Raging Romantics

It's that time of year -- time where we say bon voyage for a few months and wish you well with your summer reading endeavors! Here are some new ones that we're excited about to kick off your tbr. And don't forget to visit your friendly local library to see what summer reading programs they have in plan!Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org. Don't forget to tune in for our last episode of this season, and we'll see you again soon.XX, Jackie + JenBooks we mention:Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily HenryTriple Sec by TJ AlexanderCode Word Romance by Carlie WalkerThe Strawberry Patch Pancake House by Laurie GilmoreHaunted Ever After by Jen DeLucaConfirmed, it is Monte Carlo the movie.

A special thank you to Ashley Herring Blake for joining us for our last author interview of the season! Settle in for some good laughs and some great conversation, and don't forget to preorder/run out and grab Dream on, Ramona Riley (avail. 5/13).Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org.Delilah Green Doesn't CareAstrid Parker Doesn't FailIris Kelly Doesn't DateMake the Season BrightDream On, Ramona RileyGet Over it, April EvansMeryl WilsnerHannah Bonam-YoungLaura Piper LeeAdriana Herrera (we're reading her for book club this month! Click here to join us on May 15th)August Lane by Regina BlackWild *Side by Elsie SilverYou Deserve Each Other by Sarah HogleYou Belong Here by Megan Miranda

Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuireNicholas SparksFifty Shades by EL JamesIt Ends With Us by Colleen HooverBridgerton series by Julia QuinnEmily RathRed, White, and Royal Blue by Casey McQuistonMaxton Hall by Mona KastenIn Death Series by JD Robb (Nora Roberts)Dial A for Aunties by Jesse SutantoACOTAR by SJMFrom Blood and Ash by JLAJay CrownoverThe Idea of You by Robinne LeeRuby DixonLyla SageFive Feet ApartSay a Little Prayer by Jenna VorisTwisted Love by Ana HuangPlaying for Keeps series by Becka MackOut of the Woods by Hannah Bonam-Young#80 JLA X RRPassionFlixThe Man From Snowy River**Doctor Who is not based on a graphic novel. There are novelizations *of* the show.*

Thank you to Kimberly for sitting down and talking all things fun, alien, and absurd! Haven't had a chance to look into Kimberly's work? Visit her website : Kimberlylemming.com.Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org.Books/authors we mention:That Time I got Drunk and Saved a DemonI Got Abducted by Aliens and Now I'm Trapped in a Rom-ComMistlefoeThat Time I Got Drunk and Yeeted a Love Potion at a WerewolfChuck TingleWooing the Witch Queen by Stephanie BurgisElizabeth StephensMea MoniqueElla MavenKennedy RyanThat Time I Took Down a Cult by Rebel CarterT KingfisherJohn Wiswell C.M. LockhartMike Pape's (cover designer)

Another day, another interview! Sit down with us to talk about all things book collecting and romance history with Rebecca Romney! Make sure to check out Rebecca's website: rebeccaromney.com, and as always, email us with any questions/comments/concerns/recommendations at ragingromantics@nopl.org!Books/authors we mention:Jane Austen's BookshelfPride & PrejudiceSir Gawain and the Green KnightGutenberg BibleRare Danger by Beverly JenkinsExtraordinary Union by Alyssa ColeKaren Marie MoningNorthanger Abbey by AustenInventing the It GirlWolf & the Dove by Kathleen WoodiwissKimberly LemmingRuby DixonIndigo by Beverly JenkinsNASCAR harlequinAmish zombiesEarthsea by Ursula K Le GuinFrances Burney (Cecilia)Brandon SandersonBeowulfBrynne WeaverBeverly Jenkins talk @ LilyHoney & Wax Book Collecting Prize

Here, have some bookish opinions, courtesy of Jen and Jackie. Want to share your own? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org! Books/authors we mention:Katee RobertEmily RathKristin Ashley (Honey series)Out of the Woods by Hannah Bonam-YoungNext to You by HBYReckless by Elsie SilverFirst Time Caller by BK BorisonIcebreaker by Hannah GraceHades X Persephone by Scarlett St. Clair

Content warnings - exploitation of minors, harassment and bullying.Welcome back to part 2 of our interview with author Emily Rath! Part one is available here if you haven't yet listened in. In this episode we talk about harassment and what that means for authors and their readership, as well as what Emily's newest books are looking like!Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org.Books/authors we mention:North is the NightSouth is the SeaNaomi NovikKatherine Arden, Winternight trilogyKalevala (free online)Sabriel (Old Kingdom series) by Garth NixLillian Lark

Help us welcome Emily Rath to the romance nerd gang. Let's talk inspiration, regency novels, poly romances, and life behind the scenes for a bestselling author. Plus, in a Raging Romantics first, we had so much to talk about that we split this interview into two parts!Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org.Visit Emily Rath's website for more information! Regency series (Second Sons)Hockey series (Jacksonville Rays)North is the NightWhiskey & Sin (Omegaverse)Harrison and Somchai's novella (Queer & Cute anthology)Other books/authors we mention:Cat SebastianLola & the Millionaires by Kathryn MoonElle Kennedy

