Shows
Romance Read AlongThe Gay Icon Classics of the World-Robert Joseph GreenSummary
In this conversation, author Robert Joseph Green discusses his book, The Gay Icon Classics of the World, exploring themes of love, emotional availability, and the role of gay romance in literature. The dialogue delves into the emotional impact of storytelling, the differences in writing styles between genders, and the importance of character development. Green emphasizes that love is an action rather than just an emotion and discusses the complexities of relationships, including the challenges of emotional availability. The conversation also touches on the evolution of romance characters and the cultural narratives surrounding gay literature, ultimately highlighting...2025-07-151h 07Romance Read AlongA Reputation Reclaimed by Demri HessSummary
In this engaging conversation, Toni and Demri delve into the world of romance literature, discussing their personal reading journeys, influential authors, and the tropes that shape the genre. They explore character development, the balance of internal and external conflict, and the importance of dialogue in romance. The discussion also touches on reader expectations, the evolution of romance writing, and the significance of emotional storytelling. Demri shares insights about her own writing journey, including her debut novel, 'A Reputation Reclaimed,' and the challenges and joys of creating authentic characters and narratives.
As a...2025-06-231h 13Romance Read AlongVera Valentine's Unhinged (feat Ronnie Pascale)Summary
In this engaging conversation, Toni and comedian Ronny Pascale delve into the quirky and absurd world of Vera Valentine's romance novel 'Unhinged'. They explore the unique characters, the humor embedded in the narrative, and the broader themes present in romance literature. The discussion also touches on nostalgia for childhood cartoons, travel experiences, and the intersection of superhero media with romance. Through their light-hearted banter, they highlight the charm and creativity found in unconventional storytelling. In this engaging conversation, Ronny and Toni explore the whimsical idea of anthropomorphizing inanimate objects, leading to a humorous discussion about sentient...2025-06-171h 12Romance Read AlongWhat the Woods Took by Courtney Gould (feat Seelie)Summary
In this episode, Toni and Seelie discuss 'What the Woods Took' by Courtney Gould, exploring its themes of identity, trauma, and the dynamics of relationships among characters. They delve into the expectations versus reality of the narrative, the role of horror in character development, and the constraints of YA fiction that often lead to convoluted plots. The discussion highlights the emotional intelligence of the characters and the unique bonds they form in a chaotic environment, ultimately raising questions about the nature of identity and the impact of trauma on personal growth. In this conversation, Toni and...2025-05-261h 32Romance Read AlongSo Many Spoilers for Sandra Brown's EnvySummary
In this episode of Romance Read Along, the hosts delve into Sandra Brown's novel 'Envy', exploring its intricate structure, character dynamics, and the balance of romance and suspense. They discuss the expectations readers have from the romance genre, the portrayal of disability, and the emotional depth of characters. The conversation highlights the diverse perspectives within romance literature and concludes with recommendations for further reading.
Corrections: 18% of Romance Readers are Men
I said it was Mao I thought it was Sun Tzu but it was actually Helmuth Karl Bernhard Graf von M...2025-04-211h 12Romance Read AlongThe Saturnalia Queen by Paloma BlueIn this engaging conversation, author Paloma Blue and I discusses her new novel The Saturnalia Queen inspired by the film Gladiator, exploring themes of historical romance, character dynamics, and the balance between fact and fiction. The dialogue delves into the complexities of genre classification, the moral ambiguity of characters, and the role of tragedy in literature, all while maintaining a light-hearted and insightful tone. We delve into the intricacies of character development versus world building in literature, particularly in the context of dark romance. Then discuss the balance between action and internal conflict, the varying preferences of readers, and t...2025-04-082h 11Romance Read AlongMake Me Free by Jaye PoolDiscussion with Author Jaye Pool
As always I'd love to hear from you romancereadalong@gmail.com
@chemangel.bsky.social
Many thanks to Jacob the horse for allowing us to sample their amazing song Sunshine for our theme music. You can get Jacob the Horse's music at BandCamp. com
2025-03-171h 51Romance Read AlongMagic Bites by Ilona AndrewsToday on Romance read along we Talk with Abby from the Keeping the Bones Podcast.
