Episode Summary: Be sure to stock up on snacks before listening! On this hunger-inducing episode, author Amanda Elliot joins me to discuss her latest release, a food critic v. food critic romance called Best Served Hot. Other topics include the symbiotic relationship between food, sex, & romance, the surprisingly positive impact the Covid-19 pandemic has had on 2023 book releases, and a bit of 90s nostalgia. Enjoy!Guest: Amanda Elliot, author of Best Served HotBook Summary: Two restaurant critics learn their opposing tastes might make for a five-star relationship in the next foodie romantic comedy from the author of Sadie on a Plate.By day, Julie Zimmerman works as an executive assistant. After hours, she’s @JulieZeeEatsNYC, a social media restaurant reviewer with over fifty thousand followers. As much as she loves her self-employed side gig, what Julie really wants is to be a critic at a major newspaper, like the New York Scroll. The only thing worse than the Scroll’s rejection of her application is the fact that smarmy, social-media-averse society boy Bennett Richard Macalester Wright snagged her dream job.While at the Central Park Food Festival, Julie confronts the annoyingly handsome Bennett about his outdated opinions on social media and posts the resulting video footage. Julie's follower count soars—and so does the Scroll’s. Julie and Bennett grudgingly agree to partner up for a few reviews to further their buzz. Online buzz, obviously.Over tapas, burgers, and more, Julie and Bennett connect over their shared love of food. But when the competitive fire between them turns extra spicy, they'll have to decide how much heat their relationship can take.Show Notes: - Let's talk food and foodie romance with Amanda Elliot - Cookbooks and recipes we love- Food vs. romance novels (and what they have in common)- Amanda's romance reading & writing journey (00:06:45)- Our shared passion for "Top Chef"- The impact the Covid-19 pandemic has had on 2023 book releases- The symbiotic relationship between food & sex & romance (00:14:12)- The Literary Dates food tour collab we need! - Food evokes memories (and creates new ones)- Creating a hand-me-down recipe keepsake (here's the tea towel I bought for my Mimi)- What's up next for Amanda? (00:24:20)- The dream project or story Amanda is dying to tell...- 90s nostalgia for the winBooks & Other Media Mentioned:- Well Met by Jen DeLuca- "Top Chef" Season 20 - Sadie on a Plate (Amanda's previous book)- For Her Consideration by Amy Spalding- Take the Lead by Alexis DariaLinks:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @realkellyrey, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month.

Summary: March Madness might be coming to a close, but the Fantasy Fiction Draft is just getting started. Join the romance reading (and writing) "team captains" as they draft their favorite books releasing between January 1st - March 31st, 2023. 💖Then, vote for your favorite "team" on the Boobies & Noobies Instagram.The Team Captains:Kelly Reynolds, Author & Host of Boobies & NoobiesJosé Orlando, Bookstagram & BooktokAnna P, Author & BookstagramEsther, Bookstagram, Booktwitter, & Co-host of Holy Ship: A Romance Novel PodcastCategories & Book Picks available in the full shownotes on www.boobiesandnoobies.com/episodesFollow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @realkellyrey, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.

Summary: Authors behaving badly is nothing new... and yet, they're still selling books? Do we ever truly separate the book from the writer and where do we draw the line? You be the judge... 💖Tit Talk is a monthly panel discussion between the folks who write romance and the readers who love them. Join Kelly every month as she moderates a discussion - with a new topic each time - amongst readers, bloggers, podcasters, authors and more!Tit Talk (usually) takes place the second Saturday of every month at 10 am PST/1 pm EST. These panels will be recorded LIVE on YouTube and released later in the month as podcast episodes.Watch: Watch the full episode with video HERE on YouTube.Panelists: Georgina Kierston, Author (Preorder More to Love)Shannon Elliot, Author (Buy her latest release, Devil in the Dark)Sonia, Bookstagrammer Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @realkellyrey, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈

Episode Summary: We're kicking off the seventh season of Boobies & Noobies with Emma Barry, whose latest release, Chick Magnet, is available now! Along with Emma's new book - which touches on everything from farm animals to gaslighting and the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic - we also discuss such topics as how the pandemic has affected our media consumption, owning farm animals, and the concepts of "chaos muppets."Guest: Emma Barry, author of Chick MagnetBook Summary: From Emma Barry comes a clever romance about a hot veterinarian and a chicken-loving influencer who can’t help but ruffle each other’s feathers.Nicole Jones needs a fresh start. “Chick Nic” to millions of internet fans, the social media star and her flock of chickens bask in the spotlight—until she’s publicly dumped by a YouTuber for clout. She has no choice but to round up her birds and move on.But when one of her hens has an emergency, Nic gets her first taste of her new stomping grounds—and it isn’t good. Veterinarian Will Lund is wildly attractive, yes, but he’s also surly. In fact, he comes right out and calls her a menace for parading her chickens on social media.As neighbors, Nic and Will can’t exactly avoid each other. Then again, maybe they don’t want to. The two can’t deny their smoldering attraction, and it isn’t long before late-night confessions lead to backyard shenanigans.Is this the start of a neighborly relationship—or could something more be hatching? Show Notes: - Welcome to Season 7 of the podcast!- Let's talk chickens (and other farm animals) with Emma Barry- Emma's romance reading and writing journey (00:09:28)- Stop minimizing your accomplishments, ladies- A brief synopsis for Emma's latest release, Chick Magnet - Navigating the presence of Covid-19 and the pandemic in fiction- How the pandemic has affected our media consumption - Exploring stigmas like gaslighting and men's mental health in romance novels (00:29:30)- What's up next for Emma? (00:35:06)- "Chaos muppets" - The celebrity drama that inspires our books- Writing comedy for a book about comedians- Emma's dream project... can you say, Mideival Times?! (00:44:31)Books & Other Media Mentioned:- "Chicken People" - watch for free on Amazon Prime- Lord of Scoundrels by Loretta Chase- "Gaslight" (1944)- Funny Guy, Emma's next book (available in May)- theory.html">"Chaos Theory: A Unified Theory of Muppet Types"- A complete timeline of the "Don't Worry Darling" dramaOther News:- Join Kelly in-person OR virtually at Residence 11's first annual Desire Summit on Saturday February 11th. Use the code 𝐃𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐑𝐄𝟑𝟎 for 30% your tickets!Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @realkellyrey, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈

Summary: This episode was recorded live in October 2022 during the Boobies & Noobies live performance with My Worst Date podcast, featuring Becky Feldman, host of Too Stupid to Live. Join Becky and Kelly for a round of romance "Would You Rather", a saucy twist on Mad Libs, and of course, a few book recommendations inspired by our favorite bad date stories from past My Worst Date episodes. Listen to My Worst Date's Live performance HERE. Books Recommended:

• The Librarian and the Orc by Eden Finley
• All the Feels by Olivia Dade
• Oh! Daddy: 20 Erotic Short Stories by Hayden Ash
• Meet Me in Los Feliz by Kelly Reynolds

Links: Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @realkellyrey, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈

The Novel: Forbidden Kisses with Her Millionaire BossThe Author: Hana SheikThe Guests: Aaron and Bree, co-hosts of The Categorically Romance PodcastThe Synopsis:Heiress Lin dreams of a life different from the one that’s been planned for her. Traveling from Kenya to Canada to work for renowned tycoon Karl on a Kwanzaa-themed event is thrilling—and their instant, off-limits attraction blows her away! By the time the seven days of Kwanzaa arrive, even the snow outside can’t cool the sparks between them—especially after their sizzling kiss… But Karl’s a closed book, so will Lin dare to trust in their unique connection?*Please Note* I accidentally call this book, Forbidden Kisses with her Millionaire like three times in this book! Apologies to all.Show Notes:- It's the 12th (and final) Day of Boobsmas...- Bree and Aaron from the Categorically Romance Podcast, but this time, together! - The ups and downs of Category Romance- A few more (mostly category) holiday book recommendations (00:06:31)- Why aren't there more Halloween romances (in the style and spirit of Holiday romances)?- Introducing today's Boobsmas read (00:11:20)- The (literal) price we pay for books... just one more reason to try Category Romance- Reading outside of your "comfort zone"- Holiday Tit or Tat (00:15:03)- Bree doesn't like pie. Period.- What's your favorite holiday tradition or memory? (00:31:47)- Holiday memories tied to food- A brief synopsis for Forbidden Kisses with her Millionaire Boss (00:35:03)- Harlequin Romance vs. Harlequin Presents- Defying expectations - with location, sexuality, and career choice (00:45:15)- The stigma surrounding bisexual men- Why do most families in romance look the same way?- "Blood is thicker than water"... or not? (01:00:09)- But is it Kwanzaa?- Heart, Humor, Heat, & Holiday Ratings (01:08:53)- "Can I kiss you?"- The 12th Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper Baldwin (don't miss this one!) Books, Movies, etc. Mentioned in this Episode:- A true Christmas classic: "Dick in a Box"- A few more (mostly) Category Romance holiday recs:

• Maybe this Christmas by Ieshia Wiedlin
• A Christmas Negotiation by Karen Booth
• A Valentine for Christmas by Reese Ryan
• The Holiday Trap by Roan Parrish
• The Lights on Knockbridge Lane by Roan Parrish (listen to our Boobsmas 2021 episode about it)

Other News:- Tune in for new podcast episodes, new giveaways, and more holiday romance recommendations all month long for the 12 Days of Boobsmas.- Purchase my DEBUT holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz now!! Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈

The Novel: Single and Ready to JingleThe Author: Piper RayneThe Guest: Amelia RemetaThe Synopsis:The girl who loves Christmas falls for the Grinch—it’s a Christmas miracle.What started as a dumpster fire of a blind date turns into a deal.In truth, it probably didn’t help that I showed up dressed like an elf but that’s a story for another time. Our start was rocky at best which is why it’s so frustrating that I can’t stop thinking about his sexy British accent. Or the way his chest and arms fill out his suit. Or his perfect hair with that single streak of grey at the front.Santa likes lists and so do I, so here’s all the reasons why Andrew and I aren’t right for each other:He’s my brother’s best friend He’s the biggest grump I’ve ever met. He hates Christmas.That last one is big for a girl like me who thinks that the entire month of December should be a national holiday. So, when he calls for my help in planning his firm’s holiday party, I can’t pass up the opportunity to grow my small business. Bonus, we make a deal, and he agrees to attend three holiday events with me so I can make him fall in love with Christmas. As if I’d pass up an opportunity to make a Grinch’s heart grow three times its size.It isn’t long until I discover Andrew has a very real reason to hate Christmas and I start to see him in a different light. That’s when the Christmas miracle begins.Show Notes:- The 11th Day of Boobsmas with return podcast guest, Amelia- Listen to Amelia's previous Boobies & Noobies episode: 99 Percent Mine- What's your favorite holiday tradition or memory? (00:05:10)- Living in your hometown as an adult & creating NEW traditions- Introducing today's Boobsmas read, PLUS Holiday Tit or Tat (00:11:26)- A not-so-brief synopsis for Single and Ready to Jingle (00:18:00)- A fun read for all, but especially for the Piper Rayne stans - Single vs. Dual POV- Who's this Bethany bitch?!- You don't get to propose in lieu of a proposal... (00:31:01)- When possession translates to misogyny in romance (00:35:50)- The first sex scene vs. the first sex scene with feelings- A steamy (and surprising) sexcerpt (00:38:58)- "Predatory"- A nod to Chris Evans' sweater, PLUS a fun (and gross) history lesson- Heart, Humor, Heat, & Holiday Ratings (00:49:54)- The 11th Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinOther News:- Tune in for new podcast episodes, new giveaways, and more holiday romance recommendations all month long for the 12 Days of Boobsmas.- Purchase my DEBUT holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz now!! Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈

The Novella: Sinta (Stranded with an Alien)The Author: Honey PhillipsThe Guest: Liz Donatelli, Host of Reader Seeks Romance on YouTubeThe Synopsis:An unexpected inheritance comes at the perfect time for Holly. Her on-again, off-again relationship is off for good, her Christmas plans have been canceled, and her parents have decided to spend the holiday traveling. But the remote mountain cabin she inherited is not the idyllic paradise she remembers from her childhood. There’s no power, no cell service, and she's quite sure someone - or something - is watching her from the woods…Sinta’s observation trip to this primitive planet has gone disastrously wrong. His ship's systems have gone haywire, the freezing temperatures have thrown his body into his beast-like survival mode, and he's lost touch with his world. Then the enchanting human female he spies from the woods threatens to throw his beast into a mating frenzy…When Sinta and Holly are forced to work together to survive they discover an unexpected connection – but is there any future for them once the holidays are over?Show Notes:- The 10th Day of Boobsmas with my favorite Booktuber, Liz Donatelli- Boobsmas: the soundtrack for all your holiday driving needs- Catch Kelly on Reader Seeks Romance, discussing Meet Me in Los Feliz- Looking ahead to 2023- Introducing today's Boobsmas read (00:09:32)- A few words about why we prefer novellas (and why they're potentially more difficult to write than novels)- What's your favorite holiday tradition or memory? (00:15:33)- Feast of the Seven Fishes... but which fishes?- Holiday Tit or Tat? (00:19:00)- Baths, jizz, and trees, oh my! - A brief synopsis for Sinta (00:27:59)- Does her dad know ALL the aliens?- The one BIG issue with this book: women's safety - But what does his peen look like? (00:44:11)- A few steamy sexcerpts (00:49:59)- Earth girls are easy? - Heart, Humor, Heat, & Holiday Ratings (00:57:58)- The 10th Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinBooks, Movies, etc. Mentioned in this Episode:- Re: peppermint flavored spunk - Santa Claus is Going to Town on Me by M.L. Eliza - Listen to our previous alien holiday romance review on The 12 Days of Boobsmas (2021): Claimed by the Alien Bodyguard- A few callbacks to our episode review of Sweet Berries Other News:- Tune in for new podcast episodes, new giveaways, and more holiday romance recommendations all month long for the 12 Days of Boobsmas.- Purchase my DEBUT holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz now!! Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈

The Novella: Nutcracker with BenefitsThe Author: Liz AldenThe Guest: Owen HansenThe Synopsis:ClaraI love my life—as a food and travel blogger I make my own hours, work all over the world, and don’t have a single regret. The cherry on top is flying home to New York City to celebrate the holidays with my family—and Nash.He’s my best friend with benefits and was just named the sexiest billionaire bachelor of the year. He’s all mine—for now. But someday, Nash is going to break my heart.NashClara can have her cake—whether its pavlova, mochi, or tres leches—and eat it too.I have twenty-four hours to convince her that she can have everything she wants right here in the city—including me.Show Notes:- The 9th Day of Boobsmas with an honest-to-Krampus romance-reading "noobie"- Cinnamon rolls and Ebelskivers - A long debated topic on Boobies & Noobies - see our Just One Kiss review for the "Orange Juice" debate (00:07:58)- Introducing today's Boobsmas read (00:13:30)- A few guesses about the next book in the series- Holiday Tit or Tat (00:16:45)- Ballin' in Bali 2023- A quick synopsis for Nutcracker with Benefits (00:27:30)- Where can WE get an (almost) billionaire with benefits?- Perhaps one of the most traumatizing (in an awkward way) moments I've ever read... - Calling out the patriarchy... without calling out the patriarchy- You're not the Rat King, bitch! (00:39:29)- Let's talk about men today...- What else do you have besides a good dick?- A few steamy sexcerpts (00:49:45)- Heart, Humor, Heat, & Holiday Ratings (00:54:15)- Lube & TSA... a new project?- The 9th Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinOther News:- Tune in for new podcast episodes, new giveaways, and more holiday romance recommendations all month long for the 12 Days of Boobsmas.- Purchase my DEBUT holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz now!! Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈

The Novel: Jingle His BellsThe Author: Kaci RoseThe Guest: Victoria, Founder of BiblioLifestyle and Host of The Reader's Couch PodcastThe Synopsis:EmmaA relaxing Christmas back home with my boyfriend is what I was supposed to have. Instead, what I got was dumped just as I pulled into town. My best friend won’t let me sit around and wallow all Christmas, so she takes me to Club Red, where of all people I run into my ex-boyfriend’s brother… Only he isn’t the Zion I know. He’s more commanding, dominating, and sexy then the man I remember.ZionI have wanted Emma for years, but my brother got to her first. When I find out he’s been cheating on Emma I see red. I need an escape, so I head to the one place where I don’t have to pretend. I never expected to see Emma there. When I find out my brother dumped her, I know now is my chance to make her mine. I plan to show her a Club Red Christmas because the only present I want to unwrap under the Christmas tree this year is her.Shownotes:The 8th Day of Boobsmas with the busiest book worm around- Changing lives one book at a time- Join Victoria's 2023 Reading Goals & Vision Board Workshop- Creating S.M.A.R.T. Goals and being an "intentional reader"- Victoria's evolution from "romance snob" to avid romance reader (00:10:15)- What's your favorite holiday tradition? (00:16:28)- Kelly's "House Hunters" must have: a Christmas tree window- Fancy some French hot chocolate? - Introducing today's Boobsmas read PLUS today's Holiday Tit or Tat? (00:24:36)- A brief synopsis for Jingle His Bells (00:32:45)- Christmas in Chicago- Show, Not Tell- A couple of steamy (and silly?) sexcerpts (00:52:35)- Heart, Humor, Heat, & Holiday Ratings (00:56:42)- Mafia romance and BDSM... but make it a comedy?- Not enough bell play!!- The 8th Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinOther News:- Tune in for new podcast episodes, new giveaways, and more holiday romance recommendations all month long for the 12 Days of Boobsmas.- Purchase my DEBUT holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz now!!Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.

The Novel: Season of LoveThe Author: Helena GreerThe Guest: Andrea, host of Shelf Love PodcastThe Synopsis:Miriam Blum has no choice but to face the past she thought she’d left behind when she inherits her great-aunt’s Christmas tree farm in this witty, glittering, heart-filled romcom.Thanks to her thriving art career, Miriam Blum finally has her decoupaged glitter ducks in a row—until devastating news forces her to a very unwanted family reunion. Her beloved great-aunt Cass has passed and left Miriam part-owner of Carrigan’s, her (ironically) Jewish-run Christmas tree farm.But Miriam’s plans to sit shiva, avoid her parents, then put Carrigan’s in her rearview mirror are spoiled when she learns the business is at risk of going under. To have any chance at turning things around, she’ll need to work with the farm’s grumpy manager—as long as the attraction sparking between them doesn’t set all their trees on fire first.Noelle Northwood wants Miriam Blum gone—even if her ingenious ideas and sensitive soul keep showing Noelle there’s more to Cass’s niece than meets the eye. But saving Carrigan’s requires trust, love, and risking it all—for the chance to make their wildest dreams come true.Books, Movies, etc. Mentioned in this Episode:"Flea Market Flip"THE Timothy Olyphant scene from "Catch and Release"That one Yule romance we read for The 12 Days of Boobsmas: A Very Witchy YuletideMiracles and Menorahs by Stacey Agdern (another read from Boobsmas past)Full Show Notes available on www.boobiesandnoobies.com/episodes

The Novel:Snowbound in Her Boss's BedThe Author:Marcella BellThe Guest:Becky Feldman, Host of Too Stupid to LiveThe Synopsis:Outside the snow is fallingInside the heat is definitely rising!On the first day of Hanukkah, new events director Miriam Howard is summoned to CEO Benjamin Silver’s luxurious Aspen chalet. But while she’s briefing him on plans for a dazzling gala, a blizzard leaves her stranded!All too soon, their chemistry becomes all too obvious. Yet no matter how surprised Miri is to see her own loneliness reflected in Benjamin’s piercing blue eyes, she’s determined to resist temptation. Which means until the storm passes, they must battle their scandalous and ever-intensifying attraction… Show Notes:- The 6th Day of Boobsmas (or Boobsmakkah) with Becky Feldman- Hanukkah romance on Too Stupid to Live- Where's our monster Hanukkah romance? - Introducing today's Boobsmas read (00:10:21)- Shoutout to our friends who read (and watch) category romance, The Categorically Romance Podcast- Holiday Tit or Tat (00:14:07)- But can you put brisket in it?- A brief-ish synopsis for Snowbound in Her Boss's Bed (00:29:45)- The one missing link- Creating community through religion... but it's off the page?- The "Bruce Wayne" narrative- Eight nights to fall in love- What the EFF are "Hanukkah movies"? (00:47:05)- Our hypothetical Hanukkah romance books- Heart, Humor, Heat, AND Holiday Ratings... PLUS horny real estate (00:53:48)- Time to mix it up with holiday romance- The 6th Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinBooks, Movies, etc. Mentioned in this Episode:- The Intimacy Experiment by Rosie Danan (he's a hot rabbi)- Eight Cozy Nights by Julia Wolf (Listen to the TSTL podcast review AND our review on Boobies & Noobies)- "March Cotton Mouth Madness" from @TalkAboutSwoon on IG- A few of our favorite past Boobsmas reads: The Captain's Midwinter Bride by Liana De la RosaStocking Stuffers by Erin McLellanClaimed by the Alien Bodyguard by Tiffany RobertsOther News:- Tune in for new podcast episodes, new giveaways, and more holiday romance recommendations all month long for the 12 Days of Boobsmas.- Purchase my DEBUT holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz now!! Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 

The Novel:Kiss Her Once for MeThe Author:Alison CochrunThe Guest:Bianca aka spooky storyteller, Countess CarmThe Synopsis:One year ago, recent Portland transplant Ellie Oliver had her dream job in animation and a Christmas Eve meet-cute with a woman at a bookstore that led her to fall in love over the course of a single night. But after a betrayal the next morning and the loss of her job soon after, she finds herself adrift, alone, and desperate for money.Finding work at a local coffee shop, she’s just getting through the days—until Andrew, the shop’s landlord, proposes a shocking, drunken plan: a marriage of convenience that will give him his recent inheritance and alleviate Ellie’s financial woes and isolation. They make a plan to spend the holidays together at his family cabin to keep up the ruse. But when Andrew introduces his new fiancée to his sister, Ellie is shocked to discover it’s Jack—the mysterious woman she fell for over the course of one magical Christmas Eve the year before. Now, Ellie must choose between the safety of a fake relationship and the risk of something real. Show Notes:- The 5th Day of Boobsmas with my favorite spooky storyteller, Bianca- The series that launched so many millennials' romance reading journey: Twilight- What's your favorite holiday tradition or memory? (00:07:05)- Introducing today's Boobsmas read, another Holigays read (00:10:03)- Up the Krampus Quotient - Holiday Tit or Tat (00:12:22)- A brief synopsis for Kiss Her Once for Me (00:23:45)- Great rep or "identity Bingo"? - Do we need to define identities... or can we just let the characters exist?- The one thing missing... that "While You Were Sleeping" has in spades (00:32:43)- Your sexuality is not a trope- Our warped idea of age thanks to media- A couple steamy sexcerpts (00:44:26)- Aro characters for the win- Heart, Humor, Heat, AND Holiday Ratings (00:54:08)- Why are all the vampires rich?!- The 5th Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinBooks, Movies, etc. Mentioned in this Episode:- Vampires in romance: from Twilight to the Sookie Stackhouse series and Anne Rice- The Great Dickens Christmas Fair (at the Cow Palace)- The movie that inspired the book: "While You Were Sleeping"- Check out our previous review of Alison Cochrun's The Charm OffensiveOther News:- Tune in for new podcast episodes, new giveaways, and more holiday romance recommendations, all month long for the 12 Days of Boobsmas.- Purchase my DEBUT holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz now!! Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈

The Novella:Snowed in with the Player (Holiday with the Players #1)The Author:Rebecca JenshakThe Guest:Laura Yasmin, Host of What to Read Next and What to Listen NextThe Synopsis:It was supposed to be a weekend of holiday cheer.Just me and my twin sister, watching Christmas movies and baking cookies.My brother was absolutely not supposed to show up with half the football team.Including Teddy. My brother’s best friend and my secret crush.I’m the shy sister. The one with her nose stuck in a book and quoting every word of Elf, not the one getting attention from guys like Teddy.He’s cool and smart and so handsome I could die.The only thing that could make things worse is if I got snowed in with him. Show Notes:- The 4th Day of Boobsmas with a holiday romance convert, Laura- Big cities during the holidays- What's one of your favorite holiday traditions or memories? (00:09:02)- Today's Boobsmas read PLUS Holiday Tit or Tat (00:11:20)- Chicago and Portland: donut destinations of America- A brief synopsis for Snowed in with the Player (00:18:50)- You're know you're in college when...- Holiday books vs. winter books- To conflict or not to conflict in holiday romance?- A slightly steamy sexcerpt (it's more of a "mild bell pepper" kind of spice)- Heart, Humor, Heat, AND Holiday Ratings (00:40:55)- Dry-humping for the win- Listen to Kelly on What to Read Next: Spicy Holiday Romance Recommendations 2022 - The 4th Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinBooks, Movies, etc. Mentioned in this Episode:- Sneaking Around with the Player (Holiday with the Players #2) by Rebecca Jenshak- Laura's comfort movie watch, "The Devil Wears Prada"- Shoutout to Bree, host of the Categorically Romance Podcast, for all of her holiday movie recommendationsOther News:- December 1st marks the start of The 12 Days of Boobsmas. Tune in for new podcast episodes, new giveaways, and more holiday romance recommendations, all month long! - Purchase my DEBUT holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz now!! Edit ImageLinks:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 

