s-trilogy

Katie undertakes the 2am drunk Taco Bell run that is Danielle Lori's mafia romance, The Sweetest Oblivion (somewhere off in the distance, Jordan scoffs at this title for the 37th time). Was it good? Eh. Was it edible? Also eh. Has Katie read it twice already? ... she pleads the fifth. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39083635-the-sweetest-oblivion

NO FLOATIES! NO POOL NOODLE! Jordan recounts her recent foray into the world of spicy fanfiction - and this Victorian noble woman is TRAUMATIZED. *cue Katie's maniacal laughter*Stay bothered, readers!

It's a Good Morning America Book Club pick so not exactly our usual choice of books. Go into this story like you would a Hallmark movie and you'll have an enjoyable but mindless time. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199928276-the-love-of-my-afterlife

Get your pumpkins out, readers, it's spooky season! And starting us off right, Jordan's pick this week is a new one for us both: contemporary horror romance. Despite the suggestive title, The Contortionist by Kathryn Ann Kingsley is all the right kinds of scary - and a 5 star read for Jordan!https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54995584-the-contortionistFor similar vibes (but maybe less spooky):Ninth House by Leigh Bardugohttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43263680-ninth-houseThe Cruel Prince by Holly Blackhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26032825-the-cruel-prince

In this week's episode, Saint Jordan comes to teach us the good word - romance books have to have happy endings! (Or do they? Ooooooh the intrigue! The controversy!)Stay bothered, readers!

The drinks are kicking in for part 2 - much needed for the scene we endure with Delphie's overexposure in athletic wear. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199928276-the-love-of-my-afterlife

An easy, breezy Kindle Unlimited book is Katie's pick this week - The Heir and the Spare by Kate Stradling. As Katie explains, “it's a book,” so don't get too excited (though to be fair, it was finished and had a surprisingly interesting twist at the end!)https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57022919-the-heir-and-the-spareIf you're looking for something with similar vibes:Thorn by Intisar Khananihttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/51265989-thornBitterblue by Kristin Cashorehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12680907-bitterblueWarprize by Elizabeth Vaughanhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/78070.Warprize

A (surprisingly coherent) dialogue on arguments of anti-intellectualism in popular reading - or alternatively, why people gotta hate on fairy smut? Stay bothered, readers!

Beware readers, this episode is way past R rated, but Deli Dan carried us through. Join us next week when we go back to some serious fantasy with Robin McKinley's "The Blue Sword."https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199928276-the-love-of-my-afterlife

Jordan gets back to her roots this week with a fun, quirky, and not too serious regency romance - What I Did for a Duke by Julie Anne Long. While we're still not clear on what was done to get the duke, it's likely something naughty (especially since this is an open door romance!) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8430098-what-i-did-for-a-dukeIf you're looking for something similar, try anything by Julia Quinn, Lisa Kleypas or Sherry Thomas.

This week Katie and Jordan share traumatic stories about their first accidental forays into erotica while discussing a new issue facing the book reading community - what's the real difference between romance and erotica, and do we need to change how either are marketed?Stay bothered, readers!

Readers, we're having a bit of crisis of self. What are we reading these days? How do we define it and what is actually a good book?

Kidnap me, hill king! This week we kick off The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley, a fixture in the fantasy romance genre , and perhaps some of the first-ever fan-fiction. Apparently, McKinley rage wrote this in response to an early 20th century novel called The Sheikh.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/407813.The_Blue_Swordhttps://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-sheik-edith-maude-hull/1127775915

Katie gives likely the most lukewarm review of a book ever for An Enchantment of Ravens by Margaret Rogerson - "it was a book." In today's world of fast fashion publishing though, that's actually decent praise.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30969741-an-enchantment-of-ravensIf you're looking for something similar (and maybe better):Half a Soul by Olivia Atwaterhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60717747-half-a-soulA Fragile Enchantment by Allison Safthttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/127305900-a-fragile-enchantmentThe Cruel Prince by Holly Blackhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26032825-the-cruel-prince

This week, Hari goes to boot camp with her pet leopard and battles a mysterious stranger.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/407813.The_Blue_Sword

In this week's pick, something tragic almost happened - Jordan was on the verge of DNFing our newest fav book, Reign & Ruin by J. D. Evans. If you're like Jordan (and Katie when she tried too!) and find yourself struggling, keep at it for the first 50 or so pages, and then the magic happens.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50607309-reign-ruinIf you're looking for something similar (or are still being convinced to read it), take a look at:The Winner's Curse by Marie Rutkoskihttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16069030-the-winner-s-curseDaughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillierhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13928.Daughter_of_the_ForestAnything by Grace Dravenhttps://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2759153.Grace_Draven

This week, Katie and Jordan trigger each other over an instagram comment that essentially questions the quality of any and all romantasy books (quite the statement on a podcast almost exclusively dedicated to good romantasy books - yikes).Stay bothered, readers!

Who needs spice when you can have a sash scene. Hari recruits a militia, takes down an entire demon army, and somehow, no one dies: not the cat, the horse, or Mathin. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/407813.The_Blue_Sword

Jordan accuses someone of murder and Katie apparently loves golden retriever characters - and neither point is related to Katie's (thoroughly enjoyed!) pick this week, Legendborn by Tracy Deonn. A YA paranormal fantasy for younger girls who maybe think they're a little older than they actually are.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50892338-legendbornIf you're looking for something with similar vibes (that Katie also very much enjoyed!):Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo (a previous pick of the week!)https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43263680-ninth-houseThe Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvaterhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17675462-the-raven-boysOnly a Monster by Vanessa Len (also a previous pick of the week!)https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58210340-only-a-monster

It's been a long time in the making but we finally finished it. Fourth Wing is here for better or worse, readers. If you loved this one, you might be better off just skipping the next few episodes.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61431922-fourth-wing