We discuss 'Magic Bites' by Iona Andrews, exploring its themes, character dynamics, and the nuances of romance in fantasy literature. They delve into the challenges of podcasting, the intricacies of editing, and the expectations of romance novels, providing insights into both the book and the podcasting process. This conversation delves into the complexities of character development in romance and urban fantasy novels, exploring themes of superficiality, emotional engagement, and the impact of narration styles. The speakers analyze various retellings of classic stories...2025-03-042h 14Romance Read AlongWhat I've been reading this weekIn this episode of Romance Read Along, Toni discusses her recent reading experiences, focusing on three books: 'The Snow Queen' by Elizabeth Gannon, 'Travels with a Fairy Tale Monster', and 'A Goddess Unraveled' by Morgan Ryder. She shares her thoughts on the characters, themes, and writing styles of these works, providing insights into her preferences and biases in romance literature. Toni invites listeners to engage with her about their own reading experiences and thoughts on the discussed books.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Romance Read Along
02:47 Exploring 'The Snow Queen' by Elizabeth Gannon
07:32 Thoughts on...2025-02-2418 minRomance Read AlongFrisco's Kid by Suzanne BrockmannIn this episode of Romance Read Along, Toni discusses the book 'Frisco's Kid' from the Tall, Dark and Dangerous series by Suzanne Brockmann. She shares personal insights about the characters, particularly Frisco and Mia, and explores themes of personal growth, emotional struggles, and the impact of alcoholism. Toni emphasizes the importance of asking for help and the journey of self-acceptance that Frisco undergoes throughout the story. The episode concludes with recommendations for other books, including 'Devil's Angel' by Margaret Bernard.
As always I'd love to hear from you romancereadalong@gmail.com
@chemangel.bsky.so...2025-02-1026 minRomance Read AlongForever Blue By Suzanne BrockmannToday on Romance Read Along Toni discusses 'Forever Blue,' the second book in Suzanne Brockman's 'Tall, Dark, and Dangerous' series. The conversation covers the book's main themes, character dynamics, and plot elements, including a murder mystery intertwined with a romance between Lucy, a police officer, and Blue, a Navy SEAL.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Forever Blue
03:10 Plot Overview and Character Dynamics
06:35 Themes of Friendship and Love
09:58 Mystery Elements and Storytelling Style
11:39 Critical Reception and Reviews
26:09 And that has been your happy ending
26:16 Outro Music
A...2025-01-2726 minRomance Read AlongWe Discuss Lizzie Lazurus and Die Hard with Aviv RubensteinHello and Welcome to Romance Read Along! Today we discuss the commonalities and differences between romances and horror.
Keywords
Aviv Rubenstein, Lizzie Lazarus, romance novels, horror movies, vampire lore, storytelling, wildfires, Los Angeles, female protagonists, genre exploration, literary themes, character identification, romantic tropes, humor in romance, historical context, storytelling, filmmaking, plot twists, character dynamics, emotional responsibility, filmmaking, Die Hard, romance tropes, Lizzie Lazarus, relationships, movie adaptation, storytelling, psychological themes
Summary
In this engaging conversation, host Toni speaks with Aviv Rubenstein, the creator of the movie 'Lizzie Lazarus...2025-01-202h 38Romance Read AlongPrince Joe by Suzanne BrockmannHello and Welcome to Romance Read Along! Today we talk about Suzanne Brockmann's Prince Joe.