The Novel:There's Something About MerryThe Author:Codi Hall The Guest:Angela Maria Hart, from The Cozy Mystery Book ClubCelebrate The 12 Days of CoziesThe Synopsis:Merry Winters has the holiday blues. She's spent the last year learning to love herself, and now she's ready to find the right guy. But the pickings are slim in Mistletoe, Idaho, and it’s just her luck that the man who catches her eye is the stoic new foreman at her family’s Christmas tree farm. Too bad he wants to keep a 39-and-a-half-foot pole between them.Single dad Clark Griffin isn't looking for romance, but he wouldn't mind a friend to snuggle with on a cold winter's night. When he signs up for online dating, he doesn't expect to connect with the sassy, crafty Knottygirl25 and get wrapped up in every message she writes.But when Merry turns out to be his blind internet date, his surprise causes him to miss his chance under the mistletoe. Can a little Christmas magic give these two a second chance at a first impression? Show Notes:- The 12 Days of Boobsmas... and Cozies- Manifest some monster holiday romance... and in the meantime, there's Merry Monsters: A Festive Monster Romance Anthology- All about the 12 Days of Cozies - - Listen to Angela's previous Boobsmas episodes - A Highlander is Coming to Town and Mistletoe Christmas- Introducing today's Boobsmas read and the series at large (00:12:57)- If you're going to write Christmas, you better go FULL Christmas- What's one of your favorite holiday traditions or memories? (00:18:56)- Holiday Tit or Tat (00:24:45)- A brief synopsis for There's Something About Merry (00:34:35)- Make it an MFM romance!- Merry's too perfect and Clark's too... misogynistic? - I definitely didn't have road head on this year's Boobsmas Bingo card (00:58:11)- Heart, Humor, Heat, & Holiday Ratings (01:04:15)- The first time they have sex vs. the first time they have sex (while in love)- The 3rd Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinBooks, Movies, etc. Mentioned in this Episode:- Ruby Dixon's Christmas novella, The Barbarian Before Christmas- A Library Lover's Mystery series by Jenn McKinlay - The Christmas Movies that Made Us: Elf- The Honeywood Theme Park (from Julie Olivia's Honeywood series)- Nick and Noel's Christmas Playlist (the first in the series)Other News:- December 1st marks the start of The 12 Days of Boobsmas. Tune in for new podcast episodes, new giveaways, and more holiday romance recommendations, all month long! - Purchase my DEBUT holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz now!! Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

The Novel:You're a Mean One, Matthew Prince (Boy Meets Boy #2)The Author:Timothy Janovsky The Guest:Kate Barkley, Host of All the Good DogsThe Synopsis:Bring a little joy to the world?Not today, Santa.Matthew Prince is young, rich, and thoroughly spoiled. So what if his parents barely remember he exists and the press is totally obsessed with him? He’s on top of the world. But one major PR misstep later, and Matthew is cut off and shipped away to spend the holidays in his grandparents’ charming small town hellscape. Population: who cares?It’s bad enough he’s stuck in some festive winter wonderland—it’s even worse that he has to share space with Hector Martinez, an obnoxiously attractive local who’s unimpressed with anything and everything Matthew does.Just when it looks like the holiday season is bringing nothing but heated squabbles, the charity gala loses its coordinator and Matthew steps in as a saintly act to get home early on good behavior…with Hector as his maddening plus-one. But even a Grinch can’t resist the unexpected joy of found family, and in the end, the forced proximity and infectious holiday cheer might be enough to make a lonely Prince’s heart grow three sizes this year. Show Notes:- It's the 2nd Day of Boobsmas- Make it gay... but with a dog!- Listen to ME talk about my "step dog", Noodle, on the All the Good Dogs Podcast- Check out the full line-up of "Holigays 2022" romance- Remembering the good ol' (dirty) days of Tumblr- What's your favorite holiday memory or tradition? (00:10:24)- The 2nd Day of Boobsmas read (00:12:03)- Holiday Tit or Tat (00:13:39)- The drink of this year's holiday romance: Coquito (Puerto Rican Eggnog)- Excellent (and unique) anxiety rep- A brief synopsis for today's read: You're a Mean One, Matthew Prince (00:22:31)- A very David Rose Christmas (00:25:52)- LGBTQ+ characters who can exist in peace- Where are all the UTI's in romance?- There's 21, and then there's NYC celebrity 21- The difference between Millennials and Gen Z- "Dude"... and Masculinity (00:40:51)- Let's talk about the spice (more than expected)- A steamy (but also, cold?) sexcerpt (00:45:17)- Heart, Humor, Heat, AND Holiday Ratings (00:49:08) - No dirty fingers, please- Buy Kelly a house!! - The 2nd Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinBooks, Movies, etc. Mentioned in this Episode:- Olive and Mabel- "Queer as Folk" (The American version)- The PsyCop series by Jordan Castillo Price- Life after Twitter?- Why you need to stick with "Schitt's Creek"- Red, White, & Royal Blue by Casey McQuistonOther News:- December 1st marks the start of The 12 Days of Boobsmas. Tune in for new podcast episodes, new giveaways, and more holiday romance recommendations, all month long! - Purchase my DEBUT holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz now!! Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @realkellyrey, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈

The Novella:Win a Date with Secret Santa (Curvy Girls' Bachelor Auction #11)The Author:Kate Tilney The Guest:Kate Wilhite The Synopsis:What could be more fun than going on a Polar Express-like train ride with a toymaker at Christmas? Apparently, everything. While Fraser Douglas may be in the business of creating toys that bring joy to children worldwide, the man himself is clearly a big grump.No problem. I’m not looking for a love connection when I bid on a date with him at a charity bachelor auction. I just want to get the free toy that comes along with him. A toy that just so happens to be at the top of my niece’s Christmas wishlist, but is sold out at every store.Neither Fraser nor I knows what to expect when we go on our date. But as we spend hours together on board a magical train, it becomes harder to deny the spell that seems to be cast around us. I may just discover that under his grumpy exterior, he has a heart of gold.Show Notes:- The 5th annual 12 Days of Boobsmas- A few favorite tropes (and a few we don't)- The amnesia-secret baby-Christmas romance we're waiting for...- What's your favorite holiday memory or tradition? (00:09:23)- The transition from Christmas as a kid to Christmas WITH a kid- The 1st Day of Boobsmas read (00:11:35)- Tit or Tat? Holiday Edition (00:13:01)- But would you do it on a train? - A brief synopsis for today's read, Win a Date with Secret Santa (00:19:47)- A holiday name first!- A couple of petty notes - The toy that sounds like a sex toy... but (sadly) isn't- Another epilogue baby... are we surprised though? - A couple steamy sexcerpts… with Santa! (00:34:33)- "A Christmas cookie of a book"- Heart, Humor, Heat, AND Holiday Ratings (00:39:18)- Where's MY Christmas train ride?!- The 1st Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinBooks, Movies, etc. Mentioned in this Episode:- Miracle on 34th Street (1947, 1994)- The Muppet Christmas Carol- Jingle All the Way - The Holiday Trap by Roan Parrish- Be sure to check out last year's 1st Day of Boobsmas read (also by Roan Parrish), The Lights on Knockbridge Lane- A Merry Little Meet Cute by Sierra Simone & Julie MurphyOther News:- December 1st marks the start of The 12 Days of Boobsmas. Tune in for new podcast episodes, new giveaways, and more holiday romance recommendations, all month long! - Purchase my DEBUT holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz now!! Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

The Novel: Hunted (Kink Camp #1)The Author: A. AndersThe Guests: Cassi, Keegan, & Christina, co-hosts of My Worst DateThe Synopsis: My desires…I’m afraid. I want things – to escape, to run, to be caught, held down and… I’ve come here to find the thing to quench my most sensual fantasies.When I see him - I know. He’s brutal and made of stone. An artist with his hands who keeps everyone at arm’s length. He’s the one I want – I need.May be my downfall.I’m not a man you play with. I gave up on finding a partner years ago.But now I see her. Innocent. Beautiful. Temptation. I want to possess her as much as I want to protect her from myself.I am the king here, but once she’s gone? I’ll be a man alone once again.Now that I have her. I have to find a way to keep her – forever. Show Notes:- I might be biased, but Aries is the almighty- Meet my pod-sisters, My Worst Date- Is she your roommate... or are you in a relationship?- Cum in a jar? Hear more in the "Major Cringe" episode of My Worst Date- Revisiting previous MWD and Boobies & Noobies episodes: Poison or Protect by Gail Carriger and Stocking Stuffers by Erin McLellan (00:12:45)- A brief synopsis for today's read: Hunted (00:15:58)- Kinky, but not as kinky as expected?- Realism does NOT mean less sexy- Yes, it's sexy... but it's also sooooo well written!- Who's paying for your loft apartment and therapy sessions?!- A quick word on the POV and consistency (00:38:05)- A small preview of the next book in the series...- But would you do it in the woods? - A few steamy sexcerpts... plus SEVERAL questions! (00:43:55)- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (00:53:16)- Get kinky with me... don't FIX me.Books & Other Media Mention- Poison or Protect by Gail Carriger (aka "button porn")- Stocking Stuffers by Erin McLellan (Hallmark Christmas... but with sex toys)- The Salacious Players Club series by Sara Cate- "New Girl"- The Sleeping Beauty Trilogy by Anne RiceOther News:- The 12 Days of Boobsmas begins December 1st. Get ready to stock those TBR lists with all the holiday romances!- Purchase my DEBUT holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz now!! Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

The Novel: Forever Wolf (The Legend of All Wolves #3)The Author: Maria Vale The Guest: Courtney, Host of The Cult of Domesticity The Synopsis: Legend says his eyes portend the end of the world...or perhaps, the beginning...Born with one blue eye and one green, Eyulf was abandoned by his pack as an infant and has never understood why, or what he is...Varya is fiercely loyal to the Great North Pack, which took her in when she was a teenager. While out on patrol, Varya finds Eyulf wounded and starving and saves his life, at great risk to her own.With old and new enemies threatening the Great North, Varya knows as soon as she sees his eyes that she must keep Eyulf hidden away from the superstitious wolves who would doom them both. Until the day they must fight to the death for the Pack's survival, side by side and heart to heart... Show Notes:- From Chuck Tingle to "Velocipastor"... they can't all be winners- A few thoughts on Booktok recommendations- We're sluts for good book covers- Listen to Courtney's previous Boobies & Noobies episode - we review The Write Escape by Charish Reid- It's okay to write off an artist or author you love when you find out they're a garbage human being (00:12:07)- Apologies for butchering all of the names... there are a LOT of them- A brief synopsis for today's read (00:20:49)- Looking back at the previous books in the series- Why is the glossary of key terms at the END of the book?!- Creating unique lore- But IS it an HEA? (00:48:29)- The rest of the series at a glance- But IS it a romance?- A few (steamy?) sexcerpts (01:01:40)- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (01:08:38)- Why is the lawyer having the most sex in this book?- Reading outside of your usual interests (and taking a chance on a new book)Books & Other Media Mention- Kissing the Coronavirus by M.J. Edwards- Literally anything by Chuck Tingle - "Velocipastor"... don't watch it, DO watch the TikTok recap- Books that made Kelly "feel things": The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun, Reel by Kennedy Ryan, and The Lost Boys series by Emma ScottOther News:- The 12 Days of Boobsmas begins December 1st. Get ready to stock those TBR lists with all the holiday romances!- Purchase my DEBUT holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz now!! Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

Summary: Whether she's writing about small town teachers or fictional TV shows about gods and goddesses, author Olivia Dade's books are packed full of humor, heart, and heat (our three favorite things on Boobies & Noobies). Olivia's latest release, Ship Wrecked (available 11.15.22) rounds out her Spoiler Alert series. Listen in as we discuss fatness in romance books (and beyond), the fictional TV show that we all need, and how the fanfiction community inspired Olivia's series. Guest: Olivia Dade, author of Ship Wrecked (Spoiler Alert #3)Show Notes: - The 12 Days of Boobsmas begins next month, but the Boobsmas giveaways start on Thanksgiving Day!- Raving about Olivia's books for a solid minute - be sure to check out our podcast review of 40-Love and interview with cover artist, Leni Kaufmann - Secret paranormal romances?!- Writing what your read... except when you're actually writing - Let's talk about Ship Wrecked (00:12:23)- I'm a sucker for Hollywood stories! - Not a fanfic, but rather a love letter to the fanfic community (check out our Steamy Spotlight episode about Fanfiction)- The crossover between fanfiction and Romancelandia- Teachers in romance novels, re: There's Something About Marysburg series- "Gods of the Gates"... the TV show we need - Fat characters and body normalization (00:33:46)- Shoutout to the late and great, Corey Alexander/Xan West (00:40:44)- How Hollywood interacts with fatness (in the book and in real life)- Looking ahead at Olivia's next main character... hot mess, depressed express - The dream project Olivia's dying to write (and it might surprise you)Books & Other Media Mention- What Olivia's reading: Once Upon a Forbidden Desire- Where are all the fat men in romance? Here are a few to check out: Weather Girl by Rachel Lynn Solomon, Xeni by Rebekah Weatherspoon, and just about anything written by Marie Lipscomb- Eight Kinky Nights by Xan WestOther News:- The 12 Days of Boobsmas begins December 1st. Get ready to stock those TBR lists with all the holiday romances!- Purchase my DEBUT holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz now!! Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

The Novel: Sweet Berries (Cambric Creek #2)The Author: C.M. NascostaThe Guest: James RanneyThe Synopsis: Grace has a job she loves, a community she adores, and plenty of friends... but her lack of bedroom action has left this event planner too horny to think.When one ill-advised night at the bar leads to her giving an exhibitionistic show to an unknown presence outside her bedroom window, she thinks she’s hit a new low. When her voyeur turns out to be a nebbishly charming mothman, Grace needs to decide if she can trust her body — and her heart — with this garnet-eyed stranger before he flys out of her life for good. Show Notes:- My LIVE SHOW with My Worst Date & Too Stupid to Live, is TONIGHT!! - AND my debut holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz is available now!- "Too horny to think"?- A brief intro for today's read, Sweet Berries (00:05:29)- The obsession with monster romance... Be sure to check out our September Tit Talk: "Monster Fuckery"- Cambric Creek - a cozy, idyllic community to live in- The (actually) quick synopsis for Sweet Berries (00:13:08)- Modern... but also, monsters- James schools me in Dungeons & Dragons' species- Monster-ish sex toys- But what does his dick look like? And other "important" questions about mothman anatomy (00:21:12)- Creepy, but also sexy- Where does the series (and the society of Cambric Creek) go from here?- A few favorite sexcerpts (00:42:20)- Why vanilla isn't really "vanilla"- Fruit roll up tongue? - Discussing a few more mythological monsters in romance- What's up next?- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (00:57:53)Books & Other Media Mentioned: - Hex, Love, and Rock & Roll by Kat Baxter (listen to our podcast review of this one from #Cocktober past)- Morning Glory Milking Farm (Cambric Creek #1) by C.M. Nascosta - a viral sensation (and the gateway into monster romance for so many readers)Announcements:- Snag your copy of my DEBUT holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz (Available NOW)- See Boobies & Noobies LIVE (with My Worst Date podcast) October 28th at Dynasty Typewriter in Los Angeles. Click HERE for tickets! There's also a livestream option if you can't make it to the show. Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

The Novel: Fire Magic & Ice Cream The Author: Lauren ConnollyThe Guest: Craig Elliott - Grab a copy of Rad Dad on Amazon The Synopsis: When fire meets ice cream, will passion turn into a melted mess or dessert flambé?Quinn Byrne is rare even among fire elementals, with her powers hard-wired into her arousal. She can’t touch herself without setting the sheets ablaze. With an incendiary sex drive, Quinn’s dating life is dryer than the desert that surrounds her hometown of Phoenix, Arizona. She’d give anything to have a normal romantic relationship. But she knows one thing for sure: human men are out of the question. No exceptions. Not even if the guy is trying to woo her with delicious ice cream.August Nord is new to town, building a business that involves things staying cold. His whole life has been one, long icy stretch, until a fiery redhead saunters into his ice cream shop. Quinn is the hottest accountant he’s ever met, and a small business owner would be dense not to hire a professional to review their finances, right?As the two approach their attraction with wary steps, the sparks flying between them are all too real. Will the flames feed their burning desire or melt their chance of a happily ever after? Show Notes:- Redemption for my previous episode with Craig - listen to us discuss A Cowboy Christmas Legend - A few exciting Cocktober announcements: My LIVE SHOW with My Worst Date & Too Stupid to Live on October 28th and my book, Meet Me in Los Feliz is available on October 25th - Some philosophical questions about... proper holiday season etiquette? - Rad Dad: feminist parenting through a social justice lens- Introducing today's book pick, Fire Magic & Ice Cream (00:12:07)- A brief (and hilariously punny) synopsis for the book (00:13:40)- A few words on "happily ever after"- A world unto its own: one full of elementals, but NOT divided by elementals- So many fun details... too many fun details? (00:26:21)- How many times can you get away with the same joke?- There are only so many sexual innuendos you can make at the farmer's market- When an adult romance could've (or should've been) a YA/NA romance- Hot sex... but maybe for the wrong reasons? (00:40:02)- Popcorn and bathtub sex... a few petty notes (00:48:00)- And a few lines we loved, too!- The "good stuff" in relationships, on and off the page- A few steamy sexcerpts (00:56:32)- Why does she smell like a smoky oven?- Why isn't there more role-playing in romance novels?- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (01:07:15) Books & Other Media Mentioned: - "Vampire Academy" (streaming on Peacock) - "Divergent" film franchise- "Good Will Hunting" and "the good stuff" in relationships- Romance movies that are a bit... stalker-ish Coming Soon:- Pre-order your copy of my upcoming holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz (Available October 25th).- See Boobies & Noobies LIVE (with My Worst Date podcast) October 28th at Dynasty Typewriter in Los Angeles. Click HERE for tickets! There's also a livestream option if you can't make it to the show. Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

*This episode is brought to you by Kensington’s newest title, Enchant the Dawn by New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Amanda Ashley. Summary: In the name of science and love... Bestselling author of The Hating Game, Sally Thorne, joins Kelly to discuss her recent spooky romance release, Angelika Frankenstein Makes Her Match. Other conversation topics include creepy dollhouses, writing "deliberately bad" fiction (as a writing exercise), and why we love retellings of classic stories. Guest: Sally ThorneShow Notes: - Sponsored Ad Spot for Enchant the Dawn by Amanda Ashley (00:00:05 - 00:01:20)- A few quick thoughts on Sally's debut novel (and film adaptation), The Hating Game - Sally's relationship with the romance genre (00:06:41)- Tropes in Sally's books... fancy a manic pixie dream BOY? - Listen to our previous episode review of 99 Percent Mine- A fresh spin on Frankenstein... and an amnesia trope I don't hate? - A brief synopsis for Angelika Frankenstein Makes Her Match (00:12:59)- Sally's haunted dollhouse, Blackthorne Manor - Why we love retellings in romance (00:18:40)- Everything to love about questionable, imperfect characters... especially when they're women - From contemporary romcoms to historical romance retellings, Sally's writing is all over the place (in the best way possible) Coming Soon:- Pre-order your copy of my upcoming holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz (Available October 25th).- See Boobies & Noobies LIVE (with My Worst Date podcast) October 28th at Dynasty Typewriter in Los Angeles. Click HERE for tickets! There's also a livestream option if you can't make it to the show. Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

The Novel: The Accidental Pinup The Author: Danielle JacksonThe Guest: Caleb Thomas, Boudoir Photographer The Synopsis: Photographer Cassie Harris loves her job—her company Buxom Boudoir makes people look beautiful and feel empowered with her modern twist on classic pinup photography. Cassie’s best friend, Dana, is about to launch her own dangerously dreamy lingerie line and wants Cassie to shoot and direct the career-changing national campaign. But company politics and Dana’s complicated pregnancy interfere, and Cassie finds herself—a proud plus size Black woman—not behind the camera but in front of it.Though she’s never modeled herself, Cassie’s pretty sure she can handle the sheer underwear and caution tape bralettes. She’s not sure she can work so intimately with the chosen photographer, her long-time competitor in the Chicago photography scene, Reid Montgomery. Their chemistry is undeniable on set, however, and feelings can develop faster than film… Show Notes:- Let's talk about boudoir photography...- It's not selfish to celebrate yourself! - The concept of "Flanderization" (00:11:50)- Introducing today's read, The Accidental Pinup (00:14:22)- Be sure to check out my IGTV interview with the author, Danielle Jackson for more behind-the-book info- A brief synopsis for The Accidental Pinup, after a few brief ads (00:17:52)- A few petty notes about photography (from a professional photographer)- Ode to Chicago- Less drama, more REAL ASS characters - Emotional intelligence vs. Internalized misogyny (00:32:58)- Stop romanticizing bad behavior- My one complaint... pacing (00:38:57)- Perhaps a bit more character growth?- A few steamy sexcerpts (00:48:21)- The almighty empowering BJ scene - Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (00:55:55)- Some misconceptions about boudoirComing Soon:- Pre-order your copy of my upcoming holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz (Available October 25th).- See Boobies & Noobies LIVE (with My Worst Date podcast) October 28th at Dynasty Typewriter in Los Angeles. Click HERE for tickets! There's also a livestream option if you can't make it to the show. Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

The Novel: Stirring Up Love (Taste of Love #2)The Author: Chandra BlumbergThe Guest: Tamara, Host of Shelf AddictionThe Synopsis: After doing her time in corporate Chicago, Simone Blake returns to small-town Illinois to tackle a new venture: her grandfather’s barbecue restaurant. The secret, as they say, is in the sauce. Simone’s plan is to sell Honey and Hickory’s signature sauce to put her hometown on the map.But she’s not the only one with a recipe and a plan: chef Finn Rimes from nearby Springfield has a similar vision. To jump-start his dream of opening a culinary school, he shows up at the local farmers’ market with his own barbecue sauce.When Simone’s plan to outsell Finn falls flat, she auditions for a reality show to pitch her brand. But she’s horrified to discover Finn’s had the same idea. As Simone and Finn wage barbecue war on television, their feud turns into an undeniable attraction.With their livelihoods on the line, it may not be so much about making the best sauce—but finding their way to each other. Content Warnings: Mention of the foster care system, parental abandonment, cancer and the death of a family member (ALL off-page)Show Notes:- Romance books & murder shows- A little bit about Tamara's podcast, Shelf Addiction - listen to me on The Night Shift episode- "Gateways" into Romance: Fifty Shades of Grey and Twilight- The overnight Twilight movie marathon - When there's only one bed... but they don't use it- Introducing today's book pick (00:12:28)- A few paranormal & fantasy romance recs from Tamara- Synopsis for Stirring for Love (00:18:41)- Too many bad BBQ puns (ours, not the author's)- Discussing the series as a whole (and making predictions for what comes next) - When you find yourself connecting more with the male characters (00:25:53)- Our obsession with sick bed/injury trope- Tropes-a-palooza: only one bed, road trip, rivals, snowed-in, wedding shenanigans, reality TV competition- When the relationship dynamic changes and SHE proposes (00:36:38)- "Do not come up in here with a surprise teeny-home"- A healthy conversation about remaining childless (00:41:42)- No sexcerpts in this one, but...- Do you know how weather works?- An inconsistent timeline? Blame it on "romance reasons"- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (00:55:50)- Finding romance recommendations on Booktok- A bit on the "Why Choose" Booktok discourse - how many dicks are too many dicks? Books & Other Media Mentioned: - "Deadly Women"- Love in the Time of Serial Killers by Alicia Thompson- Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs- Hidden Legacy series by Illona Andrews- "Tiny House Hunters"- Faking with Benefits by Lily Gold - don't let the sweet, illustrated cover fool you! It's spicy as hell. Coming Soon:- Pre-order your copy of my upcoming holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz (Available October 25th).- See Boobies & Noobies LIVE (with My Worst Date podcast) October 28th at Dynasty Typewriter in Los Angeles. Click HERE for tickets! There's also a livestream option if you can't make it to the show. Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

Summary: Today's Tit Talk topic is "The Elusive Baby-Free HEA". There couldn't be a better time to discuss happily ever afters... that don't include a baby. This topic was picked long before the #RoeVWade ruling, yet it was one of the most requested topic by potential Tit Talk guests. 💖 Why do so many romance novels end in a baby? How do you feel about the "surprise" epilogue baby? We're discussing it all. Tit Talk is a monthly panel discussion between the folks who write romance and the readers who love them. Join Kelly every month as she moderates a discussion - with a new topic each time - amongst readers, bloggers, podcasters, authors and more! Tit Talk takes place the second Saturday of every month at 10 am PST/1 pm EST. These panels will be recorded LIVE on YouTube and released later in the month as podcast episodes. Watch: Watch the full episode with video HERE on YouTube.Panelists: Lila Dawes, Author - Read The Citrus Pines series Jenny Bunting, Author - Read Safe With You, Jenny's latest releaseGabrielle Dooha-Chambers, Activist & Blogger Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.  

