Romance Book Review Podcast

Hot Alpha dragon male who has something from his horde stolen by the mysterious heroine, Pia. What is her secret? How long does it take him to track her down and find her? Why does the dark fae want them dead? Find all this out and Heidi's reaction to the book!New format includes:~Author biography~Overview of the book -no spoilers~Heidi's Loves~Heidi's Gripes~What Heidi would have said if she were the Editor~Heidi's ten point scale~Spoiler Section Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

After reading Grace Goodwin's first book in her Interstellar Brides series Assigned a Mate for her last book review podcast, Heidi decided to give Grace Goodwin another chance with this book The First Starfighter. Heidi is a lifelong gamer, and the idea that a sexy videogame character was real and would come to your front door to take you away-uh hello Geralt of Rivia from The Witcher you can take Heidi away anytime-really appealed to her. (The Witcher was a book series made into a video game series before it became the Netflix show and Henry Cavill is a gamer and he played it...drool). The first ten minutes of this podcast, Heidi talks about story narrative using two popular streaming shows out right now as examples - The Squid Game and Only Murders in the Building. This podcast dives a bit deeper into story developmental editing than other podcasts for you writers out there. Come find out if this book got a higher score than Assigned a Mate!Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi discusses the report she received about an author bullying other authors, and the offensive social media post she saw a few days ago. This is a quick, extra podcast this week. Be prepared for some fireworks.Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi talks about Grace Goodwin's Assigned a Mate. It's described as an erotic romance with a lot of spanking and it delivers. But does Heidi like it? This is a hugely popular series with 21(!) books in it but this first book is about heroine, Eva, needing to go undercover into space for protection from the mob while she waits to provide testimony in court. She needs to seem like an actual "bride" in the brides in space program and she's paired with the Hero Tark. Our story goes from there!Heidi does the 10 point rating system and then the spoiler section.Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

If you're interested in reading Omegaverse, Heidi guides you down the knotty path with 5 selections to wet your appetite and help you figure out what you might like. These key five cover the sweeter side, and toe into the darker side so you can see what appeals to you. Heidi thinks these are a great introduction to anyone wanting to start, or wanting to continue, their journey.1. Choosing her Alpha -Isoellen2. The Knotted Book Series - Laxmi Hariharan3. Hired for Heat by Leann Ryan4. The Golden Line by Addison Cain5. Feral Trilogy by Nora AshThen Heidi discusses more books in sweetverse, the gray side of dark, and DARK!Sweetverse:Without dark themes, or an Alpha that gets too Alpha-holeish, these Omegaverse fill that romance need!1. Leann Ryan - The entire Hired series2. Hannah Haze - Author3. Laxmi Hariharan - Fae's Claim Series4.  Milana Jacks - Alpha Breeds Series5. Callie Rhodes - Boundarylands SeriesReverse Harem - Baby and the Late Night Howlers by Kathryn MoonM/M = Feral a M-PREG gay erotic by Lily HaremGray:Getting into the darker side of things with dubious consent, but still finding redemption in the Alpha.1. Isoellen - Her Broken Alpha and Finding her Luck2. Zoey Ellis - A Tainted Claim - the Beholden DuetDARK:Tougher Alphas to like, possibly an Alpha you may never like or who may not get redeemed or change through the course of the book. Trigger material like rape. Possible non consensual sex.  Alphas that aren't as easy to like. Societies that treat omegas in ways that can be tough to handle. 1. Alison Aimes - Ruthless King - A Dark Mafia Omegaverse Fated Mate Romance 2. Merel Pierce - The Sacred Omegas - December Book 13. L.V. Lane4. Addison Cain - Born to be Bound TrilogySupport the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Last year Heidi recorded a podcast to guide you through omegaverse, a subgenre of paranormal romance she'd just discovered. A year later - she's just as excited about it, but realized that she missed discussing a whole heck of a lot, and she knows a lot more about the evolution of this exciting new world.First she's going to discuss what to expect in any omegaverse book you pick up. There's unique sex here so be prepared! (Or intrigued!) No pearl clutching in this podcast. You've been warned! Then, she'll talk about four branches she's broken down and how they differ.1. Male/male omegaverse2. The dark side of omegaverse3. The sweetverse - the sweet side4. Reverse haremThis is Part I of a 2 Part Podcast. In Part 2 she will be the Virgil to your Dante as she gives you a map to help you dive into books to figure out what themes and types of omegaverse you may like.  She'll give you quick snapshots of many different books to wet your appetite and help you choose. If you're already a fan, maybe you'll find some new authors! Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Morning Glory Milking Farm: A Monster Bait Romance (Cambric Creek Sweet and Steam Romance #1) by C.M. Nascosta is a Minotaur hero and human female. Yes, you read that right, it is a ROMANCE with a minotaur hero. And before you stop reading - this book is a delight and it's all over the FB groups because it is surprising everyone with both the sweetness of its romance and the hilarity of "milking" of minotaurs. Come find out more in the podcast.Also mentioned in this podcast - Heidi discusses some other books she has been reading this summer:1. The Lantern Men by Ellie Griffiths and Night Hawks by Ellie Griffiths. This a mystery series with a central romance and Heidi discusses her thoughts.2. Heidi tried to read Book 3 in the Kristen Callihan VIP series Fall (the book after Managed, a book she loved and which has an entire podcast about) and couldn't get past chapter 3. Come find out why. Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi returns to the Omegaverse to discuss two titles:1. The Sacred Omegas Book 1 - December by Merel Pierce2. The Ruthless King A Dark Mafia Omegaverse Romance by Alison AimesShe provides an overview of both books including the dark themes so that readers can decide if these books are for them or not. Both books are popular in the Omegaverse genre. Heidi thinks that the first 25% of the Merel Pierce book has some of the best Alpha/Omega dynamics for new to the genre readers to help explain how they relate to each other and she is excited to share why she feels that way. For those dipping their toe into this genre, or just interested in hearing more about it, come over to the knotty side! (If you read Omegaverse, you'll get this joke. If you don't, listen to the first Omegaverse podcast Heidi did last fall - she explains knotting in this genre). The beginning of the podcast she also briefly discusses why she hasn't started Sally Thorne's new romance, and she also goes over a few key terms of Omegaverse M/F romances (heat and slick) and her personal viewpoints on them. Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi discovered Angela Knight when she read about writing that Angela wrote (referenced below). In her book about writing, Angela used her own work to provide examples about things she was discussing. Heidi loved her paranormal/science fiction romances so much that she purchased them immediately. In Jane's Warlord - Baran Arvid travels backwards in time to save Jane's life and defeat a time jumping serial killer. He has to be with Jane 24/7 as the serial killer is able to jump to her at any moment. Despite how hot he is, he likes her to obey his orders and that's a bit of a tough pill to swallow. Except... in the bedroom. The sex scenes jump off the page, the action is part investigation/part action and is fast moving and intense. One of the best plots Heidi has read in a while. There is a reason this book won a ton of awards in 2004. The science fiction in this book will blow you away with its creativity. At minute 45 Heidi discusses the sexy thesaurus - why it is so difficult to find good words to use for the female anatomy, yet not so hard for male parts. Minute 50, she ends with talking about the Mageverse Book 1 Vampire book which had the first chapter in the back of Jane's Warlord and most likely will be reviewed soon!Also - if you like this book, Angela has werewolf and vampire books! Reviews coming soon!Books mentioned in the podcast:Master of the Moon by Angela Knight - Werewolf/Elf King bookMaster of the Knight by Angela Knight - Vampire/Witch book and Book 1 of the Mageverse seriesPassionate Ink by Angela KnightSupport the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi wants to talk about two books this week she didn't finish - but for two very different reasons. 1. The first book - The Golden Dynasty by Kristen Ashley a fantasy romance was due to two problems. Her frustration that the authors made up fantasy language was never translated, so you never knew what the hero was saying. EVER! (A translator shows up but she isn't there very much!) And the heroine was about as interesting as a dish rag. (Also the author made some interesting choices about the Hero at the start of the book... more on that in the pod.)If you don't want the snark, starting at minute 19 - 2. A Lady of Rooksgrave Manor by Kathryn Moon is a Reverse Harem. Heidi tried this genre, knowing it isn't her thing. This book is really great, but Heidi just can't do RH. She wanted to talk about it anyway because those of you that like RH, might really like this book! This is a positive review, just not Heidi's thing. She fell in love with one of the guys and that was it, it was too hard to read about the heroine with the others. Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