Keywords
Suzanne Brockman, Tall Dark and Dangerous, romance, Navy SEAL, character development, love story, action-adventure, book review, series, impersonation
Summary
In this episode, Toni discusses Suzanne Brockman's 'Tall, Dark, and Dangerous' series, focusing on the first book, 'Prince Joe.' The conversation explores the character dynamics, the challenges of impersonation, and the themes of love and duty intertwined with action and adventure. Toni highlights the author's unique style and emotional depth, recommending the series for its e...2025-01-1320 minRomance Read AlongRuby Dixon's Worse Guy Ch19-24Keywords
Ruby Dixon, Worst Guy, romance, relationship, clones, love, sacrifice, character development, emotional journey, fantasy
Summary
In this episode of Romance Read Along, Toni discusses the conclusion of Ruby Dixon's 'Worst Guy,' focusing on the emotional journey of the characters Victor and B. The conversation explores themes of love, sacrifice, and personal growth as Victor navigates his relationship with B amidst challenges and misunderstandings. The episode highlights key moments of tension, resolution, and the ultimate celebration of their love, culminating in a heartwarming conclusion that ties together the fantastical elements of the...2025-01-0624 minRomance Read AlongThe Alien Nanny for Christmas by Amanda MiloIn this episode of Romance Read Along we dive into the whimsical and endearing world of "The Alien Nanny for Christmas" by Amanda Milo. This delightful episode explores the charming antics of a dragon-like alien, Mitteeku, who finds himself in suburbia after Amanda Milo's Stolen by the Alien series aliens visit Earth.
When Gwen, a single mother struggling to balance work and family life, encounters Mitteeku, her holiday season takes an unexpected turn. Follow along as Mitteeku uses his gentle nature and unique skills to help Gwen with her daily challenges, from babysitting her children to fixing...2024-12-1752 minRomance Read AlongMandy's Galactic Adventure: Art, Aliens, and Unexpected RomanceIn this episode of Romance Read-Along, we try something new. I use a new program to record this episode tell me what you think!
In this episode we dive into the whimsical world of B.B. Harper's Mandy and Tentacle Monster, a delightful alien romance available on Kindle Unlimited. Follow Mandy, our human heroine, as she's abducted and sold to good-natured aliens, only to transform her perceived captivity into an adventure filled with interstellar art, unexpected friendship, and heartwarming love.
The story unfolds with Mandy acclimating to life aboard a spaceship with octopus-like aliens named...2024-12-0913 minRomance Read AlongIf Music be the food of Love with Lenny Cavallaro(Trigger Warning the episode)Welcome to Romance Read-Along, where we delve into the intriguing realms of romantic fiction. In this episode, join us as we explore the complex and multifaceted novel "If Music Be the Food of Love" by Lenny Cavallaro. Dive into a world where dark eroticism intertwines with historical elements and paranormal spirituality, as we discuss the journey of Elena and Giovanni under the shadow of an ancient curse.
Discover how love, pain, and spiritual growth are intricately woven into a narrative that defies conventional romance genres. Listen as we navigate through the storytelling techniques, character perspectives, and themes...2024-12-021h 11Romance Read AlongRadiant Words of Power by Jordan Willis BrightAuthor Jordan Willis Bright and I discuss books including their debut novel Radiant Words of Power. The importance of representation and the importance of writing with respect.
The new mics seem to be working better, I am greatly relieved.
As always I'd love to hear from you romancereadalong@gmail.com
Many thanks to Jacob the horse for allowing us to sample their amazing song Sunshine for our theme music. You can get Jacob the Horse's music at BandCamp. com
2024-11-181h 24Romance Read AlongSam Ledel Daughter of No OneAuthor Sam Ledel and I discuss her novel Daughter of No One. The importance of familial relationships and how the distance created by fiction allows us to process emotional issues.
We also briefly discuss Ruby Dixon's When she's Shy.
I apologize for the audio we are trying out new mics and the quality is not what I hoped for.
As always I'd love to hear from you romancereadalong@gmail.com
Many thanks to Jacob the horse for allowing us to sample their amazing song...2024-11-1154 minRomance Read AlongWorse Guy Ch13-18Enjoy the second installment of my guest spot on the Functionally Literate podcast. As Host Ryan and I discuss chapters 13 through 18 of Ruby Dixon's "Worst Guy". As we continue to explore the intriguing dynamics between Bea and Victor, our protagonists navigate complex emotions and personal growth.