Jordan's pick this week is getting steampunky with a master/assistant romance and a secret society of - you guessed it - super hot, immortal men. Sign me UP. (And hey, it's Kindle Unlimited and Jordan has read it like 8 times - what's not to love?)https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18515966-prince-of-heartsLooking for similar vibes?The Parasol Protectorate Series by Gail Carrigerhttps://www.goodreads.com/series/46888-parasol-protectorateAnything by Olivia Atwaterhttps://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20153683.Olivia_AtwaterThe movies Van Helsing (2004) or The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003)

For you all dear readers it's a new week, for us, it's one long rant session about dragons who really should have better things to do.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61431922-fourth-wing

Katie does love a found family, and especially so in this week's pick Realm Breaker by Victoria Aveyard. She does warn though - this is pretty heavy in the fantasy genre with only hints at a few brewing romances on the horizon. But if you're looking for a more gender equitable high fantasy pick instead of the male lead-heavy usuals like Tolkien or Martin, this is for you!https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54513688-realm-breakerIf you're looking for something similar, try Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien or A Song of Ice and Fire by George R. R. Martin.

As you will soon discover, we had some mishaps during the recording of part 3. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61431922-fourth-wing

Jordan's got TWO picks this week, one for you and one for the younger readers in your life. The first is a fairytale retelling YA pick, Enchanted by Alethea Kontis. The second, a firmly adult, hefty, more fantasy than romance deep cut: The Assassins of Tamurin by S.D. Tower (which is only available in print - gasp!)https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12180248-enchantedhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43684.The_Assassins_of_Tamurin

This is not an episode for a fourth wing fangirl, but it is our last one for this book, so thank you to all the readers who stuck with us through this yucky dragon journey.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61431922-fourth-wing

Katie DNF's another booktok book, Phantasma by Kalie Smith, even with giving it the good ol' college try at 21%. The main heroine was rude for no reason (strike 1), the romantic tension was nonexistent (strike 2), and it was just sorta... boring (strike 3).https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/204593914-phantasmaIf you're looking for something better, try:The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbenthttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60714999-the-serpent-and-the-wings-of-night?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_7What Monstrous Gods by Rosamund Hodgehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/173953567-what-monstrous-gods?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_9Cruel Beauty by Rosamund Hodgehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15839984-cruel-beauty?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_12

Proof that all books are not published equally, this week we're reading a Dramione fanfic that is perhaps the best story we've read all year. The romantic tension, the beautiful quirky writing, the Austen-esque plot is all free to download at Archive of Our Own.https://archiveofourown.org/works/21496525?view_full_work=trueFor those of you with a Kindle, you can download a PDF copy of this work and send it to your Amazon account. Just search for "send to Kindle."

Jordan's pick this week is a lil sneak peak at what's to come next season! We'll be covering The Winternight Trilogy by Katherine Arden in season 3 of the pod - so start reading now! The Trilogy includes The Bear and the Nightinggale, The Girl in the Tower, and The Winter of the Witch.Goodreads: The Winternight Trilogy by Katherine ArdenIf you're looking for something similar try:The Shadow and Bone Trilogy by Leigh BardugoAnything by Juliet Marillier

Proof that all books are not published equally, this week we're reading a Dramione fanfic that is perhaps the best story we've read all year. The romantic tension, the beautiful quirky writing, the Austen-esque plot is all free to download at Archive of Our Own.https://archiveofourown.org/works/21496525?view_full_work=trueFor those of you with a Kindle, you can download a PDF copy of this work and send it to your Amazon account. Just search for "send to Kindle."

It's fanfiction central over here on the pod and Katie's pick this week is a big ol' masterpiece - Measure of a Man by Inadaze22. Generational trauma, terrorism, and dementia give this story depth and a slowburn romance to end all slowburn romances keeps you entranced the entire time. Honestly, just start it now, you won't regret it.Measure of a Man by Inadaze22(Audiobook format) Measure of a Man - SEP Fanfic ReadingsTo send works from Archive of Our Own (AO3) to your kindle:Open the fanfiction, in the right hand corner click download > AZW3Then follow the Amazon Kindle instructions found here: https://www.amazon.com/sendtokindle/email

Proof that all books are not published equally, this week we're finishing a Dramione fanfic that is perhaps the best story we've read all year. The romantic tension, the beautiful quirky writing, the Austen-esque plot is all free to download at Archive of Our Own.https://archiveofourown.org/works/21496525?view_full_work=trueFor those of you with a Kindle, you can download a PDF copy of this work and send it to your Amazon account. Just search for "send to Kindle."

We step into an alternate universe this week as Jordan recommends a surprisingly deep and touching monster romance featuring a lich, a word we both mispronounce for the entire first half of the episode (what's new?). Trigger warning, however, for eating disorders and body dismorphia!Goodreads: Wed to the Lich by Layla Fae

"There you are sweetheart."Come on readers, Christian Bale as the voice of our beloved rakish wizard Howl? This movie is up there with Pride and Prejudice in the comfort film rotation, but this week, we're reading, listening, and watching this story. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6294.Howl_s_Moving_Castle

Oh no... Katie has fallen down the hockey smut romance rabbit hole... and is surprisingly having a decent time. The verdict: The Graham Effect by Elle Kennedy was fun the way reality TV is. But worth mentioning, maybe only consume this story as an audiobook for your own sanity.The Graham Effect by Elle KennedyThis being Katie's first foray into the sports romance genre, her only other suggestion is the movie, Legally Blonde (lol).

"There you are sweetheart."Come on readers, Christian Bale as the voice of our beloved rakish wizard Howl? This movie is up there with Pride and Prejudice in the comfort film rotation, but this week, we're reading, listening, and watching this story. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6294.Howl_s_Moving_Castle

Welcome to Jordan's corruption: i.e. Katie has hyped up fanfiction so much that Jordan has come and joined the dark side - and started with reading the ENTIRETY of PacificRimbaud's catalog. For your four course meal, Jordan recommends starting with the funny and sweet, Love and Other Historical Accidents (covered in full length pod episodes too!), then a quick and smutty palate cleanser, The Secretary. Next the heavy and deeply romantic, Remember One Thing, and end on the silly (and very, very spicy!) One and Done.