Reading check in! Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org!Books we mention:A Pack for Autumn (Cozyverse) by Emilia EmersonBond Dissolution series by Eliana LeeKathryn Moon Lola & The MillionairesGames with the OrcLady of Rooksgrove ManorEmily RathSavory Baking by Erin Jeanne McDowellThe Game Changer by Lana FergusonThe Vancouver Storm series by Stephanie ArcherDeep End by Ali HazelwoodScythe & Sparrow by Brynne Weaver

Jackie and Jen tackle the history of the holiday that, well, is more holy that holi...Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at raginromantics@nopl.org!Books/primary sources we mention:Bede's MartyrologiumGolden Legend (Legenda Aurea) by Jacopo de VoragineThe Parliament of Fowls by Chaucer (trans. by Kline, 2007)Poem by Charles, Duke of OrleansHowland Valentine example (Mtholyoke.edu)The Wolf Den by Elodie HarperGammer Gurton's GarlandRomain de la poirePucking Around by Emily RathOut of the Woods by Hannah Bonam-YoungDeep End by Ali HazelwoodOther episodes:#82 Virginal myths#71 Chivalric loveSources:"The dark origins of Valentine's Day" (Seipel, 2022)"Sts. Marius, Martha, Audifax, and Abachum, Martyrs" ( Congregation Of The Sisters Of The Divine Redeemer, American Region, 2025)"Chapter 42 of the Golden Legend by Jacobus Voragine (1275), translated by William Caxton, 1483" (Christianiconography.info)"The Life of Claudius" (Historia Augusta, web, 2021)"What the mythical Cupid can teach us about the meaning of love and desire" (Christensen, 2022)"Amethyst" (huffmanjewelers.com)"The History of the Heart Shape" (Robinson, 2024)"Lupercalia" (history.com, 2024)"The Evolution of Valentine's Day" (Hohn, 2023)"The History & Mythology Of Amethyst" (Varianceobjects.com)"The Parlement of Foules" (britannica.com)"The First Valentine" (Petty, 2023)Esther Howland 1847 (MtHolyoke.edu, 2025)

It's Jen's turn to geek out over an author! Let's bring Cate C Wells to the stage, shall we?Make sure to check out Cate's newsletter to stay up to date with all her writing news and books!Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org.Books we mention:ChargeSteel Bones MC seriesThe Wild Wolf's Rejected MateTwitchAfter the Shut up RingWarrior's Woman by Johanna LindsayJoanna WyldeCora ReillyNatasha Knight (Taken, Dark Legacy Trilogy)Kresley ColeChristine FeehanM.E. Carter (Goalie)Maya AldenChristine MichelleEve BlackKatee RobertBrynne WeaverThe Consolations of Philosophy by Alain de Botton(apparently it was also turned into a 6 part documentary!)Lena HendrixLucy MonroeLuv (Un)arranged by NM PatelOnce a Duchess by Elizabeth Boyce

Library book clubs can be fun too! Check out our romance book club that meets every third Thursday, Between the Covers!Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org.Sierra Simone/Julie Murphy InterviewLyla Sage interviewVirtual bookclub link!Books we mention:Salt KissSalt in the WoundHoney CutBitter Burn (out Sept. 30)American Queen (New Camelot series)Priest seriesDone & Dusted by Lyla Sage

Join Jackie + Jen as they sit down for a giggly and heartfelt interview with author Hannah Bonam-Young!Hannah's websiteQuestions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org. Books we mention:Next of KinNext to YouOut on a LimbOut of the WoodsSet the Record StraightPeople WatchingAnne of Green Gables by LM MontgomeryJane Eyre by Charlotte BronteWild & Wrangled by Lyla Sage Scythe & Sparrow by Brynne WeaverFlirting with Disaster by Naina Kumar

What book releases are we looking forward to this year? So glad you asked! (Also, headphone wearers BE WARE)Books we recommend:Well, Actually by Mazey EddingsOut of the Woods, by Hannah Bonam-YoungZomromcom by Olivia DadeAt First Spite by Olivia DadeKilt Trip & Scot and Bothered by Alexandra KileySay a Little Prayer by Jenna VorisSay You'll Remember Me by Abby JimenezThe First Love Language by Stefany ValentineDream on, Ramona Riley by Ashley Herring BlakeKnight and the Moth by Rachel GilligWearing the Lion by John WiswellThe Ballad of Falling Dragons by Sarah ParkerGreat Big Beautiful Life by Emily HenryWild Side by Elsie SilverOnyx Storm by Rebecca YarrosA Crown so Silver by Lyra SeleneKatabasis by RF KuangScythe & Sparrow by Brynne WeaverHave any you want to recommend to us? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org.