The Duke Undone by Joanna Lowell has a fantastic heroine that drives the novel and keeps you wanting more to see her get her happy ever after. She's a starving artist trying to make her mark in a school that won't let her paint from life. Why can't women in the 1800s have live, naked male models?  It's really stifling her creative process. So when she comes across a naked man in the alley, well, she takes a good look. Heidi definitely would have taken a good look too. For the sake of art of course!Since he's super hot, it gets burned in her brain and she paints him.  Her finest work. And since she needs the money, she has to sell it. As he's a duke (unknown to her), his face is recognized and hijinks ensue from there. Heidi describes her reaction to this fun tale. She loved Lucy, the heroine and the initial beginning of the novel was fun and made her laugh. It didn't quite keep that same tone throughout, although Lucy was a delight and a treasure the entire book.  Come and find out why. The Duke Undone by Joanna LowellHeidi uses a 1-10 system with 10 as the best. Each of the following categories can get a point: characters, romance, plot, climax, pacing, dialogue, world building, mechanics, overall impression, and authorial voice.Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Christine Feehan is well known for her vampire  Carpathian Dark Series, but she also has a Shifter series with the first full book being Wild Rain.  Heidi explores the author and her lush rainforest world. She questions some decisions, discusses the books cover picture of the hero - spoiler alert, may be the worst one she's ever seen, and gives her overall Heidi rating on this 2004 foray into Shifter world. The Ratings:Heidi uses a 1-10 system with 10 as the best. Each of the following categories can get a point: characters, romance, plot, climax, pacing, dialogue, world building, mechanics, overall impression, and authorial voice.Books Mentioned:Dark Prince - Carpathian SeriesSupport the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Rarely does Heidi review two books in the same series back to back but she enjoyed Prisoner (last weeks podcast) so much she moved on to the next book in the series. This series has excellent male POV and this book does not disappoint here!  The Hero is fantastic, full of angst, a real troubled soul who changes and grows in a way that will tug at your heart.Heidi does have issues with the choices made with the Heroine and she describes the book as seeming like two different books. One when you are reading the Hero's POV, and one when you are reading the Heroine's POV.  It makes for a spicy podcast this week!The Ratings:Heidi uses a 1-10 system with 10 as the best. Each of the following categories can get a point: characters, romance, plot, climax, pacing, dialogue, world building, mechanics, overall impression, and authorial voice.Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Yes the captive "prisoner" does make the hero and her "jailor" aroused while performing a heist in a library to steal some blueprints by talking about filing systems. Prisoner is a great read. A captive heroine trope, a revenge trope, it busts out of these genres by being really darn good and really well written.  The hero is really sexy, and Heidi's favorite part is the first ten chapters or so when the heroine is working in the prison getting the prisoners to share their memoirs and there is a lot of chemistry between the heroine and hero and it is all look but no touch.  Come find out why.She discusses that this book does contain a dubious consent scene that in her opinion, doesn't really fit in this book and detracts from the overall surprising and strongly moving romance. This book surprised Heidi. Come find out why, and what rating she gave it.Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi talks about a book from 1984! Exit to Eden by Anne Rice. She starts the podcast talking about Anne Rice and Interview with a Vampire and The Claiming of Sleeping Beauty Trilogy and, unfortunately, a few things in this book that are content offensive and cannot be ignored. She then discusses that this book is in first person point of view and some of her thoughts on first person vs. third person.At the thirty minute mark she summarizes the book and then goes into her review.  This is a pretty long and juicy podcast!  Come join!Books mentioned by Anne Rice/ A.N RoquelaureInterview with a VampireThe Claiming of Sleeping BeautySupport the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Whelp this podcast was quite a ride. Heidi finished the entire review, then realized that this series follows the same hero and heroine (Elena and Raphael) over multiple books! So she added some additional commentary into the podcast for you (and it answered some of her questions too!)This series features a Guild Hunter - Elena, who hunts vampires, and Raphael an Archangel when he hires her for a job. Heidi discusses her initial impressions of this different and immersive world of Singh's, her thoughts on the romance, and what she thinks has to happen to have a satisfactory happy ever after.Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