We did it, readers! 100 episodes, two seasons, and a third yet to come. Join us on Monday, January 13th for our first book of 2025, Carissa Broadbent's "The Songbird & The Heart of Stone."https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/209740448-the-songbird-the-heart-of-stone The NAH AwardsBest Heroine: Kestrel from "The Winner's Curse" by Marie Rutkoskihttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16069030-the-winner-s-curse?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=vRfLlprRat&rank=1Best Hero: Lowe from "Bride" by Ali HazelwoodSleeper Hit: "Reign & Ruin" by J.D. Evanshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50607309-reign-ruin?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=7HBGnFyRt9&rank=1https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/181344829-bride?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=kk68IlTksC&rank=1Worst Heroine: Violet from "Fourth Wing" by Rebecca Yarroshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61431922-fourth-wing?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=0HMubJMO3V&rank=1Worst Hero: Bjorn from "A Fate Inked in Blood" by Danielle L. Jensenhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/165940202-a-fate-inked-in-blood?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_21Don't forget to check out The Spice Archive to see all of our pod books and ratings: notanotherheroine.comFind us on Patreon: patreon.com/notanotherheroine

This week we're reading "The Songbird & The Heart of Stone" by Carissa Broadbent. Despite great world-building and compelling character backstories, this book was ultimately boring and predictable. Recycled tropes, a grating heroine, and a hero with everything going for him except personality. Rating: 2Spicy: 3.5 (not plentiful but very explicit)Genre: Fantasy Sub-genre: more plot than romanceTropes: almost enemies to lovers, slowburnHeroine: Soft GirlHero: Shadow Daddyhttps://www.notanotherheroine.com/the-spice-archive/the-songbird-%26-the-heart-of-stone https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210134467-the-songbird-the-heart-of-stoneOther books mentioned in the episode:"Deathless" by Catherynne M. Valente https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8694389-deathless?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=KqF2jJkYXa&rank=1"Bonesmith" by Nicki Pau Pretohttps://www.notanotherheroine.com/the-spice-archive/bonesmithhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62919122-bonesmith?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=Krqo0Ifma6&rank=1 "Gideon the Ninth" by Tamsyn Muirhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42036538-gideon-the-ninth?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=8LAvTriWgQ&rank=1patreon.com/notanotherheroinewww.notanotherheroine.com

This book is everywhere so Katie finally gave in and immediately started a Reddit argument. Campy, rife with misogyny, reminiscent of an early 2000's teen girl series - it's something when Katie recommends Fourth Wing over another book. Just read for the vibes, man.The Zodiac Academy: The AwakeningBut, seriously, read A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik or The Cruel Prince by Holly Black instead.

This week we're finishing "The Songbird & The Heart of Stone" by Carissa Broadbent. Despite great world-building and compelling character backstories, this book was ultimately boring and predictable. Recycled tropes, a grating heroine, and a hero with everything going for him except personality.Rating: 2Spicy: 3.5 (not plentiful but very explicit)Genre: FantasySub-genre: more plot than romanceTropes: almost enemies to lovers, slowburnHeroine: Soft GirlHero: Shadow Daddyhttps://www.notanotherheroine.com/the-spice-archive/the-songbird-%26-the-heart-of-stone https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210134467-the-songbird-the-heart-of-stoneOther books mentioned in the episode:"Slaying the Vampire Conqueror" by Carissa Broadbenthttps://www.notanotherheroine.com/the-spice-archive/slaying-the-vampire-conquerorhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123368729-slaying-the-vampire-conqueror?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=PEAiN1KLTS&rank=1"Assistant to the Villain" by Hannah Nicole Maehrerhttps://www.notanotherheroine.com/the-spice-archive/assistant-to-the-villainhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123257687-assistant-to-the-villain?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_4"The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy" by Megan Bannenhttps://www.notanotherheroine.com/the-spice-archive/the-undertaking-of-hart-and-mercyhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58510253-the-undertaking-of-hart-and-mercy?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=3KlweTl7wW&rank=1"Deathless" by Catherynne M. Valentehttps://www.notanotherheroine.com/the-spice-archive/deathlesshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8694389-deathless?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=KqF2jJkYXa&rank=1patreon.com/notanotherheroinewww.notanotherheroine.com

An introverted librarian with a talking plant escapes a burning city to flee to her island home out in the boondocks. A gorgeous neighbor delivers her delicious treats. And that's as far as Jordan got in this book. Despite its GoodReads Choice Award nomination, this one is standing on a pretty cover and a cottage-core setting only. It's not bad, it's boring...and blue.The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst

We have entered our era of fanfiction. This week we're reading "The Right Thing To Do" by LovesBitca8 (aka Julie Soto, the author of Forget Me Not). This work is the author's first fanfiction, posted in 2017 and served as the inspiration for another beloved fic, "The Auction," due to be published later this year under the title "Rose in Chains.""The Right Thing To Do" feels like a 16-episode corporate romance k-drama complete with makeover sequence, busybody mom, several secondary love interests, and a third-act break-up. At its heart, this story is driven by the character's insecurities and repeated instances of miscommunication, but despite these typically alienizing tropes we devoured this story and the slowburn to a happily ever after.https://archiveofourown.org/works/11472648/chapters/25724661Rating: 5Spice: 3Genre: FantasySub-genre: more romance than plotHeroine: Soft GirlHero: Billionaire, Golden Retriever Tropes: slow burn, forbidden loveOther books mentioned in this episode: Almost Forever by Linda Howardhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/411698.Almost_Forever?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=uAVvxC0TbP&rank=1Rose in Chains by Julie Sotohttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/221179254-rose-in-chains?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=mM8W2eM1IT&rank=1