We are beyond honored to welcome our og favorite to the podcast - Ruby Dixon!!!Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations (besides we get better home microphones. We're sorry). Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org!ruby Books:Ice Planet universeThe Half Orc's Maiden BrideSunrise CantinaBound to the Shadow PrinceWhen She PurrsFireblood DragonsBarbarian's MateBad GuyBy The Horns (next minotaur book by Ruby!)Books/movies/authors we mention:Last of the Mohicans (movie)Last of the Mohicans by James Fenimore CooperJessa KaneAlexa RileyKati WildeElla GoodDragon's Bride by Katee RobertMorning Glory Milking Farm by CM NascostaThe C*ck Down the Block by Amy AwardKresley ColeZoey DravenLillian LarkOut on a Limb by Hannah Bonam-YoungMrs. Nash's Ashes and Happy Medium by Sarah AdlerAli HazelwoodLoch and Key by Lana Ferguson

Another year come and gone?! Happy 2025 romance nerds! Jen and I look back on 2024 and plan our reading resolutions for the coming months. Want to share yours? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org.

Hey team, we did it! We hit 100 (full length) episodes! Jen and I are eternally grateful to all of you for listening in, and we can't wait to bang out another 100 with you! For this one, you get to dive deep into the Jen + Jackie show for some good laughs and even better discussions. Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org! Fantastic Four - It's Clobberin' TimeLyssa Kay Adams interview, ep. #17Ruby Dixon interview, ep. #34Tessa Bailey interview, ep. #43Scandals, ep #30Trope off, eps. #74/75Books/authors we mention:Bromance book club by Lyssa Kay AdamsCrescent City by SJMThe Heart Principle by Helen HoangDisorderly Conduct by TessaBloody Jack series by LA MeyerCate C. WellsTessa DareKristen AshleyLayla FrostSunset Embrace by Sandra BrownMr. Perfect by Linda HowardThe Gift by Julie GarwoodColleen HooverFreida McFaddenFireblood DragonsButcher & Blackbird by Brynne WeaverHannah Bonam-Young

We hope your holiday season is filled with many a good book. But just in case, here are some more to add to that ever-growing liste.How My Neighbor Stole Christmas by Meghan QuinnMerry Ever After by Tessa BaileyMake the Season Bright by Ashley Herring BlakeKnotty Clause by Honey PhillipsThe Gift Rarely Given by Ambar Cordova#93 Chelsea Reads interview

Jen and I are beyond excited to bring to you two authors we have long admired; Julie Murphy and Sierra Simone! We talk deli meats, friendship, washing machines, dark villain romances, book bans, library boards, fanfic, and so much more! Happy holidays from this library crew to you!Questions/comments/concerns? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org.Books/Authors we mention:Dumplin' by Julie MurphyTessa GrattonMerry Little Meet Cute by JM/SSAnn RinaldiJerry SpinelliChristopher PikeTwilight by Stephenie MeyerClan of the Cave Bear by Jean Marie AuelCatty CornerLet Them Stare by JM and Jonathan Van NessChuck TingleStepbrother Dearest by Penelope WardThe Feminist Porn Book by Tristan TaorminoThe Fundamentals of Being a Good Girl (no available links yet)Nisha SharmaNana MaloneMA WardellSplit or Swallow by Lindsay StraubeVicious Lost Boys by Nikki St. CroweButts a Backstory by Heather RadkeUnruly by David Mitchell Bloody, Slutty, Pathetic by WhatMurdahArtist Hang Le (links to Facebook)Wind of Change podcast Series

'Tis the season of gratitude, and we're so incredibly grateful for our independent (indie) authors out there. Let's shout some out!Books we mention:Spit & Swallow (Kiss of the Basilisk) by Lindsay StraubeCrimson Ridge series by Elliott RoseCate C WellsDownpour by Maggie C. GatesEve DangerfieldCaptivated by Eve Dangerfield and Tessa BaileyLena Hendrix

In case you haven't listened to our most recent trope off, tune in here to see how (spoiler) stalkers came in at the top of our guilty pleasure tropes.Episode 98 - All is Fair in Love and BracketsEpisode 97 - Going Places with Lyla SageBooks we mention:Guarded by a Broody Biker by Cassie MintIndigo Ridge by Devney PerryCarmichael Security Series by Nichole RoseThe Bribe by Willa NashWreck the Halls by Tessa Bailey

This is the romance sporting event of the year - that's right, it's TROPE OFF TIME! And what better to do during national month of stuffing yourself silly, than talking about our guiltiest of pleasures? Bookish pleasures, that is. Jen and Jackie submitted tropes, not knowing what the other would say, and now it's time for them to do your favorite thing - ARGUE IT OUT.Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org Books we mentionThe Starless Sea by Erin MorgensternLights Out by Navessa AllenCredence by Penelope DouglasThe System by Robert Reich

You don't have to be a football afficionado to appreciate wide receivers in tight pants. Here's some books to appease that appreciation.Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org! Tutoring the Delinquent by Jessa KaneThe C*ck Down the Block by Amy AwardFalling Hard by Nichole RoseTreasure State Wildcat series by Devney PerryClose Knit by Kels Stone

Jackie's talked about her enough on the show, it was high time we got LYLA FREAKING SAGE onto Raging Romantics. Grab your Swig, a comfy blankey, and a cowboy to cuddle (a paperback one is perfectly acceptable), and turn it up!Lost & Lassoed is out November 5th and available for preorder wherever you purchase your books. Make sure to also place it on hold or recommend it to your favorite local library! Thank you again to Lyla for taking time out of her busy schedule for sitting down and talking romance Rebel Blue Ranch series by Lyla SageHello Beautiful by Ann NapolitanoAustin Drake @bottlecap.creative