A nontraditional podcast where Heidi discusses a BDSM light series - the Zandian Masters (8 Book series total and Heidi discusses Books 1, 2, 5, and 6) by Renee Rose and a similar series (alien breeder, fated mate, no BDSM) The Commanders Captive. She does not do the 10 point system for these books as they are all short books and the Zandian series is erotica. She does give her Amazon star rating though and does a character/overall breakdown. It's a fun, if short, dive into the alien/human genre. Heidi has some pro/cons to discuss with you. Books Discussed:Zandian Masters Series by Renee RoseHis Human Slave: An Alien Warrior Romance Book 1His Human Prisoner: An Alien Warrior Romance Book 2His Human Vessel: An Alien Warrior Romance Book 5Her Mate and Master: An Alien Warrior Romance Book 6The Commander's Captive: An Alien Breeder Romance The House of Kaimar Book 1 by Miranda BridgesSupport the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi goes back to her favorite Nora Roberts book Face the Fire, the third book in The Three Sisters Island Trilogy from 1997. Was it as good as she remembered? How does Nora's writing back in 1997 compare to her writing today? (Continuing the analysis from Part 1 in the Nora Podcast series)?  Come find out! Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

In this Part 1 of a 2 Part Nora Roberts Review, Heidi returns to Nora Roberts exploring a recent Paranormal Trilogy - The Guardians Trilogy, reading Book 1 The Stars of Fortune, which came out in 2015. This book takes place in a stunning location, with some pretty cool characters (and one that Heidi hates and she probably takes more time than she ought explaining why) with a fast pace and excellent action. Heidi reviews the book and gives you her thoughts. Nora is a master for a reason.  Heidi once read every book Nora wrote voraciously, then stopped for a long span of time, and she explains why. She was interested in returning to Nora's Paranormal series to see if she could reconnect to the things she loved about Nora.In Part 2 - Heidi is going to explore an old favorite to see if she still loves it. The Ratings:Heidi uses a 1-10 system with 10 as the best. Each of the following categories can get a point: characters, romance, plot, climax, pacing, dialogue, world building, mechanics, overall impression, and authorial voice. She did give one book a 0.Books mentioned in the podcast:The Name of the Wind - by Patrick RothfussThe Dragon Heart Legacy - Books 1 and 2- The Awakening, and The Becoming by Nora RobertsFace the Fire - Book 3 of the Three Sisters Island Trilogy by Nora Roberts (Featured in a future podcast) Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Beverly Jenkins novel Rebel is Book One in the 'Women Who Dare' series, book two just came out in Feb 2021! This book features Valinda Lacey our heroine, and Drake LeVeq an AMAZING hero, in Reconstruction era New Orleans. Beverly Jenkins is a MASTER and you need to come and hear why. One hint, she does what she calls 'edutainment' which she describes as teaching while entertaining. You become immersed in the different cultures of New Orleans in this time period so vividly that you won't realize you are learning, you will just see the Quarter, the electric energy of the city, while watching the two characters fall in love. Drake is an incredible hero... romantic, a bit of a pirate, he speaks with a French accent... not much more needs to be said! Article mentioned in the podcast:https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-14/bridgerton-series-netflix-diversity-in-historical-romance-novels/13116184Heidi discovered the book Through the Storm is Raimond LeVeq's book (she mentioned that she thought he must have his own)Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi reviews Defying Gravity by AM Kusi, a husband and wife duo taking on some tough topics. Come join Heidi as she delves into the complexities of this contemporary romance. Heidi found this to be a heavy read with a central romance with a hero and heroine she enjoyed getting to know. While it is a romance Heidi thought it pushes into fiction as well, and contains topics and content with a lot of value. Heidi felt that this is a book that is well written and has a lot of romance elements that spoke to her, but it does have a lot of elements that will make you think and will sit with you. Come listen to the podcast to find out why. Books mentioned in this podcast:Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man by Emmanuel AchoCaste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel WilkersonSupport the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi didn't have a book ready to do her normal review this week so she decided to talk about a short story she downloaded on Valentine's Day. It's erotica, so this is a non-traditional podcast. Be prepared for a conversation about taking a trip into an alien-human world... ! We are talking about Thirst by Addison Cain. It's 85 pages of Glabrx the alien.Minutes 1-8 - Discusses erotica as a general genreMinute 8.50 - Heidi talks about her journey into discovering this taleMinute 11.25 onward goes into the description of the bookOther book mentioned - Parasite Rex: Inside the Bizarre World of Nature's Most Dangerous Creatures by Carl Zimmer (this is NOT a romance book but a fascinating Non-Fiction book on parasitic creatures). ***Side note trigger that wasn't explicitly described in the podcast - the story Thirst is dubious consent due to the dynamic at the start of the story. Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