Bea and Victor move to the country as Bea continues to give Victor lessons in being a person. Their relationship becomes more personal as their bond continues to grow.
As always I'd love to hear from you romancereadalong@gmail.com
Many thanks to Jac...2024-11-111h 42Romance Read AlongRuby Dixon's 'Worst Guy' Ch 7-12: with The Functionally Literate podcastEnjoy the second installment of my guest spot on the Functionally Literate podcast. As Host Ryan and I discuss chapters 7 through 12 of Ruby Dixon's "Worst Guy". As we continue to explore the intriguing dynamics between Bea and Victor, our protagonists navigate complex emotions and personal growth.
We begin with Bea's internal struggle as she juggles feelings for Victor, a clone with a dark past, and her deteriorating relationship with Riffin. Victor's journey from a life of violence to learning basic life skills under Bea's guidance takes a surprising turn when his shock collar malfunctions, leading to a...2024-11-0453 minRomance Read AlongWorse Guy by Ruby Dixon Ch 1-6 My guest appearance on the Functionally Literate PodcastWelcome to this episode of Romance Read Along, where we delve into the sci-fi romance novel "Worst Guy" by Ruby Dixon. This is the first of four episodes in collaboration with the Functionally Literate podcast, where Ryan and Toni join forces to discuss the intricacies of this captivating story.
In this episode, we cover chapters one through six, introducing the enigmatic world created by Ruby Dixon, a pseudonym for an unknown bestselling author. We explore the complexities of the characters, including Bea, a human navigating life on an alien planet, and Crulden, a clone with a mysterious...2024-10-281h 39Romance Read AlongComing Home by Ellie PeatWelcome to Romance Read-Along, where today we dive into the world of Ellie Peat's novel, "Coming Home". Join us as we chat with Ellie about the charm of low-stakes romance, the inspiration behind her characters, and the art of crafting a heartfelt story that resonates with everyday life.
In this episode, we explore the beauty of simplicity in storytelling, where real-life drama replaces high-stakes angst. Ellie shares anecdotes from her own experiences, revealing how personal stories influence her writing process, and how she balances humor and emotion to create relatable characters.
Discover how Ellie meticulously...2024-10-211h 54Romance Read AlongWho wants to marry a Cowboy? by Abigail SharpeIn this episode of Romance Read-Along, we welcome author Abigail Sharp to discuss her debut novel, Who Wants to Marry a Cowboy? Abigail shares her experience of reclaiming the rights to her first book, updating it, and the journey of self-publishing. She reflects on the joy of revisiting her work and the changes she made over the years.
The conversation delves into the evolution of romance novels, touching on the importance of character development and emotional engagement. Abigail and Toni explore the dynamics of grumpy heroes and the charm of cowboys, while also sharing their love for...2024-10-1540 minRomance Read AlongBonus Episode The Bernstain Bears and the Missing Dinosaur BoneClassic children's book read by my adorable niece!
2024-10-1404 minRomance Read AlongGambling with Common Sense Featuring Author Laughing BriarToday author Laughing Briar and I discuss her new book Gambling on Common Sense and compare it to other scifi romances including Amanda Milo's Contagion.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/48567611-contagion
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/218659630-gambling-on-common-sense
https://laughingbriarbooks.com/
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/laughingbriar/gambling-on-common-sense-novel-by-l-briarhttps://youtu.be/z170jz1HABA
As always I'd love to hear from you romancereadalong@gmail.com
Many thanks to Jacob the horse for allowing us to sample their amazing song Sunshine for our...2024-10-071h 23Romance Read AlongMy favorite Neurodiversity in RomanceIn this episode I gush about my favorite neurodiverse authors and main characters.
The Kissing Quotient by Helen Hoang (It was fine but its only listed first because it has had the most critical acclaim)
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36199084-the-kiss-quotient
The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie by Jennifer Ashley
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5981872-the-madness-of-lord-ian-mackenzie
The Wedding Night Before Christmas by Kati Wilde
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43974752-the-wedding-night-before-christmas
Jonas by Jenna Myles
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/65649920...2024-09-3028 minRomance Read AlongSuzanne Brockmann's Force of Nature & Shelly Laurenston's Hunting SeasonSarah and I recommend books from our favorite series and find out we have very different tastes.