May your Halloween be full of treats with these bonus spooky titles!Stalked by the Wide Receiver by Maya Stratham Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa BroadbentFang Fiction by Kate Stayman London (bonus mention One to Watch)Inkspell by Cornelia FunkeThe Starless Sea by Erin MorgensternThe Woods All Black by Lee MandeloLights Out by Navessa AllenBonus: Raihn fanart by Enchanted Chapters Art

It's a cryptid; of course Jackie wants to talk about it again. That's right, let's get back into werewolves with everything we've learned over the past three years!Books/legends/texts we mentionthe Epic of GilgameshThe Legend of LycaonBeowulfThe Saga of the VolsungsBisclavret by Marie de FranceWilderness by Dennis DanversDead Until Dark by Charlaine HarrisCate C WellsCrave to Conquer by Zoey EllisAddison CainChristine FeehanSherrilyn KenyonBad Dreams in the Night by Adam EllisSilmarillion by JRR Tolkien (sp. the one narrated by Andy Serkis)Other werewolf episodes we've done!#27 Howling For Werewolves#28 Intro to Omegaverse#66 Did They Just Say Mothman Romance? (Cryptids)#35 We Ship It! Fanfiction and Romance Novels#29 Spilling the Tea on Romance Scandals (Omegaverse scandal)

Check out your new favorite book club Between the Covers at the North Syracuse library, every third Thursday of the month! Join us virtually on Zoom, or in person at the library. (See our event calendar at onlib-nopl.libcal.com.Questions/Comments/Concerns/Recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.orgBooks we mention:Butcher & Blackbird by Brynne Weaver (Ruinous Love Trilogy)Haunting Adeline by HD CarltonBride by Ali HazelwoodSteminist series by Hazelwood

We're so honored to welcome author John Wiswell to the podcast! We talk all things horror, romance, monsters, sexuality, neurodivergence, short fiction, and so. much. more. Go check out John's website for more information about him and his vast array of writings! Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org!John can be contacted at:Website: johnwiswell DOT blogspot DOT comE-mail: johncwiswell AT gmail DOT comX: http://twitter.com/Wiswell Instagram: John_Wiswell US cover by JM FennerUK cover by Stephen PlayerJohn Wiswell's work:Someone You Can Build a Nest InSpectrum, an autistic horror anthology"Alligators by Twitter""A Silhouette Against Armageddon" (skeleton)"For Lack of a Bed" (sofa)"The Three O'clock Dragon" (dragon runs for mayor)"A Taste of Justice" (magic dirt - not yet out)Books, authors, works we mentionJRR TolkienAlexandra DumasMark TwainMargaret AtwoodMarlon JamesUncannyClarkesWorldStrange HorizonsGuan Un Locked Tomb trilogy by Tamsyn MuirMurderbot Diaries by Martha WellsRumiko TakahashiTerry PratchettGrendel by John GardnerCirce by Madeline MillerLet the Right One In by John Ajvide LindqvistMongrels by Stephen Grahame JonesClytemnestra Costanza CasatiMedea by Eilish QuinHera by Jennifer SaintDracula by Bram StokerOscar WildeVampire Chronicles by Anne Rice Ice Planet Barbarians by Ruby DixonFifty Shades by EL JamesDowry of Blood by ST GibsonDuskwalker Brides series by Opal ReyneCity in Glass by Nghi Vo

It's that time of year- all the cool librarians strap on our superhero capes and dust off our soap boxes to scream about banned books! We may only officially recognize Banned Books Week the last week of September, but let's talk about, read, and celebrate banned and challenged books every single day.Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org.Books we mention:Gender Queer by Maia KobabeAll Boys Aren't Blue by George M JohnsonThe Bluest Eye by Toni MorrisonCaptain Underpants by Dav PilkeyAnd Tango Makes Three by Justin RichardsonA Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo by Jill TwissPrince and Knight by Daniel HaackThe Hill We Climb by Amanda GormanSources:"American Library Association reports record number of demands to censor library books and materials in 2022,” American Library Association, March 22, 2023. https://www.ala.org/news/press-releases/2023/03/record-book-bans-2022"Book Ban Data", American Library Association, March 20, 2023. https://www.ala.org/bbooks/book-ban-data"American Library Association reports record number of unique book titles challenged in 2023", American Library Association, March 14, 2024. https://www.ala.org/news/2024/03/american-library-association-reports-record-number-unique-book-titles“Let Freedom Read,” Daniel Boone Regional Library, September 25, 2003. https://www.dbrl.org/adults/let-freedom-read“An Author's Apology” in “Mrs. Warren's Confession,” George Bernard Shaw, 1902, https://www.gutenberg.org/files/1097/1097-h/1097-h.htm“About” Banned Books Week Coordinator, ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom, 2024. https://bannedbooksweek.org/about/Five Laws of Library Science, S. R. Ranganathan, 1931.

