The Meet-Cute

Justin and I discuss what's so fun about banter, how to get better at it, and how it's not the same as flirting. 

Justin and I discuss what makes a rom-com wingman (and how to pluralize or feminize the word) and drop a big twist on the whole idea when we start looking at real movie examples.

I had the immense privilege and pleasure of sitting down in September with award-winning contemporary and historical romance author Pepper Basham to pick her brain about writing romance and tricks to nailing the male POV. 

Justin and I finish telling our story of how we met and Justin's perspective on the proposal surprised me, even after 23 years of marriage. 

Justin and I tell the story of our meet-cute and whirlwind romance in the Czech Republic while keeping a tally of all the romance tropes we hit along the way. Actually, Andra keeps a tally and Justin decides to be a referee.Books referenced: Loyally Luke by Pepper Basham

Justin and I have differing perspectives on Sunshine characters. See who you agree with (and vote by emailing me).Mentioned in the podcast: Cole and Laila are Just Friends by Bethany Turner, Black Sheep by Georgette Heyer, Lost, Charlie Brown

Justin and I unpack the grumpy-character side of this popular trope - why readers love reading about cynical or reticent leads, when it works, and even some made-up rules for Grumps.Mentioned in the episode: Romance Storyline Tropes by Tara Ericson and Jessica Barber

Andra and Justin discuss what settings they think promote romance and why...except they don't exactly agree.

Justin and I discuss why we each think the Pride and Prejudice film's hand flex is romantic for some and not for others, and what we each look for in an iconic romantic moment.

Andra gives Justin a pop-quiz while he's away to test his rom-com knowledge.Books and authors mentioned:Georgette HeyerCarola DunnJoan SmithBecca KinzerPepper BashamCindy Steel