Rival gang members in early 20th century Shanghai battle a mysterious plague while battling feelings for each other: seems like a stay-up-all night reading concoction but this take on Romeo and Juliet falls flat. Katie recommends it if you're an Allison Saft fan (which she is not) but maybe check out Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross or Dance of Thieves by Mary Pearson instead.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50892212-these-violent-delights?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=YQOUh4VyNf&rank=1

We have entered our era of fanfiction. This week we're reading "The Right Thing To Do" by LovesBitca8 (aka Julie Soto, the author of Forget Me Not). This work is the author's first fanfiction, posted in 2017 and served as the inspiration for another beloved fic, "The Auction," due to be published later this year under the title "Rose in Chains.""The Right Thing To Do" feels like a 16-episode corporate romance k-drama complete with makeover sequence, busybody mom, several secondary love interests, and a third-act break-up. At its heart, this story is driven by the character's insecurities and repeated instances of miscommunication, but despite these typically alienizing tropes we devoured this story and the slowburn to a happily ever after.https://archiveofourown.org/works/11472648/chapters/25724661Rating: 5Spice: 3Genre: FantasySub-genre: more romance than plotHeroine: Soft GirlHero: Billionaire, Golden RetrieverTropes: slow burn, forbidden love

It's another DNF week for both of us but not for the reasons you might think. Throne in the Dark is the first book in the Villains & Virtues series and it is all over the romantasy subbreddit. This book is frequently recommended hand in hand with Reign & Ruin by J. D. Evans (which we loved), but this just hits a little different. Well-written but created in the vein of Spaceballs and The Princess Bride, this is a campy romp following the evil son of a demon lord and a do-goody damsel. If that's your thing, you will love this book.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62232755-throne-in-the-dark?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=zFYRO5uAfD&rank=1Other books mentioned in this episode:Assistant to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrerhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123257687-assistant-to-the-villain?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_5The Songbird & The Heart of Stone by Carissa Broadbenthttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210134467-the-songbird-the-heart-of-stone?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_23Reign & Ruin by J. D. Evanshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50607309-reign-ruin?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=oUkIsWUSuJ&rank=1When The Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parkerhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/202507554-when-the-moon-hatched?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=Sb4riMkZpN&rank=1Also check out: Galavant https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3305096/

We have entered our era of fanfiction. This week we're reading "The Right Thing To Do" by LovesBitca8 (aka Julie Soto, the author of Forget Me Not). This work is the author's first fanfiction, posted in 2017 and served as the inspiration for another beloved fic, "The Auction," due to be published later this year under the title "Rose in Chains.""The Right Thing To Do" feels like a 16-episode corporate romance k-drama complete with makeover sequence, busybody mom, several secondary love interests, and a third-act break-up. At its heart, this story is driven by the character's insecurities and repeated instances of miscommunication, but despite these typically alienizing tropes we devoured this story and the slowburn to a happily ever after.https://archiveofourown.org/works/11472648/chapters/25724661Rating: 5Spice: 3Genre: FantasySub-genre: more romance than plotHeroine: Soft GirlHero: Billionaire, Golden Retriever Tropes: slow burn, forbidden loveOther books mentioned in this episode: Not Another Love Song by Julie Sotohttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/201627074-not-another-love-song

Reality TV is about how Katie sums this book up. It's not great, there are definitely other books that surpass Icebreaker in general quality, but if you need something to fill the time and you're in your hockey romance era, this just might tide you over until you find a better read. *Mild caution for some eating disorder themes.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61767292-icebreaker Other books mentioned in this episode:The Graham Effect and The Dixon Rule by Elle Kennedyhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123255391-the-graham-effect?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=MUKab2vIIr&rank=1 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/200338241-the-dixon-rule?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=mL7O9iE78r&rank=1All of Ali Hazelwood's works:https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21098177.Ali_Hazelwood?from_search=true&from_srp=true Some hidden gems:Easy by Tammara Weberhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16056408-easy?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=3vpKLYRjSK&rank=2Simon Says by Lori Fosterhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/155317.Simon_Says?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=mNVqcFA8gg&rank=19

You know when you're hungry and the only thing available is a gas station sandwich that's a few days old but somehow still has some flavor? So you finish it and you feel less hungry but somewhat disappointed with your life choices. That's how we feel about this book.The writing is fine, there's some semblance of a plot, and the cool background details are engaging, but the characters are unlikeable mostly due to their immaturity. Stick around for the fun music references but maybe wait until the title pops up on Libby to start reading.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/201627074-not-another-love-songRating: 3Spice: 4Genre: ContemporarySub-genre: more romance than plotHeroine: The Diamond, The DowntroddenHero: Billionaire, Walking Red FlagTropes: slow burn, enemies to loversOther books mentioned in this episode: Forget Me Not by Julie Sotohttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61618737-forget-me-not

Sincerely Yours is a gender-swapped Dramione retelling of You've Got Mail. Hidden identities, letter writing, self-growth - all wrapped into a tidy novella. This is a perfect introduction to fanfiction if you're not a die-hard HP fan and tomes like Manacled are a little intimidating. https://archiveofourown.org/works/48211207/chapters/121579090 Other books mentioned in this episode:Forget Me Not by Julie Sotohttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61618737-forget-me-not?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=24LFYmEpAo&rank=1 Divine Rivals by Rebecca Rosshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60784546-divine-rivals?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_13All things Ali Hazelwoodhttps://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21098177.Ali_Hazelwood

Wish fulfillment is what the story feels like and there ain't nothing wrong with that, except when:a mustache-twirling villain hijacks the plot (at least it was exciting);the MCs have a taste for exhibitionism but awful timing; and,the heroine is an inconsistent idiot. We finished it (shocking considering how many issues we found in the overall design), but we highly recommend skipping this pod read in favor of some of the author's fanfiction. (You can find her on AO3 under LovesBitca8) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/201627074-not-another-love-songhttps://archiveofourown.org/users/LovesBitca8/pseuds/LovesBitca8Rating: 3Spice: 4Genre: ContemporarySub-genre: more romance than plotHeroine: The Diamond, The DowntroddenHero: Billionaire, Walking Red FlagTropes: slow burn, enemies to lovers