This contemporary romance topped the charts of best romances in 2020. Listen to the podcast to find out if Heidi agrees with this assessment and what score she gave it on the 1-10 scale. This sweet romance (kissing only described so rated PG) is between two men, Luc and Oliver, who enter a fake relationship so they both have a date to important events coming up in their lives. As you may expect... the romance starts to not feel so fake. Both men are vibrant and wonderful characters you will fall in love with through the story. The emotional development of the main characters with the hurdles that make them so fearful of love, yet desperate to find it, is incredibly well done. This is an appropriate book to present on Valentine's Day as it was a book that moved Heidi to tears (and she has a heart of stone.)Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi goes over 14 of the 15 books in this great series and gives her Heidi rating for each one. These books vary GREATLY in their steaminess, their plots, and if they are worth reading or not (spoiler - some of them are a SKIP!) The Heidi rating is listed below and each title is also listed below. Heidi gives a brief synopsis of each book, what she liked/didn't like, and it may help you decide which books in the series you want to read as well. (The first book is not discussed as there is an entire podcast dedicated to this book - see elsewhere. Also Book 15 is short stories and is also not discussed).Book 2 - Visions of Heat: Heidi Score 7Book 3 - Caressed by Ice: Heidi Score 9Book 4 - Mine to Possess: Heidi Score - 0Book 5 - Hostage to Pleasure: Heidi Score - 6Book 6 - Branded by Fire: Heidi Score 10**** This book is a must read! STEAMYBook 7 + 8 - Heidi skippedBook 9 - Play of Passion: Heidi Score 6Book 10 - Kiss of Snow: Heidi Score 6 - this book broke Heidi's heart a bit. Justice for Hawke. Book 11 - Tangle of Need: Heidi Score 4Book 12 - Heart of Obsidian: Heidi Score 10.5 **** WOWZERS this book is amazing, depth of character, emotional connection, steam, it all comes to a head in this, the best out of all the books.Book 13 - Shield of Winter: TBDBook 14 - Shards of Hope: TBDSupport the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Love fated mate stories? Love wolf shifters? The Phoenix Pack series comes up as a recommendation whenever someone asks for a good fated mate or wolf shifter story so Heidi checked out Book 1 Feral Sins. This is a "marriage of convenience - or mating of convenience" trope in order to help out both the heroine and hero and is definitely a STEAMY insta-lust book! Heidi provides a deep dive into the book to give you a breakdown on the overall premise so you can see if it will appeal to you. Heidi then gives her opinion of the book and the things she connected with, or that didn't really hit. The end of the podcast (after a musical interlude) starts the "spoiler section" where Heidi gives more details on things she liked/disliked and gets into the sexy times details. The Ratings:Heidi uses a 1-10 system with 10 as the best. Each of the following categories can get a point: characters, romance, plot, climax, pacing, dialogue, world building, mechanics, overall impression, and authorial voice. She did give one book a 0.She also let's you know if it is PG, PG-13, R, or X! WOWZERS!Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Last podcast we broke down the omegaverse and at the very end (57 minute mark) discussed Addison Caine the foremother of the omegaverse and a lawsuit she was involved in, as well as the first book in her breakout series Born to Be Bound. This podcast revisits both of those topics. Heidi dove deeper into the NYT article (not well done and pretty shoddy research), and presents her findings. Despite her adamant stance, Heidi DID read Book 2 in the Born to Be Bound series and she discusses how amazing Addison's writing is. She also read The Golden Line by Addison Caine and discusses that book and what she enjoyed about it. Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi recently learned about the Omegaverse and has dived in. Reading about ten books in this subgenre in the past month, she breaks down what the Omegaverse is (first half hour). She explains the main themes:1. Alpha's, Beta's and Omega's2. Knotting3. The power dynamic4. The bond* This episode has more sex talk than most episodes* You have been warnedBooks mentioned in the podcast:Hired for Heat by Leann Ryan - Omega's are on top in this book with Alpha's being caged and kept away from society. Heidi felt this was the most 'romance-like' out of all the ones she read.Choosing Her Alpha by Isoellen - The first book Heidi read. Another good book to start with. Starts slow and not overly sex heavy. Get a good introduction into Alpha/Omega dynamic. Her Broken Alpha by Isoellen - This book has BDSM elements in it, has much more sex throughout than her other book. Heidi had issues with the BDSM occurring while the heroine was pregnant. Beholden Duet by Zoey Ellis - Not a bad series but Heidi felt there were some plot holes when there is a reveal from the hero at the end about things that he knew all along and his treatment of the Omega when they are together their first nights. It did not feel consistent and either she missed something, or it wasn't resolved properly.The Knotted Book Series by Laxmi Hariharan - Four book series with Zeus as the hero. Good Alpha/Omega dynamic but this series was a bit too long. Didn't need to be this many books. Good full Omegaverse experience.Fae Series by Laxmi Hariharan - Stolen by the Fae - Heidi loved the hero Dante, but thought that the sex moved a little too fast. First encounter a little much for her. Heidi didn't read second book, didn't connect with heroine in book one. Seduced by the Fae - Book 3, packaged as a BDSM book but does not deliver with this. This book fell flat for Heidi and she did not finish it (maybe only a few chapters left.). The Sacred Omega's Book 1 - December - by Merel Pierce - Great writing, great description of how the Alpha/Omega relationship works but this book contains very graphic rape halfway through. The second half of the book is about the trauma of dealing with this encounter. Heidi wished she'd passed or that the book had gone a different direction. She will be looking at other books by this author that hopefully don't have this theme. This is a good author to keep an eye out for.Rite of the Omega - Eva Dresden - Hard pass for Heidi. The heroine was very weak and cried or was afraid the entire book. Difficult to connect with or root for. She had no personality and was completely unlikeable. As the hero is a dark hero, he is unlikeable too. No reason to buy Part 2 in the two part book series for Heidi. Additionally, Heidi had issues with the writing, the prose is heavy handed and bogs the book down. The writer does not do a good enough job of describing where the people are in space, in particular even in sex scenes you are not sure where the person is facing in relation to the other. That is a problem. Born to be Bound - By Addison Cain - The first book in the 4 or 5 Part Shepherd series. Heidi detested this book. At the very end the hero randomly cheats on the heroine. WHAT?! WHY? Alpha's and Omegas are supposed to have very strong bonds so this came out of left field and literally left Heidi feeling like she'd been slapped in the face. She has no desire to read the rest of the series. Also, she didn't like the hero even before this moment, forced pregnancies are pretty repulsive. Addison Cain and Zoey Ellis law suit article: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/23/business/omegaverse-erotica-copyright.htmlSupport the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