*This episode is brought to you by Kensington’s newest title, Twice a Quinceañera by Yamile Saied Méndez.Summary: Calling all "Great British Bake-Off" fans! In this episode, Erin La Rosa joins Kelly to discuss her debut romance, For Butter or Worse. Other topics include writing about a woman in the male-dominated food industry, including mental health rep for male characters, and why we're trading in "alpha" heroes for "soft top" cinnamon rolls.Guest: Erin La RosaShow Notes: - Sponsored Ad Spot for Twice a Quinceañera by Yamile Saied Méndez (00:00:05 - 00:01:39)- What might be the best pitch for a book... ever- Shoutout to our mutual, Becky Feldman (host of Too Stupid to Live)- Dirty stories on Bing.com (00:07:50)- Erotica vs. "capital-L" Literature- Check out our Steamy Spotlight: Frisky Fanfiction episode for more fanfic talk- Women in a male-nominated field - the inspiration behind For Butter or Worse (00:15:05)- Erin's Tiktok series on why Paul Hollywood is problematic- How social media impacts celebrity status- Mental health representation... for MALE characters (00:22:11)- Why I'm done with alpha heroes - bring on the "soft tops" - Mafia and Royalty Romance - a subgenre of Fantasy? (00:27:40)- Eat your way around Los Angeles with Erin's food guide (see below)- Read about the holiday season in Los Angeles in my upcoming novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz (add to Goodreads and pre-order on Amazon)- What's up next for Erin?- A few deets on the... memorable steamy scenes in For Butter or Worse- Writing epilogues that don't include a baby (00:40:50)- Exploring your queerness without labelsErin's Guide to Los Angeles Eats:- Chateau Marmont (for dine-dining and star-sightings)- Donut Friend (for Vegan donuts)- Uovo (for yummy Italian food) - Oak Glen (day trip for apple-picking and cider donuts)- A day trip to Ojai, if you've got the time! Links:Pre-order your copy of my upcoming holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz. Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

Summary: That's all folks! July has come to a close and so has Boobies & Noobies' inaugural summer special, Slick Summer Nights (not to mention the fifth season of the podcast). What happens when one of your contestants has an emergency the day of recording? Well, you step in with one of your favorite car sex scenes, of course. The competition is FIERCE in this one... All month long, we've highlighted a few of our favorite steamy scenes from romance novels in a head-to-head styled showdown. Be sure to follow Boobies & Noobies on social media and cast YOUR votes for the steamiest scene of them all on our Instagram. The Judge: Bree Hill, co-host of the Categorically Romance podcast The Contestants:Jillian Graves reading from The Professional by Kresley Cole- Read Jillian's debut novel, Titan: a Gargoyle Daddy Dom RomanceKelly Reynolds reading from Faking Ms. Right by Claire Kingsley- Add Kelly's upcoming debut holiday novella, Meet Me in Los Feliz on Goodreads - And of course, listen to Boobies & Noobies!Links: Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

Summary: It's the penultimate episode of Boobies & Noobies summer special, Slick Summer Nights and today, things are heating up OUTSIDE of the bedroom. And we're cranking the dirty talk up to an eleven...Join us throughout the month of July as we celebrate our favorite steamy scenes from romance novels in a head-to-head showdown. Be sure to follow Boobies & Noobies on social media and cast YOUR votes for the steamiest scene of them all on our Instagram. The Judge: Andrea Martucci, host of the Shelf Love podcast The Contestants:Jess Bryant reading Branded as Trouble by Lorelei James - Upcoming release: Unmistakable Mate (The Fated Mates series #4) available July 21st Stephanie Rose reading Shifting Gears by Melanie Moreland - Latest release: Just One FavorLinks:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

Summary: Boobies & Noobies summer special, Slick Summer Nights continues with a round-up of romcoms. Because who says romance can't turn you on AND make you LOL?Join us throughout the month of July as we celebrate our favorite steamy scenes from romance novels in a head-to-head showdown. Be sure to follow Boobies & Noobies on social media and cast YOUR votes for the steamiest scene of them all on our Instagram. The Judge: Sarah, blogger from Really Into ThisThe Contestants:Aaron reading from Mama's Boy by Avery Flynn- Watch Aaron's Reading Room on YouTube- You can also listen to Aaron on the Categorically Romance PodcastSimone reading from Kiss My Cupcake by Helena Hunting Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

Summary: In this episode, Angie Hockman, author of Shipped (named a "Best Romance Book of 2021" by Entertainment Weekly, Goodreads, and BookBub, to name a few) joins Kelly to discuss her sophomore release, Dream On. Other topics include Angie's exotic travel adventures, the polarizing amnesia trope (and Angie's sort-of twist on it), and (surprisingly) the city of Cleveland. Guest: Angie Hockman*Please Note* This episode was recorded in June, ahead of the Dream On release (July 5th). That's why you'll hear us mention pre-orders for the book. Dream On is available now!Show Notes: - Some "super sleuthing" into Angie's life- Penguins, karaoke, and 90s movies- Travelers... who don't actually take the trips they plan- From education and eco-tourism to writing romance (00:08:06)- Write the story that you want to read- Another pandemic debut author (00:14:01)- A brief synopsis for Angie's new release, Dream On (00:17:38)- A few words on fate & soulmates - Kelly rails on the amnesia trope (00:22:39)- Read Dream On for your #50Romances50States Ohio pick- "The Mistake on the Lake"- Angie's future books... *chanting* Sitka, Sitka- No dream projects, just deep dives - The importance of neurodiverse characters (00:33:34)- Angie's advice for noobie romance readersBooks & Other Media Mentioned: - "Time After Time" by Cyndi Lauper as featured in "Romy & Michele's High School Reunion"- "The Proposal" (re. Sitka, Alaska)- The Duke and I (Bridgertons #1) by Julia Quinn- Angie's local bookstore rec: Mac's Backs- "Overboard" - cute in the 80s, icky in the 2020sLinks:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.  Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.  

Summary: Boobies & Noobies summer special, Slick Summer Nights continues with another steamy match-up. I'm calling this one "Witchy Tricks & Yummy Treats", in honor of today's guests (aka my kindred spirits). Also, please note that today's sexcerpts are on the kinkier side (humiliation, degradation, voyeurism, and exhibitionism). If that's not your thing, no worries! There's always next episode... Join us throughout the month of July as we celebrate our favorite steamy scenes from romance novels in a head-to-head showdown. Be sure to follow Boobies & Noobies on social media and cast YOUR votes for the steamiest scene of them all on our Instagram. The Judge: Aria Wyatt, author of The Compass series The Contestants:Ammy Belle reading from Neon Gods by Katee RobertAmy Richards reading from Priceless by Miranda Silver- Shop the Words and Kisses online bookshop (and subscription boxes)Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

Summary: Boobies & Noobies summer special, Slick Summer Nights continues with another steamy match-up. Today's scenes are both kinky AF, but which do you prefer... group sex or a homemade sex tape?Join us throughout the month of July as we celebrate our favorite steamy scenes from romance novels in a head-to-head showdown. Be sure to follow Boobies & Noobies on social media and cast YOUR votes for the steamiest scene of them all on our Instagram. The Judge: Ariana MarieThe Contestants:Rebecca Hefner reading from Beyond Control by Kit Rocha- Be sure to check out Rebecca's latest release, Garridan’s Mate- Rebecca also publishes under the pen name, Ayla Asher Kat Mary reading from Stanton Adore by T.L. Swan- Subscribe to Kat's Youtube channel, Kat Reads RomanceLinks:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

Summary: We're kicking off Boobies & Noobies inaugural summer special, Slick Summer Nights. 6 episodes, 12 spicy romance scenes, 1 champion (though let's be honest, we're all winners here). Today's episode poses a very important question... Cinnadom or Daddy? Join us throughout the month of July as we celebrate our favorite steamy scenes from romance novels in a head-to-head showdown. Be sure to follow Boobies & Noobies on social media and cast YOUR votes for the steamiest scene of them all on our Instagram. The Judge: Nikki Brooks The Contestants:Jenny Smith reading from Bohemian by Kathryn NolanAlicia Delory reading from Weather Girl by Rachel Solomon Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

The Novel: Love Unexpected (Some Kind of Love #2)The Author: Jenny ProctorThe Guest: Lyndi Macke, Co-Host of Hello Out There The Synopsis: A famous boss. A secret identity. And a hilarious road trip to love.Yes. Yes, Rosie does have a crush on Isaac, her YouTube-famous boss.Does she ever talk to him? Absolutely not. Crippling social anxiety can do that.But Rosie is nothing if not tenacious. Ignoring her friends’ advice to just talk to him already (Nope, that’s way too hard), she instead opts to pursue a virtual relationship with Isaac using a secret identity.The plan is genius. Online, Rosie has social skills she’d never dream of having in person. She’s possibly even cool. If Isaac can just get to know her, he’ll see how amazing she is.But then a spontaneous road trip throws Rosie and Isaac together, and their virtual and in-person lives collide. (Eleven hundred miles in a seventy’s era VW hatchback? What could possibly go wrong?)Much to Rosie’s surprise, she doesn’t constantly humiliate herself. Conversation is easy, and their chemistry? It’s pretty much off the charts.But every road trip is bound to hit a speed bump or two.Will Rosie’s secret identity be the thing that brings them together? Or the thing that tears them apart? Show Notes:- Words matter... stop calling it "clean" romance- Hidden coding and allegories in Twilight - Hello Out There, an improvised podcast (00:08:45)- Introducing today's read, Love Unexpected (00:12:44)- A brief discussion of blurb-writing- "Chick Lit" during the "Sex and the City" era (circa 2002-2006)- The not-so-brief synopsis for this slightly-stalker-ish romance (00:22:34)- When you know the book just isn't for you... - Books written AFTER their time- The Marty Stu- A few positives: How social anxiety impacts all facets of life (including dating), a diverse cast, and an incredibly powerful support system- And a whole bunch of negatives...- The very anti-climatic third act (00:49:50)- When the hero is basically a robot...- The best friends are the ones you tell you when you're doing something wrong- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (01:13:10)- When your family is also your friend group... and co-workers... - What this book COULD'VE been- Is there hope for the camera man in Book #3?Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

Summary: Today's Tit Talk topic is "Rated R: Beyond the 5-Star Rating System". Why have we become so accustomed to rating books on a scale of 1-5 stars? Today's panelists have two things in common: their love for the romance genre and the fact that they rate their romances in unique and different ways. Tit Talk is a monthly panel discussion between the folks who write romance and the readers who love them. Join Kelly every month as she moderates a discussion - with a new topic each time - amongst readers, bloggers, podcasters, authors and more! Tit Talk takes place the second Saturday of every month at 10 am PST/1 pm EST. These panels will be recorded LIVE on YouTube and released later in the month as podcast episodes. Watch: Watch the full episode with video HERE on YouTube.Panelists: Emily Rath (Author): Instagram, TiktokBridget & Shani (Co-Hosts of Romance at a Glance Podcast): Instagram, TiktokKara (Bookstagrammer): TwitterLinks:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

*This episode is brought to you by Kensington’s newest title, Unstable by Alexandra Ivy.The Novel: Penelope's Paths (What If... #1)The Author: Isabelle Peterson The Guest: Rosemary Watson, Host of Curated Conversations The Synopsis: Is there only one path to a Happily Ever After? Is one choice, or path, better than another?After a humiliating divorce, Penelope Pierce is about to try her luck in the dating world for the first time in years. Luckily, she has her two best friends to help her face the singles scene.Laura, single and loving life, wants to bring Penelope to the club scene. Drink. Dance. Have fun. Nothing serious. Her married friend, Shannon, on the other hand, wants to set Penelope up with a guy from her husband's legal firm insisting he's “perfect” for Penelope.Should Penelope go on the blind date? Or hit the clubs?It’s up to YOU, the reader.If you choose for Penelope to go on the blind date... When handsome, confident, British William makes a risqué and daring request, does Penelope rise to the challenge? Or does she retreat? And then what?Or, If things get hot and heavy at the dance club with the full-lipped, floppy-haired musician, Mitch, will Penelope lean into her desires? Or does she run and not look back! And when she encounters a curious noise in the night…then what?You, the reader, will make Penelope's choices, and you will determine which kind of risks Penelope takes and what kinds of romances Penelope gets. Your choices will bring about a wide range of favorite romance tropes and adventures. Most are happy endings, however - as in life - things don't always work out.But one of the best parts about Penelope's Paths... When you get to the end, you can go back, make different choices, and enjoy an entirely different story.1 heroine... 9 potential heroes... 10 unique endings.Show Notes:- Sponsored ad for Demon Hunting with a Southern Sheriff by Lexi George (00:00:05 - 00:01:14) - Keep up to date with our announcements about Tit Talk and Slick Summer Nights...- Introducing Rosemary Watson, host of Curated Conversations and founder of Artisan Creative & Media Agency- Shoutout to a previous podcast guest (and the almighty hype woman) Heidi B.- Taking the "old school" Choose Your Own Adventure novel and giving it a romance-spin- Romance, the ever-evolving genre- Today's read, Penelope's Paths - a "choose your own romance" novel (00:14:53)- A throwback to our Live Show read of My Lady's Choosing (another "choose your own romance" novel) - A brief - and somewhat unconventional - synopsis for today's read (00:23:10)- Give your panties to a stranger? How about your partner?- Exploring a few paths Rosemary and I chose... oh, the variety!!- Pubic hair... in multiple stories - A shift from the traditional CYOA point of view (00:38:30)- The map of possible outcomes, courtesy of the author- Showcasing a different side of LGBTQ+ male characters- So many different possibilities for future books!- A few steamy sexcerpts (00:48:53)- Reading romance for the full escape vs. reading for heightened (and better) versions of reality- When did pancakes become sexy? (00:55:45)- A solid recommendation for "noobie" romance readers- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (00:59:44)- A few words about returning books vs. returning books WITH Kindle Unlimited- Judging a book (or wine) by the cover/labelBooks & Other Media Mentioned: - A few childhood favorites: Nancy Drew and The Boxcar Children- The new Batman movie, "The Batman" (that's way too long)- The "Schitt's Creek" analogy for pansexuality - Ruthless Creatures by J.T. Geissinger Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

Summary: In this episode, debut author T.J. Alexander joins Kelly to discuss their DELICIOUS debut romance, Chef's Kiss. It takes three words to describe this book: hungry and horny. If you're in the market for a scoop of LGBTQ+ romance (featuring trans and NB characters), a pinch of family recipes, and a sprinkle of putting toxic work environments on blast, sit back and enjoy! Chef's Kiss (from Simon & Schuster) is available now, wherever books are sold. Guest: T.J. AlexanderShow Notes: - The Pandemic Baking Craze (circa May 2020)- Writing a debut novel during the pandemic and BECAUSE of the pandemic- New York vs. Portland- Eating like a college student... in your 30s- T.J.'s romance reading & writing journey (00:10:55)- Trans & Non-binary character rep in romance- A coming out "bonanza" - A brief synopsis for Chef's Kiss (00:21:35)- The Bon Appetit Test Kitchen scandal- Putting toxic workplace culture on blast- The perfect book to read if you're a "noobie" to pronouns, Enby rep, etc. (00:29:07)- Found family in romance- Stolen family recipes (00:37:31)- Recipe pamphlet coming soon!- The Simon & Schuster test kitchen?- What's up next for T.J.? (00:46:30)- Hungry and horny... it's a brandBooks & Other Media Mentioned: - Bread Illustrated, from America's Test Kitchen- Love and Other Disasters by Anita KellyLinks:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

The Novel: I'll Come Back for YouThe Author: Charish Reid The Guest: Tara, co-host of 3 Spooked Girls The Synopsis: When a hurricane destroys Whitney Beck’s chances to run a Miami resort, a bed and breakfast inheritance from her eccentric grandmother saves her and her sister, Helen. Unfortunately, within months, the Beck sisters run into paranormal problems: missing objects and bumps in the night. Helen reaches out to her favorite ghost-hunting show for help, but Whitney can only feel dread. Her high school crush is the lead camera operator for Ghost Punters. And after years of missed chances, she doesn’t want to meet him again under these circumstances.Reality television has helped Deon Grant carve a path toward his dream of directing films, but he feels guilty about the fake stunts along the way. His crew uses cheap parlor tricks to create good TV but those methods won’t work at the Bordeaux B&B. While battling an actual ghost, Deon gets to know Whitney again. She’s different from the girl he knew years ago, but their bond is still powerful enough to reveal his true feelings.The past doesn’t stay in the past, and the dead don’t stay dead.Whitney will have to confront her trauma and family secrets before she can succeed in business or love. Deon will have to slow down and finally see the truth standing before him: Ghosts are real, and so is his love for Whitney. Content Warnings: Natural disaster trauma resulting in PTSD, Death of relative (off-page), brief mention of blood, discussions about therapyShow Notes:- Keep up to date with our announcements about Tit Talk and Slick Summer Nights...- Not quite ghost-f*cking - Accidentally discovering romance novels - Romance (and murder) as a "palette cleanser"- Introducing today's spooky Black Romance: I'll Come Back for You (00:09:10)- A not-so-brief synopsis for the book (00:11:01)- Why we're trash for trashy TV- Single at 40... how refreshing (00:17:23)- Leon and Deon?!- Discussing the paranormal with Tara, the paranormal expert (00:23:05)- Learn more about "The Hat Man" - Second chance romance with built-in history - A few steamy sexcerpts (00:31:00)- A baby-free HEA is still an HEA (00:37:31)- Therapy and mental health (and how they're perceived by the Black community)- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (00:46:36)- Tara's next venture into romance...Books & Other Media Mentioned: - And That's Why We Drink podcast- Book of the Month Club- Red, White, & Royal Blue and One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston- Be sure to listen to our previous podcast on Charish Reid's The Write Escape - Trash reality shows with celebrities "fixing" things - "Nicole and Jionni's Shore Flip" and "The Vanilla Ice Project"- And some spookier "reality" TV shows: "Ghost Adventures", "Deadly Women", and "1000 Ways to Die"- Netflix's latest dating show: "The Ultimatum" Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast, on TikTok @b00biespodcast, and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

The Novel: If I Told You (Hearts of Broadway #2)The Author: Avery EastonThe Guest: Leo Schell, Writer & Producer The Synopsis: Paige Parker danced before she could walk. After a lifetime of performing, her wildest dreams come true: she gets the chance to originate a lead in a Broadway show. Determined to make the most of her time in Chicago, where the musical is workshopping, she vows to find herself. No more crushes, no more dating, no more mistakes. But all of that changes when stand-up comedian Alexandra Tate walks into her life.Sweet, sexy, and fun as hell, Alex sweeps Paige off her feet. Gone are Paige’s rules, as well as her insecurities about not being worthy of love. The magic of Chicago summer surrounds them, and even though they try their best to simply enjoy the time they have, they can't help falling in love.Autumn and life-long dreams pull them in different directions. What comes first -- a love like neither's ever known, or opportunities that they've yearned for their entire careers? If their ambitions don’t keep them apart, Alex and Paige could find a way to their own happily ever after Show Notes:- Tit Talk: a monthly panel discussion amongst romance readers, bloggers, and writers- Slick Summer Nights: our summer showdown of your favorite steamy scenes- When your "internet friends" become your real friends- A few thoughts on Mafia Romance... and Aliens (00:09:25)- How your romance reading "comfort spot" is defined by your first few romance reads- When does contemporary become historical?- #ThirstTrappThursday- Introducing today's read, a Sapphic romance set in the theatre (00:18:01)- Book Synopsis (00:21:20)- The beauty of flawed female characters - A single POV... and the challenges that presents- The (odd?) connection between romance novels and serial killer documentaries- When the couple still hasn't reconciled at 90% in... (00:36:45)- A coming out story that focuses on celebrating queer love- The musical theatre playlist within the pages (00:44:35)- A fictional musical that should be real!- The one major problem with the "break-up" moment... (00:48:24)- Make HER the choice you make... regardless of how convenient it is- A few steamy sexcerpts… a lot of which happen in the shower (00:59:45)- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (01:05:01)- Why are fictional stand-up comics never funny?- The "key word" search terms (01:11:57)- A quick peek at the rest of the series- The Sapphic mafia romcom we all need?Books & Other Media Mentioned: - The Unofficial Bridgerton Musical- A few romcom movierecs: "Music & Lyrics" and "When Harry Met Sally"- Perhaps the best theatre-to-film adaptation: "Chicago"- Priest by Sierra Simone - Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover- "Smash"- The SNL "Lil' Rent" sketch- Che Diaz from "And Just Like That" is the worst fictional comedian everLinks:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

The Novel: The Good Girl's Guide to Rakes (Last Chance Scoundrels #1)The Author: Eva LeighThe Guest: Helen Broom, co-host of The Talk of the StreetThe Synopsis: When Kieran Ransome’s latest antics result in a massive scandal, his father issues an ultimatum: find a respectable wife or inherit nothing. But as one of London’s most inveterate scoundrels, Kieran doesn’t know any ladies who fit the bill. Or does he?Celeste Kilburn is a society darling, beloved by influential members of the ton. But keeping a spotless reputation leaves little room for adventure and she longs to escape her gilded cage, especially with her impending engagement to a stuffy earl. When Kieran—her older brother’s best friend and an irresistibly attractive rogue—begs for her help, Celeste makes a deal: she’ll introduce him to the right social circles if he’ll show her the scandalous side of London.In between proper teas and garden parties, Kieran escorts Celeste—disguised as “Salome”—to rowdy gaming hells, wild fêtes, and sensual art salons. As they spend more time together, their initial attraction builds to a desperate desire that neither can ignore. But when someone discovers their midnight exploits, Celeste’s freedom and reputation are endangered, and Kieran must save the woman he loves… respectable or not. Show Notes:- A few big announcements... - Tit Talk: a monthly panel discussion amongst romance readers, bloggers, and writers- Slick Summer Nights: our summer showdown of your favorite steamy scenes- The difference between British soap operas and American soap operas- The connection between "Coronation Street" and "Bridgerton" - Introducing today's read, The Good Girl's Guide to Rakes (00:13:01)- Book synopsis (00:16:20)- Dispelling a few notions about "historical accuracy" in romance - A few predictions about the next books in the series... - A sibling's best friend romance... without all the angst- Appreciation for a few sexy words, and some brief history on the etymology of "p*ssy (00:40:43)- When the dirty talk is better than the deed- A few steamy sexcerpts - plenty to choose from (00:44:35)- Putting a historical issue into modern context... Blame it on the patriarchy - Is it romantic or is he just a serial killer? - Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (00:54:30)- Daddy issues- Let's talk Rakes (in historical and contemporary romance)Books & Other Media Mentioned: - British TV shows: "Coronation Street", "Emmerdale", "EastEnders"- Helen's other podcasts: The Lists of Lists and SpongeBob SquareCast - Outlander (the books & TV show) & Game of Thrones- The Rakess by Scarlett Peckham Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

The Novel: Dating Dr. Dil (If Shakespeare was an Auntie #1)The Author: Nisha SharmaThe Guest: Aaron, romance booktuber (Aaron's Reading Room) and podcaster (The Categorically Romance Pod)The Synopsis:Kareena Mann dreams of having a love story like her parents, but she prefers restoring her classic car to swiping right on dating apps. When her father announces he’s selling her mother’s home, Kareena makes a deal with him: he’ll gift her the house if she can get engaged in four months. Her search for her soulmate becomes impossible when her argument with Dr. Prem Verma, host of The Dr. Dil Show, goes viral. Now the only man in her life is the one she doesn’t want.Dr. Prem Verma is dedicated to building a local community health center, but he needs to get donors with deep pockets. The Dr. Dil Show was doing just that, until his argument with Kareena went viral, and he’s left short changed. That’s when Kareena’s meddling aunties presented him with a solution: convince Kareena he’s her soulmate and they’ll fund his clinic. Even though they have conflicting views on love-matches and arranged-matches, the more time Prem spends with Kareena, the more he begins to believe she’s the woman he wants to spend the rest of his life with. But for Prem and Kareena to find their happily ever after, they must admit that hate has turned into fate. Show Notes:- Sorry for the delay, but we've finally made it to April episodes! - The complexities of BookTube vs. BookCasts - Highlighting category romance - Loving romance BECAUSE of it's predictable structure, not in spite of - Introducing today's read, Dating Dr. Dil (00:14:25)- The different iterations of Taming of the Shrew- A not-so-brief synopsis for Dating Dr. Dil (00:17:55)- Everything you ever wanted to know about South Asian culture- Why it's perfectly okay to be single in your 30s! - A book dedication to remember (00:26:30)- Discussing cultural and gender expectations... while also making us laugh- Somebody needs to tell Prem they love him... (00:32:51)- Looking ahead and who comes next in the series... - How this book defied my own assumptions: surprisingly hot AND hilarious!!- We're bringing back sweater vests- A few steamy sexcerpts… We were not prepared for rimming! (00:46:42)- Kind of a stalker... but a cute stalker?- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (00:54:53)- One one "10 Things I Hate About You" moment that was missing from this book- Keep Grandma's vibrator in the drawer where it belongs...Books & Other Media Mentioned: - The Harlequin Presents line (Aaron's fave) - "Kiss Me Kate" (movie and musical), "10 Things I Hate About You"- 3 Minute Shakespeare: Taming of the Shrew- "Love is Blind" Season 2 Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