Let's try this again, shall we? Are vampires being resurrected in romancelandia? Or are they back in the coffin? Come along for classic Jackie + Jen hijinks.Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org!Fang Fiction by Kate Stayman-LondonOne To WatchAnd I Darken by Kiersten White**Don't Eat Me Chupacabra! by Kyle SullivanDracula by Bram StokerCarmila by J Sheridan Le FanuSmoke Gets in Your Eyes by Caitlin DoughtyCackle by Rachel Harrison So Thirsty by Rachel HarrisonLucy Undying by Kiersten WhiteA Dowry of Blood by ST GibsonVampires of El Norte by Isabel CañasAssistant to the Villain by Hannah Nicole MaehrerMistress of Lies by KM EnrightAmish Vampires in Space by Kerry NietzMy Roommate is a Vampire by Jenna LevineReal Vampires series by Gerry BartlettDark Ones series by Katie MacAlisterSookie Stackhouse series by Charlaine HarrisFantasy Lover by Sherrilyn KenyonDark Carpathian by Christine FeehanHouse of Hunger by Alexis HendersonBeautiful Villain by Rebecca KenneyBride by Ali HazelwoodGlimmer Falls series by Sarah HawleySomeone to Build a Nest In by John C. WiswellNoah Kahan - "If We Were Vampires"

Time to crack open the books and jump back in the day to the smell of autumn leaves and anxiety - that's right, it's collegiate romance time!Icebreaker by Hannah Grace (book 1 of the UCMH series)Elle KennedyGirl Abroad by Elle KennedyThe Hook Up by Kristin CallahanNuts by Alice clayton (not collegiate but Jackie got this author mixed up)Letters We Keep by Nisha SharmaGridiron series by Jen Frederick Mistakes Were Made by Meryl WilsnerDon't forget to pop on in (virtually) for book club! October we're reading Bride by Ali Hazelwood. You can join us via zoom, the third Thursday of every month at 630pm EST! Questions/comments/concerns? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org.

We have a special treat for you to welcome you back from our hiatus - today we're interviewing booktok phenom, Chelsea Reads! Let's talk all things booktok and make Jen thoroughly confused. Make sure to go check out @Chelseareads on tiktok and @Chelseareads__ on bookstagram!Questions/Comments/suggestions/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.orgBooks/authors/things we mention:Ice Planet Barbarians by Ruby DixonFourth Wing by Rebecca YarrosRed Tower booksThe Pairing by Casey McQuistonColleen HooverForked/Spooned by Ruth CardelloAbby JimenezGena ShowalterCM NascostaNora RobertsSophie LarkBloom booksBrynne WeaverThe Hollow God by Alec HutsonLove at a Funeral and Other Awkward Conversations by Sophie Andrew**Jen and I mistakenly used "confirmation bias," when discussing screaming into the Tiktok void. We've since learned that the phenomenon Jackie described is actually called the Baader-Meinhof Phenomenon or the Frequency Illusion, or, yes, the Red Car Theory.

Check in with what Jen and I read (or didn't read) this summer!Bull Moon Rising by Ruby Dixon (out October 15)After the Shut Up Ring by Cate C WellsDark Restraint by Katee RobertTrail of the Lost by Andrea LankfordBeautiful Villain by Rebecca F. KenneyMarriage and Masti by Nisha Sharma

Guess who's back...back again...Did you miss us??? We missed you! Let's jump back into things with a fun episode all about this new sphere of romance that's been appearing on our Kindle Algorithms.Books/Authors we read:Forked by Ruth CardelloUnhinged by Vera ValentineJack by Layla FaeDeviled egg bookTriceratops and Bottoms by Lola FaustChris Tingle booksFantasy Lover by Sherrilyn KenyonAs always, you can email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org with any thoughts/questions/comments/concerns/recommendations. Thanks for coming back to us, and we hope you had an excellent summer!

This June 28th (2024) is the 55th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. In honor of that, here's a re-release of our episode all about queer history, the impact of Stonewall, and queer romance books we love. Featuring friend and fellow librarian, Thomas! Books we mention:Red White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuistonThe God Box by Alex SanchezThe Rainbow trilogy by Alex SanchezCity of Bones by Cassandra ClareHarry Potter by She Who Shall Not Be AcknowledgedThe Miseducation of Cameron Post by Emily DanforthAristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire SáenzThey Both Die At the End by Adam SilveraSimon Vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky AlbertalliDavid LevithanTessa DareFloat Plan by Trish Doller (prosthetic leg on cover!)Titan by Jillian GravesSarah J. MaasBook of Gothel by Mary McMyne (Google Lens Cover)Something Wild and Wonderful by Anita KellyToo Hot To Handle by Tessa BaileyVirginia Heath (the author Jackie couldn't remember but likes the illustrative style)Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie GarmusMortal Follies by Alexis HallGirls and Their Horses by Eliza Jane BrazierDear Prudence by Daniel LaverlyMarriage, A history by Stephanie CoontzSources:"Stonewall Riots" (history.com, 2017)“Stonewall then and now” (Walsh, 2019)“‘Queer, hilarious and full of joy': the rise of LGBTQ+ romance fiction” (Braidwood, 2022)“‘I Just Want Something That's Gay and Happy': L.G.B.T.Q. Romance Is Booming” (Harris, 2022)“The Rise of Queer ‘New Adult Romance' Literature,” (Beggs, 2022)“I ONLY READ QUEER ROMANCE AND I FEEL GREAT ABOUT IT” (Sackton, 2017)“Love is for everyone. Modern romance writers are breaking barriers to show it” (Asmelash, 2023)“A Brief History of the Path to Securing LGBTQ Rights” (Davidson, 2022)“Repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"” (Human Rights Campaign.org)“Stonewall at 40: The Voice Articles That Sparked a Final Night of Rioting” (Village voice, 1969, ed. 2009)Bookstagram Examples@Mariannareads@lilys.bookcase