This podcast deviates from the normal one book, one review format. Heidi was going to be discussing The Hidden Legacy Series by Ilona Andrews Books 1,2, and 3 with Nevada and Connor over a two part series but she removed the podcasts. Why? As a teaser, it involves a suppression of discussion of the books on the Ilona Andrews fan page including the author themselves. If you listened to Heidi's intro podcast you know that she values discussion of all books and having a critical review and discourse. Romance books should be no different. In some ways, romance books are even tougher because they engage a covenant with the reader. Romance book readers expect things like a happy ever after, a hero to adore, a heroine to be friends with. Heidi always evaluates characters and if they are true to how the author has represented them throughout their entire book/series. As a fan, Heidi has her opinions on when these expectations are not met and she discusses them in this podcast series. Being able to discuss books openly, politely, and with clear points on why we feel the way we do, is incredibly important and makes us all better readers. When this is suppressed, Heidi will not react well. This is Heidi's favorite series and favorite couple so it is disappointing for her not to reveal all of her love for Connor to pod listeners, but for now, the podcasts are being yanked. There is also a random three minute side track in the middle of pod where Heidi talks about Boston and some famous Bostonians like Chris Evans. She talks about the recent Sam Adams commercial. Yes this all makes sense and ties into the podcast. Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/ Follow me on instagram at: @romancebookreviewpodcast Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Holy cats this book is fantastic! Nalini Singh creates a dramatic world in her Psy-Changeling series that starts with this book. This book details the world of the Psy - a race of creatures that have removed emotion from their population for the last hundred years in order to cure the insanity that was causing murder and suicide rates among their numbers. Our heroine, Sascha, is a Psy of the highest strength, a cardinal. Her power has never manifested in any of the typical power lines acceptable for her race. Lucas Hunter, the hero, is a black panther shifter, alpha of the leopard clan DarkRiver. He is working on a construction project with the Psy as an undercover operation to infiltrate them in order to find out what they are hiding. A Psy has been killing changelings and he will find out who. This is a fated mates story. This is an investigation story. This is an urban fantasy/paranormal story. Wowzers! This has world building that will take you away from daily life and a high paced action that will keep you reading late at night. What an incredible hero and heroine! It's got it all PLUS it's got sexual tension that is written so well you will want to read everything Singh has ever written immediately.This book may get an elusive perfect 10!Heidi breaks it all down for you in the podcast and then gives you her ratings.Part I - A spoiler free review of the book to help you discover if you want to read the book.Heidi gives each book a Steaminess Rating using the PG, PG13, and Rated R system.Heidi also ranks each book using her own ranking system.Heidi uses a 1-10 system with 10 as the best. Each of the following categories can get a point: characters, romance, plot, climax, pacing, dialogue, world building, mechanics, overall impression, and authorial voice. She did give one book a 0.Part II - There are mild spoilers about the book as Heidi does a deep dive to explore what she liked or didn't like and give you the details on why. Usually this is also where we discuss the sex. There is a brief music interlude to break up the podcast to let the listener know that going forward to the end of the podcast there are mild spoilers about the book.Listen to the first half of the podcast to find out if you want to read the book... then listen to the full review when you have finished the book to see if your review aligns with Heidi's!Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/Follow me on instagram at: @romancebookreviewpodcastSupport the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Daring the Duke by Sarah MacLean is the third book in the Bareknuckle Bastard trilogy by MacLean. In Heidi's opinion it is by the best of the three (although Heidi did not read Book 2). This trilogy recites the stories of four children all united by a sadist Duke who wanted an heir. Ewan, our hero, is the child that was chosen by the Duke to take the title. The other three, Devil, Whit, and Grace, must flee for their lives and live in the seedy underbelly of London despite Ewan and Grace having loved each other their entire lives. Grace feels Ewan betrayed them. This story is a hate to love and also a story about redemption and misunderstanding over a very tragic past and truly horrible circumstances. For a historical romance we have women in the drivers seat which is a nice change. Heidi very much enjoyed this. Heidi also loved Ewan. She's a sucker for men that want to be worthy of their women. Heidi couldn't put this book down and couldn't wait for the HEA. Join her to learn about this story and see if it is a book you may enjoy too.Part I - A spoiler free review of the book to help you discover if you want to read the book. Heidi gives each book a Steaminess Rating using the PG, PG13, and Rated R system. Heidi also ranks each book using her own ranking system. Heidi uses a 1-10 system with 10 as the best. Each of the following categories can get a point: characters, romance, plot, climax, pacing, dialogue, world building, mechanics, overall impression, and authorial voice. She did give one book a 0. Part II - There are mild spoilers about the book as Heidi does a deep dive to explore what she liked or didn't like and give you the details on why. Usually this is also where we discuss the sex. There is a brief music interlude to break up the podcast to let the listener know that going forward to the end of the podcast there are mild spoilers about the book. Listen to the first half of the podcast to find out if you want to read the book... then listen to the full review when you have finished the book to see if your review aligns with Heidi's! Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/ Follow me on instagram at: @romancebookreviewpodcastSupport the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi wanted to continue exploring Kathryn Le Veque's books and chose this book that was a USA Today bestseller, RONE finalist for 2018, Book Excellence Award Winner for Romance 2018, and Kindle Book Review Finalist for 2018. Le Veque is a master at medieval romance and Heidi is enjoying joining her in the medieval time period, even if she is wondering just how smelly these people are. This book joins Gaetan, the hero, who is the WarWolfe of the Norman army as they are conquering the Anglo Saxons in England. He leads a team of ten Knights in an elite squad that decimates its enemies. Our heroine Ghislaine is on the Anglo Saxon side and she decides to help Gaetan rescue one of his fallen nights from her sadistic brother. Heidi didn't enjoy this book as much as Highland Gladiator. She again found some problematic themes with the hero that she had trouble surpassing in order to root for him and the heroine as a couple in the end. She wasn't crazy about the heroine either and found some inconsistencies in her character. The romance aside, you will want to read this book for the plot and the action alone! Heidi stayed up all night to find out what happened. One of Heidi's main criteria for romance books is that they need to be great books and have great writing - and these books have that! Come and listen to the podcast and see if you agree.Part I - A spoiler free review of the book to help you discover if you want to read the book.Heidi gives each book a Steaminess Rating using the PG, PG13, and Rated R system.Heidi also ranks each book using her own ranking system. Heidi uses a 1-10 system with 10 as the best. Each of the following categories can get a point: characters, romance, plot, climax, pacing, dialogue, world building, mechanics, overall impression, and authorial voice. She did give one book a 0. Part II - There are mild spoilers about the book as Heidi does a deep dive to explore what she liked or didn't like and give you the details on why. There is a brief music interlude to break up the podcast to let the listener know that going forward to the end of the podcast there are mild spoilers about the book. Listen to the first half of the podcast to find out if you want to read the book... then listen to the full review when you have finished the book to see if your review aligns with Heidi's!Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