The Novel: A Certain AppealThe Author: Vanessa KingThe Guest: Queenie von Curves, burlesque artist and producer of Bare Book Club MinneapolisThe Synopsis:After a betrayal derailed her interior design career, Liz Bennet found a fresh start in New York. Now an executive assistant by day and stage kitten by night, she's discovered a second home with the performers at Meryton, Manhattan's top-tier burlesque venue. Love's the last thing on her mind when she locks eyes with Will Darcy across the crowded club. The spark between them is undeniable--that is, until she overhears the uptight wealth manager call her merely "tolerable."Bennet is determined to write Darcy off, but once their besties fall head-over-heels, they're thrown into each other's orbit again and again. Each encounter begins to feel more heated than the last, but is their chemistry enough to topple that terrible first impression? What's more, when a charming newcomer arrives on the scene with accusations against Darcy, his claims leave Bennet torn. And when a sudden development leaves Meryton's fate in jeopardy, she will have to decide who to trust in time to salvage her design dreams, her heart, and the stage she shares with her found family... Show Notes:- Discussing the film "Burlesque" with Queenie, a burlesque performer - Healing and exploring our trauma throw art- Find your local chapter of Bare Book Club- Introducing today's read, A Certain Appeal - a romance set within the world of burlesque (00:16:42)- A modern retelling of a Jane Austen classic - A brief synopsis for A Certain Appeal (00:21:31)- Dispelling a few stereotypes about romance - All of the connections to Pride and Prejudice - "It's about the sizzle, not the steak." - The different levels of intimacy- "Fact checking" for accuracy with the burlesque expert (00:41:53)- A few steamy sexcerpts, but really... it's all in the banter and eye contact (00:47:16)- Some early romantic influences, from Sweet Valley High to Twilight- The level of continuous consent is *chef's kiss* - Heart, Humor & Heat Ratings (01:09:05)- More romance in Queenie's future?Books & Other Media Mentioned: - The best (and worst) of burlesque-ish movies: "Burlesque", "Cabaret", and "Showgirls"- The Curvy Canvas, as featured in the Feminist Book Club box- Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen - Nicole Byer's podcast, Why Won't You Date Me? - Sweet Valley books - The Sookie Stackhouse series (aka the books that inspired "True Blood") Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

*This episode is brought to you by Kensington’s newest title, Demon Hunting with a Southern Sheriff by Lexi George.The Novel: What Happens in Chicago The Author: Liz CroweThe Guest: Kelly Booth, Co-Host of Squintcast The Synopsis: Sloane I figured it would be just another night at the club. Another chance to put my parents' expectations and their pressure to return home behind me. But hiding from my issues by entertaining clients at an exclusive club in Chicago wasn't the erotic buzz it used to be. And then, this smoking hot dude spilled bourbon down the front of my dress... Michael What had, at one time, been sexy, illicit, and thrilling now felt like one more night stuck on a hamster wheel. I was bored to tears with the whole club scene, forced yet again to verify to everyone that I was as Alpha as I claimed to be while continuing to hide from my responsibilities as part owner of my family's brewery. And then, I literally ran into her... What happens between Sloane and Michael in Chicago seems like nothing more than a hookup, a scorching hot interlude for a couple of well-matched libidos. Once they realize that there are legit feelings involved, they find plenty of ways to deflect and sabotage their burgeoning relationship. When they both have to leave their beloved Chicago and go home to Michigan--Sloane to help an ill parent, Michael to salvage his family's famous brewery--things get even more complicated. Accepting the depth of their emotion for each other means acknowledging their own flaws, which makes for tough conversations...along with smoking hot make-up sessions. Content Warnings: Death of a parent (off-the-page), therapy, body dysmorphia and eating disorders. One of the main characters has an active eating disorder.Show Notes:- Sponsored ad for Demon Hunting with a Southern Sheriff by Lexi George (00:00:05 - 00:01:33) - Kelly with a "y" vs. Kelli with an "i"- "Bones", aka one of the best slow-burn colleagues-to-lovers shows - Introducing today's read, What Happens in Chicago PLUS a few major trigger warnings (00:09:27)- A new t-shirt: "World Traveling Sexer"? - Pick a side, any side- Discussing mental, physical, and emotional health in romance novels- Addiction and the role it plays in relationships (fictional and IRL)- A couple of petty notes on strip clubs... and bottled water? (00:32:24)- Butt stuff for all - The tie-in to What Happens in Denver (00:39:50)- A few steamy sexcerpts (00:42:30)- Productive laundry time- Choking on his d*ck: Yay or Nay?- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (00:53:06)- Are all the Kelly's dead inside?- Wrapping-up and looking ahead (01:00:12)Books & Films Mentioned:- Liz's "companion book", What Happens in Denver- "Bones", the show that inspired Kelly's new podcast - Best Women's Erotica of the Year by Cleis Press- Erotic historical romance author rec: Nicola Davidson (listen to our podcast episode review of Scandalous Passions)- Queer historical romance author rec: Cat Sebastian - Science fiction romance author rec: Ruby Dixon (though I admit, I haven't read Ice Planet Barbarians...)Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

*This episode is brought to you by Kensington’s newest title, The Most Eligible Bride in London by USA Today bestselling author, Ella Quinn.The Novel: Affinity (Red Door #2)The Author: Dyan LayneThe Guest: Kate Wallinga, Host of Ignorance was BlissThe Synopsis: Be careful what you wish for…When Chloe was seventeen, she wished she belonged to the man in the poster on her bedroom wall. Taylor Kerrigan. Lead guitarist of the debauched band Venery. Tattooed rock god with a bad-boy smirk. Reputed sexual deviant.And a puppy.Make a wish, Chloe.But Chloe isn’t seventeen anymore, and now the only thing she wishes for is to be loved by the man right here in front of her. Jesse Nolan. Former football player. Soft-spoken bartender with the purest heart, eyes she could drown in, and a smile she wishes was only for her. Maybe it is.And a puppy.Make a wish, Chloe.She kept the poster of the bad-boy rock star, but she left her girlhood fantasy behind when she packed up her life for college. The city. She thought she was ready for whatever awaited her here. She wasn’t.New friends. New family. New loves. New dreams.Make a wish, Chloe.…because sometimes they come true.And sometimes you get more than you ever wished forContent Warnings: Parental neglect and suicide (both off-the-page) Show Notes:- Sponsored ad for The Most Eligible Bride in London by USA Today bestselling author, Ella Quinn (00:00:05 - 00:01:25)- From forensic psychology to true crime to storytelling - #Podsluts- Connecting with people, interests, and topics that might not typically interest you... but make you more well-rounded and empathetic - Introducing today's read, Affinity - one that I got from Tiktok (00:13:09)- Thanks for the romance books, Grandma- Formulaic Romance - a positive or negative critique of the genre?- A synopsis for Affinity (00:24:27)- If you're going to write a content/trigger warning (which you should), be specific!!- The reasons why I wanted to read this book... and the reasons I almost DNF'd it, too (00:31:48)- LUBE. PERIOD.- Let's count the relationship red flags...- Highlighting biphobia, especially with bisexual men- The worst baby name since Twilight's Renesmee (00:51:12)- What sets this poly romance apart from the others I've read... in a negative way- A few steamy sexcerpts - too many to choose from (01:09:09)- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (01:12:50)- Is it worth reading more of the series? Books & Other Media Mentioned:- The Witch's Wolves by Ellie Mae MacGregor (another MMF romance) Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

The Novel: Fortune Favors the Duke (Cambridge Brotherhood #1)The Author: Kristin VaydenThe Guest: Addie Yoder (IG: @addie.yoder), Host of Grace & Growth with Addie The Synopsis: Quinton Errington is perfectly happy teaching at Cambridge, with his elder brother carrying the duties of being the Duke of Wesley. But when a trip to celebrate Wesley's last week of bachelorhood ends in tragedy, Quinton, who becomes the Duke of Wesley, would give anything to have his brother back.Now, under the most heartbreaking circumstances, Wesley's would-be bride, Catherine Greatheart, is left wanting. Her only protection left, her grandmother, has fallen ill, and Catherine has nowhere left to turn but to the family she was so close to being part of. The new Duke is kind, and she could use a friend who understands what she's going through.Between learning how to be the head of his family's estate, mourning his brother, and trying not to fall in love with his late-brother's fiancée, Quinton will need some help—and it's a good thing he's not alone.Show Notes:- Introducing Addie, podcast host and purveyor of category romance oldies - How your relationship with romance alters depending on your "introduction"- The 2022 motto we all need: "I am the boss of me"- Acknowledging the "good" from the pandemic, in retrospect- Planting corn: spring cleaning or baseball?- A brief intro and synopsis for today's book review. Plus, why are there so many "dead brother's fiancée" romances? (00:20:06)- The "second sons" inherit their places amongst the aristocracy- Atypical historical romance: beta hero, low-conflict, not a lot of lavish parties- A romance where people openly share their feelings... and have level-headed conversations instead of misunderstandings (00:33:50)- The final 5% is basically a telenovela - When in doubt, add in some kidnapping or amnesia... and a pirate ship - A closed door romance that's still REALLY sexy- And I repeat, romance novels do not need to include sex (00:40:20)- Losing the clutter to focus on the romance- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (00:48:08)- Some of us don't like to read angst... #SorryNotSorry- Do you expect the same heat level across all books in the series? (00:54:21)- Another heated argument in romance... content warnings- What's up next on our readings lists...Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

Summary: In this episode, USA Today bestselling author Kwana Jackson joins Kelly to discuss her latest release, How to Marry Keanu Reeves in 90 Days. At its core, this book is about processing grief - along with a lot of fun road-trip hijinks, too. Other topics also include the universal appeal of Keanu Reeves, policing women's joy, and disrupting the media's stereotypical portrayal of Black women over the age of 40. Guest: Kwana (K.M.) JacksonShow Notes: - It all started with a tweet... - The break-up (and make-up?) that affected us all: Jason Mamoa and Lisa Bonet- The consequence of celebrity- Processing shared-trauma and grief... in a book about grief (00:10:19)- Our favorite Keanu flicks (00:13:25)- The universal appeal of Keanu Reeves- What's it about? What's it really about?- When you can't remember lines you wrote in your own book- Policing women's - more specifically, 40+ Black women's - joy (00:31:28)- Why are we worrying about fictional characters' ovaries?- Ask yourself, "Why?"- The only character types for women: "main character ingenue" or the "mom" (00:45:02)- A few more favorite authors to recommend: Xio Axelrod, Seressia Glass (you can listen to my Steamy Spotlight interview with Seressia) Farrah Rochon - Up next for Kwana: Knot Again (July 2022)- A couple of (secret) dream projects in the works... Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

The Novel: Bishop (Arizona Vengeance #1)The Author: Sawyer Bennett The Guest: Dr. Alysa Lucas, Host of Fataliteas Podcast, Best Forevers, and Unrequited (Coming Soon) Twitter: @FriendswAlysa Instagram: @friendswithalysaThe Synopsis: Meet the Arizona Vengeance, hockey’s hottest new team. They’re burning up the ice—until a one-night-stand with the coach’s daughter freezes one player in his skates.Bishop Scott, co-captain. Not too shabby, huh? It’s all part of my fresh start with the NHL’s latest expansion team, and that means new teammates, a new coach, a new city, and a big new contract. Basically, I cannot f***ing wait to show my old squad what they’re missing.But first, I decide to check out the town before the grind begins. Turns out Arizona chicks are totally smokin’, and I’m fortunate enough to meet one who’s looking for the same thing I am: a night of anonymous, unforgettable, no-strings-attached sex.Fast forward to the Vengeance arena. It’s the last place I expect to see her again—let alone in her own office. Then bells go off and I finally realize who this girl is: Brooke Perron. My new coach’s daughter. All of a sudden, we’re picking up right where we left off, which means our hands are all over each other. That’s when her dad—my boss—walks in. And before I can get a word out, Brooke’s introducing me as her fiancé.Sure, she just saved my ass. So why do I get the feeling Brooke’s going to turn my world upside down? Maybe it’s because this fake relationship feels way too real...Show Notes:- Welcoming back Alysa Lucas (heard previously in our review of 40-Love episode)- Why hockey romance (over all the other sports)?- Alysa's podcasts - all rooted in friendship, relationships, and communication (00:10:43)- Plus a tangent on "The Tinder Swindler" plus a few Lady Pod Squad plugs: My Worst Date and Book of Lies (both of whom have been on Boobies & Noobies)- The "truth bias"- Introducing today's read, Bishop, a fake-dating hockey romance (00:23:15)- Looking ahead at the rest of the series - Book synopsis (00:30:52)- Accurately detailed... without the jargon- Sex in Chapter 1 - Mouth porn... (00:40:56)- Why are you teasing me with the butt stuff?? Also, the UTI's...- Friendship break-ups in romance novels- The third act "pause" rather than the third act break-up- Why are we so surprised by healthy love? (00:57:46)- Next up, give us more male friendships in romance- A few steamy sexcerpts... and a post-massage nap (01:07:13)- From oral sex to "Mary Poppins"... - Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (01:15:13)- Charming, not funny- Send Alysa your sports romance recommendations! Books & Films Mentioned:- Elle Kennedy's Off-Campus series - Olivia Dade's 40-Love- Female friendships on screen: "For a Good Time, Call..." and "Booksmart"Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. 👉 Support the podcast on Patreon for as little as $1/month. 👈 *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

*This episode is brought to you by two of Kensington’s newest titles, Romancing the Rancher by Kate Pearce and The Spanish Daughter by Lorena Hughes. The Novel: Just for ShowThe Author: Julie HamiltonThe Guest: Beth Cranford, Verve Romance Content Coordinator The Synopsis: #TwitterBae forever…They'll fake a relationship for the social media exposure, but can they be more than a hashtag?Here's how things are going so far for me in Chicago:1) Messed up my attempt at asking out the gorgeous woman next to me on the plane.2) Couldn't catch up to her at O'Hare.3) I'm hoping she finds me on Twitter.4) Maybe if she sees this, we can split another cheese plate sometime.It doesn't take long for Luke Murphy's tweet to go viral. So it also doesn't take long to reconnect with Audrey. Nailed it. But at what cost? His network has put his whole career as a TV home renovations carpenter on the line. A midair meet cute is exactly what they want.After recovering from the shock, Audrey Whitaker can see the benefits of faking a relationship for social media exposure. She'll get the publicity to launch her photography business—her lifelong dream—and she'll get to spend time with a man who can, as his fans say, "really fill out a plaid shirt."Luke and Audrey agree to spend the summer together to get what they each need, then say goodbye. And to keep it professional, they'll follow all the rules…except the "no kissing" one. And maybe the "no sex" one, too! But with so much on the line, they definitely can't fall in love. Show Notes:- Sponsored ads for Romancing the Rancher by Kate Pearce and The Spanish Daughter by Lorena Hughes (00:00:05 - 00:02:27) - Join the Verve (formerly Book & Main) community! - The books that have recently kept us up too late: A Most Unusual Duke by Susanna Allen (a duke that's also a bear shifter) and Lucy Score's Things We Never Got Over- "Able to quote almost the entirety of 'Sleepless in Seattle'" - put it on your resume- Introducing today's read, Just for Show (00:13:07)- Creating another character out of the setting- Small town romance is lovely, but what about the big city love stories??- Just for Show Synopsis (00:19:33)- If you like "fake dating", you'll LOVE a "no sex pact"- The relatable, multi-faceted awkwardness of Audrey- Our complex relationship with the word "curvy" in romance novels (00:29:31)- Strangers on a plane: the fantasy of falling for someone you're seated next to while traveling- The positives and negatives of becoming "Twitter famous" - Contemporary romance - it's got to be "this could happen to me" or "this is soooo over-the-top, out of this world banana-pants that I don't care" (00:41:50)- More to come in a series?- Remember Craigslist's Missed Connections?- A few steamy sexcerpts (00:51:01)- "Consent Porn" at its finest... Questions are sexy!- Hire Kelly to read your audiobook?- Just as some romantic relationships exist without sex, romance novels can also exist without sex (01:00:30)- How subjective is "happily ever after"?- Heart, Humor, and Heat Ratings (01:07:15)- Noobie Romance Recommended? YES (01:14:48)- Why we love romance novels and true crimeLinks:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Verve and read Kelly's articles.Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

*This episode is brought to you by two of Kensington’s newest titles, Romancing the Rancher by Kate Pearce and The Spanish Daughter by Lorena Hughes. Summary: Bestselling author, Seressia Glass, joins Kelly to discuss her latest contemporary, Interracial romance release, The Love Con. Other discussion topics include why artists and scientists mesh so well, the wonderful world of cosplaying, and a potential new roller derby romance! Guest: Seressia GlassShow Notes: - Sponsored ads for Romancing the Rancher by Kate Pearce and The Spanish Daughter by Lorena Hughes (00:00:05 - 00:02:27)- Welcome to Season 5!!- Seressia Glass schools us on cosplay - Check out #BookCoverCosplay on Instagram (Shoutout to former podcast guest, Esme Brett and Jacque for organizing)- A few cosplaying tips & tricks (00:09:48)- From comic books and cereal boxes to romance novels: Seressia's romance reading and writing journey (00:16:14)- #RIP Walden Books- Some light-stalking of your favorite authors can lead to some interesting discoveries...- What's one misconception non-romance readers have about romance? (00:23:34)- From roller derby to wrestling...- A brief-ish synopsis for The Love Con (00:30:06)- Swooning over pining heroes - Creative/artistic men in romance - The melding of arts and sciences- The grittier side of fame (00:39:01)- Growing a thick skin, without being callous - More "Blerd" (Black nerd) books coming soon!! (00:47:01)- The Nubian fantasy that Seressia is dying to write...- "One book at a time" (our motto for 2022)Links:Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to on Frolic's website.