Thomas is back, and we're recommending our favorite books to celebrate Pride Month with!The Guncle by Stephen RowleyThe Boyfriend Subscription by Steven SalvatoreThe Pairing by Casey McquistonA Lesson in Thorns by Sierra SimoneBoyfriend Material by Alexis HallHow to Become the Dark Lord or Die Trying by Django WexlerBonus mentionsRed White and Royal Blue by Casey McQuistonWaiting for the Flood by Alexis Hall

Would it be a RR episode without us having technical issues? One of our mics decided to die right as we started recording, so bear with us on this one folks. IT WILL BE FIXED WHEN WE COME BACK IN AUGUST.And on that note - our hiatus stretches from July-August 23rd. WE WILL BE BACK AFTER THAT. We hope you have a splendiferous summer filled with so many beautiful romance books. Keep reading, and keep raging!Want to talk with us in the meantime? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org!Books we mention:AJ Tremble (Hold Me?) - can't find this anywhere online. If anyone knows it, reach out!Ace by Angela ChenBoink by Mary RoachSapiens by Yuval Noah HarariFlame & The Flower by Kathleen WoodiwissBecky ChambersRole Playing by Cathy YardleyThe Romantic Agenda by Clare KannTea for Two by CM NascostaThe Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwoodand Not in Love by Ali HazelwoodMorbidly Yours by Ivy FairbanksTwo Rogues Make a Right by Cat SebastianCybernetic Tea ShoppeVicious by V.E. SchwabOther episodes to listen to;Noble Blood#49 Elinor GlynSources:The Kinsey Scale"Asexual Romance in an Allosexual World: How Ace-Spectrum Characters (and Authors) Create Space for Romantic Love" (Carter, 2020)"Asexual Romance Readers Are Finally Getting Their Happily Ever Afters" (Herman, 2021)The Asexual Visibility and Education Network; FAQ"Ace Books 4: Ace & Books – still more books with ace rep" (K-Specks, 2024)"Why Women in Asia Are Having Fewer Babies" (Rajvanshi, 2024)

CONTENT WARNING: drugs and drug trafficking, violence, violence against women, gang and outlaw culture, and murder.Now paging Charlie Hunnam...Charlie are you there? We need someone to take us on a motorcycle ride! On this episode we explore the history of motorcycles, motorcycle riders, and the original outlaw motorcycle gang (aka, the OMG!). Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at: ragingromantics@nopl.org Pics:ReitwagonMotorcycle adOrient Motor PacerMotodomeJohnnie drinking cokeJohnnie the pigKnuckleheadVarsity riders clubHollister RiotBooks/authors we mentionTillie ColeJoanna WyldeDevil's Game by Joanna WyldeReaper's Property by Joanna WyldeTm FrazierKristin AshleyChristine FeehanCate C WellsButcher & Blackbird by Brynne WeaverThe Dirty Life by Kristin KimballWhen the Moon Hatched by Sarah ParkerSources"Bonds of Brotherhood: The Origin and Growth of Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs" (Hamilton, 2002)"Outlaw Motorcycle Club" (Wikipedia)"The Rough History of Biker Cuts" (Muzquiz, 2020)"Cut-off" (wikipedia)"Hollister Riot" (wikipedia)"American Masculinity After World War II" (national ww2 museum, 2021)"Counterculture as a Gendered Post-War Legacy: The Latent Case of Outlaw Motorcycle Clubs" (Hatta, 2020)"Motorcycle Club Culture: Embracing the Brotherhood & Exploring the Rich History" (Leather Face Gear, 2023)Commodification and Popular Imagery of the Biker in American Culture (Austin, 2010)A Brief History of the Motorcycle (Bellis, 2019)A Brief History of Motorcycles" (Windy City Motorcycle Company, 2023)"Motorcycle" (wikipedia)"History of Motorcycles in the United States" (Indian Motorcycle of Austin, 2022)THE MOTORDROME - BOARD TRACK MOTORCYCLE RACING (Panhead Jim, 2012)"Not Just a Knucklehead: The 1936 Model EL" (Harley Davidson Museum)"A Century of Motorcycling | The 1930s (Motorcyclist Staff, 2012)""Davidson: There's a Reason It's Called a Hog "(Wells, 2024) - note that this website might not work correctly."THE MOST RECOGNIZED PHOTO IN HARLEY-DAVIDSON® HISTORY: RAY, JOHNNIE AND THE HOG LEGACY" (Harley-Davidson, 2020)HARLEY-DAVIDSON MOTORCYCLES (Online Museum.net, 2020)"Choppers" (wikipedia)What is it about choppers? (quora)What are some criticisms of Sons of Anarchy regarding its portrayal of biker culture? (quora)Longing and Belonging: Toward a Cultural History of Gay Motorcycle Clubs in the US (gurman, 2019)