Sarah reads Suzanne Brockmann's Force of Nature and has questions about the FMCs physical description and concerns about her MMCs suitability as a partner.
Toni read Shelly Laurenston's Hunting Season and has concerns about all the murder. Not to mention the pressure on the FMC to be with the MMC.
Thanks again to Jacob the Horse for the use of their song Sunshine.
https://jacobthehorse.bandcamp.com/track/sunshine-2
And re...2024-09-231h 23Romance Read AlongUnhinged by Vera ValentineUnhinged by Vera Valentine lives up to its reputation.
https://www.reddit.com/r/RomanceBooks/s/J4tBvMCcTh
This review by u/taramisu47 sold me on the book and I was not disappointed. If you want to pick up this ridiculous delight it is only available on Amazon but at least its only 99 cents.
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=unhinged
As always I'd love to hear from you romancereadalong@gmail.com
Many thanks to Jacob the horse for allowing us to s...2024-09-1422 minRomance Read AlongKade by Jenna Myles (feat Jeremy)As always I'd love to hear from you romancereadalong@gmail.com
Many thanks to Jacob the horse for allowing us to sample their amazing song Sunshine for our theme music. You can get Jacob the Horse's music at BandCamp. com
2024-09-081h 19Romance Read AlongThe Unleahing by Shelly Laurenston (feat Sarah)We talk about the Unleashing. I might be too harsh. We discuss the relative merits of focusing on world building verses focusing on feelings. Honorable mentions to Horse girls and horrible cover art.
Many Thanks to Jacob the Horse for the use of their Amazing song Sunshine.
2024-09-031h 29Romance Read AlongLove is blind by Lynsay Sands (feat Sarah)A light hearted comedy. Pratfalls abound. Gift of the Magi Vibes. You may or may not fine this female main character (FMC) to be to stupid to live (TSTL).
As always I'd love to hear from you romancereadalong@gmail.com
Many thanks to Jacob the horse for allowing us to sample their amazing song Sunshine for our theme music. You can get Jacob the Horse's music at BandCamp. com
2024-08-261h 48Romance Read AlongMicro Tropes and Marvels WolverineIn this episode we explore the micro tropes of
PTSD
The reluctant mentor/father
Always a Brides maid never a Bride MMC style
And we talk about why Marvels Wolverine should be a romance novel MMC along with giving some of my favorite examples so we can compare and contrast how they match the trope.
As always I'd love to hear from you romancereadalong@gmail.com
Many Thanks to Jacob the Horse for the use of their Amazing song Sunshine.
2024-08-2032 minRomance Read AlongAnnouncement!I announce special guests that have agreed to be on the show!2024-08-1900 min
Functionally LiterateWorse Guy | Chapters 13-18(3/4) Victor and Bee finally get a lot of time alone. Naturally, things start getting frisky.Read along with us! You can buy the paperback, ebook, or the audiobook.*This is the third in a series of bonus episodes; I'm collaborating with Toni, the host of Romance Read Along. She is in search of a co-host—details in the mid-break. If you're able and interested, email her at romancereadalong@gmail.com.Timeline:(00:00) Introduction(02:06) Chapter 13(06:46) Chapter 14(15:10) Chapter 15(24:28) Chapter 16(35:36) Chapter 17(42:27) Chapter 182024-08-1351 minRomance Read AlongThe Death Striker's Partner by Millie LowellA summary and review of the first book in Millie Lowell's Operation Colonize series featuring Giant Snake Aliens! The Male main character (MMC) is a sad boi despite being a badass, my favorite!
This book sets up the series and is great but leaves you wanting more of the main couple good thing there are two follow up shorts Blissfully Bonded and Bonded Bliss!