The Novel: Lost & Found in Copper Ridge The Author:Harlow JamesThe Guest:Laura Von Holt, Host of The Mermaid PodcastIG: @lauravonholt, @lauralovelybooks (writing)Twitter: @vonhottieThe Synopsis:It all started with Jack & Diane…And no, not the couple from the popular 80’s song—the couple that signed a five-dollar bill with their names and the location of The Livingston Cabin in Copper Ridge, Colorado.And I just so happened to acquire that five-dollar bill on the same day of the funeral of a close friend AND the day I was supposed to be getting married.Coincidence? Perhaps.A sign? I think so.After a short internet search, I found the cabin in question and wasted no time booking a trip for myself to the magical house tucked high in the mountains.But apparently, someone else wanted to experience The Livingston Cabin during the same ten days as I did—and he was hotter than sin.Carson took five years off of my life when I discovered him in my place of solitude. But he also became Santa’s helper as he opened me up to more fun and adventure than I ever thought possible.The magic of Copper Ridge cast a spell over us for those ten days, and then one question remained when our time was up…Did we find love just like Jack and Diane did all those years ago? Or were we both still lost after our stay in Copper Ridge? Show Notes:- Closing out the final day of Boobsmas with Laura Von Holt - Check out Laura's books, published under Laura Lovely, and her podcasts - The Mermaid Podcast and Astrology Zoned- "The Witch of Wall Street" - Decorating for the holidays (00:06:25)- Your annual Cocomotion reminder- From "Flaming Mermaid, Broken Star" aerial-comedy to an Audible Original - what's up next for Laura- More silks, aerials, and pole artists in romance (00:22:15)- Introducing our 12th Day of Boobsmas pick, Lost & Found in Copper Ridge (00:24:30)- The difficulty of writing "fated mates" in a contemporary setting- A very merry naked meet-cute- Stop shaming people who have gotten divorced - A super random Adam Sandler shoutout (00:43:08)- One too many coincidences? (00:45:39)- Who's never done karaoke?! - A few steamy sexcerpts (00:53:50)- "Raw dogging the hot chocolate dong"- An epilogue proposal that didn't make us gag- Heart, Humor, Heat AND Holiday Ratings (01:03:02)- The 12th Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinHoliday movies mentioned in this episode:- Susan Miller (Astrology Zone)- If you really love me, throw me off the mountain by Erin Clark- A Christmas Gone Perfectly Wrong by Cecilia Grant (Laura's rec)*Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order* Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novel:A Kiss at the Mistletoe Rodeo (Montana Maverick: The Real Cowboys of Bronco Heights #5)The Author:Kathy Douglass The Guest:Sarah & Bree, Co-Hosts of The Categorically Romance PodcastIG: @thecategoricallyromancepodTwitter: @thecategorical1The Synopsis:Rodeo superstar Geoff Burris is adored by legions of female fans, but life on the road makes him shun commitment. During a rare hometown visit to Bronco for a holiday competition, he’s sidelined by an injury—and meets Stephanie Brandt. She’s a local nurse who is not dazzled by his fame—and prefers to keep out of the spotlight! Geoff is captivated by the no-nonsense introvert. He’d never planned to put down roots, but when Stephanie is in his arms, all this cowboy can think about is forever...Show Notes:- The penultimate episode in this year's 12 Days of Boobsmas- When your online friends become your REAL friends - Why are we throwing so much shade at Category Romance? (00:06:50)- Breaking down the categories in Category Romance (00:09:08)- Sarah & Bree share a few favorite authors - Introducing today's Boobsmas pick - part of the Montana Mavericks legacy (00:16:37)- "Pretty Woman"-esque romantic gestures aren't going to cut it - The issues with celebrity romance- Is the rodeo THAT big? Is he really THAT famous?- "Fake Holiday Books" (00:39:45)- How much is Kathy Douglass and how much is the Montana Mavericks? - No steamy sexcerpts in this one- The advent calendar that had Kelly screaming (00:49:14)- Don't give us a "haunted stool" and no follow-up- The different versions of this book we hoped for... but didn't get- Heart, Humor, Heat AND Holiday Ratings (01:06:55)- Worth reading the rest of the series?- Holiday plans and writing goals (01:12:55)- The 11th Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinBooks & people mentioned in this episode:- Maisey Yates- Rachel Stewart- Pippa Roscoe- Jana DeLeon- The 12 Days of Kissmas series- The Montana Mavericks series (Harlequin)- Pumpkin Patch Sweethearts by Sasha Summers- Listen to Kathy Douglass' interview on Categorically Romance Podcast- Listen to our Nobody Else But You episode (the "horse girl" book)*Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order* Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novella:The Captain's Midwinter Bride The Author:Liana De la RosaThe Guest:Dr. Maria DeBlassieIG: @mdeblassie.writerTwitter: @EnchantmentLLThe Synopsis:Life at sea sharpened Captain Phillip Dalton into a shrewd and strategic military man...yet none of those skills prepared him for the intricacies of planning his daughter’s upcoming Christmas wedding. His family, most especially his wife, are all but strangers to him thanks to his service to the Crown. But if Phillip finds himself bewitched by his practical, charming, and guileless wife, he does his best to hide his struggles.Annalise Dalton raised two children and built a comfortable life for herself while her husband of convenience provided for them from afar. But now Phillip's home to stay, and she finds it impossible to ignore his gruff manner, brilliant blue eyes, or the gentle way he looks after her needs. And if Annalise is unnerved by the budding feelings her husband inspires in her, she does her best to hide how they unsettle her.When past secrets and misunderstandings threaten the tenuous steps they've taken to create a real and loving marriage, can Phillip and Annalise overcome the years they spent apart to forge a happy future together, and for every Christmas to come? Show Notes:- Mutually fangirling with Dr. Maria DeBlassie for the 10th Day of Boobsmas- Discussing Maria's research into courtship novels - The concept of "joyful problematization" - as heard on the Shelf Love Podcast (00:06:51)- When love triangles should just become polyamorous relationships - Maria's relationship with romance novels, from an academic viewpoint (00:17:17)- Bring back the clinch cover!- Maria's current publications (link below) - Daily magic & cozy gothic (00:26:45)- Introducing the bite-sized holiday novella, The Captain's Midwinter Bride (00:29:43)- Second chance romance... but with a "lived-in" relationship- Praise for MC's over the age of 40 (competence porn for Christmas)- Subverting several typical holiday-centric tropes and character types- Exploring retirement and civilian life in romance novels (00:45:07)- A few quotable moments - PLUS a few steamy sexcerpts (00:55:12)- Heart, Humor, Heat AND Holiday Ratings (00:59:59)- Where to find and follow Maria for more of her writing, recipes, etc. - The 10th Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinMovies, books, and people mentioned in this episode:- Maria's Publications- The Bruja Professor's Brief Guide to Courtship Novels (an infographic) - Celeste De Blasis' bodice rippers - Art of the Clinch (Twitter) - "This Film is Not Yet Rated" *Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order* Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novel:Christmas in Full Bloom The Author:Denise N. WheatleyThe Guest:Essie, Host of Love, Essie - the PodcastIG: @essiemvThe Synopsis:This Christmas, can they slow down long enough to smell the roses and fall in love?When savvy, up-and-coming floral designer Lauren Beal returns home to Maple Valley, Michigan, for her sister’s holiday wedding, she’s determined to be the perfect maid of honor. She didn’t expect the best man to be the college crush she’d reluctantly left behind to pursue her Chicago-based dreams.Family practice doctor Mel Jennings always knew he’d remain rooted in Maple Valley to work for his father’s clinic. He happily juggles his demanding practice with philanthropic endeavors that connect him to his tight-knit community. Sparks fly when he reunites with Lauren, the one who ran away. As they enjoy Maple Valley’s Christmas festivities, Mel remembers how close they once were. But can they ever have a future?Lauren finds herself falling for Mel and suspects the feelings are mutual. Yet they’re both pulled in different directions by work and family. Will the pair find a moment alone during the hectic holiday season to figure things out, or will they miss their chance at love once again? *Trigger Warning* Dieting and body consciousness Show Notes:- The 9th Day of Boobsmas with Essie- West Coast living (from Los Angeles, CA to Portland, OR)- NYC as the go-to city destination for the holidays... but why? (00:06:40)- Only so much time to read only so many books - Surprisingly, soap operas and romance novels have a LOT in common- Introducing today's Boobsmas read, Christmas in Full Bloom (00:27:40)- Where are all the parents?? - The one redeeming factor... the food- Character descriptions: Yay or Nay? (00:49:35)- A few outdated tropes that just don't cut it in 2021- If you're THAT busy, then you don't have time for a relationship with ANYBODY- We rewrite the book to be about the MC's best friend and a cranky male florist (00:59:15)- No steamy scenes to be found, sorry!- Not utilizing all of the pieces in the puzzle- Heart, Humor, Heat AND Holiday Ratings (01:08:33)- More on our hypothetical cranky florist story (#FloristsAreTheNewBakers)- The 9th Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinMovies, Books, & People mentioned in this episode:- All things by Nalini Singh - Webtoon: another way to enjoy romance- "Single All the Way" (Netflix)- Previous Boobsmas reviews mentioned: A Very Witchy Yuletide by D. Lieber and Sweet on You by Carla de Guzman*Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order* Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novel:Claimed by the Alien BodyguardThe Author:Tiffany RobertsThe Guest:Becky Feldman, host of Too Stupid to Live PodcastIG: @tstlpodcastTwitter: @tstlpodcastThe Synopsis:A retired alien bodyguard. A luscious human female he craves. He’ll do whatever it takes to make her his by Christmas.Gabriela Romero is a single mother struggling to make ends meet. With Christmas fast approaching, she’s lost work, she’s late on rent, and the zeroes in her bank account are on the wrong side of the decimal point. Fortunately, she has a couple bright spots in her life—her amazing daughter, Ana, and her brief interactions with her gorgeous neighbor from across the street, Mason Lee.He’s big, strong, kind, and he’s great with Ana. Plus, he looks at Gabriela like he wants to devour her. How could a man like him be real? When he finally asks her out—and an unexpected job comes her way—it seems Gabriela’s luck is finally turning around.Until the universe decides to give her a reality check and disaster strikes.In Gabriela’s most desperate moments, Mason rushes to the rescue. But her savior isn’t what he seems. He’s a seven-foot-tall alien with horns and glowing violet eyes. Did she run into the arms of an otherworldly demon or will this unusual being save Christmas—and claim Gabriela’s heart in the process? *Content Warnings* Fire. One of the MC's loses her house in a fire Show Notes:- The 8th Day of Boobsmas with LAST YEAR'S 8th Day of Boobsmas guest, Becky Feldman- Shoutout to a few other favorite romance podcasts - Becky rants about Jewish holiday romances (00:05:02)- Revisiting a Hanukkah romance, this time on Too Stupid to Live - Introducing today's read, Claimed by the Alien's Bodyguard (00:22:20)- The alien with human emotions- Gifts: Want vs. Need- The mystery of mashed potatoes... (00:42:07)- His magical tail (00:51:25)- A few steamy sexcerpts (00:56:30)- We've ruined the word "daddy"- Heart, Humor, Heat AND Holiday Ratings (01:02:30)- Our holiday romance writing goals for 2022- The 8th Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinBooks, people, and movies mentioned in this episode:- Eight Cozy Nights (listen to our Boobsmas review)- "Love Hard" (Netflix) - featuring music from a former Boobsmas guest, Jason Berk*Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order* Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Anthology:Mistletoe Christmas The Novellas:"Compromise Under the Mistletoe""Mischief and Mistletoe"The Authors: Janna MacGregorErica RidleyThe Guest:Erin Nickell IG: @erinangelenaThe Synopsis: The Duke of Greystoke’s Christmas Revelry is famous throughout the British Isles for its plays, dancing, magical grotto… not to mention scandals leading to the marriage licenses he hands out like confetti.But not everyone welcomes a visit from Cupid.Lady Cressida, the duke’s daughter, is too busy managing the entertainments—and besides, her own father has called her dowdy. Her cousin, Lady Isabelle Wilkshire, is directing Cinderella and has no interest in marriage. Lady Caroline Whitmore is already (unhappily) married; the fact that she and her estranged husband have to pretend to be together just makes her dread the party all the more. But not as much as Miss Louisa Harcourt, whose mother bluntly tells her that this is her last chance to escape the horrors of being an old maid.A house party so large that mothers lose track of their charges leads to a delightful, seductive quartet of stories that you will savor for the Season! Show Notes:- The 7th Day of Boobsmas with returning Boobies & Noobies guest - listen to our previous episode together, The Rakess & Heiress for Hire- Seeing people again for the holidays (or grocery shopping) is weird - Favorite go-to holiday movies (00:05:03)- Our shared distaste for "amnesia romance"- A few thoughts on "The Hating Game" (before watching the movie)- A Christmas charcuterie? - The next two novellas in the Mistletoe Christmas anthology (00:14:46) - revisit the first two novellas in the series in our 2nd Day of Boobsmas episode - Novellas: aka "love in 100 pages" - Let's start with "Compromise Under the Mistletoe" (00:21:40)- These novellas as the love languages - More male friendships - A couple steamy sexcerpts from "Compromise Under the Mistletoe" (00:35:53)- And onto "Mischief and Mistletoe" (00:40:41)- "Not like other girls" in contemporary romance, "unmarriageable" in historical romance- Grand gestures... but make them personable - A couple steamy sexcerpts from "Mischief and Mistletoe" (00:56:16)- Heart, Humor, Heat AND Holiday Ratings... for each novella (01:01:19)- The 7th Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinBooks & People mentioned in this episode:- "The Holiday"- "12 Dates of Christmas" (the ABC Family "amnesia" romance)- Positive examples of male friendships: "Love Life" (on HBO Max) and "500 Days of Summer"*Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order* Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novel:Fool Me Twice at Christmas The Author:Camilla IsleyThe Guest:Kristen ClementIG: @kristenkrissiTiktok: @kristenkrissiThe Synopsis:There are two types of relationships: fake and real.Chuck and Kate’s used to be real, oh-so-real. But after she broke his heart four months ago, leaving him, it became all just pretense for the sake of their entwined families.With parents who are best friends and business partners, it’s not easy for Chuck and Kate to announce they’ve split up. But with the holidays looming over them, they can no longer keep pretending.Chuck and Kate head home for Christmas, determined to tell the truth—and end up accidentally engaged instead. The more they try to pull apart, the more the Universe seems to push them back together, shortening the road to the altar. And when just-for-show kisses stir up forgotten feelings, things get even more complicated.Now, with the midnight hour approaching, will Chuck and Kate’s relationship turn out to be real or fake? Show Notes:- The 6th Day of Boobsmas with actress and former podcast guest, Kristen- Listen to Krissi's previous Boobies & Noobies appearances: A Bad Boy for Christmas and My Lady's Choosing (Live Show)- Why can't the holidays be sweet AND spicy??- Creating new (and weird) traditions during the holidays (00:07:55)- That time Krissy starred in a TV Christmas movie- The "Hallmark machine" - Diversity in romance novels vs. Hallmark movies (00:19:22)- Introducing today's reading, Fool Me Twice at Christmas (00:22:23)- "Holiday in Handcuffs" meets "While You Were Sleeping" with a hint of "The Family Stone"- The most endearing hero - "Fuck it" money - that's how rich they are- A book that doesn't end in marriage... and rightfully so (00:46:06)- Krissi's rant about no boning - A few flirty excerpts... but no sexcerpts!- Heart, Humor, Heat & Holiday Ratings (01:00:35)- Just call them the Cockblockers- The 6th Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinOther books, people, movies, & things mentioned in this episode:- "The Movies that Made Us" (Netflix)- "A Christmas Wedding Date" (the holiday movie that Krissy's in)- Universal Yums subscription box*Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order* Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novella:Santa Claus is Going to Town on MeThe Author:Marie Lipcomb, writing as M.L. Eliza The Guest:Isabella Costa IG: @isabellaxcosta*Listen to our previous review together: How to Capture a DukeThe Synopsis:When Holly wakes up on Christmas Eve to find an intruder in her home, she does what anyone else would; grabs her replica medieval broadsword and sneaks downstairs to deal with him.But he isn't a burglar. He wears a big red coat, big brown boots, and his big round belly shakes like a bowl full of jelly. He's Santa Claus. He's thick. And he's HOT.What begins as a simple misunderstanding, develops into a passion Holly never knew she needed, with a man who knows her every want and desire. But Holly has a secret, one she can't ever let Claus discover; the true reason she hates Christmas.*Content Warnings* Loss of a parent, mentions of a car accident, grief, guilt.Show Notes:- The 5th Day of Boobsmas with former guest, Isabella Costa - listen to her in our previous Boobsmas review of How to Capture a Duke- The #Santarotica drinking game - Eating our way through the holidays- Where are all the roasted chestnuts?- Today's read: Santa Claus is Going to Town on Me (00:12:05) - Exploring "Santaphilia", aka the sexual attraction to Santa (00:16:47)- Peppermint jizz and candy cane condoms- A few memorable highlights - Christmas magic... in the bedroom (00:33:58)- Acknowledging your past relationships and what you've learned from them- The "3-date rule" is bullsh*t- A few steamy sexcerpts... and a few more sexy one-liners (00:46:12)- Making blow jobs sexy for the giver (00:50:04)- Recommend a romance "noobie"- Heart, Humor, Heat AND Holiday Ratings (01:00:03)- Next up on Isabella's romance reading journey- The 5th Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinBooks, people, and movies mentioned in this episode:- Stocking Stuffers by Erin McLellan (listen to our Boobsmas review)- Marie Lipscomb's Hearts of Blackmere series - The Naughty List by Ellie Mae MacGregor *Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order* Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novel:A Christmas Cowboy Legend (Lone Star Legends #2)The Author: Linda BrodayThe Guest:Craig ElliottIG: @cmedosGrab a copy of Rad Dad on AmazonThe Synopsis: This stunning, emotional, and redemptive historical Western romance by bestselling author Linda Broday will leave you cozy and warm this Christmas season, with:• A cowboy learning how to start over• A fiery young woman with the heart to save him• A past neither can escape, and• A future worthy of any Christmas miracle.Devastated by the loss of his young wife—and the life he'd always thought would be his—Sam Legend II has done everything he can to make a fresh start. As a bladesmith, all he needs is a bed, a hot fire, and enough distance from his famous family to finally indulge in a little peace and quiet. So what if it's almost Christmas? This year, he's happy just keeping to himself.But then fiery Cheyenne Ronan comes blasting into his home, and any notion of peace goes flying out the door.Cheyenne's like no one Sam has ever met—and from the moment he first catches her eye, his quiet life is anything but. Now he's hunting wanted men with the Texas Rangers, decking every hall, and sharing passionate embraces with the woman who's set his world alight. For the first time in what feels like forever, Sam's facing Christmas feeling like his life is full of meaning again—and that with Cheyenne by his side, love can be the stuff of Legend. Show Notes:- The 4th Day of Boobsmas with Dr. Craig Elliott- Raising boys through a feminist lens, while referencing Rad Dads- Holiday rest & ridiculous gifts (00:06:13)- From "Ted Lasso" to Broadway showtunes - Today's reading: A Cowboy Christmas Legend - Thank you for the advanced copy, Sourcebooks Casablanca (00:14:05) - Distinguishing the difference between erotica and romance - it's all about the happily ever after (aka the HEA)- Comparing comic books with romance novels- Sexy Yosemite Sam or young Sam Elliott... or Woody the Cowboy from "Toy Story"?- From a wagon road-trip romance to a romantic suspense?! (00:33:25)- A missed opportunity to critique gender norms and colonization - Kelly rips into the dialogue (00:44:00)- Dirty talk does not include knives and dead animals- Another missed opportunity for kinky ties/ascots- Exploring vulnerability, trauma, and grief in romance - Heart, Humor, Heat AND Holiday Ratings (01:03:08)- Finding Craig a redemptive romance read... coffee shops and Navy Seals?- The 4th Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinBooks, Shows, & People mentioned in this episode:- "Ted Lasso", "The Morning Show", and "Shmigadoon" (all on Apple TV)- Musicals: West Side Story, Rent, Hamilton, Heathers, Wicked, and I Love You Because*Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order* Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novel:Window ShoppingThe Author: Tessa BaileyThe Guest:Esme BrettIG: @feminist_romance The Synopsis: Two weeks before Christmas and all through Manhattan, shop windows are decorated in red and green satin. I'm standing alone in front of the famous Vivant department store, when a charming man named Aiden asks my opinion of the décor.It's a tragedy in tinsel, I say, unable to lie.He asks for a better idea with a twinkle in his eye.Did I know he owned the place? No. He put me on the spot.Now I'm working for that man, trying to ignore that he's hot.But as a down on her luck girl with a difficult past, I know an opportunity when I see one—and I have to make it last.I'll put my heart and soul into dressing his holiday windows.I'll work without stopping. And when we lose the battle with temptation, I'll try and remember I'm just window shopping. Show Notes:- The 3rd Day of Boobsmas is sponsored by bow ties (not really, but...)- The Halloween Cover Cosplay Challenge (with @onthesamepa9e)- Stop minimizing your accomplishments - Own your great!!- Mowing the lawn for Christmas in New Zealand (00:11:32)- Growing up without a white Christmas- Holiday music (00:22:36)- Introducing today's read, Window Shopping (00:24:15)- Why it's okay to not love every book by every author... even if they're your favorite author- Not being somebody's "everything"- Charming or aggressively positive? - Objectifying man butts (00:41:15)- The complexities of a workplace romance and power imbalance - Exploring less-than-picture-perfect family dynamics in holiday romance (00:48:38)- Steamy sexcerpts… everywhere except the bed (00:53:19)- "The taste of tight"... part of our future candle line- One HUGE missed opportunity (01:01:42)- Heart, Humor, Heat AND Holiday Ratings (01:03:26)- The 3rd Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinBooks & more mentioned in this episode:- Peach PRC's "Christmas Kinda Sucks"- Shae Sanders' On the Clock series- Sweet on You by Carla de Guzman - listen to our Boobsmas review!- Our Steamy Spotlight interview with Tessa Bailey- Esme's novella, Eyes On*Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order* Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Anthology: Mistletoe Christmas The Novellas:"A Mistletoe Kiss" "Wishing Under the Mistletoe"The Authors: Eloisa James Christi CaldwellThe Guest:Angela Maria Hart, Founder of The Cozy Mystery Book Club IG: @writerahart, @cozymysteryclub Twitter: @writerahart, @cozymysteryclub The Synopsis: The Duke of Greystoke’s Christmas Revelry is famous throughout the British Isles for its plays, dancing, magical grotto… not to mention scandals leading to the marriage licenses he hands out like confetti.But not everyone welcomes a visit from Cupid.Lady Cressida, the duke’s daughter, is too busy managing the entertainments—and besides, her own father has called her dowdy. Her cousin, Lady Isabelle Wilkshire, is directing Cinderella and has no interest in marriage. Lady Caroline Whitmore is already (unhappily) married; the fact that she and her estranged husband have to pretend to be together just makes her dread the party all the more. But not as much as Miss Louisa Harcourt, whose mother bluntly tells her that this is her last chance to escape the horrors of being an old maid.A house party so large that mothers lose track of their charges leads to a delightful, seductive quartet of stories that you will savor for the Season! Show Notes:- Welcoming back Angela for the 2nd Day of Boobsmas- Sharing words, tweets, and more that spark conversations- Detailed maps for fictional towns that we love!- There's still time to check out the 12 Days of Cozies (00:12:50)- Gifts are our love language... specifically, giving gifts- Introducing today's Boobsmas pick - the first two novellas in the Mistletoe Christmas anthology (00:19:15)- Some author talk - Let's start with "A Mistletoe Kiss" (00:26:10)- Finding the Christmas "Easter eggs"- Instalove or the Regency version of "She's All That?"- More sex in the snow?- Placing contemporary issues/topics in a historical context- More on "Wishing Under the Mistletoe" (00:53:05)- Surprisingly hot... a few steamy sexcerpts (01:00:29)- So much thigh-gripping- Grand gestures: yay or nay? (01:07:30)- Heart, Humor, Heat AND Holiday Ratings... for each novella (01:14:01)- The 2nd Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinBooks & People mentioned in this episode:- Blind Date with a Book Boyfriend by Lucy Eden- Fool's Gold series by Susan Mallery- It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey - listen to our Steamy Spotlight interview with Tessa Bailey - "Love Between the Covers" documentary- Literary Dates - listen to our podcast review of With Just One Kiss- Accidentally Engaged by Farah Heron - listen to our podcast review HERE *Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order* Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novel:The Lights on Knockbridge Lane (Garnet Run #3)The Author:Roan Parrish The Guest:Dory, Co-host of All the Feels Podcast and Y'all, this BookIG: @dorybenfordTwitter: @AlltheFeelsPodThe Synopsis:Can one man’s crowded, messy life fill another man’s empty heart?Raising a family was always Adam Mills’ dream, although solo parenting and moving back to tiny Garnet Run certainly were not. After a messy breakup, Adam is doing his best to give his young daughter the life she deserves—including accepting help from their new, reclusive neighbor to fulfill her Christmas wish.Though the little house may not have “the most lights ever,” the Mills home begins to brighten as handsome Wes Mobray spends more time there and slowly sheds his protective layers. But when the eye-catching house ends up in the news, Wes has to make a choice: hide from the darkness of his unusual past or embrace the light of a future—and a family—with Adam. Show Notes:- The 4th annual 12 Days of Boobsmas- Where are all the Halloween romance movies?- The All the Feels' Holiday Movie Bracket - download your own copy and play along!- From The Snacket to "The Masked Singer"... we love a bracket- TV holiday movie recs from Kelly & Dory (00:09:01)- Holiday traditions & memories (00:18:30)- A Sherlock Carol - I saw it, I loved it... but it's not a musical- Where's the erotic retelling of A Christmas Carol?- Introducing our 1st Day of Boobsmas pick: The Lights on Knockbridge Lane (00:28:11) Plus some info on the Boobsmas giveaways!- All I want for Christmas is more LGBTQ+ Christmas romance- Future books in the series? We have ideas...- Nonbinary representation in romance novels- Let's talk about holiday light trivia (and the Gay family's Guinness World Record)- A fictional child who isn't annoying or precocious (00:50:51)- Thank you for reminding us that men have insecurities, too- The darker, lonelier side of the holiday season- Light on the heat and the holidays... But we still have a few steamy sexcerpts to share (01:04:25)- Heart, Humor, Heat AND Holiday Ratings (01:10:44) - The 1st Day of Boobsmas jingle courtesy of Cooper BaldwinHoliday movies mentioned in this episode:"The Christmas Ornament" (Hallmark) - Dory's pick"Trading Christmas" (Hallmark) - Dory's pick"The Most Wonderful Time of the Year" (Hallmark) - Kelly's pick"A Christmas Melody" (Hallmark) - Kelly's pick*Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order* Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

*This episode is brought to you by Kensington’s newest title from New York Times bestselling author, Jodi Thomas, Dinner on Primrose Hall.**Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order** Summary:Erin Sterling, who also writes as New York Times bestselling author Rachel Hawkins, joins Kelly to discuss her debut adult romance, The Ex Hex. Guest:Erin Sterling (aka Rachel Hawkins)IG: @LadyHawkinsTwitter: @LadyHawkinsShow Notes:- Sponsored ad for Dinner on Primrose Hill by Jodi Thomas- Fawning over boobies... and hot dudes being funny- Deciding to publish under a pen name- The crossover between romance readers and mystery readers (00:08:35)- Writing YA vs. writing adult fiction- Letting go of books (and everything else you might be hoarding) - somebody else will love it, even if you don't - Erin's favorite tropes and themes (00:16:43)- A few of Erin's favorite authors- Discussing Erin's latest release, The Ex Hex (00:21:10)- Good ol' Ho'garth- Drawing from witchy lore, as well as creating your own - Choosing to include non-gendered language in the world of witchcraft... and beyond (00:31:13)- Why witches? Why now? - The politically-driven witch (2016) and the rise of "cottage core" (2020) - A small-town festival that's (finally) NOT about Christmas (00:44:32)- What Erin's got planned for the world of The Ex Hex- Coming soon from Rachel Hawkins: Reckless GirlsBooks & authors mentioned in this episode: The Wife Upstairs by Rachel HawkinsRebekah Weatherspoon - Listen to our review of Xeni on the podSarah MacLeanSarina Bowen - Listen to our review of Loverboy on the podChristina Lauren*Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order* Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

Summary:USA Today bestselling author Vanessa Vale joins Kelly to discuss her latest release (Book #3 in the Two Marks series, co-authored with Renee Rose), branding herself as the "Queen of Steamy Cowboy books" and of course, hypothetical threesomes with fictional characters. They also make plans to write a mafia romantic comedy (or at least manifest one into existence). Guest:Vanessa ValeIG: @vanessa_vale_authorTwitter: @IamVanessaVale Show Notes:- NaNoWriMo in November, 12 Days of Boobsmas in December- Introducing today’s Vanessa Vale, bestselling author of “steamy cowboy romance”- Instant pot vs. pressure cooker vs. crockpot - Launching your romance writing career on a “dare” (00:05:52)- How the pandemic changed our reading interests - Where are all the comedic mafia and MC romances?- Misconceptions about the romance genre… from a romance author (00:12:28)- Writing historical vs. contemporary cowboys- The “honorable” cowboy hero (00:26:04)- Romance in the time of... dysentery - The process of co-writing a book/series (00:29:26)- The appeal of reading and writing ménage romances - The benefits and challenges of writing a single-POV vs. multiple POVs- A ménage relationship with your characters? (00:41:10)- Vanessa's latest release - Desired (Book #3 in the Two Marks series)- What's up next for Vanessa - Creating a world that other authors can write in (00:48:30)Other work, podcasts, etc. mentioned:The Bridgewater series (Vanessa's historical cowboy series)Vanessa's interview with No Shelf Control Podcast Strong and Steady (More than a Cowboy #1)Rough and Ready (More than a Cowboy #2)Teach Me the Ropes (Bachelor Auction #1)*Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order* Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

Summary:Korean-American writer and former stand-up comedian, Suzanne Park joins Kelly to discuss her latest release, So We Meet Again. Other topics include favorite fall eats and treats, writing about darker themes (racism, sexism, etc.) in romance novels, and writing diversity and representation, without focusing on characters' trauma. Guest:Suzanne ParkIG: @suzanneparkTwitter: @suzanneparkShow Notes:- Stay tuned... The 12 Days of Boobsmas is coming- Suzanne and I meet again - have you seen our video together with Reader Seeks Romance- Fall favorite eats, treats, and activities- The great (annual) Starbucks holiday cup debacle (aka "Satan in a cup")- Suzanne's relationship with romance as a writer and reader (00:10:44)- A few of Suzanne's recent reads- The apps that only exist in romance novels that we wish were real (00:17:24)- A brief synopsis for So We Meet Again - a "part coming of age, part love story"- Writing young adult vs. writing adult romance- The willingness to "unlearn" and challenge what you already know- Incorporating "heavier" topics into romance novels (00:35:40)- Taking on male-dominated industries and toxic masculinity - Drawing inspiration from a background in stand-up comedy - "Actually", aka the most back-handed compliment ever- Move beyond dick jokes, let your comedy, jokes, work, etc. grow as you grow- Diversity and representation... without centering trauma (00:46:50)- Rating with boobies? - Up next for Suzanne... The Do-Over (Awkwafina meets "Ted Lasso"), an untitled YA novel set at the mall, and a future stand-up comedy book- Waxing poetic about the mall Books, Authors, & TV Shows Mentioned:The Heart Principle by Helen HoangSoulmate Equation by Christina LaurenThe Love Proof by Madeleine HenryLease on Love by Falon Ballard (Coming February 2022)K-Pop Revolution by Stephan Lee (Coming April 2022) *Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order* Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

*Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order*The Novel:Scarlett and the Wolf (Tantalizing Tales #2)The Author:Lorelei JohnsonThe Noobie:Josh "Captain Nostalgia" Burkey, Host of Victims & VillainsIG: @victimsandvillainsFacebook: Victims & VillainsThe Synopsis: Scarlett has never felt like she belonged, except when she visits her grandmother……when she visits this time, she discovers that her grandmother has been kidnapped by the Huntsman and there was a lot more to the old woman than meets the eye.Branden is a werewolf, and there's something about him that draws her in, an undeniable attraction like she has never known. But their relationship is forbidden. If he chooses her, he forsakes his pack and everything he has ever known.The clock is ticking. Can they stop the Huntsman before it’s too late? Their lives and their love depend on it. Show Notes:- Listen to Kelly on the Victims & Villains Podcast: Episode 330: "The Legacy of Nomi Malone" (Showgirls), Episode 237: "Mean Girls", "Oklahoma: Watchmen Chapter Four", and the incredibly awful "Showgirls 2: Penny's From Heaven" (Episode 362)- Celebrating a massive milestone: 400 episodes of Victims & Villains- Check out Boobies & Noobies at the Horrific Hope: a Spooky Livestream this Friday, October 22nd at 9 pm EST - Streaming and virtual events... beyond the pandemic- Support Victims & Villains on Patreon!- Introducing today's read, Scarlett and the Wolf, PLUS a peek at the rest of the series (00:19:38)- You can also listen to Josh in a 12 Days of Boobsmas episode from 2019 - The Earl's Christmas Pearl- Did we really need an epilogue or did the epilogue ruin the ending??- Creating a world and establishing the "rules"- Comparing Scarlett and the Wolf with The Witch's Wolves - finding similarities between the books and our reality today- Discussing "purity culture"... in the book and in America (00:36:30)- From undeveloped characters to unearned sex scenes... we've got some complaints (00:42:21)- When the characters make a choice vs. when a choice is made FOR the characters - When the sexiest moment of the book is a tender handhold (00:53:02)- A few general thoughts on epilogues- Writing to your strengths- Should we revisit Lorelei Johnson's take on The Little Mermaid for Patreon??- Heart, Humor & Heat Ratings (01:10:30)- Spooky AND sexy... - Check out a Bonus Boobies excerpt about "Danger Boners" on our Patreon!Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.Love the podcast? Leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review on Apple Podcasts. *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

*Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order*The Novel:The Witch's WolvesThe Author:Ellie Mae MacGregorThe Noobie:Valerie JohnsonThe Synopsis: Little Red Riding Hood is all grown up- and she’s queer. Manon has been caught in one scandalous situation too many, now she’s on the run. When she finally sees a lone cottage in the woods she thinks she’s found her salvation, only to find that she’s stumbled into a den of wolves. But she soon finds that these wolf-men are much more interested in pleasure than they are in pain. *Content Warnings* Straight from the author's list of content warnings: "This story centers on a queer person running from a priest. The priest is never actually featured on the page. This book is also openly critical of the church. If that isn't your thing, this story may not be for you. Lastly, this book features several explicit sex scenes."Show Notes:- Welcome to #Cocktober... The 12 Days of Boobsmas coming soon- Motherhood and shitty doctors- A few misconceptions about romance... blame Nicholas Sparks- Why can't holiday romance books be sexy, too?- A parent's reaction to secret babies and single parents in romance (00:10:49)- The "default" parent- Introducing today's read, The Witch's Wolves by former podcast guest, Ellie Mae MacGregor - listen to Ellie on Boobies & Noobies (00:17:18)- "This book has everything... including lube."- The different dynamics in polyamorous romances - Let's talk about content/trigger warnings (00:34:11)- A few favorite one-liners- A few steamy sexcerpts - plenty to choose from (00:48:25)- Ellie's sexy Santa novella, The Naughty List- Novella over novels - Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (00:55:43)- Wrapping up and what to read next- Where's the "mutual knowledge of the baby" romance novels?Books & Authors Mentioned:Mrs. Martin's Incomparable Adventure by Courtney MilanThe Twelve Dates of Christmas by Jenny Bayliss Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.Love the podcast? Leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review on Apple Podcasts. *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

*Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order*The Novel:The Charm OffensiveThe Author:Alison Cochrun The Noobie:Lauren Marie Fleming, Founder of School for WritersIG: @laurenmariefleming (personal)IG: @schoolforwriters (School for Writers)The Synopsis:Dev Deshpande has always believed in fairy tales. So it’s no wonder then that he’s spent his career crafting them on the long-running reality dating show Ever After. As the most successful producer in the franchise’s history, Dev always scripts the perfect love story for his contestants, even as his own love life crashes and burns. But then the show casts disgraced tech wunderkind Charlie Winshaw as its star.Charlie is far from the romantic Prince Charming Ever After expects. He doesn’t believe in true love, and only agreed to the show as a last-ditch effort to rehabilitate his image. In front of the cameras, he’s a stiff, anxious mess with no idea how to date twenty women on national television. Behind the scenes, he’s cold, awkward, and emotionally closed-off.As Dev fights to get Charlie to connect with the contestants on a whirlwind, worldwide tour, they begin to open up to each other, and Charlie realizes he has better chemistry with Dev than with any of his female co-stars. But even reality TV has a script, and in order to find to happily ever after, they’ll have to reconsider whose love story gets told. *Content Warnings* On-the-page anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive tendencies and experiences with depression as well as conversations about mental health stigmas and workplace discrimination. Book talk begins at (00:21:21)Show Notes:- Lusting after Hollywood stories (especially LGBTQ+ Hollywood stories) with today's guest, Lauren Marie Fleming- Fat love, queer love... but where's the fat queer love?- Check out Lauren's interview with Talia Hibbert on School for Writers Podcast- Diversifying your romance reading (with intention)- Jasmine Guillory's Time Magazine piece: "Reading Anti-Racist Nonfiction Is a Start. But Don’t Underestimate the Power of Black Fiction"- Kelly's next project: a fat, billionaire queer witch romance- Before there was School for Writers, there was Queerie Bradshaw - Introducing today's book pick, The Charm Offensive (00:21:21) - be sure to check out our Steamy Spotlight interview with Alison Cochrun- A brief-ish synopsis for The Charm Offensive- Our personal experiences with celebrity-handling, reality TV, and "UnREAL"- Love is not a cure-all - Choosing "labels" (or not) and also letting those "labels" change (00:38:16)- Reading queer love stories by queer authors- A really well-developed ensemble and the movie, "Notting Hill" (00:50:13)- A few "door-ajar" steamy sexcerpts (01:01:40)- Do your research!! It's sexy!!- High school love... but as adults- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (01:17:18)Books & Authors Mentioned:Jasmine GuilloryAccidentally Engaged by Farah Heron (Listen to our review HERE)Satisfaction Guaranteed by Karelia Stetz-WatersOne Last Stop by Casey McQuistonAlso, shoutout to Bawdy Bookworms Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

*This episode is brought to you by Kensington’s newest title from Shelly Laurenston, Breaking Badger.Summary:New York Times Bestselling author Tessa Bailey joins Kelly to discuss her latest release, the "Schitt's Creek"-inspired romance, It Happened One Summer. Other discussion topics include staying true to yourself in your writing, growing older (NOT old) alongside your characters, and learning to embrace "zoom culture" in 2020. Plus, a sneak peek at Tessa's next project with Avon!Guest:Tessa BaileyIG: @tessabaileyisanauthorTiktok: @authortessabaileyShow Notes:- Sponsored ad for Breaking Badger by Shelly Laurenston (00:00:05 - 00:01:37)- You can catch Tessa and I in conversation with Burbank Public Library on their Summer Love panel (on YouTube)- Embracing "zoom culture" and understanding each other better - The professor who went viral on TikTok as a potato- Starting with (and revisiting) Tessa's first book, Protecting What's His (00:06:56)- Keeping the work to yourself in order to stay true to yourself- "If it turns you on, it's going to turn someone else on."- Establishing trust with an editor who knows your limits for criticism (00:16:13)- Writing/Publishing outside of your comfort zone: from lifeguards to vampires- Aging up with your characters - Tessa's latest release, It Happened One Summer, and the binge-worthy TV show that inspired it (00:25:08)- Meet you in Westport, WA?- The benefits and challenges to writing a small town romance in a REAL small town (00:31:03)- Getting called out by comedians... Bo Burnham vs. Bill Burr - Creating art, making moves, and "rearranging the cards" in 2020- What if a man said and did everything he meant...? Enter Brendan.- The process of writing steamy scenes (00:51:39) - Next up: tackling toxic masculinity in Hook, Line, and Sinker (March 1st, 2022 release)- A future time travel romance?Books, Authors, & TV Shows Mentioned:Historical Romance Authors: Kerrigan Byrne & Sarah MacLean"Schitt's Creek" (Netflix)"Ted Lasso" (Apple TV+)"White Woman's Instagram" by Bo Burnham (from "Inside" on Netflix)Karen Marie Moning's Highlander series - listen to our review of Spell of the Highlander*Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order* Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

*Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order*The Novel:Nobody Else But You (Pacific Vista Ranch #1)The Author:Claire MartiThe Noobie:Laura Yamin, host of What to Read Next PodcastIG: @whattoreadnextpodTwitter: @whattoreadnextpodThe Synopsis:She’s avoided Hollywood for years…When an arrogant Hollywood stuntman struts into Samantha McNeill’s breeding barn, sparks fly. She doesn’t care how mouthwateringly gorgeous he is, not when he assumes Pacific Vista Ranch’s resident horse breeding manager must be a man. Not to mention his job threatens to pull her family back into the paparazzi filled world they escaped from over a decade ago.Now it’s at her door––wearing faded jeans and a wicked grin.Holt Ericsson can tell the beautiful redhead hates him on sight and the feeling is becoming mutual. But he will call in a favor and convince Sam’s legendary director father that Pacific Vista Ranch is the only suitable place left in California to film an epic Western. Holt’s invested all his savings in the movie and his entire career is riding on it. No way will he allow one irritating, sexy woman to stand in his way.Sam intends to fight him at every turn…if only her heart didn’t race when they’re together. Holt does his best to steer clear of her…except all he wants to do is hold her close. The sizzling attraction between them is either going to burn up the sheets or burn down the ranch… *Content Warnings* Grief and post-traumatic stress from the death of a parentShow Notes:- Welcoming Laura, blogger and host of What to Read Next Podcast- Adult "horse girl" books (Flicka with fellatio) - Rebekah Weatherspoon's Cowboys of California series- Introductions and synopsis for Nobody Else But You (00:11:52)- A lot to love, especially about the characters- Dare I say, the "perfect man"?- Repetition with no payoff...- A happy ending... but a lot of questions - Newsflash: It doesn't have to end in a proposal or baby (00:33:13)- A different take on Hollywood- Men who do ballet (and women who don't emasculate them)- Kelly's weekly mention of "The Circle" and the hustler lifestyle- A steamy sexcerpt - and why Laura skips them (00:54:56)- The line that made Kelly lose her sh*t- Hypotheses about future books in the series- Heart, Humor & Heat Ratings (01:03:49)- Another Hollywood-ish romance rec, Make it Sweet by Kristen Callihan Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

*Use the promo code BOOBIES10 for 10% off your first Steam Box order*The Novel:Reel (Hollywood Renaissance #1)The Author:Kennedy RyanThe Noobies:Mel Gill, Founder of Steamy LitIG: @bookrecsbymel (personal)IG: @thesteamboxco (The Steam Box)The Synopsis:One moment in the spotlight.For months I stood by, an understudy waiting in the wings, preparing for my time to shine.I never imagined he would watch in the audience that night.Canon Holt.Famous film director.Fascinating. Talented. Fine.Before I could catch my breath, everything changed.I went from backstage Broadway to center stage Hollywood.From being unknown, to my name, Neevah Saint, on everyone’s lips.Canon casts me in a star-studded Harlem Renaissance biopic, catapulting me into another stratosphere.But stars shine brightest in the dead of night.Forbidden attraction, scandal and circumstances beyond my control jeopardize my dream.Could this one shot—the role of a lifetime, the love of a lifetime—cost me everything? *Content Warnings* Loss of a loved one, chronic illness (heroine is living with Discoid Lupus), hospital/medical scenes Show Notes:- Steamy Lit, home of the Steam Box: providing women romance authors of color and non-binary/genderqueer authors a platform to amplify their voices through their work while also empowering discourse around sexuality. - A bit of city talk... Sponsor us, San Diego - How romance books make us feel - "self love, and what that means to you"- Diversifying and expanding your reading list... beyond Booktok (00:06:52)- Unpack your feelings and think about them- A brief synopsis for today's reading selection, Reel - An idealized version of Hollywood (that I wish was real): Daycare on set and a therapist on standby, and an almost-all female crew - A movie... about a movie... within a book- Choosing not to villainize the hero's ex and other female characters (00:26:07)- Addressing chronic illness in romance- Constant devotion... characters will chronic illness can be sexual creatures, too (00:38:24)- Some hypotheses about the future books in the series- Coming soon: The Close-up, a Hollywood Renaissance novella - When secondary characters have their own stories - Let's talk about some steamy sexcerpts (00:48:48, then again at 00:57:12)- Shoutout to former guest of the pod, Amanda aka @talk_about_swoon for all of her lists- Addressing stigmas about women in male-dominated industries- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (01:01:08)- The books coming soon in the Fall Steam Box: Latin X themed! Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novel:The Girl with Stars in Her Eyes (The Lillys #1)The Author:Xio AxelrodThe Noobies:AmandaIG: @talk_about_swoon The Synopsis:They say the road to stardom is paved with broken dreams.Growing up, Antonia "Toni" Bennett's guitar was her only companion...until she met Sebastian Quick. Seb was a little older, a lot wiser, and he became Toni's way out, promising they'd escape their small town together. Then Seb turned eighteen and split without looking back.Now, Toni B is all grown up and making a name for herself in Philadelphia's indie rock scene. When a friend suggests she try out for the hottest new band in the country, she decides to take a chance. She's in for a surprise when one of the decision-makers turns out to be none other than Seb. Toni can handle it. No problem. Or it wouldn't be if Seb didn't still hold a piece of her heart, not to mention the key to her future. *Content Warnings* Abandonment, parental neglect, memories of child abuse (off the page), drug and alcohol use/abuse.Show Notes:- Patreon Shoutout- Meet Amanda, bookstagrammer and list-maker- Show Me the Tropes: kissing/sex lessons, pegging, and sex toys in romance- The Six Degrees of Kevin Bookin- Girls rock, too! Today's book pick: The Girl with Stars in Her Eyes (00:14:37)- A brief synopsis for the book- What's her name?!- Two 400+ page books in one month... - Prepare yourselves for a slow burn...- An author writing music who knows music - Reading lyrics in a book: Yay or Nay? (00:26:28)- A fictional group with a real Instagram - follow The Lillys- A little more character development than romance (but there's nothing wrong with that)- A possible redemption story for Candi, the "villain"? (00:38:18)- A few hypotheses for the rest of the series...- A few steamy sexcerpts (00:41:54)- Big d*cks and tight puss*es... or not!- A father's redemption story- Kelly and Amanda wax poetic about "Where the Heart is" (00:51:01)- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (00:54:17)- Be sure to check out Amanda's review of The Girl with Stars in Her Eyes on IG!Books Mentioned:- What We May Be by Layla Reyne- The Governess Game by Tessa Dare - The Girl in the Love Song by Emma Scott Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

Summary:The Charm Offensive (available September 7th, 2021) marks Alison Cochrun's debut romance novel and judging by Kelly's strong emotional response to this book, it's only the beginning for this author. Topics discussed include the best (and worst) of reality TV dating shows, the complexities of labels (are they empowering or limiting?), and unlearning "work as worth" for the sake of our mental health.Guest:Alison CochrunIG: @alisoncochrun*Content Warnings* Within The Charm Offensive, you will find on-page anxiety, panic attacks, and experiences with depression as well as conversations about mental health stigmas and workplace discrimination. During this episode, we discuss some of these topics (beginning at 00:20:00)Show Notes:- Introducing Alison Cochrun and her debut romance that had Kelly bawling - Reading The Charm Offensive coupled with watching "Inside" by Bo Burnham- Alison's relationship with writing and romance (00:03:25)- A few favorite tropes- Reality TV talk and how these shows inspired The Charm Offensive (00:09:23)- "The Bachelor"... but make it gay!- A brief synopsis for The Charm Offensive (00:19:54)- Unlearning productivity/work as your worth- Romance as a forum for discussing heavier topics like mental health (00:24:17)- Can you have a full-fledged escape in a contemporary romance?- A complex relationship with labels - empowering or limiting?- A therapeutic writing experience- Alison's next book: Kiss Her Once for Me, a second-chance, Sapphic Christmas romcom (Fall 2022) - #TheHoligays in 2022- Taking LGBTQ+ romances mainstream - A 12 Days of Boobsmas fave: A Very Witchy Yuletide by D. Lieber- The story you're dying to tell... (00:48:43)- Grab your copy of The Charm Offensive today!Books Mentioned:The Wedding Date by Jasmine GuilloryThe Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang Never Been Kissed by Timothy Janovsky (Coming May 2022)If the Shoe Fits by Julie MurphyThe One to Watch by Kate Stayman-LondonA Very Witchy Yuletide by D. LieberFollow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novel:Baking with a Rockstar (Mitchell Brothers #1)The Author:Jasmin MillerThe Noobies:Chris SturdyLaurie Hahn Ganser The Synopsis:When a rockstar and a single mom become roommates, delicious sparks are bound to fly.Rockstar Hudson Mitchell is over the glitz and spotlight of the music industry. Desperate for a break from the fast-paced life of fame, he retreats to the one place that has always been home.Brooksville, California.It's the same place where Charlie has taken refuge, trying to build a life for herself and her young daughter. The quiet, small-town atmosphere and her new bakery venture are exactly what she needs to pick up the pieces of her shattered past.As they spend more time together, neither of them is prepared for the effect Charlie has on Hudson, and how important she would become for his career. Show Notes:- Introducing Chris (the romance-convert) and Laurie (the romance-enabler)- Listen to Chris in our previous review of The Ones Who Got Away - Discussing and incorporating romance into a literature curriculum (00:06:23)- Finding your place in romance novels- Read Chris' published work in Emerge Literary Journal and Press Pause Press and look out for Laurie's podcast, #TheoryBabes (coming soon)- Education is sexy. Period.- Introducing today's small town, rockstar romance, Baking with a Rockstar (00:19:26)- A brief synopsis for the book- Overall impressions: a hero with top-notch emotional intellect, the "all-knowing" granny, and a cast of character to love- Being a mother vs. the act of mothering - Not enough baking, not enough rocking (00:35:14)- Lyrics or no?- Specific character descriptions: helpful or hindering? (00:39:58)- Introducing the "penis funnel"- Her "salty gumbo" and other non-sexy, food-related euphemisms- Intimacy vs. sex (00:56:53)- A few steamy sexcerpts + some missed opportunities (01:00:10)- Spontaneous combustion... and cardigan sweaters- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (01:11:57)- The next book in the series...- One more penis funnel Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novel:Built to FallThe Author:Julia WolfThe Not-so-Noobie:Liz, Co-host of Nerdy Bitches PodcastIG: @nerdybitchesTwitter: @nerdybitchespod The Synopsis:“You’re perfect for this job, Claire. He won’t want to sleep with you. You’re not his...type.” Dominic Cantrell has been famous almost as long as I’ve been alive, but he remains a dark, volatile mystery. I know why I was hired to handle Dominic’s PR while he’s on tour. It’s not because of my experience—I have next to none. It’s because I’m safe. Plain, quiet, shy, with more-than-ample curves, I won’t distract him.What I didn’t count on was Dominic distracting me instead. I shouldn’t be so drawn to him. He’s too old for me, too closed-off, and definitely too angry, but I’ve been a good girl for far too long. Why can’t I be just a little bit bad, especially when my rock star fantasy is so willing to corrupt me?Our fling has an expiration date at the end of the tour. No strings, no feelings, no heartbreak when it’s over. I tell myself I won’t fall. But I don’t know if I’m built that way. *Content Warnings* One scene of physical abuse, memories of off-the-page physical and emotional abuse, drug and alcohol use.Show Notes:** Patreon Updates!- Introducing Liz Serna, author and co-host of Nerdy Bitches- Redefining "nerds" and looking at when "nerds" become "gatekeepers"- An aside about narcissistic personalities (that isn't really an aside)- Healing through humor and how that relates to today's reading, Built to Fall (00:17:01)- Check out the Romance Happy Hour Book Box- 26 year age gap or 400 years?- Put a pin in the biting... A brief synopsis first (00:26:33)- Finding inspiration on TikTok during 2020- And now, back to the biting- A few cringeworthy (and slightly cannibalistic) excerpts - Books Mentioned: Anything by Melissa Foster, the Soul Serenade series by Kaylee Ryan- The questionable power dynamic within boss/employee romance- Some differences from the "typical" rock star romance (00:51:37)- A few steamy sexcerpts (00:55:22)- Good vs. Bad- Remembering our previous Julia Wolf review, Eight Cozy Books (from the 12 Days of Boobsmas)- Heat, Humor, & Heat Ratings - A possible redemption story and series?- Romance written by men- Coming Soon to Nerdy Bitches: Gutember (Steve Gutenberg September)Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

*This episode is brought to you by Kensington’s newest title from Minerva Spencer, Outrageous. The Novel:Shot Through the Heart (North Star #2)The Author:Nicole HelmThe Not-so-Noobie:Becky, Co-host of Buzzing About RomanceIG: @buzzingaboutromance The Synopsis:She’s spent her life concealing her identity. Now she must trust an undercover agent to survive.Willa Zimmerman grew up as the daughter of spies, so she’s always known her life could be in danger. That’s why, when North Star undercover operative Holden Parker follows her to her home, seeking a lead on a hit man, she captures him. But soon they learn they’re actually on the same side—and they’re being pursued by the same relentless foe. Together, can they stop a deadly hunter before they end up as the next victims? Show Notes:*Sponsored ad for Outrageous by Minerva Spencer (00:00:05 - 00:01:36)- Introducing Becky, co-host of Buzzing About Romance and lifelong reader of romance- Growing up on historical romance from Jude Deveraux to Julie Garwood, Judith McNaught to Fern Michaels- Some connections between romance and teachers/professors (including Jennifer Crusie)- Shoutout to Olivia Dade and Jennifer Crusie, for their "real" bodied, sassy heroines - Books Mentioned: Spoiler Alert by Olivia Dade, Faking It, Welcome to Temptation, and Bet Me by Jennifer Crusie, and Wallbanger by Alice Clayton- Reliving our childhood library experiences with the Buzzing About Romance Summer Reading Challenge (00:11:12)- A few (less talked about) hockey romance recs: Gina Azzi's Boston Hawks series, Kate Meader's Chicago Rebels series, and Lorelei James' Need You series - Happy 1st Anniversary to Buzzing About Romance AND 3rd Anniversary to Boobies & Noobies- Reading outside of our comfort zones with Shot Through the Heart (00:25:46)- Procedural suspense with a hint of romance (plus, some dangerous cosmetics)- Creating intimacy without explicit sex (see our Accidentally Engaged episode)- A network of badass women- Holden, Hunter, Hudson: an atypical suspense hero (00:53:22)- Cinnadoms and Stern brunch Daddies- A few words on book rating systems - check out Kelly on Buzzing About Romance for more (01:03:20)- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings - Wrapping up with Becky - don't forget to listen to Kelly on Buzzing About RomanceFollow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novel:You've Got Plaid (Prince Charlie's Angels #3)The Author:Eliza KnightThe Not-so-Noobie:Liz Donatelli, Host of Reader Seeks RomanceIG: @readerseeksromanceTwitter: @romancebookshow The Synopsis:This Highlander is determined to return the daughter of his enemy to the safety of her home, even if it means helping her...Brogan Grant, a Jacobite soldier and bastard son of the Chief, fought savagely on the battlefield, and barely escaped capture. On the run for his life, Brogan comes across what he thinks is a spy—a very bonny lass disguised as a lad, who happens to be the daughter of his clan's enemy. He admires her bravery, but he knows what can happen to a woman alone in a war-ravaged land.Lady Fiona MacBean is determined to do her part to ensure there is a Scottish king. Disguised as a healer, she delivers coded messages to rebels throughout the Highlands. There's only one thing impeding her mission—a striking Highlander who's determined to send her home.Unfortunately, Fiona will not be deterred. Left with little choice, Brogan agrees to join her mission if she agrees to return home after. Now the two must work together and risk everything to save the life of Bonnie Prince Charlie himself. If only their hearts weren't at risk as well... Show Notes:- Introducing Liz and schooling Kelly on "The Boogie Down" - Reader Seeks Romance: a romance novel YouTube show (*watch my episode with Liz and author, Suzanne Park now)- Shoutout to Robin Bielman and Leonie Mack for putting us in their books!!- Ode to Robin Bielman's American Royalty series - listen to us review all three books on Boobies & Noobies (Heartthrob is Book #1)- Bring Hotmail back- Thank you Casablanca Books for the advanced copy! - Historical romance talk plus a few Victorian romance recommendations: A Lady's Formula for Love (*as reviewed on the podcast) and The Duke Undone - A brief synopsis for You've got Plaid... and a few words about the Scottish accents (00:20:00)- A super unsexy book, full of war and grit... and probably UTIs- A romance novel for fans of history, ready to dip their toes in the romance pond- A tough ending to swallow, but considering the source... - The pressure of including popular tropes and "staying in your lane" (00:42:29)- A historical heroine with sexual agency- How long have women really been rolling their eyes?- A few new terms to add to your dictionary - A few "key" search words and a few more Steamy Sexcerpts (00:56:48)- "No folds, just pussy" swag coming soon- Cave talk (see our Hot Fudge & a Heartthrob) & potential cavemen erotica- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (01:06:35)- Check out our Patreon for lots of bonus content from this episode!Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