In the mystery debut novel The Mountains Wild by Sarah Stewart Taylor Heidi shares that she felt the romance story in this book was superior to the mystery story. The romance moved her emotionally in ways her desiccated heart rarely allows. This book is told in flashbacks. Twenty years ago Maggie's cousin goes missing in Ireland. While there, Maggie meets Connor and they fall in love. They are torn apart and are not able to reconcile when they both think the worst of each other. Maggie never gets over him. Twenty years later, Maggie's cousin has never been found and when some of her cousins clothing is found she is back in Ireland and back near Connor. The flashbacks dole out their story line in small sips which was infuriating because Heidi wanted to know as much as possible as quickly as she could because she loved them. It is well done. Heidi believes this author should switch to romance because she did a good job twisting Heidi's heart. Heidi loved the romance more than the murder story. If you enjoy mysteries, Heidi wanted to share this mini podcast about this book in case you may be captivated by this book too. Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

This podcast is the first of two books that Heidi is reviewing by this author. Kathryn Le Veque is the Queen of medieval romance and in this tale she provides a love between rival clans that can barely get off the ground when the hero's village is burned to the ground. To get his revenge against the heroine's clan he goes off to learn how to fight gladiator style. The action scenes in the ring are heart pounding. What really charmed Heidi though, was that the hero, Lor, was a gentle giant. He was a big, Viking looking man, but he didn't want to learn how to fight. He just wanted to be a blacksmith. He was gentle and kind. He was a hero Heidi really loved and rooted for. Isabail, the heroine, is feisty, if a bit one dimensional. This story is really Lor's and Heidi loved following his story as he goes to the elite, secret, Ludus Caledonia fighting school. Heidi really enjoyed the romance threaded through this story and was surprised to find how sweet and charming the romance was. Lor really put a sparkle in her eye. Part I - A spoiler free review of the book to help you discover if you want to read the book.It includes the Steaminess Rating using the PG, PG13, and Rated R system.It also includes Heidi's ranking system. Heidi uses a 1-10 system with 10 as the best. Each of the following categories can get a point: characters, romance, plot, climax, pacing, dialogue, world building, mechanics, overall impression, and authorial voice. She did give one book a 0. Part II - There are mild spoilers about the book as Heidi does a deep dive to explore what she liked or didn't like and give you the details on why. There is a brief music interlude to break up the podcast to let the listener know that going forward to the end of the podcast there are mild spoilers about the book. Listen to the first half of the podcast to find out if you want to read the book... then listen to the full review when you have finished the book to see if your review aligns with Heidi's!Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi reviews a paranormal romance series Lords of the Underworld by Gena Showalter. She specifically read two books in this series for the podcast, Book 8 The Darkest Surrender, and Book 13 The Darkest Promise but she discusses the overarching elements of this series.Heidi also discusses how she does her ranking system of 1-10. Part I - A spoiler free review of the book to help you discover if you want to read the book or not with Heidi's ranking of 1-10, and the steaminess rating.Part II - There are mild spoilers about the book as Heidi does a deep dive to explore what she liked or didn't like and give you the details on why. There is a brief music interlude to break up the podcast to let the listener know that going forward to the end of the podcast there are mild spoilers about the book. There is only a small spoiler section on one particular topic in this episode.Listen to the first half of the podcast to find out if you want to read the book... then listen to the full review when you have finished the book to see if your review aligns with Heidi's!Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi reviews the contemporary romance Managed by Kristen Callihan. This book is the second in the VIP series by the author. Heidi has found a new favorite author and will be reading her other series and the other books in the VIP series. The hero Gabriel has kept himself as an outsider, even among his very close friends. Our bubbly heroine Sophie is his opposite in many ways and yet the two of them develop an instant attraction. When Sophie gets a job working with the band that Gabriel manages, it just gets more and more delightful from there. Heidi loved this couple and really enjoyed spending time with them in this book.Come and join Heidi to get to know a little bit about our hero and heroine and see if you might enjoy this book too!No spoilers in this episode!Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/Follow me on instagram at: @romancebookreviewpodcastSupport the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi reviews the contemporary romance On Dublin Street. This is her second novel with this author and Heidi finds her novels fun and fast paced and they focus on the present day chemistry between the hero and heroine with not a ton of plot other than these two getting together. This is a great beach or plane book that will have keep you turning the page to get to the end. Come and join Heidi to get to know a little bit about our hero and heroine and see if you might enjoy this book too!No spoilers in this episode! Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/Follow me on instagram at: @romancebookreviewpodcastSupport the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