What sort of books do you, you lovely listeners, binge read? Jackie has been bingeing cowboys.Yeah, no one's surprised.She recommends:Chestnut Springs series by Elsie SilverWild Love/Rose Hill series by Elsie SilverGold Rush Ranch by Elsie SilverThe Edens by Devney PerryThe aesthetic on pinterest that made Jackie read itTexas Rodeo by Kari Lynn DellShelter in Place by Nora Roberts

We all have our guilty pleasures...one of Jen's is mafia romance books! In this episode she leads us on a classic RR discussion all about this specific side of dark romancelandia.Questions/comments/concerns? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org!Books/authors we mentionAnn MayburnAlexa RileyMaid for the Italian Mafia by Flora FerrariDen of Vipers by K.A. KnightSweet Cruelty by Zoe BlakeDesperate Measures by Katee RobertAddison CainUrgent Vows and Demanding Mob Boss by Lucy MonroeDeal with a Demon series by Katee RobertAtlas Rose Mafia MonstersOrc Boss by Lark GreenButcher & Blackbird by Brynne WeaverMy Secret Garden by Nancy FridayMob movies Jackie recommends"Scarface (1983)Gangs of New York (2002)Newsies (1992)West Side Story (1961)Mafia Mamma (2023)SourcesThe American MafiaThe Sicilian MafiaOmertà

Did we look at a calendar when we recorded this? NOPE. It's mother's day weekend here int he US, but today we're talking about single dads and bookish hot takes. Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org with your thoughts! Books/authors we mention:Lost and Lassoed by Lyla SageTessa BaileyLana FergusonDevil's Lair by Anna ZairesBuns by Alice ClaytonJust for the Summer by Abby JimenezDust Storm by Maggie Gates

Saddle up and let's make our way back into cowboy-landia! We did our first episode on cowboys back in 2021, and thought they wouldn't come back. Well we're eating our hats, because darn-tootin' if they haven't reappeared on our shelves! In this episode, we discuss why that could be, and what other possible genres could be making a comeback.Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org!Books we mentionLouis L'AmourTrue Blood by Charlaine Harris50 Shades series by EL JamesDark Carpathian series by Christine FeehanJohanna LindseyDone and Dusted by Lyla SageFlawless by Elsie SilverDust Storm by Maggie Gates Ava HunterBrooke MontgomeryHannah CowanMaisy YatesBeverly JenkinsCowboys of California series by Rebekah WeatherspoonLora LeighLorelei JamesNora RobertsJanet DaileyCJ Box Joe Pickett seriesDiana PalmerThe Cruel Prince and Folk of the Air series by Holly BlackThe Country of the Blind by Andrew LelandSources“The ‘Yellowstone' Effect: Controversy and Commerce” (Western Ranch Brokers, 2024)"Manifest Destiny" (americanyawp.com)"Indian Reservations" (history.com, 2023)"The Civil War's Economic Impact on New York" (Chris K., 2020)

Between the Covers book club pick this month was It Happened One Fight by Maureen Lee Lenker!Next month we're reading Heartless by Marissa Meyer. Join us May 18th at 630 for baked goods and fun discussions. Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org.

This week we cover a topic that has become quite the buzz in the library and bookish community - Artificial Intelligence. That's right - Jackie makes Jen talk about AI. but we'll cleanse your palate first with a classic talk about plagiarism in romancelandia with none other than romance giants, Janet Dailey and Nora Roberts!Books we mentionSweet Revenge by Nora RobertsNotorious by Janet DaileyCait CorrainHouse of Earth and BloodGothikanaHatchetThe Mountain Between Us by Charles Martin (movie adaptation with Kate Winslet/Idris Elba)The Familiar by Leigh BardugoChristine FeehanSources:‘Plagiarism in Romantic Fiction; Nora Roberts and Janet Dailey' (Kincaid, 2019)“Sometimes Love Means You DO Have to Say You're Sorry” (Strittfield, 1997)“The Queen Of Hearts Gives Up Her Throne” (Peyser, 2007)"Definitions" Copyright.gov"Copyright and Plagiarism" (duke.edu)"Plagiarism, then and now" (Roberts, 2019)

It's that time of the month - new books!Books we mention:The Lady He Lost by Fay DelacourRemedial Magic by Melissa MarrNight Shift by Annie CrownThe Partner Plot by Kristina ForestFor Never and Always by Helena GreerRed White and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston

CONTENT WARNING - Language use, please use headphones if in mixed company!Buckle in folks, this is a long one! Thomas and I are so happy to introduce Steven Salvatore, whose debut adult romance has recently been added to their YA catalogue! In this episode we talk about publishing, writing degrees, genderqueer books, and what we want to see in the writing community.Questions/comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org!Make sure to check out Steven's website and follow them on social media!Books/Authors we mention:Can't Take That AwayAnd They LivedNo Perfect PlacesThe Boyfriend SubscriptionLemon at First Sight (coming next year)Realm Breaker series by Victoria AveyardFourth Wing by Rebecca YarrosIce Planet Barbarians by Ruby DixonHunger Games Suzanne CollinsThe Charm Offensive by Alison CochrunRed White and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston Boyfriend Material series by Alexis Hall10 Things that Never Happened by Alexis HallHere We Go Again by Alison CochrunBecky ChambersGideon the Ninth by Tamsyn MuirLibba BrayJohn GreenCoe BoothNicholas DiDomizio Less by Andrew Sean Greer Check out the Ripped Bodice in Brooklyn, and our interview with Leah back in the day! #26 Today's Romance Novels with the Ripped Bodice

Women. Women doing awesome things. Women breaking records. Women testing the limits. Is there anything more inspiring?This month, in honor of Women's History Month and in honor of some AMAZING women athletes, Jackie's got a few romance books that feature women athletes!Oh, and a rabbit hole about one of her favorite niche subjects: The Barkley Marathons."The Barkley Marathons - 100 Mile Run" (Mahoney, 2002)"The Barkley Marathons, the Race that eats its young" (youtube doc)"Where Dreams go To Die: Gary Robbins and the Barkley Marathons" (My favorite youtube doc)"Jasmin Paris first woman to complete gruelling Barkley Marathons race" (Brown, 2024)Courtney DauWalter, 2023 UltraRunner of the Year!Books I mention:The Siren of Sussex by Mimi MatthewsCleat Cute by Meryl WilsnerFangirl Down by Tessa BaileyDone and Dusted by Lyla SageFrom Lukov with Love by Mariana ZapataQuestions/Comments/Concerns/Recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.org!

A ghostwriter...who sees ghosts? And their editor is now a ghost? Yep, sounds about right. Take a peek between the covers with us for our book club's most recent read, The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston!This episode does contain spoilers for the book. BE WARNED! Spoilers start at 03:45Books we mention:Dead Romantics by Ashley PostonSeven Year SlipA Novel Love StoryPartners in Crime by Alisha RaiEmily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather FawcettYou can also join us for our monthly bookclub. More info can be found here: Nopl.org/eventsEmail us at ragingromantics@nopl.org to find out how you can join us virtually!

Hallmark is synonymous with the world of movie romances...but where did they get their start, and when did they become so intrinsically linked with Christmas? Thomas comes back to the podcast to answer all our Hallmark-related questions!Movies we mentionAmahl and the Night Visitors (1978)Christmas Under Wraps (2014)Housekeeper's Revenge (2016)The Psycho She Met Online (2017)Shoe Addict's Christmas (2018)Road to Christmas (2018)Under the Christmas Tree (NOT Hallmark) (2021)Memories of Christmas (2018)Dashing in December (also not Hallmark, sorrz) (2020)My Christmas Guide (2023)Romance in Style (2022)BooksDater's Handbook by Cara LockwoodJill ShalvisDanielle SteeleChristina LaurenPartners in Crime by Alisha RaiThe Right SwipeA Feather So Black by Lyra SeleneOther episodes we mention#79 Krampus

Content Warning: NSFW episode! Please at least wear headphones when listening to this at your desk...Spicy? Smutty? Clean? Romantasy? Alpha? WHAT ARE ALL THESE WORDS? Don't worry, we'll get into it.Questions/Comments/Concerns/Recommendations? Email us at Ragingromantics@nopl.org(Bonus - listen to the postcredits for what a Jen/Jackie conversation sounds like outside of the podcast)Books we mention:Ruby DixonHouse of Flame and Shadow by SJMA Court of Mist and FuryBeverly LewisNora RobertsSorry, Bro by Taleen VoskuniBridgertons by Julia QuinnTamora PierceJennifer Lynn ArmentroutRebecca YarrosJuliet MarillierA Song of Ice and Fire by Georg RR MartinThe Witcher by Andrzej SapkowskiLord of the Rings by TolkienHM LongMarion Zimmer BradleyBride by Ali HazelwoodThe Fake Mate b Lana FergusonBlacktop Wasteland by SA CrosbyWhispers of the Deep by Emma HammThe Mortal Queen of Faerie Smut (VanArendonk, 2024)"Lexington-Richland school board votes to remove fantasy series from district libraries" (Grenier, 2023)Publisher's Marketplace"Hot stuff: why readers fell in love with romance novels" (Darbyshire, 2023)#79 Krampus episode

Diversify your reading!Questions/Comments/concerns/recommendations? Email us at ragingromantics@nopl.orgBooks we recommend:Nicola Yoon, The Sun is Also a Star and Everything, EverythingOne of Our Kind by Nicola YoonThe Scourge Between Stars by Ness BrownWomen who Dare series by Beverly JenkinsAn Extraordinary Union by Alyssa ColeThe Accidental Pinup by Danielle JacksonTalia Hibbert, esp. The Brown SistersHighly Suspicious and Unfairly CuteLore of the Wild by Analeigh Sbrana