Type A heroine, flipped gender roles, fake dating. Can you tell it's Katie's pick this week? This was a surprisingly good, clean romance. Katie consumed it via audiobook but believes it can stand alone in either format. Whether you're an avid contemporary romance consumer or you're interested in dabbling in the genre, this is a perfect little cream puff of a book.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58724801-the-bodyguard?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=8I6R9pmgIQ&rank=1Other books mentioned in this episode: The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwoodhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56732449-the-love-hypothesis?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=szAk2MTyyt&rank=1The Graham Effect by Elle Kennedyhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123255391-the-graham-effect?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_17Draco Malfoy and the Mortifying Ordeal of Being in Love by isthisselfcarehttps://archiveofourown.org/works/34500952/chapters/85870804

The OG of dragon stories and science fiction (yes, it's both), Anne McCaffrey wrote Dragonflight almost 60 years ago. If you're a Fourth Wing fan, you'll recognize many (sometimes alarmingly) similarities between this book and its modern counterpart. Our heroine, Lessa, is gritty, clever, and ruthless - the only issue is we didn't get enough of her. A perspective switch a third of the way through the plot hijacks what could've been a solid romantasy.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61975.Dragonflight?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=1dVggNUtlb&rank=1

Under the Star of Paris is a very clean, slow-burning, contemporary romance published in the 1950s - for today's reader, the cultural norms and gender roles are so dated, this feels like a historical. Take it as a palate cleanser - easy to read in a few hours on a rainy day. Also, a very believable, not toxic love triangle will keep you guessing the whole book.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3343881-under-the-stars-of-parisOther books mentioned in this episode:Lady Avery and The False Butler by Sofi Laportehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123238138-lady-avery-and-the-false-butler?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_24Blackmoore by Julianne Donaldsonhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15795628-blackmoore?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=84DaFReATJ&rank=1How to Marry a Millionairehttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt0045891/

It's time for the mating flight. Yes, readers, remember Fourth Wing's cringey dragon sex? Here's the original. This is where the book started to lose us as it quickly shifts into F'lar's perspective.---------The OG of dragon stories and science fiction (yes, it's both), Anne McCaffrey wrote Dragonflight almost 60 years ago. If you're a Fourth Wing fan, you'll recognize many (sometimes alarmingly so) similarities between this book and its modern counterpart. Our heroine, Lessa, is gritty, clever, and ruthless - the only issue is we didn't get enough of her. A perspective switch a third of the way through the plot hijacks what could've been a solid romantasy story.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61975.Dragonflight?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=1dVggNUtlb&rank=1

We all need a break from romantasy sometimes and Katie is fully invested in her contemporary romance era: enter her current obsession with Christina Lauren. Check out the whole series for a dual, first person POV style, and for bonus points, the audiobook has a very nice British narrator for the MMC.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62361081-the-true-love-experimentOther books mentioned in this episode:The Soulmate Equation by Christina Laurenhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58438593-the-soulmate-equation?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=4UmZfqwnEQ&rank=1 The Bodyguard by Katherine Centerhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58724801-the-bodyguard?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_14Bride by Ali Hazelwoodhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/181344829-bride?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_12

Time travel? Check. A teeny, tiny, Corlath moment of romance? Check. More dragon books? Check. We're closing out Dragonflight this week, but come back next Monday for our first epic series of the season: The Cruel Prince by Holly Black.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61975.Dragonflight?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=1dVggNUtlb&rank=1patreon.com/notanotherheroine ---------Other books mentioned this episode:The Mistborn Saga by Brandon Sandersonhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/68428.Mistborn?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=xVi3lmZiGd&rank=1Song in the Silence by Elizabeth Kernerhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1022209.Song_in_the_Silence?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_19Dealing with Dragons by Patricia C. Wredehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/150739.Dealing_with_Dragons?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=hn5OINtlqe&rank=1The Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarroshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61431922-fourth-wing?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=X8dpktjyMK&rank=1Wyvern by Grace Dravenhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31560086-wyvern?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=PoorCyP5ki&rank=1The Temeraire Series by Naomi Novikhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28876.His_Majesty_s_Dragon?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=1LT7PxRDAx&rank=6Nerilka's Story by Anne McCaffrey https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61974.Nerilka_s_Story?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=mySSoIixvJ&rank=1

If you like the trope of damsel-gets-saved-by-badass-protector (of the ghost, demon, death, variety) then this is the book for you. Ladybirds is a younger, entry-level introduction to this author, who also wrote the darker romantasy duology Peaches & Honey.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59086069-ladybirds?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=hmdg2hUPuJ&rank=1Other books mentioned in this episode:Belladonna by Adalyn Gracehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59227936-belladonna?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=X9RVXpqfsw&rank=1Phantasma by Kaylie Smithhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/204593914-phantasma?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=yMfhZE8gJT&rank=1Peaches & Honey by R. Raetahttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62691790-peaches-honey?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=rp21XFSsc5&rank=1The Love of My Afterlife by Kirsty Greenwoodhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199928276-the-love-of-my-afterlife?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=fyZRgCypqH&rank=1The Dixon Rule by Elle Kennedyhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/200338241-the-dixon-rule?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=zYU0HddBQc&rank=1A Sensual Summoning by Rachel J. Romanhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/195742750-a-sensual-summoning?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=dDP8kbRusU&rank=1Want more of Jordan, Katie, and Not Another Heroine? Join us on Patreon for bonus episodes and to listen to our Patreon-exclusive series, Tawdry Tuesday! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