This lush and intense fantasy romance features Yvenne, an intelligent and courageous heroine that Heidi really rooted for and wanted a happy ending for. However, this romance also features Marrek, the "hero". The uneasy truce that has settled on the land is on pins and needles as the death of the King and Queen of Parsathe, and Marrek's parents, starts this tale. If you enjoy Barbarian swashbuckling romances, this may be your kind of book.Heidi was really conflicted on his book. It brought forth a lot of negative emotions around having such a superior heroine in a subordinate role. This podcast is a bit longer because Heidi takes some time to reflect (minute 14ish) that she really does not enjoy reading romance books where the romantic partners are not equals. She found the authors world building incredibly impressive but the romance between the hero and the heroine was very disappointing. Come and find out why and see if you agree with her. Each podcast is broken into two sections, separated by a music interlude to let you know when Part II - with mild spoilers has started.Spoilers start at minute: 30.00 Part I - A spoiler free review of the book to help you discover if you want to read the book or not with Heidi's ranking of 1-10, and the steaminess rating. Part II - There are mild spoilers about the book as Heidi does a deep dive to explore what she liked or didn't like and give you the details on why. There is a brief music interlude to break up the podcast to let the listener know when the spoilers start. Listen to the first half of the podcast to find out if you want to read the book... then listen to the full review when you have finished the book to see if your review aligns with Heidi's! Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/Follow me on instagram at: @romancebookreviewpodcastSupport the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

The Rakess is a refreshing historical romance that pushes the boundaries for the categories that women are meant to be in during this time period. Seraphina Arden, our heroine, takes what she wants and fights for women’s rights for education and equal treatment. She is strong, she is not without her flaws, and she is relatable. Our hero, Adam Anderson, is understandably bowled over. Heidi has a lot that she really enjoys about this book and wants to share, but has some really strong thoughts and discussion about the sex scenes. There is some frank discussion on the use of language and some of the sex acts that occur in this book (explicit content for sure). There is a reason why this podcast is one of the longest so far! Come and see what the buzz is all about regarding this book and what Heidi gave it as a rating.Each podcast is broken into two sections, separated by a music interlude to let you know when Part II - with mild spoilers has started.Spoilers start at minute: 30.00 Part I - A spoiler free review of the book to help you discover if you want to read the book or not with Heidi's ranking of 1-10, and the steaminess rating. Part II - There are mild spoilers about the book as Heidi does a deep dive to explore what she liked or didn't like and give you the details on why. There is a brief music interlude to break up the podcast to let the listener know when the spoilers start. Listen to the first half of the podcast to find out if you want to read the book... then listen to the full review when you have finished the book to see if your review aligns with Heidi's! Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/ Follow me on instagram at: @romancebookreviewpodcastSupport the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi reviews a paranormal romance Rhapsodic The Bargainer Book 1 by Laura Thalassa. Heidi explores this author (her first time reading her) and explains what she liked and didn't like about this book. This book involves a romance between a Fae King and a Siren! Come and check it out if you are a paranormal romance reader!Each podcast is broken into two sections, separated by a music interlude to let you know when Part II - with mild spoilers has started.Part I - A spoiler free review of the book to help you discover if you want to read the book or not with Heidi's ranking of 1-10, and the steaminess rating.Part II - There are mild spoilers about the book as Heidi does a deep dive to explore what she liked or didn't like and give you the details on why. There is a brief music interlude to break up the podcast to let the listener know that going forward to the end of the podcast there are mild spoilers about the book.Listen to the first half of the podcast to find out if you want to read the book... then listen to the full review when you have finished the book to see if your review aligns with Heidi's!Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi reads the first in the Vampire series Deep in Your Veins by Suzanne Wright titled Here Be Sexist Vampires. Even if you don't like paranormal romances, come listen to Heidi skewer the hero in this podcast for his misogynistic ways. This book has one of the best heroines that Heidi has read in awhile, she is strong, sure of herself, and takes no prisoners. If you like contemporary romances with a military bent, this romance may appeal to you if you can get over the military folks enjoying a bit of blood. Listen and find out what Heidi rated this book and if you may want to read this book too!This podcast does not have a spoiler section as Heidi didn't need to do the deep dive this week!Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/Find Heidi on instagram: @romancebookreviewpodcastSupport the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Wow this was a tough book to review. Heidi knows she read this book back 20 years ago, and while maybe she didn't love it, she didn't hate it with the flames of eternal fire she does today. This book was written in the late 70's early 80's and released in 1985. It has not aged well. Come and find out why this book scores really low on the Heidi scale. Like REALLY low.This entire podcast contains spoilers due to Heidi's hatred of the book. This podcast also contains sensitive material as this book contains sensitive material.Join us on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/Join us on instagram: @romancebookreviewpodcastSupport the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