Summary:New York Times bestselling author of romantic fiction, Lauren Layne, joins Kelly to discuss her recent release, To Sir with Love, everything we love about Nora Ephron, the almighty queen of romcom writing, and the magnetic appeal of a "high school kinda love". *Please note, this episode was recorded back in May 2021, well before the release of To Sir with Love. Hopefully, by this point, Lauren has fully-binged both "The Circle" and "Love is Blind"...Guest:Lauren LayneIG: @laurenlaynewriter (she's back on Instagram now!)Show Notes:- Introducing Lauren Layne, author of To Sir with Love- Take a shot every time you hear the word "boobies"- Worshipping at the heels of Nora Ephron, the romcom queen- The many nuances of "You've Got Mail" and redefining the concept of "the one"- A story about hope, not technology (00:09:33)- You call it a "high school kinda love", I call it the "zsa zsa zsu" - the universality of personal connection- Lauren's relationship with romance reading and writing (00:15:03)- Some early influences: Nora Roberts (The Bride Quartet, The Reef), Julia Quinn (The Duke and I), and Judith McNaught- A brief synopsis of To Sir with Love (00:21:27)- Writing a love triangle/square between two characters... and their online personas- A round up of reality shows, from "The Circle" to "Love is Blind"- "Researching" champagne and wine (00:35:16)- Creating characters as "shadows" so the reader can insert themselves into the story- A New Yorker vs. someone who lives in New York (00:45:34)- City talk - the best and worst places to set a romance novel (*cough* not LA *cough*)- What's up next for Lauren: Made in Manhattan (00:53:00)- Lauren's writing idea bucket list and another book to read by Lauren: Runaway Groom Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

*This episode is brought to you by Kensington’s newest title from Minerva Spencer, OUTRAGEOUS* Summary:Julia Jarrett, author of the recently released Always and Forever, joins Kelly to discuss the best fictional small towns, dogs with human names, and of course, her romance writing career that began as a dare. Grab your copy of Always and Forever before the second book in the Dogwood Cove series, Rumours and Romance, drops in September.Guest:Julia JarrettIG: @juliajarrettauthorJulia's Linktree*Content Warnings* Family abandonment and estrangement, the aftermath of the death of a parent. Show Notes:- Sponsored ad for OUTRAGEOUS, by Minerva Spencer- Introducing Julia Jarrett, author of Always and Forever (Dogwood Cover #1)- The best fictional small towns: Stars Hollow and Cabot Cove- A few "Gilmore Girls" celeb anecdotes (00:02:54)- Animals with human names - Julia's romance reading & writing journey (00:07:34)- Books recommended: Claire Kingsley & Lucy Score's Bootleg Springs and Chelle Bliss' Men of Inked series- Shoutout to Zoe York (who also writes as Ainsley Booth) for pushing for Canadian romance- "Like a Hallmark movie... but with sex."- A brief summary of Always and Forever (00:14:24)- Dogwood Cove: a fictional fave (inspired by real locales)- A romance novel title generator?- Shoutout to Claire Hastings for naming The Nutty Muffin- Axe-throwing for the win!!- Having conversations about romance within romance novels- More differently-abled and disabled characters (00:32:01)- Up next in the Dogwood Cove series- Grab your FREE copy of the Hot As F*cK Romance Club's anthology, Free Sultry Summer Nights Collection for a Dogwood Cove novella- Single Dad romance, Hot Dudes Reading, and DILFs of DisneylandFollow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novel: Pink Slip (The Spies Who Loved Her #1)The Author: Katrina JacksonThe Not-so-Noobie:Julie Moody-Freeman, Host of the Black Romance PodcastIG: @blk_romanceTwitter: @blk_romanceShow Notes: - Introducing Julie Moody-Freeman, professor and podcaster - Teaching Black Romance, Black Love, and Romance & Race: a few of Julie's courses - Black Romance from Brenda Jackson to Beverly Jenkins, Alyssa Cole to Maureen Smith- Podcasts as a digital archive and resource material- Launching the Black Romance Podcast as an oral history for Black Romance (00:11:05)- The Routledge Research Companion to Popular Romance Fiction- The commonalities amongst Julie's interviews/research- Love as a universal theme- Introducing Pink Slip, a polyamorous spy romance (00:26:21)- Previously reviewed Katrina Jackson books on Boobies & Noobies (listen now): Grand Theft N.Y.E. and Office Hours- Julie's interview with Katrina Jackson on the Black Romance Podcast- Synopsis for today's book: Pink Slip- If James Bond and his wife wanted to f*ck their receptionist...- Normalizing "diverse" characters within romance- Challenging stereotypes and gender roles within a queer relationship- Exploring a "lived-in", established relationship - a marriage NOT in trouble (00:45:57)- Referencing Bell Hooks' All About Love- Expecting EVERYTHING from one partner- A few steamy sexcerpts (01:00:32)- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings for Pink Slip (01:04:45)- Don't forget some oil... - Bringing the "fun" into spy romance- A little James Bond talk: Idris Elba vs. Regé-Jean Page (01:12:46)- #KatrinaJacksonSummerFollow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

Summary: Writer and performer, Georgia Clark, joins Kelly to discuss her latest release, It Had to Be You, an Elin Hilderbrand Entertainment Weekly Summer Reading Pick. Other discussion topics include Georgia’s work with Generation Women, a storytelling event where women of all ages can come together and share their stories, the danger of comparing yourself (and your art) to others, and of course, cheese. There might also be a bird story… or two. Guest: Georgia ClarkIG: @georgialouclark Show Notes: - Sponsored ad for Undercover Duke, the fourth installment in Sabrina Jeffries' Duke Dynasty quartet. (00:00:06 – 00:01:41)- Introducing Georgia Clark, author, screenwriter, and cheese connoisseur - The wandering Australian - “Compare and despair will destroy you.” - Improv talk- An affinity for cheese… and a new dating app idea? (00:16:18)- From reader to writer (00:19:57)- Falling too hard, too quickly in romance vs. in reality- A brief spoiler-free synopsis for It Had to Be You (00:27:43)- A wedding IRL inspires a romance about wedding planning - Writing multi-generational stories - Seeing ourselves reflected and represented in art- It Had to Be You as a Book Club pick (00:55:00)- What’s up next for Georgia - Shoutout to the Casual Birder Podcast… plus a quick bird story- The story you're dying to write? (01:05:08)- Find & Follow GeorgiaFollow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website. *Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novel: A Lowcountry BrideThe Author:Preslaysa WilliamsThe Noobie:Marchae MillerThe Synopsis:A heartwarming Avon debut of love, forgiveness, and new beginnings set in the beautiful South Carolina Lowcountry.Maya Jackson has worked for Laura Whitcomb, Inc, a renowned New York City bridal gown brand, for years and dreams of becoming Head Designer. She has the talent; she just needs a chance to showcase her unique style. Due to an illness, she’s always prioritized her career over her personal life until her father fractures his hip and Maya returns to Charleston, South Carolina. While home for only a few months, she’s thrilled to find an opportunity at the local bridal gown boutique, never expecting sparks to fly with its owner...A military veteran and widowed father, Derek Sullivan hopes to save Always a Bride from bankruptcy in order to preserve the legacy of his mother. He also wants to reconnect with his estranged, twelve-year-old daughter, who is still recovering from the loss of her mother. The last thing he needs is a relationship with a beautiful, smart, complicated woman who will be leaving soon.When Derek begins to fall for the lovely Maya, he knows there’s no future. But destiny has its own plans, and these two lonely people with big hearts discover that coming home to love is the best gift life can give. Trigger Warnings: Loss of a partner, discussions of a mass shooting, hospital scenes, the main character suffers from sickle cell anemia. Note, there is NO death on the page and this book does have an HEA. Show Notes:- Meet Marchae, writer, reader, and romance skeptic- House hunting apps and restaurant lists- Coffee shop audio porn - From Jackie Collins to James Patterson (00:05:30)- "Beach reads" - Drawing universal themes and ideas from romance novels- Black authors mentioned: Terry McMillan, Zane, and Eric Jerome Dickey- The "contract" between romance readers and writers - Introducing today's reading, A Lowcountry Bride (00:18:14)- A few potential triggers...- Synopsis for A Lowcountry Bride (00:24:08)- Bring on the A Lowcountry Bride sketches- The modern day millennial Miranda Priestly - Sweet, but not sickly- Stop complaining, find a solution- A few minor complaints... including the lack of sexual content (00:54:46)- "F*ck her in the garden!"- All the Heart, no Humor or Heat (01:01:40)- Where's the adult coloring book?!Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novel: With this Cake (Meet Me at the Altar #2)The Author:Samantha Chase The Noobie:Amy, Founder and Editor of Words & KissesIG: @wordsandkissesclubTwitter: @words_kissesThe Synopsis:Cheery baker dreams of finding Mr. Right…When your last name is Baker, it’s really only a matter of time before it also becomes your job title. Some might see it as a self-fulfilling prophecy, but for Leanna, being the go-to baker for Meet Me at the Altar is a dream come true. There’s nothing she loves more than to create the perfect desserts to help couples celebrate their big days. But despite what they say about the way to a man’s heart being through his stomach, Leanna has yet to lure her perfect man with her sweet treats.Uptight workaholic dreams of being left alone…If Brody King is going to take time off, he would much rather it be to train for his triathlon and not his brother’s engagement party. It would be one thing if it was just a regular party, but no, his brother and his bride-to-be had to go over the top and plan a full week of family togetherness and ridiculous wedding games. There’s no way he’s going to survive it.When Brody crashes into Leanna and a hundred cupcakes are ruined, he does the only thing he can–he offers to help her make more. All it takes is a few cups of sugar and a dash of vanilla before Brody is craving not just Leanna’s sweet treats, but the baker herself. Show Notes:- All month long: "Wedding Season" - Introducing Amy, founder of Words & Kisses - Tearing up the dance floor at weddings- Amy's romance reading journey and Words & Kisses (00:06:15)- Finding romance through podcasts, subscriptions, and the library- Amy's romance rec for our "noobies" - anything Talia Hibbert (00:14:21)- Pushing historical romance forward with Courtney Milan, Tessa Dare, and Sarah MacLean- Ushering in new readers via film/TV adaptations- Today's reading: With this Cake (00:21:50)- An unexplained aversion to sugar?- We've got some questions... - The super self-conscious heroine that needs to be retired- Billionaires and their burritos (00:45:37)- Rating foreplay without penetrative sex...- Something kind of like a steamy sexcerpt (00:54:28)- Blueberries in the puss? - Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (01:01:15)- Up next on both of our lists: One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston- Everybody's "jammy"!- Another yummy pick coming soon: Battle Royal by Lucy ParkerFollow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

This episode is sponsored by An Earl, the Girl, and a Toddler, the latest book in Vanessa Riley's Rogues and Remarkable Women series. The Novel: Tied Score (Slices of Pi #2)The Author: Elia WintersThe Noobie: Ellie Mae MacGregorIG: @bisexual_booknerd Buy Ellie's book: The Naughty List The Synopsis: Iris Parker never planned on ending up in HR because, let’s face it: HR isn’t the most glamorous position in the world. She took a comfortable job and always planned on leaving when something better came along, but before she knows it, she’s thirty and the HR director for PI Games. Even though she likes her coworkers, there’s no excitement in the job for her, and Iris is worried that she’ll lose her spark. Luckily, Iris’s romantic life provides some thrills—living the confirmed bachelor life, when she wants her bed warm, she can find company, and in her sights at the moment is the cute pastry chef at her favorite bakery.Owen Hobbs has noticed the gorgeous businesswoman making eyes at him when she comes in for coffee and sweets, but he’s not the type of guy who dates much anymore. Unfortunately for him, it didn’t take long in his sporadic dating history to learn that most women aren’t interested in taking charge in bed, which is what he really craves. Working early mornings at the bakery keeps him from the nightlife where he might meet someone who can fulfill his needs, so he’s resigned himself to fantasies and pretty much given up on the dating scene altogether. But when Iris’s advances become too much to resist, Owen finds himself revealing his desire to be sexually dominated… the only question is, is she the right woman for the job?Show Notes:- Sponsored Ad for An Earl, the Girl, and a Toddler (00:00:05 - 00:01:55)- Fancy cakes and fetishes to cap of our month of "Yummy Love"- June's reading theme is "Wedding Season"- Introducing Ellie, author and bookstagrammer, and fellow fan of Netflix's "The Circle"- Would you catfish on "The Circle"?- Writing Santa erotica (00:12:31)- Up next for Ellie... a werewolf ménage novella - Today's book pick, Tied Score (00:19:53)- Ellie's introduction to the wonderful world of romance via Hot & Bothered - UPDATE: Hot & Bothered will cover Jane Eyre in their third season.- A "thorough synopsis of Tied Score (00:28:37)- Bring on the pegging!- Other pegging picks previously reviewed on the podcast: Xeni by Rebekah Weatherspoon and Their Discovery by Rebecca Grace Allen- A healthy look at a couple exploring kink... with a secondary romance- Adding to our vocabulary/knowledge while reading- Redefining what's "normal" in the bedroom, thanks to romance novels (00:48:07)- A look at the rest of the Slices of Pi series- Plenty of steamy sexcerpts (00:53:56)- Diversifying the male characters in romance (01:01:42)- Fuck, Marry, Kill: Eric, Flynn Rider, and Aladdin- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (01:08:26)- When you measure the heat level of everything you read against Katee Robert (Ellie) and Nikki Sloane (Kelly)- Wrap-up and Kelly's plea for Easter Bunny eroticaFollow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

This episode is sponsored by Lone Wolf, the latest anthology series from Kensington, which features stories from Diana Palmer, Rebecca Zanetti and Kate Pearce. The Novel: Accidentally EngagedThe Author:Farah HeronThe Noobie:Justin & Quita, Co-Hosts of Cooking for Reels IG: @cookingforreelspodFacebook: Cooking for ReelsTwitter: @cookingforreelsThe Synopsis:Reena Manji doesn’t love her career, her single status, and most of all, her family inserting themselves into every detail of her life. But when caring for her precious sourdough starters, Reena can drown it all out. At least until her father moves his newest employee across the hall--with hopes that Reena will marry him.But Nadim’s not like the other Muslim bachelors-du-jour that her parents have dug up. If the Captain America body and the British accent weren’t enough, the man appears to love eating her bread creations as much as she loves making them. She sure as hell would never marry a man who works for her father, but friendship with a neighbor is okay, right? And when Reena’s career takes a nosedive, Nadim happily agrees to fake an engagement so they can enter a couples video cooking contest to win the artisan bread course of her dreams.As cooking at home together brings them closer, things turn physical, but Reena isn’t worried. She knows Nadim is keeping secrets, but it’s fine— secrets are always on the menu where her family is concerned. And her heart is protected… she’s not marrying the man. But even secrets kept for self preservation have a way of getting out, especially when meddling parents and gossiping families are involved.Show Notes:- Sponsored Ad for Lone Wolf (00:00:05 - 00:02:04)- Introducing Justin & Quita, co-hosts of the upcoming podcast, Cooking for Reels- Listen to Justin in our previous review of Irresistible You- "Door ajar with a chain attached" - not an open door romance, not a closed door, either...- Cooking for Reels: a podcast for film fans and foodies (Coming Soon)- Accidentally Engaged: fake dating and food porn (00:15:33)- A quick synopsis for the book- Accidentally Engaged inspired dishes- Food competitions in romance (00:23:06)- An episode of Gilmore Girls?- Kink positivity and foot fetishes (00:27:48)- Squishy love and men with extra cushion- Drama, open relationships, and familial obligations- Searching for the red flags in every relationship (even when they're not there)- Let's talk sourdough starters... (00:52:45)- Somebody finally acknowledged UTI's in romance (plus, head lice)- Some less-than-steamy sexcerpts (01:05:55)- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings - sexier than usual... (01:11:30)- A refreshing immigrant story- Some insight into our heat scales- A hockey romance rec: Kate Meader's Chicago Rebels series- "How do I judge the heat level in a romance before I read it?" (01:21:45)- Farah knows her breadBooks Mentioned: - The Sanctuary Sound series by Jamie- The Chicago Rebels series by Kate Meader- The Chai Factor by Farah Heron- All things Melissa FosterFollow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novel:The Sweetest FixThe Author: Tessa Bailey The Noobie:Ashley GreenwaldFood & Product Photographer, That's Ashley's KitchenIG: @thatsashleyskitchenYouTube: That's Ashley's KitchenThe Synopsis: Reese dreams of seeing her name in lights on Broadway, but so far she has only graced the used car parking lots of rural Wisconsin. With her window of opportunity shrinking fast, a miracle happens. She wins an audition with Bernard Bexley, Broadway’s most respected dance choreographer. When disaster strikes and Reese misses the audition, she has to find another way in front of Bernard, otherwise face the disappointment back home.Following the sage advice of a Times Square Pikachu—Reese seeks out Bernard’s son, prepared to beg for his aid, never expecting mega sparks to fly between her and the gentle giant baker. With Reese’s heart now involved, she refuses to use Leo to her advantage and tries to walk away before her ulterior motives are exposed, but gravity continues to draw them back together…until it’s impossible to stay apart.But Reese’s lie of omission can only stay buried for so long. When Leo finds out how their relationship started, will Reese keep her ultimate role as Leo’s leading lady? Or will the curtain fall on their real-life fairytale?Show Notes:- Introducing food and product photographer, Ashley- The behind-the-scenes look at photographing food- Our obsession with food... and toy food, in Ashley's case (00:09:34)- More food-styling secrets - No shiny hamburgers?- The difficulties of podcasting and TikTok-ing- We're bringing "boobies" back- The book selection process (00:21:01)- Today's read: The Sweetest Fix (00:23:28)- Ashley's romance reading journey- Referencing the "raunch-com" - see our review of Rosie Danan's The Intimacy Experiment- A brief synopsis for The Sweetest Fix (00:30:07)- Overall impressions- Why are we hiding behind the language when it comes to our plus-size hero? (00:35:10)- Color conscious vs. color blind- Stop white-washing romance (especially in NYC)- Bring on the shower and nap dates- Some steamy sexcerpts PLUS a few "sex notes" (00:48:02)- The unglamorized version of sex (00:56:32)- "You're my tight little fuck."- The fear of failure  - What's your "perfect bite"? (01:11:01)- The woes of chocolate covered bacon- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (01:17:31)- Wrap up with Ashley Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novel:Hot Fudge & a Heartthrob (Lovebird Café #3)The Author: Dylann Crush The Noobie:Heidi Busche IG: @heidibcoachingPodcast: Relationship Ready PodcastThe Synopsis: We only have one thing in common...we're both excellent liars.A little white lie. That's what started it. How was I to know that a tiny slip of the tongue would result in the adventure of a lifetime?When Theo Wilder stops in at the Lovebird Café, looking for an experienced guide to show him around the deserted caves surrounding Swallow Springs, I seize the opportunity to get down and dirty with the heartthrob scientist. Rumor has it there's hidden treasure on our homestead and I've been itching for a way to claim it.But when Mother Nature fails to cooperate, Theo and I find ourselves short on luck and running out of time. We'll need to come clean with each other if we want to survive. And when we go deep? We might find more than buried treasure.Show Notes:- May's reading theme: "Yummy Love"- Patreon Shoutout - Introducing relationship coach, author, and podcast host, Heidi B.- Heidi's book: Relationship Ready: How I Stopped Fucking Randos and Started Cupcaking My Soulmate - The influence of romcoms on relationships - Paint those red flags, green- "I moved to Denver and all I got was breakfast and a husband."- Connections and coaching during a pandemic - Heidi's friendship with author, Diana Biller- Embrace the HEA; enjoy the journey (00:21:02)- Ideals vs. unrealistic expectations- Understanding the "Linear Social Script" (00:26:48)- Moving from Science is Sexy to Yummy Love with Hot Fudge & a Heartthrob (00:29:57)- Dylann Crush's Romance Happy Hour Book Box- Reading a book about bats during the pandemic... caused by bats- Erotica-Light? - A brief synopsis for Hot Fudge & a Heartthrob (00:37:02)- Joan Wilder meets Theo - Seeing a man "do the work" - Bonding over romance novels and musicals - LAYERS upon LAYERS- "They better be getting down" (00:52:36)- Sexpectations for erotica vs. romance - Do your research...- A few steamy (and somewhat awkward) sexcerpts (01:02:57)- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (01:05:09)- Wrap-up Books Mentioned: - The Widow of Rose House and The Brightest Star in Paris by Diana Biller- Get a Life, Chloe Brown by Talia HibbertFollow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novel:A Lady's Formula for Love (The Secret Scientists of London #1)The Author: Elizabeth Everett The Noobies:Feminists Without Mystique IG: @feministswithoutmystiqueTwitter: @fwmpodcastThe Synopsis: What is a Victorian lady's formula for love? Mix one brilliant noblewoman and her enigmatic protection officer. Add in a measure of danger and attraction. Heat over the warmth of humor and friendship, and the result is more than simple chemistry—it's elemental.Lady Violet Hughes is keeping secrets. First, she founded a clandestine sanctuary for England's most brilliant female scientists. Second, she is using her genius on a confidential mission for the Crown. But the biggest secret of all? Her feelings for protection officer Arthur Kneland.Solitary and reserved, Arthur learned the hard way to put duty first. But the more time he spends in the company of Violet and the eccentric club members, the more his best intentions go up in flames. Literally.When a shadowy threat infiltrates Violet's laboratories, endangering her life and her work, scientist and bodyguard will find all their theories put to the test—and learn that the most important discoveries are those of the heart.Show Notes:- Welcome Erin and Maria, co-hosts of Feminists Without Mystique podcast- Some brief Oscars chat: #TeamPromisingYoungWoman- About Feminists Without Mystique (00:05:02)- A little bit of hope...- Introducing A Lady's Formula for Love (00:14:51)- Erin & Maria's experience to romance novels- Remembering Borders Bookstore (RIP)- A brief synopsis for A Lady's Formula for Love (00:19:59)- Men who get out of the way...- Tear gas, hairspray, and other "feminine" things- Bucking with traditional archetypes - A "protection officer" named Arthur (00:32:55)- Real characters and themes... but in fiction- Erotic hypotheses- A questionable ending... or another beginning? (00:38:40)- Redemption and forgiveness in romance- Good ol' Greta Green (Shoutout to the Wallflower series by Lisa Kleypas)- A few steamy sexcerpts… and some not-so-sexy euphemisms (00:52:15)- Sponges, French letters, and other contraceptive talk- The future of the series?- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (01:06:45)- Romance writing reference book mentioned (I forgot the title at the time): Naughty Words for Nice Writers: A Romance Novel Thesaurus- DTRRN (Down to Read Romance Novels)- Falling for the online romance communityFollow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