Is there anyone who hasn't read The Cruel Prince yet? This is an urban fantasy (kind of) filled with deliciously evil fairies, a bloodthirsty heroine, and a very questionable romantic lead. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26032825-the-cruel-prince?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=e1JnZ4s2bm&rank=1Check out Tithe by Holly Black for Lord Roiben's story.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/46777.Tithe?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=FPSJA9LO0S&rank=1Want more of Jordan, Katie, and Not Another Heroine? Join us on Patreon for bonus episodes and to listen to our Patreon-exclusive series, Tawdry Tuesday! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

This week Katie is exploring all of Ali's forays into romance territory. Her most recent book, Deep End, seems to bridge the gap between the spicier side of romance (Not in Love) and her traditional rom-coms like Love, Theoretically and The Love Hypothesis. Deep End explores BDSM themes, power dynamics, and a peculiar type of love triangle.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/212808709-deep-end?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=2c5NZIKHfr&rank=1Want more of Jordan, Katie, and Not Another Heroine? Join us on Patreon for bonus episodes and to listen to our Patreon-exclusive series, Tawdry Tuesday! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

If you've been kind of iffy on Jude through part one, there's a very particular hand scene in part two where Jude establishes herself as one of the most badass heroines in the genre. This is the gritty, resilient kind of main character every romantasy author tries to write with middling success.------------------------------------------Is there anyone who hasn't read The Cruel Prince yet? This is an urban fantasy (kind of) filled with deliciously evil fairies, a bloodthirsty heroine, and a very questionable romantic lead.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26032825-the-cruel-prince?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=e1JnZ4s2bm&rank=1Poison Study by Maria Snyder is also mentioned in this episode, check it out here: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60510.Poison_Study?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=VgCQN1G9fF&rank=1Want more of Jordan, Katie, and Not Another Heroine? Join us on Patreon for bonus episodes and to listen to our Patreon-exclusive series, Tawdry Tuesday! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

All the stars! This kindle unlimited series set in Annette Marie's Guild Codex Universe is a non-stop 4 book binge of constant action, the slowest of slow burns, and complex world-building. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/44932446-taming-demons-for-beginnersWant more of Jordan, Katie, and Not Another Heroine? Join us on Patreon for bonus episodes and to listen to our Patreon-exclusive series, Tawdry Tuesday! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

Is there anyone who hasn't read The Cruel Prince yet? This is an urban fantasy (kind of) filled with deliciously evil fairies, a bloodthirsty heroine, and a very questionable romantic lead.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26032825-the-cruel-prince?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=e1JnZ4s2bm&rank=1Poison Study by Maria Snyder is also mentioned in this episode, check it out here: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60510.Poison_Study?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=VgCQN1G9fF&rank=1patreon.com/notanotherheroine

Confession time: Katie needed more romance, more college hockey smut, and more dragons after finishing Anne McCaffrey. Voila, Rebecca Yarros to the rescue.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/90202302-iron-flameWant more of Jordan, Katie, and Not Another Heroine? Join us on Patreon for bonus episodes and to listen to our Patreon-exclusive series, Tawdry Tuesday! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

Officially, this series is "The Folk of the Air" trilogy, and in book 2, Jude is firmly established as the right-hand of the very disgruntled King Cardan. Anyone else a fan of Taryn? Katie is all about a book from her perspective a la Nesta from ACOTAR.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26032887-the-wicked-king?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=XcbhAfESGf&rank=1In case you missed The Cruel Prince: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26032825-the-cruel-prince?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=cgMUUDjGRQ&rank=1 Want to re-read the glove scene from Crown Duel? https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21060.Crown_Duel?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=iaFFeQtkx5&rank=1patreon.com/notanotherheroine

Jordan's recommendation for fixing your romantasy book slump: the one, the only, Grace Draven! This time in novella form! Jordan read In the Darkest Midnight for her pick this week - a (fairly clean!) coming of age story featuring a student-teacher romance with a redheaded sword fighting instructor (hell yeah.)In the Darkest Midnight by Grace Dravenhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39874001-in-the-darkest-midnightAlso mentioned in this episode:Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros (for a similar heroine)https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/61431922-fourth-wingPoison Study by Maria V. Snyder (for a similar student-teacher romance)https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60510.Poison_StudyThe Hanging City by Charlie Holmberg (for similar vibes)https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63127235-the-hanging-cityWant more of Jordan, Katie, and Not Another Heroine? Join us on Patreon for bonus episodes and to listen to our Patreon-exclusive series, Tawdry Tuesday! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

Could The Wicked King be improved with more romance and would it help this series appeal to a broader audience? Or would it distract from the political machinations and world-building? Our takeaway: Holly Black can do no wrong, but secretly, we're just romance devotees masquerading as romantasy readers. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26032887-the-wicked-king?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_15If you do like your world-building with a touch more emotional angst, check out The Winner's Curse triology by Marie Rutkowski https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16069030-the-winner-s-curseStay tuned for our final two episodes in this series. The Queen of Nothing is coming April 28th!patreon.com/notanotherheroine

Almost-erotica is on sale at your local Costco, readers. At least that's where Katie found this Ali Hazelwood oyster of a book.Yes, oyster.You don't read this kind of story because you want to read something, the same way you don't order oysters because you're hungry.Check this one out if Deep End wasn't quite satisfying and you like your heroine a little less emotionally available. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/198716261-not-in-loveSimilar Books:Deep End by Ali Hazelwoodhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/212808709-deep-endThe Hating Game by Sally Thornehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27213238-the-hating-gameMaster of Crows by Grace Dravenhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6811150-master-of-crowsWant more of Jordan, Katie, and Not Another Heroine? Join us on Patreon for bonus episodes and to listen to our Patreon-exclusive series, Tawdry Tuesday! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