This week Heidi reviews one of her favorite books from the past year - The Hating Game by Sally Thorne. Does this book get the elusive PERFECT TEN on the Heidi rating scale? The Hating Game is a contemporary romance with two fantastic characters, a great workplace setting, and a witty, effervescent, style. It is a hate to love romance which Heidi is really into right now. Come and see if this is a book you may love too!Each podcast is broken into two sections, separated by a music interlude to let you know when Part II - with mild spoilers has started.Part I - A spoiler free review of the book to help you discover if you want to read the book or not with Heidi's ranking of 1-10, and the steaminess rating.Part II - There are mild spoilers about the book as Heidi does a deep dive to explore what she liked or didn't like and give you the details on why. There is a brief music interlude to break up the podcast to let the listener know that from minute 17.45 to the end of the podcast there are mild spoilers about the book.Listen to the first half of the podcast to find out if you want to read the book... then listen to the full review when you have finished the book to see if your review aligns with Heidi's!Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/Follow me on instagram at: @romancebookreviewpodcastSupport the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi reviews a new spin off from Paige Tyler off of her popular SWAT Special Wolf Alpha Team paranormal series about Werewolves. This is a Military adventure paranormal romance and the start of a new STAT series (Special Threat Operations Team). Heidi explores this author (her first time reading her) and explains what she liked and didn't like about this book.Each podcast is broken into two sections, separated by a music interlude to let you know when Part II - with mild spoilers has started.Part I - A spoiler free review of the book to help you discover if you want to read the book or not with Heidi's ranking of 1-10, and the steaminess rating. Part II - There are mild spoilers about the book as Heidi does a deep dive to explore what she liked or didn't like and give you the details on why. There is a brief music interlude to break up the podcast to let the listener know that from minute 17.45 to the end of the podcast there are mild spoilers about the book.Listen to the first half of the podcast to find out if you want to read the book... then listen to the full review when you have finished the book to see if your review aligns with Heidi's!Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

In this bonus episode Heidi deviates from her book reviews to discuss why she stopped reading JR Ward after reading her 12th book in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series.  Heidi has some strong opinions on how she went from love to hate with this series.  Heidi mentions before a comment that there will be a slight spoiler mentioned but otherwise this podcast does not have spoilers.   Join the conversation at https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi read this book a month ago when it came out, and she wasn't initially going to do a podcast about it. She discusses whether this really is a "romance". But due to some recent podcasts about this book, Heidi felt she would do a bonus episode discussing her thoughts. Each podcast is broken into two sections, separated by a music interlude to let you know when Part II - with mild spoilers has started.Part I - A spoiler free review of the book to help you discover if you want to read the book or not with Heidi's ranking of 1-10, and the steaminess rating. Part II - There are mild spoilers about the book as Heidi does a deep dive to explore what she liked or didn't like and give you the details on why. There is a brief music interlude to break up the podcast to let the listener know that from minute 19.55 to the end of the podcast there are mild spoilers about the book.Listen to the first half of the podcast to find out if you want to read the book... then listen to the full review when you have finished the book to see if your review aligns with Heidi's!Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi reviews a new book from a new author! The book is touted as Bridget Jones Diary meets Crazy Rich Asians - does Heidi think so? Heidi also discusses why she was late to drop this podcast - her original book selected for review The One Who Stays by Toni Blake, just wasn't her cup of tea and she couldn't finish it. She tells you why in minutes 0.45-4.40. Then onto The Last Tang Standing.Each podcast is broken into two sections, separated by a music interlude to let you know when Part II - with mild spoilers has started.Part I - A spoiler free review of the book to help you discover if you want to read the book or not with Heidi's ranking of 1-10, and the steaminess rating. Part II - There are mild spoilers about the book as Heidi does a deep dive to explore what she liked or didn't like and give you the details on why. There is a brief music interlude to break up the podcast to let the listener know that from minute 27.45 to the end of the podcast there are mild spoilers about the book.Listen to the first half of the podcast to find out if you want to read the book... then listen to the full review when you have finished the book to see if your review aligns with Heidi's!Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi reviews this New York Times Bestseller from 1989! Does it stand the test of time? Is this book still good after 30 years? Come and find out!Each podcast is broken into two sections, separated by a music interlude to let you know when Part II - The Pivot Point has started.Part I - A spoiler free review of the book to help you discover if you want to read the book or not.Part II - There are mild spoilers about the book as Heidi does a deep dive to explore what she liked or didn't like and give you the details on why. There is a brief music interlude to break up the podcast to let the listener know that from minute 17 to the end of the podcast there are mild spoilers about the book.Listen to the first half of the podcast to find out if you want to read the book... then listen to the full review when you have finished the book to see if your review aligns with Heidi's!Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

Heidi gives an overview of the book Fumbled by Alexa Martin, the second book the Playbook Series by Alexa Martin.Each podcast is broken into two sections, separated by a music interlude to let you know when Part II - The Pivot Point has started.Part I - A spoiler free review of the book to help you discover if you want to read the book or not.Part II - There are mild spoilers about the book as Heidi does a deep dive to explore what she liked or didn't like and give you the details on why. There is a brief music interlude to break up the podcast to let the listener know that from minute 14 to the end of the podcast there are mild spoilers about the book.Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)

This introductory podcast gives you information on the podcast host, Heidi, as well as an introduction into what the podcast is going to be about. If you love romance books - this is the place to be!Heidi will be reviewing and rating a different romance novel each podcast. In this introductory podcast Heidi describes the different kinds of romance novels (just a few of the many genres), what a romance novel actually is, and how the podcast is going to analyze the books and give you information to decide if you want to read it for yourself. Heidi also touches upon diversity in romance books and types of romantic relationships and exploring how to share these in the podcast as well. Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/637531733526838/Support the show (https://paypal.me/romancebookreviewpod)