As always I'd love to hear from you romancereadalong@gmail.com
Many thanks to Jacob the horse for allowing us to sample their amazing song Su...2024-08-1029 minRomance Read AlongLore Olympus - by Rachel SmytheWelcome to Romance Read-Along! In this episode, we dive deep into the world of "Lore Olympus" with our guest, Sarah. We start with a light-hearted catch-up about our weeks before delving into the fascinating dynamics of the webcomic.
Sarah and I discuss the intricacies of the characters, the art style, and the compelling storyline that keeps readers hooked. From Hades' adorable love for his dogs to the complex relationships between the gods, we cover it all. We even touch on the controversial elements and how they are handled in the narrative.
Tune in for a...2024-08-051h 24Romance Read AlongDance with the Devil by Sherrilyn Kenyon (revised)As always I'd love to hear from you romancereadalong@gmail.com
Many thanks to Jacob the horse for allowing us to sample their amazing song Sunshine for our theme music. You can get Jacob the Horse's music at BandCamp. com
2024-07-312h 47
Functionally LiterateWorse Guy | Chapters 7-12(2/4) Bee is beginning to reform Victor. It can be a dangerous thing to reform anyone.
Read along with us! You can buy the paperback, ebook or the audiobook.*
This is the second in a series of bonus episodes; I'm collaborating with Toni, the host of Romance Read Along. She is in search of a co-host—details in the mid-break. If you're able and interested, email her at romancereadalong@gmail.com.
Link dump:
Smallville
Firestarter
The Dark Tower
Haven
Twilight
Looper
*As an Amazon As...2024-07-3056 min
Functionally LiterateWorse Guy | Chapters 1-6(1/4) On an alien world, a human woman is tasked with rehabilitating the clone of a monster. Will she succeed, or is this guy even worse than the original?Read along with us! You can buy thepaperback,ebook or theaudiobook.*This is the first in a series of bonus episodes; I'm collaborating with Toni, the host ofRomance Read Along. She is in search of a co-host—details in the mid-break. If you're able and interested, email her at romancereadalong@gmail.com.Link dump:Really Wa...2024-07-161h 44Romance Read AlongKaren Marie Moning’s ToTame a Highland Warrior
Our discussion quickly goes off course from this sweet if cheese filled book
2023-09-281h 02Romance Read AlongBeard Science by Penny ReidListen to us chat about Cletus and Jen, expectations and seeing beneath the facade. Oh and X-Men we talk a lot about X-Men. Come join us at Romancereadalong@gmail.com or request a link to our Discord
2023-09-141h 19
NFS PodcastSunny Talk Ep.29 Autism, Masking & Letting Go with Toni From The Romance Read Along PodcastOn this Episode Sunny talks to Toni from the Romance Read Along Podcast about having Autism, not being diagnosed until adulthood, masking, being different as a kid, starting podcast, autism charities and foundations focusing on the parents of the autistic, people being pushy trying to help, #autism community & more.
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Guest links
...2023-09-131h 24Romance Read AlongHooked on Ewe by Hannah ReedMy mom joins me for a cozy mystery set in Scotland. We get off course pretty early on. To join the discussion email us at Romancereadalong@gmail.com or request a link to our Discord.
2023-09-1135 minRomance Read AlongEpisode -2- The Alien’s Mail Order Bride by Ruby DixonEmail us your thoughts and feelings at Romancereadalong@gmail.com We'd love to hear from you!
2023-09-051h 06Romance Read AlongEpisode 1 Over the EdgeOur premiere episode
Please follow us on patreon and email us at romancereadalong@gmail.com
Let's get a discussion going! We want to hear from you. What did you think of the book? What should we read next? Do you want to be a guest? How can we improve?
2023-08-301h 09Romance Read AlongIntro to Romance ReadAlongJoin us as we read Suzanne Brockmann's award winning novel Over the Edge. Hear Joe struggle to remember character names. Listen to Toni read way too much into the text. Join the conversation at our email romancereadalong@gmail.com or request a code for our discord. And be ready for next weeks complete analysis.
2023-08-2019 min