Hot take: ACOTAR is the adult (not necessarily better) version of this book - a little more angst and introspection vs the constant action and plot progression we've seen throughout The Folk of Air trilogy.Inhale this book on a hot day with a drink in hand, and you might catch a glimpse of faerie wings out of the corner of your eye.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26032912-the-queen-of-nothingOther books mentioned in this episode: Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillierhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13928.Daughter_of_the_Forest?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=dGkQ5QZnfr&rank=1Tithe by Holly Blackhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/46777.Tithe?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=desrwoPPhC&rank=1A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maashttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659467-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_22patreon.com/notanotherheroine

Ripped bodices, tea parties, ball gowns....we're back into historical romance this week with "His At Night" by Sherry Thomas. This is less Bridgerton and more Downtown Abbey with a side of intrigue and murder.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6903194-his-at-nightSimilar Books:Secrets of a Summer Night by Lisa Kleypashttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/114162.Secrets_of_a_Summer_NightYours Until Dawn by Teresa Medeiroshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40720861-yours-until-dawnWhat I Did For A Duke by Julie Anne Longhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8430098-what-i-did-for-a-dukeWant more of Jordan, Katie, and Not Another Heroine? Join us on Patreon for bonus episodes and to listen to our Patreon-exclusive series, Tawdry Tuesday! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

We've discovered our pod attention span fails us on these longer series, but we do manage to wrap up The Folk of Air trilogy. The romantic tension continues to be a little lacking but we get a tidy ending with some hints at past and future series offshoots.Check back in next Monday for our Bennets and Bonnnets episode!https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26032912-the-queen-of-nothingOther books mentioned in this episode: Valiant by Holly Black https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/266607.Valiant?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=JYiXUcDkwM&rank=1Crown Duel by Sherwood Smithhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21060.Crown_Duel?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=l3Kbc6dVSg&rank=1Master of Crows by Grace Dravenhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6811150-master-of-crows?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=mw5MS3OEyG&rank=1Paladin's Grace by T. Kingfisherhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50702014-paladin-s-grace?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=QpTA9tbTZ9&rank=1Swordheart by T. Kingfisherhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/218624103-swordheart?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=zHNiJx5zX1&rank=1The Familiar by Leigh Bardugohttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/133286777-the-familiar?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=oi3QS6gSk5&rank=1The Stardust Thief by Chelsea Abdullahhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58950705-the-stardust-thief?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=1oV5doL8RG&rank=1patreon.com/notanotherheroine

Is it Dramione fanfic or hockey romance? Fake dating or marriage of convenience? It's Katie's pick this week, readers. You know what you're in for.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/45484397-the-dealSimilar Books:Easy by Tamara Weber https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16056408-easyThe Graham Effect by Elle Kennedyhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123255391-the-graham-effectIcebreaker by Hannah Grace https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61767292-icebreakerWant more of Jordan, Katie, and Not Another Heroine? Join us on Patreon for bonus episodes and to listen to our Patreon-exclusive series, Tawdry Tuesday! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

Welcome to the Bennets and Bonnets episode featuring The Rob, a heated debate about Mr. Collins, and many teacups of twisky. Don't miss the episode trailer on YouTube, the bonnets are truly magnificent. patreon.com/notanotherheroine

After two failed attempts with "Byrony and Roses" and "Nettle and Bone," a T. Kingfisher book finally snagged Jordan with "Swordheart." This book pokes fun at the genre but has some creepy moments with sticky, flying, invisible manta rays.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42747739-swordheartSimilar Books:Paladin's Grace by T. Kingfisherhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50702014-paladin-s-graceThe Undertaking of Hart and Mercy by Megan Bannenhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58510253-the-undertaking-of-hart-and-mercyAssistant to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrerhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123257687-assistant-to-the-villainThrone in the Dark by A. K. Caggianohttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62232755-throne-in-the-darkWant more of Jordan, Katie, and Not Another Heroine? Join us on Patreon for bonus episodes and to listen to our Patreon-exclusive series, Tawdry Tuesday! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

Consensus: Jennifer Ehle is the better Elizabeth, and Mr. Darcy's fencing scene? Delicious.Tune in next week for our mid-season review (and if you want to see the bonnets again, check it out on our Youtube channel). We'll discuss our favorite books this year, some hard misses, and preview a few things to come later this season.https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0112130/patreon.com/notanotherheroine

If you like a little more romance in your romantasy, this book might appeal to you despite the page count, awkward turns of phrase, and overplayed-out genre tropes. Katie made it to 90 percent, enjoyed the journey, and was sucked in by a particular scene in which the MMC turns invisible so he can secretly dance with the heroine.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/203579027-the-courting-of-bristol-keatsSimilar Books:The Cruel Prince by Holly Blackhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26032825-the-cruel-princeThe Selection by Kiera Casshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10507293-the-selectionA Deal with the Elf King by Elisa Kovahttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55285911-a-deal-with-the-elf-kingAn Enchantment of Ravens by Margaret Rogersonhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30969741-an-enchantment-of-ravensLove what we do and want to support the pod? Join us on Patreon! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

The best books, The worst books, And the books that have yet to come. For a few more details on our upcoming schedule (we're taking a break until June 16th), you can check out our somewhat more coherent reading update, posting this Wednesday, May 28th. patreon.com/notanotherheroine@notanotherheroine

It's time we took a reading break. Our regular episodes will resume on June 16th with "Ravishing the Heiress" by Sherry Thomas. In the meantime, check out some of our genre-divergent picks below:Vita Nostra by Marina Dyachenko, Sergey Dyachenko, Julia Meitov Hersey (Translator)https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/38633526-vita-nostraThe Other Bennet Sister by Janice Hadlowhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/45186556-the-other-bennet-sisterLike what we do and want to help support the pod? Join us on Patreon! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

What have we been doing for the last couple weeks? Well, Readers, it's been some attempted mathematical analysis of Ali Hazelwood's spice levels, some introspection on book ratings, and a renewed obsession with all things Dramione. So just about the same as usual on our shelves. Check back in on Wednesday for a long overdue pick of the week (something about academia and faeries), and next Monday for part one of The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig. patreon.com/notanotherheroine