This episode is sponsored by The Most Eligible Viscount in London, the latest from bestselling author, Ella Quinn. The Novel: The Intimacy Experiment The Author: Rosie Danan The Noobie: Kini Allen Twitter: @kinilei1 The Synopsis: Naomi Grant has built her life around going against the grain. After the sex-positive start-up she cofounded becomes an international sensation, she wants to extend her educational platform to live lecturing. Unfortunately, despite her long list of qualifications, higher ed won't hire her.Ethan Cohen has recently received two honors: LA Mag named him one of the city's hottest bachelors and he became rabbi of his own synagogue. Taking a gamble in an effort to attract more millennials to the faith, the executive board hired Ethan because of his nontraditional background. Unfortunately, his shul is low on both funds and congregants. The board gives him three months to turn things around or else they'll close the doors of his synagogue for good.Naomi and Ethan join forces to host a buzzy seminar series on Modern Intimacy, the perfect solution to their problems--until they discover a new one--their growing attraction to each other. They've built the syllabus for love's latest experiment, but neither of them expected they'd be the ones putting it to the test.Show Notes: - Sponsored Ad for The Most Eligible Viscount in London (00:00:05 - 00:01:25) - A few quick announcements: #ThirtyFlirtyAndReading, Reviews, and Patreon updates - Introducing blogger and podcaster, Kini Allen - The fear of self-promotion - Check out Kini's podcast, Romance Romp - Hidden romance reads - Shoutout to Sarah Wendell of Smart Bitches, Trashy Books - Romance readers helping other romance readers (and podcasters) - "Love Between the Covers" Documentary - "There's room for everybody here" - Shoutout to author, Beverly Jenkins - Kini's 2021 Romance Picks (00:19:48) - A brief synopsis for The Intimacy Experiment (00:23:31)- Overall impressions- Modern Intimacy vs. Modern Dating- More talk on modern intimacy and post-pandemic dating in my Steamy Spotlight interview with Rosie Danan- Falling for Naomi Grant (00:34:06)- Exploring faith in romance novels- Everything to love about Ethan (00:41:50)- Friendships between men and women in romance novels- Finding real themes in fiction- A few steamy sexcerpts (00:57:55)- "Tab B" and other vulva euphemisms - Heart, Heat, & Humor Ratings (01:06:04)- Finding and creating community Books Mentioned:- Twice Shy by Sarah Hogle- You Deserve Each Other by Sarah Hogle- Hot Copy by Ruby Barrett- Second First Impressions by Sally Thorne- The Dating Playbook by Farrah Rochon- How to Marry Keanu Reeves in 90 Days by K.M. Jackson- Come As You Are... by Emily Nagoski- Craving Flight by Tamsen Parker Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

Summary:Let's talk female masturbation, mental health awareness, and of course, food! Authors Skye McDonald (The Anti-Belle series) and Sarah Smith (Faker, Simmer Down) join Kelly to discuss their platonic love story, mental health awareness in romance novels, and of course, female masturbation.Together, they host the Quick & Dirty Romance Podcast (also part of the Frolic Podcast Network), and now, they’ve joined forces to write their first romance together, Sips & Strokes under the nom de plume, Sarah Skye. Guests: Skye McDonaldIG: @writerskyemcdTwitter: @writerskyemcdSarah SmithIG: @authorsarahsTwitter: @AuthorSarahSSarah SkyeIG: @quickndirtyromanceTwitter: @quickndirtyromShow Notes: - Introducing Sarah Smith and Skye McDonald, aka Sarah Skye.- Sips & Strokes - Available April 20th, 2021- What We're Reading - Romance Origin Stories (00:07:28)- "It all boils down to the happily ever after"- Talking author "trademarks" and styles (00:14:39)- Masturbation & Therapy- The platonic love story-turned-writing partnership (00:20:36)- "You make it shine for me" (The new "I burn for you"?)- The best (and worst) kind of feedback- How to maintain a well-balanced writing partnership (00:26:45)- Fake Dating & Wedding Hijinks - A quick synopsis for Sips & Strokes- Splitting a dual POV between two authors (00:33:40)- Female friendships for the win!- Allowing ourselves (and our characters) to be wrong during the time of "Cancel Culture"- More books to come...?- What's up next for Skye & Sarah (00:45:08)- The stories we're dying to write- Pre-order Sips & Strokes now (or win a copy during the #ThirtyFlirtyAndReading giveaway on our Instagram)Sarah Smith's Books:FakerSimmer DownIf You Never Come BackOn Location (Coming Soon)Skye McDonald's Books:Not Suitable For WorkOff the RecordNemesisOther Books Recommended/Discussed:Beautiful Bastard by Christina LaurenFifty Shades of Grey by E.L. JamesFalling Like Stars (All in Series #1) by Eve KaseyThe Spanish Love Deception by Elena ArmasFollow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

Summary:Rosie Danan's debut novel, The Roommate was named a "Best Book of the Year" by such publications as NPR, Buzzfeed, Bustle, and Refinery 29. And now, she's back with The Intimacy Experiment, a book about human connection, destigmatizing sex work, and what intimacy looks like in the 21st century.Guest: Rosie DananIG: @RosieDananTwitter: @RosieDananShow Notes: - Introducing Rosie Danan, author of The Roommate and The Intimacy Experiment (Available April 6th, 2021)- The best and worst of movie sequels - "Recreating the magic" vs. flexing different writing muscles- Rosie's relationship with romance and pink covers (00:10:17)- The "back room at the video store" genre (00:12:21)- Sex, Relationships, & Intimacy- Permission from the rabbi- The evolution of connection- Researching and destigmatizing the sex work industry (00:28:08)- The Jewish experience- Weird, but perfect timing- "We are more lonely now than ever before"- How to navigate modern intimacy post-pandemic (00:39:07)- "Radical Vulnerability" - Stop confusing vulnerability with weakness- A sneak peek at what up's next for Rosie (00:44:32)- Rosie's advice for romance-reading "noobies"- The story you're dying to write...Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novel: By Mistake (Poison & Wine #1)The Author: Sigal EhrlichThe Noobie: Jaimee Bell Twitter: @jaimeebell_The Synopsis: There’s so much going on in Anna’s life. Teaching countless hours at the studio and nurturing the three major relationships of her life – her group of tight-knit friends, all while attempting to not screw up this whole adulthood thing leaves very little time to waste on yet another dating app. At this point, a relationship is off the menu. Being “self-partnered” is more than enough. A serious relationship has been crossed off Liam Brody’s list of goals, at least for the foreseeable future. Completing his residency and becoming a trauma surgeon is his only priority. Casual relationships, his friends, and books are the only things he’s willing to lose his precious free time to.When an accidental email starts a deep online connection, both Liam and Anna dive in with zero concern . . . because there’s really no harm in getting close to someone who you’ll never meet in real life, right? Wrong. When a turn of events brings their “safe” virtual connection to an unexpected face-to-face, Anna and Liam learn their online chemistry pales in comparison to the real deal. A realization that brings along the bazillion-dollar question – what do you do when you meet The One at the most impossibly wrong time?Show Notes:- Introducing Jaimee Bell, freelance writer turned erotica author- Jaimee's personal experience with "digital love"- Check out Jaimee's writing on sexual health, relationships, and more on Sofia Gray- A sneak peek at Jaimee's work in progress!- A few words on Fifty Shades of Grey's legacy - we need a new frame of reference when it comes to BDSM (00:11:51)- Be sure to check out our Snacket episodes on Patreon!- Today's reading: By Mistake by Sigal Ehrlich (00:16:47)- Jaimee's relationship with romance novels - The benefits of a Dual POV- A brief synopsis for By Mistake (00:21:07)- Stop double-first-naming men!- Overall impressions: A sweet "cilantro" read- A beautiful bouquet... of red flags (00:31:57)- A fine line between educational and "preachy" - Why aren't we having more digital sex in digital love stories?- "Get on the plane, Rachel."- Some not-so-steamy sexcerpts (00:47:27)- Night fishing and funeral home dates?- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (00:54:31)- More romance reading ahead Books Mentioned- All the Dirty Little Things: An Erotica Collection by Jaimee Bell- Eat Pray Love and Committed by Elizabeth GilbertFollow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

Summary:USA Today Bestselling author, Marni Mann joins Kelly to discuss her latest release, When We Met (Moments in Boston #2). Other topics include our shared wanderlust (amplified by times of quarantine), the art of note-taking, and everything to love about desserts. Plus, Marni offers us a sneak peek at her next series in the works! Guest: Marni MannIG: @MarniMannTwitter: @MarniMann*Trigger Warnings* Marni's Moments in Boston series is set in and around the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. We also discuss Marni's handling of darker issues inspired by true traumatic events such as death of a relative, a friend's drug addiction and overdose, etc. Show Notes: - Experiencing wanderlust with author, Marni Mann- Following Stephen King- Marni's writing journey (00:06:11)- From romance to erotica, second chance to dark romance - The Moments in Boston series (00:12:18)- A brief synopsis for When We Met, the second book in the series- The challenge (and reward) of writing pain and trauma - When is "too soon" to write about real life traumatic events? (00:23:14)- Marni's Coronavirus project- Drawing the line between historical and contemporary romance - The big "What if?" (00:29:04)- Dessert talk- The beauty of solo travel- A small preview of When Darkness Ends, the next book in the series - available now for pre-order (00:37:53)- A sneak peek at Marni's next four-book series!- Sex and the City reboot? We have questions... (00:43:10)- Find and follow Marni on Instagram, Facebook, etc. Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

This episode is sponsored by Love at First, an uplifting and unforgettable story of love and second chances by critically acclaimed author, Kate Clayborn. The Novel:Call Me Maybe The Author: Cara BastoneThe Noobie:Adam Murphy IG: @photography.by.acmThe Synopsis: Paint your toes. Pick up the wrong coffee and bagel order. Drive from Brooklyn to Jersey in traffic so slow you want to tear your hair out. It’s amazing all the useless things I can accomplish while on hold for three hours with customer service. Three hours when I should be getting the Date-in-a-Box website ready to launch at the big business expo in a few days. Except my shiny new website is glitching, and my inner rage-monster is ready to scorch some earth… when he finally picks up. Not the robot voice I expected but a real live human named Cal. He’s surprisingly helpful and really knows his stuff, even if he’s a little awkward…. in an adorable way.And suddenly I’m flirting with him? And I think he’s flirting back.And suddenly it’s been hours, and we’re still on the phone talking and ordering each other takeout while he trouble shoots my website.And suddenly we’re exchanging numbers and sending texts and DMs every day, leaving voice mails (who even does that anymore?!).And suddenly I’m wondering if it’s possible for two people fall in love at first talk.Because I’m falling… hard.***Vera Hoffman has just days to make sure her website for her new Date-in-a-Box business launches. When the darn thing glitches, she calls her IT company and connects with Cal Kantola. An intense week of phone calls, DMs, voice messages, and texts ensue, and in between troubleshooting, these two start to develop feelings. But will their systems be compatible when they actually meet face-to-face?Show Notes:- Sponsored promo for Love at First by Kate Clayborn (00:00:05 - 00:01:42)- Introducing IT dude and friend-of-the-pod, Adam- A Very Corona-Quarantined Birthday Part Two- Audiobook noobies!- Remembering "books on tape", the original audiobook - Other Audible originals to check out: Getting Schooled by Emma Chase and The A.I. Who Loved Me by Alyssa Cole- Call Me Maybe by Cara Bastone (00:11:10)- Writing for an Audible Original vs. a traditionally-published book- Shoutout to My Worst Date!- The not-so-brief synopsis for Call Me Maybe (00:15:34)- Overall impressions- Vera is the new Sookie- The romanticism of falling in love with a telemarketer- "Jack of all trades, master of none"- Date in a Box - the subscription box we all need! (00:36:40)- Gifting an experience vs. a gift- Real life IT woes (00:40:43)- The modern "You've Got Mail" (but without AIM)- A minor obsession with true crime- To catfish or not to catfish? (00:49:20)- Heart & Humor Ratings - Absolutely no heat (00:54:20)- A very delayed discussion of Adam's history with romance- Check out Patreon for our alien-romance talk!- Adam's beautiful photographyFollow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

The Novel:Happy Ever After Playlist (The Friend Zone #2)The Author: Abby JimenezThe Noobie:Hadas LevIG: @hadas_levTwitter: @levhadas*Watch Hadas in the short film, The Audition*The Synopsis: Two years after losing her fiancé, Sloan Monroe still can't seem to get her life back on track. But one trouble-making pup with a "take me home" look in his eyes is about to change everything. With her new pet by her side, Sloan finally starts to feel more like herself. Then, after weeks of unanswered texts, Tucker's owner reaches out. He's a musician on tour in Australia. And bottom line: He wants Tucker back.Well, Sloan's not about to give up her dog without a fight. As their flirty texts turn into long calls, Sloan can't deny a connection. There's no telling what could happen when they meet in person. The question is: With his music career on the rise, how long will Jason really stick around? And is it possible for Sloan to survive another heartbreak?*Content Warning* A large percentage of this book focuses on a character's grief/depression following the death of a loved on. There's also some minor discussion of drug abuse/addiction. Show Notes:- Introducing actor and writer, Hadas Lev- Appreciate your local restaurant and grocery store staff- Filmmaking during the pandemic (00:07:38)- Dark comedy during the time of Covid19 - "This is the End" and "I Care a Lot" - Coming Soon... "corn porn" with the soundtrack by Korn- March is the month for "Digital Love"- The Happy Ever After Playlist (00:13:10)- Hadas' prior relationship with romance- The fandom is real with Bridgerton and Lore Olympus - A brief synopsis for The Happy Ever After Playlist (00:21:41)- Meddling animals in romance novels- Overall impressions- The next book in the series: Life's Too Short - The Happy Ever After Playlist Playlist - Prepare to feel extremely frustrated...- A few semi-steamy sexcerpts (00:47:20)- Lots of love for the audiobook performers- More tattooed heroines, please!- "Petty notes" about karaoke and chips (00:59:05)- And we're back to cinnamon rolls and orange juice...- The future of romance reading- Wrapping up with HadasFollow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

This episode is sponsored by Driven, the fourth book in the Deep Ops series from New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Rebecca Zanetti. The Novel:Loverboy (The Company #2)The Author: Sarina BowenThe Noobie:Sara Runnels IG: @omgskrTwitter: @omgskrThe Synopsis: Secrets, desires, and exquisite pie. It’s all in a day’s work at The Company.Growing up, I was the rough guy from the wrong neighborhood who couldn’t catch a break. Posy was the pampered girl I tried to impress. But I managed to steal only a single kiss before I had to skip town.Now I’m back, and the tables are turned. Posy runs a struggling pie shop. I’m the VP of a secretive billion dollar security company.Not that I can tell her.There’s a murderer on the loose in New York, and he seems to spend a lot of time at Posy’s shop. I can’t let on that I’m here to bring him down before he can harm a hair on her pretty head. Going undercover as Posy’s new barista wasn’t my idea. I don’t even drink coffee. But now I have to call her “boss,” and do everything the curvy perfectionist asks of me. I’d forgotten how much we infuriate each other, and that she somehow fills me with both irritation and desire in the same breath.There’s nobody more skilled at stealth ops than me. I can bring this killer down. Right after I take a cold shower. And just as soon as I figure out how to make a skinny peppermint latte with milk poured in the shape of a kitten...Show Notes:- Sponsored promo for Driven by Rebecca Zanetti (00:00:05 - 00:02:00)- Welcome to the ultimate millennial meme-maker, Sara Runnels- The art of sliding into someone's DM's- Be honest, original, and thoughtful (aka be "hot")- Airline copywriting by day, tweets and humor by night - The heyday of MTV...- Read Sara's work in the The New Yorker - "Dating Terms Inspired by Catfishing" (00:12:14)- Write from authentic experiences- Introducing Loverboy and The Company series (00:16:26)- Sarah's prior relationship with romance novels - The problem with "beach reads" (00:20:02)- Overall impressions- No baristas in New York City??- Soap opera family drama- Coffee porn FTW (00:38:40)- Not as much heat as expected...- A few steamy sexcerpts (00:47:37)- Bondage... with a purpose- A threesome (with her hormones)- Next up in the series?- Heart, Humor, and Heat Ratings (01:02:01)- Final thoughts and wrap-up - "Balls out, all-in"Books Mentioned: - Wallbanger by Alice Clayton- A Cowboy for All Seasons by Maisey YatesFollow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

This episode is brought to you by Hopeless Romantic, the second  installment in the When in Rome series by bestselling author, Marina Adair.The Novel:Love and WarThe Author: Shirra LynnThe Noobies:Book of Lies PodcastIG: @BookofLiesPodcastTwitter: @BookofLiesPodThe Synopsis: She's a singer posing as a maid. He's a surgeon forced to serve the Reich. For both of them, deception is the only way to survive the war.Cocktail singer Victoire Duplanchier knows Nazi-occupied Paris is not safe for a black woman. But that's exactly why she's trying to get her family out. When she's caught in a roundup, a man with ocean-blue eyes saves her from being sent to the camps. But can she really trust him? He might seem kind and handsome, but he's also a Nazi.Surgeon, Emil von Konig, was duped into serving the Reich by his deceitful father. When he encounters Victoire, he knows he needs to keep her safe. He offers refuge at his estate in the Parisian countryside, but in order to stay undetected, she must pose as his maid.Their new roles as maid and master find them in close confines. As their connection grows their passion is impossible to ignore.While war rages on around them, Emil and Victoire believe they are safe. But danger is closer than ever. When the true nature of their relationship is discovered, everything will be at risk.Is their love strong enough to conquer the forces that conspire against them?*Content Warnings* This book contains strong language, strong racial content, explicit sexual content and suicide. Readers sensitive to WWII injustices and complexities please beware. This is a stand alone Interracial Romance, HEA guaranteed. Mature Audiences, 18+ only.Show Notes:- Sponsored promo for Hopeless Romantic by Marina Adair (00:00:05 - 00:01:44)- Welcome Brandi and Sunni, hosts of Book of Lies- From game shows to podcasting- Putting liars and fraudsters on blast- Let's talk OnlyFans (00:08:02)- Podcasters in Panties anybody?- A not-so-brief intro and synopsis for Love and War (00:14:07)- Brandi and Sunni's relationships with romance- Overall impressions- Victoire, Victoria, Victory- Let's address the "Nazi" in the room (00:25:37)- Alpha male or straight up asshole?- If you're going to be kinky, be kinky!- Where do we draw the line at fetishizing Black women?- "You're my tangerine tree." - Reading multiple languages in a book (00:48:29)- A few steamy sexcerpts (00:52:15)- A dirty dick joke... this book could've been so kinky- Heart & Heat Ratings - No-go for Humor (01:04:01)- The future of romance readingFollow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

This episode is brought to you by The Duke Heist, the first installment in the Wild Wynchesters series by New York Times bestselling author, Erica Ridley.*Stay tuned for a free sample (the first three chapters) of the audiobook for The Duke Heist at the end of this episode*The Novel:The Rogue to Ruin (Misadventures in Matchmaking #3)The Author: Vivienne Lorret The Not-so-Noobie:Ariana Marie IG: @ArianaReadsBooksTwitter: @Ariana_MariexoThe Synopsis: The Bourne Matrimonial Agency has one rule: Never fall in love with a client, which shouldn't be a problem when one’s faking an engagement to the rogue across the street . . .Ainsley Bourne needs the family business to succeed. But one obstacle stands in her way—Reed Sterling, the huge, handsome, former prize fighter and owner of the gaming hell across the street. His scandalous customers scare off all her marriage-minded patrons and since the devilish brute has no intention of relocating, she sets out to ruin his unsavory establishment. Yet when a vile suitor from her past reappears, Ainsley hastily claims an attachment to the first man who comes to mind . . . Mr. Sterling, to be exact.Reed doesn’t know who is more surprised by Miss Bourne’s declaration. She clearly hates him, and he’d never admit their arguments simmer with unrequited attraction. Something about the pleading look in her eyes calls to Reed, and against his better judgment, he quickly plays the part of the besotted fiancé.Pretending to be in love requires a convincing charade. But with each tantalizing touch and every scandalous kiss, Ainsley starts to wonder if Reed was ever really the enemy at all.*Content Warnings* (Courtesy of b.andherbooks): Ainsley's former fiancée physically abused her, verbally abused her, and sexually assaulted her. He almost rapes her when she tried to break it off with him (all events are described and do not happen on the page). He does return and tries to catch her in the house, but she is able to hide from him and the cat attacks him. The cat is hurt in the attack and the reader and Ainsley and Reed do not know if the cat is dead or not for some time. I was worried y'all! The cat lives. Show Notes:- Sponsored promo for The Duke Heist by Erica Ridley (00:00:05 - 00:02:30)- Get ready for a bonus Steamy Spotlight interview...- Welcoming Ariana, a not-so-noobie to the podcast- Shoutout to Between the Covers Romance Book Club- Playful pets in romance novels- A few of Ariana's romance recs- Introducing The Rogue to Ruin (00:13:50)- Kelly and Ariana as "noobie" historical romance readers- A brief synopsis for The Rogue to Ruin (00:16:37)- Overall impression: a slow start, but surprisingly powerful- A potential hand fetish? (00:21:09)- Our hero: Reed Sterling- Content Warning for the Book (00:26:15)- Two survivors, one story!- Bringing back the "prank wars" trope- A couple petty notes... - Update... Raven DOES have a book: My Kind of Earl- A few steamy sexcerpts (00:49:35)- Twist ending?- Heart, Humor, & Heat Ratings (01:01:25)- Please send us your hilarious historical romance recs!- Our sincerest apologies for our ignorance surrounding historical romance- Please enjoy a sample of the audiobook for The Duke Heist (01:08:16 - 01:59:58)Books Recommended: - The Sweetest Fix by Tessa Bailey- Act Your Age, Eve Brown by Talia Hibbert (Coming Soon!)Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

This episode is brought to you by The Duke Heist, the first installment in the Wild Wynchesters series by New York Times bestselling author, Erica Ridley.Summary:Author Madeleine Henry joins Kelly to discuss her latest release, The Love Proof. Discussion topics include Madeleine's journey from finance to fiction, our obsession with food porn, and an *EXCLUSIVE PEEK* at one of Madeleine's upcoming writing projects. Guest: Madeleine HenryIG: @madeleinehenryyogaShow Notes: - Sponsored Promo for The Duke Heist (00:00:05 - 00:03:30) - Grab a copy of FREE prequel story, The Governess Gambit- Introducing yogi and author, Madeleine Henry- Check out Madeleine's yoga-gram- Transitioning from finance to flexibility and fiction - Madeleine's first book: Breathe In, Cash Out- From Sci-Fi to romance- Madeleine's latest novel, The Love Proof- Writers reading romance (00:14:40)- Women in STEM- Genderless/Colorless vs. Gender Conscious- Invite Madeleine to your next book club (00:21:35)- Madeleine's Spotify Playlists for The Love Proof- Spotify playlists = the modern mixtape- Putting yourself in your books (00:33:07)- Think less, feel more- "Slowing down" mode and recharging the batteries- Writing the future in fiction (00:41:48)- An environmentally-friendly future? Sign me up!- Hopeful takeaways from the book (00:45:41)- Coming Soon-ish: Food Fight - An EXCLUSIVE peek at Madeleine's next book (00:50:00)- Advice for "noobie" romance readers (00:51:17)- Wrapping up with Madeleine HenryBooks Recommended:The Girl in the Love Song by Emma Scott Beach Read by Emily HenryFollow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*

This episode is brought to you by Fairy Godmothers, Inc., the first installment in a new Para-Rom-Com series by Saranna DeWylde.The Novel:Something New (Holiday Springs Resort #6)The Author: B. Ivy WoodsThe Noobies:Torry, Host of Ready to Be Petty IG: @rtbppodcastTwitter: @rtbppodcastThe Synopsis:A jilted bride and an overwhelmed banker from New York are about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime that neither of them saw coming. Sometimes love happens at the most unexpected times and places.Romance writer, Nicole Ford, always believed in happy endings. Until her own groom left her standing at the altar. Determined to make her own happiness, she sets off for their romantic honeymoon at Holiday Springs, alone.Barrett Pierce, an investment banker from the Big Apple, may have gotten himself in a little hot water and needs to take a break before he's in too deep. Fleeing to the mountains, he has one plan - clearing his head and figuring out a way to fix his mistakes.Neither of them were looking for romance, but they sure found each other and discovered a passion they couldn’t ignore. Forget something old, and something blue...this time these two lovebirds have found something brand new.Escape to the romantic paradise of Holiday Springs and warm up with your next happily ever after. Show Notes:- Sponsored promo for Fairy Godmothers, Inc. by Saranna DeWylde - Introducing Torry, host of Ready to Be Petty (RTBP)- Our shared passion for reality television- Chris Harrison's erotica and "The Bachelor" (00:07:19)- The differences between romance and erotic (00:10:01)- Boobies & Noobies: After Dark with Chris Harrison?- Bridgerton and Torry's introduction to romance novels (00:13:49)- Remembering Cosmo's erotic stories- Some outdated assumptions about romance novels- Something New and the Holiday Springs Resort Series (00:24:26)- The "switching of the guard" in romance novel universes- The synopsis for Something New (00:28:55)- Ode to the "vacation fling" trope- Let the pettiness begin...- Seduction via bubble baths- The Holiday Springs Cinematic Universe (HSCU) - Mojitos in winter?? - A few steamy (and cringeworthy) sexcerpts (00:52:02)- It could've been a Dateline episode- Who's really f*cking all night long?- When sexual euphemisms and baking terms collide- Moving beyond the common "misunderstanding" (01:04:12)- Heart, Heat, & Humor Ratings (01:09:29)- Romantic Gestures with Too Stupid to Live- More romance for Torry?Follow Boobies & Noobies on Twitter, Instagram, & Facebook @boobiespodcast and check out our blog, merch, and more on our brand new Boobies & Noobies website.*Boobies & Noobies is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. You can find more outstanding podcasts to subscribe to at Frolic.media/podcasts*