There's a reason this book is recommended everywhere. If you like historical fantasy, prickly heroines, and a very clean slow-burn, then Emily Wilde just might be your girl. https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/413390-emily-wilde-s-encyclopaedia-of-faeriesSimilar Books:Half a Soul by Olivia Atwaterhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60717747-half-a-soulPrince of Hearts by Margaret Foxehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18515966-prince-of-heartsDoctor D'Arco, Sorcerer of London by Kathryn Colvinhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/216296627-doctor-d-arco-sorcerer-of-londonhttps://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

Great world-building, engaging side characters, and a predictable, video-game style plot. There's nothing too off the mark in Rachel Gillig's most recent book. If you enjoyed One Dark Window, this one is a safe bet. We have a few complaints, namely the romance - it's about as lackluster as her previous attempts - but her writing style is solid (rare for a first-person POV).https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/205335957-the-knight-and-the-mothOther books mentioned in this episode:The Winner's Curse by Marie Rutkoskihttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16069030-the-winner-s-curse?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=GjmUBMxbjl&rank=1The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Ardenhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25489134-the-bear-and-the-nightingale?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_22One Dark Window by Rachel Gillighttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58340706-one-dark-window?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=0xhQHwBgV2&rank=1The Songbird and the Heart of Stone by Carissa Broadbenthttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210134467-the-songbird-the-heart-of-stone?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=TCW48UpJEn&rank=1What Monstrous Gods by Rosamund Hodgehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/173953567-what-monstrous-gods?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=fZyRBI5ELF&rank=1The Familiar by Leigh Bardugohttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/133286777-the-familiar?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=UzgAbLCmFD&rank=1The Stardust Thief by Chelsea Abdullahhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58950705-the-stardust-thief?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=hrT8bmkC4A&rank=1patreon.com/notanotherheroine

Are you even surprised anymore when you see an Ali Hazelwood episode? Of course Katie read "Problematic Summer Romance," but there's a lot to unpack in this one so we'll cover it in a full episode later this summer. For now, we hope this preview inspires you to read it and share your thoughts on the age-gap debate.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/228691356-problematic-summer-romanceSimilar and Related BooksNot in Love by Ali Hazelwoodhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/198716261-not-in-loveThe Ex Hex by Erin Sterlinghttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56554626-the-ex-hexAuthor - Diana Palmerhttps://www.goodreads.com/author/list/12692.Diana_PalmerJoin us on Patreon!https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

This story ends...predictably, but it's not a terrible ride, especially if you're new to the genre. If you do like your stories heavier on fantasy elements, we recommend you check out Naomi Novik's "Uprooted." If you find yourself itching for more hot wax scenes, check out anything by Carissa Broadbent.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/205335957-the-knight-and-the-mothSimilar mentioned in this episode:The Songbird and the Heart of Stone by Carissa Broadbenthttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210134467-the-songbird-the-heart-of-stone?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=TCW48UpJEn&rank=1What Monstrous Gods by Rosamund Hodgehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/173953567-what-monstrous-gods?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=fZyRBI5ELF&rank=1The Familiar by Leigh Bardugohttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/133286777-the-familiar?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=UzgAbLCmFD&rank=1Uprooted by Naomi Novikhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22544764-uprooted?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=uvNNY1uHy9&rank=2patreon.com/notanotherheroine

Ready for a c-drama readers? The Double (on Netflix) has every romantasy trope come to life. Our heroine plots the ultimate revenge against her ex-husband and in-laws while bantering and plotting with the mysterious Duke Su. It's Crown Duel meets Poison Study, just freaking watch it!https://www.netflix.com/title/81900131 https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

Is every age gap romance problematic? We're here to dive deeper into Ali Hazelwood's most recent book. Maya is not your typical romcom heroine; she's got anger issues, teenage trauma, and isn't afraid to call people out. She's not for everyone, but her romance with Connor feels organic, and the well-paced flashbacks make this book fly by.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/228691356-problematic-summer-romance?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=mt0owJHxff&rank=1Similar (age gap) BooksTwilight by Stephanie Meyerhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/41865.Twilight?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=2ZoQ2Xp70c&rank=1Wild Magic Series by Tamora Piercehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13836.Wild_Magic?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=Ixp0BQdSRt&rank=2The Emperor's Edge Series by Lindsey Burokerhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10031259-the-emperor-s-edge?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=xP3o26XwsB&rank=1Evermore by Lynn Viehlhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1264696.Evermore?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=5IDCm6Jovp&rank=1Prince of Dreams by Lisa Kleypashttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/693033.Prince_of_Dreams?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=ZjASOlKRak&rank=1Storm Over The Lake by Diana Palmerhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/566136.Storm_Over_the_Lake?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=0p2zSI1a1C&rank=1https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

The only thing we trust to break a reading slump? Dramione.This week's pick is slightly outside of Katie's norms. The story takes place during 8th year and is told from Draco's perspective with some found family tropes and cute muggle references sprinkled throughout. Also, novella-sized so don't be afraid to commit to this one (unlike some of the others listed below).https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59080725-innocent-monsters?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=kFQ4u6g7Tb&rank=1Similar BooksLionheart by greenTeacuphttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/127785771-lionheart?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=F4obQXAwBM&rank=1Detraquee by Hystaracalhttps://archiveofourown.org/works/11163924/chapters/24917385https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine

If Connor Harkness tells you to go to your room, you go. We're a little all over the place in our close-out episode for this book. Blame the flashbacks and our general giddiness over Maya and Connor's relationship. Would this same story work if the genders were flipped on the age difference? Check out the k-drama "Encounter" for a TV version and let us know what you think on our IG or channel!https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/228691356-problematic-summer-romance?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=mt0owJHxff&rank=1https://www.viki.com/tv/36239c-encounterhttps://www.youtube.com/@notanotherheroinehttps://patreon.com/notanotherheroine